www.SarasotaShrineCenter.com www.HometownHeroesBarGrill.com www.SahibShrine.org
Volume 37, Number 5
Sarasota, Florida
May 2018
In this issue: Potentate’s Message ................................................................................ 3 Stated Meetings: May 10 and June 7 ....................................................... 4 Queen of Hearts / S.I.N. / Hump Day ....................................................... 6 Birthday & Anniversary Dinner Dance ...................................................... 7 Thursday Lunch Speakers ....................................................................... 20 In Memoriam / Black Camel ................................................................... 27 Official Philanthropy of Shriners International
‘Around the Shrine’ Photo Page ............................................................. 34 May Birthdays ........................................................................................ 32 Hometown Heroes Bar & Grill ................................................................ 41 Calendars for May and June ................................................................... 48
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 45
The Official Publication of
Sahib Shriners 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 of text, photos and ads are preferred and may be submitted via email, thumb drive or via a file hosting service. 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 a monthly (except for July) digital publication for members of the Sahib Shrine. Printed copies can be obtained at the office for a fee. Annual membership dues are $125, payable to the Sahib Shrine Temple, Inc., 600 N Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34232.
Potentate’s Message ............................................................................ 3 Stated Meetings .................................................................................... 4 New! Sunday Brunch at the Shrine ..................................................... 5 Events: Queen of Hearts / S.I.N. / Hump Day .................................... 6 Recorder’s Report .............................................................................. 6 Event: Birthday & Anniversary Dinner Dance .................................. 7 Recorder’s Notes ................................................................................. 8 Photo: Can Tabs for Wheelchairs .......................................................... 9 Event: Potentate’s Ball ....................................................................... 9 Photos: Shrine Ladies Fashion Show ................................................... 10 Chaplain’s Notes ............................................................................... 11 Hospital Transportation Notes / Report .......................................... 12 Shrine Club Directory ......................................................................... 13 Event: Potentate’s Cruise .................................................................. 14 North Port Shrine Club Notes .......................................................... 15 Motor Corps Shrine Club Notes .................................................. 16-17 Lady Juanita’s Project.......................................................................... 17 Manatee Shrine Club Notes ......................................................... 18-19 Speakers Bureau Notes / Thursday Lunch Speakers ................. 20-21 Shrine Unit Directory .......................................................................... 22 Clown Corner Notes .......................................................................... 23 Camel Herders’ Notes ....................................................................... 24 Parade Schedule .................................................................................. 24 Greeters’ Notes .................................................................................. 25 Past Masters’ Notes ........................................................................... 26 In Memoriam / Black Camel ............................................................... 27 Oriental Band Notes ......................................................................... 28 Birthdays in May ................................................................................ 32 Masonic Digest / Scottish Rite Notes ................................................ 33 Photos: Around the Shrine ................................................................... 34 Sar-I Court / LOSNA Notes ........................................................ 36-37 Reporter Boosters ............................................................................... 39 NEW! Service Industry Night at Hometown Heroes ........................ 40 NEW! Dance Party Every Month ..................................................... 40 Herald Tribune’s “Ticket” Article on Hometown Heroes ..................... 41 NEW! Hump Day Specials at Hometown Heroes ............................. 41 Shriners International Photos ............................................................... 42 Poem: “The Merry Month of May” by Thomas Dekker ....................... 45 Officers and Appointees ................................................................. 46-47 May and June Calendar ....................................................................... 48 NASCAR Fanvote / Noble David Ragan (Shriners) ............................. 48 ON THE COVER: Sahib Clown Unit members collect donations for the transportation fund during Shriners Hospital Days.Among those collecting for this worthy cause were Harold “Scrappy” Bell (left) and Noble Al “Corny” Cobb. Photo provided by Harold Bell
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Notes from your Divan
Potentate’s Message Greetings Nobles, We want to wish all of our nobles heading north a very safe journey home. We will miss you in the coming months. Have a great summer and we will look forward to seeing you in the Fall, so don’t forget to come back. As we wind down in the next five months, I want to emphasize the fact that SAHIB will be open for business. We urge you to attend our great Birthday/Anniversary Dinner Dances held the second Tuesday of every month. If you are having a birthday or anniversary, why not come to SAHIB and have an enjoyable evening with friends? You may even be lucky and win a bottle of wine or champagne for your table, or a gift certificate for next month’s dance. We have revised our Wednesday and Friday night menus in the restaurant and have added several new items. These are all at very reasonable and competitive prices. Come on in and give us a try. To succeed we need you to consider coming out and supporting your fraternity. We have one of the best temples in Shrinedom because we have the most dedicated, hardworking Nobles who work diligently to insure our success. As we go into the summer months, it would be very helpful if you could manage to attend some or any of our functions. We would love to see you. Bingo is still our super fundraiser. Summer means many less volunteers. Let us not forget our great bingo program every Tuesday come rain or sunshine. We can always use your help, even if it seems that they have enough people. This program is helping to keep our doors open and our dues down. Please think about this. We do this 52 weeks a year and it is trying on our volunteers. Come on in to play or volunteer, show your support. Until next month, be kind to one another.
Yours faithfully,
Delbert Rawlinson Sahib Shriners Potentate 2018
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Official Call
STATED MEETING Thursday May 10, 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
Official Call
STATED MEETING Thursday June 7, 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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Queen of Hearts and a Night Reserved for S.I.N. Queen of Hearts is moving to a new night! Thursday is when the Queen comes out to play. Tickets may be purchased anytime at the bar. The drawing will still be at 7:00 p.m., but now it will be held on Thursdays. Paul Kurtz, our General Manager, suggested that Wednesday (aka “Hump Night”) be advertised on the radio with weekly lunch and dinner specials and a monthly event with radio personalities in Hometown Heroes Bar and Grill to draw customers. Monday and Tuesday will be all about S.I.N. That’s “Service Industry Night,” in case you were wondering. Service Industry employees, of course, include bar, hotel and restaurant workers who need a place to go to unwind after a hard day at work. Hometown Heroes will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Happy Hour will be from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday.
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Recorder’s Notes Ed Firquin, recorder@sahibshrine.org Titles and names used for organizations are many as it is in Masonry and Shrinedom. Titles are used to identify positions within a specific organization as well as the name of an organization. For an example, the name “Boy Scouts of America” identifies the organization and the use of numbers identifies a specific group of Boy Scouts. It is the same in Masonry and Shrinedom. There are multiple Masonic Lodges with the same name, but with different numbers identifying a specific lodge, so it is in Shrinedom. There are presently 196 Shriners Lodges or Temples in the Shriners International Fraternity, each with a derivation and significant name adopted by each temple referring to a specific location or name. The Shriners of 183 Lodge or Temple chartered in Sarasota, Florida on June 17, 1982, has the name chosen by our charter members as “Sahib” which means “sir” or “master.” It also is the title of the Assistant Rabban position in each temple, each Divan position in a Shriners temple has an Arabic title as our fraternity used the Far East area when the fraternity was developed in New York as a fictitious background for our organization. As time passed, no matter how we wish we could stop it, Shrinedom has changed. From a membership of close to 800,000 to less than 400,000 today. Membership in the Masonic Blue Lodges have diminished with many closures in America and elsewhere. In some states, Shriners have gone away from Arabic names. As for Shriners International, the fictitious “Far Eastern location,” A.A.O.N.M.S., and other words in our ceremony work are no longer used. We are recognized by our name “Shriners” as I suspect we have always been known. Our Shriners Hospitals for Children, known by a different name a few years ago, has put the name Shriners in the public view through advertising on the television seen daily. As your Divan was confronted in the
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Notes from your Divan past several years by increasing costs to meet our obligations, there was a continuous theme that kept coming to our attention from our community. The Divan was told by respected professionals that we were thought to be a cult and people refused to enter or rent the facility. The word “Sahib” was confusing to those not familiar with Masonic organizations or Shrinedom, and thought the word represented a religion. As the membership aged and diminished, the Divans worked over the past few years on plans to increase income. Finally, a plan was developed for redoing our restaurant and hall rentals to generate income. Because of the age and diminished membership, the main idea was the community must be included in any business plan if Sahib Shriners were to continue in Sarasota. As the name Shriners is known nationally and the name “Sahib” was a name adopted by our charter members to refer to our specific name and the nobility voted to run the facility’s restaurant and hall rentals as a business, it was reasoned that “Shriners” name would be best to promote our business. We are still officially known by Sahib in all our accounts and insurance. This was a business decision and the use of “Sarasota Shriners” on our new sign or “Shriners” in t he advertising was done to have our community know and recognize us as Shriners, and not a cult or religious building. We are members of a fraternity known as Shriners International, identified by members of the international fraternity by the name “Sahib Shriners,” named by our charter members. So let us work together to keep Shriners International and the SHC identity in Sarasota as our charter members started in June 1982. “Sahib,” is how we are known throughout our fraternity and is the name we wear proudly on our fezzes. So let us be known as “Shriners” in our communities. See you around our Shrine, and don’t forget the child within.
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Can Tabs for Wheelchairs Past Master W. Earl W. Dennis, Jr. (standing, right) and Noble Joel Furman (standing, left) of Sahib Shrine and Liberty Lodge No. 412 delivered their first batch of aluminum can tabs. The tabs were presented to High Priestess Kay Neary (kneeling, right) and Past High Priestess Patricia Dennis (kneeling, left) of Sar-i Court No. 79, Ladies Oriental Shrine of North America. The proceeds from the can tabs will be given to the Wheelchair Factory of the Shriners Hospital for Children in Tampa in memory of Brother Donald Shearer, West Coast Lodge No. 409, Bradenton, Florida.
Photo provided by Noble 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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Fashion Show
The Shrine Ladies Fashion Show, held on March 31st, was a great success! The 56 ladies who attended enjoyed a delicious meal and fine fashions from A’Tu Jewelry and Clothing Outlet. Potentate Del Rawlinson, Past Potentate Connie Jacobi, and Past Potentate Bill Balkwill got things started by serving a complimentary glass of wine to attendees. There were various door prizes and auction items, and overall it was a great afternoon. Thanks to our beautiful models, and to all who supported the event and Lady Juanita Rawlinson and her projects.
May 2018 Photos provided by Lady Gail Balkwill More photos on page 34
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Chaplain’s Notes Lou Ortt, PM, Chaplain, lhortt@verizon.net In today’s world blaming someone else for what is happening has become pretty standard. Traditionally we refer to this as “passing the buck,” a term that originated from the game of poker. When a person did not want to take responsibility for what was about to happen he would pass the marker that identified the dealer, often a buck knife, to the next person. But this type of action was happening long before card games were even thought of. In the third chapter of Genesis, we hear Adam blaming both God and the woman for his disobedience in eating the forbidden fruit. “The woman you game me gave me the fruit and I ate.” Then, when the woman was questioned, she blamed it on the serpent. Neither took responsibility for his or her actions. Many communities, whether churches, fraternities, schools, cities, are having difficulties today because no one wants to take responsibility for what is transpiring. We need to join in a unified manner and
change this attitude to one that accepts “I was part of the problem. What can I do to help correct it and make this better rather than put the blame everywhere else?” In our Shrine we have noticed a decrease in attendance at many events. Rather than complain about it or blame it on this or that, why don’t we ask someone who has not been attending to join us? That could give a start for turning things around. Think about it and about how many other similar actions we could take. Perhaps taking time to visit our lodges of York or Scottish Rite would give us the opportunity to encourage others to join us. Dear Heavenly Father, be with those who blame others for their thoughts and actions and help them to see the light. Amen.
“Fall seven times. Stand up eight.” -Japanese proverb
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Hospital Transportation Notes Dick Schmidt, Chairman, hospital@sahibshrine.org Hospital Transportation has a true fraternal spirit in its drivers. We have two Past Potentates, six Past Masters, two Sahib Shriners of the Year, one International Shriner of the Quarter, one Past Hospital Transportation Chairman, one Past Manatee Shrine Club President, one Lodge Chaplain, one Ceremonial, one Past Webmaster, one KCCH, one Past Circus Chairman, one Greeters President, and one Lodge Secretary. These men have served their Lodges and Shrine, now they serve the philanthropy of the children. A very special THANKS goes out to the Hillbillies Clan #78 for their $6,000 donation to our Transportation Fund. That will keep our fuel tanks filled up for the next twelve months (Kentucky Briars, Tennessee Ridge Runners, West Virginia Hillbillies—same DNA). Help support Hospital Transportation with your tax-deductible donation. If you, as a Sahib Noble in good standing with a safe driving record, would like to participate in the Hospital Transportation
Photo provided by Noble Gary Schweinshaupt
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.
Photo provided by Noble Gary Schweinshaupt
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North Port Shrine Club Don Valerino, Past Master and Dual Shrine Temple member, djtodie@comcast.net Where does the time go? We are in the month of May and many of us snowbirds will be heading back. For us, we will be selling our Vermont home which will be a sad event. It’s hard to get anybody to do basic work around the house. “Don [Gatrell] would love to have a visit from other Shriners.”
Many accolades to Clifford Bloodsworth who has headed up picnics of late. All of them have been a real success. Another picnic is planned for May 7, 2018. I made a visit to Don Gatrell who is staying at Solaris Healthcare, Kings Highway, Port Charlotte, Florida. Don was in good spirits and reminisced about his career as a Bomber Chief-SAC, and as a Shriner. Don would love to have a visit from other Shriners. Jim MacDonald broke his hip and was in Fawcett Hospital. The hospital states that he was discharged. Jack Watson recently had a mishap but apparently is now okay. We recently had a visitor at breakfast: Dave Costner. Many of us reflected recently on the
praise we heard from people making donations at Hospital Days. Many of them said that the Shriners helped a relative or friend and that they were grateful. The virtue and disposition to “do good” is inherent in practicing Shriners. A Shriner learns very early to give the best of himself. As Shriners, we are expected to exhibit moral courage, restraint, prudence and justice. Having fun is a consequence of good behavior. I have to go, but will try to report during the summer.
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 20 for this month’s speakers
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May 2018
Motor Corps Shrine Club Giles Light (G-man), Secretary, gileslight@aol.com
only
It’s May already, and this May is a bit unique in that Cinco de Mayo and the Kentucky Derby are taking place on the same day during the first Saturday of the month. Celebrate in style. I think a number of the Motor Corps members will be celebrating one or both events. Not sure who will win the Derby, but one of the entries, Ruggero, has a name similar to one of our members, Les Ruggiero (Curli). Just an observation, not a betting tip! The Florida Association of Shrine Motor Corps (FASMC) will be holding its annual meeting and competition in Orlando the weekend of May 3-6th. At least six of our members will be attending and participating in the obstacle course competition. We’ll have the results soon to report in next month’s Reporter.
Photo: Eclipse Sportswire
The first weekend in May is also the reunion of the Scottish Rite in Tampa. Several of our members are participating in the degree work and working around some very complex schedules. Kudos to all who have been practicing for weeks. Motor Corps continued page 17
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Motor Corps continued from page 16
A number of Motor Corps members will be making our annual spring pilgrimage to Murphy, North Carolina the weekend of May 17-20th. We will be riding in the mountains with some beautiful scenery. This is always a fun trip, albeit a long one. More details next month. Memorial Day is about four weeks away. Some of our members will be participating in tributes to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in our nation’s armed forces. In case you’ve forgotten, the original holiday was known as Decoration Day. It was started in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Normally this time of year we would be preparing for the Bikerbilly dinners in July and August. Unfortunately for us (and hopefully for our readers) there will be no Bikerbilly dinners this year. The restaurant will be open and we hope you will visit from time to time. We are looking into the possibility of an offsite Fish Fry sometime in the Fall, but at this point it’s only a discussion item. Stay tuned.
At our regular meeting in April, we received a certificate in the Millionaire Club for our contribution to the Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida. The Motor Corps had made the contribution “In Memory of Stephen F. Weatherly, 32° KCCH.” Back on New Year’s Eve 2017, the club held its annual run to raise money for the contribution. We have three birthdays and five anniversaries to report this month. Birthdays include Lady Leslie Bock (Skittles) on May 10th, Lady Muriel Young (Snow Angel) on the 19 th, and Scott Steelman (Gray Fox) on the 25th. Anniversaries include Eric Bock (Ironman) and Lady Leslie on the 3rd, Donnie Kidwell (Chubby) and Roseann on the 4th, Mark deStefano and Lady Kelly Pace also on the 4th, Bryan Pullman (Shortcut) and Lady Terri on the 7th, and John Hubbard (Hotrod) and Lady Carol on the 24th. Until next month, hydrate (your body) and inflate (your tires).
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May 2018
Manatee Shrine Club n
Paul Kline, President, pauliek23@gmail.com Welcome to the life and times of the Manatee Shrine Club! Since we last reported to the Reporter some 30 days or so ago, our world has gotten busier and we have made some promising progress! First of all, Spring Training at LECOM Park has come to a conclusion and with it, the conclusion of the Sahib and MSC volunteer activities for 2018. As most know, payment to Sahib concession stand volunteers at the ball park on game days are made in a form of a contribution from the Pittsburgh Pirates organization to clubs and units under the umbrella of the Sahib Shriner who participates. This year the Pirates contribution totaled some $10,000, of which nearly $6,000 was distributed to our MSC who represented nearly 45% of the Sahib volunteer force. MSC’s Russ Sexton served as the liaison between the Pirates organization and our Sahib Shrine. We are grateful for his efforts and for the many hours he expended in making 2018’s endeavors a tremendous success. Working in various capacities at the concession stands during the Pirates’ Spring Training games is annually a tremendous fundraising opportunity for not only our MSC, but for all of Sahib’s clubs and units. We are hoping that this opportunity comes our way again in 2019. Another tremendous expression of thanks is extended to Mr. Chuck Knapp, Manager of Concessions for the Pirates organization in Florida, for making this outstanding fundraising venue available to us. As expressed by Imperial Potentate Sir Gary Bergenske during his visit to Sahib last month (as well as by our Illustrious Sir Potentate Del Rawlinson) the life blood of our fraternity is membership, a vital element to the rebuilding of Shrinedom. As our MSC members are well aware, in addition to the goal of fundraising in 2018, last year we adopted a second goal, that of restoring our membership numbers—whether that means
In an expression of appreciation to the Sahib Shriners, Mr. Chuck Knapp, Manager of Concessions for the Pittsburgh Pirates, presents an autographed jersey that will be framed and placed in Hometown Heroes Bar and Grill. Receiving the jersey are (left to right): Illustrious Sir Potentate Del Rawlinson, Mr. Knapp, and two long-time organizers of Sahib and MSC’s participation at LECOM Park, Noble Connie Jacobi, PP and Noble Jim Smith. Photo provided by Paul Kline.
renewing memberships of previous members and/or discovering new members. Toward achieving that goal, we recognize the importance of the best possible communication with members as well as creating involvement among those members. We have implemented (or are in the process of implementing) several related activities targeted toward that goal, some of which have been previously referenced in our Reporter articles since the new year. We all accept being faced with this ongoing workin-progress, and that we will not achieve fullblown success overnight. We had another outstanding luncheon program at our MSC membership meeting on April 6th. Following the usual outstanding luncheon, our membership received a very interesting and informative presentation by Dr. Patricia DeVilliers, one of very few oral and maxillofacial pathologists on our Sun Coast. The topic of her presentation was “Dental Health Options for Senior Americans.” It was an excellent presentation. MSC continued page 19
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MSC continued from page 18
As referenced in the March Reporter, this month’s “social” was a visit to the Shrine International in Tampa. As is always the case when we visit the Shriners Hospital in Tampa, we leave very impressed and very thankful and proud to be part of such a wonderful organization. Upon departing the International Shrine, we experienced those same feelings and were equally impressed, thankful, and proud. Photos from that visit will be displayed in the next edition of the Reporter. MSC was honored to host the April 10th Birthday and Anniversary Dinner Dance, themed “Spring Fling,” at Sahib. We thank all of those who attended the event, and especially thank the outstanding Sahib staff for their tremendous assistance in staging it. Looking to next month, our membership meeting will again be held at 12:00 noon on Friday, May 4th. Chicken-fried steak is an entrée for the luncheon meal, with a chef’s salad as an optional entrée. Our guest speaker will be announced prior to the luncheon. As always, we wholeheartedly and enthusiastically welcome all SHRINERS to our monthly luncheon meetings and social events. If you haven’t attended one lately, we hope that you’ll come visit and honor us with your presence. For former members and also non-members who haven’t had the opportunity to visit us this year, if you join us for our May meeting, we’ll buy your lunch!
MSC members, standing (left to right): An unidentified Noble, Noble Don Martin, and Noble Don Barney. Seated, (left to right) are Noble Ron Grove, Noble Bob Swithers, and Noble Ron Shrum. Photo provided by Paul Kline.
Pictured above is the guest presenter for April’s MSC luncheon meeting. Left to right are Noble Larry Strouse, Noble Jeff Smith, Dr. DeVilliers, Lady Bert Maxim, and Lady Lois McGill. Photo provided by Paul Kline.
Receiving her winnings from the 50-50 raffle drawing at the April Birthday & Anniversary Dinner Dance is Lady Linda Dale (second from left). Dispensing her prize are (left to right) Noble Paul Kline, MSC President; Lady Linda Dale, Lady Carol Brooks, and Oriental Guide (and Master of Ceremonies for the evening) Keith Curtis. Photo provided by Paul Kline.
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Speakers Bureau / Thursday Lunch Harold Eady, Program Chairman, hjeady@comcast.net
May 3 Karin Grablin, Chief Operating Officer of SRQ Wealth Management, will be our guest speaker at the May 3rd meeting. Ms. Grablin co-founded the company in 2010 with Stephen J. Martin after 10 years of experience in the financial planning field with two other local independent firms. Prior to that, Ms. Grablin had two decades of business experience.
May 10 – Stated Meeting May 17 Paul Pante, better known as “The Greek”, has been an active member of the Great Sahib Oriental Band since 1981. He plays one of the horns (known as a Mussett) and has participated in countless national band competitions over the years, finishing first place ten times and second place nine times. Pante has been voted in as the Sahib Oriental Band President on two occasions. In 1992 he became President of the Association of Oriental Bands of North America, which had a membership of more than 2,300 at that time. Paul has many wonderful stories to tell on May 17th of his most active career with the Shriners and in particular the Great Sahib Oriental Band.
May 24 Kevin Pillion is an Elder Law attorney and founder of the Life Planning law firm in Sarasota. Pillion will be our speaker on May 24th on the topic “Your Estate Planning Documents— Will They Work the Way You Want Them To?”
Guest Speaker Roster May 3
Karin Grablin, Chief Operating Officer of SRQ Wealth
May 10
Stated Meeting, no guest speaker
May 17
Paul “The Greek” Pante, Oriental Band
May 24
Kevin Pillion, Elder Law Attorney
May 31
To Be Announced
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April 12th guest speaker David Wolfe, media marketing executive (right), receives a certificate of appreciation for his presentation titled “Five Facts in 20 Minutes.” Presenting the certificate are Noble Harold Eady (left) and Assistant Rabban Gene Marinelli (center).
April
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Keith Cole (left) is presented with a certificate of appreciation by Noble Giles Light after his presentation on April 19th. Cole is a World War II veteran and was recently presented one of the nation’s highest civilian awards, the Congressional Gold Medal, in Washington, D.C. To read Cole’s story, click here.
Speakers
Chuck Knapp, Concessions Manager for the Pittsburg Pirates Baseball team, Florida Operations. He is a Mason with membership in Manatee Lodge 31. Knapp was the guest speaker April 26th.
Noble Edward Gremp, left, celebrated his 101st birthday April 21st at the Sahib Shrine. AT center is Noble Harold Eady, Program Chairman, and at right is Noble Gus Spurr, whose musical talent is appreciated at the Thursday Men’s Luncheon when he plays the organ.
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Clown Corner Harold “Scrappy” Bell, scrappysarasota@comcast.net The clowns held their annual Hospital Days collection for the temple transportation fund on Friday and Saturday April 23-24th. There were six of our nine clowns that volunteered to participate and there are several pictures showing them in action here in the Reporter. The participants were Harold “Scrappy” Bell, Al “Corny” Cobb, Ian “Checkers” Grant, Joe “Boogie” Humphreys, Casey “Felix” Jankowski, and Rick “Sliver” Taylor. It was with great pleasure that the clowns were able to collect $927.76 for the transportation fund to help with the temple’s expenses that provides transportation to the Tampa Shriners Hospital for patients living in our jurisdiction. Al Cobb presented a check from the clown unit for the above amount to Potentate Del Rawlinson at the Thursday luncheon on April 19th. Oh yes, the pictures shown here were taken by the unit’s chief photographer Al “Corny” Cobb. The Sahib Nobles and visitors continue to place contributions in the “Red Sneaker Shoe” located at the jewelry counter in the big room. Again, the clown unit sends a “thank you” to all those helping us with our special fund raising. As you know, we send all of the “Shoe” money that is collected directly to the Shriner 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.”
Noble Al “Corny” Cobb (right) presents the clown unit’s check for the transportation fund to Illustrious Sir Del Rawlinson on April 19th.
Noble Joe “Boogie” Humphreys (left) and Noble Casey “Felix” Jankowski (right) collect donations for the transportation fund during Hospital Days.
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Camel Herders’ Notes Malcolm H. Van Dyke II, Chief Camel Herder, mhvdii@comcast.net It has become visually obvious January meeting that a very few Sahib Shriners are being disrespectful to our American flag. Do not follow well published rules of etiquette, and are seriously jeopardizing the collection of torn, soiled, or faded American flags at Sahib. All American flags, Five Service flags, and State flags must be left with Sue in the front office either in a brown paper or plastic bag. It is disrespectful to leave a flag in the closet or give to Sue an unwrapped American flag. With the demise of the Legion of Honor and the Camel Herder Unit picking up the slack, I touch base with Sue weekly to pick up flags to be retired by burning.
On March 11th, I picked up four flags that were properly tri-folded, but left unwrapped. Why would you take the time to properly tri-fold the American Flag, but then throw it on the pile unwrapped? Beats me, and makes no sense, Noble. So, if you would, please show some respect to our American Flag, Five Service Flags, State Flags and bag them. Thank you.
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
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A Note from the Greeters Paul R. Zeissler, President, przcook2000@yahoo.com The Greeters had our annual potluck “picnic” at Oakwood Manor on April 14th. It was attended by many of the members shown here, as well as the Greeterettes. Once a thriving unit of our temple, the Greeters are currently encouraging Nobles to join our thinning ranks. There is an orange shirt waiting for those willing to welcome all comers to Shrine events and special occasions. Contact me when you decide to join us!
Left to right: Stacy Zurlo, Jean Batten, Paul Zeissler, Becky Zeissler, Deanie Jacobi, Midge Jordan
Left to right: Dana Callanan, John Winters, Joan Cook, and Connie Jacobi. Photos: Warren Williamson
Mary Lou and Fred Ellis
Left to right: Warren Williamson, Dana Calanan, John Winters, Bill Batten
Hometownheroesbargrill.com “As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.”
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Past Masters Notes Gary Wonning, President, cmdr07@gmail.com The two pillars that adorn every Masonic lodge, Jachin and Boaz, are a reminder of the polarity or duality of life. The two pillars Jachin and Boaz, in Masonic lore, allude to establishing a kingdom in strength and commonly alluded to the building of King Solomon’s Temple. But the concept of two pillars has an earlier history and alludes to much more than establishing a kingdom in strength. The pillars allude to every facet of life; the duality of life is evident in all things, male/female, good/evil, darkness/light, etc. The pillar had its humble beginnings in Sumer, the Tower of Babel with a shrine to the god Marduk on the top as one pillar; and possibly even the Ziggurats of ancient times. Both would exemplify the two pillars. From these beginnings arose the twin columns representing many things, including the duality of life. 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. First on the list is Liberty Lodge in Bradenton, and possibly Peace River in Arcadia later in 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 at 12:00 p.m. Camaraderie begins at 11:00 a.m. 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.
May 2018
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Thank You for these March Donations: Shriners Hospital for Children William Deighton
Hospital Transportation Hillbilly Club Sahib Temple (IMO) Jeffrey Jackson (IMO) Leslie Hogle (IMO) Venice Shrine Club (IMO)
Temple Operation Fund Bert’s Harley-Davidson Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Terryberry (IMO)
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Oriental Band Robert E. Stihler, resnwk@aol.com Another BIG WELCOME is offered to Illustrious Potentate Del Rawlinson on becoming a member of the Great Sahib Oriental Band. He is going to give the “Gong-a-go,” and as a first try, he did quite well. With the additions to the band of Past Potentate Bill and Sir Del, we’ve gained a couple of great “bang up boys.” The band is looking forward to sponsoring the Birthday & Anniversary Dinner Dance, and helping with the Queen of
Hearts drawing. Don’t forget to give a salute on Armed Forces Day, May 19th, Memorial Day on May 28th, and don’t forget your mama on May 13th. Yours in the Faith, Robert “Bob” Stihler
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2018 Lady’s Project See page 17 for details.
“As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.”
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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 The Valley of Tampa recently hosted the annual Feast of Kadosh celebration. The Feast of Kadosh commemorates the founding of the Order of Poor Fellow Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon in 1119, commonly known as the Knights Templar. The Order was sanctioned by the Papacy in 1129. The Templars provided safe passage to the Holy Land, established financial networks across the world, fought in Crusades and engaged in manufacturing and trade. They were a military order, a Christian order. They had ships, real estate and a significant stature in society. Such stature bred envy and conflict; the Templars became at odds with two other knightly orders, the Teutonic Knights and the Hospitallers as well as with the Papacy and the King of France. Because of these conflicts, they were arrested in 1307, persecuted, prosecuted and executed. Freemasonry contains many degrees in which the title of Knight or Sir Knight is conferred. An objective for this year’s event was to consider why Freemasonry emphasizes something called “knighthood” and why it matters. The word “Knight” does not appear in the first three degrees of the Symbolic Lodge, but many references are found in Masonic appendant bodies. The York Rite system has a degree called “Knight Templar” or “Knight of the Temple.” The Order of the Red Cross of Constantine also “knights” its members. Both bodies resemble military orders, but their context is within the first few centuries of the common era, well before the historical Templars. Both call upon the scriptures of the Christian Bible. Because of such reliance, Brethren of some monotheistic religions might consider these degrees to be an awkward fit within the Fraternity. The Grand Council of Knight Masons confers three degrees, all containing the word
“Knight” in the name. The setting for each is in the 2nd Temple period during the Babylonian captivity—well before the Templar period and the advent of Christianity. In the Scottish Rite, there are ten degrees in which a Brother becomes a Knight of something-or-the-other. Recalling the time period of the Knights Templar, 1119 through 1307 CE, most of these degrees are clearly anachronistic. Not only are they set in the wrong centuries, some are in the wrong millennium. They offer lessons from well before the Christian era and the time of Templars. Perhaps only two or three really depict a military order. None specifically refer to the Crusades. What was on our ancient brethren’s minds in giving us this work and this title of “Knight?” It is fair to conclude that they were not thinking of warfare, military orders, swords or lances when they spoke of Knighthood. If not, then, an allusion to the historical Templars, what was their motivation? Perhaps their sense of what it means to be a knight is found in the 30th Degree, Knight of Kadosh. It discusses “manhood” in the Roman sense of the word, virtu. Virtu was the Roman word to describe a man, not only of character, but of ability and skill; a man who improved himself, his community and society. If this was their point, our ancient brethren bequeathed us a lot of degrees to make it! A Knight is a man of virtu. So, what about religious part? Freemasonry accepts men all monotheistic faiths. Again, the 30th degree provides instruction, through its name, Knight of Kadosh. Kadosh is a Hebrew word meaning Holy. In Masonry, it refers to a reverence for spiritual matters, humility, piety; attentiveness to matters of the soul. It does not refer to a specific religion or creed. MASONIC DIGEST continued on page 38
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Photo: Lady Gail Balkwill
Photo: Lady Gail Balkwill
Photo: Lady Gail Balkwill
Photo: Lady Mary Jane Hamilton
Photo: Lady Mary Jane Hamilton
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Sar-I Court No. 79 - LOSNA Kay Neary, High Priestess, kayneary@hotmail.com Our Installation was a great start to our new year. We were honored to have lots of friends, family, members of our organization and, in particular, we were so honored to have Illustrious Sir Del Rawlinson and his (and our) Lady Juanita. Assistant Rabban Gene Marinelli and his wife, Lady Jeanne, were special guests too. The units had new skits and performances that were so entertaining. The ceremony was beautiful and the hoe-down that followed was lots of fun with music, dancing, and really good food. Many thanks to all who helped make the decorations and set up the hall, Rita, who made, set-up, and served the food, the Sensations for their great, fun music, and the “clean-up� crew. A special thanks to Lady Annie Begley and her mom Carolyn for the super clean-up job they
did. We have such a fun, hard-working, dedicated line of officers and all are eager to get to work. We are working on several fundraising projects and planning fun activities for the summer while the court is dark. We will be going to Grand Council in Hawaii in the middle of May. There will be lots of meetings, but lots of time to see old friends and make new ones. It is a time of sharing ideas and learning about our great organization. I hope this year will bring new members and bring back ladies who have been absent for a while. If you know any ladies who would like to join us, please tell them to give us a call. We would love to tell them about our organization.
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Sar-I Court No. 79 Installation Photos provided by Kay Neary, High Priestess
Merrie Makers
Illustrious Sir Del Rawlinson, High Priestess Kay Neary, and First Lady Juanita Rawlinson.
Lady Clowns
Oriental Dancers
Wilma and Wink
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MASONIC DIGEST continued from page 33
The term “Knight Templar,” when used in Masonic work, might (therefore) refer to a Knight of Kadosh – a Holy Man; a man attentive to both earthly and spiritual matters. By examining the rich history of “knighthood” in our ritual, it may be plausible to consider that the Feast of Kadosh might not really commemorate the founding of the Knights Templar as a historical event, but be a message from our ancient brethren that, as Masons, we are to be men of virtu, attentive to our earthly duties; and men likewise mindful of spiritual and religious matters. We can see their encouragement to be Knights of Kadosh – Holy Knights, men of virtu and reverence. The Valley of Tampa regularly meets at its Center in Tampa on the second Monday of each month. Dinner is served at 5:45 p.m. At our May 14th meeting, RW Kenneth Carolan, 32nd degree KCCH, will present a program. Our next Reunion, for inducting new members, is October 20th and 27th. Petitions are at http://tampascottishrite.org/w/wpcontent/uploads/2013/07/tpa-scottish-ritepetition.pdf. Casey Fletcher is Worshipful Master of Tuscan Lodge No. 6 in Bartow, Florida. He recognizes achieving knighthood to be a tall order, being Holy even more so.
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Please consider making a donation to the Sahib Shriner’s Capital Asset Addition Replacement Trust Fund. Use the form at left.
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Hometown Heroes Bar & Grill Featured in Ticket Originally published in the April 26, 2018 edition of the Herald Tribune’s “Ticket” – By Lee McCall The new Hometown Heroes Bar & Grill, located in the Sahib Shriners Sarasota Events Center, offers a surprisingly extensive array of Floribbean specialties created by New York Culinary Institute of Americatrained Executive Chef Darrell Mizell. The new restaurant’s name is a tribute to local Shriners, veterans and first responders. According to Events Specialist Margie Thomas, the large event center, which accommodates up to 500 theater style, is Sarasota’s best kept secret. The event venue is fully equipped and offers food by the restaurant’s preeminent chef. The attractive restaurant and bar, which seats 120 guests, is open to the public and provides lunch, dinner and snacks in a casual setting with neutral tones and photos of the Shriners Hospital, policemen and firemen. Chef Mizell has years of experience in prestigious area restaurants, especially with the fusion of Florida
and Caribbean cuisines. He offers a wide assortment of starters, soups and salads, entrees and desserts, incorporating spices, fresh seafood, citrus fruits and nuts reflecting the two tropical locales. The appetizers include grouper cheeks, baconwrapped scallops, crab cakes, big bang shrimp and wings. Among enticing entrees are scallops, cedarplanked salmon, grouper Napoleon (with asparagus and crab), chicken Francaise and several steaks. Some Hometown Heroes sides are potatoes five ways and vegetable du jour, along with cornbread or Texas toast. Among hand-held options are several sandwiches (grilled cheese versions, BLT combos, grouper, burgers), shrimp or fish tacos. In addition, there’s a kids’ menu and desserts such as key lime pie, banana sachet and blondie brownie a la mode. The new restaurant has a full bar, catering and take-out services. At 600 N. Beneva Road, Hometown Heroes is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m., and may be reached at 941-366-4449, ext. 308 or hometownheroesbargrill.com
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Shriners International Headquarters in Tampa Photos and text are taken from Shriners International’s Facebook page Tampa headquarters hosted children of our staff members for the Bring Your Child to Work Day event. Kids heard from members staff members, took part in fun activities, toured our building and learned about the fraternity and hospital system. At the end of the day, they were presented with a goody bag and a photo to remember the day. We're so glad they joined us today! https://www.facebook.com/shrinersinternational
Children visit the memorabilia room at Shriners International Headquarters in Tampa.
Children enjoy the Shriners Parade exhibit on display in our lobby at our headquarters building in Tampa.
Ken Guidera, M.D., Vice President of Medical Affairs, shows children how to apply bandages during the Bring Your Child to Work Day event.
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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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The Merry Month of May: A poem by Thomas Dekker, circa 1599 O, the month of May, the merry month of May, So frolic, so gay, and so green, so green, so green! O, and then did I unto my true love say, Sweet Peg, thou shalt be my Summer's Queen.
But O, I spy the cuckoo, the cuckoo, the cuckoo; See where she sitteth; come away, my joy: Come away, I prithee, I do not like the cuckoo Should sing where my Peggy and I kiss and toy.
Now the nightingale, the pretty nightingale, The sweetest singer in all the forest quire, Entreats thee, sweet Peggy, to hear thy true love's tale: Lo, yonder she sitteth, her breast against a brier.
O, the month of May, the merry month of May, So frolic, so gay, and so green, so green, so green; And then did I unto my true love say, Sweet Peg, thou shalt be my Summer's Queen.
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May 2018
MAY Tuesday, May 1
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, May 3
Men’s Luncheon
Saturday, May 5
Club/Unit Meeting 10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, May 8
Bingo – Main Hall Birthday & Anniversary Dinner/Dance
Wednesday, May 9
Past Potentate’s Ladies’ Luncheon
Thursday, May 10
Men’s Luncheon Provost Guard Meeting 11:00 a.m.
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 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, May 29
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, May 31
Men’s Luncheon
JUNE Saturday, June 2
Club/Unit Meeting 10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, June 5
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, June 7
Men’s Luncheon
Friday, June 8
Bingo – Main Hall
Tuesday, June 12
Bingo – Main Hall Birthday & Anniversary Dinner/Dance
Thursday, June 14
Men’s Luncheon Provost Guard Meeting 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday, June 19
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, June 21
Men’s Luncheon
Friday, June 22
Bingo – Main Hall
Monday, June 25
Past Masters Meeting 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, June 26
Bingo – Main Hall
Thursday, June 28
Men’s Luncheon
Saturday, June 30
Dance Party
Vote Now! With your support, Noble David Ragan could be racing in the 2018 Monster Energy NASCAR All-Star Race. Fans can vote once per day at
NASCAR.COM/fanvote Votes shared on Facebook or Twitter count double. The All-Star Race Fan Vote ends on May 18.