AnnualReport2020

aware of how much I believe in the power and potential of each of us individually, and all of us collectively, to have an impact, or to make a difference. I can tell you, with complete certainty, that, every day, you had an impact on us, and strengthened our commitment to you, and to our fraternity and philanthropy. Very few people are given the opportunity to serve as Imperial Potentate. In addition to being very grateful for this chance, I am also extremely appreciative for the experiences of the past year. One that was particularly meaningful and, in fact, unforgettable, was the November visit to the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. It is totally awe-inspiring to stand on that ground, and silently share a few moments of reverence and reflection for all the brave and generous men and women who selflessly gave their lives to protect our way of life, and the world from brutal tyranny. I thank the members and leadership of the International Association Legions of Honor for allowing me to participate in this momentous event, and for all they do to honor the people of our armed forces. Our February trip to Panama is another truly amazing and meaningful experience we will never forget. The Abou Saad Shriners deserve accolades and appreciation for their dedication and assistance with the annual outreach clinic, a combined effort of our Shreveport and Salt Lake City hospitals this year. More than 800 children were seen over the course of four days. Approximately 200 are expected to eventually come to the U.S. for surgery, orthotics/prosthetics or other care at our facilities. This clinic has the support of the Panamanian government, which provides access to the host hospital. In addition, the First Lady of Panama visits the clinic A Time of Meaningful Events

to show her support and increase local awareness of Abou Saad Shriners and Shriners Hospitals for Children. In addition to the outreach clinic, while there, I, along with several other Imperial officers and executive leaders of both Shriners International and Shriners Hospitals, helped facilitate the approval process for a Latin American Shrine Association, which would have received its charter at the cancelled Imperial Session. This is one of the pieces of business that needs to be addressed – and we will do that. Latin America is a region that is highly interested in the possibilities and potential offered by Shriners International, and we, in turn, want to take advantage of every opportunity to assist our nobles in the region, and encourage membership growth. Re-establishing a Presence Much closer to home, and also in February, I was pleased to officiate at the dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Shriners International display in the Family of Freemasonry exhibit at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial in Alexandria, Virginia, outside Washington, D.C. We had an exhibit there for many years, which was closed about eight years ago. I am very glad to have our fraternity

Dear Fellow Nobles, This has certainly been an incredible year, with truly unexpected challenges. No one could have anticipated a pandemic literally threatening our lives, while totally upsetting everything from plans and expectations to our daily routines. Of course, we are all deeply disappointed by the cancellation of Imperial Session. Cheryl and I were so looking forward to sharing that special experience, and the unique hospitality of the Midwest, with all of you. Yet, even in the midst of incredibly difficult, almost unbelievable situations, we, the Shriners family, looked outward and found ways to help our communities, and one another. I have never been more proud to be a Shriner, or more proud of my fellow nobles then I am today. As we all do our best to cope with the overwhelming upheaval and threat caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, remember that none of us is alone. We are part of a huge, global familyof determined, hopeful and compassionate Shriners. We will see each other through this crisis, and on to an even stronger future. As I write this message, we are working hard to determine the best way to accomplish the necessary business of Imperial Session, provide everyone with anticipated information, and, hopefully, some other interesting elements. An UnforgettableYear Even with all the serious issues caused by this horrendous pandemic, Cheryl and I are, and will always be, deeply grateful for the past year, and for the opportunity to serve as your Imperial Potentate and First Lady. Throughout our travels and visits to temples and health care facilities, we were met with graciousness, kindness, and appreciation. We were inspired by your enthusiasm, dedication,

represented again. If you’re in the area,

be sure to visit. It is well worth the time.

commitment and support of the missions of our Shriners organizations. I’m sure you are

2019•2020 YEAR IN REVIEW | 3