Kids Come First March / April 2020 Welcome 2020 Potentate …hamasashriner.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hamasa... · 2020. 2. 29. · Richard Whitehead, Recorder Ashley Lewis, Potentate

Kids Come First March / April 2020

HamasaNews

Welcome 2020 Potentate Ashley R Lewis and Divan

Hamasa News March/April 20202

5516 Dale Drive, Marion, MS 39342 P. O. Box 365, Meridian, MS 39302

Office: (601) 693-1361 Toll-Free: 1-800-243-1361

Fax: (601) 693-9544 Email: [email protected]

2020 Hamasa Divan Registry

ASHLEY R. LEWIS, POTENTATE 2020 4532 CR 31, ROSE HILL, MS 39356 CELL: 601-416-4148 E-MAIL: [email protected]

SMITH RABUN, CHIEF RABBAN (CHRISTINE) 387 KING ROAD, WEIR, MS 39772 CELL: 662-582-6344, HM: 662-547-6695 E-MAIL: [email protected]

PHILIP RUMERY, ASSISTANT RABBEN (DEB) 10554 HWY 494, MERIDIAN, MS 39305 CELL: 559-287-2993 E-MAIL: [email protected]

CHARLES “CHUCK” PETTY, HIGH PRIEST & PROPHET (JUDY) P.O. BOX 375, HEIDELBERG, MS 39439-0375 CELL: 601-577-5708 E-MAIL: [email protected]

JOHN “Chop” STEWART, ORIENTAL GUIDE (KITTY) 10041 Road 1725, Philadephia, MS 39350-6078 CELL: 662-617-1464 E-MAIL: [email protected]

PAUL D. THOMPSON, TREASURER, P.P (RHONDA) 7715 POPLAR SPRING DR., MERIDIAN, MS 39305 CELL: 601-479-8400 E-Mail: [email protected]

RICHARD L. WHITEHEAD, RECORDER (JUDITH) P.O. BOX 365, MERIDIAN, MS 39302-0365 CELL: 601-480-7749 OFFICE: 601-693-1361 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Hamasa Shriners 2020 AppointmentsPersonal Aides for Potentate & DivanChief Personal Aide — P.P. Kem Banks (Sharon)Chief Aide — Peanut Savell (Sheelah)Aide — John CreekmoreAide — Brad Hearn (Nikki)Aide — Donald Tate (Gidget)Aide — David Woods (Sarah)Aide — Henry Wilson (Sarah)Chaplains: Marvin McFadden Benny EgglerHonor Guard and Ladies Escorts: Hamasa Provost GuardInternal Auditor: Angie Shirley, CPA, PATemple Attorney: Ashley LewisTemple Insurance Agent: Jim ThompsonSergeant at Arms: Hamasa Provost GuardParade Marshal: Provost MarshalMaster of Ceremonies: Grover Vining, P.P.Shreveport Hospital Board of Governors Representative: Grover Vining, P.P.100 Million Dollar Club: Chris Nettles, P.P.Hamasa News Editor: Melvin FordPhotographers: Melvin Ford & William Fortenberry Official Parade Escorts: Hamasa Motor CorpsFund Raising:

Ashley Lewis, Potentate 2020 Smith Rabun Philip RumeryHospital Transportation Chairman: Richard Whitehead, RecorderPublic Relations: Ashley Lewis, Potentate 2020 Smith Rabun Philip Rumery All Shrine Club Secretaries2020 Committees:Leadership Search Committee: Grover Vining, P.P. Paul D. Thompson, P.P./Treasurer Chris Nettles, P.P.Masonic Relations Committee: Melvin Ford Jason Jefcoat Donor Relations Committee: Raymon Busby, P.P. Chris Nettles, P.P.Membership Committee by Regions: Richard Whitehead — Meridian Jason Jefcoat — Laurel, Wayne Co. & Jasper Co. Smith Rabun-Winston Co. Tommy Millsaps — Starkville, Columbus & Tombigbee Melvin Ford — Lee Co., Pontotoc Co., Calhoun Co., Natchez Trace, Alcorn Co., & Itawamba Co.Each Shrine Club to have a Membership Chairman on fileLife Membership Committee: Homer Sullivan, P.P. & PGM Chris Nettles, P.P.Sunshine Committee: Richard Whitehead, Recorder Marvin McFadden Benny EgglerFundraising Committee:

Ashley Lewis, Potentate 2020 Smith Rabun Philip Rumery Divan 2020Hamasa News Committee: Grover Vining, P.P. Paul Thompson, P.P.Hospital Transportation: Tommy Millsaps Chuck Petty Larry Stafford Melvin Ford Smith Rabun Russell Moore III, P.P.Finance Advisory Committee: Paul D. Thompson, P.P./Treasurer Marvin McFadden Chris Nettles, P.P.Divan 2020Potentate Advisors: Homer Sullivan, P.P. & PGM Chris Nettles, P.P. Paul D. Thompson, P.P./TreasurerInsurance Committee: Ashley Lewis Steve Harris Jim ThompsonBuilding Association & Properties Committee: Raymon Busby, P.P. Chris Nettles, P.P. Homer Sullivan, P.P. & PGM Paul Thompson, P.P./Treasurer Grover Vining, P.P. Jason Jefcoat Marvin McFadden Jeff Gardner, P.P. Kem Banks, P.P. Ashley Lewis, Potentate 2020 Smith Rabun, C.R. Richard Whitehead, Recorder (Ex-Offico)

Hamasa News, a non-profit publication

of Hamasa Shriners

“For Hamasa Shriners membership information please

contact the Recorder’s Office”.

Please direct submissions, comments and inquires to the Hamasa News Committee

via e-mail to:

Melvin Ford: [email protected] Paul Thompson: [email protected]

Grover Vining: [email protected]

Or mail to: Melvin Ford

1013 Eisenhower Drive, Tupelo, MS 38801-5403

Page layout/graphics: Jennifer Hammond Printed by: The Meridian Star

Shriners International Headquarters 2900 Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, FL 33607

(813) 281-0300 www.shrinershq.org

Toll-free patient referral line: In the US: (800) 237-5055

Laurel Shrine Club Meets the 3rd Monday of the Month at 7:00 PM

Lee County Shrine Club Meets the 1st Tuesday of the Month at 6:30 PM

Marion Shrine Club Meets the 2nd Thursday of the Month at 7:00 PM

Neshoba County Shrine Club Meets the 1st Thursday of the Month at 7:00 PM

Pontotoc County Shrine Club Meets the 2nd Thursday of the Month at 7:00 PM

Starkville Shrine Club Meets the 1st Thursday of the Month at 7:00 PM

Tombigbee Shrine Club Meets the 4th Monday of the Month at 7:00 PM

Wayne County Shrine Club Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the Month at 7:00 PM

Winston County Shrine Club Meets the 4th Tuesday of the Month at 7:00 PM

Uniformed Bodies AssociationMeets the 3rd Tuesday of the Month at 6:00 PM

Hamasa Shrine Clubs

Shriners Hospitals for Children is here to help. Our health care system offers care for a wide range of pediatric specialties. Please note that although Shriners Hospitals for Children does not require a physician referral, some insurance companies may. Additionally, some insurers may have specific requirements for certain types of medical care. Also, while referrals and assistance from Shriners is welcome and greatly appreciated, it is not necessary to have a connection with a fraternity member to receive care – all decisions are based on the child’s medical need and our ability to provide effective assistance. To Request an appointment Parents/Guardians may call: 800-237-5055Patient Referral/Eligibility Information: Email: [email protected] orTelephone: 800-237-5055 (in the U.S.) or Telephone: 800-361-7256 (in Canada)Both lines are staffed weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., EST.Direct Requests for the Shreveport Facility are made by calling 1-800-830-0606 Procedures for emergency burn care: In an emergency, the referring physician treating a child with burn injuries should telephone the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Boston, Cincinnati, Galveston or Northern California and indicate that there is a patient needing emergency burn care. The telephone numbers for emergency admissions to Shriners Hospitals for Children specializing in burn treatments are: Boston: 617-726-3575: Cincinnati: 866-947-7840; Galveston: 409-770-6773; or Northern California: 916-453-2111 Nobles please note that this information is conveniently printed on the back of your Hamasa Dues card. Feel free to share this information with any potential Shriners Hospital for Children patient’s parents or guardians. Parents and/or Guardians of children needing help with orthopedic or cleft lip and palate conditions within the Hamasa territory may contact the Shreveport Hospital directly by calling 1-800-830-0606 and asking for referrals for treatment. They may find it quicker to obtain an initial appointment if they have a medical condition the Shreveport facility specializes in treating. Hamasa Shriners follows the guidelines of the Medical Information Privacy Act so please assure all patients, parents and guardians that their personal contact information and medical condition will not be shared. Hamasa needs contact information on file but we will not make any patient information public. Calls for referrals must come from the legal parent and/or guardian, Nobles and Ladies cannot call for a child and the Hospitals will not share information to persons not allowed by the medical privacy act. Hamasa Shriners does have a program that assists patients with transportation to our hospitals and clinics. We have Transportation Coordinators in various Clubs and Volunteer Drivers. All Drivers must have a copy of their current driver’s license on file with out Recorder’s office. All Drivers and Office Personnel are bound by the same privacy laws and will not share any information about a patient, name included, in any public setting including Stated Meetings and Lodge gatherings. Photographs and patient information cannot be published or shared without express written consent on file with the Hamasa Recorder’s office. Verbal consent will not suffice.

Patients cannot be photographed without this prior written consent. All drivers must send in the proper trip report with receipts to the Hamasa Recorder’s Office as soon as possible. These reports must be complete and include current patient contact information. Drivers should remind parents and guardians that Hamasa will not share this information. Trip report forms can be obtained through the Recorder’s Office. Patients traveling on their own may receive reimbursement through the Hamasa Office provided they submit the proper form with proper receipts and full approval from the Hamasa Transportation Chairman. These forms are also available through the Hamasa Recorder’s Office. Snacks, gifts, alcohol and tobacco products will not be reimbursed. A motel room will be provided in the pre-approved motel that direct bills Hamasa Shriners. Extended stays and additional item costs MUST be pre-approved. All receipts must be turned in before reimbursement will be approved. Cash advancements will be at the discretion of the Club Transportation Coordinator per Club Board approval or by Hamasa Transportation Chairman if no club sponsorship available and will be deducted from final reimbursement; all receipts and the completed form is required. The maximum amount reimbursed for meals is $25.00 per day for the child and $25.00 per day for one adult per trip. If anyone has any questions regarding the Hamasa Transportation Program they may contact the Hamasa Office at (601) 693-1361 or at 1-800-243-1361 during normal business hours. E-mail inquiries can be made through [email protected]. If any Noble feels the need to contact the Shreveport Hospital they should contact our Hospital Representative and allow him to route any questions or inquiries to the proper administrator. Our representative is Past Potentate Grover Vining. He can be reached at (601) 416-6667 or through e-mail at [email protected]. If anyone needs to contact any other hospital they can contact Grover or the Hamasa Recorder’s Office so the inquiry can be routed through the proper channels. You may also contact the Hamasa Potentate in order that inquiries can be made properly. Hospitals will not discuss any patient or medical questions to unauthorized persons. Persons asking how they can make a tax-deductible donation directly to a particular hospital should contact our Hospital Representative or the Hamasa Treasurer. They may also contact the Hamasa Recorder’s Office or the Potentate. Inquiries into any tax-deductible donations should be rowuted through the Hamasa Recorder’s Office. Donations made to the Transportation Fund are restricted and may only be used for transportation purposes. It is advisable that you discuss any designated donation with either the Hamasa Treasurer or Hospital Representative prior to making the donation so the funds can be utilized more efficiently. Clubs and Units should discuss any designated donations with the Hamasa Treasurer so the proper by-laws can be followed. Our Hospitals are very important to Hamasa and we appreciate all volunteers that assist with transportation and donations. We have to follow the Imperial By-laws and Medical Privacy Laws. Please let people know that Hamasa and the Shriners Hospitals for Children want to help any child that we can help.

Hamasa Shriners Patient Referral and Information

Living Past Potentates

L. D. Clark - 1976 Dr. David L. Payne, Ed.D - 1986

Ed Lightsey - 1990 Robert W. Taylor - 1993

Hal Hill - 2001 Homer Sullivan - 2002 Raymon Busby - 2004

Troy King - 2005 Bill West - 2006 & 2014

Gary Riddle - 2007 Chris Nettles - 2008 Jordan Downs - 2009

Edward Garrard - 2010 & 2015 Ruben Hanson - 2011

Paul D. Thompson - 2012 Grover W. Vining - 2013

Jeff Gardner - 2016 Russell Moore III - 2017

Kem Banks - 2018

Hamasa NewsMarch/April 2020 3

“Kids come First”

Potentate’s Message

Dear Nobles and Hamasa Faithful,I began the year with two slogans that I hold

dear to my heart, “Kids come First” and “Don’t ask what Hamasa can do for you but what can you do for Hamasa.” These explain the road-map for Hamasa during 2020. Always, remem-ber, our purpose is transportation!

How do we accomplish our purpose? First, Hamasa is receiving a lot of help from two Mississippi State University graduate students. They will be conducting a marketing analysis on who and how we should market in our area of the state. We need to sell our goods to non-Ma-sons! All to often our Brothers have the task of carrying the organization. Remember Hamasa transports for all children, not just children of Masons. Sell to non-Masons!

Our raffles for 2020 are designed to maximize the greatest return with the least amount of expo-sure to our Temple. The Henry Shriner Tribute .22 S/L/LR and the whole processed hog tickets are on sale for $5.00

each. I am proud to say the hog is being donated by Noble Don-ald Tate. Thank you, Donald for your con-tinued support to your Temple. Remember these fundraisers are to benefit Hamasa!

Hamasa will con-tinue to have our regular sales of cheese, peanuts, onions, and pork skins, along with Hamasa Day at Gey-ser Falls and our Golf Tournament. All the fundraisers are headed by one to two Divan members to ensure maximun profit. The name of the game is to make money not just breakeven.

I would like to thank all the individuals that helped put together the installation and draw-

down, especially Lady Sarah Hall and Lady Sharon Banks. That night

was a special time for me, and one I will never forget. Also,

a thanks should go out to all that participated

in the Dixie Mid-Winter. Hamasa looked very strong at this event, and Neshoba Shrine Club deserves

the credit for this

success.I look forward to seeing you this year at Mis-

sissippi Grand Lodge. Remember this is a great time to see old friends and make new ones. Also, there is lots of legislation to be presented at this year’s conference. Don’t miss out on your duty to your Lodge, participate.

Finally, I would like to thank all the Hamasa drivers for making our Shrine what it is. Always remember these Nobles are the ones that carry out the job we are here for. Kids Come 1St!

I look forward to many more years serving Hamasa. Thank you for all that you do, and hope to see you at the Temple.

Ashley Ray Lewis, Potentate 2020PS. Let us all keep Noble James Daniel

“Peanut” Savel in our prayers.

WHICH ARE YOU? Some members keep their TEMPLES strong. While others join and just belong; Some dig right in, and

serve with pride, some go alone, just for the ride. Some volunteer to do their share, While some lay back and just don’t care: On meeting nights some always show, While there are those who never go. Some always pay their dues ahead; some get behind for months, instead. Some do their best, some build, some make, Some never give, but always take, Some drag, some pull, some don’t, some do.

CONSIDER, which of these are you?

JUST ONE Recognition In order to build enthusiasm for the JUST ONE initiative and keep it going, we are instituting a multi-level program for recognizing and rewarding top-line signers for their successful efforts bringing in new members or restoring suspended members. These are:

Level 1 – Upon creation or restoration of one member, the top-line signer will receive a postcard and JUST ONE pin from Imperial Potentate Jeff Sowder.Level 2 – Upon bringing in a two members, the top-line signer will be listed

in Shriner Magazine.Level 3 – With three new creations or restorations, the top-line signer will receive an award certificate and a letter of appreciation from Imperial Sir Sowder.Level 4 – After five creations or restorations, the top-line signer will receive a personal phone call from the Imperial Potentate.Level 5 – Top-line signers responsible for 10 additional Shriner brothers will receive a special invitation to attend a JUST ONE VIP reception with the Imperial Divan at the 2020 Imperial Session.

In addition to these points of recognition, we strongly encourage local temples to find other ways of honoring members who embrace the challenge of helping grow membership.


Tentative List of

Grand Lodge Schools for 2020

2020 Deputy Practice SchoolsFebruary 29, 2020 at Pontotoc #81, Pontotoc

March 1, 2020 at Ellisville #161, Ellisville

2020 Grand Lodge Session SchoolMarch 12, 2020 at Hilton Inn in Jackson

Deputy Schools for 2020March 21, 2020 at Corinth #116, Corinth

March 28, 2020 at Gulfport Lodge #422, GulfportApril 4, 2020 at Meridian Lodge #308, MeridianApril 18, 2020 at Grenada Lodge #31, Grenada

April 25, 2020 at MS Lodge of Research, Jackson

Congressional Schools for 2020All schools begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 4:30 p.m.May 16, 2020 at Clyde Howard Lodge #525, LaurelJune 20, 2020 at George D. Riley Lodge #605, Lake

July 25, 2020 at Aberdeen Lodge #32, AberdeenAugust 1, 2020 at Indianola Lodge #450, IndianolaAugust 15, 2020 at Vardaman Lodge #527, VardamanSeptember 19, 2020 at Canton Lodge #28, CantonOctober 24, 2020 at Summit Lodge #231, Summit

November 7, 2020 at Jonesboro #250, WalnutDecember 5, 2020 at Enon Lodge #199, Petal

Attention Everyone! The Ninth Annual Hamasa Golf Tournament

HAMASA SHRINERS 3 Person Scramble

April 25th & 26th, 2020 Briarwood Golf Course

Meridian, MS

Format is 3-person scramble with a shotgun start. Tee times will be 8:30 AM and 1:30 PM.

Entry Fee is $75 per person. All 3 players entry fee (Total $225) must be sent with entry form for a team to be registered.

This fee it DOES NOT include rental fee for cart. Personal carts may be used. Please call Pro Shop if bringing your own,

or you may reserve a cart by calling (601) 686-2848 or Richie at (601) 917-8782

Prizes will be awarded for 1st through 4th place in each flight Lunch will be provided both days

Entry forms can be obtained through the Hamasa Office by calling (601) 693-1361 or 1-800-243-1361

Hole Sponsorships: Hole Sponsorship Cost: $ 125 per sign Corporate Sponsorships: $ 500

Includes: Name on all printed advertisements and banners on course,

3 Person Team & Hole Sponsorship

These signs are the Yard/Political Style approximately 18” high and 24” wide on a wire stand. Each sign will have 3 lines of information i.e. Business Name, Phone Number, and Location. If a business has a custom sign available or wants to make a custom sign of the same approximate Size they can substitute it for our standard sign i.e. Realtor Sign, the cost is still $ 125. Completed sign information and fee must be received by April 6, 2020 to ensure plenty of time for signs to be completed. Signs will be displayed throughout the entire Golf Tournament. Closest to the Hole: If you have any person or business that wishes to donate cash for a Closest to the hole or a par 3, we will gladly accept these donations.

Forms and applications can be obtained through Hamasa Shriners in Marion, MS, the PRO SHOP or contacting any Committee Member. Forms and applications can also be received via Email request should be sent to [email protected].

Contact Information Committee Members: Paul Thompson, Meridian (601) 479-8400; Grover Vining, Philadelphia (601) 416-6667; Russell Moore III, Philadelphia (601) 416-6077; Contact the Hamasa Shriners Office at (601) 693-1361 or 1-800-243-1361.

202nd Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of MississippiTENTATIVE SCHEDULE

GRAND LODGE OF MISSISSIPPI, F&AM, 201st ANNUAL COMMUNICATION, HILTON of JACKSON, MARCH 12-14, 2020

1001 East County Line RoadJackson, MS 39211

THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2020

7:30 A.M. – Registration Opens – Front Lobby 8:30 A.M. – Exemplification of Three Degrees – Salon A & B Danny Alexander, PGM, Grand Lecturer; D.D.G.L.’s; Board of Custodians 10:00 A.M. – Foundation Board of Directors, Finance Committee – Amphitheater Room 12:00 Noon – Labor to Refreshment 12:00 Noon – DDGL Luncheon – Board of Custodians – Cabana Room 12:00 Noon – Ladies Luncheon – No Charge – Hilton Penthouse 1:15 P.M. – Exemplification of Three Degrees – Salon A & B 3:00 P.M. – Secretaries Conference – Amphitheater Room 7:00 P.M. – Grand Master’s Banquet – Salon B & C

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020

7:45 A.M. – Registration Opens – Front Lobby 8:00 A.M. – Public Opening – SALON A, B &C9:30 A.M. – Private Opening of the Grand Lodge in its 202nd Annual Grand Communication 12:00 Noon – Labor to Refreshment 12:00 Noon – Grand Master’s Luncheon – Diplomat Room12:00 Noon – OES Luncheon 1:30 P.M. – Grand Lodge reconvenes for afternoon session – Salon A, B &C 5:00 P.M. – Labor to Refreshment 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. – Supper (on your own) 5:15 P.M. – KYCH Business Meeting – followed by a Meeting of Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests – Amphitheater Room5:30 P.M. – Conferring of Actual Past Master’s Degree – Salon B 7:00 P.M. – G. L. reconvenes for evening session – Salon A, B &C - Election of Grand Lodge Officers7:00 P.M. – Ladies Bingo 9:00 P.M. – Refreshments after adjournment – Sponsors – Hamasa, Joppa, Wahabi Shrine Centers, and Grand Lodge of MS – Diplomat Room

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2020

7:00 A.M. – “Ole Hoot/Eli. J. Smith” Breakfast – Crowne Room ($20)8:30 A.M. – Pictures – Newly elected Grand Lodge Officers – Salon B & C 9:00 A.M. – Public Installation of Grand Lodge Officers – Salon B & C 10:30 A.M. – Refreshment to Labor for final business & Closing – Salon B & C

Further details will be posted on-line as they become available.


Dixie Shrine Association Mid-Winter Meeting

Philadelphia, MS February 7th & 8th, 2020


Alvin Darnell & Lady Shirley

DIXIE SHRINE CONVENTION 60th ANNUAL Tentative Schedule of Events

MAY 14-16, 2020 | PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA WEDNESDAY May 13th 6:00 PM Welcome Dixie Party, - Located around the Pool at the Days Inn

This has become one of the highlights of Dixie each year. THURSDAY May 14th 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM Breakfast Days Inn Lobby May 14th 8:00 AM Golf Tournament Located at the Holiday Golf Course

Joe McAdams, Chairman (850) 596-2030 [email protected] May 14th from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Registration Days Inn Lobby May 14th 6:00 PM President’s Banquet Social Hour at Harpoon Harry’s May 14th 6:30 PM Banquet - Location: Harpoon Harry’s (cash Bar)

(Dressy Casual /Fez requested) May 14th 8:30 PM Block Party on Pool Deck at Days Inn

FRIDAY May 15th 6:30 AM (set up) DASMC Competition Frank Brown Park May 15th 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM Breakfast Days Inn Lobby May 15th 8:00 AM DASMC Competition at Frank Brown Park May 15th 8:00 AM Hillbilly Competition at Frank Brown Park May 15th 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Registration Days Inn Lobby May 15th 11:00 AM Ladies Luncheon Social Hour at Harpoon Harry’s May 15th 11:30 AM Ladies Luncheon at Harpoon Harry’s (Dressy Casual) May 15th 1:00 PM Dixie Shrine Association Meeting - TBD May 15th 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM Dixie Shrine Hospitality, Dixie Hospitality Room - Days Inn May 15th 6:00 PM Dixie Hillbilly Banquet – TBD

SATURDAY May 16th 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM Breakfast Days Inn Lobby May 16th 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM Clowns Competition at Seahaven Complex Business Meeting following Competition May 16th 10:30 AM Dixie Shrine Parade Line up,

Steps Off at 11:30 AM at Edgewater Shopping Center May 16th 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM Meet and Greet our Incoming 2020/2021

President “James “Bubba” Morgan” at Days Inn May 18th 6:00 PM DASMC Hospitality at TBD May 18th 6:45 PM DASMC Dinner & Awards at TBD May 18th 6:00 PM Clown Banquet & Awards – TBD

For Updates Please Check Our Website at www.dixieshrineassociation.com Also the Check out the Dixie Shrine Association Facebook Page

OFFICAL CALL Hamasa Shriners Stated Meetings Notice

TUESDAY, March 17, 2020 At 7:00PM

AT THE HAMASA BUILDING IN MARION Uniform Bodies meeting @ 6:00PM

Meal @ 6:30PM

TUESDAY, April 21, 2020 At 7:00PM

AT THE HAMASA BUILDING IN MARION Uniform Bodies meeting @ 6:00PM

Meal @ 6:30PM

Attest: Ashley R. Lewis, Potentate 2020 Richard L. Whitehead, Recorder

Call the Temple Office at 601-693-1361 800-243-1361 if you have any questions.

Wear your Fez and Bring Someone with you!

A ContributionTHIS CARD IS AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

OF APPRECIATION FOR A CONTRIBUTION

MADE TO Hamasa Shriners Hospital Transportation Fund for the purpose of transporting children to the

Shriner’s Hospitals for Children

Shreveport or Galveston unit By

Roy Robertson Family

Dedicated to the glory of “God” and all children

THIS CARD IS AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF APPRECIATION FOR

A CONTRIBUTION MADE TO

Hamasa Shriners Hospital Transportation Fund for the purpose of transporting children to the



Johnny P. Roberson Family


THIS CARD IS AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF APPRECIATION FOR

A CONTRIBUTION MADE TO

Hamasa Shriners Hospital Transportation Fund for the purpose of transporting children to the



Roy Robertson Family



Laurel Shrine Club Annual Rib Cook

Friday, March 27th, 2020

Laurel Shrine Club 4751 Highway 15 North, Laurel, MS

Rack of Ribs $20.00 Rib Plates $10.00

Delivery in area of 5 or more Rack of Ribs, Rib Plates, or combination of both.

Time - 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Contact: Jeff at (601) 935-2975 or Chuck at (601) 577-5708 “The Best Ribs in Jones County!”

Winners of the Hamasa Shriners 2019 Fundraiser

Kawasaki Mule SX 4X4 XC SE

The Drawing was held on December 17, 2019 and Purvis United Methodist Church was the winner. Pastor Keith Gaughf and church treasurer Mike Hawk picked up the Mule, trailer and paperwork. Hamasa Recorder Richard Whitehead asked them what the church planned on doing with this prize and they said they also plan to raffle it off to raise funds for the church. Pastor Keith had to Goggle Hamasa to see if this was true that we were actually giving this Mule away, he thought it could be a scam. Congratulations to Purvis United Methodist Church.

Welcome to our Newest Noble Terry Lewis and Lady Joy. Noble Lewis was initiated into Hamasa at the Divan Installation Ceremony in January. We welcome all our new nobles to attend our regular Stated Meetings and Events.

Welcome Noble Terry Lewis


Remember: Save the tabs

Smith Rabun

First, I want to say THANK YOU to the nobles and Ladies of Hamasa for all the help and support that you have giving me as your Recorder since 2014 and I plan on giving 110% for 2020. Lady Judy and I enjoy all that we can do for our children and Hamasa family, please call on us at any time for help. This coming year 2020 will be a fast run of events starting with Installation of Officers and Draw down on January 11.

\February 7TH – 8TH Dixie Mid-Winter at the Golden Moon in Philadelphia, MS with a meal at the Neshoba county shrine club on the 7th was a steak, bake tator, roll and desert the Neshoba county shrine club was great. The Saturday meeting was very important information from Billy from Panama City Beach, FL on the hotels and what is planned for Wednesday night by the pool. If you still want to go get with me ASAP for rooms close out on April 15th. Noble Ed Brown spoke on membership and how important it is for all Shriners

to get involved. Kim Greene from Shriners Hospital Shreveport spoke about the hospital its mission and where it is going in 2020. Ill. Sir Richard Burke, 1st ceremonial master on Imperial line spoke on sport events coming up and about every one of our hospitals and Imperial plans for each, Ill Sir Anthony West from the hospital board helped answer some questions the nobles had about the updates on hospital plans. Ill Sir Paul D. Thompson, President Shrine association and his line officers did a fine job with everything in Philadelphia, MS this weekend. Ill Sir Grover Vining and O.G. John Stewart helped the Ladies have a fun time shopping on the square and eating lunch at the shrine club. Thanks to Neshoba county shrine club for the chicken meal provided for lunch at the club after the meeting, it was enjoyed by all. Thanks to everyone that had a part in making our visitors welcomed to Philadelphia, MS this weekend and get ready we will be back there again in 2021 for Mid-Winter February 4-6, 2021. The Dixie Shrine in May 13 -16th in Panama City Beach, FL. President Paul D. Thompson P.P./treasurer of Hamasa wants all that can come to these events that can to support him, Dixie Shriners Association, and Hamasa Shriners.

As I sat in this meeting this weekend a lot came to my mind about what was being said, Membership? Who is our membership chairman and who is on the committee that reaches out to our new masons, referrals, and the public for new members? A lot think it is the Recorder duty to make this happen but he is only one man and it takes a village to raise a master mason and get him into the Shrine, so one man cannot do this. I am asking you to look deep into your heart and soul and think about becoming a leader of the membership team. We need three nobles who will take the time to look on Shriner Village and make calls to those reaching out to us for membership and follow up on our nonpaying dues, suspended, or older members. If you want to take this on let me know and Noble Ed Brown our district membership chairman and I will get you started.

Keep our Hospital patients’ appointments and making sure they have a driver, motel room and food to eat takes a lot of time on the phone with drivers, parents, and hospital coordinators. The real reward is when you see a hospital child that had a medical issue come in the office and them look and feel good and say Thank You Shriners for what your hospitals has done for me and my family. Our hospital system is changing to save money and get our children the much-needed help they need closer to home, so please do not down talk our hospitals unless you know or get the real facts straight first.

2020 is moving fast by the time you get this Hamasa News a lot has happened, March is Grand Lodge at the Hilton hotel in Jackson, MS and a lot is going to happen, please be there even if you do not vote to get your facts straight about what is happening. April 25-26 is our Annual Hamasa Golf tournament we will need Nobles to help feed our players and other things, buy a Golf Sign with your name and title or get your club or unit to buy a sign, These funds help pay for our trip to Dixie Shrine in Panama City Beach, FL and if enough is made we do not take from our general fund so help Hamasa out. This New Year and a lot to come but you got to be here to see what is happening. Read you Hamasa news and call the Recorder and let me know you read my article in this paper.

There is so much more I want to say but I will not get on my soap box and vent so pleas handle your business and keep our temple doors open for our nobles to have a place to come to meet. Most of all think about our children we take care of and support our hospital transportation and fund raisers.

If you have and questions or just need to talk my door is always open and my phone lines are open to 601-693-1361, 601-693-8550, 1-800-243-1361, or my cell 601-480-7749 I will answer and if you need to talk you can bend my ear. Lady Judith and I want to say what a humble servant we are to be your Recorder. May “GOD” bless each of you and please keep our Hospital Drivers in your prayers as they travel the roads with our Hospital Children.

Fraternally Yours,Richard L. WhiteheadRecorder, Hamasa Shriners

From the Recorder’s Desk:

Richard Whitehead

From the Chief Rabban:

Dear Nobility, As the New Year has started. We have been installed

into our new positions on the Divian. I would like to congratulation our Ill Sir. Ashley Lewis on being Hamasa New Potentate for 2020. The installation, drawdown, supper, and music were amazing. Also, I would like to welcome our new Oriental Guide, John Stewart and Lady Kitty to the Divian. As well, Lady Christine and I are thankful for the continued support of our Hamasa family as you all have entrusted us another year.

As this year is begun to get busy. I would like to encourage our Nobles and Lady to get more involved in Hamasa. Our Potentate Ill Sir Ashley Lewis has laid out an outstanding plan to help improve our Temple not

only as a whole but also financial. As we approach this year as a year to become more financially stable and make sure OUR kids come first!

This past weekend was filled with Dixie Mid-Winter in Philadelphia, MS. Thank you to Pearl River Resort for outstanding service and also for Neshoba County Shrine for the outstanding meals both Friday night and Saturday for lunch. Saturday was filled with a lot of information about our Hospitals’ and memberships.

As this year is rolling along quite nicely. Let make this year one to remember not only for OUR kids but also for OUR membership.

Thank you again on behalf of Lady Christine and I to serve you as Chief Rabban 2020. God Bless, Smith Rabun, Chief Rabban 2020

From the Assistant Rabban:

Phil Rumery

Greeting Nobles and Ladies,

This year is off to a roaring good start with the 2020 installation of the Divan followed by a wonderful meal and entertainment at this year’s annual Draw Down. Congratulations go out to the four big winners!

This year’s Dixie Mid-Winter was held at Golden Moon in Philadelphia, MS where Neshoba County Shrine Club opened their doors for the meeting and cooked some of the best meals you could ever receive. The meeting covered many aspects of changes that are happening in the philanthropy from Recruiting, Advertising, and changes that are coming to the hospitals. The Imperial Presentative for Mid-Winter 2020 was Sir Richard Burke

and Lady Judy Looking forward also, please mark your calendars, for we less than sixty days away

from the HAMASA Golf tournament. This fund raiser has been a great way to help to cover Mid-Winter expenses every year and we have a great time. This year, the tournament is scheduled for April 25th & 26th where everyone can enjoy two days’ worth of good times and fellowship.

The Oriental Guide and Assistant Rabban are going to instructional school to better learn about the inner-working of Shrine Law and Temple Operations. This will help us all to focus on the common goal of ensuring that our children get to and receive care that will allow them the opportunity to rise to their highest level of success.

God bless, Phil Rumery & Lady Deb, Assistant Rabban

Charles Petty

From High Priest and Prophet: This is a new year and a lot of things are going to

happen. We had our annual Hamasa drawdown in conjunction with the annual Divan Installation. Thank you to Past Potentate Grover Vining and Grandmaster Jason Jefcoat for installing the Hamasa Divan this year. We had a good turnout with lots of good fellowship with all the nobles and ladies. Our installation event meal was also really good and we appreciate all the wonderful Aides and Ladies that make sure we eat well at our meetings and events.

The entire Divan attended the Dixie Shrine Association Mid-Winter meeting in Philadelphia, MS and we learned a lot about the hospitals that are changing. We have four Divan members attending the Imperial Seminars this

year and I am sure we will learn much more about the changes that are coming for our hospital systems and current Imperial happenings.

We will have our annual Hamasa Golf Tournament in April and our annual peanut boil at the end of summer. We will need all the help we can get from different Shrine clubs. These events help Hamasa and we need all the help we can get to continue our goals. Driving Shrine patients to our hospitals is personally something I am involved in and if you would only find the time to take a trip to one of our hospitals you would see why many of us are so dedicated to being a Shriner. We are helping local Mississippi children that are our neighbors and friends. Our hospitals continue to work miracles for thousands of children worldwide. I wish more Hamasa Nobles could see what I see when I visit our hospitals, it is a blessing.

Nobles we need to get out and try to bring in new Shriners. All we have to do is talk about what we do a Shriners and what this means to us. Provide them that little push and maybe you can bring in a New Noble to Hamasa.

God bless everyone and say a pray for the sick.Fraternally yours,Charles “Chuck” Petty, High Priest & Prophet

We have been extremely busy since our December meeting. I want to start off by thanking everyone for allowing me to serve as oriental guide. Thank you all for your confidence in me. We are looking forward to a great year. We want to thank Past Potentate Alvin Darnell and Lady Shirley for their years of service. We want to thank everyone who helped with the party on December 28th. A good time was had by all. Many of you may not be aware but Lady Kitty was not able to attend the party on the 28th. Her dad had a hemorrhagic stroke and while we were on our way to the Temple, we got word of this and she had to leave. After eight days in the hospital at University Medical Center he passed on January 5th.

We want to say thank you to everyone for the calls, text, Facebook messages and the thoughts and prayers. We are very blessed to have you all in our lives.

It’s been a nonstop chain of events; January 2nd at Neshoba County Shrine Club was Club officer installation by Illustrious Sir Grover Vining PP. Divan installation on January 11th at the Hamasa Temple in Marion. We are looking forward to a great year with our new Potentate Ashley Lewis. We had our officer installation on January 13th at the Philadelphia Masonic Lodge #93 along with Winstonville Masonic Lodge #277 and Louisville Masonic Lodge #75. This was an open meeting and several Lodge Officers were installed with all three lodges in attendance. I was installed as Junior Deacon at Philadelphia #93 and Winstonville #277. We had a lot of food and great fellowship.

On January 14th several lodge members helped prepare and serve around sixty gallons of stew for the Open Arms Miniseries in Philadelphia to feed those in need. We prepared one-hundred takeout plates and fed about fifty to sixty people that night. Leaving there I headed to Winstonville for our regular stated meeting with our newly installed officers. We also stay busy outside the Shrine Club. We started our weekly cooking’s back on January 15th for our Wednesday night bible study at Sandtown United Methodist Church. We cook for anywhere from thirty to one-hundred people every Wednesday night. Please feel free to come join us on Sunday mornings for Sunday school starting at 10:00 AM and worship service beginning at 11:00 AM.

I attended our stated meeting on January 20th at Philadelphia Masonic Lodge with our newly installed officers. Our first monthly meeting as Hamasa’s Oriental Guide came on the 21st and went off without a hitch. We had good food as always. I think we have a good outlook for the coming year. On January 27th we conferred on an Entered Apprentice degree at Philadelphia. We attended our regular monthly meeting at the Winston County Shrine Club on Tuesday January 28th and had our officer installation by Illustrious Sir Chris Nettles PP MWDGM and Illustrious Sir Russell Moore III PP installed A.J. Braswell as president along with the other officers. On January 30th we had a cooking with the Neshoba County Shrine Club where we fed the Neshoba Central high school awards program. We prepared grilled chicken halves, potatoes, green beans and cake for one hundred-sixty attendees.

I attended the Grand Lodge emerging leaders’ class 201 on February 1st. It was very informative with twenty-seven masons in attendance along with MWGM Jason Jeffcoat and several other past grand masters. Entered Apprentice practice was held on Monday, February 3rd at Philadelphia lodge. On February 6th I attended Scottish Rite Valley of Meridian stated meeting. Brother Mickey McMann was installed as Senior Warden for the Lodge of Perfection and I was sworn in as 2nd Lieutenant Commander to the Council of Kadosh. The second stated meeting of the year was also on the February 6th at Neshoba County Shrine Club but I was unable to attend.

It’s Dixie Midwinter Conference time again. Meet and greet at the Golden Moon casino Friday night February 7th. We got to see people we hadn’t seen since last year’s conference and we met new people this year. We used our church bus again this year to shuttle ladies and nobles from the Casino to the Neshoba County Shrine Club for supper. We had an outstanding meal consisting of steaks, potatoes, green salad and desserts prepared by members of the Neshoba County Shrine Club. We enjoyed the fellowship and the food with several visitors from out of town. On February 8th we arrived back at the casino at 9:00 AM to show the ladies around Philadelphia for some shopping at our downtown shops. We left downtown and headed back to the Neshoba County Shrine Club for another great meal consisting of Barbecue Chicken, baked beans, coleslaw, rolls and desserts. We want to say a huge thank you to everyone at the Neshoba County Shrine Club for all of their hard work making this weekend possible and to Illustrious Sir Grover Vining PP for all for the hard work he put into getting everything ready for the ladies. I think everyone really enjoyed the weekend.

We are looking forward to the upcoming months. We want to encourage you all to be active with your memberships at your lodges, temples and churches because the children need you and the lord needs you so stay active and stay vigilant in your causes. May God bless you and keep. Until next time.

Fraternally yours, Oriental Guide John Stewart and Lady Kitty.

From the Oriental Guide:

John Stewart


Editorial Note:Editorial: March/April 2020

Are you an Editorial Without Words? Recent-ly I had to do something that I honestly never want to do again. I attended a funeral of a child. I have been to many funerals and they are all sad but this one was particularly sad. This child was a Shriners Hospital patient plus his Great-Grandfather was a Shriner. As the hospital transportation coordina-tor for this patient, naturally I wanted to be at his funeral. I was joined by two other good Nobles, Tommy Milsaps and John Kent. The child’s grand-mother asked that we wear our fezzes at the service and we did. They also had the child’s great-grand-father’s fez displayed at the service and visitation.

This child was one of ours and we mourn his passing and pray for his family. This got me thinking about the iconic Shrine emblem called the “Editorial Without

Words.” In 1970, a photographer covering a Shrine event tried to snap a picture of a fezzed Noble carrying a little girl and a crutch when his camera jammed and using the last frame on his roll of film snapped a shot of the rear of the Noble and child as they were walking away from him. This photograph became the internationally known icon for Shriners Hospitals known as the “Editorial Without Words” and remains to this day as a symbol for Shriners worldwide. When you see this emblem, you know immediately what it means.

The three of us, sitting on the front row of that funeral home chapel, wearing our

fezzes with that tiny coffin right in front of us displayed to that family and all the people at that funeral that Shriners care. Those people did know us personally, all they saw were three men in fezzes sitting there in front of that child’s coffin. Therefore, we be-came the Editorial Without Words. We represented every Shriner in the world that day. We represented a fraternity that actively wants to help children. The people that came up to us not only thanked us for attending the funeral, they also thanked us for what Shriners does for children. We help children worldwide. We are that symbol of hope and philanthropy.

It is up to each of us to make sure that the Fez remains a symbol of good. We have to continue to promote our cause and let people know what we can do for children. We have to maintain our reputation as men of good report and upstanding citizens in the community. That Fez is a significant emblem and we are what give that emblem mean-ing. Continue to make it mean something.

While we are on the subject of fezzes, I had a recent conversation with our Po-tentate about him finding a couple of fezzes in a Pawn Shop. Nobles plan ahead and let your loved ones know what you what to happen to your Fez and all your Masonic paraphernalia and books after you are gone. Have them donated to your lodge or the temple. Maybe have them passed down to a family member or a good friend that are also masons. If they need to sell your jewelry for the cash, fine. Just don’t let your fez and especially Masonic books end up in a thrift shop somewhere as junk.

By the time you read this we will be close to sitting in Grand Lodge making deci-sions that are important to our future as a fraternity. Please remember that Harmony is our strength and support. We also have some good Nobles facing serious medical issues so let us all remember our brothers and sisters in prayer.

Melvin Ford & Lady Christy

From your Treasurer:

Paul Thompson

Nobles;

‘2020’ is off and running and it has been an amazing 1 ½ months. Our ‘2020’ Hamasa Potentate, Ill. Sir Ashley Lewis was duly installed. Ill. Sir Lewis has hit the ground running with a mindset of making changes at Hamasa that will be very beneficial to our Temple now and in the long run. When you have a chance, get with Ill. Sir Ashley and listen to his ideas and give him some of your suggestions that you think would be good for the Temple. You may be surprised that the Divan is very receptive to the ideas we receive from the Nobility.

On Friday February 7th and Saturday February 8th, Hamasa Temple hosted the Dixie Shrine Association Mid-

Winter Meeting at the Pearl River Resort at Philadelphia (Choctaw), Ms. The attendance at this year’s meeting had the largest total of Nobles attending than in the past 5 years. When we booked the rooms, we blocked off 60 rooms which was a 20% increase over ‘2019’. Before the room cutoff date, we had to acquire another 20 rooms and they were all used. This was a 38% in rooms booked.

On Friday night, the Neshoba County Shrine Club hosted the 1st annual Dixie Shrine Association Steak Supper for the attending Nobles. They cooked 80 Steaks with all of the trimmings. A GREAT TIME WAS HAD BY ALL! In the past, the attendees have gone as a group to a local restaurant. Over a period of time, the group has grown in numbers and it is hard to find someone that can handle a group as large as ours. The Neshoba County Shrine Club came to our rescue.

LADY RHONDA AND I WOULD PERSONALLY LIKE TO GIVE A SHOUTOUT TO THE NOBLES AND LADIES OF THE NESHOBA COUNTY SHRINE CLUB FOR THE GREAT HOSPITALITY THAT WAS GIVEN TO THE NOBLES OF ALL THE

ATTENDING SHRINE CENTERS. YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS FOR ALL THAT YOU DO FOR HAMASA SHRINERS DOES NOT GO UNNOTICED. ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO!!

On Saturday February 8th, the Dixie Mid-Winter business meeting was held at the Neshoba County Shrine Club. The business meeting was held with the major focal points being the housing arrangements at Panama City Beach in May, the Golf Tournament that raises the funds needed to pay for the Insurance policy for the Annual Meeting and the Dixie Magazine Ads.

Our honored guests for this meeting was Imperial Sir Richard Burke - 1st Ceremonial Master, Imperial Sir Anthony West – Trustee for Shriners Hospital for Children and Kim Green – Administrator of the Shreveport Shriners Hospital for Children. In attendance also was Ill. Sir Ed Brown – Imperial Membership Regional Director and Ill. Sir Joe McAdams – Dixie Golf Director.

All of our Imperial guests presented very beneficial presentations on or Great Philanthropy.

I would like to thank everyone for all of the help in putting on the Dixie Mid-Winter Meeting in Philadelphia, Ms. It is truly appreciated.

I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO THANK MY LADY RHONDA FOR ALL OF THE HELP THAT SHE HAS GIVEN ME AS PRESIDENT OF THE ASSOCIATION. SHE HAS LISTEN TO ME BOUNCE IDEAS OFF OF HER AND MOST OF THE TIME HAS GIVEN ME THE FEEDBACK THAT I NEEDED AND WANTED. WITHOUT YOU, THIS JOURNEY WOULD BE MUCH MORE DIFFUCULT.

In closing, thank you for allowing me to serve you the Nobility of Hamasa. If I can be of any assistance, please give me a call.

Yours in the Faith;Paul D. Thompson P.P. / Treasurer / President Dixie Shrine Association ‘2020’

Sixth Annual Shriners Night Golf Tournament

3 Person Scamble Thursday,

April 30th, 2020 Dixie Golf Club

750 Hillcrest Drive, Laurel, Mississippi 39440

Shotgun start at 4:00 PM - Play 9 holes in daylight Break for family hamburger dinner

Tee off at 7:00 PM for 9 holes of night golf

Proceeds for: Entry Fee Only $75.00 per player 3 Person Teams

Limited to 18 total 3 person teams Fee includes 18 holes of Golf, Supper

& 2 glow in the dark balls Private Golf Carts Welcome

Prizes awarded to 1st through 4th Flites

Bring your family & friends additional Dinners only $8.00 each

Contact: David Schutz at (601) 580-3002, Mac Kitchens at (601) 580-8072, Bill West at (601) 433-0067 or Jeff Gardner at (601) 935-2975. You can also contact

the Dixie Pro Shop at (601) 649-3384 for information and to sign up.


Lee County Shrine ClubThe Lee County Shrine Club continues to operate and

meet every month on the first Tuesday of the month. Past Potentate Russell Moore III and Lady Alice joined us in January to install our 2020 officers. Noble John Pampel remains as our Club President along with Noble Dick Clemmer as Vice-President. Noble Marvin McFadden continues as our Treasurer as well as Noble Vance Perkins as our Secretary. Past Potentate Ruben Hanson and Marvin McFadden cooked for us in January.

In February, Ruben was under the weather due to a fall so Nobles Melvin Ford and Marvin McFadden prepared the February meal.

We will be hosting our annual Children’s Film Festival on Saturday, May 2nd at the Malco Commons Ten Theater on North Gloster Street in Tupelo at 9:00 AM. We welcome you to bring several children and join us for this family fun. There will also be a special showing on Friday, May 1st for school classes. The film festival in Corinth this year at the Malco on South Harper will be on Saturday, May 16th also at 9:00 AM.

We continue to host an active hospital transportation program and help out with all the Northeast Mississippi counties. We welcome you to stop by on the first Tuesday of the month to visit with us and remember all our meetings are open and we now eat at 6:00 PM.

Marion Shrine Club The Marion Shrine Club is meeting on the 2nd

Thursday of each month at the Hamasa Shrine Building in Marion, MS. The officers for 2020-2021 are as follows:

President Dr. Leland Lou, Vice-President Rickey Trawick, Treasurer Phil Rumery, and Secretary Benny Eggler. This year the Sunshine Committee will be Richard Whitehead and Benny Eggler. The Event Committee will consist of President Lou, Phil Rumery and Rickey Trawick.

We invite any and all Hamasa members in our area to come and attend and be part of this working club. Looking forward to seeing you at the Hamasa Stated Meetings.

Neshoba County Shrine ClubThe Neshoba County Shrine Club meets on the first

Thursday of the Month at our building on Highway 15 South in Philadelphia. Once again, this February our club hosted the Dixie Shrine Association Mid-Winter meeting at our club building. This year the Dixie Officers met with the Club members and we were able to provide a steak dinner on Friday night for over seventy-five people. Each steak was cooked to order because of the pre-ordering system handled by Past Potentate Grover Vining. Everyone one said that this Friday night meal was a success and the profits form this meal was donated to the Neshoba Central Elementary School Food Pantry.

On Saturday, February 8th, the Dixie Shrine Association held their annual Mid-Winter meeting at our club building and the Nobles of the Neshoba County Club cooked a barbecued chicken lunch for everyone. Thank you to the officers of the Dixie Shrine Association for allowing us to participate in the event and thank you to everyone that helped the club prepare and serve this meal. They held their hospitality room at the Golden Moon Hotel in Choctaw, MS. The excess chicken from this event was cooked by the Philadelphia Masonic Lodge for the Open Arms Food Kitchen. Thank you to Noble John Stewart for obtaining the church bus to help shuttle folks around for the Mid-Winter and also to Noble Grover Vining for making arrangements and store discounts for the Dixie Mid-Winter Ladies program.

Don’t forget that on the first Saturday in April comes our annual chicken cooking. This year it is on April 4th. We will be at the Club in the wee hours of the morning preparing the chicken, baked beans, and Cole slaw to be ready to set up at Vowell’s Marketplace on Pecan Ave from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM in Philadelphia, Mississippi. Tickets are $8 each and are available in advance or at the point of sale. Come on out this year and join in on the fun and get a good chicken dinner.

Laurel Shrine ClubThe January stated meeting was kicked off with the installation of the elected club officers for the 2020 Shrine year.

Illustrious Sir, Potentate Ashley Lewis was the installing officer. He was assisted by Illustrious Sir Jeff Gardner PP, as Installing Marshal. Those Installed were President - Charles “Chuck” Petty, 1st Vice President - Jason Jefcoat, 2nd Vice President - Lester Ivy, Treasurer - Raymon Busby, and Secretary - Wendell “Bart” Gavin.

Current ActivitiesNoble Brad Hearn is planning a Second Annual Toy Drive for the Shriners Children Hospital, Shreveport. He will be

gathering of toys, diapers, wipes and many other items that is on a list of needed items, provided by the hospital staff. Several businesses in Laurel, Ellisville, Bay Springs, and other surrounding communities will be providing drop boxes for the event. On completion of the toy drive the items will be delivered by a caravan of Laurel Shrine Club Nobles.

Preparation for the Laurel Shrine Club’s Annual Draw Down is in full swing. Tickets are selling quickly thanks to Nobles Bart Gavin, Jamie Graham (and Donica), and Jeff Gardner PP, and many other nobles. Saturday, February 22, will be here soon. Get your tickets now and come and enjoy a night of good food, fun, and fellowship. Many door prizes and $4,000 in cash will be given away.

The Club’s March 27th Rack of Ribs and Rib Plate Sale is in the planning stage. This is always a very successful fundraiser for the club. A lot of very early morning work goes into this one. Many thanks to the very dedicated cooking committee and the many others that help with preparations and delivery.

The annual Hamasa/Laurel Shrine Club Night Golf Tournament has been moved from the Fall date of October to a Spring date of April 30th at the Dixie Golf Club. Make your plans to attend accordingly.

The Club’s Annual Chicken Cook is scheduled for May and currently is in the long-range planning stage.

The Club’s Nobility and Ladies are proud of our new Temple Potentate and Divan and will welcome them at any time they would like to attend our stated meetings.

The Starkville Shrine Club met on February 6th, 2020 for our monthly meeting at VFW hall in Starkville. In attendance were Potentate Ashly Lewis and Treasurer Paul Thompson from the Divan of Hamasa Temple. Potentate Lewis was in attendance to install the new President and Treasurer of the club caused by the death of Charles Avant (Treasurer) and medically necessary retirement of Richard Moore (President). Nobles John R. Kent (President) and Tommy Millsaps (Treasurer) were sworn in to complete their terms until the end of 2020. A pot luck meal was served and enjoyed by all in attendance. Also, Potentate Lewis and Treasurer Thompson joined the club in a discussion as to the future of Shriners.

In December Noble Tommy Milsaps was named Club Shriner of the Year by President John Kent.

Starkville Shrine Club

We had Our Stated meeting at Winston County Shrine Club, in Louisville, MS. Twenty-five Nobles, Ladies, and children enjoyed a great pot luck meal, along with fellowship, and the business of the Club.

We had Our Officer Installation for 2020. Illustrious Sir Past Potentate Chris Nettles MWDGM and Illustrious Sir Past Potentate Russell Moore lll did a fine job

of installing our new officers. Please help us congratulate, Noble AJ Braswell, President; Noble Hunter Charlton, Vice President; and Illustrious Sir Past Potentate and Shreveport Board of Governors Representative Grover Vining Secretary/Treasurer for 2020.

Thanks to all who came out, brought food, and participated! Looking forward to another great year. Our Club meets the fourth Tuesday of the month and we welcome you to come join at our club building in Louisville on Highway 15 South.

Winston County Shrine Club


If you did not see your birthday in the Hamasa News please call the office to update your file: 601-693-1361 or 1-800-243-1361.

Hamasa Noble’s Birthdays MARCH 1 Hal D. Fuller Terry Tullos Larry T. Young 2 George R. Walters Jerdon L. Welborn 3 R. L. Fulton Dennis R. McRae Buck J. Thompson 4 Howard F. Evans John E. Gilliland Jr. 5 Mickey Mathis William Toler 6 James E. Baker 7 Eugene F. Brown Jr. Arthur L. Potter Jr. 8 Jeffery A. Braswell Jr. Jason N. Daniel Ronald Wheeler 9 John B. Wright 10 Delano L. Geiger Jr. Ancie O. Hawkins David T. Huddleston Travis H. Reeves Gary W. Riddle 11 Eric S. Hollingshead James M. Mooney John R. Tadlock 12 William E. Barnhardt John L. Bryan Dennis R. Dontrich Douglas C. Walker 13 Jerry C. Martin 14 Alton Gillis Jimmy A. Hardy Charles H. Westberry 15 Bobby L. Graham 16 Charles L. Robinson 17 Billy Parker 18 James O. Beasley 19 Richard Morris 20 Robert W. Dykes Robert L. King Sr. 21 Timothy R. Hemphill Ronald B. Smith Jimmy Watkins 22 Albert O. Cummings

23 Bill D. Avery Kevin G. Malone Thomas L. Miller 24 Donnie C. Atkinson Robert L. Partain John F. Summer Joe L. White Jr. 25 John R. Collins Jr. Larry W. Muse Michael S. Skelton 26 V. E. Bosarge Alvie W. Smith 27 James R. Criddle Dewey Knight Nobel L. Williams 28 Fred Bean L. D. Clark Larry G. Clark Leland R. Mills Wood D. Waits 29 James F. Jones Travis L. Martin 30 Kyle K. McDonald Wayne T. Hill Clifton M. McDonald Randy Waldon

APRIL 1 Jack B. Draughn John K. Nance Joe T. Rogers Richard C. Strachan 2 Carlton T. Collins Wiley Jernigan Jr. Bobby R. Wood 4 Harold M. Eakes Ralph R. Marveggio Larry G. Ross 5 Richard Z. Suber 6 Kenneth E. Dyer Donald G. Kitchens 8 Edward S. Allen Thomas O. Bonner Jr. Matthew C. Faurot Tom S. Lee 9 James C. Edge Jr. Kenneth L. Higgins

Charles R. Moffett Jr. 10 Billy L. Brantley Robert Brownlee 11 Thomas D. Gamblin Thomas G. Eilzey 12 Steve A. Gavin James W. Shows 13 David A. Hall Mac A. Kitchens Larry B. Stafford Guy B. Young 14 Edward A. Garrard 15 Chad Boykin Nathan L. Hardin Jason A. Jefcoat Archie Pinnix William D. White 16 James B. Hattaway Leland Lou 17 Charles D. Barfoot Charlie P. Castile George T. Saxon 18 C. D. Harp Herchel L. Wallace 19 Donald E. Anderson Willard L. Atkinson R. A. Darnell Happy T. Grice Lester E. Robertson Sr. 20 Ken E. Bryan Otho O. Stevens 21 John G. Burt James W. Bush William B. Hammack Jr. Roy Johnson Phil C. Mathis 22 Larry W. McIntosh 23 Randy M. Ray 24 James R. Davis 26 Charles R. Joiner Marvin McFadden 27 Joseph F. Myers Joseph R. Shows 28 James H. Linley 30 Glenn R. Green Gilbert A. Wise Jr.

2020 Grand Lodge of Mississippi Annual Communication202nd Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi, F. & A. M.

DATE & LOCATIONDays: March 12, 13, & 14, 2020 - Thursday, Friday & SaturdayLocation: Hilton Jackson: 1001 East County Line Road, 39211

HOTEL REGISTRATION INFORMATIONHilton Jackson

1001 East County Line Road, Jackson, MS 39211Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 12, 13 & 14, 2020

Reservations: www.hilton.com or (601) 957-2800Group Name: Grand Lodge of MS - Group Code: GLM20

Rate: $85.00 per Night - Availability: 11 March to 14 March Last Day to Reserve: February 22, 2020

GRAND MASTER’S BANQUET

A file is attached with a fillable PDF Banquet Registration Form on the Grandview Website. You must complete a registration form and mail it in with your payment in order to secure Banquet Tickets.

Banquet EventsTime Capsule: Immediately prior to the Grand Master’s Banquet numerous historical items from the Grand Lodge Time Capsule and the Grand Lodge Library will be on display. See an over 200-year-old Petition and much more before they are returned to the

Library or sealed away for another 100 years!Menu: Garden Salad with Dressing, Petite Beef Tenderloin and Marinated Chicken Breast in a Béarnaise Sauce, Garlic Mashed Potatoes,

Asparagus and choice of two Desserts. Beverages will include Water, Sweet & Unsweet Tea, and Coffee.Entertainment: The Bibletones Quartet was formed in 1957 by Mr. and Mrs. Ward Hurt, in Lumberton, Mississippi. The group has appeared on the

Gospel Singing Jubilee, Grand Ole Opry (Sunday night), The National Quartet Convention, as well as promoted gospel concerts in South Mississippi.Online Copy of Grand Lodge Proposals are available through the Grandview Portal located on the Grand Lodge of Mississippi Website in the

“Resources” section. https://www.msgrandlodge.org/You can also check out the Grand Lodge of Mississippi F&AM Facebook page for additional announcements and information posted.

Neshoba County Shrine ClubBarbeque Chicken Plates

Saturday April 4, 2020Philadelphia, Mississippi10:00 AM until 1:00 PM

Vowell’s Marketplace on Pecan Ave.Tickets are $8 each and are available in advance or at the point of sale.

All area Shriners and their Lady’s are encouraged to come out and help with the preparation and serving.

Save the Dates Great American Children’s Film Festivals

Saturday, May 2nd, 2020 at 9:00 AM At the Malco Tupelo Commons Cinema Ten

Special Showing for Students on Friday, May 1st at 9:00 AM

Saturday, May 16th, 2020 at 9:00 AM At the Corinth Cinema 10

Saturday, July 11th, 2020 at 9:00 AM Malco Columbus Cinema

Bring your children and friends (Nobles Please attend with Fez at 8:30 to greet moviegoers)


Hamasa Shriners 2020 Fundraiser

Henry Repeating ArmsGolden Boy Shriner International Tribute

Edition .22 S/L/LRThis fully functional work of art sports an iconic 20″ blued steel octagonal barrel,

semi-buckhorn rear sights with a brass bead front sight and matching brass buttplate

and barrel band. It’s chambered in .22 S/L/LR with a capacity of 16 rounds of .22 LR

and as much as 21 rounds of . 22 Short.

This tribute rifle is built on the award-winning Golden Boy platform so it’s inherently

smooth action and top-notch performance will never let you down on the range when

it’s not being proudly displayed in your home.

Only $5.00 Donation per Ticket

Drawing to be held on December 15, 2020 at Hamasa Shriners

You do not have to present to win.

Contact the Hamasa Office

at (601) 693-1361

or Any Divan Member for [email protected]

Non Tax-Deductible Donation

For Every Ticket Sold on Memorial Day Weekend Geyser Falls Will Donate $3.00 to Hamasa Shriners

Saturday, Sunday & Monday, May 23rd, 24th & 25th, 2020

Geyser Falls Water Theme Park 209 Black Jack Road, Philadelphia, MS 39350

A Development of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians

Start Thinking and Preparing Now for the 2020 Dixie Shrine Association Convention

May 14th, 15th, & 16th, 2020 Panama City Beach, Florida

Check the Website for Registration Information & Forms Questions Contact: Paul Thompson (601) 479-8400

E-Mail: [email protected] www.dixieshrineassociation.com

Illustrious Sir Paul D. Thompson, President Check Out Our Facebook Page

Austin Oliver, Former Patient & ShrinerA night of fun and fund-raising for children! Enjoy a lavish seafood buffet and live and silent auctions

during this night of inspiration for us all.

Tickets: $125 • Table of 8: $1,000Cocktail Attire

To purchase tickets and tables visit: firstshriners.org

Saturday, March 14, 20206 pm Welcome Reception • 7 pm Dinner and Program

Eldorado Resort and Casino451 Clyde Fant Pkwy., Shreveport, LA

Please join us for

There will be no physical tickets distributed. All guests will check-in at registration by their first and last names.

Bid numbers and game chances will be available at check-in.

Documents

Kids Come First March / April 2020 Welcome 2020 Potentate …hamasashriner.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hamasa... · 2020. 2. 29. · Richard Whitehead, Recorder Ashley Lewis, Potentate