Potentate’s Message, November 2022

Oct 31, 2022 | Potentate

Nobles, Ladies, and Friends of Bektash,

Bektash has been having a lot of fun latly. On October 1, Nashua Shrine Club hosted their Annual Oktoberfest at Bektash and none went away hungry. A huge thanks goes out to Ill PP Bill Hebert along with Celeste for running the bar.

On Friday October 7th was the last of the fellowship nights. Thank you to the Stewards and Membership Committee for putting this event on every month. It surely was successful and I hope we continue this next year. It is always great to get together and enjoy fellowship as it is one of our pillars.

I then traveled down to Nashua along with the other leaders of the Masonic bodies for Rainbows Grand Officers Day. We also got to witness 5 girls become members of the organization. It was a great day especially to see the lodge room filled for the event.

On October 14, Lady Kat and I had the pleasure of attending the Grand Master’s Harvest Ball Cruise. Having the privilege to represent Bektash in our Masonic community is something I am extremely passionate about this year. Many brothers approached me and made sure to comment how busy Lady Kat and I have been this year, but more importantly how nice it’s been to see Bektash at events. It was really nice to hear, and I am hopeful this trend will continue in years to come!

Later on in the weekend, Lady Kat and I had the opportunity to attend Nashua’s Pilgrim Chapter of Eastern Stars Centennial Celebration. It was great celebrating their achievements and also representing Bektash.

On October 19th, Bektash was invited to the New Hampshire State House by Governor Sununu as he signed and read a proclamation for Shriners Internationals 150th Anniversary and Shriners Hospital for Children’s 100th Anniversary. Thanks to all who came and to Noble Paul C Smith and his Lady Jennifer for putting this together. 

This year was Bektash’s turn to host the Tri Visitation. Bektash had a great showing. Friday Night we hosted a Halloween Party, Saturday we did a Luncheon & Ceremonial followed by a Masquerade Formal Dinner. It’s always great to socialize with the other shrines in the northeast. The food and drinks were excellent and thanks to Ill PP Bill Hebert, Ill PP Brent Norris, Assistant Rabban Alan Fillingham and Noble Shawn Buxton for manning the hospitality suite. The memories made with the Northeast shrines are ones that will last lifetimes! Lastly, a huge shout out and thanks goes to Mark McLaughlin and his Lady Sarah for chairing the event.

Coming up in November we have the Feztival of trees. On November 10 after Bingo we will be breaking down the hall, November 11 is Feztival set up and November 12th & 13th will be the time for the trees to be set up. If you are looking for volunteer opportunities, there are plenty to be had. Please reach out to Ray Desrosiers or any Feztival Committee Member.

We officially have a new website! Thanks goes out to the Website Committee for helping out with this. You now will be able to RSVP and/or pay for tickets online for events, pay your dues, read the Bektash News, buy a calendar and everything to do about the Feztival.

Our annual Christmas Party chaired by Lady Mili & Emelie will be held on Saturday, December 10th, at Bektash at 5pm. Wear your best holiday outfit or ugly sweater.

It’s hard to believe this year is coming to a close for Lady Kat and I, but we would not have been able to do it without your support. We wish each of you a Happy Thanksgiving and hope you are able to spend time with the family and friends who bring you happiness. Thank you for all you have done this year to improve the health and lives of our Shrine children and their families.

Mike Tebbetts
Bektash Potentate 2022