More Photos from the 2023 Burns Supper...
|
The Knights of St. Andrew held their Annual Burns Supper last evening. A great time was had by all as can be seen the photos taken by Linda Egnaczyk. Thanks to all who participated and attended!  Hon. Norman A. Mordue December 29, 2022 Norman A. Mordue was born on June 26, 1942 and passed away on December 29, 2022 after a short illness. He was surrounded by his loving family.
Judge Mordue was born and raised in Elmira, New York. He played high school football and was awarded a full football scholarship to Syracuse University to play under Coach Ben Schwartzwalder. He was a member of the 1964 Sugar Bowl team. He graduated from Syracuse University in January 1966 with a bachelor's degree in Economics. Following his completion of ROTC, as a Distinguished Military Graduate and Distinguished Military Student, he was commissioned into the Regular Army as a Second Lieutenant in the Infantry. After the Infantry Officers Basic Course and further training in Fort Lewis Washington, he was deployed to Vietnam. In Vietnam he served with C Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry, First Air Cavalry Division. First Lieutenant Mordue distinguished himself on 31 May 1967 while serving as platoon leader of an Airmobile platoon on a search and clear operation in the village of An Qui. When another platoon was pinned down by heavy machine gun and grenade fire from a numerically superior and well entrenched insurgent force, Lieutenant Mordue immediately led his platoon on a fierce attack to relieve the pressure on the engaged unit. Seeing two of his men wounded and pinned down, he grabbed a machine gun and braved withering enemy fire to rescue them. He then moved to the front of his platoon and personally destroyed two enemy bunkers and killed five hostile soldiers in the ensuing offensive. Severely wounded and unable to walk, Lieutenant Mordue refused medical aid and directed the withdrawal of his men as deadly artillery strikes were called in on the Viet Cong positions. Lieutenant Mordue was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism, our Nation's second highest military honor. He was also the recipient of the Bronze Star with V device for valor for "courageous leadership and tenacious devotion to duty." Additionally, on 2 May 1967, Lieutenant Mordue received the Purple Heart, the Air Medal, and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. He was medically retired as a Captain in December of 1968 because of wounds sustained in combat. After his military service, Judge Mordue enrolled in law school at Syracuse University. While in law school, Judge Mordue worked for two years as Law Clerk in the Onondaga County District Attorney's Office. He graduated law school in 1971 as a member of the Justinian Honorary Law Society and the recipient of the Phi Alpha Delta award for academic excellence. He continued for ten more years as a prosecutor and worked his way up from Law Clerk to Chief Assistant District Attorney in charge of Felony and Homicide prosecutions, with a 100% conviction rate. After leaving the District Attorney's Office, he was elected in a contested race for Onondaga County Court Judge and served from 1983-1985. He was cross-endorsed in 1985 by all four parties and served for 13 years as a New York State Supreme Court Justice until his appointment to the United States District Court. Judge Mordue joined the Federal Bench on December 4, 1998, following his Presidential nomination and Senate confirmation in October 1998. The Senate voted on Judge Mordue's nomination in just 16 days, the shortest time to confirm any judge during the Clinton administration. Judge Mordue served as Chief Judge for the Northern District of New York from March 13, 2006 to December 15, 2011, taking senior status on July 1, 2013. Judge Mordue formerly taught trial practice for several years at Syracuse University College of Law as an adjunct professor. Judge Mordue was a moving force in creating the Korea-Vietnam Memorial in downtown Syracuse, the first monument in the country dedicated to both the Korean and Vietnam Conflicts. Judge Mordue was honored with many awards in his lifetime: in August 1985, Judge Mordue was inducted into the Elmira Sports Hall of Fame for football, Syracuse University Varsity Club awarded him the high honor of a Letter Winner of Distinction (1990); the Zunic Award (2009) for courage, self-sacrifice, and spirit by the Syracuse University Football Club; the Distinguished American Award (2002) from the Central New York Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame; the Onondaga County Bar Association Ruger Award (2016) for outstanding legal achievement and devotion to the principles of our system of justice; and the Syracuse Law Honor Award (2022). Judge Mordue was also inducted into the Syracuse University ROTC Alumni Hall of Fame. Judge Mordue was part of many organizations in the community. He was a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 103, American Legion Post 1468, the Tigris Shriners, Morning Star Lodge #524, the Central City Bodies AASR, as well as a 33 Degree honorary member of Supreme Council, NMJ. The Longhouse Council of the Boy Scouts of America honored Judge Mordue in 2013 as the "Distinguished Citizen of the Year." He was delighted to be chosen as Co-Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick's Day parade in 2000 and was this year's Grand Marshal of the CNY Veterans' Day Parade. He was predeceased by his parents Harry & Clara Mordue. Judge Mordue is survived by his wife, Christina, his sons, Daniel and Michael, daughter Jacqueline DiBello (Terry); his granddaughters, Jennifer Pruitt (Matthew), Katherine Sorensen; and three great-grandsons, James, Nathan, and Ezekiel. He is also survived by his brother Donald (Berma), and sisters, Geraldine Felix, Patricia Bruner (Thomas), Judith Mordue; and several nieces and nephews. Per Judge Mordue's request, there will be no calling hours. A private service and burial, with military honors, will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Judge Mordue's name to the American Heart Association, 444 Liberty Avenue, Suite 1300, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 or Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #103, P. O. Box 675, Liverpool, New York 13088. Please leave Memories and Condolences on syracuse. com/obits https://obits.syracuse.com/us/obituaries/syracuse/name/hon-mordue-obituary?id=38522658 Calendar
January 2023 Jan 09 Executive Committee Zoom Meeting 7:00 p.m. Jan 23 Spring Membership Night w/ Ladies Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Jan 28 KSA Burns Supper @ Coleman’s Restaurant 5:00 p.m. Jan 30 15° (V) “Knight of the East” & 16° “Prince of Jerusalem” 7:30 p.m. Refreshments to follow Febuary 2023 Feb 07 Trustees 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. on Zoom Feb 11 Crunch Hockey Night at the “Crunch” at Upstate Medical University Arena At the Onondaga War Memorial Puck Drop at 7:00 p.m. Feb 14 Caregivers Recognition at MMC With the Ladies Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Consistory Greeting Brethren, when you receive this issue of “the Word” a new year will be knocking at our door. Our fall season at the Valley of Syracuse has been busy, exciting and fruitful. On November 28 th we conferred the 17 th and the 32 nd degree [video] with live Knighting Ceremony for the Ill. Robert W. Tyrrell, 33 Degree Class of 2022-23. This resulted in 15 new Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret for our Valley and one for the Valley of Jamestown. The evening was well attended with a total of 50 present. One of whom was a visitor that traveled here from the Valley of Vermont. Congratulations to our new 32 nd degree members and thank you to all for your support of our new Princes and the Valley. As of December 1 st there were 10 new members added to our Valley Roster. This leaves only a balance of 4 more needed to meet our requirements toward the 2022-23 “Valley of Excellence Award”. We are currently planning a Rite on the Road for the near future. The Lodge, date and time will be forthcoming. January 19 th back by popular demand, the Supreme Council will begin the Thursday Night at Rite series with the 20 th degree. Mark your calendar for all of these excellent degree presentations which count toward filling your Passport Book. January is a fun filled beginning to the Scottish Rite New Year. January 23 rd is “Spring Membership Night with Ladies and Guests”. The entertainment for the evening will be the introduction of a new group to our Valley- “The Baby Boomers Band”. They are a popular five piece local group who have played at many various venues including the Cicero Parks and Recreation Department’s summer concerts, weddings, private parties etc. This is sure to be a good time for all, especially for our potential new members. Saturday January 28 th will be the Annual Robert Burns Supper at Coleman’s Irish Pub presented by Ill. Rick Powell and the Knights of St. Andrew. This is a fun filled evening of fellowship, great food, which includes a Piper, piping in the Haggis in true Scottish ceremonial form and a wee bit of Burns poetry. Wear your kilt if you have one! These January evenings spent with the Valley of Syracuse A.A.S.R. are sure to warm up and brighten the cold dark nights of our first full month of winter. Come join us and feel the warmth of Scottish Rite Masonry! From my family to yours, we wish each of you a very Happy, Healthy and a Prosperous New Year. As always keep those serving in our Armed Forces and our first responders in your thoughts and prayers and pray for peace throughout the world in this New Year. Fraternally, D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA Commander in Chief Chapter Greetings, Princes. The cast for the Feast of the Paschal Lamb is almost complete. However, I would like to fill the 2 guard positions with new Scottish Rite Masons. It is good to get new people involved. If you are interested contact me at (315) 632- 1395. Also have found that the 17th & 18th degrees are actually tied into the Feast. The 17 degree negative attitudes are reflected in all the statements given during the extinguishing of the lights. The 18 degree positive attitudes show up during the relighting of the lights. These lessons are what we experience during our everyday life. I hope you all attend this ceremony. It is very entertaining and inspirational. Richard E. Barrett Most Wise Master. Council Valiant Knights, I hope you are doing well and have/had an enjoyable Holiday season and a Happy New Year. If it has been a tough time please recall that in times of adversity that the Holidays are to be a reprieve from the mundane. They are days when we strengthen and adopt greater consistency in being contemplative, thankful, humble, graceful and of the less fortunate and impoverished. During times of darkness, we as Knights of the East bear a special light. We are reminded and remind our brothers to be free from any oppressions of our human spirit as we rebuild the Temple of Liberty once again. We are reminded that if we fall to rise again. Allegorically, we are instructed to keep a positive attitude, use constructive criticism, work as a team and focus to build anew in our lives wherever applicable. We are admonished to adapt to change and defeat with fortitude and humility. For example, as our body is a Temple, exercising a healthy mind, body and spirit and defending that advancement so we do not regress is seen as being sound. Therefore, ask yourself what does the allegory of laboring with a sword in one hand and trowel in the other mean to you? Indeed, Masonry is a system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols… but did you know that Cyrus the Great as mentioned was a real Persian King? If you are interested in this rich history try researching the Cyrus Cylinder circa 539-538 B.C. and the Book of Ezra as they influenced the lessons in our CPJ degrees. In closing, the 16th degree will be conferred after the 15th degree video on Jan 30 th of 2023. Upon reading this we will have had our annual Holiday celebration which I hope all have enjoyed and give thanks to all who assisted. Our final rehearsal for the 16th degree is scheduled for Dec. 19th of 2022. I wish to remind you again that this year the 16th degree will be conferred after the 15th degree video on Jan 30 th of 2023. Until we meet again, may the G:.A:.O:.T:.U:. continue to grant peace and blessings to you, our Sovereign Grand Commander, the NMJ, America and our Men and Women of service. Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA Sovereign Prince Lodge Happy New Year Princes! How can it be that we re into a New Year? Jeanne and I hope that you had a wonderful holiday season and are looking forward to an interesting and productive Scottish Rite year. Perhaps one of the most exciting upcoming events is the Knights of St. Andrew Robert Burns Supper on January 28th. It is really exciting how the wearing of the Philabeg (little kilt) has grown among our members. That event is a great time to kilt up and join with fellow Scots and those who wish they were Scottish for a wonderful meal and great fellowship. On another subject many of you are golfers. There is a very informative website that I would direct you to that tells the history of Masonry in Scotland as it relates to Scottish Masons forming some of the most important golf courses in the world. You can find it https://www.scottishgolfhistory.org. Informative reading through the cold and snowy days ahead! The next event for the Lodge of Perfection will be the Spring membership night with the Ladies on January 23rd. Finally we are anticipating a Rite on the Road event at Konosioni Lodge in the near future. Fraternally, D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32° MSA Thrice Potent Master Hospitaler Greetings Brothers, Under sickness and distress, Brother George Laird is currently hospitalized. You can send him get well wishes on facebook. Winter is officially here, and most of the Masonic snowbird Brothers have made a safe migration south where they will be attending Lodges and Valleys in southern states. There is currently a Tri-demic of flu, covid, and SRV. SRV was primarily affecting children, but recent reports of adults are being infected as well. This is the season of parties and get togethers, so please use caution and keep your mask handy in crowded places. I want to wish everyone all the best in 2023. Have a safe and happy New Year !! Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY Here we are in 2023- Wow. When I think back 18 years ago and we were still planning things to enter the Center in March of 2005. I remember how gracious Jeff French and the staff at the OES Home were to find places for me to tutor and do all the paperwork for the Center. As I recall the children and I spent time in four different places from July 2004 to March 2005. What a ‘wild ride’ that was. The Board worked diligently to create the Center facility that we have now and are still working just as hard to keep things up to par. Over the Holiday break they contracted to replace the well-worn and fraying carpet in the reception area, hallways and main office with a luxury vinyl tile. The latter was recommended by headquarters after instances of fire and flooding in other Centers and the issues of clean- up and redoing due to those tragic circumstances. We are not planning on either happening here but another 18 plus years of minimal issues will be just fine. You should be proud to know that our Center visits from Lexington Personnel brought us ‘model center’ status and I am very appreciative of the Board’s efforts to keep things that way. Next month I am in hopes of bringing you more information about the annual Gala but I can tell you to save the second Saturday in March (the 11th ) for a great evening at Hart’s Hill Inn in Whitesboro. The committee is planning a wonderful evening of fun and entertainment and Gineal and I will be managing the Basket Raffle (we will gladly accept your unique basket donation if you have something in mind- we will put them on display at the Center and on-line from mid-February to the beginning of March. This has been our largest fund-raiser as well as a wonderful evening of fun and fellowship and we hope to see you there! We wish all a very Happy New Year, with continued thanks for all of your caring support. Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 2023 Burns Supper The Knights of St. Andrew will be holding their 2023 Burns Supper on Saturday, January 28th, 2023 at Coleman's Irish Pub 100 South Lowell Avenue, Syracuse, NY. Social Time will begin at 5:00 PM. Dinner will be buffet style and cost will be $45.00 per person. Wives/significant others/guests are invited. This event is open to all but seating is limited to 65 this year so make your reservations now! We will be downstairs behind the bar rather than upstairs. Make your check out to the Knights of St. Andrew and mail them to Richard Powell, 4717 Broad Road, Syracuse, NY 13215. Be sure to write "Burns Supper" in the memo area of your check. Final Cutoff is January 6th. Blue Envelope Appeal You recently received the annual “Blue Envelope Appeal” letter from Supreme Council requesting your annual contribution. I urge you to support this request. Any contribution you may make is significant. The number of members from a valley that contribute to the “Blue Envelope Appeal” directly impacts the dollar amounts allocated to the Valleys within each state for distribution to our scholars. The percentage of members from each Valley that contribute is key to distribution of the Abbott Scholarship Funds and to the Valley’s rankings in the Supreme Council “Valley of Excellence” ratings. Abbott Scholarships funded by Supreme Council, NMJ or a New York State Educational Financial Assistance Grant funded by the New York State Scottish Rite Charities Corporation are assisting the children and grandchildren of our current and deceased members. The Valley of Syracuse submitted financial aid requests for six students seeking financial aid to assist them pay for their education during the 2022-2023 year. All six of the students related to our Valley’s members that requested financial assistance are currently receiving Scottish Rite funded financial aid for the 2022 - 2023 academic year. These young people are our future. We thank you for your support. Jim Swan Valley Secretary Supreme Council Valley of Excellence The 2021 – 2022 Valley of Excellence Award Trophy earned by the Valley of Syracuse is now displayed in the front foyer Trophy case. Check it out when you come to the Masonic Center for a meeting or event. We are making excellent progress in our quest to earn the “Valley of Excellence” designation for 2022 – 2023. Congratulations! to all for earning this designation for our Valley. This is a combined effort by all Valley of Syracuse officers and members. 2023 Thursday Night at the Rite Supreme Council Thursday Night at the Rite program with video degrees and other special events returns Thursday January 19, 2023. The 20° “Master ad Vitam” is featured. Continuing dates are February 2, and 16; March 2, 16, and 30 with the last event April 13, 2023. E-mail notices will be coming out from the office. If you have any questions regarding the planned schedule please contact the office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com . Fraternally, Ill∴ James D. Swan, Jr. 33° Valley Secretary 2023 – 2024 Scholarship Applications Available Applications to apply for 2023 – 2024 Academic Year Supreme Council, AASR Leon M. Abbott Scholarships and New York State Council of Deliberation Scholarship Aid are now available for online pick up at the Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Web Site. Go to the Valley of Syracuse Web site www.syr-aasr.org or the New York State Council of Deliberation Web site www.nyscottishritemasons.org for the links to obtain the information online. Applications received from a Scottish Rite Mason’s relatives are to be submitted thru the member’s Valley of membership. Application titled “2023-Abbott-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 3, 2023. That means in the office by close of business Monday April 3, 2023. Applications received after 4:00 p.m. Monday April 3, 2023 will not be considered. New Applications must be used. The 2023 Leon M. Abbott Scholarship Application to be used. Graduating High School Seniors may apply again this year. The members of our Masonic Youth Groups; Triangle, Rainbow, and DeMolay; are eligible to apply for financial assistance. A masonic relationship is not required. Students who complete the program at the Children’s Dyslexia Centers in New York State may also apply. A masonic relationship is not required. Six applicants from the Valley of Syracuse received financial assistance from this program for the 2022-2023 scholastic year. Congratulations and best wishes to them. Please contact the Valley Office at (315) 452-7976 or adminny017@twcny.rr.com if you have any questions or require assistance and information. 2023 Member’s Dues This is a reminder that Supreme Council changed the effective dates for Annual Member’s Dues notifications effective July 2020. We are now in the third year since this change was implemented. Most important impact of that change is the requirement to pay your 2023 Member’s dues prior to January 1, 2023 to be a current member. If your Member’s Dues for 2022 and earlier years are not paid by January 31, 2023 your membership in the Valley of Syracuse could be suspended by Supreme Council for non-payment of your Member’s dues.” A new 2023 Scottish Rite Member’s Dues Card was included with your invoice for your 2023 Member’s dues. If you have misplaced it or did not receive the 2023 Annual Member’s Dues card please notify the office and a replacement card will be requested for you. For those that have paid their 2023 Member’s Dues and are now current for 2023 the Valley Leadership Team, office staff, and I thank you. 256 Valley members have paid their 2023 Member’s Dues as of December 1, 2022. If your 2023 Member’s Dues are not received by the Valley of Syracuse office or Supreme Council by January 31,2023 you will receive another follow up notice from Supreme Council in your mail in February. Please respond to that request. If you have any questions regarding the status of your payment of your 2023 Member’s Dues please contact the Valley office. (315) 452-7976 or e-mail at adminny017@twcny.rr.com or ny017@twcny.rr.com .
Calendar
December 2022 Dec 05 Executive Committee Zoom Meeting 7:00 p.m. Dec 12 Holiday Celebration With the Ladies Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Dec 27 (Tuesday) Holiday Luncheon @Twin Trees Restaurant 11:45 a.m. January 2023 Jan 09 Executive Committee Zoom Meeting 7:00 p.m. Jan 23 Spring Membership Night w/ Ladies Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Jan 28 KSA Burns Supper @ Coleman’s Restaurant 5:00 p.m. Jan 30 15° (V) “Knight of the East” & 16° “Prince of Jerusalem” 7:30 p.m. Refreshments to follow Consistory Greeting Brethren, several important programs took place in November. On the 14th we held Veteran’s Recognition Night honoring our Masonic Nominee for Veteran of the Year, George A. Laird III and the non-Masonic Veteran Ms. Sarah Stenuf. An excellent presentation of “The Ring that went Around the World” was presented by D.B. Terry A. Byard, 32 degree MSA, 2 nd Lt. Commander and his cast. Thank you to all that participated. November 20 th the KOSA held a Brunch at the Brae Lock Inn in Cazenovia. Thank you to Rick Powell and the KOSA for all they do. On November 28th, the 17th and the 32nd Degree videos were presented with a live Knighting Ceremony. Congratulations to all our new Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret. Our Valley Seasonal Festivities begin on December 12th with a Holiday Celebration dinner joined by our Ladies. This will be followed by an excellent program of Holiday Music presented by “Rick Fiori & Daughter”. Mark this date on your calendar. This is sure to be an enjoyable evening. Tuesday, December 27 th , there will be a Holiday Luncheon at Twin Trees III Restaurant, 310 N. Main Street, No. Syracuse, NY 13212, 11:45 a.m. till? Pizza, Wings and Salad will be served and we will all pay the same price (unless you order beverages etc.) The price has yet to be determined. Because of staffing problems, we will not be able to order from the menu. As the event gets closer the food choice may change. The event is casual dress. Brothers, if you have not already done so, please consider making a contribution to “The Blue Envelope Appeal”. In 2021 our Valley gave $2104. It is not how much you give. What is most important is that we all participate and give something. Your contributions will not only help others; the percentage of participation counts toward our Valley achieving the Valley of Excellence Award again this year. Thank you. My Lady Marilyn and I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a Joyous Kwanzaa. Especially at this time of the year keep those serving in our Armed Forces in your thoughts and prayers as they keep our country safe and often are unable to be with their families and loved ones during this Holiday Season. Fraternally, D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA Commander in Chief Chapter Greetings, Princes. I like to say it's great to be back and how I enjoy meeting new people. I am in the process of setting up the cast for the Feast of the Pascal Lamb. There are several parts available so if interested please contact the office or me at (315) 632 -1395. The Christmas Season is upon us and there are many exciting events scheduled for this month. There will be a Holiday Celebration Dinner on December 12. Please sign up as it's always great to meet new members and see old friends.Also there will be a Christmas Luncheon at Twin Trees III on December 27. Please get your reservations early as this event fills up fast. Contact Jim Swan or the office for your reservation. I wish everyone a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. Richard E. Barrett Most Wise Master. Council Valiant Knights, Greetings. I wish to thank all who were in attendance for our recent rehearsal and thank in double those who sent their regrets but still plan on participating in the degree. It is this great communication and correspondence that permits your CPJ officers and Secretary to coordinate as needed and I look forward to seeing those who can attend the next 16th degree rehearsal on Dec. 19th 2022 at 7:00 p.m. or as your cable-tow permits. For those who could not make it, I wish to share that there was a resounding praise for the efficiency, inclusion, and direction by Senior Warden Mike Miller who exhibited great leadership. May G-d bless you Mike as your work merits that you will be able to be my predecessor, and know that I acknowledge your industry and respect you and many brothers who were in attendance as also being my Masonic forebears. Furthermore I wish to thank the other CPJ officers in attendance, High Priest Jeffrey Cox, Junior Warden Shane Bird and Master of Entrances Kevin Cobb. Finally, a hearty thanks to our Commander In Chief Leon Bulriss and 1st Lieutenant Commander Bill Toth for your participation and leadership as we enter further into our 2022 Fall Schedule. It is good to see us dwelling in unity with a teamwork in our Valley that honors our Scottish Rite ancestors. Regarding our Scottish Rite ancestry and to conclude, I wish to share a bit from the Francken Manuscript Ca. 1783 available through the Supreme Council Website NMJ. This now 239 year old Ms. states regarding the CPJ on pg. 459-460 that, « Knights of the East arrive to this high degree as by virtue of their Humility and Patience. A humility and patience that is first cultivated in our craft lodges and expounded upon in our CPJ where we learn to, « receive wages under the auspices of having, Yaverom Hamaim or Liberty to Pass « abbreviated as L:.D:.P:. on older aprons signifying Liberté de Passage in French. » It is elaborated that, This Liberty to Pass is not devoid of discipline but a result of great care and consideration. Therefore, we pass for as Knights we are charged and enact ourselves to love and adore G-d, hold Tradition to Honor, succor our brethren in Necessity, to anticipate their wants, receive with friendship strange brothers, and to visit the sick and comfort them etc. Therefore through our allegory and symbols in the CPJ we learn our liberty and freedom is not without responsibility and duty. In fall and times of harvest there are many traditions of giving thanks to our ancestors and sustenance. It is a time of reverence and what better way than giving our humble thanks and praise? Thank you Knights, our incoming class and greater Masonic family and as Fall concludes may we continue with a heart full of thanks and praise. Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA Sovereign Prince Lodge Hello Princes, Let me begin by thanking you brothers for the cards, wishes for healing and prayers following my recent surgery. I have been pretty much sidelined since October 17 which has come as a bit of a surprise to me thinking a week or two of healing would be sufficient but apparently this aging body had other plans! Alas as I write this article a whole month has slipped by without my having been engaged in Scottish Rite activities. Having said that I am very much looking forward to being with you all as have our holiday celebration with our ladies on December 12. For those of us who have parts in the 16° the second rehearsal is scheduled for December 19. As is always the case, the degree teaches important lessons for us. For those who can attend the Holliday luncheon on December 27 at Twin Trees lll is an excellent time for fellowship. Because I have been out of commission for a few weeks I am not quite sure if we have filled out the cast for the 11°. But there is still time as we won’t have a rehearsal until February 20. Until Next time Jeanne and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukkah. Fraternally, D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32° MSA Thrice Potent Master Hospitaler Greetings Brothers, Under sickness and distress, please keep the families of Ill. David E. Barnes, Harold Brown, George Casswell, Diana Toth, Jim Nelson, and Dave VanAuken in our thoughts and prayers. Illness and loss of loved ones is always difficult, but especially so with the holidays fast approaching. Shorter days and darker nights are here. Driving conditions are changing as well, so be safe out there in your travels. Please keep our Troops in mind over the holidays. Their sacrifice to keep us safe sometimes gets taken for granted. 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 ! Merry Christmas Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY It is so hard to believe that we are getting ready to enter 2023 and begin the second half of our 19 th year. The children continue to come (around flus and school functions) and the tutors are doing all the wonderful things they do. Everything at the Center goes as smoothly as any program can working around weather, health, children, families, schools, and schedules. All of these things are an almost daily part of our lives at the Center and we seem to keep everything afloat. This is largely due to a cohesive staff and the continued support of our Board and all of you. I wanted to let you know that Alyssa, Marianne and myself are all taking a Therapy Level training through Lexington that will ensure the Center has all the training and credentials to keep us current and certified as required. I have the Therapy status through another organization and will now have it through the CDC. You should know that all of the tutors at the Center work hard to keep current on their CEU’s (continuing education hours) and must achieve 30 CEU credits every three years. I myself have trained and recertified 6 times in the last 18 years. There are so many little details (many coordinated by Gineal) that must be considered in our day-to-day functioning (did you know that every tutor and staff member has to have a national background check every two years?). When you add in all the factors mentioned above, it is sometimes a wonder that we get it all done- but we do. We could not accomplish the day to day training and tutoring that is so beneficial to the children without the continued support of all of you and for that we are eternally grateful. Sending Thanks and wishing you all The Blessings of the season. Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 HAPPY HOLIDAYS!! The festive Holiday Season is upon us once again. The traditional greetings of “Merry Christmas, Happy New Year!” have given way to the now socially acceptable greeting “Happy Holidays!”. Whatever your preference, the Officers of Central City Bodies, and the staff at the Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Office extends their sincere Holiday Greetings to all who take the time to scan and read our Scottish Rite page each issue. To the leaders in the four Bodies of Scottish Rite in the Valley of Syracuse this year thank you for the support and assistance provided to your office staff. To all of our fellow Scottish Riters and Master Masons and their family members wherever you may be this Holiday Season; our prayers and thoughts are with you. May your travels all be safe. Please make certain to remember our Valley Members on Active Duty in the Military in your thoughts and prayers. On behalf of D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32º MSA Commander-In-Chief, Central City Consistory, Ded. B. Richard E. Barrett, 32º DSA, Most Wise Master, Central City Chapter Rose Croix, D. B. Caleb W. Haines, 32º MSA, HGA, Sovereign Prince, Central City Council Princes of Jerusalem, D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32º MSA, Thrice Potent Master, Central City Lodge of Perfection and your office staff; Mrs. Sharon Fox, Mrs. Sharon Swan, and Ill.·. James D. Swan, Jr., 33º, Valley of Syracuse Secretary, Happy Holidays; Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2022 HOLIDAY LUNCHEON The 2022 Holiday Luncheon will be held at Twin Trees III Restaurant in North Syracuse on Tuesday December 27th with an 11:45 AM Gathering Time and a Noon Serving Time. Due to COVID issues, there will be a restricted menu consisting of assorted pizzas, salad w/dressings, wings, soda & draft beer. Prepaid Reservations are required and must be sent to the office by December 20th. No Walk-Ins!!! Cost is $28.00 per person. Please send names along with payment for each to Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R., 648 Centerville Pl., North Syracuse, NY 13212-2366 Blue Envelope Appeal You recently received the annual “Blue Envelope Appeal” letter from Supreme Council requesting your annual contribution. I urge you to support this request. Any contribution you may make is significant. The number of members from a valley that contribute to the “Blue Envelope Appeal” directly impacts the dollar amounts allocated to the Valleys within each state for distribution to our scholars. The percentage of members from each Valley that contribute is key to distribution of the Abbott Scholarship Funds and to the Valley’s rankings in the Supreme Council “Valley of Excellence” ratings. Abbott Scholarships funded by Supreme Council, NMJ or a New York State Educational Financial Assistance Grant funded by the New York State Scottish Rite Charities Corporation are assisting the children and grandchildren of our current and deceased members. The Valley of Syracuse submitted financial aid requests for six students seeking financial aid to assist them pay for their education during the 2022-2023 year. All six of the students related to our Valley’s members that requested financial assistance are currently receiving Scottish Rite funded financial aid for the 2022 - 2023 academic year. These young people are our future. We thank you for your support. Jim Swan Valley Secretary 2023 – 2024 Scholarship Applications Available Applications to apply for 2023 – 2024 Academic Year Supreme Council, AASR Leon M. Abbott Scholarships and New York State Council of Deliberation Scholarship Aid are now available for online pick up at the Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Web Site. Go to the Valley of Syracuse Web site www.syr-aasr.org or the New York State Council of Deliberation Web site www.nyscottishritemasons.org for the links to obtain the information online. Applications received from a Scottish Rite Mason’s relatives are to be submitted thru the member’s Valley of membership. Application titled “2023 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 3, 2023. That means in the office by close of business Monday April 3, 2023. Applications received after 4:00 p.m. Monday April 3, 2023 will not be considered. New Applications must be used. The 2023 Leon M. Abbott Scholarship Application to be used. Graduating High School Seniors may apply again this year. The members of our Masonic Youth Groups; Triangle, Rainbow, and DeMolay; are eligible to apply for financial assistance. A masonic relationship is not required. Students who complete the program at the Children’s Dyslexia Centers in New York State may also apply. A masonic relationship is not required. Six applicants from the Valley of Syracuse received financial assistance from this program for the 2022-2023 scholastic year. Congratulations and best wishes to them. Please contact the Valley Office at (315) 452-7976 or adminny017@twcny.rr.com if you have any questions or require assistance and information. 2023 Member’s Dues Most of you have received the invoice for your 2023 Member’s Dues from Supreme Council by the date you read this article. A new Member’s Card replacing your old card is included in the envelope with the invoice. Please be prepared to present that card to the Sentinel or his assistant when you attend a Valley meeting. If you have not received both the 2023 Member’s Dues invoice and your 2023 Member’s Dues Card; please contact the Valley Office by calling 315-452-7976 immediately. If you have not paid your 2022 Member’s Dues to date; please do so. The Supreme Council implemented a new annual dues collection schedule in 2021. Remember, 2023 Member’s Dues are due to be paid by January 31, 2023 to be current for 2023. At the present time the Valley of Syracuse is owed more than $6,000.00 in arrears member’s dues dating from 2022 back to 2019 from its members. As a reminder to all members the Valley must pay $30.00 to Supreme Council and $6.00 to the New York Council of Deliberation for every member on its rolls effective June 15 each year. Money not paid prior to June 15 is paid to the Supreme Council from the GENERAL VALLEY FUNDS. If your 2021 Member’s Dues are not paid by January 31, 2023 your Scottish Rite membership can be suspended. This policy was suspended for two years due to COVID PANDEMIC but is now reinstated. By popular request the Valley office has initiated a “PayPal” payment account to assist our members desiring to pay their Member’s Dues or to make reservations for Valley Events by an alternate method other than by check or by credit card, or cash. Immediately contact the Valley of Syracuse office if you have a problem using this convenience. Please contact the Valley Office (315) 452-7976 if you have any questions regarding the status of your Member’s Dues. Here are photos from our Veterans RecognitionProgram on Monday, November14, 2022. Congratulations to all who were recognized and thanks to Linda Egnaczyk and Ill. Garry Visconti for the photos. Calendar
November 2022 Nov 07 AASR Trustees Meeting 6:15 p.m. / Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m. on “ZOOM” Nov 14 Veteran’s Recognition Night Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Nov 28 C-R-C & Consistory Degrees 7:30 p.m. 17° “Knight of East & West” Video & 32° “Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret” Video 32° Allegory & Knighting Ceremony Live Refreshments to follow December 2022 Dec 05 Executive Committee Zoom Meeting 7:00 p.m. Dec 12 Holiday Celebration With the Ladies Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m. Dec 27 (Tuesday) Holiday Luncheon @Twin Trees Restaurant 11:45 a.m. Consistory Greeting Brethren, when you read this article it will be November already and there will be less than four weeks until Thanksgiving Day. This is the beginning of a very busy month for our Valley. Before proceeding into the future I would regress back to the Council of Deliberation meeting in September. Saturday morning at C.O.D. a video presentation was given by Ill. J.B. McNaughton, with a live question and answer session on the Pathfinder Program by Ill. Richard J. Powell, 33°. Projected on a screen were questions pertaining to the Pathfinder Waypoints in the Organization section of our Pathfinder Field Book. We were able to answer this quiz by the use of a Kahoot! App on our smartphones. This demonstrated how the program worked and gave us a good start filling in our Pathfinder book. If you have not begun your Pathfinder Journey yet visit the Supreme Council Website and click on Pathfinder or join the Pathfinder Orientation Webinar available the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 P.M. On Saturday afternoon at C.O.D., names were announced of the 2023 Meritorious Service Award recipients. From the Valley of Syracuse was D.B. Caleb W. Haines, 32 Degree MSA, HGA and D.B. Henry R. Havener 32 Degree, MSA. When you see these two Brothers congratulate them on this prestigious and well deserved award. They will receive their certificates at the upcoming C.O.D. MSA Dinner on Saturday June 10, 2023. On the first day of October the Children’s Dyslexia Center of Central NY held their 18 th Annual Walk-A-Thon on the Eastern Star Campus in Oriskany. It was a beautiful sunny, brisk, Fall day, perfect for the event. Approximately 25 walkers participated in the 3K course with an equal number of supporters in the campus pavilion barbequing hot dogs and setting up a tempting bake sale table full of delicious goodies awaiting their return. Initial reports point toward this being the most successful Walk-A-Thon ever with $7300 having been received and more on the way. Thank you to all who attended and to all who donated. There were 29 pages, front and back, of donor sponsored ads published in the 18 th Annual Walk-A-Thon booklet. A special thank you to Steve and Jan Park and Craig and Kevin Cobb for all they do to assure the success of this event. This wraps up the last major Learning Center Fundraiser for 2022. Plans are currently in the works for GALA 2023 in March. On November 14 th the Consistory Body will be hosting Veterans Recognition Night. We will be honoring two Veterans; a Masonic Veteran and a Non- Masonic Veteran. Our Masonic Veteran will be Ded. Bro. George A. Laird III. Bro. Laird joined the Air Guard while still in high school. Later he transferred to the U.S. Air Force Reserves where he served for 25 years on inactive and active duty as a Flight Engineer on the C-119 and C-130 aircraft. He retired at the rank of MSgt. Our Non-Masonic honoree is Ms Sarah Stenuf a native of Syracuse who served 4 years in the U.S. Army as a 15R- Apache helicopter Crew Chief out of Fort drum and served in Afghanistan. She is the founder of the Veteran’s Ananda Inc. a non-profit company, homestead and retreat that provides free care for veterans. It is our honor to honor all our Veterans on this evening. November 28 th will be another important night to put on your calendar! We will be conferring the 17th & 32nd Degree Video with Live Knighting Ceremony. We have 14 Brothers who need their 32nd Degree. Please make every attempt to be there and show your support and welcome these new Sublime Princes into our Valley. A couple of years ago Mrs. Sharon Swan started a charity program for the Children’s Dyslexia Center. She began collecting “D” dollars. “D” for Dyslexia. What are “D” Dollars? If you look at the face of a dollar bill you will see a seal with a capital letter in it on the left side of George Washington. If that letter is a “D” you have discovered a “D” Dollar. Searching for these is fun, easy and a simple way to donate to a great Scottish Rite Charity. Join the “D” Dollar Collectors Club, save those “D” Dollars and give them to Sharon the next time you see her. She will make sure they get to the Children’s Dyslexia Center of Central NY in Oriskany. It’s that easy! Thank you, from all the kids at the Learning Center. With all that is going on during November we cannot forget one of the most important Family Days of the year, Thanksgiving. As we join atour family gathering in anticipation of the Thanksgiving Feast on the table before us, let us reflect on all that we have to be thankful for and also on those who have little. Especially those of the Ukraine who have seen their country, their families and their lives destroyed before the very eyes in the last year. Think about our men and women serving in our armed forces that can’t be home with their families. Think about what a Blessing it is to live in the United States of America. And- Don’t Forget to Vote! This is a right and a privilege we must never take for granted! Think about all those in other countries that do not have this right. Your vote does count! Amen Have a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving Day! Fraternally, D.B. Leon A. Bulriss, 32° MSA Commander in Chief Chapter Greetings, Princes: I am again writing this month’s column, due to our continuing Most Wise Master, Bro. Richard E. Barrett illness. He had a procedure last month and came out well. We wish him a complete and prompt recovery and hope to see him back in his Master’s chair, very soon. In September we had the COD, attended by our MWGM Kessel and several Grand Lodge officers, as well as by our New York State Scottish Rite officers. COD, a very interesting event, and it is also a great opportunity to meet Scottish Ritters from other New York Valleys. In the COD, I contacted the Secretaries of the Rochester and Buffalo Valleys, and found out they are offering the 28 th Degree at Corning (10/19/22), and the 21 st at Buffalo (01/20/23).If anyone is interested in carpooling (some Degrees we must take elsewhere), please let me know. In October I presented a talk on the differences between York and Scottish rituals, given in New York and the Hispanic Caribbean (Cuba, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico). In my Mentor column is a summary. The 4th and 14th Degrees were Conferred on October 10th . And on November 28th , the 17th and 32nd Degrees will also be Conferred. All Bodies are summoned for this important event. Our Chapter is in charge of presenting the 17th and 18th Degrees, as well as the Feast of the Paschal Lamb (in April). We need volunteers, to start planning for these events as well as for actively participating in them. This is especially important for the newer Scottish Ritters. Please, keep our military, service personnel, and our country in your prayers. Keep safe. Fraternally, Jorge Luis Romeu Senior Warden. Council Valiant Princes, I hope you all are doing well and had an enjoyable time at the Council of Deliberation. I wish to remind you again that this year the 16th degree will be conferred after the 15th degree video on Jan 30th of 2023. If any of you are interested in taking part in the 16th degree please contact cast director and Senior Warden Mike Miller before the rehearsals scheduled for Oct. 24th and Dec. 19th of 2022. To our Valley of Syracuse members, I hope to see you as your cable-tow permits. If you find it difficult to attend in person consider online participation to see degrees during the upcoming Thursday Night at the Rite season, updating your member profile if necessary or enrolling in the Hauts Grades Academy classes via https://scottishritenmj.org Furthermore, consider participating in the Pathfinder Program as your time permits to inculcate and apply the moral lessons so revered by our Scottish Rite in your civic and familial life recently fostered by the NMJ and the Excelsior initiative. You may also wish to visit the NY Scottish Rite website and view some of the Excelsior videos at: www.nyscottishritemasons.org The Scottish Rite has a rich history and is a great value for those who participate and the Council Princes of Jerusalem have always held a special place. In the olden times per the Constitutions of 1762 under Statutes, Regulations, Duties and Privileges per article IV , “A Council of Princes of Jerusalem is styled Council of the Very Valiant and Very Illustrious Princes.” Per article V, “The rights of the Princes of Jerusalem have been granted them as a reward for the services rendered by them to the people of Jerusalem, for their profound knowledge and the obligations under which they laid Masonry, they are deservedly the equals of the great Prince Zorobabel, of the race of David.” To this day we still commemorate the rebuilding of the Second Temple and the return from Babylon. As Masonry is a peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols there is much to be learned in the CPJ. Until we meet again, may the G:.A:.O:.T:.U:. continue to grant peace and blessings to you, our Sovereign Grand Commander, the NMJ, our Country and our Men and Women of service. Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA Sovereign Prince Lodge Happy Autumn Princes! Morning temperatures are crisp, folks are taking foliage drives in the Adirondacks and the Lodge of Perfection is beginning its season of presenting degrees to our new candidates. Our first degrees will be the 4° and 14° on October 10. The first will be a video and Gary Hartman has put together a great team to present the 14°. A planning meeting was held on September 26 for the portrayal of 11° which has not been presented since 2009. Many of the brothers who portrayed the characters in this very meaningful degree have laid down their working tools and others are now residents of care facilities. Discussion centered around inviting our newest members to take up the mantle as a way to learn the way to present the valuable lessons of the degrees of Scottish Rite Masonry. It was exciting to see the enthusiasm of the new Princes at the meeting. Many Of the roles for the degree have been filled but there are still some excellent parts available to get you started if you’re new to Scottish Rite Masonry. Soon Dr. Tim Page and I will be calling our newest brothers to talk about this degree and others that might be of interest to you. Please consider joining us “on stage” this year as the Lodge of Perfection teaches the tenets of Masonry “making good men better.” Fraternally, D.B. Stephen G. Maddox, 32° MSA Thrice Potent Master Hospitaler Greetings Brothers & Sisters, Under sickness and distress, please keep the families of Ill. David E. Barnes and Leon Bulriss in our thoughts and prayers. Along with that, Brothers Gary Kall and George Laird, I am sure would enjoy a card or a call, as it has been a while since our last update. You can get the mailing addresses from Sharon at the office. Happy to report that Bill and Diana Toth did return safely from their Alaskan adventure. Veterans Day is coming up and I ask that we remember all that have served both passed and present. The Grand Masters wife Joanne Kessler, had pins made to bring attention to “The Battle Within” to address the suicides of many of our Veterans. Hunting season will be opening soon….Please stay safe in the woods, and remember you are a year older now ! 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 ! Happy Thanksgiving everyone Dick Freeman – 315-837-4962 freeman1574@frontier.com Welcome to My World Notes from the Children’s Dyslexia Center CNY Here we are, year 19 is beginning..I would be interested to know how many of you have been with us throughout this whole journey. And what a journey it has been! Those of you who were able to join on the Friday of COD are aware that we have had almost 200 children begin services at the CNY Center. To date 163 children have completed the program and we have 17 children attending this year. Sadly, one of our Practitioner Scholars had to withdraw at the last minute but fortunately there are children who remained in jeopardy of losing their slot. We continue to be extremely grateful for all of the fund-raising efforts on the part of the Scottish Rite. Your generosity and hospitality afforded Cameron and her family at COD, the support of the Golf Tourney (with a lot of fun thrown in) and the Walk-a-Thon mean more than you could ever know. The little things really add up- (Think D-Dollars- if you don’t know what that is, ask around). Some one of our families responded to our plea for support in the way of office and tutoring supplies with anonymous donations that have been arriving. Not only helpful but adding a bright spot to the day! So- here we are again, off and running toward the goal of helping more children achieve their goal of reading and succeeding and We Thank You for Your Continued Interest and Support of The Children’s Dyslexia Center Central New York-Without you- We would not Be! Linda L. Martin, Director Email- lmartin@cdcinc.org Phone- (315) 736-0574 Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY PO Box 638 Oriskany, NY 13424 Happy Thanksgiving Family Celebrations are important to all of us. Thanksgiving is a festive time for Families to gather together to give thanks and blessings for the bounty we all enjoy. Many college students are home for their first break from studies. Parents and Grandparents gather around the “Harvest Table” with their families for the traditional Thanksgiving Feast. The Valley Office Staff, on behalf of all Officers and Members of Central City Bodies A.A.S.R., Valley of Syracuse wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. May peace and goodwill be the toast of this special Day. Please take care when you travel to be with your families and have a safe Holiday. Happy Thanksgiving to all, Sharon Fox Sharon Swan Jim Swan Thursday Night at the Rite Announcement Responding to your recent questions, Supreme Council recently announced the fourth season of Thursday Night at the Rite Programming will returns in January 2023. Your next issue of the “Northern Light” magazine will feature the full schedule of programming and degrees to be shown. The schedule will be on the back cover page of the magazine. Please contact the Valley office if you have questions. (315) 452-7976 Syracuse Meritorious Service Award Recipients for 2022-2023 Congratulations to Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite members Caleb W. Haines, 32° HGA and Henry R. Havener, 32° elected Saturday September 24, 2022 recipients of the New York State Meritorious Service Award at the 2023 New York A.A.S.R. Council of Deliberation Executive Session in Syracuse, NY June 10, 2023 in recognition of your dedicated service to the Valley of Syracuse and to Scottish Rite Freemasonry. To Caleb and Hank; your Brothers and peers in the Valley of Syracuse and across New York State are very happy to receive notification of your being elected New York State MSA Award Recipients at the 2022 COD Executive Session. Effective with your election you are now Distinguished Brothers in the Valley of Syracuse and will receive your symbolic Red MSA Cap in the near future. Supreme Council Honors: D.B.’s Leon A. Bulriss, Garret A. Wikoff and Terry A. Byard Congratulations to Distinguished Brothers Leon A. Bulriss, Garret A. Wikoff, and Terry A. Byard. These members of the Valley of Syracuse were elected at the 2022 Supreme Council Executive Session to be coroneted Sovereign Grand Inspectors General, 33° Scottish Rite Masons and Honorary Members of Supreme Council, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, United States of America in 2023 at the Supreme Council Session scheduled in Louisville, KY August 29, 2023. They will join Distinguished Brother William H. Toth, II, elected in 2021 for the ceremonies. Please offer all of these very deserving Scottish Rite Bill your congratulations. It was also announced that the registration information for the 2023 Supreme Council Session will be coming to all 33° Honorary Members via e-mail in 2023. Anyone needing assistance may contact the Valley office. I suggest any Scottish Rite Mason who is not a 33° Honorary Member who is planning to travel to Louisville, KY for the 2023 Session contact the Valley of Syracuse office or go on line at Supreme Council after April 1, 2023 for information. James D. Swan, Jr. Valley Secretary Annual 3K Walk raises over $7,000 Children’s Dyslexia Center-Central New York’s 3 K Annual Walk to Help Children with Dyslexia raised Over $7,000 on Saturday, October 1 at the Center’s location at the Eastern Star Home and Campus in Oriskany, New York. Each year the walk is held during Dyslexia month, the first Saturday in October, as a fundraising event to operate the center. A hotdog roast, compliments of Stewarts Shops, a bake sale and bottle drive followed the event. Central New York thanks the following businesses and organizations who helped make this venture so successful: From the North Country: BJ Queen Enterprises, DiOrio’s IGA, Forge Motel, Old Forge Liquor Cigars & Sundries, Herron Reality. Helmer’s Fuel, ADK Homes, Kurt Garner photography Gallery, Walt’s Diner. The Village Square, The Steak House, Raquette Lake Supply, Old Forge Hardware. Cristy’s Motel, Dr. Douglas Thayer, Smith Marine. Gallery 3040, Strand Theatre, Dewey Old Forge Chapter #449 OES, and North Woods Lodge #849 F&AM, Abenaque Chapter 745 OES. From Central New York area: The Marketing Firm, Stewarts Shops. Eastern Star Home, Eastern Star Daycare Center Inc., Microwave Filter Company, Inc., Miles B. Marshall, Inc. & M. Burton Marshall Insurance, Matthew S. Wallace D.D.S., Speedy Awards, Pro Auto Shop, Arlott Office Products, Tanner Insurance, Manning & Napier Foundation, Valley of Utica (Yahnundasis Bodies AASR), Valley of Syracuse, AASR, Oneida Chapter #57 Royal Arch Masons, Rotica Council #12, Sconondoa Sherrill Lodge 814 F&AM, Oriental Faxton Lodge #224 F&AM, Tritown Lodge #472 F&AM , Utica 47 F&AM , Roman-Hatheway Lodge #150 F&AM, Fayetteville Central City Lodge #305 F&AM, Tigris Shrine Clowns, Memorial Lodge #648 F&AM, Oneida County Masonic Association, Valley of Syracuse 33rd Club, AASR and Mohawk Valley 33rd Club, AASR. Attention Members You will read information articles from each body in the Valley of Syracuse in the WORD this year. There are other changes coming in the forms of communication we use to communicate with everyone. Traditionally you have received e-mail notifications and snail mailed meeting and event notices for each event and meeting from the Valley office. Meeting the changing times and requests to modernize our communications links a new digital information system using the Supreme Council’s J365 communications network to further communicate with our members is coming from Supreme Council in the near future. As mentioned in other notices sent from the Valley Office in the past month we now have a PAYPAL account set up allowing you to make reservations for and pay for events online. More information is coming to you as we implement this service. Many of you will receive email messages direct from Supreme Council as they implement their new communications module. Remember you can go on line using “Mynmj.org”, enter your member number and password you provide and search thru and change your personal member records. This can be done anytime by you. There are certain fields in this information that only you can change. Many of these changes are as new to me as they are to you. I will assist you where I can and will arrange for assistance from the Supreme Council Support team when I cannot answer your questions. Thursday Night at the Rite returns first quarter 2023 with more new subjects being Presented. Scottish Rite communications improvements continue to come on line each month. Fraternally, Jim Swan Valley Secretary 2023 Member’s Dues Most of you have received the invoice for your 2023 Member’s Dues from Supreme Council by the date you read this article. A new Member’s Card replacing your old card is included in the envelope with the invoice. Please be prepared to present that card to the Sentinel or his assistant when you attend a Valley meeting. If you have not received both the 2023 Member’s Dues invoice and your 2023 Member’s Dues Card; please contact the Valley Office by calling 315-452-7976 immediately. If you have not paid your 2022 Member’s Dues to date; please do so. The Supreme Council implemented a new annual dues collection schedule in 2021. Remember, 2023 Member’s Dues are due to be paid by January 31, 2023 to be current for 2023. At the present time the Valley of Syracuse is owed more than $6,000.00 in arrears member’s dues dating from 2022 back to 2019 from its members. As a reminder to all members the Valley must pay $30.00 to Supreme Council and $6.00 to the New York Council of Deliberation for every member on its rolls effective June 15 each year. Money not paid prior to June 15 is paid to the Supreme Council from the GENERAL VALLEY FUNDS. If your 2021 Member’s Dues are not paid by January 31, 2023 your Scottish Rite membership can be suspended. This policy was suspended for two years due to COVID PANDEMIC but is now reinstated. By popular request the Valley office has initiated a “PayPal” payment account to assist our members desiring to pay their Member’s Dues or to make reservations for Valley Events by an alternate method other than by check or by credit card, or cash. Immediately contact the Valley of Syracuse office if you have a problem using this convenience. Please contact the Valley Office (315) 452-7976 if you have any questions regarding the status of your Member’s Dues. |
