Hello, My Brothers All!

We are coming to the end of the 2018 year, and I would like to offer a few encouraging words to all the brothers of the Valley of Orlando.  The Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida, USA, Inc. has sent to all brothers a direct mail solicitation that you should receive in the very near future.  The Foundation was established to support the children through one of the fourteen language learning disorder clinics around the State of Florida.  As a reminder, we are the provider of last resort, which means our ability to assist a child when needed is important to ensure they receive the treatment required to improve their disorder.  Without us, and the necessary funding means they will most likely go untreated.

Additionally, 97% of every dollar goes to the programs that assist these children.  In that every member should be receiving this solicitation, is a good example of how many, giving a little, can make a big difference.  When you receive yours, I encourage you to make a donation whether it is $10, $20, $50 or more, every dollar is appreciated, as is your support.

Do you ever shop at Amazon.com?  Did you know that if you sign on to www.smile.amazon.com and then select the Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida, USA, Inc., the foundation will get .05% of the sale.  There is nothing else to do, just by doing your regular shopping, you will also be donating to a great cause.  In that the up and coming holiday is one that involves gifts, will no doubt create an increase in online shopping.  Please make every effort to follow the above guidelines and ensure your online shopping is generating a small, but greatly appreciated donation to the Foundation.

As the 2018 year is about to close, the month of November is the time of year when we thank our officers of 2018; then elect and install the officers for the 2019 year. The installation will take place at our meeting this Friday the 16th of November.  I hope to see a good turn out to thank those who served, and welcome those who will serve in 2019!  It will take the support of us all to increase our participation in the Valley Membership Achievement Program, continue conferring all twenty-nine degrees through the course of a year, and ensure we are a growing Valley that serves our brothers, through education and fraternal fellowship, thereby increasing our membership.

One last item to share with all – we are excited this year to do something special during December to celebrate, and this year we will be hosting a “Holiday Steak Dinner” on the second Friday the 14th of December.  There is a flyer with details in this edition of eNews and future editions.  Please note that it is a ticket only event, with tickets not being sold at the door. Please contact Keith at the Valley office or purchase your tickets at the October or November meetings.  You must purchase your tickets by the 30th of November.

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. 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!”