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

Our 2012 Fall Reunion at the Starting Line!

Dear Brethren and Friends:

Our Fall 2012 Reunion begins this Friday evening, October 19, 2012, with the Fall Special Communication of Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection.

The evening begins with a buffet dinner in the Grand Banquet Hall, at 6:00 P.M. The cost per person is now $20. Dinners must be reserved by this Wednesday, October 17th. All non-reserved dinners will now cost $30 per person. Don't let this happen to you! Call 215-563-1814 today! 

Our Fall Class, also known as the "Ill. Jay W. Smith, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master Class," will receive the 4th Degree, Master Traveler (DVD) and the 14th Degree, Grand Elect Mason. 

Our Lodge of Perfection Officers are working hard to put on a fantastic Degree. Be sure to be here to support them and welcome our new Valley Brethren!

The Ladies will have a seasonal program on how to make a corn husk wreath.

It will be a great night of Scottish Rite fellowship. Don't miss out. Call 215-563-1814 or you can email your reservations to phila.aasr@juno.com or if you are a member of our Valley's Facebook group, you can click on the "Going" button on the Fall Special Communication event page to confirm your reservation. How easy is that?

This Saturday, October 20, 2012, the parents of the students of the Philadelphia Children's Dyslexia Center, a Scottish Rite Charity, present, "Fall Fest," at the Tacony Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. 

This fund raising event sounds like it will be a great time for all those who attend, while raising money for the Center's continued efforts to assist area kids with dyslexia.

The event runs from 7-11:00 P.M. and will feature food, beverages, a sports memorabilia auction, a DJ and Irish Dancers. There will be a 50/50 and you can purchase tickets for the "Cooler of Cheer" raffle! 

Tickets to the event are $25 per person. Contact the Scottish Rite Office at 215-563-1814 for more information

The Supreme Council's Bicentennial Membership Jewel is now available!  To get one, send your check for $25 (made payable to "Supreme Council") to; Supreme Council, PO Box 519, Lexington, MA 02420. Be sure to include your shipping address with your order.

Any (32nd or 33rd Degree) Scottish Rite Mason in a Valley of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction can wear this jewel. Candidates for the Scottish Rite in those Valley's between the Spring Class of 2012 and the Fall Class of 2013 will receive the jewel and do not need to purchase one.

The Board of Governors of the Philadelphia Children's Dyslexia Center, a Scottish Rite Charity, present their annual "A Toast to Reading" on Friday, November 2, 2012 at the William Penn Inn, Rt. 202 & Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd, PA 19436.

This year's event will honor the memory of event founder and Valley Brother, Ill. Thomas Hopkins, 33, and salute the Honorable Dennis O'Brien, Philadelphia City Councilman, who was instrumental in securing the location of the Center at the Philadelphia Academy Charter High School. 

Hot and Cold Hors D'oeuvres and wine will be served. The event runs from 7-10:00 P.M. and tickets are $75 per person. For more information on this fund raising event call, 215-563-1814.

Help us continue the important work of helping kids to read by attending one or both of these great events!

Our Fall Reunion will continue on Friday, November 16, 2012 with the Fall Special Convocation of DeJoinville Council and the Fall Special Communication of Kilwinning Chapter of Rose Croix.

The 15th Degree, Knight of the East, featuring a Cast filled with many new members and first time floor workers will be presented, as will the 18th Degree, Knight of Rose Croix, which will also have a large contingent of new Cast members. Plan now to be there to support them and meet our new Valley members!

The Ladies program that evening will feature a one man show, "Sherlock Holmes and the Speckled Band."

The Valley's Holiday Celebration Dinner is set to happen on Friday, December 14, 2012 at the Radisson Hotel Philadelphia, 2400 Old Lincoln Highway at US Route 1 in Trevose, PA.

The Social Hour with a Cash Bar begins at 6:00 P.M. during which time the Valley's Ladies Auxiliary will host a silent Gift Basket Auction to benefit the Philadelphia Children's Dyslexia Center. You can browse the baskets and 'silently' bid on your favorite and help a great cause

Dinner will served at 7:00 P.M. featuring the Radisson's delectable  Continental Buffet.

After dinner, a special musical program featuring the music of the "Doo Wop" era will entertain us.

This is a pre-paid event and tickets will not be available at the door. If you wish to go, send your check, made payable to 'Scottish Rite Bodies,' to; Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520. 

Our Fall Reunion concludes on Friday, December 21, 2012 with the Special Rendezvous of Benjamin Franklin Consistory. Our Fall Class Honoree, Ill. Jay W. Smith, 33, Right Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania will be our special guest that evening.

The Degrees to be presented that evening include, the 22nd Degree, Prince of Libanus (DVD), the 31st Degree, Knight Aspirant and the 32nd Degree, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret.

With the busy activity of the Holiday Season, be sure to put this date on your calendar now to be with us as we welcome our Right Worshipful Grand Master!

As you know our Valley is on Facebook with both a 'fan' and a 'group' page. We are now proud to announce that we also have a Google+ page and a Twitter account as well. If you are on Google+, please add our page to your circle. If you have a Twitter account, please follow us at @PhilaScotRite.  Through these social media opportunities in addition to "Across My Desk, the Web Edition," you can keep up to the minute on all that is happening in our Valley.

As you can see we have a lot of things happening this season and we're only at the Starting Line! 

I pray the Grand Architect continues to watch over each and everyone of you.

Don't forget to call in your dinner reservations!

Sincere fraternal regards,

Steven Morrison, 33

Valley Secretary

On the Threshold of our 2012 Fall Reunion

Greetings Brethren and Friends:

First, on behalf of the Officers and Members of the Valley of Philadelphia, we send out our thoughts and prayers to the families of those killed at the U.S. embassy in Libya. We are living in dangerous times and the peacefulness of our gentle Craft stands as a stalwart to the principle of Brotherly Love regardless of religious or political doctrine.

Now I have the unfortunate duty of announcing that this Saturday's bus trip to Nemours Mansion and Gardens has been cancelled due to lack of sufficient participation. Those who sent in checks for their fee for the trip will be reimbursed. Our Valley has traditionally run two bus trips each year, which have been enjoyable ventures for Valley members and their families, but in recent years our trips have become less then a popular attraction.

The Executive Committee is looking into an alternative activity for our members and their families. Once that is decided and approved, it will be announced. Stay tuned.

The 33rd Degree Members of the Valley have returned from the Annual Meeting of the Supreme Council, which was held in Cleveland, Ohio this year. Valley Members, Matthew Dupee, Jeffrey Greene, William Kingsbury, John Lanckowski and Harry Rutter, were coroneted as Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, 33rd Degree, Honorary Members of the Supreme Council. Congratulations again to them.

Now we turn our attention to next years session in Washington, DC. This will mark the 200th Anniversary of our Supreme Council, and we understand that exciting plans are place to make this a memorable event.  Valley Brothers, Philip Janusz, MSA, James Rae, MSA and John Wagner will receive the 33rd Degree at that time.  Congratulations to these Brothers on their nomination and election to be so honored.

Valley members interested in purchasing the Supreme Council's bicentennial membership jewel are reminded to keep an eye on the Council's web site, www.scottishritenmj.org for when the jewel will be available for purchase. This is the only way to get the jewel, unless you are a Candidate for the Scottish Rite Degrees between the 2012 Spring Class and the 2013 Fall Class. The jewels cost $25.



As our header says, we are on the threshold of our 2012 Fall Reunion which will begin on Friday, October 19, 2012 with the Fall Special Communication of Philadelphia Lodge of Perfection.

We have some changes to announce with this Reunion. Beginning on Friday, October 19, 2012 our dinners will now cost $20 per person and we will now charge $5 for a parking chaser. Also non-reserved dinners or those made past the reservation deadline will now cost $30 per person. Economic times have made these changes necessary. We apologize for any incovenience this may cause you, but these steps have to be taken if our Valley is to continue to operate in a fiscally responsible way. We appreciate your understanding and thank you for your anticipated cooperation.

Getting back to the Fall Special Communication, the evening will begin at 6PM with a buffet dinner in the Grand Banquet Hall. The Communication opens at 7PM at which time the 4th Degree, Master Traveler (DVD), will be presented. The 14th Degree, Grand Elect Mason presented by the Officers of the Lodge of Perfection will follow.

If you plan to attend we ask that you get your dinner reservations in no later than the deadline of Wednesday, October 17th. Call 215-563-1814 or email to phila.aasr@juno.com to make your reservations.

If you don't know by now our 2012 Fall Class is named in honor of our Right Worshipful Grand Master, Ill. Jay W. Smith, 33rd Degree. He will be with us on Friday, December 21, 2012. Make plans now to join with us to welcome him.

Our Family Picnic at the Cape May County Zoo on Saturday, September 29, 2012 is looking like it is going to be a great event. Tickets are still available if you wish to go. Send your check for $5 per person to the Scottish Rite Office, Masonic Temple, One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-2520. The Zoo is open from 11AM until Dusk and our event will run throughout that time. The Zoo is free, but we will have our own reserved pavilion with a catered picnic with burgers, hot dogs, salads, sodas, and the usual picnic fixings.  Bring your family and your lawn chairs and join us down the shore for what will be a great Valley Family event!

The Board of Governors of the Philadelphia Children's Dyslexia Center invite you to attend their annual "A Toast To Reading" benefit event on Friday, November 2, 2012 at the William Penn Inn, Rte 202 & Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd, PA 19436 from 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM.

This year's benefit is held in memory of Ill. Thomas Hopkins, 33rd Degree, who was instrumental in developing this annual fund raiser and served as its Chairman from its inception. The event will also honor Special Guest, Philadelphia City Councilman, Dennis O'Brien. Councilman O'Brien was very instrumental in assisting our Center's Board in identifying the Philadelphia Academy Charter High School as the site for hosting the Center. He will be present at the event.

For more information on how to purchase tickets, call 215-563-1814.

While on the subject of the Center, the parents of the students are hosting a fund raising event at Tacony Masonic Temple, 4400 Magee Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19135, on Saturday, October 20, 2012. The event runs from 7-11PM. There will be food, beverages, entertainment and raffles. For more information on how to purchase tickets call 215-563-1814.

I know it's only September, but don't forget our Valley's Holiday Celebration Dinner scheduled for Friday, December 14, 2012 at the Radisson Hotel Philadelphia. For more information call 215-563-1814.

Well, you're reading this blog, which means you know that the Valley of Philadelphia is making use of the world of social media. But, did you know that we have other resources as well? We do! We have both a 'fan' and a 'group' page on Facebook, we have a page on Google+ and we have a Twitter page too (@PhilaScotRite). If you have an account on either of these social outlets, check us out and give us a 'like' or a 'follow.' Please be advised that our Facebook group is limited to members of the Valley of Philadelphia and their Ladies only. All others are welcome to 'like' our fan page to keep up to date on all that is happening.

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

Sincerely and fraternally,

Steven Morrison, 33rd Degree

Valley Secreatary