A Rewarding Experience

My Brother Nobles and Ladies,
Honored and humble are words that come to mind when I think about what it is like to be chosen
to be your 112th Potentate of Ansar Shrine. But two just don’t seem to do it justice, so I am going
to add a few more, privileged, deeply grateful and blessed. I am all these things today as I write
this message.

All of this would not have been possible had it not been for some very special people in my life.
My First Lady Amy stands beside me and encourages me every step of the way through this
journey. My family, who have been extremely understanding, have looked at my calendar to
plan weddings and birthday parties. Then there was Noble Dave Reynolds. Dave was not only a
mentor in the world of heavy machinery, but he was also The Master Mason and Shriner who
introduced me to Ansar. An introduction that set me on this journey and I know as I am sitting
here writing this, he is right here with me again.

We have a great year planned for Ansar in 2026. We are going to try some new fundraisers like
‘A Shriners Off Road Jamboree’ for my redneck friends. Then we are going to the other end of
the spectrum with the Shriner Oyster & Beer Festival. Of course, we will still be holding our
staple of fundraisers with the 8th Annual Sportsman Raffle and 79th Annual Shrine Circus. Lady
Amy and I are also planning two Pote’s trips, a long weekend getaway to the Current River and a
trip to Pasadena to help decorate the Shriners International Rose Bowl Float and attend the
parade. The back of this calendar book contains more details.

As some might remember, I spent a few years on the Divan as Membership Chairman, so
Membership will be a focus. I have entrusted this job in 2026 to Co-Chairmen, Jason White and
Rabbi Rob Thomas. They will be working hard to build our membership to new heights. There
will be two Ceremonials at the Temple, a spring ceremonial on April 11th featuring a bus trip to
the St. Louis Hospital, and something very special is being planned for the fall ceremonial. The
Divan and Ceremonial Cast understand the importance of growing membership. Please
communicate to Jason, Rabbi Rob or me when you have Master Masons in waiting to join our
fraternity, we will consider all options to get them started on the greatest journey available to
man.

I have chosen a powerful theme for 2026 “Moving Mountains for Shrine Kids.” Our intentions
must be strong; our mission must be focused and be brotherhood driven. Each Noble plays a role
in our success as a mountain mover for Shrine Kids.