Saturday

Ties and pocket scarfs - $250.00 each - Why does that impress me? Probably because I know someone who wears them.



Congratulations to the new Grand Sovereign.

I really enjoy watching the Knight Companions of the Red Cross of Constantine. Probably because most of them do not have an axe to grind. They are all Past Grand somethings and have already accomplished a lot for the fraternity. The meetings are generally just as boring as most Masonic meetings (I shall probably be struck down for saying that) but the titles are very impressive.

Red Cross of Constantine is essentially a social order for the Knights Companions and their ladies. It is an honor to be asked to join and not everyone can be asked to join as the membership in a Conclave is limited. You must be a Royal Arch Mason and generally have accomplished something in the fraternity or will be going to accomplish something in the future. Our membership in St. Bartholomew Conclave is limited to 50 members and we may also have 15 emeritus members. (That number was just increased from 10 at today's meeting) The other Conclave in Iowa has the same limit so for a Mason to be asked to join is quite an honor. We have twelve Past Grand Masters of Masons in our Conclave.

The members in attendance come from all over the world. Those who came the furtherest came from Italy. There are three of them and I have watched them for the past several years. They don't speak much English but seem to enjoy themselves.

The ladies are the most fun to watch (aren't they always) as they attend several of the functions and always seem to be loaded with shopping bags when not attending the functions.

Today we had luncheon with the ladies and were again entertained during the meal. It was a salad with salmon and a piece of chocolate cake (I only had three (big) bites) and it was super. The entertainment was singing and several were trying to eat their salads and sing at the same time. He was so good that we wanted to sing with him.

This afternoon there was a memorial service and an Installation of Officers and tonight the Grand Banquet (Tuxedo with Jewell and sash) - Rex Allen Jr. is to be the entertainment. I am looking forward to that and will put up some pictures if time. In the meantime I am really looking forward to being back home among my friends and getting my nose licked by Bailey. Be Loved - Stay Happy. Hugs, j