www.SarasotaShrineCenter.com www.HometownHeroesBarGrill.com www.SahibShrine.org
Volume 37, Number 4
Sarasota, Florida
April 2018
In this issue:
Official Philanthropy of Shriners International
Potentate’s Message .................................................................................3 Stated Meetings: April 5 ............................................................................4 Birthday & Anniversary Dinner Dance.......................................................6 Hometown Heroes Bar & Grill Ready for Service ....................................12 Thursday Lunch Speakers ........................................................................21 A Look Inside Shriners .............................................................................26 Photos from the Imperial Visit .................................................. 7-8, 13, 30 Members’ Photo Page .............................................................................36 April Birthdays .........................................................................................34 Calendars for April and May ....................................................................48
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The Official Publication of
Sahib Shriners Shriners International 600 N Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 Ph: (941) 366-4449 Fax: (941) 366-8578 www.SarasotaShrineCenter.com www.HometownHeroesBarGrill.com www.SahibShrine.org Publisher Sahib Shriners – Del Rawlinson, Potentate Editor Rebecca Zeissler Phone: (941) 366-3890 e-mail: rzeissler@yahoo.com Photographer Joel Furman e-mail: jfurman72@gmail.com The Reporter is dedicated to promoting the interests of Sahib Shriners, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Shriners Hospitals for Children specializing in burn care, the Sahib Shrine Clubs and Units and Freemasonry. DEADLINE All materials for publication must be submitted to the editor no later than the date listed on the monthly calendars published in this newsletter. Dates are subject to change, but generally three (3) weeks prior to publication date which is the first of each month. Electronic submissions are preferred and may be submitted via email, thumb drive or via a file hosting service (contact editor for details). This includes text, photos and advertisements. Sahib Shriners disclaim any liability from any loss or damages resulting from articles, opinions, statements or representations expressed or implied in this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission from the publisher, except by other officially recognized Shriners publications. In the event of approved reproduction, credit must be given in the publication to Sahib Shriners. Requests for reproduction should be addressed to Sahib Shriners. SHRINERS HOSPITAL INFORMATION For information or assistance in contacting the Shriners Hospitals for Children call: National: (800) 237-5055 Florida: (888) 665-KIDS (5437) Sarasota: (941) 955-2494 e-mail: hospital@sahibshrine.org The Reporter is published monthly, except for July. A subscription is included in our annual Sahib Shrine membership dues of $125, to the Sahib Shrine Temple, Inc., 600 N Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34232.
Potentate’s Message ............................................................................ 3 Stated Meeting ...................................................................................... 4 Poem: “April” by author unknown ........................................................ 4 Recorder’s Report .............................................................................. 5 Sahib Breaks Ground on Clothing-Optional Beach for Members ........... 5 Event: Birthday & Anniversary Dinner Dance .................................. 6 Chief Rabban’s Notes ......................................................................... 7 Photos: Imperial Potentate’s Visit ......................................................... 7 Photo: Imperial Potentate’s Visit ........................................................... 8 Event: Potentate’s Ball ....................................................................... 8 Event: Imperial Session ...................................................................... 9 Chaplain’s Notes ............................................................................... 10 Hospital Transportation Notes / Report .......................................... 11 Hometown Heroes Bar & Grill Ready for Service ............................... 12 Photos: Imperial Potentate’s Visit ....................................................... 13 Club Directory .................................................................................... 14 North Port Shrine Club Notes .......................................................... 15 Motor Corps Shrine Club Notes .................................................. 16-17 Manatee Shrine Club Notes ......................................................... 18-19 Event: Potentate’s Cruise ................................................................. 20 Speakers Bureau Notes / Thursday Lunch Speakers ...................... 21 Outreach Program ............................................................................... 22 Unit Directory ..................................................................................... 22 Clown Corner Notes ............................................................................ 23 Photos: Clowns at Arcadia Parade ....................................................... 24 Past Masters Notes ............................................................................ 25 A Look Inside Shriners by Audra Stewart ................................26, 29, 48 In Memoriam / Black Camel ............................................................... 27 Donations ........................................................................................... 27 Oriental Band Notes ......................................................................... 28 Photos: Imperial Lady’s Visit .............................................................. 30 Birthdays in April ............................................................................... 34 Masonic Digest / Scottish Rite Notes ................................................ 35 Photos: Around the Shrine / St. Patrick’s Day Birthday/Anniversary . .. 36 Sar-I Court / LOSNA Notes ............................................................. 38 Lady Juanita’s Project ......................................................................... 38 Nyla Temple Notes ............................................................................ 39 Reporter Boosters ............................................................................... 41 Poem: “April” by Sara Teasdale .......................................................... 45 Officers and Appointees ................................................................. 46-47 April and May Calendar ...................................................................... 48 ON THE COVER: Imperial Potentate Sir Gary Bergenske opens the weekly meeting of the Sahib Shrine on March 8, 2018. On far left is Chief Rabban Bruce Porter, with Potentate Del Rawlinson on far right. Photo by Joel Furman
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Notes from your Divan
Potentate’s Message Greetings Nobles and Happy Easter, Nobles, I want you to know that after the first two months of this year, Sahib temple is doing well. In February, we enjoyed a banner month in our restaurant and lounge. We are so blessed to have the Grand Masters and their entourages from all different part of our middle and eastern states choose Sahib for their winter pilgrimages. We also have the Potentates from these same states come for their winter gatherings. The Divan and the Sahib nobility thank you sincerely for coming to Sahib for your winter meetings. We will certainly miss our Shrine flock of snowbird brothers and sisters when they depart. It is simply a sign of that time of year. Have a safe trip home, have a wonderful spring and summer, and a safe return to us. March brought the annual Imperial Potentate’s visit. Imperial Potentate Sir Gary Bergenske and First Lady Anne was here visiting our Shrine and had many nice things to say about our facility, fraternity and us. He also reminded us about membership and how we all need to get behind our Membership Committee to help rebuild Shrinedom. Have you gotten your candidate yet? Time is running out! I also want to thank the Motor Corps for escorting our Imperial Potentate from I-75 and Fruitville Road to Sahib for our weekly men’s luncheon. A rousing reception befitting of his position greeted him upon his arrival and a festive luncheon followed. Thank you for your visit Imperial Sir. If you haven’t tried our Bar and Restaurant lately, we invite you to check it out. We have new menus, new help, new activities, and a sports bar atmosphere. More TVs, football, baseball, basketball, golf, etc. Come on by and have some fun. Check your calendar for all your April scheduled events. We must not forget membership. Get your friends and family interested in Masonry and the Shrine. We will have our Ceremonial in October this year, so please try and enlist a new member so we can continue to be the best Shrine in Shrinedom. Remember to call a Brother you haven’t seen for a while; I’m sure both you and he will appreciate it. Until next month, be kind to one another.
Yours faithfully,
Delbert Rawlinson Sahib Shriners Potentate 2018
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April 2018
Official Call
STATED MEETING Thursday April 5, 2018
• • •
11:00 a.m. Fun & Fellowship 12:00 p.m. Lunch 12:45 p.m. Meeting Opens
2018 Dues Card and Fez Required No Short Pants
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Chief Rabban Bruce Porter, bruceporter@hotmail.com Shriners Creed: Shriners believe in God and that He created man to serve His purposes, among which is service to others in His name. We believe that care for the less fortunate, especially children who suffer from burns and crippling diseases, is our institutional calling. We are patriots, each willing to serve his country with fidelity and courage. We cherish independence under the law and freedom with responsibility. We honor family. We respect our parents, wives and children. We should instill in our children the tenets of this creed, and the heritage from which it emanates. As individuals we pledge ourselves to
Notes from your Divan integrity, virtue and nobility of character. Our intentions will be honorable, our relations will be trustworthy and our spirits forgiving of each other. As brothers we offer each other fraternal affection and respect. Together we will support each other in adherence to this creed, so that we and our communities will be the better because of our fraternity and its principles. As Shriners we look beyond ourselves to serve the needs of others, especially children who cannot help themselves. We believe Shriners Hospitals to be the world’s greatest philanthropy, and we covenant with each other to support its “temples of mercy” with spirit, time, talent and means.
Imperial Visit
Photos courtesy Ed Firquin
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April 2018
Imperial Visit
On March 8th, Sahib was honored to host, and inspired by, the Imperial Potentate of Shriners International. Members of Sahib’s Divan are shown above, and seated left to right are: Second Ceremonial Master Brent Kruse, Chief Rabban Bruce Porter, Imperial Potentate Gary Bergenske, Potentate Del Rawlinson, Assistant Rabban Gene Marinelli, and Recorder Ed Firquin. Photo by Joel Furman
Sahib Shriners requests the pleasure of your company at the
Potentate’s Senior Prom In Honor of
Illustrious Sir Delbert Rawlinson & Lady Juanita
Saturday, October 6th Schedule of Events: FRIDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 5, 2018 6:00 P.M. Buffet Dinner ($12.00) at Sahib Shrine’s Sahara Room Reservations Appreciated. Call 941-366-4449 x320 Presentations to follow SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2018 5:30-6:00 P.M. Potentate Reception for visiting Potentates, Sahib Cabiri Room 6:00-7:00 P.M. Social Hour, Lounge 6:30 P.M. Doors open for Ball and Social Hour 7:00 P.M. Introductions, Sahib Shriners Auditorium 7:30 P.M. Dinner served ($70.00 pp), Sahib Shriners Auditorium 8:30-Midnight Entertainment and Dance begins, Sahib Shriners Auditorium Lodging at LaQuinta Inns & Suites has been reserved at a special rate ($125.00 plus tax, incl. continental breakfast) for out-of-town guests. Please call (941) 342-8778 for reservations. Ask for Sahib Shriners rate.
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“As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.”
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Chaplain’s Notes Lou Ortt, PM, Chaplain, lhortt@verizon.net Psalm 118:22 “The same stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.” It is the belief of many students of the Bible that this psalm was a thanksgiving hymn used as a part of ancient Israel’s worship service. The choir joyously acknowledge what God had done: delivered them from slavery in Egypt and then from exile in Babylon. Out of sadness came joy and hope. In the Mark Master Degree we also see this joy and thanksgiving being displayed when the keystone was found and the temple was able to be completed. If you remember, the workmen carried the keystone to the overseers who rejected it because it did not appear to conform to the specifications they were given. Its shape and size were later recognized as that which would be required to complete the temple and it was retrieved from the rubbish to become the chief stone of the temple. Think of the joy and happiness, not only of the workmen who shaped the
stone, but also of the builders and the nation when the arch and the temple were completed. How many of us have something which we are rejecting? A person, a feeling from within, a tangible object, a word of comfort or understanding that, if presented, could be the beginning of something new and exciting or the completion of something that has been pending for a long time. Think about what we may have been neglecting or rejecting and let us complete our temple.
“Fall seven times. Stand up eight.” -Japanese proverb
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Hospital Transportation Notes Dick Schmidt, Chairman, hospital@sahibshrine.org On Thursday, March 22, several of our drivers from the Hospital Transportation group took part in a CPR Certification class led by fellow driver Brent Kruse. Kruse is not only Sahib’s First Ceremonial, but also a fireman and EMT. Sahib Shriners started providing patient transportation in 1982. From 1982 until 2017, there have been only five Nobles in the position of Hospital Chairman/Hospital Transportation Chairman: Paul Leaky, Ben Blount, Cliff Bloodsworth, Jesus Cabalo and Ken Clark. If you, as a Sahib Noble in good standing with a safe driving record, would like to participate in the Hospital Transportation
Program, contact the HT office or call 3664449, ext. 317. Office hours are 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Left to right: Dick Schmidt, Fritz Wise, and Brent Kruse. Photo courtesy Gary Schweinshaupt At the tables, the men practiced on CPR dummies. Shown left to right in foreground are Doug Dobbs, Dennis Judd and Bob Martin. Photo by Gary Schweinshaupt
Hospital Transportation—our 2018 fleet. Photo courtesy Gary Schweinshaupt
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Hometownheroesbargrill.com
April 2018
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Imperial Visit
Photos courtesy Ed Firquin
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North Port Shrine Club Don Valerino, Past Master and Dual Shrine Temple member, djtodie@comcast.net Caught me a little off-guard but I haven’t been to several meetings because of medical issues. Anyway, there is not much to report. We do have new members. The new members are Noble David Pankiw of Zembo Shrine, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Noble Wayne Roach of Baumi Shrine, Baltimore, Maryland. As reiterated by many Nobles, an immediate and important task for Shriners is membership. We welcome these Nobles to the North Port Shrine Club. In regard to membership, we must all take a look at the Blue Lodge, our friends, our associates and families. On Hospital Days, I heard a lot of praise for Shriners and their good work. We have to continue this work now and in the future. When approaching prospective Shriners, ask yourself the question “Will this person make a good Shriner, and how can I convince him that our mission is important?” I would gladly pay the first year’s dues for anyone joining the Shriners and who couldn’t afford the first year’s dues. We are in a different era now with social media. Perhaps we might use social media to further our membership goals.
In closing, the Cabbage Key boat trip has not been finalized in terms of a date. In regard to the April 2, 2018 picnic, it is BYOB. The menu is excellent so don’t bring more food. “We do have new members…Noble David Pankiw…and Noble Wayne Roach….”
We could really use your help! We want to see more pictures of our members out and about and doing what Shriners do best…and that is making a difference. Don’t be shy, just use your smartphone whenever you’re at the temple, attending a function, marching in a parade…heck, just about anything where Shriners are involved. Send your photos (captions are nice, but not necessary) to Becky at rzeissler@yahoo.com
See page 21 for this month’s speakers
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April 2018
Motor Corps Shrine Club Giles Light (G-man), Secretary, gileslight@aol.com A few years ago we tried to pull an April Fools’ joke on our readers by saying the Potentate had bought a Harley and was going to ride at the front of the Motor Corps in all the parades. Well, we don’t have to try that joke any more as the Potentate and the Chief Rabban are both members of the Motor Corps. Glad to have both of them as members. We hope many of our readers attended the Shrine luncheon on Thursday, March 8th. A number of members escorted Imperial Sir Gary Bergenske and his wife, Imperial First Lady Anne, to Sahib Shrine for the Thursday men’s and ladies’ luncheons. A special thanks to Darren Bracken (Schmoozer), Barry Hart (Policyman), Eric Bock (Ironman), Bryan Pullman (Shortcut), Scott Steelman (Gray Fox), Tony Gallanti (G), and Les Ruggiero (Curli). Several of our members had to break away from their work responsibilities for this escort duty. Well done.
Motor Corps bikes on the parade route in Arcadia. Darren Bracken and Barry Hart lead the pack.
The Motor Corps had a great turnout for the Arcadia Rodeo Parade on March 10th. Kudos to Darren Bracken, Barry Hart, Scott Steelman, Bryan Pullman, Mark deStefano (Dancing Bear), George Hernandez (Silver Fox), and Jim Mckinney (Slim Jim). Also attending the parade were our Potentate Del Rawlinson (Backwards) and Chief Rabban Bruce Porter (Wizard). The 10th annual Sam Swope Memorial Charity Ride (“We Ride So Kids Can Walk”) was held on Sunday, March 11th. There was also a Saturday night dinner at Seminole Harley-Davidson at which time the Motor Corps presented a check in the amount of $1,000 to the run. One of our members, Mick Vorbeck (Alley Cat), matched our amount with his own check. This year’s ride was from Bahia Shriners to Seminole HarleyDavidson. Net proceeds from the Run benefit the Tampa Shriners Hospital. Motor Corps continued page 15
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Motor Corps continued from page 14 Several of our members, along with members of the Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association, made the Annual Pilgrimage to the Masonic Home in St. Petersburg on the weekend of the 18-20th. Unfortunately, there were a number of scheduling conflicts that same weekend, so Motor Corps participation was limited. The residents of the Masonic Home sure do enjoy seeing all the motorcycles. With Spring now officially here, the Motor Corps is planning its annual trip to Murphy, North Carolina. At this time, we are looking at late May or early June. Best hope right now is May 17-20th, but stay tuned. More next month. Finally, several members of the Motor Corps have been practicing on the third Saturday of each month for the obstacle course competition held at the Florida
Association of Shrine Motor Corps Meetings. We expect to have a team competing the first weekend in May. We have twelve Motor Corps members and their ladies with birthdays in April. Birthdays include Illustrious Sir Del Rawlinson (Backwards) on the 1st, John Machanska (Dozer) on the 2nd, Lady Barbara Hart on the 6th, Lady Cathy Cason and Lady Paula Basham on the 8th, Lady Joni Steelman on the 16th, Lady Carol Hubbard and Lady Jan Dahlberg on the 21st,, Dave Mashia (Hollywood) on the 22nd, Bryan Pullman (Shortcut) and Roger King (007) on the 25th, and Joe Stella (Stroker Joe) on the 27th. We have three anniversaries in April: Les and Carol Ruggiero on the 2nd, Roger and Susan King on the 25th, and Don and Paula Basham on the 26th.
Photos provided by Giles Light
Above: Chief Rabban and Motor Corps member Bruce Porter with George Hernandez, Jim McKinney, Barry Hart, and John Hubbard.
Right: Mark deStefano, Scott Steelman, Darren Bracken, Jim McKinney, and Barry Hart getting ready for the parade.
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Manatee Shrine Club n
Paul Kline, President, pauliek23@gmail.com Through the persevering and prideful efforts of several of our Manatee Shrine Club (MSC) members, both new and former faces graced our membership with their presence at its March luncheon meeting. For that event, another new high in attendance was witnessed for the new year. Preceding the monthly lunch and presentation, the following salient topics were addressed: First, Russ Sexton reported on the status of the Sahib Shrine in providing volunteer workers for the Pittsburgh Pirates Spring training games. While the 2018 effort has been successful to date, Russ informed that 44 percent of the volunteers working at the games are MSC members. He reminded that “there’s always room for more.” Those interested can contact him at 941-723-8783 or via email at drsexton45@gmail.com. Russ was applauded for his stellar efforts. As most know, MSC’s ball park participation is our annual fundraiser. Second, Russ and Ernie Ryder reported on their efforts to update MSC’s mailing list. Over the past 10 years the current active mailing list appears to have dwindled from over 400 members to approximately 100. Targeting those who remain “active,” or who are candidates for “being active,” will hopefully increase future participation in the MSC. Ernie and Russ were also recognized for outstanding effort. Third, Paul Kline reported on updating the Membership Directory which was last published in 2012. Following discussion, the board of directors decided that a hard copy of that directory would likely not be in order at this time. In lieu of a hard copy, Russ Sexton will lend his computer skills to create an “ecopy” membership directory. Treasurer Tom McGill’s report included a reminder that annual dues for 2018 members who have not renewed their membership need to do so. The annual dues remain unchanged, and are $15.00. Members
The new MSC “Greeting and Sympathy Card.”
can either bring their checks with them to the April meeting, or can mail them to Tom at his home address: 5613 Garden Lakes Majestic, Bradenton, FL 34203-6322. As chair of the Sunshine Committee, Ernie Ryder presented a professionally done combination “Sympathy and Greeting Card” which is designed to be sent—as appropriate and as needed—to members and friends of MSC. Ernie will serve as the clearinghouse for the cards. For further information please contact him at joanneryder66@msn.com. Ron Levene, Jim Smith, and Connie Jacobi were recognized for their many years of service to the MSC board of directors. Their contributions have been tremendously beneficial to the MSC and the Sahib Shrine in general and are very much appreciated. Program presenters for the March luncheon-meeting were Bill Porter and John Freeman representing the Lakewood Ranch Rotary. Their presentation focused on the club’s construction of freshwater wells in third world countries. The results of their work over the past decade have had MSC continued page 17
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MSC continued from page 16 astounding effects on the health status of residents benefitting from the wells. The social event for March was a visit to the Manatee Village Historical Park in Bradenton. Next month’s social event will be a tour of the International Shrine in Tampa and will take place on Wednesday, April 18th at 10:30 a.m. Additional information is forthcoming. Looking ahead to our April 6th MSC luncheonmeeting, Patricia DeVilliers, DDS, MS, who is an oral and maxillofacial pathologist, will be our guest speaker. Her presentation is “Dental Health for Aging Americans.” The menu will consist of a choice of entrees, either chicken-fried steak or a Spring salad with grilled pineapple and chicken. Dessert will be vanilla ice cream with strawberry topping. We wholeheartedly and enthusiastically welcome all SHRINERS to our monthly luncheon-meetings and social events. If you haven’t attended a meeting lately, we hope you’ll come visit and honor us with your presence. You’ll see old friends, and I promise we’ll all enjoy seeing you once again.
Guest presenters from the Lakewood Ranch Rotary Club were Bill Porter and John Freeman (far left and far right, respectively). Between them are, left to right, Ed Cramer, Patty Kunkel, and Bob Swithers.
The MSC visited the Manatee Village Historical Park last month. One of the many points of interest was Florida’s earliest courthouse building. Pictured in front of that courthouse are (left to right) Linda Dale; Linda’s granddaughter Danielle Bloome; docent Ken Fink; Carol Murphy; and Russ and Jan Sexton.
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Speakers Bureau / Thursday Lunch Harold Eady, Program Chairman, hjeady@comcast.net
Stated Meeting, April 5
David Wolfe, media executive at local radio station WSRQ will be presenting his program titled “Five Facts in Twenty Minutes That Will Impress Your friends.� His program, on April 12th, will focus on the pros and cons of the media.
April 19 TBA April 26 TBA
Guest Speaker Roster April 5
Stated Meeting
April 12
David Wolfe, media executive at local radio station WSRQ
April 19
To Be Announced
April 26
To Be Announced
Outreach Program Committee Notes We now have had three meetings discussing the creation of a new committee designed to reach out to organizations with primary focus on Masonic Lodges with the intent to bolster our Shriners membership. We welcome any assistance from any of our Nobles. If you are interested, please contact any one of our committee: PP Carroll Scribner, Paul Zeissler, Jim Leiner or Harold Eady.
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Clown Corner Harold “Scrappy” Bell, scrappysarasota@comcast.net Will it or will it not? Will The Reporter be distributed on April Fools’ Day?? How many “fooled you’s” will it have? No fooling here, the clowns had a great day at the Arcadia Rodeo Parade. It was so much fun to see all of the horses and real “cowgirls” and “cowboys.” The crowd was really fun to entertain with all of their enthusiasm. With the warm Arcadia crowd, it would have been fun if the parade would have been longer. Enjoy the pictures on this page provided by the clown’s excellent photographer, Al “Corny” Cobb. The clown participants at the parade were Al “Corny” Cobb, Rick “Sliver” Taylor, and Harold “Scrappy” Bell. Oh yes, I hope everybody gave a big THANK YOU to all of the people responsible for the wonderful “afterglow.” Just heard with disappointment that the
DeSoto Heritage Children’s Parade is not being held. Maybe there will be a reschedule. The last part of March, the clown unit was selling and taking tickets at the Sarasota County Fair and on the 23rd and 24th they were scheduled for a Hospital Days collection at a local Publix. Pictures and event results should be in the May Reporter. The Sahib Nobles and visitors continue to place contributions in the red sneaker shoe located at the jewelry counter in the big room. The clown unit sends a thank you to all of those helping us with our special fundraising efforts. As you know, we send all of the “Shoe” money that is collected directly to the Shrine Hospital’s Burns Research Fund through the International Shrine Clown Association. As I close, just remember "It is our Shrine children for whom we are working.”
Left to right: Al “Corny” Cobb; Potentate Del Rawlinson, aka “Delby”; Harold “Scrappy” Bell; Rick “Sliver” Taylor and Assistant Rabban Gene Marinelli. More photos on next page. All photos courtesy of Harold Bell.
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Above: Harold “Scrappy” Bell prepares the calliope for the parade. Below: Potentate Del Rawlinson “Delby” with Rick “Sliver” Taylor.
Rick “Sliver” Taylor wrangles up a couple o’ cowpokes. All photos courtesy Harold Bell.
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Past Masters Notes Gary Wonning, President, cmdr07@gmail.com Our January meeting was cancelled because the Shrine was closed for some extensive remodeling. It looks great! Come out and see! We may have gotten off to a slow start, but we are now up and rolling. The annual Rusty Mason Degree has been set for January 16th at 7:00 p.m. at Sahib Shrine. The officers and members are now busy preparing for the event. We also plan on visiting some of the Masonic lodges in District 23 throughout the year. If you are a Past Master, please join us. We can always use the help and advice. We have a table at the Thursday luncheon, located in the northeast corner of
the main hall. Come early and enjoy good camaraderie and a drink. Lunch starts at 12:00 p.m., camaraderie begins at 11:00 a.m. “…Come early, enjoy some good food, libations, and fraternal camaraderie.”
The Past Masters meet every fourth Monday of the month, except December, at the Sahib Shrine at 7:00 p.m. If you are a Past Master of any Masonic lodge, from any state or country, come early, enjoy some good food, libations, and fraternal camaraderie. Join us in making this a better world to live in.
“Any fool can make a rule, and any fool will mind it.” Happy APRIL FOOLS’ DAY! Quote by Henry David Thoreau
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A Look Inside Shriners: Historically and Personally Submitted by Past Potentate Carroll Scribner, Written by Audra Stewart In late 2016, Audra Stewart spent a day with thenPotentate Carroll Scribner, to get some information for a paper she was writing about Shriners. This is that (abridged) paper. A PERSONAL CONNECTION As a child, my husband burnt himself very badly. He was playing hide-and-go-seek with a little girl and snuck into the house, hiding under the kitchen table. His mom thought he was in the back yard. He somehow pulled on the cord of the percolator and hot coffee poured all over him, burning his little body. He could have died. He spent several months in the hospital enduring grueling treatments to keep him alive and prevent infection from setting in. He had to have several skin grafts from his legs. He was three years old when it happened and still remembers how painful it was, physically and emotionally. When Bruce was sixteen, he had another surgery to increase movement in his left arm. There was a significant amount of permanent scarring as well as muscular and joint damage. The Shriners paid for all of his treatment. That is what they do. A BRIEF HISTORY Who are the Shriners? They are so much more than a bunch of men in funny hats and little cars. The “fez” was first made in Fez, Morocco, and it serves as the iconic red symbol of the Shriners. “Shriners International, a fraternity based on fun, fellowship and the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth, founded Shriners Hospital for Children as its official philanthropy in 1922.” (Shriners Magazine). There are 22 pediatric hospitals in three countries. Shriners hospitals not only provide state-of-the-art care to children, they also conduct research and teaching programs (Shriners Magazine). It began as an idea in 1870. In New York City, a group of Masons frequently gathered for lunch. The men talked about starting a new group of Masons that was more fun and light-hearted. Two of the men, Dr. Walter M. Fleming and William J. “Billy” Florence, an actor, decided to make this group a reality. They came
up with an Arabian theme, based on a trip that Florence had been on. They made emblems, costumes, and of course, the red fez. The group became known as the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (AAONMS). In 1872, the first meeting by the Mecca Shriners took place. Mecca was the first temple, or chapter. Since then, it has grown to about 200 temples (Shriners International). By 1898, there were over 50,000 Shriners and most of the temples did philanthropic work of some kind. They were very generous and offered aid to several different groups in need. There were some Shriners in the group that felt it was time to consolidate their efforts and find one area of focus. In 1922, the first Shriners Hospital opened in Shreveport (Shriners International). FROM MASONS TO SHRINERS “All Shriners are Masons, but not all Masons are Shriners” is a common thing to hear regarding these two fraternities. The original Shriners were Masons looking for a little more fun and structured themselves after the Masons. While Masons belong to either a Blue or Craft Lodge, Shriners belong to a temple. A man has to learn about Masonry and earn a series of degrees. Upon completion of the third degree, he becomes a Master Mason and then he may pursue becoming a Shriner (Shriners International). THE IMPERIAL STRUCTURE Shriners International runs like a corporation. The governing body is called the Imperial Divan. There are 12 elected officers that move up the ladder each year for a one-year term. The Imperial Treasurer and Imperial Recorder are an exception to the one-year term. The highest leadership position that a Shriner may hold is that of Imperial Potentate. This gentleman will spend his year as president and C.E.O. of Shriners International, visiting temples and hospitals. He is also the Chairman of the Board for both Shriners Hospitals for Children and Shriners International. On the local level, temples are set up in a very similar fashion and A Look Inside Shriners continued on page 29
“As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.”
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Thank You for these February Donations: Shriners Hospital for Children Robert & Alice Benjamin Jack & Martha Bryant (IMO) Frederic & Kathy Coffey III Margaret Walters (IMO)
Hospital Transportation Don Ellis Leslie S. Hogle Glen & Donna Jones (IMO) Sue, Mike, Haley & Matthew Sargent (IMO)
Temple Operation Fund Robert & Alice Benjamin Eastern Foundation Shirley & Howard Esty (IMO) Margaret K. Smithers (IMO) Kenneth & Betty Terryberry (IMO)
Click here to find out how it all started!
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Oriental Band Robert E. Stihler, resnwk@aol.com Unfortunately, Yours Truly had to miss participating with the band in the Arcadia Parade on Marth 10th, but I understand the band had a great time providing the best music this side of Heaven for the throngs lining the parade route. Nine members of the band enjoyed playing under the newly-repaired float cover, arranged by Musetter Paul “Greek” Pante. Prior to the parade, members enjoyed a pancake breakfast at a church across from the
April 2018 staging area, and after the parade, an “afterglow” was thoroughly enjoyed with hamburgers, beans, salad and drinks hosted at Noble Joe Smedley’s farm. A big WELCOME to the band’s newest member, PP Bill Balkwill, who played the bass drum and is affectionately known as “Boom-Boom.” He will be a great asset to the Great Sahib Oriental Band. Yours in the Faith, Robert “Bob” Stihler
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A Look Inside Shriners continued from page 26 can be found International).
around
the
world
(Shriners
A DAY AT SAHIB I had the honor and privilege of meeting the Illustrious Sir Carroll G. Scribner, Potentate 2016, of the Sahib Shrine Temple of Sarasota, Florida. This self-described “cute, sexy, curly-headed 81-year-old man” is affectionately known as Scrib. He was kind enough to spend the morning with me and educate me on the good works of the Sahib Shrine. I was treated like a welcomed guest and given a tour of the temple, the offices, and the restaurant. I left with pens, pins and tickets to the upcoming “FEZtival of Trees” celebration. I had the most enjoyable morning with this kind soul. Scrib took the time to answer all of my questions, tell me some great stories, and provided me with materials concerning what the Shriners do. I could tell he was the perfect choice to hold the position of Potentate. When I asked Scrib what his mission was in the overall community and locally, he didn’t hesitate. “Help kids,” he said proudly. A long explanation was not necessary. He told me that the segment of the community that the Shrine focuses on are kids, 0-21, needing help. Medical care is offered to these children at no cost, regardless of a family’s income. Children come from around the world to receive care at Shriners Hospitals. Any child, from any racial, ethnic or cultural group needing help, is cared for. MARIA AND HECTOR Scribner lovingly told me a story about Maria and Hector. They were very young siblings brought to the Shriners Hospital, born with reversed knees which made them walk on their calves. Scrib was at a meeting listening to the doctor explain the situation about these two and the groundbreaking treatment that they received. After detailing the impossible-sounding surgeries, the doctor asked the two children to come out. Maria and Hector walked out with the help of crutches and their lives were forever changed. I believe that this was just one of many experiences concretizing Scrib’s lifelong commitment to the Shrine. BURN AND ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALTIES He looked like a proud father as he described the history of the Shriners Hospitals. “In 1922, we got a heart. We opened our first hospital in Shreveport,
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caring for kids with polio.” He explained that at one time, 70% of the pediatric orthopedic doctors trained at Shriners Hospitals. Later on, these doctors would find children who would benefit from the Shriners and sent them to the hospitals. Scrib boasted that there are now 22 hospitals. Four are dedicated burn hospitals located in Boston, Cincinnati, Galveston and Sacramento. The burn hospitals not only provide critical surgical and rehabilitative care for varying degrees of pediatric burn injuries, they also provide care for the whole child. This involves providing for kids’ medical and emotional needs along with recovery and transitioning back to family and school. These hospitals even have certified teachers collecting school transcripts for the young patients and continuing their lesson plans. The other hospitals specialize in orthopedic conditions, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate deformities (Shriners International). AT THE FOREFRONT OF MEDICINE One of the many things that I learned about is the vast amount of research the Shriners Hospitals conduct. There are research clinics designed to further medical advancements in caring for children. Scrib explained that the Shriners Hospitals are “co-located” with universities and work together on cutting-edge treatments. There is a brand-new clinic devoted solely to brain injuries. Although the Shriners’ main focus is on the children, they are working with the VA. The Shriners realize that their groundbreaking research could positively impact our veterans. The sharing of this knowledge is invaluable. As advantageous as this has been, there have been some issues. The biggest concern is hospital beds. Currently, there is not a place for adults within the hospitals, and they cannot share rooms with the children. I am confident they will figure out a way to spread the help as they have for years. SAHIB’S ROLE While Scrib shared with me many ways the Shriners Hospitals help the children, I asked him what his temple does, specifically. Sahib has three vans used to transport children and their families to the Shriners Hospital in Tampa, Florida. If Tampa cannot help them, they will fly the families where need be. Currently, they provide transport to about 1,000 kids. Sahib maintains A Look Inside Shriners continued on page 48
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April 2018
Imperial Visit
Lady Anne Bergenski
Photos by Rebecca Zeissler
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2018 Lady’s Project See page 38 for details.
Happy Passover Happy Easter
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“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart.”
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Masonic Digest / Scottish Rite Casey A. Fletcher, 32° KCCH, cfletcher@palletone.com A good story is instructional, thoughtprovoking and enjoyable. Stories may entertain or relax us, or they might challenge us. They can be intense mysteries or imaginative fantasies. Sometimes stories are a comedy, sometimes a tragedy, sometimes a life lesson. The Scottish Rite continues the story (stories) of the Symbolic Lodge. The Eighth Degree, Intendant of the Building, recounts the story of the selection of the successor(s) to Hiram Abiff. We were left hanging at the end for the Master Mason degree. The Hiramic Legend doesn’t tell us anything about the Temple’s completion or who assumed leadership after our Grand Master was gone; indeed, the Temple is not completed in the Third Degree. The Eight Degree continues the story and in doing so offers valuable learning moments. Its ideas set us to thinking about succession planning, leadership, teaching, the importance of exemplary conduct, cultural continuity and even some suggestions about the proper relationship of labor and management. The Eight Degree is a good story replete with concepts and lessons to contemplate. The principal characters in this degree are Solomon, who does not look so wise, and Hiram, King of Tyre, who does. Five craftsmen are selected to complete the building of the Temple after the death of the Grand Master: Zelec, Satolkin, Gared, Yehu-Aber and Adoniram. All five of these Craftsmen reappear in the Ninth and Tenth Degrees, Elu of the Nine and Elu of the Fifteen; Satolkin and Yehu-Aber are present in the lessons of the Eleventh and Twelfth Degrees, Elu of the Twelve and Master Architect. They are rejoined by Adoniram to play prominent roles in the Thirteenth Degree, Royal Arch of Solomon. Four important, practical lessons are gleaned from this degree:
1. The necessity of orderly succession planning, the thoughtful transfer of power, responsibility and authority; this is a concept to consider when we next elect a Junior Warden, 2. Cultural continuity—passing down not just skills, but traditions and morality and ethics, perhaps one of the principal aims of Freemasonry, 3. Economic order—how management and labor interact; this degree contains many passages from the VSL and reminds us to “pay the Craft their wages, if any be due,” and 4. What we learn should not die with us; what we learn, we should share and pass on. Hiram Abiff did not keep his knowledge to himself. He shared. He taught. Although the Temple was completed without him, it was completed as a direct result of the lessons exemplified in this degree. The Eighth Degree is a powerful, instructional degree and is a fitting sequel to the Master Mason degree.
The Valley of Tampa regularly meets at its Center in Tampa on the 2nd Monday of each month. Dinner is served at 5:45 p.m. At our April 9th meeting, our annual Remembrance and Renewal ceremony will commemorate our Brethren who passed during the last year. The Eighth Degree will be conferred on August 13th at 6:10 p.m. Our next Reunion, for inducting members, is May 5th and 6th. Petitions are at http://tampascottishrite.org/w/wpcontent/uploads/2013/07/tpa-scottish-ritepetition.pdf. Casey Fletcher is Past Master of Tuscan Lodge No. 6 in Bartow, Florida. He did not get the succession planning thing quite right the first time, so he is in the East again this year.
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April 2018
Photo courtesy Anna Feltner
Photo courtesy Anna Feltner Photo courtesy Gail Balkwill
Photo courtesy Harold Eady
Photo courtesy Margie Thomas Photo courtesy Gail Balkwill
Photo courtesy Gail Balkwill
Photo courtesy Gail Balkwill
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Sar-I Court No. 79 - LOSNA Kay Neary, High Priestess, kayneary@hotmail.com Our Installation is behind us and we are starting a new year. Lady Carol Hart has done a fantastic job that will be hard to follow. I extend a huge thank you to Lady Carol for her hard work, help, and friendship. The new line of officers are: Lady Kay Neary, High Priestess Lady Ginny Hocroth, Princess Lady Barbarann Cordova, Associate Princess Lady Linda Farney, Recorder Lady Brenda Meadows, Treasurer Lady Linda Gesko, First Ceremonial Lady Lady Wilma Thornton, Second Ceremonial Lady
We look forward to having fun while working hard supporting the Shriners Children’s Hospitals. We will have fundraising projects, a fashion show, parades, luncheons and hospital visits. We will help with the Box Office, County Fair and Circus. We have a sewing group that makes items for the hospital, and we have our annual Christmas-in-July toy collection. If you would like more information about our organization, give me a call at 941780-3135.
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Nyla Temple No. 152 Katherine A. Rodd, PQ, Queen, roddbobkat@aol.com It is April already. Wow! Has time passed quickly. What a great time a group of us had at the Shriners Hospital for Children in Tampa. John really outdid himself. We were able to explore all the nooks and crannies and to top the tour off, had some time to be in the research lab. It truly was a memorable trip. Lunch in the cafeteria was so much fun, as we were able to talk and socialize. Many laughs were shared as we drove home. Yes, we now have a new corps of officers for the ensuing year. Congratulations to the ladies who stepped up to become officers. Our new Queen-elect is Donna Kay
Duffy. You will be hearing from her in the months to come. This is my last article as Queen. I have served four terms as Queen for Nyla Temple and look forward to new horizons and challenges with Daughters of the Nile. Interested in taking on a challenge with Daughters of the Nile? Please contact our Queen-elect Donna Kay Duffy at cdd84@aol.com or phone her for more information at 941-468-1926.
In Nile love, Queen Katherine Ann
September 3
Pioneer Days
Englewood
October 20
Sun Fiesta Parade
Venice
November 24
Holiday Parade
Venice
December 1
Holiday Parade
Sarasota
December 8
Poinsettia Parade
North Port
“As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.�
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“If you think you’re too small to make a difference, consider the mosquito”
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April 2018
Please consider making a donation to the Sahib Shriner’s Capital Asset Addition Replacement Trust Fund. Use the form at left.
Vol. 37, No. 4
If you're a Noble of the Shrine searching for brotherhood and camaraderie, remember that Sahib Shrine is yours. Find your way and enjoy your membership. Sahib is always in need of assistance with duties. There are many activities to become involved with for your pleasure. Don't travel alone. Bring someone with you to travel the journey crossing the hot sands to the welcoming shade of our goodly temple.
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April By Sara Teasdale
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The roofs are shining from the rain. The sparrows tritter as they fly, And with a windy April grace The little clouds go by. Yet the back-yards are bare and brown With only one unchanging tree— I could not be so sure of Spring Save that it sings in me.
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Sunday, April 1
Potentate Del’s Birthday!!!
Tuesday, April 3
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, April 5
Men’s Luncheon Stated Meeting 12:45 p.m.
Saturday, April 7
Holistic Expo – Main Hall
Tuesday, April 10
Bingo – Main Hall Birthday & Anniversary Dinner/Dance
Wednesday, April 11
Past Potentate’s Ladies’ Luncheon
Thursday, April 12
Men’s Luncheon
Tuesday, April 17
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, April 19
Men’s Luncheon
Saturday, April 21
Art, Rhyme & Beer Expo – Main Hall
Monday, April 23
Past Masters Meeting 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 24
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, April 26
Men’s Luncheon
Sat., April 28
Blue Lodge Chili Cookoff – Main Hall (call ahead, subject to change)
Tuesday, May 1
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, May 3
Men’s Luncheon
Saturday, May 5
Club/Unit Meeting 10:30 a.m.
Sunday, May 6
Pancake Breakfast
Tuesday, May 8
Bingo – Main Hall Birthday & Anniversary Dinner/Dance
Wednesday, May 9
Past Potentate’s Ladies’ Luncheon
Thursday, May 10
Men’s Luncheon
Tuesday, May 15
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, May 17
Men’s Luncheon
Tuesday, May 22
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, May 24
Men’s Luncheon
Monday, May 28
Past Masters Meeting 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 29
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, May 31
Men’s Luncheon
Saturday, June 2
Club/Unit Meeting 10:30 a.m.
April 2018
A Look Inside Shriners continued from page 29 relationships with many of these children into adulthood. The temple also has frequent lunches, dinners, parties, dances, and festivals that are open to the public. The monies raised at these events goes right back to the Shrine, helping the children. MEMBERSHIP ISSUES While everything the Shriners are doing is great for the kids and the community, it is not without limitations. The Sahib Shrine is facing the same difficulties as other temples across the country. Their members are aging and they are having difficulty recruiting new men. The Shriners are losing members at an alarming rate due to demographics, illness, and death. Unfortunately, they are not being replaced at the same speed. There are too many other distractions taking away from this and other fraternities. Cost is one reason. There are yearly dues to be a member of the Masons as well as the Shriners. Time is also a major factor. Becoming and being a Shriner takes a good amount of time, dedication and energy. For many, juggling family and work is difficult enough. Each and every Shriner is cognizant of this and is working hard to recruit new members. What will draw men to this brotherhood of fun, fellowship and philanthropy? That is the magic question. There is no doubt that being a Shriner is a big commitment; however, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to spend one’s time. Shriners come from all walks of life and each one brings unique gifts. A LIVING EXAMPLE My husband, Bruce, will never be able to forget what happened in 1951. He lives with the reminder daily. He also remembers the opportunity that the Shriners gave him. Because of their care, Bruce was able to grow up to be a happy little boy and a thankful adult. In 1972, he decided to become a Mason. Because of his involvement with Masonry, he became a Shriner. He is a walking, talking example of their good work. After we married, I became a member of the Ladies Oriental Shrine. I am very proud to be a part of something so extraordinary and it is my privilege to share their story.