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Greetings Brothers:
It is a great day to be apart of the Scottish Rite in Northern Michigan! The October 4th, 2003 Reunion is now a part of the history of the Valley of Traverse City, and all of us who attended will not soon forget the fellowship, enlightenment, and emotion of that wonderful day.
The day really started months ago as brothers gathered in fellowship in temples and lodges from Traverse City to Grand Rapids and Bay City to prepare for this bi-annual reaffirmation of our faith in ourselves, our ability to make a difference in the world, and our need to search out a higher plain of human condition.
Early in the morning of October 4th, men from all over came together in restaurants all over Traverse City to renew old friendships, produce new memories, and share with others a part of their lives. That's a pretty good start to any day!
Then, as the day continued at the Traverse City Masonic Temple, we were taught by Jim Larson and his fifth degree team to avoid impure thought and selfishness, and ambition so that we won't forget the duty each man owes to his family, his country, and his God. Robert Minard and his fourth degree team emphasized our need for fidelity, integrity, and the necessity for secrecy in all confidential relationships. George Helms and his fourteenth degree team reminds us of God and a reverence for His Holy name.
Later in the day, the sixteenth degree, directed by Grant Sowa, implored us to build a new temple in our hearts, and goes on to affirm the broad principles of university and tolerance. It was a wonderfully informative, inspiring, insightful day, filled with many memorable moments both inside and outside the chamber room. The work was of the highest quality; and the brothers are to be commended.
There are some special moments at all reunions that mark their place in time and engrave their memory on our minds. One is the first time a member participates in the work. At this reunion, Russ Kelm and Dale Fitch were two such brothers, and they did a fine job. Another, to which nothing that can compare, is that moment when a father reaches out to his son in the fellowship and love of the craft. None who were at this reunion will ever forget seeing George Helms, TPM with his son George Helms Jr, as Exemplar, in the fourteenth degree. In that moment, there was an essence of all the very best in man and Masonry.
Making sure that all degree work went as planned, on time and in the proper order, was a crew of dedicated people including Gerald Schwartz, Norm Gidcumb, Richard Hopkins, Jonathon Baatz, Roger Church, and Richard Graham. The music furnished by James Braendle was just great.
While all this inspiring work was being accomplished inside the consul chamber, the renewal of old friendships, the making of new friends, and the joy of seeing both old and new friends sharing thoughts and experiences was going all around the building.
At the close of the day, we enjoyed an excellent meal made by Alan Gray's group. After dinner, Master of Ceremonies George Helm called on Norm Gidcumb to introduce Marvin Lagerquist, for whom the fall class was named. Marvin once again demonstrated to us all what a man and a Mason should be. His high ideals, his call to action, and his example by doing is an inspiration to every man who strives to improve himself and contribute to the world around him.
Erwin Odell, as always, gave us much to think about. He presented Norn Gidcumb with the White Hat of the Thirty Third Degree. No one was ever more deserving.
Also, a very deserving Grant Sowa received his Meritorious Service Award for his hard work and long service to the Valley of Traverse City. This honor is given only to those who work hard and are dedicated to the craft.
Wow! What a day we all shared.
At this time I must pause in my report and say, if your not part of the Scottish Rite, it is time, brothers. Don't put it off any longer. Get a petition now for the Spring Reunion, and come see what fellowship can be. Create new memories, and expand your Masonic knowledge and horizons.
The Fifth and Thirteenth Degree Teams went to Marquette on the 11th and 12th of October and the fifth was also exemplified in Grand Rapids on the 17th and 18th of October.
The Annual Christmas Party is on December 7th, 2003 at the Country Kitchen Restaurant in Cadillac. The social hour will begin at 3:00pm and dinner will be served at 4:00pm. The cost is $15.50 per person, and we hope to see you all there. Contact Jim Larson for more information on this event.
Now that our great fall reunion in Traverse City is done, the Valley of Traverse City won't be resting for long. We'll start organizing the spring reunion soon, and of course, the Board of Directors continues to meet on the third Thursday of every month and all are welcome to attend.
Be active in your Blue Lodges. Treat each other the way you want to be treated. Come and enjoy the fun of Scottish Rite.
Ken Cooper
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Valley of Traverse City
Traverse City Masonic Center
13360 Bay Shore Road
Traverse City, MI, 49684
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