Code: OCIREUNI.APR

Theme Reunions Are a Success

     The Brethren of the Scottish Rite Bodies of Guthrie, Oklahoma,
have found a winner--and they are staying with it.  On February 17,
l990, they had a one-day Reunion centering around Valentine's Day. 
In addition to entertainment focused on the great romantic melodies
of past decades, they featured free testing for blood pressure,
diabetes, and cholesterol.  In addition, they offered free testing
for dental problems, hearing loss and hearing aids.  Improvement in
body, mind and spirit, a three-way winner to be sure!
     Following up on this success, the Guthrie Brethren are
planning a May three-day Reunion on a "gay nineties" theme since
this year is the beginning of the l990's and the centennial of
Masonry in Oklahoma.  There will be appropriate period
entertainment and a colorful accent on the Craft's part in the
history of the "OK State."
     In October, "the big one" arrives, in fact a double-header
event featuring a two-day Reunion on Friday and Saturday with a
three-day Indian festival extending through Sunday.  Co-sponsored
by the Oklahoma State Historical Society and the Oklahoma Supreme
Court, the event is sure to attract huge crowds--and many potential
Masons.  There will be tepees on the Temple lawn, ethnic food
booths, displays of famous Indian artists, woodcraft and folk
displays.
     The Chief Medicine Man of the Cherokee Nation will be there
giving presentations on the religious and spiritual life of the
Indians.  There will also be lectures and living exhibits on Indian
family life and folklore.  Along with the event's lighter elements,
it will also be a serious and educational examination of Indian
values, life-styles and, it should be noted, the contribution of
Native Americans to the Masonic Fraternity.  There is a rich and
interesting heritage of Indian involvement in Masonry in the West. 
In fact, most of the Lodges in Oklahoma when it was Indian
Territory were entirely of Indian composition.  The Red Earth
Society, a highly respected association of Native Americans in
positions of leadership in business, agriculture, education and
other professions, has given its full support to the occasion. 
State-wide television coverage is assured and national note is a
likelihood.
     Clearly, the Guthrie Scottish Rite Bodies have found ways to
benefit Freemasonry and America by means of Reunions focused on
themes that are important and beneficial to their community.  So
whether you want to know your cholesterol level, hear a Scott
Joplin ragtime tune, or learn about Native American values--Guthrie
is the place to be in l990!

