Each month I try to cover some interesting points concerning our Royal Order. This month, I am bubbling over about a recent trip to one of our smaller and seldom seen Courts -- Mexico City Court 112. They have fewer than 20 members, including five great neophytes this year.
Past Director Larry Clement and current Leading Man "Uncle Norm" Wintjen of Los Angeles Court 84 joined me for this jaunt. We never would have known any difference in visiting there as opposed to a court in the US or Canada. Three great Court 112 Jesters started the hospitality by picking us up at the airport on Wednesday. Later that day Enrique Gutierrez, PD of Sacramento Court 119 arrived.
They had their Book of the Play on Thursday and the Feast that same evening. Friday, we were on our own. Our Brethren draw from such a large geographic area that they have the Shrine Ceremonial on Saturday and Sunday the same weekend.
A group of play actors put together the Book of the Play entirely in Spanish. That's no small feat and it was delivered magnificently. Enrique even helped them by filling a part. He claims he's lost most of his accent since becoming a US Citizen, but it didn't dampen his performance. I speak a little Spanish and was able to follow along. They used emotion and the usual gesticulations where needed. It was very funny and I look forward to witnessing their next version.
On Friday we all went to Xochimilco (floating gardens) in the city. It is quite a large waterway with some 2000 small skiffs to rent. When in Rome, rent a skiff! They gave us a tub with beer and soda when we departed and when we returned we only paid for what we drank. I think Enrique may have had some cactus spirits with him. It sure was good. We were entertained by floating Mariachis and every other conceivable vendor. We had a large group on our skiff and they enjoyed singing and dancing the afternoon away.
I would be remiss if I did not mention the safety and security issue. As in any large city you must use caution when leaving the hotel -- No "bling" and don't venture into marginal areas. We ate breakfast from the street vendors. Uncle Norm was enjoying himself so much I didn't think that he'd come home.
We departed early Saturday morning and slept the whole 3+ hours home to LA. We needed it. If you ever have the chance to get down to Mexico City for Court 112's Book, you'll be grateful for the experience!
