63RD TRIENNIAL AT HOUSTON

THE 63RD TRIENNIAL OF THE GRAND ENCAMPMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Howdy from Houston, Texas all y'all:

Our Grand Master Most Eminent Bernard Fischer had planned an exciting six days for our Grand Encampment Outing in the Fourth Largest City in our nation. My Mother and I was planning on flying to Houston until the threat of long delays and bombs on aircraft changed our minds. We made the trip by car in about a day and a half and we really enjoyed the trip.

We arrived on Saturday afternoon on August 12th, just in time to see the Class D Drill. We learned that there were over 17 teams in the class and competition was extremely fierce. The competition was held in the Hyatt Ballroom where the business session was to take place the next Day.

Left -Toward evening we had a chance to look over our hotel and enjoy friendly conversation with our visiting Sir Knights and their ladies.
Right - The elevators operated inside of the atrium which ran up the 29 stories of the Hyatt Regency in Houston.

Saturday Evening on August 12th, we loaded on busses and traveled through Houston to Arabia Shrine for the Barbecue and Dance. On the way the Bus Driver pointed out some of the interesting sites along the way which included Sam Houston Park with his statue. As we entered a very beautiful Arabia Shrine we were presented a Cowboy Boot Pin which lighted up.

Left - Everyone was seated and enjoyed some pictures taken by Grand Master Ken.
Right - After a fine Barbecue many of the Sir Knights and their ladies participated in Texas Style Line Dancing.

Left - Grand Master Ken and Lady Arlene participating in the Chicken
Dance. Everyone participated and enjoyed this fun dance very much.
Right - The Grand Master presented all of the Drill Team Captains with their trophies and congratulated each one.

On Sunday, August 13th, 2006, All of the drill teams and anyone who wished to participate in the parade, formed up about 6 blocks away and passed in review at the Hotel where we were dismissed. We made our way up to the 3rd floor by escalator where everyone participated in Divine Service led by our Very Eminent Grand Chaplain.

Left - I was indeed privileged to take this picture of Grand Master Ken as he prepared for a very busy day. One of his very favorite duties is leading the troops. He enjoys Drill very much.
Right - I usually do not like to have my picture taken but I could not pass up this chance to have it taken with two Sir Knights who I admire very much, Most Eminent Grand Master Ken and Most Eminent Past Grand Master Bill Jones.

Left - Our Right Eminent Grand Captain General David Dixon Goodwin was on hand to enjoy this fine day.
Right - In true Texas hospitality, I was invited to join the Texas Commandery Drill Team for the Pass in Review. It was indeed a pleasure.  

Left - The reception for the Grand Encampment Officers were held on Sunday evening in the Hyatt Ballroom.
Right - Shown here receiving guests are the Most Eminent Grand Master and his Lady Arlene.

On Monday, August 15th, 2006 The Opening Ceremonies were held in the Hyatt Ballroom followed by the Business Sessions.

Left - The Texas Commandery Receiving Line awaiting their orders.
Right - The Sir Knights and Ladies of the Opening of the 63rd Grand Encampment.

The business sessions held on Monday August 14th, 2006 and Tuesday August 15th, 2006.

Left - On Tuesday Night August 15th, 2006, The Grand Masters Banquet was held.
Right - A very fine German Band played some familiar songs.

On Wednesday August 16th, 2006, Business resumed with the Installation of Officers. 

Left -Past Department Commanders receive their pins and commendations from their ladies. Our own S. K. James Karnegis North Central Department Commander is shown on the left being pinned by his Lady Jeanie.

Right - A group picture of all the Past Department Commanders was then taken.  Adjournment of the 63rd Triennium followed at noon.