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Calendar
May 2023 May 08 Guard’s Club Dinner & Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Four Bodies Annual Meeting & Officer’s Election 7:30 p.m. May 15 Officer’s Public Installation Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Meeting 7:30 p.m. May 22 Trustees Live Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Executive Live Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. June 2023 Jun 9 (Friday Evening) New York State Council of Deliberation Annual Convocation DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton Hotel 6301 State Route 298 East Syracuse, NY 13057 Recognition of Youth & Awards Dinner 6:30 p.m. Jun 10 (Saturday) New York State Council of Deliberation Annual Convocation Business Meeting 9:30 a.m. Summoned Annual Session 1:30 p.m. MSA Banquet 7:00 p.m. with Recognition Ceremony to follow Consistory Greeting Brethren, May begins the transition of our Valley Officers ending the 2022-2023 Scottish Right year and beginning anew with 2023-2024. This month’s work in the quarries is the most important of the year, election and installation of our new Commander in Chief, Body Officers, Secretary and Treasurer. Before continuing with our May events, I would regress back to April 1 and the “Feast of the Paschal Lamb”. Thank you and congratulations to Most Wise Master Ded. Bro. Richard E. Barrett, 32° DSA, to the Body of Rose Croix and to all who took part in the presentation of this beautiful and solemn memorial service dedicated to our members who have laid down their working tools in the past year. A special thank you to Rev. and R.W. Stephen G. Maddox, Sr., 32° MSA for his moving Memorial Meditation in which he personally eulogized each of our departed Brethren. Another special thank you to the Knights of St. Andrew, S.P. Naaman Lowry, 32° and S.P. Joel Scarson, 32° for their assistance in welcoming our Guests and distributing programs. Their presents in full dress kilts lent an impressive touch to this special day. I had many guests compliment the Valley on our presentation. Well Done! Our labor begins the week after the 241st Grand Lodge Annual Communication. On May 8th we begin the evening with our Annual Guard’s Club Dinner in appreciation to all of our Sublime Princes who have participated in or assisted in any way on our Valley Degree Presentations during the past year; Thank you all Brethren! The Guards Club President D.B. James A. Nelson, 32° MSA will hold a short meeting to elect and install the Guards Club Officers for 2023-2024. Following this meeting we will retire to the Lodge Room to hold the election of Valley Officers for the ensuing year. On May 15th there will be the 2023-2024 Officer’s Dinner and Public Installation. Family and Guests are welcome. Please RSVP the Valley Office. Held in Memorial Lodge on May 22nd will be the first, 2023/2024 Live Trustees Meeting @ 6:15 p.m. followed by the Executive Committee Meeting @ 7:00 p.m. Reminder Body Heads: Please Do Not Forget to write your June WORD article. Deadline on May 8th. Thank you! Fraternally, D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA Commander in Chief Chapter Greetings Knights, May is a time when the weather is much nicer. The birds are back and the flowers are coming out. It got me thinking on the line of a new beginning for all of us.We can reflect on the lessons we have learned from each Scottish Rite Degree. It is also a busy month on our schedule. For instance, on May 8, 2023 is the Guards Club Dinner and Meeting. This is the nite new Officers are Elected for each of the four bodies.The Officers Installation will occur on May 15, 2023. Please attend these meetings so you can see who your New Officers are. There are many educational programs offered online by the Excelsior People. Thank you for allowing me to write these articles. Richard E. Barrett Most Wise Master. Council Valiant Princes, May should prove to be a great month as we get ready to welcome our incoming Valley Officers on May 8 th at our four bodies annual meeting and Office’s election. Following that, on May 15th we will host our annual public installation of Officers for all four bodies. I wish to congratulate all brethren who have chosen to continue in the Officer line. I also congratulate those wise enough to know the extent of their own cable-tow who chose when presented the opportunity to devote themselves to family and work as opposed to take upon a role of leadership they may not be able to fulfill in a healthy way and whose discretion makes room for others better poised to take a present leadership position. Why? True Freemasonry, as many may know, is applied when we firstly recognize the precedence of our dedication and duty to G-d, family and work. Thereby, when our Masonic practice is fulfilled through our service to our fraternity- be it the necessary brick and mortar maintenance and administration for the group- or guidance and mentorship of our newly initiated brothers as individuals we do so best when our attention is balanced. In other words, when a man is conscious and applies his Masonic principles he ever strives for equilibrium in his efforts and use of time. He displays true Leadership through his love and devotion with forethought and consideration of responsibilities that applies to his profane and assumes Masonic Leadership respectfully and with support to be of service beyond the norm; It is not surprising that often those who are called to positions of Masonic Leadership will or have found great personal fulfillment when their duties to G-d, family and work coincide and are complementary to their roles as Masonic leaders. Being my last word article for the 2022-2023 year, I wish to share that it has been an honor and privilege to serve with all of our Officers and Leaders in the Valley of Syracuse. It has been wonderful to see our Valley of Excellence at work. It has been great to see the teamwork and magnanimous efforts we have achieved. Thank you for all your support this year and best wishes to our outgoing and incoming Commander-in-Chief and all 4 bodies for a continuation of excellence within our beloved A:.A:.S:.R:. I wish you all a pleasant May and that for you all this Spring is filled with Wisdom, Strength and Beauty. Until we meet again, may the G:.A:.O:.T:.U:. continue to grant peace and blessings to you, the NMJ, America and our Men and Women of service. Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA Sovereign Prince Lodge This article is written on behalf of D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, Sr. who resigned as Thrice Potent Master of Central City Lodge of Perfection due to illness by your Valley Secretary. I am happy to report that while his condition is serious and he is quite fragile at times, he is better now than a few months ago. Central City Lodge of Perfection conferred the Builder 4° five (5) times initiating fourteen (14) new Scottish Rite Masons during the 2022-2023 Scottish Rite year. Welcome to our new Scottish Rite Masons and thank you to our first line signers for your efforts. To our members; remember you can go online using “mynmj.org”, at your convenience; enter your member number and the password you provide and search through and change your personal member records. There are certain fields in this information that only you can change. If you have not registered; please go online and register your membership in Scottish Rite. Contact the Valley office if you need assistance. I hope all who participated in the Thursday Night at the Rite program this year enjoyed the degrees presented. To all, our Annual Meeting and Election of Officers is Monday May 8, 2023. The Public installation of next year’s officers is Monday May 15, 2023. Remember the Installation of Officers is a Public Ceremony. Members, Family, and Friends are invited to attend this ceremony. Submitted by, Jim Swan Valley Secretary Hospitaler Greetings Brothers, and Sisters. Under sickness and distress, Dianne and I would like to thank everyone for the Thoughts, and prayers. If you are not aware…Dianne was hospitalized in March with pneumonia. She is home now and steadily returning to her old self with a few added precautions in place. The Snowbird Brothers are starting to arrive along with several other species of songbirds. Make sure your birdhouses have been cleaned and are in good repair. For our new members …be on the lookout for the blue envelopes. These are for contributions to the Learning Center In Oriskany for children suffering from dyslexia. Covid is still active among the Valley members. Please be diligent when out and about, and keep the mask and hand sanitizer handy when you find yourself in a crowded area. Please keep the Valley informed if you become infected. If anyone is experiencing a personal hardship, please feel free to contact Robert Tyrrell, myself, or the Office, in strict confidence, we may be able to help in some way. Happy Mothers Day…. Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY We have officially survived another season of winter weather, colds, flus and now COVID. We have also enjoyed another fun and successful GALA fundraiser. Many thanks to all who attended and supported that event (as well as all of our essential fundraisers). We were thrilled to have some of our “alumni” families and tutors attend and I would love to bring you a bit of an update on a couple of them. Avery, a young lady who attended the Center a few years ago, was at the GALA and she was very happy to let me know that she is carrying a 91 average in Jr. High (that information was unsolicited by me) while her father proudly told me that Avery is the State Archery Champion in her age group. What fun. Another family at the GALA shared wonderful news. You may remember Glenn who came to us as a total non-reader and spent four years in the program. His parents were at the GALA and, as always, expressed overwhelming gratitude for the time Glenn was able to spend at the Center. He, too, is in Jr. High and his parents were thrilled to report that his is a happy young man in school and is on the Honor Roll. Great job, on everyone’s part, making school a more successful and enjoyable experience for these young children and their families. We look forward to the Recognition Ceremony in June and hope to see you at our summer fundraisers. Stay tuned for more information on the Golf Tourney and Chicken BBQ. As Always, We Are Thankful for You! Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 2023 Annual Meeting Notice The Annual Meeting for Central City Lodge of Perfection, Central City Council Princes of Jerusalem, Central City Chapter of Rose Croix and Central City Consistory is Monday May 8, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Memorial Center, 648 Centerville Place, North Syracuse, NY 13212. All Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Masons were summoned to attend this meeting. Prior to the Annual Meeting the Guard’s Club meets for a “Pulled Pork” dinner and its Annual Meeting at 6:15 p.m. Due to the pandemic meeting restrictions imposed in 2020 and continued thru last year our participation at this dinner has dropped. I urge every Valley Member and the Valley Officers, in particular, to attend this dinner at no charge to the attendees. Dinner reservations are required by May 2, 2023. You have received prior notice that revisions to the current Central City By-laws will be voted upon for adoption that evening. The new By-laws will impact every member in the Valley. Please attend and be informed. If you have any questions about the 2023 Annual Meeting please contact the Valley office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com. Officers Installation 2023 – 2024 Central City Lodge of Perfection, Council Princes of Jerusalem, Chapter of Rose Croix Officers & 2023-2025 Central City Consistory Officers The Public Installation of the four Central City Bodies Officers for the upcoming years is Monday evening May 15, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Memorial Center. Family members and friends are welcome to attend this event. The Installation Ceremony will be preceded by a Roasted Pork dinner served at 6:30 p.m. at a cost of $ 20.00 per person. Reservations are required by May 9, 2023. Contact the Valley of Syracuse office 315-452-7976 or adminny017@twcny.rr.com to make your reservations for dinner. See you at the Officer’s Public Installation If you have any questions about the Installation of the 2023-2024 Valley Officers please contact the Valley office. (315) 452-7976 or e- mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com . Announcing 2023 Summer Time Family Life Events Save the Valley of Syracuse “Family Life” events on you calendar: Friday July 21, 2023- It is “Take me out to the Ball game” night. Syracuse Mets take on the Buffalo Bisons at NBT Stadium. Additional details coming. Saturday July 29, 2023 “Family Life Picnic” at the Cicero American Legion. Additional details coming. Friday August 4, 2023 Children’s Dyslexia Center “Teddy Bear Golf Outing” at Vesper Hills Golf Club. Additional details coming 2023 Annual Membership Dues For those that have paid their 2023 Member’s Dues and are now current for 2023 the Valley Leadership Team, office staff, and I thank you. Total number of Dues paying members in the four Central City Bodies in the Valley of Syracuse is 450. 329 or 73% of the Valley members have paid their 2023 Member’s Dues as of April 1, 2023. 96 or 27% of our Dues Paying Members have not paid their 2023 Member’s Dues. Those that have not paid their 2023 Member’s dues will receive a Supreme Council computer generated Reminder “Past Due” notice in your mail in the coming days. Please respond to that request. You received a new Member’s Dues Card when you received your invoice for your 2023 Member’s dues generated by Supreme Council in August 2022. If you have misplaced it or did not receive the 2023 Member’s Dues invoice please notify the office and a replacement card will be requested for you. Supreme Council now requires the Valley Secretary to submit the Member’s Dues roster for the next year prior to June 1 of the current year. That is the reason this information is appearing in the May issue of the WORD. You may go online yourself at NYNMJ.ORG; enter your personal member number and password and go to Member’s dues and check your present status. If you have any questions regarding the status of your payment of Member’s Dues for 2023 please contact the Valley office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com From D.B. Terry Byard, 32° MSA, 2nd Lt. Commander: Brother Kenneth Bates, MSA has served as a great Masonic leader loved by all in his Lodge, District, York Rite, and the Scottish Rite for most of his adult life. He is well known as a gentle and compassionate man in his community and the Fraternity that truly exemplifies what it means to be a Freemason. It was an honor on behalf of the Valley of Syracuse to present him with his 50-year service to the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite certificate and commemoration dish at His Royal Arch Chapter highlighting his involvement in all aspects of our Beloved Craft.
 Calendar
April 2023 Apr 03 Monday Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. Live Meeting at the Masonic Center Apr 10 Lodge Ambassador Event 7:30 p.m. Refreshments to follow April 17 161st Annual Reunion Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Meeting 7:30 p.m. Apr 24 Trustees Meeting 6:15 p.m. Live meeting / Executive Committee 7:00 p.m. Live Meeting May 2023 May 08 Guard’s Club Dinner & Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Four Bodies Annual Meeting & Officer’s Election 7:30 p.m. May 15 Officer’s Public Installation Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Meeting 7:30 p.m. May 22 Trustees Live Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Executive Live Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. These are the last meetings for the 2022 - 2023 Scottish Rite Business year. Consistory Greeting Brethren, it is hard to believe that only two months remain in this Masonic year. Here at the Valley great strides have been made, hurdles overcome, and goals achieved. Officially, once again, for the second year, the Valley of Syracuse has reached and exceeded the rigorous requirements set forth by the Supreme Council NMJ and has qualified for the prestigious Valley of Excellence Award. There are a minimum of 90 points required in four areas- Membership; Service and Philanthropy; Leadership and Development and Operations. As of this writing 95.16 points have been earned and more to be added with planned upcoming events. Congratulations to all! We all can be proud. This accomplishment was only made possible through Teamwork and Brothers working in Harmony. The April activities begin with one of the most solemn and beautiful ceremonial presentations in Scottish Rite. The Feast of the Paschal Lamb will be presented by the Body of Rose Croix in memory of our dearly departed Brothers who have laid down their working tools over the past year. If you have never attended this moving Ceremony, please consider joining us. During April there will be two [Live] Executive Committee Meetings due to the Grand Lodge Annual Communication being held the first week in May. The first on 4/1 at 7:00 P.M. and the second on 4/24 beginning with the Trustee Meeting at 6:15 P.M. and the Executive Meeting at 7:00 P.M. You do not have to be a member of the Executive Committee to attend, all Valley members are invited. On April 17th the Consistory will be hosting the V.O.S. 161st Annual Reunion. This will be an open meeting with Ladies invited. Our guest speaker for the evening will be Brother Toby J. Shelley, Onondaga County Sheriff. On April 10th the Valley will be hosting a Lodge Ambassador Event at 7:30 with refreshments to follow. Reminder- April 13th at 8:00 P.M. will be Episode 7, the final “Thursday Night at the Rite” for the season. This evening’s presentation will be the 21st Degree “Patriarch Noachite”. My Lady Marilyn and I wish you and your family a Happy and Holy Easter Season! Fraternally, D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA Commander in Chief Chapter Greetings Knights, on April 1, 2023 we will celebrate the Feast of the Paschal Lamb. A luncheon will be served following this event. I thought I would explore some of the things that happen during the feast. The Officers robes are a combination of the colors red and white. This makes the feast a more expressive event. Then 2 columns of men enter the lodge in a certain order as music is played. The columns split and go on each side of the Passion Cross shaped table to their seats. There is a single large candle on a pedestal directly behind the Most Wise Master. This to honor those Knights who have passed during the year. The Secretary then reads the names of Knights who have passed. There are many other things which happen. I will not get into these as it will deny you the pleasure of the ceremony. Please come and enjoy this beautiful ceremony. Richard E. Barrett, 32° Most Wise Master. Council Valiant Princes, As we enter the month of April in the Upstate NY life starts to thaw out. We look forward to becoming increasingly active for spring. I hope all our Valley members are in good health and spirits and I send a prayer for those of you in need. If you are not a Scottish Rite member, joining the Scottish Rite is a good step for any looking for further light in Masonry. Furthermore, now is especially a good time to join as the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction is offering several programs to enrich your experience in the form of the Excelsior, Pathfinder and the Hauts Grade Academy programs. For those that enjoy reading about Scottish Rite Masonry, I recommend the great books available through the NMJ Masonic Marketplace: https://themasonicmarketplace.merchorders.com/retail__books The most recent book published of note is Illustrious Brother Kamel Oussayef’s groundbreaking work Freemasonry by Questions and Answers. This work is an annotated translation of a French ritual manuscript dated to 1761, the formative years of what we now know as the Antient and Accepted Scottish Rite. Inclosing and to help you enjoy your Masonic Journey, I want to share an approach that is specifically useful to Freemasons seeking and sharing further light. It is an approach that fosters and requires teamwork, intergenerational wisdom, respect and deeper fraternal bonds. The approach is known by Biblical Scholars and Academics who study and converse about sacred texts. The approach is called Hermeneutics. Why is it helpful? Hermeneutics is the theory and methodology of interpretation, translation or analysis commonly used to study sacred texts and in our case the writings of Freemasonry. At first it seems intimidating, but I wish for you all to know that it is something many Freemasons engage in whether we know it, define it or not. Indeed, the true merit of studying our peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols is found amongst our brethren applying their Masonry. Yet at the same time there is the integral sharing of knowledge; conversing, performing, reading or writing about our allegories, ritual, history and philosophy all embodied by the Scottish Rite. I wish you all a pleasant April. Until we meet again, may the G:.A:.O:.T:.U:. continue to grant peace and blessings to you, the NMJ, America and our Men and Women of service. Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA Sovereign Prince Lodge No News Received Fraternally, D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32° MSA Thrice Potent Master Hospitaler Greetings Brothers, and Sisters. Under sickness and distress, please keep the following list of people, and or their families in our thoughts and prayers. Peter Klien, Gil Walter, Harvey Eysman, Herb Gerhardt Jr. and The Cobb family. The Snowbird Brothers down south will be packing up soon and preparing for the spring migration back home. It is always a pleasure to see their tanned faces setting on the sidelines again. Most of them affiliate with a Masonic Lodge down south and will have an interesting story or experience to share with us. Good news, I drove to Lodge this week and it was still daylight! The older I get the more I look forward to spring time and setting the clocks ahead. I am sure many of you share my feelings. Covid is still active among the Valley members. Please be diligent when out and about, and keep the mask and hand sanitizer handy when you find yourself in a crowded area. Please keep the Valley informed if you become infected. If anyone is experiencing a personal hardship, please feel free to contact Robert Tyrrell, myself, or the Office, in strict confidence, we may be able to help in some way. Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY As you read this we will be just going to or coming back from our Spring Break time. For those of you that were able to attend the GALA, you know what a great time we all had and how wonderful all of the Baskets (40+) for the raffle were. You never disappoint with the support and involvement in our Fund Raiser’s and this is one of our biggest. Every Year seems to get bigger and better- can’t wait for next year. I appreciate that the Board (and wives) were willing to take over this event. We are preparing for our new training classes. We will be doing both Practitioner 1 and 2 this coming year so, as always, The Center will be a very busy place. Alyssa, Marianne and I have all successfully completed (and very happily so) our Therapy Course which is opportune as we move into End-Of-Year activities. Another new project at the Center is the implementation of a new DataBase System being used at headquarters and therefore, by us- Getting used to a new system after 15 plus years of the old one may be a bit of a challenge, though they assure us that no manual will be needed (which is a good thing as there is no manual available). Next month I plan to bring you information on a new summer fundraiser for July and remind you again of the Golf Tourney in August- lots of fun things coming our way. Blessings for the Pastoral Season and hoping to see you all in the near future. Thank you again for helping us be here for the last 19 years. Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 161st Annual Reunion Banquet The Valley of Syracuse has enjoyed an excellent year of Scottish Rite Stated Valley Meetings, degrees conferrals, member’s information sessions, and social events during the 2022-2023 Scottish Rite Masonic Year. The Valley leadership team led by body heads D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32° MSA, Thrice Potent Master Central City Lodge of Perfection, D.B. Caleb Haines, 32° MSA HGA, Sovereign Prince Central City Council Princes of Jerusalem, Ded. B. Richard Barrett, 32° DSA, Most Wise Master, Central City Chapter of Rose Croix, and D. B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA, Commander-In-Chief, Central City Consistory. The time has come for our members to formally say CONGRATULATIONS AND THANK YOU to these leaders and their officers’ teams for their extraordinary efforts and accomplishments has resulted in the Valley of Syracuse achieving “Valley of Excellence” status for 2022-2023; two years in a row. Times and definitions are changing. For years in Scottish Rite Masonry; A “REUNION” was the year end gathering to honor the Valley officers and the Class sponsor. Today a “Reunion” is any degrees conferral meeting conducted during the year. Our year end “161st Annual Reunion banquet” is Monday evening April 17, 2023. Everyone is encouraged to attend this festive event. Social time is 6:00 p.m.; Dinner 6:30 p.m. and a program in the Lodge Room follows dinner. Tobias “Toby” Shelley, Onondaga County Sheriff is the guest speaker for this year’s event. The menu is Roast Beef and the dinner cost is $20.00 per person. Reservations are required. Contact the office 315-452-7976 Announcing 2023 Summer Time Family Life Events Save the Valley of Syracuse “Family Life” events on you calendar: Friday July 21, 2023- It is “Take me out to the Ball game” night. Syracuse Mets take on the Buffalo Bisons at NBT Stadium. Additional details coming. Saturday July 29, 2023 “Family Life Picnic” at the Cicero American Legion. Additional details coming. Friday August 4, 2023 Children’s Dyslexia Center “Teddy Bear Golf Outing” at Vesper Hills Golf Club. Additional details coming 2023 Annual Membership Dues Thank you to those who have paid their 2023 Member’s Dues. A reminder that the 2023 Members Dues payments are past due. If your Member’s Dues for 2022 and earlier years were not paid by January 31, 2023 your membership in the Valley of Syracuse could be suspended by Supreme Council for non-payment of your Member’s dues. A new 2023 Scottish Rite Member’s Dues Card was included with your invoice for your 2023 Member’s dues. If you have misplaced it or did not receive the 2023 Annual Member’s Dues card please notify the office and a replacement card will be requested for you. If your 2023 Member’s Dues were not received by the Valley of Syracuse office or Supreme Council by January 31, 2023 you will receive another follow up notice from Supreme Council in your mail in February. Please respond to that request. If you have any questions regarding the status of your payment of your 2023 Member’s Dues please contact the Valley office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com . Fraternally, Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33° Valley Secretary Calendar
February 2023 Feb 06 Trustees 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. on Zoom Feb 11 Crunch Hockey Night at the “Crunch” at Upstate Medical University Arena At the Onondaga War Memorial Puck Drop at 7:00 p.m. $20.00 per person Feb 13 Caregivers Recognition at MMC With the Ladies Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Feb 27 Confer 4° (V) “Builder” 29° “Knight of St. Andrew” (V)7:30 p.m. KSA Program follows the degrees Refreshments to follow March 2023 Mar 06 Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. on Zoom Mar 11Children’s Dyslexia Center Gala @ Hart’s Hill Inn Mar 18 (Saturday) Scottish Rite Mason in a Day @ Masonic Memorial Center 9:00 a.m. Register 9:30 a.m. Open Meeting 10:00 a.m. Confer 4° (V) “Builder” 11° (L) “Sublime Master Elected” 11:00 a.m. Confer 19° (V) “Brother Of The Trail” 23° (V) “Knight of Valor” 12:30 p.m. Lunch 1:30 p.m. Confer 32° (V) “Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret” w/live Knighting Ceremony Consistory Greeting Brethren, I hope that the first month of 2023 has begun as a healthy, happy and prosperous year for each of you. As I pen this article my thoughts drift back to December 2022 with great sadness when Freemasonry and our community at large lost two mighty pillars. On December 18, Charles Richard Trust, best known as Dick or C. Richard, laid down his working tools of the Craft. Brother Dick was Past Grand High Priest of the Royal Arch Masons, Past Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of the Knights Templar, Past Commander in Chief of the Valley of Syracuse A.A.S.R., 33rd degree Honorary Member of the NMJ Scottish Rite, Past-Master of Pulaski Lodge No. 415 and President of the Oswego District Purple Club. Dick was bigger than life in Lodge or out; always ready with a great story or to spread light from his vault of Masonic knowledge. He wore many hats from Baseball player, US Army Soldier, Father, Husband, Mason, Successful Business Owner, Gentleman and a Friend to so many just to mention a few. He will be sorely missed by all. On December 29, a second pillar fell. The Hon. Norman A. Mordue. Brother Mordue’s accolades are too many for proper acknowledgment in this article. I will try to summarize and suggest that you review both Brother Mordue and Brother Trust’s Obituaries in the Post Standard. Brother Norman Mordue attended Syracuse University with a full football scholarship. He played under Coach Ben Schwartwalder and alongside Floyd Little and Jim Nance. He was a member of the 1964 Sugar Bowl team. Upon graduating from SU with a BA in Economics he entered the Army and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. Soon after Basic and various other specialty training schools he was deployed to Vietnam. While leading his platoon on a search and clear mission he was severely wounded and received the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism, the Bronze Star with V device for Valor, the Purple Heart, the Air Medal and Combat Infantry Badge. At the rank of Captain he was retired for wounds he had sustained in combat. He returned to law school at SU and this is where his whirlwind career really begins. After graduation he worked his way from Law Clerk in the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office to Chief Assistant District Attorney. After leaving the DA’s Office he was elected to Onondaga County Court Judge, from there to New York State Supreme Court Justice. He next was appointed to the District Court, joining the Federal Bench, followed by his Presidential nomination and Senate confirmation. His list of honors and affiliations are great but not the least of these is that he was a Mason and known best to us as Brother and 33rd Degree Honorary Member NMJ Scottish Rite in the Valley of Syracuse. The world is left a better place for Brother Trust and Brother Mordue’s service to Freemasonry and mankind. On Saturday February 4, 2023 there will be a Pathfinder Workshop Event presented by D.B. James Nelson, 32 nd degree, MSA and Ill. Richard Powell 33 rd degree Active. It begins with Coffee and Donuts @ 8:30 a.m. followed by the Workshop Program from 9:00 – 12 noon. Reminder- on February 6, there will be the Trustee’s Meeting @ 6:15 p.m. followed by the Executive Committee @ 7:00 p.m. Saturday February 11th is “Syracuse Crunch Hockey Time”. “Syracuse Crunch vs. Rochester Americans”. Prepaid Tickets Purchase Cut-off date is February 6. February 13th will be our Caregiver’s Event. It is my pleasure to announce that the recipient of the Ill. John S. Curtis, 33 rd degree Caregiver Award is Bro. David A. Van Auken, 32 nd degree. Congratulations and well deserved. Member to Member Contact Committee calling deadline is rapidly approaching. At this writing 4 out of the 11 Calling Books have been completed and turned in. Please complete your calls a.s.a.p. and return the books to the Valley Office. Thank you. The Children’s Dyslexia Center’s GALA will be held on Saturday March 11, 2023 at Hart’s Inn. All Basket donation submissions for this event must be received at the Learning Center by February 15th. Happy Valentine’s Day to ALL! Fraternally, D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA Commander in Chief Chapter Greetings Princes. I have located an article on the internet written by the Valley of New York City. It states that in 1797 a Chapter of Rose Croix was formed in New York City, the first for North America. Its secretary was a Frenchman named J.J. Gourgas. In 1813 the Mother Supreme Council recognized this group. That same year the Supreme Council for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction was formed from the Scottish Rite Bodies active in New York. Daniel Tompkins was named the First Sovereign Grand Commander and J.J. Gourgas was Grand Secretary. Meanwhile Joseph Cerneau, a member of Washington lodge No.21, with another group of masons, formed a rival Chapter of Rose Croix in 1806, and a Grand Consistory in 1807. This group was denied by the Mother Supreme Council of the A.A.S.R. in Charleston until 1867. When the two rival Supreme Councils in New York merged into form our present Supreme Council for Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, A.A.S.R. All the various Scottish Rite Bodies united to form our present Rose Croix Chapter on February 28, 1880. The Charter issued by the Supreme Council in 1880 shows a founding date of October 30th,1856, which is the official founding date of our Chapter Rose Croix. I hope you found this article informative. I want to remind all cast members that there is a practice on February 8, 2023 at 7:00P.M. There is the Caregiver's Dinner with Ladies on February 13, 2023. The Caregiver Award will be announced and entertainment will be after the dinner. I hope to see you there. Richard E. Barrett Most Wise Master. Council Valiant Princes, By the time you read this the 2023 season has already commenced. I hope you all look forward to the New Year. We also will have conferred the 15th and 16th degree. I wish to thank all who made time for the rehearsal and casting of the 16th degree. I also wish to congratulate all CPJ and Valley Officers who have decided to move forward in line for their continued dedication to the Valley of Syracuse. As we also reflect let’s not forget as well of our time at the Robert Burn’s Supper and be inspired to keep active in the ensuing Masonic Year. Please keep in mind that Mar 18 th is our Valley Reunion for our incoming Sublime Princes. If you know of anyMason in search of further light in Masonry please refer them to the Valley of Syracuse and get involved. Until we meet again, may the G:.A:.O:.T:.U:. continue to grant peace and blessings to you, the NMJ, America and our Men and Women of service. Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA Sovereign Prince Lodge Princes, Some of you know that goff (golf) is a passion of mine. This time of year gives me an opportunity to repair some of my older clubs (100+ years old) and to catch up on my reading. One of my favorite websites that I mentioned last month is written by noted Scottish author Neil Laird and is entitled Scottish Golf History. I have been in contact with him and have asked his permission to reprint portions of his website entitled Freemasons Invent Golf Club. He has graciously given his permission. With the exception of northern and Western New York we don’t seem to have transitioned into winter and so I hope you’ll indulge me in my golf musings. “Though it may be a slight exaggeration to say that the 'Speculative Freemasons' invented the golf club, being a Mason or a Burgess was certainly a condition of the earliest known clubs in Scotland and England. Still today, very few golf clubs in the world do not have some entry criteria, if only financial.” “Until 1789, the Royal Blackheath GC was open only to Freemasons and for a generation afterwards there was a clique of Masons called the Knuckle Club who played out-of-season on Blackheath to avoid the non-mason members. They continued 'as golfers' only in 1825 and disbanded in 1844. Their minutes and medals are now part of Royal Blackheath GC. “ “The main reason that the members of early golf clubs were Freemasons was because, in the century after 1717, virtually all middle class men of ability in Scotland were Freemasons from senior law officers to skilled artisans as well as poets and writers, as listed here. (Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott were Masons). This was because, from 1717, the Scottish 'stonemason' Freemasons, called Operative Masons, apparently began to allow merchants and professional people, termed Speculative Masons, to join Lodges or create their own. This practice spread elsewhere in the world. For example, in France Voltaire and Napoleon's mistress Josephine were Masons as were the luminaries of the American Revolution including George Washington, who was buried with full Masonic honours.” During the next few months I’ll share additional information about how the greatest game in the world came to be associated with the greatest fraternity in the world. Fraternally, D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32° MSA Thrice Potent Master Hospitaler Greetings Brothers, Under sickness and distress, I have been informed that Carlton Swanker, Norman A. Mordue, Karl Parker, and Gil Walter, are in need of our aid and Sympathy. Please keep all of them including the family of Ill. Richard Trust in our thoughts and prayers. The tri-demic of flu, covid, and SRV is still with us so don’t be shy about wearing a mask, using hand sanitzer, and frequently washing your hands or any method of protection that could help. On a brighter note for us non skiers the snow is gone (1-9-23) and the days are beginning to get just a little bit longer. If anyone is experiencing a personal hardship, please feel free to contact Robert Tyrrell or myself in strict confidence, we may be able to help in some way. Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY Exciting new things have happened at the Center. As I reported last time, the Board undertook the major project of getting needed new flooring put down in the Reception area, Halls and Office. Many members came to help remove and replace the books from the bookshelves and Bill and Lou were here to help Gineal and I put all the Reception, Office and closet materials back in their general areas. Gineal and I had moved those with the help of Alyssa and Sharon after the children left on the last day before break. We look very fresh and clean (and somehow a bit bigger) and are extremely grateful to the Board and Meelan Carpets. So that brings me to the very important GALA, one of our major fundraisers, coming up on March 11th . The funds are needed even more, as the flooring was a bit of an unexpected expense and not in our budget for this year. The Board has covered the cost at this time, but we need to get those funds back in the pool if possible. (If you know of anyone looking for a worthwhile project to support, please let them know about the Center and our flooring venture.) We are hoping you will come and join us for the GALA. We will again have our basket raffle with baskets on display in the Center and pictures on-line. We will accept baskets at the Center from February 13 th to the 16 th (the Center is closed for school break the week of the 20 th .) We ask that no baskets be brought last minute to the GALA without advance notice as we need time to set up the bags and plan for space for all the baskets at Hart’s Hill Inn in Whitesboro. The raffle will be an ongoing part of the evening with Entertainment provided by The ACME Mystery Theater Company. Dinner, as always, will be a delicious buffet prepared and served by the staff at Hart’s Hill. Watch for your invitation which should arrive soon and we look forward to seeing you on March 11th . Thank you again for Being Here for us for the last 19 years- Let’s hope we all make 19 more. Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 Scottish Rite Degrees March 18, 2023 Registration and Candidates should be present by 8:45 a.m.;Coffee will be available and we will Open at 9:30 a. m. Five Degrees will be conferred starting at 9:30 a.m. and finished by 4:00p.m. Candidates completing the 5 degrees will be 32° Scottish Rite Masons at the end of the event. All in a one day event. Initiation Fee: $ 160.00 Bring your Masonic “Blue” Lodge Member’s Card confirming that you are Master Mason in Good Standing in your Masonic Lodge. New Dates for Spring Events There has been some reshuffling of the Spring Schedule. PLease note the new dates for the following: 159th Annual Reunion is Monday May 8, 2023 Guard’s Club Dinner / Four Bodies Annual Meeting/Election of 2022-2023 Officers is Monday May 15, 2023 Public Installation of Officers is June 5, 2023 Organizational meeting for Trustees is Monday June 12, 2023. Please watch the WORD as we progress towards the Spring. Blue Envelope Appeal You recently received the annual “Blue Envelope Appeal” letter from Supreme Council requesting your annual contribution. I urge you to support this request. Any contribution you may make is significant. The number of members from a valley that contribute to the “Blue Envelope Appeal” directly impacts the dollar amounts allocated to the Valleys within each state for distribution to our scholars. The percentage of members from each Valley that contribute is key to distribution of the Abbott Scholarship Funds and to the Valley’s rankings in the Supreme Council “Valley of Excellence” ratings. Abbott Scholarships funded by Supreme Council, NMJ or a New York State Educational Financial Assistance Grant funded by the New York State Scottish Rite Charities Corporation are assisting the children and grandchildren of our current and deceased members. The Valley of Syracuse submitted financial aid requests for six students seeking financial aid to assist them pay for their education during the 2022-2023 year. All six of the students related to our Valley’s members that requested financial assistance are currently receiving Scottish Rite funded financial aid for the 2022 - 2023 academic year. These young people are our future. We thank you for your support. Jim Swan Valley Secretary 2023 Thursday Night at the Rite Supreme Council Thursday Night at the Rite program with video degrees and other special events returns Thursday January 19, 2023. The 20° “Master ad Vitam” is featured. Continuing dates are February 2, and 16; March 2, 16, and 30 with the last event April 13, 2023. E-mail notices will be coming out from the office. If you have any questions regarding the planned schedule please contact the office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com . Fraternally, Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33° Valley Secretary 2023 – 2024 Scholarship Applications Available Applications to apply for 2023 – 2024 Academic Year Supreme Council, AASR Leon M. Abbott Scholarships and New York State Council of Deliberation Scholarship Aid are now available for online pick up at the Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Web Site. Go to the Valley of Syracuse Web site www.syr-aasr.org or the New York State Council of Deliberation Web site www.nyscottishritemasons.org for the links to obtain the information online. Applications received from a Scottish Rite Mason’s relatives are to be submitted thru the member’s Valley of membership. Application titled “2023-Abbott-Application” is to be used. To all applicants submitting your application thru the Valley of Syracuse: The deadline date to submit your completed applications to the Valley of Syracuse business office is Monday April 3, 2023. That means in the office by close of business Monday April 3, 2023. Applications received after 4:00 p.m. Monday April 3, 2023 will not be considered. New Applications must be used. The 2023 Leon M. Abbott Scholarship Application to be used. Graduating High School Seniors may apply again this year. The members of our Masonic Youth Groups; Triangle, Rainbow, and DeMolay; are eligible to apply for financial assistance. A masonic relationship is not required. Students who complete the program at the Children’s Dyslexia Centers in New York State may also apply. A masonic relationship is not required. Six applicants from the Valley of Syracuse received financial assistance from this program for the 2022-2023 scholastic year. Congratulations and best wishes to them. Please contact the Valley Office at (315) 452-7976 or adminny017@twcny.rr.com if you have any questions or require assistance and information. 2023 Annual Membership Dues Thank you to those who have paid their 2023 Member’s Dues. A reminder that the 2023 Members Dues payments are due. If your Member’s Dues for 2022 and earlier years were not paid by January 31, 2023 your membership in the Valley of Syracuse could be suspended by Supreme Council for non-payment of your Member’s dues. A new 2023 Scottish Rite Member’s Dues Card was included with your invoice for your 2023 Member’s dues. If you have misplaced it or did not receive the 2023 Annual Member’s Dues card please notify the office and a replacement card will be requested for you. If your 2023 Member’s Dues were not received by the Valley of Syracuse office or Supreme Council by January 31, 2023 you will receive another follow up notice from Supreme Council in your mail in February. Please respond to that request. If you have any questions regarding the status of your payment of your 2023 Member’s Dues please contact the Valley office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com . Fraternally, Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33° Valley Secretary The Knights of St. Andrew held their Annual Burns Supper last evening. A great time was had by all as can be seen the photos taken by Linda Egnaczyk. Thanks to all who participated and attended!  Hon. Norman A. Mordue December 29, 2022 Norman A. Mordue was born on June 26, 1942 and passed away on December 29, 2022 after a short illness. He was surrounded by his loving family.
Judge Mordue was born and raised in Elmira, New York. He played high school football and was awarded a full football scholarship to Syracuse University to play under Coach Ben Schwartzwalder. He was a member of the 1964 Sugar Bowl team. He graduated from Syracuse University in January 1966 with a bachelor's degree in Economics. Following his completion of ROTC, as a Distinguished Military Graduate and Distinguished Military Student, he was commissioned into the Regular Army as a Second Lieutenant in the Infantry. After the Infantry Officers Basic Course and further training in Fort Lewis Washington, he was deployed to Vietnam. In Vietnam he served with C Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry, First Air Cavalry Division. First Lieutenant Mordue distinguished himself on 31 May 1967 while serving as platoon leader of an Airmobile platoon on a search and clear operation in the village of An Qui. When another platoon was pinned down by heavy machine gun and grenade fire from a numerically superior and well entrenched insurgent force, Lieutenant Mordue immediately led his platoon on a fierce attack to relieve the pressure on the engaged unit. Seeing two of his men wounded and pinned down, he grabbed a machine gun and braved withering enemy fire to rescue them. He then moved to the front of his platoon and personally destroyed two enemy bunkers and killed five hostile soldiers in the ensuing offensive. Severely wounded and unable to walk, Lieutenant Mordue refused medical aid and directed the withdrawal of his men as deadly artillery strikes were called in on the Viet Cong positions. Lieutenant Mordue was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism, our Nation's second highest military honor. He was also the recipient of the Bronze Star with V device for valor for "courageous leadership and tenacious devotion to duty." Additionally, on 2 May 1967, Lieutenant Mordue received the Purple Heart, the Air Medal, and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. He was medically retired as a Captain in December of 1968 because of wounds sustained in combat. After his military service, Judge Mordue enrolled in law school at Syracuse University. While in law school, Judge Mordue worked for two years as Law Clerk in the Onondaga County District Attorney's Office. He graduated law school in 1971 as a member of the Justinian Honorary Law Society and the recipient of the Phi Alpha Delta award for academic excellence. He continued for ten more years as a prosecutor and worked his way up from Law Clerk to Chief Assistant District Attorney in charge of Felony and Homicide prosecutions, with a 100% conviction rate. After leaving the District Attorney's Office, he was elected in a contested race for Onondaga County Court Judge and served from 1983-1985. He was cross-endorsed in 1985 by all four parties and served for 13 years as a New York State Supreme Court Justice until his appointment to the United States District Court. Judge Mordue joined the Federal Bench on December 4, 1998, following his Presidential nomination and Senate confirmation in October 1998. The Senate voted on Judge Mordue's nomination in just 16 days, the shortest time to confirm any judge during the Clinton administration. Judge Mordue served as Chief Judge for the Northern District of New York from March 13, 2006 to December 15, 2011, taking senior status on July 1, 2013. Judge Mordue formerly taught trial practice for several years at Syracuse University College of Law as an adjunct professor. Judge Mordue was a moving force in creating the Korea-Vietnam Memorial in downtown Syracuse, the first monument in the country dedicated to both the Korean and Vietnam Conflicts. Judge Mordue was honored with many awards in his lifetime: in August 1985, Judge Mordue was inducted into the Elmira Sports Hall of Fame for football, Syracuse University Varsity Club awarded him the high honor of a Letter Winner of Distinction (1990); the Zunic Award (2009) for courage, self-sacrifice, and spirit by the Syracuse University Football Club; the Distinguished American Award (2002) from the Central New York Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame; the Onondaga County Bar Association Ruger Award (2016) for outstanding legal achievement and devotion to the principles of our system of justice; and the Syracuse Law Honor Award (2022). Judge Mordue was also inducted into the Syracuse University ROTC Alumni Hall of Fame. Judge Mordue was part of many organizations in the community. He was a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 103, American Legion Post 1468, the Tigris Shriners, Morning Star Lodge #524, the Central City Bodies AASR, as well as a 33 Degree honorary member of Supreme Council, NMJ. The Longhouse Council of the Boy Scouts of America honored Judge Mordue in 2013 as the "Distinguished Citizen of the Year." He was delighted to be chosen as Co-Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick's Day parade in 2000 and was this year's Grand Marshal of the CNY Veterans' Day Parade. He was predeceased by his parents Harry & Clara Mordue. Judge Mordue is survived by his wife, Christina, his sons, Daniel and Michael, daughter Jacqueline DiBello (Terry); his granddaughters, Jennifer Pruitt (Matthew), Katherine Sorensen; and three great-grandsons, James, Nathan, and Ezekiel. He is also survived by his brother Donald (Berma), and sisters, Geraldine Felix, Patricia Bruner (Thomas), Judith Mordue; and several nieces and nephews. Per Judge Mordue's request, there will be no calling hours. A private service and burial, with military honors, will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Judge Mordue's name to the American Heart Association, 444 Liberty Avenue, Suite 1300, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 or Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #103, P. O. Box 675, Liverpool, New York 13088. Please leave Memories and Condolences on syracuse. com/obits https://obits.syracuse.com/us/obituaries/syracuse/name/hon-mordue-obituary?id=38522658 Calendar
January 2023 Jan 09 Executive Committee Zoom Meeting 7:00 p.m. Jan 23 Spring Membership Night w/ Ladies Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Jan 28 KSA Burns Supper @ Coleman’s Restaurant 5:00 p.m. Jan 30 15° (V) “Knight of the East” & 16° “Prince of Jerusalem” 7:30 p.m. Refreshments to follow Febuary 2023 Feb 07 Trustees 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. on Zoom Feb 11 Crunch Hockey Night at the “Crunch” at Upstate Medical University Arena At the Onondaga War Memorial Puck Drop at 7:00 p.m. Feb 14 Caregivers Recognition at MMC With the Ladies Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Consistory Greeting Brethren, when you receive this issue of “the Word” a new year will be knocking at our door. Our fall season at the Valley of Syracuse has been busy, exciting and fruitful. On November 28 th we conferred the 17 th and the 32 nd degree [video] with live Knighting Ceremony for the Ill. Robert W. Tyrrell, 33 Degree Class of 2022-23. This resulted in 15 new Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret for our Valley and one for the Valley of Jamestown. The evening was well attended with a total of 50 present. One of whom was a visitor that traveled here from the Valley of Vermont. Congratulations to our new 32 nd degree members and thank you to all for your support of our new Princes and the Valley. As of December 1 st there were 10 new members added to our Valley Roster. This leaves only a balance of 4 more needed to meet our requirements toward the 2022-23 “Valley of Excellence Award”. We are currently planning a Rite on the Road for the near future. The Lodge, date and time will be forthcoming. January 19 th back by popular demand, the Supreme Council will begin the Thursday Night at Rite series with the 20 th degree. Mark your calendar for all of these excellent degree presentations which count toward filling your Passport Book. January is a fun filled beginning to the Scottish Rite New Year. January 23 rd is “Spring Membership Night with Ladies and Guests”. The entertainment for the evening will be the introduction of a new group to our Valley- “The Baby Boomers Band”. They are a popular five piece local group who have played at many various venues including the Cicero Parks and Recreation Department’s summer concerts, weddings, private parties etc. This is sure to be a good time for all, especially for our potential new members. Saturday January 28 th will be the Annual Robert Burns Supper at Coleman’s Irish Pub presented by Ill. Rick Powell and the Knights of St. Andrew. This is a fun filled evening of fellowship, great food, which includes a Piper, piping in the Haggis in true Scottish ceremonial form and a wee bit of Burns poetry. Wear your kilt if you have one! These January evenings spent with the Valley of Syracuse A.A.S.R. are sure to warm up and brighten the cold dark nights of our first full month of winter. Come join us and feel the warmth of Scottish Rite Masonry! From my family to yours, we wish each of you a very Happy, Healthy and a Prosperous New Year. As always keep those serving in our Armed Forces and our first responders in your thoughts and prayers and pray for peace throughout the world in this New Year. Fraternally, D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA Commander in Chief Chapter Greetings, Princes. The cast for the Feast of the Paschal Lamb is almost complete. However, I would like to fill the 2 guard positions with new Scottish Rite Masons. It is good to get new people involved. If you are interested contact me at (315) 632- 1395. Also have found that the 17th & 18th degrees are actually tied into the Feast. The 17 degree negative attitudes are reflected in all the statements given during the extinguishing of the lights. The 18 degree positive attitudes show up during the relighting of the lights. These lessons are what we experience during our everyday life. I hope you all attend this ceremony. It is very entertaining and inspirational. Richard E. Barrett Most Wise Master. Council Valiant Knights, I hope you are doing well and have/had an enjoyable Holiday season and a Happy New Year. If it has been a tough time please recall that in times of adversity that the Holidays are to be a reprieve from the mundane. They are days when we strengthen and adopt greater consistency in being contemplative, thankful, humble, graceful and of the less fortunate and impoverished. During times of darkness, we as Knights of the East bear a special light. We are reminded and remind our brothers to be free from any oppressions of our human spirit as we rebuild the Temple of Liberty once again. We are reminded that if we fall to rise again. Allegorically, we are instructed to keep a positive attitude, use constructive criticism, work as a team and focus to build anew in our lives wherever applicable. We are admonished to adapt to change and defeat with fortitude and humility. For example, as our body is a Temple, exercising a healthy mind, body and spirit and defending that advancement so we do not regress is seen as being sound. Therefore, ask yourself what does the allegory of laboring with a sword in one hand and trowel in the other mean to you? Indeed, Masonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols… but did you know that Cyrus the Great as mentioned was a real Persian King? If you are interested in this rich history try researching the Cyrus Cylinder circa 539-538 B.C. and the Book of Ezra as they influenced the lessons in our CPJ degrees. In closing, the 16th degree will be conferred after the 15th degree video on Jan 30 th of 2023. Upon reading this we will have had our annual Holiday celebration which I hope all have enjoyed and give thanks to all who assisted. Our final rehearsal for the 16th degree is scheduled for Dec. 19th of 2022. I wish to remind you again that this year the 16th degree will be conferred after the 15th degree video on Jan 30 th of 2023. Until we meet again, may the G:.A:.O:.T:.U:. continue to grant peace and blessings to you, our Sovereign Grand Commander, the NMJ, America and our Men and Women of service. Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA Sovereign Prince Lodge Happy New Year Princes! How can it be that we re into a New Year? Jeanne and I hope that you had a wonderful holiday season and are looking forward to an interesting and productive Scottish Rite year. Perhaps one of the most exciting upcoming events is the Knights of St. Andrew Robert Burns Supper on January 28th. It is really exciting how the wearing of the Philabeg (little kilt) has grown among our members. That event is a great time to kilt up and join with fellow Scots and those who wish they were Scottish for a wonderful meal and great fellowship. On another subject many of you are golfers. There is a very informative website that I would direct you to that tells the history of Masonry in Scotland as it relates to Scottish Masons forming some of the most important golf courses in the world. You can find it https://www.scottishgolfhistory.org. Informative reading through the cold and snowy days ahead! The next event for the Lodge of Perfection will be the Spring membership night with the Ladies on January 23rd. Finally we are anticipating a Rite on the Road event at Konosioni Lodge in the near future. Fraternally, D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32° MSA Thrice Potent Master Hospitaler Greetings Brothers, Under sickness and distress, Brother George Laird is currently hospitalized. You can send him get well wishes on facebook. Winter is officially here, and most of the Masonic snowbird Brothers have made a safe migration south where they will be attending Lodges and Valleys in southern states. There is currently a Tri-demic of flu, covid, and SRV. SRV was primarily affecting children, but recent reports of adults are being infected as well. This is the season of parties and get togethers, so please use caution and keep your mask handy in crowded places. I want to wish everyone all the best in 2023. Have a safe and happy New Year !! Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY Here we are in 2023- Wow. When I think back 18 years ago and we were still planning things to enter the Center in March of 2005. I remember how gracious Jeff French and the staff at the OES Home were to find places for me to tutor and do all the paperwork for the Center. As I recall the children and I spent time in four different places from July 2004 to March 2005. What a ‘wild ride’ that was. The Board worked diligently to create the Center facility that we have now and are still working just as hard to keep things up to par. Over the Holiday break they contracted to replace the well-worn and fraying carpet in the reception area, hallways and main office with a luxury vinyl tile. The latter was recommended by headquarters after instances of fire and flooding in other Centers and the issues of clean- up and redoing due to those tragic circumstances. We are not planning on either happening here but another 18 plus years of minimal issues will be just fine. You should be proud to know that our Center visits from Lexington Personnel brought us ‘model center’ status and I am very appreciative of the Board’s efforts to keep things that way. Next month I am in hopes of bringing you more information about the annual Gala but I can tell you to save the second Saturday in March (the 11th ) for a great evening at Hart’s Hill Inn in Whitesboro. The committee is planning a wonderful evening of fun and entertainment and Gineal and I will be managing the Basket Raffle (we will gladly accept your unique basket donation if you have something in mind- we will put them on display at the Center and on-line from mid-February to the beginning of March. This has been our largest fund-raiser as well as a wonderful evening of fun and fellowship and we hope to see you there! We wish all a very Happy New Year, with continued thanks for all of your caring support. Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 2023 Burns Supper The Knights of St. Andrew will be holding their 2023 Burns Supper on Saturday, January 28th, 2023 at Coleman's Irish Pub 100 South Lowell Avenue, Syracuse, NY. Social Time will begin at 5:00 PM. Dinner will be buffet style and cost will be $45.00 per person. Wives/significant others/guests are invited. This event is open to all but seating is limited to 65 this year so make your reservations now! We will be downstairs behind the bar rather than upstairs. Make your check out to the Knights of St. Andrew and mail them to Richard Powell, 4717 Broad Road, Syracuse, NY 13215. Be sure to write "Burns Supper" in the memo area of your check. Final Cutoff is January 6th. Blue Envelope Appeal You recently received the annual “Blue Envelope Appeal” letter from Supreme Council requesting your annual contribution. I urge you to support this request. Any contribution you may make is significant. The number of members from a valley that contribute to the “Blue Envelope Appeal” directly impacts the dollar amounts allocated to the Valleys within each state for distribution to our scholars. The percentage of members from each Valley that contribute is key to distribution of the Abbott Scholarship Funds and to the Valley’s rankings in the Supreme Council “Valley of Excellence” ratings. Abbott Scholarships funded by Supreme Council, NMJ or a New York State Educational Financial Assistance Grant funded by the New York State Scottish Rite Charities Corporation are assisting the children and grandchildren of our current and deceased members. The Valley of Syracuse submitted financial aid requests for six students seeking financial aid to assist them pay for their education during the 2022-2023 year. All six of the students related to our Valley’s members that requested financial assistance are currently receiving Scottish Rite funded financial aid for the 2022 - 2023 academic year. These young people are our future. We thank you for your support. Jim Swan Valley Secretary Supreme Council Valley of Excellence The 2021 – 2022 Valley of Excellence Award Trophy earned by the Valley of Syracuse is now displayed in the front foyer Trophy case. Check it out when you come to the Masonic Center for a meeting or event. We are making excellent progress in our quest to earn the “Valley of Excellence” designation for 2022 – 2023. Congratulations! to all for earning this designation for our Valley. This is a combined effort by all Valley of Syracuse officers and members. 2023 Thursday Night at the Rite Supreme Council Thursday Night at the Rite program with video degrees and other special events returns Thursday January 19, 2023. The 20° “Master ad Vitam” is featured. Continuing dates are February 2, and 16; March 2, 16, and 30 with the last event April 13, 2023. E-mail notices will be coming out from the office. If you have any questions regarding the planned schedule please contact the office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com . Fraternally, Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33° Valley Secretary 2023 – 2024 Scholarship Applications Available Applications to apply for 2023 – 2024 Academic Year Supreme Council, AASR Leon M. Abbott Scholarships and New York State Council of Deliberation Scholarship Aid are now available for online pick up at the Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Web Site. Go to the Valley of Syracuse Web site www.syr-aasr.org or the New York State Council of Deliberation Web site www.nyscottishritemasons.org for the links to obtain the information online. Applications received from a Scottish Rite Mason’s relatives are to be submitted thru the member’s Valley of membership. Application titled “2023-Abbott-Application” is to be used. To all applicants submitting your application thru the Valley of Syracuse: The deadline date to submit your completed applications to the Valley of Syracuse business office is Monday April 3, 2023. That means in the office by close of business Monday April 3, 2023. Applications received after 4:00 p.m. Monday April 3, 2023 will not be considered. New Applications must be used. The 2023 Leon M. Abbott Scholarship Application to be used. Graduating High School Seniors may apply again this year. The members of our Masonic Youth Groups; Triangle, Rainbow, and DeMolay; are eligible to apply for financial assistance. A masonic relationship is not required. Students who complete the program at the Children’s Dyslexia Centers in New York State may also apply. A masonic relationship is not required. Six applicants from the Valley of Syracuse received financial assistance from this program for the 2022-2023 scholastic year. Congratulations and best wishes to them. Please contact the Valley Office at (315) 452-7976 or adminny017@twcny.rr.com if you have any questions or require assistance and information. 2023 Member’s Dues This is a reminder that Supreme Council changed the effective dates for Annual Member’s Dues notifications effective July 2020. We are now in the third year since this change was implemented. Most important impact of that change is the requirement to pay your 2023 Member’s dues prior to January 1, 2023 to be a current member. If your Member’s Dues for 2022 and earlier years are not paid by January 31, 2023 your membership in the Valley of Syracuse could be suspended by Supreme Council for non-payment of your Member’s dues.” A new 2023 Scottish Rite Member’s Dues Card was included with your invoice for your 2023 Member’s dues. If you have misplaced it or did not receive the 2023 Annual Member’s Dues card please notify the office and a replacement card will be requested for you. For those that have paid their 2023 Member’s Dues and are now current for 2023 the Valley Leadership Team, office staff, and I thank you. 256 Valley members have paid their 2023 Member’s Dues as of December 1, 2022. If your 2023 Member’s Dues are not received by the Valley of Syracuse office or Supreme Council by January 31,2023 you will receive another follow up notice from Supreme Council in your mail in February. Please respond to that request. If you have any questions regarding the status of your payment of your 2023 Member’s Dues please contact the Valley office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com . |
