VOL. 3, Issue 6

June 2024

Scottish Rite

The Ashlar

Valley of Columbus, Orient of Georgia

Serving Scottish Rite Masons in the Chattahoochee Valley

Personal Representative's Message


Joseph F. Oelgoetz III, 33° 

colpr@gascottishrite.org

Personal Representative 

to the SGIG


Greetings Brethren,

 

Illustrious Brother Roger Buterbaugh 33°


Our General Secretary and, currently serving as our Venerable Master, Illustrious Brother Roger Buterbaugh, 33° and his Lady Donna have gone through a lot.  During their river cruise in Germany, Roger contracted pancreatitis and was taken to a hospital in Cologne, Germany.  He developed complications and remained in the hospital until May 23rd.  He and Donna were airlifted to the Eisenhower Medical Facility at Fort Gordon (Fort Eisenhower) in Augusta, Georgia on May 24th.  At the time of this writing, he and Donna are currently in Augusta. UPDATE: Ill Brother Roger is now in Atlanta Piedmont Hospital. He underwent a surgery on Monday morning under the care of 4 doctors who removed his Gallblader, most of his Pancreas, and more. The Doctor said it will take a few months to recover. (as of 10 June 2024)


I am so very proud of our Scottish Rite Brothers and other Freemasons in Europe.  They stepped up and came to Roger and Donna’s aid immediately.  These Brothers went above and beyond the call of duty.  I want to especially thank Honorable Brother Cameron Davis, 32° KCCH, Brother Frank Ullmann (a candidate of the Valley of Columbus) and Bro Arda Çilingir, 32° for their help.  


Brother Cameron coordinated all efforts with the brethren.  He initiated the medical flight and served as the liaison between the patient transportation managers at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, the travel insurance company (Generali), initial flight coordination, and the hospital. Brother Cameron spoke with Lady Donna daily and provided her with assistance needed and coordinated this with our brethren in Cologne.  


Brother Frank Ullmann who lives in Cologne provided local support to Lady Donna.  He also visited Illustrious Roger a few times.  Bro Frank took Donna shopping, provided currency exchange, language translation, and general support.  He also took Donna out to eat a few times.


Our Brother Arda Çilingir, 32° coordinated a Lodge of Turkish Brothers living in Cologne to serve as back-up and on call should Donna need anything during the periods of time that Brother Frank was out of town.


Additionally, once it was known that Illustrious Brother and Donna would be flown to Augusta I received a call from Illustrious Brother Jack Goldenberg, 33°, a member of the Valley of Augusta.  He offered to coordinate the brethren in Augusta to assist Donna and her family while Illustrious Brother Roger was in the Eisenhower Medical Center.


Freemasonry is truly a Brotherhood and these, our brothers, showed their brotherly love and support for both Illustrious Brother Roger and his lady Donna.  God Bless you Brethren.  


Reunion


We held an outstanding Spring Reunion Friday and Saturday, May 17th and 18th.  There are so many brethren to thank that participated in the Degrees.  All I can say is Thank You!  I am proud to say that we have four new Masters of the Royal Secret:



Congratulations my brothers and welcome to the family of the Scottish Rite, Valley of Columbus!


I also want to recognize the following brethren that are members of Mt. Hermon Lodge No. 304 Free & Accepted Masons who have petitioned the Valley of Columbus for the Degrees of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite via courtesy work done by the Scottish Rite Valley of Washington DC.  They will become Masters of the Royal Secret and members of our Valley of Columbus during their European Reunion in October.  They are:



Please join me in congratulating and welcoming them to the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite.


Cap & Ring, Scholarships


Please join us in celebration of our newest Masters of the Royal Secret at our next Lodge of Perfection meeting on June 21st.  We will be holding our Cap and Ring Ceremony.  Dinner, as usual, will begin at 6:00pm and the Lodge of Perfection will be opened at 7:00pm.  Guests are welcome – Ladies eat free.  Please plan to attend and extending a grand welcome and congratulations to our newest part of our family.


Additionally, we will be awarding three scholarships to deserving college students the same night.  Each will receive a scholarship of $1,000 in support of their continued education at a Georgia recognized college or University.    



Please attend our June Lodge of Perfection meeting (June 21st) and join us in congratulating these deserving students.


Dress Code for Summer


I am happy to announce that through September that business casual will be the norm for all Lodge of Perfection meetings.  Business Casual is defined as collared shirts, slacks (not jeans) and please, no sandals.  


The Power of 3 & RiteCare


The Power of 3 is an Orient of Georgia wide program to raise $3 Million in 3 Years for the Scottish Rite RiteCare programs which fund early interventions for childhood speech and language disorders at low or no cost.  Critical to the success of this program is to have member focus at the Valley level.  Illustrious Brother Phil Harris, 33° is heading up our RiteCare Committee.  Brother Jim Davis, 32° is a member of the RiteCare Committee and will focus on this very important project – Power of 3 - for our RiteCare philanthropy.   The Foundation also supports Scholarships for deserving Georgia students as well as funds all the RiteCare speech and language disability clinics in the Orient of Georgia.  This includes the Valley of Columbus’ RiteCare partner, the Autism Learning Center of Columbus.  


This important effort needs focus, so we thank Brother Jim Davis, 32° and Illustrious Brother Phil Harris, 33° for their efforts on this.  If you have any questions, want to assist, or make donations to the Power of 3 program, please speak to either Brothers Harris or Davis.


I look forward to seeing each one of you in the quarries of the Valley of Columbus, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite.


Warmest Fraternal Regards,  Joe

Key Notes from the Valley

Scottish Rite Valley of Columbus - 2024 Officers 

Lodge of Perfection

Chapter Knights Rose Croix

Council of Kadosh

Consistory

Roger Buterbaugh, 33°

Scan here for our online petition(https://scottishrite.jotform.com/222923700194957)

Venerable Master &
General Secretary

Comments

Dear Brethren, 

In the absence of Ill Brother Roger, I have taken on some of his administrative duties until his return or until a more viable solution is developed. As such, I am providing a quick agenda for our next Lodge of Perfection meeting and I have taken the liberty of raising the alarm in a call for action regarding outstanding dues balances, which are causing financial hardship on the Valley.

First, we have an exciting and meaningful agenda planned for our next meeting. As Ill Brother Joe has announced, through September the attire for all Lodge of Perfection meetings will be business casual.  As a reminder, Business Casual is defined as collared shirts, slacks (not jeans) and no sandals. 

We look forward to your participation and fellowship by Zoom or in person as we honor our commitments and traditions. 

Now on to the more painful aspect of this message. As we approach the midway point of 2024, it is imperative to address a critical issue affecting our beloved Valley. Currently, 18 Brothers, representing 7.2% of our membership, have yet to pay their 2024 dues. This amounts to $2,700 in outstanding fees. Additionally, 25 Brothers, accounting for 10% of our membership, are in arrears, which totals $7,350. Combined, these unpaid dues represent a significant loss of $10,050.

This financial shortfall has profound implications for our Valley. One of the most pressing concerns, as you will read in the Building Committee report below, is the state of our building, which is under major disrepair. The required maintenance and repairs are urgent, and without proper funding, addressing these issues is simply not possible. The integrity of our building is not just a matter of aesthetics; it is about ensuring a safe and functional space for all our activities and gatherings.

Membership dues are the lifeblood of our organization. They ensure that we can continue to provide a space for fellowship, support our various charitable initiatives, and maintain the operational aspects of our Valley. Here are a few key reasons why paying your dues is so important:

This year marked a remarkable milestone as we celebrated 100 years as a Scottish Rite Body and 91 years in our historic building on 2nd Avenue. Over the past century, our Valley has built a legacy of brotherhood, service, and community. Our building is not just a structure; it is a symbol of our shared heritage and the countless memories and achievements we have created together.

Maintaining this historic site is a tribute to the generations of Brothers who have come before us and a gift to those who will follow in our footsteps. Ensuring its preservation is a responsibility we all share.

To the Brothers who have yet to pay their 2024 dues or are in arrears, we urge you to take action. Your timely contribution is crucial for the sustainability of our Valley. We understand that circumstances can sometimes make it difficult to meet these obligations, and we are here to assist you if you need support or a payment plan. Please, do not hesitate to reach out and ask for help, I am certain we can always find a solution.

Let us all come together to support our Valley. By ensuring that your dues are paid, you are making a direct investment in the future of our organization. Your contribution helps us maintain our facilities, support our Brothers, and continue our important work within the community.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued commitment to the Valley of Columbus. Let us uphold our values and ensure that our Valley remains a vibrant and supportive community for all its members.

Fraternally yours,

Cameron J. Davis, 32°, KCCH


FOR Roger Buterbaugh, 33° 

General Secretary

Valley of Columbus

Cameron J. Davis, 32° KCCH

Fraternally,

Cameron J. Davis, 32° KCCH
European Representative
Valley of Columbus, Ga.
colkm@gascottishrite.org

President
AMSRB-NATO e.V.
Valley of Washington, DC
cameron.davis@amsrb-nato.com

Venerable Master/General Secretary & the European Representative - Strasbourg, France, 4 May 2024
Brother Frank Ullmann,  Mt. Hermon Lodge No. 304, securing the Buterbaugh family luggage in Cologne, Germany

European Representative

Comments

Dear Brethren,


It has been a long and challenging month for many of us, particularly for our dear Ill Brother Roger and Lady Donna Buterbaugh. Their journey through Europe took an unexpected and difficult turn, reminding us of the profound duty we have as Master Masons to help, aid and assist our distressed Brothers and their families in times of need.

Freemasonry, being a fraternal organization that traces its roots back to the stonemason guilds of the Middle Ages, is shrouded in tradition, symbolism, and ritual. Among its many tenets, the concept of the "Mystic Tie" stands out as one of the most profound and enduring. This term, often referred to in Masonic literature and discourse, encapsulates the deep and intangible bond that unites Freemasons around the world. But what exactly is the Mystic Tie, and why does it hold such significance in Freemasonry?

The Mystic Tie is not a physical object but a metaphorical bond that symbolizes the universal brotherhood of Freemasons. It is rooted in the principles of fraternity, equality, and mutual support that are central to Masonic philosophy. The term itself suggests a connection that transcends the ordinary and touches upon the spiritual and the eternal.

Historically, Freemasonry emerged from the operative stonemasons' guilds of medieval Europe. These guilds were not only professional associations but also communities bound by shared values and mutual assistance. As Freemasonry evolved into a speculative fraternity, the concept of the Mystic Tie emerged to represent the enduring connection between members, regardless of their geographic location or social status.

In Masonic symbolism, the Mystic Tie is often associated with the cable tow, a rope used in Masonic rituals that signifies an initiate's connection to the fraternity. While the cable tow has specific ritualistic meanings, the Mystic Tie extends beyond any single symbol or ceremony. It represents the lifelong commitment of Freemasons to support one another, to uphold Masonic values, and to work towards the betterment of society.

Rituals and ceremonies in Freemasonry are designed to reinforce this sense of connection. Through the initiation process, candidates are introduced to the principles of Freemasonry and are symbolically bound to their fellow Masons. This bond is reinforced through subsequent degrees and the sharing of Masonic teachings and experiences.

The recent events surrounding Ill Brother Roger vividly illustrate the power of the Mystic Tie in practice. As many of you know, he and Lady Donna were on a Viking cruise on the Rhine River, which led them through Germany. On 4 May 2024, they docked in Strasbourg, France, where I had the great pleasure to meet with them.

Tragically, during their journey, Ill Brother Roger fell seriously ill with acute pancreatitis, leading to additional medical issues that required intensive care. He was admitted to a hospital in Cologne and remained in ICU, fighting for his health. The situation was dire and the Buterbaugh's were far from home, but the Mystic Tie of Freemasonry quickly became evident.

I could not be prouder of our European Brothers, who embodied the spirit of Masonic brotherhood and rallied to support Ill Brother Roger and Lady Donna. As such, we were able to serve as a direct support system and liaison, coordinating assistance and planning efforts to ensure the Buterbaughs received the help they needed. This included visiting Ill Brother Roger in the hospital, providing moral support, and managing all forms of logistics.

When the time came for Ill Brother Roger to be transported back to the United States for further medical care, the European Brothers again stepped in. On 24 May 2024, he departed Germany on a Medical Transportation flight but, unfortunately there was no room for their luggage. Undeterred, the European Brothers coordinated efforts to ship their belongings back to Georgia, demonstrating their commitment to supporting their fellow Mason in every way possible.

Ill Brother Roger is now in a hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, continuing his recovery. The European Brethren are deeply grateful to have been able to help the Buterbaughs during this challenging time. We all feel that our assistance was not only about fulfilling our duty as Masons but also about the pleasure and honor of serving our Brother and his family in their time of need.

As I close this article, I would like to give a special thanks to Brother Frank Ullmann for all his dedicated efforts in Cologne and Brother Arda Çilingir, 32° for helping me coordination suitable support. Holistically, I am grateful for all their invaluable assistance during these challenging times. Both Brother Frank and Brother Arda are members of Mt. Hermon Lodge No. 304 and their actions exemplified how a Mason should act in such times of need. Their dedication and support were instrumental in ensuring that Ill Brother Roger and Lady Donna received the care and help they needed.

This situation exemplifies the timeless relevance of the Mystic Tie. In today's fast-paced and often disconnected world, the bond shared by Freemasons provides a sense of belonging and purpose. It emphasizes values such as brotherhood, integrity, and charity, fostering personal growth and social contribution.

The assistance provided to Ill Brother Roger and Lady Donna underscores how the Mystic Tie challenges Freemasons to look beyond their own needs and consider the well-being of others. This outward focus is essential for fostering a more compassionate and equitable society.

The Mystic Tie is a powerful and enduring concept that encapsulates the essence of Masonic brotherhood. It is a symbol of the deep, spiritual connection that binds us across the globe, transcending time, space, and social distinctions. Through the Mystic Tie, Freemasonry continues to promote its core values of fraternity, equality, and charity, making a positive impact on individuals and communities worldwide.

In an era where genuine connections can be rare, the Mystic Tie reminds us of the importance of unity, support, and shared purpose. It is a testament to the enduring power of human bonds and the timeless relevance of Masonic principles, as illustrated by the remarkable support given to Ill Brother Roger and Lady Donna Buterbaugh in their time of need. I am extremely proud to be a part of such an organization, knowing that if I were ever in such a situation, Gina and I too would be equally cared for. God bless our Fraternity.

Sir Knight Russell Ward, 32°

Knight Commander

Comments

Sir Knights,

I would like to thank each of you for your service. We will begin practices for our meeting in July, conducted by the Knights of St. Andrew. We will have at least one practice and a meeting to hold our election on June 27th. I know this is always an exciting time for our lodge. Also, if any brother would like to join the Knights of St. Andrew, now is the time to do so. Please see any knight to ask for a petition.

Reminder: we have upgraded our internet service, and our Zoom meetings are now better. We have improved audio and video broadcasts during our Lodge of Perfection meetings. If you are out of town or otherwise unable to attend in person, please join via Zoom when possible. This upgrade will also allow us to conduct presentations and Zoom sessions without issues. We are also looking for volunteers to learn how to run the Zoom calls during our meetings. Please see me if you are interested.

Thank you for all that you do to support the Valley of Columbus.

Fraternally,

Sir Knight Russell Ward, 32°
Knight Commander
Knights of St Andrew

Bayardo Reyes, 32° KCCH

Scan here for our online petition(https://scottishrite.jotform.com/222923700194957)

Chairman, Membership Recruitment

Special Comments

Dear Brethren, 

When asked and explaining about The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, what it offers and the many reasons to join: 

Just sharing some pointers as to share with a Master Mason or presenting at a blue lodge.

In Scottish Rite additional Masonic Educational opportunities with lessons taught through allegory, drama, and symbolism, and cover topics such as history, music, the arts, sciences, Masonic philosophy, morality, and religions. Each degree opening new doors of research.

It will open additional Fellowship opportunities that may assist with developing leadership skills and to learn from role models, and to sit with other learners in a sanctuary atmosphere. Members can benefit from such network of brothers of all ages and professions who can provide career advice, mentorship, experience, and potential connections. 

The Rite will guide you with Service by taking on obligations to serve your community, humanity, and fellow brethren and developing a more noble character.  

Charity Involvement as a Scottish Rite Mason. Introducing you to additional legitimate organizations and causes to practice one of the highest virtue as a Master Mason. This can include helping brothers recover from devastation, supporting widows, and helping children with dyslexia/autism (Rite Care)   

I have experienced just about all these reasons and benefits of becoming a Scottish Rite Mason. I would be remised by not being able to share; my brethren, on what we are and being able to express in words. Expressing the why to join this Rite and the going through the orders with its teachings inculcated in it. 

Brethren, be proud of belonging in an honorable and noble Fraternity. Almost as old as craft Lodge. Wear your pins, your ring, act as your obligations demands of you as an example. Ask yourself, am I a Scottish Rite Mason or am I just a member with such title? 

Fraternally yours,


Bayardo Reyes, 32° KCCH

Chairman, Membership Recruitment

Valley of Columbus

College of Freemasonry

The Pillars of Tolerance: Exploring Brotherly Love in Freemasonry

by Cameron J. Davis, 32° KCCH, digitally published 6 May 2024 Art by Chris Röhrich,  32°

In a world marked by diversity, Freemasonry holds a profound lesson on tolerance that resonates with the modern ethos of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. At its core, Freemasonry embraces Brotherly Love, advocating for bonds of kindness and respect that transcend personal and cultural differences. This article aims to explore how Brotherly Love not only fosters deep connections among Freemasons but also serves as a cornerstone for building inclusive and harmonious relationships.

 

Brotherly Love is a foundational tenet of Freemasonry, reflecting the deep bond that Masons strive to establish with their fellow members. This principle encourages actions characterized by support, understanding, and cooperation, extending beyond the lodge into daily life. At its essence, Brotherly Love embodies profound empathy, respect, and acceptance for all individuals, nurturing positive, ethical, and respectful relationships within the Masonic community and the broader world. It encapsulates the ideals of unity and harmony that Freemasons continually seek to promote.

 

But what exactly is tolerance, and how does it integrate into Freemasonry? Tolerance is about recognizing and respecting others' rights to hold different opinions, beliefs, and practices without discrimination. This ethos does not necessarily entail agreement with these differences but advocates for their peaceful coexistence. Freemasonry teaches that true Brotherhood transcends barriers of race, religion, nationality, and social status, welcoming all who pursue a path of moral and spiritual enlightenment.


The practice of tolerance is embedded in Freemasonry's rituals, ceremonies, and teachings, which use symbolic gestures and allegorical lessons to promote diversity and unity. This lived experience of tolerance manifests in the daily interactions among Masons, helping them appreciate and learn from cultural differences, thereby enriching societies and enhancing social cohesion. In an increasingly globalized world, such tolerance is crucial in navigating the diverse religious and cultural landscapes that characterize many lodges today.

In Freemasonry, members gather as equals in the lodge room, setting aside personal prejudices to embrace shared principles. This environment of openness fosters dialogue and understanding, bridging divides, and building empathy. By virtue of the tolerance cultivated within Freemasonry, members are encouraged to extend these behaviors beyond the lodge, influencing their interactions with family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community.

 

Again, being tolerant does not necessarily mean that we have to agree with or endorse the beliefs, opinions, or actions of others. Instead, tolerance involves respecting the rights and dignity of individuals, even when we may fundamentally disagree with them. It means that despite disagreeing, all parties can respect one another and accept that the difference is what makes them unique, never taking the disagreement personal. In Freemasonry, tolerance is a fundamental principle that encourages members to embrace diversity and celebrate differences, fostering a culture of respect, acceptance, and inclusivity.

 

As Masons (and non-Masons alike), we can practice tolerance through a few simple everyday actions:

 

 

As we journey along the path of Freemasonry, let us heed the lessons of tolerance and embrace the beauty of individual differences, weaving a tapestry of Brotherhood that is as diverse as it is united. By exemplifying tolerance in our words and actions, we become beacons of light in a world often fraught with division and discord. Through the practice of tolerance, Freemasons cultivate empathy, respect, and acceptance for one another, transcending barriers of difference and celebrating the richness of diversity. Thus, tolerance is not merely about allowing differences but actively embracing them to build stronger, more cohesive communities based on mutual respect and understanding.

 

By championing tolerance as a cornerstone of Brotherly Love, Freemasonry invites us all to foster a culture of respect, acceptance, and inclusivity, making a difference in the world—one act of understanding at a time.

Upcoming Events & Programs

HOT Pipe Organ Capital Campaign

Since 1916 the Temple Room at the House of the Temple has had an Organ to make our events even more special with music. The Shantz organ console located behind Lieutenant Grand Commander’s Chair controls the sound from the 1,417 pipes located high above floor level. The acoustics perfectly allow the room to be flooded with sound. Typically, the organ is played by the Grand Organist for various Masonic events and ceremonies. On occasion, guest organists hold concerts in the Temple Room. The public also visits the Temple Room every week during tours at the HOT. 

The current Shantz Organ needs rebuilding and improvement. Currently, only about 50% of the keys will produce correct sounds. This is why the Scottish Rite has opened the HOT Pipe Organ Capital Campaign to save our treasured Organ. We formed a committee of members with vast knowledge and experience in Organs to plan this work. We need to keep music as an important part of the ceremonies and rituals of our fraternity.

Our goal is to raise $400,000 to pay for restoration, improvements to the instrument, and provide an endowment to pay for its maintenance and repairs in the future. Members all around the Southern Jurisdiction are giving, and we are making progress, but we are counting on every member’s help – and your help – to reach the goal.

Gifts to this Capital Campaign are tax deductible as allowed by law. Your gift made payable to the HOT Historic Preservation Foundation can be mailed to: 


Supreme Council - Development Office

Attn: Caitlyn Kent

1733 16th Street N.W.

Washington, DC 20009-3103

Or you can simply call Caitlyn Kent at (202) 777-3111, tell her your gift is for the “Pipe Organ Campaign” and give her your card payment information to complete your gift. All information will be kept confidential.

You can also make your gift directly online by going to: www.ScottishRite.org. Hover over “How to Give”, then “Giving Types” and left click on “Cash Gifts”. You will gain access to a secure jotform with blanks in which to type your information.

If you would like more information about this work or the campaign, please reach out to Donor Officer Phil Shortt at (240) 608-7425 or PShortt@ScottishRite.org. 

Help keep our rich music culture alive in the Scottish Rite by helping with this earnest effort. 

The January/February edition of the Scottish Rite Journal has greater detail about saving the House of the Temple’s Musical Treasure. Go to https://scottishrite.org/media-publications/scottish-rite-journal/the-scottish-rite-journal/ for even more.

Paver Program

The Valley of Columbus is establishing a paver garden in front of the Scottish Rite Center. It will start at the bottom of the steps on both sides of the front porch and extend to the end of each side of the building. It will be similar to the pavers at the Masonic Children's Home in Macon. This is a great opportunity to support the Valley of Columbus Building Fund by purchasing a paver, and to honor those people or organizations that have a special meaning to you (to include yourself!). Complete the order form in this issues of The Ashlar or open in a new window HERE.

300th Celebration Silver Coin

300th Anniversary Coin commemorating the first constituted Grand Lodge from 1717-2017. 1 oz .999 Fine Silver Masonic coin. [One side stamped with Square and Compass and Genesis 1-3. Other Side with Appendant Bodies of masonry and coin sequence Number]. Each are serial number stamped 1-150. Can ask for specific number and availability but requires coordination with Bayardo Reyes at colsm@gascottishrite.org. 

Committee Reports

RiteCare

As a result of our Power of 3 Program plan to raise $3M in 3 years to provide low- or no-cost intervention to help Georgia children with communication disorders find their ‘voice,’ I asked Ryan Gilliam, the Chief Operating Officer of KNR Therapy, how potential RiteCare donations could be used by KNR Therapy at the Autism Learning Center in Columbus. Below is his response:

“Thank you for considering us for your continued generous support. Below, I have provided detailed information regarding our staff, client numbers, the impact of various donation amounts, and our future growth plans.

Current and Projected Staff and Client Numbers:

Projected Numbers in the Next Few Months:

Impact of Donation Amounts:

Potential Funding Utilization Ideas:

We are committed to using donated funds to make the most significant possible impact on our clients and staff. We appreciate your interest in supporting KNR Therapy. Thank you for your consideration and support.”

I believe the biggest impact that increased RiteCare donations can have is to help get more BCBAs and RBTs certified. There is no shortage of children who need help. Let’s make it happen!

Phil Harris, 33°
Chairman, RiteCare
Valley of Columbus


Building Committee

Fellow Scottish Rite Masons of the Valley of Columbus, GA,

As the years go by, we continue to make minor repairs and emergency fixes to our building. However, after many years of small repairs and little maintenance, major repairs have become necessary. We now face the question: is this repair worth the cost, given the age of the structure and the value of the property for us as a non-profit organization?

Several brothers have walked around and visually inspected the structure of our building, both inside and out. Numerous cracks were identified throughout the entire structure.

Due to safety concerns, a professional inspection by foundation repair experts was warranted. The front portion of our building is the oldest and has the most issues because of its wood structure on piers. Some of these piers have sunk, some cross beams are rotting or not touching the floor joists, and many floor joists need replacing.

Previous leaks and a damp crawl space have led to abundant mold. The rear building shows shifting cracks in the bricks on all sides. After many years of use, the age of the building, and some neglect due to costs, our building is in need of extensive and costly repair.

There are other issues that need attention, such as wiring and siding, but our foundation is critical.

Harry Ross, 32° KCCH

Chairman, Building Committee

Valley of Columbus

Membership Retainment

Membership retainment for the Valley of Columbus focuses on fostering a strong sense of community through regular engagement events and personalized member support. The Committee emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating member achievements, ensuring individuals feel valued and connected. By offering continuous educational opportunities and exclusive benefits, the Valley of Columbus aims to keep its members actively involved and committed to its mission.

Richard Luna, 32°

Chairman, Membership Retainment

Valley of Columbus

Director of Works

Who am I and what do I do?

As the Director of Work (DOW), I am the keeper of the ritual for the valley. My responsibilities include maintaining master copies of all the degrees on file and providing copies as needed. I coordinate with degree teams during the two reunions held each year. Each degree has a captain, along with a stage and floor crew, to create a performance that leaves a positive impression on the candidates.

Additionally, I work closely with the Chapter of Rose Croix for two solemn ceremonies. The first, held in the spring, is the Remembrance and Renewal ceremony, which demonstrates the transition from the darkness of death into the light of love and life. The second is the Feast of Tishri, based on the fall harvest and the dedication of King Solomon's Temple.

Rossie Ross, 32° KCCH
Director of Works

Valley of Columbus

Fireworks Committee

It is that time of year again when we enthusiastically prepare to operate the Scottish Rite TNT fireworks stand.

The fireworks will be delivered on June 26, 2024, at 8 AM. We will return any unsold fireworks on July 8, 2024, at 1:45 PM.

With strategic plans in place, I am confident that we will achieve a high volume of sales.

I am grateful for the amazing team of Scottish Rite members who volunteer their time. Their dedication creates a very efficient and productive sales force, which provides monetary support for the Scottish Rite charity, Rite Care. This opportunity to serve is an honor for each one of us.

I personally want to thank every individual who is committed to helping the Scottish Rite stand in advance. Your service and commitment to something bigger than ourselves is seen and appreciated. Thank you for helping make the world a better place by supporting these deserving children.

Matt Burgess, 32°
Chairman, Fireworks Committee

Valley of Columbus

Vol. 3, No. 6 - June 2024