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April 2026 News

4/1/2026

 
Calendar
April 2026
Apr 06 Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. (IN PERSON)
Apr 11 (Saturday) Western Regional Reunion at Utica Masonic Temple
             6 Bodies Degree Festival
             8:00 a.m. Registration / Coffee and pastries
             8:30 a.m. Open
             Morning Session
                 4º Rochester
                 14º Syracuse
                 16º Utica
                 19º Binghamton
          Lunch
         Afternoon Session
                 18º Buffalo
                 32º All Valleys
Apr 13 Comedy Night 7:30 p.m. 
Apr 20 164th Annual Reunion
             Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Apr 27 Trustees 6:15 P.M. / Executive Committee Meetings 7:00 p.m. (IN PERSON)

May 2026
May 11 Guard’s Club Dinner & Meeting 6:15 p.m
             Four Bodies Annual meetings & Election of 2026-2027 Officers 7:30 p.m.

May 18 Installation of Officers
             Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m


Consistory
Greetings Princes: Wow, March has truly been interesting weather wise. One day it's 70° and the next Day 23° with snow and wind! Oh well that’s life in the North Country! 
March was also been filled with amazing Scottish Rite content. 
As promised on March 9th, although just returning from Paraguay a few hours before, our Deputy Grand Master, R∴W∴ Robert Hogan, came and gave an inspirational speech as well as answered a few questions from the Brethren. The event was open to all Master Masons and as a result a few petitions were given out as everyone said it was an exceptional night at the Rite.
March 16th the Consistory hosted the 20º and 31º via Video marking another exceptional night. We have been changing things up a bit with having refreshments before the meeting as opposed to refreshments after a long night. It's been a great hit with over 30 Princes arriving early to break bread and socialize together and allowing them to get home a bit earlier. March 16th ’s refreshments were roast beef sandwiches with chips and pickles. Thanks go to our 2nd Lt. Commander and the office staff for doing a great job with the refreshments!!
Saturday March 28th the Valley hosted our annual Feast of the Paschal Lamb. It is one of the most solemn and beautiful ceremonies we perform honoring the legacy of those who have passed in the past year. Many thanks go to Illustrious Garry Visconti and SPRS Richard Fifield for putting this meaningful ceremony together.
Behind the scenes we have been working hard to prepare for our performance of the 14º on April 11th . As most of you know the passing of Illustrious Gary Hartman has left a big gap in our ritual work and unfortunately Illustrious Bob Tyrrell will be unable to attend on April 11th . SPRS Alex Wiseman and SPRS Russ Beckwith have stepped up to fill in the gaps for these long and complex ritual positions for the 14º . They both have been doing an outstanding job filling these positions. The Valley owes them a debt of gratitude for their efforts in maintaining our proficiency in our signature Degree.
In Closing, I want to highlight the great events we have planned for April. Starting with our Western Regional Reunion happening on April 11th at the Utica Masonic Lodge. Please remember to Register for this rare and momentous event. Secondly, on April 13th, because of an earlier cancelation due to weather, we plan on showing the 13º!!! After the Degree will close and have our fun comedy night. Each Body will be responsible for conducting a skit. It should be fun. 
Completing the April Line up on the 20th will be the 164th annual Recognition of New Members Night with the Ladies.
Journey On, Princes, Journey On!!!

Ill. Terry A. Byard, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief



Chapter
As we have passed the first day of Spring, and will soon see that spring weather, I want to thank everyone who successfully navigated what can be a mentally challenging yet rewarding time. It may have been a time of challenges for ourselves or those we care about. The time changed, so now we wake up in darkness, and personally I don’t know what to do with the extra daylight in the evening. It's still too cold to enjoy it yet, but we are getting there.

If you are anything like me, this winter seemed to be extra-long, with many challenges, both physical and psychological. I look forward to the days where I can stand outside and let the sun warm my face-soon!
We had a busy March in the Valley of Syracuse and with the Chapter of Rose Croix. The Deputy Grand Master visited on the 9th, the 20th and 31st degrees were conferred on the 16th, and the Feast of the Paschal Lamb was held on the 28th. We now move into the spring, where like nature, we can shed the burdensome winter. Remember, we must pass through the darkness to reach the light.
We have the degree festival coming up on April 11th and I am excited about our Comedy Night on April 13th! It should be a great time of fellowship and comradery.
I wish you all the best.

Richard G. Fifield, 32°
Most Wise Master.


Council
If you’ve ever wondered where wisdom, camaraderie, ancient symbolism, dramatic flair, and just the right amount of “what exactly is going on here?” all come together—look no further than the Scottish Rite. 

Let’s start with the obvious: the degrees. Not just a couple. Not ten. Not even twenty. We’re talking a full buffet of degrees—like an all-you-can-eat intellectual and philosophical feast. You don’t just join the Scottish Rite, you ascend through it, like a well-dressed philosophical superhero collecting life lessons instead of infinity stones. 

And the lessons? Oh, they come at you from every angle. One minute you’re contemplating morality, the next you’re pondering justice, truth, duty, or whether you remembered your lines in a degree. It’s like a crash course in being a better human… but with costumes and dramatic lighting. Speaking of costumes—yes, let’s address the elephant in the room. Or rather, the capes. And tunics. And occasionally something that makes you feel like you accidentally wandered onto the set of an epic historical film. But here’s the thing: it works. Somehow, putting on a costume makes everything feel just a little more important, a little more meaningful—and a lot more fun.

Then there’s the brotherhood. The Scottish Rite is full of men who will debate philosophy with you one minute and then help you move a couch the next. It’s a place where lifelong friendships
are forged over shared experiences, mutual respect, and the occasional laugh at someone tripping over a robe. Let’s not forget the charitable side. Beneath all the pageantry and symbolism is a very real commitment to doing good—supporting education, helping communities, and making the world just a little bit better. It’s like being part of a secret society… except the secret is that you’re actually doing something genuinely positive.

And yes, there’s a bit of mystery. Enough to keep things interesting, but not so much that you feel like you need a decoder ring just to get through the evening (although, let’s be honest, that would be pretty cool). 

In the end, the Scottish Rite is amazing because it manages to be many things at once: serious but fun, traditional but welcoming, philosophical yet practical. It’s a place where you can grow, laugh, learn, and occasionally wonder how you ended up discussing the deeper meaning of life while wearing a costume that would make Shakespeare proud.

So why is the Scottish Rite so amazing?

Because where else can you improve yourself, support your community, gain lifelong brothers, and look mildly heroic doing it?

Exactly.

Joel T. Scarson, 32°
Sovereign Prince


Lodge
Good Day to you my fellow Scottish Rite Masons!! It is with great enthusiasm and excitement that I report us getting the 13
º on the calendar for 13th … of April, before the comedy night events. As you know this was meant to be during our lovely winter months, but at least we will have the opportunity to get this degree before the end of the year! Just before that we have the all-day reunion festival where we are doing many degrees live 6 valleys join together to perform the 4°, 14°, 16°, 18°, 19°, and 32°. This is a major event where you can not only get your degrees filled into your passport, but many items in the Pathfinder program can be achieved at this event as well. We will also be recognizing our newest members on April 20th.

I hope to see you all at these events coming up and also, for those who celebrate I hope your Easter proves to be an amazing time with family and/or friends. Stay well!!

Sincerely & Fraternally,
Eric Driscoll, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master


Hospitaler
Brothers and families in need of prayers. Brother Gordon Clatk passed away. Karl Parker is having several health issues and still going through testing, Brother Dan Lort is having health issues, Steve and Jeannie Maddox are both having some health issues Brother Joel Scarson -  Wife, Heather CHEMO Treatments, Brother Harvey Eysman, Esq is having many health issues, Brother Robert Kline is recovering at home, we need to keep Ill Sandy Samson in our prayers as he continues to have health problems, Cathy Barling, Worthy Matron of Centerville Chapter had Rotator Cuff surgery and is home recovering.

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 

April has arrived with a wonderful sense of gratitude and momentum here at the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center. Following the excitement of our 12th Annual Gala, we are filled with appreciation for the incredible community that continues to support our mission.

Our Gala at Harts Hill Inn was a tremendous success. The evening was filled with energy, laughter, and meaningful connections as friends, supporters, and community members came together to celebrate the work of the Center. A highlight of the night was the unforgettable entertainment by mentalist Robert Channing, who amazed and delighted our guests.

We are especially grateful for the generosity shown through our basket raffle. Thanks to the kindness of local businesses, supporters, and friends of the Center, over 50 beautiful baskets were donated. The raffle was a tremendous success and added excitement to the evening while helping raise important funds that directly support the services we provide to children and families.

Events like the Gala are only possible because of the dedication and generosity of so many people. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, sponsored, and helped make the evening such a memorable celebration. Your continued support allows us to expand access to structured literacy instruction and change the lives of students with dyslexia.

While we celebrate the success of the Gala, our work continues every day in our classrooms. Our students remain committed to their learning, and we are proud to see the progress they continue to make through structured literacy instruction. Their determination and growth inspire us daily.

We are also continuing to plan for our next tutor training program, which will begin in July. We are currently seeking candidates interested in becoming trained tutors through our program. Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree, and those interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the Center for additional information.

Thank you for being part of our mission and for helping make this year’s Gala such a tremendous success. We look forward to the continued progress and opportunities that the months ahead will bring.

Marianne Jones, Director
Email: [email protected] 
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
          PO Box 638
          Oriskany, NY 13424



Western Regional Reunion - April 11, 2026
Invite a Master Mason Masonic Brother interested in becoming a 32°Scottish Rite Mason in a special one day degree presentation event scheduled for Saturday April 11, 2026.

This event is sponsored by 6 Western New York State Region Valleys and will be held at the Utica Masonic Temple. Events commence at 8:00 a.m. Six degrees all presented in live cast format will be conferred during that one day event!

Initiation Fee to join the Valley of Syracuse is $160.00. Payment of this fee is required prior to witnessing the 4th degree.

Petitions for membership can be presented the morning of the degree.

Contact the Valley of Syracuse office (315)452-7976 or [email protected] if interested in participating in this event.

Online registration is required PRIOR to the event Click REGISTRATION and follow the prompts to register.



SPECIAL EVENTS NOTICE - Monday April 13, 2026
Take Due Notice!! The January 26, 2026 presentation of the 13° “Master of the Ninth Arch” was postponed due to a snowstorm. The Central City Lodge of Perfection will present that degree on Monday April 13, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.

Following the degree presentation, the Commander-In-Chief invites all to participate in an evening of Comedy produced by the Valley’s Bodies Officers.

Refreshments will be served following the meeting in the dining room Come and enjoy an evening of Scottish Rite Masonic Fellowship.


164th Annual Reunion &  New Members Recognition Banquet
On Monday April 20, 2026, The Valley will be honoring the 2025 – 2026 Ill∴ R∴ W∴ Mark J. Loughran, 33° Class Members. The Valley of Syracuse is hosting its 164th Annual Reunion Banquet honoring the members of the 2025-2026 Ill∴ & R∴ W∴ Mark J. Loughran, 33°Class of new 32° Scottish Rite Masons. Social hour at 6:00 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., and a program in the lodge room at 7:30 p.m. Please contact the Valley Office if you have any special dietary needs.

Members of the 2025 – 2026 Ill∴ & R∴ W∴ Mark J. Loughran Class of 32° Masons who received their 32°April 11, 206 in Utica and their Spouse or Significant Other are the guests of the Valley for this event. Cost for all others is $ 20.00 per person.

Dress code: Valley Officers: Tuxedo or Dark Suit. Suit Jacket and slacks with shirt and tie for the gentlemen and smart business dress for the ladies.

Pre-paid Reservations notice for this event will be sent from the office. This annual event celebrates the efforts of the officers and members of the Valley to conduct a successful 2025-2026 Scottish Rite Masonic year in the Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R.., Valley of Syracuse.



2026 Member’s Annual Dues Notices
Thank you to those who have paid their 2026 Member’s Dues. A reminder to those who have not paid their 2026 Member’s Dues. Please remember to pay your 2026 Member’s Dues. Supreme Council will be sending you a reminder notice in the next few weeks if your 2026 Member’s dues are not paid.
When you receive your 2026 Member’s Dues invoice; If you have any questions regarding the status of the payment of your 2025 and/or earlier Member’s Dues and/or your 2026 Member’s Dues please contact the Valley office. (315) 452- 7976 or e-mail at [email protected] or [email protected] at your earliest convenience.
To our Scottish Rite Members: Numbers are taken from a Dues Owed Aging Report issued by Supreme Council on February 19, 2026.  Eighty-One (81) Members owed Member’s Dues as of February 19, 2026. The total amount in Member’s Dues, Supreme Council Assessments, and New York Council of Deliberation Fees due to be paid to the Valley totals $ 15,630.50.
A reminder! If you have misplaced your current Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Member’s I.D. card please notify the Valley Office and a replacement card will be requested for you.

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