SPRING 2020 BuildingBuilding thethe FutureFuture From the Grand East MW WILLIAM M. SARDONE Grand Master 212/337-6643
here is no doubt that the cover of this issue can stimulate operating simultaneously. But probably none is more enough conversation to take all the print space. While I important than our focus on increasing membership in a Tcan clearly fill any issue with or without the potential of New quality fashion. The system we put in place a few years ago Rochelle, I will leave it to our President of the Trustees of our was fine when leads trickled in. After a review and deep Masonic Hall and Home, RW G. Stephen Getman to discuss dive inspection we found the system was struggling to field this new opportunity. This is a bold step that fits nicely into leads, which have culminated into the thousands. There are the ideas that have surfaced over the past year. Districts with hundreds in the hopper waiting to be contacted. Our last issue highlighted our Masonic Youth and I received Obviously, our system needed a radical makeover in order to many questions regarding the cover and who the young boy provide efficient follow-up. These are good problems. During was in the lower left-hand corner. Well, mystery over. It is not the holiday break we worked on rebuilding this system which my son, it is me! links leads from Discovermasonry.com directly into the NorthStar database. We will continue to adjust as our input That issue brought additional attention to one of the many increases. Grand Masters from other Jurisdictions have spent platforms we as Masons and a Grand Lodge support. Further hours in my office taking notes on what we are doing. They in this issue you will see another article on their progress and are taking these ideas to their home states. You will also notice more importantly, their potential. My thanks go to the New another new Lodge have been given dispensation to meet. York Scottish Rite Council of Deliberation. They have stepped That article is in this issue. up to fund DeMolays’ and Senior DeMolays’ initiation fees as they join New York Lodges. They will also support Rainbow You have heard me say many times that the Grand Lodge and Triangle Girls’ fees as they desire to join the Order of works for you. It is gratifying to hear from all areas of our Eastern Star in New York. Jurisdiction how pleased you are that we hear your concerns and work to rectify and enhance your experience. Your emails As a quick update, the Horticultural Learning Center in and calls are answered. We have changed course and revamped Utica, NY is up, closed in and warm. Sunlight-warm, which committees based on your feedback and suggestions. This is is a nice thing in the central part of New York in January. Our obvious with the reactions we are still receiving regarding our Bricks Sales are still being accepted and we will start placing October 2019 meeting. That meeting gave over 500 attendees them when the ground begins to thaw. Your name, Lodge, an opportunity for good discussion and the sharing of ideas. loved one, etc. will look great surrounding this focal point in our Masonic Care Community. Brick forms are at nymasons. Do you have a question about Grand Lodge? No problem. org. Email me at [email protected]. Our Masonic War Vets and Military Outreach are non-stop As you read this issue we are still adjusting committees and in helping active military as well as veterans. They are all over programs to fit your to your needs. Talk is good, action makes our state and social media with their positive energies. This the difference. The process works. We are working the process. was evident during the holiday season when I participated in a I thank you for your support and dedication. We are not few of their events at Military Bases and VA Homes. slowing down. We are speeding up! Your Grand Jurisdiction has many projects and programs
Another New Lodge
an it be true? Of course it’s true! This is the CGrand Lodge of New York! Say hello to Juan Pablo Duarte Lodge, UD, which held its first Brother Bring a Friend night. It was a night of celebration as the Dispensation was presented in English and Spanish. It should also be recognized that they had fourteen potential new members in attendance. Congratulations go to the 7th District and W Wylie Adams. Very proud of you.
2 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS IN THIS ISSUE Volume 69 / Number 1 / SPRING 2020 Featured Highlights: Remembering RW Kurt Ott 10 239TH Annual Communication Hotel Reservation 12 SPRING 2020 239TH Annual Communication Preliminary Program 13 Building 1. thethe Distinguished Service Awards 14 FutureFuture St. John’s Day - Save the Date 24 2. Grand Secretary’s Golf Tournament 38
3. Officers and Committees: From the Grand East 2 4. Deputy Grand Master 4 Senior Grand Warden 5 COVER: Junior Grand Warden 6 1. Plaque commemorating purchase Grand Treasurer 7 of College of New Rochelle Campus. Grand Secretary 8 2. Leland Castle on New Rochelle Senior Grand Deacon 9 Campus. Grand Historian 15 3. Grand Master Sardone presenting Award Committee 19 a set of Masonic Working Tools to New Rochelle Mayor Bramson. Masonic Care Community 20 4. MW William Sardone, Grand Camp Turk 25 Master; Hon. Noam Bramson, Acacia Village 26 New Rochelle Mayor; RW G. Stephen Getman, Trustee Grand Cinamatographer 27 President DeMolay 28 Organization of Triangles, Inc. 29-30 Masonic Youth Committee 32 From the Webmaster 33 Grand Lodge Educational Assistance Program 34 Masonic Medical Research Institute 40-41 Years of Service 42-44 Grand Lecturer 46 Dates to Remember and Submission Guidelines 47
TRUSTEES OF THE MASONIC HALL AND ASYLUM FUND Publisher 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 Masons of the State of New York for the members of the Masonic Fraternity and their families.
CONSULTANTS POSTMASTER: WILLIAM M. SARDONE richard j. kessler steven adam rubin Please send address changes to: Grand Master – Editor in Chief Deputy Grand Master Grand Treasurer The Empire State Mason Circulation Department JOAN C. BOWER charles m. roberts richard t. schulz 71 West 23rd Street Assistant Editor Senior Grand Warden Grand Secretary NY NY 10010-4149 Periodicals Class Publication 56874 elquemedo oscar alleyne LORAINE DIBLEY 1-(800) 362-7664 Junior Grand Warden Graphic Designer Website at www.nymasons.org 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 ©2020 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. Deputy Grand Master RW RICHARD J. KESSLER Deputy Grand Master [email protected]
s I continue to refine the mark I want to leave on our possess the essential skills to make things happen. As leaders Ajurisdiction, I constantly review the many organizations we must have courage and conviction to lead. I have had a part in. It becomes abundantly clear that the The making of a Freemason does not consist merely in most effective organizations fully immerse their membership progressing through the Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft and in their culture. There is always an atmosphere of family and Master Mason Degrees. The information disseminated during sharing. Stressing mentoring programs, education, leadership the conferral of these Degrees is just an introduction to the and an openness to listen and learn, they became beacons of infinite world of Freemasonry. If properly conferred, these success. I also believe that while successful organizations are Degrees should whet the appetite of the new Brother for an a product of good leadership, they must also be accepting of unending journey of light. Through the obligations a man change. becomes a member of the Craft. Through Masonic education For an organization to be a perennial leader, all must be he begins to truly understand the meaning of the obligation included in the process. The buy-in has to be complete. That that he swore to thereafter live by. Through continued is where we have to be more sensitive to the needs of our education his understanding will continue to grow and his individual Lodges. The continued strengthening of New York personal scope and meaning of Freemasonry will become State Masonry must be accomplished one Lodge at a time. richer and more meaningful. Once he truthfully and loyally Education and leadership programs have to be made available lives according to his obligation he will be a true member of not only to Grand Lodge and District leaders, but also to every our Royal Craft. Lodge. Every Lodge has members who, with proper encouragement With the problems that we are encountering today within and training, will be willing to take the time necessary to our Masonic Fraternity, one important area that we need to become a Masonic educator. However, becoming effective build upon is the development of solid Masonic leadership. If requires training. There is probably no such thing as a born an organization is to continue it must develop our leaders of Masonic educationalist. In fact, it is time we started to Train today. I believe leadership is a quality that can be taught. Our the Trainers. It is regrettable that little or nothing in this leaders in our Lodges must take a closer view of the needs of regard is available and in place as part of a proper educational our members and our Fraternity. and training policy within our jurisdiction. Much is to be It is easy to become complacent in our thoughts and accomplished by having a strong ritualistic presence in the actions. We often resist change and are reluctant to upset the Lodge; in fact it is essential. But leadership and management ways things have been done in the past. We must remember programs need to be available to our Lodges—ritual cannot that change isn’t good when we change just for the sake of save us from mismanagement. This year’s District officers are changing. However, we must consider change as something going to be afforded leadership and management seminars that is new or different when it will be beneficial for the throughout their term of office. Through a Train the Trainer members and the organization. You have often heard negative Program, these lessons will be passed on to every Lodge willing comments toward a new idea or a different approach to doing to attend District seminars. something. We need to generate a culture that is receptive to The tenets, history, traditions, landmarks, customs, new approaches and ideas by thinking with innovative and symbolism and our allegories, the Constitution and Masonic creative imagination. Creating an environment that inspires Law must also be a part of Masonic education. These subjects enthusiasm and excitement, with interesting programs for our are to be studied and mastered, providing a most interesting Lodges, will enable us to think and plan big. course for a Brother seeking the opportunity to gain Masonic It all revolves around leadership. Think of a leader: a leader knowledge, and being quite apart from his rightful ambition takes the initiative to get the job done. A leader is one who to become a good ritualist. An educated Freemason needs to plans, organizes, controls and implements. accomplish both. We also need to reflect upon the various principles of Many of you have served or will be called to serve your leadership: planning, goal setting, organizing, personnel, Masonic Lodge in a particular leadership role. When each of communicating and controlling. One of the most important us is given this opportunity to serve and lead, it comes with ingredients of a leader is the planning or visioning that he the awesome responsibility to make a difference for our Lodge does. The characteristics of a true leader are the ability to have and our Masonic Fraternity. Let us not take the easy road to a vision of the future and the will to make it happen. go along with the status quo and let someone else set the pace or take the lead for the Lodge. But the good leader must have the right vision in order to succeed in a favorable manner. Our Masonic leaders must We know Masonry has made an impact upon our lives, or DGM: Continues on page 5 4 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 SENIOR GRAND WARDEN RW CHARLES M. ROBERTS Senior Grand Warden [email protected]
An Adventure s I write this article the new year is about to break forth. It current lifestyle. This is to be a way life where you can connect will lay before us new avenues to follow, whose outcomes in a safe, open and loving environment and build together willA be unknown, but hopefully we will look forward to the a future worth wanting. But unfortunately, we carry the anticipated adventure. baggage of our present culture and world into our Lodges and When we join the Fraternity, we looked toward an we disrupt the harmony, peace and good will even there. In a adventure, as well. We were told that Masonry takes a good time of changing standards of morality and behavior, Masonry man and makes him better. If that is true of the teachings of should raise the bar. Its principles are designed to encourage its Freemasonry, to improve me as a man, what good is it if I am members to be better fathers, sons, husbands and neighbors, made better and I don’t improve the culture and the world while not forcing any particular agenda upon anyone. Only around me? about one-third of Americans think their fellow man can be trusted. Masons are taught to encourage each other to be Albert Pike once said, “What we have done for ourselves moral and upright, and every Mason is under an obligation to alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world help, aid and assist Brother Masons and their families and live remains and is immortal.” That was my hope and dream when a life of integrity; but that sense of honesty and responsibility I began this journey as Senior Grand Warden nearly two years is to extend to the whole community and world in which we ago and it is my hope today. I took that adventure to make a live, as well. Masonry is supposed to bind its members to the difference not only in my life but also in the lives and environs concepts of honor, duty and humanitarianism. If some say around me and for our Fraternity. this is elitist today, then most people would benefit from it The research of W Brother Christopher Hodapp, a Past today. And society would certainly benefit if more men (us) Master of Broad Ripple Lodge 643 and Vitruvian Lodge 767 had those qualities. of the Grand Lodge of Indiana, in his book, Freemasonry for Freemasonry is tailor-made to increase social capital. For Dummies, has greatly influenced me for writing this article. the past two years we have been building for the future and Today’s society is marked by its isolation. People are more sharing the experience. But unless each one of us as Masons solitary than they have ever been. The result is that most builds the whole community, one man at a time, we will go by people don’t become involved in making the world even the wayside like so many other communal institutions. somewhat better. They think and believe that if you criticize enough it will all get better. But how has that worked lately in My journey in Masonry continues to provide me with hope. anything of life? Because the more I work at being a Mason, the better I become; and the better I become, the better the world in which I live We don’t seem to count on our families, neighbors and friends should become. I will continue to promote the teachings of anymore for support. We have lost common experiences. We Masonry, no matter where I may serve in the Fraternity in the not only have become lumpy around our middle, we also coming days, and transmit the good qualities learned to the overwhelmingly believe that our culture has become more environs in which I live. coarse and uncivil. Brothers, social capital is just as important as monetary capital. It is important that the community and Like the Marines, Masonry is looking for a few good men individuals interconnect, communicate and participate with to make a difference. Are you one to build a better tomorrow? each other. Study after study shows that communities that fail Why not get on the adventure now? It’s not too late. In short, to interconnect have higher crime rates, worse drug abuse, do you show by your actions that you believe in the three poorer health and standards for living and more suicides. Life tenets or fundamental principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, without these connections is pretty bleak, and, believe it or and Truth? not, having fewer of these connections actually reduces your “Business?” said Marley’s ghost. “Mankind was my business!” life expectancy. The Brotherhood of Man! Run with patience the race that is Masonic Lodges are meant to offer an alternative to this set before us. Godspeed!
DGM: Continued from page 4 we wouldn’t be involved. We care about our gentle Fraternity. that sets us apart from other men and other worthwhile None of us can ever forget that he is a Mason because we have organizations in today’s society. Let us make 2020 The Year the responsibility to live and to conduct our lives according to of Vision! the tenets of Freemasonry. Ours is a value-based organization THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 5 JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN RW E. Oscar Alleyne Junior Grand Warden [email protected]
Transformational Leadership: Being More than Meets the Eye reemasonry tries to improve the lives of its members by and lack of input from others. Power is closely controlled by the teaching lessons to define our purpose and provide a main decision taker or leader. Information flows downstream Fpositive influence on society. We tell people that Freemasonry only on a need-to-know basis. Keywords are Dictator, Strict, will change their life. We project such imagery in our ritual Rigid, Micromanager. of initiation and stages of progression from symbolic infancy Servant Leadership: Features more freedom and distributed to adolescence to adulthood. We speak of the history of decision making. Allows people to make decisions and self- Freemasonry as a romantic byproduct of the period of organize. The focus is on solving problems and removing Enlightenment and change. stumbling blocks to help others become more productive. Yet in the same breath we say Freemasonry is unchanged Keywords: Humble, Caring and Trustworthy. and permits no innovation. Historical figures like George Transformational Leadership: Focus on developing problem Washington, Prince Hall, Jose Marti, Simon Bolivar, Amadeus solvers, not merely solving problems. This style of leadership Mozart, Winston Churchill, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and makes leadership accessible to everyone. The focus is on so on and so forth are frequently listed when speaking of the bringing out the best of each member. proud history and rolls of our famous members. Simply put: Transformational leaders create more leaders. However, what was it about these men and Brothers that They know how to stimulate the minds of those who follow elevated their status in our folklore? They were about making their lead. They encourage them to express their ideas to be the form, nature, content, future course of “something” creative and innovative. They will not only provide their different from what it is or from what it would be if left alone. followers with new challenges but will also be available to offer Whether it was change in government, democracy, equality, them guidance and support to overcome these challenges and abolition or the arts, they did not accept the status quo and achieve their goals. they did not accept being ordinary. They were on the front line of encouraging transformation, they led revolutions, they These leaders understand the value of becoming an influential instituted corrections, they changed their worlds and their individual whom the rest look up to. Those in leadership environment. As a result, we saw the advancement of our positions should exemplify what they advocate through their Craft being changed with these Brothers. character and behavior. It is in observing such traits that the group members will strive to emulate what they admire most So why do we idealize them for the sake of marketing? Why in their leaders. To become a transformational leader you will should we condense their accomplishments to small sound first need to mold within yourself those qualities you want to bites at a Brother Bring a Friend Night? Worse yet, why are we see in your team members. far too happy to add nothing more to their collective canvas but instead ride on their coattails just because they were Typical leadership programs may target a small number members of the Craft? of senior people within an organization. The vast majority therefore never get a chance to develop their skills. The earlier Would these men and Brothers have done all that they people can get started on leadership programs, the stronger strived for, even if they were not Freemasons? Perhaps. Would and more valuable their skills will be as they rise within the they have gone down in history in spite of Freemasonry? organization. That is how to build a culture that inspires. So, Possibly. But rather than concentrate on what-ifs, we should please encourage creativity, be a role model, be passionate, realize that their desire to innovate and develop their mark listen and communicate effectively, have a positive attitude, upon society was strengthened by their membership in our motivate your team, offer recognition and keep trying new Fraternity. They were naturally attracted to Freemasonry things in your Lodges. because this organization fostered their ability to be with like- minded individuals and promoted a network of men who In so doing, we aspire to work towards Building the Future were free thinkers and more importantly free doers. of our Grand Lodge and Sharing the Experience. You are an essential part of that success and your success leads into the They were what we call Transformational Leaders. But if success of our Grand Jurisdiction. Focus on becoming that everyone is a leader in his own right, why does any of this Transformational Leader as you go forth with your tasks in make a difference? Your strengths and weaknesses will often your work, in your personal life, in your Fraternity, in your distinguish your style of leadership. Take a look at three such civic duties and also as Brothers and leaders of our Craft. Safe styles: travels, my Brothers! Authoritative Leadership: Led by close supervision, control 6 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Grand Treasurer RW steven adam rubin, Grand Treasurer 212/643-5402 [email protected]
e have lost a number of remarkable Masons this year From pancake breakfasts to charity galas; from blood and throughout our Jurisdiction—men and Masons who organ drives to the Masonic ID Program; whether transporting notW only talked the talk but also walked the walk, and by their sick children and their families to and from hospital or actions and deeds improved the lives of those around them. volunteering as fire fighters, Master Masons strive every day Two such Masons were RW Kurt Ott, of Schiller Lodge 304 to fulfill the Masons’ Creed. A profane would look upon these and Harmony Lodge 199, in the Noble Ninth Manhattan actions as extraordinary. To the Master Mason, this is the District, and RW Mel Silverman of James W. Husted-Fiat Lux fulfillment of our Obligation. This is who we are and this is Lodge 1068, in the Loyal Eighth Masonic District. I met both what we do. I stand in awe of you and I applaud you. Brothers in 2006 when I was newly appointed Grand Lodge My Brothers, I have been blessed with many honors during Proctor. Brother Kurt was Grand Marshal and Brother Mel, the twenty-three years I have been a Master Mason, serving District Advisor of his District. They became mentors to me, three times as Worshipful Master and appointed and re- just as they were mentors to countless other Brothers, because appointed Proctor and Judge Advocate by six Grand Masters that’s what Masons do. We pass down our knowledge, our over the span of twelve years. But next to my son’s Initiation experiences and our wisdom to the next generation. That is and his anticipated Raising in March, my election to Grand the beauty and the power of the Craft. It is also our Charge: Treasurer in 2018 and re-election by you in 2019 has been the to carry on the legacy of those who came before us, to be that highlight. It has truly been my honor to serve you and I thank next mentor and to bear the burden of the Widow’s Son. you for your brotherhood and support. While this is the spring edition of the Empire State Mason, I Because of these Grand Lodge offices, my active participation write this article for submission on January 1, 2020, New Year’s in my Lodge and my extensive travel around our Jurisdiction, I Day. Such is the nature of print. As such, you will understand have garnered a most unique perspective of our successes as well why I say that I hope the spirit of the holidays brought you joy as the challenges remaining before us both institutionally and and the new year will bring health and happiness to you and Masonically. For few truly know the multitude and magnitude those you love. of issues that develop within our Grand Jurisdiction on a daily, Easter and Passover will be upon us at the time of this let alone monthly or yearly, basis. That is why we must harness printing, so let me wish for you and those you love a happy our most precious Masonic resource—our brethren—to find Easter and happy Pesach. I give you warm wishes for all the real solutions to these challenges. We can no longer rely upon wonderful things this special time can bring. the few to find the answers for all. We must engage every It is remarkable to realize that as I write this article the Brother from every Lodge and every Region as we identify, Masonic year is nearly complete and by the time of its printing formulate and implement real long-term solutions. We can we will already be in preparation for our next Grand Lodge no longer be afraid to have this conversation, barely above a session. As this will be my last article as Grand Treasurer, I take whisper. this final opportunity to reflect not merely on the past year, As this will be the last publication before Grand Lodge but also upon my Masonic journey. I hope you will indulge Session, let me make some final observations and a request me. of each Worshipful Master, Warden or Proxy attending. The I remain as optimistic today as I did on the first day I question is always asked, who is Grand Lodge? Too often our was Raised, for I continue to witness that generous spirit of Brothers think it is merely the Grand Master and the rest of brotherhood that I witnessed that first day. We are Brothers in the elected and appointed line. Wrong. It is you. Yes, Grand harmony, helping each other, and together in service to others. Lodge is the elected and appointed Grand Line, but also each Whether it is our Masonic Military Outreach providing holiday District Deputy, Staff Officer, Permanent and Committee cheer to our men and women of our Armed Services and their Member and Trustee of our Jurisdictional Institutions and families; or Lodges and Districts who visit with our military every Lodge represented. You comprise that powerful body. veterans, not just during the holidays, but also in the lonely Two years ago I had the opportunity to speak before a Lodge days in between; or the Brothers from the Erie District who shortly before Grand Lodge Session. I was disappointed to took the tragedy of a Brother and military veteran’s suicide and learn that since the Secretary did not read or summarize the turned it into an opportunity to bring awareness to this terrible Call Letter to the Lodge, and the Worshipful Master did not trend; or the thousands of dollars given in charity to support seek discussion on its contents, both the Worshipful Master worthy causes such as our Masonic Care Community, Camp and the Brothers from this Lodge were ill informed as to the Turk, our Masonic Medical Research Institute, the Chancellor significant decisions that were required to be made at Grand Robert R Livingston Masonic Library and the Masonic Toys Lodge. What an opportunity was lost! Indeed, the Call Letter for Tots, just to name a few: We should take pride in all that does not merely advise who are the Candidates for Office, or we do for each other and our communities. Grand Treasurer continues on page 8 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 7 Grand Secretary RW richard t. Schulz Grand Secretary Masonic Hall 71 West 23rd Street New York NY 10010 212/337-6644 [email protected]
s your Grand Secretary I’ve been listening to your concerns In the second week of January, we held four Florida Sojourners’ and ideas. I want to improve communication with every Luncheons—in Sarasota, Tampa, The Villages and Palm LodgeA and most importantly with Lodge Secretaries. This Beach. Altogether we had a little fewer than 500 persons at can be done in various ways: through emails, teleconferences, these events. We spent the time catching up with old friends webinars and in-person presentations. I’ve started to do that on and meeting new ones. It was more than a little harried: four a small scale by inviting additional Lodge officers and officers luncheons over four days in different parts of the state. Whew! from other Districts to a couple of Secretaries Seminars I held in But we were able to discuss the plans for Grand Lodge, the February and March. My work schedule as Grand Secretary is Order of the Eastern Star, the Masonic Care Community and pretty tight but if your Lodge or District is looking for answers the Masonic Medical Research Institute. on Grand Lodge procedures or wants to discuss what my office Please keep in mind that our Grand Lodge Annual does, then get in touch with me and we’ll find a date. Maybe there Communication is coming up on Monday, May 4 and Tuesday, are some ideas that will be voiced that will help me improve May 5. As with last year, all reservations must be made online. communication or procedures. If you have problems with the online reservation system, please I’ve created a number of Goals and Objectives for 2020 for contact my office. This year we will be without the guidance of the Office of the Grand Secretary. I believe many of the goals our beloved past Chairman, RW Kurt Ott. Kurt was a wonderful will not be done easily, and some not completely. While many man, who routinely tried to help everyone he came in contact of these goals are not specific to a singular task, tasks that can with. I will miss him tremendously and so will Grand Lodge help meet these goals have been developed and will continue to and the Grand Lodge Convention Committee. be developed and implemented over the year. I want to: Your Grand Lodge Dues Card should have reached you by Improve Customer Service by answering and responding to now. It took longer than expected to get them to you. I thank inquiries promptly; you for your patience. My office stands ready to assist you or Have redundancy in duties among office staff so we have answer any questions regarding the cards. This is a major step backup help when needed; forward for our Grand Lodge. Improve office filing procedures and move outdated files to storage; Encourage and maintain office professionalism and teamwork amongst personnel; Support the programs of the Grand Master and the Grand Lodge in the best way possible; RW Richard T. Schulz Support and coordinate changes and improvements to the Grand Secretary Grand Lodge websites and the MORI Database System; Practice the Philosophy of Continuous Improvement by producing timely and quality work products, increasing the efficiency of office procedures and encouraging ideas to improve procedures.
Grand Treasurer continued from page 7 an understanding of the significance your decisions will have for the direction of our Craft, for it is your duty. the contents of any proposed Constitutional Amendment or any Promulgated Decision, important information in their Lastly, my Brothers, while it has been my honor to serve own right, but it also provides the opportunity and the time you as Grand Treasurer, the real joy has been simply visiting limit for any Brother—any Brother—to propose an item for with you at your Square Clubs, your Lodges and Districts, the Grand Lodge agenda. While it is still the Grand Master’s your holiday parties, charity galas, anniversary celebrations, agenda and not every proposal may be called, it is nevertheless Oktoberfests/Traubenfests, Festive Boards, Table Lodges your right and opportunity to request. So take the time to read and breakfast meetings. I thank you for your friendship and and understand the contents of the Call Letter. Take the time brotherly love. I have enjoyed every moment I was with you. to address its contents in Lodge. Come to Grand Lodge with
8 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Senior Grand Deacon RW david menegon Senior Grand Deacon
The Golden Age of Masonry is Here! n January 4 I had the pleasure of conducting Oanother NorthStar training class, combined with a Building New Membership Workshop. More than 100 members attended at Masonic Hall in NYC; this helps underscore the fact that the NorthStar Program has a proven track record of not only acquiring new members but also keeping them. The workshop focused on increasing the number of gentlemen interested in joining our Fraternity by growing the awareness of Freemasonry, promoting a positive image of the Craft, and keeping lifelong age of Masonry.” Many young men are seeking what Masonry Brothers. Key topics discussed were: What resonates with has to offer: work/life balance, mentoring, spirituality and the men to be a Mason; How to build your Lodge membership opportunity to lead. The workshop sessions explain all the tools through media planning; NorthStar Training and Phase Three we have put together to create a compelling Masonic experience of NorthStar: a Discussion-based Lodge Model. that will retain the potential 20,000 new Brothers who will join the Craft over the next decade. It is important to instill within each new Brother a burning passion for learning, which leads him to more light in Masonry. The Grand Lodge Masonic Awareness campaign continues The candidate who petitions our Fraternity is entitled to know to exceed our expectations. We need to train new Success his heritage. This includes learning the Craft’s history, purpose, Coaches to meet the demand. We have reached over 200,000 operation, symbolism, law, philosophy, obligations and ideals. men through social media over the past year and have In a world where technology has given men friend lists and significantly increased the monthly requests to join the Craft. no real friendships, the social intercourse that men receive in As a result, we actually have a backlog of leads that need quality Lodge is more critical than ever. attention. Some Lodges and Districts have been so impressed with the results they are now developing their own campaigns, While traveling the State as Chair of the New Membership with our assistance, and have committed funds for the New Task Force, I have said many times, “We are entering the golden Membership Task Force to handle the ads for them. Grand Lodge is continually developing tools to help you build your Lodge membership, help you keep Masons and restore the Craft as an essential institution in your communities. For more information on NorthStar training and New Membership development contact me at [email protected]. We are taking these sessions on the road to you.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 9
Remembering Kurt Ott W Kurt Ott left us to join his beloved lady Ruth in December. He was a dedicated Mason who sincerely believed in the goodness of man and the fidelity of the Craft. RBorn in Germany, Kurt was proud to become a citizen of the United States in 1971. Kurt and Ruth were married for fifty-five years. She passed away in February of 2019. Kurt’s Masonic resume is lengthy. He was a member of the Noble Ninth Manhattan District. His Mother Lodge was Schiller Lodge 304, where he was Worshipful Master in 1974-1975. He was an affiliate member of Harmony Lodge No 199, serving in a variety of capacities, and was the recipient of their Man of the Year award. Kurt was an honorary member of Trinity Lodge 12, Herman Lodge 268, Socrates Lodge 595, Copernicus Lodge 545, King Solomon-Beethoven Lodge 232 and Allemania Lodge 740. Kurt Ott was involved in Scottish Rite, Royal Arch, NY Council of Cryptic Masons, the Knights Templar, the Red Cross of Constantine, the Shrine and the Eastern Star. Kurt was active in the Dumont German Masonic Home where he served on the Board of Directors. He served as Grand Treasurer and Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge of New York and District Deputy Grand Master of the Ninth Manhattan. In 2014 Kurt Ott was appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund, where he served with distinction. Kurt was Vice President of the Board for the last three years and was dedicated to service as a Trustee, taking special interest in the George Washington National Historic Site in Tappan, New York. Those of us at the Masonic Care Community will always remember Kurt as a man of caring who embraced his role and was proud of his service to the Craft. To quote Kurt, “I believe that Freemasonry is a profound way of life, something worthy of emulation…. The structure of our Fraternity will remain strong, only when we build on our willingness to share ideas, encourage collaboration and promote an openness of spirit….” We will miss Kurt Ott. Masonry will miss Kurt Ott. May he rest in peace.
Masonic Home Kid received 70 years apron
asonic Home Kid Joe Leblang received his seventy-year Masonic Mapron and pin at our recent Sojourn trip to Florida. Joe and his Brother Al came to live in Utica on January 14, 1939 when he was eleven years old. Joe became a Mason in the former Liberty Lodge (which is now Oriental Faxton in Utica) at the age of 23. Joe was so proud to become a Mason because of what the Fraternity did for his brother and for him.
(l-r) MW James E. Sullivan, PGM; MW William M. Sardone, Grand Master and Brother Joe Leblang 10 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 In Honor of the Masonic Hall and the Caretakers
n December 4, what we know as Masonic Hall today. It is these buildings and 2019 Grand Master the rents collected from the “mercantile” ventures which lease OWilliam M. Sardone led the space in them that make possible the work of the Trustees. celebration of 150 years of The sesquicentennial celebration was coordinated by Nikole ownership, by the Trustees of Kelly, Director of Marketing and Special Events in NYC. the Masonic Hall & Asylum It started with the unveiling of a plaque in the First Floor Fund, of the real estate at Lobby at Masonic Hall by Grand Master Sardone and Trustee the northeast corner of 6th rd President G. Stephen Getman. The celebration continued in Avenue and 23 Street in the Grand Lodge Room with an elegant buffet and live music Manhattan. The purchase of this land in 1869 and the subsequent construction of a Masonic Hall on this site were the foundation which made possible the work of the Trustees which has followed. The legislation which incorporated the Trustees on April 21, 1864 authorized them and their successors to purchase land and construct a meeting hall to accommodate the Grand Lodge and other Masonic bodies and “…out of the funds derived from the rent or income thereof, and the funds derived by said corporation from all other sources…to build, establish and maintain in the state of New York, an asylum or asylums, a home or homes, with hospital accommodations, a school or schools, for the relief, support and care of worthy and indigent masons, and worthy and indigent wives, widows, and orphans (half or whole), of masons….” Although the first Masonic Hall struggled initially as a commercial venture, it became the source of revenues which made possible the purchase of the land in Utica and construction under lighting which transformed the venue. In addition of the Masonic Home which received its first residents on May to Masonic guests, there were staff, tenants and vendors in 1, 1893. The construction of a second Masonic Hall on the attendance. After brief remarks thanking those present for the adjacent parcel on 24th Street and demolition of the original continued success of Masonic Hall, Grand Master Sardone Masonic Hall and construction of a 19-story commercial and President Getman cut a ceremonial ribbon. building on the original site followed. These structures are
(l-r) RW David Menegon, RW Scott Pete, Mrs. Nikole Kelly, MW William M. Sardone, Mrs. Denise Wright-Scott, RW G. Stephen Getman, Diana Alvarado, RW Nathan Lipper, RW Michael Siegel and RW Joseph Saglimbene. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 11 GRAND LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK 71 West 23rd Street, 17th Floor • New York, NY 10010-4149 239th Annual Communication – 2020 Monday & Tuesday, May 4-5
HOTEL ACCOMMODATION C U T OFF DATE: APRIL 15, 2 0 2 0 HEADQUARTERS HOTEL ALTERNATE HOTEL (right next to LaGuardia Plaza) LaGuardia Plaza Hotel Hampton Inn 104-04 Ditmars Blvd. 102-40 Ditmars Blvd. East Elmhurst NY 11369 East Elmhurst NY 11369 RESERVATIONS see online instructions at www.nymasons.org Tel.: 718/457-6300 Tel.: 718/672-6600 Agreed Room Rate: $177/night. Agreed Room Rate: $167/night. Including Breakfast. Limited Availability. Use Hotel Code: GLM Use Hotel Code: GLM G RANDM ASTER’S RECE PTION AND DINNE R CUT OFF DATE: APRIL 27, 2020
RUSSO’S ON THE BAY Formal Attire, Cocktail Hour starts at 6:00 p.m., Dinner is 7:15 p.m. $115.00 Per Guest (Price includes Russo’s Famous Cocktail Hour, including Top Shelf Liquor & Extensive Entree options) www.nymasons.org Reservations are to be made Exclusively Online for the Grand Master’s Dinner this year.
CONTACTS AND INFORMATION: GRAND LODGE CONVENTION COMMITTEE c/o Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York (Address listed above) Donald Mattson, Chairman [email protected] • 914/646-0491 Joseph Zimmerman, Co-Chairman [email protected] • 718/930-7814 Angel Ruiz, Co-Chairman [email protected] • 347/234-2800 Walter Fingerle, Co-Chairman [email protected] • 516/732-0155
12 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 GRAND LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK 71 West 23rd Street, 17th Floor • New York, NY 10010-4149 239th Annual Communication – 2020 MEMBERS’ PRELIMINARY PROGRAM
MONDAY, MAY 4, 2020 TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020 6:00 am to 9:00 am Breakfast, LaGuardia Plaza Hotel, 6:00 am to 9:00 am Breakfast, LaGuardia Plaza Hotel (TILED) 9:00 am Grand Lodge convenes in the (TILED) 9:00 am Grand Lodge convenes in the Grand Lodge Room, Masonic Hall Grand Lodge Room, 3rd and 4th Floors – 71 West Masonic Hall 3rd and 4th Floors 23rd Street, New York, New York 71 West 23rd Street, (TILED) 11:00 am The Distinguished Achievement New York, New York Award will be presented to a 11:00 am Public Installation worthy brother to be announced. 12:00 pm Grand Lodge Reception 1:00 pm Grand Lodge recesses for Lunch. on the second floor – (TILED) 2:00 pm Grand Lodge reconvenes. Masonic Hall 3:30 pm Adjournment 1:30 pm Adjournment 6:30 pm Grand Master’s Reception and Dinner, at Russo’s on the Bay, by Ticket $115.00 each
Women’s Organizations and Youth Groups will be recognized on Sunday, May 3rd at the V.I.P. Dinner. By Invitation only.
FACTS Information: See the links on www.NYMasons.org Contact: Grand Lodge Convention Committee Dates: Monday, May 4, and Tuesday, May 5, 2020 c/o Grand Secretary’s Office Masonic Hall, Place: Masonic Hall, 71 W. 23rd Street, 3rd and 4th Floors, New York, NY 10010 71 West 23rd Street, New York City Donald Mattson, Chairman [email protected], cell: 914/646-0491 Telephone: 212/741-4500 or Joseph Zimmerman, Co-Chairman, 800/3 MASON 4, Toll Free [email protected], cell: 718/930-7814 Headquarters Hotel: LaGuardia Plaza Hotel Angel Ruiz, Co-Chairman 104-40 Ditmars Blvd., [email protected], cell: 347/234-2800 East Elmhurst NY 11369 Walter Fingerle, Co-Chairman [email protected], cell: 516/732-0155 Reservations: Call 718/457-6300 for the agreed room rate: at $177/night including breakfast. HOTEL CODE: GLM Grand Master’s Dinner: Monday, May 4, 2020 6:00 pm Cocktails, 7:15 pm Dinner at Russo’s on the Bay, Alternate Hotel: Hampton Inn Howard Beach, New York $115.00 per Person, (right next to LaGuardia Plaza) CUT-OFF DATE: APRIL 27, 2020 102-40 Ditmars Blvd., East Elmhurst NY 11369 Only Online Reservations for the Grand Master’s Dinner this year. Reservations: Call 718/672-6600 for the agreed room rate: at Go to www.NYMasons.org for information and links. $167/night. HOTEL CODE: GLM Transportation: Buses will be provided to and from the CUT-OFF DATE: APRIL 15, 2020 Thereafter, hotel Headquarters Hotel, Masonic Hall and Russo’s on the Bay on reservations will be accepted only on a space available basis. an Announced Schedule. Coordinators: DDGMs are responsible to ensure reservations are made for their Districts. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 13
Distinguished Achievement Award
The Distinguished Achievement Award is the highest honor the Grand Lodge of New York can present to a member of the Fraternity. Brother Scott Wolter is a familiar face around the world, not just in Masonic Lodges but also through the media with his show America Unearthed. Many have seen this show on the Travel and History Channels.
rother Scott F. Wolter is a forensic geologist and television host. He is known best as the host of the Bseries America Unearthed. Brother Wolter is based out of Minnesota, where he is the founder and president of American Petrographic Services and the inventor of Arterioportography (a process used to date and understand the origins of inscribed stone artifacts). In addition to investigating and dating ancient artifacts, Brother Wolter was involved in analyzing fire damage to the concrete at the Pentagon after the September 11 terrorist attacks and has even helped the Las Vegas police investigate a homicide where a victim was found buried in concrete. His first television appearance was as a Kensington rune stone expert on the documentary “Holy Grail in America,” which indirectly resulted in Brother Wolter hosting America Unearthed. Brother Wolter is the author of several books on geology, the Knights Templar and theories related to pre- Columbian contact. His new book, Cryptic Code of the Templars in America: Origins of the Hooked X, is available. Brother Wolter is a Master Mason in Wayzata 205 Lodge in Wayzata, MN. He and his wife Janet are renowned for their investigative talents that uncover historical mysteries. Their work sometimes finds them entangled in Masonic Discoveries.
Brown receives 70-year recognition W Frank Keifer, DDGM, presented Brother Brown with his seventy- Ryear apron, certificate and pin. Brother Melvin was 105 when this photo was taken in February of 2019. He has since laid down his working tools and has gone to heaven.
(l-r) W Scott Nelson, RW Frank Keifer, District Deputy Grand Master of the 22nd District; Brother Melvin Brown; RW Michel Rivert, Grand Sword Bearer of Grand Lodge of Quebec, Canada. 14 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Grand Historian RW GARY L. HEINMILLER Grand Historian 315/622-1167 [email protected]
Henry Knox In front of the Evening Star Lodge No. 75 Temple on Old Crown Point and Loudon Road in Latham, NY, stands one of 57 very interesting Ticonderoga. At historical markers commemorating the Henry Knox Cannon Trenton he crossed Trail. the river before In 1755, during the French and Indian War, a crude road the main body was constructed between Lake George and Albany. It was built and rendered such by the British under the direction of General John Campbell, service that he was the fourth Earl of Loudoun, and became known as the made brigadier Loudon Planck Road [Route 9]. Gen. John Campbell was the general and chief Grand Master of United Grand Lodge of England in 1736. of artillery in the Loudonville, NY, was named in his honor. Continental Army. He was present at Princeton, Monmouth, and Yorktown; and The Henry Knox Cannon Trail arose, in 1775, when he was after the surrender of Cornwallis was made major general given the task to bring cannon captured from forts at Crown (1781). He took the initial steps in creating the U.S. Military Point and Ticonderoga to Cambridge, MA. The Knox Cannon Academy in 1779; was a member of the court-martial which Train traveled from Crown Point, to Albany along the road tried Major Andre in 1780; and commanded West Point in laid out by Gen. Campbell, then crossed the Hudson River’s 1782. He was one of Washington’s most trusted advisors and ice and delivered the cannon to Cambridge where they were a close personal friend. instrumental in the evacuation of the British from Boston on March 17, 1776. In April 1783 he drafted the plan of a society to be formed by American and French officers of the Revolution, to be http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_ called the Cincinnati. He was first secretary-general of the freemasons/Volume_3_K_to_P.htm society from 1783-99, and vice president in 1805. He was Henry Knox was a Major General in the American Revolution secretary of War in 1785- 94, being the first to hold that office and 1st Secretary of War under Washington. b. 25 Jul 1750 in under the Federal government. His Masonic membership is Boston, MA. He planned the defenses of the camps before hazy, but he is thought to have been a member of St. John’s Boston and brought much needed artillery from the forts at Regimental Lodge at Morristown, NJ, which was warranted in 1775. He is credited with helping to constitute Washington [Military] Lodge [No. 10] at West Point in 1779, and is recorded as a visitor to Williamsburg Lodge No. 6, Williamsburg, VA; St. John’s Lodge, Boston; Amity Lodge No. 6, Camden, Maine; and Orient No. 15, Thomaston, Maine. He died October 25, 1806.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 15 Hudson River Lodge 309
he Newburgh Masonic Temple cornerstone was laid Made of copper and soldered shut to seal the contents, the July 10, 1914. The construction cost was approximately capsule was placed in a compartment in the actual cornerstone. T$160,000. Freemasonry in Newburgh predates the There, it was covered with a metal plate. All of the Masonic Revolutionary War. The original Newburgh Lodge No. 309 organizations in Newburgh, and some from the surrounding was chartered on June 10, 1853 and Hudson River Lodge areas as well, placed items in this time capsule. No. 607 was chartered on June 8, 1866 by New York State. The current Hudson River Lodge is a result of these Lodges merging and getting a new charter on June 6, 1996.
In 1999, due to high maintenance, utilities, and repair costs, it was determined that it was no longer cost effective to keep the property. The Newburgh Masonic Fellowship sold the Masonic Temple, which has since changed ownership several times. It is currently owned by Orange County, NY. The Master of Hudson River Lodge No. 309, Ian M. Berkowitz, reached out to the Orange County Historian and the Property Manager in August of 2019 when he first learned of a supposed time capsule. Historian Johanna Porr Yaun replied in September that she would investigate. On December 4, 2019 Master Berkowitz received an email that contractors would be removing the brickwork and cornerstone on Monday, December 10. Past Master Daniel D. Elliott found a copy of an old Masonic Fair Magazine dated 1915. The publication described the ceremony and listed the contents of a time capsule for the cornerstone. When the cornerstone was laid, on July 10, 1914, the time capsule was placed inside the cornerstone.
16 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 On December 10 and 11, 2019 the cornerstone was opened Hudson River Commandery No. 35, K.T. and the contents of the time capsule were recovered. The Wilbur H. Weston Shriners Association copper box that held all the mementos was cut open. Many of Masonic War Veterans the items were wrapped in tiny packages and tied with string Highland Chapter No. 52, Royal Arch Masons or ribbon and marked with the name of the organization. Hudson River Chapter, Order of Eastern Star There were various newspapers and an American Flag with 48 Acanthus Lodge No. 719 stars. Those who contributed to this time capsule were: Various Newspapers Hudson River Lodge No. 607 American Flag (48 Stars) Newburgh Lodge No. 309
Invitations had been sent out for the cornerstone-laying On Wednesday, December 11, 2019 the Orange County ceremony. There was a parade held at the laying of the stone Historian Johanna Porr Yaun and the Master of Hudson in 1914. According to one newspaper that was deposited in River Lodge No. 309 Ian M. Berkowitz placed items in a the time capsule, over 1000 Masonic Brothers marched in this Tupperware container and deposited it into the empty space parade. in the cornerstone. Then it was covered and the brickwork replaced and cemented. Some of the new items included: Hudson River Lodge No. 309 coin, wooden placard and pin Royal Arch Masonic Chapter No.52 coin and pin Grand Master’s pin Orange County Directory Orange County Executive’s coin Times Herald Record newspaper dated December 11, 2019 Miscellaneous items
Brothers from Hudson River Lodge No. 309 attended. From left to right: Past Master Daniel D. Elliott, Brother John G. Cornell, Worshipful Master Ian M. Berkowitz, Past Master Bruce B. McQuade. Also on site but not in picture was Past Master Fredrick R. Reynolds. Master Ian M. Berkowitz and Historian Johanna Porr Yaun place the container into the cornerstone. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 17 Orange Rockland Sullivan comes to Utica
hanks go to the members of the Orange Rockland Sullivan TDistrict who visited the Masonic Care Community Campus in early December. They brought with them a motorized chair and generous donations to our facility.
(l-r) RW Franklin Lauferswiler III, Dan Janes, Mark Estridge, Bill Rambow, Mara Roberts, Brother Tom Sharkey and Michael Fountain.
Row l (l-r) Victor Melendez, James Cawein, Mark Estridge, Mara Roberts, Jonathan Williams, Mathew McCormick, Ken Skyer, Tom Sharkey, Dan Janes. Row 2 (l-r) Bill Rambow, Grover LaFountain, Franklin Lauferswiler, Michael Fountain, Samuel Guest.
Suffolk receives DD n Thursday, November 7 Suffolk Lodge 60 hosted its his dad’s Mother Lodge. OAnnual Visitation of the District Deputy to Port Jefferson. RW McCauley recognized our newest and most senior RW District Deputy Grand Master Kevin McCauley, RW brethren and several DSA recipients. Among other Grand Steward Matthew Dinizio and VW Assistant Grand topics, he spoke of his efforts seeking new ideas for Lecturer Robert Licata visited with more than forty-five fundraisers for the District Benevolence Fund. Brothers. One Brother travelled from West Virginia to visit
18 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Awards Committee RW GEORGE R. WACOB Chairman 631/838-7508 (C) [email protected]
Committee ratifies 55 DSAs he Awards Committee received a total of seventy-one Community Service Awards (DeWitt Clinton, Jacob recommendations for the Dedicated Service Award for Morton, and the Grand Lodge Certificate of Excellence Tthe year of 2019. Thirty-one were received from the Metro in Service to the Community) have no cutoff date and will Region, twelve from the Hudson-Champlain Region, twelve be processed as they are received. This year the committee from the Mid-State Region and sixteen came from the Western approved sixteen DeWitt Clinton Awards, six Jacob Morton Region. Fifty-five were ratified, of which twenty-eight are Past Awards and three Certificates of Excellence. The Lodge Masters. Six of the total were rejected for not meeting the Secretary and DDGM are notified within a short period if a criteria for the DSA Award and ten were held over, due to nominee has been approved for one of these awards. District allotment restrictions. Please note the Awards Committee’s webpage on the Grand The recipients and their Lodge Secretaries were notified Lodge website: http://nymasons.org/2016/committees- in January by the Grand Secretary. The committee notified departments-programs/awards-committee/. This page the DDGMs of the recipients in their District and informed provides information, requirements and the forms for the Lodge Secretaries of nominees who were held over. various awards. The committee will be accepting 2021 DSA Recommendation I would like to thank the Awards Committee for the time Forms in September. Letters and 2021 forms will be sent to and efforts they put into examining all recommendations Secretaries in late August. and fairly determining who will receive the awards. From the The DSA Chest Medallion will continue to be included Metropolitan Region they are: RW Gregory Noulas and RW in the DSA Package purchased through Lodge Services. The Joseph T. Entler; in the Mid-State Region it is RW Thomas L. DSA Chest Medallion is now available for Past DSA recipients Jenison and W Alfred W. Fergerson. RW Charles E. Knapp for the purchase price of $20, plus tax and shipping. The Jr. and RW Robert L. Hogan Jr. represent the Hudson- medallion must be ordered through the Lodge Secretary. Champlain Region and the Western Region is RW William H. Greene and RW Douglas D. Airth.
Grand Secretary talks business n Saturday, November 9 the Suffolk Masonic organization is that of the Secretary of a Masonic Lodge. District received RW Richard T. Schulz, Grand He is responsible for numerous duties both inside OSecretary of the Grand Lodge of New York. Brother and outside of Lodge meetings. When a Lodge has an Schulz gave a comprehensive presentation on duties and efficient Secretary in office, his efforts are too often procedures related to the Lodge Secretary’s office. The unnoticed and underappreciated—until a Lodge gets an event was attended by more than forty-five Brothers inefficient Secretary and the wheels of Masonry grind to and represented a singular opportunity for the District a halt. Remember to thank your Lodge Secretary for his Secretaries and Lodge officers to learn from the very best. countless unseen hours on your behalf. One of the most difficult and important jobs in any
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 19 Masonic Care Community RW G. stephen getman, President Board of Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home 315/894-5692 [email protected]
e will know it when we see it.” That phrase does only in New York State, but also in the United States, based not do justice to the efforts of the team which put upon a number of measures such as safest city and best place “togetherW the successful bid for the real estate of the College of to raise a family. Although some of the most expensive real New Rochelle. It does describe the mantra of the Trustees of estate in the country can be found in New Rochelle, it has the Masonic Hall & Asylum Fund as we searched for almost a diverse population. The Metro North railroad station has four years to find a suitable property near New York City. been rebuilt. Downtown boasts a $190 million entertainment In 2015 the Trustees resolved to find ways to bring some of complex. The campus sits in the middle of a residential park. the excellent services offered at the Masonic Care Community Leland Castle is the centerpiece of the campus. It was in Utica closer to Masons in other areas of New York. The originally built by hotelier Simeon Leland who purchased a process began with surveys and demographic studies which forty-acre site in 1848. Adrian Iselin, Jr. purchased the Castle identified where New York Masons live and what services they and surrounding acreage in 1884. The Castle housed the New had used in the past and expected to use in the future. The Rochelle Collegiate Institute and then Miss Morse’s Academy studies also looked at where senior populations are expected until 1897 when it was damaged by a fire. In that year the to grow, and the services already offered in those areas. Since Castle was purchased by Mother Irene Gill to house her completing that process the Trustees have looked at a number Ursuline Seminary. The Ursuline Order founded the College of properties in the Hudson Valley, Western New York and of St. Angela on the site in 1904. It was the first Catholic Long Island. The first breakthrough came in January 2019 women’s college in New York. In 1910 the name was changed when the Trustees completed the purchase of 88 acres in the to the College of New Rochelle. By 1929, when the College Town of Henrietta near Rochester. This land is adjacent to the celebrated its Silver Jubilee, it had become the largest women’s New York State Thruway and only five minutes away from Catholic college in the United States. For 115 years the College Exit 46. Work on this property will begin this spring. operated continuously on the site, until the graduation of its The search continued for that elusive Goldilocks property last class in August 2019. During 2019 much of the College closer to New York City until July 2019 when I received a call of New Rochelle operation was absorbed into Mercy College. from our Treasurer, Right Worshipful Brother Nathan Lipper. The Trustees reached the conclusion that this was the He had seen a notice that the real estate of the College of New property we had been looking for. It was an opportunity we Rochelle was going to be sold as a part of a bankruptcy petition should not miss. In September, the College of New Rochelle being filed by the College. Treasurer Lipper and our Chief filed its Petition in Bankruptcy. On September 19th our Operating Officer for NYC, Denise Wright-Scott, assembled Most Worshipful Grand Master William Sardone toured the a team of experts to evaluate the property. In their Executive property with the Trustees. Grand Master Sardone encouraged Summary, the realtor and real estate advisor announced: “the our quest. The next day at a regular meeting held at Tappan, opportunity to acquire a rarely available 15.6-acre college with Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master Richard J. campus. The campus is situated in the heart of Westchester Kessler present, the Trustees voted to submit the necessary County just 15 miles from Manhattan in New Rochelle, NY. papers to qualify for a seat at the auction which was scheduled The architecturally significant campus includes over 450,000 for November 21st. The auction took place over two days in square feet of college buildings, centered around a 19th century New York City; it required a special meeting of the Trustees castle. The campus contains: a 200,000 volume, state of the and a conference with Grand Master Sardone in order to raise art library; over 400 beds of housing; recently constructed our bid. After a final sealed bid, the Trustees were determined Wellness Center with NCAA gymnasium and pool; chapel; TV to have submitted the highest and best bid at 32 million production studio; photography studios; laboratories; lecture dollars. The following Monday, the offer of the Trustees was halls and extensive classroom space….The property is zoned approved by the Honorable Robert D. Drain, Bankruptcy R2-7 residential, which permits residential and educational Judge for the Southern District of New York. use. If sold to a developer, the City of New Rochelle would The process is underway to shape the vision for what this review proposals for other uses which could activate the property can mean for Freemasonry in New York and how campus, while respecting the surrounding neighborhood, it can shine new light on the charitable work we do in the such as educational, technology, research and development, much larger world beyond our Fraternity. The process will health and wellness, senior housing (assisted and independent involve conversations with Masons, officials from the City living) and condominiums.” of New Rochelle, neighbors from the surrounding residential The campus is within walking distance of the Metro North areas and those who have been a part of the storied history Railroad, downtown New Rochelle and Long Island Sound. A of the College of New Rochelle. How we work with the City positive factor considered by the Trustees is the City of New of New Rochelle and the neighboring homeowners will be Rochelle itself. It regularly ranks among the top cities not RW G. Stephen Getman continues on page 23 20 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Masonic Care Community RW Rob Raffle Executive Director Masonic Care Community of New York 315/798-4882 [email protected]
inally, spring! While winter came early to Utica, program in May at the Horticultural Center. Plans are still construction on the Horticultural Learning Center and The being formalized but watch for more information about this FNeighborhoods at Acacia Village continued despite the snow program in the first quarter of the year. and the cold. In early February the Horticultural Learning As for The Neighborhoods at Acacia Village, the interest Center had heat, controls and growing towers installed, and in the Waterside Cottages and Garden Homes has been staff was receiving training on the operation of the facility. We tremendous. Our staff has been meeting regularly with hope that, weather permitting, our first plants will be started individuals who are interested in securing their own home by the first day of spring. on our beautiful campus. In addition to the construction of the new housing our original Acacia Village is undergoing a facelift and should be complete by early this fall.
This center will be unique and innovative. We will use Aeroponics in one area to grow green leafy vegetables, herbs and micro greens. Aeroponics is the process of growing plants in an air or mist environment, without the use of soil or an aggregate medium. The word “aeroponic” is derived from the Greek “aer” meaning “air” and “ponos” meaning “labor.” Aeroponic culture differs from conventional hydroponics, aquaponics and in-vitro growing. In the more traditional, organic side of the greenhouse we will grow garden vegetables and flowers for our many gardens. We will also produce the hanging baskets that grace our campus. The Horticultural Learning Center is 8400 square feet and The next big undertaking will be the revitalization of our nearly half of that will be greenhouse space. The Center will administration building, which is slated to begin in September. also include a classroom, large meeting and common area, This project will change the look of the building exterior while storage space, offices and restroom facilities. In addition preserving its historic qualities. We will be adding meeting to growing our own flowers and vegetables the center will rooms and a café, and totally redesigning the auditorium, support our intergenerational learning programs, allow our which is used for Lodge gatherings. This building was seniors to get their hands dirty and create a unique space for constructed in 1965 and replaced the original 1893 structure. other campus gatherings. It’s an exciting time on the Utica Campus as we enter this Cornell Cooperative Extension is implementing a new RISE new decade of achievement and service. During our St. John’s program in the spring. RISE stands for Retirees In Service to Day events we will make accommodations for our visiting the Environment. This eight-week environmental education Brothers to see our progress on both projects. To keep updated and leadership training program is geared toward retirees. We on all the MCC construction activities, follow us on Facebook will be working with Cornell to present a four-week training or visit our website at mccny.com.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 21 Masonic Care Community MARA ROBERTS Director of Strategic Marketing and Philanthropy 315/798-4703 [email protected]
am very excited to join the Masonic Care Community as MCC community helps people in so many ways, and often at the new Director of Strategic Marketing and Philanthropy. the greatest time of need in their life. I feel honored to be a part IHaving served for more than twenty years in the nonprofit of our mission and the Masonic heritage to support, nurture field working in marketing and fundraising, I am grateful for and educate those we serve to enhance lives and futures. the opportunity to join such a reputable and long-standing I also joined MCC at a very exciting time, as so much is organization serving so many people and doing such strong, happening on campus. From the new Horticultural Center to mission-oriented work. the renovation of the Administration Building, the launch of I first visited the MCC campus when a family member The Neighborhoods at Acacia Village and more, our campus chose rehabilitative care at the Health Pavilion following open is growing and expanding. In turn, so is our capacity to serve heart surgery. That was when I learned of the exceptional level additional Masons, their families and the community. of care and compassion provided by the team at MCC. There I have also enjoyed meeting with our Trustees and other is so much to be proud of here. Masons over the last few months and learning more about In my very first month I reached out to a donor—Paul— their connection to our cause and our work. I look forward to thank him for his gift in support of the Horticultural to meeting more of you in the future at the ribbon cutting for Center and to introduce myself. Paul shared with me that the Horticultural Center and at the St. John’s Day celebration his connection with MCC began when his brother’s Shriners in June. Information about these events can be found on our band played on campus and how he loved to come listen to website at www.mccny.com or by following us on Facebook. them. At 99 years of age, when Paul’s mother could no longer Please also feel free to reach out to me directly, as I welcome be cared for at home, they chose MCC for her care. Paul said the opportunity to learn more about our Brother Masons, that some of the happiest memories he had with his mother their families and their lives. This will certainly help me in my were here at MCC, until she passed away at 104. We had a new work helping to support our mission at the Masonic Care wonderful conversation and it emphasized to me how our Community.
Caring For People Since 1893
Making a contribution to your Masonic Care Community means giving the gift of community. Our charitable activities are supported by people who believe the work we do is important. With your support, we will continue to strengthen our life-changing programs for our residents including music therapy, “Expressions Through Art”, and gardening programs. Your gifts help us to enrich and improve the lives of the 500 people on campus and continues the Masonic belief that charity is a distinguishable human virtue. We welcome your donation today at mccny.com/give. If you have questions or would like to learn more about donating in support of MCC, please contact: Mara Roberts, Director of Strategic Marketing and Philanthropy at (315) 798-4703 or [email protected]
22 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Masonic Care Community kathy contino-turner Director of Communications and Marketing Masonic Care Community 315/798-4768 [email protected]
127 Years and Counting am starting my thirteenth year at the Masonic Care Our residents are unique, as well, and their stories are just Community and this continues to be a labor of love. One as interesting. We had a woman who worked in publicity for Iof my biggest passions is preserving the history, from the NBC, traveled five years to Vietnam with Bob Hope, was Masonic Home and School that opened its doors on May 1, involved with the Tonight Show under Jack Parr, and then 1893 to the Masonic Care Community of 2020, where more under Johnny Carson. One veteran served on the USS Missouri than 500 seniors live, 900 people work and children get more where the surrender of the Japanese at the end of World War than a daycare experience. The Trustees of the Masonic Hall Two occurred. Not only was he there, but he also set up the and Asylum Fund are dedicated to seeing this first jewel of table at which the surrender was signed. This gentleman, who New York State Masonry continue to innovate and flourish. came from Utica, had a brother who was in Pearl Harbor the I love to hear the stories, many that come from the remaining day the Japanese attacked. He always said “My brother was Masonic Home Kids. These individuals came to live on our there at the start and I was there at the finish.” Another of campus when one or both of their parents died. This was not our residents drove for General Eisenhower, one danced on an orphanage, although some of the kids left here with aunts or Broadway, others were involved in politics, medicine or made uncles. The kids were educated, their lives on the Utica campus a difference by their involvement in the community. All have regimented, as it was mandatory to take a musical instrument stories to tell that are worth hearing and remembering. and sing in the chapel choir. The kids were expected to get As we start this new decade, the future at MCC looks as at least a B average, and if you missed the mark, you ended promising as ever. Our Trustees continue to innovate and up in study hall, which was located right across the hall from reimagine what life should look like for those we serve. “Pop” Wiley’s office in the original administration building. This campus has been transformed yet again, (we have had (William “Pop” Wiley was the longest-serving superintendent five different names since we opened our doors on May 1, of the Masonic Home, from 1907 to 1943.) It has been an 1893) and we continue to redefine our role. The Masonic honor to help the descendants of these “kids” find information Fraternity should be immensely proud of the role played for on their ancestors. The stories held in the registries of the home 127-plus years to show the world what brotherly love is all kids are riveting, encouraging and, frankly, amazing. For the about. We are all involved in something bigger than ourselves, 976 kids who came through the Utica Campus between 1893 something that is continuing to extend a great legacy to the and 1982, the Masonic Fraternity made a huge difference in next generation. many of their lives. The thousands of individuals (children, grandchildren, great grandchildren) are the living proof of the care and compassion of this Fraternity over the past 127 years.
RE G. Stephen Getman continued from page 20 closely watched. The process will involve hiring architects and Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital, and the old Laundry, engineers and dealing with challenges like the 160-year-old which now has new life as a Horticultural Center. Sometimes Leland Castle. There is no clear roadmap but the Trustees have the old buildings are completely replaced, as with the 320- faced similar challenges in the past. bed Health Pavilion and Wiley Hall. In 1931 Grand Master On December 4 Grand Master William M. Sardone Charles Johnson acquired the DeWint House in Tappan. The helped the Trustees celebrate 150 years as the owners of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York eventually transferred Masonic Hall property in New York City. Those who come to this property to the Trustees to complete the restoration Masonic Hall on a regular basis see the constant work which and management of the property as the George Washington goes into maintaining and enhancing this majestic building. Historical Site. In May 2018 we celebrated 125 years of caring for people Although the acquisition of the New Rochelle Campus at the Masonic Care Community in Utica. What started as happened quickly, the process of planning for the best use of farmland is now the home to more than 500 residents and this magnificent property will be a slow and deliberate one. more than 900 employees. Programs in Utica have frequently The Trustees look forward once again to the challenge of led the way in providing innovative services to children and building something which will make New York Freemasons seniors. Historic buildings have been preserved. Sometimes proud. those buildings have been converted to new uses, as with the
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 23 St. John’s Day 2020 Save the Date!
Friday, June 26 - Sunday, June 28 Make plans to join with your Brothers on the Masonic Care Community Campus in Utica. For Updated Information on the scheduled events, visit our website at www.mccny.com/events
24 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Boy’s Camp Girl’s Camp July 5th – July 25th July 26th – August 15th
One, two or three-week options available (open to all children 8 to 16 years of age) $550.00 per week ($600.00 per week after June 1st)
Contact us for a Financial Aid Application (deadline to apply for aid is May 1)
For more information call 315/392-2081 OR Visit us on the web to register! www.CampTurk.org
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 25 Acacia Village linda rae avolio Senior Living Community Relations Acacia Village 315/798-4775 [email protected]
The Neighborhoods at Acacia Village: Serving Masons and Their Families
n the spring of 2018 W Walter Boronow, the Secretary of Tri-Valley Lodge No. 148, reached out to me regarding Ihis mother Yvette. Yvette was living in Kew Gardens in Queens, New York and was thinking about relocating to The Neighborhoods at Acacia Village. Brother Walter shared with me that his mother was a very active person but in recent years she had lost many of her closest friends and was becoming socially isolated. So they made plans to come and see Acacia Village on St. John’s Day, the 23rd of June in 2018. Brother Walter and Yvette enjoyed the tour of Acacia Village and the various St. John’s Day festivities. They returned to Acacia Village for dinner, where they were impressed with the variety and quality of the food. While touring, we looked at several different styles of apartments and Yvette chose a one-bedroom apartment with a den. They decided that with the extra room Yvette could have a separate space for an office. In early July Yvette sent in her application and became a member of our priority wait list. When the perfect apartment became available in the fall, Yvette decided to make the move. Now that she’s been here for more than a year and is settled in, Yvette is very fond of her apartment. She loves the open space from the French doors in her living room and is thrilled that her second floor balcony looks out over the courtyard. In the summer months she enjoys all the flowers and the lovely fountain. Yvette has made several close friendships here and discovered that she can do many of the same things in Utica that she enjoyed in New York City. Instead of going to the Metropolitan Opera House, she became a member of our local Munson Williams Arts Institute and goes to see the operas on a regular basis. She attends Broadway Theater League productions at our historic Stanley Theater and thoroughly enjoyed a local production of Menopause, the Musical at Players Theater recently. She has been taking dance classes at Mohawk Valley Community College and recently practiced “The Hustle.” For In the coming months, Yvette will be traveling to her our spring Acacia Village chorus concert, Yvette was a great timeshare in Puerto Rico. She will visit with her extended sport and did a dance/comedy skit as the girl in the “Itsy Bitsy family, safe in the knowledge that she can just lock the door Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini!” and go. Since Yvette does not drive, she uses ride-sharing services As part of the Masonic Care Community, The Neighborhoods like Uber and Lyft. On occasion, she accompanies neighbors at Acacia Village continue to support Brother Masons, who do drive to run errands and shop or sightsee. She also their families and the community in general by providing goes grocery shopping on our scheduled afternoon trips. independent living filled with amenities and services. For Yvette does the majority of her shopping on line at Amazon, more information about living at The Neighborhoods, please Coldwater Creek and other stores. visit our website at acaciavillageny.org.
26 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Grand Cinematographer RW Jason p. sheridan Grand Cinematographer 201/620-8888 [email protected]
Initiatory Class honors “Dad” Paul G. Huck t was the first step taken by twelve young men as they were Brother Austin Altman. Brother Altman congratulated the initiated into New York DeMolay, following many fine Degree cast for their incredible job. He noted that one of Iyoung men before them. The first step of a DeMolay can the Initiates, Brother Matthew, is the first member Initiated lead to a distinguished Masonic journey, as mentioned in into the newly formed Knights Templar Chapter of New York the winter 2019 Empire State Mason by our Most Worshipful DeMolay. Grand Master William M. Sardone, the first State Master Metropolitan Region Master Councilor Brother RJ Larson, Councilor of the combined DeMolay jurisdictions within State Scribe Brother Brian Ramos, Past State Master Councilor New York State in 1968. Dad Peter Stokke Jr. and Past State Scribe Dad Phillip Hurkala These young men are the future of Masonry. Some financial were also present. Here, too, were State Chapter Advisor Dad corporations believe in promoting from within to get the Jepth Dias, Metropolitan Region District Deputy Dad Bruce best candidate. This example applies to DeMolay Chapters, Brandt and State Ritual Advisor Dad Craig Riha. mentors and advisors who are Building the Future for the Following the Degree conferral State Master Councilor Grand Lodge of New York. DeMolay is a great way to share Altman presented honorary membership in New York Masonic values with the next generation. If you have a young DeMolay to Brother B. Tyler Moyer, International Master man who would benefit from membership please contact Dad Councilor; Brother Alex D. Blenman, State Master Councilor Brusoe at [email protected] or contact your local Chapter. of Maryland; and ME Paul G. Huck. Ensuing speeches Prior to the Degree, those present heard a number of personal included support and encouragement by State Scribe Ramos stories from members of the Chapter on the life-changing and the Metro Region Master Councilor Larson. Both made a impacts of DeMolay. One is the ease of communication they great connection with the twelve newest members of DeMolay experience now, not just communicating with those their own with their thoughts on brotherhood. The Most Excellent Paul age but with the whole age range of DeMolay from twelve Huck received a standing ovation for the motivating words years old through twenty-one. he addressed to the members of DeMolay. The final speaker Knickerbocker Chapter hosted the Metro Region Degree. thanked all for their dedicated attendance. It was Dad Peter The perfectly coordinated cast conferred the Initiatory Degree Brusoe, Personal Representative of the Grand Master in New from memory in front of ritual directors, mentors, advisors, York. parents, State Officers, visitors and supporters, and ME Paul At the close of the meeting the twelve new members, Huck, Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter State of New visiting dignitaries, members of Knickerbocker Chapter and York, Royal Arch Masons. visiting DeMolay members gathered for a photograph. Grand Of the twelve candidates, six were sponsored by Brother Cinematographer of the Grand Lodge of New York, Jason Robin Santos, Master Councilor of Knickerbocker Chapter. Sheridan, recorded and commemorated this special day for This is also the Chapter of the current State Master Councilor the Metropolitan Region of DeMolay.
Twelve new members of DeMolay in the 2nd row of group photo. This Metropolitan Regional Degree Initiatory Class was in honor of ME Paul G. Huck, Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of the State of New York, Royal Arch Masons. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 27 International Order Organization New York DeMolay of the Rainbow for Girls in NY of Triangles Inc. 2150 Bleecker Street Utica New York 13501 Mrs. Gale Gould Kristina Turri Office 315/798-4922 Supreme Inspector in NY State Director Fax 214/446-6537 35 Maple Street Auburn New York 13021 Email: [email protected] Peter Brusoe, Personal Representative Phone: 315/253-8206 Website: www.ootny.org [email protected] Website: NYDemolay.org e-mail: [email protected] : facebook.com/OOTNY Website: www.nyiorg.org : Facebook.com/NYDemolay : facebook.com/NY Rainbow : Twitter.com/NYDeMolay : NYDeMolay
DeMolay Packs Hall hat organization can pack a Lodge room time and time Thanks to the leadership of Dad Peter Brusoe, Personal again? What organization uses all the spare chairs in Representative, and Dad Jepth Dais, State Chapter Advisor, MasonicW Hall? That organization is New York DeMolay. and the State Master Councilor Austin Altman, New York The DeMolay honored their own with the conferral of the DeMolay has had several successful events. These events Chevalier Degree. Brothers Austin Altman and Asaru Wahls amplify the fact that New York DeMolay has gone back to and Dads Mike Holtz and Barry Greenfield were the center of achieving positive growth. If I did not know better, I would focus for 200-plus attendees at this Degree. think they are taking after the New York Grand Lodge. Jacques DeMolay Lodge UD sponsored a DeMolay Festive These events would not be possible if not for the generosity Board that followed. Once again, the room was overflowing; of the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home. Their and the kind building staff kept adding chairs and tables. The partnership with the Grand Lodge has seen positive results. Rainbow Girls from W. Mark Sexson were there to help and The good news? More to come! enjoy, as well.
28 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Triangle announces honored Mason y Hero Award was errands on installation and initiation day when we have Mstarted several years forgotten something. This past year he attended all of the Organization ago to honor a member of Lodge meetings in our District with us. Many times he even of Triangles Inc. the Masonic Fraternity who made sure we had dinner, either at the Lodges or took us out Kristina Turri demonstrated support or to eat—and not just to fast food but real restaurants. As we State Director assistance to our organization have gotten older, if any of us need rides, help with protocol, Email: [email protected] and its members that goes need things like dresses, he makes sure that we have what we Website: www.ootny.org above and beyond what is need to be Great Triangle Girls. required. The recipient of Always behind the scenes, never taking credit for what he : facebook.com/OOTNY the 2019 My Hero Award is does, he just works to get us all to succeed. He really does go a Masonic Supervisor who above and beyond. He takes his oath as a Masonic Supervisor has volunteer with his local to heart.” Triangle for many, many years. The best way to explain what this gentleman means to his Triangle members is in their own words: “Our hero got his involvement with our Triangle in an odd way. One of our Sisters needed a “Dad” while working with DeMolay. He helped with transportation, general support and a banquet that wasn’t even in our local area but was across the state in Albany. Even after that he has supported us with help in transportation to college, work and functions that we needed to attend. He doesn’t stop just because we have received our Majority Degree. If we need him still, and he is able, he helps with most everything we need. After working with me, he realized that our Triangle was meeting on the third floor of a building and unless we left the door unlocked no one could enter because we would be upstairs, and there was no security. So he started to help out by being there for the last five years. He always makes sure we are safe and secure. Yes, he appears scary at first but he has a heart of gold and It is my honor to announce that the recipient of the 2019 does whatever we need him to do. He makes sure we get My Hero Award is Mr. Robert Mantia, Masonic Supervisor of to meetings, convention and leadership weekend; he runs Bal-On-Sen Triangle 65.
Sauquoit confers Honorary membership n Sunday, November 3, 2019 Sauquoit Lodge 150 presented RW Howard O. OJones a certificate recognizing him as an Honorary Member of Sauquoit Lodge 150. The Lodge took this action in appreciation for his “commitment and dedication” to the Lodge. RW Howard is a forty-six-year member of the Lodge, a recipient of the Dedicated Service Award and twice Past Master of the Lodge. Howard’s wife Lucy was in attendance. Lodge members are W Jim Sepello, Master; W Cliff Robitelle, Junior Warden; Dann Senior Deacon; W Peter Walther, Junior Deacon; Brother John Seiselmyer, Secretary; W Bob Moyer, Treasurer; Brother Kevin Ludlow, Trustee; W Gary Miller, Trustee; and John Reade.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 29 ORGANIZATION OF TRIANGLE, INC. PEARL ANN DRAVES New York DeMolay State Sweetheart
I am a member of a Masonic Youth Group
have been involved in Masonic Youth Groups for longer choices and conservation of our funds, we are able to get the than most. My brother Christopher joined DeMolay when most bangs for our buck and accomplish much of what we II was just 3 years old. My mother and father became advisors plan. Perhaps this is best summarized as teaching us to live so, naturally, I came with them to meetings. As time went on, within our means, which I believe is a really important skill DeMolay grew on me. How lucky could a girl be to have so to have. many brothers! A few years later I joined the Organization of I also learned that being a leader is really a position of Triangles and worked my way up to serve as Beloved Queen of servitude. I am immensely grateful to my peers for their Cassiopeia Triangle from 2017-2018. All the while, I continued confidence in electing me to these high-ranking positions to support DeMolay, serving as Chapter Sweetheart, Lakes because it gave me the opportunity to serve them. To lead is to Regions Sweetheart and I am currently New York DeMolay listen to the members with patience, empathy and compassion State Sweetheart. and take the actions that best serve their needs, not mine. Growing up in these organizations afforded me the These lessons have provided me with invaluable and life- opportunity to learn several crucial life skills and lessons: public changing wisdom, confidence and courage. These were not speaking, organization, money management and leadership. attained in a day or even a year’s time. They were lessons of Serving in a leadership capacity means you will need to speak experience over many years, in a place I felt safe to learn, in public. Whether to conduct or contribute in a meeting or surrounded by my Masonic Family. I am excited to have to offer congratulations and support at a concordant body’s several more years of active participation ahead of me and I event. In the beginning of my journey I was afraid to let my look forward with great anticipation to all that lies ahead. voice be heard. Now, I am able to speak confidently in front of a room full of people without hesitation. Best of all, I am not alone. Many other Masonic youth share these exact same experiences. I invite you to find out what I quickly learned the value of organizational skills by both membership in a Masonic Youth Organization can do for the experience and example. I noticed how much quicker it was to young person in your life. get things done with just a small amount of forethought and preparation. I also noticed how much others appreciated the extra social time it gave us after our meetings. (Note: A State or Chapter Sweetheart is an elected Both DeMolay and Triangle undertook fundraising efforts position. The young lady participates and supports activities for charity, service projects, and convention and fun events. and partners in all leadership education and training. Pearl Our Advisors guide us on how to budget and plan, training recently arranged for wheelchairs to be donated to the Shrine us on the basics. With careful consideration of our spending Hospital.) East End Lodges Confer Sublime Degree
n Tuesday, January 21 seven deserving Brothers from Riverhead Lodge 645, OPeconic Lodge 349 and Potunk Lodge 1071 received the Degree of Master Mason. Riverhead Lodge hosted the evening and conferred the Degree with its ritual team. The newly revised Hiramic Drama was excellently portrayed and exemplified a more coherent narrative for the newly Raised Brothers. Congratulations go to all participants.
30 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Sojourners Luncheon in Palm Beach
t the Palm Beach Gardens luncheon on Saturday, January 11 Brother MarcoA Harster, La Fraternidad Lodge 387, and his wife Charo presented the Grand Master and Grand Secretary personal mementos for their offices. Approximately 150 attended this luncheon, with almost 500 persons attending the four luncheons across Florida.
Fundraiser supports Make-A-Wish
(l-r) Brother Bill Tripp; Brother Christian Rosa; Joanne Coppola, Community Relations Manager; Karine Hollander, President and CEO; W Eleuterio Rolan, Master; Brother Gil Abrams; RW Glenn Rubin, Secretar
t a November meeting of Amityville Amityville Lodge, including Brother the evening’s proceeds and donations Lodge 977, Master Eleuterio Rosa’s classmates Brother Gil Abrams, were counted nearly $9,000 had been RolanA recognized Brother Christian Brother Steve Comesky and Brother collected. Lodge members made a Rosa, a new member. Brother Rosa Bill Tripp, rallied to take on the roles presentation at the Suffolk County stood to speak and suggested that the and responsibilities of mounting the headquarters of Make-A-Wish in Lodge have a Holiday Movie Night in fundraiser. Ronkonkoma, NY. December to raise money for the Make- On Friday evening, December 20 A-Wish Foundation. The Brothers of the successful event took place. When
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 31 Masonic Youth Committee RW Cary S. Cohn Chairman 516/781-1157 [email protected]
What Lodges can do to support our Youth
ur Fraternity has been instilling Masonic values and children or grandchildren or know other youth that ideals into the youth of our communities and providing would benefit from a hands-on leadership program, Othem the opportunity for hands-on leadership for almost a consider sharing information about the youth groups century. For young ladies, this occurs through the Order of with them. Frequently, DeMolay, Rainbow and Triangle the Rainbow for Girls and the Organization of Triangles; help to answer the question a lot of Masons get from for young men, through DeMolay International. Lessons their children: “What do you do in Lodge?” learned at a young age will follow these youth leaders through 6. Share scholarship opportunities with the youth groups. school and into the professional world. The alumni of our Many Lodges have college scholarships open to the Masonic Youth Groups have gone on to be leaders in business, youth of the community. If your Lodge has such a academics and the political world, but most importantly the program consider letting your local youth group know community leaders so desperately needed in our society. We about it. can also see our Masonic Youth alumni as active leaders in our Lodges, our Eastern Star Chapters and our Amaranth Courts. 7. Provide an internship opportunity to a Masonic Youth member. Masonic Youth are interested in any number of Across our Grand Lodge you can see our Youth Groups career opportunities. If you are able, offer an internship in action performing public ceremonies at a local Lodge, to a member of a youth program. serving dinners, helping with fundraisers, working the Child Identification program and making a positive impact in the 8. Consider sponsoring a new youth group. Communities Masonic family. Frequently we are asked what can Lodges do across New York benefit from having a Masonic Youth to help support our Masonic Youth programs. Below are some Group. If there is not one near you, consider sponsoring suggestions. a youth group. It is a big benefit to the community and will have a positive impact. 1. Invite them to perform a program. Each youth group has a program that they can do for your Lodge that I would like to thank the Grand Lodge of the State of New would be perfect for a ladies night or for a special open York for all of the support that it gives to our youth. Lodges program. have been instrumental to the success of our programs. Many of our leaders on the Grand Line, leaders of our Lodges and 2. Invite them to volunteer with you. Our youth group concordant bodies have been members or volunteers in our members are very civic minded and love the opportunity youth groups. I myself have seen the great work our youth to give back to the community. If your Lodge is doing groups do. I joined DeMolay at 12 years old and went on to a community service program consider inviting them be Master Councilor and later State Master Councilor. I had to help out. the great opportunity to be a DeMolay International Congress 3. Invite them to your family events. When we investigate delegate and met a lot of great people along the way. Many of what motivates youth group members to consider them I consider to be lifelong friends. joining an adult group they often cite fun events and Unique experiences like this, you do not get in any other getting to know Masons and Eastern Star and Amaranth organization. If you have kids or know of someone who can members. benefit from our great Youth Groups please consider referring 4. Encourage your Lodge members to volunteer as mentors. them to the closest DeMolay Chapter, Rainbow Assembly or Each of our youth groups needs dedicated adults to Triangle. If you have spare time also, consider becoming an provide guidance and direction. Perhaps it is coaching a adult volunteer. young person on his ritual, or helping with activities or events, or working with them on their projects. 5. Sharing the youth groups with your family. If you have
32 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 From the Webmaster Brother KENNETH JP STUCZYNSKI Webmaster NYMasons.org 716/241-1329 [email protected]
t is said that Solomon’s Temple was raised without metal we should be mindful of information and opinions we digest, tools, the stones and pillars of which were crafted outside for once a stone enters within, it cannot be further changed. Ithe worksite for their exact assembly. Lodge rooms are Maybe although we cannot change what is already part of a representation of that temple and an allegory of the us—our past experiences and failings—we can add better development of our being. Lodge space is made through ritual materials, so that even a stone we would prefer to reject can to set itself apart from the profanities of the outer world. We become a key to the foundation of our better selves. try to leave our worries and grievances at the door. We look The common denominator: What we do and say outside around the room—twice—to make sure only fit material the Lodge room matters. The pieces we bring with us from (living stones) will be used in our work. If we think of our profession, our obsessions and our face on social media ourselves as spiritual buildings, houses not made with hands, render good or bad consequences. We may be too dependent it seems vague or theoretical. Like in the book of Daniel, it is on the metal tools of our age, our digital devices. Maybe the like trying to weigh a pound of fire or a bushel of wind. We sacredness of a worksite means cell phones are left in coat cannot work directly on the edifice of our soul. Metal tools pockets at a family gathering. Maybe, mentally, we try not to cannot be brought into the worksite, even if we wanted to. take our work home with us. What this might tell us is that we need to work on what In Masonry, temporal business is a means, not an end. And we can see and hear—our actions and words—as much as that makes it more, not less, important to get it right. Using possible before they arrive at this inner worksite. Our attitudes technology diligently, we can prepare what we need so that we and choices shape the pieces and determine how plumb, level don’t get distracted from deeper work. For example, if your and square our eternal selves become. We need to do our best Lodge and District use a modern calendar system well, there at the work outside our Lodge room to bring in good and true is little need for handing out mimeographs, borrowing pens work. to scribble on scraps, or poking at screens to note upcoming Is this theory with no practical application? Maybe this means events. If we do all things keeping in mind that higher purpose, a Lodge should do most business outside communications and as both Lodges and human beings, the machinations of grace only bring in what is ready and necessary to discuss. Maybe will surely work toward a worthy completion of our Temple.
Attention: Masonic Youth Groups
he New York State Council of Deliberation, Ancient Accepted TScottish Rite of Freemasonry, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, has established as of August 1, 2019 a trust fund to reimburse the initiation fee of any Masonic Youth Group member who joins a Masonic Lodge or a Chapter of the Eastern Star. An application for reimbursement is available from your adult leader, the Grand Master or RW Cary Cohn.
Congratulations go to Past State Master Councilor Sam Levin on joining Rising Sun 103, Saratoga- Warren-Washington District. Sam, a fourth-generation Mason, is pictured here with his father, Dad Paul Levin.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 33 Grand Lodge Educational Assistance Program
January 4, 2020 All documentation must be received by April 1, 2020. am pleased to announce that the open enrollment for the More information is available at nymasons.org. Click on IEducational Assistance Program 2020 scholarship has Educational Assistance towards the bottom of the page. begun. We have revamped our entire process to better assist you in Students who received no more than three scholarships are providing this opportunity. We support your efforts to achieve eligible to re-apply for funding. All students attending Full higher goals and wish you much success! Time in the fall are eligible to apply. Sincerely and Fraternally, If you are a former participant and meet these parameters, please apply through this link for a new application: https://webportalapp.com/sp/login/masonic-hall-nyc- scholarships-2020.
Légion d’Honneur “Fez”tival of Trees by RW Francis Dumaurier, Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge National of France
wo Brothers of L’Union Française No. 17 were recently awarded the Légion d’Honneur, the highest award Tbestowed by the French government on French citizens. Brother Alain Dupuis and Brother Jonathan Voisin received this prestigious award and were recognized by RW Francis Dumaurier, Grand Representative of France. The occasion was the French culinary Gala Dinner that the Lodge held in the French Ionic Room of Grand Lodge on Tuesday, December 17.
t the Ziyara Shriners 3rd Annual “Fez”tival of Trees held in the Administration Building of the Masonic Care Community,A little Sophie McLaughlin had an unusual request for Santa. She asked him to bring her mom a new heart. Sophie’s thirty-seven-year-old mom had been air-lifted from St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica to the University of Rochester’s Strong Memorial Hospital in advanced heart failure because of an inflammatory disease. Sophie got her Christmas Miracle, as her mom got a new heart on (l-r) Brother Alain Dupuis, RW Francis Dumaurier, Brother December 4. Jonathan Voisin
34 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Masons and Prayers By Brother Rabbi Eli Mallon, M.Ed., LCSW
ome years ago I asked the librarian at the Livingston Masonic see it I can be it.” Again, pure New Thought—especially with Library in NYC whether there was any information about regard to New Though teachings about praying with positive S“Masonic prayer.” The answer I got was most interesting: mental images. There is no single teaching about prayer in Masonry because There was a recent best-selling book, The Law of Attraction. Masons come from many diverse backgrounds. This, too, comes from a basis in New Thought. We all know the Masonic motto: “Making good men better.” I think that Mary Baker Eddy’s Science and Health, Ernest As Masons, we’re often asked to pray for a Brother or for his Holmes’s Science of Mind, Rabbi Morris Lichtenstein’s Jewish family. One way, then, that we can better ourselves is to learn Science and Health, Joel Goldsmith’s The Infinite Way, and more about how to pray. other similar books make excellent reading for Masons about There are, in fact, different kinds of prayer. For example, prayer. They give us new, unexpected directions to explore and when we pray to The Great Architect or to G-d, etc., for some areas in which to grow, as people and especially as Masons. specific outcome we usually phrase it as a request: “Please give Affirmative prayer can be helpful at any level it is used. At me....” This is called “petitionary prayer.” We are saying that the same time, we can make progress in this method with we don’t have what we want and we’re requesting (petitioning) consistent practice. of the Divine that the lack be filled. It has a basis in history, too: In the Bible there is an incident Some great teachers of prayer—Joel Goldsmith (a Mason), in which the Israelites, wandering in the wilderness, are for example—taught that God responds in kind to the thought attacked by poisonous snakes. Moses made a brass serpent and that we place before Him (or “It,” according to your belief placed it on a pole. If a snake bit a man and he looked at the about God). Thus, if we want something we don’t phrase it brass serpent, he lived. (Numbers 21:9) as something we lack. Instead, we pray, saying that we already have it! We state our request as having already occurred. For The Rabbis of the Talmud taught about this: “In the example: If we’re sad, instead of saying, “God, please give moment when the Israelites contemplated what is above them me happiness” we say, “I am happy;” “G-d is filling me with (by looking at the brass serpent), and surrendered their hearts happiness;” etc. to their Father in Heaven, they healed themselves.” (Rosh Hashanah 29a) There was (and still is) a large body of teaching about this in America called “New Thought.” It teaches that in prayer When we believe that The Great Architect can override we should replace the old thought of lack or illness with the any presenting condition, and is willing to do so, we have new thought of abundance, health. This was considered a taken our attention and placed it above. When we allow G-d scientific approach to prayer. Numerous groups developed, to be expressed in our lives as our perfect Good—or are at including Christian Science, Divine Science, Unity, Religious least willing to do so—we have surrendered our hearts to our Science, Jewish Science, and so on. The “Positive Thinking” Father in Heaven. of Norman Vincent Peale (also a Mason) is another offshoot. Jesus, too, taught: “Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe In fact, when I was looking through Masonic publications that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24) If, for essays about prayer, I found that someone years ago had when we make our positive statements, we do so while deeply excerpted for Masonic readers part of the first chapter of Mary contemplating that we are making them to the ultimate Source Baker Eddy’s Christian Science text Science and Health. of all, Which—or Who—can override all apparent conditions, New Thought has permeated American culture for many and Which—or Who—responds in kind to our words, we will years. Remember the popular song “Accentuate the Positive?” strengthen our prayers, and ourselves, immeasurably, making Pure New Thought. Back in the early ‘90s there was a wonderful ourselves better Masons in the process. song entitled “I believe I Can Fly.” In it was the line: “If I can
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 35
On the right track! By MW William M. Sardone
n the last issue you read we were launching a Model we have a start. We even have a display window in our Masonic IRailroading Building. You saw videos showing this Hall lobby at 23rd Street. Our video has been globally seen. commitment. Well, I am here to tell you that this train has But we need more. Any gauge is acceptable. What is the left the station and we are on the way to laying out…some size of the room we have set aside? Gymnasium size. And that layouts. means we can accept the entire layout and the trains. I received an email from W Ernie Mendler. He said he had The end goal is to have a Masonic Model Railroading some trains and magazines to start us off—trains from RW Club or Group. It is untapped potential. Remember: The Jim Tweedie and W Nick Isabella, DSA. So off to Queens we Greenhouse was a piece of dirt and now it is a Horticultural went and our first boxes of trains were acquired. Learning Center, all because of you and your support. Brother Aaron Tenenbaum, one of our Security Guards at Let me hear from you and we will work on it together. Full Masonic Hall, went to FAO Schwartz, bought two sets and steam ahead! brought them to my office. I added sets that my dad had and 36 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Wawarsing presents DW Clinton award or more than thirty years the Steinhours have mentored and taught martial arts at their Moo FDuk Kwan Academy in Ellenville. The Steinhours long ago recognized the importance of supporting the community and mentoring our youth and have supported local organizations, businesses and families when needed. Their Academy is a labor of love. Cort is a heavy machinery contractor and Mary Kate is an elementary school principal. But the Steinhours have created more than a martial arts studio—they have created a family. The core values instilled in their practice aim to build self-confidence, reinforce discipline and respect. They encourage trainees to be well-rounded and become productive citizens in our community. They offer young students the opportunities to travel the world, upheld by their financial, moral and civic support. Senior Warden Ian Constable and Junior Warden Rodrigo Castro of The Steinhours are truly pillars of the community Wawarsing Lodge present the DeWitt Clinton Award to Cort and and have brought much happiness to many people. Mary Kate Steinhour at the Masonic Lodge in Ellenville. The principles of the Fraternity are embodied by their actions.
GL and MWV donate to VA Hospital
n Friday, December 20 the Military Outreach Committee of the Grand OLodge of Free & Accepted Masons of the State of New York and Suffolk Post 23 of the Masonic War Veterans donated a new bingo machine and associated paraphernalia for recreational use by the residents of the Northport VA Hospital. GLNY and the Suffolk Masonic District have long supported our veterans and we do our best to make them a priority and ensure they are not forgotten.
(l-r) Vincent Scandole, MWV GP Quartermaster General; Mike Cardillo, MWV Suffolk Post 23; Laura Merring, VA, Assistant Chief of Recreation Therapy Services; Dave Hummel, Suffolk Post 23, GP Representative; and RW Kevin McCauley, District Deputy Grand Master of the Suffolk District
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 37 THE GRAND SECRETARY’S GOLF CLASSIC SPONSORED BY: GRAND LODGE FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE
Date: Monday, June 22, 2020 SPONSORSHIPS PURPLE PACKAGE: $900 Outing will be held at • 4 Golfers in Outing & Sign on Prizes Course Cold Spring Country Club, BANQUET SPONSOR: $1500 Huntington, NY. • Logo at Buffet Dinner A Hole in One Prize of a 2020 Harley Davidson Motorcycle This outing will be held to help CART SPONSOR: $1000 • Logo on all Golf Carts Longest Drive Men & Women support The Masonic Care HOLE SPONSOR: $200 Closest to the Pin Community, MMRI & • Sign on Tee Box Low GROSS Team & Low NET Team other Masonic Charities PUTTING GREEN SPONSOR: $400 Low GROSS Single & Low NET Single including Caddy For a Cure. • Sign on Putting Green Low Score Mason DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR: $1000 All Golfers & Non Golfers • Sign at Driving Range welcome. GIFT GIVEAWAY SPONSOR: $2500 • Sign at Registration Range It’s all for charity TICKETS: • $200 PER GOLFER OR $800 PER FOURSOME Come and enjoy the day, be with friends, make new friends. Make your tee- OR time reservation by calling one of the contact people before June 8, 2020 • $90 PER PERSON FOR JUST DINNER OPEN to secure your place for this fun-filled afternoon of golf. Delicious buffet BAR, BUFFET AND PRIZES dinner with full open bar after golf and door prizes. Contact People: Walter J. Wasnieski 3rd 516/507-4502 S C H E D U L E Mark Suckle 516/448-3124 Time Event Angel Ruiz 347/234-2800 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sign in and Full Service Brunch Marshal D. Shichtman 516/652-5220 1:30 p.m. Shotgun Start 6:30 p.m.– 9:00 p.m. Cocktail hour & buffet dinner & awards Richard Giordano 516/426-2260 Juan Blanco 646/359-2253 Directions to Golf Course Make Payment out to: From All Points: Second Kings Charities Fund Inc. Route 135 to Exit 14E onto NY-25E toward Woodbury, drive for approx. 3 miles to EAST GATE DRIVE and make a left into the club. Follow the Mail To: signs to the clubhouse. 1732 Lehigh Road Wantagh, NY 11793
38 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 RW Rubin visits Old Town
n Monday, December 16 RW Steven A. Rubin, Grand Treasurer, Oaddressed the members of Old Town Lodge 908 and other visiting Brothers on matters of Masonic Law and issues of jurisprudence. Having served for several years as Proctor of the Grand Lodge and as Judge Advocate to the Grand Master, RW Rubin brought significant insights to the brethren and related several interesting anecdotes. RW Rubin spoke of the many governing articles that guide the Craft and explained how they can be amended. He also discussed the general procedures for Masonic trials. Following the meeting the brethren gathered for a fine meal and some fellowship.
Massena acknowledges 70 years’ service
W Mourad Tarpinian, an illustrious 33rd Degree Mason, still going strong. Brother Mourad has been involved in and recently received his seventy-year apron and certificate. held offices in all of the Concordant Bodies and kept them RThey denote that this distinguished Brother has belonged to active in our most northern St. Lawrence County District the Free and Accepted Masons for seventy years—and he is since 11 June, 1947.
W DeWitt G. Forbes, Master of Massena Lodge 513, presents Thanks go to the Tarpinian family for helping us to make this day RW Mourad Tarpinian with certificate. happen. Since the date of the presentation, RW Brother Mourad celebrated his 98th birthday. We thank our Brother for his service to the Craft and Massena Lodge 513. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 39 Masonic Medical Research INSTITUTE RW ALVARO QUIROGA President MMRI Board of Directors 917/833-9340 [email protected] MMRI Explores Its Core Facilities edical research primarily requires two things: qualified scientists and state of the art facilities. Here at MMRI, Mwe have both. In addition to the various scientific research disciplines, and in an effort to facilitate the success of scientists’ research endeavors, MMRI has seven core facilities: genetics, imaging, histology, electrophysiology, FACS (Fluorescence- activated cell sorting), animals and surgery. Thanks to recent renovations and expansion, MMRI research facilities are among the most sophisticated and advanced in the Central New York State area. The diverse range of core facilities allows MMRI to expand beyond the normal research expected of a small institution. All labs are fee-for-service to all in-house faculty as well as to neighboring researchers and institutions. “To conduct state of the art research, we need state of the art technologies at our fingertips in order to pursue our efforts Electrophysiology: The electrophysiology core allows to cure and treat diseases,” said Maria Kontaridis, Director of scientists to study the electrical activity of the heart, which Research at MMRI. pertains to the flow of ion currents, including sodium, calcium Genetics: The genetics core at MMRI aims to understand and potassium. Electrophysiology tests changes in these currents and identify the mutations that cause diseases. The state-of- and within the channels of the heart. Disruptions to these the-art equipment that makes up this lab allows scientists to levels within a cell can cause heart rate changes, arrhythmias and study and investigate DNA and RNA sequences. By looking at heart attacks. Tracking these changes, researchers can evaluate the specific genetic makeup of a patient, our faculty can better how to maintain, reduce or reverse the fluctuations in ions and locate and make a more accurate and specialized diagnosis on limit their adverse effects why a disease occurs. Researchers can identify known and novel FACS: FACS, which stands for Fluorescent-activated cell genetic mutations in a particular area, making it possible to create sorting, is a form of cell sorting of cell groups. It enables gene-specific therapies and cures for the diseases in question. researchers to identify, isolate and track cells as they change Imaging: The imaging core uses advanced technology in relation to disease, development, drug treatment or other to non-invasively analyze disease and target areas in small, factors. With a plethora of cells and cell types, FACS allows genetically modified animals. The equipment can process 2D scientists to label and sort cells by assigning them different and 3D optical images, x-ray and ultrasound images. This colored dyes. A mixture of cells enters the machine, which technology allows researchers to track their diseases linearly processes and divides the cells into their equivalent color with fluorescent and bioluminescent reporters. A linear categories, generating a pure population of cells that maximizes approach to research encourages the study of progression of a accuracy of data acquisition. disease over time. Therefore, scientists can identify where the Animals: The small animal, full-barrier core facility houses disease begins, how it grows, whether or not it spreads within genetically modified mice and rats that replicate human disease the body and when or how fast it does so. By capturing a high- models. The purpose of this core is to identify how diseases resolution ultrasound or x-ray image, it enhances the clarity occur and how they function in vivo (inside a living organism). and accuracy with which the image can be studied. Animal research is critical to advancing efforts to understanding Histology: Histology is the study of the microscopic structure diseases and finding cures to resolve human disease. of tissues. The histology core provides the highest quality Surgery: The surgery core enables MMRI to conduct expert specimen for data collection and analysis. The technologies surgeries that reproduce and treat human disease, including in the lab allow the processes of sectioning tissue, fluorescent heart attacks, arrhythmias and high blood pressure. By creating staining, paraffin and cryosectioning. By gaining access to the conditions that reproduce human disease in genetically modified microscopic data of diseased tissue, scientists can get to the mice, scientists can control and study how these processes root of the problem. Instead of focusing on the broad scope happen, what effects they have and what new drug therapies can of the disease, histology centers in on the internal, sometimes be used to combat, cure or treat disease. missed information found in the smallest parts of organ and body tissue. These recently renovated and expanded core facilities illustrate how rapidly MMRI has grown. For the future, the
40 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 Institute also seeks to develop a bioengineering core that will replacement surgery. These technological advancements made expand our research team with a biostatistician and bioengineer. possible with a high-tech, biomedical 3D printing system, A biotech lab would make it possible to use 3D modeling to mark the future of scientific research and MMRI hopes to be at build organs and tissues for academic research or, someday, the forefront of this new age
MMRI Goes Blue
Modernizing MMRI
Under the vision of Dr. Kontaridis, MMRI has been working hard modernizing the Institute: • We've changed the name from Masonic Medical Research Laboratory to Masonic Medical Research Institute • Expanded our research areas, and • Renovated the laboratory space.
Here is a picture from our Logo Launch on Friday, November 22, 2019:
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 41 Years of Service
78 years 77 years 75 years 74 years
0524 Morning Star 1193 Towpath 1111 West Seneca 0128 Ogdensburgh-Acacian 0633 Richville Gwynn K. Morey Donald B. Ross Clarence Hopper Jr Robert Denner Wallace K. Hurlbut 0224 Oriental-Faxton 0818 Melrose 73 years Samuel Lees Booth Gerald B. Jones 0013 Apollo-King Solomon’s 0297 Alexandria 0818 Melrose Clifford Henry Vickery John A. Keeler Warren G. Fenton 72 Years 0084 Amsterdam 0399 Maine 0839 Athelstane 0118 Addison Union 0634 Scotia Carson A Thompson John T. Thetga Fred Kaplowitz Urland Weale John Williamson 0093 Crossroads United 0425 Warrensburgh 0855 Paumanok-Port 0155 Fraternal Robertson 0758 Bay Ridge Harold P. Naumann Jr Dennis H. Galloway Washington Gerald H. Dominy 0112 Steuben 0439 Delaware River James R. Wells 0256 Fort Brewerton Frazer Stockley Gerald Stockley Donald E. Scott Lester E. Gregory 0890 Joshua Paul C. May 0922 Amos-Fort Greene 0120 Hamilton 0513 Massena Malcolm S. Cohen 0350 Chemung Valley-Waverly Arnold R. Fisher Mourad K. Tarpinian David Rowe John B. Vale Morris Horowitz 0970 Johnson City Unity 0223 Roman-Hatheway 0599 Kennyetto 0892 Queensboro 0403 Balder-Greenpoint Kenneth K. Snavely John K. Chapman Joseph K. Muller Hratch Tashjian Erwin L. Harrington 0231 Cornerstone 0624 Sharon Springs 1185 Western Star 0586 Advance Service Mizpah Belding F. Clearwater Carleton France William W. Swenson Martin Frank 0241 Harmony 0796 Dolgeville Emanuel H. Gottesman Murray Seeman Grant W. Phillips
71 years
0137 Anglo-Saxon 0445 Cassia 0965 Geneva 1041 Brotherhood 0877 West Point George R. Johanson Hugh D. Greenberg Richard Haag Kenneth Richard Blum John I. Woodruff 0155 Fraternal 0470 Cortlandville 0970 Johnson City Unity Marcel Seidler 0913 Heights Rodney L. Wright Leland B. Taylor Alton L. Frisbie 1174 Schenectady Donald E. Gray 0164 Philanthropic 0501 Liverpool Syracuse 0981 Amherst Robert L. Johnson 0915 Beukendaal Irwin E. Brown Richard K. Heckathorn Carl L. Hagan 0819 Composite Arthur W. Coolidge Jr 0406 Humanity 0551 Ransomville Jack J. Burke Earl Buchanan Albert L. Rusk
70 years
0085 Bethlehem 0285 George Washington 0472 Tritown 0651 True Craftsman’s 0787 Gasport George C. Fieseher Andrew T. Aguiar Elmer Harold Vanarkel Theodore J. Fuchs Victor E. Fitchlee 0168 Corning Painted Post 0287 Continental 0533 Round Hill 0701 Beacon Light 0912 Great Kills George H. Jamison Daniel Carl Marca Charles J. Ericson John G. Anderson Earl E. Scudder Lawrence Mendel Jr 0639 Somerset Burnette C. Wayner
65 years
0010 Kingston 0041 Sylvan 0141 Erie Canal 0358 Ancient Landmarks 0476 Fairport-Flower City John D. Forman Charles F. Whiteman Elvin E. Dolph Nelson J. Burkard David Stein 0011 The Lodge Of Antiquity 0079 Unity 0183 Farmerville-Union 0375 Niagara 0479 Unity James A. Jordan Ralph W. MacLachlan Jr Marvin A. Stern Robert R. Kramer Harold V. Boughner 0013 Apollo-King Solomon’s 0084 Amsterdam 0224 Oriental-Faxton 0393 Waddington 0501 Liverpool Syracuse Charles W. Hobbs Donald B. Levy Edward T. Ferguson Jr Allan G. Mcintosh Richard E. Rosenberger 0023 Hancock-Dirigo-Adelphi 0093 Crossroads United 0230 University 0399 Maine 0545 Copernicus Marvin J. Moster Frederick W. Weber Harold E. Bloss Kennard W. Brown Friedrich G. Stetter 0039 Olive Branch 0109 Inspiration 0343 Rondout Francis Trevor Gamble 0549 Warsaw Vernon G. Rupert Myron J. Biggar Harris H. Gally 0455 Newport James P. Tillner William Mckerrow
42 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 65 years continues
0586 Advance Service Mizpah 0689 What Cheer 0765 Von Mensch 0838 Connetquot 0915 Beukendaal Benjamin Singer Robert James Rose Harold Krebs Merrill B. Wish William B. Riddle Jr 0616 Cazenovia 0694 Blazing Star 0784 King Hiram 0839 Athelstane 0948 Sweet Home Linus W. Kinner Donald E. Swyers John Whitney Seely Jr Edward B. Rubin Samuel Korus 0622 Central Square 0695 Alcyone 0796 Dolgeville 0849 North Woods 0975 Bethpage Hicksville Lewis C. Bradbury Harry E. Schlachter Frank C. Ferjanec Raymond James Gosnell Frederick G. Twachtmann 0634 Scotia 0712 Pelham 0806 Matinecock 0875 Hendrick Hudson 1185 Western Star David S. Friel Philip Forman Albert V. Baker Gustav C. Pack William G. Key 0682 Nunda Station 0818 Melrose Hollis E. Boss Albert J. Wargo
60 years
0011 The Lodge Of Antiquity 0172 Chaumont 0371 Heritage 0575 Olive 0948 Sweet Home Alfred H. Hoffmann Lewis J. Badour John Joseph Dale Albert Crandall Harold M. Halpern Eugene S. Shreve 0173 Monroe Nonnenmacher 0673 Avoca 0950 Konosioni 0084 Amsterdam Charles M. Lehman 0395 Amber William E. Fryer Roland E. Nortman Donald E. Castor 0175 Oxford Ronald A. Robar 0754 Noah 0970 Johnson City Unity Lee J. Lovenheim Allen Delayne Ratzlaff 0396 Deposit David E. Ingraham Paul J. Lojpersberger 0109 Inspiration 0177 Binghamton Frank Alexander 0776 Reliance Ronald G. Phillips Donald L Petersen Howard D. Alexander Hempstead Harry Charles Zirkel 1111 West Seneca 0111 St. Lawrence 0462 Attica Albert W. Rood 0867 Damascus Donald W. Raw Robert Gordon Poor 0301 Dunkirk-Irondequoit William H. Walters Norman N. Oliver 1174 Schenectady 0132 Niagara LaSalle 0476 Fairport-Flower City Nicholas Andin 0877 West Point Jerome A. Englebardt Gilbert A. Gillette Charles W. Grose 0305 Fayetteville Central City Morey H. Waltuck James William Boatman Charles F. Zeiger 0517 Frontier 1178 Great Valley Silveo A. Iorio 0892 Queensboro 0145 Mount Moriah 0333 Westbrook Thomas E. Mitchell Frederick G. Garttner Douglas F. Rau Jon A. Castle Donald W. Hunt 0545 Copernicus 1185 Western Star Richard M. Johnson 0915 Beukendaal 0362 Valatie Theodore Henry Morgo Steve Karamanos Oliver Barrett 0155 Fraternal Sr Ronald E. Nelson James F. Keil 0934 Joseph Warren-Gothic Gene A G Langenbach 0565 Guiding Star-Angle 1188 Renaissance 0364 Horseheads Old Oak Lloyd Merkelson 0166 Forest Degrove T. Padgett William D. Reynolds Harry J. Guildford Robert A. Maytum Jr Sr
55 years
0010 Kingston 0136 Hiram 0298 Fish House 0517 Frontier 0634 Scotia Ronald W. Sprague Robert A. Hunn David Charles Newkirk Olin M. Cook John H. Peter 0021 Washington Charles H. Niver 0320 Union Star 0522 Skaneateles 0673 Avoca Richard T. Cull 0139 Milnor Ronald J. Morthorst Patrick T. Tobin George B. Robbins 0044 Evening Star Duane M. Culver 0419 Arcade 0524 Morning Star 0695 Alcyone Dean L. Smith Richard D. Roberts Ronald M. Belden William R. King Arthur W. Hannah 0145 Mount Moriah 0046 Huguenot 0428 High Falls 0527 Akron 0698 Herder Peter Cortland Soper J Keith Morrow Ronald T. Gilmore Roger Earl Bower Karl K. Hank 0155 Fraternal 0087 Van Rensselaer 0435 St. Mark’s-Vestal 0538 Webster 0712 Pelham William D. Truax Michael Lee Ratner David L. Chase Gerald R. Pinkley Robert Florsheim 0157 Trumansburg 0095 Elmira Kenneth Leslie Nixon 0552 Hancock 0713 Social Jerald M. Stemerman Keith St Louis 0466 Oneonta Franklin R. Fish Jr Frederick H. Conradt 0204 Perfect Square 0105 Hiram Richard J. Meyer Donald C. Jacobs 0725 Southern Light Donald G. Heidrick Michael Trachtenberg 0470 Cortlandville 0553 Farmers Charles L. Stage 0246 Arcana 0115 Phoenix Julian Frank Elliott Charles Loomis 0754 Noah Don E. Myers Arnold Norman Gray 0481 Cambridge 0557 James M. Austin Paul K. Delamater 0255 Living Stone 0127 Lake City Valley Frank Sollosy Ronald J. Herron 0843 Star Of The East William L. Hammer Keith R. Scharf 0506 Rising Light 0581 Winfield Thomas Collins 0273 Francis Lewis 0134 Lowville K G. Searles Jr Charles F. Culbert John R. Lycke Ronald P Terrillion Jay Laurence Austin 0508 Herschel-Argyle 0582 Wawarsing 0859 Collabergh-Radium Raymond S. David Roger M. Cramer George Edward Kummer THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 43
55 years continues
0892 Queensboro 0970 Johnson City Unity 1037 Victoria Sea Gate 1057 Springfield Gardens 1178 Great Valley Robert A. Speirs Robert E. Dobransky Jack S. Janovsky Frederick Richard Weil Fredrick W. Steckman 0922 Amos-Fort Greene 0981 Amherst Lewis A. Siegler Martin Satloff Esq Victor L. Bolm
50 years
0010 Kingston 0172 Chaumont 0437 Wamponamon 0599 Kennyetto 0902 Mount Masada-Galaxy Eugene Decamillis Joseph A. Banville W Deering Yardley Glendon E. Jackson Harold Niedelman 0049 Watertown 0175 Oxford 0438 Marathon 0627 Wallkill 0970 Johnson City Unity C. Channing Redfield Steven E. Behe Bruce W. Hakes William R. Lennon Vincent J. Agati Donald J. Cole 0051 Fidelity-Hobasco 0211 Pocahontas 0439 Delaware River 0647 Aurora Grata-Day Star Barry Langerlan Joseph Richard St Thomas Harry W. C. Oberg III Richard Johan Barth James A. Dengler Karl J. Niklas Fred J. Wern Howard L. Francisco 0252 Enchanted Mountains 0677 Remsen George Zipay 0066 Staten Island Thomas K. Shawley 0470 Cortlandville Robert W. Cunningham 1016 Floral Park Leonard Myrhol Roger H. Glazier 0273 Francis Lewis 0693 Kedemah Michael F. De Masi 0075 Evening Star Stuart Koenig 0479 Unity Gordon Henry 1037 Victoria Sea Gate Irving R. Bagley Richard B. Kessler Boettcher 0297 Alexandria David A. Dolitsky 0085 Bethlehem Harold C. Barker 0486 0710 Ridgewood 1066 Harry S Truman Goldenrule Clermont McKinley Norman S. Tolokonsky 0309 Hudson River Arthur Schulz Arthur J. Kirsch Melvyn Kass 0107 North Star Ronald J. Carrion 0737 Guttenberg John L. Moran George A. Chapman 0494 Jephtha Eric R. Jensen 0334 Cherry Valley 1118 Eric M. Freedman 0121 Queensbury William L. Armitstead 0754 Noah Lodge Of The United Services 0522 Skaneateles Gary B. Dobert 0347 Clinton-Hampton Bruce W. Gathen Edward H. Sigmund Herbert L. Novitsky Richard J. Snyder William M. Korn James Edmond Evans 1185 Western Star 0122 Genesee Valley 0524 Morning Star 0819 Composite 0369 Callimachus William A. Fuller Charles Dayton Becker David W. Elwood James Paul Mooney Norman C. Brill Richard A. Smith 0132 Niagara LaSalle Joseph Robert Wylde 0837 Hesperus 0415 Pulaski 1186 Ken-Ton 0544 Warwick Albert R. Lewis David L. Blount William L Kiser William H. Bruns Francis G. Irwin 0154 ERAC 0839 Athelstane 1188 Renaissance 0417 Wadsworth William B. Muller Thomas G. Formicola Harry D. Henry Jr Joel D. Ronner Drew J. Gedra 0548 Laurens 0168 Corning Painted Post 0863 Dunwoodie David R. Richards Duane A. Trask Jeffrey A. Rubin Ronald L. Wormuth Suffolk Ventures into City
n Saturday, January 25 a large contingent of Brothers from the OSuffolk Masonic District travelled into Manhattan to take part in the famous Maritime Festive Board and Beefsteak Banquet, hosted by Mariner’s Lodge No. 67 in the Grand Lodge room of the Masonic Hall. The annual event featured great fellowship, a five-course meal and excellent craft beer from the Bronx Beer Hall. There were traditional toasts and a maritime-themed sing-a- long. Pictured with the Suffolk brethren is the MW William M. Sardone. The Grand Master took time from his perambulations to visit with the attendees, including one of our hosts from Mariner’s Lodge. 44 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 GRAND LODGE OF NEW YORK LEGACY BRICK FOR THE GREENHOUSE Yes, we’d like to reserve a permanent brick. Please engrave our brick as follows: Any Symbol Is Considered One Space (Period, Comma, Dash) All Text Is Centered Unless Otherwise Noted PLEASE PRINT NEATLY AND IN ALL CAPS 4x8 Brick - $150.00 per brick (21 characters per line without Logo, max. 4 lines)
8x8 Brick - $250.00 per brick (21 characters per line without Logo, max. 8 lines)
8x8 Brick - $250.00 per brick (18 characters per line with Logo, max. 6 lines)
PLEASE PRINT NEATLY AND IN ALL CAPS Please either return this form with your check, payable to: BROTHERHOOD FUND attn: GREENHOUSE Or Fill out credit card info, save this form and send it as an attachment in an Email: [email protected]
Or Mail to: Masonic Brotherhood fund: Attn:GREENHOUSE 71 West 23rd Street, 15th Floor New York, NY 10010
Name: Phone:
Address:
City: State: Zip:
Email Address: Amount Paid:
Credit Card #: CVC Code: Exp Date: THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 45 Grand Lecturer RW richard FRIEDMAN, Grand Lecturer [email protected]
hoy, Brothers! Our Lodges are buzzing with Degrees and thirst for the Masonic experience deepened Brothers ritual work. But let us consider two scenarios, featuring stepped up to do programs to share knowledge. Still UpbeatA Lodge No. 1 and Miserable Lodge No. 2. desiring more of a bonding experience, they began Upbeat Lodge decided several years ago to look at its using a discussion-based model for many of their operations closely to figure out why they seemed to be losing meetings. This proved to be a powerful experience members and seeing their attendance at meetings drop. They that allowed the Brothers to know one another concluded their deliberations by paraphrasing Shakespeare: better as men and Masons. “the fault, dear Brothers, is not in the stars but in ourselves.” 5) They got involved in their community by ringing Even the most stalwart Brothers had to admit that the meetings the bells for the Salvation Army and cooking dinners were very predictable and that often the Trestleboard was just for the local Ronald McDonald house on a regular copying events from years past without adding anything new. basis; in addition, they re-engaged with the District’s They recognized that their ritual work was sounding as if charitable efforts. it was by rote and was not inspiring in any way. They had 6) Having Brothers with young children inspired them drawn back from serving in the community, blaming a lack of to do more family activities on a social basis. This manpower to do charitable events. In short, they were stuck. helped involve the ladies in the rebuilding effort of Being down did not deter the Brothers interested in the Lodge and they were a great resource in many energizing the Lodge. Rather than look at the bleakest part of ways. the picture they instead wrote down what their strengths were. I am happy to report that this Lodge is strong and thriving. Rather on dwelling on what they could not do they began It is simple: do the right things in the right way and the right a journey to do the things they could do. They decided to things happen. implement the following plan that they knew could only work if their positive attitude was high and negativity low: Miserable Lodge was in the same situation as Upbeat Lodge. A once-venerable Lodge, they had remained static. 1) They adopted NorthStar and actually made their They glowingly spoke of the old days when the Lodge was Lodge harder to join, knowing that men want to be packed and Masons were Masons unlike today. This Lodge part of something meaningful, not quick and easy. was approached by the Grand Lodge Officer team who offered They raised their initiation fee and their dues. This to assist them in rebuilding the Lodge. They offered programs, weeded out candidates who were really not that into direct help and enthusiasm to restore the Lodge to its old glory. the Craft. They ran into a brick wall. They were told that no help was 2) They insisted on having great ritual. It was a process needed and that the members are fine with the way things are. to be sure, as the Lodge had fallen hard in this area. Their Trestleboard seemed to be recycled every year for the They engaged their enthusiastic AGL who devoted a last ten. No effort was made to improve the programming. great deal of time helping the Brothers improve. This Their ritual work on their best day was fair to poor. There gave them a sense of pride and accomplishment as a was no issue with that because they had decided that they unit as they became known as a good-ritual Lodge. were somehow victimized by the Grand Lodge, which was not Once the option was available they decided to open doing enough to save them. This despite turning down direct on the First Degree to make their candidates feel a help from their local Brothers. part of the Lodge from their first experience to their last. Meetings were held to pay the bills and read minutes. Every newer Brother that came along with a new idea was treated to 3) They recognized that their officers were inexperienced a chorus of “We never did it that way before” or “That was and they put together a leadership program to tried thirty-five years ago and it did not work.” In time those train the officers on how to be a leader as well as Brothers affiliated somewhere else or were lost to the Craft specifically dealing with each officer’s role. completely. When asked about the level of NPDs and dimits, 4) They adjusted their Trestleboard to ensure that every the response was “That Brother just was not committed to the meeting revolved around something Masonic. They Craft.” set a goal that every Brother who attended Lodge No one looked inside; no one would give up status and would walk away knowing just one thing more than power in order to improve: no one wanted any outside he did when he arrived. At first this was as simple interference. No one had any real pride of accomplishment, as reading Short Talk Bulletins in Lodge. As their since everything was accomplished in the good old days. Last
46 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Share the Experience SPRING 2020 year at Grand Lodge Miserable was announced as having Morgan Freeman that he cannot escape the prison and that he turned in their Charter and they are no longer a Lodge. had to resign himself to dying there. Timothy Robbins replies Which Lodge will you decide to be? Where do you want to by saying these words: be in five years? Do you have the courage to stand up and be “The way I see it, Red (Morgan Freeman), you either get the sparkplug every Lodge needs to get things moving? busy living or get busy dying.” In the Shawshank Redemption Timothy Robbins is told by What path do you choose for your Lodge? Gung Ho!
Dates to Remember March 2020 April 2020 Mar 5 to 7 Grand Chapter Royal Arch; Albany, NY Apr 11 Lessing Lodge; Brooklyn, NY Mar 8 Metro Interfaith Breakfast; Bronx, NY Apr 17 Suffolk District Dinner; Riverhead, NY Mar 10 Trinity Lodge 225-Year Rededication Apr 18 Amicable Lodge 150-Year Rededication Mar 12 NYPD Police Square Club 100 Years; Bronx, NY Apr 30 George Washington Re-enactment Mar 14 Queens QUEST; Rockville, NY Mar 19 Greenhouse Ribbon Cutting; Utica, NY Mar 19 to 22 Rainbow Convention May 2020 Mar 20 Delaware Night May 4 to 5 Grand Lodge Session: NYC Mar 21 Grand Master’s Class; NYC May 15 to 16 Masonic War Vets Grand Post; Syracuse, NY Mar 28 Town Hall Metropolitan; NYC
Articles Due Date for the SUMMER Issue of the Empire State Magazine is April 1, 2020
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THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 47