News

New York Council of Deliberation's Meritorious Service Award Presentations and Dinner

10/3/2022

Brothers present at the Brothers present at the New York Council of Deliberation's Meritorious Service Award Presentations and Dinner on Saturday, September 24th.

Front L-R: Joel Scarson, Garret Wikoff, Richard Powell, Stephen Maddox, Lawrence Egnaczyk, James Nelson, Leon Bulriss, J. Michael Gates, Jorge Romeau, James McNeal;
Back L-R: Terry Byard, Garry Visconti, David Barnes (Valley Active), Ken Sterling, Jeffrey Cox, James D. Swan, Jr. on Saturday, September 24th.

Front L-R: Joel Scarson, Garret Wikoff, Richard Powell, Stephen Maddox, Lawrence Egnaczyk, James Nelson, Leon Bulriss, J. Michael Gates, Jorge Romeau, James McNeal;
Back L-R: Terry Byard, Garry Visconti, David Barnes (Valley Active), Ken Sterling, Jeffrey Cox, James D. Swan, Jr.

October 2022 News

10/3/2022

Calendar
October 2022
Oct 03 Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. Virtual meeting “ZOOM”
Oct 10 LOP Degrees 7:30 p.m.
            4° “Builder” Video / 14° “Grand Elect Mason” Live Cast
            Live Meeting at Masonic Center
            Refreshments to follow
Oct 17 Awards & Recognition Night
            Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Oct 24 Council Princes of Jerusalem 7:00 p.m.
            16° “Prince of Jerusalem” Degree Rehearsal

November 2022
Nov 07 AASR Trustees Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. on
            “ZOOM”
Nov 14 Veteran’s Recognition Night
             Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Nov 28 C-R-C & Consistory Degrees 7:30 p.m.
             17° “Knight of East & West” Video & 32° “Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret” Video
             32° Allegory & Knighting Ceremony Live
             Refreshments to follow

Consistory
Greeting Brethren, Fall is now in full swing. We had a successful Valley Fall Kickoff and Brother Bring a Brother Night from which we are hoping to gain several new member. At the Council of Deliberation session three of our Sublime Princes received their prestigious Meritorious Service Award. Congratulations to D.B. James McNeal, 32nd Degree MSA, D.B. Kenneth D. Sterling, 32nd Degree MSA, and D.B. Philip A. Spadaccini 32nd Degree MSA [Valley of Norwood ]. Several other Brothers from our Valley have been nominated to receive their MSA awards at the next C.O.D. session which will be held in June of 2023. Their names were not disclosed at the time of this writing.

Our first Trustee Meeting and Executive Committee Meeting were held on August 22, I will try to give you an overview of some of the goals and concerns discussed and ourAction Plan. This year we have several new tools to work with to help us reach our goals. Ultimately a Valley of Excellence.

As always one of are main goals is to increase our membership, which is the main source of the Valleys revenue and without which our Brotherhood would not exist. This is a never ending battle against the attrition rate and N.P.D.s. In the past our Ambassador Program, Lodge Ambassadors reached out to the Lodge Masters in their District and offered to put on a program for them on a meeting night or other time of their choosing. This gave our Ambassador the opportunity to introduce the Blue Lodge membership to Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Masonry. Supreme Council has now updated and improved on this recruitment method to help us become even more successful with our presentations. Myself and several of our Valley members attended an all day class in Utica on August 13. In the near future these new concepts will be shared with our current Lodge Ambassadors and members of the Valley interested in joining this program.

The successful Supreme Council, Rite on the Road Program which was instituted last year by our
Committee Chairman 2nd Lt. Comdr. D.B. Terry Byard 32nd Degree MSA. will continue this year. This program enables us to present the 4th Degree and several others approved by Supreme Council to Brothers who have completed their Valley application and paid the initiation fee. These degrees can be conferred in their home Lodge anytime other than on a Lodge meeting night.
The above two recruiting methods are great tools but will never replace our best and most successful resource- YOU our members- through your word of mouth, your actions and your enthusiasm for the A.A.S.R. and our Valley.

In all Masonic groups a common problem is retaining membership. One way we are addressing this is through the Member’s Mentoring Committee and the Scottish Rite New Member Orientation Program headed up by 1st Lt. Cmdr. D.B. William Toth, II, 32nd Degree MSA, Chairman. This program is dedicated exclusively to an evening with our new members. It is structured to be a guided tour for our new Brothers covering all areas from our Valley Secretary’s Office, Four Bodies, Hats, Family events, Charity programs, etc. A basic Valley of Syracuse 101 course with ample time built in for Q & As.

Secondly, we have all heard it said that we need to get our new members involved. We also know this is easier said than done. The Valley is taking an innovative approach this year by challenging our new Sublime Princes to cast their own degree. The initial planning meeting was held on September 26 with LOP Thrice Potent Master, D.B. Steve Maddox, MSA. The 11th Degree, Sublime Master Elected was selected and planned to be conferred on 3/18/ 2023. The seed has been planted!

The Black Hat Program for new 32 Degrees has been restructured this year and is unique to the Valley of Syracuse. This is another program geared toward new member involvement and retention. All new members will be given a Score Card which they will sign each time they attend a Valley function such as degrees, dinners, taking part in a degree, family picnics, meetings etc. By their attendance and participation they will accumulate points toward earning their Black Hat. They will have two years to complete their score card from the time it is issued. When completed, they will be presented their Black Hat on Awards Night.
Early last summer the PathFinder Program was introduced to all our members by Supreme Council. You all should have received a PathFinder Field Book and packet of information. This program is designed for new and old members alike, encouraging interest and involvement . Visit the Supreme Council website for more information.
This year the Valley will be continuing the Annual Brother to Brother Contact Program. Every Brother in the Valley of Syracuse will be contacted or attempted to be contacted. Valley Officers have been assigned contact lists of our members who they are responsible to call. This program serves a multi- purpose. First and foremost, it lets our members know that they are not forgotten; it gives us a chance to see if they are in need of our assistance in anyway; it gives us an opportunity to try to get them active again in the Valley if they haven’t attended in awhile and it updates their contact information and status for the Valley Office Records so that they can be kept informed of our Valley activities etc.

I mentioned at the beginning of this article that our Trustees Meeting was held on the same evening as the Executive Committee meeting. At that meeting an Investment Review was presented by Edward Grassi, Vice President of J.W. Burns & Company, the Valley’s investment firm. Without going into details the bottom line will come as no surprise, our investments have declined. So with the Valley’s investments down, expenses rising with inflation and membership declining a considerable amount of discussion took place. Unlike our government and many businesses, the Valley does not have the luxury of building so called pork in the budget and the belt can only be tightened so far without sacrificing quality and that is not an option. Due to these increased costs the Executive Committee has found it necessary to raise the price of our dinners to help offset expenses. I am sure everyone will understand as we are all
experiencing the crunch. Even with an increase in dinner prices our quality dinners and programs are an exceptional bargain at today’s prices. Speaking of dinners and programs I hope to see you all on October 17th at Awards and Recognition Night.

As I have tried to point out, we have a proactive plan in place which encompasses our Valley Programs and those provided by Supreme Council. With your continued help and support 2022-2023 will be another Valley of Excellence Award year. Thank you for all you do!
Please renew your membership a.s.a.p. If you have not received your renewal information in the mail yet call the Valley Office @ 315 452-7976.

Fraternally,
D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA
Commander in Chief

Chapter
Greetings, Princes, I am again writing this month’s column due to our continuing Most Wise Master, Bro. Richard E. Barrett illness. We wish him a complete and prompt recovery, and hope to see him back in his Most Wise Master’s chair, very soon.
In September, we had two important events: our Valley’s Fall Kickoff & Brother-Bring-a-Brother Night, and the 2022 Council of Deliberation meeting. The first event helps us bring in new Brothers to our Valley (in addition to Internet advertising, as the Ad that automatically got in my computer screen while reading the Internet Sunday Syracuse Newspaper: Become a 32° Scottish Rite Freemason | Expand Your Craft (scottishritenmj.org)
On September 21 and 22 the 153rd Convocation of the Council of Deliberation (COD), A.A.S.R., for the State of New York was held at the DoubleTree Hilton, in East Syracuse. The COD, in addition to a very instructive experience, is an opportunity to meet Scottish Ritters from other New York Valleys. Our C-i-C and other Valley officers will provide the highlights of this meeting, in their articles in this issue of The Word.
In October we will have two degrees: the Confer for the 4th Degree, on the 10th, and the rehearsal for the 16th Degree, on the 24th. Even when the Degrees are not part of our Rose Croix Chapter, it will be friendly if some of our Chapter Brothers partake, a great experience for all, especially for the new Rite members and officers. On the 17th, we will have the Awards and Recognition night, and on the 31th, the KOSA Program. October will be a very busy month!
As an aside, I will be giving a PPT presentation about the origins and differences between the York and Scottish rituals, in my Liverpool-Syracuse Mother Lodge, on Monday, October 3rd. All are cordially and fraternally invited. If our Valley is interested, I can redo the a program here.
Please, keep our military and our country in your prayers.
Keep safe. Fraternally,
Jorge Luis Romeu
Senior Warden.

Council
Valiant Princes, I hope you all are well. Firstly, I wish to remind you again that this year the 16th degree will be conferred after the 15th degree video on Jan 30th of 2023. If any of you are interested in taking part in the 16th degree please contact cast director and Senior Warden Mike Miller before the rehearsals scheduled for Oct. 24th and Dec. 19th of 2022.
Secondly, as Sovereign Prince and on behalf of the Valley of Syracuse, I would like to thank and give the highest regards to my entire C:.P:.J:. Officer line present at our Aug 22nd Executive Committee meeting. The fact that you all were present showed a sincere respect for your Office, qualities of dependability and leadership and is a sign of a healthy and active Scottish Rite Body.
As a result of this perfect attendance, I felt great support as a Body Head and I encourage all Body heads to request that their subordinate Officers attend Executive Meetings to maintain a strong Chain of Union with their fellow Officers, Commander in Chief, Secretary, Valley membership and Supreme Council. By encouraging your Officer line to attend these meetings it ensures that the duty and light of the Scottish Rite and Valley of Syracuse remains bright, strong, and inherited by those next in line. It ensures that we remain a Valley of Excellence at the local level and strong as the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.
Indeed, it is not often that health, vocation, travel and other unforeseen aspects of life allow perfect attendance of our Officers and membership for whom we care, pray and offer consideration so let us remain humble and grateful as we continue to labor with our swords in one hand and trowels in the other.
To our Valley of Syracuse members, I hope to see you as your cable-tow permits. If you find it difficult to attend in person consider online participation to see degrees during the upcoming Thursday Night at the Rite season, updating your member profile if necessary or enrolling in the Hauts Grades Academy classes via https://scottishritenmj.org
Finally, please support the Blue Envelope membership appeal in any monetary increment. Any amount given via the Blue Envelope contributes to our membership participation goal that helps us remain a Valley of Excellence. Until we meet again, may the G:.A:.O:.T:.U:. grant peace and blessings to you, our Sovereign Grand Commander, our Country and our Men and Women of service.

Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA
Sovereign Prince

Lodge
With the arrival of September it’s time to once again plan for participation in the activities of our Valley. On September 19 an officer’s installation for those who could not be in attendance at the June Installation and a training for all officers will be presented at the Masonic Memorial Center. Please, if you are an officer in the Lodge of Perfection, plan to attend this important event. The next event will be the following Monday at 7:30 in the same location and will be a special project meeting for the purpose of planning the 11° that will be presented on March 18. It is our hope to engage new members in the planning and presentation of this degree.

October 3 will be the next executive committee meeting. All L-O-P officers are invited to participate and I encourage you to come and offer insights into our activities. Finally on October 10 the L-O-P will be presenting the 4° and 14° at 7:30.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the Council of Deliberation on September 23 and 24. This is an excellent opportunity to gain further light in Scottish Rite Masonry and is well worth the time to attend.

D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32° MSA
Thrice Potent Master

Hospitaler
Greetings Brothers & Sisters, Under sickness and distress, I am sad to announce the passing of Marion Teachout. Richard E. Barrett is recovering nicely from his recent heart attack, but still faces another procedure to get him back in top shape. Bill and Diana Toth will have hopefully returned safely from their Alaskan cruise by the time on this printing.
As the days start getting shorter, I would remind all of our senior members that have trouble driving at night…..don’t hesitate to call someone and ask for a ride. Your attendance at Valley meetings is very important and much appreciated.
The Hospitalers Fund is always in need. If you are able to help, please send a check made out to Central City Bodies, and directed for the Hospitalers Fund.
If you are in need of some confidential assistance please contact Bob Tyrrell or myself…We may be able to provide some type of help.
Don’t forget the Blue envelopes!

Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962
freeman1574@frontier.com

Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY
The Children’s Dyslexia Center of Central New York’s Annual 3 & 5 K Walk for Children with Dyslexia is October 1st, 2022 at the Eastern Star Campus in Oriskany. We begin with a 9:30 registration, kick-off at 10:00 AM, followed by a chicken BBq @ 11:00 AM. It should be lots of fun!

Linda L. Martin, Director
Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org
Phone- (315) 736-0574
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424

St. Andrew’s Day Brunch
The Knights of St. Andrew invites everyone to celebrate St. Andrew's Day with a Brunch at the Brae Loch Inn in Cazenovia, NY on Sunday, November 20th at 11:00 AM!

Brunch will begin at 11:00 AM and cost will be $40.00 per person. Wives/significant others/guests are invited. This event is open to all! Make your reservation now! This event is open for all! A great opportunity to introduce non-Scottish Rite Brothers to the Rite! Or non-Masons to the Fraternity! Dress is Kilt or business casual.

The Brae Loch puts out a great spread for its brunches and Cazenovia is lovely in the fall. Come out and make your reservation for the Burns Supper (to be held at Colemans on 1/28/23). Reservations are due no later than October 30th, 2022. Mail Reservations & Checks to: Richard Powell, 4717 Broad Road, Syracuse, NY 13215

Attention Members
You will read information articles from each body in the Valley of Syracuse in the WORD this year. There are other changes coming in the forms of communication we use to communicate with everyone. Traditionally you have received e-mail notifications and snail mailed meeting and event notices for each event and meeting from the Valley office. Meeting the changing times and requests to modernize our communications links a new digital information system using the Supreme Council’s J365 communications network to further communicate with our members is coming from Supreme Council in the near future.

As mentioned in other notices sent from the Valley Office in the past month we now have a PAYPAL account set up allowing you to make reservations for and pay for events online. More information is coming to you as we implement this service. Many of you will receive email messages direct from Supreme Council as they implement their new communications module.

Remember you can go on line using “Mynmj.org”, enter your member number and password you provide and search thru and change your personal member records. This can be done anytime by you. There are certain fields in this information that only you can change.

Many of these changes are as new to me as they are to you. I will assist you where I can and will arrange for assistance from the Supreme Council Support team when I cannot answer your questions. Thursday Night at the Rite returns first quarter 2023 with more new subjects being
Presented. Scottish Rite communications improvements continue to come on line each month.

Fraternally,
Jim Swan
Valley Secretary

2023 Member’s Dues
Most of you have received the invoice for your 2023 Member’s Dues from Supreme Council by the date you read this article. A new Member’s Card replacing your old card is included in the envelope with the invoice. Please be prepared to present that card to the Sentinel or his assistant when you attend a Valley meeting.

If you have not received both the 2023 Member’s Dues invoice and your 2023 Member’s Dues Card; please contact the Valley Office by calling 315-452-7976 immediately.

If you have not paid your 2022 Member’s Dues to date; please do so. The Supreme Council implemented a new annual dues collection schedule in 2021. Remember, 2023 Member’s Dues are due to be paid by January 31, 2023 to be current for 2023. At the present time the Valley of Syracuse is owed more than $6,000.00 in arrears member’s dues dating from 2022 back to 2019 from its members.

As a reminder to all members the Valley must pay $30.00 to Supreme Council and $6.00 to the New York Council of Deliberation for every member on its rolls effective June 15 each year. Money not paid prior to June 15 is paid to Supreme Council from the GENERAL VALLEY FUNDS.

If your 2021 Member’s Dues are not paid by January 31, 2023 your Scottish Rite membership can be suspended. This policy was suspended for two years due to COVID PANDEMIC but is now reinstated.

By popular request the Valley office has initiated a “PayPal” payment account to assist our members desiring to pay their Member’s Dues or to make reservations for Valley Events by an alternate method other than by check or by credit card, or cash. Immediately contact the Valley of Syracuse office if you have a problem using this convenience.

Please contact the Valley Office (315) 452-7976 if you have any questions regarding the status of your Member’s Dues.

Rest in Peace
Please pause for a moment to remember these dedicated Scottish Riters who laid down their working tools these past few months. They have left us but they are not forgotten
Name       Deceased Date
Ernest W Bump   08/28/2021
Robert F Coulter   04/09/2021
Jeffrey J Dixe       10/17/2021
Roy R Dixon       06/22/2021
Alan M Downing   10/10/2021
Alan S Drohan       10/10/2021
Paul E Foster       01/23/2022
David J Freeman   06/19/2021
Richard P Gunsalus   08/03/2021
Carl R Hoyt Sr.   02/27/2022
Leon Milner       02/10/2021
Anson S Piper Jr.   03/31/2019
James S Russell   01/14/2022
Robert H Smith   05/25/2021
David A Stevenson   05/25/2021
Alan N Timmerman   04/14/2021
Robert C Torgersen   12/09/2019
Walter Vladuchek   12/12/2020
Alan L Wood       02/12/2022
Harold F Clark Jr.   11/27/2020
James P Hall       04/07/2021
Donald B Hanson   04/03/2021
Waldo S Lyman   06/10/2021
Robert E Moore   10/31/2021
William R Porteous   01/11/2021
Alfred J Smith       09/21/2021

Children’s Dyslexia Center of Central New York Walkathon Saturday October 1, 2022

9/15/2022

The Children’s Dyslexia Center of Central New York is celebrating its eighteenth year providing an afterschool program for children who have reading and writing difficulties due to dyslexia. Our program helps children by using the Orton-Gillingham method to teach the skills necessary to overcome these difficulties.
Your help is needed and appreciated!

The Walk begins following registration at 10:00 AM at the Dyslexia Center on the Eastern Star Home Campus in Oriskany, NY.

September 2022 News

8/31/2022

Calendar
September 2022
Sept. 12 Valley Fall Kickoff & Brother Bring A Brother Night at MMC
               Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m.
Sept. 19 4 Bodies Officer’s Training Meeting 7:30 p.m.
               Install Officers / Refreshments to follow meeting
Sept 26 LOP Degree Project Information Meeting
             Refreshments to follow meeting

October 2022
Oct 03 Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. Virtual meeting “ZOOM”
Oct 10 LOP Degrees 7:30 p.m.
            4° “Builder” Video / 14° “Grand Elect Mason” Live Cast
            Live Meeting at Masonic Center
            Refreshments to follow
Oct 17 Awards & Recognition Night
            Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Oct 24 Council Princes of Jerusalem 7:00 p.m.
            16° “Prince of Jerusalem” Degree Rehearsal

Consistory
Greetings Brethren. I hope you all have had an enjoyable summer and are now looking forward to returning to the quarries and the joys of Masonic fellowship. What a difference a year makes. This time last year I was District Deputy of the Oswego District, looking hopefully but with uncertainty, toward Grand Lodge being able to hold its 2 nd session on October 23 rd and the changing of the guard after three and a half years; thanks to COVID. The thought of being Commander in Chief of the Valley of Syracuse at that time never crossed my mind. Yet here I am, grateful and honored for this opportunity and excited about working with all of you and looking forward to the upcoming activities we have planned for the ensuing year.

Our Valley was off to a flying start in August with another successful Teddy Bear Classic Fund Raiser at the Vesper Hill Golf Club in Tully, NY. All proceeds go to the Children’s Dyslexia Center of CNY. Many thanks go out to Ill. Craig Cobb for organizing this annual event. The CDC supported by the Valley of Syracuse and Valley of Utica has changed the lives and future paths of children with this reading disability for more than fifteen years. Thanks to your support.

The next day we gathered for another day of fun, sun and food at our Family Life Outing and Picnic at the Cicero American Legion Post. Our thanks go to Committee Chairman Ill. Larry Egnaczyk who first organized this family activity in 2019 and which now has developed into an annual Valley event. This year we were pleased to include our Onondaga District Masonic Lodge Brothers. Congratulations to the Family Life Committee members for a job well done. Your time and efforts are greatly appreciated by all. A huge thanks also to all who attended and supported the Valley and the Children’s Dyslexia Center.

Yet August still had more to offer in Family Fun. August 13 th was the Syracuse Mets Baseball Outing at the NBT Bank Stadium. This was another well attended family day with fun for young and old. No matter which team was your favorite, everyone went home a winner. Another homerun for the Valley this year!

Earlier this summer you all should have received information on the new Pathfinder Program. This program was developed by Supreme Council as a road to assist our members on their journey toward self- improvement and a guide to getting the most out of their Scottish Rite experience. To get started, learn more, view and download the Guide Book on-line, visit SRNMJ.org/Pathfinder.

Each year one of our members is selected to be honored as our New Incoming Member’s Class Sponsor. It is my pleasure to announce that the 2022-23 Class Sponsor will be Ill. Robert M. Tyrrell, 33 Degree. When you see Bob join me in offering him your congratulations.

Fall is off to another great start! See you in the Valley.

Fraternally,
D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA
Commander in Chief
lwegnaczyk@verizon.net / (H) Ph. # 315-637-4143 / (C) Ph. # 315-632-1043

Chapter
Greetings, Princes: I am writing this month’s column due to an illness of our Most Wise Master, Bro.Richard E. Barrett, 32° DSA. We wish him a complete and prompt recovery.

In August we had two family events: on August 6 th , a picnic at the Cicero American Legion; and on August 13, a baseball game involving the Syracuse Mets. We are sure that those who participated in these events had a great time!

In September, we have two important events. First, our traditional Fall Kick-off Brother Bring-a-Brother, on the 12th. Dinner reservations are required by Tuesday, September 6th. Then, the 153rd Convocation of the Council of Deliberation (COD), A.A.S.R., for the State of New York. The event will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton-Syracuse, 6301 State Route 298, East Syracuse, on Saturday, September 24, at 1:00 PM. The Valley of Syracuse will pay for the lunch for its elected officers attending COD Session. If you are staying at the hotel, reservations are on your own.

Traditionally, the COD has been both a very instructive experience and an opportunity to meet Brother Scottish Riters from other New York Valleys, especially from New York City. If you plan to attend the COD annual session, you must first register online.

Please, keep our military and the people of Ukraine in your prayers.

Keep safe. Fraternally,
Jorge Luis Romeu
Senior Warden.

Council
Valiant Princes, I hope you all have had a nice Summer and look forward to returning to your Masonic labor. On behalf of the Council Princes of Jerusalem, I thank the Valley of Syracuse for the opportunity to serve the incoming class sponsored by our Deputy’s Representative Ill:. Robert Tyrell 33˚ during my 2022-2023 term. I also wish to thank my predecessor Past Sovereign Prince James McNeal and my current officer’s line for agreeing to serve. This year the 16 th degree will be conferred after the 15 th degree video on Jan 30 th of 2023.

If any of you are interested in taking part in the 16 th degree please contact cast director and Senior Warden Mike Miller before the rehearsals scheduled for Oct. 24 th and Dec. 19th of 2022. Thank you Mike for being proactive with the casting of the degree and I look forward to all of our Valley’s great teamwork in the ensuing year. If any of you know of a Master Mason interested in the Scottish Rite please send them our way. If you are a Worshipful Master of a Craft Lodge seeking further light please contact the Scottish Rite Valley of Syracuse to schedule a meeting with a Lodge Ambassador to attend your Craft Lodge and share the further light the Scottish Rite has to offer via our degrees and events that make it possible for members to expand their Masonic knowledge, practice and family.

Indeed, the Scottish Rite can greatly expand your greater Masonic network. The fellowship and light found at the Valley of Syracuse is a great step for any Master Mason. In particular, the Council Princes of Jerusalem is where a Mason learns to labor with a sword in one hand and a trowel in the other. It is here where we especially learn of loyalty to conviction, to be honest and just men, of fidelity to duty, courtesy, and where we emphasize a devotion to Truth as exemplified by the principal roles of Zerubbabel and Darius. Please join us this fall season and may the G:.A:.O:.T:.U:. grant you good health, time and the blessing until we meet again. I look forward to seeing you all and don’t forget to start thinking about the upcoming Council of Deliberation.

Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA
Sovereign Prince

Lodge
We have all heard the phrase “you have big shoes to fill”. The Free Dictionary of Idioms defines that phrase in this way, “To take over a role vacated or left behind by someone who was exceptional in their performance and set very high standards as a result.” That definition accurately describes how I feel following my friend and brother Terry Byard in the role of Thrice Potent Master of the Lodge of Perfection!

God willing and with the help of the officers of the LOP and all of the Valley’s brothers I will do my best to fill those shoes. We have much to do this year and it is my hope to engage many of our new Sublime Princes in presenting the degrees that we are called to present to the Ill. Robert Tyrell class of 2022-23. This year we will present the 4°, 11° and 14°. The 11° and 14° will be live presentations. In order to prepare for the 11° we will meet on September 26 at 7:30 to talk about new ways to present this degree so that we can introduce our newest Princes to the Scottish Rite ritual.

By the time you read this the Valley will have raised money for the Children’s Learning Center through the Teddy Bear Classic golf tournament and the Family Life picnic. Please keep the leadership and tutors at the learning center in your thoughts and prayers as they do the important work of helping students through the difficulty of dyslexia.

Looking ahead on October 10 we will be presenting the 4° and 14° with the 14° being a live presentation. We will be contacting the brothers soon to assemble the cast for the degree and I hope that you’ll consider taking a role.

Until next time I hope you all have a great summer!

D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32° MSA
Thrice Potent Master

Hospitaler
Greetings Brothers, And welcome back. The summers sure fly by as we get a little older each year. I forgot to mention before we went dark in July that the Hospitaler is always available, as illness or disaster have no season. Feel free to contact the Office or myself at any time, year round should a crisis occur.

There are a number of members and, or spouses in need of our thoughts and prayers. Karl Parker, Richard Trust, Dave Van Auken, Richard E. Barrett, Gary Hartman, Robert Clement, Mike Gates, Ken Sterling, and Bill & Diana Toth.

The Hospitalers Fund is always in need. If you are able to help, please send a check made out to Central City Bodies, and directed for the Hospitalers Fund,

If you are in need of some confidential assistance please contact Bob Tyrrell or myself…We may be able to provide some type of help.

Don’t forget the Blue envelopes!

Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962
freeman1574@frontier.com

Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY
Another summer comes to a close and a new year begins at the Children’s Dyslexia Center Central New York. June saw us enjoy another Recognition Ceremony at Hart’s Hill Inn where our children and tutors were recognized and honored. We welcomed two new Board Members, Larry Egnazcyk and Carl Klossner and thanked Jim Swan and Rodney St.Clair for their tireless years of support and hard work. They are founding members of the Board and remain as Emeritus. They have been pivotal parts of our ability to serve children in Central New York.

August found many of us at Vesper Hills Golf Course for a “warm” Teddy Bear Classic Golf Tourney. As always, the hard work and efforts by our Board Member, Craig Cobb, to organize and run this event made it extremely enjoyable and successful. Another popular event this summer was the Brooks BBQ held in August on the OES Campus. Spearheaded by Board Chair, Steve Park, the efforts of many Board Members and Brothers and Sisters, and your support, gave us another successful fundraiser.

Due to these efforts and that of our staff, we are prepared to start another year of serving area children. Our two supervisors and I attended a 3 day Therapy Training course in PA and we welcomed a new class of four Practitioner 1 scholars. At present we have 8 returning children and 9 new children attending for the coming year. We continue to carry a two year wait list of those waiting for an opening so the end is never in sight and your support is always appreciated.

We will look forward to seeing many of you at our Annual Walk-a-Thon coming soon.

Until next time, Thank You for all you do to help us help the children.

Linda L. Martin, Director
Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org
Phone- (315) 736-0574
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424

11° “Sublime Master Elected” Invitation
Dear Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Members who are members of the 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 Classes.

Please arrange your schedule to attend the Central City Lodge of Perfection Meeting at 7:30 p.m. Monday September 26, 2022 at the Masonic Memorial Center in North Syracuse.

Thrice Potent Master Steve Maddox and Commander-In-Chief Leon Bulriss invite you to participate in the conferral of the 11° “Sublime Master Elected” Saturday morning March 18, 2023.

Event planning and script assignments for that degree are the subject of the September 26, 2022 meeting.

Join with us. Get involved in a degree conferral. Enjoy the Scottish Rite experience! We look forward to seeing everyone that evening.

All Valley members are invited and encouraged to attend September 26. Your Valley Officers are listening to you and your suggestions

Enjoy the experience. Enhance your Scottish Rite membership. Take a large speaking part or a small walk-on part. All types of parts are available. Be a Stagehand; work in the Robing Room. All types of tasks and assignments are available.

Rest in Peace
Please pause for a moment to remember these dedicated Scottish Riters who laid down their working tools these past few months. They have left us but they are not forgotten

Name       Deceased Date
Ernest W Bump   08/28/2021
Robert F Coulter   04/09/2021
Jeffrey J Dixe       10/17/2021
Roy R Dixon       06/22/2021
Alan M Downing   10/10/2021
Alan S Drohan       10/10/2021
Paul E Foster       01/23/2022
David J Freeman   06/19/2021
Richard P Gunsalus   08/03/2021
Carl R Hoyt Sr.   02/27/2022
Leon Milner       02/10/2021
Anson S Piper Jr.   03/31/2019
James S Russell   01/14/2022
Robert H Smith   05/25/2021
David A Stevenson   05/25/2021
Alan N Timmerman   04/14/2021
Robert C Torgersen   12/09/2019
Walter Vladuchek   12/12/2020
Alan L Wood       02/12/2022
Harold F Clark Jr.   11/27/2020
James P Hall       04/07/2021
Donald B Hanson   04/03/2021
Waldo S Lyman   06/10/2021
Robert E Moore   10/31/2021
William R Porteous   01/11/2021
Alfred J Smith       09/21/2021

2023 Member’s Dues
Prior to September 1, 2022 you should have received the invoice for your 2023 Member’s Dues mailed directly to you from Supreme Council. A new Member’s Card for 2023 is included in the envelope with the invoice. If you have not received both the 2023 Member’s Dues invoice and your new Member’s Dues Card please contact the Valley Office 315-452-7976 immediately. If you have not paid your 2022 Member’s Dues the invoice will indicate you now owe two (2) years Scottish Rite Members Dues.

Supreme Council Member Center
All members who are not registered in the J365 Membership roster; please Go on line MYNMJ.ORG and sign into the Member Center. As a non registered member the system it will instruct you how to register. Have your member card available and follow the provided instructions. When registered you can view all of your Scottish Rite membership records on this site. Contact the Valley office if you require assistance.

Syracuse Brethren Elected to Receive 33° at the 2023 Supreme Council meeting in Louisville, KY

8/26/2022

Please join us in congratulating these fine Brethren who have been elected to receive their 33rd degree at the 2023 Supreme Council meeting in Louisville, KY

Elected August 24, 2022
Leon A Bulriss
Garret A. Wikoff
Terry A. Byard

Elected August 28, 2021
William Henry Toth, II

KSA: St. Andrew’s Day Brunch at the Brae Loch on November 20th

8/11/2022

The Knights of St. Andrew invites everyone to celebrate St. Andrew's Day with a Brunch at the Brae Loch Inn in Cazenovia, NY on Sunday, November 20th at 11:00 AM!

Brunch will begin at 11:00 AM and cost will be $40.00 per person. Wives/significant others/guests are invited. This event is open to all! Make your reservation now! This event is open for all! A great opportunity to introduce non-Scottish Rite Brothers to the Rite! Or non-Masons to the Fraternity! Dress is Kilt or business casual.

The Brae Loch puts out a great spread for its brunches and Cazenovia is lovely in the fall. Come out and make your reservation for the Burns Supper (to be held at Colemans on 1/28/23). Reservations are due no later than October 30th, 2022.

Valley of Excellence!!!

8/3/2022

Congratulations! Your Valley has achieved the distinction of a Valley of Excellence for the year 2021-2022. I’m sure you’re as proud of that achievement as we are for you and your fellow members. This is a designation not easily attained.

When this program launched in June 2020, right in the midst of a global pandemic, we could not foresee the impact it would have on our Brotherhood, or the ongoing external challenges we would continue to face. Still, Valley leaders toiled tirelessly in their quarries, seeking new ways to strengthen the member experience. From leveraging technology to innovation, Valley leaders held steadfast in providing the support our members needed more than ever.

The Valley of Excellence program is based on four pillars: Membership, Service & Philanthropy, Leadership Development, and Operations. Within each section are various areas of focus and achievement benchmarks. The biggest pillar among these four is Membership, specifically Recruitment, Retention, and Restoration. Without positive results in this area, a Valley cannot prosper.

To be named a Valley of Excellence, a Valley must achieve a 90% rating in the areas above. It is my privilege and honor to write this letter and let you know the Valley of Syracuse, which you are a member, achieved or exceeded this percentage. Your Valley will be recognized in the Fall 2022 edition of The Northern Light magazine.

Your collective labors of love have not gone unnoticed, my Brothers. You can be proud of the work that has been done and optimistic for the future of the Scottish Rite, NMJ. I encourage you to continue to support your Valley in whatever way you can and help them continue to live the vision of our great Fraternity.

Congratulations and stay well my Brothers.

With sincerest fraternal regards,

Ill. Peter J. Samiec, 33°
Sovereign Grand Commander

Happy Independence Day!

7/4/2022

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness

June 2022 News

6/16/2022

Calendar
June 2022
June 06 2022 – 2023 Officer’s Installation
              Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Installation Ceremony 7:30 p.m.
Jun 13 Trustees Organization Meeting 6:30 p.m. / Executive Committee Organization Meeting 7:00 p.m. (in Person)
Jun 20 New 32° Members Orientation Meeting 7:00 p.m.

August 2022
Aug 05 Teddy Bear Classic Golf Tournament @ Vesper Hills Golf Club, Tully, NY
             Golfers needed; Hole sponsors needed Captain & Crew Format
Aug 06 (Saturday) Masonic Family Life Picnicat the Cicero American Legion
             Come at 2:00 p.m. and stay to 6:00 p.m.
             Picnic Buffet 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
             Games Door prizes and other happenings
Aug 13 Scottish Rite at Syracuse Mets @ Mets Stadium
             6:00 p.m. Picnic; 6:30 Ball Game; Fireworks after the game
             Details coming in July

Consistory
Greetings, As of many of you, this is my last Word article as the Commander -in- Chief of the Valley of Syracuse Consistory, A.A.S.R..It has been an interesting and challenging three years for our Valley as we tried to negotiate COVID – 19 and the many restrictions and guidelines mandated by the several agencies having jurisdiction in our part of the state.
One of the programs that allowed us to keep moving forward is the Thursday Night at the Rite. If not for this program Scottish Rite in the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction would have suffered greatly. I am grateful that this program allowed us to bring Master Masons into Scottish Rite Freemasonry.
I want to thank the Body Heads and our membership for their efforts to help our Valley succeed in qualifying for the Valley of Excellence Award this Year. Let’s keep up the good work!
Many thanks to our Valley Secretary, Jim Swan and his office staff, Sharon Fox and Sharon Swan for all the hard work they do for our Valley to keep it running so smoothly these many years.
Twice we had to postpone our Reunion Degree Day due to conflicts and COVID. Hopefully it will go off without a hitch the third time. I am proud to have Knighted our new Subline Princes of the Royal Secret.
I offer my support to our new Body Heads in any way I can to help make their time in office a success.
I look forward to the Masonic Family Life events on August 6, 2022, Picnic, August 13, 2022, Syracuse Mets Baseball. And don’t forget the Teddy Bear Classic Golf on August 5,2022.

Fraternally,
D.B. Lawrence W. Egnaczyk, 32° MSA
Commander in Chief
lwegnaczyk@verizon.net / (H) Ph. # 315-637-4143 / (C) Ph. # 315-632-1043

Chapter
Greetings, Knights & Readers, This June 6th, the elected officers will be installed. I will again be Most Wise Master of Rose Croix.

I’d like to highlight the 2 Family Life events open to all Masons. This August 6th, there will be a picnic at the Cicero American Legion. The Legion does a great job with a wide variety of food & baskets will be given when you buy tickets. Another event happens on August 13th with Baseball Game involving the Syracuse Mets, food will be included. If interested, contact Jim Swan at (315) 452-7976 to secure a place.

Since the good weather is coming, I would like to wish all a great summer whatever you do.

In closing, keep our military & the people of Ukraine in your prayers.

Richard E. Barrett, 32°
Most Wise Master

Council
Greetings Princes. As this will be my last article as your Sovereign Prince I just want to remind you all of several important things. First, Masonry does not stop during the summer even though we won’t be meeting in person, keep thinking about and living our values and always keep in mind that new ideas are always welcome and encouraged. Also, do not forget that one of our main principles is charity- it is strongly encouraged that you give whatever you can to our charities. The Valley of Syracuse has always been known as a generous Valley in this regard.
Education is fundamental to truly understanding our craft so make use of the Livingston Library programs, the HGA courses, come to and participate in the degrees. Another way to learn even more is to go to other Valleys, it is something I enjoy doing and have truly enjoyed the experiences. Carpooling is a great way to expand friendships or form new ones.
There is so much more that I could talk about but the fact is that all of you are The Valley of Syracuse, take pride in that-I do. On a last note, please support all of the incoming body heads in their endeavors and stay Scottish Rite strong.
God bless all of our military past and present, this amazing country and all of you and your families.

With Fraternal Love,
James McNeal, 32º DSA
Sovereign Prince

Lodge
Princes: Sad to say, this will be my last “Word” article as your Thrice Potent Master. The last three years have been an amazing journey for me in the Lodge of Perfection. We’ve hosted several events, attended many social outings, and conferred several LOP Degrees along with helping the other Bodies with the same, all marked with the opportunity to serve you the membership. What a true honor it has been to be in your service!

I want to thank the Officers of the LOP for their steadfast support, and willingness to pitch in and provide support in casting and directing the degrees we have conferred. As well as, providing sound council in Valley affairs. I want to thank my fellow Body heads for your friendship and contributions in making the valley such a dynamic and enjoyable Masonic experience. I deeply thank the Commander in Chief for his leadership and directing us towards success in perhaps
the most difficult times the Valley has had during the COVID Pandemic. Ill. Larry, on behalf of us all Job Well Done!!!! It goes without saying that Ill. James Swan and his office staff are invaluable to all things Scottish Rite within the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. Ill. Swan has been an incredible mentor to all the Body heads and a true friend. Thank you for showing us the way.

As hopefully I have shown in my writings The Scottish Rite and the Valley of Syracuse holds a very special place in my heart. As I turn the page of my journey I am wishing the very best of success to my successor and all of the officers for their service and leadership in the Lodge of Perfection. I truly look forward to seeing you work together and reaching lofty heights! As for me, I entered the doors of Freemasonry marked service. I look forward, with great excitement, to continue my Scottish Rite Journey in a new capacity to serve the membership.

Again, Thank each and every one of you for allowing me the honor of being your Thrice Potent Master, May God Bless you and Family, Enjoy your summer!!

Peace be with you my Princes

Terry A. Byard, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master

Hospitaler
Greetings Brothers, It’s nice to see the sunshine as I write this months article. The cold wet spring weather of Central N.Y. finally appears to be behind us.

In addition to Covid related problems which are not going to go away, the deer ticks are unusually heavy this spring, causing the concern of Lyme disease. ( the name comes from Lyme, Connecticut, where it was discovered) This is a bacterial infection caused by the bite of an infected tick. Be sure and check your dog, cat, and yourself, when you come inside. I use a fine tooth comb to remove them from our cat. If you are experiencing flu like symptoms, and, or have a target shaped rash, make sure you have it evaluated. Treatment with antibiotics is usually effective when detected early.

One closing remark about Covid….Dianne and I have both received our 2nd booster of Moderna and continue to mask up when out and about. I realize these are personal decisions.

Please remember our to keep our Masonic Brothers and their families in the Ukraine, and all of its citizens in our thoughts and Prayers, as their suffering continues

The Hospitalers Fund is always in need. If you are able to help, please send a check made out to Central City Bodies, and directed for the Hospitalers Fund,

If you are in need of some confidential assistance please contact Bob Tyrrell or myself…We may be able to provide some type of help.

Don’t forget the Blue envelopes !

Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962
freeman1574@frontier.com

Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY
As I write this, we are one month from our Recognition Ceremony. Year 18 is soon to be in the books. We had 17 children attending this year and 2 Practitioner 1 Scholars and 1 Practitioner 2 Scholar. We will be honoring the Scholars and eight children who have completed their time at the Center and will be moving to independent learning. We will also recognize the nine children who plan to return in the fall for their second year with us.

We are happy to report that we have four new Practitioner 1 Scholars who will receive their training for Certification in the upcoming year. It looks to be another busy year with close to 20 children attending the Center. Some of our certified tutors will continue training as Trainers, Supervisors and Therapists so the learning continues at all levels.

The last three years have seen us continue to face, meet, and overcome many challenges that we could never have envisioned. The fact that you are steadfast in your support has allowed us to keep moving forward in the best ways possible. We pray that the upcoming year will allow us to return to a more normal setting and that we can continue to bring you positive reports about what is going on at the Center.

A brief update on Lucas as he continues to make consistent progress and show involvement in each lesson. He will continue with us next fall and we are confident that he will benefit more and more from his time here. We have just placed his younger sister on our waitlist and will look forward to seeing here sometime in the next two years. I continue to report, and it remains the same, that we have a two year wait list for children who need/want our services.

As you read this, we will be preparing for our summer hiatus. We have found the desire and feasibility of a summer program are not there. Though it would be optimum for the children the lack of interest and consistent attendance for the last few summers that we had the extended program did not make them cost or time effective. Perhaps this will change back to a flourishing program in the future, but it is not to be at this time. The Center will be closed for services from June 14th to September 19th . Gineal and I will be in and our throughout the summer to deal with phone and mail during that time and you can always email.

We look forward to seeing many of you on August 5 th for our Annual Golf Tourney and Fundraiser at Vesper Hills Golf Course in Tully. It is always a fun time no matter what the weather.

Again- We Thank You for Your Continued Interest and Support of The Children’s Dyslexia Center Central New York-Without you- We would not Be!

Linda L. Martin, Director
Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org
Phone- (315) 736-0574
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424

2022 Teddy Bear Golf Classic
Attention Golfers: Summer is Here!!
The 2022 Teddy Bear Golf Classic benefiting Children’s Dyslexia Center Central New York is
scheduled for Friday August 5, 2022 at Vesper Hills Golf Club. Save the date on your Summer
calendar.

Set up your foursome and let Ill∴ Craig Cobb, 33° know you are joining the fun! Details will be in the June edition of the WORD.

Craig’s contact information is:
e-mail: cobb3@verizon.net
Phone: (315) 446-0625
You can also call the Valley of Syracuse office. (315) 452-7976 for information
TEE and HOLE sponsors are needed.

Supreme Council Member Center
All members who are not registered in the J365 Membership roster; please Go on line MYNMJ.ORG and sign into the Member Center. As a non registered member the system it will instruct you how to register. Have your member card available and follow the provided instructions. When registered you can view all of your Scottish Rite membership records on this site. Contact the Valley office if you require assistance.

Teddy Bear Golf Classic to Benefit Childrens Dyslexia Center of CNY

6/16/2022

The Teddy Bear Golf Classic Tournament to benefit the Children's Dyslexia Center of Central New York will be held on Friday, August 5, 2022 at the Vesper Hills Golf Club in Tully, NY. Please consult the documents below to learn more...

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