The Nite worthy of a Legend

As one wise Past Potentate once said, “You know…At Asiya Shriners, we are all about love and respect.” And when it comes to honoring our glorious leaders—especially those who’ve carried the weight and torch of our fraternity—that love and respect shine brighter than ever.

Serving on the Divan isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s a long road—seven years, to be exact—filled with parades, meetings, ceremonials, and countless opportunities to argue about the important and the trivial alike. You blink, and suddenly those years are gone. You feel like you’re just getting started when it’s nearly over.

At Asiya, we’ve built traditions to honor each step of that journey. It starts with Marshal’s Night, where the newest Divan officer is celebrated (well, truthfully, the crowd’s just happy they’re not the one starting the climb). He’s honored with many songs, a special meal, and plenty of opportunities to prove his worth—all while the Nobility reminds the poor soul that he’s a swell fella just like the rest of us.

Fast forward six years, and you arrive at the pinnacle of Asiya’s camaraderie—Chief Rabban’s Nite. That’s exactly where Noble Ronaldo “Ronnie” Antonio found himself last evening, fresh off his exhausting yet spectacular Chief Rabban Safari Trip. Planning that kind of adventure for the Nobility isn’t easy, especially when Asiya’s Nobles only expect first-class. And Ronnie delivered.

So, of course, we had to return the favor in true Asiya fashion…Units and Clubs went all out with heartfelt gifts and creative presentations—from the premiere Asiya Unit - Patrol to the South Bay Shrine Club, each one bringing their unique spark of respect and brotherly love.

Section Crew, where Ronnie served as Director in 2024, showed up big. Kitchen Crew & Noble Director Ronn Mitchell taught an interactive cake-making class to craft a dessert worthy of the occasion, while Sons of the Desert and TAP20 brewed a special batch of beer in Chief Rabban’s honor. The smell of hops filled the hall, promising a future toast come January when this batch will be bottled and shared among the Nobility.

The night was filled with ovations, laughter, and brotherly love. Noble Ronnie proved once again why he’s worthy of every cheer he received—an example of true leadership, humility, and heart.

And if, for some wild reason, you weren’t there to witness it, don’t despair—there’s more festivity ahead. Mark your calendar for November 1, when we gather once more for our 2025 Winter Ceremonial, to welcome new Nobles into the same ancient tradition that nights like this remind us to cherish.