sincerely grateful to welcome the esteemed presence of New Jersey ’ s own former Deputy, the distinguished SGIG Robert L. Oglesby, Sr., Grand Minister of State, representing Sovereign Grand Commander Dr. Melvin J. Bazemore. His continued presence and encouragement elevated the spirit of the assembly, enriched the deliberations, and beautifully affirmed the unity, continuity, and enduring strength of our Rite. The NJCOTR continues steadfastly to advance and uphold the teachings, core values, and principles of accountability embodied in the Scottish Rite. State President Perry proudly affirmed that through the collective leadership of the six Valley Presidents and the unified dedication of the NJCOTR, the objectives established for hosting the Summer Jazz III Dinner/Event were successfully achieved. He further announced that the Summer Jazz Event shall now stand as an Annual Signature Event, with “ The Open Door of New Jersey ’ looking forward to serving as its sponsoring partner. He further reported that the NJCOTR have raised a cumulative total of $42,230 in support of our charitable initiatives devoted to bringing relief, hope, and meaningful assistance to those in need throughout our communities. He expressed heartfelt appreciation for the generosity demonstrated, affirming that the proceeds will continue to strengthen and broaden our charitable outreach, and noted the upcoming Summer Jazz III Dinner/Event on July 3, 2025, at the Edge Restaurant & Bar in Jackson. The next order business included reports presented by several Illustrious Sirs. GIG Douglas P. Curry, Hospitaler, provided an update on our sick and distressed members and families throughout the Orient. GIG Tisan Rasool
Dawud, Chairman of the NJCOD Youth Mentoring Program, reported on current initiatives and future youth activities across the State. The Valley Presidents offered brief summaries of their Consistories and highlighted their benevolent and charitable accomplishments within their respective Valleys. Prior to entering into the annual elections, President Perry conveyed his sincere and heartfelt appreciation to those who supported him throughout his third year of leadership, and he presented tokens of gratitude to the Officers of the NJCOTR in recognition of their faithful service and steadfast dedication. The elections for the ensuing year resulted in the following being duly elected: • President – GIG Johnny Hovington • Vice President – GIG James Mack • Treasurer – SGIG Charles F. Williams • Secretary – GIG Louis J. Butler At the close of the meeting, SGIG Ricardo McNeil,, together with SGIG Robert L. Oglesby, Sr., who delivered remarks commending the exemplary labor and continued progress of the NJCOTR. The Ritualistic Opening of the Annual Session was conducted on Saturday, November 15, 2025, by the host Consistory, Ophir Consistory No. 48, under the leadership of S.P. Dean D. Parker, Illustrious Commander-in-Chief. The opening prayer was reverently rendered by the Grand Prior, GIG Rev. Dr. Victor M. Lee. S.P. Parker formally received SGIG Ricardo McNeil, Most Illustrious Commander-in-Chief. He was accorded his proper Scottish Rite Honors and presented with the gavel to preside over and conduct the business of the NJCOD. Thereafter, SGIG McNeil received Active Sovereign Grand Inspectors General John M. Bettis and James G. Allen, who were welcomed with the
appropriate Scottish Rite Honors. SGIG Bettis conveyed fraternal greetings and affirmed their readiness to assist in whatever capacity deemed necessary. The Sovereign and Grand Inspectors General were duly received and directed to assume their Stations and Places.
Roll Call confirmed the presence of all officers and representation from DeHugo Consistory No. 2, Douglass Consistory No. 10, Mt. Calvary Consistory No. 22, Sardonias Consistory No. 41, Ophir Consistory No. 48, Samuel W. Gordon Consistory No. 50. The Most Illustrious Commander-in-Chief received SGIG Robert L. Oglesby, Sr., and delegations into the Annual Session which included the Orient of New Jersey (NMJ) - Ill. David J. Herman, Jr., Secretary, NJ Council of Deliberation, Valley of Southern New Jersey representing Ill. Douglas R. Policastro, Deputy, Orient of New Jersey (NMJ), Ill. David A. Dorworth, Deputy, Valley of Southern New Jersey (NMJ). The Orient of New York brought a delegation of 25 led by SGIG Rev. Hermon J. Simpson, Deputy of the Orient of New York. SGIG McNeil received The Honorable M.W. Jimmy Barnes, Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New Jersey and the Grand Lodge Cabinet Officers followed by the Prince Hall Family.
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