Monday after work I went to the Shrine Center for a Board meeting, followed by a meeting regarding the Spring Ceremonial, a meeting regarding the Leadership Search Committee, and a meeting about the Imperial Convention.
By the time all these were done, I had an opportunity to visit the Directors Staff. Our Director had brought a guest, who is a Shriner from Ashland, KY and is working in Michigan for a while. We sat down with some camel's milk and shared stories about our Shrine Centers. All in all, it was a very good night.
As of this morning, all the individual travelling for the Board members is complete. We are all in town for the first time in about 5 weeks, therefore, much can now be accomplished.
This evening, we have an annual meeting with our financial investors, and we will see if the economy is really getting better.
I am attening, for the first time, the Red and White Fez club this Thursday. This is a club comprised of Shriners (Red Fez) and members of the Al Hambra (White Fez), who are a catholic fraternal organization. The Club is well over 20 years old and meet once a month for lunch. My work schedule has precluded me from attending, however, I am taking Thursday off in order to make a presence. The Al Hambra came to the circus with a large contingency of people and also participated in a joint fundraiser that ends this week. They are a great group of guys, and serve a great charitable organization. I am looking forward to attending.
Anyway, take care for now.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sunday March 28, 2010
Last evening was the first major fundraiser for the Shrine Hospitals for Children in 2010. I am always a little nervous prior to any events, but I must admit that the supreme architect is smiling on us. We had a successful event. The Divan Ladies did an outstanding job, and the Champane's Wine Cellar's generosity was fantastic. I was introduced to a young lady who informed me that she spent many years treated at the Boston hospital and she is at the time in her life that she wanted to make people aware of our hospitals. Guess who was only a few steps away from us when speaking, yep, our own Imperial Ambassador, who just happened to be ready to let her know about the SHC Alumni Group that has initiated. She was so happy and cannot wait to join. Also, her husband told me he is finally ready to pursue light and take the first steps of initiation. Besides, and monetary gains to our hospitals last night, these two outcomes are the real success of the event.
Sunday March 28: time to clean the house, Carrie went grocery shopping, and then we decided to go to the movies. We wanted a comedy, without any possibility of stretching our minds, so yes, we met my brother and watched "Hot Tub Time Machine". Let me tell you that you will not have to think any harder than a squirrel viewing this movie, but anyone who was a teenager in 1986 will find this enjoyable. I actually laughed throughout the movie.
Chilling out the rest of the night with my lady and some pot roast, ready for another great week in Shrinedom.
Much Love
Sunday March 28: time to clean the house, Carrie went grocery shopping, and then we decided to go to the movies. We wanted a comedy, without any possibility of stretching our minds, so yes, we met my brother and watched "Hot Tub Time Machine". Let me tell you that you will not have to think any harder than a squirrel viewing this movie, but anyone who was a teenager in 1986 will find this enjoyable. I actually laughed throughout the movie.
Chilling out the rest of the night with my lady and some pot roast, ready for another great week in Shrinedom.
Much Love
Friday, March 26, 2010
Friday March 26, 2010
IT IS MARCH 26!!!!!!!!!!! What does that signify? It signifies the happiest day of my life. 6 years ago, my lovely and talented bride presented me with the greatest honor of union in marriage. Think about this, 6 years ago I was running for Oriental Guide, which is the first office in the Board of Directors. Our entire marriage has been either involved running for the Board of Directors or being a member of the Board of Directors. What a way to establish the bonds of matrimony!! You are thinking we are Crazy and how does it survive? I do not ask those questions, I know the answer, which is love and respect.
You may also ask yourself, what is the Potentate giving to his wife for their 6th anniversary. While searching the internet for revised and modern gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary, I came about an interesting gift: 6th anniversary equals Clowns and Rest. Yes, I am going to see our Shrine Clowns perform in Toledo tonight and allowing my L&T Bride to REST!!!!!!!!! That is how our marriage survives, Clowns and Sleep, who can top that!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It has been an interesting week. On Wednedsay night, we took a break from our fraternal and charitable missions and focused on our commercial enterprise - The Banquet facilities. Our increDIBle business manager hosted a monthly meeting of an organization comprised of event specialists, and we entertained close to 30 vendors in our Grande Ballroom (I think that is what we are calling the Auditorium these days).
We received many compliments on the beauty of our facilities, the talent of our chef, and actually made some bookings. Our facilities are becoming well known and we are convinced it has a wonderful future.
What's new This Weekend:
Friday: Clowns, Clowns, Pizza and camel's milk, Yeah!!!!!!!!
Saturday: Our first major fundraiser for the Shriners Hospitals for Children: A Wine tasting and Silent Auction. We are very excited about the event.
Sunday: As our Supreme Architect laid out in his plans, this is going to truly be a day of rest.
Much Love and see you for some Australian Wines on Saturday.
You may also ask yourself, what is the Potentate giving to his wife for their 6th anniversary. While searching the internet for revised and modern gifts for a 6th wedding anniversary, I came about an interesting gift: 6th anniversary equals Clowns and Rest. Yes, I am going to see our Shrine Clowns perform in Toledo tonight and allowing my L&T Bride to REST!!!!!!!!! That is how our marriage survives, Clowns and Sleep, who can top that!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It has been an interesting week. On Wednedsay night, we took a break from our fraternal and charitable missions and focused on our commercial enterprise - The Banquet facilities. Our increDIBle business manager hosted a monthly meeting of an organization comprised of event specialists, and we entertained close to 30 vendors in our Grande Ballroom (I think that is what we are calling the Auditorium these days).
We received many compliments on the beauty of our facilities, the talent of our chef, and actually made some bookings. Our facilities are becoming well known and we are convinced it has a wonderful future.
What's new This Weekend:
Friday: Clowns, Clowns, Pizza and camel's milk, Yeah!!!!!!!!
Saturday: Our first major fundraiser for the Shriners Hospitals for Children: A Wine tasting and Silent Auction. We are very excited about the event.
Sunday: As our Supreme Architect laid out in his plans, this is going to truly be a day of rest.
Much Love and see you for some Australian Wines on Saturday.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Spring Fling Wine Tasting
Let's do a little Q & A:
1. Is it a dance? Is it for High School Students?
Answer: Nope. Named the same, but much different concept!
2. Is it for Ladies Only?
Answer: Nope! Everyone is welcome, provided they are 21. And wearing a shirt & shoes (it's a health code thing! Why it doesn't include pants.. I'll never understand).
3. Can you purchase wine at the event?
Answer: Yes! Taste 'em all, find what you like-- and buy a case!
4. Can I buy a ticket at the door?
Answer: Yes! $25 and a smile gets you in!
Okay, now down to the "good stuff". The Wines & the Silent Auction Items.
We'll be tasting, re-tasting, and re-re-tasting wines from Australia and New Zealand. And snacking on some fantastic snacks from Sam from Silver Gardens of Southfield. *yum*
Then, we'll wander over to the fantastic display of silent auction items. Items like:
- A University of Michigan Starter Jacket (size XL)
- Piano Lessons from Evola Piano
- A case of Girl Scout Cookies (assorted)
- Jewelry
- A signed Pavel Datsyuk hockey stick
- A birthday party for 10 at Lincoln Park Skating Center
- A bag of tasty treats from Trader Joe's
- Oil Changes from Ode Tire
- Car Washes from Mr. C's
- and MANY MANY more items
The auction starts at 5pm and final bids are due by 7:15pm. All the proceeds of the tasting & auction benefit the Shriners Hosptials for Children!
So, come on down and have fun with us on Saturday (and help us celebrate our 6 year anniversary!)
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Shrine Circus Summary
What can I say, I finally am rested enough to talk about the Shrine Circus. I was off work for 5 days and I think 80% of the 5 days I was at the Circus. I had the time of my life. The location, the Shriners, the Ladies, The circus acts, the animals, the public, the venue organzizers, the city officials and public servants, and of course good ole' Mother Nature. Everything was perfect.
We kept waiting for the rain and snow, but all we had was sun and warm weather. We had 5 sold out shows the last two days.
We had so much food for the Nobility to enjoy, it was such a pleasure to see the pride that our volunteers showed to work the circus.
Best of all, it was SUCCESSFUL!!!!!!!!! 6 weeks, that is all we had to put this circus on, and WE ALL DID IT. We found a new home, and I think I would like to thank our Governor for everything she did not to allow us back in our old home, who would have thought the consequences of her actions would have been beneficial to us in the long run.
Did I mention that we had Camels, two to be precise, Sally and Louie. By the way, Camels love apples. I met some very nice people who work for the circus and hope to see them again next year.
It seemed that I had family and/or friends at each performance who recognized me and all had good things to say.
In all, I am so proud of our Shriners and their Ladies. They stepped up to the plate when we needed help and showed why it is so great to be a part of this organization. I am honored to have the opportunity to lead this beloved fraternity for a brief time, and am looking forward to joining the rank and file in the future to ensure the success of our fraternity.
In the end, I really had nothing to do with this circus, it was the culmination of about 100 Shriners who put in over a 1000 combined hours in a short 6 week span. These are all volunteered hours, they get paid through their efforts, and expect no financial gain, but the gain of brotherly love, relief and truth. That is what is so amazing about the results of this Circus. And I believe that it will continue in the future.
I have to tell you something about my beloved, lovely and talented bride. Early Saturday morning, we were getting her face painted by one of the circus workers, who asked where the workers could go locally to celebrate the 25th b-day of one of their friends, who trains the elephants. Well, anyone who knows the L&T C-Dib knows what happened next. Carrie left the circus about an hour later, and returned about 4 hours later with a home made 1/2 sheet birthday cake with an elephant design. She also obviously had the time to bake a dozen carrot cake cup cakes for our Circus Chairman, because he mentioned in passing his desire for something sweet. I do not know how many times I can say that I am the luckiest SOB in the world, but before you ask yourself the question, I will, of course I don't know what I did or do to deserve this phenomenol person. Of course, how do I pay her back, this Friday is our 6th anniversary and I am going to Toledo to take our Clowns out after they perform at the circus. She is so accepting of the fact, and without any animosity. I owe her everything.
Well, the Circus is over, and this week is seems to be just as busy. Many meetings, getting the membership committee in full swing, trying to help our Shrine Clubs re-ignite the fire, and some special commercial events at the Shrine Center, hopefully will bring some more attention to our facilities. Of course, as previously mentioned, I am spending time with the Shrine Clowns in Toledo on Friday night, and am looking forward to showing them my appreciation for all they do.
Until next time
We kept waiting for the rain and snow, but all we had was sun and warm weather. We had 5 sold out shows the last two days.
We had so much food for the Nobility to enjoy, it was such a pleasure to see the pride that our volunteers showed to work the circus.
Best of all, it was SUCCESSFUL!!!!!!!!! 6 weeks, that is all we had to put this circus on, and WE ALL DID IT. We found a new home, and I think I would like to thank our Governor for everything she did not to allow us back in our old home, who would have thought the consequences of her actions would have been beneficial to us in the long run.
Did I mention that we had Camels, two to be precise, Sally and Louie. By the way, Camels love apples. I met some very nice people who work for the circus and hope to see them again next year.
It seemed that I had family and/or friends at each performance who recognized me and all had good things to say.
In all, I am so proud of our Shriners and their Ladies. They stepped up to the plate when we needed help and showed why it is so great to be a part of this organization. I am honored to have the opportunity to lead this beloved fraternity for a brief time, and am looking forward to joining the rank and file in the future to ensure the success of our fraternity.
In the end, I really had nothing to do with this circus, it was the culmination of about 100 Shriners who put in over a 1000 combined hours in a short 6 week span. These are all volunteered hours, they get paid through their efforts, and expect no financial gain, but the gain of brotherly love, relief and truth. That is what is so amazing about the results of this Circus. And I believe that it will continue in the future.
I have to tell you something about my beloved, lovely and talented bride. Early Saturday morning, we were getting her face painted by one of the circus workers, who asked where the workers could go locally to celebrate the 25th b-day of one of their friends, who trains the elephants. Well, anyone who knows the L&T C-Dib knows what happened next. Carrie left the circus about an hour later, and returned about 4 hours later with a home made 1/2 sheet birthday cake with an elephant design. She also obviously had the time to bake a dozen carrot cake cup cakes for our Circus Chairman, because he mentioned in passing his desire for something sweet. I do not know how many times I can say that I am the luckiest SOB in the world, but before you ask yourself the question, I will, of course I don't know what I did or do to deserve this phenomenol person. Of course, how do I pay her back, this Friday is our 6th anniversary and I am going to Toledo to take our Clowns out after they perform at the circus. She is so accepting of the fact, and without any animosity. I owe her everything.
Well, the Circus is over, and this week is seems to be just as busy. Many meetings, getting the membership committee in full swing, trying to help our Shrine Clubs re-ignite the fire, and some special commercial events at the Shrine Center, hopefully will bring some more attention to our facilities. Of course, as previously mentioned, I am spending time with the Shrine Clowns in Toledo on Friday night, and am looking forward to showing them my appreciation for all they do.
Until next time
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Happy St. Paddy's Day
It is 66 degrees and not a cloud in the sky, is this truly Michigan. Beautiful, beautiful day. I have been down at the circus for the last couple of nights, and guess what: yep, the Camels have arrived. Louie and Sally are safely tucked away in their accomodations and I hope my wife doesn't get jealous but I think Sally likes me. She pecked me on the chin, and I believe there may be pictures of the scene.
I am soooooo excited about the circus, the lines of people are continous. It is truly amazing to watch all the circus employees go about setting up their stations, preparing the acts, etc. It is a well organized system, overseen by the circus director himself. He knows where every nut and bolt is stored and where it is supposed to be placed.
Well the time is upon us, opening day tomorrow and the weather is going to be great. Let us have fun and enjoy the Circus.
Oh, of course Erin Go Bragh!!!!!!!!! Hope everyone is having a great, SAFE day. Be careful.
Much Circus Love!!!!!!!!!
The Shrine Circus is Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!
I am soooooo excited about the circus, the lines of people are continous. It is truly amazing to watch all the circus employees go about setting up their stations, preparing the acts, etc. It is a well organized system, overseen by the circus director himself. He knows where every nut and bolt is stored and where it is supposed to be placed.
Well the time is upon us, opening day tomorrow and the weather is going to be great. Let us have fun and enjoy the Circus.
Oh, of course Erin Go Bragh!!!!!!!!! Hope everyone is having a great, SAFE day. Be careful.
Much Circus Love!!!!!!!!!
The Shrine Circus is Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
March 16, 2010
Wow, time is going by sooooooo verrrrry fast.
Last Friday evening, I went to work the Charity Poker for my Unit. I and 3 other members worked a 5:00 PM to 2:00 A.M. Shift. Although it was a long shift, it was very enjoyable and worthwhile for the organization.
I got home around 3:30 AM and slept solidly for about 6 hours, yep I was by 9:00 A.M. Oh well, this is actually much later than I ever wake up.
I decided to go to Windsor to purchase some of the greatest liver sausage in the world and take it to the circus trailer to all the volunteers selling tickets. I also picked up some fresh baked flaxseed bread and custom mustard and drove back to Hazel Park. The guys gobbled up the delicious concoctions.
I was fascinated watching the circus producer and his workers putting up the big circus tent, it was an amzing feat, with all the rain and wind.
I decided to go home, have dinner with Carrie and chill out for the rest of the evening.
Sunday March 14, 2010: I went down to the circus and they were in the process of putting up the middle sized tent, in a much clearer day. I enjoyed some left over liver sausage, it gets better with age (I know Carrie is gagging as she reads this, since she hates the idea of liver or any liver products). Carrie met me at the circus for a while and we watched the workers. We left around 5 PM and met my sister and brother at the mall for a little while.
Monday March 15, 2010 --- Well here is the day I earn my enormous salary of a Potentate (which is zero). Our Treaurer met me at my house at 4 PM and we set off for Coldwater, MI to visit the Branch County Shrine Club (our farthest West part of our jurisdiction). It is a 300 mile round trip, and a total of 5 hours driving, for a 2 hour meeting. But I have to tell you, our Nobles and their Ladies in the rural aspects of Coldwater are great members of our organization. They have such strong beliefs in our charity, the Shrine Hospitals for Children, and our proud to be members of our craft. I really could not believe how happy they were to see the Potentate drive that much to visit. Just witnessing their appreciation made the trip worth it. I got home around 11PM, and hit the hay.
The rest of the week can be summed up like this: Circus, Circus, Circus!!!!!!!!! Everything is going great and we are anticipating great weather, crowds and fun.
Viva La Circus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Last Friday evening, I went to work the Charity Poker for my Unit. I and 3 other members worked a 5:00 PM to 2:00 A.M. Shift. Although it was a long shift, it was very enjoyable and worthwhile for the organization.
I got home around 3:30 AM and slept solidly for about 6 hours, yep I was by 9:00 A.M. Oh well, this is actually much later than I ever wake up.
I decided to go to Windsor to purchase some of the greatest liver sausage in the world and take it to the circus trailer to all the volunteers selling tickets. I also picked up some fresh baked flaxseed bread and custom mustard and drove back to Hazel Park. The guys gobbled up the delicious concoctions.
I was fascinated watching the circus producer and his workers putting up the big circus tent, it was an amzing feat, with all the rain and wind.
I decided to go home, have dinner with Carrie and chill out for the rest of the evening.
Sunday March 14, 2010: I went down to the circus and they were in the process of putting up the middle sized tent, in a much clearer day. I enjoyed some left over liver sausage, it gets better with age (I know Carrie is gagging as she reads this, since she hates the idea of liver or any liver products). Carrie met me at the circus for a while and we watched the workers. We left around 5 PM and met my sister and brother at the mall for a little while.
Monday March 15, 2010 --- Well here is the day I earn my enormous salary of a Potentate (which is zero). Our Treaurer met me at my house at 4 PM and we set off for Coldwater, MI to visit the Branch County Shrine Club (our farthest West part of our jurisdiction). It is a 300 mile round trip, and a total of 5 hours driving, for a 2 hour meeting. But I have to tell you, our Nobles and their Ladies in the rural aspects of Coldwater are great members of our organization. They have such strong beliefs in our charity, the Shrine Hospitals for Children, and our proud to be members of our craft. I really could not believe how happy they were to see the Potentate drive that much to visit. Just witnessing their appreciation made the trip worth it. I got home around 11PM, and hit the hay.
The rest of the week can be summed up like this: Circus, Circus, Circus!!!!!!!!! Everything is going great and we are anticipating great weather, crowds and fun.
Viva La Circus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Friday March 12
TWO WORDS: HAM BINGO
That's right, Thursday evening I drove to Trenton (which is downriver for us east siders) to joing Downriver Shrine Club for the Annual Ham Bingo Dinner. When I was a kid and we drove south on I-75, I was always told downriver was the place where the freeway rises over an immense series of factories and large round sports-themed decorated reservoirs. Did I mention that it always smelled in the car for about 5 minutes when we passed this area. It is amazing that one small incidental event, repeated over the years has blinded me to the real nice community of Downriver Metro Detroit. Of course, since my beloved's entire family comes from that area and I have been going down there for several years, my impression has changed.
Anyway, I walk into the Trenton Community center and was greeted by over 100 Nobles, ladies, friends sitting down for an enjoyable evening. I had the pleasure of sitting next to two past presidents of the club and had a nice conversation throughout the evening. Dinner was very good, a delicious honey baked spiral ham (I talk about food alot don't I, well that is one part of the Shrine). I had an opportunity to speak to the gathering about our upcoming fundraisers for the Shriners Hospitals for Children and of course the Circus.
And now to the featured item of the evening: HAM BINGO
Well it is bingo, actually 9 separate variations, and the winners of each game (sometimes 2 per game) get a ham. I stayed for the first 5 games, did not win, and because I knew I had about an hour drive, bid farewell and left.
On the way home, The Circus Director called me and said he found a local watering hole that served Camel's Milk near the site of the Shrine Circus, so I stopped by and said hi to the troops. A place next door to the Circus, with new management, and really, really good pizza and burgers. I can see many Shriners partaking in the next week.
I get home around 10:30 and talk to the First Lady for a while. Besides for a few minutes on Friday Morning, I will not see her again until Saturday. After work Friday, I am picking up another Noble and driving down to Taylor to work the 5PM - 2AM shift for some Charity Poker. Wow, two days in a row, Trenton and Taylor, I can see the smiles on the faces of my in laws, have I mentioned that My Beloved was born in Taylor, and the old adage is true, you can take the girl out of Taylor, but you can't take Taylor out of the Girl (like I said I will not see my Beloved until at least Saturday morning, so maybe she will forget that last dig). You think?
Have a Great Weekend
That's right, Thursday evening I drove to Trenton (which is downriver for us east siders) to joing Downriver Shrine Club for the Annual Ham Bingo Dinner. When I was a kid and we drove south on I-75, I was always told downriver was the place where the freeway rises over an immense series of factories and large round sports-themed decorated reservoirs. Did I mention that it always smelled in the car for about 5 minutes when we passed this area. It is amazing that one small incidental event, repeated over the years has blinded me to the real nice community of Downriver Metro Detroit. Of course, since my beloved's entire family comes from that area and I have been going down there for several years, my impression has changed.
Anyway, I walk into the Trenton Community center and was greeted by over 100 Nobles, ladies, friends sitting down for an enjoyable evening. I had the pleasure of sitting next to two past presidents of the club and had a nice conversation throughout the evening. Dinner was very good, a delicious honey baked spiral ham (I talk about food alot don't I, well that is one part of the Shrine). I had an opportunity to speak to the gathering about our upcoming fundraisers for the Shriners Hospitals for Children and of course the Circus.
And now to the featured item of the evening: HAM BINGO
Well it is bingo, actually 9 separate variations, and the winners of each game (sometimes 2 per game) get a ham. I stayed for the first 5 games, did not win, and because I knew I had about an hour drive, bid farewell and left.
On the way home, The Circus Director called me and said he found a local watering hole that served Camel's Milk near the site of the Shrine Circus, so I stopped by and said hi to the troops. A place next door to the Circus, with new management, and really, really good pizza and burgers. I can see many Shriners partaking in the next week.
I get home around 10:30 and talk to the First Lady for a while. Besides for a few minutes on Friday Morning, I will not see her again until Saturday. After work Friday, I am picking up another Noble and driving down to Taylor to work the 5PM - 2AM shift for some Charity Poker. Wow, two days in a row, Trenton and Taylor, I can see the smiles on the faces of my in laws, have I mentioned that My Beloved was born in Taylor, and the old adage is true, you can take the girl out of Taylor, but you can't take Taylor out of the Girl (like I said I will not see my Beloved until at least Saturday morning, so maybe she will forget that last dig). You think?
Have a Great Weekend
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Tuesday March 9, 2010
It has been a few days since I blogged, and it has really been busy. The weekend was real enjoyable. I spent some time with my own Unit, the Director's Staff, at their annual Ice Fishing Party. No demands of leadership, just good old Unit bonding. The D-Staff Probies grilled some monster lamb and pork chops, with a delicious peanut-based sauce. No one left hungry.
I then drove about an hour to my masonic lodge, who raised 7 new Master Masons during the day. They hosted a corned beef and cabbage dinner for all, and although I was already stuffed I tried a little piece, I love corned beef.
This was a good night, I spent some time with my Brother, Uncle and Cousin who also were present. I spoke to the new Master Masons, congratulating them on their most important step on the path for further light, and gave them whatever advice I may have had, probably nothing they have not heard of prior, yet when repeated by many, the message should hit home.
Sunday March 7, 2010: Carrie and I, along with the Imperial Convention Staff had a presentation for the upcoming convention in Toronto. On Thursday I called the chef and asked for snacks to feed about 40 people, I am not sure what dictionary he used to define the word "snacks", but what he provided was breakfast, lunch and dinner for 70. Wow, the food was wonderful. The presentation went very well, and we were pleasantly surprised over the interest shown by the Nobility and their Ladies in attending the convention. A "shrine" package has not been made available for several years, but we decided to try, due to the closeness of Toronto, and I think we made the right decision.
Carrie and I eventually made it home in time to watch the season finale of Big Love, one of the best shows on tv, and it was not disappointing. We are happy that they have extended the show at least another season. HBO is a very frustrating network in that they produce such great shows, but only for a couple of seasons (i.e. Carnivale, Deadwood, etc).
Monday March 8, 2010: I got to the Shrine Center around 4:30 P.M. and we had a Board of Directors meeting, basically talking about the upcoming visit by dignitaries and how to meet their requirements and needs.
We also had a General Temple Business Meeting and when I walked into the Banquet hall, the increDIBle aroma of grlled onions/mushrooms and peppers were great. The Hungry Five had their hot dogs/sausages out and taking care of the needs of all the Nobles, and the Hospitality Team taking care of the camel's milk.
The Business Meeting went very, very, well. We updated the Nobility on the upcoming circus, received positive votes on multiple issues requiring action to proceed with events for the year.
My most humbling experience of my term: I faltered at the last Temple meeting, and not only embarrased myself but the Shrine, in how I allowed the direction of the meeting get out of hand. I apologized to the Nobility this evening for my behavior, and vowed it will not happen again. I told them that from my mistakes I have not only embraced the knowledge on running a meeting, but that I have learned much from my lack of knowledge. I then conducted a lengthy PowerPoint presentation on the by laws of our charitable contributions and how to handle expenditures to benefit our child care program. Afterwards I explained the current situation and the upcoming events, and allowed for and answered every question. When the meeting was over, I felt very good about the manner in which I Led the meeting. What was truly inspirational was the amount of Nobles who came up to me and thanked for me for finally, after many, many years, to be the first leader to provide and explain the rules. The show of support and enthusiasm for the Board of Directors made it all worth it. Yes, I truly know that there will be minority of people that do not like my stance, and they will show their disapproval, in obvious ways, but in the long run, they will be the ones to look into themselves and decide why it is they are members of this organization, just like I re-examined my commitments. If they put the craft over their personal issues, and understand why they remain a member, then all will not only be good, but we will progress into the future on a successful path.
I just re-read this last paragraph and I sometimes wonder why it is that I write better than I speak.
Until the next time
Yours in the Faith
MJD
I then drove about an hour to my masonic lodge, who raised 7 new Master Masons during the day. They hosted a corned beef and cabbage dinner for all, and although I was already stuffed I tried a little piece, I love corned beef.
This was a good night, I spent some time with my Brother, Uncle and Cousin who also were present. I spoke to the new Master Masons, congratulating them on their most important step on the path for further light, and gave them whatever advice I may have had, probably nothing they have not heard of prior, yet when repeated by many, the message should hit home.
Sunday March 7, 2010: Carrie and I, along with the Imperial Convention Staff had a presentation for the upcoming convention in Toronto. On Thursday I called the chef and asked for snacks to feed about 40 people, I am not sure what dictionary he used to define the word "snacks", but what he provided was breakfast, lunch and dinner for 70. Wow, the food was wonderful. The presentation went very well, and we were pleasantly surprised over the interest shown by the Nobility and their Ladies in attending the convention. A "shrine" package has not been made available for several years, but we decided to try, due to the closeness of Toronto, and I think we made the right decision.
Carrie and I eventually made it home in time to watch the season finale of Big Love, one of the best shows on tv, and it was not disappointing. We are happy that they have extended the show at least another season. HBO is a very frustrating network in that they produce such great shows, but only for a couple of seasons (i.e. Carnivale, Deadwood, etc).
Monday March 8, 2010: I got to the Shrine Center around 4:30 P.M. and we had a Board of Directors meeting, basically talking about the upcoming visit by dignitaries and how to meet their requirements and needs.
We also had a General Temple Business Meeting and when I walked into the Banquet hall, the increDIBle aroma of grlled onions/mushrooms and peppers were great. The Hungry Five had their hot dogs/sausages out and taking care of the needs of all the Nobles, and the Hospitality Team taking care of the camel's milk.
The Business Meeting went very, very, well. We updated the Nobility on the upcoming circus, received positive votes on multiple issues requiring action to proceed with events for the year.
My most humbling experience of my term: I faltered at the last Temple meeting, and not only embarrased myself but the Shrine, in how I allowed the direction of the meeting get out of hand. I apologized to the Nobility this evening for my behavior, and vowed it will not happen again. I told them that from my mistakes I have not only embraced the knowledge on running a meeting, but that I have learned much from my lack of knowledge. I then conducted a lengthy PowerPoint presentation on the by laws of our charitable contributions and how to handle expenditures to benefit our child care program. Afterwards I explained the current situation and the upcoming events, and allowed for and answered every question. When the meeting was over, I felt very good about the manner in which I Led the meeting. What was truly inspirational was the amount of Nobles who came up to me and thanked for me for finally, after many, many years, to be the first leader to provide and explain the rules. The show of support and enthusiasm for the Board of Directors made it all worth it. Yes, I truly know that there will be minority of people that do not like my stance, and they will show their disapproval, in obvious ways, but in the long run, they will be the ones to look into themselves and decide why it is they are members of this organization, just like I re-examined my commitments. If they put the craft over their personal issues, and understand why they remain a member, then all will not only be good, but we will progress into the future on a successful path.
I just re-read this last paragraph and I sometimes wonder why it is that I write better than I speak.
Until the next time
Yours in the Faith
MJD
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Weekend is Here
It has been a long week, especially since I had some extra work duties that took me away for an entire 24 hour period.
On Thursday, our Past Masters Unit met and had a historic evening. The Past Masters Unit is a group of, you guessed it, Past Worshipful Masters of their respective lodges, who long time ago, joined together to assist various Masonic Lodges in conducting the ritual ceremony of the Master Mason Degree in Freemasonry, which is when a candidate becomes "full" Mason. They conduct this degree in full regalia and although the ranks have been declining, due to age in illness, they are fighting to increase membership.
This evening, two new members joined the Unit, and they are not only Past Worshipful Masters, they are current members of the Grand Lodge of Michigan, on their way to becoming the Grand Master of Michigan in the next several years. We are very fortunate to have these two new members, and I cannot wait to see them in action.
One of my goals from the very beginning was to see the bonds between the various bodies of Freemasonry get stronger, as I see in other states. There has been some animosity between several groups for decades, but as a member of the majority of the bodies, I only see the advantage of working together, because the disadvantages are all too apparent and destructive to the fraternity on the whole.
Tonight made me take a moment to witness what really is important in our Fraternity, and I am smiling.
WEEKEND: YEAH, a break, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Somewhat enjoyable. Saturday afternoon is the annual Directors Staff Ice Fishing Party in Lake Orion (actually on Bunny Lake). The greatest unit in the Shrine gets together to "kick" things off for the year (I hear special lamb presentation will be served this year, hmmmmmmmmmm).
Following this, I will be driving another hour to get back to the East Side and visit my Lodge. They are conducting a special 3rd degree the entire afternoon to assist 7 new candidates to become Master Masons. There is a special dinner celebrating their memberships along with an official welcome to over 60 new members who have transferred their memberships to Jefferson Lodge No. 553 in the last year (which I happen to be among).
Sunday:
It is time to see who is serious about attending the Imperial Shrine Convention in Toronto this July. Our team will make a presentation including venues, travelling and a package for Nobles/Ladies to join the Moslem Shriners for a week of fun and social activities. I am trying to be optimistic, however, the expenses of a metropolitan city, like Toronto, in Canada, with a very week American Dollar, can be overwhelming. Well, I have been steadfast in my approach to all things, and I will on this also, Toronto, here we come.
Have a Great Weekend.
On Thursday, our Past Masters Unit met and had a historic evening. The Past Masters Unit is a group of, you guessed it, Past Worshipful Masters of their respective lodges, who long time ago, joined together to assist various Masonic Lodges in conducting the ritual ceremony of the Master Mason Degree in Freemasonry, which is when a candidate becomes "full" Mason. They conduct this degree in full regalia and although the ranks have been declining, due to age in illness, they are fighting to increase membership.
This evening, two new members joined the Unit, and they are not only Past Worshipful Masters, they are current members of the Grand Lodge of Michigan, on their way to becoming the Grand Master of Michigan in the next several years. We are very fortunate to have these two new members, and I cannot wait to see them in action.
One of my goals from the very beginning was to see the bonds between the various bodies of Freemasonry get stronger, as I see in other states. There has been some animosity between several groups for decades, but as a member of the majority of the bodies, I only see the advantage of working together, because the disadvantages are all too apparent and destructive to the fraternity on the whole.
Tonight made me take a moment to witness what really is important in our Fraternity, and I am smiling.
WEEKEND: YEAH, a break, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Somewhat enjoyable. Saturday afternoon is the annual Directors Staff Ice Fishing Party in Lake Orion (actually on Bunny Lake). The greatest unit in the Shrine gets together to "kick" things off for the year (I hear special lamb presentation will be served this year, hmmmmmmmmmm).
Following this, I will be driving another hour to get back to the East Side and visit my Lodge. They are conducting a special 3rd degree the entire afternoon to assist 7 new candidates to become Master Masons. There is a special dinner celebrating their memberships along with an official welcome to over 60 new members who have transferred their memberships to Jefferson Lodge No. 553 in the last year (which I happen to be among).
Sunday:
It is time to see who is serious about attending the Imperial Shrine Convention in Toronto this July. Our team will make a presentation including venues, travelling and a package for Nobles/Ladies to join the Moslem Shriners for a week of fun and social activities. I am trying to be optimistic, however, the expenses of a metropolitan city, like Toronto, in Canada, with a very week American Dollar, can be overwhelming. Well, I have been steadfast in my approach to all things, and I will on this also, Toronto, here we come.
Have a Great Weekend.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Thursday March 4, 2010
Sometimes you have to dedicate time to your vocation, and yesterday was an entire day. I left the house at 5:00 A.M. and travelled 2 hours to meet up with a group of co-workers to perform a regulatory inspection of a hospital laboratory in Midland, MI. I have been trained through on-line modules to become an inspector of my speciality in the laboratory, and this was my first inspection. In total, it was a very worthwhile experience, and I think that I would like to do more peer-inspections in the future. If anything, viewing a full-functioning work environment, similiar in size and volume as my place of employment, allowed me to see things in different perspectives.
However it was a full day, we did not leave the hospital until around 6:00 P.M. and we decided to have dinner at a local fine dining establishment, the rewards for almost 13 hours of work. Morel Mushrooms in a port wine sauce, Scallops with risoto and foi gras, hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
I got home around 10:30 and hit the hay, ready to go back to work.
Today, Thursday, I was going to go visit a Shrine Club in White Lake, however, pressing business has directed me towards the Shrine Center, where I will be busy making some phone calls and travel arrangements for some future visitors. It is a busy and exciting time in the Shrine, the future is bright.
However it was a full day, we did not leave the hospital until around 6:00 P.M. and we decided to have dinner at a local fine dining establishment, the rewards for almost 13 hours of work. Morel Mushrooms in a port wine sauce, Scallops with risoto and foi gras, hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
I got home around 10:30 and hit the hay, ready to go back to work.
Today, Thursday, I was going to go visit a Shrine Club in White Lake, however, pressing business has directed me towards the Shrine Center, where I will be busy making some phone calls and travel arrangements for some future visitors. It is a busy and exciting time in the Shrine, the future is bright.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Tuesday March 2, 2010
March 2010 and we had sun and low 40's, this is the way Spring should enter our fair state, we deserve this break.
A little story abou the 1st ever Shrine Poker Progressive Party that took place this past Saturday.
When Carrie first approached me about this, I was not to excited, probably due to the fact that I did not understand how it would work, let alone how to get people in the door.
How to succeed, pick the right people. I found the perfect combination of a Noble and his Lady, who not only took the idea but turned into a very successful event, one which will be repeated in the fall.
We had 8 Units participate, over a 100 Nobles, Ladies, family and friends. Various types of foods and desserts, and best of all, the social bonding of Nobles, young and old, veterans and novices, as well as the Ladies being an active part. Everyone was walking in and out of the Unit rooms, feeling the cordial invitations of each other, the bonds being forged are unmeasurable. What a great event. I have learned to never underestimate my lovely bride, or for that matter the advice of any of our Ladies.
We did not leave until well past midnight, and there still were people "socializing". One of the great things I heard from many Nobles was that it was one of the first times that the majority of Units were opened at one time with members, and they got to know each other. It was a pleasure to sit back and just watch.
Sunday February 28, 2010: My sister and I (and our loved ones) took out my younger Brother for his birthday. We went to a newer BBQ joint in Clarkston that received a 4 star rating in the paper. If you want excellent BBQ (the brisket melts in your mouth), check out the Union Roadhouse in Clarkston. We barely walked out, we should have been rolled out.
Monday March 1, 2010: Officially, the two worst months in Michigan, weather/seasonal wise, are over. I have lived in this state my entire life, and March 1 has always been an important date, no matter how much snow we may get from this point, for me Spring is upon us, and the bitter cold, sunless, days are over.
I went to the Shrine Center and had a couple of small meetings, and then joined the Unit Directors in a very productive meeting. Afterwards, I had the pleasure to just sit in Director's Staff room for a little while, which has been a rarity these days. Did I mention that I had the honor of partaking in some Johnny Walker Blue with a good Noble celebrating his birthday. If you have never had the opportunity to partake in this elixir of the gods, you are missing out. How in the world can someone not believe in the existence of a supreme being, when there are creations such as Blue. From the moment you grasp its scent, to the first drop on your tongue, and the way it captures the essence of one's soul, it is truly a blessing from the Supreme Architect.
For the next several weeks, we are talking Circus, Circus, Circus. The Circus Team is full throttle and moving ahead. I hope that you are all as excited as I am for this event.
Thanks
A little story abou the 1st ever Shrine Poker Progressive Party that took place this past Saturday.
When Carrie first approached me about this, I was not to excited, probably due to the fact that I did not understand how it would work, let alone how to get people in the door.
How to succeed, pick the right people. I found the perfect combination of a Noble and his Lady, who not only took the idea but turned into a very successful event, one which will be repeated in the fall.
We had 8 Units participate, over a 100 Nobles, Ladies, family and friends. Various types of foods and desserts, and best of all, the social bonding of Nobles, young and old, veterans and novices, as well as the Ladies being an active part. Everyone was walking in and out of the Unit rooms, feeling the cordial invitations of each other, the bonds being forged are unmeasurable. What a great event. I have learned to never underestimate my lovely bride, or for that matter the advice of any of our Ladies.
We did not leave until well past midnight, and there still were people "socializing". One of the great things I heard from many Nobles was that it was one of the first times that the majority of Units were opened at one time with members, and they got to know each other. It was a pleasure to sit back and just watch.
Sunday February 28, 2010: My sister and I (and our loved ones) took out my younger Brother for his birthday. We went to a newer BBQ joint in Clarkston that received a 4 star rating in the paper. If you want excellent BBQ (the brisket melts in your mouth), check out the Union Roadhouse in Clarkston. We barely walked out, we should have been rolled out.
Monday March 1, 2010: Officially, the two worst months in Michigan, weather/seasonal wise, are over. I have lived in this state my entire life, and March 1 has always been an important date, no matter how much snow we may get from this point, for me Spring is upon us, and the bitter cold, sunless, days are over.
I went to the Shrine Center and had a couple of small meetings, and then joined the Unit Directors in a very productive meeting. Afterwards, I had the pleasure to just sit in Director's Staff room for a little while, which has been a rarity these days. Did I mention that I had the honor of partaking in some Johnny Walker Blue with a good Noble celebrating his birthday. If you have never had the opportunity to partake in this elixir of the gods, you are missing out. How in the world can someone not believe in the existence of a supreme being, when there are creations such as Blue. From the moment you grasp its scent, to the first drop on your tongue, and the way it captures the essence of one's soul, it is truly a blessing from the Supreme Architect.
For the next several weeks, we are talking Circus, Circus, Circus. The Circus Team is full throttle and moving ahead. I hope that you are all as excited as I am for this event.
Thanks
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