Spring Convocation coming right up!

Dear Brethren and Friends:

Before beginning this edition I want to offer my thoughts and prayers to all affected by the horrible tragedy in Boston yesterday.

America will mourn her losses, care for her wounded, gather her people and bring to justice those responsible.

 

Our Spring Reunion concludes this coming Friday evening, April 19, 2013.  Our Sovereign Prince and the Officers of DeJoinville Council will welcome everyone.

 

The evening will begin with a buffet dinner in the Grand Banquet Hall at 6PM. The Convocation opens at 7:30 PM in Gothic Hall at which time the Officers of DeJoinville Council will communicate the obligation of the 15th & 16th Degrees upon the members of our 2013 Spring Class.

 

Prior to opening the meeting, Mrs. Kathleen Hopkins, widow of our Class Honoree, Illustrious Thomas Hopkins will be welcomed into Gothic Hall for a special presentation and for a moment to address the Class named in honor of our her late husband and beloved Brother of the Valley of Philadelphia.

 

The new 19th Degree, "Brothers of the Trail" will be presented in the Valley of Philadelphia for the very first time, followed by the Commander-in-Chief and the Officers of Benjamin Franklin Consistory, presenting the 32nd Degree, "Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret."

 

While all that is going on the Ladies Auxiliary will hold their annual flea market to benefit the Children's Dyslexia Center of Philadelphia, a Scottish Rite Charity. The ladies are asked to bring along pre-items to donate to the sale. The Brethren are also welcome to donate items. Bartering is welcome and encouraged.

 

If you're coming don't forget our deadline for dinner reservations is this Wednesday, April 17. Please call 215-563-1814, email phila.aasr@juno.com or if you are a member of the Valley's Facebook group, you can RSVP there as well. The cost per person for dinner is $20.

 

Parking for the meeting is in the new Convention Center Parking Facility at 1324 Arch Street. If you park there, we have parking validations for sale for $5. We have received reports that the exit ramps for this garage are tight and if you have a pickup truck, van or large SUV you may wish to find alternative parking on your own.

 

The Most Wise Master, Ill. Jeffrey Greene, 33 and the other Officers of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix, hope you and your family plan to attend the Valley's Annual Memorial Service at Gloria Dei (Old Swede's Church) on Sunday, April 28, 2013. The Service, which is open to all faiths, begins at 3PM. The Church is located at Columbus Blvd and Christian Street in South Philadelphia.

 

 

Following the Service, a complimentary dinner will be served in the Church's Social Hall. Reservations are required for the dinner. If you do not have a reservation we cannot and will not guarantee you a meal. Your cooperation is expected and appreciated. Please call 215-563-1814 or email phila.aasr@juno.com to make a reservation.

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Valley Officers, Officer Prospects, Committee Members, Degree Cast Members, or ANY Valley Member interested in getting more involved in the Valley are encouraged and invited to attend the Annual Officer's Training Conference on Saturday, May 11, 2013 at Tacony Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia. The dress code for the event is business casual.

 

The doors open at 7:30 AM at which time a Continental Breakfast will be served. The Conference kicks off at 8:30 AM and will conclude by noon. Lunch will be served and everyone is free to go after that.

 

The Conference Facilitators will speak on subjects regarding, Planning a budget, Staging, Family Life, Working with the Valley Secretary, Protocol, the Trustees, plus the ever popular, SO MUCH MORE!

 

Our Valley's Officer Training has been recognized as one of the best in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. You will have your questions answered, learn what it takes to serve our Valley, and have a fun day. This Conference is worth your time!

 

Our Spring Reunion concludes this Friday night, but, we do have one more meeting left in this Scottish Rite year, and it is our most important one of the year. Our Annual Meeting on Friday, May 17, 2013.

 

That evening we will elect and install the Officers who will serve, Benjamin Franklin Consistory, Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix, DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jerusalem, and Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection, along with two At-Large Members of the Executive Committee (32nd & 33rd) and a Trustee.

 

We will also honor our 70, 65, 60 and 50 year members at the Annual Meeting, as well as our outgoing Presiding Officers. Plus, we will announce this year's winner of the Valley of Philadelphia's "Scottish Rite Lifetime Achievement Award." Who will it be? Come on out and find out!

 

The Dinner Reservation Deadline for the Annual Meeting is Wednesday, May 15th. Call 215-563-1814 or email, phila.aasr@juno.com, or if you're a member of the Valley's Facebook group, you will be able to RSVP there as well.

 

Don't forget our Annual Family Day at Campbell's Field on Sunday, June 9th, featuring the Camden River Sharks vs the York Revolution. Game time is 1:06 PM

 

Your ticket includes a picnic as well as the game. Food is served for a half hour before first pitch and a hour and a half after. Tickets are available for Valley members, and their families. Tickets cost $6 for children ages 12 and under and $12 for everyone 13 and up. To order tickets, send your check made payable to "Scottish Rite Bodies" to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520. We've sold this event out the last 3 years. Don't miss out on the fun. Order your tickets today!

 

Well, that will do it for this Edition. Please let us remember the folks in Boston in our prayers. I pray the Grand Architect continues to watch over each of you and your families.

 

Sincere fraternal regards,

 

Steven Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary

 

 

 



Our Spring Reunion Continues and Everything else Happening!

Dear Brethren and Friends:

I hope this finds you enjoying a very Happy Easter/Passover with your families.

While on the subject of family, I must share with you a recent announcement from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Children under the age of 16 years are no longer permitted in the Masonic Temple, without prior notice. Our Valley, Lodges, and other Masonic bodies are still permitted to have family nights and other family events and young children will be welcomed provided notice of these events is given in advance to the Superintendent's Office. The Right Worshipful Grand Secretary will be issuing a letter to Secretaries regarding this announcement shortly.

Our Valley's Annual Meeting has always been a family welcome event, and will be this year as well. The Superintendent's office will receive notification of this.

As our Ladies are welcome at our Reunion evenings, we have had some Brethren who have brought their children and grandchildren along on those nights. That is no longer permitted, unless the young person is 16 or older.

Please understand that this is a Grand Lodge decision. The Valley of Philadelphia has always prided itself for being a family friendly organization and we will remain that way. Our Family Life Chairman and Committee will continue to plan events for you and your families to enjoy.

Our Spring Reunion is underway and we have 50 Candidates in the Class!

This large Class is due in part to the efforts of our Membership Committee. Our team have been visiting local Lodges and presenting a fun and interactive program promoting membership in the Scottish Rite.

One such program will occur on Thursday, April 11, 2013 when our Membership Team visits Fernwood Lodge No. 543 at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia. If you are able, stop on in and support our guys!

We are proud of the work our Brothers are doing in sharing the Valley of Philadelphia and the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite with local Brethren. Keep up the great work!

Our Spring Reunion will conclude on Friday, April 19, 2013. That evening our Sovereign Prince and the Officers of DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jerusalem will preside.

The evening will begin with a buffet dinner in the Grand Banquet Room at 6:00 P.M. As always reservations are required. You can make your reservation by calling 215-563-1814, by email to phila.aasr@juno.com, or by clicking 'Going' on the Valley's Facebook group page.

 

 

The meeting will open at 7:30 P.M. in Gothic Hall. At that time the 19th Degree, Brothers of Trail, which is a new ritual, will be presented for the very first time in the Valley of Philadelphia. Yes, this is an official Scottish Rite Passport ALERT! The Commander-in-Chief and the Officers of Benjamin Franklin Consistory will close out the evening with the conferral of the 32nd Degree, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret.

 

While we are meeting, the Ladies Auxiliary will hold their annual Flea Market to benefit the Children's Dyslexia Center of Philadelphia. Ladies and Brethren are asked to donate items for sale at the market. Items should be pre-priced, but as always, bartering is encouraged.

 

 

Our Most Wise Master and the Officers of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix, welcome all Valley Members and their families to attend the Valley's Annual Memorial Service, on Sunday, April 28, 2013.

 

 

The Service which is open to all faiths, will again be held at Gloria Dei (Old Swede's) Church, Columbus Blvd & Christian Streets in South Philadelphia. This historic Church is a wonderful location for us to hold this Service which will memorialize our Valley Brethren lost over the past year.

 

The Service begins at 3:00 P.M. and all Valley members and their families are welcome to attend. Following the Service there will be a complimentary dinner served in the Church's Social Hall. Reservations are a MUST for the dinner. Reservations can be made by calling 215-563-1814, by email to phila.aasr@juno.com, or by clicking 'Going' on the Annual Memorial Service event page through the Valley's Facebook group. Please note that if you do not have a reservation, we cannot and will not guarantee you a meal.

 

We hope to see you and your family there!

 

Our Membership Team will be visiting Widener-Apollo-Kensington Lodge No. 211 on Thursday, May 2, 2013 at the Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue in Tacony. Again if you are able, stop by and support our Brethren, as they begin laying the foundation of our Fall 2013 Class.

 

All Valley Officers, Committee Members and ANY Valley Brother interested in getting more active and involved are expected and encouraged to attend our Annual Officer's Training Conference on Saturday, May 11th at Tacony Masonic Temple.

 

The day begins at 7:30 A.M. with a Continental Breakfast and fellowship. The Conference begins at 8:30 A.M. and will cover many topics which will benefit those who seek to further themselves in service to the Scottish Rite. The Conference will conclude at noon at which time lunch will be served.

 

Again, Valley Officers and Committee Members are expected, but any Valley Member is welcome. We have been told that our Valley conference is one of the best in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. This training is worth your time! If you wish to go, please call 215-563-1814, email phila.aasr@juno.com, or click 'Going' on the Annual Officers Conference event page on the Valley's Facebook group.

 

Our 2013 Scottish Rite year closes out at our Annual Meeting on Friday, May 17, 2013 at the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia.

That evening we will elect and install a new officers in all four of the Bodies of the Valley of Philadelphia, two At-Large Members of the Executive Committee, and a Trustee, as well as recognize our immediate Past Presiding Officers, and our 50-year Members.

 

As I said before this event is Family Friendly. 

 

The evening will begin with a buffet dinner in the Grand Banquet Hall at 6:00 P.M. Reservations are required.

 

I've heard a number of members complain that I no longer do the email, "Valley Update." This is true, I don't do that any more as this blog has replaced the need for that email. I found that many of our email addresses had become obsolete and rather send the message out to a dwindling list, this blog can reach a bigger audience and have more of an impact. But, I have heard from some that say, 'they don't blog or use Facebook.' While I understand the Facebook fears that some have, I have found social media to be very useful and have made use of it. Our Valley's Facebook group for instance allows me to keep our members updated, literally up to the second on all that is going on in our Valley. This technology has saved the Valley a considerable amount of money in postage, as I no longer have to mail flyers for events to such a large group. We still have a few that receive mailings but our numbers of electronic RSVPs is increasing.

 

Technology changes daily, and the Valley of Philadelphia will continue to evolve with it. For those Brethren that miss the email update, click on over here and read the blog. You don't have to sign up for anything. It's just like visiting any other site on the web. For those of you reading the blog, when you hear a Brother bemoan not receiving the email anymore, please tell him about the blog. Thanks!

 

Again, I wish you and your families a very Happy Easter/Passover.

 

Until the next edition, I pray the Grand Architect continues to watch over each of you and your families.

 

Sincere fraternal regards,

 

Steven Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enough with Winter already! We're thinking SPRING!

Dear Brethren and Friends:

Yes, we are tired of winter and it's still January! But, our Spring Reunion is getting closer everyday!

We are pleased and proud to announce that our Spring 2013 Class has been named in memory of our late Illustrious Brother, Thomas Hopkins, 33rd Degree. Tom served Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection as Thrice Potent Master in 2010-11. He was very active with the Board of Governors of the Philadelphia Children's Dyslexia Center, serving as Founder and Chairman of the Board's annual "A Toast to Reading" event.  This is a most fitting honor for our Brother.

 

And, beginning with the Spring 2013 Reunion we'll have a MAJOR change to how we do things in the Valley of Philadelphia.

The Supreme Council has implemented its new "Bookend Concept" for the conferral of Degrees that will qualify a Candidate to become a 32nd Degree Mason.

A Candidate for the Degrees of the Scottish Rite must now see the 4th and 32nd Degrees and in between these two 'bookends' he must also witness three Degrees that exhibit one or more of the Scottish Rite Core Values; Reverence for God, Integrity, Justice, Toleration, Devotion to Country, and Service to Humanity.

This new procedure is mandatory and is ICE (Inspirational, Convenient and Enjoyable) compatible. As we will only be required to confer 5 Degrees throughout the course of the Reunion, this will be convenient to our members and candidates as we will have shorter evenings. It will both inspire and be enjoyable as the Valley will now be able to provide more of a variety in the Degrees selected for the Reunion. In the past we were required at each Reunion to present the 4th, 14th, 15th or 16th, 17th or 18th, 31st and 32nd, thereby limiting the presentation of other Degrees.  

So how does all this impact our Spring Reunion you ask? Well, first, I'm glad you asked, not that I wouldn't have told you anyway, but thanks for asking just the same. Beginning on Friday, March 15, 2013, we will present the 4th Degree, "Master Traveler" (DVD), followed by the 5th Degree, "Perfect Master," the Officers of Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection will then present the 14th Degree, "Grand Elect Mason." That's three of the five Degrees we are required to present to the Spring Class.

On Friday, April 19th, our Sovereign Prince will preside over the evening's events in which the brand new 19th Degree, "Brothers of the Trail," will be conferred in the Valley of Philadelphia for the very first time. After that, our Commander-in-Chief and the Officers of Benjamin Franklin Consistory will present the 32nd Degree, "Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret." This will then conclude our Spring Reunion. 

The Most Wise Master and the Officers of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix hope to welcome you and your family at the Valley's Annual Memorial Service on Sunday, April 28, 2013 at Gloria Dei (Old Swede's) Church located at Columbus Boulevard and Christian Street in South Philadelphia. The Service will begin at 3:00 P.M. and The Reverend and Illustrious William Hartman, 33rd Degree, Valley Prior will present the message. Following the Service a complimentary dinner will be served in the Church's social hall, but as always, RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED! 

We hope you will come and bring your family as we again gather to remember those Valley Brethren we've lost over the past year. If you plan to attend please contact the Scottish Rite Office by Wednesday, April 24, 2013. If you do not have a reservation we cannot, and will not guarantee you a meal! Reservations can be made by calling 215-563-1814, clipping and sending the reservation form in the March 2013 DOUBLE EAGLE, by clicking "Going" on the Annual Memorial Service event on the Valley's Facebook group page, or by email to phila.aasr@juno.com. With so many options, how can you not make a reservation? 


All Valley elected and appointed Officers, Committee Members, Degree Cast Members, and any interested Valley Brother, are expected, encouraged and welcome to attend the Valley's Annual Officer's Training Conference on Saturday, May 11, 2013 at Tacony Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue, in Northeast Philadelphia. 

The doors open at 7:30 A.M. at which time a Continental Breakfast will be served. The Conference will kick off at 8:30 A.M. Again this year, we will have a half-day format. Our Conference Facilitators will present Valley impact topics including; Budgets/Finance, the Family Life program, Membership, Protocol, Staging, Makeup & Wardrobe, and Working with the Valley Secretary, plus so much more!  At noon a fellowship lunch will be served and the Conference is closed.

If you plan to be there, you must register. Okay, how do I do that? Again, thanks for asking. You can call 215-563-1814, clip the registration coupon in the March DOUBLE EAGLE, click "Going" on the Annual Officer's Training Conference event on the Valleys Facebook group page, or by email to phila.aasr@juno.com. Again so many options, how can you miss out?

 So as you know by now, our Spring Reunion will conclude on Friday, April 19, 2013. Does this mean that we won't have a meeting in May? Well, we won't have the 'traditional' Spring Special Rendezvous of Benjamin Franklin Consistory, but, there's always a but, we will have our Valley's Annual Meeting on Friday, May 17, 2013.

That evening we will elect and install the officers that will serve, Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection, DeJoinville Council Princes of Jerusalem, Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix, and Benjamin Franklin Consistory, as well as a Trustee, a 32nd and 33rd Degree At-Large Members of the Executive Committee, as well as approve our 2014 budget and recognize our 50-year Members!

I guess now you're thinking "Well, that's a packed full of events Spring in the Valley. There couldn't possibly be anything else, could there?" Again, thanks for asking. Yes, it is a full calendar of events, but, there's that but again, we do have one more big, Big, BIG event for you and your family!

Yes, that's right we're going back to Campbell's Field for another great Family Day event on Sunday, June 9, 2013 at 1:06 P.M.. Again we will have the Picnic Pavilion for the outing which means your ticket not only guarantees you a seat for some exciting Atlantic League baseball action as we watch the River Sharks battle league rival York Revolution, but also a half hour before the game and and an hour and a half during the game picnic!

This event is open to all Valley members and their families (spouse, children, grandchildren). The cost per person is the same as last year, at $12 for ages 13 and up and $6 for ages 12 and below.  If you want to go, there will be a coupon in the March, April and May issues of THE DOUBLE EAGLE or you can send in your check made payable to 'Scottish Rite Bodies,' to Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520.

"Okay, that's got to be it. Right?" Well, yes and no. We have had a number of interested Brethren approach the Executive Committee about forming a Clan of Knights of St. Andrew in the Valley of Philadelphia. What's that you ask? Well, and again, thanks for asking, let me explain it all to you.

 The Knights of St. Andrew is a service organization made up of 32nd Degree Masons. Sorry, no MSA's or 33rds allowed.  They serve under the immediate supervision of the Valley Secretary and provide services such as tyling, escorts, guides, etc.  The Knights wear a Scottish Glengarry To seek a charter for a Clan, we must have 40 Brethren signed up. As of today we have 21 interested Brethren.  The Knights of the Clan wear a Glengarry cap or 'bonnet' instead of the traditional Scottish Rite cap to identify themselves as members.

Interested? To sign up for the charter group, there will be a registration coupon in the March, April, and May (if needed) DOUBLE EAGLE, or you can call 215-56-1814 or email, phila.aasr@juno.com. This is another great way to serve the Valley for that Brother that is looking to get more involved!

And on that note, that will do it for this edition. As always, I pray the Grand Architect watches over you and your families.

Think Spring!

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven Morrison, 33rd Degree 
Valley Secretary

 

Dear Brethren and Friends:

 

As we say farewell to another year,
We all shake hands and spread about good cheer.
In our Valley, there is no doubt,
At midnight each one will shout,
Happy New Year to you and yours,
And everyone between our shores.

So hoist a hot cup and a sweet confection
To all the boys in the Lodge of Perfection;
To Michael and Gerry, Tony and Doug
We pass along a fellowship hug,
And don’t forget Joel, Mike and Joe,
Those appointed guys complete the show.

What a better way to beat the winter chill,
Than some warm fellowship from the fellows of DeJoinville;
Frank, Jeffrey, Tom and Pete,
Their brotherly attitude is sure to greet,
Russ and Harry are in there too,
And send along new year greetings to you.

Our cheer of course is far from thinning,
And so we’ll pass along the greetings of Kilwinning;
Jeff, John and John, Wagner and Lanckowski,
And Danny and the two Bills, Kingsbury and Klosz see?

Before the old year becomes history,
Roll out the greetings of the Consistory,
Ray, Art and Clay,
Send you greetings this day
Along with those of
Bob, Winton and Phil,
Send on their cheer to you and still,
There’s Jim, Rick, Fred and Steve
To send a smile on this New Year’s eve.

Greetings also come from our
Treasurer and our Trustees
and all the members of the Executive Committee

Here’s hoping this song
Gave you a positive reactionary,
As it was written by the Valley Secretary!

Happy New Year!

 

 As always, I pray the Grand Architect watches over all of you and your families.

Be of good cheer and have a great time this evening, but please, be safe.

 Sincere fraternal regards,

Steven A. Morrison, 33, Valley Secretary

Dear Brethren and Friends:

I hope this edition finds you and yours doing well and enjoying all the Holiday Season has to offer.

To our Jewish Brethren and their families that are currently celebrating and observing Hanukkah, we wish a very blessed and happy holiday!

I've had a few telephone calls regarding the Valley's now cancelled Holiday Celebration Dinner, which was to have taken place this Friday (December 14th) evening. This event was cancelled due to insufficient support. 

We thank everyone who sent in a check to attend the event. Your support of and continued interest in our Valley and its events is greatly appreciated. 

We are in the planning stages of a "Ladies Night" event for the Spring. Once everything is finalized details will be available.

It is my sad to duty to report the illness of Mrs. Cindy Zenzel, wife of Valley Brother, Daniel, and mother of Valley Brother, Christopher Zenzel. Please keep her and the family in your prayers. 

Anyone wishing to send a card, please call the Scottish Rite Office for contact information.

Supreme Council has released two holiday ornaments to adorn your Hanukkah bush or Christmas  tree this Holiday Season:

The brass ornament, costs $16.95

The ball ornament is available for $11.95

If you would like either one or both, send your check made payable to "Supreme Council," to Supreme Council, PO Box 519, Lexington, MA 02420.

Don't forget our Fall Special Rendezvous on Friday, December 21, 2012. Our Class Honoree, Ill. Jay W. Smith, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master will be us, as will Ill. Russell W. Baker, 33, Active Member of the Supreme Council and Deputy for Pennsylvania.

The evening begins at 6:00 P.M.  with a delicious buffet dinner in the Grand Banquet Hall. The menu for dinner is: Caesar Salad, New England Clam Chowder, Prime Rib carving station, Boston Scrod, Roasted Potatoes, and Succotash. All for $20 per person. Candidates as always are free.

Following the meal, the Rendezvous opens at 7:30 P.M. at which time the 22nd Degree, "Prince of Libanus" will be presented in its new DVD format. The Valley Cast will present the 31st Degree, "Knight Aspirant," and then the Commander-in-Chief and the Officers of Benjamin Franklin Consistory will present the 32nd Degree, "Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret."

The Ladies are having an old fashioned "Family Game Night." All ladies are encouraged to bring along a favorite card or board game to share in a night of fun.

The deadline for dinner reservations is Wednesday, 19 December. You can make yours by calling 215-563-1814 or by email to phila.aasr@juno.com or by clicking 'Going' on the Fall Special Rendezvous event page on the Valley's Facebook group (if you are a member of the group!).

Don't miss out on what is shaping up to be a great evening!

Well that will do it for this edition. As always I pray the Grand Architect blesses each and everyone of you and your families with all that is good!

God Bless Cindy Zenzel and be with her family at this time and always.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary

Dear Brethren and Friends:

I hope this edition finds you well and recovering from your best Thanksgiving ever!

It is my unfortunate duty to announce that the Valley's Holiday Celebration Dinner which was to be held on Friday, December 14, 2012 has been cancelled. We did not have enough members participating to make the event happen. 

Those that sent in ticket orders will be reimbursed and we thank them for their support of and continued interest in our Valley and its activities.

A "Mother's Day" Ladies Night event is in the planning stages for the Spring. Stay tuned!

The Holiday Season is officially underway, and we want to wish a Happy Hanukkah to all of our Jewish Brethren and their families. Hanukkah is observed this year December 8th through the 16th.

By now you have no doubt heard all the hysteria regarding the Mayan calendar and how the world is supposed to end on December 21, 2012. Well, I'm here to tell you that, the MAYANS ARE WRONG!!!!!

Yes, that's right. They're wrong. Think about it. Our Fall Special Rendezvous is happening on Friday, December 21, 2012. Our Class Honoree, Ill. Jay W. Smith, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master and our Illustrious Deputy, Russell W. Baker, 33 will be with us that evening. How can the world possibly end when we have such a huge event happening? It just goes to show you that the Mayans didn't read THE DOUBLE EAGLE and quite possibly weren't subscribed to "Across My Desk, the web edition!" So we'll give them a pass on this one.

Friday, December 21, 2012 is going to be a big evening for the Valley of Philadelphia. In addition to the R.W. Grand Master and the Deputy's visit, we will recognize our Class of 2012 33rd Degree Members and our 2012 Meritorious Service Award recipients as well as those Brethren that have recently completed their Scottish Rite Passports.

We will present the 22nd Degree, "Prince of Libanus" that evening by showing the brand new DVD production of the Degree, our Valley Cast will present the 31st Degree, "Knight Aspirant," and again we have a Cast full of first timers. Come out and support them! The Commander-in-Chief and the Officers of Benjamin Franklin Consistory will confer the 32nd Degree, "Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret."

The evening begins at 6 PM with our buffet dinner in the Grand Banquet Hall. The menu for the buffet includes; Caesar Salad, New England Clam Chowder, Prime Rib Carving Station, Boston Scrod, Roasted Potatoes and Succotash. The cost per person for dinner is $20. The deadline is Wednesday, December 19th.  Reservations may be made by calling 215-563-1814, by clicking the "Going" button on the Fall Special Rendezvous event page on the Valley's Facebook group page (If you belong. And if you don't, why not? You're missing instant updates to all that is happening in our Valley!) or by email to phila.aasr@juno.com

The Ladies Auxiliary have a fun evening planned. They're asking all Valley Ladies to bring along   a favorite card or board game to share for a night fun and, yes, games!

Take a break from the hustle and bustle (and shopping) of the Holiday Season and join with us for the VERY LAST DAY of, no, not the world, but, our Fall Reunion!

If you cannot be with us, we want to wish you and yours a very Happy Hanukkah, a very Merry Christmas and of course a very Happy New Year too!

Don't forget the time is now here to apply for the Abbott Scottish Rite Scholarship! This general scholarship is available to Scottish Rite Masons in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, their children, their grandchildren (if the the grandfather can claim the the grandchild as a sole dependent) and the young people of our Masonic Youth groups, DeMolay, Job's Daughters and Rainbow.

Individual scholarships are limited to funds available from donations to the annual Blue Envelope Appeal.

Applications may be obtained by writing to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520, or by email to phila.aasr@juno.com and returned on or before MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2013, in order to be eligible for submission.

2013 is going to be a busy year in the Valley of Philadelphia and we already have bunch of dates to put on your calendar.

Our Spring Reunion begins on Friday, March 18th with the Special Communication of Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection. The Reunion continues on April 19th, with the Special Convocation and Assembly of DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jerusalem and Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix, respectively. The Reunion concludes Friday, May 10th with the Special Rendezvous of Benjamin Franklin Consistory.

Our Annual Officers Training Conference is scheduled for Saturday, April 27th at Tacony Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia. All elected and appointed Officers are expected to be there. Valley Committee members are encouraged to attend and ANY Valley member who is interested in getting more involved are welcome to attend too. For more information or to register your attendance, please call 215-563-1814, or email to phila.aasr@juno.com. For Valley Facebook group members, there will be an event page set up for the Conference as the date draws closer. You will be able to RSVP there as well.

Ill. Jeffrey S. Greene, 33, Most Wise Master and the other Officers of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix, welcome you and your family to attend the Valley's Annual Memorial Service on Sunday, April 28, 2013 at Gloria Dei (Old Swede's) Church, Columbus Boulevard and Christian Street in South Philadelphia. The Service begins at 3PM and as always a complimentary dinner will follow in the Church's Social Hall. Everyone is welcome, but to attend the dinner you MUST have a prior reservation. To make a reservation, please call 215-563-1814, or email to phila.aasr@juno.com. As we get closer to the date of the Service, there will be an event page on the Valley's Facebook group, where you can also RSVP your attendance.

The Valley's Annual Meeting is scheduled for Friday, May 17, 2013. That evening we will elect and install those that will serve the Valley for the 2014 Scottish Rite year, as well as recognize our 50 year members and present Abbott Scottish Rite Scholarship checks to deserving students.

Well that will do it for this edition. I pray the Grand Architect continues to watch over all of you and bless you and your families with all the goodness there is to offer, not only through this Holiday Season, but also in the coming new year too!

Oh, I almost forgot! What sort of Navy Veteran would I be if I didn't remember the annual Army-Navy game on Saturday, December 8, 2013? The Navy is going for it's eleventh straight victory this year. I'm sure all of our Valley Sailors and Marines will join me in wishing the Midshipmen a successful and victorious game! Oh and to our Valley Soldiers, good luck, you're going to need it!

GO NAVY BEAT ARMY!

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven A. Morrison, 33
Valley Secretary

Dear Brethren and Friends:

Our 2012 Fall Reunion continues on Friday, November 16, 2012 with the Special Convocation of DeJoinville Council, Princes of Jerusalem and the Special Assembly of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix at the Masonic Temple. The 15th Degree, Knight of the East and the 18th Degree, Knight of Rose Croix will be presented.

The evening begins at 6 P.M. with dinner in the Grand Banquet Hall. The buffet-style meal will include a seafood entree as well as Chicken Marsala. The cost per person for dinner is $20, Candidates meals are free.

The Ladies of the Valley have an interesting and entertaining program scheduled featuring a one man presentation of "Sherlock Holmes and the Speckled Band."

Plan now to join with us. Call 215-563-1814 to make your dinner reservations. The deadline is Wednesday, November 14, 2012. All reservations made past the deadline or walk up non-reserved meals are $30 per person.

The Board of Governors of the Children's Dyslexia Center are pleased to announce their upcoming fund raiser, "The Art of Literacy" in conjunction with Barnes & Noble. This is the third such effort with Barnes & Noble to benefit the Center's mission of helping children overcome dyslexia.

The event runs at all Barnes & Noble bookstores from Saturday, November 17th through Wednesday, November 21, 2012. This period is extended until November 23, 2012 for all purchases made online at www.bn.com  Be sure to use ID CODE: 10821593

20% of your purchase price paid at any Barnes & Noble store will benefit the Children's Dyslexia Center of Philadelphia, a Scottish Rite Charity. This includes all books, magazines, and food at the store. This special ID CODE: 10821593 must be used at the time of purchase to earmark the funds to the Center.

If you shop online at www.bn.com during the event, up to 10% of your purchase price is donated. Buy your books, gift items, and Nooks on these days and earn a donation for the Center. Nook (e-reader) purchases are capped at a 5% donation. Remember when shopping online to use ID CODE: 10821593.

Be sure to tell your family, friends, Masonic Brethren, neighbors, co-workers, etc. about this event. Don't forget to tell them to use ID CODE: 10821593.

Members of the Philadelphia Center's Board of Governors will be present at the Barnes & Noble at 300 Neshaminy Mall in Bensalem, PA from 10 A.M. until 3 P.M. on November 17, 2012 to promote the event. Come on out and greet them and do some holiday shopping! Don't forget ID CODE: 10821593!

Thank you for your assistance and participation in this fund-raising event!

Don't forget ID CODE: 10821593 must be used in order to donate funding to the Philadelphia Children's Dyslexia Center.

Share the gift of reading this Holiday Season!

This Sunday, November 11, 2012 is Veteran's Day. We would like to offer our sincere "Thank you for your Service," to all of our Valley member Veterans as well as any of our Veterans and including those currently serving!

The Valley's Holiday Celebration Dinner is scheduled for Friday, December 14, 2012 at the Radisson Hotel Philadelphia, 2400 Old Lincoln Highway at US Route 1. The event runs from 6-10 P.M.

The evening begins with the Social Hour at 6 P.M. featuring a cash bar. During this time our Ladies Auxiliary will have their gift basket Silent Auction to benefit the Children's Dyslexia Center of Philadelphia, a Scottish Rite Charity.

The Radisson's delicious Continental Buffet will be served at 7 P.M. After dinner, a special entertainment program featuring music of the "Doo Wop" era will be presented.

The cost per couple for this event is $75 or $38 per person. Please note that this is a prepay event. There will be no tickets sold at the door. The deadline for ticket purchases is Friday, November 30, 2012. Make your check payable to 'Scottish Rite Bodies' and send it to, 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 Fall Reunion concludes on Friday evening, December 21, 2012. That evening we will be joined by two very special guests. Our Fall Class Honoree, Ill. Jay W. Smith, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania and Ill. Russell W. Baker, 33, Active Member of the Supreme Council and Deputy for Pennsylvania. 

That evening we will debut the new DVD version of the 22nd Degree, Prince of Libanus, and our Valley Cast and the Officers of Benjamin Franklin Consistory, will present the 31st Degree, Knight Aspirant and the 32nd Degree, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret.

Also we will be making special presentations to our 2012 33rd Degree Class as well as our 2012 Meritorious Service Award Recipients and a number of Brethren who have completed their Scottish Rite Passports.

Plan now to be with us for this most special evening.

Well that will do it for this edition. Please keep our Brethren in New Jersey and New York who are recovering from the effects of Hurricane Sandy in your prayers. I do not have any information regarding Masonic relief efforts, but you can always check with the Masonic Service Association for more information as to how you can help.

I look forward to greeting you on Friday, November 16th or at any one of our upcoming events. If I don't see you, on behalf of me and mine to you and yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

Sincere fraternal regards,

Steven A. Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary