36836 Alzafar Nov 2020

The Alzafar Achbar is the Official Membership Newsletter of Alzafar Shriners: It is published monthly by Alzafar Shriners Stated Meeting ………………………….. 2nd. Thursday Monthly Chartered ………………………………………………… July 13, 1916 PHONE: 210-496-1625 San Antonio Shrine Auditorium: 901 N. Loop 1604 West San Antonio, Texas 78232: www.thesashrineauditorium.com Alzafar Shriners E-mail: alzafarrecorder@gmail.com Official Website: www.alzafar.org 2019 ELECTIVE DIVAN Potentate ……………………………………………………..Eric DeWalt Chief Rabban …………………………………………….Marty Bartlett Assistant Raddan …………………………………Travis Elmendorf High Priest & Prophet …………………………….Robert Norman Oriental Guide ………………………………………….Rick Reyes III Treasurer …………………………………………………..Stuart Simms Recorder ……………………………………………….Thomas Leverett 2019 APPOINTIVE DIVAN 1st Ceremonial Master ………………………………..Bobby Miller 2nd Ceremonial Master …………………………………Steve Starr Director ……………………………………………………Donald English Marshall …………………………………………………………Ken Propes Captain of the Guard ……………………………………..Josh Miller Outer Guard ……………………………………………….Paul Dawson Chaplain ……………………………………………..Robert M. DeWalt 2019 IMPERIAL REPRESENTATIVES Potentate ………………………………………………………Eric DeWalt Chief Rabban ……………………………………………Martin Bartlett P.P. Reese L. Harrison, Jr. ………Emeritus Representative P.P. Robert “Bob” Jett …………….Emeritus Representative Daniel M. Hutchison III …………..Emeritus Representative P.P. Robert “Bobby” Hunt P.P. Stuart H. “Stu” Simms 2019 FINANCE COMMITTEE Potentate ………………………………………………….Eric A. DeWalt Chief Rabban ……………………………………………Martin Bartlett Assistant Rabban …………………………………Travis Elmendorf Gary Bausell ……………………………………………………….4 Years Kyle Jackson……. …………………………………………………3 Years TBD ………………….…….……………………………………………2 Years Garett Ethridge ………………………………………………….1 Year ALZAFAR SHRINE PHOTOGRAPHER ………….Art Loera STATED MEETING The next Stated Meeting of the Alzafar Shriners will be held on Dec 12,2019 at the San Antonio Shrine Auditorium, 901 N. Loop 1604 West San Antonio, Texas 78232. Dinner is at 6:00pm on a first come first served basis. The purpose of the Stated Meeting is to receive and ballot on petitions, to receive committee reports, to discuss and take possible action on agenda matters and any such other business, as might come before it YOUR 2019 DUES CARD WILL BE REQUIRED FOR ADMITTANCE TO STATED MEETINGS. BE SURE TO BRING THESE THREE THINGS: • • •

Your fez on your head Your dues card in your pocket The spirit of fun and good fellowship in your heart

Potentate Recorder

Eric A. DeWalt Thomas D. Leverett

Eric A. DeWalt Alzafar Potentate

Giving Thanks It is November and it is Thanksgiving time. Please take a moment to reflect on what giving thanks is all about. It is the recognition of being blessed. We rarely take the time to reflect on how blessed we really are. It’s always a great idea to reflect on things in life that we are truly thankful for. Most of us take for granted what life has to offer, and understandably so. We all have our own busy life and sometimes we do not have the time to stop and think about these things.

I would like to take this opportunity to share my list of things that I am thankful for. I attempted to take note of how much positivity and happiness there is in my world. Although this list is short, it is meaningful to me.

After perusing it and then contemplating on this list, I ask you to make your own list. Re-read your list, think about what truly makes you thankful and then take a moment and smile. After creating your list, I ask that you send your list back to me @ AlzPote19@gmail.com. I would like to compile a list of who reads this article and what truly makes us happy. Please, be thankful, smile and take time to enjoy life.

My list of things I am Thankful for: •

My Family / My Parents / My Siblings / My Wife / My Children

•

My Friends

•

My Health

•

The opportunity to have an education

•

My favorite song

•

Recipes that have been passed down

•

Quirky holidays traditions that make our time unique

•

Dancing

•

A good kiss

•

The ability to make a difference I look forward to seeing what you are truly Thankful for.

God bless and Happy Thanksgiving

CHIEF RABBAN Chief Rabban Ramblings

By Marty Bartlett We are still working on the Circus numbers, with bills still coming in and commissions and unit checks to be calculated and paid.

That will continue over the next few weeks. We do know that on the income side, we were very successful, bringing in about $210,000 of revenue. We will have a total of expenses and final net profit numbers in November.

We are planning a Potentate/Nobility cruise for 2020 where all Texas temples are invited on the same trip to put together a big Shrine party. The cruise will be on Royal Caribbean’s beautiful Liberty of the Seas ship, travelling August 16-23, 2020 out of Galveston to Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Jamaica. In addition to some great destinations, the cruise line will be providing each room onboard ship credit, a stocked hospitality suite, a donation to our Shrine hospitals and will be throwing us some private parties on the ship. Since the kids will have just gone back to school, we are getting a big discount off the rates. Because of very good pricing, the balcony rooms will be the most popular – so don’t delay in putting a deposit down for those. The link below will take you to a web page designed exclusively for the Texas Shriners 2020 group cruise, as well as an on-line registration form where you can sign up to join the group. https://secure.vacationstogo.com/vtg/group/home.cf m?uuid=6054A9B2E04512FF8D9D411E6A9B8903 It may be easier to contact our tour person with Vacations to Go, Donna, at 1-800-514-9986 ext.

7671, as she is very helpful answering questions and completing a booking.

ASSISTANT RABBAN Travis Elmendorf

M is the function of the position r of the object, it’s velocity (the first time derivative of r, v= drdt) … and it goes on- the equation of motion.

Welcome to November Alzafar, in the blink of an eye we are here. Thankyou Nobles and Ladies for your time and efforts in all we have done this year so far. With plenty still to do, let us not lose momentum.

The Children’s Christmas party, our Memorial Ceremony, plus the many small, medium and large things that we will find that must be done, momentum.

It is the Season to Thankful. In your reflections on what you are Thankful for; stop and Thank the one in the mirror, for it all starts there. I know it sounds like a self-help platitude or a new age type saying.

But the truth is that you’re the well-head from which all your actions, motivations and emotions begins.

Just a reminder to give yourself a little credit, a pat on the back. Don’t go overboard, there is plenty else to be thankful for.

One of those plenty else things to be thankful for, is the service of those men and women that dedicated themselves and their time to this great nation. Happy Veteran’s Day!!!!

High Priest & Prophet Robert Noman II

Hello, Alzafar!!! We now find ourselves in November. Can you believe it? This year’s train ride has been nothing more than outstanding. How much fun have you had this year? October did not disappoint as we were very busy.

We had or annual Hospital Gala, Masonic Picnic and Chili Cookoff, Car Chow and BBQ Cook-off and our Halloween Party just to name a few. Hopefully you were able to attend a few if not all those events.

One of the events the High Priest and Prophet was responsible for was the Masonic Picnic and Chili Cook-Off!! We cannot begin to thank everyone that helped assist us with pulling off this event. We would like to thank the camp officers for helping with the chili cook-off, the Mini Wheels that cooked lunch, the ladies of the Divan for serving lunch, Doug and Mandy Anderson and their entire team for preparing and cooking dinner, and James Stimson and his team for taking care of the bar. The list goes on and on with all that volunteered to help make this event successful. In order to reach as many individuals as possible, we utilized social media and kept everyone informed of progress, dates, and what to expect at the event, we sent letters to Masonic Lodges, and spoke of the event often in conversation. What a turn out we had!!! It gave Alzafar an opportunity to showcase the fun that we have and the many things Camp Alzafar has to offer.

This month, we as a nation, will celebrate Veterans Day. On this day we honor our military veterans. It is said that “a veteran is someone who wrote a blank check made payable to the United States of America for an amount up to and including their life”. That couldn’t be any clearer.

Judd Gregg, once said “The veterans of our military services have put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms that we enjoy. They have dedicated their lives to their country and deserve to be recognized for their commitment.” To those who have served in our armed forces: I say “Thank You” for your service to our country.

Lady Tiffany and I have really enjoyed serving Alzafar as High Priest and Prophet and Lady this year.

We can only hope that we have made everyone proud of the job we have done. This journey has been amazing. We would love an opportunity to continue serving on your Divan next year. Thank you all for the love and support you have shown us this year. We cannot thank you all enough.

Oriental Guide Rick Reyes III

Team Alzafar, as we head into the end of the year I’m very excited about what we have planned for the future of our great temple. Every month this year has been one to remember. Amanda and I truly appreciate the love and support from each and every one of you.

Our next event for the books is the Children’s Halloween party which is scheduled for Saturday the 26th of October in conjunction with the Car Show and BBQ cook off. This year’s Halloween party will be slightly different than those we’ve had in the past. We plan to have a haunted hallway along with the Parlor room holding a haunted maze. On the opposite side of the building along the non-parlor hallway side I’m asking each unit to decorate their room. That would be the NEMNUF’s, AMC, Honor Guard, etc. hallway. I’d also ask all remaining units to assist with a decorated table in the hallway near the ballroom. Finally, it is my intention to have all motorized units with a table outside, along with their respective vehicles to represent.

Beyond the Halloween party we have a few remaining OG events to take care of. For those of you who came out to the last OG Cigar night you learned what a great time can be had when we meet in unity, friendship, and brotherly love. For those that missed it, you missed a great time but here’s your chance to make the next one. That’s right; our next OG Cigar night is slated for Friday, the 6th of December in Boerne at The Boerne Wine Company. There is an indoor space for wine tasting so if you don’t like cigars, there will be plenty of smoke free space to enjoy wine and snacks. For those of you who do enjoy wine and cigars, there is an outdoor space to enjoy both, along with a fireplace to keep you warm. The time will be 6:30pm to 8:00pm. I hope to see you there!

There will be no OG round table meeting for the month of November as it is the end of the year and the week of Thanksgiving therefore, a meeting would not be appropriate. My hope is that you spend the holiday season enjoying family. Lastly, don’t forget that our annual children’s Christmas party is slated for the 15th of December from 2:00-4:00pm in the ballroom. As always, if you know of someone that would make a great Mason or Noble, please make sure you bring them out to an event. Friends and family are always welcome at the Shrine and you are highly encouraged to bring them by.

Until Next Time, Rick Reyes III the OG

TREASURER’S TWO CENTS WORTH P.P. Stuart Simms Phone: 210-659-1956 As I write this, on October 6, 2019, we have just finished a Gala at which we all had a very good time. I would like to add my congratulations and thanks to those already received by Travis, his wonderful Lady, and all who helped that exceptional party happen. I know our guests from the Galveston and Houston Hospitals enjoyed themselves, and it was certainly wonderful to see Riley and his Mom. I would also like to thank The River City Big Band who not only play wonderful music but support us in all we do.

As to our ongoing projects, the tax exemption packet is in the Recorders office and, after assembly, I am sure it will be submitted in a timely fashion. In addition, the Potentate is working to conclude the condemnation agreement. With luck, both projects will be completed shortly. As to the condemnation funds themselves, I continue to urge you not to treat any payment we receive as a windfall. We should be striving to balance both the operating and capital improvement budgets and work to return those funds that have been withdrawn from investments to the investments. That amount is currently $225,000.00.

On another note, this is the tenth year you have honored me with election to the position of Treasurer.

For that, and the many other kindnesses you have extended to me and my family, I thank you.

Nonetheless, I will not be a candidate for Treasurer for 2020, but I urge you to consider the following. Our Temple is full of good, honest, and capable men who have the ability to do this job. As you sort through those who would make themselves available for the job, remember that the job has two parts, voting Board Member and Chief Financial Officer.

Examine the candidate’s qualifications for both parts of the job.

Further, ask yourself if the candidate wants the job or wants to do the job. There is a difference.

Our Temple is not in need of a man who wants to check a box or get yet another hat. Our Temple is, in need of a man who will do what he perceives to be right, even if it costs him the job. We need a man who, if required, will bring a disputed matter to you, rather than let it remain unaddressed because addressing the matter is difficult or embarrassing. He must enforce our financial rules, such as multiple approvals for expenditures, even when that inconveniences others.

He must also have the ability to expend significant time both at the Temple and working on Temple matters at other locations.

Finally, and perhaps this sums it up, at all times and in all things related to the job, he must put the Nobility, the Alzafar Family, and the best interests of the Temple first, regardless of the personal impact on him.

As I have said before, please come to the Board and Finance Committee Meetings. They start at 5:00 in the Temple Conference Room on the Monday evening before the Stated Meeting. Remember, its your Temple, your money, and your Hospital System.

Thank you for what you do.

RECORDERS CORNER T-Bone Tommy Leverett alzafarrecorder@gmail.com Respect for others will be your ticket to success: I found this in my Chinese Fortune Cookie the other day. It must be true, because I don’t think the fake news controls the Chinese Fortune Cookie Industry. This goes right along with the teaching that we learned on our way to become a Master Mason. Unfortunately, we had a rental recently that did not respect our employees. We had a “come to Jesus” meeting about this issue and if it ever happens again, they can take their business some where else. Our employees work hard for us every day and I will not allow anyone to be disrespectful.

Want to see your Shrine Unit/Club Grow?

Put together an advertisement in our ACHBAR explaining why a Shrine would want to consider joining your group. We will run the advertisement free. Give you Advertisement or Article to Carol before the 10th of the month.

Want to advertise on the Digital Sign: Give us your information on a thumb drive and your Unit or Clubs activity will be seen by a quarter of a million people every day. OK, I might have made this number up, but it sounds good. We will not design it for you, but we will make sure people see your message.

Unit/Club Fund Raisers: Nothing can be more fun than helping your Unit or Club raise money, especially when it is coming in to our Transportation Fund. Please remember there are two types of fund raisers. The first is a Fraternity Fund Raiser. This is used when you Unit wants to keep all or part of the money. We have a form that must be completed by

someone in your Unit/Club and turned into the office for the Potentates signature. The second type of fund raiser is called a Charitable Fund Raiser. This is used when you are raising money that will ALL go to the Transportation Fund of Shrine Hospital. After the Potentate signs the form it goes to Imperial for their approval. Once the event is over an accounting of Income & expenses must be turned into Imperial.

Come out and join us at the next event and find out why I say “Alzafar Rocks”!

OFFICIAL CALL OF THE POTENTATE Annual Election of Officers Notice is hereby given that the Annual Election of Officers will be held at a Stated Session of Alzafar Shriners, at the time and place show below.

Attest: Thomas Leverett Recorder

Eric DeWalt Potentate

Thursday, December 12, 2019 7:30 pm Alzafar Shrine Center 901 N. Loop 1604 W. San Antonio, TX 78232

MEETING WILL BE TILED MUST HAVE 2019 DUES CARD

ATTENTION ALL POTENTATE APPOINTEES All Potentate appointments for 2019 will terminate at the end of the Shrine year.

New appointments will be made by the Potentate Elect at the beginning of the year.

This applies to all Ambassadors, Staff and other Appointees.

BURNING SUN By: Tony Calderon Happy Thanksgiving!! The holiday season is starting and the Burning Sun unit would like to wish everyone a very Happy Holiday season. Last month was a very busy one with the Halloween Children’s party, Masonic Chili Cook-off Picnic and Car show, the Burning Sun unit was very busy. A big thank you for all the unit members that came out to support each other during these events. It is always a good time to have some friendly competition among the Nobles and it is also refreshing to see families come together and have a good time. The Burning Sun unit is all about family and we couldn’t do what we do if it wasn’t for the support from our family. THANK YOU!!

I hope that you saw us during our parade maneuvers with some of our new unit members. They are taking to riding like a fish to water. Veterans Day parade with our family and the Alamo Heights night parade was a blast and couldn’t be more proud of our unit members. They have come a long way in a short of amount of time and it couldn’t be possible without the veteran riders showing them the way.

As always if you are looking for a unit that has family, fun, and speed come out and see us. We meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month in room 5. We look forward to seeing you at our stated meeting which starts at 630pm for social and 7pm unit business starts.

HONOR GUARD By: Al Aranda Right off from jump street, we need to thank all the Nobles and lovely Ladies that supported the Gala this past weekend.

It was a super gala and everyone had a super time. Thanks to everybody that put in some long hours putting it together. We also need to thank all the Nobles and Ladies that supported the club at the circus, as always, we all had a great time. All the ladies looked real nice and really super, when they were serving. The club had a real good turnout at the Hondo Parade.

Our condolences go out to the Flores family, for they had a family member that passed away. We also need to keep the Allen family in our prayers as they have two family members not doing to good health wise.

Need to wish the very best to the club’s Chili Team, because we know we are going to smoke every team that’s trying to place. This month seems like all we are doing is thanking the club members for events that already happened or coming up.

Thanks to those members that helped set up our spooky room for Halloween so that the kiddos can have an outstanding Halloween and eating all the goodies.

May the good Lord look after all of us and keep us safe and in good health.

LEGION OF HONOR By: 1st LTC Calderon, Tony Happy Thanksgiving to all from your fellow Alzafar Veteran. We would like to wish everyone a very Happy Holiday season. Last month was a very busy one with the Halloween Children’s party, Masonic Chili Cook-off Picnic and Car show, the Legion of Honor unit was very busy. A big thank you for all the unit members that came out to support each other during these events.

It is always a good time to have some friendly competition among the Nobles and it is also refreshing to see families come together and have a good time.

The Legion of Honor unit is all about family and we couldn’t do what we do if it wasn’t for the support from our family. THANK YOU!!

I hope that you got a chance to see us ride around displaying the service flags during one of the many parades we attended. Veterans Day parade with our family and the Alamo Heights night parade was a blast and couldn’t be more proud of our unit members. We continue to look for those nobles who are Veterans and want to continue their service as an Alzafar Legion of Honor unit member.

If you would like to know how you can become a member feel free to come to our stated meeting. We hold them on the 2nd Monday of the month and times are varied to ensure we accommodate all nobles but usually around 630pm we start. Come out and meet with us and learn how you can continue your service as an Alzafar Veteran.

ORIENTAL GUIDE MUST BE SELECTED WISELY When members of a Shrine Center elect a Noble to the office of Oriental Guide, they are virtually starting that Noble through the Divan on the assumption that he will prove qualified for and worthy of advancement to the high office of Illustrious Potentate. Hence it is quite evident that the nomination for Oriental Guide should be based upon through and accurate evaluation of character, ability, prestige, interest, and experience.

A Noble can be a good fellow, a hard worker, and a loyal Shriner…and yet lack the basic qualifications, which make a good Potentate. Unless a Noble is fully qualified for the job, he is unfair both to himself and to his Temple in seeking the office or in permitting his fellow Nobles to support and promote his candidacy.

Each Shrine Temple needs and requires able high-type leadership. The normal starting out point of that leadership is the office of Oriental Guide. The following checklist may prove helpful in evaluating potential candidates for the office of Oriental Guide. However, no thinking man would be so naïve or presumptuous as to believe that any one Noble could possibly embody all the virtues, talents, and qualifications which are set forth in the checklist.

Nevertheless, the list has practical value…for self-evaluation by the Nobles whose ultimate aspiration is the office of Illustrious Potentate…and for advance evaluation of candidates by the voting members.

1. He should have good business judgment.

2. He should be friendly and outgoing, a good mixer.

3. He should have the ability to express himself clearly in language that will make us proud of him, rather than apologetic.

4. He should present an imposing personal appearance.

5. He should be able to hold his own and advance the interest of his Temple and Freemasonry in high places as well as among the humble.

6. He should be a devoted Mason and constantly promote the interest of Freemasonry everywhere.

7. He should be proud, yet humble.

8. He should have good character and a past open to investigation.

9. He should be a leader, have good standing in his community, and be influential in its affairs.

10. He should be financially secure.

11. He should be in good health, full of energy, and vitality.

12. He should be able to devote ample time to his duties.

13. He should be a man who, when he appears anywhere in public, you will be proud of and not be apologetic for his shortcomings.

14. His wife should be able to understand his devotion to duty; realize that he is Potentate and not she; be able to dress and wear appropriate clothing, and be familiar with the social amenities. Remember she is destined to become Alzafar’s First Lady.

Nominations for Oriental Guide should be based upon thorough and accurate evaluation of character, ability, and interest. Remember, you are electing your spokesman and standard-bearer and the one who will represent you throughout the World. We have a great talent in our Temple. Let’s seek it! Let us be fair and sincere. Let us get the very best we can.

NEKODAH TEMPLE NO. 44 DAUGHTERS OF THE NILE Queen Amanda Brown Our annual Market Days is November 16th and the Thanksgiving luncheon on November 19th, watch for more details from the Nekodah News emails.

You also contact Pr. Tirzah Linda Purcell at 210842-1795.

The Supreme Queen visit is Dec 9th at 2pm in the Alzafar Parlors; a banquet to follow (Social at 5:00pm and Dinner at 6:00pm) in the Alzafar Terrace room. Tickets are $25.00 each, you may contact Pr. Royal – Carol Pavliska at 210-232-4749.

Help us keep the household roster up to date. If you have new contact information such as mailing or email address or phone you may send it to the Nekodah group account: nekodahtempleno44@gmail.com.

If you cannot attend the monthly sewing room, you can help out by ‘FILL THE ALAMO’ container with Walmart Gift cards or cash for the sewing room which will also assist Mexico City. You can contact PQ Cindy Bausell.

If you or someone you know would like to become a member of Daughters of the Nile, Nekodah Temple No. 44, please contact any of our members or the Membership Team: PQ. Peggy Songer, PQ. Charlie Bedgood, PQ. Barbara Wells, Pr. Cindy Garza and Pr. Rita Young.

RED ROADSTERS By: Ken Whited Greetings & Salutations E’ryone! I hope this finds you all doing well and if not, please let us know so we can get the prayer list running and help in another way, if possible.

Something that I’ve been recently reminded of is how we look at people, and even each other. We are men before Mason/Shriners, and we still make mistakes contrary to our self-assessments regardless of who we are or what position we fill in a Lodge, the Shrine, or Club. Our goal today is to be better than we were yesterday, and our goal tomorrow is to be better than we are today. It is not an elitist organization where we think we are better than e’rybody else, though we often act that way in mixed company.

Remain humble Brothers, even in the company of our newest Masons and Shriners. What we say to people in general, whether meant as a joke or not, can be more detrimental to us and the organizations that we represent. I’ve been a Mason for many years and traveled the world. I’ve been a Shriner for almost as long. What makes me better than the newest EA coming into a Lodge? Nothing. I have been where he is, but now I know the meanings of things he just experienced, and I need to be the example that he needs to develop and be better than he was a candidate. This is included in the lesson of humility and charity that we learned so long ago, though it was presented to be more materiel than spirit. E’ry day I need to exercise the knowledge that I’ve gained and apply it to my life and encounters with people. This is how people recognize us to be pillars in the community.

May peace be with you.

325.11 Election Regulations (a) Electioneering. The printing, publication, circulating, or distribution of resolutions, letters, telegrams, tickets, email or other devices, by a Noble, suggesting, recommending, opposing or containing the names of proposed candidates for office in the temple is prohibited. (b) Violation. For any violation of (a) above, the Imperial Potentate may suspend any offending Noble, and he may declare the election of the officers void and order a new election. (c) Notice. At least one week prior to the annual meeting or any election the temple Recorder shall mail to each member a notice thereof containing this section.

Smiley’s Shenanigan’s Q. What's the best song to sing when preparing your turkey?

A. "All About That Baste."

Thanksgiving dinners take 18 hours to prepare. They are consumed in 12 minutes. Half-times take 12 minutes. This is not coincidence.

AAANNNDDDD THE RECIPE FOR THE MONTH IS????

SPINACH BALLS!!

From the Kitchen of EULA LOONEY!!

2 Cups Pepperidge farm herb bread crumbs

My family told me to stop telling Thanksgiving jokes ...

2 boxes frozen chopped spinach (drained)

... but I told them I couldn't quit "cold turkey.”

2 large onions, chopped fine

If you call a large turkey a gobbler what do you call a small one?

½ cup parmesan cheese

Goblet.

Knock Knock. Who's there? Norma Lee. Norma Lee who? Norma Lee I don't eat this much!

Why did the police arrest the turkey?

They suspected fowl play.

A new survey found that 80% of men claim they help cook Thanksgiving dinner. Which makes sense, when you hear they consider saying 'that smells good' to be helping.

Thanksgiving. It’s like we didn’t even try to come up with a tradition. The tradition is, we overeat. ‘Hey, how about at Thanksgiving we just eat a lot?’ ‘But we do that every day!’ ‘Oh. What if we eat a lot with people that annoy the hell out of us?'

Why did the turkey cross the road twice?

To prove he wasn't chicken.

Turkey fun facts: - Turkey quite possibly didn’t feature on the first Thanksgiving menu. The records point more towards a duck or a goose.

- Turkeys can get a heart attack. This was discovered when the US Air Force were testing breaking the sound barrier and the huge boom ended up with a field of turkeys dead from fright.

- Black Friday is the busiest day of the year for plumbers.

Guess why.

- Benjamin Franklin wanted turkey to become US national animal. He thought the eagle had a “bad moral character”.

- Because of the very harsh conditions during that first year of 1621, many historians believe that only 5 Pilgrim women (out of the 50 Pilgrims in total) were present at the feast

– that’s probably how many have survived.

- A wild turkey, when scared, can run 20 mph (32 kph).

6 eggs, beaten ¾ cup Margarine ½ teaspoon Thyme 1 Tablespoon of accent Mix and form bite size balls. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, on a cookie sheet.

Makes 100 balls. (Freezes beautifully for latter use).

Serve on a warming tray or chafing dish.

That’s all I have!!! Until next month!!

Keep the sun in your eyes!

Smiley T. McButterpants!!!

Alzafar Classifieds

ALZAFAR SHOTGUN UNIT AKA SMOKIN CLAYS By: Terry Zittle Greetings to all. Well summer is over but we had a great trip on the 19th of September. 22 members and family went to the National Shooting Complex and shot skeet and trap under the flood lights. This night shooting is addictive and when you combine it with great friends it just doesn’t get any better. Many thanks to our 1st Vice President Guillermo DeHoyos for setting up this fantastic event as he had piles of pizza and coolers of libations right there. Although you won’t see this until after the shoot we are going to gather at Bexar Community Range on 26th October and shoot some skeet and trap with a meal following.

All of our events include family, friends and guests and are followed by a great meal. This is a fantastic unit so come on out and check us out. Don’t have a Shotgun? Don’t worry we probably have about 20-30 extras.

Our Monthly Stated Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of each month in our room, which we share the Provost Guard and the Directors Staff. We have a meal that is served between 6:15 and 6:30 pm with the meeting commencing at 7:00 pm. At our last meeting we had Grilled Sausages with all the trimmings prepared by our honorary 3rd Vice President and Chef David Hadley. At that meeting we had 15 members and 9 ladies present. Of course libations are available. Feel free to come on out at check out this amazing unit.

Until next month keep your powder dry and remember as long as there is lead in the air, there is hope!

FOR SALE: 2 crypts at Anchor Lodge Cemetery. Make offer. Call Bob @ 210-824-4689.

FOR SALE: 2 burial plots at Sunset Memorial Funeral Park. Asking $4,000.00 each. For more information call Noble A. G. Pinson @ 615-746-6888.

FOR SALE: 4 burial plots at Sunset Memorial Park in the Masonic Section. Asking $4,000.00 each or negotiable. Call Judy Phillips @ 210-274-7713.

FOR SALE: 2 burial plots at Sunset Memorial Park in the Masonic Section. Asking $4,000.00 each. Please contact Vicki Gann @ 210-315-1325.

FOR SALE: 4 adjourning plots in Brookside Memorial Park Cemetery, Houston Texas. Section 26 (Masters LawnMasonic Section), lot 251, spaces 3,4,5 & 6. Asking $4,995.00 each. Sell all or part. Call Noble Johnny @ 210328-1776.

FOR SALE: #5 Arabia at Camp Alzafar. Please call Ronny @ 210-724-9653 for details and for showing.

FOR SALE: #7 Maskat at Camp Alzafar. 2 bedroom, 2 bath cabin across from the ball park. Includes all furnishings and golf cart. Call Noble Mark Morley at 210632-4194.

FOR SALE: 400CC Scooter in excellent condition. Has windshield, box to carry items. Contact Noble Keith Jorgensen @ 210-521-1679 or 210-422-9820.

FOR SALE: Harley Sportster XL1200. Low mileage. UT colors. Suffered a stroke and must give up my dream of riding. Contact Lady Colleen @ 210-232-8375.

FOR SALE: Big Tex SA30 5' X 8' trailer with 15" wheels.

Has lights, turn signals, removable ramp and in good condition. Asking $875.00. Call Noble John Pendleton at 210-287-6223 to see trailer.

Why the Scottish Rite?

Masonic Education The Scottish Rite is often called the “University of Masonry,” but I suggest a more appropriate title would be the “Graduate School of Masonry.” The three degrees of the Blue Lodge provide the solid foundation lessons of our fraternity. The 29 degrees of the Scottish Rite provide opportunities for the student of Freemasonry to build upon those teachings. The Scottish Rite places a heavy emphasis on education: the Master Craftsman I & II Programs are unique opportunities for deeper study, and the Scottish Rite Research Society provides scholarly publications and an outlet for members’ thoughts and writings.

More Opportunities for Fellowship The Scottish Rite, being regionally organized, provides more opportunities for fellowship. This broader membership provides unique opportunities for Scottish Rite Masons to expand their fellowship with more Masons than are within the walls of their lodges. With this comes more opportunities to involve our ladies and families.

More Opportunities for Service The obligations undertaken by a Master Mason focus primarily on his responsibilities to the grand lodge, his lodge, and other Masons. However, the Scottish Rite Mason has undertaken further obligations to serve his broader community. In the 32nd Degree, the Scottish Rite Mason vows to serve as a “True Soldier” who seeks truth and knowledge, demands freedom of voice, vote, and opinion for all people, combats spiritual tyranny with reason and truth, encourages men to be self-reliant and independent, and performs zealously his duties to God, his country, his family, his brethren, and himself.

In our Blue Lodges, we don aprons inherited from the traditions of the operative stonemasons, men who were builders, as we are called to be in our Blue Lodges. In the Scottish Rite, we are called to be soldiers and defenders, which is why we wear caps symbolic of the medieval tradition of knighthood. As Scottish Rite Masons, we are called to don our helmets, pick up our symbolic swords and shields, and live up to the obligations we have made.

More Opportunities to Practice Charity Scottish Rite Masons proudly support the Scottish Rite RiteCare® Childhood Language Program. Whether it be through our donations of time or treasure, Scottish Rite Masons provide support to over 170 RiteCare® clinics throughout the Southern Jurisdiction in their mission of helping children communicate. The Scottish Rite also provides scholarships for deserving college students, honors those in JROTC and ROTC programs, and provides disaster relief in conjunction with the Masonic Services Association of North America.

Further, each valley may have its own programs that help its community in special ways.

Role Models & Mentors Another thing that makes the Scottish Rite so special are those who wear the red cap of the KCCH and, most especially, the white cap of the 33rd Degree. These men have been recognized for their selfless devotion to the Scottish Rite in particular and to Freemasonry in general. They serve as role models and mentors by leading lives that are worthy of emulation. These brothers are living and breathing examples of what it means to be a Scottish Rite Mason.

Conclusion So what makes the Scottish Rite so special? In a word: more. More light in Masonry, more educational opportunities, more opportunities for fellowship, more opportunities for service, more opportunities to practice charity, and more role models and mentors from whom to learn. The Scottish Rite does not replace the Blue Lodge experience but complements it in a very positive way. However, the Scottish Rite is not meant to be a passive activity—it is not a “spectator sport.” By becoming a 32nd Degree Mason, we take obligations to serve not only our brethren, but also humanity and our community. These commitments and the brethren that fulfill them are what makes the Scottish Rite so unique and special, and why I’m proud to call myself a Scottish Rite Mason.

NOVEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS 3rd 7th 9th 11th 14th 23rd 28th-29th

Alzafar Memorial Service/Ballroom Seniors Meeting & Luncheon/Parlors LOS Stated Meeting/Parlors Veteran's Day Parade/San Antonio Finance & Divan Meeting/Conference Room VETERAN'S DAY-SHRINE CENTER CLOSED Alzafar Stated Meeting/Ballroom Alamo Heights Night Parade THANKSGIVING-SHRINE CENTER CLOSED

12:00 noon 7:00 pm 10:00 am 5:00 pm 7:30 pm 5:30 pm

______________________________________________________ DECEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS 5th 7th 9th 12th 15th

Seniors Meeting & Luncheon/Parlors LOS Christmas Party/Dining Room Sattler Christmas Parade/Sattler Finance & Divan Meeting/Conference Room Alzafar Stated Meeting & Elections/Ballroom Children's Christmas Party/Ballroom

12:00 noon 7:00 pm 11:00 am 5:00 pm 7:30 pm 2:00 pm

______________________________________________________ JANUARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS 1st 2nd 6th 9th 20th

NEW YEAR'S DAY-SHRINE CENTER CLOSED Seniors Meeting & Luncheon/Parlors 12:00 noon LOS Stated Meeting/Parlors 7:00 pm Finance & Divan Meeting/Conference Room 5:00 pm Alzafar Stated Meeting/Ballroom 7:30 pm NILE Stated Session/Parlors 7:30 pm MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY-SHRINE CENTER CLOSED