Senate Resolution No. 1971
BY: Senator PARKER
COMMENDING the Eureka Grand Chapter, P.H.O.E.S,
and the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the Most
Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York, upon
the occasion of hosting the Red and White Luncheon
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those organizations of high purpose and worthy
accomplishment whose enduring commitment to fellowship, service, and the
traditions of the Prince Hall fraternal family have enriched the civic
and cultural life of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend the Eureka Grand Chapter, Prince Hall Order of Eastern Star, and
the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand
Lodge of New York, upon the occasion of hosting the Red and White
Luncheon honoring distinguished past officers, on Sunday, April 26,
2026; and
WHEREAS, The Red and White Luncheon is a cherished tradition within
the Prince Hall York Rite family, convening companions, sisters,
officers, and guests in a spirit of fellowship, gratitude, and reverence
for those whose years of dedicated service have strengthened these
bodies and the communities they serve; the colors of red and white,
associated with the Royal Arch degree and its symbols of dedication and
purity, adorn this occasion as a fitting tribute to those who have
labored faithfully in the work of the Chapter; and
WHEREAS, The luncheon honors Most Excellent Past Grand High Priest
James A. Lathan, whose distinguished leadership of the Grand Royal Arch
Chapter has set a standard of excellence, integrity, and fraternal
devotion that continues to inspire the companions who follow in his
steps; and
WHEREAS, The luncheon likewise honors Past Grand High Priest Walter
E. Jackson, who has served the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge
of New York with uncommon dedication across many years and many roles,
including his current service as Grand Librarian, tirelessly preserving
the history and heritage of Prince Hall Masonry in New York for
generations to come; and
WHEREAS, The luncheon honors Past Most Ancient Grand Matron Brenda
J. Simons, whose leadership of the Eureka Grand Chapter, Prince Hall
Order of Eastern Star, exemplified the highest ideals of sisterhood,
service, and devotion to the principles of the Order, and whose legacy
of gracious and purposeful leadership continues to be felt throughout
the Eastern Star family of New York; and
WHEREAS, The luncheon honors Past Most Ancient Grand Matron Barbara
Outlaw Barmore, who led the Eureka Grand Chapter with vision, warmth,
and an abiding commitment to the women and families of the Prince Hall
fraternal community, leaving an indelible mark upon the Order that time
will not diminish; and
WHEREAS, The luncheon further honors Past Most Ancient Matron Amanda
Hargrove, whose faithful and distinguished service at the chapter level
reflects the same spirit of sisterhood and sacrifice that has always
animated the Prince Hall Order of Eastern Star at its finest; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is proudly moved to honor each of
these distinguished leaders, whose combined years of service to the
Prince Hall fraternal family represent a living testament to what is
possible when men and women of principle devote themselves to the
building of stronger, more just, and more caring communities; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend the Eureka Grand Chapter, Prince Hall Order of Eastern Star, and
the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand
Lodge of New York, upon the occasion of hosting the Red and White
Luncheon on Sunday, April 26, 2026; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Most Excellent Past Grand High Priest James A. Lathan,
Past Grand High Priest Walter E. Jackson, Past Most Ancient Grand Matron
Brenda J. Simons, Past Most Ancient Grand Matron Barbara Outlaw Barmore,
Past Most Ancient Matron Amanda Hargrove, and the officers and members
of the Eureka Grand Chapter, Prince Hall Order of Eastern Star, and the
Grand Royal Arch Chapter of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge
of New York, Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York.
