Olympia Valley Scottish Rite

UPDATE... National KSA Gathering in Guthrie

2012-01-28T11:10:00.001-08:00

For anyone making the Guthrie trek this year, we leave on ( The reunion is March 30 – 31 and April 1, 2012 ) March 31st and return on April 4th. The degrees start on Friday, March 30 April 1st promptly at 0800, or for you Marines the little hand on 8, etc.

There are a lot of flights available getting to Oklahoma City about 3:30 PM, which should be your target time so you can get to the Scottish Rite Center in Guthrie in time to get checked in, register, and accompany us to the steak house for dinner.

I'll have room for two people in my car and I get into OKC at 5:30 PM. Now is the time to start booking plane fares. Also I need a list of names no later than February 28th so I can reserve rooms at the Center.

( I think the rooms in the INN may be gone by now. Last night I was told there were only 15 beds left )( You might e-mail Brother John Walker at the new e-mail address – innkeep@att.net )

Please send me a list of names of the members that will be coming and I will register them. If they want a packet please have them send in a Gathering reservation which is on our new homepage for the Knights of St Andrew. www.ksaguthrie.org Reunion is FREE but the packets are $25.00 – They contain a Note book / Pen / Special Challenge Coin / Gathering Lapel Pin. Plus other items and Oklahoma / Guthrie information.

The hotels are listed in our home page. Sleep Inn and Best Western are $80 and $ 74 / night. I understand the Holiday went up to $150.00/night.

Please respond to: KSAofGuthrieOK@dittmar.net
www.KSAGuthrie.org

Brethren...

2012-01-25T22:50:00.000-08:00

I would like to thank all of our guests and especially our Sovereign Grand Inspector General William R. "Bill" Miller for attending tonight's installation of Officers for the Olympia Valley 2012.

I would like to extend congratulations to Bro. Gary Norton 32° KCCH our newly appointed Secretary and Bro. John Kime 32° our newly appointed Treasurer both of who have extremely large shoes to fill and will no doubt serve our Valley well. Be sure to congratulate them the next time you see them.

I would like to thank the Installing Officer Illustrious Brother Donald R. White 33°, Master of Ceremonies Brother Rod Mason 32° KCCH, Installing Secretary Illustrious Brother Skip Sanford 33° and Prelate Illustrious Brother John Woodall, 33°, for a wonderful installation ceremony.

Of course there are thanks for the wonderful meal provide and served by the Daughters of Bethel #51, it was enjoyed by all, you did a great job.

Lastly I would like to extend my gratitude on behalf of the Brethren of the Olympia Valley to Illustrious Brother Skip Sanford 33° and Illustrious Brother Ray Drummond 33° for their many tireless years of service.

I look forward to seeing you all at our next meeting February 8, Wednesday 2012 - 6:30 PM Dinner Lodge of Perfection - 4th Degree.

Fraternally,

Edward Woods, 32° K.C.C.H.

Brethren,

2012-01-08T22:27:00.001-08:00

A reminder that the Lodge of Perfection meets this Wednesday, January 11. Dinner is at 6:30, with our Cap and Ring ceremony to follow. I see that a movie is also scheduled. Remember that this is a public event, so your friends and family are very welcome!

As an additional incentive to get out to the Lodge, our Jobies will be in attendance to shine shoes by donation. I have no doubt that the young ladies will be shining with an esprit de corps and a smile. My shoes are definitely in need of a little TLC - I'll bet yours are too!

Last, as most of you know, VWB Jack C. Parker passed to the Celestial Lodge last week. Br. Jack was a member of the Valley of Olympia, although he devoted the majority of his efforts towards the Blue Lodge. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him, and I can't think of a Brother who loved the Craft more. He was preceded in death by his wife Peggy a couple of years ago, and Br. Jack assisted Peggy through a long struggle with dementia. Both were very delightful souls, in every sense; and as VWB Brian Morgan aptly stated, both enjoyed a long and full life. While sadly mourning Jack's passage, I will gladly pass along news of his memorial service when known.

Fraternally,

Kris Graap, 33°

Brethren,

2012-01-03T08:11:00.001-08:00

It's my sad duty to report the passing of our Scottish Rite Brother Al Peringer. Below is an obit prepared by friend Jack Taylor. Obviously, WB Al loved the Craft!

Also, please note the minutes to our last Valley meeting of December 14, and our Spring Schedule, as prepared by Illustrious Secretary Skip Sanford,33 IGH. If you didn't know, Br. Skip is 'retiring' as Olympia Valley Secretary after ten or so years of faithful service. Please join me in sincerely thanking Skip for that wonderful service to our Valley!! Hopefully we'll see his smiling face often on the sidelines for many years to come!

Filling those big shoes, our Brother Gary Norton, 32 KCCH will take over the Secretarial reins. I know that VWB Gary will do an outstanding job, providing he can "keep his stick on the ice"! Please wish Gary well, and give him your support!

Fraternally,

Kris Graap, 33°

Al Peringer died peacefully this morning, Saturday, December 31^st, at 0530 at Panorama Retirement Center, Lacey, at the age of 90.

Al was a life-long Mason, Past Worshipful Master of Berkeley Lodge 167, Chesapeake, VA; a 60-year Shriner and Past Commander of Afifi Legion of Honor (2008). He retired from the US Navy in 1968 with the rank of CWO-4, in the pay grade LT(JG).

Al enlisted in the Washington National Guard at the age of 17 while a student at Olympia High School in 1938 and served two years in the coastal artillery and, as he would proudly say, “rose to the ‘lofty’ rank of PFC.” In 1940, he enlisted in the Navy and was assigned to the USS Pruitt, a destroyer mine layer, which was in dry-dock at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Al retired from the Navy in 1968 after serving our nation for over 30 years. His Navy career specialty was in communications/electronics and he was involved in the development of naval radar. He was a life member of the Pearl Harbor Association, the VFW (Past Commander of his VFW Post in Virginia) and life member of the Military Officers Assoc. of America (MOAA).

He leaves no survivors and his ashes will be interned at Arlington Cemetery in the spring pending their schedule. Funeral/memorial arrangements are unknown at this time.

Al was a kind and gentle man of honor and impeccable morals and standards. Although physically slowed by age, he maintained his wonderful sense of humor and greatly loved the work of our Masonic and Shrine bodies. He said that the proudest moment in his life was when he was installed as Worshipful Master of his Lodge.

I know that he rests in glory in his heavenly home. We will miss him very much.

John C. (Jack) Taylor

Puyallup, WA

Brethren,

2011-11-07T21:08:00.001-08:00

Here we are in November already! Don't forget to 'fall back' tonight, or you'll be an hour off everybody else.

This Wednesday, November 9, we'll have dinner at 6:30, followed by the 30th degree. The 30th always seems to be the most dramatic, and I'm sure our Brothers will put on a great performance! Of course, it helps greatly to have a good crowd on the sidelines, which is a not-so-subtle hint that you should be one of them! :-)

In other news:

A week ago Friday, the Valley of Hoquiam put on a wonderful dinner. Their speaker, Br. Kevin Townley, of Boulder Colorado, gave a wonderful talk about alchemy, and the Masonic alchemy of transforming lives through our tenets and the lessons found within.

The next day, Brothers Cliff and Roberson and yours truly were honored to be coroneted 33rd Inspectors General Honorary. I believe I can speak for both of us in saying that the degree conferred was outstanding, and that the reception was as warm as could be! Brothers, I feel truly blessed to have been selected for this honor.

Finally, last night the Valley of Seattle hosted Illustrious Arturo de Hoyos, 33 Grand Cross. Brother de Hoyos spoke eloquently about this duties as Archivist at the House of the Temple, and then hosted a hour-long Q&A from the Brothers about various Masonic topics. It was well-attended, and well worth a trip north! By the way, in attendance was the SGIG of the Scottish Rite Bodies of Turkey. (I should have written down his name but I forgot.) THis Brother will be the guest of honor for the Seattle Valley on November 15, Tuesday, and will speak about Masonry in Turkey. If you are interested, I'd welcome a car-pooler.

Also, after sending yesterday's message, I kicked myself for failing to pass along this tidbit about Illustrious Brother de Hoyos. Obviously he is an incredibly intelligent and dedicated Mason, as an author of several books - including the recent update to SGC Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma - but following the meeting he spent several minutes speaking with a Brother in flawless German. It is humbling, and it speaks well of our Fraternity, knowing the depth and breadth of the intellect of these leaders.

Fraternally,

Illustrious Bro. Kris

Congrats....

2011-11-07T21:07:00.001-08:00

Brethren,

Please join me in Congratulating

Illustrious Brothers Kris Graap and Cliff Roberson

on receiving their Thirty-Third Degree honors.

National KSA Gathering Being Planned

2011-09-26T18:16:00.001-07:00

National KSA Gathering Being Planned

Yes, after 19 years of growth and expansion, the Knights of St. Andrew will hold an historic First National Gathering in March/April, 2012. The Guthrie (Oklahoma) Chapter, the oldest continuous active KSA group, will host with organizational assistance from St. Louis (Missouri) and other Chapters. Plan now to be a part of this sharing event!

Greetings to all the Knights of St Andrew in the State of Washington,

The Orient of Oklahoma, Valley of Guthrie, Knights of St Andrew along with the Orient of Missouri, Valley of St Louis, Knights of St Andrew would like to invite you and your Knights along with any other Scottish Rite member to a Guthrie Scottish Rite Spring Reunion and The first ever, National Gathering of the Knights of St. Andrew in the Guthrie Scottish Rite Masonic Center in Guthrie, Oklahoma the weekend of March 29, 30 and April 1^st 2012.

All twenty nine degrees will be preformed during the reunion and the Guthrie Knights of St Andrew will open and close the reunion activities. They will also have a KSA processional and ceremony initiating Squires and Knighting new members. The processional starts in the Solomon’s Hallway moving to the Atrium where some ritual is spoken thence into the Egyptian Room (auditorium) for the main ceremony. All 32^nd Scottish Rite Masons are invited to attend.

During the reunion we will have KSA meetings with participating Valleys to discuss activities within their valleys and to discuss problems that they might be having. Times will be indicated on the agenda. A presentation will be given to show the expansion of the Knights of St Andrew across the country since its conception in 1993.

There are two evening banquets planned during the reunion and there are also many eateries down town. Shuttle service will be available between the hotels and the Masonic Center and the down town restaurants.

For those with transportation that plan to come early or want to take a break from the degrees these are some of the local attractions:

In Guthrie: Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library, Frontier Drugstore Museum , Double Stop Fiddle Shop & Museum, + many Antique and Curio Shops.

In Oklahoma City: 35 miles South: Oklahoma National Memorial and Museum (We lost a Knight of St Andrew in this bombing), Red Earth Museum, Oklahoma History Center ( good stop to do genealogy), National Cowboy Hall of Fame, Oklahoma City Zoo, 45^th Infantry Division Museum, Fire Fighters Museum, plus many others.

Visit our webpage to take a visual tour of the Guthrie Masonic Center . http://www.guthriescottishrite.org/homepage.aspx

Please RSVP to the e-mail address KSAofGuthrieOK@dittmar.net if you are interested in attending this Scottish Rite Reunion and Knights of St. Andrew Gathering and how many from your valley may be interested. Once we have numbers we can then reserve blocks of rooms at the local major hotels at a discount rate. (THIS IS NOT A COMMITMENT) Van transportation from the airport runs $60 – $65 which can be divided by the number of passengers. Thank you.

Questionnaire

Below is a questionnaire to assist us in the basic planning of the reunion and gathering this is not a registration for the event.

A second letter will go out with more details later about the reunion, agenda, housing etc. and will have the official registration form.

Questionnaire:

1. I would be interested in attending this KSA Gathering: YES NO

2. Several members of my KSA Chapter are interested: NUMBER:_____________

3. We would be flying in to OKC: YES NO

4. We would rent a vehicle at the airport to drive to Guthrie: YES NO

5. We would take advantage of the group Shuttle Vans: YES NO Save transportation costs.

6. We would travel from our Valley by Bus. YES NO

7. We would travel from our Valley by Car. YES NO

8. What is the best contact address for your Chapter?

We will be publishing a booklet for the reunion of all known KSA Chapters by State, Valley, and contact address.

9. Does anyone from your valley need special accommodation at the reunion? If so what?

10. Do you have any additional comments, suggestions, requests or requirements?

Fraternally, Frederick M. Dittmar 33^rd.

Frederick M. Dittmar, 33rd

Secretary Emeritus - KSA

Guthrie Knights of St. Andrew

Guthrie, Oklahoma

PO Box 2601 Norman, Oklahoma 73070

KSAofGuthrieOK@dittmar.net

Brethren;

2011-08-23T00:03:00.000-07:00

It is with a heavy heart I inform you that R.W.B. Jerry Lingle passed on to the Celestial Lodge. Jerry Lingle has touched many people throughout his life as a community member, police officer, county commissioner and Mason. He will be missed by many.

R.W.B. Jerry Lingle

Per Mt. Moriah #11

The Memorial for RWB Jerry will be this Sunday August 28, 2011 at 10AM at the Little Creek Casino near Shelton Washington.

Brethren,

2011-07-24T14:32:00.000-07:00

Please take note:

The 2011 Biennial Session Opening will be internet video streaming live! August 22, 2011 starting 8:00 am EST, thanks to WSB. Watch for updates about this event on the Freemason Network www.freemasonnetwork.org or the Scottish Rite webpage www.scottishrite.org

Illustrious Brother Allen Plue Memorial Service...

2011-07-10T21:42:00.000-07:00

Brethren,

If you're not already aware, the Masonic memorial service Illustrious Brother Allen Plue is scheduled for Saturday, July 23, at 1:00 p.m. The location is the Olympia Masonic Lodge building, 521 North Street, in Tumwater, WA. You may wish to carpool and arrive a bot early, as I suspect an overflow attendance. Also, if you wish to, cards of condolence may be addressed to Marge Plue, 312 Wildcat Drive SE, Olympia, WA 98503-6744.

Fraternally,

Kris

Illustrious Brother Allen Plue

Golf anyone....

2011-06-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

It's That Time Again
for the
7 th Annual Scottish Rite Golf Tourney

Thats right get those clubs out and dust'em off. The Olympia Valley Scottish Rite invites you to join us at Capitol City for our 7th annual golf tournament. $85 dollars per person or $340 a team or Sponsor a hole including a team for $600.

Friday, June 17, 2011
Capitol City Golf Club
8:30 A.M. - Shotgun Start

Click here for entry form

I wanted to pass along the following.....

2011-05-22T21:31:00.000-07:00

Brethren;

I wanted to pass along the following:

First, from our Illustrious SGIG Bill Miller:

The Scottish Rite will place a Memorial Monument at Tahoma Cemetery on Wednesday June 8. We will gather at 1:00 pm. I hope lots of Scottish Rite Masons will be present in caps. Please make sure your 50 year members are informed. We set this date and time to make it convenient to stop by on your way to Grand Lodge.

Second, set your calendar for Wednesday, May 24. Br. Jon Kime has scheduled a speaker, Dr. Jack Havins, to speak about local plans for Capitol Lake. It should be an interesting discussion, as some folks want the lake returned to a tideflat, and others want it cleaned up for swimming and recreation. Personally, I very much appreciate Br. Jon's efforts to make our meetings interesting and worth attending - I hope you appreciate his efforts as well (and through your attendance is the best way to show your support!)

Third, our local golf tournament is just around the corner. If you're interested in helping making this a success, or getting in a round, please check with Br. Damien Kolb or Br. Sam Lantow. The event is Friday, June 17th.

Last but not least: Kudos to Br. Bill Hollifield for his efforts on the shoe program. At the last meeting, Bill reported that he (and his better half) had given out 66 pairs of shoes during 2011 (27 in April). He currently has inventory of 228 pairs (of varying styles and sizes), with $1200.02 in the bank account. Bro. Bill reports that, although he procures shoes from several sources, Wal-Mart deserves recent credit for furnishing 30 pairs for $414.80, which works out to roughly $14 a pair.

Brethren, going back many years, this program has been a Godsend to children in the greater Olympia area - protecting their feet but more importantly raising their self-esteem so to allow better efforts in school. Just as with the golf tourney, our shoe program shows the best of Scottish Rite philanthropy. Thanks Bill, for doing a super job!

Fraternally,

Kris

Brethren;

2011-05-10T00:29:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, Brother Heath Gunns had a last-minute emergency, so VM Jon Kime switched gears quickly and got a replacement. Mr. Lee Chambers will speak about emerging technologies, and how they will change our lives. Sounds quite interesting!

Hope to see you for dinner at 6:30! If not, please attend at 7:30 as in addition to the speaker we have several items of business.

Fraternally,

Kris

Brethren;

Please mark your calendars for this Wednesday, May 11. For the Lodge of Perfection, VM Jon Kime has scheduled Brother Heath Gunns as our speaker, who will speak about firearms and gun safety. We will also have a short business meeting, including several committee reports. It should be an interesting evening, and I hope you'll join us. Dinner will begin at 6:30 with the meeting to follow at 7:30 pm.

Fraternally,

Kris

Brethren;

2011-04-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

As Commander of the Kadosh, it's my pleasure to invite you to next Wednesday's meeting. We are honored to have Thurston County Sheriff John Snaza in attendance, and he will discuss his Department, goals, changes, and what we can do as citizens to maintain a safe county. It promises to be an excellent evening, and I hope to see you there, along with your friends and family!

As always, dinner is at 6:30 with the discussion to follow.

Finally, whether you're haviing a Happy Easter today, or celebrating the week of Passover, may the spirit of renewal and hope be with you all!

Fraternally,
Kris

Hello from Guthrie Oklahoma...

2011-04-05T13:11:00.000-07:00

Brethren,

Eight Brethren from our valley made the annual treck to Guthrie. Illustrious Brothers Jon Lenander, Ray Drummond, Skip Sanford ;KCCH Ben Schatz, and 32 Chris Scarr, Don Bulloch, Jon Anderson and myself attended the Scottish Rite reunion in Guthrie Oklahoma over this last weekend. We were treated to a wonderful presentation of the 29 Scottish Rite degrees performed in full costume on stage. The Guthrie degree teams, and there are many, have out done themselves again as did the many Brethren from the Guthrie Valley who made our every moment a pleasurable one.

If you have never been, it is an experience that you will never forget, if you do not want to take my word for it then check with the many Brethren who have made multiple trips only to still leave in awe at the powerful message the degrees impress upon you. This has been my second trip and rest assured I will make yet another. It serves as a powerful reminder of those many obligations we took at the alter of Freemasonry.

One final treat was the procession by the Knights of St. Andrews click the link to enjoy.

Bro. Ed Woods

Lemons into Lemonade...

2011-03-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

Brethren;

Please see the attached minutes from yesterday's meeting. As a personal comment, I think we really did turn a bunch of lemons into lemonade in having a much-needed discussion. It was very obvious that those in attendance are extremely committed to supporting and improving Scottish Rite Masonry in Olympia.

Fraternally

Kris

As an added note, a huge thank you to W.B. Charlie Poole for the wonderful lunch meal that was prepared, once again he truly has out done himself. And forget not the assistance of the Rainbow girls who assisted W.B. Charlie in serving the meal to the Brethren

Bro. Ed

Baseball anyone...

2011-03-13T21:57:00.000-07:00

When: June 19, 2011 at 1:35 PM Fathers Day
Where: Tacoma- Cheney Stadium
What: Tacoma Rainer's Baseball

Bring your Father to a ballgame.

Here are three items coming up soon!

2011-02-14T21:32:00.000-08:00

Brethren;

Here are three items coming up soon!

First, for our program on February 23; Jim Clarkson is a retired police Detective Sergeant who quite by accident found himself investigating a famous UFO sighting in Grays Harbor. He's been investigating ever since. He has taken his investigations to Area 51 in the Nevada desert and the famous UFO crash sites in New Mexico. Because he uses the same no nonsense investigative methods he used as a Detective he discounts far more reports than he endorses. Jim has been asked to speak all over the country and is the author of a book with a strong Ocean Shores connection. For more information go to http://www.clarksonufo.com/

For a fascinating evening attend our February 23rd meeting. A presentation open to friends will be followed by a short business meeting.' Dinner will begin at 6:30, with the presentation to follow. For more info, please contact VM Jon Kime. This should be good!

Second - Our Valley of Olympia will be assisting the Valley of Hoquiam with the 18th through 32nd degrees on Saturday, March 12 starting at 9am. There will be two candidates. We can certainly use your help - either as a sideliner or as a degree-team member! Please mark your calendars.

Finally, a reminder of our trip to Guthrie - leaving March 31 and returning April 4. If you're thinking of going, Illustrious Skip needs your rsvp by the end of this month (February 28th) so as to book the rooms at the Guthrie Scottish Rite Center.

For questions or more info on the last two, please give Skip a call at 360-280-4108 (local in Olympia.)

Fraternally,

Kris

Recent Happenings and Upcoming Events

2010-12-05T16:55:00.000-08:00

Brothern,

Here are some recent photos to share with you.

Here you have Illustrious Brother Bruce York sitting with two our our newest Scottish Rite Masons

K.C.C.H. Kris Graap and Bro. Kurt Schmid

Finally Brothern,

Please join us at the next meeting December 8, 2010 - Wednesday 6:30 PM - DINNER, ROAST BEEF, LODGE OF PERFECTION, Cap and Ring Ceremony, ELECTIONS.

We look forward to seeing your smiling faces.

Harmony 18 - 2010 Car Show Extravaganza

2010-06-06T18:37:00.000-07:00

Harmony 18 - 2010 Car Show Extravaganza
Harmony Lodge #18
Presents
2010 Car Show Extravaganza

Open to Masons and their invited guests
Cars, Trucks, and Motorcycles of all types
If you think it’s cool BRING IT!
The judges will categorize upon arrival
(Bribing the judges is encouraged)

Entry Fee $10.00 suggested donation in addition to your normal dinner donation
August 3rd 2009 5:30pm
Contact WB Ivan Isaacson to RSVP 360-491-1451
Olympia Masonic Center, 521 North Street, Tumwater WA 98501

Hello from New Orleans....

2010-04-16T23:14:00.000-07:00

Brethren,

New Orleans and the Leadership Conference is a kick. Illustrious Brothers Skip, Bruce and our Personal Representative Jon and myself had the pleasure of attending an exemplification of a Scottish Rite EA Degree, and all I can say is wow what a treat. Tomorrow we start in on many good sessions sure to be packed with great information that we will in turn bring back to the Brothers. We will all be looking forward to seeing all of you at the next meeting.

By the way if you have not already the Scottish Rite has a new website that will provide the means and opportunity to meet many of your Brothers across the country. Additionally, you will find many updates regarding the Leadership Conference in New Orleans and links where you can follow along, just go to the following link and check it out.

Freemason Network

Fraternally,
Bro. Ed Woods

Brethern,

2010-03-06T11:04:00.000-08:00

Valley activities are busy for the next few weeks. This Wednesday, March 10, is the Remembrance and Renewal Ceremony. Dinner is at 6:30 with the public ceremony to follow at 7:30. Please join us!

Next Saturday, March 13, the Valley will confer the 18th through 32nd degrees. The 18th Degree will begin at 9am. Lunch will be provided. In addition to our three candidates, Hoquiam has stated that it is bringing one more. Hope to see you there as well!

Our Cap and Ring ceremony will be Wednesday, March 24.

Lastly, for those of you thinking about going to Guthrie, Skip suugests a better return flight, leaving OKC a bit later in the day. The other was too early, and this gives time to have breakfast in Guthrie and get to the airport without unnecessary stress.

Installation of 2010 Officers

2010-01-29T10:19:00.001-08:00

Brothers join me in congratulating Tony Ward and our newly installed officers for 2010. Tony surely has some wonderful ideas lined up for the upcoming year. Remember each meeting is preceded by a fine meal to be followed by a meeting and program. We would love to see you there, bring your ladies for dinner so they can join us in our fellowship. So be sure and mark your calendars Brothers.

Golf anyone...

2010-01-29T10:18:00.000-08:00

Remember Brothers to mark your calendars for the Annual Scottish Rite Golf Tournament at Capitol City Golf Club.
Friday, June 18, 2010 Capitol City Golf Club 8:30 A.M. - Shotgun Start / Putting Contest at 7:30 Restaurant opens at 6:30 for those who want to buy breakfast.
This is a great time to get together with your Brothers and have some friendly competition. Brother Sam Lantow has been working very hard to make this another successful event. Let’s show our support by getting your sign-up sheets in now. Individuals or teams there is a variety of options. Click on the link below for more details and a copy of the sign up sheet. Where are the sign up sheets you might ask, well Brothers that is simple, Click right HERE.

Spring is about to begin...

2010-01-12T19:21:00.001-08:00

Brethren;
Please note the movie planned for this Wednesday's meeting. (The dinner is at 6:30 with the meeting at 7:30) Also, the corrected spring schedule is below.

Lastly, as an update, I have informally heard that WB Warren Husted's service will be at the new building this Thursday, January 14th at 1pm.

Fraternally,
Kris

Passing of our WB Warren Ralph Husted

2010-01-12T19:19:00.000-08:00

Brethren;
It is with great sadness that I convey the passing of our WB Warren Ralph Husted. Warren would have been 90 years old in March (which is hard to believe as he was so very active in Harmony Lodge, Scottish Rite, and several other Masonic activities.) All of us who knew Warren will fondly remember a twinkle in his eye and always a joke or two from his lips. He will definitely be missed! A celebration of Warren’s life is scheduled to be held next Thursday, January 14th at 1 p.m. at the Masonic Center. (As a note, I don't know which building at this time, but I'll pass along the info as received.)
Our Scottish Rite Lodge of Perfection will hold its regular meeting this Wednesday, January 13. Dinner will begin at 6:30 with our meeting to follow at 7:30pm.
Fraternally,
Kris

What's Happening in the Valley of Olmpia

2009-11-02T21:35:00.000-08:00

Brethern,

November 11 – 14th Degree, Dinner at 6:30, meeting at 7:30
November 21 – 18th, 30th, 32nd Degrees; Degrees begin at 9am

November 18 – Valley of Tacoma – Guest Speaker Ill. Brent S. Morris, 33º

Note: Because of Thanksgiving, there is no meeting on November 25.

Degree Activity in the Valley of Olympia

At our last meeting in October, we welcomed three Brothers receiving their 4th Degree, well conferred by WB Jack Sowers and his team.

Our 14th Degree will be conferred on Wednesday, November 11 with the other obligatory degrees on Saturday November 21. The candidates, and the Brothers taking part in the dramas, draw much energy and support from the side-liners, so please find time to attend if you can.

Illustrious Brent S. Morris, 33º Grand Cross to speak in Tacoma

Dr. Brent Morris, 33° Grand Cross, will be the featured speaker at a dinner at Tacoma Scottish Rite on Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $15.

Brent is the editor of The Scottish Rite Journal and An Idiot's Guide to Freemasonry, among a host of other books and articles. In addition, he is the Immediate Past Master of Quator Coronati Lodge in England. This is the premier research lodge in the world, and Br. Morris is only the second North American to hold that position.

He is a professional magician and often intersperses his talks with a little magic and lots of humor. As a result he is a most sought after speaker at Masonic functions. And, he has been the go-to guy for the television networks as they cover the interest in National Treasure and the Dan Brown books and movies. He is the acknowledged front person for the fraternity.

For a ticket, quickly get a hold of Tacoma Secretary Bill Hammontree at tacsrite@aol.com or (253) 565-0272 for reservations. (I’m definitely planning on going, so if you’d like to car-pool please let me know. Thx! Kris )

Wanted: Dedicated Brothers willing to serve as Officers for 2010

Brothers: If you think that you have the time and inclination to serve the Valley in some capacity, please let Personal Representative Jon Lenander know of your availability. Enthusiasm and desire are the only qualifications; we will provide all necessary training and support!

Scottish Rite Foundation of Washington

If you know of a full-time college student who is a US citizen and a Washington resident, who is maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA and will be attending a Washington State public or private college or university and holding Junior status as of 9/1/10; please have the student contact either Br. Rod Mason, Asst. Director or Br. Kris Graap, Foundation Secretary about scholarship possibilities. (Br. Ben Schatz, Director, is recovering from heart surgery currently, so for a month or two we’ll take care of things. Get well soon Ben!!) The student does not need to have a Masonic affiliation, although we certainly encourage all Masons to refer any relative who may qualify! Interviews generally begin now and go through March 1.

Lastly, attached is some wisdom from Illustrious Wayne T. Adams, 33º IGH, PGM of AF&AM of Maine. Brethren, it is not often that an article strikes me as a ‘must-share’; however this article – taken from the August 2008 Northern Light (published by the Northern Jurisdiction of Scottish Rite) – really summarized to me what our Degrees and Masonic experience should be about. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Fraternally,
Kris

New Website

2009-10-10T23:45:00.001-07:00

Brothers,

We now have a new web site. The web address to the site is www.olympiascottishrite.org it will be updated with the news much as I have kept the Blog up to date. The Blog address will return to http://olympiavalleyscottishrite.blogspot.com/ and will continue to be updated as well.

Fraternally

Ed Woods

What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

2009-10-06T16:44:00.000-07:00

26 Tishri 5770 (14 October) – Chapter of Rose Croix; Feast of Tishri 6:30, with Speaker to follow
28 October – Consistory; Dinner at 6:30, followed by the 4th Degree conferral

Congratulations!
Please join our Personal Representative Jon Lenander, 32º KCCH in congratulating the following Brothers: Rick Bonnell, Casper LeBlanc, Brian Morgan

Each has been named to receive the rank and honor of Knight Commander of the Court of Honour. The Western Washington investiture is scheduled for Saturday, October 25, at 1pm, and held at the Tacoma Scottish Rite Center. It is a public ceremony, so please come and join in this celebration and deserved recognition.

More Congratulations!
In addition, Brothers Jon Lenander and Bruce York have been chosen by our Supreme Council to be coroneted with the 33rd degree, Inspector General Honorary. Both are well-deserving in this honor for their service and contribution to Masonry, and will be coroneted in a private ceremony.

Further Congratulations!
Kudos to Brothers Tony Ward and Larry Byrd, both of whom have attained the title of Master Craftsman!! This means each has completed the program of significant reading and six quizzes about Scottish Rite history, ritual, and our degrees. The program recognizes that the future of Scottish Rite depends upon our future leadership having additional depth and knowledge to go along with interest and enthusiasm. Way to go Brothers!

The Valley needs your help!
Venerable Master Casper LeBlanc notes that Saturday, November 21 is just around the corner.
So what, you ask. Well, the Valley has several candidates who will be expecting to receive their 18th, 30th, and 32nd degrees on November 21. That means that we need cast members to participate in the practice and conferral. (Complicating things a bit this year is that the date is shared by the TMSC/Afifi trip to Portland, and is close to Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, our schedulers had few options on this, and “it is what it is”.)

VM Casper (in a style only he can do!) admonishes us to “step up” to the challenge, will personally provide a pep talk to anyone with a wavering cable tow. I (18º), and the other two Degree Masters, Bruce York (30º) and Rod Mason (32º) believe that our casts are complete, however butterflies still abound.

Three ways you can help:
First, if you are available to assist with the degree work, please volunteer. There always seems to be a part or two to fill; and if not you, who?

Second, if you have agreed already to take a part and find that you cannot be there, you need to let your Degree Master know asap. Better yet would be to help out the Degree Master and find a replacement first.

Third, show up as a side-liner. The cast and candidates truly appreciate the fellowship and support!

Some sage thoughts from MW Wayne I. Smith, PR of the Valley of Everett
(I don’t mind ‘stealing’ a great article from another source – in this case the September Everett newsletter. Actually, I got permission . . .)

While preparing for our upcoming 4th Degree, Secret Master, we come across the word “Duty” many times. We should stop for a moment and reflect on what these duties are. The degree talks of Masonic duty generally and the specific duties of being a Secret Master.

Have you recently thought about our Masonic Duties? I am not going to spell them out as most of them are contained in the esoteric work and I would suggest that each of us pull out our cipher or copy of the Standard Work and review them so here I will merely list the “keywords”. We all remember the three great tenets of a Mason’s profession: Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth which were taught in the Entered Apprentice degree and the four Cardinal Virtues: Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, and Justice. In the Fellowcraft degree these were expanded on and we promised to obey the rules and regulations of our Lodge, answer and obey ....., aid and assist, and to not cheat, wrong or defraud. In the third degree our duties go further such as keep the secrets of, not be present at, to not visit or converse Masonically ...., our duties to a Master Masons family, and to not strike a Brother in anger.
There are many more insights to our duties and I recommend reading again the Apron lecture, the various charges for each degree and to refresh your recollection of the working tools.

In the 4th Degree we learn of Duty, of our mission as Masons to serve our fellows, our country and mankind, and of the nine great Masonic virtues built upon three great pillars:
Truthfulness, Endurance, Independence, Justice, Mercy, Equity, Silence, Devotion, and Attainment. We are given the key to self-knowledge, and our feet are set firmly upon the path which leads there, and the way to achieve that goal is pointed out. We must learn to work for the work’s sake, without desire of approbation or reward. Work and action have their own rewards. It is the duty of a man who seeks and accumulates greater knowledge to know and practice those ethical and moral principles which demonstrate Man’s highest, and most noble nature.

To be a true and faithful Brother Master Mason and a Scottish Rite Mason is one of man’s greatest attainments. It behooves all of us to daily practice the virtues and lessons of Masonry and to insure that we are truly using the 24 inch gauge to divide our time whereby we devote eight hours to the service of God and distressed worthy brethren

In conclusion I remind you of the closing charge which is recommended for use in every Blue Lodge in Washington. “Brethren, we are now about to quit this sacred retreat of friendship and virtue, to mingle again with the outer world. Amid its concerns and employments, forget not the duties which you have heard so frequently inculcated, and so forcefully recommended in this Lodge. Be diligent, prudent, temperate, discreet. Remember that at this altar you have promised to befriend and relieve every Brother who shall need your assistance. You have been enjoined to remind a Brother in a most friendly manner of his fault, to endeavor to aid his reformation, and to defend his character. These generous principles extend further, for every human being has a claim upon your kind offices. Do good unto all. Finally, my Brethren, be ye all of one mind; live in peace; and may the God of Love and Peace delight to dwell with you and bless you.”
How can we make ourselves, our families, our communities, and our nation better than by walking uprightly before God and man in our several stations as men and Masons?

Fraternally,
Kris

What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

2009-09-04T22:19:00.000-07:00

Brethren,
What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

September 9 – Lodge of Perfection; Dinner at 6:30, meeting at 7:30
September 23 – Chapter of Rose Croix; Dinner at 6pm, followed by a Movie

From my desk – I need your help!
I just purchased a new computer and my address book is empty! If you wish to have the newsletter continued to you monthly, please acknowledge this with a return email so I know that what I have is current. A pleasant note attached would be nice – but not necessary!

(I am not going to transfer your email address if you cannot or will not acknowledge your current and active email address.)

Scottish Rite Foundation of Washington

I know it’s early; however If you know of a full-time college student who is a US citizen and a Washington resident, who is maintaining at least a 3.0 GPA and will be attending a Washington State public or private college or university and holding Junior status as of 9/1/10; please have the student contact Br. Ben Schatz, Director, Br. Rod Mason, Asst. Director, Br. Kris Graap, Foundation Secretary, or Ill. Br. Ray Drummond, 33° IGH, VP – Finance, about scholarship possibilities. The student does not need to have a Masonic affiliation, although we certainly encourage all Masons to refer any relative who may qualify! Interviews generally begin around November 1, but knowing how time files, it doesn’t hurt to be thinking about it now.

From the Secretary’s Desk:

Illustrious Br. Skip Sanford reports that 2010 Dues Cards will soon be in the mail. The Supreme Council will be mailing out the new Membership Cards for 2010 in October to those members whose dues are paid up for 2009. Your dues card will be sent to you with the billing statement for 2010. Some of our members get confused by this system and think that if they have their membership card, their dues must all ready be paid. Such is not the case.
When you receive the card and the billing, you are expected to send your check to cover the year's dues If your dues are not current, you will receive a billing statement only and your new membership card will be sent to you when your dues are paid. This system is designed to save postage expenses by eliminating a double mailing.

Our website:
For events, don’t forget that thanks to the excellent efforts of Br. Ed Woods, our website contains a wealth of information – including contacts, our calendar, and links to other sites. A simple click, and the world (at least our Valley) is at your fingertips! Go to: www.olympiascottishrite.org (Did you know that you can download the Scottish Rite Journal – go to Supreme’s link, under Publications!)

Lastly, enjoy your Labor Day!! You and your ancestors worked hard for it!

Fraternally,
Kris

What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

2009-08-03T18:03:00.000-07:00

Absolutely nothing, at least officially, until September! (However, if you have program ideas, or would like to participate in activities for the fall, the powers-that-be are always welcoming of your volunteerism and contribution!)

For events, don’t forget that thanks to the excellent efforts of Br. Ed Woods, our website contains a wealth of information – including contacts, our calendar, and links to other sites. A simple click, and the world (at least our Valley) is at your fingertips! Go to: www.olympiascottishrite.org

Some thoughts about Masonic Charity

Many people, including a few Masons surprisingly, have an incomplete idea of what Masonic charity consists. Most of those assume that the donation of money, labor or time to worthwhile causes is synonymous with charity; and while certainly those donations are often not incompatible with Masonic charity, in some circumstances they indeed may be.

Those of us a bit ‘longer in the tooth’ in Scottish Rite may remember the distinction made between ‘alms’ versus ‘charity’ in the text of the old 18th degree. I will always recall Ill. Brother Bud Boergandine, 33° as Wise Master, reminding us that the giving of alms implies a superiority of the donor, and pity on the recipient. As a comment, this is certainly not meant to denigrate the position of Almoner, found in every Valley; or to suggest that it is unreasonable for the Almoner to place a test of need. Unlike charity, the role of Almoner should be seen as providing relief to the community – as an institutional obligation. However, if we consider the Almoner’s contributions to the needy as somehow satisfying our personal obligation to charity or acting charitably toward society, we are definitely not practicing Masonic charity.

Our degree ritual speaks to our personal obligation of charity, and as Grand Commander Pike relates as a great Truth, true Masonic charity is an attitude. If fact, if we contour or condition our charitable acts on what we expect or require from others, it is not true charity, and certainly not Masonic charity regardless of the amount given. The Master’s Charge, as stated in our Monitor, also illustrates to this attitude – to do good unto all, to make our kind offices accessible to every human being. It does not suggest that we do good only to those who react in kind, or to those who we may deem worthy.

The 20th degree work is elegant in describing Masonic charity as the acts to relieve misery and distress, to forgive errors, to judge kindly. Charity is equated with kindness, generosity, and liberality. Caring through to acts in our daily life, Masonic Charity may be demonstrated through the Mason’s smile, an offer to help someone as a random act of kindness, listening more and talking less, being less judgmental of another’s politics, house of faith, or economic situation. These acts of charity don’t cost the donor a dime, but provide immeasurable benefits to our community, and grow exponentially. The recipient, even if he doesn’t realize it at the time, will most likely pass along our simple act of charity by his own positive (or lack of negative) action. In turn, those positive acts ripple through our community. To paraphrase Ill. Norman Vincent Peale, 33° IGH: All the intelligence, good intentions and physical strength in the world is dwarfed in human relations by attitude when it comes to accomplishing the positive goals of the Freemasonry.

There is no suggestion here that we lessen our personal donations of time or money. Quite the contrary! But let’s never forget that we are a fraternity and not a service club; and as Grand Commander Pike admonished, Scottish Rite Masonry will only triumph in proportion to the degree we as Masons, truly practice Masonic Charity.

A great date in our Nation’s History: July 20, 1969
On this date, after a three day journey, the Eagle descended upon the lunar surface carrying the two intrepid pioneers, Neil Armstrong and Edwin (Buzz) Aldrin.

Our House of the Temple holds a silk Masonic banner brought to the moon by Illustrious Br. Aldrin, 33°. It is a testament to his love for Masonry that Aldrin tucked away this small token. Less known is that under the Grand Lodge of Texas AF&AM, the moon was ‘claimed’ under TX jurisdiction by Special Deputy Aldrin on July 20, 1969. As a later commemoration the mission inspired Tranquility Lodge #2000, and the Lodge functions as a charity to help the children of Texas. For more information, history, and just a real cool website, go to www.tl2k.org.

Fellow astronauts Gordon Cooper, Donn Eisele, Wally Schirra, Edgar Mitchell, Gus Grissom, John Glenn, Frank Borman, Thomas Stafford, and Paul Weitz, and many NASA Administrators were members of our Gentle Craft. Obviously, each would agree that Freemasonry is ‘out of this world’!!

For the Good of the Order
Summer is a great time to study the Master Craftsman program. If your book is getting a bit dusty, there will never be a better time than now to delve into the depths of knowledge. Hey, several extra hours of free sunlight means saving your candlepower while you exercise the ol’ noodle.
After studying, consider joining other area Masons in mid-August as the Tacoma Rainiers take on the Iowa Cubs: Sunday, August 16. Game time is 1:30. If you’re interested, let me know and I’ll get you a ticket. Wives and kids are most welcome! It’s great baseball at the AAA level – these guys have skills, and are hungry to make the big club!

See you in September!

Fraternally,
Kris

What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

2009-07-05T19:46:00.000-07:00

July 1- 4: Harmony Lodge has fireworks for sale! If you feel like your dollars are going up in smoke, at least route them through the Harmony Lodge fireworks stand and help the Lodge. You’ll get the biggest bang for your buck!

July 15-19: Lakefair! ShrineBurgers can't be beat!

What happened in the Valley of Olympia (aka the Golf Tourney!)

As reported by Brother Sam Lantow: The golf tournament is now behind us and I want to give all the brothers an update of how we did. First, I want to thank all those who helped in any capacity. This tournament would not have taken place if it was not for the help of everyone. We still have a few funds due to us and a few bills to pay. With those accounted for, we should end up with a total of $5,251.

I look forward to next years tournament already and would like the chair it again if OK with the brethren. I want to build some continuity and believe we can raise a lot more money in doing so.

Sam

Thanks a bunch Brother Sam!! I suspect you will find no objection to again serving as Chair next year! The Tournament continues to grow, and I believe the amount of $5,251 is a record, in supporting our Valley philanthropy. Br. Sam also specifically noted the contributions of VWB Paul Cooley and Br. Kurt Schmidt, two non-Scottish Rite Brothers (hopefully not for long!), signs by Jay Stewart, and the efforts by the Boys from Shelton. Thanks also to Capitol City Golf Club, KGY Radio and Dick Pust, and the help of Illustrious Br. Don White for publicity. Lastly, thank Mother Nature for holding off on the morning rain, lest we have to equip our golf balls with snorkels and fins!

O’ Canada!
July 1, Dominion Day is now known as Canada Day, eh! If you ‘Google’ it, you’ll find that Scottish Rite is alive and well North of the Border. Just as in the Northern Jurisdiction, there are a few differences, but the ideals of Scottish Rite Masonry are identical to that of the Southern jurisdiction. As we celebrate our own Independence Day, let’s give pause and acknowledgement to our friends to the north, and the longest undefended border in the world!

Independence Day!
Technically, the Declaration was written on July 2, but ratified on July 4. Let’s remember that, while we declared independence in 1776, and fought until 1781, it took until 1787 to figure out that the thirteen colonies would unite as a single nation (which is now the oldest democratic republic on Earth.) It wasn’t by accident, and required the deepest thoughts, compromises, foresight and statesmanship of the leaders of that day – many of whom were Freemasons. As we celebrate another anniversary as a great nation, and should we ever have a second Constitutional Convention, I sincerely hope that the leaders of Freemasonry of today would exhibit the same level of contribution, compromise, forethought and statesmanship. Have a Happy and Safe 4th!!

.

For the Good of the Order
Summer is a great time to study the Master Craftsman program. If your book is getting a bit dusty, there will never be a better time than now to delve into the depths of knowledge. Hey, several extra hours of free sunlight means saving your candlepower while you exercise the ol’ noodle.
After studying, consider joining other area Masons in mid-August as the Tacoma Rainiers take on the Iowa Cubs: Sunday, August 16. Game time is 1:30. If you’re interested, let me know and I’ll get you a ticket. Wives and kids are most welcome! It’s great baseball at the AAA level – these guys have skills, and are hungry to make the big club!

See you in September!

Fraternally,
Kris

Olympia Valley Scottish Rite Golf tourney...

2009-06-21T00:27:00.000-07:00

Was a success. Brother Sam Lantow did a great job and all of his efforts resulted in a successful golf tournament. Thank you to all the sponsors and teams that showed for a great time. The weather was a bit on the cool and wet side, but this did not dampen any spirits. Golf play was followed by food and fellowship. Many nice prizes were handed out and people left with a smile on their face. As I get more details from Sam, I will post them here.

Hope everyone is enjoying the summer, and we look forward to seeing you in the Fall. Remember our first meeting will be the 9th of September, WEDNESDAY 6:30 PM DINNER, SWISS STEAK, meeting to follow at 7:30 PM - LODGE OF PERFECTION

Fraternally
Bro. Ed Woods

GOLF Tournament is nearing.....

2009-06-05T08:41:00.000-07:00

by Ed Woods

Brothers the golf tournament is coming up fast. Sam has been doing a tremendous job with the planning, I am certain that you will not be disappointed. If you know anyone who golf's or even if they don't, bring them along for a great day. This is a wonderful opportunity for the Scottish Rite to show who we are, what we are about, and most of all to have some great fellowship with the brothers in a relaxed environment. Now, whoever said golf was relaxing obviously didn't play. What I do know is that it is great exercise, sharpens your hide n seek skills, and gives the ol heart a great workout in more than one way. On the other hand you also make some good friends, meet new people, and occasionally peak someones curiosity about the craft. So what are you waiting for, print of the fl yer (the link is just below) and put the date on your calendar "JUNE 19". See you there.

Olympia Valley Golf Tournement

2009-06-05T08:40:00.000-07:00

WHEN: Friday, June 19, 2009 @ 8:30 A.M. - Shotgun Start
WHERE: Capitol City Golf Club

This has been a fun tournament each year. Bring your golfing partners and join us again this year for a great time! Or, just come and join one of our made-up foursomes and meet new friends.

All entries include Green Fees, Cart Fees, Range Balls and Surf & Turf Buffet (Dinner only available for $25.00 per person)

Tee Box Sponsorship $600 available which include:
1. Tee Box Sign
2. Recognition at Banquet
3. Team Entry

Team Entry $340 (foursomes), or
Per Player Entry $85.00 (we will build foursomes)

Scottish Rite Philanthropies include: RiteCare Childhood Language Programs, Youth Programs, Scholarship Programs, and Disaster Relief - National and Local

The Scottish Rite is part of the Masonic Family of Fraternities. As a group, the Freemasons give well over two million dollars each day to charitable causes. Nationally these causes include Scottish Rite Hospitals, Shrine Hospitals, Scottish Rite Language Programs, scholarships, food banks, as well as countless local charities individual Lodges contribute towards.

Human progress is our cause, liberty of thought our supreme wish, freedom of conscience our mission, and the guarantee of equal rights to all people everywhere our ultimate goal -- ‘The Scottish Rite Creed’

Points of contact
Sam Lantow (360) 481-6730 cell
Rod Mason (253) 677-2901 cell
Ivan Isaacson (253) 491-1451 cell

We are trying to get some solid numbers for attendance. If you could be so kind as to drop Sam Lantow a note indicating whether you have a team and how many so far, it would be greatly appreciated.

Consistory May 27, 2009; Dinner at 6:30 P.M.

2009-05-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

By Kris Graap

Brethren;
Please join the Officers of the Consistory this next Wednesday. Our dinner is at 6:30, with the meeting to follow. As you know, this will be our last formal gathering until September, so it would be great to have a large contingent of side-liners in attendance!

Also, our golf tourney is right around the corner, June 19th at Capitol City Golf Course. Please feel free to distribute the attached flier to any Brother or friend linkster who might be interested. It might be a good way to introduce a friend to Masonry, as part of your foursome! For more information, contact Br. Sam Lantow at 360-481-6730. Remember, it's for our kids!

Lastly, I wish you all a contemplative Memorial Day holiday in which we honor and remember those Veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice for this country and its ideals. There are certainly many ways to express our honor and thanks; but may I suggest one way to do this and also support the community. Please consider taking 45 minutes and drop by the Puget Sound Blood Center - they are open on Monday and would be very appreciative of your donation.

March winds and April showers...

2009-05-04T18:41:00.000-07:00

By Kris Graap

March winds and April showers now make way for the May flowers. Hopefully Spring is finally here!

Our May calendar is the end of most of our Masonic activity until September. For May we have the following two meetings:

May 13 is the Lodge of Perfection, meeting at 7:30 with a dinner preceding.
May 27 will be a meeting of the Consistory, again with meeting at 7:30 with a dinner preceding.
I don't have any details regarding either meeting, but no doubt we'll have a good program and fellowship, and you'll be glad you came!

Our other Scottish Rite activity is the SR Golf Tourney, at Capitol City GC on June 19. For further information please contact Br. Sam Lantow who is chairing the 2009 Tourney.

Because my newsletter is a bit short this time, I've attached an excellent article by Illustrious Albert G. Mackey dating back to 1875 and reprinted in 1924, courtesy of The Plumbline, the newsletter of the Scottish Rite Research Society. It is well-written, and written to both challenge and inspire us. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. As a note, if you are interested in the activities of the Society, please log on to the Southern Jurisdiction website. It is well worth the cost!

Hope you have a wonderful month! Don't forget Mom on the 10th, or our departed servicemen on the 25th and 30th.

Fraternally,
Kris

Wednesday night is Scottish Rite!

2009-04-19T21:14:00.000-07:00

By Kris Graap

According to my digital sundial, this Wednesday is Scottish Rite, hosted by the Council of Kadosh. Dinner will begin at 6:30 with the meeting to follow at 7:30.

Congrats to our newly-inducted Brothers, courtesy of the Valley of Guthrie, OK. Our Brother Charlie Parrez and Jon Lenander received all 29 degrees of spectacular work. At least seventeen of us from Western Washington witnessed these degrees in what has become an annual event. Congrats also to Brother Ed Woods on receiving an honorary membership in the Royal Order of the Duck. I have no special knowledge of the ritual (and would not comment even if I knew citing due discretion!), although you are certainly free to inquire of Br. Ed. :-)

See you Wednesday!
Fraternally,
Kris

What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

2009-03-29T16:15:00.000-07:00

by Kris Graap

April 8 – 7:30 Chapter of Rose Croix; Remembrance and Renewal Ceremony
April 12 – Happy Easter!
April 22 – 7:30 Council of Kadosh; Dinner at 6:30

Remembrance and Renewal Ceremony. The extinguishing and re-lighting of the lights is an ecumenical ceremony, and is open to all family and friends. Once known as Maundy Thursday and obligatory, it is nonetheless a most important date on our Scottish Rite calendar. Wise Master Gary Norton and his team sincerely hope that you’ll mark the date and join us. And, if you need any more incentive, Ill. Br. Secretary Skip reminds that the Lodge will pick up the tab for the dinner for our Ladies.

Helping Children - Thanks largely to the efforts of our Personal Representative Jon Lenander, our Valley philanthropy is again helping three children with speech difficulty, through a local therapist.

For the Good of the Order
• If you know of a friend or Brother in financial need, please contact our Valley Almoner, Br. Rick Bonnell at 360-491-4959. If the need is genuine, we want to try to help!
• The Valley of Tacoma is sponsoring the Second Annual Friends Dinner & Auction, Saturday, April 25, 2009 at their fraternal home in Tacoma. This is a fund raiser for the Tacoma RiteCare Program and their Valley. The cost is $35 per person. Email Bill Hammontree at tacsrite@aol.com for reservations. Here is the schedule.
5:30 PM No Host Bar
5:30 - 7:00 Silent Auction with another bunch of terrific items
7:00 PM Prime Rib and Salmon Buffet Dinner
7:15 PM Randy Riggle Show
8:00 PM Live Auction.
Please consider supporting the Tacoma RiteCare Program and the Valley.

Supreme Council

2009-03-29T16:10:00.000-07:00

Brethren;
If you've thought about attending Supreme Council before, and need an incentive - here's a great tip courtesy of SGIG Bill Miller.

$129 each way between Seattle and Washington Reagan is about as inexpensive as you are going to find. If any of your members want to attend Supreme Council this year, they can fly to DC on Saturday, October 3 and home on Wednesday October 7 for $129 plus tax each way. A really sweet deal. But you have to book it by March 26.

What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

2009-02-28T14:07:00.000-08:00

By Kris Graap

March 7, Saturday – 9am Conferral of the 18th through 32nd degrees
March 11 – 7:30 Lodge of Perfection; Dinner at 6:30
March 25 – 7:30 Consistory; Dinner at 6:30

Come support our new Brothers Chris Stanley and Pete Bezy as they receive their obligatory 18th, 30th, and 32nd degrees this next Saturday, March 7. The Masonic Center should be open around 8:30 or so with coffee and fat pills, with the 18th degree commencing at 9am. We will break for lunch around noon, and conclude with the 32nd degree following. It means a lot to both the casts and the new Brothers to have a great turnout, so find a Brother to carpool and come on out! See you then!

Our Cap and Ring Ceremony, open to the public, will be held Wednesday, March 11. VM Casper LeBlanc does a beautiful oratory on “If Your Ring Could Speak”, but it sounds even better when it resonates off on a great crowd! (Hint, hint!) In addition to the presentation of their 14th degree ring and cap, each of our newly obligated Brothers will be enrolled in the Master Craftsman program courtesy of the Valley.
(As a note, the Master Craftsman Program is sponsored by our Supreme Council and is open to all Brothers. If interested in learning more about our Rite, degrees, and history, you can enroll through the website www.scottishrite.org. The cost is nominal, particularly considering that it includes an outstanding text easily worth the entire cost.)

Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday, March 8. Don’t forget to set your clocks ahead one hour.

Coming Up – April 8 is our Remembrance and Renewal Ceremony. The extinguishing and re-lighting of the lights is an ecumenical ceremony, and is open to all family and friends. Once known as Maundy Thursday and obligatory, it is nonetheless a most important date on our Scottish Rite calendar. The team sincerely hopes that you’ll mark the date and join us. And, if you need any more incentive, Ill. Br. Secretary Skip reminds that the Lodge will pick up the tab for the dinner for our Ladies.

For the Good of the Order

• If you know of a friend or Brother in financial need, please contact our Valley Almoner, Br. Rick Bonnell at 360-491-4959. If the need is genuine, we want to try to help!

• Don’t forget our new website; at www.olympiascottishrite.org Add it to your “Favorites”.

• It’s late, but not too late to join the reunion at Guthrie. I understand fifteen area Brothers are heading towards Sooner-land. If I can get my ducks in a row, there will be at least sixteen! This has always been tremendous Masonic experience!

If the timing for Guthrie doesn’t work, or you’d like to see the work of another Orient, our Sovereign Grand Inspector General William R. Miller suggests another reunion from April 15-18. The combined Orients of North and South Carolina will sponsor a 29 Degree Reunion in Charlotte, NC. Charlotte is a pretty easy trip from Seattle and the degrees will be done under the auspices of the Supreme Council's ritual committee. SGIG Bill will be there and would love to have company from Washington.

If interested and for further details, see Illustrious Brother Secretary Skip Sanford, 33°. (skipkathryn@aol.com or 360-280-4108.)

Finally, a few words about Fidelity and Duty

Brothers, many of us just witnessed again the presentation of the 4th Degree, Secret Master. Among the lessons espoused in that Degree are the importance and obligation of fidelity and duty. As Albert Pike stated (Morals and Dogma p. 111-12) “Weigh well what it is you promise; but once the promise and pledge are given remember that he who is false to his obligation will be false to his family, his friends, his country, and to God.”
Let us remember that we, as Scottish Rite Masons, have promised and pledged to support the Rite, our Orient, our Valley, and our Brother. It is the fact that we take our obligations seriously that makes Scottish Rite more than a mere club. While each of us has a different cable tow, let us take a moment to ask ourselves just what our personal promise and pledge is truly worth as it relates to our Valley programs. Brothers rightfully want and deserve quality dinners, programs, and degrees. However, that only happens when we all pitch in and honor our commitments. It is terribly demoralizing to those Brothers who step up to serve as an Officer, arrange for a lunch or dinner, organize a work-party, or head up a program to have a Brother say ‘yes’, and then fail to follow through. Obviously, once in a while we all fall short; but Brothers, let’s remember that when we make a commitment we are duty-bound to keep it. We owe it both to the Rite and to our reputation as a Mason.

Fraternally,
Kris

14th degree

2009-02-28T13:57:00.000-08:00

by Ed Woods

On February 25, 2009 the Brothers of Olympia Vally Scottish Rite gathered for the 14th degree. This event was well attended by the Brothern who came to show their support for our candidates, Brothers Chris Stanley and Pete Bezy. This was of course followd by a great meal prepared by Capital Court #37 Order of Amaranth.

What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

2009-02-04T20:56:00.000-08:00

by Kris Graap

February 11 – Dinner at 6:30, Fourth Degree
February 25 – Dinner at 6:30, Fourteen Degree

Since February honors our US Presidents, try this little quiz. As a note, some names are used more than once. If you get 100%, you deserve a Doctorate in History – Good Luck! (Answers below)

1. I was the only President who was made a Mason on Sight. As a hint, I also served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court after serving as President.

2. I was the only person to serve as a US Senator after serving as US President.

3. I am the only President who was also a King.

4. I was also a Senator after serving as President, and in fact I served two non-consecutive terms as President. As a hint, I also served as Governor and US Representative, but from a different state as I represented as a Senator.

5. Only President who served as Master of his Lodge while serving as President.

6. I assisted in the cornerstone laying of the Smithsonian Institution.

7. I was the first Honorary Grand Master of Order of DeMolay.

8. We both also served as Honorary Grand Masters of the Order of DeMolay.

9. I ran with a Brother on one ticket, and ran against a Brother on another ticket.

10. I was a US citizen and known as Father of my Country, but never as President. I was Secretary of State at the time of my death.

11. I legally became a Mason prior to age eighteen.

12. I was a Mason but never a Master Mason.

13. We were both Grand Masters.

14. I was the only President who served as Master of his Lodge while serving as President.

15. I was the only President of the US who never married.

16. These two Brothers were both assassinated while serving as President.

17. For which twenty consecutive years was the President a Mason?

18. We are the only two 33° Masons.

19. 19 years passed between my EA and MM degrees.

20. I was a charter member of Harmony Lodge.

For the Good of the Order

• Don’t forget our new website, at www.olympiascottishrite.org Add it to your “Favorites”.

• If you’re able to get away for a few days during the first weekend of April, the reunion at Guthrie has always been tremendous Masonic experience! Several Brothers have already committed to this event.

If the timing for Guthrie doesn’t work, or you’d like to see the work of another Orient, our Sovereign Grand Inspector General William R. Miller suggests another reunion from April 15-18. The combined Orients of North and South Carolina will sponsor a 29 Degree Reunion in Charlotte, NC. Charlotte is a pretty easy trip from Seattle and the degrees will be done under the auspices of the Supreme Council's ritual committee. SGIG Bill will be there and would love to have company from Washington.

Quiz answers: 1. William Howard Taft; 2. Andrew Johnson; 3. Gerald R. Ford (name at birth Leslie King); 4. Sam Houston, President of the Republic of Texas (Gov. and Rep of Tennessee, Senator from the State of Texas); 5. George Washington; 6. James Knox Polk; 7. Franklin D. Roosevelt, in 1934; 8. Harry Truman and Gerald Ford; 9. Theodore Roosevelt (ran with Wm. McKinley and against Wm Howard Taft); 10. Stephen F. Austin (not a President, but Father of his Country); 11. James Monroe (at the time there was no age designating manhood); 12.Lyndon Baines Johnson; 13. Old Hickory (TN) and Harry S Truman (MO); 14. Not a trick, it’s still George Washington – you needed some extra credit anyway! J 15. James Buchanan; 16. James A. Garfield, Wm. McKinley; 17.1933 through 1953; 18. Gerald Ford and HST (As a note, FDR was slated to receive the Honor, but passed on prior to notification.) 19. Warren G. Harding; 20. When the North Carolina Lodge became Harmony Lodge #1 of Tennessee, Andy Jackson was a member.

Istallation of Olympia Valley Officers for 2009

2009-02-04T20:30:00.000-08:00

by Ed Woods

Brothers, a great turnout for the instillation of the 2009 Officers for Scottish Rite bodies of the Olympia Valley. The dinner was well attended and fellowship was in the air. Once the Brothers satisfied their appetite, they all moved into the main Lodge room where the elected officers were installed to their respective positions. Illustrious Brother Don White served as the installing officer with the aide of Bro. Rod Mason serving as the Master of Ceremonies. Bro. Casper Leblanc was installed as the Lodge of Perfection Venerable Master followed by the rest of the Officers for the Olympia Valley, year 2009. Illustrious Bro. Skip Sanford was appointed by our Sovereign Grand Inspector General Illustrious Bro. William R. Miller as the Valleys General Secretary. Please be sure congratulate your newly elected and appointed officers and give them your support for another successful year.

What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

2009-01-24T17:28:00.000-08:00

Kris Graap

January 28 – Dinner at 6:30, Installation of Officers at 7:30 (Open to the public)

Please bring your better half or a good friend to support incoming VM Caspar LeBlanc. He promises to have an interesting program of events slated, but he will need our help and encouragement. As Caspar would say, “That starts next Wednesday. Be there! No excuses.”

For the Good of the Order

• Don’t forget our new website, at www.olympiascottishrite.org Add it to your “Favorites”.

• If you’re able to get away for a few days during the first weekend of April, the reunion at Guthrie has always been tremendous Masonic experience! Several Brothers have already committed to this event.

If the timing for Guthrie doesn’t work, or you’d like to see the work of another Orient, our Sovereign Grand Inspector General William R. Miller suggests another reunion from April 15-18. The combined Orients of North and South Carolina will sponsor a 29 Degree Reunion in Charlotte, NC. Charlotte is a pretty easy trip from Seattle and the degrees will be done under the auspices of the Supreme Council's ritual committee. SGIG Bill will be there and would love to have company from Washington.

If interested in either trip and for further details, see Illustrious Brother Secretary Skip Sanford, 33°.

• Lastly, Illustrious Dean Alban 33° offers greetings from the Supreme Council offices of Computer Services and Membership Services. They want to get the New Year off to a great start, so we have recorded a brief video just to say “Hello” and to wish you well!
Click or paste the link below to view the message.
http://mimeo.com/2837937

Have a wonderful 2009!

2009-01-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

by Kris Graap

What’s happening in the Valley of Olympia

January 14 – Dinner at 6:30, Lodge of Perfection meeting at 7:30
January 28 – Dinner at 6:30, Installation of Officers at 7:30 (Open to the public)

Out with the old, In with the new

As the odometer flips a digit, 2009 promises to be a pivotal year for many Americans. Scottish Rite, both nationally and locally is not immune to these challenges.

For 2009, I’m certain that newly elected VM Caspar LeBlanc will have an interesting program of events slated. I also know that Caspar and his team will need all of our help to make the year a positive and memorable one. Please join me in offering our help and encouragement, and in sincere congratulations on his election as Venerable Master.

We also offer congrats and thanks to outgoing VM Rick Bonnell for a successful term during 2008.

Cap and Ring Ceremony

2009-01-02T10:09:00.000-08:00

by Kris Graap
December 10th was truly a memorable and enjoyable meeting, jointly held by the Valleys of Olympia and Hoquiam. Prior to the Cap and Ring Ceremony, Michael Bulloch (son of Br. Don) of the Olympia DeMolay Chapter gave a beautiful rendition of the “Candle Talk”, and received a standing ovation from those in attendance.

Caps and rings were presented by Personal Reps John Lenander and Don Watkins to almost a dozen new Brothers, assisted by Ill. Br. Don White, 33, VM Rick Bonnell, and Br. Bruce York, Director of Degrees. Br. Caspar LeBlanc provided an outstanding oration of “If your Ring could speak”, and each Brother and significant other stepped through the beautiful giant ring created by Br. Jerry Schroder several years ago. Each new Brother was also presented with the new text and initial quiz for the new Master Craftsman program and encouraged to participate by Valley program mentor Br. Rod Mason.

Prior to the meeting, it was truly wonderful to see the dining room almost full as we enjoyed a wonderful supper and fellowship. As a note, as the only “non-Sheltonite” I was honored and fortunate enough to sit among new Brothers Jerry Lingle,Russ Cooper, Fred Corbett and their ladies. I haven’t laughed so much in a long time (almost to the point where I had to be careful as to when to swallow my food!) I don’t know if there’s something in the water up in Mason County, but it’s obvious that the spirit of Masonry is alive and well up Hwy 101!

Cap and Ring Ceremony

2008-12-02T07:27:00.000-08:00

by Kris Graap

Cap and Ring Ceremony

The Valley of Olympia is pleased to have 9 new Brothers in the 2008 Fall Class. Each of these new Brothers will receive his cap and ring on December 10. This is a public event so please bring your spouse and family, or a Brother Mason who may be interested in our Rite.

December 10 – Cap and Ring Ceremony, Dinner at 6:30, meeting at 7:30

Note: Because of Christmas, there is no meeting on December 24.

Lastly....

2008-12-02T07:25:00.000-08:00

I thought many of you would enjoy the following, by our Past Sovereign Grand Commander. He says a great deal about who we are, and what we should be. I believe that it is still timely, almost 150 years later.
Fraternally,
Kris

Some Thoughts on the Nature and Purposes of Freemasonry – A. Pike

It is very desirable that Freemasons should understand what Freemasonry is. If it were everything at once that even its Initiates imagine it to be, it would be difficult to conceive of anything more intrinsically incongruous. It is not a merely benevolent association, for the mutual relief and assistance, and the dispensing of small charities to the needy. It is not a society for mutual admiration, got up in order to gratify the ambition or the vanity of those who are fond of office, insignia and jewels, of the glories of resonant epithets, and the gauds of high-sounding titles.

It is not a system of political clubs or organizations, conservative, radical or revolutionary. It wears neither the mask of the Carbonari, the cowl of the Jesuit, nor the black robe of the Inquisitor.

It is neither a religious or irreligious Order or Church, propagating any faith or unfaith whatever. Its altars are neither Hebraic, Mohammedan nor Christian, but simply Masonic.

It is not the apostle of any particular form of government, not the advocate of any peculiar political faith.

It is the Apostle, the Preacher, the Advocate of Truth alone, and not as the creed of any man, or party, or multitude of men. It will not descend from the high places on which it sits enthroned, to engage in controversies and polemics, to become the organ of a party, an agent to effect political changes, or a schoolmaster to teach rudimentary lessons or a particular class of political, governmental, or economical ideas.

If wisely conceived and carefully expressed, all these may be applications of Masonry; but they are not Masonry itself….

Freemasonry is advancement towards the Light, on all the lines of progress, moral intellectual and spiritual....

If Masonry were merely an association of persons, united for mutual assistance and protection, its aims would no doubt be laudable; it would perhaps be strong in numbers; and it might thrive for many years. But if that had been its whole purpose, it would never have been enabled to measure the term of its existence by centuries, and when it had grown so old as to have forgotten its own origin and the names of its founders, to continue as hale and vigorous as ever. Nor would the possession of its antique secrets, stirring the curiosity of men, and drawing them with a force irresistible towards its Temples, have given it that perpetuity and perennial youth.

It outlasts the ages, because its aims are higher and nobler than the mere communication of mysterious secrets, or the affording of mutual and reciprocal assistance.

It requires of its initiates that they shall be useful to society. It desires to be itself a benefactor of even the unborn generations; that its influences, the consequences of its teachings, of its toils and its charities, may flow, ever broadening and deepening, far down into the remote Future.
It teaches those who frequent its Temples, that the nobility of human nature is displayed in WORK; that it is the destiny of every one to LABOUR; and that out of WORK alone, earnest and faithful, comes the blessing of man’s days; that Life is a battle, in which we are bravely to fight, and in which no craven spirit can succeed; that rest is a blessing that can only be purchased with victory over temptation, difficulty, and our passion; after which conquest alone we can repose our shields.…

The performance of duty is the law of Masonry. The performance of duty is Masonry.
That law was enacted for it, and that nature assigned it, when it first appeared, vigorous in its youth, at a period unknown to us, to shine with a steady and peaceful light upon the darkness of ancient ages.

The noblest, if not indeed the only noble use, to which we can devote our strength, our energies, our faculties, our intellect, is to labour for the benefit of others, to instruct, to guide, to enrich with physical comforts, and moral healthfulness and intellectual wealth, the less favoured of our race; not alone our children, friends, neighbors, but those remote from us and even unknown to us; separated from us even by wide spaces of time yet unelapsed; to be born hereafter; to people this earth when we have left it; to build their habitations and their cities, and the monuments of their ancestors, upon our unknown graves….

There are reforms that Masonry can help to initiate. Every Mason can hold the man dishonoured whose soul is tainted with a lie. He can refuse his vote and voice to every man, and his subscription to every journal that does not, strictly, and in the most minute particulars and details, adhere to the simple truth. For falsehood is a fouler disease than the leprosy; and when it becomes common, turns the very life-blood of the nation putrid in its arteries.

Every Mason can practice temperance, economy and frugality; and avoid in himself and his family that ostentatious luxury by which so many nations have fallen.
And every one can find some way in which to so something for his country, or at least for the community in which he lives, without the hope of fee or reward….

We invite you and all the Brethren to aid us in thus enlarging the borders and augmenting the splendours and increasing the usefulness of the Ancient and Accepted Rite. Let its Temples of Perfection, in all their modest and harmonious proportions, be reared everywhere in the Jurisdiction, and a numerous and ever-increasing Brotherhood gather around the Cubical Stone in each, and there devote themselves to the service of God, their Country and their Brethren! Let these real Masters’ Lodges be open to call good and true Masons; but let their gates be sternly closed against the narrow-minded and the sordid.

Let the Chapters of Rose Croix teach incessantly their holy doctrines, of LIBERTY, with order and subordination, EQUALITY in the presence of the law, and BROTHERHOOD, that demands of the children of a common father, love for each other, mutual assistance, forbearance and protection.

Let the Councils of Kadosh teach hatred of tyranny and resistance to tyrants; free Thought, free Conscience and free Speech.

And let us gather into these Bodies and into our Consistories the learned, the intellectual, the zealous and the unselfish of the Order; and thus array around our altars and under our banners, a gallant soldiery, ever ready to devote their lives to the service of their country, to maintain public order, to carry forward needed reforms, and in every emergency to maintain the honour and increase the glories of their Fatherland!
And may we all, in whatever great troubles may come upon the Country, amid whatever adversities may oppress her, so shape our course, so bear ourselves in every emergency, so decide among conflicting claims to duty, as becomes good men and Masons! Amen! So mote it be!

Happy Thanksgiving from the Valley of Olympia

2008-11-27T09:51:00.000-08:00

My Brothers;
I join PR Jon Lenander, Sec'y Skip Sanford and VM Ricky Bonnell in wishing you a most wonderful Thanksgiving.

Personally, I’ve always admired Thanksgiving as the most meaningful of all the Holidays we celebrate throughout the year. While not exclusively American as a national Holiday, it is certainly American in origin. It is not a religious Holiday, yet for most us it is a special opportunity to give thanks to our Creator for our many blessings and comforts, for our families, and for our joys. At the same time, my atheistic friends can also express an appreciation and share in an introspection of life that is meaningful and heartfelt, in celebrating Thanksgiving.

For too many, 2008 has not been kind, whether it be the economy or conflicts overseas, for declines in health or other issues. The news today unfortunately is often filled with doom and gloom, spreading fear and giving a jaundiced eye toward the true picture. As Americans, we should continue to be extremely thankful for the many, many blessings we are provided. To billions of people around the world, America remains the Promised Land. For most of us - we have plenty of food, we have clean water, we have warm beds to sleep in and clean clothes to wear. We have family, friends and Brothers that we can count on. We have hope for a better tomorrow.
In an odd sense, I am even thankful for the recession to which we seem to be now immersed, as it has forced many of us to re-focus on what is truly important in our lives. Maybe one silver lining is that Thanksgiving will cease being seen as simply a day of food and football, and the kick-off to the Christmas buying season.

Brothers, if you are going to enjoy a great meal and the warm company of your family this Thursday, don’t forget to give a prayer of thanks for what we do have; rather than dwell on what we may lack. Conversely, if you do know of a Brother or neighbor who may be alone or hungry this Thanksgiving, if you cannot help please contact one of us who maybe can. There may be no better opportunity to express true Masonic Charity - in sharing our time, our caring, and our table.

Have a most Happy Thanksgving, and may the Supreme Architect continue to Bless us one and all. So mote it be.
Fraternally,
Kris

A message from Personal Representative Jon Lenander:

2008-11-09T22:42:00.001-08:00

Greetings to my Scottish Rite Brethren;

We are back into our Fraternal regimen for this fall. Our class of candidates consists of 9 from the Olympia Valley plus several from other Valleys as courtesy work. It is great to see that many new Scottish Rite Masons! Lets all turn out to our reunion meetings to welcome our new Brothers! Better yet volunteer to take a part in the degree work. We need to demonstrate to our candidates that we are happy and proud that they have chosen to join with us.
14th Degree: Wednesday, November 12 @ 7:30 pm
18th through 32nd Degrees: Saturday, November 15 9 am

Our KidSpeak program is on the move. We are presently working on an agreement with Group Health to provide therapy on a contract basis. We will keep you posted on our progress.
Wednesday November 12 at 5 pm is our Executive Board meeting. We will be nominating officers for the coming year. Show up and make your views known, all are encouraged to attend.
Ill. Br. Skip is planning a Guthrie trip for the spring reunion. This is a truly memorable experience and worth the time and expense involved. I expect to attend again this year and my son Jon will attend as a candidate (if the birth of Jon & Suzy’s first child does not conflict). The reunion is the first weekend in April. The Oklahoma Scottish Rite Masons are Magnificent hosts, so make every effort to join us.
Best wishes to all for a joyous Holiday season!

JON

Degree Activity in the Valley of Olympia

2008-11-06T22:25:00.000-08:00

by Kris Graap

At our last meeting in October, we welcomed a dozen Brothers receiving their 4th Degree, well conferred by WB Jack Sowers and his team. In addition to Br. Jack, his team consisted of Brs. Damian Kolb, Kris Graap, Ed Woods, Jon Kime, Ricky Bonnell, Jay Stewart, Tim Grisham, and Bruce York. Special kudos to Br. Ed Woods, for an excellent memorization of his Orator part, and to Br. Jay Stewart for a yeoman effort of organizing the work, manning the computer, and keeping a cool head when everyone else was losing theirs. J Many of the candidates came down from the Valley of Tacoma, and we enjoyed the company of our Tacoma Brothers, including Ill. Brs. Alan Spreen and Bill Hammontree.

Our 14th Degree will be conferred a week from Wednesday, with the other obligatory degrees the following Saturday. Another several Brothers will be coming from Hoquiam for the Saturday degrees, so we’d certainly hope and expect a good turnout of our Olympia Brethren. The candidates, and the Brothers taking part in the dramas, draw much energy and support from the side-liners, so please find time to attend if you can.

Olympia Valley Fall Reunion - October 22, 2008

2008-10-18T12:09:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, October 22, 2008 we will start a great evening with a dinner at 6:30 pm with the meeting to follow at 7:30 pm where the 4Th degree is scheduled. We have a very large class and would love to have the sidelines filled. The degree team has been working very very hard. Please join us.

Scottish Rite golf tournament

2008-09-10T13:46:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Scottish Rite golf tournament went off without a hitch. Thanks to Bro. Rod Mason and his Brothers efforts the tournament was a big success. The hole in one went to the youngest participant. All who attended had a great time. Keep you calendar open for a repeat next year that is sure to please.

Who are we...

2008-07-06T00:35:00.000-07:00

The Scottish Rite is an accordant body of Freemasonry in which a Master Mason may proceed after he has complete the degrees conferred in Blue Lodge. The Scottish Rite confers 32 degrees. The 33 degree is an honorary degree that is conferred by the Supreme Council for outstanding work in the community or Rite.

When we meet...

2008-07-06T00:34:00.000-07:00

Our Valley meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at the Masonic Center at 521 North Street in Tumwater Washington, and have a program either at dinner or just prior to our meeting. Ladies are invited to all dinners. We invite all sojourners to visit and enjoy good Brotherhood. we have a dinner at 6:30 with the meeting to follow at 7:30 PM.

Olympia Valley Knights of Saint Andrews

2008-07-06T00:27:00.000-07:00

We meet the fourth Wednesday of each month immediately after the regular Scottish Rite meeting.