It's beginning to look a lot like. . .

Brethren and Friends:

WOW! If you missed the Valley's Holiday Celebration Dinner last Friday evening, you missed a fantastic night. The meal was very good, the fellowship with the Brethren, Ladies and Children's Dyslexia Center Staff was great. From the comments I received at the event and in the days following, everyone had an enjoyable evening. With the Auctions, some nice money was raised to support the efforts of the Children's Dyslexia Center too. Thanks to everyone who participated!

I received some sad news yesterday. Our Past Commander-in-Chief, Ill. Charles H. Myers, 33, has been sent home from the hospital and placed in hospice care. Illustrious Bro. Chuck and Lady Shirley have been dedicated members of our Valley and Ladies Auxiliary respectively. Chuck is a  great Masonic leader, he has served our Valley and his Lodge to the highest of standards. Please keep both him and Shirley in your prayers during this most difficult time.

Our Jewish Brethren and their families are currently celebrating Hanukkah or "the Festival of Lights," to them we say, "Happy Hanukkah and best wishes of the Season!"

Even though we're in the midst of the Christmas/Hanukkah/New Year Season, believe it or not our 2012 Spring Reunion is right around the corner.

Our Commander-in-Chief, Ill. Raymond G. Brown, 33, has announced that our Spring Class will be named in memory of Ill. Armando M. Duran, 33. This is a great way to honor our late beloved Brother.

Armando was supposed to receive his 33rd Degree this past August in Chicago, he received it posthumously in February when he died. It is the tradition of the Valley's 33rd Degree Members to call the nominees and congratulate them on the day they are elected to receive the Degree. When we called Armando, I think I was almost as excited for him as he was about receiving the news. I will never forget the joy in his voice. He couldn't believe that anyone would have ever considered him for the honor. In speaking with him that evening I assured him that everything he had done in the fraternity was noticed and that he was making an impact in our Valley. To have him pass away so suddenly seemed so unfair. I know that the Lord has His reasons for things that we are not intended to know, but I cannot help but think that although Armando missed his 33rd Degree conferral, naming this Class in his memory is probably the best way to honor him. Remembering his happy response to the news of his impending 33rd Degree, I know our Brother is beside himself in Heaven over this news.

Petitions have already started to come in for this Class and that's good news. As you know, I always say I don't think we have a "successful" Class until we have at least 20 petitions, well, I'm going to amend that for this Class. For this Class I would like to see 35 or more Candidates. Why? Well besides the fact that Armando was a friend of mine and I truly want this Class to honor his memory in the best way possible, Armando was the first line recommender of 33 Valley members. So we'll need 33 Candidates to match our Illustrious Brother's efforts, plus two additional Candidates, one to replace ourselves and one for the continued growth of the Valley.

All of us who had the pleasure of knowing our Illustrious Brother knew a fine man and a great Scottish Rite Mason. His sudden and unexpected loss left a void in our Valley and a hurt in our hearts that is still needs time to heal. Let each of us go forward with a determined effort to insure that this Class not only deserves to be named in his memory, but honors that memory as well.

Our State Deputy, Ill. Russell W. Baker, 33 has asked me to take on the duty of web master of the Council of Deliberation. As web master of the Valley's web site (http://www.philascottishrite.org/) I don't mind telling folks that I am a novice at building web sites, when Russ asked me build a new site for the COD, I was both shocked and flattered. The current site, http://www.pa32nddegreemasons.com/ will be coming down on the first of the year and the new site http://www.pacod.us/ will take its place. The new site is currently online if you wish you give it a glance. It is not official yet, as Illustrious Brother Russ is still giving it the look over to see if he wants any changes or additions. Trying to remain humble, I think that this is a fine honor for our Valley and I hope that my efforts do all of us justice. I am proud to be a Scottish Rite Mason and prouder still to be a member of the Valley of Philadelphia.
 
The Masonic Temple will be closing early tomorrow, and I will be on vacation until Tuesday, January 3, 2012.

I want to wish all of you and your families a very Merry Christmas or a Happy Hanukkah and of course a healthy and Happy New Year.

May the Grand Architect shine His blessings down on all of you and your families in this coming new year.

God Bless Illustrious Bro. Chuck.

Sincere fraternal regards,

Steven A. Morrison, 33
Valley Secretary

Tis the Season to be Jolly!

Brethren and Friends: Well it is finally here. Tonight is our Valley's Holiday Celebration Dinner. 152 Brethren, Ladies and Children's Dyslexia Center staff purchased tickets to attend this event. It should be a great night. The evening begins at 6 PM with the Social Hour, during which you will have the opportunity to bid on some wonderful items donated by local vendors and the gift baskets created by the Valley Ladies as part of the Silent Auction to benefit our Children's Dyslexia Center. Special thanks goes out to Bro. Jerry Boardman on all his hard work in procuring the many items for this evening's Auction. Bro. Jerry recently transferred into our Valley from the Valley of Reading, and he got to right work. We are not only glad to have him but fortunate as well. Welcome again Bro. Jerry!

A buffet dinner will be served at 7 PM. Following dinner keyboardist, Craig Satchell will entertain us with his selection of standard and holiday favorites.

A visitor from the "Far Northern Jurisdiction" will also join us to award the Auction winners with their prizes.

Our Deputy, Ill. Russell W. Baker, 33 and Lady, Faye are also attending.

REMINDER: If you did not purchase tickets to the event, you cannot purchase them at the door. Sorry, but this Celebration is for every member of the Valley to enjoy, which means no one will be "working" it. There will be no stewards table selling tickets at the door. The reservation of 152 has been called in to the hotel. This represents the tickets sold for the event. If you do not have tickets, please do not just show up and expect to be seated. You have had due and timely notice of the event and its deadline. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

If you purchased tickets, I'll see you there this evening.

If you did not purchase tickets or weren't planning to attend, let me wish you at this time a very Happy Hanukkah or Merry Christmas and of course a very Happy and Healthy New Year! I pray the Grand Architect blesses all of you and your families this coming year.

Peace.

Sincerely fraternal regards,

Steven A. Morrison, 33
Valley Secretary

Our Holiday Celebration Dinner and Looking toward 2012

Dear Brethren and Friends:

I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your families. Now comes the hustle and bustle of the Holiday shopping season. Today being, "Cyber Monday," I have to tell you that has been my way of shopping for the past few years. I know a lot of folks are nervous about putting their credit card or bank information out there for fear of hackers and I can understand their fear, but most reputable sites are protected and the one plus I can vouch for is; NO STANDING IN LONG CHECKOUT LINES!

Just to let everyone know, our Family Life event, "Christmas in Hershey," is SOLD OUT. Congratulations go out to our Family Life Chairman, Bro. James C. Rae, 32, MSA on yet another successful event. Way to go Bro. Jim!

By now you should have received your December issue of The Double Eagle which lays out all the information regarding the Valley's Holiday Celebration Dinner, scheduled for Friday evening, December 16, 2011 at the Radisson Philadelphia Northeast Hotel, 2400 Old Lincoln Highway at US Route 1 in Trevose, PA.

The evening begins at 6PM with the Social Hour featuring a cash bar and the Ladies Auxiliary's Silent and "Chinese Auctions to benefit our Children's Dyslexia Center.

The Radisson's Continental Buffet will be served at 7PM. The buffet includes: Arugula Salad with Figs, Red Onions and Bacon in Port Wine Vinaigrette, Garden Salad with Choice of Light or Regular Dressing, Marinated Roasted Vegetables, Grilled Beef Tenderloins in Red Wine Sauce, Pan Seared Flounder with Roasted Peppers in a Tomato Vinaigrette, Rigatoni with Sun-dried Tomatoes, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetable, Carrot Cake, Chocolate Cake and Cheesecake, Assorted Soft Drinks and Bottled Water, Freshly Brewed Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee and Tazo Tea.

Following dinner, keyboardist, Craig Satchell will entertain us with his selection of Holiday and Traditional favorites.

It is rumored that we will have a visitor from the "Far Northern Masonic Jurisdiction" with us there as well.

The cost per person is $20. You are encouraged to invite a Master Mason guest and his lady to come along, the cost of their dinners is $25 per person. If he chooses to petition our 2012 Spring Class, he will receive a $5 credit toward his $150 initiation fee. Make your checks payable to "Scottish Rite Bodies," and send it to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520. Be sure to put "Holiday Celebration" on your Check's Memo line. The DEADLINE for ticket purchases is Wednesday, December 14, 2011.

I cannot stress this enough. This is a prepaid event. This means there will be NO tickets available and NO tickets sold at the door. This is our Valley's Holiday Celebration, which means our usual dedicated group of Brethren who volunteer to act as Stewards at our Reunions will be inside enjoying the evening and not working. If you do not purchase tickets in advance, don't just show up at the Radisson, as you will not be admitted. No exceptions! Tickets will be collected before dinner is served.

Take Notice and Govern Yourself Accordingly.

Looking forward to 2012:

We are proud and honored to announce that our 2012 Spring Class has been named in memory of our Illustrious Brother, Armando M. Duran, 33, Past Thrice Potent Master.

The Spring Reunion will begin on with the Special Communication of Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection on Friday, March 16, 2012. The Degrees to be presented that evening are the 4th, Master Travler (DVD Format), the 14th, Grand Elect Mason, plus one other Lodge of Perfection Degree to be announced.

The Reunion continues on Friday, April 20, 2012 with Special Convocation of DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jerusalem and the Special Assembly of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix. The 16th Degree, Prince of Jerusalem and the 18th Degree, Knight of Rose Croix will be presented.

The Spring Reunion will conclude on Friday, May 11, 2012 with the Special Rendezvous of Benjamin Franklin Consistory. The Degrees to be presented that evening are, the 30th, Grand Inspector, the 31st, Knight Aspirant and the 32nd, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret.

Any Valley Brother who was fortunate enough to know our late Illustrious Brother, Armando, will tell you how flattered he would have been with this honor. He was a great Scottish Rite Mason and a Brother and Friend to all whom he came in contact with. His sudden passing left a void in our Valley that will be felt for many years to come.

As Armando was one of our most successful new member recruiters, lets honor our Illustrious Brother's memory, his service to our Valley, and his accomplishments by making this one of our largest Classes ever.

Also during the Spring:

Applications are accepted for the Abbott Scottish Rite Scholarship. There have been some changes made to the eligibilty for the Scholarship:

The following criteria are used to determine the eligibilty of applicants for the program:

• A currently enrolled freshman, sophomore, junior or senior at an accredited college or university.
• A Scottish Rite Mason in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.
• A minimum grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. (Freshman scholarships will be distributed after an acceptable GPA is submitted, following the first semester.)
• A child of a Scottish Rite Mason in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.
• A member of a youth organization (DeMolay, Rainbow, Job's Daughters) sponsored by the Masonic fraternity in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

Applications must be obtained by writing to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520.

Please note that the above eligibility requirements were received AFTER the December issue of The Double Eagle had gone to print. They will be reprinted in the next issue.

On Saturday, April 14, 2012 our Officer Education Committee will again present the Valley's Annual Officer's Training Conference at the Tacony Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia.

All Elected and Appointed Officers who will serve the Valley during the 2012-13 Scottish Rite year are expected to attend. Valley Committee members should plan to attend. Any Valley member desirous of getting involved, whether it be as an Officer, Cast member, or serving on a Committee are welcome and encouraged to attend.

The day begins with a Continental Breakfast being served at 7:30 AM. The Conference will begin at 8:30 AM and will conclude by noon.

We have been told that our training program is one of the best in the Northern Jurisdiction. Plenty of good and useful information is distributed at the Conference and it is worth your time.

Interested? A registration coupon is available in the December Double Eagle, or you call the Scottish Rite Office at 215-563-1814 for more information or to register to attend.

At 3 PM on Sunday, April 29, 2012, the Valley will hold its Annual Memorial Service at Gloria Dei (Old Swede's) Church, Columbus Blvd & Christian Street in South Philadelphia.

A complimentary dinner will follow the Service, but you must have a prior reservation. Your cooperation is expected and appreciated. RSVP the Scottish Rite Office by Wednesday, April 25, 2012. A reservation coupon is available in the December Double Eagle too!

Well that will do it for this edition. If you are planning on attending the Holiday Celebration Dinner, get your check in NOW!

Enjoy the Holiday Season. May the Grand Architect continue watch over each of you and your families.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven A. Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary

Some Updates for You

Brethren and Friends:

Hope this edition finds you well and preparing for a wonderful Thanksgiving with your families.

Some news items for you:

Tomorrow, Saturday, 19 November 2011, at the Tacony Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue in NE Philadelphia there will be a pancake breakfast to benefit the DeMolay. All you can eat pancakes, sausage, coffee, orange juice, $5 for adults and $3 for kids. It begins at 7:00 AM and runs until 1:00 PM. Always a great event and it supports a great cause. Come on out and enjoy a delicious breakfast and feel good about it too! Rumor has it that pancakes are a great "stomach stretcher" too. Just in time for a pre-Thanksgiving workout!

Don't forget our Holiday Celebration Dinner on Friday, December 16, 2011 (Thanks again Bro. Rob!) at the Radisson Philadelphia Northeast Hotel, 2400 Old Lincoln Highway at US Route 1 in Trevose, PA.

The evening begins with the Social Hour at 6PM, featuring two cash bars, and the Valley Ladies "Chinese" and Silent Auctions to benefit the Children's Dyslexia Center of Philadelphia. The Radisson's delicious Continental Buffet follows at 7PM. After dinner Keyboardist, Craig Satchell will entertain us with his Holiday music selections.

I've heard that a "Special Guest" from the "Far Northern Masonic Jurisdiction" will be joining us as well.

BRETHREN TAKE NOTICE & GOVERN YOURSELF ACCORDINGLY: This is a prepaid event. This means that there will be NO tickets sold at the door. Tickets are $20 per person and are available NOW from the Scottish Rite Office. Make your check payable to "Scottish Rite Bodies" and send it to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520.

The December issue of The Double Eagle will have a coupon in it for you send in to order your tickets as well. The DEADLINE for ticket purchases is Wednesday, December 14, 2011.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: This was too late for press time and is not in the Double Eagle, but, if you wish to invite a Master Mason friend and his lady to come along with you to the Valley's Holiday Celebration Dinner, they are welcome to come for $25 per person. If he decides to petition our Valley for the 2012 Spring Class, he will receive a $5 credit toward his $150 petition fee. But, as this is a prepaid event you must have his ticket order in by the December 14, 2011 DEADLINE.

This is going to be a great night and we want everyone to enjoy it, but, remember there will be NO tickets available or sold at the door. If you just show up, you will be turned away. Don't let this happen to you!

Mark your 2012 Calendar now with these important dates:

Our Spring 2012 Reunion begins on Friday, March 16, 2012 with the Special Communication of Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection. The 4th Degree, Master Traveler (DVD Format) and the 14th Degree, Grand Elect Mason will be presented as will one other Lodge of Perfection Degree to be announced.

The Reunion continues on Friday, April 20, 2012 with the Special Convocation of DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jerusalem and the Special Assembly of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix. The 16th Degree, Prince of Jerusalem and the 18th Degree, Knight of Rose Croix will be conferred.

The Spring 2012 Reunion concludes on Friday, May 11, 2012. That evening Benjamin Franklin Consistory will present the 30th Degree, Grand Inspector (Yes, this is an offical, SCOTTISH RITE PASSPORT ALERT!), the 31st Degree, Knight Aspirant and the 32nd Degree, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret.

Also this Spring:

Saturday, April 14, 2012 is the date for the Valley's Annual Officer's Training Conference. As always the Conference will be held at the Tacony Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue in NE Philadelphia. All Valley Officers, Officer Candidates both Elected and Appointed, and Valley Committee Members are expected to attend. Any Valley member who is interested in taking an active role in the Valley as either an Officer, Committee member or even in a Degree Cast are welcome and encouraged to attend. A lot of great information is dispersed at the Conference and it is worth your time! The doors will open at 7:30 AM and Continental Breakfast will be served. The Conference kicks off at 8:30 AM. A registration coupon is in the December Double Eagle.

Our Valley's Annual Memorial Service is scheduled for Sunday, April 29, 2012 at the historic, Gloria Dei (Old Swede's Church). The ecumenical service will begin at 3 PM with a complimentary dinner following in the Church's Social Hall. Everyone is encouraged to attend this important Valley function, but we need a headcount for the dinner, so like every year, RESERVATIONS ARE A MUST! A registration coupon for this event will also be available beginning with the December Double Eagle.

We still have a few tickets available for the Valley's Family Life event, "Christmas in Hershey." The promotion runs from November 18th through December 31st at Hershey Park. We do not a particular day for this program, so you have the freedom to choose which day works for you and your family. Tickets are nice priced at $5 per person which also includes $5 worth of "Chocolate Bucks" good for purchases in the Park's many shops. These tickets are first come, first served. Make your check payable to "Scottish Rite Bodies" and send it to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520. Be sure to put "Hershey" on your check's memo line.

We still have plenty of 2012 Calendar Books available in the Scottish Rite Office. Do you need one? Give me a call at 215-563-1814 and I'll get one out to you.

Well that will do it for this edition. I want to wish everyone of you and your families a very happy Thanksgiving. The Scottish Rite Office will be closed on Friday, November 25th as that is a Masonic Temple Holiday. As a matter of fact, My family and I will be at Christmas in Hershey that day!

May the Grand Architect continue to watch over all of you, until we meet again. Don't forget to say a prayer for our troops this Holiday Season. They are one important reason to be thankful for all you have!

See you tomorrow at Pancake Day!

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven A. Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary

Post Reunion thoughts, updates, etc.

Dear Brethren and Friends:

We had a fantastic turnout on Friday, November 4th to welcome our Right Worshipful Grand Master, Ill. Thomas K. Sturgeon 33, and our State Deputy, Ill. Russell W. Baker, 33. Russ has been our Active for a few years now, this was his first official visit to the Valley of Philadelphia as State Deputy. It was a special night having both with us. Also visiting us that evening was our Right Worshipful Grand Treasurer and Active Member of the Supreme Council, Ill. Jeffrey W. Coy, 33. We hope all three enjoyed their visit with us.

Congratulations once more go out to Ill. Leonard R. Bezar, 33 on receiving his 33rd Degree Jewel and Crown and to Bros. Paul J. Mandelaro and James C. Rae, 32, MSA on receiving their Meritorious Service Jewels and their red MSA Caps. Also congratulations and thank you to Ill. Carl D. Homan, 33 on his recognition for his many years of dedicated leadership and service to our Valley.

Our Degree Casts did an excellent job on the conferrals of the 27th, 31st, and 32nd Degrees. We had a number of new faces in the Degree Casts which is always a great thing. The 27th Degree has a large cast and it was great to see so many Brethren taking part. We are expecting to present the 30th Degree during the Spring 2012 Reunion. It too has a large Cast. It would be nice to see  some more "first timers" take part. If you're interested call the Scottish Rite Office and I'll get your name out to the Director of Work, Ill. David T. Reppert, 33, MSA.

Speaking of Illustrious Brother Dave, this coming Spring Reunion will be his swan song. Work and School commitments are going to take up his time, so Dave has announced his "retirement" for the time being. Special thanks go out to Ill. Robert J. Burns, 33, who will take over this most important role in our Valley.

Illustrious Bro. Reppert's loss will also be felt in our Degree Casts. Dave is known for taking large parts and sometimes 2 or 3 parts in the course of one evening. We are truly going to need some Brethren to step up to the challenge. I take parts from time to time as my duties as Valley Secretary will allow, and I can tell you this - the Degree Casts have a great time working together at the rehearsals and on the floor the evening of the conferral. Come on, step up and volunteer to get involved, I promise, you won't regret it.

Okay so the Fall Reunion is over. Now what's next for the Valley of Philadelphia?

Well, we still have tickets available for our next Family Life event, "Christmas in Hershey" The promotion runs from November 18th through December 31st at Hershey Park in Hershey, PA. We do not have a particular day like we had in the past. You pick the day that's best for you and go have a great day with your family.

Tickets cost $5 per person and include $5 worth of "Chocolate Bucks," for you to spend in the Park's shops.

Make your check payable to "Scottish Rite Bodies," and mail to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520.

Our next "EVENT" in the Valley is our Holiday Celebration Dinner on Friday, December 16, 2011 at the Radisson Hotel Philadelphia Northeast, 2400 Old Lincoln Hwy at US Route 1, Trevose, PA.

The evening begins with the Social Hour at 6PM featuring two cash bars. There will also be "Chinese" and Silent Auctions held to benefit the Children's Dyslexia Center of Philadelphia.

The delicious Continental Buffet dinner will be served at 7PM. After dinner keyboardist, Craig Satchell will entertain us with his holiday music selections.

Okay, now here comes the IMPORTANT PART: This is a pre-pay event. Which means NO tickets will be available or sold at the event. All tickets for the Holiday Celebration Dinner must be purchased by Wednesday, December 14, 2011 from the Scottish Rite Office. The cost per person is $20. The December issue of THE DOUBLE EAGLE, will include a coupon for you to clip out and send in to get your tickets, or you can send your check in now. Make your check payable to "Scottish Rite Bodies," and send it to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107-2520. Please be sure to put "Holiday Dinner" on your check's memo line.

We want every Valley member and their lady to enjoy this event, but if you do not have pre-paid tickets, DO NOT embarass yourself by just showing up at the Radisson Hotel. You will NOT be admitted. NO EXCEPTIONS!

Just a note to let everyone know, the Scottish Rite Office will be closed this Friday, November 11th in observance of Veteran's Day. I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all of my fellow Veterans for their service to our Country.

Well that will do it for this edition. Get your check in for the Holiday Celebration Dinner! REMEMBER-No ticket, No admittance!

Our Spring 2012 Reunion begins on Friday, March 16, 2012. Start talking your Master Mason friends NOW!

I want to wish each and everyone of you a most joyous Thanksgiving.  I pray the Grand Architect watches over you and yours until the next time we meet.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven A. Morrison, 33
Valley Secretary

Our Fall Reunion Continues!

Brethren and Friends:

Our Fall 2011 Reunion continues this Friday evening, October 21, 2011 with the Special Convocation of DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jerusalem and the Special Assembly of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix.

The Degrees to be conferred upon the members of our 2011 Fall Class, the "Ill. Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master of Pennsylvania Class," include the 15th Degree, Knight of the East and the 18th Degree, Knight of Rose Croix.

We have some new faces in the Degree Casts this time. Come on out and support not only our new Class but also those Brethren that are taking part in the work. It's going to be a great night!

The evening begins with dinner at 6:00 P.M. in the Grand Banquet Room. We'll be having the buffet again with a Roast Pork carving station. A fish and a chicken entree will be available on the buffet as well. We tried the buffet for the first time last month and so far so good. We got everyone their meals in a timely manner and got the evening off to a good start, so here we go again in October.

The Ladies Auxiliary will be having "Movie Night," complete with popcorn while we are conferring Degrees. Be sure to bring your lady along for what sounds like a fun evening.

The reservation deadline for Friday's meal is this Wednesday, October 19th. Call the Scottish Rite Office at 215-563-1814, email, phila.aasr@juno.com or you can post your reservation on the event page of the Valley's Facebook group if you are a member of the group. Remember, all non-reserved dinners now cost $25 per person. Don't let this happen to you!

Don't forget the big event on Friday, October 28, 2011! "A Toast to Reading" benefits our Children's Dyslexia Center. The William Penn Inn will again host this annual fund raising affair that supports the wonderful work being done at the Center. Individual tickets cost $75 per person. For more information please visit A Toast To Reading.

Our Fall Reunion concludes on Friday evening, November 4, 2011, Please note this change of date from our usual third Friday night.

That evening Benjamin Franklin Consistory will hold its Special Rendezvous and we have two very special guests joining us for the evening. Our Fall Class honoree, Ill. Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master and Active Member of the Supreme Council for Pennsylvania will be with us as well as our Active and now Deputy for Pennsylvania, Ill. Russell W. Baker, 33. Be sure to come out and greet our Grand Master as he makes one of his last appearances as Grand Master and be sure to congratulate our Friend and Brother Russ on his new appointment. We're all very happy for him.

The Ladies Auxiliary will have a visit from former First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt. Should be interesting!

The Degrees to be presented that evening are the 27th Degree, Knight of Jerusalem (SCOTTISH RITE PASSPORT ALERT!), the 31st Degree, Knight Aspirant, and the 32nd Degree, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret. We'll have a few new faces in the 27th Degree as well. Come on out and congratulate our Valley Brethren on their next step in Scottish Rite!

Saturday, November 5, 2011 will be the day of two great events supporting our Children's Dyslexia Center. One of which will be the "A Toast To Reading," book sale at Barnes and Noble. From Saturday, November 5th through Thursday, November 10th if you use the ID Code -10531267 at a Barnes and Noble store our Center will receive 20% of your purchase price. If you purchase online at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/ our Center will receive 10% of the purchase price unless you make a purchase for your NOOK reader, for which the Center will receive 5% of the cost. If you're doing some holiday shopping you can give two gifts, one to that special someone by purchasing them a book and one to the kids at our Center.

And if you're making your Thanksgiving plans, you can also order cheescakes from THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY through Barnes and Noble and yes, 20% will go to our Center. Now doesn't that sound just delicious?

Also on Saturday, November 5th, the Masonic Blood Donor Club will be holding a Blood Drive at the Tacony Masonic Temple to support our Children's Dyslexia Center.

For every pint of blood donated, the Center will receive $10. If you are a Pennsylvania Mason and are not a member of the Blood Club, this is a GREAT opportunity for you. You can donate a pint of blood, which gains you, your wife and your taxable dependents, membership in the Blood Club and support our Center.

Anyone who is eligible to donate blood, can donate at this Blood Drive, they do not have to be a Mason or a Club Member. If you cannot donate blood and want to become a Blood Club member, you can get a substitute donor.

Please give both of these events your support. Our Center needs your assistance to keep its mission of helping kids affected by dyslexia going forward.

I've been asked to pass on the following: On Sunday, November 6, 2011 Covenant United Methodist Church, in Springfield, Delaware County, will be holding their All Saints Day service at 10:30 A.M. They will remember and light candles in memory of every church member lost during the past year. One of those members is our beloved Illustrious Brother, Armando M. Duran, 33. If you are able to attend, please do. Armando's memory will live for many years in the Valley of Philadelphia for all lives he touched as a Recommender, and those of us who came to know him as a friend and a Brother.

November 18th is the first day of our next Family Life event, "Christmas in Hershey." Tickets are $5 per person for Valley members and their families. Each ticket includes $5 worth of "Hershey Bucks," for you to use in the Park's many shops.

"Christmas in Hershey" runs from November 18th until December 31st. As we do not have a particular day for the event, you can choose the day and spend a leisurely day of fun during the holiday season with your family and friends from the Valley of Philadelphia!

We had been waiting on the tickets, but I am happy to announce that they are now available in the Scottish Rite Office and they are going fast. If you want to go, send your check made payable to "Scottish Rite Bodies," to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520, TODAY!

Our Fall activities will round up on Friday, December 16th, when we have our Holiday Celebration Dinner at the Radisson Hotel Philadelphia Northeast, 2400 Old Lincoln Highway at US Route 1.

The evening will begin at 6:00 P.M. with the Social Hour featuring two cash bars as well as the "Chinese Auction" and Silent Auction to benefit the Children's Dyslexia Center.

The Radisson's delicious Continental Buffet follows at 7:00 P.M. More information will be available soon, but plan now to be with us!

Well that will do it for this edition. If you're coming Friday night I'll see you then. Don't forget to make your  dinner reservations!

May the Grand Architect continue to watch over all of you and your families.

Sincere fraternal regards,

Steven A. Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary

Sad News and other information

Dear Brethren and Friends: It is my sad duty to report the passing of Mrs. Sharon Malantonio, wife of our Valley Brother, Carlo Malantonio, Jr.

The Funeral arrangements are: Viewing at Moore & Snear Funeral Home, 300 Fayette Street, Conshohocken, PA, Sunday, October 2, 2011, from 5 to 8 PM.

A Memorial Service will be held at LuLu Shrine, 5140 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA on Monday, October 3, 2011 at 11:00 AM.

Interment is private.

May the Grand Architect Bless our Brother and his Family during this most difficult time.

Our Fall Reunion continues on Friday evening, October 21, 2011, with the Fall Special Convocation of DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jerusalem and the Special Assembly of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix.

The 15th Degree, Knight of the East and the 18th Degree, Knight of Rose Croix will be presented to the members of our Fall Class, the "Ill. Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33, R.W. Grand Master Class."

We have 23 Candidates in the Class and they appear to be very excited and interested in this new step in their Masonic career. Be sure to welcome and congratulate them at our next gathering.

The buffet dinner experiment at our September 16th dinner went very well. We will be doing it again in October.

The Menu for the October dinner is: Caesar Salad, Manhattan Clam Chowder, Buffet Dinner Selections (including a fish entree) and a Roast Pork Carving Station. The cost per person before the Wednesday, October 19th deadline is $15. The cost per person after the deadline is $25.

Reservations can be made by calling 215-563-1814 or by email at phila.aasr@juno.com or on the Valley's Facebook group page, Valley of Philadelphia, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, by clicking the "I'm Attending" button on the Fall Special Convocation and Special Assembly event page.

With so many ways to let us know you're coming you can't miss the deadline unless you don't do it!

Don't forget the fund raiser for the Children's Dyslexia Center, "A Toast to Reading" on Friday, October 28, 2011. For information please visit, A Toast To Reading.

Also regarding the Center, Barnes and Noble is having a "Dyslexia Awareness Day" on Saturday, November 5, 2011. If you purchase something at a Barnes and Noble store use Voucher ID# 10531267 and our Center will receive up to 20% of your purchase price! You can also shop at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/ Tell your friends about this great opportunity to do some holiday shopping and support a great cause! Please note that this fund raiser is for the PHILADELPHIA Center only. What's paid here, stays here to benefit OUR Center!

Also, there is another way for you to support our Center and another Masonic program - On Saturday, November 5, 2011, after you've done your book shopping at Barnes and Noble, stop by the Tacony Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue. The Masonic Blood Donor Club is having a Blood Drive from 10 AM to 4 PM to benefit our Center. Yes, that's right, to BENEFIT our Center! For every pint of blood donated, a $10 donation will be made to the PHILADELPHIA Children's Dyslexia Center. This is a great opportunity to help our Center, our Blood Club, our Community, and yourself, if you are not currently a member of the Blood Club.

Anyone can donate at the Blood Drive, you do not have to be a Mason or even a Blood Club member. If you are already a member and know of a Brother who isn't, you can donate in his name and get him into the Club, plus a $10 donation is made to the Dyslexia Center, how fantastic is that?

Before you donate blood, or buy books, don't forget our Fall Special Rendezvous on Friday evening , November 4, 2011. Our Class Honoree, Ill. Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master and Active Member of the Supreme Council will be in attendance. Also making his very FIRST visit to the Valley of Philadelphia, as Deputy for Pennsylvania, will be our Brother and Friend, Ill. Russell W. Baker, 33. Bro. Russ was elevated to Deputy at the Supreme Council Sessions this past August in Chicago. Come on out and greet both of our Illustrious Brethren.

That evening the 27th Degree, Knight of Jerusalem, the 31st Degree, Knight Aspirant and the 32nd Degree, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret will be presented. It has been quite some time since the 27th Degree has been presented in the Valley of Philadelphia, so yes, this is an official, SCOTTISH RITE PASSPORT ALERT! Be sure to have yours with you.

Don't forget our Family Life event, "Christmas in Hershey" Checks are already coming in for this event, it should be a great one! To those that have purchased tickets, we do not have the tickets on hand yet, but have been assured by Hershey Park that they will be sent to us shortly. As soon as I have them in the office, I will get them out to you.

And lastly, our Valley will celebrate the season on Friday, December 16, 2011 at the Radisson Hotel Philadelphia Northeast, 2400 Old Lincoln Highway at US Route 1 in Trevose, PA.

The evening will begin with the Social Hour at 6:00 PM (there will be 2 cash bars in the room), during which the Ladies of the Valley will have their gift basket sale going to support the Children's Dyslexia Center. The Ladies are each designing a basket to offer at this event. Also a Silent Auction will be held to benefit the Center. We are currently look for donations for the Auction, if you can help, or for more information, call the Scottish Rite Office at 215-563-1814. At 7:00 PM a delicious Buffet Dinner will be served.  The cost for this event is $15 per person. More information will be available soon.

Well that will do it for this edition. I pray that the Grand Architect watches over each and everyone of you and your families.

Please remember Mrs. Sharon Malantonio in your prayers as well as Bro. Carlo and the family.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven A. Morrison, 33
Valley Secretary

 

A Few Things

Brethren and Friends:

This Friday, 16 September is the start of our Fall 2011 Reunion. The evening begins at 6:00 PM in the Grand Banquet Room with a Buffet Dinner. This will be the first time we are trying the buffet, hopefully it will speed up our dinner service and get everyone up to Gothic Hall so we can get started on time. The DEADLINE for dinner reservations is TOMORROW, Wednesday, 14 September, call the Scottish Rite Office 215-563-1814 or email to phila.aasr@juno to make your reservation. The cost per person is $15 before the deadline, after the deadline it's $25, so as we say in Masonry, GOVERN YOURSELF ACCORDINGLY.

The Degrees to be presented Friday night are the 4th, Master Traveler (DVD Format), the 12th, Master of Mercy, and the 14th, Grand Elect Mason.

We have 23 Candidates for the Class, which will be known as the "Ill. Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master Class." Lets give them a hearty welcome to Scottish Rite and the Valley of Philadelphia.

While we are conferring Degrees, the Ladies will have an entertaining musical program, so bring your Lady along for a great night of friendship and fun!

I have received word that Bro. Ronald Hill is home and recovering from post surgical procedures. Bro. Ron is active with our Degree Casts. We wish him a full and speedy recovery. If you wish to send him a card or note, please contact me in the Scottish Rite Office for his information.

I have also received word that Valley Brother, William Fenton is in the hospital. Bro. Bill and his wife, Susan have been active Valley attendees in the past. If you wish to send a card or note to Bro. Bill, again, contact the Scottish Rite Office for more information.

This Saturday's bus trip to Autumn Day at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, has changed a bit. We didn't get the response to this trip that we had hoped for, so we've downsized from 2 buses to 1. The bus will leave from Tacony Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue, NE Philadelphia at 9:00 AM and pick up at LuLu Shrine Center, 5140 Butler Pike, Plymouth Meeting at 9:30 AM. We have a 47 seat bus with 33 seats spoken for. 14 seats remain. If you wish to go on the trip contact the Scottish Rite Office today at 215-563-1814. Don't delay!

Well, that's the few things I have for you. If you're coming Friday night, I'll see you there!

Sincere fraternal regards,

Steven A. Morrison, 33
Valley Secretary

A Day of Remembrance

Brethren and Friends:

On this most somber day when we remember and memorialize those lost on this most tragic chapter in history, I pause to reflect on not only what happened that dreadful moment in time and the war that rages on today because of it, but also on our beloved Fraternity.

Freemasonry in general and the Scottish Rite in particular reminds and teaches us that we are all children of God. We are taught to be tolerant of the beliefs of another and to be charitable to our fellow man.

The enemies of our nation and in fact of all peaceful people are also the enemies of Freemasonry. Our lessons and deeds are despised by those that would seek to peform evil upon the innocent. Charity, Relief and Truth are not a part of their doctrine. Their misguided belief that death is the penalty for those who's beliefs may differ, defy the very existence of our loving Heavenly Father.

Masonry in America supports our Armed Forces and rightfully so. Many Brethren who now wear the lambskin once wore and some still do, America's uniform. They proudly served our nation and now as Freemasons they proudly serve a Fraternity that serves for the betterment of mankind. The same can be said of Freemasons around the world. Masons are patriots and good citizens.

Masonry also supports those who believe that all men can live in a peaceful world, practicing what ever religious belief we choose to follow, and share the charity of that religion with everyone regardless of personal belief. We are a Brotherhood of Man, under the Fatherhood of God.

Terrorism and intolerance have no place in what has become a shrinking globe. We are closer today as a world people than we've ever been. The internet, social media and other technologies have taken down barriers that have prevented mankind from sharing new ideas, art, literature, music and science with one another. With this availability to other cultures, how can we not appreciate each other for the simple truth of human sameness regardless of national origin or religious belief?

To those that would want to harm that, I say, "you're missing out." You're missing out on grasping our true human mission of Brotherhood. And that is a shame.

May the Grand Architect continue to bless each of you, your families, our country, those who serve it and all who love peace throughout the world.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven A. Morrison, 33
Valley Secretary

News from Chicago

Hello Brethren and Friends:

I want to start this edition by saying that while the weather here in the "Windy City," has been delightful, your Valley of Philadelphia delegation's thoughts are with those of you back home who may have been affected by Hurricane Irene. I pray that you all escaped any major damage or devastion. To those that may have experienced Irene's fury, I hope that the damage is minimal and that recovery is not going to be an obstacle.

Okay, so what's happening or should I say at this point what happened in Chicago?

Well, first I would like to offer my sincere and enthusiastic congratulations to our Active, Ill. Russell W. Baker, 33 on his elevation to Deputy for Pennsylvania. I often refer to Bro. Russ as the Valley's Best Friend. Any of you who know Russ know that is exactly what he is. We look forward to continuing to work with our Brother for the continued growth of Scottish Rite Freemasonry.

Now to answer the question I'm sure all of you want the answer to. We will have 5 Valley Brethren receiving the 33rd Degree next year in Cleveland, Ohio. Those Brethren are (in alphabetical order):

Matthew D. Dupee
Jeffrey S. Greene
William L. Kingsbury
John Lanckowski
Harry B. Rutter

Congratulations to each of them on being selected for this Masonic honor. Each of them have impressive resumes of service to our Fraternity.

LESSONS LEARNED FROM THIS TRIP:

Never, ever, ever, take Amtrak's "Cardinal" when traveling to Chicago! 26 hours in an "airplane" seat is very unforgiving on the human body.

Here endeth the lesson.

I will be enjoying a few days of vacation (or cleaning and repairing damage Irene may have left at my trailer) when I return home from Chicago. I will be back in the office on Tuesday, 6 September.

I pray that the Grand Architect continues to watch over each of you and your families and provide you with his Divine protection.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven A. Morrison, 33
Valley Secretary

Shake, Rattle, and Roll!

Brethren and Friends,

Shake, Rattle and Roll! Yesterday's earthquake shook the Masonic Temple all the way up to the Scottish Rite Office.  What an experience! Fortunately damage in our area, if any, was minimal.

Well, we've reached the 20 Candidate mark for the 2011 Fall Class! Well, actually we have 21 Candidates. Can we reach 25 or 30? Thanks to the Brethren who've done their work in getting Candidates. Lets see how many more we can get!

Our Fall Reunion begins on Friday, 16 September. Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection, led by our Thrice Potent Master, Ill. Robert J. Burns, 33, will be the first to welcome the members of the "Ill. Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master Class," to the Valley of Philadelphia.

The Degrees to be presented that evening are the 4th (in DVD format), 12th, Master of Mercy, and the 14th, Grand Elect Mason.

The Reunion will continue on Friday, 21 October with the Special Convocation of  DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jersusalem and the Special Assembly of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix.

Our Sovereign Prince, Bro. Stephen J. Bradley, 32 and our Most Wise Master, Ill. Robert J. Bateman, 33, hope to see you and your Candidate there for the presentations of the 15th, Knight of the East and the 18th, Knight of Rose Croix.

The Reunion will conclude on Friday, 4 November with the Special Rendezvous of Benjamin Franklin Consistory.

Our Class Honoree, Ill. Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master and Active Member of the Supreme Council, will honor our Valley with his presence that evening.

The 27th Degree, Knight of Jerusalem, the 31st Degree, Knight Aspirant and the 32nd Degree, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret will be presented to the Class.

A Holiday Dinner event is in the planning stages for December. More information will be available about that soon.

Don't forget the bus trip to Autumn Day. Seats are STILL available! For more information, please visit- DeJoinville Council's Autumn Day Bus Trip Master Masons are welcome!

Support our Learning Center - A Toast To Reading

Our next Family Life event- Family Life-Christmas in Hershey

Just a reminder, the Scottish Rite Office will be closed from 26 August until 6 September.

That will do it for this edition. May the Grand Architect continue to bless you and your families.

Have a great day!

Sincere fraternal regards,

Steven A. Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary

I'll Be Away For A Few Days

Brethren and Friends:

How about this delightful weather? Wow! Very nice and very cool for August!

Well, what's going on in the Valley?

Dues continue to come in and for those that have sent them in, again, THANKS! and for those who's "check is in the mail," THANKS TOO!

I get phone calls from time to time from Brethren asking if we take credit cards for dues payment. In the Valley, we do not take cards, but you can use your card (I beg the forgiveness of my favorite financial guru, Dave Ramsey!!!) to pay your dues by visiting the "Members Center" of the Supreme Council web site - Supreme Council, NMJ

As always we're asking you to consider making a donation to the Philadelphia Children's Dyslexia Center when paying your dues. If you have not yet paid your dues, please give this worthy charity, the VALLEY'S charity, OUR charity, YOUR charity, some consideration. Our Center Director and the Staff of the Center are doing great work to open doors for children affected by dyslexia, but with your help they can do so much more. Thank you for your kind consideration of this worthwhile effort.

I remember as a boy I loved to read. I still do, but find the time to do so anymore, extremely limited. I loved to read biographies in particular. I learned so much about many great historic personalities. As a matter of fact, a book I read when I was in third grade on the life Francis Scott Key, helped me answer, correctly, the "Final Jeopardy" question one evening. Of course I was home and had no money on the line, but it was fun watching my wife exclaim, "How did you know that?"

When I think of how dyslexia is robbing young people of this same joy, it angers me. Thankfully we're able to do something about it. Please Brethren, give to our Center if you are able.

There are STILL seats available on both of the buses for the Autumn Day bus trip on Saturday, 17 September. If you've never been to our beautiful Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, this a great opportunity for you to go and enjoy the sights, scenes and FREE FOOD at this annual Pennsylvania Masonry outing.

Both buses leave at 9 AM from Tacony Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue in NE Philadelphia or LuLu Shriners, 5140 Butler Pike in Plymouth Meeting.

The cost per person is $23. This covers the round trip cost of your seat, which means you don't have to pay the high GAS PRICES, TOLLS, or spend TWO HOURS driving! The bus will depart E-town when the festivities conclude at 4 PM for the trip home to LuLu or Tacony (make sure you get on the right bus!)

The trip is open to Valley members, their families, Philadelphia area Master Masons and their families. Perhaps you have a friend you want to introduce to Freemasonry or even to the Valley, invite them to come along with you on the "Autumn Day Scottish Rite Express."

Send your check made payable to "Scottish Rite Bodies" to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520. Be sure to include which location you will board the bus at!

Our Fall Reunion is fast approaching and since my last edition, I'm proud to report, we have 18 Candidates. But, as I said before, I want 20 or more. Come on guys, we all know at least one Brother who would enjoy Scottish Rite, lets get him in this Class.

We will be one the last stops our current Right Worshipful Grand Master makes before he leaves office on 27 December. Wouldn't it be nice for him to come into Gothic Hall on 4 November and see a large Class named in his honor?

Petitions are always available by visiting our Valley's web site - Valley Petition

Remember, if you are the first line signer of 3 Candidates in one year, your dues the following year are FREE!!! We have several Brethren that are enjoying that benefit right now. Oh and before I forget, if you are the first line signer on 25 Candidates over the course of your Scottish Rite lifetime, you become a LIFE MEMBER, which means, you NEVER, EVER, have to pay DUES AGAIN! Now if that isn't an incentive, I don't know the meaning of the word!

I have discovered that the answering machine in the Scottish Rite Office has gone to the "great office supply store in the sky." It was allowing you to hear my outgoing message but it wasn't recording your message to me. I've had a few Brethren call me and say "I left you a message, but you didn't get back to me," now if that happens once it's a coincidence, but I've gotten a few complaints. This happened last week. So rather than purchase a new machine, I figured I would make use of our Verizon for business plan and make use of the voice mail service included in their bundle package. Well, as you probably know, they were on strike, so getting the voice mail set up has been, well, lets say it's been an "experience" and leave it at that! I hope to have that completed by this Tuesday, 23 August. Thank you in advance for your patience and your understanding.

Beginning this Friday, 26 August the Scottish Rite Office will be closed. It will reopen on Tuesday, 6 September.

I will be in Chicago attending the Annual Sessions of the Supreme Council, at which our Brother, Leonard R. Bezar, 32, will receive the 33rd Degree. Bro. Len has served our Valley as Sovereign Prince, Most Wise Master, and on the Membership Committee. Currently he is serving the Valley as a member of the  ROTC/JROTC Representatives Committee. He is also active with the Children's Dyslexia Center Board of Governors. Congratulations Bro. Len!

When we return from Chicago, I will be taking a few days vacation and returning to the office the Tuesday after Labor Day.

Don't forget the "Toast to Reading" which is a great way to spend an evening and support our Center for more information, please visit - Toast To Reading

And keep in mind our next GREAT Family Life event, "Christmas in Hershey" For more information, please visit - Christmas in Hershey

Well that will do it for this edition. Be safe, take care, and get a Candidate!

May the Grand Architect continue to watch over you and yours.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven A. Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary

As the Fall Reunion Approaches

Brethren and Friends:

I hope this edition finds you and yours well and healthy.

Dues are starting to come in and that is always a good sign. Our Valley survives on the dues paid by our members and of course the efforts of our Trustees. They do a great job and deserve all the credit they can get, especially in today's economy.

While I am on the subject of dues, I've received a number of phone calls and emails in the office regarding the $21 "Assessment" shown on your dues bill. The "Assessment" is your dues to the Supreme Council. Just like your Lodge pays dues for you to the Grand Lodge, we are required to pay dues for you to the Supreme Council. I know the word "Assessment" tends to get folks upset and believe me, I've tried for a number of years to get them to change that to read, "Supreme Council Dues," to no avail, but I wanted you to know what it means.

For many years the Valley had paid those dues for you, but in recent years the Supreme Council has had to increase its dues by $3 per year. This is scheduled to continue until 2014. After much discussion and research into what other Valleys are doing, the Executive Committee voted to keep our dues at the price of $60 plus the assessment.

I know I don't have to tell you that if you are active in the Valley, you get that $60 back plus. To those that have paid their dues already, thank you. To those that have yet to send in their dues, I thank you too, in anticipation of them being received.

Our Fall 2011 Reunion begins on Friday, 16 September, and as of right now we have 15 Candidates for the Class, which is named in honor of our Right Worshipful Grand Master, and Active Member of the Supreme Council, Ill. Thomas K. Sturgeon, 33.

We're five away from the desired 20. Lets get going Brethren, talk to that Brother in Lodge, you know him, you sit next to him at every meeting, or maybe at dinner. Let him know about our Valley and how much you enjoy it and how it could be better if he was there with you.

That evening, Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection, led by our Thrice Potent Master, Ill. Robert J. Burns, 33, will present the 12th Degree, "Master of Mercy," and the 14th Degree, "Grand Elect Mason." The 4th Degree, "Master Traveler," will be presented in the new DVD format.

We will be trying something new beginning with our September gathering as well. As many of you know, our dinners are a great opportunity for our Brethren and Ladies to enjoy each others company and some great conversation. But, we have found that lately, our dinners seem to be taking longer and have caused us to get started later. To try and alleviate this, we are going to have a buffet dinner, rather than our traditional sit down dinner. All the same menu items you love will be there, (yes, that means fish too!) soup and salad will still be available, and we will still have the refreshments at the end of the night. Carving stations will add to the enjoyment of the meal. The meal price will still be $15 per person. The reservation deadline will still be the Wednesday before the Friday evening meeting.

Our Valley's Advisory Committee after meeting with the Caterer, feel that this will speed up our meal and get our evening off to a good start. Your cooperation is appreciated.

Don't forget the bus trip to Autumn Day. Our Sovereign Prince has arranged for two buses, one leaving from Tacony Temple (4400 Magee Avenue in NE Philadelphia) and the other from LuLu Shriners (5140 Butler Pike, in Plymouth Meeting). As of right now, we have sold 9 seats on the bus from Tacony and 5 seats on the bus from LuLu. You know what that means? There's still PLENTY of seats available for you!

Autumn Day happens on Saturday, September 17, 2011 at our beautiful Masonic Village in Elizabethtown, PA.  This annual outing sponsored by the Grand Lodge is one of the highlights of the Masonic year. You can stroll the beautiful grounds, shop the farm stand, visit a friend who is a Village resident, shop the craft stands, get information on the doings of the entire Pennsylvania Masonic family, and enjoy all the FREE eats. The buses leave LuLu and Tacony at 9 AM and leave the Masonic Village at 4 PM. This means NO TOLLS, NO DRIVING, NO HIGH GAS PRICES, LOTS OF SITTING and RELAXING, and FELLOWSHIP with FRIENDS on the bus.

The cost per person is $23, this is the cost of your roundtrip seat on the bus. Valley Members and their families are welcome to attend, but then again, so is that Master Mason friend who you've been trying to recruit for Scottish Rite. I'll bet he and his wife go to Autumn Day every year anyway, so why not invite them to climb aboard the "Scottish Rite Express?" You never know.

Make your check payable to "Scottish Rite Bodies" and send it in to the Office, TODAY!!! For more information click here.

The Board of Governors of the Children's Dyslexia Center of Philadelphia and the Officers and Members of Richard Vaux-Ivanhoe Lodge No. 384, wanted me to remind you about, "A Toast To Reading," on Friday, 28 October 2011 at the William Penn Inn. This event benefits the efforts of the Center and its mission of teaching kids affected by dyslexia to read, for FREE. More information is available here. Check it out. Tell your Lodge or other Masonic body about it as well. Anyone can be a sponsor.

We are in the planning stages of a Holiday Dinner to be held in December. One of the things that we plan to have that evening is a silent auction to benefit the Center. If you can donate an item to the auction, please contact the Scottish Rite Office.

Perhaps you and your wife have a favorite restaurant, why not mention our Center and the auction to the manager? You never know, maybe they'll donate a gift certificate to help the Center.

"Christmas in Hershey" is our next Family Life event. More information and a ticket order form will be available in the September issue of THE DOUBLE EAGLE, but in the mean time you can go here for details.

Well that will do it for this edition. May the Grand Architect continue to bless all of you.

Sincere fraternal regards,

Steven A. Morrison, 33
Valley Secretary