BIOGRAPHY OF MW GRAND MASTER CHESTER C. CHRISTIE, 33°
Chester C. Christie is a native of Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies. He is the son of Clinton and Olga Christie and was raised and educated in Brooklyn, New York.
In June of 1978, M W Bro. Christie earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology from Brooklyn College where he graduated cum laude. In September of that year he relocated to Columbus, Ohio where he was admitted to the Ohio State University, Moritz College of Law; earning his Juris Doctor degree In June 1981.
His career in the areas of Labor Law and Human Resources Management began upon graduation from law school with his employment as General Counsel to the Ohio Civil Service Employees Association. In April 1984 Bro. Christie was appointed to the State of Ohio Employment Relations Board as an Administrative Law Judge where he served for 8 years.
In April 1992 Bro. Christie was appointed Deputy Director, Division of Human Resources with the Ohio Department of Youth Services. He served in that capacity until February 11, 2000.
On February 14, 2000 Christie was honored to be named to the Cabinet of Mayor Michael B. Coleman in the capacity of Director of the Department of Human Resources for the City of Columbus. His responsibilities included oversight and direction of the City's Employee Benefits, EEO, Labor Relations, Compensation Management, Staff Training and Development, Occupational Health and Safety and, Drug-free Workplace programs. In 2014 he received Columbus CEO Magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Award for H R Excellence. In November of 2014 Christie retired after 15 years serving the Coleman Administration as Director of the Department of Human Resources. In May 2015, the Chester C. Christie Training Center was dedicated in honor of his service to the City of Columbus
Bro. Christie is a Forty year member of the Second Baptist Church of Columbus, Ohio. He has served as a member of the Board of Trustees, the Building and Development Committee, the Male Chorus and as Servant-Leader of the Men's Fellowship Ministry.
Bro. Christie has served on numerous boards and commissions and maintains an active membership in several Human Resources professional organizations. He has taught the Legal Aspects of Human Resources Management as an Adjunct Professor at Franklin University.
Bro. Christie was initiated an Entered apprentice 10/20/1981; passed to the degree of Fellow craft 11/17/1981; and raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason on 1/3/1982 in St. Mark’s Lodge #7, Columbus Ohio. He served St. Mark’s Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1989. He has also served as Illustrious Potentate of Alla Baba Temple #53, AEAONMS (1997); Most Worthy Joshua of Rollin F. Kelley, Sr. Ct. #4 HOJ ( 1997); Excellent High Priest of Johnson Chapter #3, RAM ( 2017); and Worthy Patron of Esther Chapter #3, O.E.S. (2018). He is a member of Herald Council #3, R&SM, and LD Easton Consistory #21, AASR, NJ. In 2006 Bro. Christie was elevated to the honorary 33rd and last degree of Freemasonry, as a member of the Courtney P. Houston, Jr. Class of the United Supreme Council, AASR, NJ, USA, PHA.
MW Brother Christie has served the MWPHGL of Ohio in several capacities over the last 32 years since receiving his initial appointment as Assistant Grand Attorney from MWPGM Dr. Chester C. Pryor in 1987. He has also served as Grand Attorney under MWPGM Steven Reese Sr, and MWPGM Frederick E. Kelley, Sr; Deputy Grand Lecturer, District #3 under MWPGM E. Duane Pettiford and MWPGM Embie R. Bostic. He was elected a Grand Lodge Development Fund Committee Member from 2001 to 2013, serving as Chairman from 2009 to 20013. Bro Christie was Elected Junior Grand Warden in 2013, Senior Grand Warden in 2015, and Deputy Grand Master in 2017. On August 6, 2019 he reached the pinnacle of Freemasonry by being afforded the privilegeof being elected and installed as the 64th Most Worshipful Grand Master of the MWPHGL of Ohio.
Bro. Christie is also a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and has held local and regional offices with the fraternity.
He is married to the former Cheryl Ann Bivins of Kansas City, Missouri. They have 2 daughters, Victoria, 34 and Angela, 31, a Son-In-Law, PM Leonard S. Cousin, II and 1 Grandson, Leon.
15 May 2020 COVID-19 Update and Grand Communication Cancellation
“Building on The Firm Foundation of Our Historic Legacy”
To The Worshipful Masters, Wardens, and Brethren of the Subordinate Lodges of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio, Free and Accepted Masons, All Members of Amaranth Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, and all Appendant and Concordant Bodies owing allegiance to the MW Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio
Greetings Members of the Prince Hall Family of Ohio
COVID-19 Update and Grand Communication Cancellation
On April 29, 2020 I issued Proclamation CCC 2020-2 declaring August 7-11, 2020 as the dates for the 171stAnnual Communication of the MWPHGL of Ohio. Registration forms for the Annual Communication were made available shortly thereafter. This was the normal timeframe for issuing both.
Since then Governor Michael Dewine has extended his shelter in place order through the month of May and until further notice. Although businesses have begun to open gradually, it is being done with the requirement for protective coverings and stringent social distancing mandates. The ban on mass gatherings in Ohio remains in effect for the foreseeable future.
The statistical data provided by the Ohio Department of Health, the Center for Disease Control, and other national health organizations continues to demonstrate that populations over the age of 60 with compromised immune systems and other underlying health conditions are most susceptible to the COVID-19 virus. The demographics of our order place a significant percentage of our members within this population. Additionally, recent health organization projections show a continued upward trend in the number of positive tests.
In light of these considerations and out of an abundance of caution and concern for the health and welfare of our membership, the Grand Lodge Trustees and I have sought and obtained a signed mutual consent to cancel agreement with the management of the Renaissance Hotel effective May 14, 2020; thereby canceling this year’s Annual Communication. These actions were taken under the authority granted me by Chapter 2 Section 2.01 of the By-Laws of the Grand Lodge. I commend RW Daryle Cobb, Assistant Convention Director for his due diligence in obtaining this agreement.
As a result the Renaissance Hotel has been canceling room reservations made under our room block. Any conference registrations submitted to the Office of the Grand Secretary with payment will be reimbursed.
The Trustees will continue to work to develop a communication plan regarding how much, when, and in what manner the information that is traditionally provided at our Annual Communication will be communicated to the membership to ensure compliance with our Constitution and By-Laws. Additional information will be forthcoming from Amaranth Grand Chapter.
I thank the Prince Hall Family for your unwavering support and for your steadfast compliance with this and all previous COVID-19 communications. By God’s grace and mercy we will continue to stay connected with each other, lift each other and our families up in prayer and to the best of our abilities continue to be a blessing to each other and to the communities we serve. May the Bonds of Brotherly and Sisterly love remain unbroken. I pray God’s hand of protection over each of you and your families.
Respectfully and Fraternally
Chester C. Christie
Chester C. Christie
Most Worshipful G rand Master
9 APRIL 2020 CORONAVIRUS ADVISORY-UPDATE
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
Attached is a Coronavirus advisory posted on the United Supreme Council website. It has additional, and more specific information for you to know, as this pandemic saga continues.
It is prudent to wear your face mask when out in public areas. There are many videos on the internet to show you how to make a mask or scarf without sewing. You can also visit my office Facebook page, “Family Practice Associates”, to see an instructional video by the US Surgeon General on making a face mask.
If you or a loved one is concerned about possibly having COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on what to do for diagnosis and treatment.
Continue the social distancing, and remember to always wear your face mask in public.
God Bless You All,
Dr. Gordon
Medical Director, Amaranth Grand Chapter, PHA, Ohio
7 APRIL 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES)
Good afternoon Brothers and Sisters.
I received the Communication below from Alan D. Tucker, PM Samaritan Lodge #117 and Illustrious Potentate of Alla Baba Temple #53. PM Tucker is currently employed with PNC Bank and has twenty plus years of experience in the Banking and Financial Industry. He is very knowledgeable in this subject matter and has provided an excellent summary of the recently passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act . Please review it and govern yourselves accordingly. If you have questions please reference the various resources provided in the communication. Thank you P M Tucker. God Bless you Brothers and Sisters and Stay Well!
Respectfully and Fraternally,
Chester C. Christie
Chester C. Christie
MW Grand Master
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Greetings,
We know that this is an unprecedented time of uncertainty and anxiety for our brotherhood and the communities that we serve. Some of us are suffering from job losses, furloughs and reduced hours and damages to our businesses. However, through Unemployment benefits and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES), help is on the way.
Direct Payments
The federal government will be making one-time cash payments directly to citizens. These payments should be issued this month (April) by either check or direct deposit. How much will you receive?
· Individuals earning less than $75,000 will receive $1200
· Married couples earning less than $150,000 will receive $2400
· If you have children, you will receive $500 per child
· Individuals classified as “head of household earning less than $112,500 will receive $1200
· Individuals earning more than $75,000 and less than $99,000 and couples earning more than $150,000 and less than $198,000 are eligible for a lesser amount
Enhanced Unemployment
If you have lost your job, you can apply for state unemployment benefits. You can find a direct link to your state by unemployment website by searching the following:
https://www.careerstop.org/localHelp/UnemploymentBenefits/unemployment-benefits.aspx
Congress has enhanced state unemployment to provide more income to cover more people.
· Adds $600 per week for four months on top of the state unemployment
· Adds up to 13 weeks of additional unemployment benefits to those already enrolled, but who are nearing the ned of benefits
· Expands the program to include a numbers of workers not normally eligible to receive unemployment benefits. This includes:
· Freelancers
· Independent contractors/gig workers
· Self-employed
· Those with limited work history
· Employees who are still employed, but those hours have been reduced
It is important to apply as soon as possible. To help expedite aid, the federal government is funding the first week of benefits to encourage states to waive traditional waiting periods, but it may still take a couple of weeks to be processed,
Small Business Support
Small businesses are experiencing one of the most difficult times in U.S. History. Our nation’s health and economic well being is at risk. We hope that you and your families are safe, healthy and economically stable. During this time, small businesses are at risk of going bankrupt, shutting down and laying off workers. As a result, Congress and the President have signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) on last Friday. CARES will provide $349 billion in funding for small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program, Emergency Economic Injury Grant, SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans, Employee Retention Tax Credit and Small Business Debt Relief Program. We would like you to pass along this communication to all small businesses in the communities that we serve.
· Small Business Guide to the CARES Act
· Paycheck Protection Program Application
· https://www.uschamber.com/report/guide-sbas-economic-injury-disaster-loans
· https://www.uschamber.com/report/guide-the-employee-retention-tax-credit
Fraternally Submitted,
Alan D. Tucker, PM #117
Illustrious Potentate of Alla Baba Temple #53
1 APRIL 2020 - AUTHORITY TO HOLD VIRTUAL MEETINGS
To the Worshipful Masters, Wardens, and Brothers of the subordinate Lodges of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio
Greetings.
After extensive discussion with the Grand Lodge Trustees and input from the RW Grand Lecturer, District Deputy Grand Lecturers, The Chief administrative Officer and District Administrative Officers, I am hereby authorizing all subordinate Lodges to proceed with virtual meetings, effective today April 1, 2020. This is being done as an alternative to our in-person meetings which were suspended effective March 16, 2020 as a result of the Coronavirus Pandemic. A template agenda for stated and work night meetings has been created for each Lodge’s use along with specific guidelines. The template and guidelines have been provided to the Deputies, Administrative Officers and the Worshipful Masters.
Meetings via conference call, Zoom, Skype, or other electronic means on stated meeting nights and work nights will enable us to stay connected, continue the business of the Lodge as much as possible, and enable us to check on our more vulnerable members and our widows. As
additional decisions are made related to the Coronavirus and its impact on our Order, further direction will be provided. Until regular communications ( in-person meetings ) are resumed, updates and other communications from my office will be posted on the www.phaOhio.org website for easier access by the Craft.
Let’s continue to keep each other lifted up and to reach out to each other regularly for emotional and spiritual support and to keep the bonds of Brotherly Love secure. God Bless you and your families! Stay Well.
Respectfully and Fraternally,
Chester C. Christie
Chester C. Christie
Most Worshipful Grand Master
20 MARCH 2020 - IMPORTANT NOTICE - MASONIC/OES FUNERALS
Good Evening Brothers and Sisters,
As the Nation continues to establish rules and behavior protocols to address the spread of the Coronavirus, the Center for Disease Control has provided guidelines on Funerals. They have urged the National Funeral Directors Association and Funeral Homes across the Country to limit funerals to a small number of mourners present (preferably only immediate family members) and have recommended streaming the service on-line for everyone else. This advice and direction has been provided to enable everyone to comply with social distancing mandates and the restrictions on mass gatherings established by Federal , State, and Local Officials while allowing families to honor their deceased loved ones. This is particularly crucial for events where many guests are considered vulnerable, either because they are seniors, or have underlying health conditions.
In light of these considerations, and after consultation with Funeral Directors and Clergy within our Order, I hereby direct that the appropriate Lodge and Chapter Officers inform families of deceased Brothers or Sisters that desire to have Masonic or OES services, that currently existing guidelines and restrictions will preclude us from doing so at this time. As a practical matter, Churches and Funeral Homes are unlikely to honor such requests in light of the restrictions and the growing concerns for everyone’s health and safety. Nevertheless, we should be prepared to inform families accordingly.
It is equally important that we express our sincere condolences to the family, apologize for our inability to perform the last tribute of our affection for our deceased member, and offer our assistance in whatever ways we can, within the restrictions. Additionally, if the family desires, we may consider providing some type of memorial or other tribute after the Coronavirus restrictions are lifted.
As additional decisions are made related to the Coronavirus and its impact on our Order, further direction will be provided.
Let’s continue to keep each other lifted up and to reach out to each other regularly for emotional and spiritual support and to keep the bonds of Brotherly and Sisterly Love secure. Finally, remember the will of God won’t put you where the Grace of God can’t keep you. His Grace is more than sufficient to take us through. God Bless you and your families! Stay well.
Fraternally,
Chester C. Christie
Chester C. Christie
Most Worshipful Grand Master
16 MARCH 2020 - CANCELLATION OF ALL MEETINGS
To the Officers and Members of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio
Good Evening Brothers and Sisters,
We continue to receive guidance and direction from Federal, State, and Local Health Officials regarding measures to be taken to reduce the spread of the Coronavirus ( COVID-19). Based on the most recent updates from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and from the CDC, issued earlier today, ALL Lodge meetings in this Jurisdiction are cancelled until further notice. Similarly, all Pythagorans Chapter meetings are cancelled until further notice. This is ordered out of an abundance of caution, and in an effort to comply with the protocols most recently established by Health Care professionals to protect our health and safety to the best of their abilities.
Let’s continue to follow previously referenced CDC recommendations for hand washing and social distancing. For our members in the most vulnerable populations, it is highly recommended that you remain at home. Brothers and Sisters let’s continue to pray for one another and periodically check in on one another ( preferably by phone) . May God continue to keep his shield of protection around our Prince Hall Phamily.
Respectfully and Fraternally,
Chester C. Christie
Chester C. Christie
Most Worshipful Grand Master
13 MARCH 2020 - CORONAVIRUS RELATED EVENT CANCELLATION
To the Officers and Members of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio
Greetings.
This is a follow up to my recent communications regarding the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. On yesterday, Governor DeWine issued a ban on all mass indoor gatherings of 100 persons or more for an indefinite duration in an effort to contain the spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus in Ohio. As a result, in addition to the Grand Lodge Mid-Year Workshop this weekend, the MVGMC Pythagorans Statewide Workshop, Girls Assembly Debutante Ball, Pythagorans Day and Hattie B. Alexander Day activities the weekend of March 28th and 29th have also been cancelled.
In further compliance with the indoor gathering restrictions put in place by the Governor, District meetings scheduled Beginning April 11th through the end of May ( Districts 4, 7 and 1) will also be cancelled. Although these events may not reach the specific threshold established by the Governor’s ban, the cancelation is ordered out of an abundance of precaution and in the best interest of the wellbeing of our members. This is especially true where we are in a single room in very close confines. We will continue to monitor developments and further directions issued by Federal, State and Local Health Officials. If there are changes that impact this decision you will be informed immediately. Decisions will be made regarding the remaining District meetings as we get closer to those dates.
Barring other developments, Lodge meetings may be conducted at the discretion of each Lodge. If any members are sick, they must remain at home. Senior members and those with compromised immune systems are also advised to exercise caution and avoid attending if they are in any way concerned about exposure. In light of this Health Emergency, Lodges that decide to cancel their meetings, need not request a dispensation. However, you must inform your Deputy before the cancelation. Finally, I intentionally waited until receiving further information regarding the Midwest Conference of Grand Masters before sending this communication. I just received information from the Grand Master of Illinois that the conference scheduled for March 19th through the 22nd has been cancelled. A formal communication from the Conference President should be issued later today.
As previously stated, please review the March 8th email from Dr. Richard Gordon and the links from the Center for Disease Control attached to that email for specific preventative measures and practices we can all continue to employ. Let’s all continue to remain steadfast in our efforts to help each other and our families remain healthy. God Bless you and keep you and your families covered with his shield of protection.
Respectfully and Fraternally,
Chester C. Christie
Chester C. Christie
Most Worshipful Grand Master
11 MARCH 2020 - CANCELLATION OF MID-YEAR WORKSHOP
To the Officers and Members of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio
Good evening Brothers and Sisters.
Since my last message to the Prince Hall Family on yesterday, many additional questions continue to be raised regarding the Coronavirus Outbreak and the most appropriate preventative practices and measures to be taken to ensure that the spread of the virus is contained. A fourth positive test for the virus was reported today in Stark County. As a result, Governor Mike DeWine held a press conference with the Ohio Director of Public Health and other Local and Regional Health Officials. The Governor and Health Officials emphasized that citizens should take significant precaution when deciding whether to participate in large group assemblies, and urged against doing so. This is particularly the case for seniors and those who may have compromised immune systems. Additionally, within the next 24 to 36 hours the Governor intends to issue a ban on large gatherings. The specifics of the ban have not yet been outlined, however, he intimated that groups of 250 or more are being considered as the threshold.
In light of these considerations, and after discussion with our Grand Physician Dr. C. Keith Melvin, the Grand Lodge Mid-Year Workshop scheduled for Saturday March 14, 2020 has been cancelled. This decision has been made in the best interest of the physical health and well- being of our members . It is also the most responsible and practical measure to take to ensure we do not unknowingly contribute to the outbreak or unnecessarily expose our membership to it. The Trustees and I will continue to work with the Grand Lodge Medical Team to monitor further developments and recommendations associated with the Coronavirus and advise you accordingly.
In the interim, please review the March 8th email from Dr. Richard Gordon and the links from the Center for Disease Control attached to that email for specific preventative measures and practices we can all continue to employ. I continue to pray God’s protective covering over the entire Prince Hall Family.
Respectfully and Fraternally,
Chester C. Christie
Chester C. Christie
Most Worshipful Grand Master
10 MARCH 2020 - CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
To the Officers and Members of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ohio
Good evening Brothers and Sisters,
Many questions have been raised and continue to be raised regarding the Coronavirus outbreak throughout the United States and around the world. The Trustees and the Grand Lodge Medical Team continue to closely monitor the global and local efforts to contain the spread of the virus. It is critically important that we remain informed about the Coronavirus including how it can be transmitted, its symptoms, and preventative practices and measures we should all take during an epidemic.
On Sunday you received an email from Dr. Richard Gordon, our Assistant Grand Physician recommending and emphasizing certain specific practices. Some of these practices were detailed in a link from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) included in the email. These practices included: Practice proper hand hygiene. Handwashing using soap and water for at least 20 seconds is best. Hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol is second best if soap and water are not available. Practice Social Distancing; politely decline and minimize handshakes and hugs ( fist bumps and elbow bumps are preferable). Please see Dr. Gordon’s email and the CDC links for other recommendations and more details, and govern yourselves accordingly.
To date there have been 3 positive tests in Ohio in the Cuyahoga County area. We will continue to monitor recommendations from the Ohio Department of Health and other State, County, and Local Health officials regarding any specific actions to be taken regarding group assemblies or other large gatherings. Unless and until we hear otherwise, The Grand Lodge Mid-Year Workshop will be held this Saturday March 14, 2020 at the Columbus Police Training Academy, 100 N. Hague Avenue, Columbus, 43204. Registration is from 7:30 to 8:40 a.m. We will assemble in the Auditorium promptly at 8:45 a.m. and proceed with the workshop Breakout Sessions at 9:00. A brief Coronavirus update will be provided during the General session in the Auditorium before we adjourn. Any changes will be communicated immediately.
I pray God’s protective covering upon each of you and your families.
Respectfully and Fraternally,
Chester C. Christie
Chester C. Christie Most Worshipful Grand Master
8 MARCH 2020 - CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS (COVID-19) | CDC
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
There are many questions and concerns regarding the Coronavirus outbreak in China and around the world. I have attached a comprehensive reference source provided by the CDC. Please peruse through this information, and if you have any particular questions that are not answered, or are unclear, please contact your doctor, they know your specific medical history and can give you the best advice for your particular health risks and concerns. For any general questions not answered to your satisfaction in the link below, please feel free to contact me.
In addition to the CDC information, I would emphasize the following:
1) Proper, and frequent hand washing, is the most effective way to avoid infection.
2) Practice proper coughing technique, (see attached).
3) Maintain a good vitamin D level. A good level would be 50 to 100 on the laboratory reference test. In addition to vitamin D, a daily multivitamin- IF YOU ARE TAKING COUMADIN/WARFARIN, CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TAKING A MULTIVITAMIN.
This will help maintain a strong immune system.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/etiquette/coughing_sneezing.html
God Bless All Of You,
Richard E. Gordon, Jr., M.D., FAAFP
Medical Director, Amaranth Grand Chapter, OES, PHA, Ohio