Senate Resolution No. 1570

BY: Senator PARKER

COMMENDING the Brothers of Essene Lodge No. 97
upon the occasion of hosting their 53rd Annual
Scholarship Dinner Dance on February 28, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those distinguished organizations whose efforts promote
education, service, and the enrichment of their communities through
scholarship, mentorship, and civic engagement; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend the Brothers of Essene Lodge No. 97 upon the occasion of hosting
their 53rd Annual Scholarship Dinner Dance on Saturday, February 28,
2026; this distinguished event stands as a celebration of academic
excellence, leadership development, and community uplift; and

WHEREAS, Essene Lodge No. 97 labors under the venerable jurisdiction
of Prince Hall Freemasonry, an institution founded upon the enduring
principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, and inspired by the
legacy of Prince Hall, an abolitionist, patriot, and champion of
educational and social advancement; and

WHEREAS, For more than five decades, Essene Lodge No. 97 has
remained steadfast in its mission to support the educational aspirations
of deserving students, ensuring that financial hardship does not hinder
the pursuit of higher learning, professional growth, and purposeful
citizenship; and

WHEREAS, Through scholarships, mentorship initiatives, and
charitable outreach, the lodge has nurtured generations of scholars and
leaders, reinforcing education as a pathway to empowerment and a
cornerstone of strong and vibrant communities; and

WHEREAS, The Annual Scholarship Dinner Dance serves not only as a
fundraiser, but as a meaningful gathering to honor scholarship
recipients, recognize dedicated members and community partners, and
reaffirm the lodge's collective commitment to investing in the promise
of future generations; and

WHEREAS, Under the distinguished leadership of Worshipful Master
Brother Barry Bourne, the Brothers of Essene Lodge No. 97 continue to
exemplify Masonic virtue through service, integrity, and visionary
stewardship, strengthening both the Fraternity and the community it
serves; and

WHEREAS, The success and longevity of this annual celebration
reflect the unity, sacrifice, and devotion of the Brothers of Essene
Lodge No. 97, whose works embody the highest ideals of Prince Hall
Masonry and fraternal service; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend the Brothers of Essene Lodge No. 97 upon the occasion of hosting
their 53rd Annual Scholarship Dinner Dance, and to extend sincere

appreciation to its members, organizers, and supporters for their
enduring commitment to educational advancement and community service;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Worshipful Master Barry Bourne and the leadership of
Essene Lodge No. 97 as a lasting expression of the respect and gratitude
of this Legislative Body.