2010 Potentate's Ball

So many people have asked Carrie and I whether we are having a good time this year, because the next thing we know it will be done and if we are miserable, we will live the rest of our lives regretting our decision to be part of the Shriners.
WELL, for those of you who attended The Henry Ford on Saturday evening, I hope that you witnessed the type of mood my beloved and I are in; IT KEEPS GETTING BETTER!!!!

OMG what a great evening. It began by heading to the hotel at around 2:00 P.M. We checked into our room and headed to the hospitality room, it was already packed. The Chief Aide and his crew, along with an incredible Past Potentate had a wonderful "Camel's Milk Stand" and delicious food for all those at the hotel. We were able to socialize with probably around 60 Nobles, ladies and guests, and partake in some special version of Camel's Milk, the exclusive variety from Scotland.

At arond 4:30 P.M. Carrie dragged me out and we changed, got into the shuttle and drove the 2 miles to The Henry Ford. To say it was slightly humid would be the understatement of the year. Anyway, it only took a few minutes. We walked into such a beautifully laid out entertainment venue. The first thing I saw was a incredibly designed ice statue with one of the most recognized emblem in the universe, WOW!!!!!!!!!

We spent the next hour taking pictures all over the museum, for as you may be aware the ENTIRE Henry Ford Museum was exclusively open to Shriners the whole evening, and YES we took advantage of this private tour (although some photos may have to wait until certain statute of limitations expire).

Prior to the entrance of the Nobility, Carrie and I met each guest at the door and welcomed them into the museum. It seemed that time flew by, because the next thing was the Grand March. Our special dedicated nobles who organized the grand march were incredible, as were they in checking everyone in and as far as I know with very limited issues.

Since we were the last ones to enter, I could not follow the introductions, but I heard later the Emcee did a wonderful job of ensuring our special guests from the Order of Al Hambra, Ladies Oriental Shrine and visiting Shrine temples were introduced. Unfortunately my friend from the Daughters of the Nile had a previous commitment, however it would have been great to introduce her also.

DINNER: I really was not that hungry, but to ensure the overindulgence of camel's milk, I "forced" myself to eat the delicious filet. Carrie and I decided this was the good time to bring out our gift to all the ladies, and let me tell you this is where my Bride Shines and goes beyond everyone's expectations. I honestly believe there was not one lady that did not appreciate the maize/blue slippers, to wear throughout the evening. (Note: even the female employees present were amazed by this concept and were very impressed by the gifts). That is my wife, Carrie put this entire shin-dig together and she is truly an Amazing talent.

However, she had a chairlady for the Pote's Ball and boy did she come through. She found the perfect compliment to ensure everyone visited every corner of the museum, a Scavenger Hunt, what a truly brilliant concept, that I saw was enjoyed by all.

Well, prior to getting everybody up and around, dessert had to be served, and boy was it enjoyed. How can anyone not like Faygo Ice Cream Floats, Sander's hot fudge sundaes, and delicous Sander's Bumpy Cake (or was that Wavy Cake). Although I refrained from the most of this Calorie-Free dessert, I did grab a bottle of ice-cold Rock and Rye (I feel so sorry for anyone who has never tried such a delicious, sweet elixir - hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!!!)


Now the party truly began, we initially had a live band, but then decided to switch to a DJ, I think in the end, I heard more people compliment the manner of DJ rather than the traditional band. Carrie warned the DJ to have at least 7 versions of the Hustle and he laughed at us, but in the end I believe that he played it more than 7 times.

Although he was great, like I previously mentioned the true entertainment was being able to walk around the entire museum at your own leisure and witness/interact with everything from trains to silver. Carrie actually arranged to have three of the main attractions to be staffed, the Diner, the Rosa Parks Bus and the Dynamicon Round aluminum house. IncreDIBle, that is all I have to say. Carrie really outdid herself this time, I LOVE HER!!!!!!


We left around midnight, got back to the hotel and the hospitality room was packed. I left around 2:00 A.M. and there were still probably a dozen people enjoying hospitality.

I cannot thank my wife enough for her efforts in ensuring everyone had a great time. It did not matter who was being honored, I hope that every guest felt special this evening, that is what Carrie wanted to accomplish and I believe that she was successful.



SUNDAY JUNE 13: DAY OF REST.