Brothers,

We did it!!! We joined with Brothers from Valley’s all over the country to celebrate the live streaming of the 225th Anniversary of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of the USA, Southern Jurisdiction, Mother Council of the World. And what a fabulous time it was. With 50 brothers, families and friends gathered we enjoyed a time of fellowship, trivia games and watching the opening of the Special Session of the Supreme Council 33rd degree as the Sovereign Grand Commander, Ill. James D. Cole 330 received messages of congratulations from around the world and ended with a stirring message. We are eternally grateful to the 11 Gentlemen of Charleston who came together and formalized the high degrees and put governance to them. From that fateful day in 1801 we now enjoy the lessons and fraternalism from the earliest beginnings of the Craft. Now, let’s move forward as you and I carry the message of Scottish Rite well into the 21st Century.

June is always a time of celebration for our Valley. It is when our Sovereign Grand Inspector General Ill. Richard G. Hoover, 330 drops in and we also host the Directors of the Center for Speech and Language as they update us on the critical work they are doing with our support. You will have your opportunity to share your gifts with Ill. Hoover and start our funding efforts for the coming year. We will present the final checks for this year along with a surprise additional donation, made available by our special donor and each of you who have contributed so wonderfully this past year. Of course, Olympia the wonder dog (and specially trained canine companion) will join us as well.

We had a number of Brothers take advantage of the special offer from our Grand Commander and SGIG at Grand Lodge and are now in line to join us in the Fall Reunion Class. Be sure to encourage your Brothers not yet Masters of Royal Secret to set aside October 10 & 11 and submit their petition to Scottish Rite by using the online process at our website.

On a happy note, our general secretary, illustrious Keith Albright, as you may have heard, had a minor setback recently and spent a few days in the hospital. We are so glad to report that he’s back at work doing well and continuing to regain his strength.

I look forward to seeing everyone on Friday June 26 – the day before St. Johns Day also at WP Lodge.

Fraternally,

Illustrious Walter “Ricky” Rick, 330

Valley of Orlando Personal Representative