Calendar
February
Feb 07 Zoom Trustees Meeting @ 6:30 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Feb 14 Caregiver’s Event With the Ladies
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Feb 27 Sunday Reception and Purple Hat Presentation Honoring Ill∴ Richard J. Powell, 33° Active Member 1:00 p.m.
DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton / Cash Bar reception / Buffet Luncheon / Hat Presentation Ceremony
Details are coming in a special invitation
March 2022
Mar 07 Zoom Trustees Meeting @ 6:30 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Mar 14 Feast of Tishri 6:30 p.m.
Ceremony and meal
Mar 21 C-R-C Rehearse Feast 7:00 p.m.
Mar 26 Consistory Degree Conferral Event RESCHEDULED to April 30, 2022
Mar 28 Knights of St. Andrew Event 7:30 p.m.
Refreshments to follow.
Consistory
Greetings Sublime Princes, Please take notice that there have been some significant changes to our Spring Schedule in the Valley of Syracuse. Letters will be sent out from the Valley office listing the new dates for our Spring events.
A reminder, the February Trustees and Executive meetings will be via Zoom and the link will be sent out by the Valley Secretary. February 14th will be our annual Caregivers event, so make sure to get your reservations in to the office in a timely manner. The caterers need an accurate count for those in attendance so they will have purchased enough food for the evening.
February 21, 2022 will be our rehearsal for the 32 nd degree at the Masonic Memorial Center at 7pm. The March 26, 2022, Degree schedule has been moved to April 30th , 2022, to the Valley of Utica to accommodate a conflict in the Valley of Utica.
We all have our fingers crossed that we can resume our programs without interruptions from this nasty pandemic which has affected most of our programs over the last two years. First and foremost, we must do so in a safe manner to protect all our Brothers, Sisters and their families. We have sworn to obey all laws, rules and edicts of the Grand Lodge so please follow the directives sent to us for the safety of all we may encounter.
May the Grand Architect of the Universe watch over us all and bring us out of this pandemic safe and sound.
Fraternally,
D.B. Lawrence W. Egnaczyk, 32° MSA
Commander in Chief
[email protected] / (H) Ph. # 315-637-4143 / (C) Ph. # 315-632-1043
Chapter
Sir Knights. I would like to reference the 18th degree (2007 edition) to explain the symbols and their meanings. During the 17th & 18th degrees, reference is made to a book known as the Sealed Book. This book symbolizes a record of mankind’s existence and their failures. Its seal is broken by the virtues of faith, hope, charity and love of all men. The symbol of the Lamb is that of sacrifice with Jesus being its supreme sacrifice. The Flaming Sword represents God's authority and omnipotence against evil. The cross is an external symbol of conquest and sacrifice to overcome sin & death. The Rose on the Cross represents resurrection and splendor that awaits us in eternity. The robes worn by the officers are white and have a red cross to indicate purity and both sacrifice and reward. This degree can be applied to any religion and their figurehead. I hope this information will help when you witness the degree.
I want to invite all brothers and their wives to a dinner at 6:00p.m. on February 24, 2022. We will be presenting plates for our Caregiver award and for first responders that night. Entertainment will follow the dinner in the lodge.
Richard E. Barrett, 32°
Most Wise Master
Council
Greetings Sovereign Princes. Hope you all had a great holiday season. A few events of interest for February include our Caregivers Night on the 14th and Scottish Rite Nite at The Syracuse Crunch on the 25th.
As things have been during COVID, these plans could change, so make sure and always check with the office for the current schedule. The Valley is doing its best to present degrees but would always appreciate your input on what degrees you might like to see and participate in. In February we also have Valentine’s Day on the 14th so remember to let your significant other know how much you appreciate them. With elections not far away, if you are interested in holding an elected office contact the office.
Stay safe everybody. God bless you all, Freemasons, our military and this great country.
James McNeal, 32º DSA
Sovereign Prince
Lodge
Princes: February is upon us with warm wishes for the Significant others and ladies in our lives!! Happy Valentines Day to you all! We as men may not express it as often as we should, but rest assured, you are the key to our hearts and the reason behind our success as men and Masons. We are simply blessed to have you in our lives! February also marks the time in the Valley for our annual Caregiver’s Event and a time to reflect on our First Responders who give their time and efforts in helping others in need. In all humanity what greater gift can a man give than selflessly reaching out to someone in need and providing relief.
February can also be a time of loneliness here in the north country, especially as we are still fighting the challenges of COVID 19 restrictions. Many of our aging Brethren are shut-in, ill, or unable to get out in the snows of winter and could really use a friendly visit or call to let them know we have them in our hearts. I fondly recall a time, about two years ago, when I reached out to a shut-in Brother in his nineties. He was one of us who had a long list of Masonic achievements. He remained active in all his Masonic endeavors until the impacts of aging prevented him from doing so. The simple call from a Brother brightened his whole world! He had not heard from anybody in over 6 months and kept me on the phone for about 2 hours reflecting on the days gone by. That one phone call left a deep and lasting impression on me. It showed me the power and importance of true Brotherly Love and Affection.
I challenge all of us to make a special effort to reach out to a friend or Brother who could use some cheer during the winter season.
Terry A. Byard, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master
Hospitaler
Greetings Brothers, Gary Kall continues to improve and is now taking phone calls at home. Keep up the good work Gary! Other Brothers we need to continue to keep in our thoughts and prayers are Stephen Maddox Sr., Fred Greene, Gary Hartman, Jim Nelson, and our Grand Master Richard J. Kessler.
Most of our snowbird Brothers have made a safe migration South by this time, and many attend Lodge while there.
At the time of this writing Covid infections are on the rise in most districts. Dianne just received an online order of N-95 masks, and we wear them every time we venture out. Please continue practicing safe habits outside of home.
Education assistance forms are now available for our children and grandchildren heading off to college. Get them in soon!
Hospitalers Fund is always in need. If you are able to help, please send a check made out to Central City Bodies, and directed for the Hospitalers Fund,
If you are in need of some confidential assistance please contact Bob Tyrrell or myself…We may be able to provide some type of help.
Don’t forget the Blue envelopes !
Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962
[email protected]
Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY
Have you booked your spot at our GALA?
Our 9th Annual GALA fundraiser will take place on Saturday, March 12th at Hart’s Hill in Whitesboro. Our theme this year is Family Fun. We will have games, photo booth, music and dancing. Social Hour starts at 6:00 PM with dinner at 7:00.
We are also taking donations of baskets for the Family Sponsored Basket Raffle as well as other prizes for raffles. Please consider donating if you can’t attend. Information on tickets, sponsorships, etc. will be in the mail shortly. For more information, please call us.
As always, we invite you to visit Monday through Thursday, from 1 to 6PM. We have children from 3-6 every day. Just give us a call.
Linda L. Martin, Director
Email- [email protected]
Phone- (315) 736-0574
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424
Spring 2022 Valley of Syracuse Schedule Changes
Due to continuing requirements to adjust the scheduling of Valley of Syracuse Events the dates for several Spring 2022 events must change.
The one day class originally scheduled for March 26, 2022 at the Masonic Memorial Center in North Syracuse is moved to April 30, 2022 at the Utica Masonic Center, 251 Genesee Street, Utica, NY. The schedule for the day’s events remains unchanged. Candidates be present by 8:45 a.m.; Coffee will be available; Open at 9:30 a. m.
New date for the 159th Annual Reunion is now Monday May 9, 2022 and the New Date for the Guard’s Club Dinner and the Four Bodies Annual Meeting and Election of 2022-2023 Officers is Monday May 16, 2022
Public installation of officers is June 6, 2022 and the Organization meeting for trustees is Monday June 13, 2022.
Please watch the WORD as we progress towards the Spring.
FAMILY LIFE EVENT: Crunch Hockey Game
Friday February 25, 2022 is the Crunch Hockey Game Event. Order your tickets by Monday February 21, 2022
Cost: $18.00 per person
Order from the Valley of Syracuse office (315) 452-7976
2022 Annual Membership Dues
For those who have paid their 2022 Member’s Dues and are now current for 2022 the Valley Leadership Team, office staff, and I thank you. 2022 Member’s Dues payments have been received from 316 members to date.
If you have not paid your 2022 Member’s Dues to date you will be receiving another follow up notice from Supreme Council shortly. Please respond to that request.
If you have any questions regarding the status of your payment of Member’s Dues for 2022 please contact the office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at [email protected] or [email protected] .
Fraternally,
Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33°
Valley Secretary
2022 – 2023 Scholarship Applications Available
Applications to apply for 2022 – 2023 Academic Year Supreme Council, AASR Leon M. Abbott Scholarships and New York State Council of Deliberation Scholarship Aid are now available for pick up at the Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Office (315) 452-7976, mailed to you from the Valley Office, or on line. Go to the Valley of Syracuse Web site www.syr-aasr.org for the links to obtain the information on line.
Application titled “2022 Leon M. Abbott Scholarship 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 4, 2022. That means in the office by close of business Monday April 4, 2022. Applications received after 4:00 p.m. Monday April 4, 2022 will not be considered. New Applications must be used. The 2022 Leon M. Abbott Scholarship Application to be used.
Graduating High School Seniors may apply again this year. The members of our Youth Groups; Triangle, Rainbow, and DeMolay; are eligible to apply for financial assistance. Students who complete the program at the Children’s Dyslexia Centers in New York State may also apply.
Eight applicants from the Valley of Syracuse received financial assistance from this program for the 2021-2022 scholastic year. Congratulations and best wishes to them.
Please contact the Valley Office at (315) 452-7976 or [email protected] if you have any questions or require assistance and information.
SPECIAL INVITATION TO ALL AREA MASONIC LODGES AND MASTER MASONS
Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R., Valley of Syracuse Invites YOU To a Masonic Lodge Outreach and Scottish Rite “Rite on the Road” Degrees Conferral Program
What: A Scottish Rite degree conferral program to confer the 4° “Builder”; the first Scottish Rite degree starting a Master Mason’s journey to become a 32° Scottish Rite Mason in a Master Mason’s Home Lodge and Community.
Where: At a Masonic Lodge building in your Community
When: On a scheduled date at a convenient time selected by your Masonic Lodge.
A Membership Team representative from Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R., Valley of Syracuse will make contact with your Masonic Lodge or you may contact the Valley of Syracuse Office for more information - Phone: (315) 452-7976 / E-mail: [email protected]
February
Feb 07 Zoom Trustees Meeting @ 6:30 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Feb 14 Caregiver’s Event With the Ladies
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Feb 27 Sunday Reception and Purple Hat Presentation Honoring Ill∴ Richard J. Powell, 33° Active Member 1:00 p.m.
DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton / Cash Bar reception / Buffet Luncheon / Hat Presentation Ceremony
Details are coming in a special invitation
March 2022
Mar 07 Zoom Trustees Meeting @ 6:30 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Mar 14 Feast of Tishri 6:30 p.m.
Ceremony and meal
Mar 21 C-R-C Rehearse Feast 7:00 p.m.
Mar 26 Consistory Degree Conferral Event RESCHEDULED to April 30, 2022
Mar 28 Knights of St. Andrew Event 7:30 p.m.
Refreshments to follow.
Consistory
Greetings Sublime Princes, Please take notice that there have been some significant changes to our Spring Schedule in the Valley of Syracuse. Letters will be sent out from the Valley office listing the new dates for our Spring events.
A reminder, the February Trustees and Executive meetings will be via Zoom and the link will be sent out by the Valley Secretary. February 14th will be our annual Caregivers event, so make sure to get your reservations in to the office in a timely manner. The caterers need an accurate count for those in attendance so they will have purchased enough food for the evening.
February 21, 2022 will be our rehearsal for the 32 nd degree at the Masonic Memorial Center at 7pm. The March 26, 2022, Degree schedule has been moved to April 30th , 2022, to the Valley of Utica to accommodate a conflict in the Valley of Utica.
We all have our fingers crossed that we can resume our programs without interruptions from this nasty pandemic which has affected most of our programs over the last two years. First and foremost, we must do so in a safe manner to protect all our Brothers, Sisters and their families. We have sworn to obey all laws, rules and edicts of the Grand Lodge so please follow the directives sent to us for the safety of all we may encounter.
May the Grand Architect of the Universe watch over us all and bring us out of this pandemic safe and sound.
Fraternally,
D.B. Lawrence W. Egnaczyk, 32° MSA
Commander in Chief
[email protected] / (H) Ph. # 315-637-4143 / (C) Ph. # 315-632-1043
Chapter
Sir Knights. I would like to reference the 18th degree (2007 edition) to explain the symbols and their meanings. During the 17th & 18th degrees, reference is made to a book known as the Sealed Book. This book symbolizes a record of mankind’s existence and their failures. Its seal is broken by the virtues of faith, hope, charity and love of all men. The symbol of the Lamb is that of sacrifice with Jesus being its supreme sacrifice. The Flaming Sword represents God's authority and omnipotence against evil. The cross is an external symbol of conquest and sacrifice to overcome sin & death. The Rose on the Cross represents resurrection and splendor that awaits us in eternity. The robes worn by the officers are white and have a red cross to indicate purity and both sacrifice and reward. This degree can be applied to any religion and their figurehead. I hope this information will help when you witness the degree.
I want to invite all brothers and their wives to a dinner at 6:00p.m. on February 24, 2022. We will be presenting plates for our Caregiver award and for first responders that night. Entertainment will follow the dinner in the lodge.
Richard E. Barrett, 32°
Most Wise Master
Council
Greetings Sovereign Princes. Hope you all had a great holiday season. A few events of interest for February include our Caregivers Night on the 14th and Scottish Rite Nite at The Syracuse Crunch on the 25th.
As things have been during COVID, these plans could change, so make sure and always check with the office for the current schedule. The Valley is doing its best to present degrees but would always appreciate your input on what degrees you might like to see and participate in. In February we also have Valentine’s Day on the 14th so remember to let your significant other know how much you appreciate them. With elections not far away, if you are interested in holding an elected office contact the office.
Stay safe everybody. God bless you all, Freemasons, our military and this great country.
James McNeal, 32º DSA
Sovereign Prince
Lodge
Princes: February is upon us with warm wishes for the Significant others and ladies in our lives!! Happy Valentines Day to you all! We as men may not express it as often as we should, but rest assured, you are the key to our hearts and the reason behind our success as men and Masons. We are simply blessed to have you in our lives! February also marks the time in the Valley for our annual Caregiver’s Event and a time to reflect on our First Responders who give their time and efforts in helping others in need. In all humanity what greater gift can a man give than selflessly reaching out to someone in need and providing relief.
February can also be a time of loneliness here in the north country, especially as we are still fighting the challenges of COVID 19 restrictions. Many of our aging Brethren are shut-in, ill, or unable to get out in the snows of winter and could really use a friendly visit or call to let them know we have them in our hearts. I fondly recall a time, about two years ago, when I reached out to a shut-in Brother in his nineties. He was one of us who had a long list of Masonic achievements. He remained active in all his Masonic endeavors until the impacts of aging prevented him from doing so. The simple call from a Brother brightened his whole world! He had not heard from anybody in over 6 months and kept me on the phone for about 2 hours reflecting on the days gone by. That one phone call left a deep and lasting impression on me. It showed me the power and importance of true Brotherly Love and Affection.
I challenge all of us to make a special effort to reach out to a friend or Brother who could use some cheer during the winter season.
Terry A. Byard, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master
Hospitaler
Greetings Brothers, Gary Kall continues to improve and is now taking phone calls at home. Keep up the good work Gary! Other Brothers we need to continue to keep in our thoughts and prayers are Stephen Maddox Sr., Fred Greene, Gary Hartman, Jim Nelson, and our Grand Master Richard J. Kessler.
Most of our snowbird Brothers have made a safe migration South by this time, and many attend Lodge while there.
At the time of this writing Covid infections are on the rise in most districts. Dianne just received an online order of N-95 masks, and we wear them every time we venture out. Please continue practicing safe habits outside of home.
Education assistance forms are now available for our children and grandchildren heading off to college. Get them in soon!
Hospitalers Fund is always in need. If you are able to help, please send a check made out to Central City Bodies, and directed for the Hospitalers Fund,
If you are in need of some confidential assistance please contact Bob Tyrrell or myself…We may be able to provide some type of help.
Don’t forget the Blue envelopes !
Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962
[email protected]
Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY
Have you booked your spot at our GALA?
Our 9th Annual GALA fundraiser will take place on Saturday, March 12th at Hart’s Hill in Whitesboro. Our theme this year is Family Fun. We will have games, photo booth, music and dancing. Social Hour starts at 6:00 PM with dinner at 7:00.
We are also taking donations of baskets for the Family Sponsored Basket Raffle as well as other prizes for raffles. Please consider donating if you can’t attend. Information on tickets, sponsorships, etc. will be in the mail shortly. For more information, please call us.
As always, we invite you to visit Monday through Thursday, from 1 to 6PM. We have children from 3-6 every day. Just give us a call.
Linda L. Martin, Director
Email- [email protected]
Phone- (315) 736-0574
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424
Spring 2022 Valley of Syracuse Schedule Changes
Due to continuing requirements to adjust the scheduling of Valley of Syracuse Events the dates for several Spring 2022 events must change.
The one day class originally scheduled for March 26, 2022 at the Masonic Memorial Center in North Syracuse is moved to April 30, 2022 at the Utica Masonic Center, 251 Genesee Street, Utica, NY. The schedule for the day’s events remains unchanged. Candidates be present by 8:45 a.m.; Coffee will be available; Open at 9:30 a. m.
New date for the 159th Annual Reunion is now Monday May 9, 2022 and the New Date for the Guard’s Club Dinner and the Four Bodies Annual Meeting and Election of 2022-2023 Officers is Monday May 16, 2022
Public installation of officers is June 6, 2022 and the Organization meeting for trustees is Monday June 13, 2022.
Please watch the WORD as we progress towards the Spring.
FAMILY LIFE EVENT: Crunch Hockey Game
Friday February 25, 2022 is the Crunch Hockey Game Event. Order your tickets by Monday February 21, 2022
Cost: $18.00 per person
Order from the Valley of Syracuse office (315) 452-7976
2022 Annual Membership Dues
For those who have paid their 2022 Member’s Dues and are now current for 2022 the Valley Leadership Team, office staff, and I thank you. 2022 Member’s Dues payments have been received from 316 members to date.
If you have not paid your 2022 Member’s Dues to date you will be receiving another follow up notice from Supreme Council shortly. Please respond to that request.
If you have any questions regarding the status of your payment of Member’s Dues for 2022 please contact the office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at [email protected] or [email protected] .
Fraternally,
Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33°
Valley Secretary
2022 – 2023 Scholarship Applications Available
Applications to apply for 2022 – 2023 Academic Year Supreme Council, AASR Leon M. Abbott Scholarships and New York State Council of Deliberation Scholarship Aid are now available for pick up at the Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Office (315) 452-7976, mailed to you from the Valley Office, or on line. Go to the Valley of Syracuse Web site www.syr-aasr.org for the links to obtain the information on line.
Application titled “2022 Leon M. Abbott Scholarship 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 4, 2022. That means in the office by close of business Monday April 4, 2022. Applications received after 4:00 p.m. Monday April 4, 2022 will not be considered. New Applications must be used. The 2022 Leon M. Abbott Scholarship Application to be used.
Graduating High School Seniors may apply again this year. The members of our Youth Groups; Triangle, Rainbow, and DeMolay; are eligible to apply for financial assistance. Students who complete the program at the Children’s Dyslexia Centers in New York State may also apply.
Eight applicants from the Valley of Syracuse received financial assistance from this program for the 2021-2022 scholastic year. Congratulations and best wishes to them.
Please contact the Valley Office at (315) 452-7976 or [email protected] if you have any questions or require assistance and information.
SPECIAL INVITATION TO ALL AREA MASONIC LODGES AND MASTER MASONS
Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R., Valley of Syracuse Invites YOU To a Masonic Lodge Outreach and Scottish Rite “Rite on the Road” Degrees Conferral Program
What: A Scottish Rite degree conferral program to confer the 4° “Builder”; the first Scottish Rite degree starting a Master Mason’s journey to become a 32° Scottish Rite Mason in a Master Mason’s Home Lodge and Community.
Where: At a Masonic Lodge building in your Community
When: On a scheduled date at a convenient time selected by your Masonic Lodge.
A Membership Team representative from Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R., Valley of Syracuse will make contact with your Masonic Lodge or you may contact the Valley of Syracuse Office for more information - Phone: (315) 452-7976 / E-mail: [email protected]