News from the Valley of Salem
Scottish Rite dedicates $2million to relief of Brothers affected by Hurricane Sandy
by Valley of Salem on 12/13/12
John William McNaughton, Sovereign Grand Commander announced that the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction that,
"... the Supreme Council's Almoner's Fund made a commitment to our Brethren in both New Jersey and New York. To each of those jurisdictions, we pledged $1,000,000 for the purpose of assisting in their efforts to start the rebuilding process."
This news is a real boost to efforts to help Masons in need in these areas. Our fraternity was on the ground in both states shortly after the super-storm hit, working alongside Masonic Lodges that were organizing food and clothing to those whose homes were destroyed. In the first few days of the disaster, the Scottish Rite distributed more that $200,000 in debit cards to Brothers - financial relief at a time when many banks were closed and ATM machines were empty.
Ill. Brother David A. Glattly, Deputy for New Jersey, has been spearheading the effort in the Garden State. He has visited and directly helped many of his fellow Masons. For men whose home has been ravaged this can me quite emotional. Brother Glattly describes the experience:
"The response by our Masonic Brothers is heartwarming when we offer them financial assistance. It is difficult for a Mason, familiar with giving charity, to instead accept it. We have often shared tears and hugs with our Brothers. These are special moments."
While the storm occurred October 28, the work to rebuild continues. If you want to help, you can donate to the Scottish Rite Benevolent Foundation Almoners Fund by going to http://www.scottishritenmj.org/ and access "Donate Now" under Almoner's Fund.
Anniversary Pocket Jewels
by Valley of Salem on 12/10/12
The 200th anniversary pocket jewels have arrived. To purchase a jewel send a check to Supreme Council, P.O. Box 519, Lexington, MA 02420 for $26.95 (includes shipping to US). Make sure to include your shipping address. All those who have previously ordered the medal do not have to re-order. They will receive theirs soon. If you would like the jewel shipped out of the country, please call for shipping details.
Ornaments Available
by Valley of Salem on 12/10/12Two Scottish Rite ornaments are available just in time for the holidays. The brass ornament is $16.95 and the ball is $11.95, prices include shipping costs. Send a request and check to: Supreme Council P.O. Box 519 Lexington, MA 02420
Why Scottish Rite?
by Valley of Salem on 12/10/12This coming August, The Northern Light will honor our jurisdiction's 200th anniversary. We need you to help with this very special edition. In 200 words or more, describe what the Scottish Rite means to you, why you chose to join Scottish Rite, or tell us about a special moment experienced by you as a Scottish Rite Mason. We will publish the very best essays. We also want you to use your photographic skills to show us your feelings toward the fraternity. Using the same criteria spelled out above, create an image that best depicts Scottish Rite to you. The Northern Light will publish the best photo from each state in the jurisdiction. Get working now, and send your essays (in MS Word format) or photographs to editor@supremecouncil.org by April 1, 2013.
Donald M. Moran named Deputy for Massachusetts
by Valley of Salem on 10/04/12
At this year's Annual Meeting in Cleveland, Ohio, the Deputy for Massachusetts, Ill? Donald G. Hicks, Jr. 33o stepped down from his position as Deputy Member at the close of the session.
Our very own, Ill. Donald M. Moran 33o has assumed this important role.
A Deputy of the Supreme Council serves as the Executive Officer for Scottish Rite within his state jurisdiction. There is always at least one Active Member in a state jurisdiction in addition to the Deputy Member. In Massachusetts, we have two Active Members in addition to the Deputy.
The other Active Member is Ill. Robert E. Godbout, Jr. 33o, Grand Master General of Ceremonies for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.
We all wish Brother Moran success in his new role.
Help Wanted
by Valley of Salem on 04/08/12We are always looking for help with the internal workings of the Valley. If you have any interest in becoming involved with our Commissary team, Wardrobe, stage hands, sound or lighting, acting -both speaking and non-speaking parts, singing in the Choir, or if you have aspirations to become an Officer in any our three bodies - please contact any of the Presiding Officers, and let them know of your interest.
Benjamin Franklin Visits The Valley of Salem
by Valley of Salem on 04/08/12Dr. and Bro. Benjamin Franklin, portrayed by Bro. J.T. Turner, regaled the audience at our April Conclave and Ladies Night, for over an hour with stories of his youth, lessons of life, his professional career as a printer and inventor, and his diplomatic service to our country. His stories of the time period surrounding the formation of the Continental Congress and the writing of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were exceptional. Who knew that he made extra money as a young man by teaching... swimming!
New Hospitaler Appointed
by Valley of Salem on 04/08/12Brother Arthur Rogers has accepted an appointment to the office of Hospitaler for the Valley. Bro. Rogers is a member of Philanthropic Lodge, Marblehead. Art will be the new contact for all dinner reservations for future Valley Conclaves. He may be contacted at RSVP@ValleyofSalem.org. Art will be manning the dinner ticket table in the lobby.
New Tyler Appointed
by Valley of Salem on 04/08/12Brother Wayne Anderton, 32, has accepted an appointment to the office of Tyler for the Valley. Bro. Anderton is a member of Tyrian-Ashler-Acacia Lodge, and is an active North Shore Mason. Look for Bro. Anderton as you exit the elevator. he will be checking dues cards as prescribed by the Deputy for Massachusetts, as well as acting as a greeter to our members and guests.
