• Information• Education• Membership• Retention

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The Voice of LuLu

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WOW! 2012 and here I am,the 77th Potentate of LuLuShriners. It’s been quite ajourney getting here. Lotsof ups and a few downsalong the way, but a worth-while trip none the less.

In order to publish theFez in a timely manner, thedeadline to submit this article pre-exists some veryimportant events. Conse-quently, I cannot tell youhow successful these eventswere. I can tell you however,that I am looking forward and hopingfor great turnouts and an abundanceof fun at Club & Unit Installation onJanuary 7th and New Year’s Eve.

I have a number of goals to beachieved during my term. I will justtouch on the top two for the moment.The first is to increase membership.I cannot emphasize strongly enoughthat without expanding our member-ship we will most certainly cease toexist. The second goal is to improveretention. We must encourage thoseNobles who have become inactive tofind purpose in returning to LuLu.Help me get them and their ladiesout to some of our functions and Iam sure we can get them back. LadyEmily and I have worked hard tocreate some new and innovativeevents while trying to scale downcosts. We sincerely hope that you willjoin us in successfully meeting thesevery important goals. Both in my police

career and the many yearsI was active in sports; Ifound teamwork was the‘Key’ to success. If youthink about it, you will findthat success is usually onlya step away. Together wewill each take one step at atime; together our smallsteps add up. We’ve allheard it said “A journey of athousand miles must beginwith a single step”. I amimploring each and everyNoble to visit his Blue

Lodge and talk up the Shrine, andeach Lady who belongs to EasternStar and Amaranth to spread theword. Lay the stepping stones fromMason to Shriner. Remember, steppingstones are opportunities. The step-ping stone can and should lead toLuLu. Our nobility can attest to this,our work ethic confirms this andwith your help our vision to rebuilda strong member base will succeed.

I am asking you to join our“squad”. “Stakeout opportunities torecruit” new members persuade inactive members to return and support LuLu activities and events.“Take aim and shoot straight”. Together we can increase the nobilityand move forward. In order to “apprehend” persons of interest andthereby achieve our goals we must“patrol” together in promotingShrinedom. Substantial benefits canbe derived not only by attending,

“BUZZ FROM THE FUZZ”

Illustrious SirEd CervonkaPotentate 2012

JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2012

BIG THINGS INSTORE FORLULU SHRINERSIN 2012…Come Be Part of It!Our goal in 2012 is to improvecommunication, programming,and value as a member of theMasonic order.

• NEW Marketing Committee• NEW Website• NEW Social Media Channels• NEW Sources of News• NEW Programming

Read the article on page 3 for more information and learnhow to get involved!

(continued on page 3)

COMING FEBRUARY 1:Our Online Presence

Gets A MAJOR Face Lift!

NEW WEBSITE:www.lulushriners.org

NEW FACEBOOK PAGE:facebook.com/LuLuShrineNEW TWITTER ACCOUNT:twitter.com/LuLuShrine

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We are about to start a newShrine year withnew officers andnew ideas. It isalways an excit-ing time as a newPotentate with a new agendatakes office.

Our AnnualUnit & Club in-stallation of offi-cers will be held

on January 7th. Please plan to attendand support your Unit & Club officersfor 2012. Contact Noble MichaelChaykowski for information andreservations at 215-752-8020.

This year’s Potentate’s Ball willbe on April 14th. Mark the date onyour calendar and all the details willbe released shortly.

Imperial Session this year will beheld in Charlotte, NC. Our PotentateEd has reserved absolutely first classaccommodations Downtown near

Headquarters and the NASCAR Hallof Fame.

We will once again have our usualCircus, Rodeo, Haunted House andother fundraising activities that weall enjoy.

In addition we will have the annualFamily Picnic, Pasta Night, LobsterNight, Comedy Night Show, IrishConcert Night, Las Vegas Trip, MurderMystery Night, Ocean City Weekendand MASA in VA. Beach, just to namea few events.

LuLu has something for everyone.Please bring your family and friendsto these events and you will reallyenjoy your membership in the Shrine.If you are not a member of a Unit orClub, please consider joining oneand get involved . You will definitelybe glad once you join your fellow Nobles and all that membership hasto offer.

Any questions on anything pertain-ing to the Shrine and your member-ship please call me in the Recorder’sOffice 610-828-9050.

Recorder’s RemarksCONTENTS

FFEZFEZTheATTENTION LADIES!We would like to publishmore stories and news itemsfrom your organizations.Please send your informa-tion electronically with“LuLu Fez” as the subject to:homer@homer group.com

The official bi-monthly publication of the LuLu Shriners.

Business Manager: Harry L. Reiter5140 Butler Pike

Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462Business Phone: 610-828-9050Website: www.lulushriners.org

Editor: Bernie Homer2605 Egypt Rd.,Trooper, PA 19403

Business Phone: 610-539-8400

All articles must be submittedelectronically to

homer@homergroup.com withthe subject “LULU FEZ”

We would like to thank everyone whohas submitted articles and photos.

NEXT DEADLINE:FEBRUARY 1, 2012All articles not submitted elec-tronically may not be published assubmitted due to possible errorsthat may occur during translation.

UPCOMING DEADLINES:MAR/APR . . . . . . FEB 1, 2012MAY/JUN . . . . . . APR 1, 2012

Visit our Website oftento stay informed of the latest news and events:www.lulushriners.org

Harry L. Reiter P.P.Recorder

Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . 4

An Open Letter to All Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Masonic Breakfast. . . . . . . . . . . 5

Bucks County Shrine Club . . . . 6

Quaker City/MontgomeryCounty Shrine Club. . . . . . . . . . 6

National Women’s HistoryMonth Celebration . . . . . . . . . . 7

Yacht Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

Mason on Horseback . . . . . . . 10

MASA, Virginia Beach. . . . . . . 10

Las Vegas Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Events Open to the Public . . . 13

Won’t You Join Us?. . . . . . . . . 14

138th Imperial Session . . . . . . 15

Photos of LuLu Events. . . . 16-17

Oriental Band Events . . . . . . . 18

The History of the Shrine andLuLu – The Oriental Band . . . . 19

Letter from Harry Snyder . . . . 20

LuLu Paper Crusade . . . . . . . . 21

Oskar R. Huber . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

LuLu Mounted Guard . . . . . . . 22

Legion of Honor . . . . . . . . 23-24

News from Shriners Hospitals for Children – Jessica Walsh . . 25

Shrine Hospital Donations . . . 26

LuLu’s Motor Unit . . . . . . . . . . 27

Band Banter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Meet Lance Wiseman . . . . . . . 29

What is the Purpose for My Life in 2012? . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Shriners Hospital Broadway Benefit Concert Highlights . . . 31

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LuLu Shrine Now Forming Marketing Committee —Commitment to Promotionand Communication in 2012In an effort to improve communication within our current brotherhood,attract new brothers to the Masonic order, and boost attendance at ourprograms and events, we are forming a new Marketing Committee.

Spearheaded by Bernie Homer, Editor of The Fez, and Kevin Homer, Director of Marketing and Business Development at The Homer Group,the newly formed marketing committee will consist of both internalmembers and external volunteers. The committee will be responsible forthe promotion of Lu Lu Shriners to both current and potential members.

Responsibilities could include:

• Maintaining our NEW website(no programming knowledge necessary!)

• Monitoring our NEW Facebook page and Twitter account

• Event planning

• Event “reporters” (writing brief event recaps and taking pictures)

• Managing events calendar and promotions

• Selling ad space in The Fez, on our website, andthrough social media channels

If you’d like to be involved in joining the Marketing Committee tostrengthen and grow our brotherhood, please contact:

Bernie Homer at 610-539-8400 or homer@homergroup.com

We Reach Out…We want to hear about Nobles and/or their Ladies that reach out.When you read the newspapers or listen to the radio or televisionall you hear about are horrible happenings. The Fez wants to tellyou about folks who reach out to others. When you reach out tohelp others, that is what being a Shriner is all about.

Be proud to be a LuLu Shriner because “WE REACH OUT”

but by advertising and promotingevents at LuLu. Tell your friends,family, acquaintances and anyonewho will listen about our events andfundraisers.

The following are just a few:

• January 28th – Masonic Breakfast

• March 11th – National Women’sHistory Month Celebration

• March 25th – Brunch with theEaster Bunny

• April 14th – Potentate’s Ball

• April 29th – Irish Concert

• April 30th to May 5th – Potentate’s Trip to Las Vegas

• May 18th to 20th – LuLu Circus

• June 1st to 3rd – Ocean CityFamily Weekend

• June 23rd – Murder MysteryDinner Theater

• July 1st to 5th – Imperial Sessions, Charlotte, N.C.

More information will be avail-able in future bulletins. Keep cur-rent on these events. Read the Fez,watch for flyers, check out our website (www.lulushriners.org), or callthe office. My door is always open ifyou have any issues or just want to‘shoot’ the breeze.

Stand strong with us and watchLuLu grow and prosper.

10-4 over & out.

“Buzz from the Fuzz”(continued from page 1)

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CALENDAR OFEVENTS An Open Letter to All Members

Having just returned from an Imperial Membership seminar, themain thrust of the seminar was that every Shrine Center mustcommit to provide an action plan with goals and follow-up. Thecommitment for increasing membership is based on our currentmembership of 1900 members. Imperial is asking that we recruit5% or 95 new members, restore previously suspended membersplus 2% or 38 suspended members, and not lose more than 2% or 38 members due to suspensions.

This task as you know is not a one or two person job. The reasonthat this letter is being published in the FEZ is that you the current members of LuLu are being asked to help. In any case, themembership team and Ill Sir Ed Cervonka need your commitmentthat the membership goals he put together can be achieved.

Units and Clubs we are asking you provide the Ill. Sir with a listfour volunteers that would be willing to help meet these goal.Each Unit/Club should have a person to help with Recruitment,Retention, Restoration and Mentoring. The only requirement forthe position is good telephone and communication skills.

A number of years ago we started an Ambassador group of Nobles that were active in their Masonic Lodges. The goal ofthis group was to inform their Lodge members of what was happening at LuLu Temple on a monthly basis. In order to continue with this program I would like to have a member fromeach Lodge either call or email me with their name, the name oftheir Lodge and an email address so information can be sent outto them on a timely basis. After this month we will publish theLodge and Ambassadors name. There are 77 Lodges in LuLu’soasis; it would be nice to have a Noble from each Lodge.

Membership is everyone’s responsibility. Without it, we will nothave a LuLu Shriners fraternity.

There is a membership meeting on February 29th at 7:30 p.m.in the Merrymac Room. Please plan to attend or have a Noblerepresenting your Unit/Club.

Yours in the Faith,

Len BrownsteinMembership Chairman

January 4thBusiness Meeting &

Divan InstallationJanuary 7th

Club & Unit InstallationJanuary 8th

QCSC InstallationLegion of Honor –

Change of CommandJanuary 10th

Yacht Club InstallationJanuary 14th & 15thBead & Jewelry Show

January 15thNESC Installation Brunch

January 28thMasonic Breakfast

February 18thPasta Dinner

March 3rd & 4thAntique Arms Show

March 25thBreakfast with the BunnyMarch 31st & April 1stMineral & Fossil Show

April 14thPotentates Ball

April 20thMASA in Long Island, NY

April 29thIrish Concert

April 30th to May 5thLas Vegas Trip

June 23rdMurder Mystery

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BUCKS COUNTY SHRINE CLUB

By Matt Hallowell, President

The Ladies Night/Holiday dinner in November was a “Happy Night”. We all had a great time at Twining Hallin a beautiful setting, eating and dancing the night away.

Our stated meetings are on the 1st Tuesday of the month and open to all nobles and their ladies. If you wouldlike come out and have a fun night please call 215-443-8492 for your reservation and dinner choice.

Nobles it’s that time of the year again when the Bucks County Float Committee begins the selling of theirFruit and Nut Fund Raising. Each year these sales help keep our float afloat. Your support is greatly appreciated.We are taking orders for Bucks Float committee Nuts sale fund raiser call Matt Hallowell 215-918-041 and Ill Sir Roy Knauth 215-355-3796. Last year we had a number of members use these items as Holiday Gifts. But Please Get Your Order in Early. Again thank you for your support.

Buck County’s Float was in the Mayfair parade. This was a great weather day for a parade and viewer turnoutto cheer us on. We had a crew of 10 for the parade. Thank you very much crew. And a special thank you, toBob Gold, High Priest and Prophet for driving the float truck in the parade.

QUAKER CITY/MONTGOMERY COUNTY SHRINE CLUB

Good Friends, Good Food, and Great Time!By Michael S. Feldsher, Recording Secretary

Good friends, good food, and a great time simply explains what the Quaker City Shrine Club is all about. Ifyou ever happen to be free on the first Thursday of every month then stop in and see what we are about. TheQuaker City Shrine Club meets at restaurants located throughout the Philadelphia Area, also in Bucks and Mont-gomery Counties.

One of the main goals of the Quaker City Shrine Club is not only to make the Shriner happy but also hisspouse. Our meetings are couples friendly and you are encouraged to bring your significant other. Some of theinteresting programs that we have planned for 2012 are reactors of Julia Child and Betsy Ross, how to preventIdentify theft, Hollywood vision of an American cowboy and name that tune. Just a few restaurants where wewill be holding our meetings are the Famous Dave’s BBQ restaurant, The Savoy at Colleens and Cottage Green.

We have a simple and easy way to join our club. Just show up and complete a very simple petition and yourfirst year’s due are on the house. For more information please contact the President of the Quaker City ShrineClub Noble Barry Oppenhiem by calling him at (215)313-2092 or emailing him at varnishdoc@gmail.com.

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Happy End of 2011 Yacht Club CruisesBy Capn Bilgepump

Well, the boats are put away, theelectronic stuff has been removed todry storage and boat owners areawaiting the fall round of boatshows. Funny how boats take overour thinking machine to preparenext years renovations, equipmentpurchases and trips. Boat owners really are slaves to their crafts. Eventheir status in social life is affected bythe length of their craft. Friends expect explanation for a decision to

go from a 50' cruiser to one of 38'. Itworks the other way, too.You areperceived as advancing in the financialworld when your boat dimensionsare noticeably increased. Purchasingexpensive do-dads does the samething. “Hey, what model swat modifieris that? Will it prevent electronic influence with the flushing of thehead.” Somehow your monetary ratingmust be maintained. We have to be asbetter as we can.

Another peculiar thing about boat-ing is saying it is too expensive to own.

The fuel is the only thing that can becontrolled. Dockage, deterioration andobsolescence go on whether the boatis moved or not. Just cut down a littleon cruising but don’t give up the ship.

Must mention how some yachtclubs are doing. Some not so well.One has given up their Commos ballbecause of withering interest and theprice of tickets. Bad sign. Here are acouple suggestions for personally reducing the cost of membership.First, reduce attendance to some meet-ings so you can attend the significant

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ones. Do not affect your support of clubactivities. The officers of the club mustmake the meetings relevant. It is ayacht club. Don’t bring in a speakerabout candle making to a unit of antique automobile collectors. Theofficers must split the membershiplist and call the errant ones. Thereare low cost services that do this.They simply call the membershipwith whatever message you provide.The service is cheap. My Masonic unitdoes it.

Face facts. This yacht club pats itself on the back when forty peopleshow up at a monthly dinner meeting.Childhood math says otherwise. Halfof the attendees are women. Thismeans only half are Shriners. It alsomeans that only 16% of our 120members are there.

Start and pursure a goal of atleast 50% rotating active membership.It can be done. Dial-A-Prayer won’twork. You must attend our affairs,pay your dues and keep both oars inthe water.

P.C. Phil Walter, P.C. Bill Pugliese, V.C. Dave Marks, R.C. Dan Rose, and P.C. Erv Kaucher, new Commodore of MAASYC

Ben Baird andLady Sally present anaward to V.C.Dave Marksfor the LuLuYacht Clubwho won first placemarching inthe parade

ERV Kaucher installed as Commodore of MAASYC by the Illus. Sir Ben Baird

MASA, VIRGINIA BEACH

Mason onHorsebackAmericans have always lovedtheir cowboys. The cinemaheroes have etched an indeli-ble niche in our hearts. Thecowboys were the good guyswho stood for good andfought against evil. All couldcount on the good guys, intheir white hats, to come totheir rescue.

I’d like to list a few that youmay remember. They all hadone thing in common, theywere all Shrine Masons: GeneAutry, Roy Rogers, Tom Mix,Glenn Ford, Tex Ritter andBuck Jones, Smiley Burnett,Johnny Mack Brown, TimMcCoy and many more. Infact, in the over 150 cinemacowboys, more than twothirds were masons.

I have pulled your plows tofeed your families. I have carried your flag in parades tocelebrate your independence.I have run with all my heart to carry you to victory. I haveshown you the world frommy back. You are Americaand I am your horse.

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Contact the Shrine for additional information.

Business Manager: Harry L. Reiter5140 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462

610-828-9050

SHRINE HALL RENTAL

Are You Looking for a Place to Hold a

Show or Party in the Near Future?

SALES EVENTS • SHOWS • WEDDINGSFAMILY REUNIONS • CHRISTENINGS

BIRTHDAY PARTIES • GRADUATIONS • HOLIDAYCELEBRATIONS • RETIREMENT PARTIES

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The Pennsylvania Antique Gun Collectors Association, anon-profit organization for people interested in the study,collection and trade of museum quality investment gradefirearms, edged weapons and accoutrements made prior to1898, is coming to the LuLu Shrine Center. The association,formed in Southeastern Pennsylvania in 1940, is believed tobe the last remaining organization in the country restrictedsolely to the sale and trade of items produced prior to 1898that is open to the public. Some quality contemporaryitems are allowed but must be identified as contemporary.The club was incorporated in 1955 and consists of knowl-edgeable collectors and dealers from across the UnitedStates and Canada.

Two day shows, open to the public for an entrance fee of$7, will be held at the LuLu Shrine Center March 3-4, 2012and November 3-4, 2012, persons under 18 years of age

will be admitted free with an adult. Each show will boastapproximately 150 tables of material for display, sale or trade.

This club has the distinction of being the first active antiquegun collectors club in the eastern United States having heldits first two day show at the Hotel Valley Forge in NorristownPa. March 9-10, 1957. In June 5-7, 1998 the PennsylvaniaAntique Arms Collectors Association sponsored an award-winning booth at the Annual National Rifle Association’sConvention in Philadelphia featuring Flintlock and percus-sion muzzle-loading arms made in Philadelphia.

Shrine members and their friends are encouraged to attendto examine the items offered for sale or trade first hand and toask questions of the collectors and dealers present. The showwill be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday,March 3 and from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, March 4, 2012.

Antique Investment Quality Arms Show Saturday & Sunday, March 3-4, 2012

Amid Old Man Winter’s frosty chill, our thoughts and hopesnaturally turn to the warmer weather just around the corner.Here’s a special event that is sure to put a spring in yourstep and a smile on your face: “Jazzin’ Up Broadway.”

On Saturday April 28 at 8:00 p.m., the Old York Road Symphony will make its debut appearance at LuLu ShrineCenter. The Symphony, celebrating its 79th season of bringingfine music to the community, is one of the oldest continuousall-volunteer symphonic ensembles in the United States.Located in Abington, the symphony has chosen LuLu for itsspringtime Pops Concert, a beloved and much-anticipatedannual tradition.

The Banquet Room will be transformed into a jazz cabaretfor this special concert, which features the Eric Mintel Quartet.Based in Bucks County, the members of the Quartet are nationally known and acclaimed for their original works as

well as their interpretations of Dave Brubeck classics. Whilelistening to popular melodies from Broadway and the movies,the audience will also enjoy a buffet of tasty light fare andbeverages for the all-inclusive price of $25 (Adult), $20 (Seniors 62 and up), and $5 (Students). For more informationor to purchase tickets, please call 215-782-1718 or see theorchestra’s website www.oldyorkroadsymphony.org.

The Symphony’s mission is “To provide an outlet for the interests and talents of serious musicians of all ages, whileenriching the cultural life of suburban Philadelphia.” In addition to performing classical concerts at the AbingtonJunior High School, the Symphony has an active youth out-reach program and is engaged with local public schools inencouraging music studies. The Symphony also sponsorsan annual Young Artists’ Competition each spring, with thewinners having the opportunity to perform with the orchestrain concert.

A Special Concert Coming to LuLuSaturday, April 28, 2012

EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AT LULU SHRINE CENTER

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By S. Owen Sacks

Won’t you joinus for some fun?Share with me thegood times LuLuoffers! LuLu offersa host of activitiesthat will show youand your family a

way to meet new friends and pursue your interests.Weather it’s in one of our many Units or one of our ClubsLuLu will make you feel at home.

Boats, cars, horses, music, brewing, hunting, golf,family travel, Veteran Affairs, community projects, andour crown jewel, Shriners Hospital for Children, are thethreads that weave LuLu together and afford us thechance to have a great time and do good for others. LuLualso offers you the opportunity to share your interests orhobbies with other Nobles through out the world withcompetitions and conventions. Our community interestfund raisers Circus, Rodeo, Haunted House just to mentiona few draw people from all over the Delaware Valley.

LuLu is the place for you and your family to chill outhave fun and meet your neighbors that share your inter-ests. Maybe you have a special hobby that would sparkinterest with our group and a unit would form. Yourchoices are unlimited.

Our clubs offer many interesting lunches and dinnerswith fascinating speakers. Many times during the yearthere are trips to such places as Gettysburg, Las Vegas,Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia Beach, and manyother places.

Being a member of LuLu means fun and travel, but it also represents a commitment to Shriners Hospital. A dedication to a Hospital and a Hospital System (22 hospitals) that supports children up to the age of 18 ATNO COST TO THE PATIENT regardless of their financialsituation who suffer from many afflictions, but specializein orthopedic, spinal injuries, (Philadelphia Unit consid-ered one of the best in the world) burns, cleft lip andpalate. www.shrinersinternational.org

The picture at the top of the page shows just one Nobleenjoying himself at a LuLu event. There are thousandsmore pictures of the LuLu family having fun. We wouldlove to welcome you into our Oasis and include you in ouralbum of fun.

For more information go to lulushriners.org, or callHarry Reiter at 610-828-9050.

Won’t You Join Us?

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Mounted Guard

Matt Hallowell, HP&P, Illustrious Sir Ben Baird, andJoel Ward, P.P.

Oriental Band Illustrious Sir Ben Baird and Lady Sally

Jim Coulon, President Stewards and Illustrious Sir Ben Baird Illustrious Sir Ed Cervonka, Jim Coulon and Carlo Malantolio, Sr.

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NORTHEAST SHRINE CLUB HOLIDAY PARTY

FLAG DAY

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Oriental Band Events

SAVE THE DATE

April 29th, 2012

IRISH CONCERTat

LuLu’s Great HallDetails to Follow!!

OCEAN CITY

CONGRATULATIONS TOOUR 2012 DIVAN:

Potentate . . . . . . . Edward Cervonka

Chief Rabban. . . . . . . . . . Gary Davis

ASST Rabban. . . . . . . . . . . Bob Gold

HP&P . . . . . . . . . Matthew Hallowell

Oriental Guide . . . . . . Joseph Rocco

Treasurer . . . . . . Christopher Mason

Recorder . . . . . . . . . Harry Reiter P.P.

THE NEW MARKETING COMMITTEENEEDS YOUR HELP THROUGH

VOLUNTEERS AND DONATIONS.PLEASE SEE THE STORY ON PAGE 3.

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Early in 1958, Nobles Milt Davis,Jack Sznchy, Hal Cox, HowardLeibtag and others, obtained permission from Potentate Arthur M. Gordon, to organize anOriental Band. An article waspublished in the February 1958FEZ and received favorable response. In the Spring at ameeting of Montgomery CountyShrine Club at the Valley ForgeHotel in Norristown, PotentateGordon announced the organiza-tion of the Band. Visits were madeto the Oriental Bands of RAJAHand CRESCENT Temples, whogave the organizers informationabout the music and instrumentsused by Oriental Bands.

The first Director, Noble Milt Davis, anaccomplished musician and drummer,began practice sessions immediately,holding two or three rehearsals aweek. The Band grew rapidly inmembers. The Ladies of the Band,known as the “Pearls of Oda”, madethe first uniforms of a striped fabric,very simple and Oriental in design.In September 1958, Director Davisled Lu Lu’s Oriental Band in its firstparade in Washington, D.C., M.A.S.A.

The Band continued to grow andmade many appearances in localShrine parades, M.A.S.A. and Imperialparades in Toronto, Kansas City,Richmond, Chicago, Charleston,Pittsburgh, Orlando and Boston, toname a few.

At Lu Lu, the Band was named“Unit of the Year” in ’76, ’82, ’83,’84, ’85.

There was a definite decline in

membership and activities when theTemple sold the Mosque at 313 SouthBroad Street (1968). Through DirectorEarle Meldrum’s concerted efforts atthat time, the Band stayed togetherwhen morale was at the lowestpoint. With the completion of thenew Mosque in Plymouth Meeting, by1975, membership was increasingand the Oriental Band had a new life.By 1982, under the leadership of Nobles Gerald Farrell, Tom Millar,Lou Weyman and Frank Rodgers,membership in the Band peaked at65. Between 1978 and 1982, theBand took numerous competitionawards at M.A.S.A. and Jamboreemeets in Hershey, Wilkes-Barre,Lancaster and Virginia Beach.

Back In 1977, Noble Tom Millar,also a bagpiper of note, became Direc-tor and appointed Earle MeldrumAssistant Director and placed him incharge of the Musettes. “Jerry” Farrell, a top notch drummer, wasput in charge of the percussion sec-tion. The “Pearls of Oda” made newuniforms. The Band was practicing 2to 3 times a week to prepare for the1978 Jamboree.

A Jamboree is a gathering of Oriental Bands within a local ShrineAssociation. In Lu Lu’s case, the Asso-ciation is M.A.S.O.B.A. – Mid AtlanticShrine Oriental Band Association.The Association was formed in 1955.A few years later, the number ofbands in Mid-Atlantc reached 14.Currently, eight ((8) bands are active.Several Lu Lu Band Presidents haveserved as President of the Associa-tion: Noble Howard Leibtag (1964),Noble Ernie Reber (1982) and NobleBob Gold (1999),

Jamborees have been held in LuLu’s Oasis: 1982 – “Liberty Bell”Jamboree at the Marriott Hotel,Frank Rodgers, President; 1999 –

“Ladder of Smiles” Jamboree, BestWestern Hotel, “Bob” Gold, Presidentof MASOBA, Robert Forst, Presidentof the Band.

The Annual Jamboree is normallyheld in the Spring, in the Oasis of theAssociation President. Competitionsare held, prizes awarded, trips andbanquets are included. Lu Lu’s Bandhas earned competition awards inHershey, Wilkes-Barre, Lancaster,Virginia Beach, to name a few.

Controlling all Shrine Associationbands, at the Imperial level, is TheAssociation of Shrine Oriental Bandsof North America (A.S.O.B.). The Imperial Association is one of onlytwo national Shrine Associationsthat directly contributes to the ShrineHospital Fund. Band members, localbands and Association Bands, con-tribute to this cause through a charitycalled the “Ladder of Smiles”. Thesecond primary purpose is to spreadthe word about Shrine Bands. This isdone through a house publicationthree (3) times a year, called the NaKhabar. Lastly, the Imperial Associ-ation selects the music for and pro-duces the annual Oriental BandCompetition at Imperial. It controlsthe competition and presents appro-priate trophies. Since its founding in1961, the Ladder of Smiles CharityFund, through 1999, donated over$2.5M to Shriners Orthopedic andBurns Hospitals.

Musical Instruments used by Oriental Bands include: musettes,drums, cymbals, tamboreens, and agong. Costumes continue to be pro-duced and repaired by the membersof the Pearls of Oda. In the earlyyears, Lu Lu’s Band marched whileplaying in parades. However, by1996, they had acquired a Float anda truck to tow it, allowing our senior

The History of The Shrine and Lu Lu (#16)Chapter XVIX - The Oriental Band

By Harry Speth, Historian

(continued on page 20)

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The History of The Shrineand Lu Lu (#16) (continued from page 19)

December 6, 2011

George Scheerbaum, PresidentLuLu Shriners Mosque Advisory Committee

This letter is to express my appreciation for having been on theMosque Advisory Committee over the past six years. It has been anhonor to have worked with its members who have a genuine concernfor work in maintaining our facility and grounds and saved LuLusignificant amounts of money. Although the Committee seems tohave transitioned from its advisory duties and budgeting/planningfor facility/grounds maintenance to more of a group of workerscompleting projects and planning completion of work around LuLu,the members of the Committee are very dedicated in addressing themaintenance needs, studying and/or evaluating possible actions orproposals for changes to our facility as proposed by the divan, andactually performing the work where possible to keep the expensesdown. It has been an honor to work with the “maintenance” teamand to experience the camaraderie developed among the workers.

The end of my second term comes at a good time as my job now hasme traveling to northern Virginia about two weeks a month at thistime. This will make it hard to attend most meetings and participatein projects during the week. If you have any questions or I can stillhelp in some way, please let me know and I will try to respond.

Although the Committee “works behind the scenes” and it seemsthat most members do not realize the work needed to maintain ourfacility and prepare for events, you are a very valuable resource toLuLu and deserve a lot of thanks for the work you are doing. I hopethat nobles will volunteer support you and offer their skills to helpshare the workload.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Harry Snyder

members to continue participation.It was this year that Noble GeorgeDeVito, while serving as Director,was instrumental in the acquisitionof the Float

In addition to playing during parades, Lu Lu’s Oriental Band hasbeen performing continuously duringCeremonials since its beginning. ItsArabic music and costumes bring aflavor of the Orient to all Nobles andNovices.

The Band sponsors a Ladies Nightannually to recognize and thanktheir Ladies and the Pearls of Oda,usually at a local restaurant,

Line Officers are certainly impor-tant to control the business of aband, but without a competent MusicDirector, no band would survive.Over the 53 years of its history, onlya few have served in this capacity.Since 1971, the following Directorshave been identified: Earle V. Meldrum(7 years), Thomas Millar (3 years),Walter Myers (1 year), Gilbert J. Davis(1 year), Samuel Lange (5 years),George DeVito (1 year) and Robert E.Forst (21 years).

The Band currently has but 13 active members. It meets the 2ndand 4th Thursday evenings in Room#8 of the Mosque. It is always lookingfor new members. No musical talentis necessary (but it helps). The Bandwill train you on the instrument ofyour choice.

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Thanks to all who helped spread theword about the work being per-formed at Shriners Hospitals andcollecting donations or having othersshow their support through a plaquepurchase! While we will likely neverknow how many children’s liveswere impacted through distributionof the papers or talks with those youmet, as some may have received life-changing care that was not knownprior to contact with you, the dona-tions of over $15,770 were given toShriners Hospital by our Potentate.The effort with this accomplishmentcould not have been possible withoutthe organization of events by ourclubs and units, individual efforts atPaper Drive events and sale ofplaques, support at the events fromspouses and friends, and the supportof the Recorder’s Office staff. Pleasedo not forget our Paper Crusadeplaque program as it becomes a renewing source each year for thedonations given to the Hospital andhas been providing a larger part ofthe donations than our collections atPaper Crusade events over the pastfew years.

Paper Crusade events go beyondsupporting our philanthropy ofShriners Hospitals as they allow us torespond to inquiries about Freema-sonry and the Shriners. Some maybe aware of someone visiting us on aPaper Crusade event who expressed

that interest and, with follow-up, became a Mason and a Shriner. Weneed to remember that Shriners docare for the children in ShrinersHospitals and provide those newmembers with the knowledge andexperience of the impact on children’slives that result from that care. If theyhave not visited Shriners Hospital inPhiladelphia, try to make it a point tohave them visit the Hospital or attendsome of our meetings where formerpatients tell us about the changes resulting from care provided byShriners Hospitals. Then they will bearmed with personal knowledge andhave more of an incentive to supportour Paper Crusade efforts and helpus do more with them.

Some nobles have asked aboutrecognition from LuLu for their efforts with the Paper Crusade or afinal dinner program to wrap it upfor the year. An appreciation dinnerand program was held in 2009 and2010 with few attending. Last year,those attending the divan meetingcame for our dinner and programfirst and made up half those in atten-dance. That event was announcedthrough an article in the Fez, letters tounits and clubs, and e-mail notices.We will still provide recognitionthrough certificates based on thenames provided to the Recorder’sOffice in the event reports, but themoney spent on the dinner in the

past is being given to the Hospitalthis year. The REAL APPRECIATIONfrom participating in Paper Crusadeevents comes from meeting formerpatients who thank you for the caregiven by Shriners Hospitals thatchanged their lives. It comes fromthe satisfaction of meeting othersand telling them you are part of sucha great organization that has beenable to establish Shriners Hospitalsso it could give that care. In lookingback over the past few years, we hadone Shriner who was retired andwould go to his local store where he had permission to give out the Paper Crusade papers and talk tocustomers about Shriners Hospitals,Freemasonry, and the Shrine. He didthis several years and would havehelp often, but he enjoyed it as hewas able to see many acquaintancesas well as meeting others. While hedid this for several years and woulddo it over several months when hefelt up to it, all he asked for fromLuLu was the certificate while turningin almost $10,000 each year from thedonations he collected. If we couldget more Nobles who would have thatsame passion for our Paper Crusadeprogram, we would be spreading theword about our Shriners Hospitalsmuch more and likely getting moredonations for our Hospitals. Thinkabout it, and then let’s plan on buildinga great program in 2012!

LuLu Paper Crusade Wrap-Up 2011

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By Roy L. Knauth P.P.

Did you know that LuLu’s MountedGuard is the oldest horse patrol in allof Shrine? I think that our foundingfather W. Freeland Kendrick wouldbe very proud of us today since weare very well represented in all ofShrine with officers in both the Inter-national Horse Patrol and the MidAtlantic Shrine Horse Patrol with anumber of past Presidents in both.

This year we traveled to Denverand competed with six rented horsesand although we did not wins theMusical Drill Competition we com-peted in both that and the street parade and as Ill. Sir Manny says noone was heart and we all had a greattime. The Drill Team consisted of Ill.Sir Manny Iglesias, Ill. Sir WilliamMorwald, Ill Sir Roy Knauth, Ill. SirWilliam Adamson, Assistant RabbanGary Davis and Charles Roberts.

Although we were only able tosaddle four riders, September wasan entire different story. We had ourown horses and there was no ques-tion who the number one team wasin the Musical Drill Competitionagainst three other Shrines’ andwhere we were judged by VirginiaBeach Mounted Police Unit, profes-sional horse people. Ill. Sir WilliamMorwald competed in the Western

Individual Competition and also tookfirst place against eight other ridersfor his Horsemanship. This time theteam consisted of Ill. Sir Manny Iglesias, Ill. Sir William Morwald, Ill.Sir Roy Knauth and Assistant RabbanGary Davis. The Mounted Guardwould also like to thank all the Noblesand their Ladies of LuLu who cameout to support us at the Drill Compe-titions. When we did the street parade it is a little tough with only fourwhen competing against troops ofsixteen and judges who are lookingfor crowd appeal but we had a greattime anyway.

This year has been a good yearfor us as we have picked up a coupleof new riding members and well asone being a third generation LuLuMounted member, so if you are so inclined we meet on the fourth Tuesdayof each month in the Mounted GuardRoom at LuLu Shrine and you are invited to come out and see what weare all about, who knows you mayenjoy all the fellowship we share.

With the Parade Season almostover when this article reaches you, wewill be planning our annual HolidayLady’s Night for the first weekend inDecember so, watch out for our flyerswith all the information.

Here’s wishing you a Happy andHealthy Holiday Season.

LuLu Mounted Guard Number 1The passing of Oskar R. Huberleaves a void in glory days of LuLuTemple. As Potentate in 1980,Oskar maintained a hectic pacein keeping contact with the Clubsand Units in our Oasis. In additionto his regular visits to virtually allthe Clubs and Units, there was thetrip to Florida to visit the SemoniteShrine Club, consisting mainly ofLu Lu members who retired to theSunshine State. In the middle ofall this, there was a triple-by-passheart operation. This didn’t stopOskar. After a short recovery period, he picked up where heleft off. Next was the GermanyRhine River Country trip, followedby the Grand Ole Opry caravanto Nashville, Tennessee.

A return to the Naval Academy,which he attended, was one ofnostalgia that those who accom-panied him enjoyed. One ofOskar’s most rewarding achieve-ments was being elected to theBoard of Governors, ShrinersHospital for Children, serving as aVice Chairman from 1995-1996.

Oskar was active in the Clubs andUnits in many capacities includingserving, supporting, and partici-pating. In addition, he was an active riding member of LuLuMounted Guard for which heserved as President in 1975-1976.Oskar will be sorely missed by hismany friends and family.

Oskar R. Huber

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From the Desk of the Legion of Honor

For 82 years the Legion of Honor has placed a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknownsoldier. This year Illustrious Potentate Benjamin Baird and Commander Rick Gaverdid the honors of placing the wreath. The Ladies of the Legion decorated thewreath for the occasion. It was a wonderful day filled with memories and reflectionsfrom the past. The group took time and visited the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and leaving there to go to Kena Shrine for dinner. Walt West, known asArctic Sgt. spoke on his trip to Guadalcanal. During World War II, it was the sceneof the first major US offensive against the Japanese in August 1942. He also spokeabout the arctic trips. Mark Nov. 4, 2012 on your calendar for the next Tomb trip.

103 candidates received their 3rd degreethe morning of November 12th at LuLuShriners Grand Hall. Each of the candi-dates observed all three degrees. Therewas time between degrees for mentorsto help them interpret what took place.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Ceremonial Presentation

One Day Class Presented at LuLu Shriners

(continued on page 24)

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The cruise ship Expedition with 120passengers called at Ittoqqortoormiitin the middle of September. One ofthe passengers was Walter R. Westwho is the last surviving member ofthe USAAF crew that manned theAmerican weather station in WalrusBay in the period from August 1945 toAugust 1946. The elderly gentlemanstayed one year at the weather stationwhen he was 21 years old. Article isfrom sermersooq.gl.

Walter R. West wanted to presenta plaque to the inhabitants of Itto-qqortoormiit to commemorate hisand his comrades’ stay at the weatherstation and the friendliness they hadreceived from the then inhabitants ofIttoqqortoormiit. In front of the mu-seum in the presence of a number ofthe other passengers and locals hepresented the plaque and the book“The Year,” that he wrote about theexperiences back in 1945 to 1946, toformer mayor Erling Madsen as rep-

resentative of Ittoqqortoormiit.From the museum Walter R. West

was taken by car to Walrus Bay wherehe saw the remnants of the weatherstation on which he had stayed. Hetook a lot of pictures and could tellwhat the different buildings hadbeen use for, and he could point outwhere his bunk had been.

Inuulluaqqusillunga//Med venlighilsen//Best regards

Torben Hørup Hansen

Walter R. West Revisited Old American WeatherStation at Ittoqqortoormiit After 65 Years

Welcome theNew Officers for 2012

George Gilson, Adjutant Emeritus,presented the slate of new officersfor 2012. It was voted on andpast at the Nov. 28th meeting.LOH Nobles Change of Commandwill take place at 1400 hrs onJanuary 8, 2012 at LuLu ShrinersGrand Hall. Nobles of the Shrineand friends are invited; light re-freshments ($10.00 person) willbe served after the event.

OFFICERS:Commander

Jerry Schmidt1st Lt. Commander

Carl Wade2nd Lt. Commander

Ed MatlackFinance Officer

Adjutant Gary M. Portnoy, PCLt. of Colors

Chuck HollowayAppointment - SGT of Arms

Robert BoeckleChaplain William Hower

Welcome Four New Members:

The Legion of Honor welcomes thefollowing members into the unit:

Charles E. Quaste, Sr.,Navy Subs

Edward Neifeld, ArmyEarl W. Laney, ArmyHarry R. Fegel, Army

LuLu Shrine Scouting Dues:

A reminder that dues of $5 aredue to Leonard Brownstein,1045 Alpena Road, Philadelphia, PA 19150Make checks payable to “LuLuShrine Scouting Association.”

Announcements Unknown Confederate Soldier PrayerI asked God for strength, that I might achieve;I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey.I asked for health, that I might do great things;I was given infirmity, that I might do better things.I asked for riches, that I might be happy;I was given poverty, that I might be wise.I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men and women;I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God.I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life;I was given life, that I might enjoy all things.I got nothing that I asked for, but everything I had hoped for.Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.I among all men and women, am most richly blessed.Amen

From the Desk of the Legion of Honor (continued from page 23)

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At the young age of twelve, I had sur-gery for scoliosis performed by Dr.Randal Betz. I feel fortunate that Ihad the opportunity to be at ShrinersHospitals for Children-Philadelphiafor such a serious procedure. Beforemy surgery, it was painful just to sitin school and now I am able to do allthe things that I enjoy.

At the time of my surgery it wasdifficult to understand what washappening to me and why. Now 10years later, I understand that what Ithought was a misfortune turned out tobe the most important event of my life.

The realization that life can beunbearable without a healthy body is what brought me to yoga. Yoga became my life’s passion. I learnedthe importance of taking care of mybody, a lesson that I want to pass onto others. As an adult, my life feltmeaningless because I was not livingmy passion. I left my office job witha clear vision of how to make mydreams a reality. I knew that I wasmeant to help others with the strug-

gles of maintaining a healthy bodyand realized that I had a natural

ability to work well with children. Ifhealthy habits are developed at ayoung age as adults, they will be easily maintained.

That is how I came to realize mypurpose and today I teach a yogabased exercise program to childrenthat I call YogiDance. My programprovides children with an opportunityto learn the lifelong lessons of howthey can take care of their bodies. I feel fulfilled knowing that my program will enrich their lives andmake the world a better place.

I know that if it were not for thegreat care that I received at TheShriners Hospital, I would not be living my dreams today. With my YogiDance Program, I aim to showother children that they can over-come obstacles and have a healthylife in order to follow their dreams!

Jessica Walsh

News from:

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Shrine Hospital Donations on Board Day

By Roy L. Knauth P.P., Secretary

In this past year the Motor Unit hasbeen out in force collecting for theparking of cars at the Circus, Rodeoand have participated as the HillBilly’s at our Haunted House in October. If you have never done anyof these activities you are missing agreat time for fellowship besideshaving a great time. Pa may changeon a nightly basis but he will bethere carrying his shotgun and chas-ing all the pretty girls, shooting offhis mouth as well as his shotgun.

Last January we reported that theLu Lu Motor Unit was now the proudowner of a 1978 Sea Grave FireTruck and we were working on plansto give it a new paint job and letter-ing to designate it Lu Lu Motor Unit# 1. Well even though the truck hasa long local history it is going to be alittle longer before we will be takingit with us to parades. It is our hopeto have it ready for this year’s parade schedule as well as gather-ing new interest of the Temple Mem-

bership in the Motor Unit.Our Unit Room has now been

completed and we are preparing forour Gala Christmas Party as I amwriting this article which was heldon our regular meeting night in December, but since you have alreadymissed this event, do not miss out onour up coming events as a FundRaiser for the Fire Truck. You shouldstart looking for our flyer on ourSuper Bowl Party. Attendance will belimited to the first fifty tickets soldand will include all the party fixen,camel’s milk and a few surprises. If you have not seen a flyer or are interested either call Past PresidentChico at 215-852-9560 or email himat 12CHICO@netscape.com

Since we have acquired the FireTruck we still have a couple of usableIndy Go Carts and two Model T’s thatare available for Parading. Currentlyone of the Model T’s is being refin-ished and will be looking for a driverwhen spring rolls around. Rememberwhat has been said all of last yearthe Motor Unit is not just for you who

ride a Motor Cycle, Classic Cars, An-tiques or a Hot Rod are also includedor just an interest in being a MotorHead or even riding on a Fire Truck.

The Mayfair Parade Sunday November 20th saw the Motor Unitwell represented and as always wasa crowd pleaser for the many spec-tators who enjoy seeing our bikesand cars, thanks to Captain Chico forcalling everyone and President Dalealong with all who participated andhad great time except for Chuckwho’s cycle had an alternator prob-lem and was unable to participate.

We are still working on ourmonthly newsletter, which we hopewill be distributed by email to helpkeep our members informed of alltimely activities. Editor Harry is always interested in photo’s as wellas taking them, if you have an articlesend it to him and he will make itpart of what we send out. But we really want to see you at the meetings.

Our next two meetings are sched-uled for January 12th and February9h at 7:30 in the Motor Unit Room.

Lu Lu’s Motor Unit

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Bennett Wartman — the currentPresident of LuLu Temple Shrine’sConcert Band — recently performedthe first movement of Haydn’s TrumpetConcerto at One North Broad St.Phila. for a combined audience fromAthelston and Lambert Lodges.Lance Wiseman, who put the wholeentertainment portion together, accompanied on piano. But until thatperformance, most of Bennett’s recentmusical efforts have been mostly lim-ited to Concert Band.

Noble Wartman started out in the1950s playing trumpet in the John L.Kinsey Elementary School Orchestraunder the direction of Louis Brown(who was also Bennett's first trum-pet teacher). Before moving on toWagner Jr., High where he also became first chair, Bennett playedwith the “All City Elementary SchoolOrchestra.”

Once in Jr. High, receiving freelessons meant going on Saturdaymornings to Girls’ High School forgroup instruction. The process seemedless productive and must have showedin Bennett’s home practicing.Max and Nancy Carol (whoseson played violin) lived nextdoor to the Wartmans andthey must have known some-thing about music. Whetherthey had suffered enough in their row home, or justthought that some professionaltutelage might improve themusical quality, recommendedSigmund Hering. Mr. Heringplayed in the PhiladelphiaOrchestra. So, for the cost ofa few dollars per week plusthe cost of the “books” whichMr. Hering wrote, Bennettwas on his musical way.

After a two year stint atWagner Jr. High, Bennettstarted Central High. Ninthgrade freshmen were on ashift from the over crowdedfacility and timing preventedparticipating in after school

Band. Upon meshing in SophomoreYear with the bulk of the school,band was not a problem. During Jr.year, Bennett sat second chair to NealGoldstein. Neal had a higher rangeand other technique that SigmundHering was not teaching. Conse-quently, Bennett changed teachers toTony Marcione. When Neal “retired”in Senior Year, Bennett moved up tofirst chair. When studies or other ac-tivities displaced trumpet practicetime. Tony would comment, “Thisweek you wasted my time and yourmoney. Call me when you’re readyfor a lesson.” Good lessons evokedthe response, “Did you ever think ofdoing this professionally?” The for-mer condition probably out num-bered the latter because near hisseventeenth birthday Bennettstopped taking lessons. He continuedto play with the band until graduation.Bennett also played in jazz band, orchestra and played for some musicaleducator venues. That was 1965.

Advance your clock about 35 yearswhen a call came from Bennett’s chil-

dren’s piano teacher requesting that heplay Easter Sunday at her church. Afterexplaining that he had not played in 35years but also not wanting to disap-point the nice lady, he accepted on thecondition that she hear him a coupleof weeks before so as not embarrassthe both of them. The organ, choir andtrumpet went so well together, thatsix months later he was invited to playfor Palm Sunday as well as EasterSunday. Of course after the secondyear, the nice piano teacher decided toretire. Having brought back his chopstwice in two years, Bennett decidedthat he would sit in at LuLu Temple’sConcert band. He had been a memberof LuLu for about a quarter of a cen-tury then and knew a band existed.

Starting in last chair over adecade ago and moving through thesection, he had the honor and thepleasure of meeting and playingalong with many good musiciansand interesting enjoyable members.Many of these individuals played at a time when you needed live musicians if you wanted to dance.

Recently, Bennett has playedwith a Klezmer group and forseveral memorial and funeralservices. The Concert Bandhas lost many members inthe last several years. Age(both health issues and theBlack Camel) has taken its toll.The Concert Band recentlyperformed The National Anthem at our one day manto Shriner, November, 2011.

Noble Wartman’s Masonichistory includes Past Master ofEquity Lodge No. 591, PastThrice Potent Master Valley ofAbington now Valley of Read-ing, plus membership in sev-eral Square and Shrine Clubs.

In his spare time he sellsturf grass and golf coursesupplies and visits his childrenwho are currently residing inBoston and Manhattan.

Band Banter

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Lance Wiseman has earnedcritical accolades as recitalistand as soloist with profes-sional orchestras both inEurope and the UnitedStates. After his perform-ance with the ThessalonikiState Symphony of Greece,the Makedonia proclaimed,“This performance presagesfor him a priority in the rangeof international virtuosi.”“He perceives how to translate the hidden treasures of thegreat composers,” said The Voice (Athens).

His concerto concerts include: Thessaloniki State Symphony(State Theater, Greece), Donetsk State Philharmonic (Philhar-monic State Theater, Ukraine), State Symphonic Orchestraof St. Petersburg (an orchestra of the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Society) (Glinka Capella State Theater, Russia),San Francisco Chamber Orchestra (Baroque Theater, Legionof Honor Museum of Art, San Francisco), etc. Among theconductors with whom he has performed are: Vyron Kolassis(Principal conductor, Athens State Symphony), AlexanderDolinsky (Principal conductor, Donnetsk State Philharmonic),and Edgar Braun (Principal conductor, San Francisco Chamber Orchestra.

Examples of his many recitals include such diverse venuesas: Hochschule der Kunste (Berlin), Wigmore Hall (London),Grand Hall of the Zurich Konservatorium, Gloria Theater(Athens, Greece), George Dima Academy (Cluj-Napoca,Romania), American Conservatory (Chicago), etc.

Wiseman has often been invited as the sole featuredsoloist: gala concerts in Cluj-Napoca, Romania under theauspices of the American Consulate (commemorating thevisit of Ambassador Rosapeppe), First Samuel Barber Festivalheld in the composer’s home town of West Chester (auspices of Column Classics) (performed complete pianoworks of Barber), Shriners’ International Convention in NewOrleans (for an audience of 5000), Philadelphia CulturalCouncil Concert Series (headline performer and only featured piano soloist 1992-2002. He has also been the firstpiano soloist to be invited by these organizations.

Lance Wiseman began his piano studies at age five, andstarted performing public concerts at an early age. At ageof fifteen, he auditioned and was accepted into the collegedivisions of both the Juilliard School and Peabody conser-vatory, at that time the youngest to have been accorded

this honor. Having chosenthe Juilliard School, hecoached as a scholarshipstudent with well-knownconcert pianist BeveridgeWebster. Upon receivinghis Bachelor’s and Master’sdegrees from this institution,he was awarded secondprize in the Emma FeldmanInternational Piano Compe-tition and, two years later,

was among four to be named as one of Musical Americamagazine’s “artists to watch”. He was later selected for“Who’s Who Among Rising Young Americans”, and had attended and performed in master classes with Leon Fleischer who also conducted him in a Mozart Concertowith an orchestra composed of conservatory students inpreparation for his first European tour.

In later years, Mr. Wiseman added finishing touches to hisplaying by coaching with legendaries Byron Janis and RosalynTureck, being one of a chosen few to have been accordedthis honor. While Madame Tureck shaped his classicism andpatrician elegance in the works of Bach, the former masterhelped him to project his deep romantic soulful side,concentrating on works like the Rachmaninov’s second andthird concertos. It is Maestro Janis who remained Wiseman’smost powerful influence long after his coaching, helpinghim to connect with his vulnerable side and inspiring greatdepth of sensitivity.

In 2001, he was the first American ever to be invited to adjudicate Prokofiev International Piano Competition inDonnetsk, Ukraine. On the Piano Disc label, he hasrecorded many standard piano favorites as well as his ownarrangements of operatic and symphonic repertoire. On hisown label, he has recorded standard classical repertoire,original jazz, and original arrangements of Christmas carolsin the styles of the great composers. Excerpts from hisrecordings have been aired by radio host Jill Pasternak onWRTI-FM, Philadelphia’s only classical station, where he hasalso performed live mini concerts, hosted by Temple University professor Alexander Fiorillo. His many televisionperformances have included Perspectives hosted by PaulNorton (ABC Philadelphia).

Lance, together with Chairman Emeritus Frank Schoendorfer,are leading the bands reemergence.

Copyright © 2011 by Lance Wiseman. All Rights Reserved.

Meet Lance Wiseman — the New Concert Band Conductor

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Scripture is veryclear on howGod laid out, foreveryone, a pat-tern of goodworks and tal-ents to be usedfor our lives. Youmay not be con-scious of thesegood works thatGod has givenyou or the talents

that go along with them to carry themout. Generally speaking, the thingsthat you are good at are those talentsthat give you satisfaction and accom-plishments. God deliberately de-signed them so that you may be aninstrument for good works and forthe benefit of others. It is as if an ar-chitect of a brand new building engi-neers that building to accommodatespecifications unique to its construc-tion. So God, “The Architect of the Universe,” designed each one of uswith talents that are unique to everyhuman being.

Nobody is exactly alike, have younoticed? All of us have abilities andtalents that are not duplicated byanyone else. God deliberately laidout for you a type of temperament,personality, and gifting that you willneed for accomplishing the purposeGod had designed for you to use.Again we’re all unique in this regard,nobody is like another. Sometimes wesay to ourselves ‘I wish Icould be like so-and-soand then I could be betterdoing things for others,’yet according to the scrip-tures, what you can do istotally irrelevant. What isrelevant is the uniquenessthat makes you you; it isGod’s gift to you to beused in a powerful way.Your whole life has been

entrusted to you. Why? To be an instrument of God’s choosing to usefor the good of others. Why? Becauseyou belong to God by His creation ofyou. Lots of people don’t live thatway. They don’t live as though theybelong to the Lord, they live asthough their life is their own: ‘It’s mylife, isn’t it?’ Have you ever heardanybody say that about themselves?‘It’s my life, isn’t it?’ The answer is‘no, it isn’t!’ Consider the fact thatyou had absolutely nothing to dowith your birth; isn’t that true? Imean, I was never consulted as towhether I wanted to be born or not;and neither were you. We just wokeup one morning and here we all are.

Have you lived this long andnever asked yourself ‘how come I’malive?’ Or ‘how come I’m alive now?Why didn’t I live 100 years ago?How come I have a set of circum-stances that I am in? I could havebeen born in Europe, or Asia, orAfrica. I could have been born in adifferent part of the world in totalpoverty such as Calcutta, India.’

So what’s the point of my discus-sion? The point is that God designedyou for a reason that He has placedin the intricate parts of your life, andthat reason has to do with the purposeGod has made for you to follow.What is that purpose?

The purpose is to be an instru-ment in the hand of God to serve Hiscreation. You see, there is not a thing

God needs from you or me, He iscomplete in Himself. There is ab-solutely no lack in Him. But God doescare for His creation and the thingsHe has made and created. Thatmeans He cares for all the animals,the plants, the atmosphere and allthings human; especially children ofthe world. We serve Him by servingthose He cares for. How? By helpingthose who need help we help God toHis greatest desires. Our help for thehelpless or those who would benefitfrom our assistance, make glad theheart of The Eternal. This is so withoutdistinction as to race, creed, or abilities.

If I may have you reflect upon thisfor the coming year as to where andwhat God is leading you to do whenyou are making a resolution for thiscoming year. Look around, wherewould your abilities and talents andgifts lead you to care for people indesperate straits?

When you respond to God’s biddingby using our talents, skills and tem-peraments to revive another, not onlywill you make jubilant the heart of God,but yours as well, for you would havefunctioned in accordance to the designof The Architect of The Universe Hehad put in you to make you knowcompleteness and joy in abundance.

So, when one considers how Godhas truly blessed us with what wehave and what we are, it will free usfrom any fears or worries. It will em-power us with boldness and increase

our compassion and sensitivityfor ourselves. It will bring gloryto God as stewards of the gracesGod bestowed upon us indi-vidually and in recognitionthat life is the greatest gift wehave ever received. I pray thatall of us will live in such a waythat it will bless others andbring fulfillment to ourselvesand glory to God. Happy NewYear! Amen.

What is the Purpose for My Life in 2012?

Fr. Otto Lolk+

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