Monday September 27

Summary of last 5 days in 3 words: Shriners Having Fun!!!!!!

27 Nobles of Moslem Shriners attended the 2010 Annual Convention of the Great Lakes Shrine Association in Rockford, IL (Tebala Shriners). We enjoyed the company of many Nobles from around the midwest and witnessed some very good competitions. I never had the opportunity to watch the Motor Corps compete and they are a sight to see when all those bikes are performing intricate maneuvers in tight formations. I also had the opportunity to watch some of the Clown Competition. I have to tell you the pride in all these Nobles are obvious in the manner in which they carry themselves during competition.

On Saturday, we were involved in the Parade in downtown Rockford, which crossed the bridge of the East River (Very Cool). Our own Americans took part in the parade and made sure that all those on the sidelines were entertained. About 10 of us walked the parade in mid-60's cool and dry weather, and we also had our Shrine Coach in the parade. It was a very nice day, had the opportunity to see a lot of unique units from different Shrine Centers.

We had the opportunity to entertain many Nobles and their ladies in our hospitality suite during the weekend. They were all impressed by the commradery they witnessed within our group. I want you to know that many members of other Shrine Temple Board of Directors came up to me and could not believe that we had the vast majority of our Board of Directors in unison, honestly talking among themselves, and generally agreeing in the direction of their Shrine Center. I knew we had something special in the composition of the majority of the Board Members of our Shrine Center, but it became evident that unfortunately, it is not the norm around Shrinedom. Our Nobility has done a pretty good job in electing effective future Potentates that can best work and best agree.

We did not get back to enjoy the Clinton Parade, but received many good reports about the turnout and participation of our Units, once again making us the center of their parade and showing off the pride of Moslem Shriners.

This week is busy, busy, busy. I have a Board Meeting this evening, followed by the Director Staff Kick Off Dinner. Tuesday, I have a Financial Advisory Committee Meeting, followed by a Unit Directors Meeting and also the annual Scottish Rite Awards Banquet. Wednesday is the Annual Potentate's Birthday Party (yes this is the only official sanctioned party, not number 3, 4 or 5). I am getting razzed by so many Nobles, but all in good fun.

Of course, everything leads up to the 2nd Poker Progressive Run Social Party on Saturday evening at the Shrine Center. Carrie and I are very optimistic that this will have more people in attendance than in February, GOOD TIMES!!!!!!!!!!!!