Shriner Magazine - Summer 2023

VOLUME 13 • ISSUE 2 • SUMMER 2023

Inside this Issue:

9 Charlotte Imperial Session 2023 9 Their Moment to Shine 9 An Upward Trajectory 9 Healthcare System Update

A Message from Your Imperial Potentate

DEAR FELLOW NOBLES,

As this Imperial Year comes to a close, Lady JJ and I want you to know what a privilege it has been to represent you as Imperial Potentate and First Lady. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey, and to be seated on the 50-yard line as we celebrated Shriners International’s 150th anni versary and Shriners Children's centennial has truly been an honor. Now it is time to look ahead to our future. There is so much to be proud of in Shriners Chil dren’s, and so much more we can do to help more kids, in more places, closer to home. I hope you’ll also think about what we can do to attract more members to our great fraternity. As storied coach Joe Gibbs says, “A winning effort takes preparation.” So let’s work together to learn how we can most successfully appeal

to prospective members, to learn how to make each outreach effort count, and to be ready with the services and value our new members are looking for. Lady JJ and I look forward to seeing you at Imperial Session in Charlotte, North Carolina. It will be a spectacular time to celebrate all that we’ve accomplished and all we hope to achieve. We thank you sincerely for all that you have done for us, and we wish the best to Imperial Sir Ed Stolze and Lady JoLynn in their upcoming year.

Kenneth G. "Kenny" Craven Imperial Potentate, Shriners International

Yours in the faith, Kenneth G. “Kenny” Craven

A Message from the Chairman of the Board of Trustees

DEAR FELLOW NOBLES,

As this Imperial Year comes to an end, I want to thank the voting representatives for giving me the opportunity to serve our amazing healthcare system as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees this past year. I also want to thank the members of the Joint Boards and the local Boards of Gov ernors for working together, and working with me, during this term. Your dedication to the mission of Shriners Chil dren’s, spirit of cooperation and determination to ensure that our healthcare system remains strong are greatly appreciated. Working together, we have accomplished a great deal. With a blend of hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and outpatient and outreach clinics, combined with telehealth efforts and community affiliations, we are getting closer and closer to our goal of offering 200 access points to care.

In addition, we are working hard to increase our presence in both Mexico and Canada. We opened a clinic in Monterrey, Mexico, this past summer and expect to have five viable locations in Mexico by the end of the year. In Canada, we are seeking to develop local collaborations and affiliations that will allow us to effectively care for children from across the country. We are also working to streamline our international strategy and provide more opportunities for education for local medical professionals, in order to, one day, allow more of our international patients to receive care closer to their homes. To learn more about these initiatives, please see pages 8-9. Again, thank you for the opportunity to serve our philanthropy. And thank you for all you do for the Shriners organizations.

Jerry G. Gantt Chairman, Board of Trustees, Shriners Children’s

Yours in the faith, Jerry G. Gantt

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

About Our Fraternity Founded in 1872, Shriners International is a fraternity based on fun, fellowship and the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth. With approximately 200 Shriners temples in several countries and thousands of clubs around the world, the members of Shriners International are known for their fellowship, brotherhood, compassion and generosity. The fraternity established Shriners Children's as its official philanthropy in 1922, and continues to govern it today, while striving to make the world a happier, better place. About Our Philanthropy Shriners Children's™ is one of the largest pediatric sub-specialty healthcare systems in the world, with locations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Our staff is dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing pediatric specialty care, conducting innovative research, and offering outstanding educational programs for medical professionals.

BROTHERHOOD 2 A Message from Our Leadership

4 Their Moment to Shine 10 An Upward Trajectory 15 Sports Keep Nobles, Patients in the Game

PHILANTHROPY 6 Season’s Greetings 8 Healthcare System Update 16 Charlotte Imperial Session 2023 FUN AND FELLOWSHIP 12 Learning is as Good as All Git-out 14 Lane Family Boasts Four Generations of Shriners

Find Us Online

shrinersinternational.org

shrinerschildrens.org facebook.com/ShrinersChildrens twitter.com/shrinershosp youtube.com/shrinershospitals instagram.com/shrinershospitals facebook.com/shrinersinternational twitter.com/shriners youtube.com/ShrinersTV instagram.com/shrinersinternational

BEING GOOD STEWARDS: As a nonprofit organiza tion dependent on donations, it is critically important that Shriners Children's uses all funds wisely and effec tively. The Oversight Committee investigates and reports on activities conducted for the benefit of Shri ners Children's that have incurred, or apparently may incur, an appreciable financial loss. The Committee also checks on actions or possible actions of the Joint Boards that may not have followed appropriate practices or been fully vetted or disclosed. Findings are reported during Imperial Session. For more information, call 866-290-7637 or visit shriners.ethicspoint.com .

ABOUT THE COVER: Nobles gather at the Shriners Children’s College Classic in March at Minute Maid Field in Houston, Texas, to experience one of the nation’s top collegiate baseball tournaments.

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Their Moment to Shine

ALEPPO AWARDS INCREASE RETENTION AND INVOLVEMENT

Fun and fellowship lie at the heart of Shriners philosophy, and by exploring everything that the fraternity has to offer, nobles are likely to find activities they love.

WITH THIS IN MIND , the Aleppo Membership Commit tee in Wilmington, Massachusetts, created two awards, the Rookie and Master Noble Awards, to create excitement and give nobles additional incentive to get involved. Noble Charles Bovaird, who initiated the retention awards program, then presented the concept to temples regionally so that they could consider rolling out their own version of the award. “In the course of engaging in activities, Shriners will get really educated on what’s involved in being a Shriner and get ting to know people and getting to be part of the fabric of the organization, which is important,” said Illustrious Sir Robert H. Brown, the immediate Past Potentate of Aleppo, who received the Master Noble Award earlier this year. These awards recognize what’s great about being a member in the fraternity and are given during ceremonials in January and June as well as in the fall.

“Post-COVID, we've seen a great response by both new nobles and those who were already members, to be more active as Shriners. We've even had nobles earn both the Rookie Noble award and the Master Noble award within this year,” said Brown, who added that he was destined to be a Shriner because his father was a long-time member. “I am certain that these two programs have helped raise the level of activity at Aleppo.” Initially, Brown said, he became more involved after his dad passed away and his children grew up. “Among other things, I have a motorcycle license and hadn’t ridden in a long time, so I joined the motorcycle unit as a way to get back into riding,” he said. From there he got to meet people from around the world with the same mission.

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Timeline

Noble Charles Bovaird, who spearheaded the creation of the retention awards program, presented the Rookie Noble Award, along with its Rookie Noble Passport, at Aleppo's January Ceremonial. At this point, members of Aleppo were eligible to earn the award.

Bovaird presented the Master Noble Award, along with its Master Noble Passport, during Aleppo's January Ceremonial, making it so that members of this temple could earn the distinction.

The Master Noble Award and the Rookie Noble Award concept were presented at a global gathering of Shriners in Tampa, Florida. Nobles representing over 50 temples expressed an interest in the two retention awards.

January 2017

March 2017

January 2018

March 2018

October 2018

The award concept was presented to temples in the region at the Northeast Shrine Association’s Midwinter Meeting in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

The idea of the Master Noble Award was presented at the regional level during the Northeast Shrine Association’s Midwinter Meeting in Rutland, Vermont. The Master Noble Award concept was presented to temples in the region during this event so they could potentially implement it.

“I was just at our annual re-enlistment dinner looking around — there were a couple hundred there, all whom I know because I’m a Shriner,” he said. “A couple of them were from my Masonic dis trict, but I knew from being part of the Masons and the Shriners, and that’s pretty cool — you are genuinely happy to see them.” Over the years, temples across the U.S. and Canada have implemented these two awards, giving the awards an international presence. “Mainly, it’s the camaraderie that you get from a shared experience. I’ve met people all over the world because of being a Mason,” Brown said. “One of the things that has cemented me as a Shriner is I’ve always been interested in the hospitals, especially Boston, because it is here, and I live about a 10- to 15-minute drive to Boston Shriners Children’s, and it’s really cool to be helping kids like we do there.”

A Masonic Influence “In 2010, I received something called the Master Mason Rookie Award from the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, which was an award that was implemented to bolster engagement,” Bovaird said. “I became a Master Mason in March 2009, and after that, I had one year to complete the requirements for this award. I became more active in Freemasonry, getting more involved with my lodge and visiting several lodges in the area.” He then borrowed the idea of the Master Mason Rookie Award and adapted it for the Shriners by creating the Rookie Noble Award. “The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts offers a similar award called the Master Builder's Award, which is like the Rookie Award, except it is open to all members of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, regardless of how long they have been a member. I took this award and trans lated it to the Shriners by creating the Master Noble Award,” he said. As of spring 2023, Aleppo has presented more than 40 of its mem bers with these awards.

Rookie Noble Award The Rookie Noble Award, which is available to Shriners in their first year, is designed to give new nobles extra motivation to be active in the fraternity and to support Shriners Children’s. To earn this award, nobles must fulfill requirements like joining committees, units and clubs, as well as participating in events like ceremonials.

Master Noble Award The Master Noble Award was created for all members of Aleppo regardless of tenure. It is similar to the Rookie Noble Award, and has also produced a positive response, as more than 30 members of Aleppo have completed its requirements.

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Season’s Greetings

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME TO SHRINER HOLIDAYS PAST

IT’S SUMMER , and things are heating up! Your Shriner Magazine editors thought we’d offer you some cool relief with these holiday memories. Although publication dates do not allow us to include winter celebrations in Shriner Magazine , we often receive submissions about holiday events. So grab a chilled beverage, kick back and enjoy!

NFL SUPERSTAR ROB GRONKOWSKI Thrills Patients Retired NFL superstar Rob “Gronk” Gronkowski made a surprise visit to Shriners Children’s New England in Springfield to spread holiday cheer to patients and their families. Dressed as “Robbie the Elf,” Gronk interacted with patients — shooting hoops, painting, playing air hockey and soccer and even trying his hand at origami. He brought gifts for patients and was generous with autographs. Patient Sam, 11, along with his mother and younger brother, got to meet Mr. Gronkowski. Sam had this message for Mr. Gronkowski: “My brother and I were so excited to meet you! Thank you for all you shared with us and for sharing your time with kids like me!”

Ed Geoffrion, Chairman Emeritus, Board of Governors, and Melha Shriner, and Rob "Robbie the Elf" Gronkowski

SOUTH DAKOTA State Capitol Tree What has 48 Fezzy bears from Build-a-Bear Workshop, 100 Shriners International 150th anniversary ornaments, 100 Shriners Children’s 100th anniversary ornaments and hundreds of hand-decorated ornaments from patients of Shriners Children’s Twin Cities? The Shriners Christmas tree displayed at the Capitol Building in Pierre, South Dakota! Naja, El Riad and Yelduz Shriners collaborated on decorations for the 29.5-foot Black Hills spruce tree that was the focal point of the tree lighting ceremony, hosted by Governor Kristi Noem.

Governor Noem remarked that when she heard the Shriners would be decorating the Capitol tree, she knew it would be fun!

PYRAMID SHRINERS Celebrate with Masonic Brothers

Picture with Santa: Front row, Noble Donald M. Casey Jr., left, and Noble Max Rosenberg as Santa. Back row, Asher Rosenberg, left, Zohar

Pyramid Shriners participated at the America-St. John's Lodge # 8 holiday pancake breakfast in Stratford, Connecticut. Noble Donald M. Casey Jr. twisted balloon animals and hats for the patrons and taught children how to juggle. Noble Max Rosen berg played the role of Santa Claus and distributed gifts to every child in attendance. To make it a multicultural event, he read storybooks about Christmas and Hanukkah.

Rosenberg and Osi Rosenberg

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A Fabulous FEZ-tival

Here is some inspiration, whether it’s your temple’s annual event or you are looking to start one in 2023.

BEKTASH SHRINERS Concord, New Hampshire Started in 2001 with approximately 25 trees and believed to be the first Shriners Feztival of Trees, this event by Bektash Shriners has grown to about 128 fully decorated trees. Donated trees win awards such as Most Beautiful, Most Original, Best Theme and People's Choice. The judges are local radio and TV personalities. Bektash Chefs run the Candy Cane Cafe with various menu items such as hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, homemade chili and other culinary delights too numerous to list here. “As the years passed, with the efforts of the Divan and our nobility, we have had radio and local newspaper interviews to promote our event. Now, our phones ring off the hook with folks calling to find out our hours and days that we are open long before the event is advertised,” said Tom Brison, Past Potentate and Recorder.

KORA SHRINERS , Lewiston, Maine

ARABIA SHRINERS , Houston, Texas Last year was Arabia's first time conducting a Fez tival of Trees, but this group of Shriners was not only not nervous, but was at the ready to help other temples with their event. “In just our first year, we hosted our Fez-tival of Trees and helped seven other temples who were either already conducting a Fez-tival event, or were looking at starting one in 2023,” said Assistant Rabban Ben LaBlanc. Held at the Sam Houston Race Park, the event saw more than 1,500 people walk through the doors, and close to $20,000 was raised to help the temple. More than 50 corporate sponsors sup

Kora will celebrate its 18th annual Fez-tival of Trees this year. The event has grown substantially over the years and in 2022 raised $295,000, a record amount. The value of the trees donated was just under $75,000. Crowds have grown so much that the weeklong event requires that people attend ing reserve a timeslot to visit. Kora’s Fez-tival of Trees features over 60 festively decorated evergreens, a craft fair, silent auction, kid’s corner and a food court.

ported the event, and they were treated to a VIP preview night the evening before the Grand Opening. Arabia Shriners also partnered with the Mrs. Claus Cookie Company to sell cookies and hot cocoa during the event.

Mexico Patients Tackle Physical Fitness Challenges

Patients in Mexico City got to huddle up like real players when NFL PLAY 60 visited Shriners Children's Mexico City last fall. NFL PLAY 60 is the National Football League’s youth health and wellness campaign that encourages kids to get physically active for at least 60 minutes a day. Sponsored by NFL México, the event invited 50 patients to get pumped up and participate in NFL sports and inclusive activities with the mascots and cheerleaders from the Arizona Cardinals and San Francisco 49ers.

“Our goal is for our patients to experience the sporting spirit transmitted by a great organization like the NFL and to show patients that, regardless of disability, what is truly important is teamwork and the drive to get ahead, always following their goals and dreams,” said Mariano González, Shri ners for Children Mexico administrator. Arturo Olivé, general director of NFL México, appreciated the opportunity to promote physi cal activity among hospital patients. In addition, the NFL donated $5,000 to Shriners Children's Mexico City for the physical therapy area.

Learn more: NFL.com/PLAY60

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System Update Healthcare

A Vision and Mission for Today and Tomorrow

Everyone connected with Shriners Children’s should be proud to be associated with our unique healthcare system.

WE HAVE KEPT OUR PROMISE to improve the lives of children and families – to provide medical care regardless of their ability to pay, to conduct innovative research to improve that care, and to offer education opportunities for medical professionals – for 100 years. Throughout that time, we adapted and developed treat ment techniques and procedures to best serve our patients and, ultimately, became recognized the world over as a leader in pediatric specialty care. As we begin our second century, these principles con tinue to guide us. We have several initiatives in place to ensure we deliver care as efficiently and effectively as pos sible, and reach the children and families who need us, regardless of where they live. Expanding Access We continue to implement Vision 2035, our long-range plan for patient care in the U.S. We intend to offer 200 access points to care through our facilities, secondary loca tions, domestic outreach efforts and clinics, telehealth opportunities and community affiliations. Eight of our hospitals have successfully completed the complicated transition to alternative care delivery models, including ambulatory surgery centers and outpatient and outreach clinics. These adaptations require a significant amount of time, meticulous planning and systematic implementation; while it may appear that we are moving slowly, we have made significant progress. In addition, we are focused on increasing our efforts and presence in Canada and Mexico. We need to reach more children in these countries. Creating an effective overall plan for Canada is extremely complicated and difficult.

We have a strong, advantageous partial reimbursement agreement with the provincial government of Quebec, includ ing payment for treating children from outside Quebec at our hospital in Montreal. Still, we cannot expect to adequately reach children from across such a vast country from our single location in Canada. We need to find ways to extend that relationship and develop local affiliations and other opportunities. We are aware that our 11 temples in Canada are committed to the concept of caring for kids closer to their homes, and we are working diligently to achieve this through establishing local collaborative efforts and affiliations with other pediatric healthcare providers. The first step in this process is communication and discussion, which is under way. We hope to have more to report in the not-too-distant future.

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"Our unique and generous healthcare system has come a long way since its founding in 1922; with your help, commitment and support, we will continue to make a difference for the children of the world – in new, innovative ways."

We continue to increase our pres ence in Mexico. This past summer we opened a clinic in Monterrey, where nearly 600 surgeries have already been performed, and are close to finalizing agreements for three additional loca tions, which will give us five active locations in Mexico by the end of the year. These facilities will be similar in structure to our highly successful loca tion in Tijuana with full-time Shriners medical staff and leased space inside or adjacent to a quality hospital. In addition to providing care, these loca tions allow us to see more children in their home countries, eliminating the need to cope with unfamiliar cultures or border issues.

In November, the Joint Boards approved a measure to review the Mexico City facility to find ways to add more space in order to care for more children from Latin America there, rather than having to bring them to the U.S. Again, this allows care closer to home and eases the worry of language and cultural barriers. In addition, we hope to establish a comprehensive, complete burn care center at our Mexico City hospital, which will be considerably less costly than our U.S. programs, as well as provide care closer to patients’ homes. All of these efforts will enhance the care we provide, as well as make our patients more comfortable. Reaching the World’s Children Our overall international strategy can be summarized as an effort to both provide care now – bringing kids to our U.S. loca tions as needed – and determine ways to provide future care locally. For example, Michael Wattenbarger, M.D., an ortho pedic surgeon and chief of staff at our Greenville hospital, has been providing education on spine surgeries in El Salvador, an effort that is expected to take two to three years to complete. “If we did that in five places, in three years we would have changed pediatric orthopedic care in five parts of the world,” said Jerry G. Gantt, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Shriners Chil dren’s. “This approach can change the world.” New Systems and Initiatives Improve Care We are also updating procedures. In addition to transferring our outpatient electronic health records (EHR) from Cerner to the Epic system, we will be asking for approval to transfer all EHR to Epic. This will bring us in line with the majority of healthcare providers, including our many affiliates. We also continue to make progress in establishing a physicians group, which will

allow our physicians to work as part of a single system, and offer the flexibility for them to move about throughout the healthcare system, treating children at the location where they are most needed, in any given situation. In November, the Joint Boards approved the development of a new, enhanced program to help ensure that our patients are prepared when they age out of Shriners Children’s. Specifically, we want to try to ensure that they will have access to appropri ate healthcare. This can be difficult to find, let alone obtain, especially for those with particularly complex conditions, such as osteogenesis imperfecta (OI, also known as brittle bone dis ease), arthrogryposis or even cerebral palsy. Shriners Children’s Northern California will lead the general pilot program, and our Chicago location will oversee the pilot for patients with OI. We expect that the program will begin working with patients when they are about 14 and will include individualized plans, similar to our signature personalized treatment plans. We want to send our patients into the adult world as prepared and ready as possible for a happy and healthy life. Our unique and generous healthcare system has come a long way since its founding in 1922; with your help, commitment and support, we will continue to make a difference for the children of the world – in new, innovative ways.

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An Upward Trajectory

AL ATFAL SHRINERS CELEBRATES ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Their name means “The Children,” and for the members of Al Atfal, it’s more than a name. It’s a reason for being.

Commitment to Kids Originally under the jurisdiction of Anezeh Shriners, the Northern Mexico area went under joint jurisdiction with San Diego’s Al Bahr Shriners in 1985. In 2008, Al Bahr was given sole jurisdiction. Since the beginning, though, Al Bahr Shriners were ready to support a new temple in Northwestern Mexico as soon as Imperial requirements were met. That dreammoment came last year, as Shriners from across Mexico had reason to celebrate at the 2022 Imperial Session — Al Atfal received its Charter and became the 200th Shriners temple. The new temple serves nobles and communities in four Northwest ern Mexico states: Baja California, Baja California Sur, Sonora and Sinaloa. Al Atfal Shriners has several clubs up and running, too: Baja CALIFORNIA SUR 5 2 1 6 1 Baja CALIFORNIA Sonora Sinaloa Specialty CLUB

“Within Al Atfal Shriners, our commitment is for our children,” said Recorder Dr. Javier López, a Mason since 1981 and Shriner since 1992. His own most mem orable experience as a Shriner illustrates the joy that nobles experience knowing they are helping children. “A 6-year-old boy fromGuatemala visited one of our screening clinics in Tijuana,” Dr. López recalled. “He asked me to promise him that I could help him walk because he had never walked before. Being young and naive I said yes. But, I thought maybe I had promised something I couldn’t deliver. “Three or four years later at another of our clinics, I felt someone hug me from the back. When I turned around, I saw a child. I did not remember who this was until he said ‘Thank you for making me walk. I can now play soccer with my friends,’ ” said a surprised Dr. López. “I couldn’t believe that this was the little boy I promised would walk!”

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There has been substantial growth in the number of Shri ners in the region. The promise of brotherhood and the temple’s tremendous impact on local children and their communities help to drive interest in fraternity membership in Northwestern Mexico. The nobles of Northern Mexico have been working to help children at least since 1964. “During the past 59 years, many thousands of children have benefited from the hard work of nobles of our region,” said Dr. López. “Outreach clinics, social services encounters, school visits, as well as many programs with the federal, state and local authorities have made this possible.” Al Atfal nobles have established a network of clubs that are trained in how to make sure that children in Northern Mexico are able to access necessary care that Shriners Chil dren’s provides. “We sponsor Casa Al Atfal, a residence that takes in patients and families while they are being treated or diag

The Al Atfal clubs in 14 major cities have hospital liaison com mittees, and with training from the Central Patient Services team based at Shriners International Headquarters, members are able to help input potential patient information into the system. “Once patients are accepted, we provide assistance with transportation to and from Shriners Children’s locations,” said Dr. López. Al Atfal Shriners say they still have a lot to accomplish. They are looking forward to coordinating more domestic and interna tional patient transfers, organizing fun activities and events that raise awareness and funds, and supporting club officers in order to reach their goals. They also hope to partner more closely with federal, state, and local health and education authorities. “With a membership of over 350 nobles, Al Atfal Shriners will always be grateful for the support of Anezeh, Al Bahr, El Zaribah and Sabbar Shriners, and many other temples and nobles throughout this fraternity,” said Dr. López.

nosed at the Shriners Children’s Tijuana Ambulatory Clinic. We also provide meals and transportation,” said Dr. Lopez.

Journey to Dispensation

In order to get their dispensation (authorization to form), a group of nobles who are already members of a temple – usually in a geographic Shrine Club – submit a petition to Shriners International through the International Development Commit tee. The petition must be signed by a minimum of 150 current nobles or Master Masons (prospective nobles), and be submit ted with a specific fee. After the dispensation is approved by the International Development Committee, the Dispensations and Charters Commit tee and the Jurisdictional Lines Committee, it’s presented to the voting Representa tives at Imperial Session and voted upon. If approved, the dispensation is granted. The temple has a list of several opera tional benchmarks, which include training in WebFez and the membership programs, setting a budget and stating their provisional Divan officers. As each of these benchmarks is met, they still need to be operating as a temple, and recruiting new Shriners.

What’s Next for A l Atfal Al Atfal Shriners is waiting for the approval during Imperial Session 2023 for membership in WSA (Western Shrine Association) and LASA (Latin America

Shrine Association). “We’re committed to continue working and learning with one sole purpose, the well-being of our children, said Dr. López. For Dr. López, it’s personal: “At 66 years of age, this is my life— family, Shrine kids and ranch life.”

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Yee-haw!

Learning is as Good as All Git-out THE 2023 MEMBERSHIP AND MARKETING CONFERENCE HELPS BUILD SKILLS AND FRIENDSHIPS

EVERYTHING IS BIGGER AND BETTER IN TEXAS, AS THE SAYING GOES , and this year was no different at the second annual Membership & Marketing Conference and Masters Class. Approximately 250 Shriners, spouses, members of Masonic and Ladies organizations attended this year’s event, held in February in Grapevine, Texas. Guests enjoyed presentations covering topics such as identifying common goals and process for temples, building a website for their temple from novice to pro, and the magic pill to membership. Spoiler alert — it’s relationships! There was also a course offered on a cost-effective path to public relations. A crowd favorite was this year’s keynote speaker, Cory Miller, who is a motivational speaker and former linebacker for the New York Giants. “He definitely energized the crowd. It was one of those moments where he discussed the impact of apathy and how you overcome apathy in your membership organization and how crucial it is to do so,” said Bryan Harrison, Chief Member ship Development Officer for Shriners International. Miller’s message resonated with attendees. “He encouraged us to get out and share what we are doing for the children and their families and to speak from the heart with passion,” said Todd Forschino, a member of Azan Shriners in Melbourne, Florida. Forschino said he traveled to the Lone Star State to learn about best practices and to network with others to improve Shriners membership and presence in the community. “I enjoyed the conversations had by many in our breakout sessions. I heard some great ideas, which helped address some of our challenges,” he said. Harrison said the feedback was “extremely positive.” “Members walked away energized about what can be, as opposed to what is and what has been,” he said. “With that energy they’re going back with specific tactics that they can

implement immediately as well as a better understanding of the theory of membership and the theory of marketing.” For their entertainment, fun and fellowship were had at Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth, known as the world’s largest Honkey Tonk, a historic venue where a number of famous country, blues and rock artists have performed, including Willie Nelson, BB King, Garth Brooks and Three Dog Night. Participants watched a cattle drive at the Fort Worth Stock yards, enjoyed an authentic BBQ dinner, explored Billy Bob’s and viewed a private bull-riding show. Harrison said the excur sion was a way of letting everyone enjoy a day of education and then decompress and have fun. “While we’re having fun, we can talk about what we learned, and then you build those relationships on an adult-learners level,” he said, noting that adults learn differently than children or college students do. “This creates a bond between members that will continue on long after the conference.” The biggest takeaway from the event for Forschino: “I enjoyed meeting Imperial Sir Kenny and JJ on my trip to Texas. I was very impressed with everyone I met at the Membership & Marketing Conference. We have a very important mission before us, and I am glad to be a part of it.”

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Resources Give Temples a Marketing Boost

REGIONAL MARKETING DIRECTORS AND A NEW TOOLKIT GIVE LOCAL CHAIRMEN A PLACE TO TURN

Shriners Children’s

Regional Marketing Directors (RMD) have a new weapon in their arsenal to help boost marketing efforts for temples in their region. LIKE THEIR COUNTERPARTS the Regional Membership Directors, Regional Marketing Directors serve as mentors and as someone the temple chairmen can turn to for help. Regional Marketing Directors can give advice regarding marketing and communications matters, acting as a liaison between the tem ples in the region and headquarters. Gary Fehl, a Shriner for 24 years and Regional Marketing and Communications Director (Midwest) for the Beja Shriners in Green Bay, Wisconsin, explains the importance of having a RMD at a temple’s disposal. “It’s invaluable to the temples in that they have ‘one of their own’ to talk to about issues they may be experiencing. If the RMD doesn’t have an immediate answer, he has a wealth of experience in his RMD network to pull from, as well as the head quarters staff,” he said. “Throughout my region, I continually offer my support and advice on best practices learned through my travels and com munications,” said Michael White, Regional Marketing and Communications Director (Northeast). “I encourage them to participate in the regional Facebook page sharing photos, sto ries and updates.” Noble White has served as the Public Relations Chairman for the Melha Shriners in Agawam, Massachusetts, since 2010 and as an RMD since 2015. A newly updated toolkit includes tips on managing social media assets, proclamations, best practices from some of Shriners’ award-winning websites, email marketing and digital resources and more. “The new toolkit is fantastic,” said White. “Providing this tool kit brings the needed guidance and focus on the who, what, how

Gary L. Fehl , Beja Shriners

Michael White , Melha Shriners

and why without taking away local freedom to express temple identity in a positive and productive way. The toolkit is straightforward, thorough and easy to use. Temple marketing and communications team mem bers can recognize quickly how to use the tools and make immediate changes. I anticipate that temples will find this resource extremely valuable.” White’s goals include getting his entire region to concentrate on sharing photos, ideas and success stories in the group. “It is invigorating to come up with the next big thing in marketing and communications, fundraising and membership development. But, until then, being able to learn and duplicate successful campaigns is a tre mendous step forward in the future of the fraternity,” he said. Fehl’s goal is “to get every marketing chairman/ committee member and Divan member to attend the annual Membership and Marketing Conference.” Having a stronger relationship with their RMD is still a concept temples are getting used to, but White said, “there is definitely a momentum towards this.”

Scan to see the committee list

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Lane Family Boasts Four Generations of Shriners

Leadership and Love for the Fraternity Runs in Their Blood

THE LANE FAMILY’S SHRINERS LEGACY EXTENDS FOUR GENERATIONS. The oldest generation is Eugene “Gene” Lane, 94. Then there’s his son, Don, 70, and Don’s son Jeff, 46. Representing the youngest generation is Jeff’s son Dakota, 19. All belong to El Katif Shriners in Spo kane, Washington. Many family fraternal legacies start when the younger generation has the oppor tunity to watch fathers, uncles and grandfathers put on their fez and attend meetings and events. But this is a legacy family with a twist: The lon gest-serving Shriner is not the oldest generation in the Lane family.

Don Lane was the first in his family to become a Shriner.

1996

Fraternal connection spans 74 years Gene Lane served in World War II aboard the aircraft carrier USS Shangri-La (CV 38). In 2017, he served as Commander for his temple’s Legion of Honor, and received honors at PNSA as the best LOH in the competition. Gene’s great-grandson Dakota grew up watching his family live the Shrine life. Though they are three-quarters of a century apart in age, Gene and Dakota are in close agreement about the important things in life. “Dakota’s goal was to become a Shriner like his dad, grandpa and great-grandpa,” Don said. Dakota earned his Eagle Scout Award in 2020, and he became a Mason and El Katif Shriner in 2021. Lanes represented in ladies group too The gentlemen aren’t the only Lanes who enjoy the fun and fellowship. Dakota’s sister Morgan joined the Daughters of the Nile in 2019. Morgan, 23, was a Shriners Children’s patient herself when she was younger. “I joined because I knew I could be another member who can help ensure that kids have access to Shriners Children’s,” she said. A legacy that keeps on giving As Shriners, the Lane family is dedicated to serving others. But they also gain a lot from being Shriners. “I find the whole fraternity to be a great thing for my family. I firmly credit the fraternity for my grandfather Gene still being alive,” said Jeff Lane. “He is probably more active daily than 95% of our other Shriners. My dad is now the Recorder for El Katif, and hopefully once Dakota is more established in life, he will become more active.” The family is well known for their tight bond and service to their temple. “Leadership and love for the Shrine runs in their blood,” said Imperial Sir Ed Stolze.

Don’s son Jeff Lane joined the fraternity next.

2012

Don’s father and Jeff’s grandfather, Gene Lane, joined the next year.

2013

Don’s grandson and Jeff’s son, Dakota Lane, followed in his family members’ footsteps, becoming a fourth generation Shriner.

2021

All four Lanes are active Shriners and Masons with a history of taking on leadership roles. “They are a family that is committed to each other and supporting each other and the commu nity,” said Noble Larry Tipton, who is Secretary of Pacific Northwest Shrine Association (PNSA) and has known the family for well over 20 years. Currently, Jeff is serving as Chief Rabban of El Katif and President of the Pacific Northwest Shrine Association. His father, a Past Potentate of Nile Shriners, is serving as Worshipful Master of Paul Revere Lodge #205. “Our legacy continues with my son being Wor shipful Master in 2018 – 2019 and 2021,” said Don. “My father became Worshipful Master in 2017. Jeff is currently serving as the Secretary for our Lodge, his son Dakota is serving as the Junior Deacon, and my father is serving as Junior Warden.”

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SHRINER MAGAZINE: PRIDE AND TRADITION

Sports Keep Nobles, Patients in the Game

SIGNATURE EVENTS THRILL SPECTATORS WHILE SUPPORTING THE PHILANTHROPY

The East-West Shrine Bowl , a 98-year-old annual college football all-star tradition, took place in February in Las Vegas, Nevada, as part of the NFL’s Pro Bowl Week. The game, which was broadcast live on NFL Network, has produced more than 500 NFL Pro Bowl appearances over the years. This year, a record number of 72 players were invited to this year's NFL Combine. With its tagline “More than just a game,” the East-West Shrine Bowl is also about recognizing Shriners Children’s patients and telling the story of the amazing care available at our healthcare system.

Attention all nobles! Get ready for great golf for a great cause at the Shriners Children's Open . This high-stakes tournament brings together top PGA TOUR golfers from around the world to compete for over $7 million in prizes, all in support of Shriners Children's. Patient ambassadors from around the

healthcare system will be there to act as standard-bearers, and our National Patient Ambassadors will represent the many children who have received Shriners Children’s life-changing care. But the Shriners Children's Open isn't just for golf enthusiasts – it's an opportunity for all of us to get involved and show our sup port for this incredible organization. Shriners across the country are encouraged to volunteer, attend the tournament, or organize watch parties to cheer on the golfers and help raise funds for our philanthropy.

The 23rd annual Shriners Children’s College Classic not only showcased top college baseball teams, but also pro vided a special experience for patients. Held in March at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas, the tournament drew a crowd of 34,243. All six schools hosted patients

on campus and had them serve as honorary team captains. Patients were

Patients had a dedicated VIP area near the end zone, where they were able to meet NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Kechi, a past Shriners Children’s patient and America’s Got Talent finalist, sang the national anthem, and patients were featured in the pregame run out video. For the first time ever, two NFL coaching staffs, the New England Patriots and the Atlanta Falcons, coached the players during the East-West Shrine Bowl as part of the Pro Bowl Games week. The coaches and players, who were impressed with the oppor tunity to learn about and support Shriners Children's, participated in a "Watch Me Chal lenge" media event, in which they underwent physical challenges similar to what Shriners Children’s patients face daily.

recognized on the field during games, had pre game interactions with the teams, and even threw the first pitch out at each game. Special moments included National Patient Ambassadors Parker and Katherine join ing the Astros fan and experience team and announcing each batter, and sports-journalist in-training Alec interviewing coaches. Kaden, the Texas Tech captain, and Adison, the Texas A&M captain, were invited to hang out with

the teams in the dugout on Sunday, a game that ended up running for 16 innings. The event raised funds for the philanthropy, including a donation of $130,000 from Karem Shriners, and Shriners volunteers were on hand to help out. Louisville was named the Tournament Champion, going 3-0 with wins over ranked opponents Texas A&M and TCU.

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shrinersinternational.org

P.O. Box 31356 Tampa, FL 33631-3356 813-281-0300 Change Service Requested

Get Into the Game! COME TO IMPERIAL SESSION IN CHARLOTTE

Imperial Sir Kenneth G. “Kenny” Craven and First Lady JJ Craven invite all nobles and their families to attend. With members from all over the world gathering to celebrate, this is an event you won't want to miss. Headlining the All Nobility Evening will be Joe Nichols, a coun try star who has earned multi-platinum success, three Grammy nominations, a CMA award and an ACM trophy. Shriner Ses sion favorites such as the Parade, Cornhole Tournament and Brewfest will also be on tap. Voting members will take care of important fraternal and healthcare system business, and everyone who attends will get to experience the thrill of competition and the joy of fellow ship. The Shriners Zone will feature exciting new games and activities. While you’re there, don’t miss the Member Center, where members can get a wealth of practical knowledge about the fraternity. Imperial Session is also a time to learn more about our phi lanthropy, Shriners Children’s, interact with this year’s National Patient Ambassadors Katherine and Parker, and get introduced to the incoming 2023-2024 National Patient Ambassadors.

WHEN July 2-6, 2023

WHERE

Charlotte, North Carolina Charlotte Convention Center

501 S. College Street Charlotte, NC 28202

To learn more, and to purchase tickets to the Joe Nichols concert or Ladies Luncheon, visit imperialsession.com or scan the QR code.