PLEASE READ - Constant Contact
The Valley of Syracuse is beginning to use Constant Contact as a primary mode of contact to our members. Please keep an eye out for these emails and if they go to your spam or trash folder, please change its status to not spam and send to your inbox. Unsubscribing will mean that you will not be getting information from the Valley so please do not unsubscribe! We are beginning to send out emails already so please be on the lookout for them.
The Valley of Syracuse is beginning to use Constant Contact as a primary mode of contact to our members. Please keep an eye out for these emails and if they go to your spam or trash folder, please change its status to not spam and send to your inbox. Unsubscribing will mean that you will not be getting information from the Valley so please do not unsubscribe! We are beginning to send out emails already so please be on the lookout for them.
Calendar
September 2025
Sep 08 Fall New Members Recruiting Event
Museum Program Annual Fall Kick-off Event
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m./ Program 7:30 p.m.
Sep 13 White Hats Presentation Event
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Sep 15 Officer’s Meeting/Training 7:30 p.m.
Install remaining 2025-2026 Officers, Training & Information
Sep 29 Confer 4° “Builder” (V) & 11° “Sublime Master Elected” (L) 7:30 p.m.
Refreshments to follow
October 2025
Oct 6 Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Oct 13 Feast of Tishri
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Oct 20 Awards and Recognition Event
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Oct 28 Confer 15° “Knight of the East” & 16° “Prince of Jerusalem” 7:30 p.m.
Consistory
Greetings Princes, I hope that the summer has treated you and your Family well and you have had much time to relax and reflect. I know I have. Being elected to serve you as your Commander in Chief has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Humbly, I have reflected on the enormous amount of responsibility as well as the skill and passion of those who have gone this way before me. My predecessor, Ill. Bill Toth has done an amazing job leading the Valley during a time of the deep personal loss in the passing of his wife. The Craft and our Valley in particular owes an incredible debt of gratitude to Bill for his unwavering dedication and leadership in New York Masonry. Every time Bill made a commentary on a Degree or the opening of a session he would skillfully add lessons derived from history or one of our core values. Every time I heard him speak I was inspired to serve our Craft to the best of my ability and continue to work on becoming a better Man. I have also been deeply inspired by all those who have stepped up to Lead in our Valley. I have tried hard to learn from them to hone my leadership skills. It is comforting to know they all will continue to serve our Valley with the same dedication.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the service of Ill. Jim Swan and his Lady Sharon. As I have served in several Leadership positions in the Valley I have watched and been amazed at their untiring dedication and service to the operations of the Valley and service to our members. They are truly the heart of the Valleys success and have their hands in ensuring everything we do is top
notch. As they grow into the twilight of their service I am asking all of the elected and appointed Leaders as well as our members to honor their legacy by making your duties and responsibilities in the Valley a priority in your already busy lives.
To the current Leadership team, you have been elected or appointed to serve the Valley and our members. On September 13th at 7:30pm we will conduct officer training to outline your duties and responsibilities, and I am hoping and expecting you to take them seriously to honor them who have given so much of their lives to the success of our Valley and ensure we can continue our great work well into our future.
Speaking of great Masonic leadership, I am very proud to announce I have asked R.W. Mark Loughran, Senior Grand Warden to be our 2026 Class Sponsor and am very excited he agreed to the task.
Family is important to me. I believe if we are to continue our successes in today’s volatile world, family must be included in some of our works. That is why I have decided to add spouses to our September 8th Kick off and New Members Night. I have asked the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library from Lexington, MA to come to the Valley to give a presentation of a few Historic Masonic Aprons and Jewels specific to New York Masonry. As usual we will have dinner beforehand. I would ask all of you to mark your calendars and plan on coming with your spouse along with a Master Mason and his spouse who may be interested in joining our successful Valley. Social at 6:00pm, Dinner at 6:30pm and program at 7:30pm.
Also, in September we will host a Pathfinder program beginning at 7:30pm and will have a Lodge of Perfection conferral of the 4 th Degree by Video and a Live conferral of the 11th Degree starting at 7:30. I hope you will all come out to support these great programs.
I would also like to note in advance on April 11 th 2026 the New York Valleys are planning on a 6 Live Degree Festival to be held in Utica. Valley of Rochester will confer the 4 th Degree; Valley of Syracuse will confer the 14th Degree; Valley of Utica will confer the 16th Degree; Valley of Buffalo will confer the 18 th Degree; the Valley of Binghamton will confer the19th Degree; and all the Valleys will work together to confer the 32nd Degree. This will be a historic event I’m sure you will not want to miss.
I’m looking forward to having a truly successful 2026 season for the Valley although we face many challenges such as diminishing funds to support the CDC; decreasing Members, and financial difficulties. I am confident if we work together as a team for our beloved Valley we can succeed.
As a final note for this first “Word” article, as a way of reducing costs we will be switching from “Word” to “Constant Contact’ digital (Email) articles. Not only will this save us money the articles will be more timely. We hope our members will understand and accept this change to benefit its members and the Valley. The articles will be sent both by “Word” and “Constant Contact” until the “Word” subscription runs out.
Thank you and let’s work together!!
Ill. Terry A. Byard, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief
Chapter
No News Received…
Richard G. Fifield, 32°
Most Wise Master.
Council
I am asked frequently “why Scottish Rite”? My answer is always the same, family.Before I joined I was invited to two Scottish Rite events. The Mets game and the Family Picnic. After attending those events I knew I wanted to be part of this organization.
Without being a member and not really knowing anyone there, my wife and I left both events feeling like we knew everyone for years.
Fast forward just over 3 years later and I am starting my year as Sovereign Prince of the Council Princes of Jerusalem. It is an honor to be able to be leading this line and I am looking forward to great things to come with both CPOJ and Scottish Rite.
We will be putting on both the 15° and 16° with the 16° being a live presentation. It’s always a good time to be a Scottish Rote Mason.
Joel T. Scarson, 32°
Sovereign Prince
Lodge
Greetings brothers! Welcome back from what I hope was an amazing summer filled with family, friends, and relaxation. Looking back, I want to thank those who put together the baseball game night. My family and I had an amazing time and the fireworks were wonderful! If you did not come to this event this year, I highly recommend that you do next year.
Further, just to touch on a couple of upcoming events, on September 8 th we have the new members’ dinner/meeting. As mentioned, and per the emails in early summer on September 15th we are doing the officers’ install night, part 2. ALL who did not get installed in May must attend this meeting to be installed and capable of holding your office. Our degree night for the 4th and LIVE 11th degree is on September 29th . This is an amazing degree, one we have put much work into building up to.
Welcome to Fall brothers and be well!!
Sincerely & Fraternally,
Eric Driscoll, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master
Hospitaler
Well I hope everyone had a great summer. But the sad news is that we need to keep the families of our recently departed Brothers, Kevin W. Dix (7/19/2025), Stephen Gates (5/21/2025) and James Cotey (6/18/2025), in our prayers during this time of sorrow.
Brother and families in need of prayer are Joel Scarson - Wife, Heather CHEMO Treatments, and Brother Harvey Eysman, Esq is having many health issues. Brother Robert Kline who was in the hospital for an extended stay, Elderwood for rehab and is now recovering at home, Brother Doug Story is now residing at Pounder Hall at the OES Home in Oriskany after several stays in the hospital for surgery and at the Masonic Care Community for rehab. He has had heart and other health related issues. Ill. Lynwood Bennerson had Knee replacement surgery and Brother Hank Havener had knee surgery in July and is recovering at home. Plus, we need to keep Ill Sandy Samson in our prayers as he continues to have health problems.
We have lost contact with Brother John E. Congdon last known address is Hannibal, NY in Oswego District. If anyone has any information on him please notify the Valley Office.
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
Our Practitioner (Initial Level) Training is off to a strong start — we’ve met four times so far, and our trainees are diving deep into the skills and strategies that change lives. Pre-assessments for incoming students are underway, and we’re excited to welcome families to our Parent Meeting. Tutoring officially begins September 22, and we can’t wait to see our students’ progress unfold this year!
Looking Ahead: October is Dyslexia Awareness Month
Mark your calendars for our annual Walkathon: Taking Steps Against Dyslexia on October 4. This is a great way to raise awareness, build community, and support the important work we do. Visit our website for details on how to register, donate, or volunteer.
Together, we’re making each step count — toward understanding, inclusion, and literacy for all.
Marianne Jones, Director
Email: [email protected]
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424
Fall Membership Event
Central City Bodies, AASR, Valley of Syracuse is welcoming Staff Members from the Scottish Rite Museum in Lexington, MA Monday evening September 8, 2025 to present a program with emphasis on the history of Masonic aprons worn by Master Masons in the State of New York from Colonial times to present. A display of several antique aprons for all to admire are planned. Each apron has its own very interesting and sometimes humorous history
Master Masons who are not Scottish Rite Members are invited to attend this event as guests of the Valley. This is a new member recruiting event. Information and petitions to join the Valley of Syracuse will be available. Initiation fee is $160.00 paying your 2026 Member’s Dues.
Fall Scottish Rite degree conferrals starting with the 4th and 11th degrees commence Monday evening September 29, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Memorial Center in North Syracuse. The next 32 nd degree conferral completing your Scottish Rite Membership journey is scheduled for April 11, 2026.
The cost for a steak dinner and the program is $20.00 per person for all others including the ladies attending. Dress for this event is business casual dress; Slacks and polo style shirt; no jeans. Ties and jackets are not required for the men. Ladies casual slacks; skirts and dresses not
needed.
Reservations are required to the Valley Office by September 3, 2025; e-mail or phone to
(315) 452-7976
Jim Swan
Valley Secretary
White Hat Dinner Saturday September 13, 2025
Illustrious Brothers James A. Nelson, Avery D. Wheelock, and Richard P. Freeman were Coroneted Sovereign Grand Inspectors General 33º Scottish Rite Masons and Honorary Members of Supreme Council, 33º Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, United States of America at the 2025 Supreme Council, 33º Annual Session in Indianapolis, IN Tuesday August 26, 2025
On Saturday Evening, September 13, 2025, Central City Bodies, AASR, Valley of Syracuse will honor these three members at the Masonic Memorial Center in North Syracuse with social time
at 6:00 p.m., Roasted Turkey Breast dinner at 6:30 p.m. and White Hat presentation
ceremonies at 7:30 p.m.
This is a public event open to all who wish to attend. Cost of the event is $20.00 per person. Reservations made to the Valley of Syracuse Office are required by September 9, 2025 by phone (315) 452-7976 or email sls@[email protected]
Please confirm with the office if you have any food allergy issues or concerns.
Dress code for the event:
Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Officers: Tuxedo, hat & Jewels
33º Honorary and Active Members: Tails w/ white tie, hat & jewels.
Other gentlemen: suit with shirt and tie; all with hats and jewels.
All ladies: smart business dress or formal if desired.
2026 Member’s Annual Dues Notices
By the time you receive the September WORD you will have received your 2026 Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Member’s Annual Dues Notice mailed direct to you from Supreme Council. There is a dues amount increase for 2026 as result of the four years annual Member’s Dues increase plan approved in 2023 and an increase in the Annual per member Supreme Council Member Assessment ($30.00 to $35.00) and NY Council of Deliberation Annual Members Assessment. ($6.00 to $8.00). Please pay your 2026 Member’s Dues prior to January 31, 2026.
Please contact the Valley office if you have any questions (315) 452-7976 about your
invoice.
September 2025
Sep 08 Fall New Members Recruiting Event
Museum Program Annual Fall Kick-off Event
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m./ Program 7:30 p.m.
Sep 13 White Hats Presentation Event
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Sep 15 Officer’s Meeting/Training 7:30 p.m.
Install remaining 2025-2026 Officers, Training & Information
Sep 29 Confer 4° “Builder” (V) & 11° “Sublime Master Elected” (L) 7:30 p.m.
Refreshments to follow
October 2025
Oct 6 Executive Committee Meeting 7:00 p.m.
Oct 13 Feast of Tishri
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Oct 20 Awards and Recognition Event
Social 6:00 p.m. / Dinner 6:30 p.m. / Program 7:30 p.m.
Oct 28 Confer 15° “Knight of the East” & 16° “Prince of Jerusalem” 7:30 p.m.
Consistory
Greetings Princes, I hope that the summer has treated you and your Family well and you have had much time to relax and reflect. I know I have. Being elected to serve you as your Commander in Chief has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Humbly, I have reflected on the enormous amount of responsibility as well as the skill and passion of those who have gone this way before me. My predecessor, Ill. Bill Toth has done an amazing job leading the Valley during a time of the deep personal loss in the passing of his wife. The Craft and our Valley in particular owes an incredible debt of gratitude to Bill for his unwavering dedication and leadership in New York Masonry. Every time Bill made a commentary on a Degree or the opening of a session he would skillfully add lessons derived from history or one of our core values. Every time I heard him speak I was inspired to serve our Craft to the best of my ability and continue to work on becoming a better Man. I have also been deeply inspired by all those who have stepped up to Lead in our Valley. I have tried hard to learn from them to hone my leadership skills. It is comforting to know they all will continue to serve our Valley with the same dedication.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the service of Ill. Jim Swan and his Lady Sharon. As I have served in several Leadership positions in the Valley I have watched and been amazed at their untiring dedication and service to the operations of the Valley and service to our members. They are truly the heart of the Valleys success and have their hands in ensuring everything we do is top
notch. As they grow into the twilight of their service I am asking all of the elected and appointed Leaders as well as our members to honor their legacy by making your duties and responsibilities in the Valley a priority in your already busy lives.
To the current Leadership team, you have been elected or appointed to serve the Valley and our members. On September 13th at 7:30pm we will conduct officer training to outline your duties and responsibilities, and I am hoping and expecting you to take them seriously to honor them who have given so much of their lives to the success of our Valley and ensure we can continue our great work well into our future.
Speaking of great Masonic leadership, I am very proud to announce I have asked R.W. Mark Loughran, Senior Grand Warden to be our 2026 Class Sponsor and am very excited he agreed to the task.
Family is important to me. I believe if we are to continue our successes in today’s volatile world, family must be included in some of our works. That is why I have decided to add spouses to our September 8th Kick off and New Members Night. I have asked the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library from Lexington, MA to come to the Valley to give a presentation of a few Historic Masonic Aprons and Jewels specific to New York Masonry. As usual we will have dinner beforehand. I would ask all of you to mark your calendars and plan on coming with your spouse along with a Master Mason and his spouse who may be interested in joining our successful Valley. Social at 6:00pm, Dinner at 6:30pm and program at 7:30pm.
Also, in September we will host a Pathfinder program beginning at 7:30pm and will have a Lodge of Perfection conferral of the 4 th Degree by Video and a Live conferral of the 11th Degree starting at 7:30. I hope you will all come out to support these great programs.
I would also like to note in advance on April 11 th 2026 the New York Valleys are planning on a 6 Live Degree Festival to be held in Utica. Valley of Rochester will confer the 4 th Degree; Valley of Syracuse will confer the 14th Degree; Valley of Utica will confer the 16th Degree; Valley of Buffalo will confer the 18 th Degree; the Valley of Binghamton will confer the19th Degree; and all the Valleys will work together to confer the 32nd Degree. This will be a historic event I’m sure you will not want to miss.
I’m looking forward to having a truly successful 2026 season for the Valley although we face many challenges such as diminishing funds to support the CDC; decreasing Members, and financial difficulties. I am confident if we work together as a team for our beloved Valley we can succeed.
As a final note for this first “Word” article, as a way of reducing costs we will be switching from “Word” to “Constant Contact’ digital (Email) articles. Not only will this save us money the articles will be more timely. We hope our members will understand and accept this change to benefit its members and the Valley. The articles will be sent both by “Word” and “Constant Contact” until the “Word” subscription runs out.
Thank you and let’s work together!!
Ill. Terry A. Byard, 33° MSA
Commander in Chief
Chapter
No News Received…
Richard G. Fifield, 32°
Most Wise Master.
Council
I am asked frequently “why Scottish Rite”? My answer is always the same, family.Before I joined I was invited to two Scottish Rite events. The Mets game and the Family Picnic. After attending those events I knew I wanted to be part of this organization.
Without being a member and not really knowing anyone there, my wife and I left both events feeling like we knew everyone for years.
Fast forward just over 3 years later and I am starting my year as Sovereign Prince of the Council Princes of Jerusalem. It is an honor to be able to be leading this line and I am looking forward to great things to come with both CPOJ and Scottish Rite.
We will be putting on both the 15° and 16° with the 16° being a live presentation. It’s always a good time to be a Scottish Rote Mason.
Joel T. Scarson, 32°
Sovereign Prince
Lodge
Greetings brothers! Welcome back from what I hope was an amazing summer filled with family, friends, and relaxation. Looking back, I want to thank those who put together the baseball game night. My family and I had an amazing time and the fireworks were wonderful! If you did not come to this event this year, I highly recommend that you do next year.
Further, just to touch on a couple of upcoming events, on September 8 th we have the new members’ dinner/meeting. As mentioned, and per the emails in early summer on September 15th we are doing the officers’ install night, part 2. ALL who did not get installed in May must attend this meeting to be installed and capable of holding your office. Our degree night for the 4th and LIVE 11th degree is on September 29th . This is an amazing degree, one we have put much work into building up to.
Welcome to Fall brothers and be well!!
Sincerely & Fraternally,
Eric Driscoll, 32° DSA
Thrice Potent Master
Hospitaler
Well I hope everyone had a great summer. But the sad news is that we need to keep the families of our recently departed Brothers, Kevin W. Dix (7/19/2025), Stephen Gates (5/21/2025) and James Cotey (6/18/2025), in our prayers during this time of sorrow.
Brother and families in need of prayer are Joel Scarson - Wife, Heather CHEMO Treatments, and Brother Harvey Eysman, Esq is having many health issues. Brother Robert Kline who was in the hospital for an extended stay, Elderwood for rehab and is now recovering at home, Brother Doug Story is now residing at Pounder Hall at the OES Home in Oriskany after several stays in the hospital for surgery and at the Masonic Care Community for rehab. He has had heart and other health related issues. Ill. Lynwood Bennerson had Knee replacement surgery and Brother Hank Havener had knee surgery in July and is recovering at home. Plus, we need to keep Ill Sandy Samson in our prayers as he continues to have health problems.
We have lost contact with Brother John E. Congdon last known address is Hannibal, NY in Oswego District. If anyone has any information on him please notify the Valley Office.
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
Our Practitioner (Initial Level) Training is off to a strong start — we’ve met four times so far, and our trainees are diving deep into the skills and strategies that change lives. Pre-assessments for incoming students are underway, and we’re excited to welcome families to our Parent Meeting. Tutoring officially begins September 22, and we can’t wait to see our students’ progress unfold this year!
Looking Ahead: October is Dyslexia Awareness Month
Mark your calendars for our annual Walkathon: Taking Steps Against Dyslexia on October 4. This is a great way to raise awareness, build community, and support the important work we do. Visit our website for details on how to register, donate, or volunteer.
Together, we’re making each step count — toward understanding, inclusion, and literacy for all.
Marianne Jones, Director
Email: [email protected]
Mail- Children’s Dyslexia Center- CNY
PO Box 638
Oriskany, NY 13424
Fall Membership Event
Central City Bodies, AASR, Valley of Syracuse is welcoming Staff Members from the Scottish Rite Museum in Lexington, MA Monday evening September 8, 2025 to present a program with emphasis on the history of Masonic aprons worn by Master Masons in the State of New York from Colonial times to present. A display of several antique aprons for all to admire are planned. Each apron has its own very interesting and sometimes humorous history
Master Masons who are not Scottish Rite Members are invited to attend this event as guests of the Valley. This is a new member recruiting event. Information and petitions to join the Valley of Syracuse will be available. Initiation fee is $160.00 paying your 2026 Member’s Dues.
Fall Scottish Rite degree conferrals starting with the 4th and 11th degrees commence Monday evening September 29, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. at the Masonic Memorial Center in North Syracuse. The next 32 nd degree conferral completing your Scottish Rite Membership journey is scheduled for April 11, 2026.
The cost for a steak dinner and the program is $20.00 per person for all others including the ladies attending. Dress for this event is business casual dress; Slacks and polo style shirt; no jeans. Ties and jackets are not required for the men. Ladies casual slacks; skirts and dresses not
needed.
Reservations are required to the Valley Office by September 3, 2025; e-mail or phone to
(315) 452-7976
Jim Swan
Valley Secretary
White Hat Dinner Saturday September 13, 2025
Illustrious Brothers James A. Nelson, Avery D. Wheelock, and Richard P. Freeman were Coroneted Sovereign Grand Inspectors General 33º Scottish Rite Masons and Honorary Members of Supreme Council, 33º Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, United States of America at the 2025 Supreme Council, 33º Annual Session in Indianapolis, IN Tuesday August 26, 2025
On Saturday Evening, September 13, 2025, Central City Bodies, AASR, Valley of Syracuse will honor these three members at the Masonic Memorial Center in North Syracuse with social time
at 6:00 p.m., Roasted Turkey Breast dinner at 6:30 p.m. and White Hat presentation
ceremonies at 7:30 p.m.
This is a public event open to all who wish to attend. Cost of the event is $20.00 per person. Reservations made to the Valley of Syracuse Office are required by September 9, 2025 by phone (315) 452-7976 or email sls@[email protected]
Please confirm with the office if you have any food allergy issues or concerns.
Dress code for the event:
Valley of Syracuse Scottish Rite Officers: Tuxedo, hat & Jewels
33º Honorary and Active Members: Tails w/ white tie, hat & jewels.
Other gentlemen: suit with shirt and tie; all with hats and jewels.
All ladies: smart business dress or formal if desired.
2026 Member’s Annual Dues Notices
By the time you receive the September WORD you will have received your 2026 Central City Bodies, A.A.S.R. Member’s Annual Dues Notice mailed direct to you from Supreme Council. There is a dues amount increase for 2026 as result of the four years annual Member’s Dues increase plan approved in 2023 and an increase in the Annual per member Supreme Council Member Assessment ($30.00 to $35.00) and NY Council of Deliberation Annual Members Assessment. ($6.00 to $8.00). Please pay your 2026 Member’s Dues prior to January 31, 2026.
Please contact the Valley office if you have any questions (315) 452-7976 about your
invoice.