Recognizing and commending the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, which annually holds one of the largest African-American national conventions, for its recent decision to hold its 110th Imperial Council Session in Philadelphia from August 17-21, 2003.

WHEREAS, On October 17, 2001, Mayor John Street and the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau announced that the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (AEAONMS) had decided to hold its 110th

Imperial Council Session in Philadelphia from August 17-21, 2003; and

WHEREAS, The AEAONMS Imperial Session in 2003 is expected to attract about 15,000 members to the City, use more than 30,000 hotel-room nights and generate approximately 14.4 million in delegate spending; and

WHEREAS, AEAONMS is primarily a benevolent, charitable and fraternal organization dedicated to the principle of fostering civic, economic and educational development programs throughout the world; and

WHEREAS, Previous AEAONMS conventions have included talent and scholarship pageants, Potentate’s ball, gospel shows and public events which include a vibrant parade with horses, bands, miniature cars, and a concert; and

WHEREAS, AEAONMS is part of the Worldwide Fraternal Shrine Family with a membership of approximately 35,000. The Imperial Daughters of Isis, the women’s auxiliary, will also meet in conjunction with the AEAONMS convention along with many family members who will remain in Philadelphia for an extended vacation; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we recognize and commend the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, which annually holds one of the largest African-American national conventions, for its recent decision to hold its 110th Imperial Council Session in Philadelphia from August 17-21, 2003.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Imperial Potentate of the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.

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