Txmason,
You just missed our last reunion here in Houston. Last weekend at Holland Lodge No. 1.
All your pertanient questions on costs, etc., can be answered by checking in on the website, houston valley of scottish. Go to your favorite search engine, pull up the website and go to membership. Download a Scottish Rite petition and you are good to go.
If you wish to study masonry, I can't think of a better place to get started. Get in and get active. You can work in degrees, stage, wardrobe, props, sound, kitchen, you name it.
The Rite is organized along valleys and we have five (I think) here in Texas. Galveston is oldest and Houston has one of the largest memberships in the nation. We meet every fourth Thursday night. Stay in touch, you're more than welcome to join our third Monday evening of the month study group.
Looking forward to your active membership.