Blog Posts

New Officers Installed on May 19, 2025

5/20/2025

Congratulations to the newly installed Officers of the Valley of Syracuse!
Thank you to Linda Egnaczyk for the photos!

2025-2026 Lodge of Perfection Officers
Thrice Potent Master: Eric J. Driscoll, 32° DSA
Deputy Master: Andrew G. Miledonis, 32°
Senior Warden: Robert A. Valenson, 32°
Junior Warden: Michael A. Barbato, 32°
Orator: Dr. Timothy Page, 32°
Master of Ceremonies: Ill. Craig E. Cobb, 33°
Captain of the Guard: D.B. Kevin M. Cobb, 32° MSA
Tiler: D.B. Kevin M. Cobb, 32° MSA
Trustee: Ill. Garry L. Visconti, 33° MSA

2025-2026 Council Princes of Jerusalem Officers
Sovereign Prince: Joel T. Scarson, 32°
High Priest: Naaman Lowry, 32°
Senior Warden: Alexander R. Walts, 32°
Junior Warden: Lynn Howard, 32°
Master of Ceremonies: James R. Johnson, 32°
Master of Entrances: Ill. Craig E. Cobb, 33º
Tiler: D.B. Kevin M. Cobb, 32° MSA
Trustee: D.B. James McNeal, 32° MSA

2025-2026 Chapter of Rose Croix Officers
Most Wise Master: Richard G. Fifield, 32°
Senior Warden: Walter J. Boronow, 32°
Junior Warden: Ray Worcester, 32°
Orator: Richard L. Pickert, 32°
Master of Ceremonies: Michael Brooker, 32°
Captain of the Guard: Ill. Craig E. Cobb, 33°
Tiler: D.B. Kevin M. Cobb, 32° MSA
Trustee: Ill. Robert M. Tyrrell, 33°

2025-2027 Consistory Officers
Commander-In-Chief: Ill. Terry A. Byard, 33° MSA
1st. Lt. Commander: D.B. James A. Nelson, 32° MSA
2nd Lt. Commander: D.B. David A. Barnello, 32° MSA
Orator: D.B. Kenneth D. Sterling, 32° MSA
Chancellor: Ill. Gary S. Hartman, 33°
Master of Cer.: Eric J. Driscoll, 32° DSA
Engineer and Sen'l: Ill. Garret A. Wikoff, 33° MSA
Color Bearer: D.B. Avery Wheelock, 32° MSA
Standard Bearer: D.B. Richard P. Freeman, 32° MSA
Capt. Guard: Ill. Craig E. Cobb, 33°
Sentinel: D.B. Kevin M. Cobb, 32° MSA
Trustee: Ill. Richard J Powell, 33°
Trustee: Ill. Lawrence W. Egnaczyk, 33° MSA

May 2025 News

5/1/2025

Calendar
May 2025
May 07 Wednesday “Rite on the Road” - 4° “Builder” 7:30 p.m.
              Masonic Memorial Center North Syracuse
May 12 Guard’s Club Dinner & Annual Meeting 6:15 / Central City Bodies Annual Meeting
             & Election of Officers 7:30 p.m.
May 19 Public Installation of Officers
             6:00 p.m. Social / 6:30 p.m. Dinner / 7:30 p.m. Installation

June 2025
Jun 02 2025 – 2026 Organization Meetings
            6:15 p.m. AASR Valley Trustees Meeting
            7:00 p.m. Executive Committee Meeting Live in Person

Consistory
Sovereign Princes,
May is a busy month for our Valley as we elect and install our new leaders. It is also our last two opportunities to confer the 4° on new candidates. You read that right! In addition to the Rite on the Road scheduled for May 7 th we have added a second Right on the Road event for May 14th . Watch your emails for any last minute updates on time or place, but these will truly be the last opportunities to confer the 4° to potentially qualify for the Valley of Excellence in this Scottish Rite year. May 12th will be our Guard’s Club Dinner and Meeting starting at 6:15 PM, which will be immediately followed by the Annual Meeting and Election of Officers for all Four Bodies. If you have had any part in any of the degrees conferred in our Valley since September 2024 you are encouraged to attend the Guard’s Club dinner in appreciation of your participation in the degree work of the Valley. Please remember to make your reservations through the office. Next up is our Public Installation of Officers on May 19th . The Installation will be preceded by a Social Time beginning at 6:00 PM, Dinner at 6:30 PM and Installation beginning at 7:30 PM in the Lodge Room. Even if you can’t make the dinners, I encourage all Scottish Riters to attend the meetings on May 12th and 19th to show your support for our Valley leadership.

The Valley has received a number of items from MW and Ill. Bruce Widger’s personal collection of Masonic Memorabilia. These items are from all branches of Masonry...Scottish Rite, all York Rite Bodies, Craft Lodge, Shrine, Grotto and more. Some items will be placed on display at Masonic Memorial Temple and others will be made available by silent auction on May 12th and May 19th . Bruce was a very generous supporter of the Children’s Dyslexia Center, so any money raised in this silent auction will be sent to the Dyslexia Center in Oriskany. Additional items from Bruce’s collection may become available at a future date.

The Motorcycle Ride to support the Dyslexia Center has been planned for July 27th. Some details are still being worked out, but I encourage everyone to keep this date in mind as you plan your summer activities. The ride is open to Scottish Riters, Masons and Friends and could be a great way to introduce non-Mason friends to our fraternity along with introducing Masonic friends to Scottish Rite. The format will be the same, that is a “Destination Ride” to the Dyslexia Center in Oriskany, NY. Organize a small group of friends and/or Brothers, start anywhere convenient to your group, and plan to arrive at the Dyslexia Center between 12:30 – 1:00 PM. There will be a DJ and Food available at the Pavilion on the campus. Additional information will be forthcoming in next month’s edition of The WORD, and in Valley emails. Three and Four-Wheelers are encouraged to participate as well!

I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to all the officers who have served our Valley over the past two years, and all the members who have supported our events. I think everyone is aware how much of an emotional roller coaster my personal life has been over this period. A simple “Thank You” seems woefully inadequate to express my appreciation to all who supported me during this time. The Scottish Rite Office, Officers, Masons and Scottish Riters far and wide have continued to offer their support and encouragement...the purest demonstration of what a special fraternity we belong to! It has been a privilege to serve this Valley as Commander-in-Chief and I look forward to continuing to support our activities and events.

Finally, one last plug for our Brother-to-Brother contact. One of our Core Values is to care for our Brothers. In my opinion, one phone call (email or text) should be the absolute minimum to demonstrate a caring attitude for our Brothers. If you have signed up to make calls, please complete them as soon as reasonably possible.

Fraternally,
Ill. William H. Toth II, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief

Chapter
Recently, on April 12, the Chapter of Rose Croix had the pleasure of presenting the Feast of the Paschal Lamb. This Feast is a moving and solemn observance held annually, which is both a memorial service for the brothers that we have lost in the past year, and a reflection on themes of sacrifice, resurrection, and eternal life. Held annually, typically near the time of Easter, the Feast of the Paschal Lamb is not merely a commemorative meal but a ritual of profound introspection and remembrance. It honors the memory of deceased brethren and emphasizes the enduring bonds of brotherhood beyond the grave. In this context, the “Paschal Lamb” becomes a powerful emblem—one that connects Masonic thought to ancient Jewish traditions of the Passover lamb and Christian interpretations of Christ as the sacrificial lamb who overcomes death.

In Rose Croix symbolism, the Paschal Lamb represents purity, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal. The ritual affirms the immortality of the soul and the triumph of light over darkness. It encourages the living to lead virtuous lives guided by faith, hope, and charity—core tenets of the Rose Croix philosophy. Through this observance, Masons are reminded that death is not an end but a transition, and that the legacy of a just and upright man endures in the hearts and actions of those he touched.

Ultimately, the Feast of the Paschal Lamb bridges ancient traditions and esoteric teachings with deeply personal reflection. It invites each Mason to contemplate his own mortality, honor those who have passed, and renew his commitment to the path of moral and spiritual enlightenment. In this way, the Feast becomes not just a memorial, but a ritual of transformation and eternal connection.

We hope to see many of our Masonic brothers join us for Feast of the Paschal Lamb next year and in future years.

Joseph W. Flanagan, 32°
Most Wise Master.

Council
Greetings Princes and Brothers alike,
At this time of year, many of our Lodges and concordant bodies have nominating committees that are hard at work. They have the all important tasks of identifying the future leaders of our Craft as well as developing those leaders who have been progressing through the respective lines.

The old adage of "you had one job," does not apply to Masonic leadership. Those who find themselves in the East have two responsibilities; To Lead... & To Manage!

As a Scottish Rite body head, WM, EHP, IM or EC your ability to lead specifically refers to the depth of knowledge and your understanding of the history, symbolism and lessons associated with the allegories of that body. The greater your understanding, the greater your ability to lead when conferring degrees. The better the presentation, the greater the impact on the candidate.

Unfortunately, our various Masonic bodies also have a business side to them. It is further the body heads responsibility to "manage" and have oversight regarding the work of the secretary and treasurer of their respective body. They likely also have oversight concerning budgeting, building and grounds, etc. Success in management duties can have an equal impact to being a great leader!

The NY Council of Deliberation, AASR NMJ supports an outstanding leadership program known as Excelsior. The Excelsior series offers several online sessions and videos on varying topics of relevance to leadership. Included in these offerings are sessions pertaining to the Maxwell Leadership Method co sponsored by the GL SNY. (nyscottishritemasons.org)

I also strongly encourage "side liners" to further their personal knowledge and understanding of the workings of the organization. The better informed you become, the better you are able to support the work of your elected officers!

Princes and Brothers...best of success to you all!

Respectfully submitted,
Michael A. Miller, 32°
Sovereign Prince

Lodge
Greetings Brothers! First, I want to say THANK YOU again to all of the cast as well as others for helping make the 11° an amazing experience for us all. It was refreshing indeed to be able to complete it live! Second, I want to congratulate all those who became 32 nd degree Scottish Rite Masons during our degree day in March! I am looking forward to sharing this experience and masonic light with all of you at the meetings to come!

As I write this, I know that Easter is around the corner, I hope all those who celebrate have an opportunity to have time with family and celebrate for sure. As we enter May, when you are reading this article, we will be wrapping up another masonic year. I want to thank all the officers who frequently go to meetings and volunteer for tasks throughout the year. Without you things would be much more difficult. If any new brothers have something they want to be a part of or learn more about, please reach out to us and we will be more than happy to assist you with learning and getting into what you enjoy.

Be well my brothers!!

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

Hospitaler
Sad news is that we need to keep the family of Brother Gerald A. Roberts who passed away on March 25, 2025 in our prayers during this time of sorrow. Brothers and families in need of prayer are Joel Scarson - Wife, Heather CHEMO Treatments, Brother Tim Page is home recovering from a bad car accident and is looking forward to going back to work, Brother Harvey Eysman, Esq is having many health issues and Brother Jorge Romeu’s wife Zoila still undergoing treatment since September. Plus, 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
As we wrap up another incredible year at the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center, I want to take a moment to reflect on all the wonderful progress our students have made and the experiences we’ve shared. From the very first page to the final chapter of the year, it’s been a journey.

End-of–the-year assessments are underway as well as post assessment meetings with the families to discuss their child’s progress and the plan for next year. Our end-of-the- year assessments measure each child’s progress in decoding, fluency, comprehension and spelling. I am very proud of the children’s hard work and the progress they made.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention our dedicated tutors. We have two trainees completing their initial certification, two completing their advanced training and two tutors completing their mentor training. We also have three additional tutors working with the children. Our tutors spend countless hours preparing individual lessons tailored to the individual needs of each child that they work with.

In celebration of their achievements, we will be holding our End-of-Year Recognition Ceremony at Harts Hill Inn on June 10. During this special event, each child will be recognized for the unique progress they have made this year as well as recognizing our hard-working, dedicated tutors.

None of this would have been possible without the incredible generosity and support that our center receives. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our donors who have contributed to the mission of helping all children learn to read and reach their full potential. Your support has played a vital role in enriching the lives of our students.

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

2025 Annual Meetings Notice
The Central City Guard’s Club meets for dinner and its Annual Meeting at 6:15 p.m. Monday evening May 12, 2025. I urge every Valley Member and the Valley Officers, in particular, to attend this dinner at no charge to the attendees. Planned menu for the dinner is Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Salad, Potato Chips, and beverages. Dinner reservations are required by May 7, 2025.

The Annual Meeting for Central City Lodge of Perfection, Central City Council Princes of Jerusalem, Central City Chapter of Rose Croix and Central City Consistory is Monday May 12, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Memorial Center, 648 Centerville Place, North Syracuse, NY
13212. All Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Masons were summoned by Official Notice to attend this meeting.

If you have any questions about the 2025 Valley of Syracuse Annual Meetings please contact the Valley office; (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at [email protected], [email protected] or
[email protected].

Fraternally,
Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33°
Valley Secretary

2025 Annual Membership Dues
Thank you to those who have paid their 2025 Member’s Dues. A reminder to those who have not paid their 2025 Member’s Dues - Please pay your 2025 member’s dues.

The Valley of Syracuse depends upon its members to pay their annual member’s dues prior to March 1st each year. If your member’s dues are not paid prior to March the valley is forced to transfer funds from our investments to pay our operating expenses.

If you have any questions regarding the status of the payment of your 2024 and/or earlier Member’s Dues and/or your 2025 Member’s Dues please contact the Valley office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at [email protected] or [email protected] at your earliest convenience.

A reminder! If you have misplaced your current Member’s I.D. card please notify the office and a replacement card will be requested for you.

Fraternally,
Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33°
Valley Secretary

EVENT NOTICES ARE NOW E-MAILED
Effective January 1, 2025 several changes and realignment of duties were made in the operations of the Central City Bodies, AASR Valley of Syracuse Secretary’s office.

The number of persons working in the office was reduced from three to two. Mrs. Sharon Fox retired and no longer works in the office. Mrs. Sharon Swan is now the Administrative Assistant in the office. Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr., 33º continues as the Valley Secretary.

The scheduled office hours have not changed; Monday thru Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Anyone planning to visit the office is recommended to call prior to coming to the office.

The use of the USPS Snail Mail mailing permit used for years to distribute mail, meeting, and event notices was discontinued due to excessive costs increases. With this change most event and meeting notices will now be distributed to our membership and other persons on our events mailing lists by electronic mail; e- mailed to your e-mail address we have in our office information.

Anyone wishing to change their personal e-mail address or to be added to said list is invited to send a message from the e-mail address you are using or call the office. (315) 452-7976.

Please take note that you are receiving these messages from a new e-mail address: [email protected]. Long range plan is to discontinue use of [email protected] for Valley Secretary communications.

Fraternally,
Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33°
Valley Secretary

April 2025 News

3/12/2025

Calendar
April 2025
Apr 07 Executive Committee Meeting Live in Person 7:00 p.m.
Apr 12 Saturday “Feast of the Paschal Lamb” 2:30 p.m. Ceremony
Following Ceremony Light Buffet in the dining room
Apr 14 163rd Annual Reunion
6:00 p.m. Social / 6:30 p.m. Dinner / 7:30 p.m. Program
Apr 28 Trustees 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting in Person 7:00 p.m.

May 2025
May 07 Wednesday “Rite on the Road” - 4° “Builder” 7:30 p.m.
              Location To be announced
May 12 Guard’s Club Dinner & Annual Meeting 6:15 / Central City Bodies Annual Meeting & Election of Officers 7:30 p.m.
May 19 Public Installation of Officers
             6:00 p.m. Social / 6:30 p.m. Dinner / 7:30 p.m. Installation

Consistory
Our 5 Degree festival is now behind us. A hearty welcome to the newest Scottish Riters in our Valley. I hope that your experience in Scottish Rite Masonry is as rewarding as mine has been. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to all the Princes who have assisted in presenting the live degrees we have included in our degree schedule this year. In addition to the cast members who have worked to memorize and present their parts, there is also an unseen cast including casting and degree directors, stage hands, props and lighting assistants which all combine to result in what, hopefully, turns out to be a moving degree presentation. I am pleased that we have all come together and for the first time since COVID we have done the new 32 nd Degree, Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret, LIVE and entirely with Valley of Syracuse members. There is a place for video degrees, but in my opinion nothing compares to the impact of a live presentation.

Looking ahead, there are two important Valley events scheduled this month. The Feast of the Pascal Lamb is scheduled for Sunday afternoon, April 11th beginning at 2:30 PM. The Feast is a moving memorial service for all the Valley members who have passed away over the last year. Much like a degree, cast members work hard to learn their parts and present their work in a dramatic and moving manner. Following the Ceremony there will be a light buffet in the dining room. Next up is our 163rd Annual Reunion scheduled for Monday, April 12th. It will begin with a social time at 6:00 PM to allow time for everyone to renew old acquaintances as well as to greet our new members. Social time will be followed by Dinner at 6:30 PM and the Consistory meeting at 7:30 PM.

Princes, we are still in the running for the Valley of Excellence, but as I write this article we are still a little light on reaching our new member goal. The Valley of Excellence program awards a substantial number of points for reaching our goal of 14 new Scottish Rite members, so it is important that we continue to keep our eyes and ears open for prospective members. If you have enjoyed your experience in Scottish Rite Masonry, why not encourage a Masonic acquaintance to share this enjoyable experience with you. The last currently scheduled opportunity to initiate additional members will be at a Rite on the Road event scheduled for Wednesday, May 7th , 7:00 PM at Masonic Memorial Temple. We will plan on doing two video degrees that night...the 4th degree for any new candidates and the second degree that evening will be a “Princes Choice”. That is, those Sovereign Princes who attend that evening will select from available video degrees and choose which degree will be shown in addition to the 4th . If you have a degree which has been difficult to find this could be an opportunity to get that last elusive degree needed to fill out your passport.

Our Brother-to-Brother contact is now under way. I encourage those making the calls to get them completed as quickly as you can. This is an important fulfillment of our obligation as Scottish Riters to care for our members. This statement of a caring attitude for our members is not just a trite phrase. It is a personal contact that is the real world evidence that our caring attitude is an obligation that we, individually, take to heart. I know that it can be uncomfortable to “cold call” someone you have never had any previous contact with. This, however, is not a cold call. Keep in mind that you are calling a Brother. It may be a Brother you have not spoken to before, but he is a Brother none-the-less. If you give it half a chance you will find these calls to be a rewarding experience.

Fraternally,
Ill. William H. Toth II, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief

Chapter
No News Received…

Joseph W. Flanagan, 32°
Most Wise Master.

Council
I have said many times that we as Masons were way ahead of Dan Brown when it comes to Historical Fiction. One of my biggest a-ha moments was when I read the following quote from Albert G. Mackey, M.D. in the "Cryptic Masonry - Manual for the Council" - "Like every other myth and allegory of Masonry, the historical relation it may be true or it may be false; it may be founded on fact or the invention of imagination; the lesson is still there, and the symbolism teaches it exclusive of the history."

Much of our ritual as Masons, throughout various Masonic bodies, is loosely based upon stories from the Bible or other historical accounts. For the overwhelming majority of us we can only rely on what we read in books. We do not have first hand knowledge of the events, nor even the geographical regions that are referenced in a particular degree. We are not, by any means, considered primary sources.

Recently I had the privilege of presenting the Middle Chamber Lecture in a Lodge other than my own. The new Brother for whom the MCL was given, is a native of an Eastern European country and a recent immigrant of Afghanistan. In the lecture there is a recounting of a biblical story about Jeptha, a judge of Israel. In that same story there is reference to the various tribes present in the region and how their differences can be used to determine friend from foe. The Brother's overwhelming reaction was unlike any other I had experienced and was a clear indication that he did in fact have first hand knowledge of that which I spoke!

Regardless of the Masonic body, regardless of the degree we all should strive to achieve a greater depth of knowledge regarding the allegory to more fully appreciate and understand the lesson and symbolism that is there!

Respectfully submitted,
Michael A. Miller, 32°
Sovereign Prince

Lodge
Greetings again Brothers! I write to you this early March day with grass showing for the first time in a bit, the 11th degree coming up on the 10th of March, and our major all day degree day coming up later in the month. Many exciting things to think about and be a part of for sure. I know by the time this reaches you these things will be over, but I want to thank all who helped take part in the 11th degree. It was a goal of our Commander in Chief to do this in person and I am honored to have worked with you to make that goal a reality.

This coming month we have the Paschal Lamb feast on April 12th , our reunion meeting on the 14th and then we should be well into spring!

It is my hope that everyone had a wonderful St. Patrick’s Day, and if you celebrate Easter, may it be all you want it to be, and you enjoy your family while they are here to enjoy.

Be well Brothers…

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

Hospitaler
Brothers and families in need of prayer are Joel Scarson - Wife, Heather CHEMO Treatments ongoing cancer, Ill Lawance Egnaczyk was in the hospital with Kidney Stones RW Edward Sinay Jr mother-in- Law passed away, Ill Garry Visconti mother Thelma was in the hospital but now in rehab and we need to keep Ill Sandy Samson in our prayers.

We need to keep our Brothers and Sisters in the hurricane areas in our prayers. If you want to make donations you can donate to the Hospitaler Fund marking it for the Hurricane relief. 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 is National Volunteers Month and the theme for 2025 is spreading love, kindness, and hope to every corner of the world. When I unlock the doors at the center, I can’t help but to think of those that have volunteered their time and efforts to build the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center and have made it what it is today.

Last month we held our 11 th annual GALA, and the number of people that volunteered their time, donated raffle baskets and gift cards, helped with the planning and the setup, donated as major sponsors, and attended the GALA is amazing! The Acme Mystery Theatre put on a great show, and we had over fifty baskets for the raffle. Thank you to all that participated. We are truly grateful.

Just a reminder that we are currently tutoring nineteen children and have twenty-one children on the waitlist. We need tutors! If you or someone you know that holds a bachelors degree is interested in becoming a certified tutor, please contact the center for more information (315-736-0574).
Marianne Jones, Director
Email: [email protected]
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
          PO Box 638
          Oriskany, NY 13424

Annual Feast of the Paschal Lamb Observance
Central City Chapter of Rose Croix, A.A.S.R. will present the Annual Feast of the Paschal Lamb Memorial service Saturday April 12, 2025 at the Masonic Memorial Center, 648 Centerville Place, North Syracuse, NY

This annual ceremony honors the Sublime Prince members of Central City Bodies, AASR, Valley of Syracuse who have passed away in the last twelve months. The memorial service is a public event open to be observed by its members and guests who may wish to attend.

The Memorial Service is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Saturday April 24, 2025. A light lunch buffet is served following the ceremony.

Please contact the Valley office if you plan to attend. 315-452-7976 or secretary@syr-
aasr.org.

Blue Envelope Appeal
Thank you to all who have supported the “Blue Envelope Appeal” with your donation. Your continued support of the “Blue Envelope Appeal” project at Supreme Council benefits the students receiving education financial assistance from Supreme Council and the New York Council of Deliberation. We are making positive progress towards meeting the annual goal for members of the Valley supporting this project. Remember your “Blue Envelope Appeal” response. Thank you!

EVENT NOTICES ARE NOW E-MAILED
Effective January 1, 2025 several changes and realignment of duties were made in the operations of the Central City Bodies, AASR Valley of Syracuse Secretary’s office.

The number of persons working in the office was reduced from three to two. Mrs. Sharon Fox retired and no longer works in the office. Mrs. Sharon Swan is now the Administrative Assistant in the office. Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr., 33º continues as the Valley Secretary.

The scheduled office hours have not changed; Monday thru Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Anyone planning to visit the office is recommended to call prior to coming to the office.

The use of the USPS Snail Mail mailing permit used for years to distribute mail, meeting, and event notices was discontinued due to excessive costs increases. With this change most event and meeting notices will now be distributed to our membership and other persons on our events mailing lists by electronic mail; e- mailed to your e-mail address we have in our office information.

Anyone wishing to change their personal e-mail address or to be added to said list is invited to send a message from the e-mail address you are using or call the office. (315) 452-7976.

Please take note that you are receiving these messages from a new e-mail address: [email protected]. Long range plan is to discontinue use of [email protected] for Valley Secretary communications.

Fraternally,
Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33°
Valley Secretary

March 2025 News

3/4/2025

Calendar
March 2025
Mar 03 7:00 p.m. Executive Committee Virtual meeting
Mar 10 11º “Sublime Master Elected” Live 7:30 p.m.
              Refreshments following meeting
Mar 22 Saturday Reunion
8:00 a.m. Registration & Coffee
8:30 a.m. Open 4 Bodies Meeting
9:00 a.m. L-O-P Confer 4º “Builder” (V) & 5º “Perfect Master” (V)
10:00 a.m. Break
10:15 a.m. L-O-P Confer 14º “Grand Elect Mason” (L)
11:10 a.m. Open Consistory
11:15 a.m. Consistory Confer 27º “Knight of Jerusalem” (V)
12:00 Luncheon
1:00 p.m. Open Consistory
1:15 p.m. Consistory Confer 32º “Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret” (L) & 32º “Knighting Ceremony” (L)
Short business meeting
Close meeting prior to 3:30 p.m.

April 2025
Apr 07 Executive Committee Meeting Live in Person 7:00 p.m.
Apr 12 Saturday “Feast of the Paschal Lamb” 2:30 p.m. Ceremony
Following Ceremony Light Buffet in the dining room
Apr 14 163rd Annual Reunion
6:00 p.m. Social / 6:30 p.m. Dinner / 7:30 p.m. Program
Apr 28 Trustees In Person Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting in Person 7:00 p.m.

Consistory
Sovereign Princes, March is a busy month for the Valley as we come out of our winter doldrums. We start off with a LIVE presentation of the 11º on March 10th . For one reason or another over the past few years we have been unable to present this as a Live Degree and have had to resort to the video version. Video degrees are OK, but the experience is a lot like watching a sporting event on TV versus experiencing it in-person. My thanks to TPM Eric Driscoll for organizing this live presentation. The cast members have put in a lot of hard work to learn their parts and I hope we have a large turnout to show them you support live degrees.

Last call! Our 5 Degree festival is fast approaching and will be here before you know it. If you have a candidate who is interested in joining Scottish Rite there is still time to get in the MW Jeffrey M. Williamson Class which will be knighted in a live ceremony on March 22nd . The day will kick-off with registration, coffee and donuts at 8:00 AM on March 22 nd . All four Bodies will open at 8:30 AM and we should be ready to start the 4º by 9:00 AM to be immediately followed by the 5º, both via video. Sometime around 10:00 AM we will take a short break as we make final preparations and get into costumes for a live presentation of the 14º. It is estimated that the 27º video will start sometime around 11:00 – 11:15 AM and we will break for lunch after the Degree concludes. Depending on how well we are able to stay on schedule the 32º will begin by 1:30 PM. Both the Allegory and Knighting Ceremony will be done LIVE using the new 2023 version. I’m looking forward to a fun and rewarding day of Scottish Rite fellowship. We should conclude everything by about 3:00 PM.

Monday, March 24th we have scheduled a New Member Orientation/Pathfinder Program. We invite all newly minted Scottish Riters in this year’s class (along with class members from our recent classes during the COVID years) to attend for a brief overview of how the Valley operates. That will be immediately followed by a presentation on the Pathfinder Program. Pathfinder is a fun and engaging way to increase your knowledge about Scottish Rite Masonry. All are welcome to attend and participate in the interactive presentation prepared by Ill∴Rick Powell and D.B Jim Nelson. Plan to bring a smartphone, tablet or laptop as this truly is an interactive experience. The Program will start at 7:30 PM and wrap up by 9:00 PM. Light refreshments will be available following the meeting for anyone who cares to socialize.

The last item I want to mention is our Brother-to-Brother contact. This is an important part of our Valley’s effort to maintain contact with all our members. Some of you may have already received a call as we launched this effort in February, but throughout March, April and May a core group of Brothers will be attempting to make personal contact with every member of our Valley. We will try to make contact by phone, but may have to resort to email if the phone numbers in our records are no longer valid. Our callers will leave a voicemail or may send a text if we have a cell number, but I want to assure you that this is NOT a solicitation call. You, like me, are probably inundated with scam calls, so I want to assure you the call you receive from the Valley of Syracuse is legit. We will not ask for money. The callers may ask you to confirm the contact information in our files, and if you are comfortable doing so I would encourage you to update any changes in your contact information. If you would rather not provide updated information over the phone, please contact the Scottish Rite Office directly.

Another item I should mention is that we are no longer using the US Postal Service for communication to our members. If you haven’t already provided the Office with an email address, please do so at your earliest convenience so we can keep you informed of Valley
activities. Even using our mail permit the Postal Service has become prohibitively expensive for the Valley.

Fraternally,
Ill. William H. Toth II, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief

Chapter
No News Received…

Joseph W. Flanagan, 32°
Most Wise Master.

Council
The Mission of the AASR, NMJ is to "enhance a Freemason's journey towards wisdom and enlightenment." (scottishritenmj.org) Scottish Rite Freemasonry, through its 29 degrees, expands upon the fundamental principles of Freemasonry.

In an effort to better meet the needs of its membership, the Valley of Syracuse has recently welcomed two new Scottish Rite Clubs. Under the leadership and guidance of Ill. Terry Byard, 33° - 1st Lt. Commander, the Jefferson-Lewis Scottish Rite Club has been meeting at various locations throughout the North Country in an attempt to accommodate present and future Scottish Riters. Following the model created by Ill. Byard, the Cayuga Tompkins Scottish Rite Club recently held its first meeting. This meeting was held at the Auburn Masonic Center.

During these meetings, time is spent in discussion regarding any of the Core Values of Scottish Rite Freemasonry (Reverence for God, Devotion to Country, Integrity, Justice, Tolerance, Service to Humanity), exploration of the various activities for personal growth found within the Pathfinder Program, and viewing parties corresponding with the "Thursday Night at the Rite" degree presentations.

These meetings are run on the semi-informal side and are not meant to replace Valley activities (live degrees, etc.). Instead the goal is to, as stated above, "enhance a Freemason's journey!"

Any current Scottish Rite members (regardless of your home Valley) or Master Masons interested in Scottish Rite should contact either Ill Terry Byard, 33° or Michael A Miller, 32° DSA for more information.

Journey On!

Respectfully submitted,
Michael A. Miller, 32°
Sovereign Prince

Lodge
Greetings Brothers!! As I write this in early February looking at the live 11° coming up, I am very proud that it looks as though it will be an amazing evening thanks to those who have stepped up and joined in by taking part or helping us get there. Know that your efforts are appreciated by all of us, as well as those viewing the degree!

Furthermore, one of my favorite months is upon us, MARCH! We will be having that degree on March 10th , so if you are able to make it, please come out and enjoy this evening with us. Also, on March 22nd we will be having our Saturday Degree Day, where we will be conferring the 4°, 5°, 14°, 27°, as well as the 32°. This is typically a highly attended day of Masonic light, fellowship, and celebration that we all look forward to each year. The 2024/2025 class will be complete as they are Knighted, starting just the beginning of their Scottish Rite journey. Congratulations in advance to those who have chosen this path!

I’ll close by wishing everyone a safe, and Happy St. Patrick’s Day. Slainte !

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

Hospitaler
Brothers and families in need of prayer are Joel Scarson - Wife, Heather CHEMO Treatments ongoing cancer, Duane Crasper is still recovering from his surgery, Ill Bob Crump, Ill George Caswell has been ill, Ill Terry Byard and we need to keep Ill Sandy Samson in our prayers.

We need to keep our Brothers and Sisters in the hurricane areas in our prayers. If you want to make donations you can donate to them through the Hospitaler Fund, marking it for Hurricane Relief.

If you want to make a donation to any Brother in need, you can also do so through the Hospitaler Fund, 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
March brings the First Day of Spring, it marks the start of a fresh new season, and a period of growth. Growth is what the students attending the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center are experiencing. Growth in their reading, spelling, and writing skills is evident as many of the students are displaying increased confidence and their parents are reporting improved school performance.

Our 11th annual GALA is just days away, and we expect another wonderful night. Through February, baskets for the basket raffle have been arriving at the center. The GALA committee has been hard at work preparing for this event that is one of the center’s biggest fundraisers of the year.

Why do we fundraise? To provide the highest quality, state-of the art, multisensory tutorial reading and written language instruction to children with dyslexia or who may be undiagnosed but fit the profile of a child with dyslexia FREE of charge. To train tutors in the art, science and practice of tutoring children using the Orton-Gillingham approach to multisensory teaching of reading, spelling, and writing.

We are tutoring nineteen children at the center and have two Practitioner 1 trainees, two Practitioner 2 trainees, and two trainees working on their Mentor/Supervisor certification and Instructor of Practitioner 1. There are twenty children on the waitlist waiting to begin tutoring at the center. With that said, we need tutors! If you or someone you know that holds a bachelor’s degree is interested in becoming a certified tutor, please contact the center for more information (315-736-0574).

When you see those first signs of spring such as a crocus pushing its way up through the soil, think of our students growing and blossoming with each lesson.

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

EVENT NOTICES ARE NOW E-MAILED
Effective January 1, 2025 several changes and realignment of duties were made in the operations of the Central City Bodies, AASR Valley of Syracuse Secretary’s office.

The number of persons working in the office was reduced from three to two. Mrs. Sharon Fox retired and no longer works in the office. Mrs. Sharon Swan is now the Administrative Assistant in the office. Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr., 33º continues as the Valley Secretary.

The scheduled office hours have not changed; Monday thru Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Anyone planning to visit the office is recommended to call prior to coming to the office.

The use of the USPS Snail Mail mailing permit used for years to distribute mail, meeting, and event notices was discontinued due to excessive costs increases. With this change most event and meeting notices will now be distributed to our membership and other persons on our events mailing lists by electronic mail; e- mailed to your e-mail address we have in our office information.

Anyone wishing to change their personal e-mail address or to be added to said list is invited to send a message from the e-mail address you are using or call the office. (315) 452-7976.

Please take note that you are receiving these messages from a new e-mail address: [email protected]. Long range plan is to discontinue use of [email protected] for Valley Secretary communications.

Fraternally,
Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33°
Valley Secretary

2025 ANNUAL DUES
Thank you to those who have paid their 2025 Member’s Dues. A reminder to those who have not paid their 2025 Member’s Dues. Please remember to pay your 2025 member’s dues. Supreme Council will be sending you a reminder notice in the next few weeks if your 2025 Member’s dues are not paid.

When you receive your 2025 Member’s Dues invoice; If you have any questions regarding the status of the payment of your 2024 and/or earlier Member’s Dues and/or your 2025 Member’s Dues please contact the Valley office. (315) 452- 7976 or e-mail at [email protected] or [email protected] at your earliest convenience.

A reminder! If you have misplaced your current Member’s I.D. card please notify the office and a replacement card will be requested for you.

Fraternally,
Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33°
Valley Secretary

Join Scottish Rite on March 22, 2025
Are You a Master Mason sitting at home with a thirst to gain more Masonic Knowledge? Do you have lingering questions about Freemasonry that were never answered? Take the positive step and action to answer your questions.

Complete a Petition and become a 32° Scottish Rite Mason joining the Central City Bodies, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Syracuse, NY Saturday March 22, 2025. All required degrees will be conferred that day.

Come to the Masonic Memorial Center, 648 Centerville Pl., North Syracuse, NY; phone the Valley Office (315) 452-7976, go on line to https://scottishritenmj.org or www.syr-aasr.org, or speak with Ill∴ Terry A. Byard, 33°, Central City Bodies, Valley of Syracuse New Member Committee chairman on or prior to March 22, 2025 and become a new Scottish Rite Mason by taking Scottish Rite degrees that day.

You must be a Master Mason (3°) and member of a Masonic Lodge chartered by or recognized by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in the State of New York. The new member petition fee is $ 160.00. You need to bring your current Masonic Lodge membership card with you when you submit your petition for membership.

We urge you to become a 32° Scottish Rite Mason. Gain more Masonic Knowledge; meet new friends, and enjoy Masonic fellowship with your Masonic Brothers.

Fraternally,
Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33°
Valley Secretary

2025 Abbott Scholarship Applications
Supreme Council Abbott Scholarship and NY Scottish Rite Financial Education Financial Assistance applications are available online. One application for both scholarships will be used again this year. Application submission deadline date is Tuesday April 15, 2025. Application must be submitted to Sponsor’s Valley of membership!

Web site addresses to contact: www.nysccottishritemasons.org or www.syr-aasr.org

Be prepared! Applications received after April 15, 2025 will NOT be considered!

CareGivers & Medal for Masonic Service

2/12/2025

On Monday, February 10th, the Valley held its Annual CareGivers Night. The evening is reserved for honoring one or more individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service in caring for another family or Masonic member. This year the Valley of Syracuse honored Brother Joel Scarson who has been caring for his wife, Heather during here medical treatments and Lynn Visconti who took over the care of her mother, Betty for the past several years.

Also honor this evening was Ill. Bob Tyrell who was presented with the Medal for Masonic Service. This award may be conferred by the Supreme Council or by the Sovereign Grand Commander upon any Master Mason, whether or not a member of this jurisdiction, who fully embodies the tenets of the Masonic fraternity, based on the recommendation of three of his peers in his locality. The Sovereign Grand Commander shall provide nomination forms upon request and establish such timetables for award ceremonies as he deems advisable. Nominations must come through the Active Membership.

Thanks to Linda Egnaczyk for the photos.

Valley of Syracuse Night with the Crunch

2/12/2025

Members of the Valley of Syracuse enjoyed an evening out with their families for a Syracuse Crunch hockey game last Friday. The Crunch fell to the Utica Comets but everyone enjoyed the evening nonetheless. Thanks to Linda Egnaczyk for the photos.

Burns Supper 2025 is in the Books!

1/19/2025

The 2025 Burns Supper is in the books! It was held on Saturday, January 18th at Coleman's Irish Pub in Syracuse and was a resounding success. Many thanks to all who participated as well as attended. Photos below are complements of Linda Egnaczyk. See you all next January!

January 2025 News

1/2/2025

Calendar
January 2025
Jan 06 Executive Committee Zoom Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Jan 22 “Rite on the Road” Event @TBA 7:00 p.m.
Jan 18 (Saturday) Burns Supper@ Coleman’s Restaurant 5:00 p.m.
Jan. 27 Spring Membership night w/Ladies
             Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.

February 2025
Feb 06 “ZOOM” Meetings: Trustees 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee 7:00 p.m.
Feb 10 Caregiver’s Event
             Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Feb 17 11° Rehearsal 7:00 p.m.
Feb 24 Confer 17° “Knight of East & West” (V) & 18° “Knight of Rose Croix” (L) 7:30 p.m.

Consistory
Sovereign Princes, The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s always seem to go by in a blur. The hustle and bustle of preparing for the holidays, putting up (and taking down) decorations, planning family get-togethers, holiday meals, and the stream of holiday parties to attend make the time go by at warp speed. Now that those weeks are behind us, I hope you enjoyed your time with your families and that your life is settling back into a normal routine. Scottish Rite activities are also returning to normal from the relaxed schedule we had in place for November and December.
Our first event in January is our annual Burns Supper on Saturday, January 18th . If you haven’t already, get your reservations in to Rick Powell as soon as you can. This is a sellout event which seems to get bigger and better every year. Hear the bag pipes, listen to some Burns poetry, and raise a glass (spirits or NA beverage of your choice) in one of the many toasts of the evening and don’t miss the Ode to the Haggis. There are always a few surprises typically regarding the toast to the Lassies and their response. Ill∴Powell may have some other tricks up his sleeve as well. The event takes place at Coleman’s starting at 5:00 PM. The buffet put on by Coleman’s is second to none, so if you go away hungry it will be your own fault. Note that this is a great event to bring a Scottish Rite prospect to. What better way to introduce a prospective member to the warmth and hospitality of Scottish Rite Masonry? I hope to see you there!
Next up is a Rite on the Road event planned for Wednesday evening January 22nd . The Lodge of Perfection will open that night and if we have any new candidates to start their Scottish Rite Journey we will confer the 4th Degree. If you have a 4 th Degree candidate, please get the petition into the Scottish Rite Office ASAP. The office needs to confirm his Craft Lodge membership and enter him into J365 before we can confer the degree. We will open at 7:00 PM so we can view the degree(s) and have time to socialize after the meeting. There will be refreshments after the meeting.
January 27th is our Spring Kickoff with the Ladies. Social time at 6:00 PM, Dinner at 6:30 PM with a program to follow in the lodge room. Entertainment will take place in the lodge room and the event will wrap up by 9:00 PM. Daylight is still in exceedingly short supply at this time of year, so why not bring a little cheerfulness into your life by treating your lady to a nice meal and some live entertainment. Bonus: no dishes to clean up!
The last item I want to bring to your attention regards The WORD. There has been a SNAFU regarding the database used to maintain the various mailing lists for The WORD. While updating Lodge and Concordant Body mailing lists, certain Scottish Rite members may have had their records deleted from the mailing list inadvertently. Members of Scottish Rite who have not received their copy of The WORD should contact Bro. Brian Courtney at [email protected] or by phone at 315-447-2104. If you have received your copy of The WORD, you don’t need to do anything. If any Scottish Riter knows someone who has not received The WORD, please pass this information along to them. I want to emphasize that this was an inadvertent error by someone updating a database. Anyone who has worked on a computer knows how easy it is to hit “Quit” instead of “Save”, or “Delete” when one too many records has been highlighted. Your assistance in getting our members back on the mailing list is greatly appreciated. It would be extremely time consuming to scour our records of over 300 members looking for the few who are missing from The WORD mailing list.
Fraternally,
Ill. William H. Toth II, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief

Chapter
No News Received…
Joseph W. Flanagan, 32°
Most Wise Master.

Council
As I've written previously, this is certainly a time of the year for reflection. At the time of this writing however, the focus of my reflection is a little different. In the Spring of 2019 I had begun to make preparations toward my pending retirement in the Spring of 2020. Completely unanticipated was the devastating fire that would strike the Cathedral of Notre Dame around that same time.
Reflecting on the history of this nearly 900 year old icon of religion and architecture, it struck me that a similar edifice existed in our own community and was unfamiliar to many of my students. St. Mary's Church in Auburn is a similarly styled gothic cathedral dating over 150+ years old. Later in the Spring of '19 I began discussions with the church to arrange a performance by the AHS Wind Ensemble under my direction. The church was very excited for the idea.

Five years ago this week we presented a concert from the church dais to a packed house of parents and parishioners from throughout the diocese. The church had done an outstanding job of promoting the concert. By design, our program was neither a traditional "Christmas Concert" (we had given that at the school the week prior) nor was it innately religious in nature. It was, however, composed of classic concert band literature appropriate to the venue. The performance was well received. At the time, I had no idea how memorable this performance would be. It would prove to be one of the final performances of my career as the world would shut down only a few months later.

As I write this, the Cathedral at Notre Dame is being ceremoniously reopened only 5 short years following the fire. As Masons, in the Middle Chamber Lecture we learn that there were 80,000 Fellowcrafts employed in the building of King Solomon's Temple that were under the supervision of our ancient, operative GrandMaster - Hiram Abiff.

French President Macron appointed 5 Star General Jean-Louis Georgelin with the task of oversight of this tremendous restoration with directions for it to be completed in 5 years. 2000 craftsmen, tradesmen and artists were selected world wide for this endeavour. At the forefront of their selection was their knowledge, usage and skill in centuries old building techniques that would have been employed during both original construction during the 1100's, as well as during the restoration of the 1800's when the Spire was added. Original plans from the 1800 restoration still exist and were referenced throughout. The craftsmen/tradesmen included archeologists, stonemasons, metal workers, carpenters, painters specializing in art restoration, and more. All, again, were skilled in medieval techniques. Modern tools and materials were not utilized. The only exception was the addition of sprinklers and fire doors.

Today, December 7th, 2024 is the official reopening of the Cathedral. To return briefly to my original story, the ceremony will include a performance by a very special choir and the cathedrals organist from the time of the fire. The choir is composed completely of all the artisans and craftsmen involved in the restoration as a final demonstration of their unified efforts to bring the Cathedral back to her original lustre.

Respectfully submitted,
Michael A. Miller, 32°
Sovereign Prince

Lodge
Greetings Brothers! Welcome to the year 2025! It is my sincere hope that your Christmas/holiday season went off well, now is the time for New Years resolutions, more wintery weather and further light in Masonry! Lots of exciting stuff coming up in the Scottish Rite this year, particularly on Saturday
January 25th we have the Robert Burns Supper at Coleman’s Irish Pub. I hope you have your reservations for this amazing event!
We also will be celebrating those who hold us up as we navigate through the walk of Freemasonry, and life. It’s the Spring Membership night with the Ladies on January 27th! Social hour begins at 6pm, dinner and a program to follow.
I want to thank those looking over their parts for the live 11th Degree as we get ready for that to be held in March. Though there is a benefit to watching the video degrees, nothing really replaces seeing it done live by our brothers.
Sincerely & Fraternally,
Eric Driscoll, 32°
Thrice Potent Master

Hospitaler
I write this article with a heavy heart. My wife Lynn's mother passed away on November 29th . Please keep Lynn and our family in your prayers. Other Brothers and families in need of prayer are Joel Scarson - Wife, Heather CHEMO Treatments ongoing cancer, Ill David Barnes wife had knee replacement surgery, Duane Crasper is still recovering from his surgery and we need to keep Ill Sandy Samson in our prayers.
We need to keep our Brothers and Sisters in the hurricane areas in our prayers. If you want to make donations, send them to the Hospitaler Fund marking it for the Hurricane relief.
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.
I hope everyone has a Happy New Year and a great 2025.
Ill. Garry Visconti, 33° MSA
[email protected]
(315) 529-1936

Welcome to My World
Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY
It has been said that January is a time for dreamers – the ones that believe anything is possible in the year ahead. We are dreaming big here at the Central New York Children’s Dyslexia Center. Dreams of our students overcoming the struggles they have faced and conquering the challenge of breaking the reading code. There are dreams of more smiling faces coming through the door proudly sharing their report cards and perhaps telling us that they have made the honor roll for the first time. These dreams are becoming reality as our students and tutors continue to work hard at every tutoring session.
We are also dreaming big in anticipation of our annual GALA which will be held this year at Harts Hill Inn in Whitesboro on March 8, 2025. The entertainment this year will be by the Acme Mystery Company. We are dreaming of a significant turn out and continued support of the center through Sponsor-A-Child, Sponsor-A-Tutor and successful basket raffle. The GALA has been the Center’s biggest fundraising event of the year, and we are dreaming big so that we can continue to provide tutoring services for the children of our community.
January reminds us that we have 12 new chapters to fill. We hope that we can fill these chapters together along with you. The nineteen children, ten tutors, my assistant and I thank you for your continued support and wish you a Happy and Healthy New Year.
Marianne Jones, Director
Email: [email protected]
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
          PO Box 638
          Oriskany, NY 13424

A GENTLE REMINDER - 2025 ANNUAL DUES
By the time you receive the December WORD you will have received your 2025 Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Member’s Annual Dues Notice mailed to you from Supreme Council. There is a nominal dues amount increase for 2025 as result of the four years Annual Member’s Dues increase plan approved in 2023. Please pay your 2025 Member’s Dues prior to January 30, 2025.
NOTE: Your 2025 Member’s Dues notices; sent direct to you from Supreme Council direct you to make your Member’s Dues check payable to Supreme Council addressed to Headquarters in Lexington, MA. If acceptable to you please write your check payable to Central City Bodies, AASR, and mail it Central City Bodies, Masonic Memorial Center, 648 Centerville Place, North Syracuse, NY 13212-2366.
Why this request? Payments made to Supreme Council do not arrive in the Valley until after the first of the months two months after payment. To clarify; you make your payment in October; the Valley receives notice you paid your dues in November and your payment arrives in the Valley in December.
Please contact the Valley office if you have any questions (315) 452-7976 about your invoice.

Degree Cast Invitation
The Central City Bodies are organizing the degrees casts for the planned live degrees and “Feast of the Paschal Lamb” to be presented during the 2024 – 2025 Scottish Rite year.
Degrees and ceremony planned and the date they are scheduled to be presented live are: Monday February 24, 2025 Chapter of Rose Croix confers the 18° “Knight of Rose Croix H.R.D.M.”; Saturday March 22, 2025 Lodge of Perfection confers the 14° Grand Elect Mason”.; Saturday March 22, 2025 Consistory confers the 32° “Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret”; Saturday April 12, 2025 Chapter of Rose Croix presents “Feast of the Paschal Lamb” Memorial service.
We are seeking members to be a part of the degree teams for these degrees and ceremonies. Speaking and non-speaking participants are required for all of these degrees.
What is required: Learn speaking parts of the ritual; Attend one or two rehearsals to make certain the floor work is coordinated.; Attend the degree presentation on the specified date.
Contact the Valley office if you wish to participate. (315) 452-7976.

Blue Envelope Appeal
Thank you to all who have supported the “Blue Envelope” Appeal this year. We continue to make positive progress fulfilling the annual goal for members of the Valley supporting this project. This project provides the funds supporting the Abbott Scholarship program Five (5) scholarship recipients this year are children and 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”.

2025 Abbott Scholarship Applications
Supreme Council Abbott Scholarship and NY Scottish Rite Financial Education Financial Assistance applications are available online. One application for both scholarships will be used again this year. Application submission deadline date is Tuesday April 15, 2025. Application must be submitted to Sponsor’s Valley of membership!
Web site addresses to contact: www.nysccottishritemasons.org or www.syr-aasr.org
Be prepared! Applications received after April 15, 2025 will NOT be considered!

Happy Holidays!!!

12/24/2024

Happy Thanksgiving

11/28/2024

<<Previous

Forward>>