potentate's message - october 2020

Illustrious Sir John Arnould
2020 Potentate

​
John Arnould
Potentate, 2020
Dear Nobles and Ladies.

I hope this letter finds you well. The past six months have been exceedingly difficult for all of us. For those still working, the economy has been slow. We have been isolated from many of our friends and colleagues. We have not been able to participate in many of our usual activities. Summer has flown by without our usual parades, events, and parties. I have heard from some members who have had a family member or friend become ill with COVID-19, but fortunately, we are unaware of any deaths caused by it,

Elf Khurafeh Shrine has survived through this most unusual summer, but we are in an extremely difficult financial situation. Just as our clubs and units have been unable to participate in their usual fundraising activities, neither has the Temple. The Sportsman's Raffle has been postponed until November 21st, but it will be a virtual drawing with none of the usual extra money-making activities, and ticket sales are down so we hope to break even on this. The Onion Sale had to be cancelled due to State restrictions and concern for our member's well-being. Almost all hall rentals were cancelled or postponed till next year. In Saginaw, Bingo has been cancelled. The Pulaski Club has not been able to operate normal hours and are several thousands of dollars in arrears of their rent. In addition to this we have several Nobles who have not paid their 2020 dues as of this time.

The Divan, Finance Committee, Past Potentates, and our Financial Advisor have all worked hard to minimize expenditures as much as possible. But necessary bills continue to come and must be paid. Fundraising activities will not take place until Spring of 2021, or later.

I am asking each of you to help ensure Elf Khurafeh Shrine continues for years to come. Please search your hearts and remember why you became a Shriner - to help children with debilitating medical conditions. To continue this mission, we need your financial help now!
If you are in arrears of your dues, please make that payment now.
If your 2020 dues are paid, 2021 dues are coming due, please pay these as soon as you can.
Please consider making an additional donation to Elf Khurafeh Shrine in any amount you are able to.
Your checks can be mailed to the Temple at PO Box 1, Clio, MI 48420, or paid on line through our store at ekshrine.com. 

Thank you for your urgent help. May God bless each of you and keep you safe.

John E. Arnould
​Potentate

---