Hospitaller Newsletter - October 2006

The Hospitaller
PRIORY OF THE WESTERN UNITED STATES
SOVEREIGN ORDER OF ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM, KNIGHTS HOSPITALLER
Volume 1 No. VII
October 2006
MESSAGE from THE PRIOR
MESSAGE from our HER ALD
Prior of the Western United States
By H.E. Bailiff William E. Peacock, GCSJ
By Robert K. Leonard, KSJ
Priory Herald & Editor-in-Chief
Since our Spring 2006 issue of The Hospitaller, a
great many things have happened in our Sovereign
Order. This issue is packed with information about
all the dedicated, hard-but fun- work our Members
do for the less fortunate, as well as details of the
fabulous events that we have had the honor and
pleasure in which to participate.
This spring, we had an outstanding turnout at the Chapter-General Meeting,
followed by the Military Commandery’s superb Spring Ball. At that event,
held at the Marines’ Memorial Club, Chevaliers Bill Buchanan, Phil Gioia,
Bob Leonard and Reverend Tom Dowling helped raise enough funds
from Members and guests so that Commander Christopher Barnes could
present a $20,000 check to the California Veterans Home, Yountville, for
forwarding the comfort of recently wounded Veterans returning home.
During the late spring and early summer, Commander Bill Stein held
luncheons at his Commandery’s selected Charities, and in August he was
elevated to Bailiff Grand Cross by Grand Commander Owen Brown and
me in the presence of Reverend Chevalier Ernest Cockrell at the Priory
Council meeting held at the Veteran’s Administration complex in Palo
Alto.
This fall issue of The Hospitaller contains a great
deal of important news and information. The task
of compiling all of the important news, information,
and photos that you see within this issue is a very
time-consuming job. Without the help of many
dedicated and hardworking people, this newsletter
would not be possible. Specifically, I want to thank
our contributing Heralds, Bailiff Jan Stein and Dame Colleen Wilcox
for their wonderful help and input. Also, I want to thank Dame Barbara
Blake for taking many of the wonderful photographs featured within this
fall issue. Without these photos, The Hospitaller would not be as visually
attractive and compelling.
In conjunction with the publication of this issue, I am extremely delighted
to announce the launch of our official Priory website at: www.sosjwestusa.
org. It is now up and running on the Internet, so please take a few moments
to visit the site and bookmark it on your computer’s web browser for future
reference.
As per our tradition since 1998, on the 1st Saturday after Labor Day the St.
Joseph Commandery held its fabulous Summer Garden Party. “A Knight’s
Regatta”, chaired by Dame LaDonn DuBois. The event was a 225 person
sell-out, and Commander Phil Dirickson announced that the party raised
nearly $100,000.
Our website has been designed to serve as a companion on-line
informational space to help augment our Priory’s printed materials such
as The Hospitaller. It will eventually be linked to an official website portal
for our Sovereign Order worldwide. In essence, it contains a fundamental
overview of the purpose and organizational structure of our Priory along
with a brief history of our Sovereign Order. It also contains: a calendar
of upcoming events, top-line information about our charities and links to
each of their websites.
The grand finale for this summer was the outstanding Sovereign Council
Meeting held in Dunblane, Scotland. Bailiff Glen McLaughlin was installed
as the Grand Prior of the Americas and many new initiatives were started.
The Sovereign Council Meeting and surrounding events and tours were
well-attended by 42 Members and guests of both the San Francisco and St.
Joseph Commanderies.
The Hospitaller provides excellent representation of the important work our
Priory does to aid the Poor and Sick in Christ. With that, we have posted
digital copies of every issue of The Hospitaller on our website. Every issue,
(including this one), can be downloaded in full color, complete with photos
directly from our website onto your computer desktop as a PDF formatted
document. This makes it very easy to email digital copies as attachments.
As we look forward to the San Francisco Commandery’s glorious
Christmas Ball to be held on Saturday, December 2nd, co-chaired by Dame
Linda Olinger and Demoiselle Tiffany Titolo, we are all are reminded that
Investiture 2007 comes upon us so soon and it is not too early to get your
recommendations for new Members in to your Commanders now. There are
a great many who would appreciate the opportunity to participate with our
dynamic group of distinguished Knights and Dames in our noble mission
to serve the Poor and Sick in Christ. Please keep the latter, inclusively, in
your prayers.
Since our goal is to enhance our website as time goes on, your feedback is
more than welcome. So, please feel free to email me with any comments or
ideas at robertkleonard@comcast.net.
Visit our website at:
www.sosjwestusa.org
IN THIS ISSUE
Military Spring Ball 2006 ......................2
Our Charities ........................................6
Sovereign Council
Meeting – Scotland ............................ 15
Summer Garden Party 2006 .................8
In Memorium – Maureen K. Salaman .21
Glen McLaughlin Elected
Grand Prior of the Americas ............... 14
In Memorium – William J. Barnsdale ..21
Jan Stein Elevated to
Conventual Bailiff ............................... 15
Member News Flashes .......................23
Bill Stein Elevated to Bailiff ................. 15
Vancouver Investiture 2006 ................22
Save the Dates! ..................................24
THE WESTERN MILITARY COMM ANDERY
Spring Party
By Chevalier Robert K. Leonard, KSJ
More than one hundred people attended a very elegant formal Spring
Party on May 13, 2006 at the Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel in San
Francisco. It was the second major charity fundraiser hosted by the Military
Commandery of The Western United States of America. The event’s focus
was support of California’s wounded Veterans in the worldwide war against
terrorism.
The evening began with a Cocktails and Hors d’oeuvre reception in the
historic Regimental Room of the hotel where battle flags of distinguished
U.S. Marine Corps Regiments from past wars hung from the walls. The
atmosphere served as a fitting reminder of the sacrifices made by those
who have served in the Armed Forces of the free world.
Following the reception, guests moved into an elegant ballroom for a
marvelous banquet of filet of beef and wine selections from Classic Wines
of California. Beautiful flower arrangements from Hoogasion Flowers
decorated the tables.
Chevalier Reverend Thomas Dowling gave a very passionate invocation
and Commander Christopher Barnes welcomed everyone by reading
a letter from Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, which applauded the
Western Military Commandery and its guests for helping to support the
wounded Veterans of California.
A festive display of colorful aerial fireworks from across the bay, which
were clearly visible from the large ballroom windows, was a surprising
interlude during the banquet.
Following an inspirational and stirring patriotic speech by Chevalier
Phil Gioia, a “Purple Heart Appeal” pledge was successful in raising
approximately $20,000 in charitable donations earmarked to help the
California Veterans Home in Yountville build a new rehab wing for wounded
Veterans returning from the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The evening concluded on an upbeat note with dancing to the big band of
Mark Russo & the Classy Cats, which played popular swing tunes from the
Second World War era.
Everyone attending the banquet received a granite coaster memento of the
evening, which was engraved with the crest of our Sovereign Order.
Many Veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces were in attendance
at this elegant and patriotic event. In particular, many recipients of the
Purple Heart were noticeably represented.
Among the many distinguished attendees and honored guests was Mr.
Barton D. Buechner, Deputy Administrator, Veterans Home of California
at Yountville, H.E. Conventual Bailiff Grand Commander Lawrence Owen
Brown, H.E. Bailiff William E. Peacock, Prior of the Western United
States, Chevalier Christopher P.P. Barnes, Commander of The Western
Military Commandery and Chevalier Philip A. Dirickson, Commander of
the St. Joseph Commandery.
Chevalier William Buchanan, chaired the event, and was generously
assisted by his wife Claire. Chevalier Robert K. Leonard, Chevalier Chris
L’Orange and Ms. Kelly Shields also assisted in preparation and execution
of a most successful Spring Party.
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GOVERNOR
AR NOLD SC
HWAR ZENEGG
May 13, 20 06
ER
Sovereign Orde
r of St. John of
Jerusalem
Knights Hospita
ller
I am pleased to
offer my greetin
gs to all who ha
your Spring Pa
ve gathered fo
rty to suppor t
r
Califor nia’s wo
unded veteran
Califor nia is a
s.
bountiful home
with concer ne
dedicated to se
d citizens
rving their comm
unities. Groups
to overcome ob
like yours help
stacles and pla
nt seeds of hope
for the future.
With tremendou
s compassion an
d dedication, yo
your time and
u have invested
resources to eff
ect positive ch
the lives of oth
ange and impr
ers. Than k you
ove
for your genero
behalf of your
us effor ts on
fellow Califor
nia ns.
Please accept my
best wishes fo
r a memorable
continued succ
event and ever
ess.
y
Sincerely,
Ar nold Schwar
zenegger
STAT E CA PIT
OL · SACR AM
EN TO
4 www.sosjwestusa.org
, CA LI FO RN
IA 95814 · (91
6) 445-2 841
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Western Military Commandery Helps Fund New Rehab Wing
About the Charities of our various Commanderies
For California Wounded Veterans Returning from Iraq and Afghanistan
By Chevalier Robert K. Leonard, KSJ
On September 6, 2006 the Western Military Commandery hosted a visit
to the California Veterans Home in Yountville, which provides care and
assisted living for veterans of the Armed Services of the United States.
The purpose of the visit was to present a charitable donation in support of
the new rehabilitation wing for wounded veterans returning from the war
on terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan. It was also to learn more about the
new wing and tour the Veterans Home campus.
Following a comprehensive presentation and campus tour which including
the new beautiful Lincoln performing arts theater, the Veterans Home
staff hosted a delightful luncheon. Commander Christopher Barnes then
presented a donation check to the Veterans Home for $20,000 to help fund
the new rehabilitation wing for returning wounded veterans. The Deputy
Administrator, Mr. Barton D. Buechner, accepted the check on behalf of
the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Earlier this year, the Western Military Commandery selected the new
rehabilitation wing at the California Veterans Home in Yountville, as its
primary focus for charitable support in 2006. The $20,000 in donation
funds was raised via the “Purple Heart Appeal” pledge during the Western
Military Commandery Spring Party fundraiser held at the Marines’
Memorial Club and Hotel in San Francisco on May 13, 2006.
The Knights, Dames and spouses who participated in the visit to the
California Veterans Home in Yountville included: Prior William Peacock
and his wife Nancy, Commander Christopher Barnes, Chevalier Alan
Blake and his wife Dame Barbara Blake, Chevalier William Buchanan and
his wife Claire, Kelly Davis, wife of Chevalier Merlin Davis, Chevalier
André Le Gallo, Chevalier Philip Gioia, Chevalier Keith Kerr, Chevalier
Dr. Charles “Del” King and his wife Eileen, Chevalier Robert Leonard and
his wife Kathleen, and Chevalier Reverend Dr. Palmer O. Wilkins.
Charities of the San Francisco
Commandery
Charity of the Military Commandery
of the Western United States
Clausen House, Oakland, CA
Veterans Home of California,
Yountville, CA
This year, the San Francisco Commandery was an underwriter for
Clausen House’s major fundraiser. Clausen House is a teaching
and training facility for youths and adults who are developmentally
challenged or who suffer from cerebral palsy or autism. Since 1967, men
and women with developmental disabilities have been helped by Clausen
House to become part of the greater community. For more information
please visit: www.clausenhouse.org.
Priory Council Meeting at the VA Hometel in Palo Alto
On August 10th, the Priory Council Meeting was held at a place highly reminiscent to those
ancient hospitals our predecessors from the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller
were renowned for establishing and sustaining for their wounded soldiers. Like the hospital in
Jerusalem founded by our Father Gerard Thom that ministered to Jew, Muslim and Christian
alike, the Hometel, located at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Palo Alto, is in essence a no-cost
“motel” for our service men and women coming from out of the area for outpatient treatment.
As follow-on to an earlier presentation made about the Hometel at the Chapter-General Meeting
on May 17th by Chevalier Gary Fong and Dame Galdys Fong, the Priory Council Members and
guests met wounded men and women who have fought so bravely in the war against terror and
are now working their hearts out to get their lives back after traumatic injuries suffered while in
Iraq and Afghanistan.
A tour of the Poly-trauma Unit, the Fisher House and then the Hometel revealed that the
accommodations for our Veterans at the Hometel are far inferior to those of their families who
stay in sumptuous accommodations provided at Fisher House. Members saw at the Hometel that
the beds for the wounded are cheap low-lying beds, not much better than mere cots with closeto-inadequate linens. The common areas and private rooms are drab, depressing and dated, and
in contrast to Fisher House where flat screen TVs, DVD players and internet-access computers
abound, there is only 1 small tube-type TV in each room shared by two (2) men or women vets.
The Veterans Home of California in Yountville provides care and
assisted living for veterans of the Armed Services and is currently
planning a new wing for rehabilitation of wounded veterans of the Iraq
and Afghanistan campaigns. For more information please visit: www.
cdva.ca.gov/homes/yountville.asp.
Charity of the
St. Joseph Commandery
Peninsula Volunteers
“Meals on Wheels” Program
George Mark Children’s House,
San Leandro, CA
George Mark Children’s House, opened in 2004, was the first hospice in
the United States created specifically to care for terminally ill children.
In addition to being an end-of-life care facility for children, it also
offers respite care for families during these traumatic months. For more
information please visit: www.georgemark.org.
The Peninsula Volunteers operate a “Meals on Wheels” program that
is crucial to recipients desiring to remain independent. Before this
program, many would subsist solely on canned foods, if they ate at all
during the day. A dietician who is also available to provide personalized
advice to the clients supervises the preparation of meals provided.
The St. Joseph Commandery is supporting a project to help remodel
the kitchen facilities to enable both expansion and improvement of the
volunteers’ service. For more Information, visit: http://www.penvol.org/
mealsonwheels.
Priory Council Members left the meeting with tears in their eyes agreeing that the Hometel
deserved more study as a Charity that could benefit from possible multi-Commandery collaboration. Subsequent to that meeting, the haunting impact of
that tour was still present at the Summer Garden Party as an impromptu speech by Chevalier John Sobrato, KJSJ, about the Hometel prompted Members
and guests, on the spot, to donate $40,000 for these wounded Veterans to upgrade their facility.
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ST. JOSEPH COMM ANDERY
A Knight’s Regatta
By Commander Philip A. Dirickson, KJSJ
and Dame LaDonn R. DuBois, DCSJ
The St. Joseph Commandery held its annual Summer Garden Party on
Saturday, September 9, 2006 at the Saratoga home of John Michael and
Abby Sobrato. This year’s sold-out event theme was “A Knight’s Regatta,”
chosen to reflect the charming and luxurious setting of a beautiful
Nantucket-inspired home. The 225 arriving Knights, Dames, Squires,
Demoiselles and their friends and family were greeted with customized
nametags and Regatta Blue cocktails complete with a designer florescentlit ice cube.
Everyone strolled through three levels of elegant grounds while being
served “Nantucket” inspired hors d’oeuvres including shots of New
England clam chowder, crab cakes, caviar canapés, and mini-chicken
Wellingtons. Each of the several elevations of the Sobrato’s extraordinary
grounds revealed yet another edible delight including fresh oysters provided
by “Miss Ellie’s Oyster Bar”, rosemary marinated grilled lamb chops and
stuffed mushrooms both served directly off the grille. The ambiance of
the panoramic view of Silicon Valley only became more enchanting as the
evening brought out the sparkling city lights from all across the Bay Area
blending with the hundreds of candles and stunning décor.
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As dusk began, everyone drifted to their seaside inspired dinner tables,
each of which was draped in Tiffany blue and adorned with a collection of
seashells. Guests began their sit- down dinner with a lovely poached pear
salad followed by a main course of butter grilled lobster tail, filet mignon,
spring vegetables, and Gruyere mashed potatoes. The final touch was a
dessert of exquisite chocolate sailboats filled with chocolate mouse and
fresh fruit, adorned with the Cross of Amalfi of our Sovereign Order on
the sail.
Long into the night, the Garage Band, back by popular demand, had everyone
up dancing to our favorite songs. More importantly, an impromptu speech
from the father of our host, Chevalier John A. Sobrato, KJSJ, resulted in
a heartwarming $40,000 of underwriting pledges for the Hometel, a substandard motel-like facility for our wounded Veterans returning from
Afghanistan and Iraq as outpatients at the local VA facility, Palo Alto.
While the Commandery has not yet finalized its next charity, this generous
outpouring of support was overwhelming for these men and women
who have given such a big piece of their tomorrows for all of us and our
freedoms. As we all enjoyed the beautiful elements of the Sobrato’s home
and the dinner’s epicurean delights, it was clear to all that this was a perfect
result for a magical and memorable evening at “A Knight’s Regatta”.
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The Dynamic Duo from our
San Francisco Commandery
A New
Grand Prior of the
Americas is Elected
By Chevalier Robert K. Leonard, KSJ
The year 2006 has been a very special year for two of our
Members, Janice M. Stein and our San Francisco Commander,
William D. Stein.
By Chevalier John W. DuBois, KJSJ
The setting of historic Dunblane, Scotland couldn’t have been more fitting
for the swearing in of Scottish descendant H.E. Conventual Bailiff Glen
McLaughlin, GCSJ, MMSJ, as Grand Prior of the Americas by H.E.
Regent, Grand Commander, Conventual Bailiff L. Owen Brown, GCSJ,
MMSJ, who presided at the Sovereign Council Meeting held there on
October 28-30, 2006.
Married for 30 years, the Stein’s distinguished service on
behalf of our Priory and to the Sovereign Order are most
noteworthy. Elevation to their new Ranks is thus a well-earned
and fitting tribute.
Congratulations, and many thanks to you both for your years
of dedication to our Sovereign Order’s mission of service to the
Sick and Poor in Christ.
Grand Prior McLaughlin is one of 3 founders of the St. Joseph Commandery
and has served as its Commander, as well as Prior of the Western United
States. He is an active participant in Investitures throughout the world and
has attended consecutive Sovereign Council Meetings in Helsinki, Oxford,
Vancouver (twice), Malta and now Scotland. A gracious host of many
special events with his wife, Dame Ellen M. S. McLaughlin, DSJ, and a
generous supporter of all Charity events, he is this year’s recipient of the
Priory of the Western United States Humanitarian Award.
Their accomplishments in our Sovereign Order,
their careers and their community are way too
many, so below are just a few:
H.E. Bailiff William D. Stein, GCSJ
Commander, San Francisco Commandery
Glen’s participation in our Sovereign Order, personal, academic, and
business communities, as well as his distinguished career in the U.S. Air
Force, all reflect his significant and noteworthy life’s work in loving service
to humanity.
H.E. Conventual Bailiff Janice M. Stein, GCSJ,
Grand Hospitaller and member, Le Petit Conseil
After receiving a BBA in Accounting from the University of Oklahoma,
(where he ultimately received the Oklahoma Regents Alumni Award), Glen
fulfilled his dedicated service to our country as a Lieutenant and Pilot in the
U.S. Air Force. He continued to serve as Troop Carrier Pilot in the U.S. Air
Force Reserves, and went on to receive his MBA in Finance from Harvard
Business School. Glen armed himself well for a distinguished career
in Finance where he not only held senior positions with Silicon Valley
pioneers such as Four Phase and Memorex, he also founded 15 companies,
served on more than 30 corporate boards, co-founded Greater Bay Bancorp,
and was a founding Angel of the well-known Silicon Valley early-stage
investment firm, Band of Angels. He has generously shared his experience
and expertise with the Private Sector Investment Advisory Panel for the
City of San Jose, and Financial Executives Institute, Commonwealth Club,
and served on the boards of The Health Trust, Cancer Society, O’Connor
Hospital Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, Gould Academy, and Junior
Achievement of Santa Clara County where he was also President and
Chairman.
Through his tireless work with many of these institutions and charities,
Glen has received high honors and awards that include induction into the
Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame and The Silver Leadership
Award from Junior Achievement of Santa Clara County. He also was
awarded the Silver Beaver, Antelope and Silver Buffalo awards by the Boy
Scouts of America.
As if his family, professional career, and community service didn’t keep
him busy enough, Glen, an expert Cartographer, wrote a definitive work
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During the September meeting of the Sovereign Council in Scotland,
Janice M. Stein was elected to the rank of Conventual Bailiff. As Grand
Hospitaller of the Sovereign Order, Jan will serve as one of five Members
of Le Petit Conseil and will be responsible for social and charitable matters
of the Sovereign Order.
Invested as Dame of Honor at Grace Cathedral in June, 1995, Jan has
participated in many of our Sovereign Order’s activities including
Investitures in the United States, Canada, Scotland and Malta. She first
served as Secretary for the San Francisco Commandery and later as
Secretary General for the Grand Priory of the Americas. Following her
tenure as Commander of the San Francisco Commandery, she was elevated
in 2002 to Bailiff Grand Cross of Justice. Well known for her energetic and
generous support of our events, she has successfully chaired the Christmas
Ball for several years, graciously raising thousands for the Commandery’s
charities. The Humanitarian Award formally marked her outstanding
charitable achievements for our Priory.
called “California as an Island”. With that, he also served on the Phillips
Society Steering Committee for the Library of Congress Map Division.
Our heart-felt congratulations and appreciation goes to Grand Prior
McLaughlin whose immeasurable service to our Sovereign Order, his
generosity and that of his equally dedicated wife, Dame Ellen M.S.
McLaughlin, DSJ, in their support of our work for the Poor and Sick in
Christ is exemplary and extraordinary.
An interior designer, she has owned her own business for thirty years,
coordinating large-scale projects throughout the world. Active in the San
Francisco community for many years, she has served on major boards
and has supported numerous charitable efforts, particularly those serving
music and the arts.
Jan Stein has broken the mold in our Sovereign Order by being elected the
first woman Commander, and being elevated as the first woman Bailiff,
and now being elected the first woman Member of Le Petit Conseil as a
Conventual Bailiff.
H.E. Bailiff William D. Stein, GCSJ, was sworn in as Bailiff Grand Cross
of Justice by Grand Commander Owen Brown and Prior Bill Peacock in
the presence of Chevalier Reverend Ernest Cockrell and the Priory Council
at the August 10th meeting held at the Veteran Affairs Hospital in Palo
Alto.
Invested as Knight of Honor at Grace Cathedral in December 1993, Bill
has participated in the Sovereign Order’s activities including Investitures
not only in the United States but also in Canada, Scotland and Malta.
Having attended numerous Sovereign Council meetings, he was, at the
2000 Sovereign Council in Vancouver, appointed to the Supreme Court of
the Order and subsequently elevated to Chief Judge of the Supreme Court.
A Member of the San Francisco Commandery Council for several years, he
currently leads the San Francisco Commandery as its Commander. Always
a generous supporter of all charitable activities within the Priory of the
Western United States, he is recognized particularly for his efforts within
the San Francisco Commandery, notably its most important fundraiser, the
Christmas Ball.
His professional career is brilliant. For the Office of the Attorney General,
he specialized in appellate cases in the state and federal courts, arguing
several cases before the United States Supreme Court. He served as Senior
Assistant Attorney General under Attorney General George Deukmejian
and headed the Criminal Division under Attorney General John Van de
Kamp before being appointed by Governor Deukmejian to the Municipal
and Superior Courts of San Francisco and, finally, to the California Court
of Appeal where he currently sits and has recently been re-elected.
A highly respected community leader, he resides in San Francisco with his
wife, H.E. Conventual Bailiff Janice M. Stein, GCSJ, and leads a very busy
professional and social life that includes countless charitable efforts.
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By Dame Ellen M.S. McLaughlin, DSJ
Dunblane,
Scotland
The Priory of Scotland hosted a magnificent
four-day party at a country estate, the Dunblane
Hydro Hotel in Dunblane, Scotland. The excited
attendees, a total of 44 Members and spouses
from our Priory of the Western United States,
all knew many people and a comfortable
camaraderie developed, with Knights and Dames
drifting in and out of enjoyable conversation
groups, making many new friends or just
becoming better acquainted with each other.
Each enchanted evening began with a hosted
cocktail hour and proceeded to a delectable
dinner with different table companions every
night. Our Knights and Dames felt free to enjoy
themselves without concern for driving, and
much advantage was taken of this particular
privilege. Every evening was a party, but the
following two nights were the most remarkable:
Friday night at the historic Stirling Castle was the highlight of the
social scene. The evening began with junior high school bagpipes
welcoming us in the Stirling Castle forecourt, and was followed by a
hosted champagne reception in the vestibule and then a magnificent
dinner in the Great Hall itself. The moving speeches and hilarious
jokes found contented listeners. Ask anyone who was there why you
should not stand by a window, and you will perhaps have a sense of the
conviviality of this magnificent evening. We reluctantly left the gala to
find small fires lit in the ancient forecourt, as had been done over the
last several hundred years, to light and guide our way out to our modern
motor-coaches for safe conveyance back to our Dunblane Hydro Hotel.
Saturday, the Service of Thanksgiving at Dunblane Cathedral rivaled
even that unforgettable event the night before. This beautiful ceremony
at the Dunblane Cathedral, although of a different mood, etched
wonderful sounds and pictures in our memories. The Dunblane
Cathedral, with all its magnificence and grandeur, was of a small
enough size that it fostered intimacy between the Sovereign Order of
St. John and our Creator. The superb Glasgow Phoenix Choir moved the
entire congregation of our Knights and Dames to a closer Communion
with our Christian Faith. I personally think it was the finest service out
of all our many memorable events. Afterwards, our ever-reliable motorcoaches conveyed us to our quarters where we all enjoyed the final
cocktail hour and the fabulous farewell dinner. We reluctantly made
our ways back to our bedrooms, with many of us thankful that we were
going on one of the two bus tours planned the next day, indicating that
the party was not over.
All of us are so grateful to the Members, and their spouses, from the
Priory of Scotland for their superb efforts and even greater results. I hope
that I have conveyed the wonderful fellowship and warm hospitality
that the Priory of Scotland provided for all in our world-wide Sovereign
Order. I have not even mentioned the magnificent Scottish breakfasts
we enjoyed. But, given my Scottish heritage and my early experience
in Scotland as a Defense Department teacher, I do not believe that I can
ever recall a bottle of Single Malt Scotch Whiskey being placed next to
the breakfast porridge. Rumor has it that the Dunblane Hydro, owned
by one of our Knights from Scotland, has never had to supply so much
of the liquid “breath of life” in a four-day period before, nor does the
superb hotel staff expect ever to do so again. I do, however, feel sad
for any of our Knights and Dames who had to miss this great trip and
treasured event, and I do hope all will be able to join us in two years
hence in 2008 for the next Sovereign Council meeting scheduled to be
held in the Eastern United States.
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Dunblane, Scotland
Tour One
in Scotland
By Dame Susan H. Nycum, DGSJ
Tour One, as we happily called ourselves throughout, was a wonderful
experience for all of us. St. Joseph Commandery Members, Dame Elaine
and Harvey Knoernschild, Chevalier Paul and Nicki Huber and Dame
Susan Nycum and Alan Buckley, were part of a 26 person group from
diverse Commanderies. Many of us began as strangers and all ended as
close friends, exemplified by the famous “skit” performed in Glasgow for
Tour Two on the final evening.
We traveled from castle to castle with personal commentary by Sir Albert
McQuarrie who knows many of the people whose lands we visited, and
with velvet glove organization and leadership by Lady Rhoda. We saw the
pristine Scotland Highlands at their best: Loch Ness, Loch Lomond; Iona,
splendid in the wind and rain; Culloden Moor, the battle ground where
Bonnie Prince Charlie lost to the English; Scone Palace, whose owner
lives there from choice, as he owns 32,000 acres including a large part of
the City of London; Cawdor castle (also occupied); and the baronial digs
of the Duke of Argyll. We toured Fort George; visited Crathes church next
to Balmoral castle that Queen Elizabeth attends openly each Sunday when
she is in residence; and a huge church that appeared ancient although built
in 1930 by a wealthy Campbell to honor his mother. The numbers of sheep,
coos (cows) and occasional pheasant we passed delighted the nature lovers
among us. We helped each other spend money at the Johnston cashmere
mills, at Glenfiddich Distillery and at every other stop. The skit said it
all.
The skit, written and directed by a team led by Anne Schoff of Aurora,
Ohio with music sung by all to familiar tunes with words by Vancouver
Dame Susie Dickson, starred each member of Tour One. Elaine, Nicki
and Paul had speaking parts with Nicki in a featured role, and we were
part of a “raindrop chorus” (yes it did rain and rain), Harvey told a very
funny story, and Susan and Alan (Campbell and MacGregor descendants)
vigorously pantomimed the Scottish side of the fateful confrontation with
the English, played by Anne and Tony Bugeja of the Priory of England,
all in contributed costumes. Susan wore Nicki’s beautiful kilt, Alan wore
Susan’s black watch plaid flannel pajamas, and redcoat Anne wore Susan’s
red blazer. We all practiced the songs on the bus and rehearsed during our
overnight stops. Yes, Tour One did bond - and all because of the wonderful
people who comprise the Sovereign Order.
18 www.sosjwestusa.org
Tour Two
in Scotland
By Chevalier Dean S. Chesnut, KSJ
and Donatella Chesnut
Leaving Dunblane, our bus tour began with an 8-hour trip to The Isle of
Skye. The nightly routine of emptying the bus of the luggage revealed a
missing bag… After an exhaustive search reality told, sadly, Margaret and
David Rolfe’s luggage was left curbside at the Dunblane Hydro hotel. It
was suggested, and all agreed, we would wear the same clothes until the
Rolfes changed theirs. Fortunately, that was just one more day though John
DuBois was thoughtful enough to offer David his boxers. John cleverly
displayed them on the outside of his trousers to help David decide. This
gesture ended when Margaret commented on the odd smell and requested
we cease this show of solidarity and change!
When the question is posed, “have you been to Scotland?” We can now
say, “Not only have we been to Scotland... we’ve been to the Butt of Lewis!”
Despite the name, it was a ruggedly beautiful place. The road was bumpy
and challenging, but well worth the trip. A lighthouse hugged the rocky
cliff found on the northern most rugged point of the Atlantic. We huddled
together and bravely posed for pictures.
The most solemn site visited was the Culloden Battlefield. This precious
and sacred ground yields not one singing bird, and that alone casts a very
eerie feel. Walking through the area, despite its barren beauty, there is a
feeling of quiet desperation, and we were prompted to proffer an 18 year
old Tullibardine offering to the lost brothers via the fresh water well.
The most restful place we visited was the Golf View Hotel located in Nairn.
This lovely hotel sat right on the North Atlantic. The incredible vistas out
of our windows were very welcome after the hike up five flights of stairs
with luggage in tow.
We barely arrived in time for our last evening together with Tour One in
Glasgow, Scotland. That however did not deter John DuBois from trying
to rally the men of Tour Two for an excerpt performance from “The Full
Monty”, to compliment the lovely and tasteful skit preformed by Tour One!
For the two of us this has been the best trip of our lives. It is not just the
beautiful and dramatic landscape of Scotland, nor the incredible settings
chosen for our Sovereign Order functions, even the great organizational
efforts put forth by the Rolfes and McQuarries, it is the company of other
Knights and Dames. After this trip we both have developed an even greater
understanding that it is truly about the company and fellowship of the
Sovereign Order of St. John.
www.sosjwestusa.org 19
In Memorium
In Loving Memory of Dame
Maureen Kennedy Salaman, DSJ
In Loving Memory of Chevalier
William J. Barnsdale, KCJSJ
By Chevalier Mark A. Calvano, KGSJ
By H.E. Bailiff William D. Stein, GCSJ
Our hearts were filled with much sadness on August
17, 2006, when we learned our beloved Dame
Maureen Kennedy Salaman, DSJ, succumbed to
her battle with pancreatic cancer. That day, our
message was not one of despair, but one of hope,
love, and celebration. Anyone who had the good
fortune of spending time with Maureen can attest
to the wit and good humor and patriotic beliefs,
which she exuded.
We were ourselves honored when Maureen’s
brother, son, and other family members went out
of their way to thank the Knights and Dames, some
of whom did not ever meet Maureen, for honoring
her by attending.
Maureen loved to laugh and more importantly she loved to make others
laugh…a job she always seemed to accomplish with ease. She lived her
life to the fullest, and took advantage of each and every minute. While we
mourn the loss of such a great person, we should not lose sight of these
ideals, which Maureen found so important. She would want us to continue
living our lives in the same manner she did. She would want us to laugh
again, rather than mourn her death, she would want us to celebrate her life
and not focus on the loss. As we look back now, that is how Maureen lived
every week of her life. She just loved spending time with her friends and
loved ones.
An accomplished author of some 18 books mostly about self-help, nutrition
and well-being Maureen appeared daily on Direct TV, which reached
millions of viewers daily. Maureen was larger than life and truly one of the
greatest persons we have ever known, your heart, friendship, intelligence
and sense of humor and patriotic beliefs are irreplaceable.
Maureen, you will never be forgotten and will forever be part of our lives.
From the bottom of our hearts and from the Sovereign Order of St. John of
Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller, we would like to say thank you Maureen.
May God bless you. We love you.
On September 25th, we lost
one of our most-loved Knights,
Chevalier William J. Barnsdale,
Sr., KCJSJ.
At 84, Bill, who his son Bill
Jr. described as “slim, hale and
hearty all his life”, succumbed
to a sudden month long struggle
with pancreatic cancer.
A remarkable and dignified
gentleman, Bill worked his
way through Sacramento City
College and UC Berkeley. (He
later returned to Berkeley for his
graduate work.) He entered the U.S. Navy in 1943 and served as Submarine
Officer in the North Atlantic. He married his college sweetheart Florence
E. (McKeown) Barnsdale at New London, Connecticut just before joining
his “fleet boat” in WW II.
Bill left the Navy in 1947 and joined the U.S. Department of State. He
and Florence lived all over the world, including Sweden, Yugoslavia, The
Republic of Melawi and a number of tours in Italy. He retired as the U.S.
Consul General, Florence, Italy. Bill then took a position with the U.N.
World Food Program as a senior officer. He and Florence lived in Pakistan
and again in Italy before his retirement from the U.N.
In addition to his Rank of Knight Commander of Justice in our Sovereign
Order, he was an active Member of The Queen’s Club and other professional
and cultural organizations, (many of them Italian).
Bill was a true gentleman who was the epitome of charm and grace. A
consummate diplomat, he was always considerate of the needs of others.
He worked hard at taking the conciliatory course while at the same time
ensuring that he took the right one. He stepped-up often in time of need
for our Sovereign Order, and served as Commander of the San Francisco
Commandery, then as Priory Historian. This distinguished Knight
Commander of Justice made many invaluable contributions, not just to our
Sovereign Order, but to humanity.
Of all the accomplishments in
Chevalier Barnsdale’s life, Bill
Barnsdale Jr. explained that “by far
my father viewed the most significant
event in his full and fulfilling life
was his marriage to my mother of 62
years. Along the way, they had four
successful children and a very rich and
rewarding life together”.
Chevalier Barnsdale will be sorely
missed by all who knew him, and
the world is now missing a dedicated
Knight who stood steadfast for the
rights and freedom of all.
20 www.sosjwestusa.org
www.sosjwestusa.org 21
Vancouver Investiture
Member News Flashes!
By Chevalier Weldon Wood, KSJ
Dame Barbara Blake, DSJ, was invested into
the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem,
Knights Hospitaller during a ceremony held in the
beautiful Christ Church Cathedral in Vancouver,
British Columbia, Canada on June 17, 2006. That
most joyous of occasions was followed by a gala
dinner held at The Vancouver Club. Barbara, her
husband Chevalier Alan Blake, KSJ, and their
friends from our Sovereign Order, (Prior Bill
and Nancy Peacock, Dame Susan Nycum and
husband Alan Buckley, Chevalier Weldon and
wife Ruth Wood of the St. Joseph Commandery,
Dame Linda Olinger, Chevalier Reverend Thomas
Dowling and his lady Geraldine Travers of the San
Francisco Commandery), all traveled to Canada
to attend “Barbara’s Investiture” and were treated
like long lost cousins by the Canadian hosts. That
experience has prompted Barbara and her friends
to resolve to attend the Investitures of other
Commanderies as often as possible.
This past Fathers Day, San Jose Magazine celebrated “Dedicated Dads”,
and two of our own were featured, John Sobrato and Colleen Wilcox:
Chevalier John Sobrato,
KJSJ, “leads the pack”,
as they so aptly put it, as
one of Silicon Valley’s
models for dedicated
and involved fatherhood.
We have experienced the
pleasure and privilege
of getting to know Dame Sheri Sobrato Brisson,
DSJ, through her Membership in our Sovereign
Order. John Michael and his wonderful wife,
Abby, hosted our fabulous Summer Garden Party
this year. They are a true testament to the generosity of John’s love and
dedication. With that, no one can forget Sue Sobrato’s tireless contribution
in devoted partnership.
Dame Colleen Wilcox,
DCSJ, was featured in
a great photo with her
dad, Wayne. Of her
father, Colleen says,
“My fondest memories
of my father are mowing
the lawn together and
dancing together in our basement rec room. The
operative word, of course, is “together.” Oh, how
I miss him!” Colleen’s unforgettably ebullient
persona and passionate dedication to our community’s youth as Santa Clara
County Superintendent of Schools, is a great tribute to Wayne Wilcox, a
man who obviously found joy, pride and fulfillment in being her dad.
Congratulations to Chevalier. Fernando Zazueta,
KSJ who on October 19th, was presented with
the St. Thomas More Award by Bishop Patrick
McGrath during the “Red Mass” celebrated
this year at Stanford University’s Memorial
Church. The award is presented annually by
the St. Thomas More Society of Santa Clara
County to a member of the legal profession
whose accomplishments in some way represent
the principles and ideals of St. Thomas More.
More was beheaded for opposing Henry VIII, a
lay person, who displaced the Pope as head of
the Church in England. More was canonized
as a martyr and saint and, because he was such a skilled diplomat, was
declared the patron saint of politicians by Pope John Paul II. St. Thomas
was the author of, among many treatises, UTOPIA. He was a champion for
equality of women in all fields, free public education, shorter work days,
social security programs and the free choice and exercise of religion.
The tradition of a “Red Mass” began in the Middle Ages and is so-called
because red is the liturgical color used by the Church when invoking the Holy
Spirit for divine guidance and wisdom in the teaching and administration
of truth and justice. This symbolic color for both the clergy’s vestments and
robes of the royal judges and scholars in attendance was used to mark the
opening of the new judicial, academic, and legislative year.
22 www.sosjwestusa.org
A few of the great wines produced
by Chevalier Bill Murphy, KSJ, at
his Clos La Chance winery were
featured in the August, 2006 issue
of Fortune Magazine. The article
described the vineyard soil and
grape management technology he
uses to produce the fine vintages
many of us have enjoyed at
Sovereign Order events. We say,
“Well-done”, Bill. Many thanks for the excellent skills in zymurgy you
demonstrate on behalf of the many oenophiles amongst our Members!
On Saturday, July 29 2006, Dame
Michele Zschau, DSJ, became Mrs.
James Steeb at the beautiful Villa
Montagna in Sonoma. Michele and Jim
are active on the political scene, so it was
only fitting that they became engaged 3
years ago on Abraham Lincoln’s birthday.
Jim’s brother, David, presided at the
ceremony, and his wedding anniversary
to wife Liz just happened to be the same
day! Michele’s uncle Wesley Griffin was
asked to sing a medley of the couple’s
favorite hymns, and when he sang
Amazing Grace, the entire congregation
broke into song with him. Michele said, “That beautiful day was magical,
and our one regret is that the intimate setting of the Villa did not allow for
the whole of our universe of friends to join us at our most joyous event.”
On May 29, 2006, the Sonoma Veteran’s Memorial Park Committee
presented a special award of appreciation to Chevalier Donald Watson,
Jr., KCJSJ, former Commander of the Military Commandery, during the
Annual Sonoma Valley Joint Memorial Day Observance. The ceremony
took place in Sonoma in front of an audience of over one thousand local
area veterans and their families. The award was presented to Chevalier
Watson in recognition for both service and charitable support given to the
Veteran’s Memorial Park by the Western Military Commandery during
his tenure as its Commander. A similar award was also presented to Major
General Mike Myatt, USMC (Ret.), President and CEO of the Marines’
Memorial Association in San Francisco. The Sonoma Veterans Memorial
Park Committee perpetuates a place of honor commemorating veterans
who honorably served in the Armed Forces of the United States.
www.sosjwestusa.org 23
The Hospitaller
THIS NEWSLETTER IS PUBLISHED BY
P RIORY OF THE WESTERN UNITED STATES
SOVEREIGN O RDER OF ST. JOHN, K NIGHTS HOSPITALLER
THE
www.sosjwestusa.org
Save These Dates!
UPCOMING EV ENTS PR IORY OF THE WESTER N UNITED STATES
PRIOR
H.E. Bailiff William E. Peacock. GCSJ
Priory Membership News
The Christmas Ball 2006
The Investiture 2007
The Military Spring Party
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Chevalier
Saturday,By
December
2, 2006 Alan D. Blake, KSJChevalier Robert K. Leonard, KSJ,
Priory Herald & Editor-in-Chief
Priory
Membership Chair
Saturday, March
10, 2007
Saturday, May 19, 2007
CONTRIBUTING HER ALDS
H.E. Conventual Bailiff Janice M. Stein, GCSJ MMSJ
The Investiture in Reno
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Dame Colleen B. Wilcox, DCSJ
Our Priory of the Western United States is growing and the need for continuity and consistency
The Summer Garden Party
Saturday, September 8, 2007
in the new member process has emerged. To that end, as Priory Membership Chair, it is my
APHY
mission to demystify and facilitate the process and procedure for our Members wishingPHOTOGR
to
WORLDWIDE
INVESTITURE
SCHEDULE*
Dame
Barbara
A.
Blake, DSJ
sponsor Petitioners for membership in our Sovereign Order. In this capacity, I am available to
and other Priory Members
The Commandery
of the Palm Beaches
12, 2006
explain the responsibilities
of PrimaryNovember
Sponsorship,
and I will also provide you with recruiting
tools
to help you.
Western
USA
Saturday, March 10, 2007
NEWSLETTER DESIGN
Chevalier
Victoria,
Western
Canada
Saturday,
28, 2007
Please
contact
me at the beginning
of yourApril
recruiting
effort by phone at (408) 230-2600
or byRobert K. Leonard, KSJ
Lisa Thornton Design
.
email:
AlanBlake@Comcast.net
Cleveland, Eastern USA
Saturday, May 5, 2007
Hungary, Europe
Saturday, May 12, 2007
ADMINISTR ATION
L. Rothenberg
Vancouver,
Western
Canada
Saturday, May
26,recent
2007 events for you to view with yourLori
We have
produced
marvelous Photoshows
of our
potential
Petitioner. These
Photoshows
can
be
emailed
to
your
potential
Petitioner,
or
if
you
wish,
we
would
be
delighted
to
email
them
directly to you
PRINTING
The Sierras, Western USA
Saturday, June 23, 2007
for your own enjoyment. You are encouraged to have fun with the Photoshows as soPetaluma
many ofMinuteman
our Members
Pressare well
Grand
Priory of Europe,
UK form.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
represented
in their finest
*Dates are subject to change, please email
sosjwestusa@gmail.com for updates
Regalia of your Sovereign Order
Order Now!
By Chevalier David A. Fleming, KSJ,
Quartermaster
As
is well
As your
your Quartermaster,
Quartermaster, II am
am pleased
pleased to
to report
report that
that our
our Regalia
Regalia inventory
inventory is
well in-hand.
in-hand.
Ordering
Regalia for
for your
your personal
personal use
use isis much
much easier
easier as
as we
we now
now
Ordering pieces
pieces of
of Sovereign
Sovereign Order
Order Regalia
haveaafull-color
full-color Regalia
Regalia Brochure
Brochure that
that displays
An accompanying
accompanying order
have
displays each
each item
item clearly.
clearly. An
order
form isislocated
located on
on the
the Regalia
Regalia Brochure
Brochure that can be faxed or mailed
mailed to
fulfillment of
form
to me for fulfillment
of
your order.
order. Please be sure to order the appropriate gold collar braid: Silver is out!
your
The
Brochurecan
caneasily
easilybebeemailed
emailed
you
is “PDF”
in “PDF”
format,
enabling
The Regalia
Regalia Brochure
to to
you
as as
it isit in
format,
thusthus
enabling
you
you
to
store
it
on
your
computer
and
re-use
it
as
needed.
For
more
information,
or
to
request
to store it on your computer and re-use it as needed. For more information, or to request
an
an
order
form,
please
email
at dvnbffleming@jps.net,
me at448-7448.
(707) 448-7448.
, or callor
mecall
at (707)
order
form,
please
email
me atme
dvnbffleming@jps.net
24 www.sosjwestusa.org