scottish rite news · summer 2016 • scottish rite news 3 reunion wrap-up a jam-packed theater, a...

Summer 2016

Scottish Rite NewsA Quarterly Publication of the Valley of Chicago

VALLEY OF CHICAGO

Scottish Rite Day!

Nov. 12, 2016(details inside)

WHAT’S INSIDE?Volunteer of the Year Honoree

MSA NomineesSummer Event Schedule

Fall Reunion Preview

2 ScottiSh Rite NewS • SummeR 2016

VALLEY OF CHICAGO

Scottish Rite NewsSummeR 2016

The Bodies of the Scottish Rite, sitting in the Valley of Chicago, State of Illinois, acknowledge and yield allegiance to the Supreme Council, 33°, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the United States of America, whose Grand East is in Lexington, Mass., and whose officers are: Ill. John William McNaughton, 33°, Sovereign Grand Commander; Ill. Benny L. Grisham, MSA, 33°, Deputy for Illinois, and whose other Active Members for the State of Illinois are: Ill. John T. Phillips, 33°; Ill. Gregory L. Clark, 33°; and Ill. James L. Tungate, 33°; and Ill. Norman R. Buecker, 33°, Emeritus Ill. Phillip C. Kenney, 33°, Emeritus Ill. Lawrence D. Inglis, 33°, Emeritus Ill. Lee B. Lockwood, 33°, and Emeritus Ill. Harold E. Witte, Past Active, Richard L. Swaney, 33°, Past Active.

Correspondence concerning the magazine or mail deliver should be addressed to Edward J. Witas, III, MSA, 33° , Executive Secretary and Chief Operating Officer.

Volume LVIIII • Summer 2016 • Number 2

Scottish Rite News (ISSN 0893-5114), Vol. LVIIII, is published seasonally, March, June, Sept., and Dec. by the Scottish Rite Cathedral Association of Chicago, 383 E. Lake St., Bloomingdale, Illinois 60108.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Chicago, IL.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to SCOTTISH RITE NEWS, 383 E. Lake St., Bloomingdale, Illinois 60108.

Phone: (800) 774-3467Fax: (630) 439-3401

www.ScottishRiteChicago.org

Officers and directOrs

scOttish rite cathedral assOciatiOn Of chicagO

Noel J. Kalis, PresidentAhmad M. “Andy” Hassan, 1st Vice President

John W. Quinn, 2nd Vice President

R. Bruce Dement, Michael E. Ehle, Andrew A. Keppy, Frank P. Lasick Jr., J. Kenneth Ludwig, James E. McKinnon,

Daryl W. Selock, Jerry D. Sparks, Frank S. Winans

Edward J. Witas, III, Executive Secretary and C.O.O.Wallace B. Dunn, Treasurer

PublicatiOn staff

Editor Edward J. Witas, III, MSA, 33°Assistant Editor David R. KossReviewing Editor Martin P. Starr, 33°Support Lee Bradley, 33°Art Director Debbie PasiewiczPhotography Bartlomiej Kurela

Official nOtice

Meetings of the coordinate bodies of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Valley of Chicago, IL, for the period July 1, 2016 to October 31, 2016, are listed in this issue.

Michel E. Ehle, Thrice Potent MasterVan Rensselaer Lodge of Perfection

J. Kenneth Ludwig, Sovereign PrinceChicago Council Princes of Jerusalem

Frank P. Lasick Jr., MSA, 33°, Most Wise MasterGourgas Chapter Rose Croix

Andrew A. Keppy, Commander-in-ChiefOriental Consistory, S.P.R.S.

James W. Patton, 33°, Fraternal Secretary

Marvin L. Selock, 33°, Fraternal Treasurer

The Editor would like to acknowledge correction of the following statements published in the Winter 2016 edition; 1) There is not significant evidence of Neil Armstrong being registered as a Mason or that he participated in a Masonic ritual. 2) Jim Lovell was a “famous” astronaut.

© 2016 Scottish Rite Cathedral Association of Chicago. All rights reserved.

Scottish Rite Members on Active Military Duty and Retired with Disability

If you are a Scottish Rite member who is on active military duty, the Supreme Council has an assessment exemption program, and the

Valley of Chicago has a dues exemption program. You only need to inform the Valley of Chicago of your active duty status by calling (800)

774-3467 and your membership dues for that year will be waived.

Please also keep our military personnel and their families in your thoughts and prayers as they fight

to preserve our way of life and freedoms.

We thank them for their service to our Great Nation.

reported as of May 2016Eternal Refreshment

Charles W. BerndtGeorge R. Brooks Jr.Lester H. Broussard Jr.Thomas H. CafcasFred G. CopelandBarto FrazierRobert B. FrisbeeJohn Colin HallCharles L. HamiltonWalter Daniel KozlowWilliam G. Lancaster IIIWilliam M. LoreyLeslie Meredith Jr.Robert H. OrrillThomas L. Parker

James A. ReynoldsRead L. RogersRobert L. ShaskiSidney E. ShoumakeEdward C. Steffy Jr.Melvin StegeEdwin S. WendtlandRonald L. Zenarosa

SummeR 2016 • ScottiSh Rite NewS 3

R E U N I O N W R A P - U P

A jam-packed theater, a stage full of candidates and an American hero came together on Friday night, April 8, 2016, at the Valley of Chicago’s Spring Reunion. The huge crowd was there to see key note speaker, Astro-naut James Lovell. Before Captain Lovell stepped on stage to address the crowd he met privately with the new Spring Class of candidates and their sponsors. This special meet and greet was part of the program for all new members. It sparked special interest and helped generate over 75 new candidates. The event included dinner, live music and Captain Lovell’s presentation. Besides candidates, many long-time members were there to hear the account of Apollo 13 and the famous moon mission. During his speech Captain Lovell spoke about the moments after the explosion and the heroic efforts taken by his crew and the engineers in Houston that saved the lives of the Astronauts. He also spoke of determination, perseverance and the American spirit. Many of the members even asked questions and the night ended with Captain Lovell signing off to a stand-ing ovation. Given the success of the evening and the attendance it gen-erated this type of educational speaker will surely be repeated. “It really impressed me to hear such an accomplished man like Captain Lovell talk about what it takes to be successful. What a great message especially for our younger members,” stated candidate Andy Westin.

In addition to the Friday night event, the Spring 2016 Reunion continued on as planned with a full day of degrees starting Saturday morning. The highlight was the degree presentation and video by the Fall 2015 Class. The Fall 2015 class volunteered to present the 12th degree comprised entirely of members of that class and lead by R&H Chairman Jeffery T. Henson, MSA. The class was able to bond over several rehearsals which made the performance all the more special. “I loved being a part of this group and working together. It allowed us to become closer and I now have some new friends that otherwise might not have made,” stated class member Ozzie Trejo.

Congratulations to the Pilipinas Lodge for

Winning the Chicago Cup Two Reunions in a row!

2 0 1 6 S P R I N G C L A S S

Brian A. Acevedo Benjamin G. Alvarez Komi Amegee Kevin J. Andersen

Dave Atikossi Michael D. Barber Charles W. Barnes Michael H. Blasius Miguel A. Bosque Ronald E. Brown

Aaron R. Buehler Baron S. Cabalona Paul A. Cameron Antonio C. Cortez Lakandiwa M. Cruz Paul A. Davison

Dino F. Deato Frank J. Drozd Robert J. Flavin John P. Gaudiano Nicholas G. Gouskos

Thomas R. Goyette

2016 Spring Class

Geogy George

Jonathan J. Gwizdala Reagan Halum Patrick B. Higgins James R. HrejsaStewart G. Honeck, IV

Henry S. Kingwill, III Zachary R. Kogut Leszek KordylewskiFranklin J. Inojosa Gus G. Katsafaros Cleophus J. Lee


2 0 1 6 S P R I N G C L A S S

Wayne J. Lundberg Geoffrey P. Mack Usman Mannan Richard K. Mazur Derek S. McDaniel Liam T. Mellen

John G. Nyman Orlando B. Paglomotan Christopher C. Pena Donald G. Reichard

Julian Rojas

Arthur R. PerezOrlando J. Pabon

Ismael R. Rosa Grant L. Sabo, Jr. Peter S. Shapero Justin A. Sorci Juan K. Spencer

Terrence D. Stamps James M. Strong Christopher T. Swinford Fernando Topete Loreto O. Tuble William M. Turner

Ryan T. WeihofenChristopher J. Vanderkuyl Edward G. WalneckScott W. Uglinica Michael H. Westergren Andrew C. Westin


6 ScottiSh Rite NewS •SummeR 2016

Edward J. William James M. Wilson David P. Wray Brandon J. Yaniz Jon P. Younan George E. Young

Earl W. Zingraf Malek Zoubi

2 0 1 6 S P R I N G C L A S S

At the annual Committee Appreciation Brunch in May, the Valley of Chicago paid tribute to the hard work of the volunteer committees. These groups range from lighting to scholarship to public safety and everything in between. At the brunch the Commander-in-Chief John W. Quinn, 33°, stated, “The individual committees perform the essen-tial functions of the Valley. They are where action meets decisions and the work happens. This brunch is a small token of our gratitude for all the hard work you perform.” The VOC Presiding officers also went on to hand out the prestigious Volunteer of the Year Award to Carl S. Peterson for his dedication to the Library and Museum Committee. Carl has donated his time every Tuesday and Thursday to hold regular office hours so members can come and use the library and tour the museum. Carl has also been instrumental in cataloging the books, manuscripts and documents in the Valley’s collection. The award is given out once a year. This is the second year in a row a Library and Museum committee member has won the award.

2016 Volunteer of theYear Award

Meritorious Service Award

The Meritorious Service Award may be conferred upon members of the Scottish Rite in this jurisdiction who have attained the Thirty-second Degree and who, by reason of meritorious service of a Masonic character, are deemed worthy of such recognition.

Congratulations to the 2016 MSA Award Recipients

Congratulations to the 2017 MSA Award Nominees

Jeffery T. Henson, MSA Joseph W. Pegoraro, MSA

John P. Marquardt John D. Riggs

Carl S. Peterson

L I B R A R Y A N D M U S E U M

The Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library has over 50 Masonic and fraternal stereocards in our photograph collection. Stereocards, also known as stereoviews or stereographic views, are comprised of two identical photographic prints mounted on card stock. They are viewed through a stereoscope in order to produce a three-dimensional image. One highlight from our collection depicts Freemasons at the Acropolis in Athens. The intriguing stereocard, titled “Masons at the Acropolis, Athens,” shows forty men standing in front of the ruins of the Acropolis. Each man in the photograph has a number on his suit and wears a white apron. Who are these Freemasons? What year was this photograph taken? We are in the process of researching these questions and have found some information to help in identifying the date.

A maker’s stamp on the card reads “H.C. White Company / Burlington, VT / The Artisque Coleur Stereograph /Patented April 14, 1903.” Hawley C. White (1848-1925) created the H.C. White Company in New York City in 1870. Hawley, a former spectacle lens manufacturer, moved the company to Bennington, Vermont, in 1874. The company was the primary producer of stereographs and stereoviews in the United States in the late 1800s and early 1900s. H.C. White Co. was well known for their “Travel Tour” collections featuring stereoview book sets featuring travel adventures from around the world. White used original negatives specifically photographed for the company between 1899 and 1901 to print the company’s first stereoviews.

White retired in 1915, as stereoviews began to decline in popularity. He sold his negative stock to Keystone Publishing and began manufacturing and selling “Kiddie Kars,” a popular children’s tricycle. This information helps us date the stereocard between 1899 and 1915. The title of the stereocard does not appear to be original to the card, so, who were these

Freemasons in Stereo

Masons and why were they gathered at the Acropolis? There is a record of Masons providing financial relief efforts to Greece after a devastating earthquake in 1894. There are also photographs of Greek Masons gathering at the Acropolis during the Greco Turkish War (1919-1922), also referred to as the Asia Minor Catastrophe or Western Front of the Turkish War of Independence. The time frame of these two events does not correspond with the date the card was created and we don’t believe this image is related to either event. The Supreme Council of Greece participated in the 1907 International Conference of Supreme Councils in Brussels, Belgium. There is a possibility this mystery Masonic group was related to that conference.

We are calling all history enthusiasts to help us further identify this photograph. Email Ymelda Rivera Laxton, Assistant Curator, at [email protected], with information or ideas. To see more images from our Stereocard collection, please visit our Museum Flickr page at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/digitalsrmml/sets or search our online catalog at: http://www.monh.org/collections/online-collections/.

Provided by Ymelda Rivera Laxton, Assistant CuratorScottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

IMAGE CREDITS:Masons at the Acropolis, Athens, Greece, 1899-1915, H.C. White Co., Bennington, VT, Gift of Michael T. Heitke, Collection of the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, 2013.036.69.


S C O T T I S H R I T E C A R E S

On Saturday, May 14th over 225 walkers and volunteers converged on the Scottish Rite Cathedral for our annual fundraiser, the Walk to Help Children with Dyslexia. All proceeds from this event benefit the Children’s Dyslexia Center of Metropolitan Chi-cago, a Scottish Rite Charity. A BIG HEARTFELT THANK YOU to everyone who supported the Walk. Virtually all fac-ets of Masonry (Scottish Rite, Blue Lodge, Shrine, Order of Eastern Star and DeMolay) were on hand to support this charitable event. Volunteers from the Medinah Shrine Amateur Radio Unit kept a watchful eye on the walkers and the weather. The VOC Knights of St. Andrew were on hand to help with registration and answer questions about Masonry and the Scottish Rite. Plus, an Illinois Child Identification Program (IL CHIP) event was hosted by Grove Lodge No. 824.

En masse, walkers were led off by the Medinah Shrine Units that supported this event. After three times around the Spring Creek Reservoir (approximately 5K), it was back to the Scottish Rite for Italian beef, hot dogs, chips and frozen bananas. Bruce DeMent, 33°, Chairman of the Learning Center’s Board of Governors, thanked all sponsors, donors and participants for their help. The event was capped off with a parade of the Medinah Shrine Highlanders, Mini Choppers, Clowns, Flying Carpets, and Fire Unit.

$30,000 was raised for the Children’s Dyslexia Center, setting a record for both the number of registered walkers and the contribution level for the Walk. Awards for the walker and the team that raised the most money will be presented at the Awards and Recognition Night to be held at the VOC on August 4th. Also that evening, the Ill. Thomas W. O’Connor, 33° Challenge Trophy will be presented to the Blue Lodge that raised the most money. Last year’s winner was Rising Sun No. 115 from Grayslake.

The Children’s Dyslexia Center of Metropolitan Chicago is a 501(c)3 registered charity. Through partner-ships with the Masonic and Scottish Rite organizations, we operate free of overhead. Treatment at our center is free to children and their families, the education of our tutors is also free. Virtually 100% of your donation is directly used to educate children and their tutors.

Walking the Record

MS Bike-A-Thon!Thank you to all of our volunteers that helped at the 2016 MS Tour de Farms event. We had a team of riders; Don Torgersen, Lawrence Commiso, Joshua Winstead, Tom Fioretti, Ann Wright, Gregg Wright, Jeanine Vaughan, Don Widenhoffer, Thomas Theriault, and Captain Timothy Reed. This amazing ride raised an estimated $1.4 million in this 2-day event. Our rest stop volunteers helped keep over 2,000 bikers hydrated, energized and motivated. Bikers rode 50, 75 and 125 mile runs each day. The Scottish Rite has been supporting this event since its inception about thirty years ago. A tradition that has made an incredible impact for this foundation. We are so proud to be a part of this amazing ride! Here is to our rest stop staff... Walter Hemphill, James Mack, John Marquardt, Noah Petersen, Ron Petersen, Carl Peterson, Wayne Spooner, Mike Behm, Jeff Henson, Mark Nokes, Jon Younan, John Riggs, Andrew Buckwinkler, Alex Buckwinkler, Michael Piszczor, Tony Karalas, Thomas Flock and Eric Scanlan.

And in a true masonic mission Mark Nokes and John Riggs continued giving by bringing the extra food from the ride to a local DeKalb mission. I’m sure words could not express their gratitude!

Mark your calendar! Next years event will be held on June 10-11, 2017.

Mark your calendar! Next years event will be held on May 20, 2017.

8 ScottiSh Rite NewS •SummeR 2016

R. Bruce DementMichael E. Ehle

Andrew A. KeppyFrank P. Lasick Jr.

J. Kenneth LudwigJames E. McKinnon

John W. QuinnDaryl W. SelockJerry D. SparksFrank S. Winans

Edward J. Witas, III Executive Secretary and Chief Operating Officer

Wallace B. DunnTreasurer

James W. PattonAlmoner

Bradley L. BakerAssistant Almoner

The annual meetings of the Coordinate Bodies of the Valley of Chicago and the Scottish Rite Cathedral Association of Chicago were held on Thursday, May 26, 2016, in Bloomingdale, Illinois. The following members have been elected or appointed to govern the Valley of Chicago for the ensuing Masonic Year.

Andrew A. Keppy Commander-in-Chief Lance J. Welter, VA, MSA First Lieutenant Commander Harvey A. Wigdor, 33° Second Lieutenant Commander Karl J. Nygard Orator Craig C. Stimpert, 33° Chancellor Marvin L. Selock, 33° Treasurer James W. Patton, 33° Secretary David R. Koss Assistant Secretary Brandon A. Zears Master of Ceremonies Michael W. Behm Hospitaler Bruce H. Zimmerman Engineer and Seneschal David R. Koss Standard Bearer Joel R. Jaffe Captain of the Guard Marc C. Brofka Sentinel Robert A. Monahan Assistant Hospitaler

Andrew A. KeppyCommander-in-Chief

Oriental Consistory, S.P.R.S.

Frank P. Lasick Jr., MSA, 33° Most Wise MasterAntwane O. Lee Senior WardenJeffery T. Henson, MSA Junior WardenDennis R. Hennebry OratorMarvin L. Selock, 33° TreasurerJames W. Patton, 33° Secretary

David R. Koss Assistant SecretaryAlexander “Guide” Sobecki Master of CeremoniesKristeffor D. Caldwell HospitalerEric R. Scanlan Captain of the GuardJohn P. Marquardt TylerDennis B. Esposito PrelateJames H. Oehler, MSA, 33° AideTerry J. Hartl Assistant HospitalerWalter Hemphill Assistant HospitalerJoseph E. Malatia Assistant HospitalerScott D. Neville Assistant HospitalerJames D. Pankiewicz II Assistant HospitalerRonald R. Petersen Assistant HospitalerJay A. Reed Assistant HospitalerJody M. Switzer Assistant Hospitaler

Frank P. Lasick Jr., MSA, 33° Most Wise Master

J. Kenneth Ludwig Sovereign Prince

Meet your Elected & Appointed Officers

Gourgas Chapter Rose Croix

Chicago Council Princes of JerusalemJ. Kenneth Ludwig Sovereign PrinceStephen W. Ford High PriestChad M. Lacek Senior WardenAlan M. Hubble Junior WardenMarvin L. Selock, 33° TreasurerJames W. Patton, 33° SecretaryDavid R. Koss Assistant SecretaryDavid A. Truax Master of CeremoniesSteven A. Schenk HospitalerJoseph W. Pegoraro, MSA Master of EntrancesDouglas H. Keppy TylerWayne Spooner Assistant Hospitaler

Michael E. Ehle Thrice Potent Master

Michael E. Ehle Thrice Potent MasterDonald E. Esser, VA, MSA Deputy MasterAngelo S. Deserio Senior WardenReuben M. Owens Junior WardenRussell A. Scanlan OratorMarvin L. Selock, 33° TreasurerJames W. Patton, 33° Secretary

David R. Koss Assistant SecretaryEdward C. Steffy, MSA, 33° Master of CeremoniesMark D. Nokes HospitalerRobert Kogut Captain of the GuardCalvin E. Johnson Tyler

Van Rensselaer Lodge of Perfection

Noel J. Kalis President

Ahmad M. “Andy” Hassan First Vice President

John W. Quinn Second Vice President

Board of Directors

S C O T T I S H R I T E 2 0 1 6 - 1 7 B O A R D A N D O F F I C E R S


On behalf of the Presiding Officers of the Valley of Chicago it is my pleasure to proclaim 2015-2016 a great success. What an exciting year it has been. We’ve circled the moon with Astro-naut James Lovell and sailed the high seas with Jean Lafitte. Through it all we have stayed focused on our core mission of providing value to our current members while attracting new members. New Scottish Rite members are the life blood of our organization. They help pro-vide energy, ideas and direction as we instill in them our history, traditions and culture. It is a great mixture that makes the Scottish Rite what it is.

This year the executive committee tried sev-eral innovative ways of engaging incoming members. Led by Sovereign Prince Ken Ludwig and Jeff Henson we developed a program that allowed the Fall 2015 Reunion class to perform a degree in the Spring 2016 Reunion. These brand-new Scottish Rite members were thrown into the fire and asked to take on new roles that otherwise might have taken years to get to. They were solely responsible for presenting an

entire degree. And it worked out great. They rose to the challenge and hit a home run. This is a tradition we are intent on keeping alive. It allowed a sense of camaraderie and account-ability to develop immediately between a group that might have gone in a variety dif-ferent directions and remained at a perpetu-al distance. These men are now much closer and friendly not only with each other but with everyone because they participated together right out of the gate.

Finally, the Spring 2016 Reunion can only be classified as an historic event for the Scottish Rite. Captain James Lovell was our honored guest and speaker at the Spring 2016 Reunion Gala. This event was held the night before the Reunion and was attended by over 400 mem-bers and their guests. But more importantly it produced 73 new members. The draw of meet-ing a living legend and American hero certainly helped boost membership numbers and shows our members’ appetite for history and educa-tional events. The entire Executive Committee is proud to have been a part of helping to plan

such a successful event and we hope that future officers will continue to develop innovative ways to attract new members and provide value to current ones.

On behalf of the entire Executive Committee I want to thank the Officers who served with us. Your assistance made this year a success and we look forward to seeing even more success in the years to come. Thanks also to David P. Crosson, for his effort, expertise, and direction in helping us to clear up many construction issues this past year.

Lastly, the Executive Committee would like to thank the Scottish Rite Cathedral Association of Chicago for the opportunity and honor to serve the membership of this esteemed Association.

Respectfully submitted,

John W. Quinn, 33o Chairman

It has been a privilege to serve as Command-er-in-Chief of the Oriental Consistory for the Valley of Chicago. Looking back over the last two years I am reminded of all the talented men who have come before me and served the Con-sistory so selflessly. I’m proud to say that our current crop of Officers is strong and talented and I believe will live up to the expectations of the past. But now it is time to look forward and blaze a trail that will provide new and different opportunities in a changing world. The Valley of Chicago and the Officers of the Oriental Con-sistory are prepared to do just that. Their work has been on display throughout this entire year. Whether it’s putting on outstanding degrees or serving on various committees or volunteering in ways unseen. These men constantly give

their time and talents often without recogni-tion. I am proud of the all the Consistory Offi-cers and know that they will continue our proud tradition and high standards.

This past year had many successes including having 73 new members at our Spring Reunion and hosting an American Hero, Captain James Lovell. This Reunion will hopefully be a blue-print for years to come. I am also pleased to see that our “Great American Pastime Tour” of baseball games was a huge success. Getting together with other members outside of the SRCA headquarters is important to building relationships between members and sharing fellowship that otherwise might not have hap-pened. Finally I am especially pleased of the

way we have engaged our newest members by having the most recent Reunion class present a degree. The Fall 2015 Class did an excellent job and this will surely be a new tradition moving forward.

As Commander-in-Chief I am eternally grate-ful to all the members who I have been able to serve. It is a proud honor and high privilege to represent this Valley and I look forward to big-ger and better things for all of us for many years to come. “My Hope is in God.”


John W. Quinn, 33o Commander-in-Chief, Oriental Consistory

S C O T T I S H R I T E A N N U A L R E P O R T S

Annual Report of the Executive Committee

Annual Report of Oriental Consistory, S.P.R.S.

I would like to start my annual report with a heartfelt “thank you” to my fellow presiding offi-cers, the office staff and particularly, YOU, the members of the Valley of Chicago. You are the very best! Without you, not much could happen.

Your Valley Officers need and appreciate your opinions and ideas. In order to grow stronger, we need to grow together. This happens when we listen to each other, so please do not hold back on your thoughts. All organizations need a continual flow of new ideas. Your current group of officers are the right guys to bring those ideas to light. We are always looking for exciting, fun ways to keep us involved. ALL OF US!

This past year we presented several degrees that have not been seen in quite a while. We achieved this by implementing an idea to ask the incoming class to accept the responsibility

of presenting a degree as a class. They respond-ed and succeeded with flying colors.

Another program that began was to create themed reunions which resulted in the “Astro-naut Class” being the largest class in a long time.

Both the Lumberjack and Civil War degrees were revamped. They’re now presented so well that other Valleys have requested our versions for their reunions. What a compliment!!!

A friendly membership competition was started with the traveling trophy with its rewards.

For your convenience, a gift shop was opened in the museum. This will enable you to find a unique gift for a loved one (even if that loved one is you!).

As we move forward, I welcome the opportuni-ty to hear from you, work with you, or perhaps enjoy some relaxing moments together at one of our family events.

In closing, I would again like to thank all of you for allowing me the honor to serve as an officer in our Valley. It’s been one of the highlights of my life. I hope you all take the opportunity to participate in the fellowship that is the corner-stone of the Valley of Chicago.


Michael E. EhleThrice Potent MasterLodge of Perfection

Annual Report of Van Rensselaer Lodge of Perfection


Illustrious Active, Illustrious Active Emeritus, Illustrious Broth-ers and Grand Elect Masons all,

During the 2015/16 year members of the Valley of Chicago, along with guest volunteers have participated in many wor-thy endeavors. It is fitting to thank the families and friends of our members for their continuing support of our members as we have committed our time and resources in these fraternal and charitable events.

At the June 2015 meeting at the Illinois Council of Deliberation which was held in Springfield, Brothers William E. Carlton32° and Burton K. Schorr Jr. 32° VA received their Meritorious Ser-vice Award (Red Caps). At that same meeting the names of the 2016 Recipients Jeffery T. Henson 32° and Joseph W. Pegoraro 32° were announced. They will receive their Red Caps at the 2016 (147th) Council of Deliberation meeting that will be held on June 24-25, 2016.

The Annual MS 2015 Bike Ride June 27/28 was held in DeKalb IL. The Valley has fielded a team of riders for this event over the last 33 years as well as providing a support staff who pro-vided food and refreshments to over 2300 riders. The VOC support team has been doing this for the past 32 years mak-ing both the riding team and Support team the longest con-tinual partners with the Illinois MS program.

Other events that were held during the summer were “A Day at the Races,” and the “Annual Golf Outing.” In August we again partnered with the Medinah Shrine to host the day at the Brookfield Zoo. We added a series of baseball outings at Wrig-ley, Cellular fields in Chicago and Miller Park in Milwaukee, Wi. During the spring and summer of 2016 we will again offer a series of baseball outings at both Pro and Semi Pro ball parks.

The 203rd Annual Meeting of the Supreme Council AASR, NMJ, USA was held in Indianapolis IN. The 33rd degree was conferred on Valley of Chicago members Dale P. Cyrier, 33°; David P. Crosson, 33°; John J. Millner 33°; John W. Quinn, 33° ; Edward Steffy, MSA, 33°; and Edward J. Witas III, MSA, 33°. At the conclusion of the event the names of two members of the Valley Michael E. Ehle and J. Kenneth Ludwig were announced. They will receive their Thirty-third Degree in

August 2017 at Rochester, New York. Congratulations to all.

The return from summer at the Valley was started off with the October outdoor presentation of the 26th degree, “Friends and Brothers Eternal.” The cast, costume, makeup and stage would later take the Degree to the Valley Quincy for that Val-ley’s 150th anniversary in May 2016.

October saw the members and potential master masons and Scottish Rite candidates attending the Fraternal Relations dinner and concert that evening members and guests saw a special presentation on our national flag and its history and a great performance by the Chicago Swedish Glee Club. Ending October with a sold out crowd was the annual Oktoberfest where we again featured The Muller Fasching and the Austri-an Express.

The Fall Reunion was preceded with the Friday evening social “A Pirate Costume Party.” On the day of the reunion a special 12th degree was presented. Special because the cast members were all graduates from the 2015 Spring class. We welcomed our class Honoree George S. Nelson 32°, MSA and United States Navy retired. Brother Nelson had honorably served during World War II, Korea, and Viet Nam. We wel-comed 25 new 32° Scottish Rite members into the Valley.

Thanksgiving dinner again was a featured event for Valley members their families and friends who gathered at the White Eagle Restaurant in Niles. This was the 11th year for the din-ner which was originally conceived and arranged by Brother Eddie Witas III, MSA, 33°.

In December we held the annual Holiday Party which was well attended with a sellout crowd. Anyone who was not able to visit the VOC Cathedral during the holiday season truly missed an opportunity to see a beautifully decorated building.

The January 2016 Stated Meeting, where traditionally we both honor the new 33° member and present them with their White Caps. The 2015 recipients of the Valley Award were hon-ored; Barry S. Alpern and George P. Lulias. And we recognized our newest MSA recipients.

At the February Stated Meeting we saw the exemplification of the 8th degree, “Intendant of the Building.” This was again an opportunity for members to have their passport stamped.

In March the members of the line of Gourgas Chapter Rose Croix of Heredom presented the annual Maundy Thursday program “The Feast of the Pascal Lamb” at which time the Val-ley paid their final respects to those member of the Valley of Chicago who had passed to Eternal Refreshment during the past year.

April saw the launch of the 2016 Spring Reunion with a spe-cial Friday night dinner and presentation by former astronaut James A. Lovell, Captain USN retired. On display during the two-day event was the Scottish Rite SMJ flag that had been taken to the moon by Edwin E. Aldrin Jr. 33° and a bronze casting of his “Foot print on the moon” which is the property of the Masonic Family Health Foundation Chicago. The Class Honoree was Stuart S. Stone. We added 73 new Scottish Rite members.

May 15th was the annual Committee appreciation luncheon where the various committees were honored. The Volunteer of the year award was presented to Carl S. Peterson, for his efforts in the Valley library. Brother Manuel (Manny) M. Roth MSA, 33° received a certificate of completion for having his degree passport fully stamped. Manny also received a new gold passport which he will have to refill.

As this Fraternal year comes to a close we should be reminded that many of the past events and programs will be present-ed anew with new leadership and committees. This is also an opportunity for new and old members to get involved. We are the life blood of the Fraternity.

Frank S. Winans, MSA, 33o

Most Wise MasterGourgas Chapter Rose Croix

Illustrious Active, Illustrious Active Emeritus, Illustrious Brothers and Prince Masons:

I begin this report by expressing my genuine gratitude to the presiding officers, including Ill. John Quinn 330, Ill. Frank Winans 330 and Mike Ehle 320, with whom I have spent much time, planning Valley events and details. We all benefit from supportive and constructive dialog, which is a fundamental part of this Executive Committee. This also applies to and includes my fellow Council officers, whose hard work and dedication is reflected in the spirit and demeanor of our Valley. A special note of appreci-ation is also due to the enthusiastic and dedicated Jeff Henson 320, MSA, who was instrumental in directing the inaugural “Class Degree” and in suggesting the introduc-tory video about the Fall 2015 class, which we now intend to utilize as a promotional tool for recruiting Masons to our Valley.

Additionally, I need to extend my gratitude to our Active, Ill. Brother John T. Phillips 330, Active Emeritus; Honorary Past Sovereign Grand Commander Ill. Larry Inglis 330; Ill. Lee Bradley 330; Ill. Eddie Witas 330; Ill. Marvin Selock 330; Ill. Jim Patton 330; Dave Koss 320; and Debbie Pasiewicz, whose efforts are considerable yet often unrealized. This competent core of individuals provides the presiding officers and the Valley’s membership with immeasurable dedication, benefits and guidance.

As a Valley, this past year has permitted us to try a few firsts, including a Director’s breakfast and a degree per-formed by the newest class of members to our fraternity. These two events have helped us grow our base of degree

directors, perform more degrees and involve more of our membership in the degree productions, while simultane-ously strengthening the relationships between our mem-bers. These efforts are also helping us build an oppor-tunity to strengthen our neighboring Valleys by taking our strong cast of characters on the road as we did this past month with a performance of the 26th degree at the Reunion of the Valley of Quincy. You will recall that this is the same degree, which was also performed outdoors last year, which was another first at our newer suburban home.

Additionally, we were able to enjoy a Valley of Chicago record setting attendance at our 383 E. Lake Street home, during our Spring Reunion, when we witnessed a distin-guished and historical presentation of the Apollo 13 mis-sion by Captain Jim Lovell. The Spring Class consisted of 73 new Scottish Rite Masons, bringing our total new num-ber of members to the Valley of Chicago for the past year just over 100, when including a couple of newer mem-bers, who have now also recently received the 4th degree.

And as the more stressful challenges of life never take a vacation, we have reinvigorated our efforts to support our members, during times of sickness and distress, leaning on Brother Dennis Esposito to manage the supportive endeavors of our Valley.

Yes, the state of our Valley is strong and our future remains bright. Our vibrant fellowship provides an energy that is almost tangible. The Valley of Chicago is a genuine bright spot in our Masonic fraternity and a wonderful place to be able to call home as a Scottish Rite Mason.

The challenge we face, which is often the experience of successful organizations, is sustaining this success. One of the goals of your Valley leaders and office staff is to ensure your membership at the Valley remains valuable. We strive to provide you, our members, with a genuine fraternal experience, education and opportunities for per-sonal growth. The challenge I make to the membership at large is to also help in sustaining this success through your participation, your philanthropic endeavors and by inviting a worthy masonic brother to join our ranks and fellowship.

And, that leads me to some concluding remarks, where I want to emphasize the important role that our mem-bers play in Masonry and specifically in our Valley of the Scottish Rite. We are all blessed to be able to enjoy one of Masonry’s strongholds in the Valley of Chicago. We have an incredible home and a tremendous membership, which helps to make the Valley of Chicago a fulfilling experience. In a world filled with selfishness, the hal-lowed halls of our home serve as a unique place to meet, interact and focus on the goodness of genuinely caring brothers. The Valley of Chicago is a great place to fill your heart with the energy needed to be a leader, to pay it for-ward and to make a difference in today’s world. Thank you all for your continued support as we strive to sustain this treasure together!

Sincerely & fraternally yours,

J. Kenneth Ludwig,Sovereign PrinceChicago Council Princes of Jerusalem


Annual Report of Chicago Council Princes of Jerusalem

Annual Report of Gourgas Chapter Rose Croix

ScottiSh Rite NewS • SummeR 2016 11

To the Officers, Directors, and Members of the Scottish Rite Cathedral Association

The Cathedral Board approved and budgeted for some large projects to be completed during the 2015/16 Board year.

1.)The approval and completion of a custom made cabinet and millwork (to match our exist-ing woodwork). This unit with lockable door/drawers and a glass top display is located in our museum and serves our membership as a Scot-tish Rite Store, providing members the oppor-tunity to purchase jewelry, clothing, and other items mostly unique to the Valley of Chicago.

2.)Repair work was completed on the motorized shade protecting the “Life of Man” paintings and frame on the outside wall of the Game Room,

3.) The following was bid and contracted on our parking lot.

A.) Asphalt curb banding mill and overlayB.) Rout existing cracks and fill with hot rubber-ized crack sealantC.) Seal and stripe parking lotD.) Concrete pad replacement in trash enclosure at the rear of building

4.) Maintenance was performed on the four gar-ment carousels located in the Wardrobe Suite. Wheels, bearings, and chains were cleaned, adjusted, and lubricated. A big thank you to Wardrobe Master Dan Slomiany and a group of his crew for moving the costumes off (during the maintenance) and then back onto the racks again.

5.) Also, to be scheduled later this summer is the cleaning and Flexcoating of the patio concrete and the repair and sealing of the retaining wall face stone.

I would like to thank the following Board mem-bers – Andy Hassan and James McKinnon for

their assistance with the House Committee.

The House Committee would also like to thank our COO Edward Witas, III and our office staff for their assistance and support this past year. We would also like to thank our Brethren for their efforts and expertise in our building Mainte-nance for 2015/16. I am most appreciative of our fellow Board Member David P. Crosson for his expertise and support in helping to maintain our building.

Lastly, the members of the House Committee would like to thank the Scottish Rite Cathedral Association of the Valley of Chicago for the opportunity and honor to serve the membership of this esteemed Association.


Noel J. Kalis

The Scottish Rite statement of accounts, as of the close of business on Friday, April 29, 2016, as reported by our investment advisor, DiMeo Schneider and Associates, is as follows:

Endowment Fund $42,063,316.00Capital Reserve Fund $ 30,000.00Life Membership Fund $ 455,098.00Real Estate Assets $37,276,544.00

TOTAL ASSETS $79,824,958.00 Respectfully Submitted,

Robert O. Kuehn Chairman

Thank you for all allowing me to serve you as the President of the Valley of Chicago Scottish Rite Cathedral Board. I really enjoyed working with such talented brothers on the board. I can con-fidently say that the cathedral board members truly care about the well-being of our Valley and more importantly the members of the Valley.

This year we are experiencing three activities that have and will continue to have impacts to the Valley in the future:

First, we have seen the performance of our investments that have been redistributed by our investment advisors DiMeo Schneider & Associates. Our endowment funds are perform-ing well and the risks associated with market

changes have been greatly reduced. I would like to thank Bob Kuehn for his leadership this year as Finance Committee Chair.

The second activity taking place is the current trial in the DuPage County Court between the Valley of Chicago and Legat Architects. I would like to thank Wally Dunn for his daily representa-tion of the Cathedral Board at the trial proceed-ings. As we continue to move through this pro-cess, we plan to see a resolution in the coming weeks.

Third, we have experienced our first year under the leadership of our new Executive Secretary Eddie Witas. Eddie has done a great job in his first full year and I look forward to his strong

leadership in many years to come.

Finally I would like to thank our Almoner Jim Patton, Auditor Bruce DeMent, Treasurer Wally Dunn, House Committee Chair Noel Kalis and Executive Committee Chair John Quinn for their service and dedication to the Valley of Chicago.

Thank you again brothers for the opportunity to serve.


David P. CrossonPresident


Annual Report of the President

Annual Report of the House Committee

Annual Report of the Finance Committee


All reports are available to view on our websitewww.scottishritechicago.org

VALLEY OF CHICAGO

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DeMolay Honors Nght

Ballpark Tour - Boomers

S U N D A Y M O N D A Y T U E S D A Y W E D N E S D A Y T H U R S D A Y F R I D A Y S A T U R D A Y

August

Join the Rite at our July Stated Meeting and presentation by Guest Speaker Aimee E. Newell, Ph.D., Director of Collections of the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library.

Topic: The Badge of a Freemason: New Discoveries about Masonic Aprons.

Members only.

Business attire.


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Stated Meeting with Guest Speaker

Office Closed


July

Independence Day

Office Closed

Join the Scottish Rite on their 2016 Ballpark Tour. Bring your family and friends for a day at the park. Includes private deck seating, all-you-can eat buffet and more!

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4Celebrate the achievements of our scholarship winners. Event includes a dinner, presentation and awards ceremony.

Open registration.Business attire.

Scholarship and Learning Center Recognition Night

Ballpark Tour-Boomers

21 Stated Meeting

Join the Scottish Rite on their 2016 Ballpark Tour to Wrigley Field.

SOLD OUT!!!

Ballpark Tour -Cubs29

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Office Closed

Ball Park Tour - Cubs

Scholarship and Learning Center Night

To subscribe, go to www.ScottishRiteChicago.org call (800) 774-3467, or email [email protected]

Echoes From the Valley of Chicago Receive Event Information, News Highlights, and Meeting Reminders, all delivered right to your email.

Join the Scottish Rite as we celebrate the achievements of the Order of DeMolay, and the special people who work so very hard to support our youth.

DeMolay Honors Night18

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Labor Day Office Closed

Lunch N Learn

Back to the Rite Night

Office Closed


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Patriot Day

Lunch N LearnFraternal Relations Night


October

September

Get back to the Rite with a fun filled night at the Valley of Chicago.

Members and Guests.

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11Enjoy your lunch break at the Scottish Rite. Along with a delicious lunch. We will host speakers on varied topics. Watch your Echoes e-mails for topics.

Open registration.

Lunch N Learn


Halloween Party

13Members and Candidates are welcome to enjoy a special night to kick start the Fall Reunion.

Members and Candidates. Business attire.

29Join the Scottish Rite for a spooktacular night of fun! Members and Guests.

Halloween Party

Fraternal Relations

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Rosh Hashnah Rosh Hashnah

Columbus Day

Halloween

For reservations or more information about our events, visit www.ScottishRiteChicago.org or call (800) 774-3467.

13Enjoy your lunch break at the Scottish Rite. Along with a delicious lunch. We will host speakers on varied topics. Watch your Echoes e-mails for topics.

Open registration.

Lunch N Learn


We are noW casting for the folloWing degrees!!!

4° Master Traveler 5° Perfect Master

13° Master of the Ninth Arch16° Prince of Jerusalem

18° Knight of the Rose Croix30° Grand Inspector

32° Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret

contact the office for more information!(630)439-3400 or email [email protected]

attention all memBers... Be a Part of this celeBration!

guest sPeaker kris “tanto” ParontoThe Fall Reunion on November 5th and Scottish Rite Day Celebration on November 12th will be “A Celebration of our American Heroes” both in the Valley membership, as well as, a special presentation by Former Army Ranger and private security contractor, Kris Paronto—or “Tanto” as he is affectionately known —who was part of the security team that responded to the terrorist attack on the U.S. Special Mission in Benghazi, Libya on September 11, 2012. For more than 13 hours, he and his team heroically fought off terrorists, helping to save over 20 lives. His story is depicted in the book, 13 Hours, and the 2016 major motion picture of the same name.

New Candidate petitions are available atwww.scottishritechicago.org

Scottish Rite Bodies — Valley of Chicago383 E. Lake StreetBloomingdale, Illinois 60108

We Want You!are You a Veteran? do You knoW of a Veteran in the memBershiP?

Please return this form to the scottish rite to Be honored at the fall reunion.

First Name:_________________________________Middle Initial: ________ Last Name: __________________________________

Branch of Service: ____ Army ____ Navy ____ Air Force ____ Marines ____ Reserves

Rank: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Conflicts Served:_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Active Date: ________________________________ Still Active: ____ Yes ____ No Retired Date: ________________________

PLEASE SEND THIS FORM TO:SCOTTISH RITE - VALLEY OF CHICAGO

VETERAN MEMORIAL SERVICE383 E. LAKE STREET

BLOOMINGDALE, IL 60108

scottish rite news · summer 2016 • scottish rite news 3 reunion wrap-up a jam-packed theater, a...

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