News

Newly Coronetted 33°

9/8/2023

On August 29, 2023 at the 211th Annual Meeting of Supreme Council 33° Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, USA four Valley of Syracuse members were coroneted Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, 33° Scottish Rite Masons and Honorary Members of Supreme Council 33° Ancient Accepted Scottish, NMJ, USA.

Join us in congratulating Illustrious Brothers Terry A. Byard, William H. Toth, II, Garret A. Wikoff and Leon A. Bulriss!

Childrens Dyslexia Center CNY Walk-a-thon 10/7/2023

9/8/2023

Join us on Saturday October 7, 2023.

The Walk begins following registration at 10:00 AM at the Dyslexia Center on the Eastern Star Home Campus in Oriskany, NY. Brochures available at the Center, via email at centralny@cdcinc.org, by contacting Craig Cobb or checking our website: https://www.cnyclc.org.

Place an advertisement in our Walk program booklet. What a great way to show your support to a great program! If you wish to participate as a sponsor, we will need your response no later than Friday, September 29, 2023.

Check out the docs and flyers below & download...

walkathon_brochure_-_2023_trifold__2_.pdf
File Size:	533 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

dyslexia_walk_flyer_2023.docx
File Size:	145 kb
File Type:	docx

Download File

dyslexia_walk_competition.docx
File Size:	45 kb
File Type:	docx

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ad_sizes_-_brochure-price_and_descriptioin.docm
File Size:	12 kb
File Type:	docm

Download File

September 2023 News

8/9/2023

Calendar
September 2023
Sep 11 Fall Kick-off Event
            Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program to follow Consistory
Sep 18 Confer 4° “Builder” & 14° “Grand Elect Mason” 7:30 p.m.
Sep 25 “White Hat” Recognition Event
            Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.

October 2023
Oct 2 Executive Committee “ZOOM” Meeting7:00 p.m.
Oct 16 Awards and Recognition Event
            Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Oct 23 Confer 15° “Knight of the East” & 16° “Prince of Jerusalem”
Oct 30 Knights of St. Andrew Special Program 7:00 p.m.

Consistory
Greetings Brethren! Let me start by saying congratulations to all the 2023 – 2024 Officers in the Valley of Syracuse, including the DSA Group, MSA Group, 33° Club and KOSA. I look forward to working with all of you to plan interesting programs for our membership.
The summer months are often a slow period in the Masonic Year with many organizations going dark for the summer months. Not so in the Valley of Syracuse! We had a great turnout at COD on June 9th -10th . A great weekend event culminating in the MSA presentations on Saturday evening. Our Family Life Event at the Syracuse Mets on June 21st was also a success. The weather was great and everyone present had a good time. Next up was a motorcycle ride to help support the Children’s Dyslexia Center at the Eastern Star Home in Oriskany. Thanks to all who came out to support the Center and enjoy a nice ride and some enjoyable fellowship at the Pavillion on the Eastern Star grounds. Our Scottish Rite Family Picnic was held at the Cicero American Legion on July 29th with about 50 members attending. The Knights of St. Andrew held a meeting on July 31st to discuss their plans for the upcoming year, and most recently the Teddy Bear Classic was held on Aug. 4th . I have not yet heard which foursome has bragging rights until next year. I am looking forward to attending the Supreme Council Session in Louisville, KY and I know our Valley will be well represented.
Looking ahead to September we have several important events. Sept. 11 th is our Valley Fall
Kickoff and Brother Bring a Brother Night. Get your reservations in early and please try to bring a guest and introduce him to Scottish Rite Masonry. Social Hour starts at 6:00 PM with Dinner at 6:30 PM followed by a short program in the Lodge Room. On Sept. 18th the Lodge of Perfection will confer the 4° (V) and the 14° (L). Let's start our 2023 – 2024 class out with a great turnout for these Degrees. Sept. 25th is our White Hat Dinner recognizing our 33° nominees who will have received their 33° at the Supreme Council Session in Louisville. DB Terry Byard, DB Leon Bulriss, DB Garrett Wikoff and I look forward to greeting everyone this evening.
By now everyone should have received the 2023 – 2024 Scottish Rite Schedule in the mail. I hope you will mark your calendars for many of these Scottish Rite events. There is a social event planned every month throughout the year. If you have a good time at one of these events, please tell others and encourage them to attend Valley functions. If something’s not right, or you have suggestions for improvements or future events, I encourage you to speak to any of the Valley Officers. We work hard, along with our office staff, to put on interesting programs and events for our membership.

Fraternally,
D.B. William H. Toth II, 32° MSA
Commander in Chief

Chapter
Greetings, Princes:
This is my first column as Chapter Most Wise Master, and would like to start by thanking Bro. Richard E. Barrett for all his help and insight during his tenure, that helped me prepare for this position. I look forward to the Chapter developing a fruitful year, with the help of our Leadership: Bro. Joseph W. Flanagan, Senior Warden; Bro. Russell Beckwith, Junior Warden;
Bro. Tim Page, Orator and Bro. Walter Boronow, Master of Ceremonies.
We had an eventful summer, starting with the NYS Annual Council of Deliberation, in June, with the attendance of our SGC Peter J. Samiec. Council was followed by several outings and family events, in July and August.
We now need to prepare for those ceremonies that our Chapter will develop: the 17th and 18th Degrees, on Monday January 29 th , and the Feast of the Paschal Lamb, on Saturday March 23rd. The 18 th Degree and the Feast are “Live”. So, we need to recruit Brethren to perform the ceremony parts, and then practice them. Feel free to contact me or any of the Chapter Leadership officers named above, to volunteer.
The main objective of performing our Scottish Rite Degrees and ceremonies is to teach us and remind us of our Core Values: Integrity, Service to Humanity, Justice, Tolerance, Reverence for God and Devotion to Country. We should always keep this in mind.
Please, keep our military and our country in our prayers.

Keep safe. Fraternally,
Jorge L. Romeu, 32°
Most Wise Master.

Council
Greetings from the Central Cities Council of Princes of Jerusalem…one of the Bodies that makes the Scottish Rite Valley of Syracuse. I am Jeff Cox, and I have the privilege of serving as Head of the Council. This year, we will be hosting a live degree in October 2023.
In my 20 years as a Mason, I have been an excellent sideline member. I have shown up, helped clean up, and been steady in my Masonic commitments. I have not taken more responsibilities because of my two jobs, my moving around supporting my military work, and my fear of being a leader when there are so many Brothers who are such much better in ritual, knowledge of the degrees, and networks. Every time I think I was ready, my job moved me to Europe or Watertown, NY. I accepted the sidelines were for me until I am “older/retired” when I have more time to “Head a Body.”
If you have not been to the Valley of Syracuse recently, you may believe that you are not that important, as there are many members that attend meetings, clean up, and/or participate. We are blessed with all of our Brothers, but I want to challenge all of us to stop believing that our time to be a leader is sometime in the distant future and accept my invitation to come show up and work your way into leadership. I did and knew you can too.
Life is about risk in the end. Risks on being your true self, risks on knowing and be known by others, and risk on being a leader and leaving the sidelines. I thank my Brothers for taking the risk on me.

Jeffrey M. Cox, 32°
Sovereign Prince

Lodge
Welcome back to all our Sublime Princes and their Families. Our Valley has had an active summer with well attended Family oriented programs; the Syracuse Mets Ballgame outing, the Family Life Picnic, the Motorcycle Ride and the Teddy Bear Classic Golf outing were all enjoyed by those in attendance.
I want to call your attention to September 18th ,2023 when we begin our degree schedule. The 4th degree will be a video presentation followed by the live 14th degree presentation. I hope we have new candidates present from the Valley Fall Kickoff and Brother Bring a Brother event on September 11th , 2023.
The Lodge of perfection is ready and able to take a” Rite on the Road “program to any Lodge in our area that has any interested Brothers that are not able to attend our regular Monday evening programs.
Most of you have received an appeal from the Eastern Star Campus in Oriskany, NY. Most of us have had meals prepared and served to us by Eastern Star Chapters over the years. What better way to show our appreciation to these
Ladies and Men if we support their efforts to raise much needed funds to help run and maintain the Campus in Oriskany? Keep in mind the Campus is also the home of The Childrens Dyslexia Center of Central New York.
Lastly, Congratulations to our latest 33° members that were Coroneted 33° in Louisville, Kentucky in August 2023.

Ill. Lawrence W. Egnaczyk, 33° MSA
Thrice Potent Master

Hospitaler
Hello Brethren, I took over as Hospitaler from Brother Richard Freeman. I know I have big shoes to fill as he did a great job. We need to keep the following brothers in our prayers: Pat Pacini, Steve Maddox, Jim Mooney and Terry Byard who are going through some health issues.
We also need to keep George Caswell’s wife Diana in our prayers as she is in a rehab center in Oneida.
As we start our new Masonic year, we need to continue to check on our fellow brothers and their families. If you need anything or know of someone in need, please feel free to contact me.

Ill. Garry Visconti, 33° MSA
oswegogdc@gmail.com
(315) 529-1936

Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY
My name is Marianne Jones. I live in Poland, New York with my husband David. We have three daughters, two son-in-laws and three beautiful grandsons.
I was born and raised in Kings Park on Long Island. My father owned a delicatessen and my mother was a nurse. I am one of six children. Four of the six of us became teachers, two of us married teachers and eight of our children and their spouses are in the field of education. It was important to our parents that we find the importance in education and help those that we can along the way.
I received a Bachelor’s of Science in Special Education from SUNY Plattsburgh and a Masters in Reading from SUNY Cortland. I taught self-contained Special Education for thirty-three years in Herkimer.
I first came to the Children’s Dyslexia Center in Oriskany for my Initial Level training in 2014 and planned on using what I learned in my classroom. I then began private tutoring students after school in 2015, many of which were on the waiting list at our center.
In 2017 I retired from Herkimer and continued to be a private tutor. In 2018 I began working as an Early Intervention teacher going into homes of children that had been identified in need of services.
I returned to our center in 2021 to tutor and took my Advanced Training, which covers levels 3, 4, and 5 of our curriculum, online. In 2022 I took my Supervisor Training, Certified Dyslexic Therapy training, and Instructor of Practitioner 1 training classes. It has been a busy year with training but more importantly watching and learning from Linda all that has to be done to foster a successful center.
I have to say one of the things I like most about tutoring and working at the center is seeing children begin to enjoy reading. When children get to lesson 20-25 and things begin to click, and they start to realize that using their tools (tracing, fingerspelling, etc.) really works, this is what I truly love. Or, when I get an email or phone call from a parent and they say that their child is now on the Honor Roll or being inducted into the Honor Society. My favorite was hearing when a child was supposed to be in bed sleeping and his Mom found him under the covers reading with a flashlight! Witnessing the growth and changes in these children brings so much joy to everyone involved.
I look forward to the coming year and to becoming a Co-Director with Alyssa Mittiga. I am thankful that we will have Linda to continue to mentor us. I am excited to train those who want to become certified tutors and to continue to help provide tutoring to children in our community who are dyslexic or have the profile of dyslexia.

Marianne Jones, Co-Director
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424

White Hat Presentation Monday September 25, 2023
The 211th Annual Meeting of Supreme Council 33° Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, USA was to be held August 27 thru 29, 2023 in Louisville, KY.
In the event that Four members of the Valley of Syracuse; William H. Toth, II, Leon A. Bulriss, Terry A Byard, and Garret A. Wikoff previously elected to be Coroneted 33° Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, Honorary Members of Supreme Council, NMJ, USA Tuesday August 29, 2023 in Louisville, KY are coroneted-
Family members, friends, and Masonic Brothers and wives are invited to attend a public Dinner and presentation event Monday September 25, 2023 at the North Syracuse Memorial Masonic Center to congratulate and present the symbolic White Hat worn by 33° Scottish Rite Masons to these four brothers.
The event commences with social time and hors d’oeuvres at 6:00 p.m.; Roasted Pork dinner at 6:30 p.m. with the White Hat presentation ceremonies to follow the dinner. Cost of the dinner is $20.00 per person. Prepaid reservations are required by September 21, 2023. Meals options for those with food allergy restrictions are available by special request.
Valley of Syracuse Members will receive an invitation for this event in the mail in early September. Anyone desiring to attend is requested to contact the Valley office at 315- 452-7976 or adminny017@twcny.rr.com to make your reservations

Fall Kick-Off Dinner
The Summer recess is over! It is time to return to the labors of the Fall. This is a Stag event for the men! Members have received the meeting notice.

Monday September 11, 2023 is the date for the first event of the Valley of Syracuse Fall 2023 meeting season. It is the traditional Fall Kickoff Steak Bake. Menu is Steak with potatoes, sweet corn, and all of the good stuff that goes with it. Cost is $ 20.00 per member. Prepaid Reservations for the dinner are required with a deadline of September 5, 2023 to make your reservation.

Contact the Valley office to make your reservation (315) 452-7976 or adminny017@twcny.rr.com

Bring a Masonic friend who is not a member of Scottish Rite with you and he will be a guest of the Valley for dinner. Door prizes will be given out to those attending and a lucky attender will receive two tickets to a 2023 Syracuse University Football game Recruit a new member and be a first line signer on his petition and receive two guest tickets to attend the Valley Reunion Banquet Monday April 22, 2023 at the North Syracuse Masonic Center.

Initiation fees for new members is $160.00 and includes several benefits for the new member. Petitions for new members will be available from the Office, at the event, or from Valley Officers.

Knights of St. Andrew
Good Day fellow Brothers. Tim Page MD 32° here, The Venerable Master for The Knights of St Andrew (KOSA) for The Valley of Syracuse.We have reenergized KOSA for The Valley and are here for service to The Valley Bodies. We devote ourselves to charity and practical philanthropy and adhere to principles of toleration and free government.We have reverence and obey Deity while serving truth and opposing Falsehood.We also protect virtue and innocence against violence,fraud and defamation while battling for free speech and thought. We work diligently for our Brother of The Scottish Rite Bodies.

This will be an exciting year and will include:
1-KOSA representation at ALL Scottish Rites Events for service to The SR Bodies
2-Scottish Rite Education
3-*****Oct 30 2023 at 730PM—Demonstration of Operative Masonry with a rough ashlar with Masonic interpretation and will be open to The Valley members first then the public!!!! After the Kosa meeting is closed---look for flyer and email
4-Reintroduction of The Masonic Play –December Rose
5-St Andrew's Day Brunch at The Brae Loch Inn Nov 19 2023 at 1100AM—watch for flyer
6-2024 Burns Supper Jan 20 2024 at Coleman's Inn and Pub-watch for flyer

If interested in our Journey with KOSA ,please contact me at anytime
Timothy Page MD, 32°
Venerable Master
315 263 1248
Tep@twcny.rr.com

Motorcycle Ride Benefited the Dyslexia Center
On July 23, 2023, there was a motorcycle ride to the OES Home in Oriskany that benefited the Children’s Dyslexia Center there.

The following bikers attended: Walter Boronow with his wife Marlene, Ron Fazio, Ryan Hanlon. Carlton Jackson with his wife Mary, Ryan Knowlton, Tim Page with his lady friend Carolann, Heath Thomas, Bill Toth, Tom Whitney

Also, in attendance were: Steve Park from the Valley of Utica, Linda Martin, Geneal and two other ladies from the Learning Center as well as Bill and Sharon Williams (a tutor) and Jim and Sharon Swan.

Bill Toth in his planning for this event tried to obtain some food trucks but he was told they would not do it for less than 50 people. Since this was the first time to have this event, he couldn’t guarantee that amount. Jim and Sharon Swan offered to take care of food for the Event.

Swan’s Food Truck arrived on the scene and sold hot dogs that Jim grilled to perfection along with chips cookies and soda. Electric Blue DJ Service provided music with Mark Alvarado from the Valley of Utica who did a great job spinning the tunes.

It was a beautiful day with the sun shining and even though the crowd was small, there was much fellowship and laughter.

Sharon L. Swan

Happy Independence Day!

7/4/2023

Summer News 2023

6/1/2023

Calendar
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

July 2023
July 23 Family Life Motorcycle Ride Event
             Destination Children’s Dyslexia Center
             OES Campus, Oriskany, NY
July 29 Family Life Picnic

August 2023
Aug 4 2023 Teddy Bear Golf Classic
                    Vesper Hills Golf Club
                    Vestal, NY
                    Contact person:
                    Ill∴ Craig E. Cobb, 33°
                    Or Valley of Syracuse Office

Consistory
Greeting Brethren, this is the last issue of the WORD for this Masonic year and my final article as Commander in Chief of the Valley of Syracuse. This past year has flown by. It has been challenging, rewarding and a valuable learning experience in which I have gained so much insight into what it takes to run this great place we call the Valley of Syracuse. I will always be thankful for the opportunity to have worked with and become better acquainted with our Valley Brothers.

I owe the 33rd Degree Club my sincere gratitude for putting their trust in me to serve the Valley of Syracuse as Commander in Chief and to Ill. James Swan who has guided and mentored me over the past year. The Lion's Share of the efficiency and success of our Valley is due to the hard work of Illustrious Jim, Sharon Swan and Sharon Fox. Our Secretary and Office Staff is nothing short of amazing. Thank you, it was a pleasure to work with you and for making my Masonic Journey such an enjoyable one.

During my term I tried introducing some new entertainment into several of our after-dinner programs. I hope you and your Ladies enjoyed it. We have had good turnouts at most of our Family Life Events except for the Summer Picnic. It has been decided that we will try it again this year on July 29, 2023. If you have enjoyed this event in the past, thank you for your support. If you haven’t attended, please put this date on your calendar. The attendance of our Body Officers is crucial to its success in the future. The 2023 Valley at the “Syracuse Mets” Baseball Event will be held on Friday July 21. Hope to see you at the game! All these events and
programs add points toward the Valley of Excellence Award which the Valley of Syracuse qualified for again this year thanks in a big part to our Body Heads and members. This is Masonic Teamwork at its best. Brothers helping Brothers!

My congratulations and best wishes to our new Commander in Chief, D.B. William H. Toth II, 32°, MSA and our new Body Heads for a pleasurable and successful 2023-2024. You have my support in all you do.

I attended the Excelsior Zoom Meeting in April in which I felt the following quote by John C. Maxwell, lecturer, inspirational speaker and author of “The 5 Levels of Leadership is one that we all can find strength and confidence in, “no significant task was ever accomplished alone”. We as Masons are never alone. Thank you all for your support! Have a great summer and safe travels.

REMINDER: September WORD ARTICLE, Deadline Tuesday August 8, 2023.

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

Chapter
Greetings Knights, I would like to thank all the body heads and all the brothers who have helped me during my time as Most Wise Master. Itg has been a pleasure to serve as a body head.

This will be a busy upcoming month with the COD coming on JUNE 9,10, &11 at the DoubleTree Inn. I want to congratulate all the new 32 degree MSA's who are receiving their awards.

This busy season includes fun summer events with the baseball game in July and a picnic at the Cicero Legion on July 29. Please attend these events if you can.

I wish the new line Officers the best of luck for the 2023-2024 year.

Richard E. Barrett
Most Wise Master.

Council
Valiant Princes, 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 Officer’s and Leaders in the Valley of Syracuse. It has been wonderful to see our Valley of Excellence at work. I am humbled by the efforts and solidarity we have shown. I am proud of our Valley and its leaders. It has been great to see the teamwork and magnanimous efforts we have achieved. I give a hearty thank you to all our members for all your support this year and best wishes to our outgoing and incoming Commander-in-Chief’s and all 4 bodies for a continuation of excellence within our beloved A:.A:.S:.R:. Valley of Syracuse.

Finally, a special thanks is in order to our Valley Secretary and Office and to those facilitating the publication of The Word for allowing us to share our Masonic news and light! Have a great June and Summer. Stay Healthy and 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…

Hospitaler
Greetings Brothers, and Sisters. It's that time of year again, deer ticks are everywhere ! Check your dog, cat, and yourselves when you come in from outside. Infected ticks can transmit Lyme disease, so named for its discovery in Lyme, Connecticut. If a target shaped rash develops after removing a tick, you need to seek treatment with your doctor.

I would like to wish all the Dads a happy Fathers day which falls on June 18th followed by the 1st day of summer on June 21st . Your gardens should all be planted by now and the flowers & veggies well established.

This will be the last article until September, but remember…as most Masonic doings go dark for the summer the Hospitalers Office is always open, and 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.

This will also be my last article in the WORD as I am stepping down as Hospitaler. I hope you have enjoyed my column as much as I have enjoyed the privilege of serving the Valley. I am leaving you in very good hands, as Garry Visconti will be taking over this position, and will write the September article.

Have a great summer and stay safe !

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

Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY

No News…

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

50 Year Member: Ken Bates
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.

Summertime Blues
When you read this article a very successful 2022-2023 Central City Bodies, AASR Scottish Rite Business year is over and is in the history book. To every member and visitor who attended a 2022-2023 event the Valley Leadership Team thanks you for your support. Congratulations to the Valley 2022-2023 Valley Leadership Team. Through your efforts the Valley welcomed new Scottish Rite 32° Scottish Rite Masons, hosted many interesting and well attended programs and events which resulted in the Valley being recognized by Supreme Council as Valley of Excellence for 2022-2023.

The Valley office will be open for its regular hours in June, July and August to serve you and answer any questions you may have.
The 2023-2024 officers are installed and making their plans for next year.

The annual New York State Council of Deliberation Convocation is moving to a new date for 2023. The event is scheduled Friday and Saturday June 9 and 10, 2023 at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in East Syracuse.

Detailed information for this event is available on the New York State Scottish Rite Web Site.

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 .

Teddy Bear Golf Classic to Benefit CNY Childrens Dyslexia Center 8/4/2023

5/18/2023

Forms can be downloaded below:

teddy_bear_classic-golf_tournament--2023.pdf
File Size:	401 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

teddy_bear_classic_sponsor_form_2023.pdf
File Size:	157 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

2023-teddy_bear_classic_golf_raffledocx.pdf
File Size:	99 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

May 2023 News

4/30/2023

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

50 Years for Kenneth Bates, 32°

4/17/2023

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.

April News

3/31/2023

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

February 2023 News

2/3/2023

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

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