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Effective Date: February 20, 2026
1. Information We Collect
We collect minimal information to ensure you receive our monthly updates. This includes:
- Identity Data: Your name and (optionally) your Valley membership status.
- Contact Data: Your email address.
- Technical Data: Information automatically collected by our email service provider, such as your IP address, browser type, and "open" or "click" rates to help us improve our content.
2. How We Use Your Information
We use your data strictly for the following purposes:
- To deliver the monthly newsletter and fraternal announcements.
- To notify you about upcoming degrees, stated meetings, or social events.
- To manage your subscription preferences.
3. Data Sharing and Disclosure
We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties. Your data is only shared with:
- Service Providers: Secure email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact) that facilitate the sending of the newsletter.
- Masonic Governance: If required, data may be shared within the Valley of South Bend or the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction (NMJ) for official administrative purposes.
4. Your Rights and Choices
You have full control over your data:
- Unsubscribe: You can opt out at any time by clicking the "Unsubscribe" link at the bottom of any email.
- Access/Correction: You may request to see what data we have on file for you or ask us to correct it by contacting the Valley Secretary.
5. Security
We implement reasonable security measures to protect your email address from unauthorized access. However, no electronic transmission over the internet is 100% secure; we encourage you to use caution when sharing sensitive personal information.
6. Third-Party Links
Our newsletter may contain links to other websites (e.g., the Supreme Council website or local charity partners). We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these external sites.
7. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy occasionally. Any changes will be notified to you via the newsletter or updated on our official website.
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1. Acceptance of Terms
By subscribing to our monthly newsletter, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, you should not subscribe or may unsubscribe at any time.
2. Content Disclaimer
The information provided in our newsletter is for informational and educational purposes only.
- Accuracy: While we strive for excellence, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
- No Professional Advice: The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice (legal, financial, medical, etc.). Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions you may have.
3. Intellectual Property
All content, logos, and materials included in the newsletter are the property of South Bend Scottish Rite unless otherwise stated.
- You may read and use the content for personal use.
- You may not reproduce, redistribute, or sell the content without express written permission.
4. Subscription & Privacy
- Frequency: You will receive one newsletter per month, plus occasional special announcements (if applicable).
- Data Usage: We value your privacy. Your email address will be used solely to deliver the newsletter and will never be sold to third parties.
- Third-Party Links: Our newsletter may contain links to external websites. We are not responsible for the content or privacy practices of these sites.
5. Limitation of Liability
South Bend Scottish Rite will not be liable for any damages arising from the use of, or inability to use, the information provided in the newsletter. Use of the content is at your own risk.
6. Termination of Subscription
We reserve the right to suspend or terminate any subscription at our discretion, without notice, if we believe these terms have been violated. You may unsubscribe at any time by clicking the "Unsubscribe" link at the bottom of any email.
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Brethren,
There are moments in your travels through the Craft that help to enhance your lessons taught in the Craft degrees of Blue Lodge. As Craftsmen, you work in that inner Temple to perfect the rough ashlar that resides in all Masons.
As you travel and gain more knowledge in this Gentle Craft, we in the Valley of South Bend hope you look favorably towards our degrees to enhance your progress. By offering a theatrical approach to degree delivery, the hope is that even though the message is conveyed to several of your brethren at the same time, the experience you take away from the lessons taught is truly singular.
We offer a wide variety of events, both fraternal and family oriented which makes the Scottish Rite a unique caveat to the Masonic community. I ask that you review our calendar of events and see for yourself the vast range of activities that are shared amongst Scottish Rite Masons, and hope that you agree that the money set aside for entry into the Valley is truly an investment worth making.
Even though we are located in South Bend our events and degrees cover the vast territory that makes up our Valley. Our travels bring with it top notch degree work, and Masonic education sure to awaken the senses of those both new and aged in the Craft.
You have completed your first step toward advancement by reviewing this site. The next step is to contact a brother in your lodge who is also in the Scottish Rite, he can offer you any assistance you may need. You can also contact the Scottish Rite directly or contact a Scottish Rite officer and they will offer the proper guidance to help you on your way to reaching your full potential in the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry.
We look forward to meeting you as we travel through and hope that you join us in our endeavors.
Fraternally,
Tony R. Risner
Membership Chairman
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