Where Have Six Months Gone?!
Nobles and Ladies,
The first, and most important, thing I have to say is that we have not stopped writing checks from the Aleppo Shriners Children’s Transportation Fund to Shriners Children’s. This means that the Aleppo Nobility, families and friends have been continuing to raise funds all the time! This is done through the dedication and hard work from all of us, which makes me proud to be your Potentate.
Our cruise to Bermuda turned out great, and it was wonderful to see so many of you enjoying yourselves on the trip. We returned home in time for the Wilmington Memorial Day Parade on a beautiful sunny day.
On June 10th we had another successful Ceremonial. Lady Jo hosted a Ladies Tea with Heather Watts as spokesperson on finance which was enlightening and enjoyed by all.On June 11th we had the Widows Remembrance Luncheon, hosted by Bobbie Gardiner to celebrate the widows of our Nobles who have passed. It was a heartwarming day.
Then came June 30th, and a large group of us headed south to North Carolina for the Imperial Session. Along with our well-attended group was Most Worshipful Grand Master George Hamilton and Lady Theresa. It was great spending time and enjoying the company of our counterparts from the Northeast.
I want to take this opportunity to thank Steve Eriksen and Maribel Deluca for all the help and organization for this trip. A big thank you to 2nd Ceremonial Master Brian Rushlow and Lady Kim, Chief Aide Rob Spear and Lady Jen, Assistant Chief Aide Jeff Zesch, Personal Aide Brian Fallon and Lady Paula, Aides Earl Bethune, Lee Forrence and Lady Lisa, Todd Beauchemin and Lady Kim. All of you did an outstanding job in every way, shape and form.
Congratulations to the Aleppo Brew Club and Jeff Zesch for the myriad of awards they received at the Third Annual International Association of Shrine Temples Home Brew Competition. There are too many awards to list here so take a look at the article on page 28.
The Aleppo Cycles came in second place for Team Slow Ride, Team Obstacle and Drill and Inspection. Chief Rabban David Veo came in first place for the IASMC fastest man on the obstacle course.
Now we look forward to a very busy summer with parades, visitations, the Northeast Field Days, and Aleppo Family Day.
Once again, I thank you Nobles for giving your time as part of this great organization.
ES SALAAM ELEIKUM Fraternally,
Charlie A. Diminico
Illustrious Potentate 2023 Aleppo Shrine Center