Pyramid Magazine April 2022

Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine of North and South America and its Jurisdictions, Inc.

Publisher: John T. Chapman — 44th Imperial Potentate

Imperial Editor: Christopher G. Cox

Associate Editor: Burrell Parmer

Printing/Mailing: LSC Communications

Design: LinTaylor Marketing Group, Inc.

Photography: Submissions and Stock photography

On the Cover: A Legacy of Love and Leadership

Past Imperial Potentate Dr. Ivory M. Buck Jr. 12/25/1928 ~ 11/27/2021 and Past Imperial Commandress Ernestine H.

Buck 11/16/1931 ~ 12/22/2012 (See their story on page 6)

Imperial Divan (Board of Directors):

John T. Chapman — Imperial Potentate

Honorable Eric Myers — Deputy Imperial Potentate

Dr. Donald Ware, M.D. — Imperial Chief Rabban

Thomas R. Hughes Sr. — Imperial Assistant Rabban

Dr. Corey H. Thomas — Imperial High Priest & Prophet

Gary Sylvester — Imperial Oriental Guide

Pierre E. Rutledge — Imperial Treasurer

Michael B. Allen — Imperial Recorder

Jerwon L. Avery — Imperial First Ceremonial Master

Dr. Terrell A. Gray Sr. — Imperial Second Ceremonial Master

Rodney Eggleston — Imperial Captain of the Guard

Mario Eury — Imperial Outer Guard

Pyramid Magazine c/o A.E.A.O.N.M.S., Inc.

2239 Democrat Road

Memphis, TN 38132

ph: 901.395.0144 | fx: 901.395.0115

email: pyramid@aeaonms.org

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Reproduction of any part of Pyramid Magazine without permission from the publisher is prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of content, products or services. Readers are not to insinuate or assume that clients that market in Pyramid Magazine are endorsed or are in support of any particular products, persons or groups that may or may not have purchased an ad. Views expressed in Pyramid Magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, parent company or its sister company(ies) or its clients. Send all correspondences to 2239 Democrat Road, Memphis, TN 38132. We insure accuracy, but we cannot guarantee accuracy. However, we will make corrections in follow up issues once recognized. We do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. Advertisement opportunities are also open for publication in Pyramid Magazine (See rate schedule). We encourage you to support the lodges and businesses that are marketed in Pyramid Magazine

SUBMISSIONS

Articles and photos must be emailed to pyramid@aeaonms.org. Fees for photos are $15 per photo and must be sent to the address show at left after receiving email confirmation for approved photos.

Going forward, each issue of Pyramid Magazine will be limited to a predetermined number of pages. To that end, we will limit publishing the number of articles to three (3) articles per Temple, Court, Desert, Department and/or Individual per issue. If we find that there is sufficient space left over, we will publish additional articles sent in by the same Temple, Court, Desert, Department and/ or Individual based upon date of submission, i.e. first come first serve.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Non-Nobles, including Daughters Auxiliary to A.E.A.O.N.M.S., Inc., may subscribe to Pyramid Magazine by sending an annual subscription fee of $30 to the address shown left. This subscription must be renewed by Jan. 1 of each year. No fee notice will be sent.

2022 DEADLINES:

• June 1, 2022 (July Edition)

• June 15, 2022 (Souvenir Journal)

• October 1, 2022 (November Edition)

Articles received after the submission deadline may appear in the following issue.

Overview: An Example for us All

Imperial Potentate Lesley Miller Jr. describes how, among other things, he guided Florida’s Hillsborough County through the early stages of the pandemic in his role as county commissioner.

H.P.I.P. Christopher G. Cox Imperial Editor Sethos Temple

As Imperial Potentate John T. Chapman says in his column, Buck and Stine dedicated their lives to the service of others, while keeping God and family foremost. Details about their 59-year union and the many accomplishments they achieved can be found in the article by Noble Damajo C. Smith. We can only imagine what a better place our world would be today if there were more couples like the Bucks willing to spread their legacy of love and leadership to all those with whom they came in contact.

BothNobleChapmanand49thImperialCommandress Dt. Paulette Brown provide wise counsel about where we stand in the battle with the COVID-19 pandemic, warning about the need to be cautious and continue to follow CDC guidelines.

Examples of how we can continue to pursue our mission of community outreach and service while taking necessary COVID-related precautions can be found in articles about events planned and carried out by the Nobles of Arabic Temple No. 44 in Chicago, the Daughters of Syrian Court No. 40 in Denver, and Harram Temple No. 23 in Tampa. An article about the nearly half century of public service by Honorary Past

The creativity displayed by the Temples and Courts that conducted community service projects, notwithstanding the pandemic, was outstanding. From a domestic violence awareness bowling tournament by the Nobles of Himyar Temple No. 17 in Harrisburg, Pa., to a leaf raking project by the Nobles of Cape Fear Shrine Club, an auxiliary of Kindah Temple No. 62, to benefit Honorary Past Potentate Jesse Jones Jr.

Articles about other charitable outreach activities cover the good works of the Daughters of Nemesis Court No. 23 in Fort Worth, Texas, Nobles of Stolkin Temple No. 22 in August, Ga., and the Nobles of Arabian Temple No. 42 in New Bern, N.C., and members of Kiku Zeki Temple No. 184 in The Bahamas, who collected and donated backpacks, books and pens to underprivileged children. These and many other projects detailed in this issue are worthy of your time and attention.

Other items that I hope you’ll enjoy just as much as the ones previously mentioned are articles about Noble Chapman’s town hall in the Oasis of Los Angeles, Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Dr. Otis Kirksey’s appointment to the presidency of Health Care & Education for the American Diabetes Association, the Oasis of Florida chartering Haken Temple No. 55 in the Oasis of Leesburg and the visit by the Nobles of Edfu Temple No. 267 to the grave of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the “Father of Black History.”

And finally, don’t miss the articles about Moussa Temple No. 106 celebrating its 100th Anniversary with a Centennial Gala. The outstanding accomplishments of Noble Julius Spain Sr. in the arena of equal rights and an overview of legislation enacted during the 117th Congress by Noble Stuart A. Lee

P.P. James Alexander (63) Assistant Editor for Digital

H.P.I.P. Larry D. Tisdale (195) Editor Emeritus

P.P. Clarence Stokes (17) Administrative Assistant

P.P. Burrell Parmer (106) Associate Editor

Noble Damajo Smith (51) Contributing Columnist

Imperial Editorial Staff

(170)

As we continue to cope with the daily drumbeat of negative news, it is both refreshing and inspiring to reflect on the eternal love that bonded the couple on our cover, Past Imperial Potentate Dr. Ivory M. Buck Jr. and his wife Past Imperial Commandress Ernestine H. Buck.

A Legacy ofandLoveLeadership

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE DAMAJO C. SMITH, NO. 51 PYRAMID COLUMNIST

MEMPHIS, TENN. — (FEB. 1, 2022) — The Holy Bible states the following in Colossians

3:14; And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Dr. Ivory Melvin Buck Jr. and Ernestine Holmes-Buck would share over 59 years in a loving marriage producing two children, their daughter L’Tanya Buck-Hatcher (husband, Lester – Easton, Md.) and a son Ivory M. Buck, III (wife, Janelle – Cambridge, Md.) and a grandson, Ivory M. Buck IV – Cambridge, Md.). Ivory and Ernestine would marry on June 21, 1953 and remain together until the passing of Ernestine on Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012. A couple whose focus and commitment to their love shows forth in the longevity of their union.

Past Imperial Potentate Buck was born on December 25, 1928 in Woodbury, N.J. to the late Ivory Melvin Buck Sr. and Elanor Buck (nee Hines). His love, Ernestine, born Nov. 16, 1931 in Fayetteville, N.C., was the daughter of the late Frederick Lee and Rachel Forshee Holmes. Noble Buck would depart from this life on Nov. 27, 2021, closing out a life of exemplary dedication of service to his family and the community.

Noble Buck graduated from the former Manual Training Industrial School in Bordentown, N.J. where he completed a College Preparatory Program of Studies. As a member of the Cadet Corps, he was the battalion commander achieving the rank of cadet major. He completed studies in Business Administration from William Penn Business Institute in Philadelphia and obtained his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Glassboro State College presently known as Rowan University. He would go on to earn is doctorate from Virginia University.

Noble Buck was honorably discharged from the U.S. Air Force after attaining the rank of staff sergeant. He also served as a drill instructor at Lackland Air Force Training Center in San Antonio and as a supervisor in communications within the Far East Military Command in Tokyo, Japan including the Marianas Islands.

Past Imperial Commandress Holmes-Buck would relocate to Pitman, N.J. with her parents at an early age and would go on to be the first African-American to graduate from Pitman High School. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Cheyney State College, Cheyney, Pa. (now Cheyney University) and pursued graduate studies at Rutgers University.

Both Noble Buck and Dt. Holmes-Buck would have successful professional careers. While Noble Buck began his career as a pharmaceutical salesman, he was later promoted to office manager for a pharmaceutical company. Within the field of education, he was a junior high school teacher and a director of guidance within the Deptford Township Public School System in Deptford, N.J. He retired from Glassboro State College, his alma mater, as an associate director of Academic Advisement and Evaluation. Daughter Holmes-Buck would serve as assistant head dietitian at Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. As an educator, she taught at William Penn Business Institute in Philadelphia, Camden City Public Schools and Deptford Township Public Schools in New Jersey where she retired as a high school teacher and department head.

Dedicated to their careers, they both obtained numerous professional and civic accomplishments and rose to key positions of leadership.

Accomplishments Noble Buck

• Served on several Search Committees for hiring Administrators and Faculty for Glassboro College

• Member of the College Committee responsible for awarding honor degrees

• Chaired the Committee for College Scholarship Awards

• Treasurer on the College Alumni Board of Directors

• Delegate from New Jersey to the White House Conference in Washington, D.C. for Library Sciences

• Loan Executive for the Gloucester County United Way

Accomplishments Dt. Holmes-Buck

• Member of the New Jersey Educational Associations

• Member of the National Education Association

• Vice President of the Faculty and Administrators’ Wives at Glassboro State College (Rowan University)

• Member of various New Jersey Parent Teachers Associations

CONTRIBUTED BY: DT. PAULETTE BROWN 49TH IMPERIAL COMMANDRESS

Daughters,

A View from the Top Hello

I bring you greetings from the desk of the 49th Imperial Commandress. I pray that you are staying safe, healthy and blessed.

We are still working, smarter not harder. I used to work extremely hard and didn’t really achieve a lot of tangible things, but when I started working extremely smart the gates of abundant blessings opened up to me.

COVID-19 IS STILL HERE! We must continue to follow the CDC guidelines.

We, the Imperial Court look forward to continuing working with our Imperial Council.

I plant seeds of HOPE to HARVEST the fruits of SUCCESS.

Yours in the Faith,

Dt. Paulette Brown

The 49th Imperial Commandress

Dt. Paulette Brown

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

rose to the status of an international leader when she was elected to serve as the 40th Imperial Commandress of the Imperial Court from 2003-2005.

This accomplishment would also set a new precedent, this would be the first time that any husband and wife had risen to the mantel of leadership for both the Imperial Council and the Imperial Court.

This family was truly dedicated to serving and giving back and the Bucks also held a strong belief in God and family values. They raised their children to be active participants in the church and in organizations which they belonged to. Prior to their family relocating to Maryland, they resided in Williamstown, N.J. There they were members of Little Rock Baptist Church in Camden, where they served on various adult and youth committees. In Easton, they would join Union Baptist Church where Noble Buck would serve on the Men’s Ministry and Dt. Buck served as a missionary and participated with the Women’s Ministry.

Thank you Noble and Dt. Buck for your example, thank you for your commitment and thank you for your legacy of love and leadership. Rest well.

Legacy

: something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past; the legacy of the ancient philosophers

Love

: a profoundly tender, passionate affection for another person; a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, as for a parent, child, or friend.

Leadership

: the power or ability to lead other people; leadership skills

References

1. www.henryfh.com/obituary/Ernestine-Buck

2. doipha.org/past_commandresses.htm

3. www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/23249431/dr-ivory-m-buck-jr

4. www.uscnjpha.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/2017-SpringEdition-Bulletin.pdf

5. www.desertnj.org/pipdnj.php

6. aeaonms.org/past-imperial-potentates

Photo & Article Submission Criteria

• All articles are to be drafted in arial 11 font and emailed in Word format (not as a PDF) to pyramid@aeaonms.org

• Full-page articles should be no less than 300 words along with two to three supporting photos. Two-page articles should be no less than 500 words with four to five supporting photos.

• Photograph fee is $15 per photo. Do not send in a photo collage.

• Photos are to be emailed to pyramid@ aeaonms.org in JPEG Format and not inserted into the Word document. Send high quality/high resolution photos only. Do not copy photos from Facebook posts.

• Photos should be shot in landscape or portrait, not angled.

• Do not send payment for photos until you receive confirmation of approved photos by Pyramid Magazine.

• Do not send an article of yearly activities summarized into one article. Summarize activities for the previous quarter.

• Submitters will receive, via email, a reviewed copy of their article within 72 hours of submission to Pyramid Magazine.

• Submission Deadlines:

June 1, 2022 (July Edition)

June 15, 2022 (Souvenir Journal)

October 1, 2022 (November Edition)

• Mailing Address: Pyramid Magazine

c/o AEAONMS

2239 Democrat Rd. Memphis, Tenn 38132

• All other inquiries: email: editor@aeaonms.org

ph: 901.395.0144, ext. 229

fx: 901.395.0115

Imperial Potentate Holds Town Hall in the Oasis of Los Angeles

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE ANDRE’ OLIVER AMMAN TEMPLE NO 82 — DARIEN, GA

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. — (SEPT. 12, 2021) —

During a visit to the Oasis of Los Angeles, Desert of California, the Imperial Potentate, the Honorable Noble John T. Chapman held a Town Hall Meeting at Egyptian Temple No. 5.

Joining Noble Chapman were Imperial Chief Rabban, Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Donald R. Ware; Imperial Deputy of the Desert of California, H.P.I.P. Gerald Stringer; and Imperial Deputy of the Desert Emeritus, H.P.I.P. Jimmie D. Boatright Jr.

During the Town Hall, the Imperial Potentate recognized H.P.I.P. Louis Harris for his years of service to the Shrine and declared both Deputies of the Oases P.P. Fred Price (Los Angeles) and P.P. Chris Corchado (Ventura) will become Honorary Past Imperial Potentates.

Noble Chapman also had a lengthy dialogue with the Daughters to clear up misconceptions and build rapport.

According to Noble Ware, the discussion with the Nobles and Daughters were vigorous and fruitful.

“I am very pleased to see the response of Southern California Temples and Courts to the presence of our Imperial Potentate,” said Noble Ware. “We had three of four Illustrious Potentates along with four Courts attend. We were pleased with the visit.”

Temples in attendance were Egyptian Temple No. 5, Muharram Temple No. 95, Sheik Temple No. 98, and Amasis No. 262. Courts in attendance were Egyptian Court No. 5, Sheik No. 138, Muharram No. 139, and Azeem No. 104.

After the Town Hall, reception was held for all to enjoy. Thanks to Nobles Fred Price, Chief Rabban Robert Simonet, P.P. Derrick Brooks, Oriental Guide Phil Mungin and Imperial Deputy for the Oasis of Los Angeles, P.C. Pearl Sterling for assisting with set up and the Divan of Egyptian Court for serving refreshments.

“In order to host the event, the Oasis followed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, state and Los Angeles County regulations,” said Illustrious Potentate Leonard C. Ricks III. “Tables were spaced throughout the Temple with no more than six people per table; everyone wore a mask when not eating or drinking and temperature checks were required for admittance.” �

Imperial Potentate John T. Chapman (standing center) with Daughters of Egyptian Court No. 5, Sheik No. 138, Muharram No. 139, and Azeem No. 104.

(Back Row L-R) Illustrious Potentate Leonard C Ricks III, Imperial Chief Rabban Donald R. Ware (5), Illustrious Commandress Erika Simpson (5), Past Potentate Fred Price (5), and Imperial Deputy of the Desert Gerald Stringer (212).

(Seated L-R) Imperial Deputy for the Oasis Pearl Sterling (5), and Imperial Potentate John T. Chapman (1).

Supports Domestic Violence Awareness

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE STEPHAN HARRISON RECORDER HIMYAR TEMPLE NO 17 — HARRISBURG, PA

HARRISBURG, PA. — (FEB. 19, 2022) — The Nobles of Himyar Temple No. 17, joined by over 30 businesses, individuals, and organizations competed in the Bowl 2 Benefit domestic violence awareness tournament held at ABC Lanes.

The event was hosted by the wife of Noble Jay Hall, Tiffany L. Hall, the founder of “PosiTiff,” a local nonprofit that promotes individuals and communities’ mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being through education and initiatives.

Prior to the event, Tiffany talked about domestic violence in the community and thanked everyone for their support and participation in this event. There was a lot of networking and comradery amongst all the participants.

Awards for the event included the highest team score, most strikes by a team, and most individual strikes, which were all awarded to the Nobles of Himyar Temple No. 17 led by the Illustrious Potentate Ronald Arrington Jr.

After the crowing the champions of this inaugural event, Sonya Stokes, wife of Imperial Deputy of the Oasis of Harrisburg, Past Potentate Clarence Stokes III, was presented with the award of being a true champion by the Illustrious Potentate for her beating Breast Cancer.

“People from all walks of life from Harrisburg participated in this event by bowling in teams of five for a fun-filled day to raise funds for this worthy cause,” said Noble Arrington. “Along with the charitable and service initiatives of the Imperial Council, we as a Temple support worthy charities within our Oasis. This was an opportunity to get out and do work within our very own community.”

The Nobles of Himyar Temple’s devotion to making the community of the Oasis of Harrisburg better will be felt across the Desert of Pennsylvania inspiring all Nobles and Daughters across the Imperial Domain.

“It was empowering to see how many people came together for a mutual cause and had fun while doing it,” Noble Arrington continued. “Himyar looks forward to supporting the endeavors of this and other worthy organizations, who stated that they would like to help us in the future.”

Per the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. Within one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men.

One in four women and one in nine men experience severe intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner contacts sexual violence, and/or intimate partner stalking with impacts such as injury, fearfulness, post-traumatic stress disorder, use of victim services, contraction of sexually transmitted diseases, etc.

Illustrious Potentate Ronald Arrington Jr. was all smiles after Team Himyar took home all the trophies and medals from the tournament.

On a typical day, there are more than 20,000 phone calls placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide.

Supports Domestic Violence Awareness continued

One in three women and one in four men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. This includes a range of behaviors (e.g., slapping, shoving, pushing) and in some cases might not be considered “domestic violence.”

One in seven women and one in 25 men have been injured by an intimate partner. Additionally, one in 10 women have been raped by an intimate partner. Data is unavailable on male victims.

One in four women and one in seven men have been victims of severe physical violence (e.g., beating, burning, strangling) by an intimate partner in their lifetime while one in seven women and one in 18 men have been stalked by an intimate partner during their lifetime to the point in which they felt very fearful or

believed that they or someone close to them would be harmed or killed.

On a typical day, there are more than 20,000 phone calls placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide. The presence of a gun in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide by 500% and 19% of domestic violence involves a weapon. Intimate partner violence accounts for 15% of all violent crime.

Women between the ages of 18-24 are most abused by an intimate partner. Domestic victimization is correlated with a higher rate of depression and suicidal behavior. Only 34% of people who are injured by intimate partners receive medical care for their injuries. �

Nobles of Himyar Temple No. with Tiffany Hall, a domestic violence advocate.

Uniting the Community with Bike & Toy Giveaway

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE DR. CHARLES J. SMITH SR. PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR STOLKIN TEMPLE NO 22 — AUGUSTA, GA

AUGUSTA, GA. — (FEB. 5, 2022) In a quest to bring unity to the Augusta/Central Savannah River Area community, the Nobles of Stolkin Temple No. 22 partnered with several organizations to assist the needy families during the Christmas Holiday.

Organizers gave away bicycles and toys to kids who would not normally receive any form of gifts during the yuletide season at the McDuffie Woods Community Center.

Organizations who contributed to the initiative included 100 Black Men of Augusta, Unity in the Community, Lebanon Consistory No. 28 (Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry), and Oscar McCombs Commandery No. 21 (Knights Templar).

Event organizers, Stolkin Temple’s Shriners as Mentors, assisted participating organizations by giving away books, toys, bicycles, and registered kids

in attendance to sign up for the outstanding mentoring program sponsored by the Temple.

In conjunction with the Augusta Interfaith Coalition, a community-based organization, the group feed the community who came out by providing them with more than 350 bundles of collard greens.

To improve the activism and civic engagement in the community, this unifying effort among the Nobles of Stolkin Temple and other Masonic houses such as Scottish Rite and York Rite bodies, is done to bring about change and awareness that will give kids hope.

Moreover, it will provide an opportunity to explore more organizational involvement to broaden support for some much-needed visibility in the community. Stolkin Temple provides numerous community service events, initiatives, and activities which gives credence to inspiring the community and youth to become more productive citizens in years to come.

Leading Stolkin Temple is Illustrious Potentate Tyrone Prince. Past Potentate Wadis Boxton serves as the Commander-in-Chief of Lebanon Consistory No. 28 and Honorary Past Potentate Larry Elrod serves as the Eminent Commander of Oscar McCombs Commandery No. 21.

Chief Rabban Keith Phillips of Stolkin Temple organized the event on behalf of participating organizations who provided sponsorships which made the initiative a huge success. �

Participates in MLK Dream Big Parade

CONTRIBUTED BY: HONORARY PAST POTENTATE ANTHONY E. JONES CHIEF RABBAN HARRAM TEMPLE NO 23 — TAMPA, FLA

ST. PETERSBURG, FLA. (JAN. 17, 2022)

Illustrious Potentate Marc S. Brewington and Nobles of Harram Temple No. 23 would not allow the COVID-19 pandemic to stop them from honoring a man who spent his life dedicated to change and championing equal justice for all. In honor of this great man, Harram Temple participated in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Big Parade.

The Illustrious Potentate’s Support Team along with the Kickin It Klowns, the Motor Patrol Unit, Meddlin Peddlin Bicycle Unit and Strollers all contributed to what turned out to be an amazing celebration of life of a man who left a legacy for all.

The MLK Dream Big Parade is one of the largest parades of its kind celebrated in the country. Although the parade was postponed in 2021 due to the pandemic, Harram Temple has participated in the parade four previous years: 2018, 2019, 2020 and recently 2022.

Each year, the parade draws marching bands from across the country, motorcycle units, drill teams, community action groups, along with state and local public officials to participate and thrill crowds that number in the hundreds of thousands.

The Deputy Imperial Potentate, the Hon. Noble Eric R. Myers, a proud member of Harram Temple stated “This is another outstanding performance by Harram Temple No. 23 who continues to lead from the front.”

According to Noble Brewington, this performance of community service and support is to be the gold standard of the Temple.

“The Nobles of Harram Temple No. 23 were very humbled and honored to participate in the Dream Big MLK Day

Parade,” said Noble Brewington. “Our participation in this event reminds us of our commitment to service and the causes of freedom for all.”

Giving back and supporting the surrounding counties of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, and Manatee is what the Nobles of Harram Temple do best.

Harram Temple, a 15-time winner of the Imperial Council’s Charity Award and numerous other accolades, has existed for more than 125 years. The Nobility remains focused, ready, and at the forefront of excellence. �

Illustrious Potentate Marc S. Brewington (center), Past Potentate Alejandero Kelly, Chief Rabban Anthony E. Jones, Assistant Rabban H.P.P. Alvin E. Walker, Noble Cephes West, Noble Michael Reed, P.P. James Sanders, Noble David Whigham, H.P.P. Maurice Cheatham, Noble Toney Williams, H.P.I.P. Michael Dozier, Nobles Jerel Turner, Clifford Roach, Josiah Gumbs, and Anthony Pearson.

“This is another outstanding performance by Harram Temple No. 23 who continues to lead from the front.”

Harram Temple No. 23 Meddlin Peddlin Bicycle Unit

HPIP Miller Honored with Park Renaming

CONTRIBUTED BY: H.P.I.P. MICHAEL DOZIER HARRAM TEMPLE NO 23 - TAMPA, FLA

TAMPA, FLA. — (FEB. 15, 2022) — In nearly a half century of public service, Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Lesley Miller Jr. (23), former Hillsborough County Commissioner, worked tirelessly to ensure residents had clean drinking water and plentiful parks, fought against bigotry and racism, led groundbreaking efforts to fund cancer research and patient care, and steered Hillsborough County through the first stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

His public leadership was recognized during a ceremony and sign unveiling at 6105 E. Sligh Avenue led by County Administrator Bonnie Wise and included numerous community leaders where the county’s flagship park and recreation center was christened the Lesley “Les” Miller Jr. All People’s Community Park and Life Center.

Formerly known as All People’s Life Center, the park opened in 2007. Its 45,000 square-foot recreation complex serves as the center of the county’s adaptive sports program, which provides year-round sports and recreation programs that promote physical activity, healthy lifestyles, and recreational and competitive sports for area children and adults with physical disabilities. The park includes a 10,000-squarefoot adaptive playground, the county’s largest, and is home to Parks & Recreation’s wheelchair football and basketball programs, the only county-run Special Olympics teams, and is the main administrative office for the adaptive recreation program.

A graduate of the University of South Florida and a U.S. Air Force Veteran, Noble Miller spent many years serving on public boards like the Hillsborough County Planning Commission before he was elected to the

Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Lesley Miller Jr. (23) and wife, Honorary Past Imperial Commandress Gwendolyn M. Miller (96).

Florida House of Representatives in 1992. He was reelected three times before winning election to the Florida Senate in 2000. He was the first person to serve as the Minority Leaders in both the House and Senate. Among many other accomplishments during his legislative tenure, he championed the H.L. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, filing and helping pass the bill that allocated a portion of the state’s cigarette tax for cancer research and care.

Furthermore, Noble Miller was elected in 2010 to serve District 3 on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners. He won re-election two more times and was elected as Board Chairman three times before leaving the board at the conclusion of his term in late 2020.

Noble Miller has served as a member of many service organizations including Prince Hall Masons, the Hillsborough County Branch of the NAACP, and the Board of Directors of the Urban League of Hillsborough County. He is a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and a Deacon at the New Mt. Zion M.B. Church of Tampa, Inc. He served as the llustrious Potentate of Harram Temple No. 23 in 2017 and now serves as the Imperial Deputy of the Oasis of Tampa. In 2005, Florida A&M University in Tallahassee bestowed him with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Humane Letters.

Noble Miller is married to Honorary Past Imperial Commandress Gwendolyn M. Miller (96) and is the father of four and grandfather of six. �

(L to R) Illustrious Potentate Marc S. Brewington (23) and Imperial Deputy of the Oasis of Tampa, Honorary Past Imperial Potenate Lesley Miller Jr.

Continues its Rich History of Charity

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE LEVI BARNES III & H.P.I.P. WILLIAM PATTERSON III GOLCONDA TEMPLE NO 24 - NEWARK, N J

NEWARK, N.J. (DEC. 1, 2021) Golconda Temple No. 24, currently led by Illustrious Potentate Nathaniel E. Bryant Jr., was charted in 1907 in Newark. Throughout their illustrious history, the Nobles of Golconda Temple continue to give extensive charity to their community.

At several Imperial Sessions, the Temple was recognized as being the number one Temple in the world for its charitable disbursements. Some of the charity includes, but is not limited to, scholarships, working with youth, and being leaders in the community. From its inception to today, Golconda Temple remains strong and united. As the Temple continues, it grows stronger and more determined. Currently, the Temple has more than 200 Nobles as members.

In December, Golconda Temple distributed over 100 bicycles to deserving children in various communities in Northern New Jersey. Additionally, the Temple donated bikes to the annual East Orange Holiday Toy Giveaway held at the Sheila Y. Oliver Academy with

the assistance of the Hon. Noble Ted Green, mayor of East Orange and member of Golconda Temple who was created in 2018.

This charitable endeavor was led by 1st Ceremonial Master David Edouard and Assistant Rabban Steve Brunson. This is the second annual bike drive and distribution for Golconda Temple. All bicycles were purchased with donations from Nobles and Daughters from the Oasis of Newark. The Temple continues to interact with students throughout the year to assist the administration with any support they can provide.

During Christmas, Golconda Temple continued to provide charity by donating holiday food baskets to families in the Northern New Jersey area. The families were recommended by the Nobles and various local social services departments. The donated food, valued more than $1,500, fed over 100 people during the holidays. The chairpersons of this committee were Oriental Guide Cedric Scates and Noble Robert Holloway.

The Nobles of Golconda Temple look forward to increasing their charitable giving in 2022. �

PHOTO

(L-R) Imperial Deputy of the Oasis Past Potentate Charles F. Salley, the Hon. Mayor Noble Ted Green, and Illustrious Potentate Hasjonn Simmons at the bicycle donation ceremony held at East Orange City Hall.

A holiday food basket recipient (second from left) stands with Past Potentate Nathaniel E. Bryant Jr., Noble Walter Wimbush, and Illustrious Potentate Hasjonn Simmons.

PHOTO BY ORIENTAL GUIDE DAVID EDOUAD

PHOTO BY ORIENTAL GUIDE DAVID EDOUAD

(L-R) Oriental Guide David Edouad, the Hon. Mayor Noble Ted Green, and Noble Steve Brunson at the annual bike giveaway held at the Sheila Y. Oliver Academy.

Rocking in the Rocky Mountains

CONTRIBUTED BY: DT. ALISON STEEL PUBLICITY DIRECTRESS SYRIAN COURT NO 40 — DENVER, COLO

DENVER, COLO. (MARCH 1, 2022) The Daughters of Syrian Court No. 40, home of 34th Past Imperial Commandress Eva Ray Allen (1993-1995), are “rocking” the beautiful Rocky Mountains by staying involved in their community even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As Daughters returned from the annual Imperial Session held in Philadelphia, their work was not complete.

In October 2021, the Court’s Tools for School Committee was able to be a blessing to Omar D. Blair Charter School which received school supplies from the coordinated efforts of the Court and the 5280 Mile-Hi MAMMAS Clown Unit. The Court’s hard work and efforts were recognized in the school’s weekly newsletter.

During the ball weekend, honoring Illustrious Commandress Aundrea D Cooks, donations were dropped off at the school and a plaque was presented to the school principal for his great work with the school.

In November 2021, for preparation of the holiday season, the Daughters were busy doing what they do every year; gathering names and getting the fixings for a great holiday dinner for families in the community who are in need.

The Daughters stand by the saying “It Takes A Village” and collaborated with Syrian Temple No. 49 and seven other organizations to be a true blessing in the Metro Denver and surrounding areas. Through combined efforts, 82 baskets were provided to families which supported 326 people.

In reference to the verse, Syrian Court’s D.I.M.E. (Daughters of Imperial Mentoring Excellence) Program does just that, training up a child.

For the month of December 2021, the D.I.M.E. Committee planned to end the year with 400,000 hours but exceeded it by 1,000. These hours were captured by the Shriners As Mentors Tracker with 75 active mentees on a regular basis.

The Daughters of Syrian Court are looking forward to increasing their support to the Oasis of Denver in 2022. �

“Train up a child in the way he/she should go and when they are old, they will not depart from it,” Proverbs 22:6.

Doing What the “Forty Deuce” Does

CONTRIBUTED BY: PAST POTENTATE JAMES O. WOODS JR. RECORDER

ARABIAN TEMPLE NO 42 — NEW BERN, N C

NEW BERN, N.C. (DEC. 10, 2021) The Nobles of Arabian Temple No. 42 continues to distribute charity throughout their community. During the holiday season, “Forty Deuce” made their annual donation to the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina.

This is the 15th year that the Temple has made a $1,000 donation to help those who the food bank supports. The food bank provides services from Raleigh, N.C. to the shores of the state’s Outer Banks.

“This is one of the most important donations that the Temple does as it helps so many of our fellow citizens of North Carolina,” said Illustrious Potentate Kenneth

B. Jones. “Every dollar we donate provides four complete meals to someone who needs them.”

According to the food bank, food insecurity has emerged as a defined reality for hundreds of thousands of hard-working Americans who, even if they are working, cannot keep food on the table.

On Oct. 22, 2021, the Temple made deliveries of personal protection equipment (PPE) to three elementary schools: Children Village Academy of Kinston, Historical JT Barber of New Bern, and Newport Elementary of Newport.

Each school was presented a pallet of hand sanitizer, Clorox wipes, Microban sanitizing spray, and children size masks.

Nobles spoke with each principal to ascertain their needs and how the Temple could help them.

“The principals asked for these items so that they would not have to use their school funds to purchase them,” said Noble Jones. “The Temple got together and donated approximately $1,000 worth of PPE items to each school.”

According to Noble Jones, the principals and staff were grateful that the Temple would make such a donation to each of their schools.

The donations will be used by approximately 3,000

“Every dollar we donate provides four complete meals to someone who needs them.”

Nobles of Arabian Temple No. 42 with Principal Jessica Jones and staff of Children Village Academy Schoo1.

Nobles of Arabian Temple No. 42 with Principal Mary Ellington and staff of Newport Elementary School.

Nobles of Arabian Temple No. 42 with Principal Erica Phillips of Historical JT Barber Elementary School.

Hosts B-I-N-G-O Night!

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE TIMOTHY DEAN PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR MEDJI TEMPLE NO 45 — FORT WORTH, TEXAS

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (FEB. 11, 2022) The loud screams of “Bingo” were the sounds of the residents of Immanuel Healthcare Nursing Home as the Nobles of Medji Temple No. 45 hosted their annual Bingo Prize Donation Event.

A committee consisting of High Priest & Prophet George Daniels, Harold Franklin, Greg Washington, John Thomas, and Past Potentate Derec Thomas planned and executed a night of fun for the residents.

“Some of the seniors who paved the way and open doors have been placed in a nursing home and forgotten,” said Illustrious Potentate Justin Davis. “What’s better than a Bingo Night with our seniors to let them know we haven’t forgotten about them.”

At the event Noble Daniels introduced the Nobles while Noble Thomas spoke about how excited the Temple was by hosting the event.

Each Noble played an important role such as calling out the numbers, making sure all the residents had the correct numbers on their board, passing out refreshments, and taking all the winners their prizes. It was an intensely competitive night of Bingo full of smiles and laughter as the seniors were full of joy competing for the prizes that consisted of word puzzles, coloring books with crayons, highlighters, snacks, sunglasses, body wash, and soft drinks.

Each time a resident said “Bingo”, the Nobles would congratulate the winner with a high level of excitement and take their picture. Everyone was having such an awesome time with more than five residents winning multiple prizes.

At the conclusion of the event, those seniors who did not win at Bingo were awarded the remaining prizes. Noble Davis closed the night out with some final remarks of encouragements and thanked Linda Cleveland, the nursing home’s activity director and her co-workers at Immanuel Healthcare Nursing Home. �

Conducts Operation Clean Sweep

CONTRIBUTED BY: PAST POTENTATE BRODERICK A. JONES

PHOTOS BY: PAST POTENTATE IVEY CHERRY JR.

CAPE FEAR SHRINE CLUB

KINDAH TEMPLE NO 62 — FAYETTEVILLE, N C

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (DEC. 29, 2021) The Nobles of Cape Fear Shrine Club (CFSC), an auxiliary of Kindah Temple No. 62, led by President Noble Antonio Carter, had the esteemed pleasure and honor of providing community service in the form of raking leaves for one of their elder Nobles, Honorary Past Potentate Jesse Jones Jr, an U.S. Army Veteran.

The cleanup, dubbed “Operation Clean Sweep,” was coordinated by P.P. Ivey Cherry Jr. in which 12 Nobles filled 61 trash bags with leaves weighing approximately 1,000 pounds.

The Nobles wanted to show their appreciation to Noble Jones for all that he has done for them and for CFSC; however, he had no idea that Operation Clean Sweep was already underway.

“Operation Clean Sweep began at 6:30 a.m. and when H.P.P. Jones awakened and stepped outside. We all stopped and greeted him with a smile and fist bump,” said Noble Carter. “Then it was back to work. It was a beautiful sight to see a smile on his face.”

According to Noble Carter, Noble Jones has and continue to support the Nobles of CFSC, the Past Potentate Council and Kindah Temple.

Additionally, Noble Jones is the advisor to CFSC and the only honorary president on CFSC’s active rolls.

“Thanks to all the Nobles who showed up to this auspicious occasion to show their love and support for one of our very own,” said Carter. “The Nobles of CFSC understand that we too will one day become older and wiser and would hope that the younger Nobles see the example that is being set.”

As stated by Noble Cherry Jr., “Give our elders their flowers while they can still smell them! We challenge all walks of life to honor the elders in our families, Temples, Auxiliaries, and communities by giving them their flowers while they can still smell them.” �

(L-R) Past Potentate Broderick A. Jones, Noble Steven T. Mack, IP Gabriel T. Carr, and Noble Antonio Carter of Cape Fear Shrine Club filled 61 trash bags with leaves weighing approximately 1,000 pounds during Operation Clean Sweep.

Honorary Past Potentate Jesse Jones Jr. speaks with P.P. Keith L. Smith during Operation Clean Sweep.

Noble Antonio Carter, P.P. Keith L. Smith, and P.P. Glenwood Norris of Cape Fear Shrine Club filled 61 trash bags with leaves weighing approximately 1,000 pounds during Operation Clean Sweep.

(L-R) Past Potentate Ethan O. Joe, P.P. Glenwood Norris, Noble Steven T. Mack, Honorary Past Potentate Jesse Jones Jr., Illustrious Potentate Gabriel T. Carr (Kindah Temple No. 62), P.P. Keith L. Smith, Noble Antonio Carter (CFSC President), and P.P. Ivey Cherry Jr., during Operation Clean Sweep.

Supports Military City USAA’s Spirit of America Dinner

CONTRIBUTED BY: PAST POTENTATE BURRELL PARMER PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR

MOUSSA TEMPLE NO 106 — SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (NOV. 9, 2021) The Prince Hall Shriners of Moussa Temple No. 106 volunteered in support of the 2021 Spirit of America Dinner, the premiere event of Celebrate America’s Military, at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.

The dinner, presented by Texas A&M University-San Antonio, is attended annually by over 500 military personnel from all branches of service, as well as business and civic leaders from across Military City USA. The evening included a cocktail reception, an elegant dinner and entertainment from the Air Force Band of the West.

Those in attendance had the pleasure of hearing from retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. John Troxell, the former senior enlisted advisor to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who served as the event’s keynote speaker. In his more than 35 years of service, Troxell served in five combat tours, Operation Just Cause in Panama, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, two tours in Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

According to Illustrious Potentate Justin Shaw, having Nobles attend the event not only provided an opportunity for the Temple to give back, but also provided another opportunity to increase awareness of Moussa Temple and its programs.

“Moussa Temple is taking every opportunity to be visible in our community,” said I.P. Shaw. “With a large military presence in the city, and with the Temple’s membership being comprised of more than 75 percent of Veterans, it is only fitting that we support the Spirit of America Dinner.”

Special thanks to Lori Stinson and the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce for allowing the Nobles to provide a service to the military community.

For more information about Moussa Temple, visit www.moussashriners-pha.com. �

The keynote address was delivered by retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. John Troxell, the former senior enlisted advisor to the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

San Antonio is home to one of the largest concentrations of military bases in the United States and is home to the Department of Defense’s largest medical center at Joint Base San Antonio Fort Sam Houston.

Moussa Temple No. 106 annually provides volunteers to serve as registrars at the annual Spirit of America Dinner.

Nobles Van Johnson and Cliff Massey assist Air Force Brig. Gen. Caroline M. Miller, commander, 502d Air Base Wing and Joint Base San Antonio, with registration during the 2021 Spirit of America Dinner.

Celebrates its Centennial Anniversary

CONTRIBUTED BY: PAST POTENTATE BURRELL PARMER CENTENNIAL CHAIRMAN PHOTOS BY: HONORARY PAST POTENTATE DON MILLS (NO. 76)

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (OCT. 16, 2021) To celebrate 100 years of service to the community, the Prince Hall Shriners of Moussa Temple No. 106 held their Centennial Gala, honoring Illustrious Potentate Justin W. Shaw, at the Hilton Airport Hotel.

Attending the gala was the 44th Imperial Potentate, Noble John T. Chapman who traveled from Philadelphia. Joining him were the Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Texas, Noble Burnell White Jr.; Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Tennessee, Noble Otis Burnett; and Imperial Deputy for the Desert of Texas,

Daughter Edwina Evans, along many other appointed Imperial Council/Court officers and members of Temples/Courts from within the Desert and abroad.

The gala, which was presented by H-E-B, was sponsored by more than 50 sponsors to include but not limited to Via Metropolitan Transit, Bexar County Commissioners Court, and the Desert of Texas Charitable Foundation.

Moussa Temple No. 106 of the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine of North & South

MOUSSA TEMPL E NO 106 — SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

“This gala culminates two years of planning,” said Noble Shaw. “We have received tremendous support from our community in sponsorships dollars which were utilized to dispense charity and student aid grants this year.”

Nobles of Moussa Temple No. 106, joined by Imperial Potentate John T. Chapman, celebrated their 100th year anniversary at the Hilton Airport Hotel. The Temple was charted in San Antonio on Aug. 2, 1921.

America and its Jurisdictions, Inc., is a fraternal, nonprofit organization chartered in the City of San Antonio on Aug. 2, 1921.

They are comprised of men, mostly military veterans, who are committed to providing an environment of friendship and fellowship. As Nobles, they strive to implement innovative ideas, facilitate positive change and plans for the future, while working cohesively with their communities.

Moussa Temple is one of more than 230 Shrine Temples located throughout the world. Their main programs of support to the San Antonio community are Shriners as Mentors, Student Aid, Prince Hall Shriners National Community Health Initiative, and Voter Registration / Education.

For more information about Moussa Temple, visit www.moussashriners-pha.com. �

Prince Hall Shriners of Moussa Temple No. 106 enter the ballroom of the Hilton Airport Hotel during their Centennial Gala presented by H-E-B.

Nobles of Moussa Temple No. 106 escort Illustrious Potentate Justin Shaw during the Temple’s Centennial Gala held at the Hilton Airport Hotel.

Imperial Deputy of the Oasis, H.P.I.P. Anthony L. Davis receives the 44th Imperial Potentate, Noble John T. Chapman during Moussa Temple’s Centennial Gala.

Helps Bring Holiday Cheer to Children

CONTRIBUTED BY: PAST POTENTATE BURRELL PARMER PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR

MOUSSA TEMPLE NO 106 — SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (DEC. 20, 2021) The Prince Hall Shriners of Moussa Temple No. 106 concluded their Centennial Celebration by supporting the 43rd Annual Claude W. Black Community Center Holiday Gift Giveaway held at the community center.

The event, presented by H-E-B, was hosted by the Claude W. Black Center Advisory Board in cooperation with the Desert of Texas Charitable Foundation and District 2 Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez and is designed to provide low-income families with joy during the Christmas Holiday.

In addition to toys being provided to children, more than 600 supply-filled backpacks were available for distribution and 18 families won $50 in H-E-B gift cards.

According to Past Potentate Burrell Parmer, president of the Claude W. Black Center Advisory Board, 137 families, including 375 children were serviced.

“It is fortunate that members of the community, including our corporate partners, can come together and provide some joy during the holidays,” said P.P.

Parmer. “The board is especially thankful for Moussa Temple which has been sponsoring the event by providing funding and volunteers.”

Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Texas, Hon. Past Imperial Potentate Burnell White Jr. (106), joined by Illustrious Potentate Justin Shaw and other Nobles, were present to hand out gifts and back packs to children.

“Everyone is struggling with a lot of different things this year, as well as last year,” said H.P.I.P. White, who also serves as president of the Desert of Texas Charitable Foundation. “We have to look out for one another.”

The giveaway was supported by the following sponsors: Amerigroup, Moussa Temple No. 106 (Prince Hall Shriners), San Antonio Zulu Association, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 128, Noble Gentlemen of San Antonio, Church’s Chicken, and City of San Antonio Human Services.

“This is a fine way to conclude our Centennial activities,” said I.P. Shaw. “Moussa looks forward to supporting our community in 2022.”

The Claude W. Black Center Advisory Board was established to support programming at the Claude W. Black Community Center and to serve as a resource for coordinating community services and fostering partnerships that promote economic self-sufficiency, family strengthening, and enhance the quality of life for children, families and seniors living on the East Side. For more information about Moussa Temple, visit www.moussashriners-pha.com. �

Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Texas, H.P.I.P. Burnell White Jr., and Dr. Leo Green of the Claude W. Black Center Advisory Board distribute toys to children during the 43rd Annual Claude W. Black Community Center Holiday Gift Giveaway.

Illustrious Potentate Justin Shaw along with other Nobles of Moussa Temple distributed gifts of choice to children during the 43rd Annual Claude W. Black Community Center Holiday Gift Giveaway.

Noble Michael Coats (106) and Ron Black of the Claude W. Black Center Advisory Board register families during the 43rd Annual Claude W. Black Community Center Holiday Gift Giveaway

Holds Temple Elections, Recognizes Noble of the Year

CONTRIBUTED BY:

NOBLE STUART A. LEE II

SCIMITAR TEMPLE NO 108 — TUCSON, ARIZ

WASHINGTON, D.C. (FEB. 25, 2022) — The Nobles of Scimitar Temple No.108 held their regular meeting (virtual) during which, the Imperial Deputy of the Oasis announced the following election results: Illustrious

Potentate John Q. Cruz Jr.; Chief Rabban Jordan R. Rhone; Assistant Rabban Adrian J. Harper; High Priest and Prophet Past

Potentate Herbert J. Daughtry Jr.; Oriental Guide P.P. Ontra D. Gilliam Sr.; Treasurer

P.P. Jeremy G. House; and Recorder P.P. Errington A. Brimm.

Prior to the election results, Illustrious Potentate Stuart A. Lee II conducted the business of the Temple and thanked the Nobility for their support throughout the year.

Noble Lee congratulated the incoming administration. He also informed the Nobility of his recent appointment to the Imperial Council’s Military and Veterans Affairs Department, where he intends to leverage his passion for assisting Veterans and their families with obtaining federal, local, and state benefits. Additionally, he announced the recipient of the Temples’ 2021 Noble of the Year Award, P.P. Elvin N. Sanders, the Imperial Deputy of the Oasis.

Noble Lee stated that Noble Sanders was instrumental to the accomplishment of key administrative tasks which enabled the Temple to continue to effectively operate in the state of Arizona. One of which pertained to the Arizona Corporation Commission, Corporations Division.

Additionally, he served as a panelist on two virtual Membership Interest and Recruiting Meetings, during which he answered questions and shared his experiences as a Noble of the Mystic Shrine.

Noble Sanders also assisted with the delivery of additional monthly Temple training sessions to the Nobility. The culmination of these accomplishments and others led to his recognition as Scimitar Temple’s Noble of the Year. �

Noble Sanders along with the Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Arizona, P.P. Joseph E. Conrad Jr., greatly contributed to completing the necessary paperwork to follow Arizona state law and continue to operate in the state.

Noble Stuart Lee II

Illustrious Potentate John Q. Cruz Jr.

Noble of the Year, Past Potentate Elvin N. Sanders, Imperial Deputy of the Oasis

Awards Annual Scholarships to HBCUs During Annual Ball

CONTRIBUTED BY: TEMPLE STAFF RISSAH TEMPLE NO 130 — JACKSON, MISS

JACKSON, MISS. (NOV. 27, 2021) Christmas came early for six Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) when Rissah Temple No. 130 awarded $6,000 in scholarships at its 52nd Annual Potentate & Commandress Scholarship Ball held at the Jackson Convention Complex.

This year’s college and universities recipients were Alcorn State University, Jackson State University, Mississippi Valley State University, Tougaloo College, Rust College, and Hinds Community College — Utica Campus.

The scholarships, named for former Nobles of Rissah Temple are instrumental in helping young men and women fund their educational endeavors.

“Throughout its illustrious history, the Nobles of Rissah Temple No. 130 continue to give far-reaching charity to our communities,” said the 15th Illustrious Potentate of Rissah Temple, Noble John E. Morris II. “Our goal is to continue to assist college-bound students with the financial assistance needed to attain a higher education.”

The membership of Rissah Temple is dedicated to the principle of fostering civic, economic, and educational development programs throughout the Oasis of Jackson and the Desert of Mississippi.

Rissah continues to give extensive charity to its community. Some of the charity includes, but not limited to, scholarships for three state historical African-American Universities and the states two historical African-American private four-year colleges, one of the state’s historical African-American community colleges, the United Negro College Fund, Voter Education and Voter Registration Drives, participating in the state Sickle Cell Awareness Walk, working with youth, sponsoring a Christmas Dinner giveaway for less fortunate families in the community, support funding for the Community Health Initiative, the Prince Hall Shriners Foundation, and being leaders in their communities. �

Rust College

Alcorn State University

Tougaloo College

Hinds Community College –Utica Campus

Mississippi Valley State University

Jackson State University

Donates $3K in Scholarships to Florida HBCU

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE LESLIE ELUS RECORDER

KAZAH TEMPLE NO. 149 — MIAMI, FLA.

MIAMI GARDENS, FLA. (NOV. 6, 2021) The Prince Hall Shriners of Kazah Temple No. 149 presented three $1,000 scholarships to deserving college students during Florida Memorial University’s (FMU) Homecoming Football Game at Traz Powell Stadium.

The students, Aaron Knowles, Alan Green, and Christian Edgerson, were selected based on merit and financial need from the university’s current freshman class.

Illustrious Potentate Rashard Jenkins shared with the attendees how important it is for Black fraternal groups and civic organizations to invest in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU).

The scholarship donation underscored a series of firsts for the Temple and FMU.

The hallmark game featured the university’s newly established marching band, “The Roar,” and expanded auxiliary cheer squad. Historically, the game culminated with the university’s first fall homecoming victory since rebooting its football program several years ago.

“It takes a village to raise a child,” noted Noble Ray Smith, FMU Board of Trustees member. “Under the leadership of Illustrious Potentate Jenkins, and the Nobles of this great organization, we were able to recognize three outstanding students from the university.”

FMU is a private, coeducational, and Baptist-affiliated institution that has the distinction of being one of the oldest academic centers in the state, and the only HBCU in South Florida.

Funds for the scholarships were raised through a recent raffle fundraiser to grow the Temple’s scholarship fund.

Kazah Temple’s donation comes at a time when HBCUs, such as Florida Memorial University, are in dire need of funds to continue their mission of equity in education and access for historically marginalized people. �

The average household income of most students who attend FMU is $28,000 and scholarships provide the life force to assist students in furthering their education and thus beckons of hope within their respective communities.

Past Potentate Hiram Williams, Noble Ray Smith, Illustrious Potentate Rashard Jenkins, and Noble Mario Ellis pose with Florida Memorial University’s mascot and homecoming event host.

(L-R) Illustrious Potentate Rashard Jenkins, Chief Rabban Rodrigue Jean, Past Potentate Hiram Williams, and Imperial Deputy of the Oasis H.P.I.P. Harold K. Brown Jr.

Distributes School Supplies in The Bahamas

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE YANNICK RODGERS

KIKU ZEKI TEMPLE NO 184 — FREEPORT, THE BAHAMAS

GRAND BAHAMA, THE BAHAMAS — (NOV. 29, 2021) Underprivilege children living in the Community of Eight Mile Rock (EMR) will have an easier time finding backpacks, books, and pens this year thanks to the assistance of the officers and members of Kiku Zeki Temple No. 184.

Accompanied by Imperial Oriental Guide Gary Sylvester and Imperial First Ceremonial Master Jerwon Avery, the Illustrious Potentate, Noble Angelo Lockhart, Chief Rabban Yannick O. Rodgers, and Noble Farentino Thompson delivered a Temple donation of 150 backpacks packed with books and pens to the EMR Social Service Office.

The EMR Social Service Office is responsible for providing food and financial services, counseling, advocacy, education, empowerment, health and wellness, shelter and housing, protection, and safety services for the impoverished and elderly in the community. There to receive on behalf of the EMR Social Service Office was Rochelle Minnis who was very appreciative and informed the Nobles that backpacks will go directly to assist those kids in need in the community.

Noble Lockhart secured the backpacks on behalf of the Temple while Noble Rodgers, a local government official and West Grand Bahama councilman, organized the giveaway.

According to the Noble Lockhart, the giveaway was not only a gesture from

the Temple but also a mandate from the Imperial Council that local Temples give back to the local communities.

Noble Rodgers was overjoyed and elated to assist, in not only giving back to the community, but excited that his home community was the beneficiary. He was grateful to have two Imperial Council Officer visit the area that the locals call the “Rocks”.

This marks the second time the Nobles have reached outside of the city of Freeport to assist those in need. Earlier this year, they travel, via boat, to Sweetings Cay to assist with restoring the small island that is still recovering from the effects of Hurricane Dorian from September 2019. �

Eight Mile Rock is the largest settlement in The Bahamas and consist of 11 sub-settlements: Hepburn Town, Bartlett Hill, Hanna Hill, Pinedale, Martin Town, Russell Town, Jones Town, Seagrape, Holmes Rock, Deadman’s Reef, and Bootle Bay. Eight Mile Rock is 14 miles from Freeport and the largest settlement outside of Freeport. The settlement is home to NBA player Buddy Hield and WNBA MVP Jonquel Jones.

Gives Thanks by Giving

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE RICHARD TYSINGER CHIEF RABBAN AL KHATTAB TEMPLE NO 201 — LEXINGTON, N C

LEXINGTON, N.C. (NOV. 20, 2021) Al KhaWho is a phrase regularly spoken when the Nobles of Al Khattab Temple No. 201 and Daughters of Khattab Court No. 180 travel outside the Oasis of Lexington, Desert of North Carolina. Lexington, known famously for its style of BBQ, is the home to a small number of Nobles and Daughters who are known in the public for their community service.

Annually, the Nobles of Al Khattab Temple donate boxed Thanksgiving dinners to needy families in their community. Each box contains a turkey, vegetable sides, dressings, gravy, desserts, bread, and sweet tea. Most of the items were purchased via gift cards provided through Food Lion’s Food Lion Feeds Program along with donations from the Nobility. Over the years, the Temple has helped retired and disabled Veterans, community elders, and homeless family shelters.

This year, under the leadership of Illustrious Potentate Richard Patterson, the Nobles venture out to different neighborhoods to give thanks and deliver dinners to several well-deserved individuals and their families.

WWII Veteran Leverne Owens, a Thanksgiving dinner recipient exclaimed, “I am deeply honored and humbled by the Nobles’ generosity.”

Al Khattab Temple has established great relations within its Oasis and continues to support local and national causes such as the Prince Hall Shriners Community Health Initiative and local family shelter services.

The Nobles expect to continue their annual Thanksgiving donation event and plan to increase the number of families they serve in the coming years. �

(L-R) Past Potentate Timothy Johnson, Noble Kendrick Smith, Illustrious Potentate Richard Patterson, P.P. Clarence Barnett Jr., P.P. Norman Frazier, Chief Rabban Richard Tysinger, and P.P. Belton Petteway.

(L-R) Past Potentate Clarence Barnett Jr., P.P. Timothy Johnson, Millie Simmons, P.P. Richard Patterson, Chief Rabban Richard Tysinger, and P.P. Norman Frazier.

“The event was a huge success, and the recipients were very grateful and appreciative of the gifts,” said Past Potentate Timothy Johnson.

“Seeing the smiles on the faces is what makes it all worth it.”

Past Potentates Norman Frazier and Timothy Johnson speak with WWII Veteran Leverne Owens after delivering his Thanksgiving meal.

Pays Tribute, Respect to Dr. Carter G. Woodson

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE KEENAN D. MEADERS ILLUSTRIOUS POTENTATE EDFU TEMPLE NO 267 — WASHINGTON, D C

SUITLAND, MD. (FEB. 12, 2022) In celebration of Black History Month, the Nobles of Edfu Temple No. 267 visited the final resting place of the “Father of Black History”, Dr. Carter G. Woodson.

Dr. Woodson was a visionary who believed history should be used as a source of motivation and a weapon against the erasure of Blacks from American history. If not for the work of this great man, there would be no African-American History. In honor of Black History month and the amazing works of Dr.

Woodson, Edfu Temple thought it be proper to pay tribute and respect to one who made it his life’s work to uplift and inspire his people.

Dr. Woodson was born on December 19, 1875 in New Canton, Va. The fifth of nine children, born to former slaves, he spent much of his younger years working in the fields and coal mines of West Virginia to help feed and support his large family. Although his work kept him from attending primary school, he taught himself to read using the bible and his father’s old newspapers. He was able to enroll in high school at the age of 20 and graduate in less than 2 years. From this point, he went on to blaze a trail in education and history unlike no other.

Making it a priority to pursue his education, Dr. Woodson would go on to earn two bachelor’s degrees, a master’s degree in European History and become the first African-American, born to former

Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Charles Garris Jr., Recorder Rahsaan Edwards, Illustrious Potentate Keenan Meaders, Imperial Deputy of the Oasis Leslie Walker Sr., and Noble Vance Gilliam Jr. of Edfu Temple No. 267 pay respects at the gravesite of Dr. Carter G. Woodson.

slaves, to earn a doctoral degree from Harvard University. During his studies in history, he noticed that the role of the Negro was being ignored and misrepresented by scholars of that time. Thus, began his lifelong mission to educate the world of the great achievements of the Negro, not only in American History, but World History.

In 1922, Dr. Woodson purchased a home in Washington, D.C.. He made this home his headquarters and in February of 1926, after years of documenting Negro History, he began to promote the first Negro History Week. He chose the month of February for this recognition because of the birthdays of President Lincoln and Frederick Douglass on the 12th and 14th, respectively. The untiring efforts of Dr. Woodson led President Gerald Ford to proclaim the entire month of February as Black History Month in 1976.

Across the Imperial Domain, there are countless Nobles and Daughters who stand on the shoulders of Dr. Woodson. The pride and knowledge of Black History has created great leaders among the ranks. Many of the programs the Imperial Council and Imperial Court support today promote education to youth and financial assistance to HBCUs that continue the work of Dr. Woodson. The Mis-Education of the Negro is one of his most popular books and is one of the most important books on education ever written. It is still required reading in many academic programs today.

On April 3, 1950, at the age of 74, Dr. Woodson passed away at his home in Washington, D.C., of a heart attack. To pay homage to this great historian, Edfu Temple ventured less than a mile across the Desert of the District of Columbia border to Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in Suitland, Maryland, to salute this dedicated educator, author, historian, and passionate writer. Nobles in attendance were Illustrious Potentate Keenan Meaders, Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Charles Garris Jr., Imperial Deputy of the Oasis Leslie P. Walker Sr., Recorder Rahsaan Edwards, and Noble Vance Gilliam Jr.

The untiring efforts of Dr. Woodson to educate and inspire Blacks by highlighting their great works, achievements and inventions has motivated generations to excel in every area. He devoted his life to writing history so that AfricanAmericans would be proud of the past and believe that there are no limits to their achievements. For that reason, this great ancestor, the Nobles of Edfu Temple honor. �

History derived from:

NAACP.org/find-resources/history-explained/ civil-rights-leaders/carter-g-woodson WoodsonMuseum.org/about-us

ThoughtCo.com/black-historian-carter-gwoodson-biography-45199

Dr. Carter G. Woodson statue located in the Carter G. Woodson Memorial Park in Northwest Washington, D.C.

Dr. Carter G. Woodson

The untiring efforts of Dr. Woodson to educate and inspire Blacks by highlighting their great works, achievements and inventions has motivated generations to excel in every area.

DESERT OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Highlighting Noble Spain

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE RUSSELL H. BOOKER ILLUSTRIOUS POTENTATE AZZAM TEMPLE NO 84 — ANDERSON, S C

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (JAN. 1, 2022) The Desert of South Carolina has produced Nobles who have not just only been a force in Prince Hall Shrinedom but as in the fight for equal rights and opportunities. Once such person is Noble Julius Spain Sr. of Kaaba Temple No. 89.

A native of Conway, S.C., Noble Spain was created a Noble of the Mystic Shrine in April 2016 and has continued to be the example while representing his Temple and Desert of South Carolina in extraordinary ways. His philanthropy, volunteerism, empathetic leadership, and ability to fight on behalf of those less fortunate are recognized across the country. Noble Spain sets an example for others to emulate and knows how to make things happen. A joke he likes to say is, “If you’re not at the table helping to shape policy and challenge the status quo, then you’re left on the sideline being feed Scooby Snacks.”

Known to many as a “Game Changer,” Noble Spain is a fully paid Gold Life member of the NAACP, serving his 3rd year as president of the Arlington Branch. The NAACP is the home of grassroots activism for civil rights and social justice with more than 2,200 units across the nation powered by well over 2 million activists. Additionally, Noble Spain recently completed a twoyear term as regional vice president for the Virginia State Conference NAACP, serving on the State Executive Committee. In this capacity, he oversaw 13 branches of the NAACP in Northern Virginia. In the past three years as president of his local branch, Noble Spain has grown his membership from 200 to 950 members (350%). He has built a robust multi-racial branch that has significantly changed outcomes in a city of 230,000 citizens.

In March 2021, the FBI Washington Field Office recognized Noble Spain with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award from the agency’s Washington Field Office. He was one of fewer than 60 individuals and organizations recognized nationally by the FBI for their exceptional support of law enforcement and work to improve their communities.

“2020 changed the way many of us engage with our communities, but Mr. Spain’s efforts to continue to build the membership of local NAACP branches and engage with the FBI’s Washington field office demonstrated his commitment to help enhance the relationship between the FBI and the communities we serve,” said Steven D’Antuono, assistant director in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. “The FBI is grateful for his work and his continued partnership.” Despite the restrictions of COVID-19, Spain in 2020 continuously engaged with its local branches and increased their overall membership by 50 percent. He also led a 1,000-person rally across Arlington for racial justice and participated as a speaker and panelist in several webinars hosted by the FBI and other partners, including on the topics of hate crimes and protecting the community.

In August 2020, Noble Spain wrote an Op-Ed in the Washington Post titled, “Arlington County’s progress on race and social justice is poisoned by its official

Noble Julius Spain Sr.

logo.” For decades, this was Arlington County’s most prominent symbol, a replica of Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial, located at Arlington National Cemetery. Most people tend to forget that this location was also a slave labor camp. For nearly a year, Noble Spain aggressively challenged elected leaders and citizens that the current symbol on the county’s flag, seal and logo was not reflective of the community.

In September 2021, 13 months after Noble Spain wrote his Op-Ed, Arlington County, which used the former home of a confederate general as its flag logo for decades, adopted a new design — one meant to highlight its geographic and historical ties to the District of Columbia and Alexandria instead. This capped off a months-long, and sometimes contentious, process to determine what exactly will be displayed on county uniforms, websites, and business cards. Many citizens in the community have noted that this would have never occurred without Noble Spain’s persistence and rallying of citizens. Under his leadership, Noble Spain spent many volunteer hours to improve transparency and accountability in Arlington County. He helped reshape law enforcement in Arlington by challenging the leadership of the Arlington County Board, ensured law enforcement officials have Body Worn Cameras, and establish a Civilian Oversight Board. His actions began shortly after he and his team gathered over 12,000 signatures asking for change.

In January 2021, Noble Spain engaged multiple organizations in the community to include the local media, writing letters to Arlington County leaders, testifying before the County Board, and engaging members of the Virginia General Assembly. Because of his direct actions, leadership, and activism, the citizens of Arlington County now have a more enhanced, transparent, and accountable criminal justice and public safety system.

During the global pandemic, Noble Spain continued to find ways to be innovative and challenge systems and policies that have been detrimental to the livelihood of so many students, families, AfricanAmericans, and people of color. For example, as a results-oriented leader who understands the importance of education, Noble Spain engaged the community and organizations such as Amazon in acquiring donations for scholarships. As a result, the

NAACP Arlington Branch was able to obtain and award $60,000 in scholarships for graduating high school seniors who had been accepted to institutions of higher learning.

At the end of 2021, Noble Spain was recognized formally by many organizations in his community for his leadership and service. Arlington County Government recognized him and the NAACP Arlington Branch with the 2021 James B. Hunter Human Rights Award, which is given in recognition of outstanding achievement in human rights and diversity made in Arlington County by an individual, a community group, a non-profit organization, or a business establishment. This prestigious award is named for the late James B. Hunter III, former Arlington County Board member and chair, who dedicated much of his life to serving those with few natural advantages in accessing government.

A 26-year combat veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Noble Spain achieved the highest enlisted rank of E-9. He is a former drill instructor, a diplomat who served abroad in Belgium, a U.S. Senate Fellow, and a former federal investigator. Currently, he serves as a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant for one of America’s most recognizable corporate organizations. He remains president of his local branch of the NAACP and is now an elected at-large member of the Virginia State Conference NAACP Executive Committee. The actions of Noble Spain representing his Temple, the Desert of South Carolina, and the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine, Inc. are keeping with the highest tenants of the order.

Noble Spain and his spouse live in the Penrose Community of Arlington, Va., and have three adult children and one granddaughter. �

A native of Conway, S.C., Noble Spain was created a Noble of the Mystic Shrine in April 2016 and has continued to be the example while representing his Temple and Desert of South Carolina in extraordinary ways.

Others Aid Kentucky Tornado Victims

BY: H.P.I.P KEVIN L. RUSSELL AL-NAHDA TEMPLE NO. 247 — ELIZABETHTOWN, KY

BOWLING GREEN, KY. — (JAN. 17, 2022) — The unimaginable happened to numerous citizens of Western Kentucky on Dec. 10, after tornadoes hit the towns of Mayfield, Bowling Green, and surrounding communities. Residents were shocked to find their entire lives had been turned upside down. While many watched the devastation unfold on TV and wondered what they could do to help, others sprang into action and began to mobilize their efforts.

On Dec. 17, 2021, concerned Nobles of Al-Nahda Temple No. 247 and Daughters of Al-Nahda Court No. 238 came together to assist Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Kevin Russell, P.P. Mark Maxwell, Imperial Deputy of the Oasis of Elizabethtown Donald Croom, P.P. George Wiley, 2nd Lt. Commandress Michelle Jones, Dt. Annie Owens, Beth Avery, Bro. Shawn Davis, and others. They put their words into action by

delivering a 12 ft. U-Haul truck to Bowling Green filled with all types of donated personal Items: water, food, baby formula and other items including gift cards and money.

On Jan. 15, Noble Richard Randolph, Henry Dozier Sr., and Noble Russell delivered more LOVE to Bowling Green. The trip, which focused solely on the children, delivered items such as Pampers, Huggies, baby wipes, baby formula, packs of childrens’ underwear, socks, and clothing. Additionally, (20) $25 gift cards and (10) $50 gift cards were provided to local churches. More than $7,000 in cash and donations were collected and delivered to communities in the city. �

DESERT OF FLORIDA

Obtains its 15th Temple

|CONTRIBUTED

BY: H.P.I.P. MICHAEL DOZIER HARRAM TEMPLE NO. 23 — TAMPA, FLA.

LEESBURG, FLA. (OCT. 23, 2021) To continue spreading an environment of friendship, fellowship and charity within the Desert of Florida, Haken Temple No. 55 was chartered in the Oasis of Leesburg during a historic chartering ceremony held at the Leesburg Resource Center.

Haken Temple, which is the 15th chartered Temple within the Desert of Florida, is now allowed to exist, and perform charitable work in their community under the umbrella of the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine of North & South America, Inc.

The Temple is dedicated to the principle of fostering civic, economic, and educational development programs to include the NAACP Voter Registration/ Education, Youth Mentoring, the Prince Hall Shriners

Community Health Initiative (CHI), and support to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which is in Memphis, Tenn.

Desert Chief Rabban, Past Potentate Pembrook Burrows (69) led the historic ceremony with the 17th Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Florida, P.P. Louis T. Harper (8) installing Illustrious Potentate Rodney Colden and the elected officers of Haken Temple.

Proceeding the installation of officers, Deputy Harper read and presented the Temple Charter to the Noble Colden and the Nobility of Haken Temple.

According to Deputy Harper, plans for establishing the 15th Temple in the Desert of Florida began under the leadership of the Imperial Treasurer, Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Pierre E. Rutledge (149) who served as the 16th Imperial Deputy of the Desert of Florida.

“Desert Organizer, Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Ronnie Cole (182) was instrumental in the recruiting efforts with assistance from H.P.I.P. John Aaron (179), and P.P. Freddie Miller (55), who received his appointment as the Imperial Deputy of the Oasis of Leesburg on Oct. 23, 2021,” said Deputy Harper.

Elected Imperial Council Officers attending the ceremony were Deputy Imperial Potentate, the Hon. Eric R. Myers (23) and Imperial Treasurer Rutledge.

Nobles of Haken Temple No. 55 proudly display their Temple Charter.

Sitting Center: Imperial Treasurer, Honorary Past Imperial Potentate Pierre E. Rutledge (149) and Deputy Imperial Potentate, the Hon. Eric R. Myers (23) with members of the Desert Divan and members of Haken Tempe No. 55.

Shines in the Face of the Pandemic

CONTRIBUTED BY: HONORARY PAST POTENTATE JAMES BUTLER

ARABIC TEMPLE NO 44 — CHICAGO, ILL

CHICAGO, ILL. — (FEB. 15, 2022) — The Nobles of Arabic Temple No. 44 and the Daughters of Arabic Court No. 21 have always been big on charity and community service. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they had to adapt and adjust to the kinds of community service they were accustomed to providing.

The Oasis strives to be known for their presence in the community, and to make every attempt to address the needs of those in their area despite the pandemic. Rather than remain stagnant, the Nobles and Daughters vowed not to allow the pandemic to deter them from their mission of serving.

In the late fall and early winter months of 2021, the Temple and Court stayed busy, making up for lost time during the COVID outbreak. They began with donations of supply-filled book bags to elementary students at Dewey School of Excellence located on the southside of Chicago.

Many of the students attending schools on the Southside have the lowest scores in the area. They

often struggle in reading, science, and math. The Temple and Court will continue working with the school and helping where they are needed.

After the children’s first semester, the Temple and the staff of Grand Crossings decided to host a skate party for the students at the Grand Crossing Park District Field House. The Nobles provided bags of candy for each child and chaperoned the event.

In mid-October 2021, due to a water main break in Dixmoor, Ill., the Temple, in conjunction with Western Consistory No. 28, Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliated, Northern Jurisdiction, donated a U-Haul truck loaded with water to the people of the community who did not have drinkable water for two weeks.

Additionally, in October, the Nobles supported the Court in the 2021 Breast Cancer Walk held at Jackson Park.

When asked why it was so important for the Nobles to support the Daughters in this endeavor, Hon. Past Potentate Eugene Butler stated, “I lost my mom to pancreatic cancer and my sister to breast cancer. I have a niece that is battling breast cancer right now. It hurts me that I can’t take the pain away. So now it’s whatever I can do, I will do. No one that I know, and love, will fight alone. Losing the two women who meant so much to me, made me more aware of the battle that women go through with their bodies.”

In support of Christmas Cheer, the Oasis collected and donated toys to the children in homeless shelters and various agencies in the community. The children were allowed to come to Arabic Temple on the Southside to choose their own toys.

“Sometimes, this is all that they have for Christmas, so we try to do our best and get the best to make the children happy,” said Temple Chief Rabban DedErick Harris. “The best part of this event is when I hear the children get excited when they find out the toy that they want, they can take home with them.”

In addition to bringing joy to children during the holidays, the Temple’s Shriners as Mentors Program also supports youth during Little League Baseball Season.

Being creative and strategic has allowed these Nobles and Daughters to continue to serve in their community. They are working on even bigger plans for 2022. �

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

Past Potentate

Louis T. Harper (8) reads the Charter of Haken Temple No. 55.

Additionally, in attendance were the Desert of Florida Divan, former Hillsborough County Commissioner, the Hon. Lesley Miller Jr., (23); Desert 1st Ceremonial Master and Desert Lecturer, H.P.I.P. Michael Dozier (23); Imperial Deputy for the Desert of Florida, Past Commandress Collette Hart-Wallace (117); family members; and friends of the community.

Chartered Members of Haken Temple No. 55:

• Noble Rodney Colden, Illustrious Potentate

• Noble Charles Brown, Chief Rabban

• Noble Jimmy Stewart, Assistant Rabban

• Noble Bernard Gray, Oriental Guide

• Noble Floyd C. Parker, High Priest & Prophet

• Noble Robert Brown Jr., Recorder

• Noble Willie Kuykendall, Treasurer

The Desert of Florida is the Flagship Desert throughout the Imperial Domain. Follow on Facebook: Desert of Florida Prince Hall Shriners or visit www.aeaonmsflorida.org. �

Your memory in us is a keepsake, with which we will never part. Though God has you to His keeping, we always have you in our hearts.

Honoring the Nobles We’ve Lost

10/01/2021 through 12/31/2021

Bernard Black

MOSLEM 79

Carlisle N. Blackett

ABU TALIB 205

Charlie G. Bowman

RAMESES 51

Raymond Bradley

FAISAL 192

David M. Bryant

PERSIAN 46

Ivory Buck

ZAMORA 73

Earl K. Butler MOOLAH 54

Kevin C. Caldwell

TAKBIR 227

George W. Cornish

EGYPTIAN 5

David Cunningham SHEIK 98

Jason B. Davis

PERSIAN 46

Anthony A. Douglas

ALOOMA 212

J. Hunter Ellison

MAHJA 47

Jason A. Fisher

RISSAH 130

Andrew Gibbs

JEDDAH 160

Stark R. Gilliam PYRAMID 1

Elijah Gillyard PYRAMID 1

Matthew Gullette MIZRAIM 119

Leonard C. Hale ISMID 110

Julian J. Hall AL RAKIM 142

Richard L. Holliday EL HASA 28

John D. Hunter SHAABAN 103

Freddie E. Kelly IMRAN 168

Robert S. Jackson SUAKIM 60

Artis L. Johnson MASUD 69

Darrell P. Johnson ZEMBO 70

Donald Johnson

CAWTHAR 118

Charles Lewis MISR 213

George Logan OMAN 72

Willie T. Love TA-SETI 253

H.P.I.P. DR. KENNETH WALTON (24) DEPUTY DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY HEALTH

William H. McCarthy ALEPPO 88

INITIATIVE, IMPERIAL DEPUTY, HEALTH EDUCATION, TRAINING & PREVENTIVE MEDICINE

Bennie L. McCraney YEMEN 152

Rodney Morgan PLATTA 15

Charles T. Morrison EL JEBEL 97

Donald M. Mullen SUEZ 114

Michael A. Parris MAGNUS 3

Gregory L. Pryor TUWA 228

Karl J. Reid MEDINAH 39

Jose Reveron ARABIC 40

John M. Richey TYRE 129

Josh Robinson MOCHA 7

Alonzo M. Rodgers KEBLAH 78

Carl Saddler HYKSOS 123

Michael Sims ARABESQUE 136

Gary D. Snead SUEZ 114

Felix Stanley SCIMITAR 108

Peter F. Taylor MASAB 11

Louis Tribune ZEMBO 70

Michael S. Weaver EL ZORA 124

Frank R. Williams ISMAEL 154

Harold W. Williams ROFELT PASHA 175

Michael Williams AZAH 140

Ronnie M. Williams PLATTA 15

Herbert F. Wilson AZEEM 102

Aubrey L. Whitaker AL MASEER 251

Sandy E. Whitney RAJAH 92

Louis C. Whittle KARUN 48

Lurain Yarbrough AZAH 140

As the world has been navigating through managing on process. �

Christmas for Deserving Children in The Bahamas

CONTRIBUTED BY: PAST COMMANDRESS LUCY HARMON MEDJI COURT NO 38 — FORT WORTH, TEXAS

NASSAU, BAHAMAS — (DEC. 12, 2021) — The Daughters of Nemesis Court No. 231 met in early December to discuss community service events for the year and decided that putting smiles on children's faces would be a perfect community service effort at the Nazareth Centre during the Christmas holiday season. The community service project resulted in a toy drive and adoption of the Nazareth Centre.

The Nazareth Centre is a government-owned facility that falls under the purview of the Ministry of Social Services and was established to provide temporary shelter for children in need of care and protection. It provides 24-hour care for children ranging from infancy to eleven years old. At the time of the toy drive, the center housed just under 30 residents.

During a cruise to the Bahamas, Region 4 Imperial Deputy Trina Dodson of Koran Court No 37, Oasis of Kansas City, Desert of Kansas contacted Imperial Deputy of the Oasis of Nassau, Noble Uriel Johnson, to visit with members of the Prince Hall Masonic Family. Noble Johnson reached out to Imperial Deputy for the Oasis Ronique Tinker regarding the visit.

According to Dt. Dodson, during her short time in the Bahamas, she wanted to assist the Oasis in any events or activities where she can be supportive.

“I was informed that the Court was planning a toy drive,” said Dt. Dodson. “To support this charitable activity, I donated a sizeable number of toys to assist the Court.”

Collectively, the donations from Dt. Dodson and Nemesis Court were wrapped and presented to the administrator of the Nazareth Centre. The toys were distributed to the children on Christmas Day.

After returning to Kansas City, several people asked Dt. Dodson what the favorite part of her trip was, she responded, “The Nobles and Daughters were very hospitable, and they showed genuine brother/ sisterhood.”

According to Dt. Dodson, she can’t wait to go back. “Both Deputies and the Commandress were so nice and friendly,” said Dt. Dodson. “But most of all, I enjoyed seeing the smiles on the members faces when I got off the ship with the toys.” �

Imperial Deputies Ronique Tinker and Uriel Johnson along with Illustrious Commandress Val Arnett accepting donations from Regional 4 Imperial Deputy Trina Dodson.

Legislation Enacted - 117th Congress (2021-2022)

CONTRIBUTED BY: NOBLE STUART A. LEE II (108) IMPERIAL DEPUTY MILITARY & VETERANS AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT

In addition to being the eyes and ears for the Imperial Council in supporting Nobles and Daughters who have served or are currently serving stateside and abroad, the Department has the responsibility to develop procedures and programs to accomplish its objectives and to receive and disseminate information on the armed forces with the assistance of the staff and Desert representatives to the membership and Imperial Council.1 During 2021, several new government programs were implemented and congressional legislation enacted to better support military personnel, Veterans and their families.

The United States leads the way in providing benefits to Veterans and servicemembers as a result of their military service. Government agencies such as the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) manages programs and collaborates with other entities that assist servicemembers with transitioning from military to civilian life, providing employment services, and starting Veteran-Owned and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses.2

Last year, they implemented two new programs to assist spouses, the Transition Employment Assistance for Military Spouses (TEAMS)3 and Employment Navigator and Partnership Pilot (ENPP) 4. The TEAMS program was implemented in February 2021 and the ENPP was launched by DOL in April 2021.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) oversees a myriad of programs that provide compensation to Veterans who incurred injuries due to military service; pension for low-income Veterans and surviving spouses that may or may not need the assistance of another person to perform activities of daily living; healthcare services; life insurance coverage; home loan guaranty; educational and burial benefits; and others. Visit the website Choose VA to find more information on these programs. 5 Furthermore, the VA Housing and Urban DevelopmentVeterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program, which provides housing and supportive services to Veterans experiencing homelessness was

recently awarded more than $18 million in housing vouchers to 103 public housing agencies in 33 states to support the VA’s goal of ending Veteran homelessness. 6 Although the negative news stories regarding the VA seem to attract more attention, based on my experience the positive stories significantly outweigh them. All these programs have been implemented and sustained to assist Veterans, servicemembers, and their families and are a direct result of advocacy and congressional legislation.

During the year 2021, the 117th Congress of the United States of America helped enact 81 public laws, 20 of which were Veteran or military related. The 20 laws addressed various issues to include national defense, education, employment, health care, specific needs for women Veteran’s healthcare, dental coverage, racial disparities, COVID-19 emergency provisions, and homelessness. The following are several of the bills enacted.

Public Law 117-76

Enacted: December 21, 2021 H.R. 5545

Title: Responsible Education Mitigation Options and Technical Extensions (REMOTE) Act

Overview: This legislation extends certain expiring provisions of law relating to benefits provided under the Department of Veterans Affairs Education Assistance programs during the COVID-19 pandemic and for other purposes. If the REMOTE Act was not enacted, the provisions would have expired on December 21, 2021, thereby interrupting the timely delivery of education benefits to Veterans and their eligible dependents. The legislation extends the modification of time limitations on use of the Montgomery GI Bill and Vocational Rehabilitation and Training — as prescribed by the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 (Public Law 116-315) to June 1, 2022. Additionally, the time limitations for the following benefits are also extended. 8

• Payment of work-study allowances during emergency situations

• Continuation of VA education assistance benefits during the COVID-19 emergency

• Provisions related to effects of closure of educational institutions and modification of courses by reason of COVID-19 emergency

• Provisions related to apprenticeship or on-job training requirements

One of the objectives of the Military and Veterans Affairs Department is to support Nobles and Daughters who have served in the armed services.

Noble Stuart A. Lee II

Public Law 117-69

Enacted: November 30, 2021

S. 796

Title: Protecting Moms Who Serve Act of 2021

Overview: This legislation is intended to help address the maternal mortality crisis among women Veterans by improving care at VA facilities, particularly among women of color. As defined in the legislation, “the term ‘‘maternal mortality’’ means a death occurring during pregnancy or within a one- year period after pregnancy that is caused by pregnancy-related or childbirth complications, including suicide, overdose, or other death resulting from a mental health or substance use disorder attributed to or aggravated by pregnancy-related or childbirth complications.” 10 The legislation calls for a $15 million dollar investment in maternity care coordination programs that would facilitate access and referral to community resources to address social determinants of health, offer childbirth preparation classes, parenting classes, nutrition counseling, breastfeeding support, lactation classes and breast pumps. It also aims to ensure effective coordination between VA and non-VA facilities regarding the delivery of maternity care. Additionally, it aims to identify mental and behavioral health risk factors in the prenatal and postpartum periods among women Veterans and ensures they receive the help and treatment they need. This legislation commissions “the first-ever comprehensive GAOstudy, submitted to Congress, on maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity among Veterans, with a particular focus on racial and ethnic disparities in maternal health outcomes.” 11

Public Law 117-68

Enacted: November 30, 2021 S. 1095

Title: Colonel John M. McHugh Tuition Fairness for Survivors of 2021

Overview: The Colonel John M. McHugh Tuition Fairness for Survivors Act requires public colleges and universities that receive GI Bill benefits to provide instate tuition rates for students using Dependent’s Educational Assistance (DEA). “The DEA program provides VA education benefits, including tuition, housing and book stipends, to the children or spouse of a service member who is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, died while on active duty prior to 9/11, or dies as a result of a service-connected disability.” 12 Let’s take for example a child of a Veteran considered “out-of-state” and attending the University of Florida. According to a U.S. News and World Report ranking the best National Universities, in 2021 the University of Florida’s in-state tuition and fees were $6,380 and out-of-state tuition

and fees were $28,658. Failure to enact this law would have resulted in the Veteran’s child incurring an additional debt of $22,278, the difference between both tuition and fee rates. This legislation helps reduce the out-of-pocket education costs for surviving spouses and children.

Public Law 117-66

Enacted: November 30, 2021 S. 1031

Title: An Act to require the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study on disparities associated with race and ethnicity with respect to certain benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.

Overview: This legislation directs the General Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study on disparities associated with race and ethnicity regarding certain benefits administered by the VA. The legislation may have been inspired in part by the Black Veterans Project, an organization which seeks to foster a community of stakeholders to draw existing data and advance new research to amplify unique barriers faced by Black veterans of all generations. Their research revealed that “Black veterans face higher rates of homelessness, unemployment and incarceration and are twice as likely to live in poverty,” and “nearly half of all Black veterans do not access the full breadth of their VA benefits.” 15 The GAO study will assess compensation benefits administered by the VA; disability ratings, with specific consideration of evaluations based on pain; and the rejection of fully developed claims for benefits under laws administered by the VA. Additionally, the results of the study will aid in developing recommendations to facilitate better data collection on disparities associated with race and ethnicity.

Public Law 117-42

Enacted: September 30, 2021 H.R. 5293

Title: Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2021

Overview: This legislation extends certain programs scheduled to expire on the end of calendar year 2021. Of note, it permanently extends the VA’s Dental Insurance Program, which allows qualifying veterans, survivors, and dependents to purchase discounted dental insurance. This benefit was set to terminate on December 31, 2021. Additionally, it extends the authority of the VA to provide travel reimbursements for Veterans who reside in rural areas to reach the nearest Vet Center to September 30, 2022.17 “Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that provide a wide range of social and psychological

services, including professional readjustment counseling to eligible Veterans, active-duty service members, including National Guard and Reserve components, and their families.” 18

Public Law 117-21

Enacted: June 30, 2021 H.R. 2441

Title: Sgt. Ketchum Rural Veterans Mental Health Act of 2021

Overview: This legislation expands mental health care services for Veterans living in rural areas. According to a press release by U.S. Congresswoman Cindy Axne [IA-03], the Act was named in memory of Marine Corps Veteran, Sgt. Brandon Ketchum. He served two tours to Iraq and one in Afghanistan and received a Combat Action Ribbon. He died by suicide after he was denied access to mental health services related to his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder at a VA facility. 19 The law directs the Secretary of VA to establish and maintain three new centers for the Rural Access Network for Growth Enhancement (RANGE) program. This program provides intensive case management services, including homeless outreach, to seriously mentally ill Veterans in rural areas.20

In closing, the following is a list of websites where you may find information on congressional legislation such as sponsors and co-sponsors of bills, voting history of representatives, important dates, stages in the legislative process, testimony, and recorded hearings. Additionally, for legislation you are particularly interested in and want to follow, several of the websites provide the option of establishing automated email alerts to inform you of updates.

Legislative Website Links

• Congress: Congress.gov

• Government Track: GovTrack.us

• House Committee on Veterans Affairs: Veterans.House.gov

• The United States Senate: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Veterans.Senate.gov

• U.S. Government Accountability Office: GAO.gov

• Federal Register: FederalRegister.gov

• Congressional Budget Office: CBO.gov

References

1. Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual of the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine, North and South America and its Jurisdictions, Inc. (2018). Departments/ Committees Instructions. “ Military and veterans Affairs.”

Published by the Imperial Council, A.E.A.O.N.M.S., Inc.

2. U.S. Small Business Administration. Office of Veterans Business Development. www.SBA.gov/about-sba/sba-locations/ headquarters-offices/office-veterans-business-development

3. U.S. Department of Labor. Veterans’ Employment and Training Service. Transition Employment Assistance for Military Spouses (TEAMS) Workshops. www.DOL.gov/agencies/vets/programs/tap/ teams-workshops

4. U.S. Department of Labor. Veteran’s Employment and Training Service. Employment Navigator & Partnership Pilot (ENPP). www.DOL.gov/agencies/vets/programs/tap/employmentnavigator-partnership

5. U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Choose VA. Home. Choose.VA.gov

6. U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. December 20, 2021. HUD & VA Award more HUD-VASH Vouchers. www.USICH.gov/ news/hud-va-awards-33-states-over-18-millionto-providehousingassistance-for-veterans-experiencing-homelessness

7. Congress.gov. Public Laws. 117th Congress (2021-2022). www.Congress.gov/public-laws/117th-congress

8. “H.R. 5545 — 117th Congress: REMOTE Act.” www.GovTrack.us. 2021. December 22, 2021 www.GovTrack.us/congress/bills/117/hr5545

9. News Releases: Duckworth’s Bipartisan Protecting Moms Who Served Act Signed into Law. November 30, 2021. www.DuckWorth.Senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworthsbipartisan-protecting-moms-who-served-act-signed-into-law

10. Public Law 117-69. November 30, 2021. Protecting Moms Who Served Act of 2021. Definitions: Maternal Mortality. www.Congress. gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/796/text/pl?overview=closed

11. Ibid

12. News Releases: Sen. Moran’s Bill to Expand Education Benefits for Surviving Family Members Signed into Law, November 30, 2021. www.Moran.Senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=9F8 D161F-7A7F-4454-88B2-450BB9736192

13. U.S. News and World Report. 2021. Best National University Rankings. University of Florida Tuition and Financial Aid. www.USNews.com/best-colleges/university-of-florida-1535/paying

14. Black Veterans Project. Veterans Advocacy. www.BlackVeteransProject.org/veteran-advoacy

15. Reverend Raphael Warnock, U.S. Congressman of Georgia. November 30, 2021. Press Release: Bill by Senator Reverend Warnock to Address Disparities in Service Benefits for Veterans of Color Signed into Law. www.Warnock.Senate.gov/newsroom/ press-releases/bill-by-senator-warnock-to-address-disparities-inservice-benefits-for-veterans-of-color-signed-into-law

16. “S. 1031 — 117th Congress: A bill to require the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study ….” www.GovTrack.us. 2021. December 22, 2021 www.GovTrack.us/congress/bills/117/s1031

17. “H.R. 5293 — 117th Congress: Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2021.” www.GovTrack.us. 2021. December 22, 2021 www.GovTrack.us/congress/bills/117/hr5293

18. U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Health Care. Vet Centers (Readjustment Counseling). www.VetCenter.VA.gov/

19. Press Release: President Biden Signs Axne Legislation Honoring Iowa Veteran Brandon Ketchum into Law. June 30, 2021. Axne.House.gov/media/press-releases/president-biden-signsaxne-legislation-honoring-iowa-veteran-brandon-ketchum

20. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Office of Rural Health.

“Enterprise-Wide Initiatives, Mental Health, Rural Access Network for Growth Enhancement.” Accessed from www.RuralHealth.VA. gov/providers/Enterprise_Wide_Initiatives.asp on December 22, 2021.

Convention Medical Information Oasis of St. Louis, Desert of Missouri

1. Agencies – All agencies will require will require a copy of all insurance cards, Driver’s Licenses, and possible of out-of-pocket pay.

ST. LOUIS PLACE HEALTH

2600 Redman Rd, Florissant, MO 63034

2. Wheelchair & Motorized Service (each company has various inventory)

AAA HOME MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Contact: Mike Wilson

MED EQUIP CHAPEL

www.mediequip.net

101 MOBILITY OF ST. LOUIS

Contact: Laura Kuchta

3. Scooters

SCOOTAROUND MOBILITY SOLUTION

Contact: Nicole Sul

www.scootaround.com

E-mail: nsul@scootaround.com

314-355-8585

ST. LOUIS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL / EMERGENCY ROOM

(Level 1 Trauma Center)

One Children’s Pl, St. Louis, MO 63110

6. Pharmacy

CVS PHARMACY

(Located in Schnucks Downtown)

315 N. 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63104

Monday-Friday: 8 am – 6 pm

Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm

314-427-9700

314-965-9300

636-447-1414

888-441-7575 x6222

Items available to rent: Manual wheelchairs, scooters and power chairs. Pricing depends on height, weight, and equipment needed. Please call for further info.

4. Urgent Care Facilities

24/7 Health Care

314-436-9300

(5-6 minute walk from the America’s Center)

916 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63101

Open 7 days a week / 24 hours a day

Total Access Urgent Care

314-449-8677

(12-15 minute drive from Downtown St. Louis)

1005 S. Big Bend Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63117

Open Daily: 8 am – 8 pm

5. Closest Hospitals / Emergency Room

BARNES – JEWISH HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOM

(Level 1 Trauma Center)

One Barnes Jewish Hospital Plaza

St. Louis, MO 63110

314-747-3000

Sunday: 10 am – 4 pm

CVS / PHARMACY

3925 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108

Open Daily: 8 am – 10 pm

Pharmacy

Monday – Friday: 8 am – 10 pm

Saturday & Sunday: 8 am – 8 pm

CVS 24 HOUR / PHARMACY

8101 Clayton Rd, St. Louis, MO 63137

Open 24 hours per day / 7 days a week

WALGREENS / PHARMACY

1530 Lafayette Ave, St. Louis, MO 63104

Open Daily: 7am – 11 pm

Pharmacy

Monday –Friday 9 am – 9 pm

Saturday 9 am – 6 pm

Sunday 10 am – 6 pm

WALGREEN 24 HOUR STORE / PHARMACY

4218 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63143

314-454-6000

314-436-1039

314-535-1048

314-726-2124

314-678-1039

314-371-4286

Pharmacy: 24 hours / 7 days a week

Store: 24 hours / 7 days a week

Any questions please do not hesitate to call

Dialysis Centers

DAVITA ST. LOUIS DIALYSIS CENTER

2610 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103

FOREST PARK KIDNEY CENTER

4205 Forest Park Ave, St. Louis, MO 63101

866-544-6741

314-286-0800

7.

Where do we go from here?

CONTRIBUTED BY: H.P.I.P. DR. KENNETH WALTON (24) DEPUTY DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY HEALTH INITIATIVE

IMPERIAL DEPUTY, HEALTH EDUCATION, TRAINING & PREVENTIVE MEDICINE

going to embrace this opportunity to mingle with friends and family.

The President has once again allowed the public to order At-Home-Testing Kits. If you have already ordered free tests, you can request another group of tests. Go to Covidtest.gov or Special.USPS.com/ testkits and order now.

Remember, if you have any symptoms (e.g., runny nose, fatigue, coughing, sore throat), please get tested. Let’s continue to keep the transmission rate down so that we can all continue to begin living our lives in the “New Normal.”

Some points to keep in mind:

• Always have a mask in your possession in case you happen to find yourself in an environment with a large population of people, especially indoors

The virus, nor its variants, have not been cured. The truth is, COVID will be here as long as we live. The challenge is to learn from the enormous amount of data we did not have two years ago and utilize it prudently to guide us as we live our daily lives. The challenges we must face are contingent upon the people we associate with as we go through our daily vocations. If we do not be mindful of our behavior, we will be destined to reverse the mandates.

Many people are always at risk of being infected with COVID (e.g., unvaccinated people, immunocompromised patients, disabled, chronically ill people, elderly). We must be respectful of their needs and their health. Due to the virus, there are still doctors, patients, and the American population still being infected, on oxygen therapy, and restricted orders at home.

The country has reached a point where the transmission rate has consistently declined. The weather change has allowed a sizable number within the United States population to engage in outdoor activities, which has assisted with the decline. There will always be peaks and decreases with the transmission of the virus. Still, at present, the country has been truly blessed, and most Americans are

• Always keep some hand sanitizer in your possession

• Wash your hands periodically doing the day, if possible

• Keep a social distance if you are in an environment with people with unknown vaccination status.

After two years of pandemic restrictions, most states have announced they will end indoor mask mandates, including at some schools. The reasoning for this new mandate varies from politics to national income survival within the United States, but for whatever the reason being, we must be conscious of the fact that COVID is not gone.

Remember, if you have any symptoms, please get tested. Let’s continue to keep the transmission rate low, so we can all continue to begin living our lives in the “New Normal.”

Noble Kirksey New Appointment for American Diabetes Association

CONTRIBUTED BY:

DT. KAREN KIRKSEY

AHMED COURT NO 134 — TALLAHASSEE, FLA

TALLAHASSEE, FLA. — (JAN. 20, 2022) — Honorary Past Imperial Potentate, Dr. Otis Kirksey of Ahmed Temple No. 37 is the new President of Health Care & Education for the American Diabetes Association (ADA).

Noble Kirksey is among the elected 13-member board of directors and principal officers for 2022. The board is comprised of forward-thinking, innovative medical, scientific, education and executive business professionals, who will strategically lead and focus efforts to ensure the ADA continues to uphold its mission, “to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by the disease.” Kirksey’s one-year term started Jan. 1.

“I am humbled and extremely excited about this new leadership opportunity with the American Diabetes Association during this critical time. The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted people living with diabetes and revealed the harsh reality of the health disparities and inequities that exist. For the past 20-plus years I have dedicated my professional life to fighting to eliminate both. Serving as president of health care and education will provide a platform for me to share my unique perspective and experiences as I actively engage in the policy and decision-making processes related to advancing the mission of the ADA.”

Noble Kirksey is the director of pharmacy services at the Neighborhood Medical Center, a Federally Qualified Community Health Center (FQCHC) in Tallahassee, Fla. In addition to providing administrative oversight of its pharmacy operations, he leads the organization’s diabetes disease management and self-management education services.

Noble Kirksey brings 25 years of experience in academia as a former Professor of Pharmacy Practice at the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

He was recently honored with the distinction of Professor Emeritus of Pharmacy Practice by the university. Prior to his faculty appointment, Kirksey was a clinical pharmacist in research and information services at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center.

Noble Kirksey earned a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy and a Doctor of Pharmacy degree (PharmD) from FAMU in 1983 and 1988, respectively. Among his professional credentials, he is Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management (BC-ADM), a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) and a Lifestyle Coach and Master Trainer for the National Diabetes Prevention Program.

Noble Kirksey served for more than 11 years on the board of the Neighborhood Medical Center, and he is Director Emeritus of the Prince Hall Shriners’ National Community Health Initiative (formerly, National Diabetes Initiative). During his tenure as director, he led the organization’s efforts to fulfill a 10-year, $1 million-commitment to the American Diabetes Association to support research and outreach efforts in underserved communities.

Nearly 122 million Americans are living with diabetes or prediabetes.

Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death and a major cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke and lower limb amputations. Founded in 1940, the ADA is the nation’s premier voluntary health organization fighting to bend the curve on the diabetes epidemic and help people living with diabetes thrive. With headquarters in Arlington, Va., it has offices in every region of the country. The ADA is supported by a network of more than 565,000 volunteers, their families and caregivers, a professional society of nearly 20,000 health care professionals and more than 250 staff members.

For more information visit www.diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383). �

Tribute of Love & Respect to Our Departed Daughters

OUR DAUGHTERS ARE ABSENT FROM THE BODY, BUT IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD

In Memoriam

10-02-2021 through 12-31-21

Eva Belle

AKBAR 33

Gertrude Bradley

ZAMORA 135

Lillian Carter

KAZAH 117

Ruby Clayton

STOLKIN 173

Sharon Day

GOLCONDA 16

Emmalee Dew

OSIRIS 70

Minerva Fields

ZAFA 41

Grace Finley

KHALIF 90

Doris Greene

SUEZ 149

Carrie Harris

KHUFU 118

Carol Hazelwood

CAWTHAR 68

Yvonne Hill

MECCA 73

Josephine Ingram

ABDALLAH 166

Carla James

HILAAL 218

Mary Slade

ARABIA 23

Shirley Slade

ALLA BABA 75

Takiyah Spriggs

MECCA 2

Exavier Victory

SUEZ 149

Joyce Young

EL HASA 47

“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.”

Matthew 5:4 (KJV)

Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine of North and South America and its Jurisdictions, Inc.

2239 Democrat Rd. Memphis, TN 38132

THE POWER OF GIVING