It was a pleasure to share with you at our January meeting the “State of the Valley.” I hope that everyone in attendance heard the message loud and clear that Fraternally we are a strong Valley, but there will be adjustments made to regain our strength financially. As I indicated during the presentation if any brother desires to talk with me and share their ideas I would welcome that opportunity.

With the Valentine’s Day holiday coming, which usually means gift purchases, I again remind you to please remember to make your online purchases through the AmazonSmile program. During these holiday periods throughout the year utilizing AmazonSmile offers a nice boost in fund raising efforts to support the Foundation and our clinic network.

We have for many years taken time at our September meeting to celebrate the Feast of Tishri, and now utilizing the recommendations of the Valley Membership Achievement Project (VMAP) will be adding a Feast of Kadosh. Please join us for dinner and a program on the 24th of February as we commemorate and recommit ourselves to the purposes and precepts established in the religious and chivalric degrees of the Council of Kadosh. Also on the 24th we will have our Ring Ceremony, Double Eagle awards and knighting ceremony for those Masters of the Royal Secret who choose to join the Knights of St. Andrews organization. We will also be honored with a visit by a representative from the Supreme Council who will make a special presentation and offer some thoughts on supporting the House of the Temple (HOT) program. With this being an open meeting, as I often do, I encourage you to bring a brother (potential candidate) and their spouse or guest to join us for dinner and the program and observe first-hand the fraternal fellowship that makes the Scottish Rite special to those of us who are members.

Until next time, remember the many things for which you are thankful!  Be safe in your travels; “whisper wise counsel in the ear of an erring brother;” and respect the dignity of all, as it makes you and our fraternity stronger one action at a time. We are realizing the benefits of Scottish Rite Freemasonry as we actively participate today. We want to ensure that what we are enjoying today will be strong for those who will follow. Simply stated – “We lead the way today, so those who follow us can lead the way tomorrow!”  Thanks for your continued support and participation; and may the “Spirit of Fraternity” reign supreme within our “Valley of Orlando!”

Fraternally,

Ill Chester A. “Chet” King, 33°
Personal Representative

“People forget what you say, and forget what you do, but forever remember how you made them feel!”