Conventions are a welcome sight in Cape Girardeau. Visitors bring an economic impact to the city, and they afford Cape Girardeans a chance to roll out the welcome mat.

The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge and related groups held state conventions in Cape Girardeau this week. The Masonic organizations brought more than 1,000 members to town before the weeklong events concluded.

Harmony Lodge No. 40 in Cape Girardeau was the host for the convention, which has meant a busy few months for members.

The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, an African-American social and philanthropic organization, last gathered in Cape Girardeau in 1976. The reception was so warm the members decided to come back. That is just the kind of report Cape Girardeans love to hear. It goes to show that hospitality pays.