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The Alzafar Achbar is the Official Membership Newsletter of Alzafar Shriners: It is published monthly by Alzafar Shriners Stated Sessions ......................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.sashrineauditorium.com Alzafar Shriners Office E-mail Address: alzafar@flash.net Official Website Address: www.alzafar.org 2017 ELECTIVE DIVAN Potentate..........................................Gary Radvansky Chief Rabban.....................................Jason Triggs Asst. Rabban.....................................Eric DeWalt High Priest & Prophet.........................Martin Bartlett Oriental Guide...................................Travis Elmendorf Treasurer..........................................Ron Trine Recorder...........................................Thomas Leverett 2017 APPOINTIVE DIVAN 1st Ceremonial Master........................Robert Tucker 2nd Ceremonial Master.......................Richard Reyes, III Director............................................Walter Koehler Marshall...........................................David Hadley Captain of the Guard..........................Johnny McDonald Outer Guard......................................Harry Kinsey Chaplain...........................................James Hoyo 2017 IMPERIAL REPRESENTATIVES Potentate.............................Gary Radvansky Chief Rabban........................Jason Triggs P.P. Reese L. Harrison, Jr.........Emeritus Representative P.P. Robert L. Jett...................Emeritus Representative Daniel M. Hutchison III...........Emeritus Representative P.P. Robert W. Hunt P.P. Stuart H. Simms 2017 FINANCE COMMITTEE Potentate..........................................Gary Radvansky Chief Rabban.....................................Jason Triggs Asst. Rabban.....................................Eric DeWalt Richard Reyes III...............................4 years Charles Davenport.............................3 years Gary Bausell .....................................2 years Jon Strandlie.....................................1 year STATED MEETING The following Stated Meeting of Alzafar Shriners will be held January 12, 2017 at 7:30 p.m., in the San Antonio Shrine Auditorium, 901 N. Loop 1604 W. San Antonio, Texas 78232 Dinner is at 6:00 p.m. on a first come first served basis. The purpose all 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 2017 DUES CARD WILL BE REQUIRED FOR ADMITTANCE to STATED MEETINGS. BE SURE TO BRING THESE THREE THINGS: • Your Fez on your head • Your Card in your pocket • The spirit of fun & good fellowship in your heart.
Thomas D. Leverett Recorder: Thomas D. Leverett
Gary Radvansky
Potentate: Illustrious Sir, Gary Radvansky
Potentate Gary Radvansky “Working Together Making a Difference!” In 1870, there were several thousand Masons in Manhattan, many of whom lunched at the Knickerbocker Cottage at a special table on the second floor. There, the idea of a new fraternity for Masons stressing fun and fellowship was discussed. Walter M. Fleming, M.D., and William J. Florence took the idea seriously enough to act upon it. Now 147 years later we find ourselves needing to focus on those important values of which our Shrine was established. In order for us to increase our membership we need to make a few changes that will make our Shrine appealing to new members. We have the greatest philanthropy in the world and if we do not strengthen our fraternity we will not be able to support the hospitals. I have heard our Imperial Potentates say many times that our Fez is the most important marketing tool for the hospitals. Trust is the key. There has been way too much negativity and lack of trust among nobles. This has got to stop. We all took the same obligation and no ONE noble is better than the next. As a team, we can make a difference. However, continuing to work separately, we remain complacent. I am asking all nobles to come together and let’s make a difference. Set your differences aside and let’s move on. Fraternity, Family and Fun is our motto this year and if we focus on this we will see a huge difference. We are planning events this year that will strengthen our family. In addition, we are planning on more involvement with the Masonic Lodges to help them with membership as well. Come back to the Shrine and witness the changes to our stated meetings this year. I would love to see the numbers increase. Come join us for dinner. If you call the office by the Friday before our stated meeting
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and place your name on the list your meal will be free. Just pick up your ticket at the office the night of our meeting. One thing new introduced this year is our recognition to the Masonic Lodge that is best represented at our stated meeting. A huge Congratulations to Davey Crockett Lodge as our winner for the month of January for having the most members represented at our January Stated Meeting. Wow!!! There is so much I could go on and on….. COME SEE THE CHANGES YOURSELF! Make sure to also review the Laredo parade article in this Achbar for more details. It’s going to be fun! We would love to see you there! Cheryl and I want to thank you for all you do for our children and our Shrine. Your support is so overwhelming and we are so proud to be by your side. It is truly an honor and a privilege to serve you. May God bless you all!
CHIEF RABBAN Jason Triggs
Our First Official Trip to Laredo was in 1982. This year, we’ll Celebrate 35 Years at the Anheuser-Busch Washington’s Birthday Parade.
The Parade is February 18th, but we’d like you to be there early! Enjoy a half-off the single discounted $99 room rate for each Shriner in occupancy, and we’ll add The Potentate’s Block Party with dinner, provided compliments of the Laredo Shrine Club, the Friday evening, followed by our Potentate’s Libation and topped off with live Country Music and Dancing. Our First Lady Cheryl has acquired a limited supply of Granstand tickets (40), from Lady Carolyn Schmies from Laredo, at a deeply discounted price. The cost is $3 per person, first come, first serve is a must. RSVP to our own Lady Cheryl at: cherylcp1427@gmail.com.
Congratulations to Noble Warren Studdard for being selected as Alzafar Shrine’s Shriners of the Month for January. Noble Studdard has become a permanent fixture at Alzafar with the many years he has served our Temple. But if you don’t look close, he can be easily missed. You can find him sitting quietly in the shadows, never seeking any attention or recognition for all the great things he does. Seeing the Nobility enjoy the fruits of his labor is gratitude enough for Noble Studdard. He is no stranger to many high profile charitable efforts for the Shriners Hospitals for Children. As a member of the Golf Unit, he was the ring leader and organizer of many events resulting in tens of thousands of dollars being donated to the hospitals. Noble Studdard works just as hard for the Nobility of Alzafar, especially during the recent holiday season where he volunteered many hours in preparation efforts and humbly serving hundreds in attendance during our annual children’s Christmas party. There is nothing that will stand in his way when there is a job that needs to be done. Noble Studdard is a big guy, but it’s needed to house the big heart he has for our fraternity and philanthropy. News outlets have recently reported the owner of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus will be closing its show forever later this year. Luckily for residents in and around the San Antonio area, the animals and the pageantries of the circus are still able to be experienced. The Alzafar Shrine Circus has already set its course and will be in New Braunfels on October 20th, San Antonio on November 2nd–5th and Kerrville on November 6th. Even though the first show is eight months away, preparations are already underway to produce a memorable experience for everyone. More details will be provided as the time nears. Even though Lady Cynthia and I will be leading the circus efforts this year, it’s the hard work of the Nobles of Alzafar, their Ladies and their families that truly makes the Alzafar Shrine Circus a success year after year. It will be an honor for us to work with all of you as we build on the successes of previous years together. We love you all!
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DIRECTORS STAFF By: Charley “D.”
ORIENTAL GUIDE Travis Elmendorf I stand here very humbled, proud and excited, yes very excited. “When you make a commitment, you build hope, when you keep it you build trust.” Thank you all for placing your trust in me, I look forward to great times ahead. Under the care of the Oriental Guide falls the 3 Noble’s Children Party’s which begin with Easter, Sunday, Apr. 9th. I look forward to meeting with yourselves and the Units to bring these to fruition. I’m a bit of a traditionalist if you or your Unit has been in charge of any part of these parties and would like to continue in that capacity; please get with me as I make the rounds.
Here we go into the new year on this 2nd month, and we hope that it is a very healthy and safe year for all. Regardless of your political party, we have to get or country back to the prominence it once had with the fundamentals our ancestors had when our great country formed. Our morals have decayed, and we have a society that has changed. Believe it or not, some of our ”old” ways of living were great, and maybe we need to return to some of them. So much for my soap box oration. If we are to succeed as a viable Shrine Temple, we need to support all of our Shrine and Units as well as Club officers during the coming year. Our attendance at all Shrine functions is decreasing, and we need to find out why and get it back on an upswing. Membership is very important, and it can only be maintained at a needed level with your help. Let’s try to get new members as well as keeping the ones we have. It is up to us and not only the Divan, so please help if you can. We have a great fraternal organization, so lets keep it going so that we may help the children. This month we have our Potentate’s Ball on Feb. 11th, so plan to attend as it will be a great party for one of our own that is now Potentate, Gary Radvansky. Then on Feb. 18th, we will be in Laredo for the annual Washington Birthday Celebration Parade, followed by the Texas Shrine Directors Association meeting in Waco on Feb. 24th & 25th. Plan ahead to attend as many as you can. You will have a great time if you do. In our sick, lame, and lazy report: We find Ed Lee recovering from a heart attack, and we hope the near future will have him doing much better. Nuckles Gimbel is recovering from his hospital stay in December with Betty Gimbel improving slowly after back surgery. Glenn Hoffman healing after back surgery, with Steve Rossman getting over a broken hip and in his new quarters, in Franklin Place, on Sonterra, East of 281 North. So long for now and as always, “Happy trails to you until we meet again;” and, may the Good Lord above take a likin to you. Adios Amigos.
THANKS By: Charley “D.”
WOW! What a night I had on Jan 12th at the Installation of our Shrine Officers. I was left speechless, which is a first for The Illustrious Sir has also me when I was made the Honorary Deputy Potentate of tasked me with procuring Alzafar Shrine Temple for the year 2107. It is the greatest speakers for our monthhonor I have received as a Shriner, and my thanks go out to ly business meetings. I Illustrious Sir Gary Radvansky, Potentate, his Divan, and my have started a list of Shrine Brothers for this honor. As most all of you know, I individuals to whom I am love the Shrine for being the great fraternity that it is along reaching out. If there are any notable Notables that anyone with the great philanthropic work provided by our Childrens would be interested in hearing, please reach-out to me. Hospitals. I am proud when I hear of what we as a Shrine Temple have done in the past year by transporting children Lastly, I have the great honor of continuing the tradition to our burn centers, for in most cases, life saving care by of the OG Round table. These will be on the 4th Thursday our wonderful teams of Doctors and Nurses. All this is all of each month. Great things can come out of these brainmade possible by the generosity of fellow Nobles with large storming sessions, whether it is a new idea or an old one financial donations, other financial donors and you as memthat’s time may be now, we discard nothing. We have sevbers that support all of our fund raising events for the hospieral ideas to finalize from last year, so come one come all. tals. If you have not heard, we provided over $200,000.00 for transporting children in the past year. Great job for a great cause. My heartfelt thanks again for this great honor.
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ASSISTANT RABBAN Eric DeWalt All Hands on Deck Nobles, all hands on deck for one of the biggest hospital fundraising events. I-HOP National Pancake Day will be here before you know it. The date will be Tuesday, March 7th and things are already rolling. Please reach out to your Unit Chiefs for materials and sign-up sheets. If you have been designated to be a team leader for a location, you should have already rallied your troops and made contact with your store manager. Please make an attempt to visit your location and introduce yourself to the manager. Your goal as a team leader is to make sure you have Shriner coverage at your location. As a Noble manning a location, make sure to represent Alzafar well and interact with the customers. As far back as I can remember, I have always enjoyed I-HOP National Pancake Day. Nobles, let’s have some fun for a great cause.
HIGH PRIEST AND PROPHET Marty Bartlett
So I am the High Priest and Prophet now.
I have to admit that I have never felt very prophetic. I never can guess the correct lottery numbers, I never beat out David Hadley in a raffle and I didn’t even believe that Trump would win the election (I think I was listening to the media too much on that one). Thus, the Prophet thing seems to be a stretch even though I am not a Catholic, the Priest one seems a little easier. I have never shied away from a prayer, in fact, just thinking about how busy we will be in the Shrine this year makes it seem like now is a good time to say one. Truthfully, I am real excited about this year and everything I.S.G.R.(the big guy) has planned for us. The first event I will have the opportunity to be bringing to you is the Masonic Youth Brunch at the Shrine Center on March 4th. This will be the opportunity to honor our youth and have the opportunity to meet with the Texas Grand Master. Please call in your reservation to Carol in the Shrine office to ensure you have a seat and support this event.
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RECORDERS CORNER T-Bone Tommy Leverett
TREASURERS OFFICE Ron Trine February will be a very busy month for all of us. Many units will have their Mid Winters, as does the Divan, we will have the Public Installation of Officers and we of course, have the Laredo Parade. Our Potentate and the Parade Marshall have a few new ideas up their sleeves for fun this year so I encourage all units to participate. This should a great fun time. As you know, at the time of this reading, we will be two months into our new year with a new operating budget, which presents tremendous opportunity to improve many of our fixed assets. I strongly encourage you to take ownership of our assets and if you see something that reflects negatively on the Shrine Center, please bring to the attention of a Divan member. We have a lot of work to do to fix up numerous issues and will need your help in making sure we get all of the important stuff. Again, I am proud to serve you and if there is anything I can help you with, please contact me. A wise man once said: “Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better man”
-Benjamin Franklin
The Holidays are over and once again it is “CRUNCH TIME” at the Shrine. Everybody trying to get their projects organized and set up on the Shrine Calendar for 2017. I was thinking about charging Five Dollars for everyone that comes into my office, but that is my job to work for the Nobility. Technology is up and running in your Shrine Temple. As soon as we came back to work after the New Year Eve Holiday we found that someone (probably a Divan Member), tried to make a copy on the Dell Printer and it was DOA. Our new Potentate, Gary Radvansky, had been working on getting us a new copier and I am happy to say we have a New Printer that make 45 copies per minute. I don’t know if you are like me, but I cannot think that fast. One of the big projects that I have been working on is the renewal of our insurance. If that was not enough, we have hired a 3 G Roofing Company to get Camp put back together after the devastating hail storm last year. The money is in the bank and the repairs should start very soon. Also, we have an update on our Digital Sign. Our insurance company has decided to pay the claim and they think we can get a new sign for $182,000. The company we want to use to do the repairs was at $215,000. We are all working on getting the numbers a little closer and they are in the process of sending us a check for $50,000 to get the project started. It has taken a long time, but I know you will be happy with the finished product. I hope you and your unit made plans to go to the Laredo for the first Shrine Parade of 2017. Once again the Host Hotel is the SpringHill Suites Marriott in Laredo and their phone number is 956-717-0800. They truly love the Shriners on both sides of the border. We should be fine tuning the parade list and getting a schedule out to all the Units and Clubs. Don’t forget to turn in your Annual Financial Statement (Old A/B Report) and a List of your new Officers for 2017. We need this information ASAP. Free advertising is available. That is right we want to promote your business in the New Masonic Yellow Pages. As your Recorder, I get emails and phone calls for members that are looking for AC/Heating business, plumbers, electricians, realtors etc. So fax, mail or drop by your information to the Shrine Office. Come out and join us at the next event and find out why I say “Alzafar Rocks”!
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Membership By Al Raposa Let us agree that Membership growth is vital if the Shrine is to continue and that change for change sake is bad; but, that doing nothing is far worse. We are dying, and if the calculated 2010 4.8% average annual loss continues, we’ll have less than 100,000 members by 2030. If you don’t care about our failures, stop here before turning another Achbar page. If you would like to at the least try something different, then you must commit yourself to understanding and commit to speaking out and offer you hand in support. We Don’t Do it that Way Every time I have approached a Shrine goal from a different perspective, I have had to face one or more well intentioned Shriners saying that we’ve never done it that way before, we don’t do it that way, or the proverbial, it’s against the Imperial law! My answer has always been, “Show me.” Why would anyone want to make your job harder? In the Alzafar Shrine Center, I had witnessed the same membership program come and go with always the same results. “Why would anyone want to be a member of this place,” I often wondered? Then, as fate wonders into and out of my life, not long after, I got the call from our Illustrious Potentate to Chair his Membership Committee. I knew then that this would be an important issue for which my constant complaining would require me to make good. First things first… It’s not our Potentate’s Membership Program it’s Yours, and I hope you’ll join with me. As our Potentate rightfully says, We are Stronger Together! A few of You who have impressed me with your knowledge will hear from me soon. I’ll ask for your guidance, I trust as a Mason, you’ll give it freely.
ANTIQUE CARRIAGE UNIT By: Bud Martin It is time for the George Washington Parade in Laredo. The parade will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18th. The line-up is at 7:00 am. We will leave from the Springhill Suites Hotel at 6:30 am after breakfast. From there it will be when we are told where to line-up and to start moving from our assigned position. Our first meeting went well. Just in case you are interested in joining our unit, you may contact our President, Noble Ken Hawkins at (210) 496-0076, or myself, Noble Irvin “Bud” Martin at (210) 535-9426. We would love to hear from you. We are looking forward to seeing you there, and remember, “No man stands so tall as when he stoops to help a child.” God Bless.
Alzafar Parade Schedule
Sat. Feb. 18 Sat. Apr. 08 Sat. Apr. 29 Sat. May. 06 Sat. May 27 Sat. Jun. 17 Sat. Sep. 02 Sat. Sep. 16 Sat. Oct. 14 Sat. Nov. 11 Sat. Dec.09
Dusty - Alzafar Parade Marshal Washington’s Birthday Laredo Strawberry Festival Poteet Fiesta Flambeau SanAntonio Cornyval Helotes Memorial Day Bandera Berges Fest Boerne Kendall County Fair Boerne Medina County Fair Hondo Peanut Festival Floresville Veteran’s Day San Antonio Christmas Parade Sattler
7:00 am 8:00 am 5:00 pm 7:30 am 9:00 am 7:30 am 8:00 am 8:00 am 8:00 am 10:00 am 9:30 am
9:00 am 10:00 am 7:00 pm 9:30 am 11:00 am 10:00 am 10:00 am 10:00 am 10:00 am 12:00 pm 11:00 am
Come Join Us in any Parade All Shriners are Welcome Dates Times and Parades are Subject to Change Potentate will Announce Family Participation Parades
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CAMP ALZAFAR By: Luis Cardenas, Sr. Greetings Nobles. We are currently working full steam on new and exciting events for this season and will soon be able to provide the official Camp Alzafar 2017 Calendar. Stay tuned Nobles.
stand up and pat yourselves a big atta boy and atta girl. Let’s see if we can do the same or maybe better this year. We’re starting the New Year with a big bang in Laredo, so let’s keep the big bang going all year long. A big thanks to all the Nobles and Ladies that supported the club at the Nobility Gala. Everybody really looked spiffy. May the Good Lord keep everybody safe and in good health. Everybody be good, if not, be good at it. Last but not least, Fellas, don’t forget to take your better halves to Valero for 2 hot dogs for a dollar on Valentine’s Day.
CANYON LAKE SHRINE CLUB By: Tom Gilbert The Canyon Lake Shrine Club met on January 9, 2017 for the first meeting of the year. President Lee Stroman welcomed everyone and Chaplain Terry Miller said the invocation. The pledge of allegiance to the U.S. flag and honors to the Texas flag was recited by all the members. Distinguished guests were introduced. A wonderful meal of Chicken Cordon Bleu was enjoyed by all.
PROVOST GUARD By: Floyd Barker
Our monthly meeting was held on January 4th with 12 members and 4 wives present. We discussed the Mid Winter Shoot hosted by Al Amin’s Provost Guard in Corpus Christi, There was no guest speaker this month. The Treasurer, Lar- Texas on March 24th and 25th. Rich Orr will be sending out ry Remy, gave a report on the Christmas Parade Chili Lunan email concerning registration. Please bring you money cheon. Lee Stroman reported that the Potentate’s Ball will to the February 1st Provost Guard meeting. be February 11, 2017. Lee said he would reserve 2 tables Other shooting dates to remember this year are June 14thfor the ball, and make the reservations with Carol. Steve 17th which is TSA in Waco and September 29th-30th which White reported on the Festival of Light and what a great opwill be the Fall Shoot in El Paso. portunity for people to find out about the Alzafar Shrine and Congratulations to Michael and Marina Raymond on the birth the good work they are doing. of their new granddaughter Audrey on December 30th. Miss Noble David Mulholland was installed as Vice President for Audrey and parents are doing fine and grandparents are ec2017 for the Canyon Lake Shrine Club. The Installation Offi- static about this new journey in their lives! Condolences to cer was Noble Steve White. Glenn and Lynda Dyess on the passing of their son, James, Any Shriner wanting to join the Canyon Lake Shrine Club can in January. Please keep them in your prayers during this call President, Lee Stroman at 830-237-7649 or Secretary, difficult time. We are always looking for new members. All interested Tom Gilbert at 830-899-4839. Shriners are welcome to join. Our monthly meetings are held the first Wednesday evening of the month in the Provost Guard/Director room. Cocktails and visitation begins at 6:00, dinner is served at 6:30 and our meeting begins at 7:00. Wives are always welcome and encouraged to join us. Marshal David Hadley always has a delicious meal prepared for all those in attendance. Marshal David Hadley had his beard professionally trimmed at the last Stated Meeting and earned money for the transportation fund. Way to go David. Keep your powder dry till next time.
HONOR GUARD By: Al Aranda By the time some of us read this article, we’ll be in ole’ country and some of us will be coming back. Whatever the case might be, one thing is for sure, we had a super time the Honor Guard way with lots of food and friendships. Need to thank all the Nobles and the lovely Ladies that supported the club at the Retama. Everybody did a super job. All Nobles and Ladies that supported the club during 2016
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charter a bus or mini-bus. So you new members come out the first Sunday of every month in the dining room of the Temple at 1 P.M. for our meeting. Good food, great fellowship and also libations. Try us you might like us. The meeting in Feb. will be held in the Directors Staff and Roustabouts rooms due to the Temple being booked. That is the building behind the Temple. Also if you have not paid your dues for this new year, please do so at your earliest convenience.
ROADSTER RUMBLINGS el Bucko
As we come into a New Year, I finally surrender the quill for the Achbar articles. I transferred my Shrine membership to Alzafar from Fort Worth in 1983. Within a few months, I was writing Achbar columns for the Patrol. Since then, I’ve written columns for the Rod n Gun Club, the Golf Unit, and of course the Red Roadsters. It is kind of fun sharing your own slant on things. But time marches on and a younger voice is needed to keep things fresh. Rumor has it that the Achbar will shortly be digital only. I’ve tried that - not my cup of tea. Now is the time of year that we can get those little things fixed on our Roadsters for the coming parade year. The Potentate has told me we will have plenty of opportunities to ride them this year. We need to remind the general public of the Shrine mission, and generate interest in the Shrine Circus. That is our mission; having fun and helping kids. Had occasion to visit the Houston and Galveston hospitals in early December to deliver Christmas toys for the kids. When you see those beautiful children and how they cope with their physical problems, yet they are smiling. It tears your heart out. God bless Shrine hospitals. Brother Dave Gardner reminds us we should never get into fights with ugly people, they don’t have anything to lose.
ALZAFAR ROD & GUN CLUB By: Charley “D” HELP! We need your help if we are to survive as a viable unit in Alzafar Shrine Center. Our attendance has dwindled to a point for concern and only you can help it get corrected. We realize that we can not always attend our Rod & Gun meetings, however, if you really have no excuse why weren’t you at the last meeting? If we need to correct something let us know what it is. The Ladies of the Shrine are cooking home cooked meals for us and they are great. We do miss you! If you are new in the Shrine or even if you are an old member, Craig Noyes is planning a Kayak Fishing trip to the coast if he gets enough interest. If you are, call him at 210-3266531 or e-mail to noyesautoelectric@sbcgloal.net for more info. Also plans are to try to get together another trip to L’Auberge in Lake Charles if enough interest is shown to
Ed Lee has gone to rehab and is slowly recovering, Nuckles Gimbel stll nursing his back as well as Betty, Al Gray has some health issues. We hope the Grand Master above lays his healing hands upon them. One of our members had a memorial service on Jan 7th and it was very nicely presented and well deserved for Illustrious Sir Jim Strayer. Adios for now until the next time!
RV CLUB By: Dave Browne The December rally was held at the Skyline RV Park in Bandera, Texas. Our December rally, Christmas party, & installation of officers was held at Skyline Ranch in Bandera. Bandera claims to be the cowboy capital of Texas and is a great place to visit. It’s a short drive from San Antonio, so if you get a chance, take a drive and enjoy the country atmosphere. When you are there be sure to stop at the OST (Old Spanish Trail) restaurant for a country lunch. We had a very good turnout at this rally. Our Wagon Master is once again Addy Addington and we are looking forward to his superb leadership. Thanks to Illustrious Sir J. D. Thomas, who is a member of our club, for conducting the installation. Our Assistant Wagon Master is Jim Miller. Thanks Jim for stepping up. Yours truly will remain as Treasurer. We have some new members coming on board and are excited to hear some new stories. Our January rally will be held at the Bluff Trails RV Ranch in Ingram, Texas. We are expecting a very good turnout of about 20 rigs. Our February rally will be held at the Triple T RV Resort which is located close to Kerrville, Texas. If you have a RV and want to have a lot of fun in a relaxed atmosphere with Brother Nobles and their Ladies, come out and rally with us. I know you will have a great time. Call Wagon Master Addy Addington (830-931-9707) or assistant Wagon Master Jim Miller (210-260-0335) for information about the next rally.
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ALZAFAR SENIORS By: Roger Hopkins The Alzafar Seniors met in the Parlors on the 5th of January with 31 members and guests in attendance. The meeting was opened by our new President, Noble Daniel Schauer, an invocation was given by our new Chaplain, Noble Donald Garrido who followed in the footsteps of our revered former Chaplain, Dan Mason, and offered a little humor before giving his blessings. We then rendered honors to the America and Texas flags and went on to enjoy another delicious lunch of brisket and the fixings, with desserts provided by our members. After lunch and before our business meeting, we were given an exceptional program on “plant and animal invaders” by Mr. Tom Kinsey. Tom has the title of “Master Naturalist with Texas Parks and Wildlife”. He provided an excellent program aided by power point and a menagerie small animals, to include snakes (the non-poisonous kind) and little critters like black and brown rats (the cute kind). Tom puts on programs for all ages (he was discovered at a child’s birthday party). If anyone is looking for a quality program, he can be reached at (210) 410-4564. During our business meeting, we recognized birthdays and anniversaries, sickness and distress and any issues facing the members. Noble Joe Estlack gave a very positive Treasurer’s report and our Secretary referred the members to this month’s Achbar for the minutes of the December meeting. At the conclusion of the meeting we were given benediction by Noble Garrido. Our next meeting will be February 2nd and we look forward to seeing many of you there.
SHOTGUN UNIT By: Bill Willis
the betterment of the Shrine and the Shotgun Unit was an inspiration to us all, and also a big thank you to his lady, Mary, for her tremendous support as well. We couldn’t have done it without you both. Congratulations to our new President, Jerry Smitha, and his lady Gay. I know they’ll continue to raise the bar and do great work through-out 2017. The first big competition for the Shotgun Unit this year is the TSSSA Midwinter held in Waco March 11th, where we’ll shoot both skeet and trap as a team event. Until then, we’ll practice honing our skills every weekend to bring the President’s trophy back to Alzafar. If anyone is interested in shooting, or just learning about the shotgun sports, please contact myself or any of the Nobles in the Shotgun Unit. The biggest event, by far, for 2017 will be Pulling for Kids (P4K). This year it will be held at Joshua Creek Ranch, May 13th, in Welfare, TX. Just a short ride up I-10, north of San Antonio. This shoot will be a sporting clays event, consisting of teams of five, and open to the public. One in every ten participants will win a new Beretta shotgun. This is a huge revenue generator for the hospitals and we’re asking for everyone’s support, either volunteering your time, or registering a team to participate @ www.pulling4kids.org. Remember, it’s all for the kids. Hope to see you there!
HILLBILLY CLAN #152 By: Doug Anderson
R meetin will be on Feb er ary 12, 2017, at 5 PM in tha ruum we’uns share with tha Roustabouts. Tha unit will provide tha main dish an we’re askin tha rest of tha cuz’ns ta bring side dishes. R Christmas party/meetin was a really great party, with lots o good food, good fellowship an fun. All r officers were installed by Illlustrious Sir Gary Radvansky. We’uns were glad ta see thet Lady Cheryl felt well enough ta jern us. R Sadie Hawkins Dance will be Feb er ary 25, 2017, at 7 PM so don’t fergit ta git yo tickets, or y’all kin jest buy em at tha door. R Hillbilly Gal runnin’ fer “Possum Queen” will still be collectin donations all this month, hopin ta be r next “Possum Queen” at tha Sadie Hawkins Dance. Her name is Celeste Davey. So when u see her comin yer way, pleze hep her out, an remember thet all her donations go ta tha kids at tha hospitals. Pleze keep cuz’n Ed Lee in yer thoughts n prayers, and hope that he’ll soon be on the road to good health. As well as r other cuz’ns who r tryin ta git back on r mountainous trail, n pray fer r armed forces, thet they r kept out o’ harms way. We’uns hope ta see y’all at r meetin.
2017 looks to be another busy and prosperous year for the “Smokin’ Clays”. But before I tell you what lies ahead, I’d be remiss if I didn’t take the time to thank our Past President, Terry “COL” Hoke, for his leadership and tireless effort over the past year. His dedication and personal sacrifice for
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NEKODAH TEMPLE NO. 44 DAUGHTERS OF THE NILE By: Princess Rita Young
The Supreme Queen’s visit was a wonderful success! All the performing units put on an absolutely entertaining evening for all. We even had some celebrities appear in the performances: King Tut and The Pink Panther. Congratulations to all the princesses! Please welcome… Carla Arndt, Nancy Cwagenberg, Sandra Garrott, Sherry Jackson, Beverly Luce, Valencia Stevens, Linda Pursell, Juana Staniger, Tanja Whited and Virginia Whitworth. Another ceremonial is scheduled for Feb 4th at 2:00 pm in the parlors. Queen Margie is working on another ceremonial in March, so watch for the Nekodah emails. If anyone knows or wishes to report an illness or family bereavement please contact Pr. Chaplain Charlie Bedgood, PQ. 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 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 Co-Chair Pr. Rita Young at 210-422-6167.
MEMORIALS DONOR IN MEMORY OF Arthur “Clay” Kuhn Darrell Wayne Gaston Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir James Strayer Illustrious Sir Sidney Autrey Jeff Green Jerry Buxkemper Joanne Boeck Joanne Boeck Jody Brewer John Achilles John Achilles John Achilles John Achilles John Achilles John Achilles John Achilles John Fass
Lewis & Betty Gimbel Ron Ezell James & Shelly Hoyo Walt & Patsy Hammons Bill & Elma Myers Don & Patsy Starnes Charlene McGuire Gary & Cheryl Radvansky Mr. & Mrs. Floyd Carl Alzafar Golf Unit Elizabeth Holcomb Ron Kayser P.P. Paul McCombs & Norma Ill. Sir oren Hayes The Promega Corporation Mike & Carol Pavliska Ill. Sir Loren Hayes Don & Patsy Starnes Mary W. Beal Charley & Faye Davenport Ron Ezell Mike & Linda Sluiter James & Shelly Hoyo Walt & Patsy Hammons Bill & Elma Myers Charlene McGuire Mr. & Mrs. Floyd Carl P.P. Paul McCombs & Norma Stephen McMahan Alfred & Elenita Gray
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Come join in the fun! We are stronger & Have more fun Together
UNIT MEETING SCHEDULE
ANTIQUE CARRIAGE 3rd Tuesday BAND Each Thursday BURNING SUN 2nd Wednesday CABIRI Wed. 2nd Thur. CAMP ALZAFAR Memorial Day July 4th & Labor Day CHAPARRAL 1st Monday DE-MOLAY 2nd Thursday DIRECTORS STAFF 2nd Tuesday DRUM CORPS Each Thursday GOLF UNIT 2nd Tuesday HIGHLANDERS BAND Each Thursday HILLBILLY CLAN 2nd Sun Feb., Apr. June, Aug., Oct., Dec. HONOR GUARD 1st Monday HOSPITAL CORPS 3rd Tuesday HOT SANDS BBQ Wed. before stated KERR KLOWNS 4th Monday LEGION OF HONOR 4th Thursday MINI-WHEELS 2nd Tuesday MOTOR PATROL 3rd Monday NEMNUF 2nd Monday ORIENTAL BAND Each Wednesday PATROL 4th Monday PROVOST GUARD 1st Wednesday RED ROADSTERS 1st Tuesday ROD & GUN CLUB 1st Sunday ROUSTABOUTS 1st Wednesday RV CLUB 4th Weekend SENIORS 1st Thursday SHOTGUN 2nd Monday SONS OF HIRAM 1st Monday
7:00P.M. Room 9 6:30P.M. Room 7 7:00P.M. Room 5 12:00N As Designated 12:00N Camp Pavilion
BOERNE SC CANYON LAKE FT. CLARK SPRINGS GUADALUPE VALLEY COUNTRY LAREDO SC
6:30P.M. As Desig. 6:30P.M. Lakeside GC 6:30P.M. Ramada Inn, 6:00P.M. As Desig.HILL 11:00A.M. Inn of the Hills 7:00P.M. As Desig
7:30P.M. Room 4 6:00 P.M. As Desig. 7:30P.M. Directors Rm. 7:30P.M. Room 8 7:30P.M. Room 7 6:30P.M. Room 9 5:00P.M. Roustabout 7:30P.M. Room 12 7:00P.M. Room 6 7:00P.M Pavilion 7:00P.M. Room 11 7:00P.M. Room 4 7:30P.M. Room 10 7:00P.M. Room 5 7:30P.M. Room 11 7:00P.M. Room 8 7:00P.M. Room 6 7:00P.M. Provost Gd. 7:00P.M. Room 10 11:00A.M. Dining Rm 6:00P.M. Roustabout As Designated 12:00N Parlors 7:00P.M. Directors Rm 7:00P.M. Parlors
CLUB MEETINGS 3rd Wednesday 2nd Monday 4th Saturday 3rd Monday 1st Monday 1st Wednesday
AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS MEETINGS
. CIBOLO MASONIC LDG 4th Monday KELLY MASONIC LDG 1st Tuesday VICTORY MASONIC LDG. 2nd Tuesday DAUGHTERS OF THE NILE 2nd Thursday LADIES OF THE SHRINE 1st Thursday
7:00P.M. Alzafar rear 7:30P.M. Alzafar rear 7:00P.M. Alzafar rear 7:30P.M. Parlors 7:00P.M. Parlors
former potentates of alzafar Shriners 1929 1930 1931 1932 1933 1934 1935 1936 1937 1938 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1944 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972
Henry A. Hirschberg* A.J. McKenzie* Louis P. Hartung* Anton N. Moursund* G.G. Grebenheimer* Porter Loring* P.D. Mathis* Geo. F. Dullnig* Willard E. Simpson* C. Baumberger, Jr.* William Eifler* William H. Wallace* Daniel O’Connell* O.J. Solcher* Rennie Wright* Albert A. Green* W.D. Turbeville* Ted E. Poppe* Alfred W. Harlos* Sam A. Chapman* Richard Adams* Roy Akers* Glen K. Schuepbach* W.C. “Pat” Welch* Elliot J. Bilhartz* Ray H. Trimmier* T.M. McCormick* H.S. Norman* W.B. Jack Ball* Floyd J. Griffin* Henry W. Eitt* Harvey McDonald* L.L. Woodman* George W. Henry* Barney Norris* Jack B. Lee* Robert B. O’Connor* E. Jeff Ashcraft, Jr.* D. Neal Talley* Wm. H. Ferguson* Keith Gerstner* Jack W. Cones, Jr.* Bruce Waitz* Floyd F. Graham*
1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Drue H. Floyd* Jack O. Dietz* H.C. Kopplow* W.H. “Bill” Elmore* Thurman Barrett, Jr.* Floyd O. Schneider* Reese L. Harrison, Jr. Burdit W. McCoy* James V. Gullette* Joseph M. Clark* George D. Vann, Jr.* Joe Roy Hollaway E.C. “Bud” Jordan* Sidney D. Autry* Terry McGuire* James Dockery, Jr.* George J. Labinski* James W. Todd Ray Fuller* Robert “Bob” Jett Emmett C. George* E.C. “Ed” Vest* Tom Boothe* Jerry Krupp* Harry D. Rose* Robert D. “Bob” Green Robert “Bobby” Hunt Bob Stephens* Loren Hayes J. Philip Knight-Sheen Wayne R. Duncan Steve R. Molnar Stuart H. “Stu” Simms Frank B. Hunter* Joseph Calvey Paul F. McCombs James “Jim” Strayer* Richard “Rick” Reyes II Gregorio “G.I.” Flores Robert “Bob” Jones Tom Young Mario G. Vargas Jay Dee Thomas John Dunn
Members of Alzafar Who are former Potentates of other Shrine centers 1964 Roy Reynolds* 1970-71 Eldon O. Wesner* 1981 Donald Garrido 1983 David Martin 1998 Terry Zittle
(El Bekal Shriners) (Anezeh Shriners) (Abou Saad Shriners) (Suez Shriners) (Abou Saad Shriners)
* Asterisk Denotes the Passing of Our Illustrious Sir
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Lonnie “Lon� Wharton Malcolme Burklow
CLASSIFIED ADS FOR SALE: Burial plots, 3 side by side single interment each in Mission Park North. The plots are located in Lot 259, Section 6. Price is $4,000.00 each. Please contact Dan, the son of Noble Harold Posey, at 512-755-3222. FOR SALE: Five adjourning cemetery plots in the Masonic section of Sunset Funeral Park, Austin Hwy., San Antonio (Sec. 5, Lot 353, Spaces 1-5). This section is open to non Masons. A second right of burial may be purchased from Sunset for each space. Perpetual care included. Sunset will show spaces and conduct title transfer. Will sell all or part for $2,750.00 per space (title transfer fee included). Contact Cindy Kerr at 210-341-4694 for more details. FOR SALE: Five adjoining cemetery plots in the Masonic section of Sunset Funeral Park. $4,000.00 each. Please call Carolyn Patterson @ 512-689-6490. FOR SALE: 2 crypts at Anchor Lodge Cemetery. Make offer. Call Bob @ 210-824-4689. FOR SALE: Khiva #53 at Camp Alzafar. 1997 Jayco Fifth wheel with two pullouts & includes 2 golf carts. Brand new refrigerator. Excellent condition and very comfortable. Asking $17,500.00. Call Connie Daubenmire at 210-6858232 for more details. FOR SALE: Maskat #14 at Camp Alzafar. Cabin with paved covered carport. Has A/C and heat and a storage shed. Asking $21,000.00. Call Noble Frank Persyn at 830-
281-6101 or 210-844-4909 for more details. FOR SALE: 2009 Yamaha 1100 CC Motorcycle. Excellent condition. Lockable trunk, saddle bags, foot floorboards for both driver and passenger. Less than 4,000 miles. Brake away cruise control and more. Used mostly for shrine parades. Will throw in a portable motorcycle garage worth over $350.00 with a door on each end for easy in and out. Has frame and easy to install in yard. $7,000.00 firm. Contact Noble Keith Jorgensen @ 210-5211679, 210-422-9820 or kbjorge@sbcglobal.net. FOR SALE: 27 ft. 2004 Jayco trailer. $7,000.00. Call Jesse @ 512-769-0014. FOR SALE: 2 burial plots with Red Mountain Granite Memorial 60 X 16. Predrilled with vase plate. Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park, Hwy. 46 between Seguin & New Braunfels. Garden of Honor by flagpole. $7,400.00. Contact Noble Ken Neuse @ 830-708-0906. FOR SALE: 4 burial plots at Chapel Hill Cemetery in the Military Honors section. $900.00 each. Contact Noble Daniel Carbaugh @ 210-661-3492. FOR SALE: 2009 Harley-Davidson Touring FLHR Road King Motorcycle. Low mileage, in top condition. Average Retail Price is $10,355.00. Asking $8,000.00. Call Walt Atencio @ 210-658-5527 or 210-454-7245.
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ALZAFAR SHRINERS 901 N. Loop 1604 West San Antonio, Texas 78232
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID San Antonio, Texas Permit No. 480
Scheduled Shrine Family Events FEBRUARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS
2nd 6th 9th 11th 18th 20th 25th
Forget-Me-Nots/Room 4 Seniors Meeting & Luncheon/Parlors LOS Stated Meeting/Parlors Finance & Divan Meeting/Conference Room Alzafar Stated Meeting/Ballroom NILE Stated Session/Parlors Nobility Gala/Ballroom George Washington Birthday Parade/Laredo PRESIDENT’S DAY-SHRINE CENTER CLOSED Sadie Hawkins Dance/Terrace Room
10:00 am 12:00 noon 7:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 5:00 pm 9:00 am
2nd 4th 6th 9th 18th 25th
Forget-Me-Nots/Room 4 Seniors Meeting & Luncheon/Parlors LOS Stated Meeting/Parlors Masonic Youth Brunch/Ballroom Finance & Divan Meeting/Conference Room Alzafar Stated Meeting/Ballroom NILE Stated Session/Parlors NILE Installation/Ballroom LOS Installation/Ballroom
10:00 am 12:00 noon 7:00 pm
6th 8th 9th 13th 29th
Forget-Me-Nots/Room 4 Seniors Meeting & Luncheon/Parlors LOS Stated Meeting/Parlors Strawberry Festival Parade/Poteet Children’s Easter Egg Hunt/Pavilion Alzafar Stated Meeting/Ballroom NILE Stated Session/Parlors Fiesta Flambeau Parade/San Antonio
10:00 am 12:00 noon 7:00 pm 10:00 am 2:00-4:00 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:00 pm
MARCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS
APRIL CALENDAR OF EVENTS
7:00 pm
5:00 7:30 7:30 2:00 2:00
pm pm pm pm pm
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