Page 6 - Sojourner Newsletter Winter 2021-5_Neat

6 THE SOJOURNER

CHAPTER NEWS

LOCAL SOJOURNERS CHAPTER MAKES HISTORY IN WISCONSIN.
On October 10, 2020, Milwaukee #27 made Masonic history in Wisconsin. We held the first ever virtual Cultural Di-
versity Workshop. Although the workshop was sponsored by Milwaukee #27 it was also supported by both Grand Lodg-
es. There were over 30 participants signed up from both jurisdictions as well as a few non Masonic participants. The
Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin, Kenneth Gorgen addressed the workshop on behalf of the
Grand Lodge of Wisconsin, while the Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master of Prince Hall Masons in Wisconsin, Bro.
Samuel L. Stotts bought greetings on behalf of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge. The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Debo-
rah Blanks who is an expert in her field. The purpose of the workshop was to create an awareness and appreciation of the
cultural, religious, and racial diversity that exist in Masonry in Wisconsin and to recognize the inherent biases that exist
within us all. The goal of the workshop was not to change hearts or minds, but to start a conversation that will hopefully
take us to a better place as Masons in Wisconsin. Our initial intent was to have an in-person session as well as the virtual
session. However, due to the rise in covid-19 cases in Milwaukee, we were forced to cancel the in person session and go
all virtual. We lost a few participants in the process which highlights the need for us to do this again. In spite of the
change in format, the workshop was an overwhelming success. Brothers from Southeastern Wisconsin, Madison, Colora-
do, Minneapolis and Indianapolis took part in the workshop. Few will argue the fact that it is God’s wish that all of His
children live in harmony with one another. He gave us the skills we need to accomplish His will. It is up to us to make it
happen. This workshop was one small but very successful step in that direction.
National Sojourners and Milwaukee #27 has a history of ground breaking initiatives designed to bring our two great
jurisdictions closer together. We have presented our Lodge of Military Tribute in the Lodges of both Jurisdictions. We
are the only Masonic body in Wisconsin that can boast the fact that we not only have members from both jurisdictions,
but we also have standing and Past Most Worshipful Grand Masters from both jurisdictions among our membership.
If you would like information on how you can conduct a Cultural Diversity Workshop in your area, please contact PM
Rickey L. Townsell. PP, Milwaukee #27, National Sojourners Inc, Prince Hall Jurisdiction, rtownsel@yahoo.com
Knickerbocker West Point #13, LTC GENERAL ROBERT F. TRAVIS #490, A1C James D. Westfall, 4221
Jack H. Moore, Secretary, 145 Lin- Sora Common, Fremont, CA 94555-3036. CW4 Cleveland Valrey, Past
colndale Acres, Washingtonville, NY President, was awarded the “Cleveland Valrey Meritorious Service Award”
10992. Due to the Covid pandemic and by the Oakland Valley Scottish Rite on November 30, 2020. Obviously
unable to meet as a Chapter, Brother Da- named after him, he is well deserving of this award.
vid Menegon proposed a Toast to the Bro. Valrey joined the U.S. Army in 1946 at the age of 16 and served in
Brothers of Chapter #13. Brothers it is the Army Air Corps, becoming a charter member of the USAF on September
my pleasure to propose the Friday even- 18, 1947. After deciding to make military service his career, he left the air
ing 9pm Toast To Our Brethren Wherev- force and became an army parachutist in 1949, an airborne Ranger in 1950, an
er They May Be: aviator in 1958, and a member of the Army’s elite Special Forces in 1964. For
valorous actions during the Vietnam War, he was inducted into the Army
Aviation Hall on April 5, 2001. He has received the Distinguished Flying
Cross and too many other military awards and decorations to name.
Bro. Valrey became a Master Mason in 2002, in Live Oak Lodge No. 61,
Oakland, CA. His Masonic career includes: Master of Live Oak Lodge for a
total of four years, a California Grand Lodge Inspector from 2008 to 2011,
Venerable Master of Oakland Scottish Rite, Worthy Patron of Eastern Star for
two years, a Rainbow Dad for twelve years, Eminent Commander of Knight
Templar for two years, Illustrious Master of Cryptic Masons, Excellent High
Priest of Royal Arch Masons for two years, member of San Francisco Priory
No. 38 of the Knights of the York Cross of Honour, member of Golden Red-
wood Priory No. 82 of the Knights of the York Cross of Honour, Past Presi-
dent of Oakland High Twelve Clubs, Past President of the California State
Association of High Twelve Clubs, Past State President of Royal Order od
Scotland, and member of Aahmes Shrine Legion of Honor. He has served the
"There are good ships,
and there are wood ships, Masonic Family in many pther capacities not named here.
It should be mentioned that Bro. Valrey is also a member of Golden West
The ships that sail the sea. Camp of Heroes of ’76 and still active in serving National Sojourners and
But the best ships,are friendships, other Masonic Organizations. Congratulations, Bro. Valrey, and thank you for
And may they always be." your excellent service to your country and Masonry.