A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Amazing Phoenicia Supporters

As we take a moment to reflect on the incredible progress made this season, we want to express our deepest appreciation to everyone who has contributed to the restoration of the Phoenicia ship. From the donors whose generosity has fueled our work, to the volunteers who have tirelessly stripped and scraped the panels in preparation for installation, your efforts have been nothing short of extraordinary.

Our team of engineers, who have graciously volunteered their expertise, ensured that the ship takes its proper form and shape, reinforcing its strength with turnbuckles—affectionately referred to as "dog bones." This team has worked with precision and care, embodying the spirit of craftsmanship that this historic vessel deserves.

We have been blessed with a diverse and dedicated group of volunteers, spanning generations. Our youngest volunteer, just 2.5 years old, brings a youthful energy to the site, while our oldest, at 90 years, inspires us all with her wisdom and perseverance. Together, they represent the heart and soul of our project.

We also extend our gratitude to our Board of Directors, Honorary Board of Directors, Treasurer, Technical Support team, and Digital Media crew. Your guidance, support, and hard work behind the scenes have been pivotal in bringing this project to life. And to the general public, whose words of encouragement have kept our spirits high—thank you. Your belief in this endeavor means more than words can express.

At the beginning of this work season, we set a goal: to complete the entire bottom section of the ship's hull. I shared this vision with our team, and they all took action. Working alongside them has been an incredible experience. Some questioned whether we could achieve our goal, but I've learned that when you set a righteous goal, roll up your sleeves, and pray for divine assistance your dreams can come true.

The weather has also been on our side, with cooler-than-normal days and weeks that helped us stay focused and productive. While the heat has at times exceeded 80 degrees, it has been much more manageable than usual for this time of year. I'm thrilled to report that we completed our primary goal this past Saturday and even installed a mini replica of the ship's horse head on the upper front keel—a symbolic milestone for our journey.

Looking ahead, the next few days will see the installation of two more panels on the front of the ship, adding another 70 inches to its height. Despite the rising temperatures, making the work more challenging, we are determined to see it through. As we approach the conclusion of our work season, we feel proud and thankful for all that’s been accomplished.

We now have a ship—a vessel that any skipper or captain from the 6th century BC would be proud of. Thank you, each and every one of you, for making this possible. Your dedication and support are the wind in our sails as we continue to bring Phoenicia back to life.