Well, an envent that had been in the back of my mind since I was elected to the Divan came to fruition this fine evening. For the first time in a long, long time (no one can remember if it has every happened), the Divan of Marracci Temple AEONMS # 13, the Divan of Moslem Shriners and some Past Potentates sat down in the Noble's Lounge, broke bread, partook in some Camel's milk and had fun.
Marracci Temple is comprised of Prince Hall Freemasons, and they are located in Detroit. Their Temple has been a long time supporter of our Shrine Circus, purchasing large blocks of tickets every year. A good friend of mine, who served as an officer of his masonic lodge during the same time frame as I served my lodge, is the Grand Lodge of Michigan's official liaison to the Prince Hall Grand Lodge. We have been discussing ways of bringing the two shrine temples together for many years, and we finally achieved our goals.
We begung the evening with a tour of the building, and then sat down (ensuring that both divans sat at various tables), listened to a beautiful invocation of the Supreme Architect, and enjoyed a delicious dinner by our famous chef.
I beleive that by the end of the evening, we both learned much more about each other's organizations, but more importantly, that we both share a common bond, that we travelled similiar paths in life, beset by ruffians, and we continue to strive for further light.
I had the honor of bestowing an Honorary Membership to the Illustrious Potentate of Marracci, and I am convinced that this simple get together is going to be the beginning of a vibrant relationship. I sat back and watched each of our Divan officers speaking to their counterparts, and overhearing united plans for several events over the next several years. I am so proud of this group of Board Members, who, at every stage, grasped on to my sometime out of the ordinary ideas, and put their succesful twists onto the thread of success.
On a personal level, I was made aware when I first ran for the Divan that I would be the 4th Potentate of Middle Eastern descent (out of 116 Potentates), and that a certain burden fell upon my shoulders to make those preceeding me proud of that fact. In my short time as a Shriner, I have heard disparaging comments by ignorant people as to my heritage, which is not to say that it is an endemic problem of the Shrine alone, but something I will never forgive. Although I have been taught to subdue my passions and to whisper good counsel in the ears of my fellow brothers, moments and events such as this evening's get-together far surpass and negate those who relent to live in some bygone era of hatred. I truly beleive that the vast majority of our membership understand the true principles of our philosophy and tenets of brother love, releif and truth. I hope that I can espouse these tenets and continue the path that they lead.
Enough, enough, it is the Weekend and time for another new venture for Moslem Shriners. On saturday about 25 Nobles have been selected by the Leadeship Search Committee to attend a special leadership training program, conducted by one of our own, who happens to also serve our craft as an Officer of the Grand Lodge of Michigan. I cannot wait to see the outcomes of this initial step in building leaders that eventually be the force in our continuing success in the future.
More on this later.
Have a Great Weekend.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Tuesday April 27, 2010
A busy week has begun.
On Monday, I went to the Shrine Center and had a Board Meeting, following which I attended the Directors Staff and Keystone Kops Unit meetings. I did not stay too long, left by 9:30 P.M. The Ladies Oriental Shrine were meeting tonight, I beleive that it is the first meeting since the installation of the new officers. I can only imagine the excitement of the entire court in the upcoming GLUM convention, being hosted by Detroit. We, the Board, have committed our support to ensure their successful weekend in September and I hope that all goes smoothly. Did I mention that I volunteered the wife for any, ANY duties that they may prescribe.
Tuesday, I met with the Treasurer and Oriental Guide, in Southfield to go over the warrants and bills. It went pretty well, with only a couple of questions.
I then met the Imperial Convention Chairman and we spent a couple of hours finalizing the details/logistics of the upcoming Toronto Convention. I am so excited to participate and enjoy Shrinedom on such a grand stage, in a truly metropolitan city. We will be arriving in the midst of the Queen visiting Toronto, and along with the National Gay Pride Parade, which we have been told will realize and additional 50-60,000 people in the city. No matter the occasion, Toronto will be a rockin'.
The Dramatic Corps, under the direction of a new leader, met this evening to practice for the upcoming Spring Ceremonial. This group of ritualists are excited about the new direction of the unit and promise a very entertaining 1st section with some interesting twists, we shall see.
The only disappointment for the evening is that I tried to get home in time to watch LOST with Carrie, and found out there was not a new episode. I feel major LOST withdrawals, and only another true fan would understand.
Wednesday, I will be working around the house in the PM, planting my new Japaneese Maple, and finally getting some weeding done outside.
Have a great day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On Monday, I went to the Shrine Center and had a Board Meeting, following which I attended the Directors Staff and Keystone Kops Unit meetings. I did not stay too long, left by 9:30 P.M. The Ladies Oriental Shrine were meeting tonight, I beleive that it is the first meeting since the installation of the new officers. I can only imagine the excitement of the entire court in the upcoming GLUM convention, being hosted by Detroit. We, the Board, have committed our support to ensure their successful weekend in September and I hope that all goes smoothly. Did I mention that I volunteered the wife for any, ANY duties that they may prescribe.
Tuesday, I met with the Treasurer and Oriental Guide, in Southfield to go over the warrants and bills. It went pretty well, with only a couple of questions.
I then met the Imperial Convention Chairman and we spent a couple of hours finalizing the details/logistics of the upcoming Toronto Convention. I am so excited to participate and enjoy Shrinedom on such a grand stage, in a truly metropolitan city. We will be arriving in the midst of the Queen visiting Toronto, and along with the National Gay Pride Parade, which we have been told will realize and additional 50-60,000 people in the city. No matter the occasion, Toronto will be a rockin'.
The Dramatic Corps, under the direction of a new leader, met this evening to practice for the upcoming Spring Ceremonial. This group of ritualists are excited about the new direction of the unit and promise a very entertaining 1st section with some interesting twists, we shall see.
The only disappointment for the evening is that I tried to get home in time to watch LOST with Carrie, and found out there was not a new episode. I feel major LOST withdrawals, and only another true fan would understand.
Wednesday, I will be working around the house in the PM, planting my new Japaneese Maple, and finally getting some weeding done outside.
Have a great day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, April 26, 2010
Weekend of April 24
I spent the entire day on Saturday at the Scottish Rite Reunion. I am so impressed by how the Valley has come together in a few short years in their new facility. The degrees were extremely well done, and if you have not witnessed the 32nd degree in the new cathedral, I have to tell you it is better than at the old building. The intimate nature of the space emphasizes the lessons of the actors and their story.
The valley brought in over 40 new members, and so many of them were younger than me, which is great. I would also estimate that about a 1/3 of the cast were newer, younger members. The Valley is in good shape. I can only strive to emulate and ensure the same success in the Shrine.
I got home around 7 and brought dinner for Carrie, and we enjoyed a good evening.
Sunday was raining, all day. Some good news, we finally received our new Japaneese Maple to replaced our 15 year old tree that was destroyed in last years storm. It is beautiful and will be in the ground by Wednesday.
Sunday evening, we met our Asst. Child Care Director and his bride to discuss the Zoo Day, scheduled for September. We are inviting our SHC children to a great, fun-filled day at the Detroit Zoo, and it looks like the plans are taking shape.
I look at my schedule for the week, and I will be in Southfield every day for meetings and what not. The life of a Board member, gotta love it.
Much Love
The valley brought in over 40 new members, and so many of them were younger than me, which is great. I would also estimate that about a 1/3 of the cast were newer, younger members. The Valley is in good shape. I can only strive to emulate and ensure the same success in the Shrine.
I got home around 7 and brought dinner for Carrie, and we enjoyed a good evening.
Sunday was raining, all day. Some good news, we finally received our new Japaneese Maple to replaced our 15 year old tree that was destroyed in last years storm. It is beautiful and will be in the ground by Wednesday.
Sunday evening, we met our Asst. Child Care Director and his bride to discuss the Zoo Day, scheduled for September. We are inviting our SHC children to a great, fun-filled day at the Detroit Zoo, and it looks like the plans are taking shape.
I look at my schedule for the week, and I will be in Southfield every day for meetings and what not. The life of a Board member, gotta love it.
Much Love
Friday, April 23, 2010
Friday April 23, 2010
How to define this week in SE Michigan, Cold in the morning, nice in the afternoon, very cold at night. Welcome to Michigan. Carrie and I were at a local nursery last weekend and laughing at the people buying annuals and flowers, a good month before they will thrive. Don't they live in Michigan.
Anyway, I spent Monday and Tuesday in Southfield during the evenings, for various committee meetings. The Spring Ceremonial is taking shape and I am very impressed with the way the different components and Nobles coming together for a successful event.
Wednesday April 21, 2010 I attended the Lakeside SC Annual Poorman's Dinner, which is the fancy way of stating Coney Dogs, hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. I also had the honor of finally presenting an "Ambassador" fez on a truly worthy Noble, who was not expecting it that evening. He has been one of the cornerstones in Lakeside SC surviving some very hard years and truly exhibits the unselfish, voluntary nature of what it means to be a Shriner. I know he was truly touched by the honor.
Thursday April 22, 2010: Shrine Day Off for Mike. Carrie at home working, and I stopped by the grocery store and bbq'd some steaks and veggies for us, after finally cutting the grass for the first time this year.
We had a nice evening.
Friday: the weekend is almost here, I have 3 more hours. I am going to Southfield to meet with a travel agent regarding a possible Shrine Trip to Vegas in October, to coincide with the Justin Timberlake/Shriners Hospitals for Children Golf Outing. Carrie is meeting me at the Shrine Center, along with the Asst Rabban and his lady and we are going to dinner. It probably will be an early evening, as I am to be in Dearborn by 9AM on Saturday for the entire day, attending the Reunion of our Scottish Rite Valley, named in honor of my friend and look alike.
Have a great weekend.
Anyway, I spent Monday and Tuesday in Southfield during the evenings, for various committee meetings. The Spring Ceremonial is taking shape and I am very impressed with the way the different components and Nobles coming together for a successful event.
Wednesday April 21, 2010 I attended the Lakeside SC Annual Poorman's Dinner, which is the fancy way of stating Coney Dogs, hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. I also had the honor of finally presenting an "Ambassador" fez on a truly worthy Noble, who was not expecting it that evening. He has been one of the cornerstones in Lakeside SC surviving some very hard years and truly exhibits the unselfish, voluntary nature of what it means to be a Shriner. I know he was truly touched by the honor.
Thursday April 22, 2010: Shrine Day Off for Mike. Carrie at home working, and I stopped by the grocery store and bbq'd some steaks and veggies for us, after finally cutting the grass for the first time this year.
We had a nice evening.
Friday: the weekend is almost here, I have 3 more hours. I am going to Southfield to meet with a travel agent regarding a possible Shrine Trip to Vegas in October, to coincide with the Justin Timberlake/Shriners Hospitals for Children Golf Outing. Carrie is meeting me at the Shrine Center, along with the Asst Rabban and his lady and we are going to dinner. It probably will be an early evening, as I am to be in Dearborn by 9AM on Saturday for the entire day, attending the Reunion of our Scottish Rite Valley, named in honor of my friend and look alike.
Have a great weekend.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Monday April 18, 2010
I returned to work after 4 days off, and it was a little hectic. It appears that since everyone is back from recent vacations, the hospital is getting busier.
After work, I went to Southfield and had a Board meeting, followed by a meeting with the Imperial Convention chairman and team. This event is progressing very nicely, and I expect a great time to be had by all.
I was able to talk to many nobles that I have not had an opportunity to speak to recently, due to the schedule, and I chilled out for a couple of hours.
I did leave around 9:30 and got home to talk to Carrie a little while.
Carrie is busy getting tickets available for the Potentate's Ball and placing finishing touches on the upcoming Ladie's Luncheon.
After work, I went to Southfield and had a Board meeting, followed by a meeting with the Imperial Convention chairman and team. This event is progressing very nicely, and I expect a great time to be had by all.
I was able to talk to many nobles that I have not had an opportunity to speak to recently, due to the schedule, and I chilled out for a couple of hours.
I did leave around 9:30 and got home to talk to Carrie a little while.
Carrie is busy getting tickets available for the Potentate's Ball and placing finishing touches on the upcoming Ladie's Luncheon.
Fri - Sun April 16-18, 2010
Well, I survived what appeared to be 72 straight hours of being at the Shrine Center. We welcomed in some guests from the Imperial Council on Wednesday Afternoon, and they left Friday evening. In between, I guess I spent over 30 hours at the Shrine Center addressing the many issues confronting the Shrine. However, many positive comments were made regarding the current Board of Directors and their commitment to the improvement of Moslem Shriners. I am so proud of this Board of Directors, I know that I have repeated often how we are very close, but I want to emphasize how important our personal bonds is to the future success of the Shrine. We are working as a well-oiled cog, that knows one direction, UP!!!!!!!!
During this time, I also had the opportunity on Friday morning to stop by the downtown garage and see off our drivers, who were going to Chicago. One of our Past Potentates was overseeing the duties that day and we had a wonderful conversation regarding the process. We are extremely proud of the overwhelming response by the Nobility during this transition period, while our futures are being debated by the powers beyond us, our Nobility is stepping up to the plate, especially the Past Potentates, I tip my fez to all of you.
I went home Friday night, finally saw Carrie for a little while before I passed out for the evening.
Saturday April 17, 2010: One of the more fun aspects of being Potentate. I attended, along with the majority of the Board of Directors, the Annual Installation of our local Ladies Oriental Shrine Court. In the past several years, I have forged a very nice relationship with our affiliated ladies organizations and feel that we are taking giant steps to working together for a common cause. This afternoon was very nice, and I can tell that the Ladies of this court take pride and honor on being members of this organization. Following the festivities, since we were in Dearborn, Carrie and I stopped by a couple of mideastern bakeries and picked up some food and dessert for the evening.
Sunday April 18, 2010: One of the least fun and sad aspects of being a Potentate. The Black Camel took away one of our beloved Past Potentates. We conducted a Shrine Walk Through at the Funeral Home, and am proud that we were able to afford our Brother the last rites of Freemasonry/Shrinedom, that of being welcomed into the next stage by his fellow brothers.
During this time, I also had the opportunity on Friday morning to stop by the downtown garage and see off our drivers, who were going to Chicago. One of our Past Potentates was overseeing the duties that day and we had a wonderful conversation regarding the process. We are extremely proud of the overwhelming response by the Nobility during this transition period, while our futures are being debated by the powers beyond us, our Nobility is stepping up to the plate, especially the Past Potentates, I tip my fez to all of you.
I went home Friday night, finally saw Carrie for a little while before I passed out for the evening.
Saturday April 17, 2010: One of the more fun aspects of being Potentate. I attended, along with the majority of the Board of Directors, the Annual Installation of our local Ladies Oriental Shrine Court. In the past several years, I have forged a very nice relationship with our affiliated ladies organizations and feel that we are taking giant steps to working together for a common cause. This afternoon was very nice, and I can tell that the Ladies of this court take pride and honor on being members of this organization. Following the festivities, since we were in Dearborn, Carrie and I stopped by a couple of mideastern bakeries and picked up some food and dessert for the evening.
Sunday April 18, 2010: One of the least fun and sad aspects of being a Potentate. The Black Camel took away one of our beloved Past Potentates. We conducted a Shrine Walk Through at the Funeral Home, and am proud that we were able to afford our Brother the last rites of Freemasonry/Shrinedom, that of being welcomed into the next stage by his fellow brothers.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Thursday April 15, 2010
Spring has really sprung, what a beautiful week, and it is going to be in the 80's today.
We received our distinguished guests from the Imperial Shrine yesterday and had a very informative Board meeting.
One of the most dauting tasks of serving as a leader of this organization is to gain a comfortable level of understanding of the by laws of the Imperial Shrine. For any who have seen the by laws it is broken down into several sections dealing with the Imperial Shrine leadership level, local Shrine Temple level and then the Shriners Hospitals for Children level.
When one serves as Oriental Guide, he is invited to a 3-4 day training session at the Imperial Headquarters in Tampa (affectionally referred to as "Shrine Camp"). The OG and his lady (who is enrolled in a ladie's orientation) are led through a series of training sessions and the recurring theme is "Know the by laws".
During the 3rd year on the Divan, as Assistant Rabban, you once again are sent to Tampa for "Shrine Camp" where further information/training is given, once again emphasizing various aspects of Shrine Law.
You can imagine the time, effort and resources that the Imperial Shrine places on ensuring the local Temple Leaders are well versed.
Of course, as happens in all organizations, further interpretation is required at many times. Our meeting last night proved the perfect example of this example. Our eyes were opened up to certain aspects of Shrine Law, with many clarifications that will be introduced to our entire Nobility in the near future. I am confident, as are all the future leaders of this Shrine Temple, that we will be in accordance with Shrine Law from this point forward.
Anyway, I picked up our guests this morning around 7:30 A.M. and will be spending most of the day catching up with some upcoming Shrine Events.
Have a wonderful Day
We received our distinguished guests from the Imperial Shrine yesterday and had a very informative Board meeting.
One of the most dauting tasks of serving as a leader of this organization is to gain a comfortable level of understanding of the by laws of the Imperial Shrine. For any who have seen the by laws it is broken down into several sections dealing with the Imperial Shrine leadership level, local Shrine Temple level and then the Shriners Hospitals for Children level.
When one serves as Oriental Guide, he is invited to a 3-4 day training session at the Imperial Headquarters in Tampa (affectionally referred to as "Shrine Camp"). The OG and his lady (who is enrolled in a ladie's orientation) are led through a series of training sessions and the recurring theme is "Know the by laws".
During the 3rd year on the Divan, as Assistant Rabban, you once again are sent to Tampa for "Shrine Camp" where further information/training is given, once again emphasizing various aspects of Shrine Law.
You can imagine the time, effort and resources that the Imperial Shrine places on ensuring the local Temple Leaders are well versed.
Of course, as happens in all organizations, further interpretation is required at many times. Our meeting last night proved the perfect example of this example. Our eyes were opened up to certain aspects of Shrine Law, with many clarifications that will be introduced to our entire Nobility in the near future. I am confident, as are all the future leaders of this Shrine Temple, that we will be in accordance with Shrine Law from this point forward.
Anyway, I picked up our guests this morning around 7:30 A.M. and will be spending most of the day catching up with some upcoming Shrine Events.
Have a wonderful Day
Monday, April 12, 2010
Monday April 12, 2010
Beautiful Weekend. The Classic Car Show at Gibraltar Mt. Clemens was a success. Well over a 100 cars were on display for the public, many Shriners and our wives and ladies were present. The Highlanders gathered 10 pipers and 3 drummers for a very nice show on Saturday.
It went very well, and I believe the USMA will be conducting another charitable show in July.
I also found time to sit down with the chairman of the Holiday Party, and we accomplished much in fine tuning the event. As you are aware this will be the first Holiday Party to be held at our Shrine Center, and we are in the process of booking hotels and hospitality for the event. One good thing about our location, is the numerous fine hotels in the near vicinity.
Carrie came back from Arizona, sicker than she left (physically). I felt so sorry for her, she basically slept over 12 hourse Friday night. But of course her stubborn side came out when I suggested a trip to Urgent Care. She, of course, consulted the internet and self-diagnosed herself and concluded that no outcome would be beneficial, other than waiting it out. Oh well, I married the entire package, and love all sides/natures of my beloved wife.
This week is packed. I will be at the Shrine Center every day, beginning with a Board of Directors meeting this afternoon, followed by a circus summation meeting. The rest of the week, I will be in Southfield getting prepared for a visit at the end of the week.
I cannot wait until Saturday, one of the nicest ladies that Carrie and I have met in our Shrine life will take the reigns of the head of the Ladies Oriental Shrine and we will be in attendance. She is taking the place of another strong supporter of the Shrine hospitals that I had the pleasure of working with the last couple of years. One of the steps I am so proud of in my brief time serving the Nobility of Moslem is the stronger bonds we have formed with our affiliated ladies organizations. I hope the bonds not only continue but increase, because the only way for ALL our organizations to succeed is to work together. That old saying of behind every good man is a better women, is so out of date, because there are soooooo many more good female leaders that are improving all our lives.
Until next time.................
It went very well, and I believe the USMA will be conducting another charitable show in July.
I also found time to sit down with the chairman of the Holiday Party, and we accomplished much in fine tuning the event. As you are aware this will be the first Holiday Party to be held at our Shrine Center, and we are in the process of booking hotels and hospitality for the event. One good thing about our location, is the numerous fine hotels in the near vicinity.
Carrie came back from Arizona, sicker than she left (physically). I felt so sorry for her, she basically slept over 12 hourse Friday night. But of course her stubborn side came out when I suggested a trip to Urgent Care. She, of course, consulted the internet and self-diagnosed herself and concluded that no outcome would be beneficial, other than waiting it out. Oh well, I married the entire package, and love all sides/natures of my beloved wife.
This week is packed. I will be at the Shrine Center every day, beginning with a Board of Directors meeting this afternoon, followed by a circus summation meeting. The rest of the week, I will be in Southfield getting prepared for a visit at the end of the week.
I cannot wait until Saturday, one of the nicest ladies that Carrie and I have met in our Shrine life will take the reigns of the head of the Ladies Oriental Shrine and we will be in attendance. She is taking the place of another strong supporter of the Shrine hospitals that I had the pleasure of working with the last couple of years. One of the steps I am so proud of in my brief time serving the Nobility of Moslem is the stronger bonds we have formed with our affiliated ladies organizations. I hope the bonds not only continue but increase, because the only way for ALL our organizations to succeed is to work together. That old saying of behind every good man is a better women, is so out of date, because there are soooooo many more good female leaders that are improving all our lives.
Until next time.................
Friday, April 9, 2010
Friday April 9
The Wife comes home this afternoon, Yeah, I am excited. I also got to eat sushi last night (of course after I cleaned the house).
Today is the opening of the USMA Classic Car Show at Gibraltar - Mt. Clemens, which you are aware is the first time in many years they have a full weekend in Mt. Clemens. We are very excited and plan on being there most of the weekend.
Things at the Shrine Center have been a little low key this week, although we took care of stripping and waxing the fraternal hallways, so when you come by next week, take a look at the shiny new floor.
Can you beleive that it is only April, and I am meeting with our Holiday Party Committee this evening, which is not until December. The majority of the plans are in place. Of course, this will mark the first time the party will be held at our Shrine Center, in the Mystic Ballroom (I think that's the name of the auditorium these days).
Anyway, the Tigers are opening up at home in about 2 hours, they have played some very good ball in KC the last several days, and we should all be excited. I am kind of glad I am not in the cold streets of D-town celebrating today. I remember some good opening days when it was really warm, and probably partied too much.
Have a great weekend, Go Tigers, Go Shriners
Today is the opening of the USMA Classic Car Show at Gibraltar - Mt. Clemens, which you are aware is the first time in many years they have a full weekend in Mt. Clemens. We are very excited and plan on being there most of the weekend.
Things at the Shrine Center have been a little low key this week, although we took care of stripping and waxing the fraternal hallways, so when you come by next week, take a look at the shiny new floor.
Can you beleive that it is only April, and I am meeting with our Holiday Party Committee this evening, which is not until December. The majority of the plans are in place. Of course, this will mark the first time the party will be held at our Shrine Center, in the Mystic Ballroom (I think that's the name of the auditorium these days).
Anyway, the Tigers are opening up at home in about 2 hours, they have played some very good ball in KC the last several days, and we should all be excited. I am kind of glad I am not in the cold streets of D-town celebrating today. I remember some good opening days when it was really warm, and probably partied too much.
Have a great weekend, Go Tigers, Go Shriners
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Wednesday April 7, 2010
My lovely and talented bride is in Arizona this week for work, and I have not had any opportunity to live a life a bachelordome at all (I mean I miss her terribly).
Monday evening was full of meetings with various Unit Directors and event chairman getting ready for the full spring agenda.
Yesterday I went to a funeral across town and when I got back home, basically fell asleep on the couch.
I told Carrie that I would be very busy this week eating sushi, crab and lobster, however it does not look like I am going to get the opportunity. I will be busy all evening today. Perhaps Thursday will be Mike's Sushi Time.
I am hearing that the USMA Classic Car Show this weekend will have about 125 vehicles on display, I think it is going to be a very good event.
This week also ends the cash calendar fundraiser and we were very successful. We had more participation from newer clubs and I am very happy with the results.
Anyway, that's it for now.
Monday evening was full of meetings with various Unit Directors and event chairman getting ready for the full spring agenda.
Yesterday I went to a funeral across town and when I got back home, basically fell asleep on the couch.
I told Carrie that I would be very busy this week eating sushi, crab and lobster, however it does not look like I am going to get the opportunity. I will be busy all evening today. Perhaps Thursday will be Mike's Sushi Time.
I am hearing that the USMA Classic Car Show this weekend will have about 125 vehicles on display, I think it is going to be a very good event.
This week also ends the cash calendar fundraiser and we were very successful. We had more participation from newer clubs and I am very happy with the results.
Anyway, that's it for now.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Yeah, Opening Day for the Tigers (4-5-10)
I love this day. Every year, opening day for game of ball, in general, and specifically for the Tigers, is a sign of rebirth, renewal, that time of year when life flourishes.
For those who know me well, you know my love for the baseball. I equate baseball with life, how it begins annually with the blooming of spring flowers (the renewal of life), hits its pinnacle in the summer, and fades away in the fall. Baseball is woven in the fabric of America's last 100 years. When the country was down and out during the depression and WWII, baseball was there to pick up the morale of the country. And of course my biggest arguement for how baseball mimicking life is that if you consider that the greatest baseball player of all time, Mr. Tyrus Raymond Cobb, was only successful 37% of time, is that not like life itself. What other sport can someone say they were a failur over 6 times in 10 and still be considered great. A QB would not last long throwing 37% accuracy, a goal tender would be pulled if he gave up a goal 4 out of 10 shots, etc. etc. etc.
In life, really, for every 10 things someone attempts, do you not consider yourself successful if about 4 things worked well.
That is why baseball is great. I am looking forward to this season. I am excited for the Tigers, and of course, I always route for the Dodgers and curse the Yankees.
Back to the Shrine:
The weekend went well. The USMA Classic Car show was a success, considering the Easter weekend, and crowds not as large as would be the case in a non-holiday weekend. That will change this upcoming weekend, when the USMA will sponsor another Classic Car Show at Gibraltar - Mt. Clemens for the entire weekend. They are expecting about 140 classic cars to be showcased.
Easter was uneventful. My lovely and talented bride was under the weather and stressing a little about her business trip to Arizona this week. I went to my mom's and had a very, very, good dinner (I will not bore you with the details).
The rest of this week will be a little slower until the weekend, however, I have a board meeting tonight in Southfield.
Take Care and of course, when you eventually hear "Centerfield" sometime during the day on your radio or tv, just cheer, cheer, cheer for the home team.
PLAY BALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For those who know me well, you know my love for the baseball. I equate baseball with life, how it begins annually with the blooming of spring flowers (the renewal of life), hits its pinnacle in the summer, and fades away in the fall. Baseball is woven in the fabric of America's last 100 years. When the country was down and out during the depression and WWII, baseball was there to pick up the morale of the country. And of course my biggest arguement for how baseball mimicking life is that if you consider that the greatest baseball player of all time, Mr. Tyrus Raymond Cobb, was only successful 37% of time, is that not like life itself. What other sport can someone say they were a failur over 6 times in 10 and still be considered great. A QB would not last long throwing 37% accuracy, a goal tender would be pulled if he gave up a goal 4 out of 10 shots, etc. etc. etc.
In life, really, for every 10 things someone attempts, do you not consider yourself successful if about 4 things worked well.
That is why baseball is great. I am looking forward to this season. I am excited for the Tigers, and of course, I always route for the Dodgers and curse the Yankees.
Back to the Shrine:
The weekend went well. The USMA Classic Car show was a success, considering the Easter weekend, and crowds not as large as would be the case in a non-holiday weekend. That will change this upcoming weekend, when the USMA will sponsor another Classic Car Show at Gibraltar - Mt. Clemens for the entire weekend. They are expecting about 140 classic cars to be showcased.
Easter was uneventful. My lovely and talented bride was under the weather and stressing a little about her business trip to Arizona this week. I went to my mom's and had a very, very, good dinner (I will not bore you with the details).
The rest of this week will be a little slower until the weekend, however, I have a board meeting tonight in Southfield.
Take Care and of course, when you eventually hear "Centerfield" sometime during the day on your radio or tv, just cheer, cheer, cheer for the home team.
PLAY BALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Saturday April 3, 2010
It has been a very beautiful week, if the weather keeps up like this what a summer we are going to enjoy.
On Thursday, Carrie and I attended our first ever Red & White Fez Club luncheon. I have spoken about the R&W before, briefly it is a combined social club comprised of Shriners (Red Fezzes) and members of the local caravanserais of the International Order of Al Hambra (White Fezzes). They get together once a month for lunch, and due to work commitments, I have never attended.
It was Ladies day and the room was packed, and we had a delicious lunch. I was presented a R&W club shirt, for being the Potentate this year, and also multiple checks were received from the local caravans for the circus this year. Great luncheon.
Carrie and I then drove to Southfield to take care of some bookkeeping and Potentate's Ball plans with the office staff (mostly Carrie). I did have a conversation with another big city that would like the Shriners to parade this year, after about a 7 year absence. It looks promising. I have pledged to the Units that we would seriously look into more parades for the Units as a group, and it looks like there will be at least 2 additional events on our list.
After Southfield, we went to Ackroyd's Bakery and picked up some good old fashion Scottish items, like pasties, meet pies, blinkies, and of course dessert (I love their shortbread).
When we got home I bbq some chicken and warmed up the bakery items, and Carrie and enjoyed a fine evening home.
Friday April 2, 2010 The USMA (United Street Machine Association) kicked off its Classic Car Show today, which runs through Saturday. Almost 80 classics are being showcased at Gibraltar - Taylor, and there are plenty of members who are also Shriners. We walk around supporting our philanthrophy, and at the end of the event the USMA-sponsored charitable donations are given to the Shriners Hospitals for Children. This is a wonderful event, sponsored by a great non-shrine association. I always felt that the more non-shrine publicity we receive, the better, because our message is being distributed via not only perspective future members, but to a diverse audience who do not necessarily understand our purpose. Carrie baked some treats to donate to the cause, and we will be in attendance all day Saturday.
At this time I would like to acknowledge our Nobles and Ladies of the Jewish faith in celebrating a healthy and joyful Passover, and to our Nobles/Ladies of the Christian faith a Happy Easter. I believe that no matter your beliefs, these special times of the years should emphasize our love for our families and friends, and reflections on what more we each can do individually and collectively to ensure a successful future.
On Thursday, Carrie and I attended our first ever Red & White Fez Club luncheon. I have spoken about the R&W before, briefly it is a combined social club comprised of Shriners (Red Fezzes) and members of the local caravanserais of the International Order of Al Hambra (White Fezzes). They get together once a month for lunch, and due to work commitments, I have never attended.
It was Ladies day and the room was packed, and we had a delicious lunch. I was presented a R&W club shirt, for being the Potentate this year, and also multiple checks were received from the local caravans for the circus this year. Great luncheon.
Carrie and I then drove to Southfield to take care of some bookkeeping and Potentate's Ball plans with the office staff (mostly Carrie). I did have a conversation with another big city that would like the Shriners to parade this year, after about a 7 year absence. It looks promising. I have pledged to the Units that we would seriously look into more parades for the Units as a group, and it looks like there will be at least 2 additional events on our list.
After Southfield, we went to Ackroyd's Bakery and picked up some good old fashion Scottish items, like pasties, meet pies, blinkies, and of course dessert (I love their shortbread).
When we got home I bbq some chicken and warmed up the bakery items, and Carrie and enjoyed a fine evening home.
Friday April 2, 2010 The USMA (United Street Machine Association) kicked off its Classic Car Show today, which runs through Saturday. Almost 80 classics are being showcased at Gibraltar - Taylor, and there are plenty of members who are also Shriners. We walk around supporting our philanthrophy, and at the end of the event the USMA-sponsored charitable donations are given to the Shriners Hospitals for Children. This is a wonderful event, sponsored by a great non-shrine association. I always felt that the more non-shrine publicity we receive, the better, because our message is being distributed via not only perspective future members, but to a diverse audience who do not necessarily understand our purpose. Carrie baked some treats to donate to the cause, and we will be in attendance all day Saturday.
At this time I would like to acknowledge our Nobles and Ladies of the Jewish faith in celebrating a healthy and joyful Passover, and to our Nobles/Ladies of the Christian faith a Happy Easter. I believe that no matter your beliefs, these special times of the years should emphasize our love for our families and friends, and reflections on what more we each can do individually and collectively to ensure a successful future.
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