summer 2015 fall 2015 · george washington. his home in mt. vernon, virginia is a testament to his...

FALL 2015SUMMER 2015

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE T–E–A–M: Together Everybody Achieves More SUMMER 2015 2

MW WILLIAM J. THOMAS Grand Master

[email protected]

From the Grand East

As a teenager, I grew fond of reading the histories of famous people, especially our country’s founders and earliest leaders. DeWitt Clinton was among them and another was George Washington. Even today, I see the value of studying our past as a guide for our future. We learn from past mistakes and benefit from our past successes.

February 22, 1732 was the birthday of President and Brother George Washington. His home in Mt. Vernon, Virginia is a testament to his leadership, in both our Country and in our personal lives.

When George was sixteen years of age, he was given a writing exercise and he wrote his 101 Rules of Civility. Here are a few, and I read them in the language and phraseology of that era:

• Every action done in Company ought to be with Some Sign of Respect, to those that are Present.

• Let your Conversation be without Malice or Envy …. And in all Causes of Passion, admit Reason to Govern.

• Shew Nothing to your Friend that may affright him.• Reprehend not the imperfections of others … .• Never express anything unbecoming … .• Associate yourself with Men of good Quality, … for ‘tis

better to be alone than in bad Company.Today, many, if not all, of these rules sound a little fussy,

if not downright silly. It would be easy to dismiss them as outdated and appropriate to a time of powdered wigs and quills. But they reflect a focus that is increasingly difficult to find. George’s rules have in common a focus on other people, rather than the narrow focus of our own self-interests that we find so prevalent today.

Fussy or not, they represent more than just good manners. They are the small sacrifices that we should all be willing to make for the good of all and for the sake of living together. These rules proclaim our respect for others, and in turn give us the gift of self-respect and heightened self-esteem.

Richard Brookhiser, in his book on Washington, wrote that “all modern manners in the western world were originally aristocratic. Courtesy meant behavior appropriate to a court; chivalry comes from chevalier – a knight. Yet Washington was to dedicate himself to freeing America from a court’s control. Could manners survive?

Without realizing it, Washington was outlining and absorbing a system of courtesy appropriate to all mankind. When the company for whom the decent behavior was to be performed expanded to the nation, Washington was ready. Parson Weems got it right, when he wrote about Washington that, it was ‘no wonder everybody honored him, who honored everybody.’”

Civility in our daily lives is not just something that is nice to do. Civility is politeness and courtesies in our behavior and our speech. Yet Civility seems to be something we remark upon by exception rather than by the rule. How often we see road rage! How frequently do we see rude behavior around us? We see people yelling and using profanity to resolve differences; along with careless and unkind characterizations behind their backs.

By civil behavior we learn to disagree without being disagreeable. Civility is the hard work of staying pleasant, even with those with whom we have profound and deep-rooted disagreements. Civility is the external fabric of humanity. It is how we interact with respect among our many stations in life.

As Masons we obligate ourselves in our three Degrees to good manners and fair dealings with our Brother Masons in the Lodge. But these generous principles extend further, and are to be applied outside the Lodge, as well. Every human being has a claim upon your civility in your relationships. Do good unto all, and perhaps … just perhaps … it might inspire others to act likewise.

Live in peace, my friends; live in peace. And may the God of Love and Peace delight to dwell with and to bless you.

Masonic Families Rededication BreakfastWhat Would George Washington Do?

Marina del Rey Catering, March 8, 2015

CONSULTANTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS Volume 64 / Number 2 / SUMMER 2015

Subscription $6.00 Domestic, $15.00 Foreign per year. Subscription free to all members of constituent Lodges of the Grand Lodge F. & A.M. State of New York. Copyright ©2015 by the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund. All rights reserved. Reproduction by recognized Masonic organizations is permitted with credit. All others must obtain written permission. Published quarterly in Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter months by the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund, 71 West 23rd Street, NY, NY 10010-4149.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON (ISSN 0013-6794 Published at 71 West 23rd Street, NY, NY 10010-4149). Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY and additional mailing offices.

TRUSTEES OF THE MASONIC HALL AND ASYLUM FUNDPublisher

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON is an Official Publication of the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund.

Edited by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masonsof the State of New York for the members of the Masonic Fraternity and their families.

Photos from Camp Turk

FALL 2015SUMMER 2015

Officers and cOmmittees:Grand East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Deputy Grand Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 11

Senior Grand Warden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Junior Grand Warden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Grand Treasurer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Grand Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Masonic Care Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Webmaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Masonic Care Community Ambassador Program . . . . . 21

DeMolay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Organization of Triangle, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Law Enforcement Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Awards Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Grand Historian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Grand Lodge Educational Assistance Program (EAP). . . 32

Acacia Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Gand Master’s Family Day at West Point. . . . . . . . . 35

Years of Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-42

Grand Chaplain’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Masonic Medical Research Laboratory . . . . . . . . . 44

Dates to Remember and Submission Guidelines. . . . . 45

Grand Lecturer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Masonic Rings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Camp Turk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

IN THIS ISSUEfeatured HigHligHts:Grand Secretary - Be It Known . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Citation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

St. John’s Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Committee on Youth - Totton Essay Recipient . . . . . . 29

WILLIAM J. THOMAS Grand Master – Editor in Chief

JOAN C. BOWERAssistant Editor

JEFFREY M. WILLIAMSON

Deputy Grand Master

CHARLES P. UHLESenior Grand Warden

RICHARD S. MORLEYJunior Grand Warden

CHARLES CATAPANO

Grand Treasurer

PAUL M. ROSENGrand Secretary

LORAINE DIBLEYGraphic Designer

POSTMASTER:Please send address changes to:

The Empire State MasonCirculation Department

71 West 23rd StreetNY, NY 10010-4149

Periodicals Class Publication No. 568741-(800) 362-7664

Website at www.nymasons.org


Grand SecretaryRW PAUL M. ROSEN,

Grand secretary Masonic Hall

71 West 23rd Street New York, NY 10010

212-337-6644

TO: THE OFFICERS OF THE GRAND LINE, ALL PERMANENT MEMBERS, DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS, GRAND SWORD BEARERS, GRAND DIRECTORS OF CEREMONIES, GRAND STEWARDS, GRAND CHAPLAINS, TRUSTEES OF THE MASONIC HALL & HOME, DIRECTORS OF THE MASONIC MEDICAL RESEARCH LABORATORY, TRUSTEES OF THE CHANCELLOR ROBERT R LIVINGSTON MASONIC LIBRARY, ELECTED GRAND POST OF THE MASONIC WAR VETERANS, COMMISSIONERS OF APPEAL, GRAND LODGE COMMITTEE MEMBERS, ALL OFFICERS OF THE DISTRICT GRAND LODGE OF SYRIA – LEBANON, GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER GRAND LODGES, ASSISTANT GRAND LECTURERS, AND TO ALL WORSHIPFUL MASTERS, SENIOR & JUNIOR WARDENS AND SECRETARIES OF EACH LODGE UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THIS GRAND LODGE:BE IT KNOWN, that at the Two Hundred and Thirty-fourth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York, held at the Masonic Hall in New York City, on the 4th and 5th days of May, 2015, A. L. 6015, the following Brethren were elected, and proclaimed Grand Lodge Officers for the ensuing year:

M\W\ William J. Thomas Grand MasterR\W\ Jeffrey M. Williamson Deputy Grand MasterR\W\ Charles P. Uhle Senior Grand WardenR\W\ Richard S. Morley Junior Grand WardenR\W\ Charles Catapano Grand TreasurerR\W\ Paul M. Rosen Grand Secretary

ALL OF THE ELECTED OFFICERS named above were duly installed on Tuesday, May 5th that the Two Hundred and Thirty-fourth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York, held at the Masonic Hall in New York City. COMMISSIONERS OF APPEAL Selected or re-elected were: R\W\ Howard E. Bonsaing, for three years in place of R\W\ Alan Schlesinger, term expired; R\W\ Joseph Anthony Quarequio, for three years in place of R\W\ John M. Leventhal, term expired; R\W\ Alan Schlesinger for Commissioner Emeritus; and R\W\ John M. Leventhal for Commissioner Emeritus. Continuing in unexpired terms are: R\W\ Jeffrey W. Halbreich, Chief Commissioner(2016), R\W\ Jay S. Dankberg (2017), R\W\ Michael R. Siegel (2017) and R\W\ Albert Trezza (2017).TRUSTEES OF THE MASONIC HALL AND HOME elected or reelected were: R\W\ Paul D. Reitz, for three years in place of R\W\ Paul D. Reitz, term expired; R\W\ Michael J. Siegel, for three years in place of R\W\ Werner

Henry Kniesel, term expired; R\W\ David P. Spencer, for three years in place of R\W\ Griffith Jones III, term expired; R\W\ Griffith Jones III for Trustee Emeritus; and R\W\ Werner Henry Kniesel for Trustee Emeritus. Continuing in unexpired terms are: R\W\ Manuel Abad, Vice President, (2016); R\W\ Alfred B. Dais, Treasurer,(2016); R\W\ Nathan D. Lipper, Assistant Treasurer,(2017); R\W\ George S. Getman, President, (2017); R\W\ Kurt Ott (2017); and R\W\ David F. Stoy, Secretary, (2016).DIRECTORS OF THE MASONIC MEDICAL RESEARCH LABORATORY elected or reelected were: R\W\ David D. Goodwin, for three years in place of R\W\ Anthony V. Boccabella, term expired; R\W\ Virgilio S. Quijano, for three years in place of R\W\ John P. Chang, term expired; R\W\ Richard J. Miller, Jr., for three years in place of R\W\ Richard J. Miller, Jr.,term expired; R\W\ Peter J. Samiec, for three years in place of R\W\ Peter J. Samiec,term expired; R\W\ Francesco Santoni,for three years in place of R\W\ Francesco Santoni, term expired; R\W\ David F. Schneeweiss, (President), for three years in place of R\W\ David F. Schneeweiss, term expired; R\W\ Anthony Bocabella for Director Emeritus; R\W\ John P. Chang for Director Emeritus; and R\W\ Edward S. Newsham for Director Emeritus. Continuing in unexpired terms are: R\W\ Arnold Auerbach (2017); R\W\ Michael A. Chaplin (2017); R\W\ Amado J. David (2016); R\W\ Paul A. Guerrero, (Secretary),(2017); R\W\ H. Joseph Heath (2016); R\W\ Alvaro F. Quiroga, (Vice President), (2016); R\W\ Sheldon B. Richman (2017); R\W\ Sheldon D. Stachel (2016); and R\W\ Victor G. Webb (2016).TRUSTEES OF THE CHANCELLOR ROBERT R LIVINGSTON MASONIC LIBRARY OF GRAND LODGE elected or reelected were: R\W\ W. Bruce Renner, (President),for three years in place of R\W\ W. Bruce Renner, term expired; R\W\ Pierre de Ravel D’Esclapon, (1st Vice President), for three years in place of R\W\ Pierre de Ravel D’Esclapon, term expired; R\W\ Edward A. Chiani, for three years in place of R\W\ Edward A. Chiani, term expired; R\W\ S. Marlon Gayadeen, for three years in place of R\W\ S. Marlon Gayadeen, term expired; R\W\ C.F. William Maurer III, for three years in place of R\W\ C.F. William Maurer III, term expired; R\W\ Richard H. Eberle for Trustee Emeritus; and R\W\ Ronald W. White for Trustee Emeritus. Continuing in unexpired terms are: R\W\ John P. Deveney (2016): M\W\Edward G. Gilbert, P.G.M. (2017); R\W\ Andrew B. Hengst, (2nd Vice President), (2016); R\W\ Jon-Paul Kidwell (2017); R\W\ Stephen S. King, (Treasurer), (2016); R\W\ Richard C. Mills (Secretary), (2017); R\W\ Scott D. Peat (2016); R\W\ Richard J. Powell (2016); R\W\ Frank C. Rice (2017); and R\W\ Erik M. Strohl (2017).

Be It Known May 18, 2015

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SUMMER 2015 5

DIRECTORS OF THE MASONIC WAR VETERANS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, INC. elected or reelected were: R\W\ Brian E. Will, (Commander General), for one year in place of R\W\ Brian E. Will, term expired; R\W\ William J. Welsh, (1st Lt. Commander General), for one year in place of R\W\ William J. Welsh, term expired; R\W\ Donald R. Kunego, (2nd Lt. Commander General), for one year in place of R\W\ Donald R. Kunego, term expired; Brother John P. Rowan, (Treasurer General), for one year in place of R\W\ William C. Bontemps, Jr., term expired;and W\Robert T. Mantia, (Adjutant General), for one year in place of R\W\ Michael J. Brzoza, term expired.GRAND LINE OFFICERS appointed or reappointed were: R\W\ George D. Emmons, Grand Marshal; R\W\ James R. Kintzel,Deputy Grand Marshal; R\W\ Peter A. Flihan III, Senior Grand Deacon; R\W\ Christopher J. Hough, Junior Grand Deacon; R\W\ Nicholas J. Paolicelli, Grand Standard Bearer; R\W\ James R. MacConnell, Deputy Grand Standard Bearer; R\W\ James H. Rice, Grand Historian; R\W\ Richard J. Kessler, Grand Lecturer; R\W\ Steven Adam Rubin, Judge Advocate; R\W\ Marshal D. Shichtman, Proctor; R\W\ Richard W. Bateman, A.G.S., Grand Pursuivant; R\W\ Martin D. Merman, Grand Tiler; R\W\ Eric S. Howd, Grand Organist; R\W\ Jordan I. Kaplan, Grand Organist; R\W\ Stephen Rumpf, Grand Organist; R\W\ Francis K. Wilcox,Grand Organist; R\W\ Gilbert Savitzky, P.G.T., Grand Secretary Emeritus; M\W\Gary A. Henningsen, P.G.M., Grand Secretary Emeritus; R\W\ Harvey A. Eysman, Proctor Emeritus; and R\W\ Joseph A. Quarequio, P.G.T., Grand Tiler Emeritus.DISTRICT GRAND LINE OFFICERS FOR THE DISTRICT OF SYRIA -LEBANON appointed or reappointed were: R\W\ Michel A. Timonian, District Grand Master; M\W\ Leon G. Zeitounalian, (Honorary PGM – Grand Lodge of Armenia), District Grand Secretary; and R\W\ Raffy H. Timonian, Liaison Officer & District Grand Secretary Emeritus.AWARD PRESENTATIONS:THE GRAND LODGE CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION FOR PRACTICING OBSERVANT MASONRY was presented to Harmonie Lodge 699 and Seneca River Lodge 160 in recognition of their dedication and application of high ideals in Masonry.THE HENRY G. MEACHAM AWARD is scheduled to be presented next year at each District’s Grand Lecturer’s Convention to the representatives of qualifying Masonic Lodges by the R\W\ Richard J. Kessler, Grand Lecturer. Qualifying Lodges are to have conferred or exemplified the Three Degrees of Masonry within the Masonic year using only their own Lodge members.THE HOWARD W. POTTS AWARD, which gives recognition to those Lodges that are credited with having their top seven officers in attendance at the District’s respective Grand Lecturer’s Convention, will be presented to the Lodge at a subsequent communication of the Lodge by the Assistant Grand Lecturer for their District. A complete listing of recipient Lodges appears in the Grand Lecturer’s Report published in the Annual Report Booklet distributed at the Grand Lodge’s Annual Communication and will be published in the Grand Lodge Proceedings of 2015.

THE GRAND MASTER’S AWARD OF APPRECIATION was presented to R\W\ Richard T. Schulz, Chairman of the Grand Lodge Convention Committee; and R\W\ Kurt Ott, Trustee of the Masonic Hall & Home and Consultant to the Grand Lodge Convention Committee for their comprehensive efforts toward the success of the Annual Communication.THE GEORGE PETER MEDAL was presented to M\W\Daniel M. Semel, H.P.G.M. -P.H.G.L. of N.Y., (Past) Judge Advocate, Chairman of the Grand Lodge Unity Committee, and Grand Representative of the M\W\ Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York, for his extensive and faithful service to this Grand Lodge as the Judge Advocate for 37 years.THE ROBERT R LIVINGSTON MEDAL was presented to R\W\ Ronald J. Steiner, Past Trustee of the Masonic Hall & Home (1994 –1998) and former Chairman of the Grand Lodge Communications Committee and the Grand Lodge Publications Committee, and 60-plus year member of the Craft, for his dutiful commitment and dedicated service to our Grand Lodge.THE GRAND LODGE MEDAL FOR DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT was presented to Most Worshipful Bruce Widger, Past Grand Master (1980-82) of the Grand Lodge of New York, Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, and Trustee Emeritus of Cornell University. The Grand Lodge Medal for Distinguished Achievement was presented by the Grand Master during the daytime Tiled Session of the Annual Communication on Monday, May 4, 2015.I. NEW PROPOSALS & REPORTS:THE GRAND LODGE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE recommended the passage of the following proposed 12-month Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Budget of the Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of the state of New York (June 1, 2015 through May 31, 2016):Operating Revenue & Other Support: Fees & Dues $1,291,600 Lodge Services (Net) 110,000 Total Revenue & Support: $1,401,600Operating Expenses: Annual Communication $175,000 Print & Distribution of Proceedings 20,000 Transition to New Grand Master 21,000 Salaries and Related Costs 840,584 Grand Lodge Office Expense 170,947 Grand Lodge Officer’s Travel 125,800 Grand Lecturer’s Costs 38,000 Committee Expenses 179,950 Insurance 108,500 Retirement Assistance 0 Other Masonic Endeavors 71,500 Total Operating Expenses: $1,751,281Change-Net Asset Before Non-Operating Revenue and Other Support: ($349,681)Non-Operating Revenue & Other Support: Investment Income $150,000 Grand Lodge Fund 3,000 Legacies 0 Other Income (Net) 197,600Total Non-Operating Revenue & Other Support: $350,600


Change in Net Assets $919Grand Total Surplus/(Deficit) $919The above proposed budgeT was approved by The voTe of grand Lodge.THE GRAND LODGE COMMITTEE ON CHARTERS recommended the acceptance of the following addendum to the Committee’s Report as published in the Annual Report Booklet and distributed at the Annual Communication:a)To Consolidate Dover Lodge 666 in the Dutchess District and Harlem Valley Lodge 827 in the Dutchess District to be known as Oblong Lodge 666 in the Dutchess District effective on April 2, 2015.b)To Consolidate Black Lake Lodge 319 in the First St. Lawrence District and Hammond Lodge 861 in the First St. Lawrence District to be known as Black Lake Hammond Lodge 319 in the First St. Lawrence District effective on April 2, 2015.c)To seek sanction and official removal of Kosciuszko Lodge 1085 from the Bronx District to be permanently moved into the Sixth Manhattan District effective May 4, 2015.The above addendum To The reporT and recommendaTions were approved by The voTe of grand Lodge. THE CUSTODIANS OF THE WORK OF GRAND LODGE recommended the acceptance of the proposed Closing Charge to be inserted at the Master’s discretion just prior to the Chaplain’s prayer in the Lodge’s Closing Ritual as published in the Annual Report Booklet and distributed at the Annual Communication.The above proposed pubLicaTion was approved by The voTe of grand Lodge. THE GRAND LODGE COMMITTEE ON MINIMUM AGE FOR PETITION recommended that the question on determining the legal age to Petition a Lodge for Initiation be tabled until the next Annual Communication of Grand Lodge to allow time for more study and discussion on the subject.The above recommendaTion To TabLe The maTTer was approved by The voTe of grand Lodge. THE GRAND LODGE COMMITTEE ON PROTOCOL recommended the acceptance of the proposed Grand Marshal’s Guide to Masonic Protocol dated May 5, 2015 as published and distributed at the Annual Communication.The above proposed pubLicaTion was rejecTed by The voTe of grand Lodge. II. NEW PROPOSALS AND FIRST READING APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTIONS:THE GRAND LODGE COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTIONS recommended the passage of the following proposed amendments to the Constitutions:Section 110 of the Constitutions to be amended to consolidate the following Masonic Districts:a) To Consolidate the First Manhattan District and the Sixth Manhattan District to be known as the First Manhattan District.b) To Consolidate the First Nassau District and the Second Nassau District to be known as the Nassau District.c) To Consolidate the First Oneida District and the Second Oneida District to be known as the Oneida District.

d) To Consolidate the First St. Lawrence District and the Second St. Lawrence District to be known as the St. Lawrence District.The above proposed amendmenTs were approved on The firsT voTe of grand Lodge and awaiTs The second voTe and raTificaTion aT The nexT annuaL communicaTion.THE GRAND LODGE COMMITTEE ON CORRESPONDENCE & RELATIONS reported that the M\W\ Prince Hall Grand Lodges of California, Pennsylvania and Texas have accepted our proposal of full recognition. With the adoption of this proposal, the Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of the State of New York now enjoys reciprocal and mutual relations with the M\W\ Prince Hall Grand Lodges of Alaska, California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia. Additionally, it is anticipated that the M\W\ Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Michigan will vote to ratify and accept our proposal of full recognition at their Annual Communication this year. The above reporT of The grand Lodge commiTTee on correspondence & reLaTions was approved by The voTe of grand Lodge.THE REPORT OF THE JUDGE ADVOCATE reiterated the Judge Advocate’s Opinion, which had been Accepted, Adopted and Promulgated by the Grand Master on October 31, 2014, with regard to the New York Grand Lodge Standard Work and the Three Degrees of Masonry that no Lodge is exempt or authorized to confer or exemplify any other Degrees and no dispensation can be issued to the contrary. This previously promulgated Decision will be printed in full within the 2015 Proceedings of Grand Lodge.The above reporT of The judge advocaTe was approved by The voTe of grand Lodge.THE COMMITTEE ON RESTORATIONS tendered their Annual Report stating that there were no applications received during the 2014 calendar year, consequently no action was required.The above reporT of The commiTTee on resToraTions was approved by The voTe of grand Lodge.THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE approves the leadership and performance demonstrated by the Grand Master, Most Worshipful William J. Thomas, during this past year. The Committee approves of the Grand Master’s theme of working together and the use of the T.E.A.M. concept, that of “Together Everybody Achieves More.”THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE further reports that the Grand Master has worked hard in the area of fiscal responsibility by continuing to achieve a balanced budget, while ensuring that the Grand Lodge runs efficiently. The Masonic Jurisprudence Committee is pleased that the Grand Lodge Proceedings are almost up to date with only the 2014 Edition awaiting completion.THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE is also pleased that the Grand Master has been diligent at the meetings of the Trustees of the Masonic Hall & Home and the meetings of the Directors of the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory, which has resulted in some very tough decisions


being made by the Grand Master.THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE joins with the Grand Master in his continued support of our Youth Groups and our Military Veterans. The Committee also applauds his taking the Masonic Anniversary Aprons a step further with the addition of Sixty-year and Seventy-year Aprons to the program.THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE also supports the Grand Master in directing the Deputy Grand Master to study and analyze the concept of reshaping our Masonic Districts into a more streamlined structure with the loss of membership and the consolidation of Lodges. THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE also concurs with the Grand Master’s authorization of the wearing of the Lewis Jewel by Masons to acknowledge their relationship between a father and a son, stepfather or father-in-law, who was the influence in their lives. THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE continues to approve of the policy of publishing the biographies and pictures of candidates for elected Grand Lodge Office in the Empire State Mason magazine, so that their fellow Brothers can know who the candidates are, see their faces and be able to discuss selections of future leaders of the Grand Lodge with the members of their Lodges prior to coming to the Annual Communication to vote. This Committee recommends that this policy continues into the future.THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE also recommends as it has previously that more emphasis needs to be placed upon members to grow our Craft and focus on retention to reduce the number of losses caused by the non-payment of dues. This Committee acknowledges that viable programs have to be put together to try to get ahead of this ongoing problem.THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE approves of the Grand Master’s decision that the three (3) Symbolic Degrees, namely the Entered Apprentice Degree, the Fellow Craft Degree, and the Master Mason Degree as found within our Standard Work and Lectures are the only authorized Degrees in keeping with Section 366 of the Constitutions and that no other Degrees are authorized as per the Grand Master’s letter and directive dated October 31, 2014 and November 7, 2014.THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE approves of the Grand Master’s directive regarding the procedures and application for the consolidation of Districts outlined in his letter dated March 12, 2015.THE COMMITTEE ON MASONIC JURISPRUDENCE does not agree with the Grand Master on the changes in the Order of Precedence reported in the proposed new Grand Marshal’s Guide to Masonic Protocol, by placing the District Deputy Grand Master above the Elected and Permanent Members of this Grand Lodge, due to the fact the Constitutions states that the Order of Succession, which denotes who will preside over Grand Lodge in the event the Grand Master or Deputy Grand Master should become incapacitated, does not include any Appointed Officers (i.e. District Deputy Grand Master).As such, this Committee recommends that the official Protocol of Grand Lodge remain as it currently is.The above reporT of The masonic jurisprudence commiTTee

was approved by The voTe of grand Lodge.THE COMMISSION OF APPEALS tendered their Annual Report concerning one case. In summary, in the matter of Mr. Christos Papadopoulos, wherein the Masonic Trial Commission found the charges against the accused were sustained by the evidence and a notice of appeal was filed. After a full review, the Commission of Appeals affirmed the Masonic Trial Commission’s Decision and the Penalty of Expulsion stands.The above reporT of The commission of appeaLs was approved by The voTe of grand Lodge.THE GRAND MASTER CAUSED the names and numbers of those Masonic Lodges to be read that were reported by the Accounting and Registry Departments of Grand Lodge as delinquent in filing the previous year’s Grand Lodge Per Capita Dues, Grand Lodge Fees, Annual Returns (Census Report) and/or Certificate of Elections required by the Constitutions. The said-named Lodges that remain delinquent as of May 30, 2015, will be subject to the suspension of their respective Charters by order of the Grand Master.THE GRAND MASTER ANNOUNCED that, in accordance with Section 103 of the Constitutions, the Most Worshipful Grand Master would convene the 235th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge at the Masonic Hall, New York City, on Monday, May 2nd and Tuesday, May 3rd, 2016. The Grand Master further announced that the Minutes of the 234th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge would appear in the published Proceedings of this Grand Lodge. THE GRAND MASTER CAUSED the announcement that all of his appointments for the offices of District Deputy Grand Masters and Grand Lodge Staff Officers who were appointed and in office as of May 4, 2015 are to continue in office for the ensuing fiscal year. Further, the Grand Master caused it to be announced that the Appointed Grand Line Officers, Grand Chaplains, District Deputy Grand Masters and Grand Lodge Staff Officers would receive their commissions, or letters of reappointment at the public Investiture Ceremonies to be held at the Masonic Care Community in Utica, New York, on Saturday afternoon, June 27, 2015, during the St. John’s Day Weekend. THE GRAND MASTER ANNOUNCED in closing his Installation Address that details pertaining to the Grand Lodge procedures for the Election of Grand Lodge Officers for 2016 will be made known at the public Investiture Ceremonies during this year’s St. John’s Day Weekend. Next year, prior to attending the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge, the Craft will have online access to all information regarding all candidates. The current procedures do not allow the membership to learn anything about the candidates, including their names, until the second day of the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge, just prior to the actual election. Next year, ALL candidates will have declared their intention in advance, and information as pertains to their candidacy will be made available online on the Grand Lodge’s website, as well as through the Empire State Mason magazine. This process will allow for greater transparency for you, the delegate, ahead of the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge. It will allow you, the representatives of Lodges and members of Grand Lodge to make a better and a more


RW JEFFREY M. WILLIAMSON, deputy Grand Master

Deputy Grand Master

Greetings, Brethren. At last, the month of May has finally arrived. Flowers are beginning to poke out of the soil, buds are sprouting on the trees and the birds are singing. The air is fragrant and fresh. There is a certain optimism and excitement permeating the air. With the longer days of sunlight and the resulting warmth they bring, life becomes so much more satisfying. Masonically, there is also a bloom of activity occurring as our respective Lodge officers are elected and plans are underway for the upcoming installation of officers. What a grand time, indeed!

I am so proud to be a Mason and a member of this Grand Jurisdiction. Our Fraternity is filled with good men who have pledged themselves to be your friend and Brother. These sincere Brothers believe in the Great Architect of the Universe, are honest and peaceful citizens and eager to help out—help not only those who are a part of our Mystic Circle, but also our widows, children and their respective communities. These fellows have pledged to be the kind of upright man that each of us should seek to be.

Did you ever pause to think about your role and participation in our great Fraternity? We are certainly privileged to be members of one of the oldest and most respected jurisdictions in North America. We are steeped in history and tradition. The founding members of our New York Grand Lodge were patriots in the American Revolution. While we drink from wells that we have not dug, and build on foundations that we have not laid, we can honestly say that our current Brothers are constructing their Masonic edifice upon the legacy that was handed down to us by our forefathers.

Just think: This same Grand Lodge that ministers to and cares for our less fortunate Brothers and Sisters at our Masonic Home in Utica also provides Educational Assistance grants to our children and grandchildren. It maintains the world-renowned Livingston Masonic Library, and more.Brethren, as you start your journey into the summer months, have fun. Take time for yourself and family and enjoy life. Be proud of your New York Masonic heritage. “Let the world know that you are an upright man and Mason.” God bless!

A sense of pride

There comes a time in every Lodge when the altar is draped in black. The quarry is silent, not a tool in sight, and the Craftsmen stand in silence. For a Brother Mason is laid to rest.

His life work is now complete; for the house he built without mortar and stone is that everlasting soul, pure and white as the lambskin apron. It is more precious than any jewel or treasure that mortal man may possess.

When our Lodge is called to order, and the Master strikes the gavel, we will look to that empty chair with sadness in our hearts. We will miss our Brother. His memory will always be with us, with a smile on his face, gentle demeanor, and warm embrace. Our Lodge was a better place.

For a Brother Mason never dies, he just travels to another Lodge. That Grand Lodge in the East, whose light shines forever, is that undiscovered land from whose bourne no traveler returns.

When the altar is draped in blackW Louis P. Benitto

Stony Point-Waywayanda Lodge 313

informed decision regarding your choices for our elected 2016 officers.THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS, the Most Worshipful Grand Master, William J. Thomas, closed the 234th Annual Communication of Grand Lodge on May 5, 2015. Given under my hand and Seal of the Grand Lodge of New York, this 18th Day of May 2015, A.L. 6015.

Paul M. Rosen Grand Secretary

Be it Known continues from page 7


Have you have failed to peruse the allegoric and symbolic method of teaching the mysteries of Ancient Free Masonry? If you have, you are depriving yourself of a method of learning some of the most important lessons the Craft is meant to convey to every member. In most cases this has not been the fault of the new Brother. When we entered the Craft no senior member mentioned anything about the teachings contained in the allegory and hidden in the symbols. After we were Raised, we all too often became mired in fundraising and painting and repairing the building. Most often there was no one in the Lodge capable of teaching this system of Masonic education. It had been lost, and for the most part it is still missing from most Lodges today. I believe the lack of it has been a contributor to the loss of many new members.

Many of the young men entering the Craft today are aware that the Masonic Fraternity is heir to the wisdom of the ancient mysteries. They also know that there is no short cut to Masonic knowledge; it can only be attained through study and experience. Study they can do, experience is harder for them to attain when it is lacking in the senior members around them. After the completion of his three Degrees a Brother should have come to the conclusion that he must shed habits that are unbecoming to a Mason and a gentleman. He has now ascended to a higher level and, above all, his first obligation is to God. He knows that he must begin building that spiritual temple within himself that will see him through this life and into the next. Contained within the allegory of each Degree lies, waiting to be discovered, a deeper insight

into the philosophy of existence and hidden historical truths of Freemasonry.

“The Masonic student may concern himself with every branch of research that is capable of throwing light upon the cause that has led men to crystallize their perceptions of immutable law in emblems and symbols. He may pursue each of the various paths of investigation indicated by the obscure phraseology of ritual until he emerges into the full blaze of Masonic light embracing its fundamental truth.” (Frank C. Higgins)

I am glad to see that more Lodges are beginning to address this shortcoming by having knowledgeable speakers on the subjects of what lies veiled in the allegory and concealed in the symbols. I have encouraged and I encourage all of you who are interested in this lost system of Masonic education to form study groups and have group discussions about this beautiful system. There are many good books written by Masonic scholars of yesterday and today; you can invite some of the authors to be speakers in your Lodge or District. They sometimes come at a cost but it can be deferred by spreading the cost between all the Lodges in the District or by having other nearby Districts participate and share in the expense.

We must regain what has been lost and become Masons with reflective minds. For only then will we begin to understand the depth of the serious truths upon which our Fraternity was founded.

Are you a Mason with a reflective mind?

RW CHARLES P. UHLE, senior Grand Warden

Senior Grand Warden

Utica continues Hospice support

Recently, Utica Lodge 47 renewed its support of the Abraham House, a Utica Hospice house. W David H. Williams called upon Patty Shenberger, Executive Director, and presented a generous donation on behalf of the Brothers. This is the fifteenth year that the Lodge has chosen the hospice for their charity.

The house is unique, in that it can care for only two residents at a time. There is also an apartment, where a patient’s family might stay at critical times.

W Williams encourages all Lodges to adopt similar charities to favor in their largesse. It is good community service and good for the Fraternity.


Sitting in front of my computer staring at a blank screen, tired from a late night at a meeting, thinking about what I was going to write for this article, I started thinking about what I wrote in the past issues. I looked up my first article I wrote after being elected your Junior Grand Warden and it jumped out at me immediately. I know every one of you read my articles and can’t wait for the next one, but I would like to include a small part of that article:

Lodges need to build Lodges. We have a problem throughout our state. We have very successful Lodges that have great turnout for meetings, they do great ritual and they bring in new members every year, and then we have the struggling lodges, they have poor turnout to meetings, ritual work is not the best and the few members that are involved spend most of their time trying to get the fuel bill paid, repair the leak in the roof, or just try to muster up enough brothers just to open a meeting.

Since May of last year I have traveled to over sixty-five Lodges in New York State. I have seen exactly what I described above. Some very successful Lodges are very enthusiastic, do great ritual work, bring in new members every year and are

involved in their community—“The Smooth Ashlar.” I have also seen some middle-of-the-road Lodges. Their ritual work is “got the job done,” they bring in new members sometimes, but not every year, member retention is not good and they are just keeping their heads above water financially—“The Rough Ashlar.” With a little education, structure and perhaps assistance from a sister Lodge they could become a Smooth Ashlar. Finally, the third group: They have “a little bit of each and not enough of neither.” They cannot muster enough members to open, and scare off others with the burden of maintaining their Lodge building, “The Money Pit.”

I want to emphasize that it is not the building that makes a Mason; it is the Man that makes the Mason. With enthusiasm, hard work, pride in our ritual, being a part of our communities and cooperation with other Lodges. we will strengthen our struggling Lodges.

If you have not attended the Deputy Grand Master’s Town Hall meetings please do so. We face a tough future that will require us to take a hard look at how we do business.

From the Desk of a Traveling Man

Junior Grand Warden

RW RICHARD S. MORLEY, Junior Grand Warden

RW CHARLES CATAPANO, Grand treasurer

[email protected]

Grand Treasurer

As your Grand Treasurer I am tasked with keeping a close watch on the finances of Grand Lodge. I would like to share what that entails. Just like the Treasurer of the Lodge, my main duty is to keep an eye on the budget for Grand Lodge. This includes monitoring the expenses that are anticipated and keeping the expense accounts of the Grand Line Officers within the budgeted amounts. I also am involved with the Masonic Brotherhood Foundation and provide financial feedback regarding their investments.

But as the summer is rapidly upon us, we all turn our attention to outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends. The togetherness we enjoy, surrounding ourselves with the ones we love, makes us all feel that the family is the center point of our life. Summer is a time for vacations and planning weekend trips. It is the time for barbecues and visiting relatives and friends. We aren’t really concerned with the finances of the Lodge or Grand Lodge, and often we don’t think about our personal finances, either. So think for a moment how your loved ones would be taken care of financially if you weren’t here to provide for them.

Now, it’s my turn to give you, my Brothers, some financial

feedback. I would like to remind each of you to take some time and review the plans you have for your family. It’s good practice to review your life insurance, your will, power of attorney and health care proxy information and to ensure that the beneficiary information is correct and what you want it to be. This should be done at least once a year, more often if you feel the need.

This is not a conversation most of us want to have but it is rather important. I’m sure you all have heard about Brothers, family members or friends who failed to plan accordingly for the future of their loved ones. Take some time this summer and formulate a plan that covers the ones you love the most as a precaution in case something were to happen to you. I strongly suggest that you meet with a financial professional to assist you in your planning. Also, meeting with an attorney is helpful in setting up a will. Educate yourselves in protecting what is most important to us all—Family.

Have a very enjoyable summer. I hope to see you all at special occasions and Lodge events. I especially look forward to being with you all in Lodge soon.

Vigilance no substitute for planning


The Grand Lodge continues to study the concept of reshaping our Districts. This topic is addressed at all of the Deputy Grand Master’s Town Hall meetings. The dialog, feedback and input garnered from the membership have been most beneficial to the ultimate success of this study.

As part of this article, I have included an outstanding graphic for your consideration. The graphic chart points to a high-water mark for New York membership, which totaled 346,413 members in 1929. There were fifty-nine Masonic Districts. As of this writing our membership is 37,714 members in sixty * Masonic Districts. A review of the graphic chart clearly shows that despite the drop in membership from the mid-1950s to the present, the quantity of Masonic Districts has actually increased.

Since the initial article appeared in the spring edition of the Empire State Magazine, several Masonic Districts are actively pursuing the process of merging their adjoining Districts. The Grand Master has transmitted to the District Deputies detailed instructions on how to merge Masonic Districts. If there are any administrative questions regarding this subject please email RW Jeffrey M. Williamson, Deputy Grand Master at [email protected].

––––––––––––*Correction The spring edition of the ESM contained a typo

on the 2014 graphic, indicating 58 Districts.

RW JEFFREY M. WILLIAMSON, deputy Grand Master

Deputy Grand Master

The decline of membership; the growth of Districts

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Historical Development, Grand Lodge of New York Districts Members

On March 23 Ancient Landmarks Lodge 358 Raised four Brothers to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. One member Raised was Fellowcraft Brother Thomas J. Zwick of Transportation Lodge 842.

Transportation welcomes new Brother

(l-r) W Charles J. Goetz, Sr., Master of Transportation Lodge, Brother Thomas J. Zwick and RW Michael J. Zwick, District

Deputy Grand Master of the First Erie District


Grand SecretaryRW PAUL M. ROSEN,

Grand secretary Masonic Hall

71 West 23rd Street New York, NY 10010

Phone 914-393-8466

In my capacity as Grand Secretary I am charged with awesome constitutional responsibilities. To accomplish the many reports that I must prepare, I am constantly made aware of the state of our membership. By that I mean the number of Masons in the State of New York. I am made aware almost daily of those among us who have died, demitted, withdrawn, or been dropped for nonpayment of dues or otherwise transferred out of our Fraternity in New York. Each such loss diminishes us as a Fraternity dedicated to brotherly love and charitable acts.

We should never lose a Brother because he can’t afford to pay his dues. I SAY THIS IN CAPITAL LETTERS WHEN IT IS A BROTHER WHO JOINED US FORTY, FIFTY OR EVEN MORE YEARS AGO. He cared enough about his membership to remain a Brother for all those years. We should never allow him to sever his relationship with the Fraternity he loved for that long a period of time. Every Lodge should take steps to investigate the reasons for a Brother placing himself at risk of being dropped for failing to pay his dues. We must fight to retain each and every Brother in such a condition.

Review your By-Laws and insure that there is a method that will allow each such Brother to remain a member in spite of his financial inability to pay dues. We obligated ourselves to care for a destitute Brother to the extent of his needs and our ability to help. We have allowed more Brothers to withdraw or become unaffiliated this past year than we have lost due to death. These Brothers should be contacted and every attempt should be made to reverse their leaving our brotherhood. Remember that they are Brothers and their loss should be felt by each of us as deeply as would be the loss of our own natural brother.

As bad as are the losses addressed above, far worse is the loss of a newly made Brother who has not found within the Lodge what he thought he was joining the Fraternity to find. When I first became a Mason a very senior, long-time Brother, former District Deputy, took me under his wing. He would sit with

me at a Lodge meeting and in a whisper he would explain what was going on during the meeting. More importantly, he would explain the purpose behind everything that took place. As I went through the Degrees he made sure I attended another Lodge doing that Degree so I would see the Degree without the hoodwink over my eyes. At the collation after any meeting, he would make sure that I knew everyone and everyone knew me. This way, both the Lodge and I were secure that there was a good fit between the Lodge and me. I now believe that it is better to refer a candidate to another Lodge that would be a better long-term fit than have him join a Lodge from which he will later walk away.

A habit is hard to break but it takes many repeated instances of an act to make it a habit. My mentor made sure that attending Lodge became a habit. For the new generation of Brothers, if it is not scheduled on their smart phone it will be forgotten or something else will be scheduled in its place. Make sure that until it is a habit the mentor encourages attendance, sits with the new Brother, and explains what is happening during a meeting and most importantly why it is happening. This attention from a true Brother led to my being a four-time Master of my Lodge, a District Deputy, a Trustee of the Hall and Home and ultimately Grand Secretary.

The best part of my story is that I eventually got to show my appreciation for his care and attention. When he could no longer drive to Lodge I had the honor of picking him up and seeing to it that he was able to attend the Lodge that we both now loved.

We have a wonderful tradition in my District. We revere and welcome Brothers, both new and of long standing, with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. It is a way of building and strengthening the bands that tie us all to this great Fraternity. It is my hope that all of us show our Brothers how important they are in our lives.

Member Care

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On April 8, John Jay Lodge 653, White Plains, presented two Masonic Service Awards representing 100 years of combined service. RW Walter Lilling has served for sixty-five years, RW Secretary Kenneth I. May has been a diligent member for thirty-five years. Brother May then presented the Douglas A. MacArthur Youth Award to Nathaniel Fasman and John Felicetti.

Fasman and Felicetti were cited for their exemplary service to youth at Boy Scout Troop 11, New Rochelle. Brother Jay D. Werner, Second Westchester-Putnam Masonic District Chairman and member of the Youth Outreach Committee and John Jay Lodge, recited the Masonic affiliations of British Boy Scout founder Robert Baden-Powell and American counterpart Daniel Carter

Beard. He compared the three levels of Scouting’s Order of the Arrow—Ordeal, Brotherhood and Vigil Honor—to the three Degrees of Masonry.

Werner also noted, “The Masonic Eagle Award is one of the few medallions from an outside organization permitted to be worn on a Scout uniform, as well as the MacArthur Award.”

MacArthur, Masonic Service awarded at John Jay

(l-r) Douglas MacArthur Award recipient New Rochelle Boy Scout Troop 11 Assistant Scoutmaster Nathaniel Fasman; John

Jay Lodge Master Stephen E. Lipken; MacArthur Awardee, Committee Chair and Advancement Officer John Felicetti

(l-r) John Felicetti Second Westchester-Putnam Masonic District Chairman, Youth Outreach Committee Brother Jay Werner;

Nathaniel Fasman.

(l-r) Masonic Service Award recipients RW Kenneth May, 35 years; RW Walter Lilling, 65

years.

Row 2 (l-r) Jim DiLorenzo; Curtis Chase; William Rodriguez; Joan Bast; Chartered Organization Representative Gloria Head;

Scoutmaster Greg Vadja; Kathy VadjaRow (l-r) New Rochelle Boy Scout Troup 11 Assistant Scoutmaster

Matthew Fasman; Larry Fasman; Barbara Fasman; MacArthur recipient Assistant Scoutmaster Nathaniel Fasman; Marie Dumas; MacArthur

recipient Committee Chair/Advancement Officer John Felicetti


Past Grand Master MW James E. Sullivan recently attended the Table Lodge of Red Jacket 646.

RW GRIFFITH JONES III, president

Board of TrusTees of The Masonic hall and hoMe

[email protected]

Masonic Care Community

A year passes by and at times there seems like so much is to be done and little gets accomplished. This was not true for the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home. At first when we welcomed our new Trustees after Grand Lodge in 2014, it appeared that major differences could keep us from accomplishing much. These meetings drew me to re-examine our goals and purposes. This caused me to reflect on what I had learned from a mentor in graduate school. It is a story about a group of blind men (or men in the dark) who touch an elephant to learn what it is like. Each one feels a different part, but only one part, such as, the side, the tusk, the tail, or a leg. They then compare notes and learn that they are in complete disagreement on what makes an elephant. This parable, though ancient, is presented in a poem by John Godfrey Saxe (1816-1887) called “the Blind Men and the Elephant.” It is a metaphor for how we treat our incomplete understanding of complex systems. Having limited information, we draw conclusions and argue extensively for our “opinions,” and perspective.

Each of our Trustees, former and new, came to the Board meetings with their diverse experiences, interests, and professional backgrounds. New Trustees bring fresh perspective and ideas while former Trustees rely on the knowledge and experiences they have had during their years of service as Trustees. The challenge became to harness all of their enthusiasm and channel these potentially disparate forces together in order to accomplish their fiduciary responsibilities to their Brothers and the Masonic Fraternity in New York. Not an easy task, but a responsibility of being their President. Utilizing the motto of our Grand Master MW William Thomas, that of “TEAM,” Together Each Accomplishes

More, we made great strides in recognizing our differences and educating each other so together we were able to make progress in continuing our mission to improve the delivery of services to our Brothers. We made Improvements to our first class facilities in NYC, Tappan, Round Lake/Camp Turk, and the Masonic Care Community campus in Utica, New York. At the same time we were able to increase revenue opportunities and decrease deficits across the board while continuing to deliver quality services to our members and residents.

During the past year our members celebrated the 150th Anniversary of the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund, made major renovations to the Masonic Hall in New York City, including repurposing of several of the under-utilized Lodge rooms, improved the facilities at Round Lake to support the Camp Turk program, and have taken steps to renovate the Tompkins Chapel in Utica.

There is still much to be done and I am confident that those Brothers who accept the challenge to utilize their differences as strengths alongside their skills and abilities will ensure that the Masonic Fraternity will continue to flourish in New York State.

It has been a pleasure to work with these devoted Brothers, understanding their differences and uniting them as one force with super powers to accomplish the goals of the Trustees. Their untiringly efforts will ensure that the assets provided by our predecessors will be available in the future to their successors. Each of them contributes untiringly of their time. They all should be entitled to hear the phrase, “Well done, Good and Faithful Servant.” Amen, So Mote It Be.

Red Jacket Table Lodge


RW ROB RAFFLE, executive Director

Masonic care coMMuniTy of new york

[email protected]


In June of 1911, thousands of Masons traveled to Utica for the dedication of the Daniel D. Tompkins Memorial Chapel. This structure honors the service of Daniel D. Tompkins who served our nation for two terms as Vice President of the United States under James Monroe, served our state as its Governor and served our Fraternity as its Grand Master. Four years ago, many of you gathered on the Utica campus during our St. John’s Day weekend to commemorate his life, and celebrate the 100th Anniversary of this remarkable building.

The last 104 years have taken a toll on this iconic building, so much so it has become imperative that repairs are made both for safety and to maintain its rich character and integrity. The steeple of the Chapel has been deemed unsafe and must be totally replaced. The Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home spent many hours last fall interviewing and finally contracting with a firm that will be able to handle this undertaking. The cost of the project is close to one million dollars. The clock, chimes and clarion will all be returned to working order when the steeple project is complete. The work is slated to begin in early July, as soon as our St. John’s Day program has ended, and we hope to have the Chapel ready to open again by the end of September. As a result of the construction, we have closed the Chapel to weddings.

Other upgrades are also underway this spring on campus. For those of you who attended the Re-dedication of the cornerstone of the Knights Templar Building, you may have noted improvements to the first floor. We have added a “Traditions Hallway” similar to the one that has been in the Health Pavilion for the last several years. It includes a variety of photos depicting the various uses of this building during its century of service. We have added a showcase to the lobby, which includes memorabilia of the Grand Commandery. Additionally, we have a special area in the lobby with information on Central New York attractions to provide our visitors with options on all our region has to offer. The former warehouse was raised in late spring, making for more room for parking behind the Administration Building. We also invite you to visit the Acacia Village pond where thanks to the generosity of several individuals and the Officers and Brothers of Meridian Lodge 691. Our grounds team will be

constructing a large handicapped accessible deck to allow better access for our residents and visitors.

We invite you to visit our Masonic Care Community the last weekend in June for the annual St. John’s Day Celebration. All Masons and their families attending the weekend are cordially invited to a picnic at Acacia Village Friday, June 26th , at 6:00 PM to enjoy great food and fellowship. On Saturday there will be host of activities from campus tours to vendors on the Great Lawn. Again, please join your Masonic family for a wonderful weekend at the Masonic Care Community Campus.

Repairs to the Daniel D. Tompkins Memorial Chapel and Other Upgrades


The Grand Ladies of the Royal Arch Masons made a donation of an iPad and iTunes gift card to the residents of the Masonic Care Community. This technology will be used by our speech and rehabilitation departments.

Pictured here in the first row, left to right: RE Cyril A. Francis, Grand King; W Warren Mundrick, Director of MCC Rehabilitation Services; Elena Francis; Jean Bryant; Joan Vivacaqua, Grand Chapter Office Manager; RE Peter Pizzorno, Grand Lecturer.

Second row, left to right: RE Allan M. Bryant, Sr.; RW Rob Raffle, Executive Director; Raymond Roche, Grand Scribe; ME Piers A. Vaughan, Grand High Priest; Sally Ann Bonar; RE Brian Singer, Grand Master of the Third Veil; ME Michael T. Dunn, Grand Secretary.

From the WebmasterKENNETH JP STUCZYNSKI,

WebMaster

nyMasons.orG (716) 868-1329

[email protected]

I preach the technological needs of the Craft. So the following may seem a contradiction. People may find digital communication a mystery or another task to keep an eye on. Some are excited to use new ways to do old things. Younger Brothers just take it for granted as part of everyday life.

But it isn’t Masonry. More than ever, people desire to pass from the profane to

the personal. Words are conveyed mouth to ear. Knowledge is stored in the faithful breast, not a hard drive or the cloud. What better way to convey truths than physical ritual? The meaning isn’t in the print of the Standard Work and Lectures. No matter how much is revealed, you can’t impart Freemasonry online. You can’t email the Real Word. As great as it would be to have a phone app for prompting, or text-searchable Constitutions, the form it takes is just housekeeping.

It seems a no-brainer to turn off your phone in Lodge. Outside communication diminishes a sacred retreat of friendship and virtue. But what if it’s your appointment book? Events are announced and people scramble to write it down. Why not a hand-out? Better yet, make sure it’s on the website calendar. Technology ought to bring us less distraction, not more.

Consider the brethren of old, who had to take buggy and barge to attend Grand Lodge. Planes, trains, and automobiles put us in same day’s travel, while officers and committees meet in virtual conferences from the comfort of their homes. We’d

be foolish to go back. But we’d be foolish to think this the practice or point of Masonry.

Consider the 18th Century. The western door was narrow, not by prejudice of social class, but limited time after toil. With the industrial revolution, regular work created a middle class with concepts of “vacation” and “time off.” The masses found time to participate in clubs and fraternities.

In the information age a secretary can do in minutes what used to take hours. A rare few still prefer hours. But promises of plentiful free time fall short. We simply do more work in the same time and find other ways to distract ourselves.

Why? Because technology can change the world a man lives in, and how he lives in it, but it doesn’t change the man. That’s our job. That’s Freemasonry.

Digital tools are more than convenience. But wisdom is found not only in how you use a tool, but also in deciding when not to use it. A calendar accessible by smartphone is a demand of the times. What we put on it is the measure of our work. An email or Facebook post can alert us to sickness and distress or a Brother laying down his tools. But a phone call or visit is what is good and true.

Many within the Craft are working hard to handle these temporal issues of technology. We work to make it easier for the real work of Freemasonry to happen.

Donation from the Grand Ladies of Royal Arch Masons


Perhaps it was a kind word, a smile or a small gesture of a comforting nod. It could have been a difficult moment when out of somewhere appeared a Masonic Care Community staff member or volunteer, surrounding you with kindness from the heart.

At the Masonic Care Community, we know that resident care and respect is at the heart of every member of our health care team. The Grateful Resident & Family Program provides you the opportunity to say thank you in a personal and meaningful way to those who made a difference by being near you or your loved one, with kindness and compassion, just when you needed them the most.

When you make a contribution to recognize one of our excellent caregivers, we will be sure to keep the dollar amount confidential. For each contribution we will send an acknowledgment card announcing that you have recognized him/her. This symbolic gesture will be proudly displayed in

the staffer’s area of employment to recognize and celebrate the excellence of care you or a loved one received at the Masonic Care Community. At your discretion, contributions may be designated to support an area of special meaning to you and your family.

If you or a loved one would like to recognize one of the staff members of the Masonic Care Community for compassion shown during a stay, please visit our site at www.mccny.com/gratefulresident&family. You may also contact me directly at 315/798-4703.


VICTORIA CATALDO,director of developMent Masonic care coMMuniTy

(315) [email protected]

With Kindness from the Heart

We Invite You to Get Involved!by Kathy Contino-Turner

Director of Communications and Marketing

The Masonic Care Community was built to care for the elderly Mason, his wife and widow. This campus stands as a testament to the ideals of Freemasonry and every day we see examples of that benevolence in action.

This past spring we saw several local Lodges make a commitment to the Masonic Care Community, setting aside time on a Saturday every quarter to spend with our residents. Amicable Lodge 664, Oriental Faxton Lodge 224, Philanthropic Lodge 164 and Baron Steuben Lodge 264 participated in a game day with the residents of our Health Pavilion. Special thanks go to Jim Nagy, Ross Stolz and Pete Cataldo. In their first visit they participated in a competitive table bowling contest. These Brothers plan to return to do whatever they can to enhance the lives of our seniors.

The Nassau District holds its “Christmas in May” event, bringing gifts to our residents and decorating for the holiday. The Dutchess District visits

us in October, again bringing gifts to the residents of Wiley Hall and the Health Pavilion. These two groups have been volunteering their free time for the past several decades and we look forward to their visits each year.

The Masonic Care Community can always use your involvement. Your Lodge or District could mirror the activities of your Brothers by planning a specific time to visit. St. John’s Day is a perfect time to volunteer. Many of our seniors like to get out on the Great Lawn

to enjoy the musical entertainment and the vendor booths. As our staff must stay on their households to tend to those individuals who are unable to go out, we could use volunteers who might like to adopt a resident for an hour or so.

There are a variety of other community life activities in which your Brothers could participate. We urge you to contact our Director of Community Life Jay Snow at 315/798-4836, or by email at [email protected].


Caring About People Since 1893By Kathy Contino-Turner

The Masonic Care Community is proud to announce the following changes to our management team. Fatema Islam, MD has joined the Masonic Care Community as our associate Medical Director. Dr. Islam, who is Board Certified in Family Medicine, comes to MCC from Bassett Healthcare, where she was an attending physician as well as a covering attending at Valley Health Services and Best Care Family Medical in Barneveld. Dr Islam and her family live in New Hartford.

Tamara Wheeler, LNHA has been promoted to the position of Administrator of the Masonic Care Community Health Pavilion. She previously served as Director of Nursing. In her eleven-year tenure at MCC Tamara has also served as Clinical Informaticist, overseeing the development and implementation of the Clinical Health Record in Answers on Demand; Administrative Coordinator providing leadership to nursing, social services and community life staff; a Nurse

Manager and Nursing Supervisor. Tamara was also adjunct faculty for Nursing at Utica College from 2009 to 2011. Tamara and her family reside in Sauquoit.

Amy Krause, RN, MSN has taken on the role of Director of Nursing at the Masonic Care Community. She received her Masters of Science in Nursing Administration from the SUNY Institute of Technology. Most recently she served as Director of Nursing at ChaseHealth Rehab and Residential Care in New Berlin, New York.

Darcey Park, RN is the new Director of the Masonic Care Community’s Adult Residential Care Home, Wiley Hall. Darcey began her career at MCC in 2013 as an RN Nurse Manager. Previously, she worked at Rome Memorial Hospital. Darcey also served as Army Reserves Combat Medic.

Health Pavilion Administrator Tamara Wheeler talks with a resident

Director of Adult Residential Services at Wiley Hall, Darcey Park, and her assistant Cheryl Welch

New Security Measures at MCCIn an effort to protect our residents, visitors and staff, the Masonic Care Community has enhanced our security measures for the Health Pavilion and Adult Care Residence, Wiley Hall. Doors to these buildings will be locked from 6:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. Visitors and family

members may still visit their loved ones during these times, but will have to use the special telephones located inside the double doors to gain access. New badges have been issued to staff members.

MCC Executive Director Rob Raffle says the new system is designed

to continue our 122 year promise to keep seniors safe on our campus. “This initiative,” according to Raffle, “is a common-sense approach to providing those who live here and those who work here a safe and secure environment.”


KATHY CONTINO-TURNER,director of coMMunications and MarketinG

Masonic care coMMiuniTy [email protected]


College Friends Living Together Again at MCC

Shirley Derochie Ryan and Helen Ryan Garlock first met when they attended college at the State University of New York at Potsdam. Both were elementary education majors who lived with six other women in a house during their last two years of college. The house was supervised by an elderly woman, Miss Crowley, who saw to it that curfews were met and no boys came into the house any farther

than the front entrance. Shirley and Helen became friends, sharing chores such as cleaning, cooking and shopping. After graduating from college in 1949, Shirley returned to her home town of Malone, New York and Helen went back to Central New York.

The pair kept in touch over the many years. When Shirley’s daughter moved to the Utica area, Shirley always made a point to get together with Helen, who lived in Newport.

Eventually, Shirley needed rehabilitation and she came to the Masonic Care Community, where she now lives in the Westchester Household. She called her old friend Helen to tell her where she was and a year later Helen’s daughter called Shirley. Helen was coming to live at the Masonic Care Community, too. Helen lives on the Monroe Household.

Interestingly, Shirley learned that another member of her Westchester Household, Rita Wolber, not only attended the Crane School of Music at Potsdam, but also graduated from

that college in 1949. The trio didn’t know each other during their college careers but do now. It’s a small world.

The bonds of a strong friendship can last a lifetime, and it is certainly evident with Shirley and Helen. Helen still calls Shirley by her maiden name “Derochie.” Oddly, Shirley married a Ryan and Helen’s maiden name was Ryan, but there was no connection between Shirley’s husband and her old college pal.

Today, these ladies enjoy some MCC activities together but mostly love to sit together and talk about their families and their college days at Potsdam. They talk about the icebox in their Potsdam house that had to be filled with ice several times each week, and the time it took to travel home from that community. Shirley supplied the photographs for this article and to read what Helen wrote to Shirley on the back of her senior college photo is evidence of their bond: “Here’s to one of the swellest pals I’ve had in college. My Stars! We even stand together. I’m going to miss cooking with you, buying on Saturday, doing nothings and most of all, you keeping me awake in class! I can hear you now, every time you look at this you’ll say ‘my sleepytime gal.’” Shirley and Helen are two old friends sharing a new life together again at the Masonic Care Community.

(left to right) Rita Wolber, Helen Garlock and Shirley Ryan enjoy a chat about their college days at SUNY Potsdam

in the late 1940s

Shirley Derochie Ryan and Helen Ryan Garlock on their college graduation day from Potsdam in the spring of 1949.

Shirley is the 3rd from the left (in back) and Helen is the 2nd from the right (also in the back).

Shirley Derochie Ryan Helen Ryan Garlock


The Masonic Care Community Offers “My Care Connection” for Seniors

By Kathy Contino-Turner

The Masonic Care Community, formerly the Masonic Home, has been serving the healthcare needs of elderly Masons, their wives and widows since 1893. Our facilities in Utica are top notch, providing a home for more than 500 seniors. Our healthcare services range from skilled nursing to home care to rehabilitation and our staff is experienced and knowledgeable. So considering our 122 years of service, and our exceptional team of care givers, we have developed a new initiative, designed to help every New York State Mason, regardless of where he lives, or where he would like to live as he ages.

The “My Care Connection” was unveiled to the attendees at the 234th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York in early May. This initiative is designed to assist seniors with questions surrounding heathcare and help guide them during a time when life-changing decisions need to be made. My Care Connection will help you as you seek guidance to financial, senior housing or Medicare/Medicaid questions.

My Care Connection is a telephone call away. The telephone number is 844/2ASK-MCC or 844/227-5622. The My Care Connection operates during normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Calls placed outside of those times will go to a message center and be answered on the next business day. Calls will be forwarded to appropriate personnel, depending on your area of need. My Care Connection can also be found on the Masonic Care Community Website at www.mccny.com/mycare. There you will find information on the program as well as a form to submit to get your questions answered.

The Masonic Care Community welcomes all Masons and their wives or widows to our beautiful home in central New York. But we also understand that relocating to this part of the state may not be possible. My Care Connection can provide

assistance, whether you wish to stay in your own community or you choose to come to the Utica campus, by providing the resources to make you a knowledgeable healthcare consumer. This is a free service to all New York State Masons, their wives and widows.

When it comes to healthcare options it can be confusing and frustrating to know where to begin. Your Masonic Care Community has been taking care of Masons for more than 122 years. We know the system and can get you the information to help you maneuver through it. We know that My Care Connection is the next evolution of the healthcare that has been provided to Masons since 1893. Stop by our booth on St. John’s Day to pick up one of our My Care Connection magnets to put on your refrigerator so you can use this service when you need it.

On May 18, 1915 the Grand Commandry of the Knights Templar, along with the Grand Line and Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund, gathered in Utica to dedicate the cornerstone of the Knights Templar Building. The Grand Commandry donated $5,000 toward the construction of this building, which would be the first girls’ dormitory on the campus.

In the 1940s the building became the first occupational therapy department. Today this gracious building houses the apartments of the Trustees and several members of the Grand Line. It is also home to the Communications, Development and Marketing offices.

The first floor hallway now features a variety of photos taken over the last 100 years of this building, and we invite you to stop by and say hello. If you would like a copy of this commemorative photo, they are available in the Communications, Development and Marketing office.

Marking The 100th Anniversary of the Knights Templar Building at MCC


As the Masonic Care Community Ambassador Program gains momentum with the appointment of Regional Administrators, District Coordinators and Lodge Ambassadors, it is hard at work. Its function is to deliver directly to the Lodges throughout the Grand Jurisdiction the most current information on the activities of the Board of Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home and, specifically, the Masonic Care Community.

Orders for the Box of Remembrance, to be placed near the inner Lodge door, are coming in at an increased pace. Town Hall meetings within Districts are becoming a familiar sight. Presenters at the Town Hall meetings are being met with enthusiastic greetings, and requests to have speakers return are

quickly becoming the norm.You, too, can become a part of this exciting experience.

If your Lodge does not have a Lodge Ambassador you may contact RW Michael Shipman at [email protected] to become part of the growing team of Ambassadors across New York State.

Please continue to support the efforts of the Masonic Care Community. Contribute to your Lodge’s Box of Remembrance at each meeting, ensuring this wonderful facility will be there for future generations.

Brother Charles W. Johnson, a resident of the Masonic Care Community since last fall, received a special treat in March when he was presented his 70-year apron. Past Grand Master Most Worshipful Edward Gilbert surprised Brother Johnson to present the apron. Accompanying the Grand Master were Brother Brian Will, 1st Lt. Commander of the Masonic War Veterans; Worshipful James Michel Jr., Master of West Seneca Lodge 1111; and District Deputy Grand Master Right

Worshipful John Haslam of the Second Erie District. The presentation also included letters of acknowledgment

from RW Griffith Jones, President of the Board of Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home; Right Worshipful Paul Rosen, Grand Secretary; and Grand Master Most Worshipful William J. Thomas. Brother Johnson was Raised in West Seneca Lodge in January of 1945 and has remained a faithful Mason since.

RW MICHAEL SHIPMAN, chairMan [email protected]

Masonic Care Community Ambassador Program

MCC Ambassador Program delivers across state

(l-r) MW Edward G. Gilbert, PGM; RW John Haslam, Sr., DDGM; W James Michel, Jr., Master; Brother Brian Will, MWV

Seated – Brother Charles Johnson, Jr., recipient

Brother Charles W. Johnson Receives His 70-Year Apron


The Distinguished Achievement Award celebrated its debut in 1934. In the many years that have transpired since that noble event, the members of the Grand Lodge Distinguished Achievement Award Committee have had uncommon opportunities to select and extend an invitation to a Brother who lives and breathes Freemasonry. Accepting this prestigious award today is a senior member of the Craft who has proven over these many decades that he is the very embodiment and essence of Freemasonry.

Today, the committee in tandem with the Grand Lodge of Free andAccepted Masons of the State of NewYork has this unique opportunity to pay tribute and homage to the Dean of the Past Grand Masters, Most Worshipful Brother Bruce Widger, who throughout his lifetime has given so much of himself to Family, Community and Freemasonry. Ourhonoree in his ninth decade of life is a beacon and shining example of Decency, Honesty and Compassion for all Masons to emulate.

Our Honoree is a native of central New York State, where he attended the Ogden Rural District School No. 7, and graduated from Churchville High School. Continuing his education, Bruce Widger enrolled as a student at Cornell University where he earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree upon graduation in 1951.

Dr. Bruce Widger returned to the University ten years later to serve on the Cornell University Board of Trustees. A position that he held for some 20-years until 1981 when they honored him with the office of Trustee Emeritus. During his tenure on the Board, Dr. Widger was instrumental in making many decisions that positively impacted upon the learning opportunities available to students.

. Expanding his professional and educational horizons at Cornell University, Dr. Widger served on the Advisory Board of the College of Veterinary Medicine for three distinct terms from 1961 to 1970, 1974 to 1980 and 1990 to 1996. He also served on

the Advisory Councils of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences from 1961 to 1970 and the College of Human Ecology from 1961 to 1962.

Dr. Widger’s involvement withthe University did not stop with his service on the various Advisory Councils and Boards. No, not by a long-shot, as he also devoted his energies to over ten Standing and Ad Hoc Committees at the College, namely the Committee on Academic Affairs, the Audit Committee, the Buildings & Properties Committee, the Executive Committee, the Committee on New York State Relations, the Africana Center Committee, and the Capital Financing Committee to name a few.

Additionally, Dr. Widger was named on the Centennial Honor Role of Alpha Zeta, the first and oldest collegiate society for agriculture in the Nation. With a membership of over 97,000 brothers, Dr. Widger was one out of a 100 recipients to receive this honor.

In appreciation for his many hours of devoted service and personal investment into the good works of the University, Dr. Widger was given the prestigious recognition of being the Outstanding Alumnus of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences in 1995.

In private practice, Dr. Bruce Widger entered into a 25-year partnership with Dr. Robert Nichols forming the

“Nichols & Widger Veterinarians” of Skaneateles, NY, providing primary care for small and large animals in SouthernOnondaga County. This successful business venture began in 1953 and continued until 1979, when Dr. Widger retired from private practice.

Upon his retirement in 1979, Dr. Widger accepted a position with the Division of Animal Industry of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, becoming its Director in 1982 until his retirement from the Department in 1990. Subsequently, his leadership and management skills were engaged by the National Association of State Veterinarians, where Dr. Widger served as its President in 199Z

Furthermore, Dr. Bruce Widger was appointed a Director Emeritus on the Board of the Daniel Parrish Witter Agricultural Museum, where he became a renowned proponent in sharing the heritage of New York’s agricultural development with the Museum’s many visitors.

Recognizing Dr. Widger’s “many years of unselfish service to his community, state and country and for his faithful work in the advancement of his profession”, the New York State Veterinary Medical Society bestowed upon him the coveted Award of Merit in 1985.

On the domestic side of life, Dr. Bruce Widger married his lovely bride Mary on October 12, 1952. Their union was blessed with three children, a daughter, Jane and two sons, Byron and Brother Dwight, a Lewis and member of Dryden Lodge No. 472, plus nine grandchildren.

Together with his family he has been extremely generous and active with both the First Presbyterian Church and the United Methodist Church in the village of Marcellus, where he has served in various leadership roles.

Dr. Widger’s personable demeanor, and upright character, are well-known attributes making him a prized commodity throughout the region. Within the local township, he has been a member and ardent supporter of the Marcellus Historical Society and Rotary

GRAND LODGE F. & A.M. OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 2015

C I T A T I O N

MOST WORSHIPFUL BROTHER BRUCE WIDGER, 33°


Club. Even at the tender age of 90 years, Brother Widger continues to deliver Meals on Wheels to the elderly residing in the local countryside.

Dr. Widger’s other endeavors include holding office asa Trustee of the Skaneateles Savings Bank from 1969 to 1984; servingas the Director of the Farmers and Traders Life Insurance Company of Syracuse from 1975 to 1995; serving as the Chairman on the Marcellus Town Zoning Board of Appeals from 1957 to 1973; and as member of the Council of Advisors to the New York State Commissioner of Environmental Conservation from 1969 until 1973.

Agriculture being close to his heart, Dr. Bruce Widger is a longtime active member of the National Grange and the New . York State Grange, a fraternal, agricultural and family centric organization, of which he has served in numerous capacities in the local Marcellus Grange and Onondaga Pomona Grange.

Dr. Widger was instrumental in launching a campaign toward bringing innew members to the local Granges, which garnered him the Golden Sheaf Award. Working tirelessly on his way up the chairs, which culminated with Dr. Widger being elected to the office of President of the Marcellus Grange.

Dr. Widger has devoted many years toward supporting the

Grange Hall, earning him the reputation as the go-to-person for

the HalL In recognition thereof, the Gerald M. Eastman Award . exemplifying the Grange’s values and precepts of Faith, Hope, Charity, Fidelity and Perseverance, was awarded by t~e New York State Grange to Dr. Bruce Widger with special fanfare at their Annual Session in Oneonta, NY on October 26, 2014.

Reflecting upon these noble virtues exemplified by the Grange, it should come as no surprise that our Honoree this morning would be destined to journey alo ng a path leading to Freemasonry.

Brother Widger was raised a Master Mason in Freedom Lodge No. 324 in Unadilla on April 28, 1953, and affiliated with Morning Star Lodge No. 524 the following year. Seven years later he was elected and installed the Worshipful Master of Morning Star Lodge in 1961. He also holds membership since 1973 in the American Lodge of Research and

the Justice Robert H. Jackson Lodge of Research since 1999.

Brother Widger was appointed in 1969 to the office of Assistant Grand Lecturer. Then in 1970, MW William R. Knapp, appointed Brother Widger to serve as the District DeputyGrand Master of the Second Onondaga District.

Becoming an officer of the Grand Line, then RW Brother Bruce Widger was elected Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of New York from 1972 to 1974, and ascended to Deputy Grand Master from 1978 to 1980.

Taking upon his shoulders the full mantel of authority and responsibility for the Craft, Most Worshipful Bruce Widger was elected by acclamation to the office of Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York, where he served with distinction for two terms from 1980 to 1982.

Seeking more Masonic Light carne as instinct to our Grand Master Bruce Widger, who embraced each novel Masonic Body with a renewed interest and enthusiasm.

MW Bruce Widger hasbeen a member ofthe York Rite Bodies since 1957 serving as the High Priest of Charles H. Platt Chapter No. 247, Royal Arch Masons for four different terms in 1975, 1977, 1999, and 2000. As a member of the Knights Templar, he served as the Commander of Central City Commandery No. 25 in 1993 and 1994. He also holds membership in Central City Council No. 13 of the Cryptic Rite Masons.

MW Brother Widger became a Scottish Rite Mason in 1966 serving as a Sovereign Prince from 1974 to 1975. He was elevated and coroneted an Honorary 33rd Degree Mason in 1975, and elected an Active Member of the Supreme Council in 1983. Subsequently, he was elected the Deputy for New York State in 1992, culminating with becoming an Active Emeritus of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite in September 2000.

MW Bruce Widger is a Life member of the Royal Order of Scotland, and has served as Puissant Sovereign of St. Leo’s Conclave of the Red Cross of Constantine in 1985 and 1986. His memberships also encompass the Societas Rosicrucions, Tigris Shrine Temple, the Royal Order of Jesters, Richmond Forest of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Kedar Kahn Grotto, the

Honorary Legion of Honor of the Order of DeMolay, and the Order of the Purple Cross of the York Rite College.

MW Bruce Widger currently serves as the Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Scotland near the Grand Lodge of New York.

In his succinct style and poignant manner, Most Worshipful Bruce Widger addressed this Grand Lodge in 1980 saying: “In the year ahead I expect to be the leader of all Masons in the State of New York, as you have charged me, but I also expect to be your servant, your friend and your co-worker in the Quarries. I want to be accessible, approachable and open. Please don’t let the Grand Master’s gold regalia stand between us. Ifyou have something that you feel is important, I should hear it, I want to hear it if it is for the good of the Craft.

Our function, one function of Grand Lodge is to serve and help strengthen the Lodges. The cutting edge of our Craft is in the local community and where the action should be and I hope it will be.

Please keep in touch, so we can help you with your problems, and in return we’ll expect you to help with ours.

So I ask you not so much to be loyal followers,-because I know you are .going to be that -but to join hands with me in the work ofour Craft, so that we can walk and work together as a team during the next two years. And yes, that you will occasionally remember that the Grand

Master is still Bruce, up here trying to do his job.” ,

MOST WORSHIPFUL BRUCE WIDGER, 33°

We hail! We salute! And we proclaim you!

The Recipient of the Highest Honor The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted

Masons of the State of New York can confer on anyone

The Distinguished Achievement Awardin the Year of 2015

which will now be presented by our MOST WORSHIPFUL

GRAND MASTER WILLIAM J. THOMAS

On May 4, 2015, A.L. 6015 Approved:

William J. ThomasGrand Master

Committee on Distinguished Achievement Award

Gary A. Henningsen, Chairman Carl J. Smith,

Vincent Libone


St. John’s Day June 26-27-28, 2015

We hope you are planning to join us for St. John’s Day at the end of this month. The basic schedule of events is listed. If you need additional information, however, on hotels or activities we urge you to go to www.mccny.com and click on Events on the upper blue bar. We will be posting all the latest information on the weekend at the Utica Campus. You can also call my office 315/798-4768 or email me at [email protected].

Friday, June 267:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.: District Deputy and Staff Officer Training in various locations (TBA) on the Masonic Care Community Campus.5:00 p.m.: Friday Evening Jewish Services in the Auditorium of the Administration Building followed by Oneg Shabbat in the lobby.6:00 p.m.: Picnic at Acacia Village for all Masons and their families who are attending the St. John’s Day weekend activities.

Saturday, June 279:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Crafters and Masonic Lodges/Districts on the Great Lawn.10:00 a.m.: Grand Master, Grand Line and the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home meet with residents in the Atrium of the Health Pavilion.11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.: the Steve Falvo Easy Money Big Band on the Great Lawn.1:00 p.m.: Masonic War Veterans Annual Wreath-Laying Ceremony in front of the Soldiers and Sailors Building.2:00 p.m.: Line of March from the Health Pavilion to the Daniel D. Tompkins Memorial Chapel.2:30 p.m.: Investiture Service at Tompkins Memorial Chapel.

Sunday, June 289:00 a.m.: Christian Worship Service at the Daniel D. Tompkins Memorial Chapel.10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.: Brunch in the Winter Garden of the Health Pavilion.1:00 p.m.: Scholarship Awards program in the auditorium of the Administration Building.


2015 St. John’s WeekendRequest for Space to Set Up Tents

The Masonic Lodges are invited to bring their own pop-up tents, tables and chairs to set up at St. John’s Day, free of charge! The placement of your Lodge’s tent will be determined on a first-come, first served basis and assigned by receipt date of the request.

Set-up Times Available: Saturday, June 27th from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. .

Size: The maximum size we can accommodate on the Great Lawn is a 12 X12 tent.

Please submit your request to the Development/Marketing/Communications Office no later than Friday, June 5, 2015. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the following representatives at the Masonic Care Community:

Carol Bartosiewicz, Development/Marketing Assistant Email: [email protected]

Phone: (315)798-4881

For Internal Use Only: Date Received by Masonic Care Community: _________________Tent Number Assigned: _______

Lodge Name and No.:

Contact Person:

Telephone No.:

Email Address

Size of Tent You are Bringing

Type of Items You Plan to Display


INTErNATIONAL OrdEr OF THE rAINBOw FOr GIrLS IN NY

Mrs. Gale Gould

Supreme Inspector in NY35 Maple Street

Auburn, New York 13021Phone: 315-253-8206

e-mail:[email protected]: www.nyiorg.org

: facebook.com/NY Rainbow

OrGANIzATION OF TrIANGLES, INC.

Mary Madison

State Director

Email: [email protected]: www.nytriangle.org

: facebook.com/OOTNY

NEw YOrk dEMOLAY2150 Bleecker Street, Utica, New York 13501

RW williaM M sardone Office (315) 798-4922 Executive Officer Fax (315) 798-4798 [email protected] Website: NYDemolay.org

: Facebook.com/NYDemolay

: Twitter.com/NYDeMolay

: NYDeMolay

Grand Master honored as DeMolay inducts 18 March 21, 2015 was the date of the NY DeMolay Grand Master’s Class in honor of the MW and Dad William J. Thomas. The event took place in Albany.

Photo A • DeMolays from across New York State converged and worked together as a team to induct eighteen young men into our organization. The ceremony was witnessed by hundreds of attendees.

Photo B • To add a little icing to the DeMolay Cake, Dad William Plank presented the Grand Master with a resolution of sponsorship for a brand new Chapter in the Tarrytown area. It will be named “Knights Templar.”

Photo C • Following the events of the afternoon, the organization honored Grand Matron and Mom Bonnie Blanchard and Grand Patron and Dad Bruce Whitmore. A bit of a Western theme prevailed, as evidenced by RW Bill Sardone, NY DeMolay Executive Officer; Grand Patron Bruce Whitmore; Grand Matron Bonnie Blanchard; NY DeMolay State Master Councilor, Tyler Henderson


This winter a friend of mine posted on Facebook that her two-year-old granddaughter Betsy was going into the hospital again for treatment and surgery. Betsy has cystic fibrosis and has spent more time in the hospital than most adults and would need to be in the hospital for several weeks. My friend asked for prayers and mentioned that Betsy would be in the Scottish Rite Hospital for children.

I thought this would be a great community service project for the girls. So, after checking with Betsy’s family, I posted a Facebook plea to the Triangle members, as well as to our entire Masonic family, to send cards to Betsy and her older brother Anthony. The response was incredible. Betsy and Anthony received cards, books, gifts and prayers not only from Triangle, but from Rainbow and DeMolay members; not only from the youth, but from the adults, as well. Her family was overwhelmed with the generosity and caring of our Orders.

As Betsy lives in Atlanta, Georgia, she will not likely grow up to be a Triangle girl. But she may remember this time when she turns eleven and she may look for a Rainbow Assembly. Anthony may recall the Star Wars book he received from a complete stranger and think, “This is an organization I would like to be part of,” and seek out a DeMolay Chapter.

This story exemplifies the character of all our youth groups. One little plea on Facebook, and look at the smile it brought to a sick little girl who receives her care at a Masonic-supported facility.

Young people answer call

by Mary B. Madison, State Director,Organization of Triangle, Inc.

Infirmary Building Improvements Donation

The Royal Arch Masons Grand High Priest, ME Piers A. Vaughn, presented Masonic Care Community Executive Director RW Rob Raffle with a check for $3,600 to benefit improvements to the Infirmary Building at Round Lake Camp. This donation will assist the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home in their efforts to make updates to the camp property in northern Oneida County.

Ninth Manhattan recognizes editor

(l-r) RW Joseph Goldbloom and RW Kevin Koeberl

RW Joseph Goldbloom received acknowledgement for his many years as the editor of the Ninth Manhattan News. Brother Joe recently retired from this position and he was given a plaque to honor his contributions to the newspaper. RW Kevin Koeberl, the new editor, made the presentation.

The ceremony took place at the annual meeting of the German Masonic Charitable Foundation. Congratulations go to Joe as he begins a new chapter in his life.


Law Enforcement CommitteeRW MARTIN A. DANOFF,

chairMan

437 Madison Avenue, 29th FloorNew York, NY 10022

(212) 573-6064 [email protected]

Here are some pointers on how you can protect yourself in the event your identity, wallet, credit cards, social security number and financial information are stolen.1. Do not sign the back of your credit cards, instead write,

“Photo ID Required.”2. When writing checks to pay any of your credit card bills,

do not put the complete account numbers on the check. Instead, just put the last five numbers of your account number, as the credit card company has your account number. Also, never have your Social Security number printed on your checks. You can always write it if it is necessary (e.g., when paying your Federal or NYS Income taxes).

3. Put your work phone number on your checks instead of your home phone. Do not put your home address on your checks. Some people even get a P.O. Box number.

4. Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Photocopy the front and back sides of your credit cards, licenses, bank cards, account numbers, pin numbers and phone numbers to call to cancel these accounts. Keep the photocopies in a safe place for future reference.

5. Also make copies of your passport and take extra copies when you travel here or abroad. Leave a copy home in case your luggage and carry on bags are stolen.

6. In the event your wallet and passport are stolen, file a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where they were stolen. This proves to the credit card companies you were diligent. Then notify the credit card companies that your credit cards were stolen.

7. Call the three national credit reporting companies immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and also call the Social Security fraud line number. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit. However, to protect

yourself further these three credit companies sell insurance to protect yourself.

Here are the credit companies:a.) Equifax 1-800 525-6285b.) Experian (formally TRW) 1-888 397-3742c.) Trans Union 1-800 680-7289d.) Social Security fraud line 1-800 269-0271

Some other scams that you can protect yourself against are as follows:1. Do not pay any employment agency fees or costs for

training and placement in construction and hospitality sectors. Check them with the Better Business Bureau.

2. Towing scam3. Immigration assistance scam – we can get you citizenship4. Electronic store scam5. Parking ticket scam – we can fix your ticket6. ATM skimmers – protect your PIN number when at the

machine – cover it up.7. Phone scams – they call you to invest in a phony stock; get

you to send money for something that sounds too good to be true or they want you to wire them money for some scam. Get a telephone that shows you who is calling – if you do not know the person or number do not answer your phone. Scam artists will not leave a voice message or a return number.

8. Rental listing scam – cheap apartment on computer – too good to be true.

Good luck. Remember to take all the aforementioned precautions to protect yourself, your money and identity against the forces of evil.

This article is not intended to be a source of legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. It is purely a resource of information for Masons.

Protection against Identity Theft and other Scams

Valentine’s Day arrived just a little earlier this year for La Fraternidad, Lodge 387.

Our W Carlos Villalobos and brethren all gathered together in January 2015 to celebrate a Masonic Wedding Recognition to our Brother

Stewart Victor Mosquera and his wife Maria Teresa. Our DDGM RW Miguel Angel Ballena and Grand Director of Ceremonies RW Steve Marrone were in attendance. After the ceremony the participants enjoyed a scrumptious dinner and a delicious wedding cake.

It is the second time in the history of our lodge which was founded 160 years ago, that we celebrate the Masonic Wedding Recognition as part of our traditions.

Masonic Wedding Recognition


Committee on Youth

RW CARY S. COHN, chairMan (516) 781-1157 [email protected]

MW Frank M. Totton served Grand Lodge as Grand Master during the years 1948 and 1949. He hailed from Fifth Manhattan Masonic District. Roughly fifty years ago, in his honor, an Essay Contest was established. The Fifth Manhattan Masonic District Association Endowment Fund currently

funds it, with ten prizes awarded to the top essays. The Youth Committee of Grand Lodge administers this contest.

On behalf of the Grand Lodge Committee on Youth, it is an honor to announce the winner of this year’s Frank M. Totton Essay Contest: Ms. Michaela Cornaire of LaFargeville, New

York. She is the daughter of W Wendell J. Cornaire. He hails from Brownville Lodge 53 in Jefferson District. Her essay appears below.

Next year’s Essay Contest topic is “Civility: What is it, and why is it important in our lives?”

First Place Michaela Cornaire, Brownville 53, Jefferson DistrictSecond Place Jessica Zinssar, Schoharie Valley 491, Otsego-Schoharie DistrictThird Place Taylor N. Canter, Jephtha 394, Suffolk DistrictFourth Place Luca J. Pagoto, Garibaldi 542, Tenth Manhattan DistrictFifth Place James Griffin, Garibaldi 542, Tenth Manhattan District

Sixth Place John R. Sacktig, Stewart Manor-St. Albans 56, Second Nassau DistrictSeventh Place Vincent Manta, Harmony 241, Queens DistrictEighth Place Jessica Ranjitsingh, Cornucopia 563, Queens DistrictNinth Place Caroline Dunne, Trinity 12, Ninth Manhattan DistrictTenth Place Adrian A. Johnson, Aurora Grata Day Star 647, Third Kings District

How Can Teenage Suicide be Prevented?It seems that teenage suicide is plaguing this country these days. There are reports of it all the time in

the news. In an attempt to combat this, schools have launched anti-bullying campaigns but have truly not done much more to help out the depressed teenager.

If we wish to prevent teenage suicide, we must first turn to teenagers themselves. In my experience, teenagers who are feeling depressed will readily seek out a friend but balk at speaking to an adult. For this reason, I believe the first step to preventing teenage suicide is in training teenagers how to deal with a crisis. Teaching teens to simply direct a friend to an adult for help won’t work. Many teenagers are ready and willing to be trained in crisis intervention, and they are the ones who other depressed teenagers will turn to.

Secondly, if we wish to prevent teenage suicide, we must make mental healthcare much more accessible than it is. I say this because I speak from experience in the lack of mental healthcare in

my area. I was feeling depressed, and actually did turn to my parents for help. I requested counseling, and wanted to see a psychiatrist. They agreed with me and sought out psychiatrists and counselors. The best that could be done for me was for me to be put on a waiting list to get in to see someone. This waiting list was about a year and half long. Well before I reached my turn on this waiting list, I experienced a crisis myself and was placed in a mental hospital for ten days. This could’ve been prevented if I’d had access to medical care sooner.

The last thing we must remember in preventing teenage suicide is that this is a battle for all of us. We must begin to remove the stigma of depression. We need to speak openly about it so that every teenager can know that help can be found and we all need to make efforts to change the way depressed teenagers are treated in this country.

Winners of the Frank M. Totton Essay Contest are as follows:

Michaela Cornaire

Totton Essay Recipient


Awards Committee

RW GEORGE R. WACOB, chairMan

[email protected]

The committee has completed its first year since being appointed by the Grand Master. It has been a unique experience for the entire committee. Some of the new procedures that were implemented have helped to expedite the time necessary from receipt to ratification of recommendations. The committee worked diligently to achieve this goal and is commended for its efforts. We will continue to provide information through an Empire State Mason article. We will also continue to provide information and forms on the Awards Committee webpage at the Grand Lodge website.

The committee will be accepting 2016 Dedicated Service Award Recommendation Forms in September 2015. At the end of August, a letter will be sent out with updated information, timetable and form for the 2016 Dedicated Service Award and various Community Service Awards. The letter will be sent to the DDGMs, Staff Officers and Secretaries of Lodges. If you do not receive it by the middle of September, go to the website and you can obtain all of the information you will need.

I want to emphasize that there is a cutoff date for the Dedicated Service Award Recommendation. The forms and information must be postmarked on or before November 12, 2015. There is a lengthy procedure in place with the committee voting on, the Grand Master approving and the

required notifications being made for each recipient. Last year, a few recommendations came in too late to be processed. We encourage the timely submission of the recommendations for our distinguished Brothers.

The Community Service Awards (DeWitt Clinton, Jacob Morton and GL Certificate of Excellence in Service to the Community) have no cutoff date and will be processed as they are received. The Lodge and DDGM will be notified within a short period of time if the nominee has been approved to receive one of the awards.

Please take note of the Awards Committee’s webpage on the Grand Lodge website: http://nymasons.org/awards-committee/. This page will give you information, requirements and forms for the various awards.

I would like to thank the dedicated Brothers on the Awards Committee for the time and effort they have contributed to make this past year a success. RW Gregory Noulas and RW Joseph T. Entier represent the Metropolitan Region. Mid-State Region is RW Thomas L. Jenison and RW Garry L. Visconti. RW Charles E. Knapp, Jr. and RW John L. Montross cover the Hudson-Champlain Region and the Western Region members are RW William H. Greene and RW Robert W. Strong.

Awards Committee lays out guidelines

When Districts get together they demonstrate the best spirit of fraternity. February 15 marked an important start in inter-District relations and cooperation.

For many years, the Seventh and Eighth Manhattan Districts have held annual luncheons for their transplanted Brothers in Florida. This year, for the first time, they were joined by the Sixth Manhattan in a joyous and successful affair. Held at the popular DaVinci Italian Restaurant in Boynton Beach, the luncheon attracted more than sixty Brothers and ladies.

In years past, each District had its own luncheon; this year they decided to combine. RW Nat Savlowitz, organizer from Eighth Manhattan, commented, “We hope this new endeavor is the start of an annual event and we hope

that next year all Manhattan Districts will join us, and even Brothers, Lodges and Districts from throughout the New York Metropolitan area.”

Heading up the Districts this year were RW Bernard Rashes from Sixth Manhattan, RW Steve Kastner and RW

Paul Kilimnik from Seventh Manhattan and RW Nat Savlowitz from Eighth Manhattan. Also joining this year were Brothers from some other New York Districts, as well as Brothers from Florida.

Manhattan Masons come together in Florida


RW JAMES H. RICEGrand historian

From The Grand Historian

This question raised some very thought-provoking conversations recently. Several responses received were “in the First Degree.” Other respondents thought it is after the Degrees are completed. None mentioned, “before the Degrees begin.”

I am of the opinion that Masonic education begins when a man first inquires about joining Masonry and, more specifically, during the interview process. The interview committee will make a lasting impression on the potential candidate by attending to how well they prepare for the interview and the image they project. The committee members should keep in mind that while they are observing the candidate they are being observed as well by the man, his spouse and family.

Each committee member must be knowledgeable about our Craft and, in particular, his Lodge. How they express themselves during the interview will be a major point in gaining a new Mason. You are not only to learn why the man wants to join but to answer any questions he or his spouse may have regarding Masonry. Your answers to these questions must be accurate and honest. This is the real beginning of his education in Masonry.

Explain the basic tenets of Masonry: Brotherly Love, Integrity and Charity. He should be told the time requirement to become a Master Mason, his commitment to increase his knowledge and understanding of Freemasonry and how to be an active member of his Lodge.

Once he becomes a Lodge member he should be thoroughly educated in Masonry, beginning with the alphabet. Passing through the rudiments, he finds in the ritual the true principles of our institution. Gradually developing himself through a succession of tenets, ornaments and symbols, he finds himself capable of comprehending and appreciating the great moral principles and teachings, which give vitality and stability to Masonry. This passage was thus described by MW Joseph D. Evans in 1855.

With the help of his mentor he can then start on the pathway to greater knowledge by participating in the many programs our Grand Lodge has to increase a Brother's Masonic knowledge. His pursuit of light always begins in the Lodge and, hopefully, your Lodge has a library of basic Masonic books that he can borrow and study. And don't forget: Our main purpose is to make Masons, not members.

When does Masonic education begin?

On Sunday, March 15 the Brothers of Laurens Lodge 548 and Grand Master William J. Thomas, the Grand Line, the Cortland-Madison Masonic War Veterans Post, visiting brethren, friends and family celebrated the 150th anniversary of Masonry in Laurens and rededicated their Lodge building. Laurens Lodge 548 was chartered on April 9, 1864, organized by its first Worshipful Master Harvey Gregory. The founding members were mechanics, farmers, merchants, lawyers, physicians and a hotel keeper.

After changing meeting locations on several occasions, Laurens Lodge purchased its current building (a former Methodist church) in 1968. The Lodge later absorbed Butternuts Lodge through an approved merger.

The ceremony was conducted by

the Grand Master and his elected and appointed Grand Lodge Officers. The colors were presented by Brothers of the Masonic War Veterans Post from the Cortland-Madison District. On the altar, Laurens Lodge proudly displayed the antique Bible, which includes the

signature of every Worshipful Master of Laurens Lodge since its chartering. A catered dinner was served after the ceremony, with all in attendance enjoying an afternoon of fellowship and brotherhood.

Laurens Lodge 548 Celebrates 150 Years


RW MICHAEL SHIPMAN, chairMan

[email protected]@aol.com

Grand Lodge Educational Assistance Program

The public announcement and presentations to the recipients of the 2015 Education Assistance Program will take place at the following locations:

Sunday, June 28 Saturday, July 11 Saturday, July 11 Masonic Home Campus Ismailia Shrine Damascus Shrine 2150 Bleeker Street. 1600 Southwestern Blvd. 979 Bay Road Utica Buffalo Webster At 1:00 p.m. At 12:00 p.m. At 5:00 p.m.

Sunday, July 12 Sunday, July 12 Saturday, July 25 Centerville Lodge Beukendaal Lodge Grand Lodge Building-3rd Fl. 648 Centerville Place 22 Schonowee Ave. 71 West 23rd Street North Syracuse Scotia New York At 12:00 p.m. At 5:00 p.m. At 12:00 p.m.

All brethren are cordially invited to attend the 2015 Education Assistance Program presentations. Representatives of the Grand Line will be present at these presentations and will continue the tradition of congratulating the students and families. The programs will start promptly at the above times. The Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home, who have funded the program for the children, grandchildren and widows of our Fraternity, will be in attendance, also. Light refreshments will be served.

Special thanks go to the many Lodge Secretaries who assisted the candidates with their applications. Thanks are also due the

District Deputy Grand Masters for their assistance in securing the ceremony locations.

This is the twentieth year for this outstanding program. Your Grand Lodge and Trustees have assisted nearly 12,000 students with grants, now totaling over 10.5 million dollars, in their pursuit of higher learning. All brethren and families are welcome to be part of these special events. Help us congratulate the children, grandchildren and widows of the members of our Fraternity. Make reservations with your District Deputy if you would like to attend.

Reliance Lodge 776 historian Brother William P. Stris received paraphernalia from the DDGM of the Second Kings District, RW Walter J. Wasnieski III. The material belonged to former member, Grand Treasurer RW Frank B. McLaughlin. It will be placed in the Lodge’s archives.

The Lodge has many significant Masonic artifacts housed in its archives at the Livingston Masonic Library and Library of Congress, many originating with Lodges it has absorbed. These Lodges include Marsh 188, Hill Grove Progressive 354, Corner Stone 367, Oltman 445, Clinton 453, Tyrian 618, Anthon 769 and Success 1169.

(l-r) Brother William P. Stris and RW Walter J. Wasnieski III

Reliance recovers

piece of history


Masonic Fellowship Day at the New York Islanders was a rousing success once again. This year Camp Turk was the beneficiary of the fundraising efforts because it is the pet charity of Grand Master William J. and Susan Taylor Thomas. This is the third year for the event and it was arranged by RW Walter Wasnieski, District Deputy of the Second Kings District and a member of the Grand Lodge Fellowship Committee.

Over 100 Masons and families and friends attended. It was great to see: three generations of the Callahan family enjoying the game and quality time together; some new Masons and their families enjoying the game; a dad and his daughter bonding over the fastest

game on earth. A few of our younger fans were able to ride the “Fan Zamboni” before the start of the game and a few were able to “high-five” the New York Islanders as they took to the ice.

Grand Lodge Fellowship Committee chair RW Joe Mandel thanks our MW William J. Thomas for his support for this event, even though he wasn’t able to attend. PGM MW Carl J. Fitje was there to represent Grand Lodge and our Grand Master.

We also thank RWs Scott Nagle and Dave Velkas and Ed Callahan and their families for attending. A huge thank-you goes to the Brothers and families from First Nassau and Second Kings who helped make this day a major success. Thanks also go to W Marshal

Shichtman, a Past Master from Reliance Lodge 776, who generously bought and donated tickets.

Camp Turk will receive $2,000 from ticket sales and donations. After the game some of the Brothers stayed to see RW Wasnieski play in a charity hockey game called “Skate with the Greats.” He played alongside four-time Stanley Cup winners, Hall of Famers Mike Bossy and Ken Morrow, as well as Islander alumni Garth Snow, Doug Weight and Steve Webb. RW Walter even got to live out a childhood dream of scoring a goal at the Nassau Coliseum, on a pass from Mike Bossy.

It was a great day for all. Be on the lookout for flyers for next year’s Masonic Fellowship Day.

(l-r) RW Walter Wasnieski and Ken Morrow

Mr. & Mrs. Callahan

Fellowship on ice


LINDA RAE AVOLIO, retireMent counselor

acacia VillaGe

[email protected]

Acacia Village

Acacia Village receives several inquiries per month from people looking for Assisted Living. Acacia Village is not Assisted Living, we are Independent Living and there are important distinctions between these two types of housing. When someone calls in, it’s important to determine which type of senior housing they are looking for and best suits their needs. In order to live in an Independent Living community, like Acacia Village, an individual must be able to take of themselves without addition assistance. When someone calls or visits and they are looking for Assisted Living, we usually start out by asking a series of questions to determine if Acacia Village will be a good fit for them. For example; we’ll ask them if they are able to take care of their own personal needs. Are they able to dress themselves and take care of their own hygiene? Are they able to administer and keep track of their own medications? It’s very important for everyone to know that we don’t provide any medical services at Acacia Village.

If someone calls looking for Independent Living, we might ask if they are getting tired of the upkeep on their current home. Would they like to have more free time to pursue their interests? Are they interested in making new friends? Would they appreciate not having to cook every meal? If they answer yes, then they might want to explore the Acacia Village lifestyle a little more.

At Acacia Village we encourage folks to make this move while they can really enjoy the way of life we offer. I often tell people it’s better to make this move five years too early than five minutes too late. If they wait until there is a crisis, then chances are they might need a higher level of care.

Studies show that folks who live in an independent residential community such as Acacia Village age more successfully than their peers and maintain their independence for a much longer period of time. This is due to a variety of factors that we call components of healthy living.

The first is physical activity. We’ve all heard the phrase use it or lose it. At Acacia Village the residents can choose from a variety of wellness classes including yoga, Tia Chi and water fitness, plus they can walk inside during inclement weather and enjoy the walking trails on our beautiful over 400 acre campus during the spring, summer and fall. We also have a wellness

center complete with fitness equipment and an indoor pool, spa and sauna.

The second component is social interaction. Living here is like being part of a tightly knit small town. We have several clubs and groups that folks belong to including book clubs and chorus. They also get together for coffee on Wednesday afternoons and for cocktails on Friday before dinner. We also have multiple rooms where our folks can host small and large gatherings. Whether they want to host fifteen

people for dinner or host a large anniversary celebration, it’s easy to arrange that.

Number three on the list is cognitive stimulation. Acacia Village neighbors get together for weekly trivia and card games. They enjoy on-site lectures and presentations. Others enjoy putting jigsaw puzzles together while others work on the “Acacia Village Voices” our community newsletter. Movies are shown regularly in our theater and we have over four thousand books available in the library. Some of our residents even facilitate educational classes for their neighbors.

The final component of healthy living is spiritual fulfillment. We offer transportation to Tompkins Chapel on our Masonic Care Community campus and other area churches on Sunday. Several Acacia Village residents also travel to the MCC Health Pavilion on Tuesdays for a Catholic Mass. We have a group that also gets together each week for bible study. At Acacia Village neighbors love to help each other out and they find that to be very fulfilling also. Others are busy volunteering in the community.

Independent Living provides the active adult more independence than living at home because it frees them up from the bulk of household chores and maintenance. Residents come and go as they please. They are welcome to have family and friends come and visit. They can entertain and cook in their own apartment or treat their guests to a meal in the café or dining room. Small dogs and cats that fit the pet policy are at home here too. Overnight guests are welcome to stay in a resident’s apartment or they can book a modest room on campus, based on availability. Our residents can participate in many activities or none at all.

Acacia Village is strictly a rental community, so there is no large up-front entrance fee like you might find at other Independent Living Communities. Please call us so that we can answer any questions you may have. Better yet, come and visit. When you do, talk to people that live here; you’ll find that most of them will say that they wish they had moved here sooner. If you’d like to learn more about the Acacia Village lifestyle contact us at 1-800-593-3353. Take a video tour on our website at www.acaciavillageny.com.

Acacia Village is Independent Living


GRAND MASTER’SFAMILY DAY AT WEST POINTSaturday, October 17, 2015

Army vs. Bucknell

(Limited to 200 tickets)

Tickets: $30.00Parking: $15.00 (per car)Parking: $25.00 (per bus)Get your order in early

We will be Tailgating at Parking Area “H”Arrive early for good parking spot. Map will be provided with tickets.

Bring your own food and drinks.

Parade of Cadets on the Plain: Football Game: *9:00 a.m. *12:00 p.m.

(Buses provided to parade & game)

Ticket orders must be sent with check payable to “Grand Lodge of New York” to:RW Charlie Catapano2410 Farmers Ave #1Bellmore, NY 11710

Phone: 516/314-8156, email: [email protected]

Cut-off date (with money) September 30, 2015

*Subject to change

On October 29, 2011 Brother Charles Tyree and his wife Roseann suffered a total loss of home and property, including his original Grand Sword Bearer’s apron, to Hurricane Sandy. The super storm struck their home on Long Island. They relocated to Western New York after the storm to be near family members.

After its stated communication on March 5, Transportation Lodge 842 held a family-invited Surprise Party. The surprise was a re-presentation of the Purple Apron to Brother Tyree. MW Carl J. Smith, under whom RW Brother Tyree had served, presented the replacement apron. Thirty-five Lodge members and guests joined in the celebration with refreshment and conversation.(l-r) MW Carl J. Smith, RW Charles Tyree and W Charles J. Goetz, Sr.,

Master of Transportation Lodge

Transportation re-presents apron


Years of Service

85 Years 84 Years 83 Years 82 Years

Normal Arthur T. Long

WaNtagh mortoN C. Richard Gunzer

Normal Nicholas Choyce Sr

CataraCt Willis J. Mather

79 Years

IslaNd CIty William T. Johnston

76 Years

75 Years

74 Years

amos-Fort greeNe Arthur SandersemulatIoN Norman Johnson

PIoNeer-mouNt morIah Cyril H. Hermelesalem toWN Harold W. Axton

tadmor Louis H. Eickhoff

ark Clifton S. BaldwinBerNe Francis H. WarnerFrank W. WarnerClINtoN F. PaIge-BereaN Edward D. CottrellFelloWshIP Daniel StojanovichguIdINg star-aNgle Robert A. ShawnheIghts Donald K. Smith

laNsINg Victor R. LewisNathan Strauss Leonard LitwinNorth star Robert G. HubbellNuNda statIoN Duane A. WolforIeNtal-FaxtoN William Pritchardst. JohNsvIlle Michael F. Mancusitrue CraFtsmaN’s Fred Dickerman

73 Years

raCket rIver

Walter F. Hastings

aNChor-astorIa Jack LeopolderIe John E. Paplow

harlem valley Lawrence E. StarkmIlNor Wilbur M. McCormick

reNovatIoN Lloyd F. Cliff

72 Years

amos-Fort greeNe

Milton RadutzkyBaINBrIdge-aFtoN Frank A. DoolittleBeukeNdaal Elbert J. WellerBrasher Wesley E. Kingsley JreveNINg star Arthur J. CropseygoldeNrule Clermont McKinley Eugene K. Nemoytin

hIram Fred H. Hale JrIlIoN olIve BraNCh Gilbert N. JohnsonkINgstoN Robert A. ShultismouNt morIah Cornell L. BeachuNIoN star Charles B. SwartzWellstoN Harold F. White

71 Years

Boyd Henry HusonCoNstellatIoN Fletcher ParkerdelhI John H. LealFIdelIty Donald E. GibsonhamIltoN Edwin F. Riedel

humaNIty Reginald WagmakerkeNNyetto Donald R. VosburghmargaretvIlle Lester A. RosamoNroe Robert A. Ellis

North star Carlton G. Van OrnumolIve Wilbur R. RenskersoNeoNta Harold T. GobelGottfried G. RiesensavoNa Ray J. Faucett

sCheNeCtady

Robert C. McCartneysPartaN Frank B. Wigleystar oF the east Charles H. RyanWhIte PlaINs Leonard W. Schlichting

70 Years

BooNvIlle-urIel Clinton C. CapronCarPeNter-emaNuel Jack TrainerCortlaNdvIlle George W. SamsondrydeN Sibley A. Stewart

FraNklIN Albert E. HornbyguIdINg star-aNgle Lyman T. DoremushaNCoCk-dIrIgo-adelPhI Bernard I. Chenkinharry s trumaN Jerome Silverman

JustINIaN Morton IngramlIvINg stoNe H. A. KoernerloWvIlle Francis S. LeeogdeNsBurgh-aCaCIaN

Leslie A. WageroNeoNta Herbert H. Sines

oraWauPum Lionel WeinsteinrouNd hIll Charles W. LoudonsCotIa James L. KopperuNIty Kenneth E. Brooker


65 Years

amherst Robert F. BuyersaNCIeNt temPle John W. HeerearmIstICe Paul J. GlasgowathelstaNe Leonard AnishBeaCoN John T. Ingram JrBeukeNdaal Harris R. Gregory JrBINghamtoN Donald J. SticklesBlazINg star Jay S. DoerfleinNelson B. RogersBuFFalo-lakelaNd Howard W. HitesCaNaNdaIgua Robert E. ClarkCarPeNter-emaNuel Joseph A. GottliebCharles W. CushmaN John B. Deavitt Jr John V. HillCommoNWealth-greeNPoINt Ernest A. Meng CorNerstoNe Maurice GrohmanMartin HollandCrossroads Walter E. Cramer JrWeston W. FrasierCuBa-FrIeNdshIP Robert H. BrooksdelaWare Chapell Peake JrdelhI Willard A. VetterduNkIrk-IroNdequoIt Walter A. HamlinelBe Herbert L. WalderIe Frank W. Beckstein JretolIaN Harry G. Steinorth Jr

eveNINg star Harry K. MinassiangasPort

Paul N. O’Neillgeorge WashINgtoN

Herbert P. DurdikgIrard Edwin YabrowhamIltoN Desmond R. ParkerhaNover Justin H. NiebelharmoNIe

Donald C. BrookshIghlaNd-ely Parker Clark G. White Jrhomer James R. CoxGeorge C. WoodhugueNot John A. RenerINdePeNdeNt royal arCh Edmund Kolb, Jr.James W. husted-FIat lux Robert HirschfeldMarvin HirshfeldJosePh WarreN-gothIC

Stanley DisenhofkeNmore James W. MclernonkINg solomoN-BeethoveN

Richard L. StarfieldkINgs CouNty William A. HeathlIverPool Bernard G. HessloWvIlle John H. RossmaImoNIdes-marshall Samuel S. LevinradmaNetto Brook hollIs Millard L. Friday JrmarathoN John A. HuntmIlNor George A. SchradermIzPah John F. Harrari

morNINg star Clinton J. WoodfordmouNt saNaI Kenneth A. RothschildmuNN Albert H. WahlNaurashaNk Clayton C. NewellogdeNsBurgh-aCaCIaN

James PhillipsThomas G. SmithRay W. WatsonoN da Wa Mack D. RupardoNtarIo Charles L. OssmanorIeNtal-FaxtoN Lloyd B. DuprauJoseph J. LeblangorIskaNy Frank M. HillageRobert A. ThorpeWilliam J. VandykePerFeCt square

Martin I. SheltonPhoeNIx Kostas VelliosPIoNeer-mouNt morIah Charles BermanEdward SimpsonPoughkeePsIe Roy E. DunhamqueeN oF sheBa James S. MorsequeeNsBury Sidney D. StockholmrelIaNCe Louis D. CocchirIdgeWood Arthur W. SpielmannrIsINg Light Frederick P. MillardromaN-hatheWay Maynard C. Cusworthrose Allen MitchellrushvIlle William J. Austin

russell George M. Pilbeam JrsCheNeCtady Harry P. Coton JrChester L. MatthewssCoNoNdoa sherrIll Gilman E. AlstadseCauCus hudsoN Herbert G. HerbstshakesPeare Harold S. BessersPartaN Herbert L. BotwinsPeNCer Richard E. RumseysPrINgFIeld gardeNs Arthur T. FindlaytahaWus Lewis C. GordontrIuNe-oBed Henry A. Olson Jrtrue CraFtsmaN’s Eugene A. OlsenuNIoN-Cooley Robert J. SwartuNIoN-Cooley Merrill R. TerwilligerverItas Walter LillingvoN meNsCh Carl H. NollWaNtagh mortoN William H. Ryder SrBasil C. SkelosWaWarsINg John F. GearyWeBster Bruce C. HegedornWest PoINt John R. ShafferCharles C. WeyantWhat Cheer James W. CoteyWhIte PlaINs Raymond E. EbeWIllard sylvaN grove Antranig M. Ouzoonianzeredatha Ashley Hoffman

60 Years

akroN Chester B. Covelamos-Fort greeNe Jesse D. CrellarChImede-roma Vincent M. Di MariAnthony Napoli

ark William H. Hayward JrathelstaNe David L. CherryavoCa James H. MehlenbacheravoN sPrINgs Richard J. Batzing

BaroN steuBeN F. J. LewisTheodore F. ThrasherBeaCoN Hugh J. MaurerNeil E. MaurerJohn R. Parker

Bethlehem Walter L. Peterson JrBernard PriceBrevard Dennis E. ShawBrotherhood Harvey Hoodoff


CaNaNdaIgua

William S. AdamsCassia J. Martin FeinmanCautIous Gerald I. ReadCazeNovIa Walter E. BalfourHarry G. SpoorCharles W. CushmaN Elroy C. EisenhauerRichard I. SchultzClermoNt mCkINley Irwin EttlingerClINtoN F. PaIge-BereaN Merle E. FlaggComPosIte Stanley M. SaffronCoNCordIa Earl C. BeseckerCorNerstoNe Herman J. SaltzmanCoveNaNt Frank R. GrilloCrossroads Joseph BanasduNkIrk-IroNdequoIt Kenneth R. NaslundduNWoodIe Stuart I. Lauterbachely Parker James M. HatfielderaC M. William AllenAndrew A. CarafosWesley W. HydeFaIrPort-FloWer CIty Irwin S. RosenbloomFelloWshIP Norman R. WittholzFloral Park Leonard JindraForest Bruce A. PaschkeFraterNal Robert P. FritzgeNeseo Kenneth J. BeggsgeNesIs Peter G. RoukisJames T. Wallacegeorge WashINgtoN George HoloubekgIlBoa Clifton L. HubbardgouverNeur Sanders D. HellerguIdINg star-aNgle Herbert H. BernhardthaNNIBal G. Leigh Pittroff

harlem valley Bobbie M. Bardharry s trumaN Julius MarkhermaNN George J. Schwarz JrhermoN Roy E. JennehesPerus David R. ZelnickhIghlaNd-ely Parker Alan R. SwainhIllsdale Sanford KaplanhIram Orin S. ParsonshollaNd Ethelbert H. Lowhorseheads old oak Paul V. ButzhugueNot Walter H. StrykerhumaNIty W. Francis CarrollIlIoN olIve BraNCh A. Frank DolanJames W. husted-FIat lux Gerald H. HauserMelvin J. SilvermanJoshua Harold J. BankRobert R. TuftsJuaN BruNo zayas Carlos L. D Gabrielkeshequa Donald S. MoyerkINgstoN William R. RogersLawrence C. WilcoxkoNosIoNI David W. Heidenreichla FargevIlle Donald G. Furstla guardIa Gasper La Fata JrlIma James D. SchlumpfmaCedoNIa Jack N. CretekosmatINeCoCk Edsel E. HolmmexICo Bruce A. HansonmIdWood FortItude Nahum J. SpectormoNtgomery Marvin B. KippmouNt masada-galaxy Marvin I. Naparstek

myrtle-JeFFersoN Floyd S. HullNaurashaNk Edward W. BecraftNeW dorP Jacques N. Jacobsen JrNeW loNdoN vIeNNa William J. SpencerNeWark

Frederick W. LudwigNeWPort

George DieffenbacherRobert WheelerNIagara rIver lodge Joseph E. GambleotselIC valley Ralph C. ParksParIsh uNIted Richard G. ReecePartheNoN Nicholas TsoucalasPerFeCt square Harris MandelPhIlo-mouNt sINaI Martin J. BirnbaumPIoNeer-mouNt morIah Bernard L. GordonPoughkeePsIe Robert T. SuppiesPuBlICIty Robert D. SchapiroqueeNsBoro James C. PattersonRobert A. RoessleJohn M. WhitequeeNsBury Daniel B. GodinHarold D. PosterraCket rIver Richard A. SitterleyraymoNd zePh

Robert J. KoehlerrelIaNCe Charles W. MitchelremseN Burton W. JonesRobert OssontrIChmoNd aquehoNga Arthur W. VannostrandroCk morIah Donald E. KindleroNdout Robert G. Groves, Jr.salem toWN Leonard F. DefendorfWilliam L. HallsaNdy hIll C. Dana BarkerC. D. BarkerJack F. Springer

savaNNah Bruce G. WatermansavoNa Donald E. ChatfieldsCheNeCtady James W. Ireland JrsCotIa

John E. PetrickGeorge WolfseNeCa lake William R. WilliamsonservICe CIty geBa Joseph S. RosenthalRobert L. SpearsmIthtoWN Robert HansensoutherN lIght Luther BowensPartaN Robert B. HammesfahrLeon NasssPrINgFIeld gardeNs Robert Witoffst. george’s Gordon S. CrowellCharles O. Johnstonst. JohNsvIlle Harold E. Pontiusst. PatrICk’s Robert L. ShellsylvaN William T. Randolphtheresa William E. Smith IXuNIoN Thomas K. BennettuNIoN star Richard S. JudgeuNIty lodge Harry G. BulluNkNoWN Clarence H. JowettutICa Thomas P. WatkinsWaddINgtoN Burton T. BeswickWilliam R. PorteousWaNtagh mortoN Moritz W. GroeplerIrwin J. WagenfohrWaWarsINg Martin H. LonsteinWayNe Norman R. LoomisWest PoINt Theodore C. NielsenThomas J. Phillips IIWestChester Robert N. Stark

60 Years continues


WIllard sylvaN grove Edward M. Chapian

WolCott Earl W. Hoskins

zeredatha Paul Brief

60 Years continues

55 Years

aBravaNel Barry CohenadIroNdaCk Stephen C. DentonadoNaI Philip W. SchunkakroN Robert E. DumkealBert Neese Gerald G. AbbeyalCyoNe Henry C. JenningsLawrence NewmarkalexaNdrIa

James R. HaganallemaNIa

Otto MachelallIaNCe William C. BiedermanBernard Malhenzieamos-Fort greeNe Martin KayeJerry MechaberaNglo-saxoN Raymond H. KrustaPollo-kINg solomoN’sGeorge H. ArakelianarCade Charles W. DempseyarCaNa

David HymanDennis SimonarChImede-roma

Leonidas J. SavasSavas J. Savasau saBle rIver James R. TaylorauBurN

Theodore Tennantaurora grata-day star Peter CamenaresGary A. HenningsenavoN sPrINgs Robert G. FisherBaINBrIdge-aFtoN Earl C. ReilingBatavIa Beryl E. McguireBay rIdge Alan L. SimmonsBay shore Robert A. GormanBay vIeW Wendell H. PetersonBethPage

John R. SuttonBlazINg star George W. HawkBooNvIlle-urIel Walter J. ScheerBuFFalo-lakelaNd Keith R. NicholsonCaNaNdaIgua Gordon W. JohnsonCassIa Norman M. SchlesingerCataraCt Edward C. TurrellCeNtral square Kenneth H. MyersThomas S. WeatherupCherry Creek Lawrence E. MartinCohoes Warren RosenblumColumBIaN Raymond LaScalaCoNNetquot

Walter A. SutoriusCoNsolIdated Raymond H. ThompsonCoNstellatIoN A. Eugene GuthrieFrederick C. SanfordCoPerNICus Alfred R. FroebrichErnst F. LogemannRudi MaierCorNerstoNe Simon W. ShinkCorNINg PaINted Post Lynn W. ScudderCorNuCoPIa John R. KernerRichard W. TubbyCortlaNdvIlle Russell J. PringleCourtlaNdt Robert F. PhillipsCraFtsmaN roBertsoN Ronald D. SterlingCrotoN Ralph W. BehringerCuBa-FrIeNdshIP Lawrence W. Dyede ruyter Donald L. EdwardsRaiford C. PickerdCharles W. Skeele Jrdexter

Richard L. SpencerFayettevIlle CeNtral CIty Charles J. ShieldsFelloWshIP G. Bradley FullerFloral Park Alan J. Redvanly Forest hIlls-CommuNIty Joseph E. KmiecikFraNCIs leWIs Louis SlavicekFraNk r laWreNCe Theodore J. SnyderFraNklIN Peter DionFraterNal Donald C. HeidenburgFrIeNdshIP Peter A. Ellisgaroga-sINCerIty Paul W. AdamsgasPort Edward J. ElsenheimerHarold Elsenheimergeorge WashINgtoN Louis J. Kaygreat kIlls Gilbert Evans JrSamuel T. Weeninggreat valley Harry W. GrangerguIdINg star-aNgle George PappashaNCoCk-dIrIgo-adelPhI Benson J. SchultzharmoNIe Gary W. Neureuterharry s trumaN Martin GreenbergHerman LubinMurray J. NodelmanhartlaNd Gordon C. MoranhIgh Falls Glen F. ThomashIghlaNd-ely Parker Richard A. LallmangCharles Markarian JrhoBasCo David J. Horrockshorseheads old oak Jay HuanghudsoN Vernon B. PalenIlIoN olIve BraNCh

Roscoe P. ReedINdePeNdeNt Sam SchaechterItalIa Dominick PerezJamaICa queeNs vIllage Harry E. McGeeJohN Jay John A. EckelBernard PitkoffJohNsoN CIty uNIty Robert W. MitchellJosePh WarreN-gothIC Aaron M. BergerJoshua Ralph RosenthalkINg hIram Keith H. WilliamskINg solomoN-BeethoveN Frederick W. DevriesH. Harry FranklinkINgs CouNty Howard M. PaynekIsCo Stanley J. Landerl’uNIoN FraNCaIse Paul DuthillaCkaWaNNa Donald M. Blancklake CIty Robert H. Smithlasalle Alexander Thomson IIIlaWtoN Paul G. CoulurislINColN Willi O. ThimmlIverPool syraCuse George A. Anderson IIIloWvIlle John U. NortzHenry O. SchaabmaImoNIdes-marshall Howard M. BlochmaINe Bradford BurgherMaine Lloyd F. StandishmaNetto Brook hollIs William H. Ahrens JrmaNItou George J. MeyermargaretvIlle Victor B. Parizomaster BuIlder Robert A. Werner

59 Years

hoFFmaNJohn A. Goldstein


masters Louis F. Hauf JrmemorIal Robert L. HopkinsLawrence R. ThomasmIdWood FortItude William R. WilsonmIlItary Gerald D. SterrittmIlNor Glen O. ThonmIlo Charles W. MorganmohaWk valley Harold A. RaymorNINg star Donald R. DavidsenHerbert G. Day JrDonald C. HerbDonald S. MerringmorrIsvIlle Stanley J. DavismouNt deFIaNCe Robert D. FoxmouNt morIah James A. EricksonmouNt morrIs Joseph C. CarluccimouNtaIN Walter F. Friesmyrtle-JeFFersoN Leslie G. HallerN C harmoNy Donald N. JohnsonNathaN strauss Allan RodolitzNaurashaNk Richard A. HammerNetherPool Gordon J. OuseyNeWark Ralph S. Withey SrNIagara Fred W. PhillipsNIagara FroNtIer John E. CroweNortherN aurora Harry E. MattesonNorWICh David B. PhetteplaceoNoNdaga Sherman P. Safford

oNtarIo Ronald MartinorIeNtal-FaxtoN Bernard A. LepperRussell B. WilliamsThomas R. YacovellaoxFord James W. Hemstrought JrParIsh uNIted William D. BruckerRichard L. RamseyPeaCoCk

Stephen N. ElliottPelham Louis H. JuersPhIlo-mouNt sINaI Jerry W. PollackJack SchultzPIatt David I. GoldmanPleasaNtvIlle hIaWatha William W. HildrethRolf E. SkoglundPoINt oF lIght Lewis B. BensonRoger W. WheelerPultNeyvIlle Phillip M. DeanqueeN CIty-ChrIstoPher g. Fox Donald M. LiddlequeeNsBoro Paul F. HoresqueeNsBury Norman L. KudanraNdolPh Jon B. PutnamraNsomvIlle John C. Moorered JaCket Keith A. LasherresCue Maple Putnam JrJames R. WhittyroBINsoN Donald G. FarrandsamarItaN-eterNal Norman RothmansaNdy Creek Frederick J. OuderkirksaNger Robert D. FanningsCheNeCtady John S. JonesBernard Siegel

sChoharIe valley James A. SpencerRobert F. SpencersCotIa Carl M. LeichmansCrIBa Theodore A. RuprachtArnold M. ShawseNeCa A. Roger ClarkeseNeCa rIver Eugene A. Ellis SrservICe CIty geBa Jerome B. Chukashekomeko Donald P. RedlsIlver Lester W. HeupelsmIthtoWN Ottar KjarbosPrINgFIeld gardeNs H. Gordon BaierJohn DaviesWilliam E. Haasest JohNs Lewis French Jrst. ColumBIa William T. Martinst. george’s Joseph H. Ottatist. JohNsvIlle Robert E. Hookst. laWreNCe Harold F. Robertson Jrstar oF the east William W. BatesCharles F. FanningRobert D. SaarstePPINgstoNe Leonard F. LindeystIssINg Allan F. BlackmarsuFFolk Harold R. SalyersutherlaNd John A. EvansRobert W. Sylvestertadmor Daniel J. MalinowskiRonald J. VedilagotomPkINs Dennis BrackettStanley B. BruunJames J. Jahns

traNsPortatIoN Robert J. Pufpafftully Forrest W. BrownuNIoN star Francis W. FitzgeralduNIted Brothers Joseph W. AltmannHans F. SchmiduNIty lodge George F. Mann JruNIversIty Ralph N. Allenvalley-sImes Arthur D. CohenvaN reNsselaer Thomas E. AllenAlbert E. Dubois JrvICtorIa sea gate Bernard D. KastenWadsWorth Theodore KondopriasWakaN-huBBard Charles J. Van Zile WallkIll Robert B. HoughtalingWamPoNamoN James N. WilfordWaNtagh mortoN Richard T. SeidlerWarWICk Ronald V. BrownWashINgtoN David W. WolffeWeBster David G. AllenHoward R. KyperWest PoINt Louis C. FriedersdorfWest seNeCa Victor C. IrrWestBrook Fred L. FiesterWIelaNd Carl G. BehrendtWINdsor Ernest F. HuyckWINFIeld IrvINg L. BurkertyorktoWN John H. Montrosszeredatha Joseph Jellinek

55 Years continues


50 Years

addIsoN uNIoN Charles A. Root JrallIaNCe Kenneth A. FreemireamerICa Lawrence Denkeramherst Robert A. BausCharles R. Turner JramICaBle Harry Crossleyamsterdam Christopher D. BlessingaNChor-astorIa John P. SochranaNdover James F. Mulhollandark Kenneth H. ColegroveJames F. KhouriathelstaNe Irwin A. KahnSteve I. MarcusKalman RothmanPeter D. TalmanattICa Donald E. Wagneraurora grata-day star William D. Borman JravoCa Robert M. DoddsBaByloN William J. ArthurBalder Rolf K. LarkaBaroN steuBeN Lorenz D. ArnerJohn R. CarrierBatavIa Jackson J. BurlingBeaCoN Rush M. Greenough JrBelmoNt William P. LeilousBethaNy Thomas E. StewartBethlehem Donald R. BeachBeukeNdaal Philip E. Benner JrByron J. RobinsonBooNvIlle-urIel Theo P. Woolschlager JrBuNtINg-CharIty Allen ThompsonCarolINe Roger F. BuckleyCassIa Joel Z. Wolfe

CataraCt Jonathan T. PulsiferCatskIll Robert LevinnChamPlaIN Richard H. WelkleyCollaBergh-radIum Ransom E. Taggart JrColumBus-davINCI-galIleI Hans H. LauteCoNNetquot Charles W. SmithCoNsolIdated Bernard H. AscherCoNtINeNtal Paul PavlidesCoPerNICus Helmut MuskulusHorst WagnerCorNerstoNe John W. JohnstonCorNINg James R. LewisCorNINg PaINted Post Frank E. Murphy JrCorNuCoPIa Peter StassouCourtlaNdt Robert J. HayesCrotoN Anthony J. Milazzode ruyter Robert P. RandalldelaWare Walter R. PlainRobert V. TegelerdIamoNd thIstle David G. SullivandrydeN Ronald C. DennistonduNkIrk-IroNdequoIt James F. Carpentereast roChester Gordon L. HoageggertsvIlle David ShuckemulatIoN Girard AmigoneeNChaNted mouNtaINs Robert P. BlaskeeraC Charles C. CummingsEdwin B. WickseveNINg star Gary VartanianFaIrPort-FloWer CIty Warham W. QuinlanFarmervIlle-uNIoN Dirk E. Huttenbach

Arthur Thompson IIFayettevIlle CeNtral CIty Wayne V. BrignallJames D. PickardFIdelIty

Gerald E. WellsFloral Park William H. Blain,Sr.James M. FlorinFortuNe Daniel M. WeikalFraNCIs leWIs Warren C. ErnstWilliam G. RoseFraNklIN Conrad KupinskiFraterNal Gerhard W. Andresgaroga-sINCerIty Clayton W. BarnardgeNeva

Frederick J. MartingleN Cove Larry A. BoersmagoldeNrule ClermoNt mCkINley Alvin Steingreat kIlls William A. LindleyguIdINg lIght-olymPIa Robert D. BarronhaNNIBal Roger D. BarneyRobert H. TerpeningharmoNy Richard L. FisherYizhar GlaserheIghts C. Jack HulslanderheNdrICk hudsoN Albert F. HejnalWilliam G. Vassilyherder Heinz E. JacobsherkImer Philip A. CardhesPerus James KeifhIram

Clifford A. EngelhardtRonald L. FisherAngus S. ReynoldshoFFmaN Rollin L. LybolthollaNd John F. Talmagehorseheads old oak Thomas D. ButterfieldhudsoN Richard V. Christiana

hudsoN rIver Donald A. AndersonhugueNot Francis M. BrennanNorman A. EllisJamaICa queeNs vIllage William L. BossJames W. husted-FIat lux Richard D AdamoJack DymHarold MossJohN CIssNa John C. AldridgeJohN hodge Albert C. MannDonald ShawJohNsoN CIty Unity Milton J. LipaJordaN Vern G. BenedictJosePh WarreN-gothIC Sherman CohenJoshua Bernard J. HarmonkeNmore Richard A. WolfkeNNyetto Roger S. ChasekIlWINNINg-suNset Richard A. WolffkINg hIram Roland C. BarnettkINg solomoN-BeethoveN Howard WeinbergFred W. WenzkINgs CouNty George L. Paulosl’uNIoN FraNCaIse Louis Retailleaulake CIty Ira L. Vanburenlamoka Charles L. GaylorlaureNs Donald L. SawyerleoNardo davINCI Anthony P. CarmelilessINg Mathias HoelzlilIverPool syraCuse Charles C. BohmlIvINgstoN maNor Ralph Kirchnerlodge oF the uNIted servICes George B. SmaragdasloNg BeaCh John CalderonloWvIlle James E. Young


lyNBrook-massaPequa Henry Speicher JrmaImoNIdes-marshall Bernard D. RashesmaNahatta George L. Koutsodontismaster BuIlder Harry F. PeaslandmatINeCoCk George E. CapekmemorIal Warren L. TaylormexICo Charles E. BatemanmIlNor Roger A. HawkinsH. Carl StewartBruce C. WaltersmINeola Robert H. BrownmIzPah David C. SchaefermorNINg star Philip F. JohnsonmouNt araB Vernon R. FriendDonald G. HesseltineRoger G. SmartmouNt morIah Paul J. BuchholtzmouNt taBor Richard W. HartyEdward A. LeggJerome ScheffresmouNt zIoN

Mario CocchiNeW loNdoN vIeNNa J. D. BatteasNeWark Wallace E. Farnsworth JrNIagara rIver lodge George S. MoyerNoCturNal John P. JulianNortherN lIght Gerald A. GrossmanoaklaNd Larry P. FrancisKenneth P. HanceFreeman R. Shawold toWN Robert Hartzog JrRichard E. ShafranekThomas F. SmedleyolIve Norman G. RateroN da Wa Harry G. Conerty JroNtarIo James D. Rudy

PeaCoCk David W. ParkerJohn N. WearyPelham Richard J. GaddeGerald F. LofsteadPhIlIPstoWN David A. NairnPhIlo-mouNt sINaI Leslie D. BennettGarson ZausmerPhoeBus Herbert F. WhipplePhoeNIx Eustahios BacasPIsgah Homer R. LanphearPleasaNtvIlle hIaWatha

Robert J. GurreriPoCahoNtas Lewis E. MillisPort JervIs Robert M. PettitPortvIlle Charles J. Morton JrGlenn D. TaylorPotuNk

William H. BennettHerbert KronmanPuBlICIty

William A. BollerRobert N. Mance, JrAlan C. MillerRichard T. SchmidtqueeNsBoro L. Richard KoppradIum Frederick A. Moochlerred JaCket John D. RandolphrelIaNCe Robert C. RickusremseN Francis D. LeereNovatIoN

Waldo H. CaldwellrIChmoNd aquehoNga Howard A. BakerSheldon MarneLawrence R. WaytrIsINg lIght James E. FulkersonWilliam H. FulkersonroChester Robert R. TrouprouNd hIll Lionel R. CrosssamarItaN-eterNal Henry Scherr

saNdy Creek John F. TannersCheNeCtady Richard E. StigbergsChIller Robert VerderbersCotIa Gerald MarguliesservICe CIty geBa Stuart L. KobricksIlver Edwin V. Gibbon JrWilliam J. ThiesAlvin J. Wilsonsouth Bay Richard E. HausmannsouthsIde John R. RuehlsPartaN R. Bruce CousinssPrINgFIeld gardeNs Adolf P. GuntherJohn D. Listst. JohN’s Steven M. KatesGeorge Voulgarisst. JohNsvIlle Paul A. BrieleJan A. Carterst. laWreNCe Allan C. FisherJohn A. Goetzest. marks-PhIletus Calvin A. GaylordWilliam D. OlmsteadsteuBeN Garth A. MurraystIssINg Howard O. Mack JrstoNy PoINt Robert F. WestbrooksuFFolk Ronald C. ReinischJohn ScrofanisylvaN Howard F. JohnsonDale H. YoungtomPkINs Ralph C. HowlandtrINIty Rudolf C. FeyetrIuNe Richard C. MillstrIuNe-oBed John G. Lucas IVtusCaN Donald H. BalbinderuNIoN star Robert E. Eisenberg

uNIty Eugene Y. BrowningFrancis B. Foodyvalley-sImes Gary E. LindWesley Warren JrvaN reNsselaer Brian A. BeckerGordon J. Middletonvestal-otseNINgo William B. Gault JrvICtor Robert C. BassettvICtorIa sea gate Leonard B. HellerIrwin J. KukafkaWaddINgtoN Jerry D. HobbsRobert J. MarshallWakaN-huBBard John J. ReesWallkIll Richard L. JansenWaNtagh mortoN Paul P. GregoryWaPPINgers Richard W. PriesWarreNsBurgh John R. SweetWashINgtoN Andrew GaglianoWeBster

Robert E. HewlettWellsvIlle John E. Darr JrWestBrook William R. CroppMurray H. TyrrellWhat Cheer Wayne P. AkleyWhIte PlaINs Herbert C. Rogers JrWINFIeld Robert C. LambWendell E. SaundersCarlton K. SaundersyoNkers Roy E. MacDonald JrzIoN John R. Wellington

50 Years continues


RW RONALD E. SINCLAIR,Grand chaplain

Grand Chaplain’s Corner

As Masons we are all familiar with the phrase “…erected to God and dedicated to the… Holy Saints John.” All of our Master Mason Lodges are so dedicated, yet we never hear any other information regarding these “Holy Saints John” or anything to explain why we refer to them as the Patron Saints of Freemasonry.

It is referenced in the Entered Apprentice Historical Lecture that speculative Masons dedicate their Lodges to St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, who are described as being symbolized by two perpendicular parallel lines. No explanation is given in the ritual as to why these lines are appropriate symbols for these two men and nowhere does it explain why these men are so honored that every Master Mason Lodge should be dedicated to them. Who were these Saints John? Why are they important to us as Freemasons?

Among American Freemasons there are two festivals in the Masonic calendar. The Feast of St. John the Baptist is celebrated on June 24th and the Feast of St. John the Evangelist on December 27th. The two dates fall, approximately, at the time of the summer and winter when the sun attains its greatest north or south declination. These are known as the summer and winter solstices.

Why did the Freemasons choose St. John the Baptist as patron? One would suppose that they would name some outstanding person. But St. John the Baptist was a humble man, a plain man, who held above all his obligations to God and with almost unbelievable steadfastness, met martyrdom. He continually preached repentance and virtue and humility. Yes, the early Freemasons chose well in selecting such a man as

St. John the Baptist as a patron of Freemasonry.For a long period only St. John the Baptist was patron saint

of Freemasonry. It was not until after the 16th century that St. John the Evangelist was also adopted as a patron. The Old Charges of Freemasonry speak of St. John the Evangelist as a “Saint of the Craft.” He constantly admonished the cultivation of brotherly love. Of all the gospels, The Gospel of St. John is most Masonic, for the central theme is light. It portrays God as “the Light of the World.”

Lodges then came to be dedicated to the Holy Saints John. It is interesting to note that the early Masons were called “St. Johns Masons” or “St. Johns Men.” The two Saints John have been called the patrons of the Fraternity down through the ages because they exemplified the principles of Freemasonry in their daily lives by their deeds and their words. These two humble men did not engage in any of the pomp and glory of the world.

It is because Masonry regards the character and internal qualifications of a man—not the exterior appearances—that these two men are fittingly called the patrons of this great Fraternity. They possessed those internal qualifications that made the true man. Masonry honors them above all others for they were the living examples of the Golden Rule, the practice of virtue, love for their fellow-men and love for their God.–––––––––––––––––––Sources: mastermason.com and freemasonry.com

Mr. Michael Adamek, Senior Producer for the NFL Buffalo Bills visited Transportation Lodge 842 on March 19. Adamek spoke about past and current events surrounding the sports franchise. More than thirty members listened with interest and asked many questions about the state of affairs that will impact the upcoming season.

Bills rep enlightens Lodge

(l-r) Michael Adamek and W Charles J. Goetz, Sr.


The Masonic Medical Research Laboratory has grown to become an internationally recognized biomedical research institute, having assembled one of the most complete teams of investigators anywhere in the world to tackle problems of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. The MMRL’s professional scientific staff of lead scientists, postdoctoral fellows and research assistants has a solid track record of success in providing new insights and approaches to fighting heart disease. The Board of Directors is pleased to announce that RW John H. Story, JD, CPA, has been appointed Director of Administration and Brother and Dr. Matthew Betzenhauser has been appointed Acting Director of Research.

MMRL Chairman of the Board and Past Board President RW Anthony V. Boccabella, PhD, JD said, “We have the leadership and staff in place to move forward and flourish in the years ahead. We believe in our staff. Many have hidden capacities and insights on how we can better accomplish our goals. We seek to unleash these untapped inner resources of our staff. It is our desire to bring together people with diverse perspectives who will create an environment that facilitates fresh ideas and growth. Our new leadership has the passion and discipline to seek new opportunities of collaboration that will enhance our scientific research and strengthen further our international reputation.”

John Story, Esq., a Mohawk Valley native, is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Hamilton College and Cornell Law School. He also completed all the graduate courses and credit hours through Cornell Graduate School of Business and Rochester Institute of Technology for obtaining a Masters equivalency in accounting. As the new Director of Administration, Mr. Story will lead and develop an internal team of professionals responsible for all administrative

aspects of the Laboratory, including human resources, budget development and implementation, grant administration, IT and purchasing. Mr. Story will also collaborate with the new acting Director of Research in strategic planning to carry out the Board of Directors’ visions for the future of the MMRL.

Story’s civic service includes member, Treasurer and former legal counsel for The Genesis Group. He is a past director and

legal counsel for the North Utica Senior Citizen Community Center, a past member of the Foundation Board of St. Elizabeth Medical Center and Director and Executive Director of the Slocum-Dickson Foundation, to name a few. He is also a member of the New York Bar Association, American Association of Attorneys and Certified Public Accountants, New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants and American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. RW Story, a member of Utica Lodge 47, was elected to the MMRL Board of Directors in 2011 and served as Assistant Treasurer before assuming his current position.

Dr. Matthew Betzenhauser, a native of Utica and member of Utica Lodge 47, joined the MMRL scientific staff in 2012. Following graduation from Boston University with a degree in Biology, Dr. Betzenhauser began his research career at Biogen, Inc. in Cambridge, MA before embarking on Ph.D. training at the University of Rochester. Before joining the MMRL, he received postdoctoral training at one of the top cardiac research labs in the

world at Columbia University. He has published extensively in top-tier journals throughout his career, and has extensive experience working in and leading multidisciplinary research teams. Brother Betzenhauser has presented in numerous international meetings.

His independent research program is aimed at determining the role of intracellular calcium in promoting life-threatening arrhythmias in failing and aging hearts. The goal is to translate that knowledge into novel treatments for arrhythmias.

Brother Betzenhauser is also actively involved with the education of our youth. He serves as a member of the Board of Directors of Utica Safe Schools, is mentor to high school and college interns and he volunteers for Young Scholars.

We invite everyone to visit the MMRL and meet our staff on St. John’s Day, June 27. To arrange a presentation or tour or to request literature, please send an email to [email protected] or call 315/735-2217.

Leadership Succession at MMRL Setting course for the next generation of breakthrough research

2150 Bleecker Street • Utica, NY 13501 www.mmrl.edu • (315) 735-2217

Masonic Medical Research Laboratory


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JUNE 2015

1 Idaho Night, Grand Lodge, James W. Husted-Fiat Lux Lodge (8th Manhattan), 6 p.m.

5 DGM TOWN HALL Mtg., Masonic Hall, 71 W. 23rd St., 3rd Fl., Gr. Lodge Rm., 7 p.m.

6 DGM TOWN HALL Mtg., Masonic Hall, 71 W. 23rd St., 3rd Fl., Gr. Lodge Rm., 1 p.m.

7 Philippine Day Parade, Madison/38th to 23rd St., 11 a.m.

10 Grand Secretary’s Golf Tournament, Marine Park Golf Course, 2880 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn, 11 a.m.

15 Rededication: St. Cecile’s 150 yrs., Masonic Hall, 71 W. 23rd St., 3rd Fl. Gr. Lodge Rm., 6 p.m.

27 St. John’s weekend, MCC, Utica. All day.

28 Education Assistance, Utica, MCC, 1 p.m.

dATES TO rEMEMBEr

Articles Due Datefor the FALL Issue

of the Empire StateMagazine

is July 1, 2015

3 ESM Cruise: Vancouver-Seward. All day.

4 Camp Turk: Boys’ Camp. All day.

4 Oswego York Rite Parade, church, picnic, 9:30 a.m.

11 Education Assistance, Ismailia Shrine Temple, 1600 Southwestern Blvd, Buffalo, 12 p.m.

11 Education Assistance, Damascus Shrine, 979 Bay Rd., Webster, 5 p.m.

12 Education Assistance, Centerville Lodge Masonic Community Ctr., 648 Centerville Pl., N. Syracuse, 12 p.m.

26 Camp Turk: Girls’ Camp. All day.

26 Education Assistance, Schenectady, 10 a.m.

26 Education Assistance, NYC, Masonic Hall, 5 p.m.

31 DeMolay Annual Mtg., Onondaga Community College, 4585 West Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. All day.

AUGUST 2015 21 Cryptic Grand Council, Treadway Inn, Owego. All day.

SEPTEMBEr 2015 19 Steuben Day Parade, NYC, 12 p.m.

JULY 2015

The Story of Light

The Brothers of Gouverneur Masonic Lodge 217 participated in lighting ceremoniously the eight nights of Hanukah. The inspiration was “The Festival of Chanukah,” from the Short Talk Bulletin, Vol. 86, No. 12, published December 2008. The menorah was displayed around the Lodge as the bulletin was read aloud.

Without the story of Hanukah there probably would be no Temple of Solomon, nor would there be a Masonic Fraternity based upon the story of King Solomon. Each night has a symbolic importance, reminding each of us that our task is to display light, morality and holiness not only within our homes and our Lodges, but also out in the world. The bright twinkling flames serve as a reminder of the heroism of Judah and his followers and as a beacon of hope and guidance for us in times of stress and persecution.


From the Grand Lecturer

RW RICHARD J. KESSLER,Grand lecturer

[email protected]

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� CHARGE MY CREDIT CARD as indicated below:� $299* plus $19.95* for processing, S & H as payment in full, OR;

� $74.75* plus $19.95* for processing, S & H as down payment.Charge the balance in three monthly payments of $74.75.

* For genuine diamonds in place of birthstones add $150* to your first payment.

CREDIT CARD (check choices):

� VISA � MasterCard � Amex � Discover

Card # ___________________________________________________

Exp. Date_____/_____ CSC # (Customer Security Code) __________

Signature __________________________________________________

SHIPPING ADDRESS (WE CANNOT SHIP TO P.O. BOXES) (Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery.)

Name ____________________________________________________

Address __________________________________________________

City_______________________________ State _____ Zip ________

Phone # (_____) ___________ Email __________________________(In case we have a question about your order.)

©2015 AMA

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Brethren, I have had an exceptionally wonderful experience as your Grand Lecturer this past year. The participation at the Grand Lecturer Conventions throughout the jurisdiction has been outstanding. There was also exceptional participation by young Master Masons. The need for the older and the newer members to freely communicate with each other was stressed at every stop. The means-of-communication preferences of our many generations was also discussed. In addition, the need to fully immerse all of our new Master Masons in our Masonic culture could not be emphasized enough.

Mentoring was a big topic at the conventions—not only on a Brother to Brother basis, but also the need for Lodge to Lodge mentoring. Everyone understood that if new Master Masons are not fully engaged in our culture and given the tools to succeed, they may eventually walk away from the Fraternity.

In many cases, the ritual work of the convention was performed with great proficiency by young Master Masons. There was also a strong emphasis on the esoteric interpretation of our ritual at the conventions. Those in attendance came away with a better appreciation for our ritual. They also agreed to spread this enthusiasm back to their Lodge. Brethren, it is only by imparting our love for our ritual that we can once again be strong and proud leaders in the Masonic community. The ritual work performed at the individual conventions needs to be the rule rather than the exception.

Finally, I would like to thank all District leadership for providing the proper venue and setting for conducting the Grand Lecturer Conventions. Most importantly I am extremely gratified by the number of Brothers who attended

the conventions this year. Without your active participation, the conventions would be an effort in futility. Everywhere I went I met with enthusiastic Masons, both young and old, fully immersed in being active participants in our resurgent Craft.

In response to a number of misconceptions regarding the successful completion of the Raising of a Master Mason: Certain requirements are to be met, with no exceptions. These are as set forth in the current Standard Works and Lectures. The First Section consists of the Ritual of Raising in its entirety from entrance of Fellowcrafts through the presentation of Working Tools.

The Second Section includes the Candidate Entrance and Raising, the Drama of the Hiramic Legend and Instructions to newly Raised Master Masons. The Drama is an essential portion of the Master Mason Degree. The Drama is to be performed on the day of the conferral in order for the Degree to be legal. It must take place as part of the conferral of the Degree, even if a District drama team is used.

The Third Section Historical Lecture and Lecture of Forms and Ceremonies are also prerequisites for the completion of the MM Degree. The Lodge has the option of presenting these lectures at the next Lodge communication. The Charge, however, must be presented at the date of the MM Degree conferral. There are no exceptions to these requirements.

In addition, it is suggested that the Lodge Walk-About program be given at a subsequent Lodge communication. An introductory discussion on Masonic Protocol and Etiquette is also appropriate.

Caring for our ritual

On September 3 Ms. Lisa Whiting, the founder and primary spokesperson of Honor Flight Buffalo, was the guest speaker at Transportation Lodge 842. In an informative talk about the Honor Flight program, she disclosed that the intent was to provide a way for World War II veterans to travel to Washington, D.C. to view the World War II Memorial. There is no cost to the veterans or their families. The program is funded 100% by donations.

Whiting had seen many veterans, like her father, who had a desire to visit the memorial but were unable to travel without assistance or financial support. Honor Flight is the answer to the problem. The junket is a busy, round-trip, one-day excursion that includes a lunch. Each veteran is provided with an aide to give him assistance as needed.

After the talk, which included a question and answer period, several members of the audience requested

additional information, including the paperwork that would allow them to participate in the program. W Charles J. Goetz, Sr. presented a donation on behalf of the Lodge. Additional information may be obtained by contacting: Honor Flight Buffalo, Inc. at 716/254-4376, or online at www.HonorFlightBuffalo.org.

Program is tribute to Greatest Generation


• Highly personalized Master Mason Ring design, handcrafted in America, with precious metals, birthstones and diamonds.

• Top of the ring displays a solid gold Squareand Compasses set atop a bold letter “G”

• Eight personal birthstones of your choiceflank the Masonic Symbols. Eight genuine diamonds are available at extra cost (see order form).

• The sides of the ring bear the words MASTERMASON and feature a Masonic TROWEL

and PLUMB sculpted in bold relief.

• The ring body is cast in solid SterlingSilver and detailed in heavy 24 karat gold-plating for lasting beauty and value.

• The entire inner band of the ring is solidand smooth providing a comfort fit for

years of enjoyment. These rings are neverhollowed out!

• Your initials and exclusiveserial number will be engraved

on the inside band, marking itforever as your own.

• A total of just 1,500 MASTER MASON and1,500 PAST MASTER serially-numbered rings will ever be issued in your state jurisdiction for rarity & value.

• These unique rings will never be sold in even the finest jewelry stores.

Crafted in Gold, Sterling Silver, Birthstones & Diamonds

YOU HAVE EARNED THE RIGHT TO WEARTHESE EXCLUSIVE MASONIC RINGS

Master Masons Ring shown with Ruby birthstones.

Past Master Ring, with 10 karat gold PM Jewel, a Top Hat and Gavel, shown with Sapphire birthstones.

P R E S E N T I N G T H E

CREATED EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU AS A GRAND LODGE OF NEW YORK MASON

JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

YOUR CHOICE OF BIRTHSTONE: Birthstones simulated for consistent size, color & clarity. Genuine .02 Carat Diamonds available at extra cost. See order form.

GARNET AMETHYST AQUAMARINE ZIRCON EMERALD ALEXANDRITE RUBY PERIDOT SAPPHIRE ROSE ZIRCON GOLDEN SAPPHIRE BLUE ZIRCON

YOU MAY CALL TOLL-FREE TO ORDER BY CREDIT CARD 1-800-437-0804 OR, MAIL TO: Masonic Birthstone Rings, Two Radnor Corporate Center, Suite 120, Radnor, PA 19087-4599

� YES! I wish to order my Masonic Ring, personalized with my initials and exclusive serial number as follows:

RING CHOICE: � Master Mason OR � Past Master

Ring Size _________ Initials (3): _______ _______ _______(If known, or use ring sizer - below right.)

MY BIRTH MONTH IS:____________________________ OR,

� I prefer to have eight diamonds in place of my birthstones at an additional cost of $150* added to my first payment.

I PREFER TO PAY AS FOLLOWS:

� ENCLOSED IS MY CHECK payable to “Masonic Ring” for:� $299* plus $19.95* for processing, S & H as payment in full, OR;

� $74.75* plus $19.95* for processing, S & H as down payment. I agree to pay the balance in three monthly payments of $74.75* promptly when billed. There is no finance charge.

� CHARGE MY CREDIT CARD as indicated below:� $299* plus $19.95* for processing, S & H as payment in full, OR;

� $74.75* plus $19.95* for processing, S & H as down payment.Charge the balance in three monthly payments of $74.75.

* For genuine diamonds in place of birthstones add $150* to your first payment.

CREDIT CARD (check choices):

� VISA � MasterCard � Amex � Discover

Card # ___________________________________________________

Exp. Date_____/_____ CSC # (Customer Security Code) __________

Signature __________________________________________________

SHIPPING ADDRESS (WE CANNOT SHIP TO P.O. BOXES) (Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery.)

Name ____________________________________________________

Address __________________________________________________

City_______________________________ State _____ Zip ________

Phone # (_____) ___________ Email __________________________(In case we have a question about your order.)

©2015 AMA

34567891011121314 ring size guidecut this out carefullyuse as shown on finger

MBSRIN-NYGL-AD- S15

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summer 2015 fall 2015 · george washington. his home in mt. vernon, virginia is a testament to his...

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