Riverside, Calif. – A gourd donated by Native American Church of Virginia artist René White (Feather) fetched $200 for charity during a gala in California held to help reduce suffering in the world. Designer Fedor Regovets bid and purchased the gourd.
     "He gave it to me as I had admired it and truly wanted this marvelous piece of art," said United States Secretary General Dame Dr. Karen Cantrell with the Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem. (photo right)
     The event, held Sept. 13 by the Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem (HOSLJ) is an annual event held following a investiture ceremony.
     The United States Grand Priory is the first Order of any kind in the world to establish a Commandery of Indigenous Peoples with tribal outreach and support of many of the causes important to the growth and improvement of its people.
     Gourd artist René, is President of the Native American Church of Virginia and holds the position of Marshal for the Commandery of Virginia HOSLJ under the Grand Priory of the United States and Priory of Indigenous People Worldwide.
     Attending the benefit gala were doctors and celebrity guests from across the United States.

     Princess Karen Cantrell, Goodwill Ambassador officiated the auction that raised hundreds of dollars to help those in need and those who help others.