PLEASE READ - Constant Contact
The Valley of Syracuse is beginning to use Constant Contact as a primary mode of contact to our members. Please keep an eye out for these emails and if they go to your spam or trash folder, please change its status to not spam and send it to your inbox. Unsubscribing will mean that you will not be getting information from the Valley so please do not unsubscribe! We are beginning to send out emails already so please be on the lookout for them.
Calendar
December 2025
Dec 8 Executive Committee Meeting on Zoom 7:00 p.m.
Dec 15 Holiday Celebration Event
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Dec 25 Merry Christmas
Dec 30 (Tuesday) Holiday Luncheon @Twin Trees III Restaurant 11:30 a.m.
NOTE:
Office closed December 24, Christmas Eve
Office closed December 25, Christmas Day
Office closed December 31, New Year’s Eve
Office closed January 1, 2026 New Year’s Day
January 2026
Jan 5 ZOOM Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Jan 12 Spring Membership Dinner /Brother Bring a Brother with the Ladies
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Jan 17 (Saturday) Burns Supper at Coleman’s
Reservations Only
Jan 19 Martin Luther King Holiday -Office closed
Jan 26 Confer 4° “Builder” (V) & 13° “Master of the Ninth Arch” (V) 7:30 p.m.
Refreshments to be announced
Consistory
Greetings Princes: November was another great month for the Valley filled with content and recognition for our Veterans and members. I’m truly proud of our Leadership Team and their accomplishments!! December is a busy month for all of us with Masonic commitments coupled with the holiday season approaching rapidly! I wish each and every one of us health, prosperity, and Memorable times with Family and Friends during the latter part of November and December.
December kicks off with the ZOOM Executive Committee meeting at 7:00pm on the 1st of December. As a team the executive committee is working hard to make your Scottish Rite experience truly top notch. As Executive Committee meetings through the winter months are via Zoom it’s a great opportunity for any member of the Valley to log in and see how the sausage is made. If interested please contact me or the Valley Secretary to log in with credentials. December 8th the Lodge of Perfection will confer the 4th Degree (LIVE) and the 7th Degree (Video). D.B. Dave Barnello, 2nd Lt. Commander and chairman of the Meritorious Service Group is working hard to have the 4th Degree cast be performed by MSA recipients. December 15th will be our Holiday Celebration with the Ladies hosted by the Council of Princes of Jerusalem. This is always a great time and opportunity to relax, socialize and wish each other Happy Holidays before Christmas. December 30th will be our Holiday Luncheon at the Twin Trees III Restaurant. Starting at 11:30 AM it’s a Casual Event with the Ladies enjoying a Pizza and Salad Buffet as we close out the 2025 AASR Year.
My Princes, I continue to believe the Scottish Rite lives up to its vision “We will strive to be a Fraternity that fulfils our Masonic obligation to care for its members” and our Mission “The Scottish Rite enhances a Freemasons journey towards wisdom and enlightenment”. I am dedicated to continuing to make your Valley of Syracuse experience the best it can be!! The Leadership Team and I are always open to your suggestions and want you to feel like you are a part of something special.
Journey On, my Beloved Princes, Journey On!!!
Ill. Terry A. Byard, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief
Chapter
In last month’s Word I wrote in some detail about the 17th and 18th Degrees conferred by the Chapter of Rose Croix, this month I would like to briefly present the world of Rose Croix and its transformative power.
At the heart of Rose Croix is the symbolic union of the rose and the cross which illuminate the path to self-realization and divine understanding. The rose symbolizes love, beauty, and the unfolding of the soul’s potential, while the cross embodies sacrifice, spirituality, and the relentless pursuit of higher truths. Through this union, Rose Croix reveals a profound intertwining of symbolism that deeply resonates with those who seek wisdom.
Rose Croix explores crucial themes such as the immortality of the soul, the relentless quest for truth, and the inherent divinity within humanity. These teachings inspire Freemasons to lead lives of virtue, extend charity to others, and embark on an endless pursuit of intellectual and spiritual growth.
Central to Rose Croix is a personal journey of self-improvement and growth. Its teachings provide a fertile ground for reflection and self-examination, urging Masons to delve deep within their souls to critically examine their thoughts, actions, and motivations. Compassion, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence become guiding principles as Freemasons strive to become better versions of themselves. Rose Croix empowers its members to positively impact society through personal transformation. The allegory of the 17th and 18th Degrees facilitate introspection, foster self-reflection, and strengthen the bond of brotherhood among Freemasons. In Lodge, members are guided towards a deeper understanding of themselves, their connection to the divine, and their place in the world.
One of the greatest treasures presented by Rose Croix is the sense of brotherhood that permeates the order. Freemasonry, as a whole, fosters an inclusive and supportive community, where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together in pursuit of shared values and moral principles. Within the Rose Croix, this bond of brotherhood grows and extends beyond the confines of the Lodge. Rose Croix, within Scottish Rite Freemasonry, offers a deep journey of spiritual exploration and personal growth. Its symbolism, timeless teachings, and transformative rituals provide a path to self-improvement, enlightenment, and a deeper understanding of the divine.
I hope you have enjoyed this article and I look forward to seeing you all at our Scottish Rite meetings.
Richard G. Fifield, 32°
Most Wise Master.
Council
Good Day Brothers, I hope this month's article finds you in good spirits. I would like to start by thanking all who came to the 15th and 16th degrees put on by the Council Princes of Jerusalem in October. We had a great showing for the pre-refreshments and went through 6 sheet pizzas and 100 wings. The cast for the degree was outstanding and it was great the way everyone comes together.
Coming in December the CPOJ will be hosting the Holiday Party on December 15th . Dinner will be roast beef, broccoli, mashed potatoes and gravy so please plan on coming. Cam Caruso will be our entertainment for the evening and spouses and family are welcome.
If you are not a member of Scottish Rite and would like to know more about it, please reach out to me or the Valley Office and we would be happy to introduce you to the Valley and all it has to offer.
I would like to offer everyone a wonderful Holiday Season.
Joel T. Scarson, 32°
Sovereign Prince
Lodge
Good Day Brothers! As I sit here on this fall day I look outside and the first snow fall has settled overnight on the lawn. The bad news is, it’s cold and dark out there. Good news, all the more reason to get to a Scottish Rite Meeting when safe to do so! We have had a wonderful run of degree nights so far this year and I encourage you to check the calendar and come out to those coming up.
In my opinion, there is no better way to stay fresh in Masonic values and teachings than to experience the many degrees we have to offer. This month is also exciting for the many Christmas dinners and get-togethers we have together. I do hope to see you all at these as we migrate through the holiday season and begin to enter a new year.
If you know of someone who is thinking of joining the Scottish Rite please get them a petition, we have many opportunities coming up and it is not too late to get them in during the current Masonic Year!
With that, I wish you all an excellent season. God Bless us, Everyone!
Sincerely & Fraternally,
Eric Driscoll, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master
Hospitaler
Brother and families in need of prayer are DB George Laird III MSA who passed away; Carl Parker’s wife Kathy’s mother passed away; Brother Michael Lighthall’s grandfather Edwin Lighthall passed away; Brother Garry Visconti had a knee replacement and is recovering at home; Brother Carlton Jackson’s wife is having shoulder issues; Brother William Hanna III’s brother passed away.
Dolly Byard, Wife of our Commander in Chief Terry has a cerebrospinal Fluid leak in her brain with bad headaches. She is at home recovering. Brother Jeffery Burr got ill while on vacation but is home recovering. Brother Dan Lort is having health issues and Steve & Jean Maddox are both having some health issues. Joel Scarson’s wife, Heather is undergoing CHEMO Treatments; Brother Harvey Eysman, Esq is having many health issues. Brother Robert Kline is recovering at home.
Brother Doug Story is now residing at Pounder Hall at the OES Home in Oriskany after several stays in the hospital for surgery and at the Masonic Care Community for rehab. He has had heart and other health related issues. We need to keep Ill Sandy Samson in our prayers as he continues to have health problems.
If you want to make a donation to any Brother in need you can do so through the Hospitaler Fund and noting the person for it to go to. Please keep the Valley informed of anyone in distress so we know. The office staff is great at getting out cards.
Ill. Garry Visconti, 33° MSA
[email protected]
(315) 529-1936
Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY - Counting Our Blessings and Looking Ahead
As we welcome December and the close of another remarkable year at the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center, we take a moment to reflect on the many blessings that fill our hearts with gratitude. This season reminds us how much can be accomplished when a community comes together with compassion, purpose, and perseverance.
Our first-year students have now completed over a dozen lessons—and many are beginning to see and feel the difference for themselves. Their growing confidence, smoother reading, and newfound enthusiasm are daily reminders of the power of consistent, evidence-based instruction. Watching their progress unfold is one of the greatest joys of our work.
Our returning students continue to impress us with their focus and determination. Each breakthrough, whether large or small, is a celebration of hard work and hope. Together, our students and tutors embody the spirit of resilience and growth that defines our Center.
As we reflect on the year’s accomplishments, we are also excited to share a new community initiative—our Cans and Bottles Collection! On the last Wednesday and Thursday of each month, we’ll be gathering returnable cans and bottles to raise funds in support of our programs. This simple effort is an easy way for families, friends, and community members to contribute to the success of our students. We warmly welcome everyone’s participation—every bottle makes a difference!
As the holiday season unfolds, we are deeply thankful for the generosity that sustains our mission. To our board members, tutors, families, volunteers, and donors—your dedication brings light and learning into the lives of children with dyslexia. Together, we’re helping them discover not only the joy of reading but also the confidence to dream big and achieve their full potential.
From all of us at the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center— Warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season and a bright, hopeful New Year!
Marianne Jones, Director
Email: [email protected]
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424
Burns Supper
It's that time again!!! The 2026 BURNS SUPPER will be held on Saturday, January 17th, 2026 at Coleman's Irish Pub,100 South Lowell Avenue, Syracuse, NY
A Burns supper is a celebration of the life and poetry of the poet Robert Burns, author of many Scots poems and a famous Freemason. The suppers are normally held on or near the poet's birthday, 25 January, sometimes also known as Robert Burns Day or Burns Night, although they may in principle be held at any time of the year. Burns suppers are most common in Scotland and Northern Ireland, but occur wherever there are Burns Clubs, Scottish Societies, Masonic Lodges, expatriate Scots, or aficionados of Burns' poetry.
Social Time will begin at 5:00 PM. Dinner will be buffet style and cost will be $47.00 per person. Wives/significant others/guests are invited. This event is open to all but seating is limited so make your reservation now! Kilts and other Tartan clothing are encouraged!!!
Please consider joining us for a fun filled evening! Just print & fill out the registration flyer that can be found on our website in the News section & Make your check out to the Central City Bodies AASR and mail to Richard Powell, 4717 Broad Road, Syracuse, NY 13215. Be sure to write "KSA Burns Supper" in the memo area of your check. Reservations are due by January 1st, 2026.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
The festive Holiday Season is upon us once again. The traditional greetings of “Merry Christmas, Happy New Year!” have given way to the now socially acceptable greeting “Happy Holidays!” Whatever your preference, the Officers of Central City Bodies, and the staff at the Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Office extends their sincere Holiday Greetings to all who take the time to scan and read our Scottish Rite page each issue.
To the leaders in the four Bodies of Scottish Rite in the Valley of Syracuse this year thank you for the support and assistance provided to your office staff.
To all of our fellow Scottish Rite Princes and Master Masons and their family members wherever you may be this Holiday Season; our prayers and thoughts are with you. May your travels all be safe.
Please make certain to remember our Valley Members on Active Duty in the Military in your thoughts and prayers.
On behalf of Ill∴ Terry A. Byard, 33º MSA Commander-In-Chief, Central City Consistory, S.P.R.S. Richard G. Fifield, 32º, Most Wise Master, Central City Chapter Rose Croix, S.P.R.S. Joel T. Scarson, 32º , Sovereign Prince, Central City Council Princes of Jerusalem, Ded. Br. Eric J. Driscoll, 32º DSA, Thrice Potent Master, Central City Lodge of Perfection, D.B. J. Michael Gates, 32° MSA, Treasurer, and your office staff; Mrs. Sharon Swan, and Ill.·. James D. Swan, Jr., 33º, Valley of Syracuse Secretary, Happy Holidays; Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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 because the number of members from a valley that contribute to the “Blue Envelope Appeal” directly impacts distribution of the Abbott Scholarship Funds and to the Valley’s ranking in the Supreme Council “Valley of Excellence” initiative.
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 fifty-three (53) students across the Jurisdiction of New York during the 2025-2026 academic year; Nine (9) are children or grandchildren of the Valley of Syracuse’s current and deceased members.
These young people are our future. We thank you for your support of the “Blue Envelope Appeal”.
Scholarships
One application to apply for a 2026 LEON M. ABBOTT SCOTTISH RITE SCHOLARSHIP or a 2026 NYS COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION SCHOLARSHIP AID is to be submitted in 2026. The application form entitled "2026-Abbott-Application" is the only application to be used.
APPLICATIONS FROM PRIOR YEARS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED
All applications submitted through the Valley of Syracuse must be in the Valley of Syracuse office no later than Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Applications received in the office after 4:00 PM on April 14, 2026 will not receive consideration.
Current 2026 applications and Valley of Syracuse instructions are available HERE or from the Valley of Syracuse Business office.
Note: These directions MUST be followed without exception. Failure to follow these instructions will result in the rejection of your application.
Remember that all applications and supporting documentation must be submitted and signed by the valley scholarship committee chairman. Incomplete or unsigned forms will be returned to the valley.
Supporting documentation must include the following:
a. at least one confidential letter of recommendation; though we recommend 2 or more
b. the most current college transcript;
c. for high school students, grades must be included
d. the most current copy of the FAFSA form;
e. Students must have a minimum G.P.A. of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale to qualify;
2026 Member’s Annual Dues Notices
By the time you receive the September WORD you will have received your 2026 Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Member’s Annual Dues Notice mailed direct to you from Supreme Council. There is a dues amount increase for 2026 as result of the four years annual Member’s Dues increase plan approved in 2023 and an increase in the Annual per member Supreme Council Member Assessment ($30.00 to $35.00) and NY Council of Deliberation Annual Members Assessment. ($6.00 to $8.00). Please pay your 2026 Member’s Dues prior to January 31, 2026.
Please contact the Valley office if you have any questions (315) 452-7976 about your invoice.
The Valley of Syracuse is beginning to use Constant Contact as a primary mode of contact to our members. Please keep an eye out for these emails and if they go to your spam or trash folder, please change its status to not spam and send it to your inbox. Unsubscribing will mean that you will not be getting information from the Valley so please do not unsubscribe! We are beginning to send out emails already so please be on the lookout for them.
Calendar
December 2025
Dec 8 Executive Committee Meeting on Zoom 7:00 p.m.
Dec 15 Holiday Celebration Event
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Dec 25 Merry Christmas
Dec 30 (Tuesday) Holiday Luncheon @Twin Trees III Restaurant 11:30 a.m.
NOTE:
Office closed December 24, Christmas Eve
Office closed December 25, Christmas Day
Office closed December 31, New Year’s Eve
Office closed January 1, 2026 New Year’s Day
January 2026
Jan 5 ZOOM Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Jan 12 Spring Membership Dinner /Brother Bring a Brother with the Ladies
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Jan 17 (Saturday) Burns Supper at Coleman’s
Reservations Only
Jan 19 Martin Luther King Holiday -Office closed
Jan 26 Confer 4° “Builder” (V) & 13° “Master of the Ninth Arch” (V) 7:30 p.m.
Refreshments to be announced
Consistory
Greetings Princes: November was another great month for the Valley filled with content and recognition for our Veterans and members. I’m truly proud of our Leadership Team and their accomplishments!! December is a busy month for all of us with Masonic commitments coupled with the holiday season approaching rapidly! I wish each and every one of us health, prosperity, and Memorable times with Family and Friends during the latter part of November and December.
December kicks off with the ZOOM Executive Committee meeting at 7:00pm on the 1st of December. As a team the executive committee is working hard to make your Scottish Rite experience truly top notch. As Executive Committee meetings through the winter months are via Zoom it’s a great opportunity for any member of the Valley to log in and see how the sausage is made. If interested please contact me or the Valley Secretary to log in with credentials. December 8th the Lodge of Perfection will confer the 4th Degree (LIVE) and the 7th Degree (Video). D.B. Dave Barnello, 2nd Lt. Commander and chairman of the Meritorious Service Group is working hard to have the 4th Degree cast be performed by MSA recipients. December 15th will be our Holiday Celebration with the Ladies hosted by the Council of Princes of Jerusalem. This is always a great time and opportunity to relax, socialize and wish each other Happy Holidays before Christmas. December 30th will be our Holiday Luncheon at the Twin Trees III Restaurant. Starting at 11:30 AM it’s a Casual Event with the Ladies enjoying a Pizza and Salad Buffet as we close out the 2025 AASR Year.
My Princes, I continue to believe the Scottish Rite lives up to its vision “We will strive to be a Fraternity that fulfils our Masonic obligation to care for its members” and our Mission “The Scottish Rite enhances a Freemasons journey towards wisdom and enlightenment”. I am dedicated to continuing to make your Valley of Syracuse experience the best it can be!! The Leadership Team and I are always open to your suggestions and want you to feel like you are a part of something special.
Journey On, my Beloved Princes, Journey On!!!
Ill. Terry A. Byard, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief
Chapter
In last month’s Word I wrote in some detail about the 17th and 18th Degrees conferred by the Chapter of Rose Croix, this month I would like to briefly present the world of Rose Croix and its transformative power.
At the heart of Rose Croix is the symbolic union of the rose and the cross which illuminate the path to self-realization and divine understanding. The rose symbolizes love, beauty, and the unfolding of the soul’s potential, while the cross embodies sacrifice, spirituality, and the relentless pursuit of higher truths. Through this union, Rose Croix reveals a profound intertwining of symbolism that deeply resonates with those who seek wisdom.
Rose Croix explores crucial themes such as the immortality of the soul, the relentless quest for truth, and the inherent divinity within humanity. These teachings inspire Freemasons to lead lives of virtue, extend charity to others, and embark on an endless pursuit of intellectual and spiritual growth.
Central to Rose Croix is a personal journey of self-improvement and growth. Its teachings provide a fertile ground for reflection and self-examination, urging Masons to delve deep within their souls to critically examine their thoughts, actions, and motivations. Compassion, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence become guiding principles as Freemasons strive to become better versions of themselves. Rose Croix empowers its members to positively impact society through personal transformation. The allegory of the 17th and 18th Degrees facilitate introspection, foster self-reflection, and strengthen the bond of brotherhood among Freemasons. In Lodge, members are guided towards a deeper understanding of themselves, their connection to the divine, and their place in the world.
One of the greatest treasures presented by Rose Croix is the sense of brotherhood that permeates the order. Freemasonry, as a whole, fosters an inclusive and supportive community, where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together in pursuit of shared values and moral principles. Within the Rose Croix, this bond of brotherhood grows and extends beyond the confines of the Lodge. Rose Croix, within Scottish Rite Freemasonry, offers a deep journey of spiritual exploration and personal growth. Its symbolism, timeless teachings, and transformative rituals provide a path to self-improvement, enlightenment, and a deeper understanding of the divine.
I hope you have enjoyed this article and I look forward to seeing you all at our Scottish Rite meetings.
Richard G. Fifield, 32°
Most Wise Master.
Council
Good Day Brothers, I hope this month's article finds you in good spirits. I would like to start by thanking all who came to the 15th and 16th degrees put on by the Council Princes of Jerusalem in October. We had a great showing for the pre-refreshments and went through 6 sheet pizzas and 100 wings. The cast for the degree was outstanding and it was great the way everyone comes together.
Coming in December the CPOJ will be hosting the Holiday Party on December 15th . Dinner will be roast beef, broccoli, mashed potatoes and gravy so please plan on coming. Cam Caruso will be our entertainment for the evening and spouses and family are welcome.
If you are not a member of Scottish Rite and would like to know more about it, please reach out to me or the Valley Office and we would be happy to introduce you to the Valley and all it has to offer.
I would like to offer everyone a wonderful Holiday Season.
Joel T. Scarson, 32°
Sovereign Prince
Lodge
Good Day Brothers! As I sit here on this fall day I look outside and the first snow fall has settled overnight on the lawn. The bad news is, it’s cold and dark out there. Good news, all the more reason to get to a Scottish Rite Meeting when safe to do so! We have had a wonderful run of degree nights so far this year and I encourage you to check the calendar and come out to those coming up.
In my opinion, there is no better way to stay fresh in Masonic values and teachings than to experience the many degrees we have to offer. This month is also exciting for the many Christmas dinners and get-togethers we have together. I do hope to see you all at these as we migrate through the holiday season and begin to enter a new year.
If you know of someone who is thinking of joining the Scottish Rite please get them a petition, we have many opportunities coming up and it is not too late to get them in during the current Masonic Year!
With that, I wish you all an excellent season. God Bless us, Everyone!
Sincerely & Fraternally,
Eric Driscoll, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master
Hospitaler
Brother and families in need of prayer are DB George Laird III MSA who passed away; Carl Parker’s wife Kathy’s mother passed away; Brother Michael Lighthall’s grandfather Edwin Lighthall passed away; Brother Garry Visconti had a knee replacement and is recovering at home; Brother Carlton Jackson’s wife is having shoulder issues; Brother William Hanna III’s brother passed away.
Dolly Byard, Wife of our Commander in Chief Terry has a cerebrospinal Fluid leak in her brain with bad headaches. She is at home recovering. Brother Jeffery Burr got ill while on vacation but is home recovering. Brother Dan Lort is having health issues and Steve & Jean Maddox are both having some health issues. Joel Scarson’s wife, Heather is undergoing CHEMO Treatments; Brother Harvey Eysman, Esq is having many health issues. Brother Robert Kline is recovering at home.
Brother Doug Story is now residing at Pounder Hall at the OES Home in Oriskany after several stays in the hospital for surgery and at the Masonic Care Community for rehab. He has had heart and other health related issues. We need to keep Ill Sandy Samson in our prayers as he continues to have health problems.
If you want to make a donation to any Brother in need you can do so through the Hospitaler Fund and noting the person for it to go to. Please keep the Valley informed of anyone in distress so we know. The office staff is great at getting out cards.
Ill. Garry Visconti, 33° MSA
[email protected]
(315) 529-1936
Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY - Counting Our Blessings and Looking Ahead
As we welcome December and the close of another remarkable year at the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center, we take a moment to reflect on the many blessings that fill our hearts with gratitude. This season reminds us how much can be accomplished when a community comes together with compassion, purpose, and perseverance.
Our first-year students have now completed over a dozen lessons—and many are beginning to see and feel the difference for themselves. Their growing confidence, smoother reading, and newfound enthusiasm are daily reminders of the power of consistent, evidence-based instruction. Watching their progress unfold is one of the greatest joys of our work.
Our returning students continue to impress us with their focus and determination. Each breakthrough, whether large or small, is a celebration of hard work and hope. Together, our students and tutors embody the spirit of resilience and growth that defines our Center.
As we reflect on the year’s accomplishments, we are also excited to share a new community initiative—our Cans and Bottles Collection! On the last Wednesday and Thursday of each month, we’ll be gathering returnable cans and bottles to raise funds in support of our programs. This simple effort is an easy way for families, friends, and community members to contribute to the success of our students. We warmly welcome everyone’s participation—every bottle makes a difference!
As the holiday season unfolds, we are deeply thankful for the generosity that sustains our mission. To our board members, tutors, families, volunteers, and donors—your dedication brings light and learning into the lives of children with dyslexia. Together, we’re helping them discover not only the joy of reading but also the confidence to dream big and achieve their full potential.
From all of us at the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center— Warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season and a bright, hopeful New Year!
Marianne Jones, Director
Email: [email protected]
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424
Burns Supper
It's that time again!!! The 2026 BURNS SUPPER will be held on Saturday, January 17th, 2026 at Coleman's Irish Pub,100 South Lowell Avenue, Syracuse, NY
A Burns supper is a celebration of the life and poetry of the poet Robert Burns, author of many Scots poems and a famous Freemason. The suppers are normally held on or near the poet's birthday, 25 January, sometimes also known as Robert Burns Day or Burns Night, although they may in principle be held at any time of the year. Burns suppers are most common in Scotland and Northern Ireland, but occur wherever there are Burns Clubs, Scottish Societies, Masonic Lodges, expatriate Scots, or aficionados of Burns' poetry.
Social Time will begin at 5:00 PM. Dinner will be buffet style and cost will be $47.00 per person. Wives/significant others/guests are invited. This event is open to all but seating is limited so make your reservation now! Kilts and other Tartan clothing are encouraged!!!
Please consider joining us for a fun filled evening! Just print & fill out the registration flyer that can be found on our website in the News section & Make your check out to the Central City Bodies AASR and mail to Richard Powell, 4717 Broad Road, Syracuse, NY 13215. Be sure to write "KSA Burns Supper" in the memo area of your check. Reservations are due by January 1st, 2026.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
The festive Holiday Season is upon us once again. The traditional greetings of “Merry Christmas, Happy New Year!” have given way to the now socially acceptable greeting “Happy Holidays!” Whatever your preference, the Officers of Central City Bodies, and the staff at the Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Office extends their sincere Holiday Greetings to all who take the time to scan and read our Scottish Rite page each issue.
To the leaders in the four Bodies of Scottish Rite in the Valley of Syracuse this year thank you for the support and assistance provided to your office staff.
To all of our fellow Scottish Rite Princes and Master Masons and their family members wherever you may be this Holiday Season; our prayers and thoughts are with you. May your travels all be safe.
Please make certain to remember our Valley Members on Active Duty in the Military in your thoughts and prayers.
On behalf of Ill∴ Terry A. Byard, 33º MSA Commander-In-Chief, Central City Consistory, S.P.R.S. Richard G. Fifield, 32º, Most Wise Master, Central City Chapter Rose Croix, S.P.R.S. Joel T. Scarson, 32º , Sovereign Prince, Central City Council Princes of Jerusalem, Ded. Br. Eric J. Driscoll, 32º DSA, Thrice Potent Master, Central City Lodge of Perfection, D.B. J. Michael Gates, 32° MSA, Treasurer, and your office staff; Mrs. Sharon Swan, and Ill.·. James D. Swan, Jr., 33º, Valley of Syracuse Secretary, Happy Holidays; Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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 because the number of members from a valley that contribute to the “Blue Envelope Appeal” directly impacts distribution of the Abbott Scholarship Funds and to the Valley’s ranking in the Supreme Council “Valley of Excellence” initiative.
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 fifty-three (53) students across the Jurisdiction of New York during the 2025-2026 academic year; Nine (9) are children or grandchildren of the Valley of Syracuse’s current and deceased members.
These young people are our future. We thank you for your support of the “Blue Envelope Appeal”.
Scholarships
One application to apply for a 2026 LEON M. ABBOTT SCOTTISH RITE SCHOLARSHIP or a 2026 NYS COUNCIL OF DELIBERATION SCHOLARSHIP AID is to be submitted in 2026. The application form entitled "2026-Abbott-Application" is the only application to be used.
APPLICATIONS FROM PRIOR YEARS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED
All applications submitted through the Valley of Syracuse must be in the Valley of Syracuse office no later than Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Applications received in the office after 4:00 PM on April 14, 2026 will not receive consideration.
Current 2026 applications and Valley of Syracuse instructions are available HERE or from the Valley of Syracuse Business office.
Note: These directions MUST be followed without exception. Failure to follow these instructions will result in the rejection of your application.
Remember that all applications and supporting documentation must be submitted and signed by the valley scholarship committee chairman. Incomplete or unsigned forms will be returned to the valley.
Supporting documentation must include the following:
a. at least one confidential letter of recommendation; though we recommend 2 or more
b. the most current college transcript;
c. for high school students, grades must be included
d. the most current copy of the FAFSA form;
e. Students must have a minimum G.P.A. of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale to qualify;
2026 Member’s Annual Dues Notices
By the time you receive the September WORD you will have received your 2026 Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Member’s Annual Dues Notice mailed direct to you from Supreme Council. There is a dues amount increase for 2026 as result of the four years annual Member’s Dues increase plan approved in 2023 and an increase in the Annual per member Supreme Council Member Assessment ($30.00 to $35.00) and NY Council of Deliberation Annual Members Assessment. ($6.00 to $8.00). Please pay your 2026 Member’s Dues prior to January 31, 2026.
Please contact the Valley office if you have any questions (315) 452-7976 about your invoice.
