April 04, 2023 Newsletter #58

Hi Member, Happy April, the first full month of Spring! Annual report reminder Subordinate and Grand Councils: it's time to begin thinking about your annual reports, due in just under three months. Happy Passover and Easter Greetings of the season of some of the most important religious celebrations of the year. Fraternal Food Drive The Royal Arcanum and other fraternals in the American Fraternal Alliance are participating in a canned goods drive. Read how you can participate this month. April is the Month of Holidays, observances, fun days and history is on display for the month of April. Charitable Activities Highlights Spring into volunteering! Here are the currently active programs of our Fraternal Department. College News Getting ready for an SAT test? Don't forget that preparation courses may be reimbursed. Inspirational Quote An ancient philosopher offers some wisdom for today. Upcoming Dates Update your calendar with these important dates    Annual Report Reminder Notice to all Grand and Subordinate Councils: June 30 is the deadline for filing Grand Council Reports and Subordinate Council Reports. Follow the links here or get the reports from our website. Requests will be sent to the council secretaries as well. Reports are easy to complete and are necessary to keep your council in good standing. Only councils that are in good standing are eligible to participate in the many programs offered by the Royal Arcanum, which can provide additional funds for councils. Grand Councils must also be in good standing to qualify for representation and voting in Supreme Council Sessions. This early notice reminds you that it’s a great time to begin to gather your records and call a meeting to prepare your reports. Reports are accepted early, so there’s no reason to delay! Reports are available on our website: Grand Council Report Subordinate Council Report    Happy Passover and Easter To all of our members, we offer our sincere wishes for a  Happy Passover and a Happy Easter! May you enjoy these holidays with your family and friends, and may it open the door to a wonderful Spring and Summertime for all.      Fraternal Food Drive The Royal Arcanum is joining forces with other fraternals in the American Fraternal Alliance to support a Fraternal Food Drive. The efforts are being driven by the Greater Cleveland Food Bank to collect canned goods from April 1 – 30. All Royal Arcanum members and Councils are encouraged to participate. Those outside the Greater Cleveland Area can make monetary donations on their website, or participate by making donations to local food banks. The AFA has asked that we track collections and donations and send the results along with as many photos as we can gather. You can send them to us and we'll pass the information and photos on to the AFA. Don't wait, please send your info and photos as soon as donations are made, we want to track progress all month. If you're posting your donation to your social media pages, take the ARA with #livefraternally. And feel free to keep the ARA directly updated, too, through an email to Kate Chillinsky, about the posts you've made. The AFA has posted about this drive on their Facebook page and on LinkedIn. Please send any questions, comments, and success stories directly to the AFA as well as sending them to us. Share your abundance with those in need and join the larger fraternal world in helping our communities.    April is the month of...     Awarenesses   MONTH Autism Acceptance Month The Autism Society of America has found a different approach to change the approach to autism from being treated as an illness to advocacy to help autistic people to lead more fulfilling lives through their branding of April as Autism Acceptance Month (instead of just awareness). The Autism Society was founded in 1965, and its early nationwide focus was in 1972 as National Autistic Children’s Week. This evolved over time to Autism Awareness Month, which was renamed in 2021 to Autism Acceptance Month to drive a change in fostering acceptance of autism.   Earth Month Environmental awareness issues are in focus during Earth Month, a worldwide effort to create sustainable solutions to offset the harmful effects of climate change across the globe. It began in 1962 in response to the use of leaded gas and the air pollution it contributed to. An oil spill in Santa Barbara, California in 1969 added a wider range to the movement, which grew into a celebration of Earth Day. Realizing the scope of the issues involved, Earth Month was celebrated beginning on April 4, 1970. More than 200 million participants were part of 1990’s Earth Month, and by 1992, the United Nations backed the activity to make it one of the most widely recognized month-long observances in the world.   Paralyzed Veterans of America Awareness Month   The Paralyzed Veterans of America was established in 1946 to serve the needs of disabled veterans returning home after World War II, focusing on those with spinal cord injuries or diseases like Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) so they could live with dignity and as productive members of society. In 1986, Paralyzed Veterans Recognition Day was declared by President Ronald Reagan. In response to grassroots efforts of PVA’s members and their chapters, the observance was extended to Paralyzed Veterans of America Awareness Month to further raise awareness of how much further we have to go to provide freedom and independence to those who fought for those same principles.   Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month   The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) started the observance of Prevention to Cruelty to Animals Month in 2006. ASPCA traces its roots to 1863 when New Yorker Henry Bergh stopped a man from beating his fallen horse while traveling through Russia. He founded ASPCA in 1866 to create a safe haven for animals and work toward policy changes to promote kind treatment toward animals.   WEEKS National Park Week National Park Week runs from April 22 to April 30 as the National Park Service encourages everyone to enjoy their National Parks in person.   National Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week Nearly 90,000 young people between the ages of 15 and 39 are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States. Lymphoma and thyroid cancer are most common for those 15 to 24, and breast and thyroid cancer is most common for those 25 and up. National Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week is the first week of April. National Volunteer Week The third week of April, which falls from April 16 to 22, celebrates the many people young and old who spread seeds of kindness and work toward bettering their community through their volunteer efforts during National Volunteer Week. World Primary Immunodeficiency Week The global community has set aside April 22 to 29 to improve the recognition, diagnosis, treatment, and improve the quality of life of people with primary immunodeficiency diseases during World Primary Immunodeficiency Week.     DAYS World Health Day Every year on April 7, World Health Day is celebrated to raise awareness of the importance of good health and to celebrate the medical workforce who work tirelessly to provide health care to people all over the world. Created by the World Health Organization in 1949, which was itself created by the United Nations in 1948. Parkinson’s Disease International Awareness Day   World Parkinson’s Day is observed on April 11. Parkinson’s is a disorder that afflicts the nervous system from still-unknown causes. It was first clearly medically described by James Parkinson in 1817, but there are documents reaching back to 1000 B.C. describing the disease. Research continues to find the cause and better treatments for this debilitating disease. World Hemophilia Day   Hemophilia was first identified in the 10th century. It was then known as Abulcasis, and was identified by those who bled profusely after just minor injuries. In the 19th century, Dr. John Conrad Otto of Philadelphia discovered a genetic condition passed on from mothers to boys. Further research has continued and identified two categories of the disease. Though no treatment has yet been discovered to eliminate the effects, there are now ways to manage the disease to minimize the effects. World Hemophilia Day is celebrated on April 17   National Lost Dog Awareness Day   The Lost Dogs of America created the first National Lost Dogs Awareness Dayon April 23, 2014, aiming to bring attention to all the dogs lost each year and celebrate those successfully reunited with their families.   Global Pay It Forward Day   American novelist Catherine Ryan Hyde wrote the novel “Pay it Forward,” first published in 1999. It was made into a novel in 2000, which inspired the creation of Global Pay It Forward Day in 2007, and is celebrated on April 28. The principles of paying it forward reach back at least to a 317 B.C. play called “Dyskolos”. Take the time to show kindness to others and encourage others to make the world better through random acts of kindness.   Holidays and Observances   Passover: An 8-day festival that begins before sundown on April 5 and runs through April 13. It is a 7-day festival for reform and progressive Jews living inside Israel who follow the Biblical text, and thus ends for them on April 12. The Seder feast is celebrated on the nights of April 5 and 6. Passover starts on the 15th day of the month of Nisan which is on the first night of a full moon after the northern vernal equinox (except leap months, which can make the festival start after the second full moon after the northern vernal equinox). (Western) Easter: In the western church, which uses the Gregorian calendar, Easter is on April 9. Easter Sunday always occurs on the first Sunday after the Paschal Full Moon, which is the first Sunday following the full Moon that occurs on or after the March or spring equinox. Note that the spring equinox date used by the Christian Church is always March 21, called the “ecclesiastical” equinox (i.e., the date used by the Church). Orthodox Easter: The orthodox church uses the Julian calendar and sets Easter on April 16. Orthodox Easter Day is calculated in the way established in 325 AD, at the Council of Nicaea, which decided that Easter would be observed on the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after the March equinox. Due to the differences in calculating leap years between the Julian and Gregorian calendars, the date of Easter usually (but not always) differs.   Fun Days   Edible Book Day is an annual event where books are created, displayed, then consumed. Despite this falling on April 1, April Fools’ Day, it is a real celebration since 2000.   National Film Score Day on April 3rd seeks to honor and recognize talented composers who create the soundtracks of our favorite movies. April 5th is National Dandelion Day, celebrating the flower that is loved, hated, sometimes consumed or made into wine and is found worldwide. On April 7, 1927, AT&T transmitted the first successful long-distance public broadcast, from Washington, D.C. to New York City. April 7 is now celebrated as Public Television Day. Walk to Work Day is also on April 7, and with many businesses seeing their employees return to work, it perhaps has more meaning today than in recent years where it may have taken 10 steps or less to accomplish. Celebrate Draw a Bird Day on April 8 by drawing a bird and sharing it. Here’s our contribution: > 0 ) ( __  > National Scrabble Day is on April 13, the birthday of Scrabble inventor Alfred Mosher Butts in 1899. To celebrate, every word in this newsletter was written using words that could be made from Scrabble tiles. International Moment of Laughter Day is on April 14. Find a moment to laugh out loud, giggle, or even snort at something today. International Haiku Poetry Day is On April Seventeen Patronize a grandiloquent celebration of sesquipedalian onomatopoeia magniloquently on Big Words Day on April 21. Celebrate the diplomatic role of Jazz uniting people in all corners of the globe on International Jazz Day on April 30, as declared by the United Nations. Historical Events   April 2, 1513 - Florida was sighted by Spanish explorer Ponce De Leon April 2, 1792 - Congress established the first U.S. Mint at Philadelphia April 2, 1805 - Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense, Denmark. He went on to create many now-classic fairy tales. April 3, 1860 - The Pony Express service began its first delivery, departing from St. Joseph, Missouri April 3, 1995 - Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor became the first woman to preside over the Supreme Court when she sat in for Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist April 3, 1783 - Washington Irving, the author of famous works such as Rip Van Winkle and The Legend of Sleepy Hallow, was born April 4, 1887 - Susanna M. Salter became the first U.S. Mayor (of Argonia, Kansas) April 4, 1968 - NATO was founded to form a united military defense of Europe against the threat of expansion of Soviet Russia into Western Europe April 5, 1856 - Booker T. Washington was born a slave and went on to become the principal of the Tuskegee Institute April 6, 1896 - Returning from a 1,500-year break, the Olympics returned in Athens, Greece April 6, 1483 - Renaissance artist Raphael was born in Urbino, Italy April 8, 563 B.C. - the birthday of Buddha April 9, 1865 - The American Civil War effectively ended with the surrender of Robert E. Lee to General Ulysses S. Grant April 10, 1847 - Joseph Pulitzer was born in Budapest, Hungary. His career included briefly fighting in the American Civil War on the Union side, then moving on to a career in journalism and publishing and eventually establishing the fund for the Pulitzer Prize. April 11, 1968 - The Civil Rights Act was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson April 13, 1743 - Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence and the 3rd U.S. President, was born in Albermarle County, Virginia  April 14, 1828 - Noah Webster published his first American Dictionary of the English Language April 15, 1912 - The Titanic sank at 2:27 a.m. with the loss of more than 1,500 persons of the 2,224 people on board April 18, 1775 - The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere and William Dawes occurred, warning patriots in advance of the British movement toward Lexington and Concord April 18, 1906 - At 5:13 a.m., an earthquake estimated at a magnitude of 7.9 struck San Francisco, followed by a massive fire that burned for three days, leading to the loss of more than 4,000 people April 22, 1864 - Congress changed the way U.S. coins were to be minted, adding “In God We Trust” to all new coinage April 23, 1564 - William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-on-Avon, England April 24, 1800 - The Library of Congress was established in Washington, D.C., forming what is America’s oldest cultural institution and the world’s largest library April 26, 1785 - John J. Audubon was born in Haiti, and became renowned for his drawings of the birds of North America April 28, 1789 - Fletcher Christian led a mutiny against the captain of the British ship Bounty, William Bligh    Charitable Activities Highlights   In light of National Volunteer Week arriving this month, we thought we would once again highlight some of the support we offer our councils for their volunteer work. The Fraternalism in Action program runs from January through December each year. Council meetings, charitable activities, fraternal activities, participation in the Supreme Regent’s charitable service campaign, council/community partnerships, and fraternal awarenesses & advocacy activities can all help to earn your council award money. The International Fraternal Service (IFS) Program also runs from January through December annually. Councils can receive reimbursement for up to 1/2 of their costs/donations for qualifying projects, up to $1,000 reimbursed each year. The Lend a Hand - Lift a Heart program is a monthly award that is sponsored to recognize hands-on volunteer service activities with at least three Royal Arcanum members actively participating. This program requires participation instead of only monetary donations, which are covered by other fraternal programs. Make your loose change make a difference through the Dime A Day Drive. Collect your change through October 18 of this year and for those who gathered a dime a day or more ($35 for the 350 days that the program runs), and send it to the Royal Arcanum Home Office, participants will be entered to win one of two $150 monetary awards. Proceeds from this program support I Honor Your Service to America, a 501c(3) charity.      College News   SAT Preparation Fee Reimbursement   College-bound members, don't forget that the Royal Arcanum will reimburse you up to $50 for members who submit a request to the Home Office along with a receipt for any SAT prep course that's completed. Don't miss the chance to get your college days off to a good start with a good SAT score. Prepare for the SAT and submit a reimbursement request.      Inspirational quotes   “What is the essence of life? To serve others and to do good.” ―     Aristotle      Upcoming dates   Mark your calendar with these important dates: Spring Bulletin publication date: May 4, 2023 Grand and Subordinate Council Reports due: June 30, 2023 Summer Bulletin article submission deadline: July 8, 2023 Dime A Day program completion: October 18, 2023

 

March 07, 2023 Newsletter #57

Hi Member, March brings ever-lengthening days, and the Vernal equinox on March 20 will bring an equal amount of daylight and darkness. It may not feel like it when, on March 12, Daylight Saving Time begins, but the additional sunlight will turn this hemisphere to thoughts of gardening and the new life breaking forth from its winter hibernation. What a great time to make plans about coming out of our own winter dens. Annuities We make the case for why this may be the time to consider the value of having an annuity in your financial portfolio. Our 4% rate of return is just one reason. March is the Month of Our March theme focuses on National Women’s Day, We tried to focus on awarenesses, observances, and historical dates that tie into the importance women have in our lives. Charitable Activities Highlights IFS Projects continue year-round. Charitable spotlights on our members' fraternal generosity continues. College News College plans are solidifying, don’t miss the important dates in the timeline for graduating seniors. Inspirational Quote Focus on your future with this month’s quote Upcoming Dates Update your calendar with these important dates    A case for Annuities The Royal Arcanum is currently providing a 4% return on your annuity, both for new and existing contracts. New annuities can be opened with as little as $500. New and existing annuities can have funds of $100 or more added at any time, and the full value of the annuity will grow at the rate of return, which is currently 4%. We’ve mentioned this a few times now, but you might be asking, why should I invest in an annuity? Here are a few things that you might want to consider.   Protection of your Principal Any savvy investor knows that investing in the stock & bond markets has a history of providing a long-term return higher than rates offered on annuities. But there’s an important restriction here: long-term. Last year, the stock market returns were more than a 19% loss, and the bond market lost more than 13%. A fixed annuity, the kind the Royal Arcanum offers, doesn’t put your investment at risk, so your investment will always grow. In return for the protection of your principal, the return is lower than the possible gains in the market. Investment specialists will tell you it’s wise to keep a portion of your net worth out of the market.   Guaranteed Retirement Income Stream In the past, company pensions provided a regular income stream for retirement, but few companies offer pensions. We’ve all heard that without action, the current payouts of the Social Security system won’t be able to continue, and cuts in benefits would be required. And if you’re thinking about early retirement, you need to have a stream of income before you even file for Social Security benefits. An annuity can help in all these cases, providing a guaranteed stream of income throughout your retirement or, for a shorter term if that makes sense for your situation — for example, if you want to delay claiming Social Security until you turn 70, but don’t want to work until you’re 70.   Tax-deferred Growth Your annuity can be funded with pre-tax dollars and can grow tax-deferred through the rate of return. You won’t owe taxes on the money until you start receiving payments, much like a 401(k) account. This can be advantageous, as many retirees find that their tax bracket is lower during retirement than when they’re working, resulting in overall savings. Your annuity can also be set up using post-tax dollars (money you have already paid taxes on). Like a pre-tax annuity, the returns can be deferred until payments on your annuity start. Only the untaxed gains are taxable. We suggest you work with your tax professional to decide the right option for your situation.   Legacy Protection By naming beneficiaries, you can pass your annuity’s value after you die without needing to go through probate court. This doesn’t mean that the money passes tax-free, as insurance policies are, but it does simplify the process greatly, and our experts will help your heirs to discuss the options that your beneficiaries have with regard to your specific annuity.   No Fees Many financial sites warn of the expenses of annuities based on the fees involved. Royal Arcanum annuities have no fees, providing your investment remains with us for a full six years. Pro-rated charges apply if you withdraw your money before the required term of the contract, but once that term is passed, there are zero fees.   Bottom Line Diversification of your funds is the key to a successful retirement. Annuities can be an important part of your financial security and help make your retirement financially secure.      March is the month of...     Awarenesses   Women's History Month Women’s History Month is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture, and society. It grew out of a weeklong celebration in the school district of Sonoma, California that started in 1978. President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential proclamation declaring National Women’s History Week in 1980, growing to a monthlong celebration beginning in 1987.   National Reading Month Celebrated the month of Dr. Suess’s birthday on March 2, the importance of reading and the power of learning through reading has a long history. Back in 1634, Anne Hutchinson formed the first women’s book club to discuss weekly sermons. National Reading Month was first celebrated in March in 1994.   Developmental Disability Awareness Month   Historically, those with developmental disabilities were treated poorly. That changed during the social reforms of the 19th century when advocates such as Dorothy Dix became leaders in respecting the human rights of people with disabilities. National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month was finally designated by President Ronald Reagan in 1987.   World Water Day   March 22 is designated by the United Nations as World Water Day and calls for focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and managing sustainable freshwater resources. It was first proposed in 1992 and first celebrated in 1993. Globally, women and girls spend 200 million hours each day collecting the water their families need to survive, keeping them from spending time on opportunities to earn an income or go to school, linking the issue of sustainable freshwater and gender equality.   Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month is observed every year in March. It has its roots in the 1948 founding of the National Hemophilia Foundation by Robert and Betty J. Henry after their son was diagnosed with this bleeding disorder. In March of 1986, President Ronald Reagan declared March Hemophilia Awareness Month. In 2016, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services designated it Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month to raise awareness of all inheritable blood and bleeding disorders.   Holidays and Observances International Women of Color Day is March 1 each year. First observed in 1991, it was organized by Suzanne Brooks. International Women of Color Day has roots that reach back to at least 1985 to honor women of color and work toward ending the racism plus sexism they have endured.   March 4 is World Day of Fight Against Sexual Exploitation. It was first started in 2009 as a global movement to end human trafficking. More than one million people are thought to be exploited annually, most being women and children. The primary goal of the movement is to unite the world to end all forms of sexual exploitation.   Women in Construction Week is celebrated March 5 - 11, to highlight the contributions of women in the industry. The theme this year is Many Paths, One Mission, and it celebrates the different journeys women have taken toward the goal of strengthening and amplifying the success of women in the construction industry.   National Dentist’s Day is March 6, celebrating the men and women who work for our dental health and encouraging those who may have avoided going to the dentist to come in for a checkup.   International Women’s Day on March 8 is the global day celebrating the many achievements of women and supporting action against gender inequality. Inequity occurs in nearly every aspect of life. For example,  while women make up close to half the world's population, 259 million fewer women have access to the Internet than men. Embrace equality to create a gender equal world.   Harriet Tubman Day is celebrated on March 10, commemorating the former slave who fought to free other slaves. It has been a national holiday in the U.S. since 1990. She was one of the most famous "conductors" of the Underground Railroad.   International Day of Women Judges is also on March 10, observed to promote equal and complete participation of women at all levels of the judiciary. The United Nations resolution creating it was adopted in April, 2021.   Certified Nurses Day is on March 19. It was created in 2008 by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and they chose March 19 because it was the birthdate of Dr. Margretta Madden Styles, a pioneer in the area of nursing certification.   March 21 is World Social Work Day and is celebrated annually on the third Tuesday in March. America’s history includes the awarding in 1931 of social work pioneer Jane Addams with a Nobel Peace Prize, one of the first women to receive the honor. Celebrating this day provides an opportunity to acknowledge how communities can make powerful actions that lead to inclusive social transformation.   Fun Days   World Compliment Day is March 1, thanks to Dutch founder Hans Poortvliet Old Stuff Day on March 2 is a day to clean out your closets, garages, and other places of clutter in your lives I Want You to be Happy Day is on March 3, and is a great time to brighten someone’s day with a simple act of kindness Napping Day on March 13 is when you can recover from springing forward during yesterday’s time change Everything You Think is Wrong Day is March 15, even if you think it isn’t, and it’s a day to help people realize they aren’t always right Everything You Do is Right Day on March 16 reminds us that despite yesterday’s celebration, everything is going to be all right. Awkward Moments Day is observed on March 18, so you can laugh off any unfortunate actions on your part Let’s Laugh Day on March 19 is a time to giggle through a 24-hour joke-fest World Storytelling Day happens annually on March 20, celebrating the art of storytelling National Common Courtesy Day reminds us on March 21 that simple things can make a difference in others’ lives International Goof Off Day makes March 22 a day to find time to unwind and enjoy yourself  Take a Walk in the Park Day on March 30 encourages us to put on some comfy shoes and take a healthy walk in nature Historical Events   This month's historical events highlight women in our history.   March 3, 1913: A women’s suffrage march in Washington, D.C., was attacked while police stood by March 4, 1933: Newly elected president Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered his first inaugural address. His cabinet included the first woman to be appointed to a Cabinet post: Frances Perkins as Secretary of Labor March 10, 1903: Claire Boothe Luce was born in New York City. She went on to become a playwright, serve in the House of Representatives from 1943 to 1947, and became the first woman appointed as U.S. Ambassador to a major country (Italy). March 12, 1993: Janet Reno is sworn in as the first female Attorney General of the United States March 12, 1994: The Church of England ordained 32 women as its first female priests March 14, 1833: Lucy Hobbs was born in New York State. In 1866, she was the first woman to receive her degree from the Ohio College of Dental Surgery. March 22, 1972: The Equal Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was passed by the U.S. Senate and sent to the states for ratification. It was only ratified by 35 states, failing to reach the required 38 states by the extended deadline that was set for June 1982. March 25, 1911: A fire inside a New York City garment factory killed 123 low-paid young women, along with 23 men March 31, 1776: Future First Lady Abigail Adams pens a plea to the Continental Congress to “remember the ladies and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors. Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of the husbands. Remember, all men would be tyrants if they could. If particular care and attention is not paid to the ladies, we are determined to foment a rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any laws in which we have no voice or representation.”    Charitable Activities Highlights   Wounded Warriors Project In 2003, a small, grassroots effort began to provide simple care and comfort items to the wounded service members returning home from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Wounded Warriors Project has evolved to include programs in mental health, career counseling, and long-term rehabilitative care. They also engage in advocacy efforts to improve the lives of warriors and their families. Mattatuck Council #713 chose to support the Wounded Warriors Project for their IFS project.      College News   Last call   Scholarship applicants are reminded that the deadline for completing the next steps of their Scholarship application is March 31.  Double check the required items in the list you should have received from the Home Office, and immediately contact us at (888) 272-2686 if you lost or did not receive your list of next steps. And best of luck to all our applicants!   College-bound season continues   Keep an eye out for your college admissions decisions. Each school has its own timeline of issuing acceptances, and the final admission letters should be wrapped up soon. But don’t get too caught up in next year’s dreams: be sure to prepare for your AP test and final exams to end your senior year on a high note.    Inspirational quotes   “Whether you are sixteen or sixty, the rest of your life is ahead of you. You cannot change one moment of your past, but you can change your whole future. Now is your time.” ―     Matthew Kelly      Upcoming dates   Mark your calendar with these important dates: Daylight Saving Time begins: March 12, 2023 Spring begins! Vernal equinox: March 20, 2023 Bulletin article submission deadline: March 28, 2023 Scholarship checklist items deadline: March 31, 2023 Dime A Day program completion: October 18, 2023

 

February 07, 2023 Newsletter #56

Hi Member, February is the shortest month of the year, but there's no shortage of activities from the Royal Arcanum. In Memory of William J. Wire We offer a short tribute to Bill Wire, our Past Supreme Regent and friend who passed away at the end of January. From the Supreme Regent Our Supreme Regent offers a quick and impactful suggestion for all Councils and Grand Councils. February is the Month of February may be the shortest month, but it still holds more than its share on the topics of awarenesses, observances, fun facts, and history. Charitable Activities Highlights Our members have been busy! Here's a list of some of the charitable activities they've been involved in. College News To be eligible for scholarships and grants, scholarship applicants must complete the remaining items on their checklist. Inspirational Quote Inspiration for us all. Upcoming Dates Update your calendar with these important dates.    In Memory of William J. Wire   With a heavy heart, we bid farewell to our Past Supreme Regent, Past Chairman of the Executive Committee, and our friend, William J. Wire. Bill was a member of the Royal Arcanum for more than 57 years, joining in March 1965. His commitment to our society and the principles of our organization led him to go through the chairs in his council, Medora #1648, and continue through chairs of the Grand Council of Illinois.  In 2008, he was elected as Supreme Regent at the 99th Supreme Council Session and was elected Chairman of the Executive Committee following the 100th Supreme Council Session. He was awarded his Legion of Honor, the 90th member in Royal Arcanum history to achieve this distinction. Throughout it all, his wife Florence was lovingly by his side, encouraging and supporting him in all his endeavors. Bill will be missed by those lucky enough to know him. He passed from this life on January 26, 2023. May he rest in eternal peace.      From the Supreme Regent   A Project for All Councils Supreme Regent Maria DiBartolo suggests a simple project for all Councils and Grand Councils to help out their communities. She invites all councils to collect cereal boxes at their next gathering. Breakfast cereals are one of the most requested items at most food pantries. They are easy to acquire, not too heavy to transport, and are welcome contributions that provide a healthy breakfast to the needy. Her suggestion is simple: Sponsor a collection of cereal boxes from your members and friends of your council, or even make a monetary contribution toward boxes of cereal. Then, select the charitable organization of your choice in your area that you think would most benefit from the donation. And of course, take a picture and write a bulletin article. This is an example of how quick and easy it is to show the fraternal spirit of the Royal Arcanum, and can be used as a model for many future charitable projects for our councils.        February is the month of...     Awarenesses   African American History Month February hosts an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Gerald Ford first recognized February as Black History Month in 1976, expanding the week-long celebration that was begun in 1926 by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).   National Cancer Prevention Month National Cancer Prevention month is focused on helping everyone understand the screening habits, healthy choices, and other lifestyle changes that can lower the risk for several types of cancer. While there’s no sure way to prevent cancer, you can help reduce your risk by eating right, staying active, not smoking, and getting screened.   Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month is a unified effort among Jewish organizations across North America and beyond, to raise awareness and foster acceptance and inclusion of people with disabilities and mental health conditions and those who love them. Begun in 2009, February has been dedicated to recognizing people with disabilities and ensuring that they and their families are included in Jewish communities around the world, striving to meet the needs of the community and support uniting, empowering, and bringing all of us together.   National Cat Health Month National Cat Health Month encourages cat parents to focus on their cat’s physical and emotional well-being, and educate themselves on signs of unhealthy behavior or illness. Take this month to prioritize your cat's health and take part in the many activities that focus on your cat's health.   Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month was founded in 2002 by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (A.S.P.C.A.). Rabbits are the third most common pet found at area animal shelters and they need loving homes. They can be great companions! Why not consider adopting a rabbit?   Holidays and Observances World Cancer Day is February 4th, an internationally observed day marked to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. The primary goal of World Cancer Day is to significantly reduce illness and death caused by cancer.   Safer Internet Day is observed on February 7, an international education and awareness-raising effort, celebrated in over 100 countries. It’s a day to bring communities together to discuss the challenges families face navigating the digital world and empowers them to use technology responsibly, respectfully, critically, and creatively.   National Donor Day focuses on five points of life: organs, tissues, marrow, platelets, and blood. Many health groups use this day to sponsor blood and marrow drives and organ/tissue sign-ups. National Donor Day was started in 1998 by the Saturn Corporation and its partner, the United Auto Workers. It is supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and many nonprofit health groups.   Random Acts of Kindness Day was initiated in 1995 in Denver, Colorado by a nonprofit organization called The Random Acts Of Kindness Foundation. The idea behind it is to make the world a better place by spreading a little light around and making kindness a part of our everyday lives.   Word Day of Social Justice was established by the United Nations as an international day recognizing the need to promote social justice, which includes efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, gender inequality, unemployment, human rights, and social protections. February 20 was chosen by the General Assembly, and adopted on 26 November 2007, with observance of the World Day of Social Justice beginning in 2009.     Fun Days February has a LOT of dedicated days to food items, so let's get ready to set our plates! February 2 is The Day of the Crêpe in France and is associated with the Catholic feast of Candlemas. On this day households all over France make crêpes. This is because it is believed that crêpes symbolize prosperity. February 3 is Carrot Cake Day, an annual celebration thought to have started in the Middle Ages to combat the high price of sugar by using carrots as a natural sweetener. Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day is February 4, the first Saturday in February. It is thought that the unofficial holiday was first created in the 1960s by Florence Rappaport in Rochester, New York as a way to entertain her children on a cold and snowy morning. Also celebrated on the 4th is Stuffed Mushroom Day. Assuming, that is, that you have an appetite after breakfast. February 5 is Chocolate Fondue Day, an excuse, if one is needed, to enjoy some gooey chocolate.  Bagel and Lox Day is February 9. This holiday's origins are unknown, but it's also often known as National Bagel Day or Bagel Day. In 2018, Thomas', a division of Bimbo Bakeries USA, decided to move the date of National Bagel Day from February 9 to January 15 to avoid competing with National Pizza Day. But we say why not celebrate both? Don't Cry Over Spilled Mik Day is February 11, an annual reminder that nothing good ever comes out of holding on to regrets. February 15 is Gumdrop Day. Treat yourself to a bowlful of this colorful, chewy, and delicious candy.  The United States National Confectioners Association has declared that Chocolate Mint Day be observed on February 19. For their sake, do your part. International Dog Biscuit Day is on February 23, so your furry friend can have fun celebrating this month, too. February 24 is Tortilla Chip Day. Tortilla chips were first popularized as a way to reuse misshapen tortillas by Rebecca Webb Carranza whose family owned the El Zarape Tortilla Factory in the 1940s. If you're low on iron, you might consider celebrating World Sword Swallowers Day on February 25, but we remind you that this is a day for professionals only. It was created by the Sword Swallowers Association International (SSAI) in 2008. February 26 is Pistachio Day. It encourages people to add pistachios to their daily diets and take advantage of their health benefits. Historical Events This month has an amazing constitutional history when more than 1/5 of the amendments were adopted. It is second only to December, which saw twice as many (including the famous first ten, the Bill of Rights). February 3, 1870:  The 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, which guarantees the rights of citizens to vote, regardless of race, color, or previous condition of servitude. February 3, 1913:  This day of the month also saw the ratification of the 16th Amendment, which grants Congress the authority to collect income taxes. February 6, 1788:  Massachusetts became the 6th state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, which would go on to replace the Articles of Confederation. February 6, 1933:  145 years to the day after the Massachusetts ratification of the Constitution, the 20th Amendment was adopted, which set the date of the Presidential Inauguration to be January 20; and set the official opening of Congress as January 3. February 7, 1795:  The 11th Amendment of the Constitution was ratified. It prohibited federal lawsuits against individual states. February 10, 1967:   The procedures clarifying presidential succession in the event of the disability of a sitting president were set by the ratification of the 25th Amendment. February 25, 1950:   Ratification of the 22nd Amendment occurred, limiting the president to a maximum of two elected terms, and a maximum of 10 years in office.      Charitable Activities Highlights   New England Hemophilia Association Founded in 1957, The New England Hemophilia Association (NEHA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of all persons with bleeding disorders and their families through education, support, and advocacy in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.  The Grand Council of Massachusetts renewed its long-term support of this organization with an IFS project in December.   Ukraine Fraternal Project Medora Council #1648 is the latest council to provide a donation to the Ukraine Fraternal Project through an IFS Project. The Fraternal Department has been able to provide 100% of the funds donated by Medora and the many other councils and members who supported this project through their contacts in Poland. The funds directly help the ongoing needs of the Ukraine people who are suffering the effects of an unjust war.   Pan-Mass Challenge for Dana-Farber Alpha-Agassiz Council #1 threw its support to The Pan-Mass Challenge, a Massachusetts-based bike-a-thon that raises more money for charity than any other single athletic fundraising event in the country. The PMC raises funds for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a world leader in adult and pediatric cancer treatment and research. This was the first IFS Project from Alpha-Agassiz supporting the PMC, but represents a continued and long-established support of the Dana-Farber Institute.   Year-End IFS Reminder All 2022 IFS Projects must be submitted no later than February 28, 2023. These are projects where the donation was completed in the 2022 calendar year. Projects completed in 2023 can be submitted immediately.      College News   Reminder of Next Steps for Scholarship Applicants Scholarship applicants need to be sure all items on their checklist are completed and all documents before the deadline of March 31. If a confirmation of the application and a checklist of to-do items were never received from the Home Office, please contact us immediately by calling (888) 272-2686 or sending us an email to ensure your application has been received.      Inspirational quotes   “We know only too well that what we are doing is nothing more than a drop in the ocean. But if the drop were not there, the ocean would be missing something.” ―     Mother Teresa    Upcoming dates   Mark your calendar with these important dates: 2022 Fraternalism in Action reports deadline: February 15, 2023 The Lorraine J. D'Emilio Legacy of Home projects run from September 1 to February 28 2022 IFS submission deadline: February 28, 2023 Bulletin article submission deadline: March 28, 2023 Scholarship checklist items deadline: March 31, 2023 Dime A Day program completion: October 18, 2023