Ceremonial Weekend (May 17, 2010)

I just spent the last 4 days in lovely, sunny, Port Huron at the Thomas Edison Inn. I would imagine at least 150 Nobles visited our hospitality room at one time or another (yes, the camel's milk never stopped flowing). Our hospitality room had a beautiful scenic view of the Blue Water Bridge and the expansive grounds of the inn, and the weather held out the entire weekend. What a sight to see the big freighters coming throught the mouth of Lake Huron at nighttime.

I did not arrive until about 7 PM on Thursday and it was apparent the Shriners had already arrived. I walked into the temporary hospitality area and there were about 20 guys who showed up on Thursday enjoying the camel's milk. I was entertained by the glory tales of yore, too many times hearing the phrase "back in the day". We also had some newer Nobles present who soaked in the environment. This was to be the best continuing theme throughout the weekend, the manner in which newer nobles bonded with one another and learn the true fun nature of our membership.

I played some gin and hit the hay aruond midnight, due to the fact I got suckered into a 9AM tee time, yes I golfed for the 2nd time in my life.

Friday May 14, 2010: Okay, I admit that being out in the open air next to a beautiful river on a golf course is a pleasant experience. 14 foursomes from the Shrine enjoyed the beautiful morning. I never missed my turn and I swung at least once at every shot. That is all I will say about my golfing.

I got back to the hotel around 2:30 P.M. and the hospitality room was filling up very nicely. I was so pleased to see the turnout. I enjoyed a very nice cigar on the patio overlooking the river and bridge with some new friends I got to know this weekend.

We closed the room around 6PM so everyone could travel a couple of miles to the Port Huron Masonic Temple where the Hungry 5, who never cease to amaze me with their accomplishments, grilled over 100 delicious steaks, huge baked potatoes and ice cream cake. Great meal does not begin to describe those steaks.

Following dinner, back to the hotel for libations. I went to bed around 2:30 AM and there were still over 30 nobles commisurating.

Saturday May 15, 2010: Official 2010 Spring Ceremonial. The Divan in their tuxedos at the Port Huron High School ampitheatre and cafeteria. We ended up with 31 petitions, however 26 present, which is a very nice sized class. We were presented with deluxe donuts and coffee, once again by the Hungry 5.

When we were officially introduced in the ampitheatre, I said a few words, and then introduced the Class Honoree. I had him escorted intot the ampitheatre by our guest from Chicago. It was previously arranged that his entire Unit met him at one end of the auditorium, unbeknownst to him, and then happily walked him onto the stage. After some remarks from both of us, I presented him with a Director Emeritus Fez of his unit. All I will say that this is one of those times I will never forget, seeing that smile on the face of such a deserving Noble. One that expects no material rewards, but enjoys the Shrine for the bonds that he has formed and the life it has provided. I am truly proud to have had this experience, and to provide him with such an honor, which of course he downplayed the entire weekend.


At 10:30 we sat down in the ampitheatre to view the New and Improved Dramatic Corps. The first "new" item is the vintage huge backdrop that was "retrieved" from our previous home and hung from the rafters. What a beautiful sight. The Dramatic Corps utilized the new revised ceremonial script (as amended by our new director) and provided an light atmosphere of fun and frivolity. I burst out laughing a few times.

We went to lunch soonafter, where again, the Hungry 5 grilled some hot dogs, italian sausage and some steaks left over the from the previous night. No ONE went hungry.

Now it was time for the greatest Unit of Shrinedome (of course I am biased) to take control. The Directors Staff ensure, over the next 2 hours, that every new Noble never forgot the day they became a Shriner. Let's just say, they succeeded.

We got back to the hotel around 5 PM, I invited all the new Nobles, and you can imagine the amount of people in the room. We had such a great time, and it did not end until at least 6:30 P.M. when the last noble was escorted off the elevator (and that is all I will say).

Sunday May 16. I left around 10:00 A.M. and before heading back took a detour up north of Port Sanilac to my friends cabin. the cabin sits on 60 feet of Lake Huron and has a magnificant view of the lake. I had lunch and shared some good times. I left around 3:30 P.M. and ventured south to Sterling Heights.

Carrie and I exchanged stories of our weekend. I was so proud of her after she told me of the success of the Ladie's Luncheon. It apparently was so nice that my mom not only enjoyed the meal (in itself a major accomplishment) but was witness to laugh several times over the entertainment.

Well I am back to work, our prayers are with our several Nobles who are ill (way too many for comfort). May the Supreme Architect watch over all of us.

Take Care