Illuminated Neon

Jerome Horowitz of Bellmore, New York, takes issue with a caption: “Just completed the June/July, 1979, issue, and must write a note of correction. In the article ‘Neon’ by Rudi Stern, the design in the upper right-hand corner of page 103 is captioned as follows: ‘The fez lit up the window of a storefront house of worship. ’ Actually, the design involved is that of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, specifically that of Jerusalem Temple in New Orleans. I assume the confusion is caused by the fact that Shrine meeting places are denominated as ‘Temples,’ although they are definitely not houses of worship. Within these Temples are found the most wonderful Brotherhood and the most widespread Benevolence known, but no religious observances or services, as these are strictly forbidden by our constitutions. I must admit that the description of the design gave me a hearty chuckle. …

Thank goodness, for we must report that Mr. Horowitz is Immediate Past Potentate of the Mecca Temple of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.