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Valley Newsletter

Spring 2026

Quarterly updates from the Valley of Santa Rosa — Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Orient of California

From the Personal Representative

David Perry

Personal Representative, Valley of Santa Rosa

Brethren,

As the vibrancy of Spring surrounds us, I'm honored to address you as your Personal Representative. This season is a time of renewal, and nowhere is that more evident than in the growing fellowship of our Valley.

I want to extend a heartfelt welcome to our newest members. Whether you are applying for the degrees or have joined us through affiliation your presence strengthens our craft. You have entered a fraternity dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, the practice of virtue and the bonds of brotherhood. We are eager to work alongside you as you begin this new chapter of your Masonic journey.

Our strength lies in our community, and we have several opportunities to gather in the coming months.

  • Inter Lodge Picnic

    April 18 at 10:00 amCordelia Community Park, 1300 Gold Hill Road

    Look for the Santa Rosa Scottish Rite Banner. It will be a wonderful day of relaxation and connection with our families and fellow Masons.

  • Sciots BBQ Cook-Off

    July 25Emma Herbert Memorial Park

    We are aiming to have a dedicated Valley team participate in the cook-off. If you have a talent for the grill or simply want to support the team, please let us know.

  • The Road to 250

    Ongoing

    We are already beginning preparations for the 250th Anniversary of America. As Scottish Rite Masons, we have a unique perspective on the foundational values of this nation, and we look forward to honoring this milestone with pride and purpose.

Why Your Presence Matters

You might ask, why is it important to attend Valley meetings? The Scottish Rite is often called the University of Freemasonry. Beyond the ritual, our meetings are where philosophy meets action. When you come to the Valley, you aren't just attending a meeting; you are contributing to a think tank of leadership and service.

It is here that we mentor one another, share insights into the deeper meanings of our degrees, and coordinate the charitable works that define our impact on the community. Your voice, your experience and your participation are the lifeblood of our success. Without you the Temple is incomplete.

I look forward to seeing each of you at our next Stated Meeting. Let us make this season one of unprecedented growth and renewed commitment to our sublime principles.

Together we are Stronger,

David Perry Personal Representative

From the General Secretary

Bro. Alex Gaoiran

General Secretary, Valley of Santa Rosa

Brethren,

This past quarter has been one of meaningful activity, renewed vision, and encouraging progress for our Valley.

It was my honor, together with our Personal Representative and Treasurer, to attend both the VMAP Conference and the Leadership Conference in Las Vegas on behalf of our Valley. These gatherings provided a valuable opportunity for us to learn, reflect, and bring back useful insight for the continued strengthening of our Valley's future.

The VMAP Conference offered important guidance in the areas of Valley planning, leadership development, membership engagement, and long-range sustainability. It emphasized the importance of deliberate preparation, united leadership, and a clear vision for growth. In like manner, the Leadership Conference in Las Vegas proved both educational and inspiring, as it brought together Scottish Rite leaders from across the Jurisdiction to exchange ideas, discuss common challenges, and consider effective ways to preserve our traditions while responsibly preparing for the future.

We were encouraged by the many thoughtful discussions and practical insights shared at both conferences. More importantly, these experiences reaffirmed that the strength of any Valley depends not only upon faithful stewardship, but also upon a willingness to plan wisely, lead actively, and work together in harmony for the good of the Rite.

We are also pleased to share that our Valley continues to experience growing interest from Brethren in various Lodges. Through intentional outreach and engagement with other Lodges, we have had meaningful opportunities to present the purpose, values, and charitable mission of the Scottish Rite to a wider circle of Master Masons. As a result, more Brothers are expressing sincere interest in joining our Valley and taking part in its fellowship and labor. This increasing enthusiasm is both encouraging and hopeful, and it reflects the importance of remaining visible, welcoming, and active within the broader Masonic community.

Taken together, these efforts point to a positive and promising direction for our Valley. While there is still much work before us, there is also clear momentum. With continued cooperation, dedication, and fraternal zeal, I am confident that our Valley will continue to grow in strength, fellowship, and purpose.

Thank you, Brethren, for your continued support of the Scottish Rite and for all you do on behalf of our Valley.

Fraternally,

Bro. Alex Gaoiran General Secretary

Treasurer's Quarterly Message

Samuel Maffei, 32°

Treasurer, Valley of Santa Rosa

Brethren,

As we welcome the arrival of spring, we are reminded of the season's themes of renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings. Just as nature begins to flourish again, so too does our Valley continue to move forward with strength, purpose, and fellowship.

From a financial perspective, I am pleased to report that we remain on solid footing. Your continued support—through dues, participation, and engagement—plays a vital role in sustaining the work of the Scottish Rite in our Valley. It is through this collective commitment that we are able to maintain our programs, support our charitable efforts, and preserve the traditions we all hold dear.

Spring also brings with it opportunities for fellowship, and I would like to encourage all of you to join us for the 4th Annual Interlodge Picnic on Saturday, April 18, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM. The picnic will be held at Cordelia Community Park, 1300 Gold Hill Rd., Fairfield, CA 94534.

This year's event promises a full day of fellowship and fun for brethren, family, and friends, including food, entertainment, and games. Interlodge Picnic 2026 t-shirts will also be available for purchase—please be sure to RSVP with your size in advance. There will even be surprise merchandise available for sale during the event.

I would also encourage each of you to invite members from your home lodges to attend and take part in the day. This is a great opportunity to showcase the strength and spirit of your lodge, and we welcome lodges to set up their own areas to represent their membership and share in the fellowship.

Thank you for your continued dedication and support. May this season bring renewed energy and inspiration to you and your families.

Fraternally,

Samuel Maffei, 32° Treasurer Santa Rosa Valley Scottish Rite