I sincerely hope this issue of the Rite News finds you all well and enjoying all the many beautiful changes in seasons our Supreme Architect is giving us. First, we had more snow than most of us have ever seen at one time; this was followed by a gorgeous spring with some of the most exquisite flowers ever. Summer landed like a blast furnace. Those of us who love the hot, lazy, hazy, dog days of summer were in our glory. Everyone else gave thanks for fans and air conditioners. Each of these changes in seasons contribute to the wonderful harvest we are now enjoying. The fresh fruits and vegetables make it all worthwhile. We should all give thanks!

Isn’t that what the Feast of Tishri is all about? Giving thanks for the bounty of our many blessings. I hope you will join us as we celebrate the harvest and give thanks for the bounty at our annual Feast of Tishri ceremony to be held on October 13th. You will also receive a sample of that fresh harvest just for attending. Please call the office and make your reservation so that we may plan for sufficient gifts.

So far this year it has been unbelievably busy and yet unimaginably rewarding. Because of all of you, I have enjoyed every minute and hope to continue my goal of making the Scottish Rite your home away from home, an organization you are proud to belong to and one you feel good about recommending to your friends.

Over the summer we have made a few changes for your convenience: A new entry from the parking lot and a new seating area before meals and lodges (see related article), added new security cameras at the entrance and in the hallways. These cameras are recording 24/7 for your safety. Cameras are planned for the parking lot as well. Brother Rhinehart and our greeters will still be there to meet you with a smile and a “Good to see you”.

There are so many of you who are working so hard I would be negligent if I did not extend my heartfelt appreciation and thanks. All of the men involved in the degree work have gone above and beyond the call to make each degree one that is not only meaningful but enjoyable. This is accomplished by great degree teams and a dedicated group in property, robing, lighting and sound. We cannot forget the Director and his staff who most times are not seen or recognized. All of our Lodges are meeting more often and their work is much improved. I send a special “Thanks” to all of the dedicated men who serve in the line of a lodge.

The reputation of the Rite Cheer Club continues to grow. Their Thursday luncheons are known far and wide. These home cooked meals with fresh made yeast rolls have grown from only a few to 50 or 60 guests per week. If you have not dined with the Rite Cheer Club on Thursdays, you do not know how much friendship, hospitality and delicious food $5.00 will buy.

Due to the economic times, your almoner and treasurer have been busier than usual but continue to be there for all our
members.

We are trying some new and fun “fund” raisers this fall. All of our Clinicians and other members of the Scottish Rite entered the “Dragon Boat” Races at the Inner Harbor. Check out the web site and sponsor your favorite “rower”. Our Bull and Oyster Roast will be held on Saturday this year and will have many new surprises for all attending. The Scottish Rite Woman’s Club is hard at work to bring you the best Bingo ever. Don’t forget our Cruise to the Caribbean in February, 2011 (see the ad on back cover). Brenda and I would love to have you join us. It is always a wonderful experience. The Grand Suite with a butler may be available as a fund raiser. If you have an idea for a fun “fund” raiser that you feel may work, please let me or one of our office
staff know.

As always, I look forward to being with each of you as I travel throughout our Orient; Brenda and I enjoy the many functions you have been so kind to invite us to attend.

Now, as we pause to give thanks for our multitude of blessings, may our Supreme Architect continue to bless each of us, our gentle Fraternity and the United States of America.

Sincerely and fraternally,