Hello My Brothers All:

It is already the middle of February and I feel like we are just ending 2016. My point – the new year is moving swiftly, time seems to be flying and moving quicker day by day. As we press forward, I would like to encourage all the Brothers of the Valley of Orlando to take a moment and reflect on how generous (or not) you have been in supporting the Scottish Rite Foundation of FL, USA, Inc. The Foundation is the funding mechanism for the fourteen language learning disorder clinics throughout the state. Our success in supporting the children we sponsor and allowing additional children to be helped is determined by the numbers. Small donations ($10, $15, $20 or $25 or more) from each of our over 1900 members in the Valley, would generate quite a sizeable amount toward this year’s goal of $54,748 for the year ending on June 30, 2017, and most likely put us over the top. As was indicated in the article from our Valley Trustee in this edition of the eNews, we are currently at 37% of our goal. My Brothers I ask that you take a moment and see if that small donation I mentioned above can be made now so that we can achieve our goal and support the kids who are helped by these donations. Remember, 97% of the donations made go directly to programs that assist the kids, and as an added incentive, Double Eagle points are awarded. Your donation will be put to good use and be greatly appreciated!

This month we celebrate the Feast of Kadosh with a program that was prepared by the Commander of our Council of Kadosh, which will be presented after our dinner at this month’s stated meeting on the 24th of February. Following this program, we will move into the auditorium for our Ring Ceremony for our new Masters of the Royal Secret and the Knighting Ceremony for those Masters of the Royal Secret who choose to join the Knights of St. Andrew. 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.

Just a reminder that our Spring Reunion is on April 8th and 9th and now is the time to be turning in those petitions from Master Masons who are searching for more light. Dominick Tesoriere, Membership Chairman, and the Lodge Ambassadors are coordinating visits to various Masonic Lodges throughout the four District to introduce the Rite, and encourage those who are not members to consider membership in the Rite as they continue their search for more light.

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!”