Greetings to all, I hope this message finds you in good spirits.
Believe it or not, November is upon us. It seems like only yesterday that we were welcoming a new year! A re-minder perhaps that time is a precious gift and we must utilize it wisely.
With November comes a special time for us to reflect upon (or give Thanks) for the many Blessings we as indi-viduals, families and a Country have received. Sometimes it is hard to distinguish between those things we ac-tually need and those things that we just want.
Such discrimination brings with it the opportunity for serf reflection. You may not find all the things you want but you will find many things for which to be thankful. I know it is an exercise I go through when I stop myself from complaining long enough to rejoice in the many blessings my God has given to me.
On the 15th of October, the Southern portion of the Orient of California held its Honors Conferral program in the Valley of San Diego. You may recall that we have three Brothers who were recognized by the Supreme Council. Receiving the coronation of 33rd° Inspector General, Honorary was Brother Rick Wood. Illustrious Rick was fortunate in that he was able to travel to Washington DC to receive his Coronation in August. Some say there was relationship between the earthquake and Illustrious Rick being Coroneted, who knows?? Receiving the designation of Knight Commander of the Court of Honor on October 15th were Brothers David Price and John Rider. Please take the time to congratulate these worthy brethren.
Some of you may recall that in November of 2010 I asked the two Assistant Personal Representatives to form a Committee to review and revise, as needed, the Valley’s Long Range Plan. I am pleased to announce that the Committee consisting of:
- Robert W McNamara 32° KCCH – Co Chair
- Richard B Wood 33° IGH – Co Chair
- James Segerstrom 32°
- Wayne Folsom 32° – Facilitator
- Robert Hjorth 33° IGH
- Pete Jantz 33° IGH
- Scott Pierce 32°
- Waine Richie 32°
- Francisco Rosario 32°
- Daniel Willerton 32°
- Dave Price 32° KCCH
- Jack Slagle 32° KCCH
has completed their work. It is my hope that they will present an overview at our November meeting. My sincere appreciation to the Committee!
I am excited by the progress being made by the Nominating Committee. You will be hearing their initial report on the possible line of Officers for next year at the Stated Meeting. On a related matter, the members of the Charlie McDaniel’s Reunion Class continue to become active in the Valley. My compliments are extended to the Class as they set an example wor-thy of all imitation.
On November 19th, the California Scottish Rite Foundation will be holding its Annual Meet-ing in Long Beach. Over thirty thousand of hours of speech therapy and over one hundred and sixty thousand dollars have been given as scholarships during the past year. You own Childhood Language Center in Santa Ana continues to grow in terms of the number of chil-dren they are able to help. The Language Centers throughout the United States of America are the primary philanthropy of Scottish Rite Freemasonry. Please consider supporting this wonderful cause as it has a direct impact on children who will, in turn, have an impact on the future of our County.
Get involved my Brothers. You can make a difference!
Fraternally
Ray
Something to Ponder – How is it one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire?
