Hello, My Brothers and Happy New Year to all!

We have arrived then where we end of one year and start another. As we reflect and evaluate at this point, we see that this point illustrates another example of opposites and balance. An ending and a beginning! Now is the time, to keep balance and ensure a smooth transition, by evaluating the year that is ending, and planning for the new year that is starting. At our last Executive Committee meeting we talked about the Valley Membership Achievement Project (VMAP) as the benchmark by which we measure our Valley, and the success or failure we have realized. We agreed that the chairman of each category would evaluate what we accomplished in 2017 and provide this feedback to Ill:. Keith Albright, 33°, our General Secretary, so we can consolidate and see the results of our efforts. From this, we will establish a plan to improve our performance through the roadmap of VMAP and continue making improvements for each of the last 3–4 years. We want to ensure a quality experience for all members from the newest Master of the Royal Secret to the most senior 33° Inspector General Honorary, and all members in between. We’ll share the results and plan we develop with you at a point in the not too distant future.

I strongly encourage each member of the Valley of Orlando to attend the January 26th tyled meeting, where I will present the annual “State of The Valley” overview and offer thoughts on moving forward. It will be informative and data-driven. After this presentation, we will have our first open graduation ceremony for those brothers who have completed the three-year “College of the Consistory Degree Study Program.” This program was established and conducted by Ill:. Harry V. Eisenberg, 33°, a graduate of the College of the Consistory Program in Guthrie, Oklahoma, who developed a local program in the Valley of Orlando. Those brothers who are graduating would be pleased to have in attendance an excellent representation of members to congratulate them on this accomplishment.

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 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!”

May you and yours be blessed with health, happiness, and prosperity in 2018!

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!”