My Brothers and Friends of the Scottish Rite:

Let me start by thanking every member who participated in the Valley of Orlando programs, degrees, meetings, and special events during the 2019 calendar year.  We have received our second VMAP Achievement Award for 2019 from Grand Commander Cole. Your participation and effort toward continuous improvement are making a difference.  Keep up the excellent work, and continue to seek additional opportunities to improve.

No doubt, you are aware of the international outbreak of the Corona Virus, also known as (COVID-19).  Much is being done by many at all levels of government and healthcare, both domestic and international, to get this pandemic under control.  However, every one of us has a responsibility to do what we can to keep ourselves and families healthy, allowing this virus to be brought under control.  At this point in time, we in the Valley of Orlando have no intent to cancel any of our up and coming events, although that is subject to change.  With that being said, I request that you do your part by following the guidelines below:

  1. If you are sick or feel that your health or the health of a loved one may be impacted because of the Corona Virus, please stay home.
  2. If you are an officer and feel you should stay home, please let IIl Keith Albright, General Secretary, know as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made to have someone sit in your place.
  3. Our food preparation team will continue to follow proper food preparation guidelines, and meals will continue to be provided at events that normally serve food.  However, please pay particular attention and utilize good hygiene during meals.
  4. As much as I know that brothers love to greet another with a handshake or a hug, please refrain from doing so. In addition, please practice good hygiene inside and outside of Valley events.  The CDC & other health agencies all tell us that washing our hands and refraining from touching our face can play a big role in keeping the virus at bay.

Remember, our March meeting is on the 27th of March and starts with dinner and is followed by the “Ceremony of Remembrance and Renewal,” where we will remember and honor those brothers who have laid down their work tools and been called to the celestial lodge above during the 2019 year.  Following the guidelines above concerning the Corona Virus, I hope to see you there.

Finally, it is with great sadness that I must report the passing of Worshipful Brother Christopher P. Chag, who served as Secretary of Winter Park Lodge No. 239 for many years, also serving as Worshipful Master in 2011.  Brother Chris was also a member of the 4th and 31st-degree teams in the Valley of Orlando and will be missed.

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!”

Fraternally,

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

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