Calendar
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
June 2026
Jun 01 Trustees Meeting (2026-2027 Organization meeting) 6:15 P.M.
Executive Committee Meeting (new Officers Meeting) 7:00 p.m.
Jun 12 Annual NYCOD Session
Friday Evening Awards Dinner
Jun 13 Annual NYCOD Session
All day Session
9:30 a.m. Morning
28th Degree w/Master of the Rite
Statewide KOSA organization effort
Excelsior Initiative
1:30 p.m. Annual Meeting
3:30 p.m. Social time on the patio
5:30 p.m. Social Hour (Cash Bar)
6:30 p.m. MSA Presentation Banquet
Consistory
Greetings Princes: As we wind down another awesome Scottish Rite year for the Valley of Syracuse I reflect on our accomplishments. As well as look forward to continuing our journey with continued improvements and providing valued content for our members.
A few highlights of the 2025-2026 year come to mind. Beginning the year in August with our Family Life Picnic, we moved the venue to the MMC to cut down on costs and make things more convenient. It proved to be a good choice and I believe it was enjoyed by all in attendance.
Next in September, we hosted our new member recruitment night for the first time inviting the Ladies and had Hillary from the Lexington Scottish Rite Library and Museum give a lecture and provide a few amazing artifacts specific to New York Masonry to display celebrating its 250th anniversary. It was truly an amazing evening.
Throughout the year we worked on many outstanding degrees to include conferring the new 4° in a live presentation for the first time. With the new large screen tv in the dining room we also hosted the first Valley watch party of “Thursday Night at the Rite” which seemed to be a great hit!! On March 9th we were honored to have our Deputy Grand Master come and give us an inspirational talk. We opened up the meeting to all Master Masons unifying Masonry across our jurisdiction while highlighting the Scottish Rite as a leader in Masonic Experience. Towards the end of the season the Valley worked diligently on our part of the 2025-2026 capstone event, The Western Regional Reunion, held in Utica, New York. The Valley was to perform our capstone 14 th degree. Due to the untimely passing of Ill. Gary Hartman and unavailability of Ill. Bob Tyrell we had to adapt and fill those major roles with a couple of our newer members. SPRS Alex Wiseman and SPRS Russel Beckwith worked hard with several practices and performed their parts flawlessly in front of 40 new candidates and about 200 in attendance. Among the 40 new candidates we welcome 9 new 32 nd degree members onto the Valley of Syracuse. I have never been prouder of our Valley!!!!
As we have been working behind the scenes to address our challenges while continuing to expand on our valued content for our 2026-2027 schedule. We plan on making a few adjustments in our scheduling. Providing refreshments before our meetings seems to be a big hit so we will continue to do so as well as shorten some of the more administrative work in our meetings to allow our members to get home earlier. We also plan on hosting a few more watch parties to enhance our degree schedule. Speaking of degrees, the degree schedule for 2026-2027 will include a few of the lesser shown degrees to enhance our members ability to fill their passports. Hopefully our ensuing year will again highlight the fact that the Scottish Rite is the pinnacle of your Masonic journey.
In closing I want to remind our Prince I am always open to your suggestions and comments to help make the Valley its best. We will also looking for your support in filling parts in our upcoming degrees. Participation always enhances our experience, for you personally and for your Valley.
Journey On, Princes, Journey On!!!
Ill. Terry A. Byard, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief
Chapter
No news received…
Richard G. Fifield, 32°
Most Wise Master.
Council
Serving this year as Sovereign Prince of the Council Princes of Jerusalem has been an experience I won’t soon forget, though, since we’re not quite finished yet, I suppose I’ll hold off on the forgetting until the final gavel drops.
So far, we’ve successfully conferred not one, but two outstanding degrees: the 15th (presented in fine video form, proving we can embrace modern technology when necessary) and the 16th live (proving we still remember how to operate without a pause button). Both were meaningful, memorable, and, perhaps most importantly, completed without any unexpected “creative reinterpretations” of the ritual.
We’ve also shared two wonderful dinners, including our Christmas celebration and a fantastic Ladies Appreciation Dinner. Each was filled with great fellowship, plenty of laughter, and meals that certainly gave us something to reflect on later. A special highlight at both events was the music provided by Cam Caruso, who kept the atmosphere lively and reminded us that we are, in fact, a very classy group… at least while the music is playing.
What stands out most to me this year is just how remarkable the Scottish Rite truly is. It brings together tradition, fellowship, learning, and a shared purpose in a way that few organizations can. Whether we’re conferring degrees, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying each other’s company, it’s clear that what we’re part of is something genuinely special, and something well worth the time and dedication each of you gives.
While the year is not yet complete, it’s already clear that none of this would have been possible without the dedication, patience, and good humor of this outstanding group. You’ve made this journey not only successful, but genuinely enjoyable, even when things didn’t go exactly by the book.
Thank you all for your continued support and hard work. I look forward to finishing the year strong together… and perhaps enjoying a well-earned nap at the end of it. With sincere gratitude (and just a little time left on the clock),
Your Sovereign Prince,
Joel T. Scarson, 32°
Sovereign Prince
Lodge
Good day to you my Fellow Scottish Rite brothers! I do want to mention first how much of an honor it has been to be the Thrice Potent Master these past couple of years. This experience has been one of masonic enlightenment for sure. As I have said when going through other lines, you really do earn a lot when you step in the chairs and go through the steps, ritual etc. I am proud of what has been accomplished in this time and look forward to much more in the Scottish Rite as time goes on.
I want to also mention that the Pathfinder program, though I believe it is geared towards new members, was a great experience to go through. I have been a member of the Scottish rite for 15 years now, and there was much to be learned from having to look things up and fill in the gaps as well as the conversations I had with the officers as I was checking off the “Waypoints”. I encourage you all, even if you are a long-time member, to give this a look.
I want to take a moment as well to plug our Charity that supports the Children’s Dyslexia Center. My wife and I have seen firsthand via her students’ and some of their stories this is very much a worthy cause to be a part of. Lastly, I want to congratulate our newest members of the Scottish Rite who have just finished their 32° up in Utica this past month. I do not think I need to tell you that you are now a part of something great, and we are honored to have you join us!
I hope all is well with everyone and that you enjoy the summer. Hope to see you at the “Chiefs”, SYR Mets game.
Sincerely & Fraternally,
Eric Driscoll, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master
Hospitaler
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
May has arrived with a continued sense of gratitude and momentum at the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center. As we move closer to the end of our academic year, we are reflecting on the many accomplishments of both our students and our community.
Following the success of our 12th Annual Gala, we remain deeply appreciative of the incredible support that makes our work possible. The generosity and enthusiasm shown by our community continue to strengthen our mission and expand the impact we are able to make for children and families.
In our classrooms, this time of year is especially meaningful. Our students have worked incredibly hard throughout the year, demonstrating dedication, perseverance, and growth in their literacy skills. We are proud of the progress each student has made through structured literacy instruction, and their commitment continues to inspire us every day.
As we approach the close of the school year, students will be completing end-of-year testing to measure their growth and achievements. We will also be holding parent meetings at the Center to review progress, celebrate successes, and discuss next steps for continued development.
Looking ahead, we are excited to honor our students at our upcoming recognition ceremony in June. This special event will celebrate their hard work, accomplishments, and the milestones they have reached throughout the year. It is always a meaningful occasion for students, families, and staff alike.
We are also continuing preparations 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 your continued support. We look forward to celebrating our students and all they have achieved in the weeks ahead.
Marianne Jones, Director
Email: [email protected]
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424
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 March 21,2026 - Thirty-nine (39) Members owe more than one (1) year’s dues as of March 21, 2026.
The Valley must pay $ 35.00 in Supreme Council assessments and $ 8.00 in NY Council of Deliberation fees on your behalf each year.
A member of a Valley committee organized to contact every member currently arrears in the payment of their member’s dues will be contacting you if your member’s dues are not paid current.
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.
Please contact the Valley office if paying your Annual Member’s Dues causes a financial hardship.
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
June 2026
Jun 01 Trustees Meeting (2026-2027 Organization meeting) 6:15 P.M.
Executive Committee Meeting (new Officers Meeting) 7:00 p.m.
Jun 12 Annual NYCOD Session
Friday Evening Awards Dinner
Jun 13 Annual NYCOD Session
All day Session
9:30 a.m. Morning
28th Degree w/Master of the Rite
Statewide KOSA organization effort
Excelsior Initiative
1:30 p.m. Annual Meeting
3:30 p.m. Social time on the patio
5:30 p.m. Social Hour (Cash Bar)
6:30 p.m. MSA Presentation Banquet
Consistory
Greetings Princes: As we wind down another awesome Scottish Rite year for the Valley of Syracuse I reflect on our accomplishments. As well as look forward to continuing our journey with continued improvements and providing valued content for our members.
A few highlights of the 2025-2026 year come to mind. Beginning the year in August with our Family Life Picnic, we moved the venue to the MMC to cut down on costs and make things more convenient. It proved to be a good choice and I believe it was enjoyed by all in attendance.
Next in September, we hosted our new member recruitment night for the first time inviting the Ladies and had Hillary from the Lexington Scottish Rite Library and Museum give a lecture and provide a few amazing artifacts specific to New York Masonry to display celebrating its 250th anniversary. It was truly an amazing evening.
Throughout the year we worked on many outstanding degrees to include conferring the new 4° in a live presentation for the first time. With the new large screen tv in the dining room we also hosted the first Valley watch party of “Thursday Night at the Rite” which seemed to be a great hit!! On March 9th we were honored to have our Deputy Grand Master come and give us an inspirational talk. We opened up the meeting to all Master Masons unifying Masonry across our jurisdiction while highlighting the Scottish Rite as a leader in Masonic Experience. Towards the end of the season the Valley worked diligently on our part of the 2025-2026 capstone event, The Western Regional Reunion, held in Utica, New York. The Valley was to perform our capstone 14 th degree. Due to the untimely passing of Ill. Gary Hartman and unavailability of Ill. Bob Tyrell we had to adapt and fill those major roles with a couple of our newer members. SPRS Alex Wiseman and SPRS Russel Beckwith worked hard with several practices and performed their parts flawlessly in front of 40 new candidates and about 200 in attendance. Among the 40 new candidates we welcome 9 new 32 nd degree members onto the Valley of Syracuse. I have never been prouder of our Valley!!!!
As we have been working behind the scenes to address our challenges while continuing to expand on our valued content for our 2026-2027 schedule. We plan on making a few adjustments in our scheduling. Providing refreshments before our meetings seems to be a big hit so we will continue to do so as well as shorten some of the more administrative work in our meetings to allow our members to get home earlier. We also plan on hosting a few more watch parties to enhance our degree schedule. Speaking of degrees, the degree schedule for 2026-2027 will include a few of the lesser shown degrees to enhance our members ability to fill their passports. Hopefully our ensuing year will again highlight the fact that the Scottish Rite is the pinnacle of your Masonic journey.
In closing I want to remind our Prince I am always open to your suggestions and comments to help make the Valley its best. We will also looking for your support in filling parts in our upcoming degrees. Participation always enhances our experience, for you personally and for your Valley.
Journey On, Princes, Journey On!!!
Ill. Terry A. Byard, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief
Chapter
No news received…
Richard G. Fifield, 32°
Most Wise Master.
Council
Serving this year as Sovereign Prince of the Council Princes of Jerusalem has been an experience I won’t soon forget, though, since we’re not quite finished yet, I suppose I’ll hold off on the forgetting until the final gavel drops.
So far, we’ve successfully conferred not one, but two outstanding degrees: the 15th (presented in fine video form, proving we can embrace modern technology when necessary) and the 16th live (proving we still remember how to operate without a pause button). Both were meaningful, memorable, and, perhaps most importantly, completed without any unexpected “creative reinterpretations” of the ritual.
We’ve also shared two wonderful dinners, including our Christmas celebration and a fantastic Ladies Appreciation Dinner. Each was filled with great fellowship, plenty of laughter, and meals that certainly gave us something to reflect on later. A special highlight at both events was the music provided by Cam Caruso, who kept the atmosphere lively and reminded us that we are, in fact, a very classy group… at least while the music is playing.
What stands out most to me this year is just how remarkable the Scottish Rite truly is. It brings together tradition, fellowship, learning, and a shared purpose in a way that few organizations can. Whether we’re conferring degrees, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying each other’s company, it’s clear that what we’re part of is something genuinely special, and something well worth the time and dedication each of you gives.
While the year is not yet complete, it’s already clear that none of this would have been possible without the dedication, patience, and good humor of this outstanding group. You’ve made this journey not only successful, but genuinely enjoyable, even when things didn’t go exactly by the book.
Thank you all for your continued support and hard work. I look forward to finishing the year strong together… and perhaps enjoying a well-earned nap at the end of it. With sincere gratitude (and just a little time left on the clock),
Your Sovereign Prince,
Joel T. Scarson, 32°
Sovereign Prince
Lodge
Good day to you my Fellow Scottish Rite brothers! I do want to mention first how much of an honor it has been to be the Thrice Potent Master these past couple of years. This experience has been one of masonic enlightenment for sure. As I have said when going through other lines, you really do earn a lot when you step in the chairs and go through the steps, ritual etc. I am proud of what has been accomplished in this time and look forward to much more in the Scottish Rite as time goes on.
I want to also mention that the Pathfinder program, though I believe it is geared towards new members, was a great experience to go through. I have been a member of the Scottish rite for 15 years now, and there was much to be learned from having to look things up and fill in the gaps as well as the conversations I had with the officers as I was checking off the “Waypoints”. I encourage you all, even if you are a long-time member, to give this a look.
I want to take a moment as well to plug our Charity that supports the Children’s Dyslexia Center. My wife and I have seen firsthand via her students’ and some of their stories this is very much a worthy cause to be a part of. Lastly, I want to congratulate our newest members of the Scottish Rite who have just finished their 32° up in Utica this past month. I do not think I need to tell you that you are now a part of something great, and we are honored to have you join us!
I hope all is well with everyone and that you enjoy the summer. Hope to see you at the “Chiefs”, SYR Mets game.
Sincerely & Fraternally,
Eric Driscoll, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master
Hospitaler
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
May has arrived with a continued sense of gratitude and momentum at the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center. As we move closer to the end of our academic year, we are reflecting on the many accomplishments of both our students and our community.
Following the success of our 12th Annual Gala, we remain deeply appreciative of the incredible support that makes our work possible. The generosity and enthusiasm shown by our community continue to strengthen our mission and expand the impact we are able to make for children and families.
In our classrooms, this time of year is especially meaningful. Our students have worked incredibly hard throughout the year, demonstrating dedication, perseverance, and growth in their literacy skills. We are proud of the progress each student has made through structured literacy instruction, and their commitment continues to inspire us every day.
As we approach the close of the school year, students will be completing end-of-year testing to measure their growth and achievements. We will also be holding parent meetings at the Center to review progress, celebrate successes, and discuss next steps for continued development.
Looking ahead, we are excited to honor our students at our upcoming recognition ceremony in June. This special event will celebrate their hard work, accomplishments, and the milestones they have reached throughout the year. It is always a meaningful occasion for students, families, and staff alike.
We are also continuing preparations 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 your continued support. We look forward to celebrating our students and all they have achieved in the weeks ahead.
Marianne Jones, Director
Email: [email protected]
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424
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 March 21,2026 - Thirty-nine (39) Members owe more than one (1) year’s dues as of March 21, 2026.
The Valley must pay $ 35.00 in Supreme Council assessments and $ 8.00 in NY Council of Deliberation fees on your behalf each year.
A member of a Valley committee organized to contact every member currently arrears in the payment of their member’s dues will be contacting you if your member’s dues are not paid current.
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.
Please contact the Valley office if paying your Annual Member’s Dues causes a financial hardship.