Ill. Ralph C. Shelton II, 33°
Welcome Home, Scottish Rite Masons of Orange County.
Many of you know that we have met in several locations over the years. When I first joined, it was the Ebell Club in Santa Ana. Later, we held our meetings at the El Bekal Shrine Center, then at the DeMolay Center. We now meet at Orange Grove Masonic Center, and it is a great home. Orange County’s most “Masonic” building on the historic Plaza in Orange, with a beautiful lodge room and well appointed kitchen, among other features. We can now have public-facing events, such as our Super Breakfast, proudly.
At our last stated meeting, April 8, we hosted a delegation from San Diego Valley – some 18 of them. Among them were Venerable Master Bro. Michael Thibodeaux as well as the PR, Ill. John Shneidmiller, 33°. I know the SD Valley well, having visited there many times, and it was delightful to have them with us. We’ll plan a visit south in the future, and Ill. John and I have discussed joint visits with other area Valleys. Venerable Master Hon. James McCallion hosted Masonic Jeopardy, and asked me to represent the Valley against Ill. David Rathgeber and Hon. Doug Ford, and I’m pleased to report that Orange County emerged victorious – by a comfortable margin.
Do not miss our next meeting, May 13 This is a very special night, as it marks the return of one of our most popular past programs – the annual visit of the Deputy Grand Master. Years back, the DGM of Masons in California visited annually to speak to us, and was usually accompanied by other Grand Officers. This afforded us the opportunity to fellowship our Grand Lodge leadership and learn what was in store for the next Masonic Year. Somehow we just stopped doing this, and I am most pleased that we have begun again. Of course, the DGM is RW Arthur L. Salazar, who we all know, and I encourage each of you to be in attendance. Remember – he will be your Grand Master in a few short months.
So look around this newsletter – and see what you’ve missed, as well as what’s coming up. Engagement is growing, and I know you want to be a part of it. From the Knights of St. Andrew, welcoming all of our new members, to the educational program that continues to thrive, we are on our way to becoming the place where Orange County Masons meet one another. Come to see RW Salazar, stay for the excellent food and fellowship, and view our new meeting place. While you’re at it, bring along your partner to enjoy the company of Erin MacKinley and my wife, Jackie while we hold our meeting. They seem to be having a lot more fun than we are!
See you in May
