Greetings Companions and Friends,

Wishing all a very Happy New Year. The very best of everything in the coming year of 2011. It is easy for each of you to insure that your year will be even better than you had thought or hoped for.

Step forward … Ask for a petition and join the York Rite. It will be a step that you will never regret.

The Council is waiting for those Chapter members whom have not yet expanded their horizons. Although you could go to an All Degree Day for the Council and receive the 3 Degrees of the Cryptic Rite, we would prefer to do them locally. That’s one of the great things about the York Rite, besides the fact that you will be taking an active part in the degrees being put on by your Companions from your own Lodge and the surrounding Lodges.

It’s a great experience and the lessons will only strengthen you and all of your future endeavors.

I am writing this letter for Thrice Illustrious Master George Lucero as his lovely lady Amanda’s Grandmother passed away and he has been spending time out of town.

This is a very difficult time for anyone to lose a member of their family and we are sad to report that Fred & Janet Schneider of Ypsilanti just lost their daughter Karen after a 3 year valiant battle with cancer.

Asking that you keep these families and any others that you may know of in distress in your continued thoughts and prayers. It is a difficult enough without it being at this supposed holiday and festive time of the year.

May all of the new officers of the Lodges have very prosperous, rewarding and enjoyable years. May your hard work pay off for the benefit of your Lodge, the Community and Masonry.

God Bless and keep each of you in the palm of his hand.

Keep a smile on your face, a chuckle in your voice and love in your heart.

Paul C. Howell, PTIM