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The Mazol Connection

Summer Ceremonial Edition 2021

A Message from Ill Sir Gerald Budden

In my first article that was published in the Mazol Connection in April, we were certainly during a global covid pandemic. Now in July, we seem to be returning to a more normal way of living, and a strong desire to again experience fraternal and social interaction and to be reconnecting with family and friends. As I write this article, I am however reminded that in Canada we still experienced approx. 25,000 deaths, with over 3 million deaths worldwide, certainly an overwhelming tragic loss that affected so many families. Even now, we still must adhere to covid rules and regulations, and trust that as we move further into the weeks and days ahead that we continue to see steady improvements in dealing with covid concerns. We all need to be aware that Covid is still very much a serious health concern.

Unfortunately this pandemic, caused me and many other Potentates and Nobles across Canada and Internationally to miss Shriners Imperial Sessions in Houston, Texas which started the first weekend in July. I do trust however, that those who did have the opportunity to attend had an enjoyable time and that the sessions achieved results that will benefit our fraternity and philanthropy.
In this article I want to comment on the topic of membership. Although bigger membership numbers do not mean a stronger and more vibrant fraternity, they do cause us to question why is it that our membership continues to decline. We must ask ourselves, what caused the member to leave, did we do enough to prevent it, or are we in fact the cause that contributed to their leaving.

Looking back at some of the historical membership statistics, you may be interested in knowing that the Shrine enjoyed positive gains in membership from its creation for 44 years until the late 1920’s and 30’s, and these declines were mostly a result of the financial depression that affected so many people at that particular time. The Shrine then again in the early 40’s had tremendous growth until 1978 when it’s membership stood just shy of 1 million members. However, since 1979 we have suffered a loss of approximately 700,000 members. Even here at Mazol, we have had a declining membership these past number of years, with far too many resignations and suspensions. With an aging membership, this should be a cause for concern.

The question now and should have been for awhile, what can we do to reverse this membership decline. I am quite familiar with the statements that always confronts us, such as, all organizations are facing the same situation, look at the church, their numbers are down, nobody goes to church like they used to. Young people are just not interested. Young people have families and work responsibilities and have no time for other activities. I looked at our membership list, 80% of our membership are senior citizens. Some of our members have 40 and even 50 and more years of service, why do they stay, and others leave? If we continue at this present decline, where will we get divan officers, club presidents, executives, those who want to take on leadership roles and responsibilities in the future. Nobles we must address this situation.

At Mazol for several years, we had very little problem in finding those who wanted to be an officer. We had little problems in finding those who would accept ceremonial and other appointments. Our loss of membership was a result of the black camel, not resignations and suspensions. As Shriners and Mazol members, we must take a very serious look at where we are going to be in the next five to ten years.
It has been said that the dinosaur went extinct because of nature and as creatures that could not think, plan, or react to change, they could not adapt to the new environment that surrounded them. Will we suffer the same fate, or can we adapt to change? Can we put aside petty arguments, recognizing our own faults and short comings, and correcting them if need be and move forward in the spirit of unity and cooperation.

Although attracting new members is a challenge, we have failed far too many times in retaining the members that we already had. Far too many times members have left and little effort was given to find the reason why. These Nobles were part of our family, and we failed to personally reach out to inquire why. Several years ago, I attended a special meeting in the USA. A particular lodge had a 1 to 3 year waiting list for those seeking to join. The year I attended, there were no suspensions, demits, or resignations the previous year. It took a minimum of two years to get the Master Masons degree, you were expected to earn it. The dues were $1.00 a day, $365.00 for the year. They felt their lodge was certainly worth $1.00 a day. They had a strong mentorship program, and it was necessary to personally know all those who belonged to the Lodge by their first name, their wives and children and their occupations and interests. You could certainly feel the pride of belonging to that lodge. We need to feel that pride of being a member of Mazol a pride of wearing a Mazol fez.

In conclusion, I would ask the following ten questions, that may affect membership or your personal observations of Mazol:
1. Is there peace and harmony within Mazol?
2. Are we guided by the lessons learned in freemasonry?
3. Does Mazol make you proud to be a member?
4. Do you feel comfortable in sponsoring a mason to be a member?
5. Do you feel comfortable inviting your family, friends, and others to events?
6. Is there pride in the community because we exist as a society?
7. Does the community know we exist and what we do?
8. What measures do you personally take to support shrine activities?
9. Are you a worthy ambassador of Mazol and Shrine?
10. Have you or are you considering a leadership role in Mazol, if not why?
If you feel that you want to reach out to me or any member of the divan, please feel free to do so. If you feel that you have ideas or suggestions regarding membership concerns, or other concerns I would welcome your input.
Let us keep Mazol strong, dignified, sociable, and highly respected in the community, in the Masonic fraternity and throughout Shriners International.
YITF
Gerald (Gerry) W. Budden
Potentate 2021

Divan Visit
The Boot Shrine Club

Stated Meeting in Burin
Ill Sir Gerry Budden and Recorder Bill Smith relaxing with Noble Shane and Lady Vivian
Cheque presentation to the Potentate 
Boot Shrine Club Ladies present quilt to Lady Christine
Lady Christine and the Boot Shrine Ladies

Chief Rabban Report William Radford

 
So Chief Rabban’s Report, where do I start? Actually, there is a lot to tell.
Really, I need to go back to 2020 and the Assistant Rabban’s Seminar. This of course was held in Tampa in March of 2020. This is a very worthwhile seminar. Both the Oriental Guide and Assistant Rabban Seminars are very helpful and each different from the other. Leadership of the Temples is changing. There is an emphasis on modeling the Divan as a Board of Directors. In fact, I have noticed there is a greater use of the term Board of Directors than Divan at the Temple and Imperial level. You may wonder why this is significant? It is to emphasize that the Shrine is moving away from a top/down model of governance. Now every member of the Divan or Board of Directors  has an equal voice with an equal opportunity to give input. Everyone has a vote of equal value. When the democratic process is complete, all are expected to accept the decision and put every effort into making the outcome successful.
2020 and the first half of 2021 was very difficult, as we all know. Your Divan met frequently to seamlessly carry on the work of the Shrine. We were unable to complete Club visits as well as visits to other Temples. The Imperial was cancelled.
The first part of 2021 is not much different. Most Canadian attendees chose not to attend Imperial. As a board member of the Canadian Association of Shrine Temples (CAST), I can advise you, we tried to get accommodations for Canadians to have input but we were not successful. Major changes to Shrine law would have been necessary.
Things are opening up as many of us get our second shot.
The Summer Ceremonial is going ahead July 24th., we still have to follow some Covid 19 protocols. We can now have 75 % of capacity or 150. Music is permitted. For those of us who have many years in the Shrine, we recall the days when the Summer Ceremonial was widely attended and a wonderful opportunity to meet up with old friends and friends you had not yet met. 
During the Fall we are trying to have our traditional Potentate’s Visits to the clubs. Everyone is welcome on these. Nobles why not take your Lady to a hotel for the weekend, God knows she deserves to see some great people, after having to spend so many days at home with a limited number of faces. (No offence intended). Many of the visits, are in one location on Friday and in another for Saturday. They are lots of laughs & lots of fun. You will make life long friendships from all parts of NL. And yes, I do mean Labrador as well. We are hoping to do it.
Another note for your 2021 Calendar, is September 30 to October 2, Tunis Shrine is hosting the Northeast Shrine Association Fall Field days in Gananoque, ON. Contact the Recorder or myself for more details. Borders to the Provinces are open and hopefully the US as well. Gananoque is a beautiful place that time of year. We have a few extra rooms available but you must act fast.
 From speaking to my counterparts from the NSA they are expecting many of their members will be even more anxious to travel and party by then.
Speaking of parties, I want to give you a long-term heads-up. We have some very significant milestones approaching. In 2022 it is the 150th Anniversary of the Shrine, the 100th Anniversary of the Hospitals and the 40th Anniversary of Mazol receiving its charter. There are multiple parties in the planning stages. Also, for those of you who book your trip south after the Christmas season, why not wait until after the 2022 Mazol Installation? Chief Rabban’s night is booked for January 7 with the Installation on the 8th of January 2022. So, book your southern departure after that weekend. You won’t be sorry. If you are from outside Metro, book to leave from St. John’s.
The second quarter Stated meeting is scheduled for April 16 to coincide with National Volunteer Week. Location to be determined.
Imperial for 2022 will be in Minneapolis July 3-7 with two significant anniversaries a great time is expected with many activities planned around family with children’s activities as well. Here’s an idea for the start or finish to a family vacation.
The Summer Ceremonial in 2022 is booked for July 29-31. There will be a “Family” component to this as well.
Yes, there is a theme here… “Family, Fun and You in ‘22”
On behalf of Lady Beverley and myself, we hope to you see you at the Summer Ceremonial or one of the Club visits scheduled this year.
Please keep safe and practice; “We’re back!”
 
Noble William Radford – Chief Rabban and Lady Beverley
 
YITF
Bill
SUMMER CEMONIAL JULY 24 TH
Stated Meeting & Banquet
Mazol Shrine Centre on
July 24th
Ladies Luncheon
July 24 @ 1 pm
at Lester's Farm Chalet


FRANK'S WALK for
SHRINERS HOSPITAL FUNDRAISING

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Where’s Frank - Walking for Children -
An inspiration to us all! 
Hooray! This week Frank reached Regina completing his 260 km walk from Saskatoon raising funds for Jim Pattison Children's Hospital Foundation and Shriners Hospitals for Children - Canada! Throughout his walk, Frank inspired children and seniors from across Canada and around the world. He was greeted by a cheerful Shrine Parade put on by the WA WA Shriners and patients from both hospitals. Premier Scott Moe joined the celebration recognizing Frank's efforts and wishing him a happy 95th Birthday. Celebrations also included a very special moment when Frank received his 50-year pin as a Shriner. As donations are still coming in, the committee will announce final fundraising results in a few weeks. Stay tuned!
Online donations:
All other donations directed to WA WA Shriners:

 MEET OUR LITTLE MAN OLIVER !
“Meet little Oliver. He’s 5 months old and became a Shrine patient earlier this year."
Oliver is from Traytown. He was born with Clubfeet, also known as talipes equinovarus (TEV). It is a common foot abnormality, in which the foot points downward and inward. The condition is present at birth, and involves the foot and lower leg. In June he travelled to the Montreal Hospital along with his mother Stephanie He spent 8 weeks there and underwent many surgeries. This was the start of Oliver’s journey with Mazol. In the months and years ahead our Hospital staff will monitor his progress and provide the necessary treatment for his condition. We expect that Oliver will fully recover from his present condition, become an energetic child; and be another success story for Shriners Hospitals.

The Hospital Report 
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SpineScreen
Download SpineScreen and check your child’s spine for possible signs of scoliosis.
Developed by the orthopaedic specialists at Shriners Hospitals for Children®, SpineScreen gives parents a quick, informal way to regularly monitor their child’s spine. And, it’s easy to use! Simply move your smartphone along your child’s spine and SpineScreen detects any abnormal curves.
Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that can restrict movement and in some cases lead to other serious medical conditions. It is most commonly diagnosed between 10 and 15 years of age, when children grow Because there is often no known cause, monitoring for scoliosis is an important part of a child’s ongoing healthcare. Shriners Hospitals encourages parents to download the free SpineScreen app and check kids annually.
With the SpineScreen app, you can:
I. Learn the signs of scoliosis and treatment options available.
II. Perform a preliminary spine check on your child at home.
III. Schedule calendar reminders for annual screenings.

If you have immediate concerns about your child’s spine or other possible medical conditions, please consult your healthcare provider. For more information on scoliosis screenings, treatment options and to download the app, please visit shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/scoliosis.

Harold Duffett Shriners RV Park


ILL Sir John Brake PP and Chair Mazol Charitable Trust Board, and I met with members of the H W Duffett R V Park board on Saturday June 26, 2021 at the park rec center. The meeting was primarily an opportunity to check in with park management team to see how the season is going to this point given we are still operating under Gov Covid protocols. 
In summary the park is on track to meet or exceed budgeted oppucancy targets for 2021. 
Planning is also proceeding on a project to install site electrical metering for introduction in the 2022 season. 
The visit also provided an opportunity to present Noble George Joseph with a certificate and Treasurer Emeritus fez strip in recognition of his outstanding service as Treasurer for the park board since the park began operations under Mazol. 

The pic included is the presentation on Saturday. Shown are (left to right) Noble Dave Reeves, III Sir John Brake, Noble George Joseph, Noble Kevin Butt President RV Park Board and Noble Roger MacDonald.

III Sir Rolly Card PP
Secretary, Charitable Trust Board

Happy Canada Day !

The Lewisporte Shrine Club & The Harold Duffett RV Park


Helping Hands !
Brothers from Saint John’s Lodge No. 1 believe that Community engagement is a big part of being a Mason. On June 5th they rolled up their sleeves and did a great job cleaning up the grounds of the Shrine Centre. A big Thank-You goes out to Saint John’s Lodge No. 1 for going above and beyond in their dedication to Community service and exemplifying the tenets of Freemasonry. 
Reading heartwarming notes like these sure do make your day! To all of the "men behind the mission" (and their Ladies ) who help support each and every Shriners kid !
Thank you for sharing Noble Robert Adams .
Shriner's Children's Florida
The Gander S.C. Community Charities Inc. / Gander Co-op 50/50 Committee made a generous donation today of $30,000 towards the purchase of a new Wheelchair Accessible Bus for our long term care residents at Lakeside Homes. Thank you to everyone that supported the Gander Co-op 50/50 as it has made a real difference in the lives of our long term care residents. Thank you!!!!

#HAPPY FEZ FRIDAY!

Starting in August we will be adding a new weekly feature to our Facebook .#Fezfriday will showcase our nobles, our clubs and their events , but we need your input to make it a success.
Please email Karen at office@mazolshriners.com your pics with a brief description. Thank you!
Happy Fez Friday !


Shriners Awareness Day June 6th, 2021

Mazol Shriners
Celebrating at
Confederation Building
St John's 
The Boot Shrine
Celebrating In Burin
June 6 was a special day for Shriners everywhere. International Awareness Day celebrates the founding of the original governing body of the Shriner’s fraternity in 1876 in New York City; as well as the many good things Shriners do in support of our young patients globally.

Mazol has been active in Newfoundland and Labrador since --------, and continues to stand out across Canada in its support of Shriners Hospitals for Children. During the week of June 6th., the Shrine Flag was flown in St. John’s at the Confederation Building, as well as in Burin and Happy Valley Goose Bay.
Here are a few pictures from these locations:

Lake Melville Shrine Club
Happy Valley Goose Bay
Celebrates
Shrine Awareness Day !


Shriners International Day June 6th 2021
The Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services
Proclamation
Shriners Awareness Day
June 6th,2021
Did you know you can request a matching gift from your employer? That means you can make a donation today and your employer may match that amount with a donation of their own, doubling the impact of your generosity. To see if your gift is eligible for an employer match visit lovetotherescue.org/matching-gifts
I thought I share ! lol

From The Mazol Connection Editorial Team

This is the second edition of The Mazol Connection. Many thanks to all those who have contributed, and continue to so, with their articles and photographs. The Connection is an invaluable communication tool which is dedicated to spreading the good word on Shrine events and activities, throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. I cannot overemphasize the opportunity presented by the Connection for our Clubs to promote their respective Regional happenings. Thank-you to the Clubs who have shared their latest news with us. Over time I would urge the Executives from all Clubs, if you have not already done so, to identify a Noble to be responsible for inputting material to the Connection. After all, we never have enough new pictures of Shriners having fun. As we now start to see some light at the end of the Covid Tunnel, there will undoubtedly be newsworthy events and activities that will be worth sharing with your fellow Nobles throughout the Province.

This issue of The Mazol Connection is our Summer Ceremonial edition. Please note the scheduled events and consider attending. After being restricted in our level of activities for so long, the opportunity is now here to join Illustrious Sir Gerry Budden, Lady Christine, and your fellow Nobles and Ladies at this much anticipated annual Mazol weekend. We look forward to seeing you in St. John’s on July 24th.

The Lewisporte Shrine Club

NEW SIGNAGE !
Appropriate signage on the MSC has been the subject of much discussion over the years. As of mid July the old signage has now been replaced with identification that better reflects the present structure of the Temple and it’s member Clubs.
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Northeast Shrine Association's Fall Field Days October 1-3
Mark your calendars for the Northeast Shrine Association’s Fall Field Days, scheduled for October 1-3 in Gananoque, Ontario. (www.gananoque.ca), hosted by Tunis Shriners. Further details will follow under separate email once accommodation options and event schedules are finalized. Stay tuned!

The Town of Gananoque is located quite conveniently on the Highway 401 corridor and centrally located between urban centres such as Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa and Syracuse, New York. It’s merely minutes away from the US border.
We have 1000 reasons why you should come for a visit.