As I started writing this, we are on our way to start the Potentate’s Trip to the Philippines. We started with 15-hr flight from Boston to South Korea with a 2-hr layover and finally, 3-hour flight to our destination. When we got to Manila, walking side-by-side with Lady Dixie, we turned around the corner to head to the immigration line, I heard her giggling while saying “Oh my gosh, oh my gosh”, I looked at her and she pointed to a group of people wearing a Fez.
Mabuhay Shriners of Manila was there waiting to welcome us, complete with a banner. Wow! They accorded as a VIP Welcome, we went through the immigration in a breeze. It took them longer time to take pictures of us than going through the immigration, how cool and awesome was that?!
I would like to take this opportunity to thank those people who made the Valentine’s ball a success. First off is Lady Dixie, she really outdid herself on this, on top of her office work, our Pote’s trip, she made sure the Valentine’s ball will be a successful one. Thank you also to Lady Emelie Hunter & Lady Marilyn Brison for helping set up and decorate the hall, it was beautiful.
123 people attended, a lot of new faces, 2 visiting Potentates, Ill. Roger Gardiner & his Lady Bobbie of Aleppo Shriners and Ill. Matt Herman & his Lady Jody of Melha Shriners. Pie auction was a success, thanks to our in-house auctioneer, Ill. Mark Simard, PP, over $2000 was donated to 1st lady’s project. So much fun was had by all, and did I mention the dance moves that the Murray’s did (Ill.Jack Sr, Jack Jr. & Joe), what a fantastic showdown! Not to forget that our Recorder, Ill. Lloyd belted a Frank Sinatra song towards the end. What a way to end a party!!!
Thank you to those who donated the pies and door prizes, special mention to Ms. Donna Fornier who donated most of the door prizes, the chocolates and roses for all the ladies who attended. Thank you also to the after party crew who helped in cleaning/clearing the hall.
Don’t forget the Breakfast buffet which will be on Mar 8th. Next is the corned beef and cabbage dinner by our famous Bektash Chefs. Please see flyer on how to make your reservations, send check to the office or call to reserve by credit card.
I hope this year, you get to attend at least one of our upcoming events. We surely miss you.
As I finish this article, our group is already in a place where we are enjoying the warm weather (I hate to rub it in), good food and nice people. Brotherhood at it’s best!
Don’t forget, WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER, helping kids and the hospital while having fun and enjoying it too.
Lady Dixie and I appreciate you all.
Fraternally,
Ken Thoroughgood