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A fantastic evening occurred on June 13th at the Children's Dyslexia Center of Central New York located on the campus of the Eastern Star Home in Oriskany, NY. Proud parents watched as each child was recognized for their achievements in overcoming their dyslexia disability. Two children met all requirements needed to graduate from the program. Congratulations to them! Ill. David Spencer, 33°, AASR, NMJ, & Deputy for the State of NY, spoke to the audience and the children about dyslexia and being persistent in overcoming obstacles. He cited several famous dyslexic people, from Muhammed Ali to Jay Leno and Albert Einstein, who did not let their dyslexia hold them down. Refreshments followed the ceremony. Calendar
Jun 05 Trustees Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee 7:00 p.m. Jul 15 Annual Masonic Bodies Scholarship Presentations 5:00 p.m. Masonic Memorial Center, 648 Centerville Place, North Syracuse, NY Aug 04 Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY Annual “TEDDY BEAR CLASSIC” CAPTAIN & CREW FORMAT GOLF OUTING Vesper Hills Golf Course, Tully, NY 10:30 a.m. SHOTGUN START Aug 21 Valley Trustees Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. Aug 27-29 Supreme Council, 33⁰, N.M.J. Biennial Session in Rochester, NY Consistory First I would like to thank the Brethren for the opportunity to serve as your Commander in Chief. I have large shoes to fill following Ill Richard Powell but I will do my best to do so. Rick has done an outstanding job the past 2 years with new programs that he arranged. Thank you, Rick, for your leadership. Thank you to all who took Officer positions this year. I look forward to working with you to continue the good work in the Valley. We are going to start out over the summer with Supreme Council being held in Rochester August 26 thru 29, 2017. We have several of our members helping Jim Swan in Registration and Rick Powell in Tiling. Thank you to all who have volunteered to help with this. I am looking forward to an exciting 2 year, we have some degrees scheduled that have not been performed in a while and have been asked to do some Degrees with our neighboring Valleys. I hope that everybody has a great summer. D.B. Garry L. Visconti, 32° MSA Commander in Chief Chapter As our 2016-2017 year come to a close, I would like to extend a hardy and sincere CONGRATULATIONS and WELCOME to our new Princes of the Royal Secret and urge them to attend and participate in the Valley of Syracuse upcoming events. Please join us in the TEDDY BEAR CLASSIC golf outing at Vesper Hills Golf Course on August 4. Our 2017-2018 Kick- Off dinner will be on September 11. Past Most Wise Master, D. B. Douglas H. Storey, MSA, has asked me to pass along the following message: “Since this is my final column as Most Wise Master for the ROSE CROIX BODY of the Central City Valley of Syracuse, I wish to thank all those Scottish Rite Brothers who graciously have played a part in the portrayal of the 18° on March 18th and the Feast of the Paschal Lamb Ceremony on April 8th. Last but not least, I wish for the best success for our incoming officers for 2017-2018.” Have a GREAT SUMMER and look forward to seeing you all in the Fall. Ill. Gary H. Kall, 33° Most Wise Master Council Greeting Princes, As we near the end of events and activities and enter into our dark period, so we may recharge our batteries and have time to spend on other pursuits, I find it puts me in a reflective state of mind. I recently watched a movie called A Dog’s Purpose. It was a very touching and enjoyable film. In the opening portion the dog asks the question “what is the purpose of life?”. While this is from a dog’s point of view, mostly, it is a question I think we all have asked at some point in our lives. This caused me to think also about a film I saw many years ago, City Slickers. City Slickers is about men going through a bit of mid-life crisis, and going to a ranch. During one scene in that movie Mitch Robbins (played by Billy Crystal) is taken with how tough, yet some how, serene Curly (played by Jack Palance) is, how Curly is satisfied with his life in a rugged outdoors, filled with hard work. Mitch asks Curly “What is your secret, what is the secret to life?” (Please note, this is from memory, so it isn’t an exact quote). Curly holds up one finger and says “This”. Of course it left Mitch puzzled, and Curly goes on to explain that it isn’t what he holds as his secret that is the answer, it depends on yourself to figure that out. It is the one thing that you hold dear, that you hold close and helps define what your meaning of life is. It can be specific, or more general. It is ultimately what makes you happy, gives you a sense of fulfillment. It is what you hold close, that special passion, person, interest or ideal, which gives meaning and depth to all other things. I think many of us in our Fraternal Order, regardless of which body we are most involved with, can find that “one thing”, that special something, which gives us the secret to our life, the purpose to our life. We talk of it often, either directly or symbolically, it is ultimately the aspect of our brotherhood which binds us the closest. I find the emblem we use to illustrate it, and remind us of it, to be one I have always been very fond of. We call it the mortar of Brotherly Love. While we all have diverse passions, be it ritual, giving leadership, giving help to a distressed worthy Master Mason or their family, or even just sitting on the sidelines and contributing in fellowship, the secret is we have a love for our Brothers. We care, even for those we don’t personally know, because we have this brotherly love. John Lennon wrote “All You Need Is Love”, the Bible writes many things about love, including that love is the greatest of all things. How rich our lives become when we grasp “the secret”, and we all engage in spreading the cement of brotherly love. Have a wonderful summer. Live. Laugh. Love. Sincerely and Fraternally, James A. Nelson, 32º Sovereign Prince Lodge No News Received… Ken Sterling, 32° Thrice Potent Master Hospitaler Greetings Brethren, May is here and the fragrance of apple blossoms is everywhere. Another Masonic year is winding down fast. St. John’s day will be here soon. If you plan on visiting and taking part in the festivities at the Masonic care community in Utica, make sure you allow time to visit the residents there. If anyone is in need of our aid or assistance, Give Bob Tyrrell or the new Hospitaler, D.B. Doug Storey, a call. See you around the Valley, and don’t forget the Blue envelopes, Dick Freeman, 32° Hospitaler tel. 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY I hope that last month’s April Showers have brought you beautiful May Flowers! This continues to be a very busy time at the Center as we continue to prepare the students for the end of their year. We have begun our post-assessments for the children and the (seemingly endless) end of year paperwork required to maintain our credibility and certification. We have seven applicants for the upcoming class for Advanced Training for Certified Tutors and two applicants for the Initial Level Training. The Center will be an even busier place next year as all but two of these scholars will tutor on site. We expect to have 9 of our children return next year and we plan to bring in up to 14 new children in the fall. We know there will be changes but we will be planning for all eventualities as there will be no room for error in our room and time scheduling. We are in the final stages of planning for our Recognition Ceremony on June 13 th . It is always a wonderful time of sharing and honoring the children and tutors and we feel fortunate to have the use of the Pavilion and services on the Eastern Star Campus. Please feel free to contact us if you can join us that evening- the program will begin at 6:30 with a light lunch after. Our continued gratitude and appreciation for all that you do to encourage and support our work! Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cnyclc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 From The Office The 2016-2017 Valley of Syracuse business year is rapidly coming to a close. Our regularly scheduled meetings and events for 2017-2017 are completed. On behalf of your office staff we thank and congratulate the 2016-2917 Valley Officers for providing the Valley membership quality programs and events. Ill Richard J. Powell, 33⁰ completed his two years as our Commander-In- Chief in May. He and H. Bruce Naumann, 32⁰ Thrice Potent Master, Lodge of Perfection, James A. Nelson, 32⁰, Sovereign Prince, Council Princes of Jerusalem, and D.B. Douglas H. Storey, 32⁰ MSA Most Wise Master, Chapter of Rose Croix were our Valley leadership team for 2016-2017. Thru their efforts much was accomplished during the year. All are to be congratulated for what was accomplished. If you have followed our monthly reports and articles in the WORD I am sure that you can appreciate the efforts of our Valley Bodies Leaders and their officers this past year. A very LARGE THANK YOU to all who assisted in any way to present the Scottish Rite Degrees and their messages to our new members this past year. Another page in the book of time has turned and we now move forward to 2017-2018 business year in the Valley of Syracuse. Please congratulate our new Valley leaders as the step forward into their leadership roles for the next year. We meet on Monday evenings from September thru May each year. Our monthly schedule is published each month in the WORD. All Valley members will receive the 2017 – 2018 Valley meetings and events schedule in the next few weeks. Your office staff thanks everyone for your cooperation and timely support this past year and we wish each of you a happy and safe summer season in the upcoming weeks. Relax, be safe, and we will greet each of you in September. J.D. Swan, Jr., 33° Valley Secretary Valley of Syracuse Obituary Notices In memory of Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite whose deaths were reported to the Valley office January 2017 thru May 2017. Wesley K. Lane, 32⁰ February 19, 2017 Robert Hamilton, 32⁰ February 27, 2017 Dr. Bruce W. Widger, 33⁰ Active Emeritus Member March 3, 2017 Lawrence J. Andrews, 32⁰ Notified March 10, 2017 John S. Curtis, 33⁰ April 5, 2017 Robert W. Brown, 32⁰ April 15, 2017 Alois Engler, 32⁰ April 20, 2017 Richard W. Holland, 32⁰ May 1, 2017 The Secretary thanks all who inform the Valley Office when a loved one passes away. We follow the local Syracuse Post Standard newspaper each day to record the deaths of our current and former members. The Secretary is particularly thankful to those who report the passing of our current and former Members now living outside of the immediate surrounding area of Syracuse whose obituary notices do not get published in the Syracuse Post Standard newspaper. Teddy Bear Golf Classic to Support Children’s Dyslexia Center, CNY Friday, August 4th @ VESPER HILLS GOLF COURSE, 4291 Octagon Rd., Tully, NY 13159 Registration: 9:30 a.m. / Shotgun Start: 10:00 a.m. Captain & Crew Format / Mixed foursomes welcome $60.00 per person / $240.00 per team Open to all-men and women Food at the turn / Buffet to follow Send reservations by: Friday-July 28,2017 Make checks payable to: CDC CNY-103 Send Reservations to or for more information Contact: Craig E. Cobb 115 Haverhill Dr. DeWitt, NY 13214 (315) 446-0625 cobb3@verizon.net Congratulations to the newly elected & installed Officers for the Valley of Syracuse: 2017-2018 Lodge of Perfection Officers Thrice Potent Master: Kenneth D. Sterling, 32° Senior Warden : Terry A. Byard, 32° Junior Warden : Johnnie T. Pierce, 32° Orator : David H. Golding, 32° Master of Ceremonies : Jorge L. Romeu, 32° Captain of the Guard : D.B. Kevin M. Cobb, 32° MSA Trustee: H. Bruce Naumann, 32° DSA 2017-2018 Council Princes of Jerusalem Officers Sovereign Prince: James A. Nelson, 32º High Priest: Michael A. Miller, 32° Senior Warden: Brian E. Ziegler, 32° Junior Warden: Frank K. Wheelock, 32° Master of Ceremonies: Jorge L. Romeu, 32° Master of Entrances: D.B. Kevin M. Cobb, 32º MSA Trustee: D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA 2017-2018 Chapter of Rose Croix Officers Most Wise Master: Ill.'. Gary H. Kall, 33° Senior Warden: Caleb W. Haines, 32° Junior Warden: Henry R. Havener, 32° Orator: David H. Golding, 32° Master of Ceremonies: Jorge L. Romeu, 32° Captain of the Guard: D.B. Kevin M. Cobb, 32° MSA Trustee: Ill.'. Milo J. Peterson, 33° 2017-2019 Consistory Officers Com. in Chief: D.B. Garry L. Visconti, 32° MSA 1st. Lt. Commander: D.B. Lawrence W. Egnaczyk, 32° MSA 2nd LT. Commander: D.B. Earl L. Tuttle, 32° MSA Orator: William H. Toth, 32° DSA Chancellor: Ill.'. Gary S. Hartman, 33° Master of Cer.: D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA Engineer and Sen'l: D.B. Garret A. Wikoff, 32° MSA Master of Robes: H. Bruce Naumann, 32° DSA Color Bearer: D.B. David A. Barnello, 32º MSA Standard Bearer: Jack G. Dombrowski, 32º DSA Capt. Guard: D.B. Kevin M. Cobb, 32° MSA Trustee: Richard M. Torrey, 32° DSA Trustee: Carl F. Fahrenkrug, Jr., 32° Officers In All Four Bodies Treasurer: D.B. J. Michael Gates, 32° MSA Secretary: Ill.'. James D. Swan, Jr., 33° Hospitaler: D.B. Douglas H. Storey, 32° MSA Hospitaler: Ill.'. Robert M. Tyrrell, 33° Tiler: D.B. Melvin W. Sitts, 32° MSA
TEDDY BEAR CLASSIC Benefit: Children’s Dyslexia Center-Central New York CAPTAIN AND CREW FORMAT VESPER HILLS GOLF CLUB, TULLY, NY www.vesperhills.com FRIDAY-AUGUST 4, 2017 9:30 A.M. SHOTGUN START $60 PER PERSON, $240 PER TEAM Open to all-men and women Buffet following Send reservations by: Friday-July 28,2017 To: Craig Cobb 115 Haverhill Drive, Dewitt, NY 13214 Make checks payable to: CDC CNY-103 (Your check is your reservation) Forms for playing & sponsorships can be downloaded below... 
Calendar
May 06 New Member’s Mentoring/Orientation Session All Member Information Meeting 8:30 a.m. Registration, Coffee, Doughnuts 9:00 a.m. Program (Dress is casual - no shorts) May 08 155th Annual Reunion Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. May 15 Guard’s Club Monday Dinner 6:15 p.m. /Meeting 6:30 p.m. Four Bodies Annual Meeting 7:30 p.m. May 22 Officers Public Installation Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Jun 05 Trustees Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee 7:00 p.m. Consistory Greetings Brethren, It’s hard to believe, but my two year term as Commander-in-Chief has come to its conclusion. The stress has been horrific! Remember - I had very long hair when I began, look at it now! Truthfully, it has been a great two years. I would like to thank everyone who has attended or participated in a Scottish Rite event or degree during my term. Specifically, I would like to thank the following Brethren who have served as Officers under my watch, in particular, as a Presiding Officer - Thrice Potent Master of the Lodge of Perfection: Jack G. Dombrowski, 32° DSA and H. Bruce Naumann, 32°; Sovereign Prince of the Council of Princes of Jerusalem: Robert O. Boutell, 32° and James A. Nelson, 32º; Most Wise Master of the Chapter of Rose Croix: Carlton P. Jackson, 32° and D.B. Douglas H. Storey, 32° MSA; Consistory’s 1st Lt. Commander D.B. Garry L. Visconti, 32° MSA and 2nd Lt. Commander D.B. Lawrence W. Egnaczyk, 32° MSA; our Hospitaler Dick Freeman, 32° DSA and his sidekick Ill. Robert M. Tyrrell, 33°; our Treasurer, D.B. J. Michael Gates, 32° MSA; Sharon Fox, our Office Administrator; and finally Ill. James D. Swan, Jr., 33°, our Valley Secretary and his faithful partner Sharon. There have been countless others that I could acknowledge for their support and encouragement: Carl Fahrenkrug (Jr. & Sr.), Craig Cobb, Lynwood Bennerson, Gary Kall and Bob Tyrrell are but a few more. Thank you all for making it a great two years. The one downside has been the loss of so many Illustrious 33° Brethren of the Valley of Syracuse: Bruce Widger, Bruce Ackerman, Bill Dupree and John Curtis. These Brethren represented the Best of the Best of Freemasonry and each labored for Lodge & Rite until the end. Their legacies and contributions can be found in each and every organization they belonged to. They left them better than they were found and it is our duty to continue in their memory. It is time for us to step up - let’s not let their hard work and leadership go to waste. May finds us with the following events: Saturday, May 06 - New Member’s Mentoring/Orientation Session; May 08 - 155th Annual Reunion; May 15 - Guard’s Club Dinner and Four Bodies Annual Meeting; and finally on May 22 - Officers Public Installation. These will be my last events as CiC and I hope to see many of you there. If you are a newer member of the Valley of Syracuse, I encourage you to attend the New Member Mentoring/ Orientation Session on May 8th, along with the first line signer of your petition. We hope to explain a few things about the Rite - customs, history, etc. as well give you a brief rundown on how the Valley operates. This Saturday morning program will begin at 8:30 AM with coffee and donuts and will conclude by 11:30. I hope you can make it. Finally, I have one last favor to ask of you all. Please give your best efforts and attention to the Officers who will continue the great work of the Valley of Syracuse as you have done for myself and the Officers of the past two years. If we are to succeed, it will take all of us. Thank you... Fraternally, Ill.'. Richard J Powell, 33° Commander in Chief Chapter Brethren Please make plans now to reserve the evening of May 8th to attend the 155th AASR Annual Reunion. Social hour starts at 6:00 PM followed by Dinner at 6:30 and Program at 7:30. I wish to thank the Degree Teams who took part in portraying the 16º and 18º on March 18th. Their performances were outstanding. Don’t forget to make your reservation to attend the Guard’s Club Dinner on May 15th. The evening will begin at 6:15 PM with Dinner & Meeting followed by the Four Bodies Annual Meeting at 7:30 PM. Finally, the evening of May 22nd will conclude this year’s social events with the Public Installation of Officers. As with other events, Social hour starts at 6:00 PM followed by Dinner at 6:30 and Program at 7:30. D.B. Douglas H. Storey, 32° MSA Most Wise Master Council Greetings Princes, I am currently preparing a course for Boy Scouts about the Golden Age of Comic Books. This is just meant to be a fun course for Scouts to take, but as I start researching this, I find that the golden age started in 1938 and ran through 1954. This puts the golden era in the years leading up to World War II and through the Korean War. Some of what pushed comic book sales was the desire to have something to do while overseas during down times, and with less access to radios, as well as having fantastical stories, it had illustrations which opened the doors for many who didn’t read well. It also helped those who enjoyed the radio programs to have an entertainment far apart from what their experiences where. Comics began a steep decline after 1954. In the early 50’s television started making a larger impact and probably had a hand in the demise of Comic Books, along with the subjects moving away from the Super Hero toward Westerns, Romance, and Horror. The second period when Comics began a revival was known as the Silver Age. This started around 1959 – 1960, it saw a return of DC comic super heroes and ushered in Marvel Comics as a powerhouse. This Silver Age, has a number of reasons behind revived success. Yet, one of the biggest reasons was because of the Baby Boomer era, where children of those who fought in WWII started getting into an age where they would read comics on traveling journeys and the fathers who had remembered their own fondness for the Comics, would have things to help bridge the age gap, and give them some common grounds. When I looked at that, I also thought of how Masonry has quite a number of members who are family, father and sons belonging to Lodges, and being active members in the Concordant Bodies, it struck me that we have some similar aspects to those two eras of Comics. Fathers can connect with their more mature aged sons through Masonry, and share the common bonds of Fraternity and community we know as Masons. Being in our Fraternity gives family members new opportunities to interact and connect through a common ground, and has the added benefit of helping pass along the desire of bettering ourselves, and leading our paths toward becoming better men. Shared passions, despite differences in age, or maybe in part enhanced by the different generations, is one of things I know I truly enjoy in our Fraternity. Seeing men of different generations, different histories, come together for a common cause, and a desire to do good in this world, makes our Fraternity something valuable in our families. Sincerely and Fraternally, James A. Nelson, 32º Sovereign Prince Lodge Greetings My Brothers. Well Spring is finally here in Syracuse. We start May with our our 155th Annual Reunion Dinner on May 8th . We should be very proud of the fact that we belong to a Valley with such a rich History. On May the 15th the Guard’s Club dinner will be held with a 4 Body meeting to follow. May 22nd the Public Installation of officers will take place. There will be a dinner with the Installation to follow, this a public meeting and open to family and friends. As this is the last work article I will be writing, I wish to thank all who have helped me make this a successful year as Thrice Potent Master. May the Great Architect of the Universe watch over you and yours. Fraternally, H. Bruce Naumann, 32° Thrice Potent Master Hospitaler Greetings Brethren, The snow has stopped falling and the Robins are hopping around on bare ground ! Its time to start doing some traveling again. There are Degrees taking place in Syracuse and the neighboring Valleys have scheduled their Spring Reunions. If you are not working on your Passport, you may like to consider a day trip to the Masonic Care Community in Utica. At last count there were about 2 dozen Masonic Brothers residing at Wiley Hall and the Health Pavilion. Lastly…when shopping for that new Spring Wardrobe, stop by the Office and see Sharon for a new Teddy Bear necktie. In doing so you will be helping support the Children’s Learning Center in Oriskany. As always, if anyone is in need of our aid or assistance, give Bob Tyrrell or myself a call. See you around the Valley, Dick Freeman, 32° Hospitaler tel. 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY As we move into Spring and the Easter Season we want to continue to express our appreciation for the support you all continue to give us. This is a very busy time at the Center (is there ever a time that isn’t) as we begin to prepare the students for the end of their year; the scholars for completing their training; recruiting the new class of scholars and preparing for our Summer Program. We have added something new to our agenda this year in that I will be conducting a class for Advanced Training for Certified Tutors. That class filled up within two weeks. I will keep you apprised of how this new venture goes. Our children and tutors are preparing for their Spring Break and we will be closed for the week after Easter. As soon as we get back in sessions we will be full swing for our End of Year activities and preparing for our Recognition Ceremony on June 13th. Please feel free to contact us if you can join us that evening- the program will begin at 6:30 with a light lunch after. We Thank You All, again for your support. We hold special memories of John Curtis, who was a long time Board Member and supporter of our program. Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cnyclc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 Member Mentoring/Orientation Session Greetings my Brothers, Save the Date: On Saturday, May 6, 2017 from 8:30 am to 11:30 am a special informational program will be presented at Memorial Masonic Center, North Syracuse. A notification letter was sent out to all Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Members along with the Reunion dinner reservation form. This is a reminder in case you may have misplaced your letter and would like to attend. If you would like to attend this free program, please call the Valley office @ 315-452-7976 so we can plan for material to be distributed and coffee and donuts. Fraternally, New Members Mentoring Program Chairman Lawrence W. Egnaczyk; lwegnaczyk@verizon.net (H) Ph. # 315-637- 4143 (C) Ph. # 315-632- 1043  It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of our Brother, R.W. & Ill. John S. Curtis. Brother John was of the great leaders of Nortrip Lodge No. 998, the Onondaga District and the Valley of Syracuse, AASR. He will be dearly missed by all. Calling hours will be on Monday, April 10, 2017 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Schepp Funeral Home, 6530 Schepp's Corners Road, Minoa, NY 13116 http://www.scheppfamily.com/ A Masonic Service will be held at 7:00 PM, following the calling hours on Monday, April 10, 2017 A Scottish Rite 33° Service will be conducted following the Masonic Service on Monday, April 10, 2017 Funeral Services will be at 10:00 AM at the Minoa United Methodist Church at 246 East Ave, Minoa, NY 13116 The Worshipful Master of Nortrip Lodge asks those Brethren that can attend to report to the funeral home no later than 6:45 PM on Monday, April 10, 2017 for the Masonic Service. John Silas Curtis, 82, of Minoa passed away peacefully with his family by his side. Born July 9, 1934 in Massena, NY, he was the son of the late Silas A. and Claire H. Curtis. John graduated from St. Lawrence High School in 1954, attended Canton ATC and graduated from Central City Business Institute in 1960. He served in the US Army for 6 years and was on the Fifth Army Rifle Team. He retired from General Electric in 1991 after 31 years.
He served as Village of Minoa Trustee for 6 years and was a Town of Manlius Councilman for 26 years. He was a member of the Manlius Republican Committee, delivered Meals on Wheels, served as Trustee of the Kirkville United Methodist Church, a Board member of Children's Dyslexia Center and past Board member of the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Center of CNY. He was a 60 year member and past Master of Nortrip Lodge #998, member of the Tigris Shrine, York Rite and a past Patron of the Eastern Star. He served as past Grand Steward and past Commander and Chief of Central City Bodies of Scottish Rite - Legion of Valor. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his wife, Emily Lou Curtis. He is survived by his children, Patti McCaffery, Bonnie (Steve) Palm and Robert (Sarah) Curtis; grandchildren, Mike (Andrea) Curtis, Toni Marie Curtis, Christopher Palm, Stephanie Palm, Sean McCaffery, Seth McCaffery, Meghan Callahan and Owen Callahan; sisters, Joan Tanner and Ann (Gary) Ploof; and several nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be 4:00 to 7:00 pm Monday at R.H. Schepp & Son Minoa Chapel, 6530 Schepp's Corners Rd., Minoa. A Masonic Service will follow the calling hours at 7:00 pm. Funeral service will be 10:00 am Tuesday at the Minoa United Methodist Church, 246 East Ave., Minoa. Burial will be in White Chapel Memory Gardens in DeWitt. Contributions may be made to the Dyslexia Center, Eastern Star Home and Campus, 8280 State Rt. 69, Oriskany, NY 13424. For a guest book, please visit: www.SCHEPPFAMILY.com Calendar
Apr 03 Executive Committee 7:00 p.m. Apr 08 (Saturday) Feast of the Paschal Lamb Ceremony 2:30 p.m. / Buffet 4:00 p.m. Apr 10 Consistory Rehearsal 32⁰ 7:00 p.m. Apr 17 Consistory Rehearsal 32⁰ 7:00 p.m. Apr 24 Trustees Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee 7:00 p.m. Apr 29 (Saturday) Consistory Confer 26⁰ & 32⁰ Registration 9:00 a.m. Open 10:00 a.m. Confer 26⁰ (Video) 10:30 a.m Lunch 11:30 a.m. Confer 32⁰ 1:00 p.m. May 08 155th Annual Reunion Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. May 15 Guard’s Club Monday Dinner 6:15 p.m. /Meeting 6:30 p.m. Four Bodies Annual Meeting 7:30 p.m. May 22 Officers Public Installation Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.. Consistory Greetings Brethren, I am writing this article on the evening of March 9th. This afternoon we said our final goodbyes to M.’.W.’. & Ill.’. Bruce Widger. Bruce was a Brother, Friend and a true Gentleman. To me and many others, he was the true definition of a Man and Mason. I first met Bruce when I was initiated an Entered Apprentice of Morning Star Lodge in 1995. I did not previously know him but he could see my interest in the Craft and he was very supportive. I have always considered him as my Mentor. He never was one to push his opinion or criticise but would offer words of encouragement. He did not like to draw attention upon himself and prefered the title of Brother. He did not talk down to anyone, treating everyone on the level - inside or outside the Lodge. This was how he was with everyone. He & wife Mary had three children and many grandchildren. They were a model couple for us to emulate, very devoted to each other and a great team. Thank you Mary and family for sharing Bruce with us. Bruce kept himself very busy. Besides the many Masonic endeavors that we are familiar with he was also a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, worked his own practice as well as being State Veterinarian in the New York State Department of Agriculture for 12 years. He was an Emeritus Trustee of Cornell University and a 7th Degree member of the Marcellus Grange, Onondaga Pomona and New York State Grange. He worked the ECHO Meals on Wheels program. I remember laughing a few years ago as he was telling stories about delivering the meals to the old people - most of those old people were 20-25 years younger than him. Bruce was also a Marcellus Free Library volunteer and on the boards of many other organizations. He was always involved in something. I think that is what I admired most about him - his constant drive to help people and be out and among them. So as you read this with Spring at hand (I hope), reflect upon Bruce Widger, the Man, Husband, Father, Brother and Friend and remember his shining example to all of us. We have very big shoes to fill and a lot of work to continue. Let’s get started... Fraternally, Ill.'. Richard J Powell, 33° Commander in Chief Chapter Brethren On Saturday afternoon, April 8th, starting at 2:30 PM, the Feast of the Paschal Lamb Ceremony will take place. This is an annual public event held to commemorate the lives of our Scottish Rite Brothers who have died during the past year. A buffet lunch will be served immediately following the ceremony. Rehearsals for the 32° will be held on Mondays, April 10th and 17th, starting at 7:00 PM. On Saturday, April 29th, starting at 9:00 AM, the 26° video will be presented followed by a live portrayal of the 32° and luncheon at noon. You won’t want to miss this beautiful ceremony. The submission deadline for the Leon M. Abbott/Council of Deliberation Scholarships is April 1st. Please ensure that all applications are completed with required attachments and mailed to the Scottish Rite Office prior to that date. D.B. Douglas H. Storey, 32° MSA Most Wise Master Council Greetings Princes, I hope by the time this is published that Mother Nature has decided on which season she wants to be for more than a day or two. As we move ever closer to the rejuvenation which Spring gives us, I am reminded of how the external world can help restore our own flagging feelings. I know most times, after we have put winter to rest for a few months, I find myself reenergized and looking to see what improvements I can make to my house or property. This renewal of spirits isn’t limited to just the external. We have a lot of holidays and distractions that come with the colder weather, and as the weather warms I find myself looking at what improvements I can make of myself. What can I work on within that will help me become a better man? I hope you join me in the travels through our degrees, seek out opportunities to become a better brother and Mason. We are all better when we join together, share ideas, share lessons and share burdens. One of things I used to say to the parents and fellow leaders in Scouting was “many hands make light work.” Sharing our joys and our challenges has that same effect. A well placed or well timed friendly word can make all the difference for someone struggling. Looking forward to when we meet again. Sincerely and Fraternally, James A. Nelson, 32º Sovereign Prince Lodge Greetings My Brothers. I hope that when you are reading this article that spring has come to Central New York in all its glory. We start out the month of April with the Feast of the Paschal Lamb on April 8th. Please come out and attend this service to honor those brothers who” have come to the end of their toilsome journey and laid down the working tools of life”. On Saturday April 29 th we will be conferring the 26th Degree Video and the 32nd Degree in a live presentation. Why not come out and support your Valley Officers and the new Brothers taking their 32nd Degree. I think that if you make the effort to come, you will enjoy yourself. Looking ahead to May, we will be having our 155th Annual Reunion Dinner. We should be very proud of the fact that we belong to a Valley with such a rich History. In closing, may the Great Architect watch over you and yours and keep you safe and well. Fraternally, H. Bruce Naumann, 32° Thrice Potent Master Hospitaler Greetings Brethren, As I stated in last month’s article this winter has taken its toll on the members and families of the Valley of Syracuse. Spring has arrived, but the brothers in need of our aid and sympathy is ongoing. The family of Illustrious Bruce Widger, John Curtis, George Laird, and others need to be kept in our thoughts and Prayers. April is a big month for many of our Snowbird Brothers to migrate back north. We wish them safe travels and a warm welcome home. Please don’t forget the Children’s Learning Center and the need to keep it funded. As always, under sickness and distress, Bob Tyrrell and I are the go-to guys. Give us a call if you are in need of assistance, or would just like to have a chat with one of us. See you in the Valley, Dick Freeman, 32° Hospitaler tel. 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY When you read this article, we will have enjoyed a wonderful evening with many of you at the 3rd Annual GALA Fundraiser to Defy Dyslexia. As I write this we are busy with all of the final preparations and looking forward to this great evening which has already proven to be a great fundraiser. Next in line will be the Golf Tournament at Vesper Hills Golf Course (the site of the farm where I grew up) on Friday, August 4 th . I am not the greatest of golfers but I always enjoy this event. There have been a number of other exciting things happening in regards to our getting word out about the Center and what we do. I had the wonderful opportunity to do a phone/radio interview with Peter Kratz of 101.7 fm in Pulaski, 101.3 in Syracuse, and 90.1 in Watertown. We spoke regarding Dyslexia and the Center. The program will be aired several times – I hope you get to hear it. I will be presenting “Dyslexia, the Big Picture”® (our licensed copy of the HBO special) to teachers from the Holland Patent and Rome school districts on Friday, March 17th . This is a great opportunity for us to reach more educators. Two of our tutors have scheduled presentations about Dyslexia and the Center to Eastern Star Chapters in the Onondaga District and I plan to attend Dyslexia Day in Albany on April 4th . It will be almost one year to the day that the State Legislator signed the Dyslexia Awareness Bill. On top of our GALA preparations, our efforts to promote the Center, plans for recruiting our upcoming training class, we are continuing the daily routine of working with the children and completing the training for this year’s scholars. We Thank You All, again for your support, with special memories of Bruce Widger who was such a wonderful presence and supporter of our program. Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cnyclc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 Valley of Rochester Celebrates 150 Years The Valley of Rochester is celebrating its 150th Anniversary Saturday April 22, 2017. Valley of Syracuse Officers received Program for the day and event Registration information from the Syracuse Valley Office Wednesday January 25, 2017. The Valley of Syracuse does NOT have any events scheduled for April 22, 2017. Anyone who does not have this information and desires to attend the event is urged to Contact the Valley of Rochester Office. 585-425- 0033 or by e-mail: secretary@valleyofrochester.org. Registration deadline at the Valley of Rochester office is April 14, 2017. James D. Swan, Jr., 33⁰ Valley of Syracuse Secretary  Bruce W. Widger DVM, 92, of Marcellus, NY passed away on March 6, 2017. Dr. Widger was born on the family farm near Spencerport, NY to the late Horace E. Widger and Ina Lilleystone Widger. He was predeceased by his younger brother Kenneth Widger in 2005. Bruce attended a one-room schoolhouse from grades 1-8 and graduated from Churchville High School. His youth activities included: Boy Scouts, 4-H, and FFA- which he was a State officer in 1941. He attended Cornell University, graduating in 1951 from the Veterinary College. At Cornell he was Chancellor of Alpha Zeta Fraternity and member of the Baptist Student Fellowship. While attending Cornell he met Mary Currie and they were married in October 1952. After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, Bruce came to Skaneateles to work with Dr. Robert Nichols. The next year he moved to Unadilla, NY where he bought the veterinary practice of Dr. Harry Sutton. In 1953 he returned to Central NY forming a mixed animal practice partnership with Dr. Nichols, which extended for twenty ?ve years. In 1978 Dr. Widger joined the Division of Animal Industry, he became the State Veterinarian in the New York State Department of Agriculture until his 1990 retirement. Bruce also served in several leadership and participatory roles. He was a Trustee of Cornell University from 1961-1981 and remained an Emeritus Trustee. He was a longtime 7th degree member of the Marcellus Grange, Onondaga Pomona and New York State Grange. Bruce was a member of Morning Star Masonic Lodge in Marcellus, serving as Master in 1961 and progressed through district leadership positions. Bruce was Grand Master of Masons for the State of New York during the years 1980-82. His Masonic membership also included leadership in both the York and Scottish Rite Bodies. As a 33rd Degree Mason, he was a member of the Supreme Council of Scottish Rite, and served nine years as Deputy for the State of New York. Bruce was chairman of the Marcellus Town Zoning board for 16 years, a founding member of the Marcellus Rotary Club, a Trustee of the Skaneateles Saving Bank, Director of the Farmers and Traders Life Insurance Company and an officer of the Marcellus Historical Society. He was active in his local church, serving as a member of many committees. During his retirement he actively participated in the ECHO Meals on Wheels program, as a Marcellus Free Library volunteer and in the Syracuse Mens Garden Club helping on Zoo Crew. His hobbies were caning chairs, making chair pads and latch hooking rugs for neighbors, friends, relatives. Bruce is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Jane Milem, sons Byron (Jenifer) and Dwight (Michelle) Widger. Grandchildren Jeffrey (Erin) Milem, Rosanne Milem, Bonna (Paul) Gordon, Benjamin Widger, Theodore (Olivia) Widger, Martha Widger, Aimee (Casey) Hofmann, Sarah (Tyler) Creech and Zachary Widger. Great grandchildren Philip Milem, Isaac Hofmann and Marian Hofmann. He was predeceased by his son-in-law Philip Milem in 1994. Visiting hours at Ryan Funeral Home, 44 East Main Street, Marcellus on Wednesday, March 8th from 3 to 6pm. 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Masonic service will be at 7pm and the Morning Star Lodge Masonic Service will immediately follow. Memorial service will be Thursday, March 9th at 1:30pm, in the Marcellus United Methodist Church, 1 Slocombe Avenue, Marcellus, NY. Spring committal in Maple Grove Cemetery, Town of Ogden, near Churchville, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to Marcellus Free Library, 32 Maple Street, Marcellus,13108; Baltimore Woods, PO Box 133, Marcellus, 13108 or the The Masonic Learning Center for Children, PO Box 638, Oriskany, NY 13424. The family has requested that, to the extent possible, Masons call after 5:00 PM.
Morning Star Lodge (46 East Main Street, Marcellus NY, 13108) will be open from 2:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Light refreshments will be available for those who may be traveling and want to refresh themselves either before or after the Masonic Service. A buffet with finger foods, coffee, tea, soda and water will be available. There is parking available behind the Lodge and where behind Ryan Funeral Home. There is also a municipal lot on West Main Street just past St. Francis RC Church. It is about 2/10’s of a mile to the Funeral Home from the municipal lot. There is also limited on-street parking on Main Street and behind the Town Municipal Bldg. |
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