SPRING 2017
Special Commemorative Edition of the Diamond Jubilee of the District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon From the Grand East MW Jeffrey M. Williamson, Grand Master 212/337-6643 [email protected]
y Brothers, as we enter this new spring season we find it As your Grand Master I am so appreciative for all you simply astonishing that two-thirds of the first year of this do, not only under the Masonic banner, but also for all of Madministrative term has passed so swiftly by. As we visited the humankind in general. Your individual participation in other brethren, Lodges and Districts within the Empire State, our charitable activities, such as volunteering at a hospital, blood Grand Lodge Officers were simply thrilled to receive the warm and organ donations, food banks, special “Runs” for a cause, and genuine embrace of your Brotherly Love and Affection. United Way, autism, military veterans, youth groups and so on My Brothers, you have given us this marvelous privilege of only proves and reinforces the fundamental belief that Masons spending time with you, to learn about the founding history are naturally good, upright and virtuous people prepared in of your Lodges and the circumstances surrounding your towns their hearts to do the right thing. We must never forget that and regions. In anticipation of our visits you often conducted we are a “League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.” work parties. Your members spruced up and painted your So as the winter darkness yields to a bright new spring and Masonic Halls, landscaped your lawns and made your the prospects of a new year take root and begin to blossom, let properties a true source of pride and joy. Your Masonic Hall us all resolve to continue this great and important undertaking. now stands shining like a beacon, outwardly reflecting to the The world so desperately needs what Freemasonry has to offer! community the pure and benevolent virtues practiced within Let us always remember that we are a “Force for Good” and its sacred walls. “A Way of Life.” We are also witnessing firsthand your member Brothers demonstrating good work in their individual quarries. They truly understand the concept that Freemasonry is “A Way of Life” as they venture forth in their respective cities, towns and communities.
FL Bros. Make 70-Year Presentation n October 24, 2016 at Volusia Lodge 77 in Barserville, FL, W George R. Morris Oreceived a seventy-year certificate and pin. Two Past Grand Masters of the Florida Grand Lodge were on hand for the honors. MW Robert Trump and MW Steven P. Boring were assisted by W Tracey Clutter, Worshipful Master of Volusia Lodge. Brother George R. Morris III presented the certificate and pin. W George R Morris was Raised in Day Spring Lodge 30 in Hamden, CT on June 5, 1946. Several years later he moved to Rochester, NY, where he affiliated with Northfield 426 in Pittsford. He served that Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1960. After moving to Florida, W George pursued an active Masonic career, serving as President of the Master Mason Association in 2000 and later in 2002. He was Worshipful Master of Daytona Beach Lodge 270 and Monarch of Zangi Grotto. W Brother Morris is a dual member of (l-r) Brother George R. Morris III, MW Steven P. Boring, Northfield 426 in New York. He is also a perpetual MW Robert Trump, W George R. Morris, member of Daytona 270 and a plural member of W Tracey Clutter, Master of Volusia 77 Volusia 77 in Barserville. 2 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 TABLE OF CONTENTS Volume 66 / Number 1 / SPRING 2017 IN THIS ISSUE Featured Highlights: SPRING 2017 236th Annual Communications - Schedule and Hotel Reservations Forms 8-10 St. John’s Day Schedule ...... 20 District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon Diamond Jubilee ...... 23-36 Children’s Cancer Center of Lebanon ...... 37 Grand Master’s United Kingdom Journey ...... 46-47
Special commemorative edition of the diamond Jubilee of the diStrict Grand lodGe of Syria-lebanon Officers and Committees: From the Grand East ...... 2 In the fall of 2016 GM Williamson made an Deputy Grand Master 4 extended visit to the Brothers and Lodges of the District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon. A Senior Grand Warden 5 high point in the trip was a Diamond Jubilee Junior Grand Warden ...... 5 Celebration and with these words, and the presentation, the Grand Master honored RW Grand Treasurer 6 Andre Layoun, Past District Grand Master: “In Committee on Youth ...... 7 commemoration and celebration of sixty years Masonic Care Community 14 of loyalty and faithfulness demonstrated by the brethren of the District Grand Lodge of Syria- Acacia Village ...... 19 Lebanon, the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masonic Brotherhood Fund ...... 22 Masons of the State of New York is pleased to proclaim the creation of a new Grand Lodge Award Committee 38 Medal. This medal is named in honor of RW From the Webmaster ...... 39 Khaled E. Tabet, the first District Grand Master of the District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon, Masonic Medical Research Laboratory ...... 40 from 1955-1964.”—Story, page 23 Grand Lodge Educational Assistance Program (EAP) 41 Years of Service 42-44 DeMolay ...... 48-49 Grand Chaplain’s Corner ...... 51 Dates to Remember and Submission Guidelines 53 Grand Lecturer ...... 54 Grand Secretary’s Golf Tournament ...... 55 Camp Turk ...... 56
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: JEFFREY M. WILLIAMSON Charles Catapano Peter A. Flihan III Please send address changes to: Grand Master – Editor in Chief Deputy Grand Master Grand Treasurer The Empire State Mason Circulation Department JOAN C. BOWER RICHARD S. MORLEY PAUL M. ROSEN 71 West 23rd Street Assistant Editor Senior Grand Warden Grand Secretary NY, NY 10010-4149 Periodicals Class Publication 56874 Nicholas J. Paolicelli 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 ©2017 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 charles catapano, Deputy Grand Master 212/337-6640 [email protected]
s we say goodbye to the winter and hello to the new spring, in your circle of family, friends and others you may touch. there is freshness in the air of all the Lodges around the Think of what made Masonry the right place for you and what State.A Masonry is alive in all parts of New York and I have can be done to make it that way for other men. We need to witnessed firsthand the amazing work of our Brothers. As I look beyond the doors of the Lodges and show the world who travel and meet so many Brothers at our Town Hall meetings, the Masons are. This will no doubt have the same effect at I have heard the excitement in their voices as they too are home as it is having abroad in the travels of the Grand Master. looking forward for a very prosperous 2017. Foreign jurisdictions are discovering again the prominence of Our Grand Master has been energetically traveling the the Grand Lodge of the State of New York. I’m sure that we world representing our Grand Lodge and the Brothers of New all can do the same in our own towns, cities and Lodges across York. Well, my Brothers, I have been doing the same here. I the State. have visited the Grand Lodges of Pennsylvania and Delaware I look forward to seeing you all at the future Town Hall recently and forged some solid relationships with the current meetings we will be hosting around the State. The purpose DGMs of those respective States. Soon I will be traveling to of these visits is twofold. First, I want to bring you important Nebraska, Connecticut and Wisconsin, to name just a few. information regarding New York Masonry and our Grand These pilgrimages are more than just mini-vacations. They are Lodge; and second, I want to hear from you, the Brothers. priceless opportunities to meet with Brothers in different parts What are your concerns and what are the issues you face in of the country who share our missions and beliefs. These turn promoting Masonry in your community. You can rest assured into new friendships and new resources to tap into that will that if one Lodge is experiencing something, there are others assist us in New York as we move ahead in making Masonry with the same dilemmas. “A Way of Life.” But I always will look at the positive and remind each of you While in Pennsylvania I made contact with Brothers that there are 37,000 Masons in the State of New York right from the Pittsburgh area, also from the Law Enforcement now. And as we have often heard that officers need to find and community, who have expressed interest in having Brothers train their replacements, so should each Brother be looking from New York visit them for Degrees. They also would like for one new Brother. That’s all of us working together and to visit our Lodges and cement those bonds between us. So making Masonry “A Way of Life.” Then we will truly be able you see, my Brothers, Masonry extends beyond the borders of to call ourselves the greatest fraternity in the world. Imagine, New York and is as alive elsewhere as it is here at home. But the entire Grand Lodge of New York working as one! there is still more we can do. I would like each of you to reflect for a moment on what you have done to promote our beloved Fraternity to those
ELPING H PE LE O P P O L E E
P
Br oth nd erhood Fu (212) 337-6652
4 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Senior Grand Warden RW richard S. Morley, Senior Grand Warden 607/434-1404 [email protected]
am about to complete three years as a Grand Warden of the We have visited Lodges that stray a bit from the ritual. They Grand Lodge of the State of New York and I have visited don’t visit other Lodges to see what it should be like. If you Imany Lodges around the State. In my travels I am asked, attend another Lodge, not only do you learn from their ritual, “What is Grand Lodge doing about the declining membership but you also spread the fellowship. We should feel comfortable and how are they going to fix it?” to visit other Lodges, be it in our District or another District. This problem is ours as well as Grand Lodge’s. Neither did Remember, we all took our obligations on the same altar, out it happen overnight, nor is it going to get fixed over night. of the same Book. We must work together with our neighbors and in our own We need to continue to evaluate our Lodge structure; we Lodges to fix it. We talk about values and what the Fraternity need to merge or consolidate willingly when we are out of means to us but what are we doing? Now is the time to stop options. Merging or consolidating does not mean failure. talking and take ownership and assume responsibility for the Walking away and turning the key the last time is a failure. future of our Lodges and Districts. We need to stop being afraid of what could go wrong and start Grand Lodge has programs to promote and educate on the being positive about what could go right. process we use to promote new members. We should be taking Together, standing strong and united, we will return this our Brothers to these trainings, not sending them. We have Fraternity to its former greatness and in the process take it to good people out there doing education and have only a small new heights for future generations. I hope to see many of you handful show up. at Grand Lodge in May.
Junior Grand Warden RW NICHOLAS J. PAOLICELLI, Junior Grand Warden 914/557-6720 [email protected]
y Brothers, as we enter the season of spring and the worn) to one of his charges who was seeking to improve consequent renewal of the natural world around us, himself through Masonry as he journeyed through the chairs Mlet us also reflect upon the renewal and advancement of our of a Lodge. He explained that aprons, jewels and power can gentle Craft so necessary for our future. The strengthening for be intoxicating and destructive, or they can just as well be our future relies not just upon our core values but also our meaningful, powerful, and constructive. Let us all, regardless willingness to better fit into the strengths that already exist. of station or place, assist in a greater good and meaningful experience for our Brothers into the future, ever remembering As I travel through our Districts I observe a love of those points so well known and important to us. fellowship—men who willingly assist each other in their worthy endeavors from Lodge and District donations to our Answer the needs of a Brother beyond helping with loving residents of Wiley Hall to the many charitable acts Masonic instruction. Guard his fidelity, striving to ensure imparted upon the less fortunate in their own communities. that our Brother reaches his fullest potential to serve our Craft There are no Districts that I know of who do not make a to the fullest. Have concern for his welfare and respect for practice of this. We are men who put Freemasonry first and his situations in life, ever remembering that we all need the foremost and know no boundaries save the bonds that unite blessing of our Great Creator to succeed in all endeavors. us. Be at all times willing to support the character of your Currently, many Lodges and Districts are actively pursuing Brother, either before his face or behind his back. In an age mergers in the interest of ensuring the wellness of our Craft far where people eagerly seize rumors concerning the conduct into the future. The belief is that our ritual teaches humility of others, we must guard the character and integrity of our and that we are here to serve. Frankly, my Brothers, one of our brethren on all occasions. Help to guide your Brother with greatest strengths is in our numbers of men who rigorously sound advice. Remember, day by day we bring our searching attend to putting their fellow Brothers first. hearts to our Lodges in the quest for light. One by one we make the choice: We kneel, or we don’t. Freemasonry is “A A much experienced and thoughtful older Brother once Way of Life.” presented a diaper safety pin (the first pin all Masons have THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 5 Grand Treasurer RW PETER A. FLIHAN, III, Grand Treasurer 646/397-3839 [email protected]
Calendar Says Spring, But Our New Year’s Just Around Corner t the mere mention of spring, to-do lists get suddenly Where are young families moving in? Do you have a longer with chores that seemed to wait for more favorable presence in entry-level youth sports and activities? Is your weather.A Here at your Grand Lodge, offices have already been membership well represented in the various houses of worship buzzing beehives of activity leading up to final preparation in your community? Where is extracurricular activity growing for the Grand Lodge Annual Communication. That future is at the youngest ages in school? Is it sports teams? The Arts or closer than you think. In reality, some planning never stops, 4H or Future Farmers of America? with smart changes already being noted as the most recent It is true enough that we can’t predict if Masonry is right for session was still taking place. everyone. And even if we could predict that, we can’t predict While elections and issue voting are impossible to predict, when it might be right for them. But what we can do is be we do rely on a well-documented past to predict where certain ready to show people that the Masonic family is alive and budget items are trending. Much of this kind of planning can active wherever there is growth and community. What we can be done regardless of who the office holders will be or what do is pay special attention to when prospective members are topics might come before this year’s Grand Lodge session. knocking at our doors and where they are coming from— What about you and your Lodge? Are you planning for the especially if it is from somewhere different or new than our long-term? Costs of meeting space rental or Lodge building established membership has come from traditionally. ownership should not be left to last-minute budget planning. Yes, Masters of Lodges should be making sure that their Proper record keeping between the Secretary and Treasurer can possible successor has all the data and help to plan for a sound give you a fair estimate of what snow removal or landscaping financial year for their Lodge, no matter who sits in the East. will cost in the coming year. Re-evaluating your initiation fee Yet with a little more effort, you can plan well beyond the next can be easily done in less hectic times of change. Even more year. detailed estimations, such as handicapping energy costs based When I was a sales manager of my own company I was on temperature trends, can help you get a better grip on your always respecting trends that could carry my business through bottom line for the next year. a year or two. And while I was doing that, I was also searching And then there are the numbers that cannot be estimated in for an “evergreen”: an item or trend that could, much like the dollars and cents. I am sure that you already know much about agricultural term, bloom consistently through every season in your current membership. In a larger city your membership years to come. With proper long-term planning and evaluation may be concentrated in specific locations. Or perhaps a of other numbers that are just as important as the accounts major employer is the draw for living in your town, which payable and receivable, the future health of a Lodge can be sets the rhythm for when people are working and when they found in any and every season. Now’s a good time to start have time for Lodge. If you are holding successful family planting your “evergreen.” and community programs then you already know what the recreation and heartbeat of your membership and area is. But are you planning for the future here too?
6 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Committee on Youth RW Cary S. Cohn, Chairman 516/781-1157 [email protected]
ear Brothers, it has been said that you cannot build a in helping to produce community-minded citizens and leaders reputation on what you are going to do. Similarly, one of character. I would like to thank Grand Master Williamson Dcannot live on what has been done in the past. Neither talking for appointing me to this committee, and I look forward to about Freemasonry’s past nor wishful thinking about the working with my fellow committee members and our youth future are good enough to guarantee greatness for our Craft. to grow their organizations in communities throughout our In the final analysis, we must face up to the unavoidable truth great state!” that it is what we do today that counts. Brother Hernandez is the Youth Committee Chairman for The following is submitted by Brother Michael A. both Mount Vernon Lodge 3 and Ancient Temple Lodge 14, Hernandez, newest member of the Youth Committee. This where he regularly advocates on behalf of our Masonic Youth portrays the enthusiasm he feels for our Craft. Groups and the programs of the Grand Lodge Committee on “I consider it an honor and a Youth. He recommends that every Lodge have a Youth Chair privilege to be asked to serve as and support their local Masonic Youth Groups. Attend their a member of the Grand Lodge meetings, make financial contributions and offer them the Committee on Youth by our opportunity to assist with Lodge dinners and perform their Grand Master, MW Jeffrey M. public ceremonies at Lodge meetings. With ten years as an Williamson. Being a member Active DeMolay, including as State Master Councilor (2010- of this committee will provide 2011) and five years as an Advisor, specifically as a member of me with an opportunity to give State Advisory Council, Michael is exceptionally qualified for back, not only to the Order of his appointment as a member of the Grand Lodge Committee DeMolay, but to our Masonic on Youth. Youth organizations and youth There is still much to be done, with a job for every Brother more generally. As someone in the Fraternity. That job is to carry the ideals and principles who spent ten wonderful years of Freemasonry to its highest levels both within the Lodge as a member of the Order of and outside of the Lodge, while living our daily life. You, the Brother Michael A. DeMolay, I know first-hand Brothers, the volunteers, are the backbone of our organization. Hernandez the great work that DeMolay, Your time, talent and concern will serve our young people well. Rainbow, and Triangle have The effort you add to your busy schedule enables our young done and continue to do for our youth. Through leadership people to receive a quality experience of growing up. You are training programs, educational opportunities, and a whole host building great leaders for our country and organization. of other social and service events, these groups are invaluable
Forum at Ancient Temple Lodge
n Tuesday, December 6 Ancient that they play in the Masonic Fraternity. Approximately thirty-five Brothers Temple Lodge 14 provided a forum This included the presentation of the from throughout the Old 17th Masonic Ofor the York Rite Bodies of Albany “Peculiar Stone” play, which discusses District were in attendance. (Chapter, Council and Commandery) the connection between the Blue to make presentations about the role Lodge and the Royal Arch Chapter. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 7 GRAND LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK 71 West 23rd Street, 17th Floor ∙ New York, NY 10010-4149 236th Annual Communication – 2017
MEMBERS’ PRELIMINARY PROGRAM
MONDAY, MAY 1, 2017 MONDAY, MAY 1, 2017 (Continued) 6:00 am to 9:00 am Breakfast, LaGuardia Plaza Hotel, 1:00 pm Grand Lodge recesses for Lunch. by ticket $25.00 each (TILED) 2:00 pm Grand Lodge reconvenes.
(TILED) 9:00 am Grand Lodge convenes in the 6:30 pm Grand Master’s Reception and Grand Lodge Room, Masonic Hall Dinner, at Russo’s on the Bay, 3rd and 4th Floors – 71 West by Ticket $100.00 each 23rd Street, New York, New York TUESDAY, MAY 2, 2017 6:00 am to 9:00 am Breakfast, LaGuardia Plaza (TILED) 11:00 am The Distinguished Achievement Hotel, by ticket $25.00 each Award will be presented to: (TILED) 9:00 am Grand Lodge convenes in the Grand Lodge Room, Masonic Hall 3rd and 4th Floors – 71 West 23rd Street, New York, New York
11:00 am Public Installation Reception 12:00 pm Grand Lodge Reception on the second Floor - Illustrious Jack H. Jones, Masonic Hall Imperial Recorder Shriners International 1:30 pm Adjournment
Women’s Organizations and Youth Groups will be recognized on Sunday Evening, April 30th at the V.I.P. Dinner by Invitation only. FACTS Dates: Monday, May 1, and Tuesday, May 2, 2017 Cut-off Date: April 15, 2017 Thereafter, reservations
rd th will be made on a space available basis. Place: Masonic Hall, 3 and 4 Floors, 71 West 23rd Street, New York City Grand Master’s Dinner: Monday, May 1, 2017
Telephone: (212) 741-4500 or 6:30 pm Cocktails, 7:30 pm Dinner at (800) 3 MASON 4, Toll Free Russo’s on the Bay, Howard Beach, New York $100.00 per Person HQ Hotel: LaGuardia Plaza Hotel® Transportation: Buses will be provided to and from Rates at Hotel: the Headquarters Hotel, Masonic Hall and for ALL rooms Russo’s on the Bay on an Announced Schedule.
Reservations: Made with the Convention Committee ONLY. Use the reservation form in the Spring Coordinators: DDGMs responsible to ensure Issue of the Empire State Mason Magazine reservations are made for their Districts.
Contact: RW Richard Schulz at cell (917) 648-9859 or email at: [email protected] If any information is needed: Contact the Grand Lodge Convention Committee Chairman, The Hotel will NOT accept individual, lodge or district reservations. THEY WILL REFER RW Richard Schulz YOU TO THE CONVENTION COMMITTEE. at cell (917) 648-9859 or e-mail: [email protected] GLFORM/15 023b GLFORM/15 021
Will you beabletoattend?. Yes No If yes, will your companion accompanyyou . Yes No Please indicate seatingpreference .LodgeDistrict .CommitteeGrand LineOfficer Will you beabletoattend?. Yes No If yes, willyour companionaccompanyyou . Yes No Will you beabletoattend?. Yes No If yes, willyour companionaccompanyyou . Yes No A separate check made payable to The Grand Lodge,F.A separatecheckmadepayableto &A.M.,State ofNew York mustaccompanythisform, ifyou plan A separatecheckmadepayabletoTheMasonic Brotherhood Fund mustaccompanythisform,ifyou planonattendingthe A separate check made payable to The Grand Lodge, F.A separatecheckmade payableto &A.M.,State ofNew York mustaccompany c/o Grand LodgeFree and Accepted Masons oftheState ofNew York (Address listedabove)
Monday-Breakfast at the LaGuardia Hotel Plaza Tuesday -Breakfast at the LaGuardia Hotel Plaza Number of Tickets Desired ..______at$100.00each, Total AmountofCheck$______Number of Tickets Desired ..______at$25.00each, Total AmountofCheck$______Number of Tickets Desired ..______at$25.00each, Total AmountofCheck $______this form, ifyouTuesday planonattendingtheBreakfast on attheHotel. Full Name: NYDistrict &NYLodgeNumber, Current Office/Title (ifAPPLICABLE) City: Street Address: Home Phone: Spouse orCompanion’s Full Name: Email Address: Return thisform with allpayments nolater thanApril 15, 2017 Cell-Phone (917)648-9859 Email: [email protected] Member Subscription Form (Note: Seating atSessions isLIMITEDtoGrand LodgeOfficers, andPermanent GRAND LODGEOFFREE AND ACCEPTED MASONSOF THE STATE OFNEW YORK Members, Grand LodgeCommitteeMembers, andLodgeMasters, ortheirLawfullyElected Proxies) Grand Master’s ReceptionandDinner- 6:30pm 236 on attendingtheBreakfast onMonday attheHotel. Grand LodgeConvention Committee $25.00 PER PERSON, PER BREAKFAST $25.00 PER PERSON, PER BREAKFAST th $100.00 PER TICKET (gratuityincluded)
71 West 23 - Annual Communication –2017 Russo’s ontheBay - Monday, May 1,2017 Tuesday, May 2,2017 Monday, May 1,2017 Grand Master’s Dinner. rd Street,17thFloor∙New York, NY 10010-4149 Formal Attire
State: Business Phone: ® ® - 6:00am to 9:00am - 6:00am to 9:00am Zip Code:
- -
GRAND LODGE OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK 71 West 23rd Street, 17th Floor New York, NY 10010-4149 236TH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION - 2017 HOTEL RESERVATIONS ($165.00 Per Night, Plus Applicable Taxes)
LaGuardia Plaza Hotel®
$165.00 Single Double Double Queen King Per Night, You prefer a.... Room with a...... size bed. All rooms are Plus Applicable Yes No Yes No Add a cot?...... or adjacent room..... Taxes non-smoking
Month Day Year You will be staying for nights beginning on the following date: CANCELLATIONS: Call Convention Committee until April 15, 2017 at (917) 648-9859 . Or e-mail at [email protected] DO NOT CALL HOTEL or we will lose the room YOU understand that these requested reservations will be made in YOUR name and YOU will be responsible for paying the bill directly to the hotel upon checking out. Full Name
Spouse or Companion’s Full Name
Home Phone: Business Phone:
Street Address
City State Zip Code
E-Mail: VISA MASTERCARD AMERICAN EXPRESS ONLY / NO CASH, NO CHECKS Credit Card Number Validation Dates Security Code
Current Grand Lodge Office and Title Jurisdiction
Signature (Required for all Reservations)
This form will be used for all hotel reservations. Please submit one form for each room reservation. Reservation Forms and Inquiries are to be addressed to: Grand Lodge Convention Committee c/o Grand Lodge F.&A.M. of the State of New York (Address listed above)
101B/15 015 Telephone (917) 648-9859 Email: [email protected]
GLFORM Return this form no later than April 15, 2017. DeWitt Clinton
(l-r) MW Jeffrey M. Williamson, Grand Master; (l-r) RW Daniel G. Lort, MW Jeffrey M. Williamson and RW Daniel G. Lort DeWitt Clinton Award recipients Jane Daily, Diane Daily Willix, and Brother Ken Daily.
RW Daniel G. Lort Toast Master (l-r) W Brian Willix, MW Jeffrey M. Williamson, Diane Daily Willix, family matriarch Jane Daily, Brother Ken Daily, Arlene Daily, RW Daniel G. Lort, and RW Stephen Dreizler, Grand Lodge Staff Officer for the Jefferson-Lewis District.
n November 13, 2016 Alexandria Since Mr. Daily’s death in 2013, the hosting a benefit barbecue for various Lodge 297 presented the DeWitt family has continued their philanthropic community groups. OClinton Award for outstanding giving. It is a rare weekend during The award was presented to the community service to the John Daily the tourist season that the family is Daily family by the MW Jeffrey M. family of Alexandria Bay. As noted not welcoming a local charitable or Williamson. RW Daniel G. Lort, in the presentation, the Dailys have civic organization into their local DDGM of the Jefferson-Lewis District, touched many lives in the community supermarket for fundraising activities or was Toastmaster for the event. over the past forty-three years.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 11 Thank You, Grand Master and Lady Carla!
MW Jeffrey M. Williamson and wife Carla Williamson talk to the residents of Wiley Hall
(l-r) RW Rob Raffle, Executive Director of the Masonic Care Community; Wiley residents Frank Kelsey, Walter Graham, Clyde Marzagalli, Al Heslop, John Licastro; and MW Jeffrey M. Williamson
anta came to Wiley Hall a little early this past Christmas, and Lady Carla Williamson stopped by the MCC campus to Sas a beautiful baby Grand Player Piano was delivered to check out the piano in person. the residents. The piano was purchased with some of the Words cannot express how much pleasure this piano has proceeds of the Grand Master’s Ball and the contributions of brought and will bring to the residents of Wiley Hall. It is a our Masonic ladies through Carla Williamson’s Wiley Hall gift that will continue to give for many years to come. Our project. sincere appreciation goes to Jeff and Carla for selecting Wiley This piano was a welcome sight to all the residents who Hall as their charity, and thanks to all who have donated to gathered round it that afternoon and held an impromptu benefit the residents of this Masonic Jewel. holiday sing-along. Then on December 28 Grand Master Jeff
12 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 70-year Apron Presentation W George Robert “Bob” Leavitt
orshipful Bob Leavitt was born Lodge 797 in the Monroe District). He by Horace Newley, a cabinet-maker 1922 in Corinna, Maine. He became Master in 1960. His son Rick from the Charlestown Navy Yard. What marriedW his wife Adrienne in 1946, has Leavitt, grandson Matt Dehmler and makes the gavel extra special is the wood four children, five grandchildren and six grandson-in-law Joe Terzo were Raised it was fashioned from. When the USS great-grandchildren. He was Raised to in Seneca Lodge in 2005, continuing Constitution had its planks refitted, the Sublime Degree of Master Mason the family commitment to Masonry. Horace took the planks from the ship on December 20, 1946 in St. Andrew’s On June 11, 2016 Seneca Lodge and made the gavel he presented to Lodge 83, Bangor, ME. He thus 797 honored Worshipful Bob Leavitt W Bob and another that was given to followed in the footsteps of his father with his seventy-year apron. A great Bob’s father. As his token of fellowship, Raphneal Leavitt. gathering of Bob’s family and Lodge Brother Bob gifted his gavel to Seneca When he moved to Rochester, NY Brothers attended. During the Lodge 797 to be used for special in 1947 he became a member of Frank celebration Brother Bob presented occasions within the Lodge. R. Lawrence 797 (which merged with Seneca Lodge 797 with a very special Seneca 920 in 1980 to form Seneca gift. It was a gavel that was given to him
An Unexpected Visit erder Lodge Brothers from the Ninth Manhattan District, on their first visit Hto Utica for St. John’s weekend, opened the front door of the Grand Master’s residence and walked in, thinking they were going to see some historical Masonic displays. The Grand Master’s lady, busy baking delicious smelling cookies, nervously asked, “Can I help you boys?” Just then, the Grand Master, MW Jeffrey M. Williamson, came down the stairs to meet the Herder invaders. The Grand couple could not have been more gracious and spoke briefly and took a group picture. In October, at our Traubenfest, the Grand Master returned the favor and stopped by the Herder Booth to reunite with his trespassers. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 13
Masonic Care Community RW G. stephen getman, President Board of Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home 315/894-5692 [email protected]
he year 2016 was a year in which the Trustees worked to inspect and strengthen the already strong foundation Twhich our predecessors have left in our care. The plans to be placed on the Trestleboard are still being drawn, but the scope of work which is envisioned will require that the Trustees are financially and organizationally strong. It will require that the properties and businesses already in the care of the Trustees be in good shape. There was no single project as spectacular as the removal and then the replacement of the steeple on Tompkins Memorial Chapel in 2015. However, there were projects worthy of note. In Utica, exterior and interior renovations and updated will also ensure continued funding for Grand Lodge programs heating and air conditioning for the Memorial Building were such as Educational Assistance. completed. The old power plant was demolished. A cardiac Last August, Trustee Keith Heinrich and I spent a weekend rehabilitation program was initiated. The New York State with the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Grand Department of Health approved up to sixty Assisted Living Line at Round Lake. At night there were a few moments when Program (ALP) beds at Wiley Hall. we sat around in camp chairs in silence as we stared up at the Security assessments have been completed in Utica and New clear night sky. Some from urban areas remarked that they York City. Visible changes you will see in Utica are two new could not remember ever being able to see the stars so clearly. gates at the two Bleecker Street entrances and a new security We picked out constellations and watched as the Space Station building at the main entrance. Security has been enhanced passed overhead. For me, being able to look at the clear night at Masonic Hall in New York City. Access to Masonic Hall sky brings about a sense of awe at the universe in which we is more tightly controlled. The number of cameras has been live. increased and older cameras have been upgraded. Turnstiles This coming year, the chance to experience the beauty of will soon be in place to aid security staff in controlling access Round Lake and its surrounding 1600 acres in the Adirondack to Masonic Hall. Previously established relationships with Park will be more available to the New York Masonic family. New York City and federal law enforcement officials continue The Trustees have voted to make the facilities at Round Lake to be nurtured. available for use by New York Masons after the 2017 Camp The Masonic Hall Committee oversees a long list of ongoing Turk season ends in mid-August. There are details being projects at Masonic Hall, including a complete renovation worked on by the Round Lake Committee of the Trustees and of the 18th and 19th floors, new windows for many of the our professional staff. The details will be available when we floors, renovation of bathrooms and conversion of many assemble for Grand Lodge in early May. spaces to LED lighting. The process is underway to enter a During the winter months, substantial work will be done long-term ground lease for the adjoining property at 67-69 on the bathrooms in the East and West Wings off the Dining West 23rd Street, which will result in substantial additional Hall. There will be modest work done to the kitchen in the revenue to support not only the Masonic Care Community Dining Hall. The Trustees are considering additional work but also other properties of the Trustees such as the George such as cottages, which would require substantial expense and Washington Historical Site at Tappan and Round Lake. It approval not only by local planning and zoning authorities, but also the Adirondack Park Agency. Opening Round Lake after the Camp Turk season ends will help the Trustees evaluate whether there is enough interest to justify the expenditure of substantial additional resources. This 2016 was a year of preparation for what promises to be an exciting 2017. My sincerest thanks go out to the professional staff at all four of our properties, to the Brothers, Lodges and Masonic Associations who have provided support, to my Brother Trustees and their families, whose support allows us to do what we do and to Grand Master Jeffrey Williamson and First Lady Carla and the entire Grand Line, who have done so much to support the work of the Trustees. 14 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Masonic Care Community RW Rob Raffle, Executive Director Masonic Care Community of New York 315/798-4882 [email protected]
tay in Touch with MCC!—Today’s technology continues You must sign up for Constant Contact. We do not share your Sto open exciting new avenues of communication for all of email or flood you with email. We just want to help you stay us. These varied platforms allow us the opportunity to keep us in the know. If you would like to join us through Constant informed as much, or as little, as we would like. The Masonic Contact, send your email to Kayla at [email protected]. Care Community uses a number of these tools that allow us The website for the Masonic Care Community contains to communicate with our Brothers, residents and staff on a a variety of information on all our services, programs and regular basis. We now have the ability to connect with MCC events. If you need information on independent living, skilled to find out what is taking place on campus each and every day. nursing, rehabilitation or the admissions process, you will “Like us” on Facebook—Visit us on Facebook to learn find it here. Visit www.mccny.com to view the calendar, enjoy more about MCC, enjoy our photographs and keep up with pictures or watch videos on a range of topics, or discover the activities on our busy campus. The Masonic Care Community fascinating history of this campus. has two Facebook pages: one for the Care Community, We encourage you to stay connected and learn more about including skilled nursing, rehab and Wiley Hall activities and how your Masonic Care Community proudly serves its residents another that highlights life at Acacia Village, our independent and community. Experience MCC through technology retirement community. available at your fingertips. If you need help connecting with Constant Contact—This is an email platform we created MCC, feel free to contact our Communications/Marketing where the Masonic Care Community Newsletter and other office. special information will be sent directly to your email account. A gift to the residents of MCC
Pamela Paolicelli, wife of Junior Grand Warden Nicholas J. Paolicelli, presents Director of Development Victoria Cataldo with a check and Christmas presents for the residents of the Masonic Care Community donated from Masons across New York State.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 15
Masonic Care Community victoria cataldo, Director of Development Masonic Care Community 315/798-4703 [email protected]
Get Ready for Spring s spring approaches we are all anxious to get outside— maybe take a walk, rake our yards, plant flowers or justA enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. At the Masonic Care Community our residents are getting ready to prepare their vegetable and herb gardens. Over the past few years this project has grown to become a favorite activity. Not only does it help increase the quality of life for those who participate, but it also provides light physical activity. As people age, they may experience diminished physical strength, arthritis, limited mobility or other physical challenges. In 2015 MCC conducted a Life Satisfaction Index Assessment for those who participated in the garden program. The numbers reported that the project had an impact on their overall life satisfaction. Feedback from our residents was wonderful. A few of my favorite resident quotes include: “Watering gave me a sense of purpose.” “I loved having fresh produce with my meals.” flowers; zucchini bread; hot peppers and eggs; bacon wrapped, “Feeling the dirt brought me back 20 years.” cream cheese stuffed Jalapenos; fresh salsa; pesto butter; zucchini stew; BLT sandwiches; and fresh grilled veggies for all the outdoor summer picnics. In 2016 the project was expanded to incorporate additional planting beds, irrigation systems and shade sails, allowing residents to garden in the shade and enjoy the outside on a hot day. Additional patios were also installed, allowing for various types of walking surfaces for the residents of the rehabilitation unit to practice with, along with benches and bird feeders for those avid bird watchers. MCC was also able to purchase additional gardening tools, which were adapted for our residents’ use. Vegetables and herbs were grown once again and used in a variety of resident snacks and picnics across campus. In the words of Audrey Hepburn, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” The generosity of our donors has enabled us to transform a blank space on the campus into one In 2015 MCC was able to install handicap accessible raised- that provides hope and an excitement for something to come. bed gardens. These gardens yielded 40 lbs. of tomatoes, 65 Your gifts have made a difference in the lives of those who lbs. of lettuce, 18 lbs. of green peppers, 8 lbs. hot peppers, 6 call the Masonic Care Community home and for that we are lbs. onions, 14 lbs. of yellow and green squash, as well as fresh all thankful. To learn more about how you can support this basil, mint, parsley, oregano and chives. The produce was used project or one of the many resident activities we provide, visit for resident activities that included fresh tomato sandwich us at www.mccny.com/give or contact me directly. lunches; fresh lettuce for salads facility wide; fried zucchini
16 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Masonic Care Community kathy contino-turner, Director of Communications and Marketing Masonic Care Community 315/798-4768 [email protected]
Admission to the Masonic Care Community he Masonic Care Community has been caring for people to provide the needed services to the resident we will Tsince 1893. During that time, our mission has remained assist you in finding care to fit his/her unique needs. the same. We stand ready to care for our seniors; to be Almost two years ago we unveiled a program called “My here when our Masonic Family and their partners need us. Care Connection” for our Masonic family. This free service Countless individuals have been helped by this organization is available only to Masons Family. My Care Connection can over the years, specifically our rehabilitation center. As John help you navigate through the maze of healthcare options. Server noted in the last edition of the Empire State Mason This is certainly important when you are dealing with a crisis magazine, the care here is absolutely the best. In an effort to and have to make important decisions very quickly. You may serve as many of our Brothers as possible we would like to share call us at 844/2ASK-MCC (844/227-5622) or email us at details of how the admissions process works. Often people call [email protected]. Visit our website for information: www. in the midst of a health crisis and would greatly benefit from mccny.com/mycare. knowing the process beforehand. The following information should help in understanding the rules and regulations we In addition to the level of services provided at the Skilled must abide by according to New York State Law. Nursing Facility, the Masonic Care Community also houses Acacia Village, offering independent living in a safe and When someone is hospitalized and in need of post-acute beautiful environment. Acacia Village provides many options rehabilitation or needs skilled nursing services, the hospital for activities, including participation in Masonry activities social worker will ask the patient where he/she would prefer to offered here on campus. In each edition of the Empire go for these services. Typically, they will ask for three options. State Mason magazine we provide articles on life at Acacia Under the Patient’s Bill of Rights, universal and used by all Village. We invite you to visit, perhaps schedule one of our healthcare centers, one has the right to make a request for “Staycations” to help you decide if this independent lifestyle placement. You also have the right to contact your facility of is right for you. choice. You are welcome to call the Masonic Care Community to speak with our admissions counselors about placement We also offer adult residential services at Wiley Hall, a place here. If our facility is unable to place the person at that time, for seniors who are independent but need a little extra help. he is placed on a waiting list. Brothers go to the top of the list. Wiley residents enjoy numerous activities and trips and many There are, however, three criteria that determine placement at volunteer their time to benefit others. Masonic Care Community: The benefits of living on the Masonic Care Community • Bed Availability campus in Utica are endless. The 440-acre facility with its walking trails and wildlife, the numerous activities both on • Financial Disclosure—As required by Medicare/ and off the campus, and accessibility to a continuum of care Medicaid, individuals must disclose their assets. allows one the opportunity to age in place. Above all, the Additional information will be needed from your Masonic Care Community offers people the opportunity to insurance carrier to determine specifics of coverage. stay involved in their Fraternity and enjoy the companionship • Clinical Diagnosis—Certain conditions/diagnoses of your Brothers and Masonic family. Since 1893 we have been call for specific medical management. If we are unable caring for people—providing the best in care to all we serve.
Birthday Wishes
Grand Master Jeffrey M. Williamson helped wish Wiley Hall resident Barbara Seidel a happy birthday, while Ferhada Hasanagic, PCA looks on.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 17 GRAND MASTERS FAMILY DAY AT WEST POINT October 21st, 2017 ARMY vs. TEMPLE UNIVERSITY Tickets: $37.00 (per person) Parking: $15.00 (per car) Get your order in early!! “We will be Tailgating” PARKING AREA “H” Arrive early for good parking spot. Maps will be provided with tickets. (Bring your own food and drinks.) Also, chairs and tables. Parade of Cadets: On the Plain, 9:00 am Football game: Starting time: 12:00 pm (Buses provided to game and parade). *(Times Subject to Change) Both game and parking ticket orders must be sent with check to: (We have 100 Tickets, Order Early) RW Louis H. Juers, 58 Schofield Street, Bronx , NY 10464-1530 Phone: 718/885-1865 Email: [email protected] Checks made payable to Grand Lodge of NY. For more information, call Lou at 718-885-1865. Cut off date with money, September 20, 2017. Need to know how many football tickets and how many car passes you need along with your address.
Masonic Family Camping Donor Reception Group Visits
(l-r) MCC Executive Director RW Rob Raffle; MCC Director of Development Victoria Cataldo; Art Spencer, Director of District 11, Ron White, Beverly White and Janeen Spencer Senior Grand Warden RW Richard S. Morley, and he Masonic Family Camping Group visited Central his wife Nancy Morley with Junior Grand Warden, New York in July and spent one of their days touring the RW Nicholas J. Paolicelli, and his wife Pamela Paolicelli TMasonic Care Community Campus. The group had RV-ers at the Masonic Care Community from all over the United States and enjoyed their visit so much donor reception in December 2016. they returned in October to make a donation. 18 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Acacia Village linda rae avolio, Retirement Counselor Acacia Village 315/798-4775 [email protected]
Choice Dining at Acacia Village residents David Talman and Freida Mazza love dining in the café during the week. They enjoy the buffet and Acacia Village their server, Bob Kilroy, who goes above and beyond to make each evening special. ining is an important component of Independent Living at Acacia Village. It’s more than just a great meal; it’s the signature cocktails such as Dirty Milkshakes, Martinis, Dtime when residents spend socializing with each other and the and Bloody Marys. Other cocktails and nonalcoholic staff. drinks are also available along with delicious appetizers. People often comment that the atmosphere at Acacia We have several resident parties throughout the year for Village is so welcoming. I think one of the primary many different special events. We recently held a “Cabin reasons they have that impression is because the residents Fever Reliever” with live entertainment. and staff really enjoy each other’s company. At the Acacia Preparing food for a large group of seniors is challenging. Village Café, most mornings you’ll see our waitress, I sat down with our new Executive Chef, Anthony Gabby, taking Janet’s and Louise’s breakfast order. She LoMazzo. Anthony started here last fall and has taken knows just how they want their breakfast prepared, and the time to really get to know the residents, and states she’ll make sure that Janet’s toast is burnt, just the way that resident feedback is vital. That feedback is given in she likes it. When lunch rolls around she’ll suggest that a variety of ways; through resident surveys, the Acacia a newcomer sit with someone who’s lived here a while Village Residents’ Association food committee and from and facilitate introductions. Gabby says, “I love my job. the suggestion box, where residents can leave comments I’m close with the residents who stop in for breakfast and at any time. Anthony attended culinary and baking lunch and I’ve learned what makes them happy!” school, and learned a great deal from his grandfather who It was just about a year ago that we adopted a new point is also a chef. The residents adore Anthony’s homemade of sale dining system. Prior to the adjustment, dinner was chocolate cream pie that his grandpa taught him how included in the rent and other meals could be purchased to make. Over the coming months, he’ll be working in the café. With the new system each person receives with his supervisor Kevin McIntyre and the local Sodexo 400 flexible dining dollars each month. Whenever a District Manager, Jordan Little to further enhance the resident goes to the café or dining room they simply give overall dining experience for the residents of Acacia the server their name and let them know they’d like to Village. Anthony says it’s not always easy to please such use their dining dollars. Residents can use their dining a large group every evening. Between the dining room dollars for any meal; breakfast, lunch or dinner. Dining and café we average approximately 100 dinners each dollars can also be used to purchase select grocery items night. The majority of the food is made from scratch or for guest charges. We also offer smaller meal plans or using fresh ingredients whenever possible. The residents an option for no meals with a reduction in the monthly are enjoying many of the new specials that Anthony has service fee for those who like to cook more often. The introduced like his “Scallops Brodetto” and “Shrimp café is open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch Arrabiata”. They also enjoy simpler foods they grew up and is a second dining option for dinner Monday with like meatloaf, and chicken and biscuits. The group through Thursday featuring a quick and casual buffet. especially likes when one of our chefs conducts a “Chef The Terrace Dining Room is open every evening with Center Stage” cooking exhibition where residents can restaurant style service, complete with linen tablecloths watch what the chef is creating for them. and napkins. The flexibility of the dining dollars program Here at Acacia Village we have several rooms that can has been very well received. The residents appreciate that be used for private parties. Our dining staff has catered they can use their dollars when and where they want to. birthday parties, family gatherings - even large reunions. If they prefer to enjoy their dinner in their apartment, for The spaces may also be reserved by residents who want to a nominal fee they can opt to pick up dinner early or wait do their own cooking. For example, Dennis and Audrey and have room service deliver their dinner. Cline invited their family for Thanksgiving and they We have many social occasions here at Acacia Village that prepared their own wonderful feast. do not require the use of dining dollars. Every Wednesday When choosing a community to live in, it is very afternoon, there is a coffee and tea social with cookies important to enjoy the food offered. Acacia Village dietary or specialty desserts. Residents enjoy happy hour every staff is always looking for ways to make the residents’ Friday afternoon before dinner Tess Johnson, our dining Join us for a meal in the future. Come for a tour, and supervisor, looks for ways to add variety and fun to Friday lunch is on us. Call 315-798-4775 for more information. Night Happy Hour and is known for her fabulous Friday Also visit us on the web at www.acaciavillageny.org. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 19
SAVE THE DATE!
ST. JOHN’S DAY 2017
Friday, June 23 7 a.m.-4 p.m. - D.D. and S.O. Training at MCC 10 a.m. - Ladies tea at Wiley Hall 12 Noon - 2 p.m. - Ladies program garden party 5 p.m. - Friday night service in the Synagogue 6 p.m. -“Margaritaville” picnic on the Great Lawn. Dress in “Island”attire! All Masons and their families who are attending the St. John’s Day weekend events are invited to attend!
Saturday, June 24 7 a.m. - 9 a.m. - Vendor set up on the Great Lawn. We urge any and all Masonic groups to set up a tent and showcase your activities! Contact Kayla at [email protected] for details. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Vendors, food and activities on the Great Lawn 10 a.m. - Men’s coffee with the Grand Master, Grand Line and Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home in the Atruim of the Health Pavilion 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Entertainment on the Great Lawn 1 p.m. - Masonic War Veterans ceremony in front of the Soldiers and Sailors Building 2 p.m. - Masonic march to the Daniel D. Tompkins Memorial Chapel 2:30 p.m. - Investiture service in the Daniel D. Tompkins Memorial Chapel
Sunday, June 25 9:00 a.m. - Sunday morning services at the Daniel D. Tompkins Memorial Chapel 1:00 p.m. Scholarship Program Awards in the MCC Auditorium
Check mccny.com for St. John’s Day updates!
20 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Masonic Care Community KAYLA HARTMAN, MCC Development Marketing Assistant 315/798-4800 [email protected]
St. John’s Day 2017 s you read your Empire State Mason spring edition our If you are a licensed Department of Health-certified business annual St. John’s Day program planning is in full swing. and would like to be part of our food court contact Kayla at YouA will find a listing of events for Friday, June 23, Saturday, [email protected].
June 24 and Sunday, June 25in this issue. You can also get up- Meeting Rooms: A number of groups book meeting rooms to-the-minute information on our website at www.mccny.com. over the St. John’s Day weekend. If you have a need for a We are looking forward to another wonderful weekend where meeting space please contact our office by June 1 so we can Brothers from all over the State gather in fellowship. Our adequately address your needs as we coordinate on-campus MCC team has been busy coordinating and preparing for the activities for this wonderful weekend. events of the day. To ensure that everyone has a great time we have compiled a few items for your consideration. Masonic Picnic on Friday, June 23: All Masons and their families who are attending the St. John’s Day weekend Bring your Lodge activities to the Great Lawn: Lodges activities are invited to a picnic on Friday, June 23 at 6:00 and Districts are encouraged to set up a 10 x 10 tent on the p.m. There is parking on the open lot next to the Chapel. This Great Lawn Saturday morning. You can share what you are year’s theme will be “Welcome to the Islands” so get out your doing in your region. You can also sell items or give things grass skirt, Hawaiian shirt and flip flops. away (bottles of water were very popular last year). We do ask that you do not sell any food items at your booth. We have Please direct any questions to Kathy at 315/798-4768 or food vendors who have the proper state permits as well as the by email at [email protected]. We look forward to appropriate food trucks to keep their items fresh for purchase. greeting you in June.
Dutchess Brothers Reunite
lose to fifty members of the Dutchess Masonic District came to the Masonic CCare Community on October 22 to bring gifts to all resident of Wiley Hall and the Health Pavilion. This District, its Brothers and family members have been coming to Utica every year for more than thirty years. This year, as we were touring Acacia Village, we had a wonderful surprise: Acacia Village resident Dennis H. Cline reconnected with Brother Ernest R. Tiebout. They were members of Wappingers Lodge 671 together. The meeting was coordinated by Acacia resident and Brother Mike Derry. Mike met the Dutchess group at the door and, recognizing Ernest, went to get Dennis. Mike says that Dennis moved to Northville, New York and became affiliated with Fish House Lodge, while Ernie remained in the Wappingers Lodge. Both Brothers received their 50-year member recognition from Grand Lodge in 2013. (l-r) Ernest Tiebout, Mike Derry and Dennis Cline
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 21 Masonic Brotherhood Fund RW Bruce Testut, Chairman 718/461-5400 917/376-5782 (C) [email protected] masonic brotherhood [email protected]
he winter has now come to an end, we hope. And we and the Second Erie District, and to RW Bruce Testut, the are looking for the warmer weather to start doing things Masonic Brotherhood Fund (MBF) State Chairman, and also Toutside the house. I ask that you might think about the to me as the MBF Vice Chairman. The dedication that you Brotherhood Fund and the importance it serves to Grand have given to the Masonic Brotherhood Fund for being the Lodge charities. I am well aware that some of the categories Area 17 Chairman cannot be measured in words. I am truly we support are raising funds with private fundraising groups. sorry to hear that you are having more health problems and Who knows how much of the donation goes to the actual will need to undergo more surgery. I know this was a difficult charity? You are constantly being asked to give and I am decision for you to make because of all of the effort that you aware of the economic times we are living in and say again, I have accomplished as the MBF Area 17 Chairman and you appreciate your being able to give and understand if you can’t. were always looking into the future by bringing new ideas for There have been changes at the Brotherhood Fund of the Training Sessions and also by the way you presented them Grand Lodge and Ms Lois Romano has officially retired. We to the Brothers who were in attendance at them. David, it was have a new person at Grand Lodge and her name is Victoria a real pleasure to meet you on the level and also to know you as Lipovchenko. As she is learning the job be kind and brotherly a Brother who is an upright man and Mason by his dedication toward her and understand that she is trying to help you. to the Craft. Please keep in touch and send me an email when you can to let me know how you are.” I have included an email from RW Ralph Pfeiffer, Vice Chairman, to Brother David Monk. I think this sums up our Please keep Brother David in your prayers. We all hope for feelings toward this hard-working Brother. a speedy recovery. “Brother David you are a vital asset to the Masonic I look forward to seeing you in my travels around the State. Brotherhood Fund as the Area 17 Chairman for the Lodge Please remember the Masonic Brotherhood Fund. Chairmen, District Chairman for both the First Erie District
Hanukkah
Grand Master Jeffrey M. Williamson; Masonic Care Community Grand Master Jeffrey M. Williamson and his wife Carla joined resident Ray Plato and Masonic Care Community Medical the residents for the Annual Hanukkah luncheon. Director Dr. Elif Erim at the Annual Hanukkah Luncheon held at Wiley Hall on the MCC Campus 22 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon Celebrates its Diamond Jubilee By MW Jeffrey M. Williamson
his story was set in motion in 2010 when the Grand District Grand Secretary Emeritus and longtime Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of New District Grand Liaison Officer. Brother Raffy lives and TYork was invited to establish the Degrees of the Royal Arch works in California. His roundabout journey took him for the brethren residing within the District Grand Lodge from California to Boston, to New York City, and then of Syria-Lebanon. As the 2010 Grand High Priest of the escorting the Grand Master to Paris and finally to Beirut Grand Chapter, I had the opportunity to coordinate and International Airport. We express our sincere appreciation interface with the Grand Chapter Grand Line Officers to Brother Raffy for a job well done. and the District Grand Lodge Officers in order to make this dream a true reality. These efforts fruitfully resulted in the formation of two Royal Arch Chapters in Lebanon, namely Cedars Chapter No. 335 located in Jdeideh and Beirut Chapter No. 337, which is situated in Beirut. As time passed we continued to hold great interest and concern for the wellbeing of our Brothers from the Levant. By working directly with them, not only in the York Rite, but also in the quarries of the Symbolic Lodge, we have forged loyal and sincere friendships that continue to this day. As Grand Master, I was delighted to announce that in 2016 that we would embark on a special pilgrimage in honor of the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of the District Grand Lodge. Our welcoming committee consisted of several Brothers, My expert guide, interpreter and faithful traveling including RW Armen Ispahani, District Grand Master; companion for this adventure was RW Raffy Timonian, MW Leon Zeitounalian, District Grand Secretary; and RW Michel A. Timonian, Past District Grand Master. After passing through customs and retrieving our luggage, we proceeded by automobile five miles north to the Le Royal Hotel of Dbayeh. This beautiful hotel is located on a towering hilltop overlooking the picturesque Mediterranean Sea. Somewhat jet-lagged but tremendously happy to be in the midst of our dear Brothers, we gathered in the lobby of the hotel renewing old friendships, making new ones and looking forward with excitement to the epic week ahead. We ended our first day dining on traditional Lebanese cuisine. It was my first exposure to an oriental tobacco pipe called a Hookah, which has a long flexible tube that draws tobacco smoke through water contained in a bowl.
Continues on page 24 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 2323 Trip to the North
The next day our entourage loaded into the Range 1905. We happily made a rendezvous with the Brothers Rover and journeyed north to the town of Bsharreh, up of the Lodge at a designated café. After a short coffee time the hill and east of the home of Suleiman Lodge No. we continued our trip up the mountain.
The Gibran Museum and Gibran’s final resting place We passed through the mountains to Bsharreh and toured the Tomb of Gibran Kahlil Gibran. He is the famous Lebanese-American artist, philosopher and the author of the seminal work The Prophet. Gibran Khalil Gibran died in a hospital in New York in 1931. The Prophet published in 1923 was translated into forty-three languages. It has never been out of print. One of his famous quotes is: “Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.”
The Cedars of God
2424 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Finally, we reached the top of Mount Lebanon, that majestic mountain range that extends across the entire length of the country. In awe we beheld one of the most meaningful and symbolic locations known to all Freemasons, the fabled Cedar Forest of Lebanon. “And we will cut wood out of Lebanon, as much as you shall need: and we will bring it to you in floats by sea to Joppa; and you shall carry it up to Jerusalem.” 2 Chronicles 2:16 This area is one of the last vestiges of the extensive forest of Lebanon cedar that once thrived in ancient times. After centuries of deforestation, the country has introduced a replanting program in an effort to repopulate the mountains with its beloved heritage. The delegation toured the antediluvian forest and came upon a small chapel located at the top of the mountain. The Spirit of God moved the brethren and we spontaneously formed a chain of friendship and Brotherly Love and offered a simple prayer of thanksgiving to the Great Architect of the Universe for richly blessing us as Brothers who belong to this amazing Fraternity.
Continues on page 26 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 2525 The City of Ehden Ehden is a mountainous town situated in the heart of the Lebanon. Many cafés are found in the town. It creates northern mountains of Lebanon and on the southwestern an atmosphere of celebration which lasts all summer. It slopes of Mount Makmal in the Mount Lebanon Range. attracts tourists and visitors from across Lebanon and the Its residents are the people of Zgharta, as it is within the world. Concerts featuring Lebanese and Arab stars are Zgharta District. Ehden is a beautiful city renowned for held almost nightly. First class hotels, resorts, bars and its healthy environment, moderate dry climate and natural clubs are in abundance for the tourists. fresh water. It is one of the main summer destinations of
Suleiman Lodge 1905
Our final tour of the day was a pleasant visit to Suleiman chest containing a selection of aromatic soaps. They also Lodge No. 1905, located in Amyoun. In anticipation of proudly exhibited the newly restored original Charter, the Grand Master’s visitation, the Brothers did a little granted May 3, 1928 from the Grand Lodge of the State remodeling and redecorating to their Masonic Hall. The of New York. The Lodge operates in the Arabic language. facility was in great shape and adorned with rich deep The Grand Master had the special privilege of penning colors and hues. The Lodge room was exceptionally a short note in the Lodge’s minute book to commemorate impressive with its beautiful starry-decked canopy and the historic visit and while we were all together we spoke mosaic black and white checkered floor. on the Universality of Brotherly Love and the special bond The Brothers assembled in the Lodge room and were we all share as Masons. It was also interesting to observe very proud to show the Grand Master their proficiency that the Lodge’s altar displays not only the Holy Bible, but in the opening ritual. The Worshipful Master of the the Koran as well. Lodge presented the Grand Master with a wooden
2626 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 The Barouk Cedar Forest
The second day found us again traveling in the Range Rover up the twisting and steep mountain ranges to the Barouk Cedar Forest. This special forest has been set aside for extensive conservation and reforestation. As we viewed the trees and the surrounding landscape, a feeling of well being and peace encompassed our group. Our nostrils and lungs filled up with the cool, crisp, clean and rarefied mountain air. Your Grand Master does not speak a word of Arabic, but could sense by the excited actions of the Brothers that some sort of preparations were underway. Our delegation soon arrived at a simple locked wooden gate, which was carefully opened by the caretakers of the Barouk Cedar Forest. On foot we hiked down the stone road. On they announced that this particular sapling was named the right and left of the pathway we could see multiple in honor of the Grand Master. As we drove the two-foot planting beds containing small cedar saplings. Next stake and sign into the ground, the Brothers presented to the trees were small wooden Arabic signs attached the certificate of authenticity of Tree No. 4616 dated to two-foot-long stakes. I asked one of the Brothers to Nov. 3, 2016. I was informed that these trees only grow a translate the meaning of the signs and he responded they centimeter or two a year and will take hundreds of years contained the names of famous Generals, movie stars and to reach any substantial height. Wow! What a splendid celebrities. As we rounded the corner of the footpath, the memento and gift from our generous Brothers! delegation suddenly stopped. Then pointing downward,
Continues on page 28 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 2727
District Grand Lodge Meeting
Returning to Beirut, we donned our dark suits and Master and Grand Chancellor for that jurisdiction. We regalia and assembled at the Masonic Hall of Syrio- soon became fast friends and look forward to working American Lodge No. 1901, located in Naher El Mot. with each other in the future. th This was the 167 Stated Communication of the District In honor of the occasion, the District opened and Grand Lodge. Traditionally, the Masters, Wardens and closed the Lodge utilizing English, Arabic and Armenian. Secretaries of all the District Lodges throughout the The ceremonies were a little confusing to follow but country of Lebanon attend the meeting. However, due to demonstrated the inclusivity and universality of our the unique occasion of the Grand Master’s visitation the unique Brotherhood. We concluded our marvelous room was simply bursting to full capacity. District Grand Lodge Communication in the collation That evening we were thrilled to receive a visiting room, offering wonderful champagne toasts, well wishes delegation from Grande Loge Nationale Française, headed and taking multiple photographs. up by RW Brother Jean-Pierre Rollet, the Deputy Grand
2828 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Trip to Zahleh
The next morning, we traveled up the mountains to visit the Bekaa Valley, Anjar and onward to the City of Zahleh. We greeted our Brothers at the impressive Our Lady of Zahleh Shrine, from which the Madonna overlooks and protects the prosperous and fertile valley below. We rode the elevator up to the observation platform and viewed the impressive city, which is ornamented with red-roofed houses. With patriotic pride, the brethren of Zahleh explained how their city survived the intense fighting while under siege during the 1975-1990 Lebanese Civil War. Next, we traveled deeper into the Bekaa Valley to the famous Ksara Winery for a tour of their excellent facility, which ended in a wonderful wine tasting session. There we had the opportunity to meet and greet RW Brother Asaad Zogheib, the Mayor of Zahleh, who was recently re-elected to a second term of office. We completed our tour of the Bekaa Valley by joining our Brothers for a traditional Lebanese lunch at Monte Alberto Restaurant, which is owned by one of the Brothers from El Berdawni Lodge No. 1907.
Continues on page 30
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 2929
El Berdawni Lodge 1907 We headed out of the Zahleh Valley and traveled to El Berdawni Lodge No. 1907. The Lodge was consecrated in 1933 and operates in the Arabic language. The Range Rover pulled to a stop in front of the Lodge with the brethren of the Lodge forming an informal honor guard on both sides of a red carpet. As we climbed out of the Range Rover we encountered a troupe of Lebanese Zaffeh. They were gaily adorned in traditional garb while singing and playing their drums, tambourines and horn. As the enchanting music began to take hold and excite our passions, the joyful Brothers spontaneously celebrated and began to dance. Following the outdoor musical interlude and reception, room and is richly decorated with whites and creams the brethren gathered in the beautiful Lodge room. It bordered by Masonic symbols. It also features luxurious features a balcony surrounding three sides of the Lodge ceramic tiles and a beautiful mosaic pavement located in the center of the Lodge. After several welcoming speeches, the Grand Master offered remarks and for the sake of posterity, composed a special message in the Lodge journal. In honor of the occasion the Brothers presented a beautiful oil landscape painting of the Zahleh Valley. The Grand Master and District Leadership team were privileged to plant some small cedar trees along the main entrance of the Masonic Hall. With the sun already setting, we sadly departed El Berdawni Lodge No. 1907 and traveled one last stop on today’s tour to visit Three Pillars Lodge No. 1912, which meets in the industrial side of the City in Zahleh.
3030 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Three Pillars Lodge 1912
As we approached the industrial part of the city, we view a ramp and staircase leading up and around the could clearly observe manufacturing activity taking place. building to the Lodge Hall entrance. On cue, just as we This included welding, stamping and other machining reached the top of the landing, the sky came alive with processes. Our caravan soon stopped in front of one of a spectacular fireworks display, complete with exploding these unassuming buildings where we were enthusiastically roman candles as a special greeting for the Grand Master. greeted by a delegation of Brothers from Three Pillars Reminiscent of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Lodge No. 1912. The Lodge was consecrated in 2003 and brethren had the Grand Master sign his name and place works in the Arabic language. his palm in a special plaster cast. After several inspirational As we exited the vehicle, we found ourselves slightly speeches, a special celebratory cake and placing a message disorientated because we could not identify a traditional in the Lodge journal, the pièce de résistance was to release Masonic structure. The nightfall had hidden from our two doves into the night sky. Continues on page 32
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 3131 The Diamond Jubilee Celebration and Gala
The highlight of the Grand Master’s visitation was the Diamond Jubilee Celebration and Gala held in the beautiful banquet hall located in the Le Royal Hotel of Dbayeh. Four hundred and thirty-one Brothers, ladies and guests assembled for this historic and auspicious occasion. The Masonic guest list included two Members of Parliament, retired Generals, United States Embassy Proclamation accompanied a special 1890s antique officials, judges, doctors, professionals, government wooden gavel presented to RW Armen Isphahani, the officials and prominent businessmen and executives. District Grand Master. It is interesting to note that this The Grand Master was also pleased to present almost gavel is mystically “twinned” with a matching gavel thirty official Grand Lodge Certificates to many ofthe presented to Grand Master Paulo Roberto Pithan Flores senior members, honoring them for their multiple years from the Grand Lodge of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil in of service to our Fraternity. In addition, to commemorate September 2016. this once-in-a-lifetime special occasion, a Grand Master’s
3232 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Khaled E. Tabet Medal
Andre Layoun as District Grand Master GM Jeffrey M. Williamson with RW Andre Layoun
Khaled E. Tabet from Grand Lodge archives Khaled E. Tabet Medal
When the agenda for the evening appeared complete, the with a green stripe running through the center, symbolizing Grand Master invited the beloved RW Andre Layoun, Past the national flag of Lebanon. This medal will be conferred District Grand Master, to come to the podium to receive by the Grand Master to any deserving member within a very special honor. The Grand Master announced, “In the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted commemoration and celebration of sixty years of loyalty Masons of the State of New York, specifically for loyalty and faithfulness demonstrated by the brethren of the and faithfulness to our Grand Lodge. District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon, the Grand Lodge The first recipient of the RW Khaled E. Tabet Medal of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York is is RW Andre Layoun, who was District Grand Master pleased to proclaim the creation of a new Grand Lodge for twenty-three years from 1971 to 1994. His term Medal. This medal is named in honor of RW Khaled of leadership within our District Grand Lodge was E. Tabet, the first District Grand Master of the District concurrent with the Lebanese Civil War, which lasted Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon, from 1955-1964.” from 1975 to 1990. It is estimated that there were over The award consists of a bronze top bar engraved with 250,000 fatalities during this period. RW Andre Layoun’s the words “NEW YORK.” Below the ribbon is the round loyalty to Freemasonry in general and the Grand Lodge of bronze medallion struck with the actual likeness of RW the State of New York in particular has no equal. Samar, Khaled E. Tabet. Around the medal are engraved the the daughter of RW Andre Layoun, shared her thoughts words “LOYALTY AND FAITHFULNESS.” The medal with the Grand Master, recalling a time when Lodge is suspended on a distinctive red and white ribbon, along meetings were held in their home. Continues on page 34
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 3333 Completing the Celebration
Next the brethren assembled on the dance floor. A large cut the cake to the cheers and applause of those gathered. birthday cake, complete with sparklers, was rolled out to Champagne corks were popping as the band started to the center of the room. Together, the Grand Master and play Alicia Keys’s “Empire State of Mind.” The evening the District team wielded a large ceremonial sword and concluded with traditional Lebanese singing and dancing.
The Last Day
3434 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 The next morning we sojourned to the Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon draws millions of faithful both Christians Lady of Lebanon. This important Shrine belongs to the and Muslims from all over the world. After lighting a few Maronite Church and was founded in 1904. A huge, 15- candles and saying some prayers in the Shrine, we traveled ton bronze statue highlights the Shrine. The Virgin Mary down the mountain to the ancient City of Byblos. stretches her hands towards Beirut. The Shrine of Our Byblos
Continues on page 36 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 3535
Byblos is the Greek name of this ancient seaport. The in 5000 BC. The ancient ruins also contain evidence of Phoenician name is Gebal and the inhabitants were Phoenician, Roman, Egyptian and Crusader civilizations. called Giblites. They are denoted in the Hebrew word We spent some time viewing the Crusader Fortress, rendered “stone-squarer.” In the Bible, 1 Kings 5:18 we the Roman amphitheatre, the Doric and Corinthian read, “The craftsmen of Solomon and Hiram and workers columns, the ancient foundations and building stones. from Byblos cut and prepared the timber and stone for Our imaginations stirred deeply as we openly wondered the building of the temple.” Byblos is one of the oldest what it would have been like to live in Byblos so many continuously inhabited cities of the world, originating years ago.
Finale That evening the team gathered in Beirut at an outdoor As Grand Master, I was honored to have the unique waterfront restaurant. As we shared our farewell supper, opportunity to meet our brethren and their ladies right we recounted the many goals and objectives we had in their own hometowns. It was exceptional to visit their accomplished, the excellent adventures we shared, and the local Lodges and to see the pride each feels to be a Brother historic events that occurred during this important once- Mason, especially a New York Freemason. We were pleased in-a-lifetime trip honoring the Diamond Jubilee of the to learn about their rich history and culture and to feel the District Grand Lodge. With parting hugs and fraternal warm, genuine and universal embrace of Brotherly Love embraces we reluctantly said our final goodbyes as the and Affection. caravan dropped us off at Beirut International Airport. Lastly, we were given the occasion to learn about the We simply did not want this incredible adventure to end. daily challenges our brethren undertake in their society. Special thanks go to RW Armen Isphahani, District We developed a sincere appreciation for their unswerving Grand Master, MW Leon Zeitounalian, District Grand dedication and faithfulness as they go about the world as Secretary, RW Raffy Timonian, District Grand Liaison upright men and Masons. Yes, my Brothers, Freemasonry Officer and RW Michel A. Timonian, Past District Grand in the District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon is alive and Master, and a multitude of Brothers too numerous to well! It truly is… “A Way of Life.” mention for all their help in setting up this significant visitation.
The District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon 2016 District Officers Lodges RW Armen Ispahani, District Grand Master Syrio-American Lodge 1 consecrated in 1924 RW Georges Zbeidy, District Deputy Grand Master -English RW Tarek Issa, District Grand Sr. Warden New York Lodge 2 consecrated in 1924-Arabic RW Ziad Dghaidi, District Grand Jr. Warden Fakhrueddin Lodge 3 consecrated 1926-Arabic RW Joseph Haddad, District Grand Treasurer Suleiman Lodge 5 consecrated in 1927-Arabic MW Leon Zeitounalian, District Grand Secretary El Berdawni Lodge 7 consecrated in 1933-Arabic RW Raffy Timonian, District Grand Liaison Officer El Merj Lodge 8 consecrated in 1935-Arabic Turbol Lodge 9 consecrated in 1950-Arabic Lebanon Lodge 10 consecrated in 1955-English Ani Lodge 11 consecrated in 1960-Armenian Three Pillars 12 consecrated 2003-Arabic
3636 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Children’s Cancer Center of Lebanon By Leon Zeitounalian, PGM, District Grand Secretary
“Where there is Charity and Wisdom, there is neither fear nor ignorance.” – Francis of Assisi. “Where the Mind is biggest, the Heart, the Senses, Magnanimity, Charity, Tolerance, Kindliness, and the rest of them scarcely have room to breathe.” – Virginia Woolf. “Every good act is Charity. A man’s true wealth hereafter is the good that he does in this world to his fellows.” – Moliere. “Charity begins at home, and Justice begins next door.” – Charles Dickens.
our explanations about Charity from four different eras, with cancer is about US$ 60,000, thus with an annual budget which explains why giving Charity is timeless. Such is the of over US$ 15 million per year they look forward to all the Fsentiment that constitutes the cementing bond of Freemasonry. donations they can receive. With early detection 85% of these Charity is and will always be the cornerstone of our temple children are cured and able to live a cancer-free life; however, and homes; upon it we must erect all other virtues which make for the first five years after the cure they have to remain under the good man and the good Mason. After all, ours is nothing observation. She also showed us the new recreation room they more than “A way of Life.” opened for children still receiving their chemotherapy so that However, Charity which our Craft boasts of is not just the they may be in a happier environment. sentiment of assisting the poor and the needy with financial If Charity begins at home, and Justice begins next door, let’s donations. Like the quotes mentioned above concerning pray that 2017 brings Peace to this part of the world in general Charity, its application as a Mason is nobler and more and Syria in particular. extensive. With this spirit in our hearts, and for the sixth consecutive year, on December 28, 2016, four District Grand Line Officers from the District Grand Lodge Of Syria-Lebanon visited The Children’s Cancer Center of Lebanon, affiliated to Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. We presented a donation of US$ 5,000 and twenty presents in the names of both our Grand Master MW Jeffrey Williamson and DiGM RW Armen Isphahani to Children’s Cancer Center of Lebanon. The donations were collected from the Lodges within the District Grand Lodge of Syria-Lebanon. Miss Karen Khoury (PR & Communications Manager at CCCL) informed us that in 2016 the Children’s Cancer Center provided medical treatment to about 300 cancer children. This year the number of children increased because of the Syrian refugee crisis. The average cost to treat a child THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 37
Awards Committee RW GEORGE R. WACOB, Chairman 613/838-7508 (C) [email protected]
Committee Ratifies 48 Dedicated Service Awards he Awards Committee received a total of fifty-five The Community Service Awards (DeWitt Clinton, Jacob recommendations for the Dedicated Service Award for Morton and Grand Lodge Certificate of Excellence in Service Tthe year of 2017. Fourteen were received from the Metro to the Community) have no cutoff date and will be processed Region, eleven were received from the Hudson-Champlain as recommendations are received. The Lodge and DDGM will Region, thirteen were received from the Mid-State Region be notified within a short period of time when the recipient and seventeen from the Western Region. Forty-eight were has been approved to receive one of these awards. ratified, of whom forty are Past Masters. One was rejected for Please take note of the Awards Committee’s web page not meeting the criteria for the DSA Award. Six were held over on the Grand Lodge website: http://nymasons.org/2016/ due to District allotment restrictions. committees-departments-programs/awards-committee/. This All recipients and their Lodge Secretary were notified in page will give you information, requirements and forms for January by the Grand Secretary. The DDGMs were notified the various awards. of the recipients in their District by the committee. The Lodge I thank the Awards Committee team for the time and effort Secretaries were notified of those that were rejected or held they have put into examining all of the recommendations and over by the committee. The committee will be accepting 2018 fairly determining who will receive the awards. They are: DSA Recommendation Forms in September 2017. Letters and forms will be sent out to Lodge Secretaries in late August Metropolitan Region: RW Gregory Noulas and RW Joseph 2017. T. Entler; Mid-State Region: RW Thomas L. Jenison and RW Robert L. Hogan Jr.; Hudson-Champlain Region: RW This year the DSA Chest Medallion will be added to the Charles E. Knapp Jr. and WAlfred W. Fergerson; and Western DSA package purchased through Lodge Services. The DSA Region: RW William H. Greene and RW Douglas D. Airth. Chest Medallion is available for Past DSA recipients for the purchase price of $20, plus tax and shipping. The medallion must be ordered through the Lodge Secretary.
New York Masons Attend Maryland Grand Lodge
rothers from Courtlandt Lodge 34 F&AM in Verplanck, New York Battended the Installation of Officers at the Grand Lodge of Maryland on November 19. They accompanied the Brothers from Patuxent Lodge 218 AF&AM and they extend thanks to the Brothers of Maryland for their hospitality.
(l-r) Brother Steven Spaner, Brother Kenyatta Tally, Galbreth (Maryland); Brother Darren Rigger, Brother Bob McCarthy, W Rob McCarthy; W Marlon Curtis (Maryland); W Eric Tiratsuyan, Brother Peter Anthony Morgan. 38 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 From the Webmaster Brother KENNETH JP STUCZYNSKI, Webmaster NYMasons.org 716/241-1329 [email protected]
e are not Masons to change Freemasonry; we are Masons workers want meaningful work but wonder why satisfaction to be changed by it. And we are the bridge between the doesn’t kick in after a few weeks. You can often get a trophy mysticW circle and the profane world. If we are an oddity to the for just showing up. world, so be it. But if we are a relic, if we ignore or shake our Patience is the missing part of the equation. Understanding fist at the changes in the world, our connections flowonly takes time. Meaningful things take time. Rewards are tied to toward ourselves. We have become a light under a bushel. ongoing work, not immediate intentions. What better way to Most inquiries into our Fraternity are through websites teach this lesson than Freemasonry? The problem is, we have and social media. This is fact. But the reason is more than to learn the lesson ourselves. Our Operative brethren were technology. People are simply not as connected in a deep, real apprentices for seven years but we can hardly wait a month. sense anymore. If they know Masons, they don’t know they We’re afraid of losing people between Degrees, as if there isn’t know them. Everyone knows what his acquaintances had for work to be done. And work is not merely our allegory, but our dinner, but everything about his neighbor is at a distance. It reality. Younger gentlemen and newer Brothers get it. They can be measured in milliseconds but to the heart it is as far as don’t want to join and have it all handed to them. The world the moon. The Internet has become the primary lens through offers enough instant gratification. They sense that whatis which they experience the world. easily gained has little value. We should know this. If we give That is why the Craft is needed more than ever. And the Freemasonry away quickly and easily, we haven’t given it at all. younger generations are looking to us to fill it. They know That is a central purpose of the NorthStar Project. It is not something is missing, and they suspect—perhaps more than just about weeding out people more suited to other paths, but we—that Freemasonry is an answer. also about value. We represent that value by the demands of Out in the world, people have nearly all knowledge at their work, patience, and understanding—requirements some of us fingertips but don’t know how to gain understanding. Startups were cheated out of and had to learn on our own. win huge investments, burn through cash like there’s no But the first steps are to answer the knocks on our virtual tomorrow and crash or become the next big thing in matter of doors. To save them from the superfluities of an online world years or even months instead of decades or generations. Young we must find them and meet them there, where they are.
Ninth Manhattan takes Manhattan
he Steuben Day Parade celebrates German heritage. It is the annual Tparade that marches down Fifth Avenue in September. The Ninth Manhattan District has participated in this parade for many years and has become one of the first events of the Masonic year after the darkness of summer. Once again the bus for the Steuben Day Parade left from the Whitestone Temple with every seat occupied. After a light breakfast of bagels, lox and pastries, those in attendance boarded the bus for the trip into Manhattan. Behind the new blue and gold banner Lessing Lodge and Christopher Dunne, Brotherhood. Those in attendance were which is 3 feet by 12 feet, the marching the son of Luann and Chris Dunne proud of their German roots and proud Brothers, followed by the Noble Ninth and grandson of the Grand Steward of of their Masonic affiliation. When the float, traveled proudly down Fifth Trinity Lodge. contingent returned to Whitestone Avenue passing the reviewing station. As always, the Ninth Manhattan they were treated to delicious authentic The banner was held by Joey Kemmet, was well represented. This was a German food provided by the the son of Christina and Joe Kemmet of great day of Masonic camaraderie and Puckhabers. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 39 Masonic Medical Research Laboratory RW David F. Schneeweiss, MBA MMRL President Board of Directors 315/735-2217 – ext 6128 [email protected] Aistrup Speaks to Heart of Matter y primary research focus at In the case of heart failure the heart poorly contracts or the MMRL will continue does not properly relax between contractions, resulting in Mand expand our understanding of decreased blood flow. In the case of cardiac arrhythmias the abnormalities in cardiac excitation- heart fails to have a normal sinus rhythm. In the case of life- contraction coupling and how it threatening arrhythmias the heart just fibrillates and appears relates to overall contraction of to quiver. When fibrillation occurs in the ventricles (the main the heart. Excitation-contraction pumping chambers of the heart) sudden cardiac arrest results. coupling is the molecular and Fibrillation may occur in the atria (the upper chambers of cellular process responsible for the heart). While not immediately lethal, atrial fibrillation carrying the electrical impulse of can lead to a cerebral stroke or a thrombosis and when left heart activation (excitation) to the unattended can lead to a failing heart. actual heart-muscle contractions Research has demonstrated that heart disease is a multi- Gary Aistrup, Ph. D that provide the beating of the dimensional health issue that can result in patients having heart. heart disease for different reasons. Recent research has now Excitation-contraction coupling (E-C coupling) is the been devoted to identifying which particular genes, their fundamental underpinning of how the heart functions expressed products (proteins) and/or their modulators excite to provide blood to the rest of the body. Cardiac gene or slow the cause and effect that are specifically responsible abnormalities, injuries resulting from events such as heart for irregular cardiac processes, such as excitation-contraction attacks or the effect of aging on a heart, and/or coronary coupling. heart disease can adversely affect E-C coupling. Such events Once identified, therapies can be and are being devised to can lead to life-threathing pathologies such as heart failure target specific genes, proteins and/or their modulators involved (severely reduced pumping ability) and/or cardiac arrhythmias in a particular cardiac disorder, including those involved in (abnormally fast, slow or irregular heart beat). When these abnormal E-C coupling. Gene therapy has the potential to events occur the molecular process modulating the increase minimize side effects of current drug therapy and ultimately and decrease in cellular calcium—necessary for heart muscle help us tailor drug treatment to the individual. to robustly and rhythmically contract and relax—goes awry.
OES Puts Heart into Project
he Grand Chapter State of New York, Order of Eastern Star presented a check Tfor $71,287 to the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory (MMRL) at the annual Grand Chapter communication in Binghamton this past fall. The funds will go for cardiac research.
(l-r) Ronald P. Kamp, MMRL Director of Development and Communication; Burniece Herendeen, OES Grand Treasurer; Nate Herendeen, OES Grand Patron; Jeffrey Williamson, Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York; James Swan and David Goodwin members of the MMRL Board of Directors. 40 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Grand Lodge Educational RW MICHAEL SHIPMAN, ssistance rogram Chairman A P 516/567-4683 [email protected] [email protected]
he 2017 Education Assistance Program is in full swing Frequently Asked Questions and online registration applications are being completed Tand returned daily to the committee. Students seeking Q: Where can I obtain an application? assistance for the 2017-2018 school year should go online to: A: The application may be obtained by going online to: www.nymasons.org or eapapplication.nymasons.org if eapapplication.nymasons.org or www.nymasons.org. they have not already done so. After completing the online application, the first page of the application, along with required documents, should be mailed to the committee Q: What supporting documentation is needed to show postmarked no later than April 1, 2017. All applications financial need? received will be sent to an independent firm for rating. Those A: A copy of the most recently filed 1040/1040EZ forms selected to receive assistance for the fall of 2017 will be (pages 1 & 2) of student and parents must be included. notified by June 1. Presentations are expected to be made to No substitutions allowed: 1040/1040EZ forms only. the recipients across the State in June and July. Awards are given to students who are pursuing an undergraduate/graduate degree, going to a trade school or for Q: Is the signature of the Master and Secretary of my those returning to school for retraining. To be eligible, the father’s/grandfather’s Lodge necessary? student must: A: Yes. Before the committee will consider any application • Be a child/grandchild/widow of a New York State these signatures and the seal of the Lodge must be obtained. Master Mason • Show academic or vocational achievement; minimum Q: I have applied to three different colleges and have not cumulative GPA 2.75 (80) decided which one to attend. Does this disqualify my • Demonstrate financial need–(not optional) application? • Complete the online application in full (Students A: No. However, before a check can be sent to a recipient we Only) must have proof that the student is attending a qualifying school full time. • Be a full time student in an accredited institution of higher learning To date nearly 13,000 students have been given assistance Q: How many times may I apply for assistance? totaling over $12.5 million dollars. We thank the Trustees of A: Students may receive educational assistance a maximum of the Masonic Hall and Home for their continued funding and four times. support of this outstanding program. MMRL VP Quiroga Addresses Lodge enesis Lodge 201 welcomed RW Alvaro Quiroga, Vice President of the Board of GDirectors of the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory, to address the members this past fall. He emphasized the scientific contributions to medical treatments and their promising new endeavors in cardiac treatment and prevention that may come to fruition within the next five years, with the continued support from New York Masonry and others.
RW Alvaro Quiroga, center, with W Rodney Couto to his immediate left and with the officers of Genesis Lodge 201. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 41
Years of Service
87 Years 79 years 77 years 76 years
0487 Normal 0799 Oriskany 0107 North Star 0808 Guiding Light-Olympia 0772 Rescue Floyd Byman Charles R. Williams Elliot Helfand Herbert V. Friedman L Allen Masterson
75 years 74 years 73 years
0520 Crossroads 0204 Perfect Square 0223 Roman-Hatheway 0295 Cataract 0615 Stissing Albert G. Schoeberlein Jesse Diamond Franklyn E. Hubbard Elmer A. Lepard Alfred A. Sadler 0524 Morning Star 0336 Medina 0264 Baron Steuben 0487 Normal 1071 Potunk Gwynn K. Morey Donald B. Ross Edward W. Corr Charles H. Redmond James S. Bachman 0854 Archimede-Roma 0285 George Washington Albert Anzalone Thomas W. Cantwell
72 years 71 years
0650 Amboy-Republican 0063 Wantagh Morton 0201 Genesis 0459 Urbana 0633 Richville Kenneth B. Bryant Virgil G. Keen Charles M. Arnold Maynard C. Lewis Wallace K. Hurlbut 0692 De Ruyter 0128 Ogdensburgh-Acacian 0224 Oriental-Faxton 0486 Goldenrule 0680 Victor Kenneth M. Jones Robert Denner Samuel Lees Booth Clermont McKinley Abbot L. Wiley 1111 West Seneca 0145 Mount Moriah 0328 Port Jervis Leonard R. Epstein 0799 Oriskany Clarence Hopper Jr James L. Shannon John W. Stewart Jr 0563 Cornucopia Edward Jesse Cox 0155 Fraternal 0352 Homer William A. Lange 0818 Melrose Allen G. LaPierre Carleton W. Potter Gerald B. Jones
70 years
0013 Apollo-King Solomon’s 0178 Cornerstone 0425 Warrensburgh 0624 Sharon Springs 0855 Paumanok-Port Clifford Henry Vickery Wallace J. Carlock Dennis H. Galloway Carleton France Washington 0041 Sylvan 0223 Roman-Hatheway 0438 Marathon 0639 Somerset James R. Wells Earle H. Klock Kenneth K. Snavely Harold L. Abbott Gordon C. Porter 0890 Joshua 0084 Amsterdam 0241 Harmony 0513 Massena 0645 Riverhead Malcolm S. Cohen Carson A Thompson Murray Seeman Mourad K. Tarpinian Charles W. Scharff David Rowe 0892 Queensboro 0112 Steuben 0263 Mount Vernon 0517 Frontier 0711 Cornerstone Donald E. Scott Eldred Bush Clark Mitchell Belding F. Clearwater Harold H. Hoffman Joseph K. Muller 0120 Hamilton 0297 Alexandria 0520 Crossroads 0781 Canaseraga 0934 Joseph Warren-Gothic Arnold R. Fisher John A. Keeler Harold P. Naumann Jr Warren G. Fenton Arnold Liebeskind 0128 Ogdensburgh-Acacian 0364 Horseheads Old Oak 0599 Kennyetto 0796 Dolgeville 1127 Smithtown Glenn E. Dodge Wilbur M. Fisher John K. Chapman Grant W. Phillips Charles W. Whitbread 0168 Corning Painted Post 0399 Maine 0622 Central Square 0839 Athelstane 1185 Western Star Sheldon D. Clark John T. Thetga Ray Chesbro Fred Kaplowitz William W. Swenson
65 years
0009 Unity 0084 Amsterdam 0183 Farmerville-Union 0256 Fort Brewerton 0328 Port Jervis Clifford E. Shutts John K. Schwartz Jr John Holcomb William A. Grady Sr Harry B. Casterlin Jr Howard F. Topper 0150 Sauquoit Merritt 0230 University 0264 Baron Steuben 0342 Wyoming 0040 Olive Branch Morse Smith John D. Cramond Jr John B. Olney Richard E. Brummer Warren A. Steiner 0155 Fraternal 0233 Pacific George J. Olney 0365 Goshen 0063 Wantagh Morton Myron Frederick Degenhardt Benson B. Sobin 0284 America Harold E. Suresky Edward F. Bauer Edwin Rufus Degenhardt 0250 Willard Arthur Edward Miethke 0389 Margaretville 0083 Newark 0177 Binghamton Sylvan Grove 0285 George Washington Harry G. Eckert Jr Eugene R. Denagel Jerome P. Jones Jr Theodore Pershyn Frank J. Lengenfelder 42 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 65 years continues
0394 Cobleskill 0501 Liverpool Syracuse 0627 Wallkill 0819 Composite 0948 Perseverance- Kenneth K. Fake Douglas S. Jones Walter T. Roosa Melvin J. Kushel Suburban 0402 Compact Charles F. Kay 0639 Somerset Arthur Schorr Sherwood L. Bestry 0548 Laurens 0863 Dunwoodie George F. Reid Herbert C. Loesch 0958 Moriah 0417 Wadsworth John C. Duroe 0647 Aurora Grata-Day Kenneth R. Nathan J. Siegel 0580 Glen Cove Carpenter Latson C. Andrews Star 1037 Victoria Sea Gate 0890 Joshua 0473 White Plains Jacob D. Van Kjell F. Andersen Lester B. Bloch Cuilenburg Irving Kaplan Harry G. Vorperian 0729 Anchor-Astoria 1041 Brotherhood 0581 Winfield 0926 Marion 0479 Unity William Koppenhofer Lester Fishman Russell J. Case Roger I. Adriaansen Frank F. Gordnier 0754 Noah 1174 Schenectady Julian W. Levine George W. Wright
60 years
0006 St. George’s 0135 Sackets Harbor 0319 Black Lake Hammond 0501 Liverpool Syracuse 0808 Guiding Light-Olympia Donald Lee Missimer John S. Hill William H. Russell Richard A. Dombrowsky Al Heller 0009 Unity 0147 Warren Salem Town 0343 Rondout William J. Kornbluth Jr 0839 Athelstane Almon M. Miller Arthur H. Smith John H. Schoonmaker 0584 Ashlar Malcolm Robert Blotner 0013 Apollo-King Solomon’s 0154 Wakan-Hubbard 0358 Ancient Landmarks Harold E. Snow 0842 Transportation Herbert A. Sliter Thomas E. Holtz Carl P. Sirface 0619 Eagle Andrew R. Kreuzer 0039 Olive Branch 0155 Fraternal 0364 Horseheads Old Oak Thomas E. Badger Kenneth N. Ries Leon H. Watson Andrew Albert Ewart Donald C. Soper Everett H. Vail 0925 Tyrian 0647 Aurora Grata-Day Star 0083 Newark 0168 Corning Painted Post 0371 Heritage Charles Edward Wareham Donald Vankouwenberg Harold S B Hager Steve C. Cakouros John Periharos 0981 Amherst 0653 John Jay 0084 Amsterdam 0172 Chaumont 0384 Cherry Creek Nicholas Moroczko Robert F. Holzer Charles A. “Brox, Jr.” Roger R. Casten George H. Geer 1016 Floral Park Stephen M. Kittler John D. Rogers 0183 Farmerville-Union 0387 La Fraternidad John Hansen Jr 0684 Berne Donald L. Singer Paul W. Butler Bladimiro Rodriguez 1057 Springfield Gardens 0111 St. Lawrence Robert M. Wesel 0195 Franklin 0406 Humanity Albert O. Klipfel 0689 What Cheer Paul T. Evans Kenneth G. Lyberg Werter Cooney Jr 1068 James W. Husted-Fiat Lux 0115 Phoenix Dale Riggs 0204 Perfect Square 0417 Wadsworth William L. Mayers 0737 Guttenberg Gordon L. Hawk Donald D. Mitnick Ronald H. Noll 1143 Valley Stream 0123 Dundee Jack L. Plant 0218 Hartland 0419 Arcade Robert J. Rusinyak 0750 Shakespeare Clair D. Wheeler Robert L. Arlington Eugene M. Gertis 1185 Western Star 0126 Eastern Light Paul I. Auerbach 0223 Roman-Hatheway 0442 Windsor Robert W. Tills 0757 Silver Jay Vincent Borst Karl H. Stammer Jr Frank Louis Bauerle 1186 Ken-Ton 0128 Ogdensburgh-Acacian Malcolm L. Claflin 0297 Alexandria 0458 Shekomeko Ronald G. Pepperday 0806 Matinecock Bower A. Thompson Robert C. Tague Herbert B. Schwager 1187 North Rose Wolcott 0134 Lowville K Arthur E Erickson 0309 Hudson River David E. Wetherby H Paul Steiner Bernard E. Mcquade
55 years
0010 Kingston 0079 Unity 0105 Hiram 0128 Ogdensburgh-Acacian 0175 Oxford Arthur H. Depuy Charles H. Wood Jr William R. Schreiber Frank K. Martin Robert E. Connine Carl E. Modjeska 0082 Phoebus 0118 Addison Union 0129 Sanger 0178 Cornerstone Stephen H. Palen Ernest C. Emhof James E. Pepper Richard Eugene Palmer Maxwell Weinstein 0045 Union 0087 Van Rensselaer 0120 Hamilton 0137 Anglo-Saxon 0195 Franklin Richard Y. Willis Rayfield Drowne Jr Thomas B. Mulligan Sidney Freedman Raymond Zapata Jr 0053 Brownville 0090 Franklin 0123 Dundee 0148 Tri-valley 0230 University Dale O. Corrice James Fox Gilday Jr Richard Dale Kaufman Darrell W. Farley James A. Comes Walter N. Sweet THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 43
55 years continues
0252 Enchanted Mountains 0445 Cassia 0568 St. Cecile 0750 Shakespeare 0975 Bethpage Hicksville John Edward Harris Richard A. Newman Jack Golodner Sidney Cooper William E. Jagoe 0290 Spencer 0493 Southside 0584 Ashlar 0754 Noah 0981 Amherst Richard H. Green Gordon E. Downs Jr. Roger L. Defoe Albert E. Parshall Raymond G. Keene Roy E. Huhta 0494 Jephtha James C. Smith 0785 Niagara River Lodge 1009 Service City Geba 0328 Port Jervis Raymond C. Mahdesian 0624 Sharon Springs Lorne G. Shotwell Myron Conovitz George A. Begbie Warren D. Wylie James A. Dennison 0839 Athelstane 1143 Valley Stream 0375 Niagara 0533 Round Hill 0646 Red Jacket Charles Ruback Milton J. Sable Glenn M. Foley Donald E. Short Rodney P. Stinson 0855 Paumanok-Port 1147 Carroll Glenn Richard J. Foley 0545 Copernicus 0691 Meridian Washington Eugene Bloss Jr David W. Pynn Werner Vonderheide Paul J. Denhoff Harold R. Doughty 1174 Schenectady 0392 Sodus 0552 Hancock William M. Rehor William E. Kurz Franklin H. Guzzetta Alfred Elwin Beckens Eugene R. Creech 0693 Kedemah 0925 Tyrian Calvin P. Welch Robert Thomas Mitchell Carlyle R. Weyrauch George E. Prentice Charles L. Ketchum Jr James Burl Norton 1179 Millennium 0553 Farmers Eric P. Rasmussen 0948 Perseverance-Suburban William T. Corp 0399 Maine Hillis Crandall 0695 Alcyone Frank Levin Charles E. Wright Garald H. McManus 0565 Guiding Star-Angle Stephen G. Thide 0956 Spartan 0414 Scriba Alexander Ermalinski Edgar I. Barr Ralph E. Kelley Jr Paul B. Cooper
50 years
0004 St. Patrick’s 0145 Mount Moriah 0383 Northern Aurora 0553 Farmers 0880 Sibelius-Bredablick Fred I. Maderic Paul A. Wahlstrom Ronald L. Cook Ronald D. Bennett Gary F. Parker Frederick R. Stortecky 0161 Erie Parish United 0384 Cherry Creek 0589 Naurashank 0892 Queensboro 0011 The Lodge Of Antiquity Keith B. Rung Sheldon L. Allen Donald S. Dombrowsky John F. Wolf Samuel R. Klee 0166 Forest Charles C. Kerr Harold B. Jones 0916 Philadelphia 0044 Hornellsville Norman B. Whitton Jr 0399 Maine 0649 Robinson Donald J. Cooke Donald M. Schulitz 0175 Oxford Steven Lee Osser Glen E. Bullock 0958 Moriah 0049 Watertown John Phillip Jones 0425 Warrensburgh 0666 Oblong Myron J. Silverman Robert H. Ridall 0203 Munn David R. Backus Richard E. Pelkey 0970 Johnson City Unity 0063 Wantagh Morton Joel A. Risch James D. Flatt 0682 Nunda Station David L. Alexander 0435 St. Mark’s-Vestal Theodore Vande Woude 0214 Geneseo Ralph Cox Robert K. Conant 0066 Staten Island Ray E. Robinson Douglas J. Howell 0725 Southern Light Frank W. Dunlap 0444 Sherburne 0975 Bethpage Hicksville Eugene R. Bleimann 0240 Washington Robert K. Hatch 0082 Phoebus Spencer P. Schofield Wesley P. Atkins 0740 Allemania Roland D. Rudy 0466 Oneonta 1009 Service City Geba John R. Chase 0256 Fort Brewerton John Buck Samuel Senn Jr Edward R. Roundy Richard E. Morey Fred A. Spiegelberg Leonard Barend Jr 0085 Bethlehem 0479 Unity William W. Weier 1037 Victoria Sea Gate 0313 Stony Point Wawayanda 0750 Shakespeare Howard B. Engel Jr R. Brian Johnson Edward F. Vargo Edward Bienstock Ralph Edward Folger Jr 0482 Richfield Springs Harold W. Berk 1041 Brotherhood 0319 Black Lake Hammond Arthur F. Warner 0754 Noah Robert A. Laclair William S. Wiley Daniel Rosa 0097 Renovation 0501 Liverpool Syracuse Bruce E. Zeh 1057 Springfield Gardens Richard S. Bostdorff 0323 Amity Jan F. Zeh Arthur R. Schiffer Dwayne E. Cox John H. Dick 0112 Steuben 0785 Niagara River Lodge 0524 Morning Star Derwood A. Fish Ii 0341 Clyde Stephen B. Morley James D. Wagner 1066 Harry S Truman Thomas P. Carr Barrett L. Jones 0121 Queensbury 0801 Sidney-Freedom 533 Round Hill Mehran W. Davidian 0358 Ancient Landmarks Robert C. Morris George C. Kramer Jr 1174 Schenectady Thomas J. Davies Ronald C. Leonard 0123 Dundee 0839 Athelstane Paul J. Puckett 544 Warwick John T. Davis Warren H. Elliott Albert W. Buckbee Ii Robert C. Carmen 1186 Ken-Ton Harold J. Dresdale Charles R. Collette
44 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Grand Lodge Awards DeWitt Clinton to Patterson
(l-r) RW Ivan Obolensky, MW Jeffrey M. Williamson, Dr. Cam The award was presented on December 8, 2016 at the Patterson annual Masonic Toys for Tots Program that is held at the Griffis Faculty Club, located within the hospital campus. rand Master Jeffrey M. Williamson was honored to The event is sponsored by the Masonic Community and is Gbestow the prestigious DeWitt Clinton Award upon Dr. organized under the Masonic Toys for Tots Foundation. Many Cam Patterson, Sr., Vice President and COO of NewYork- dedicated Brothers, such as Ivan Obolensky, Gilbert Savitzky, Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center/Weill Cornell George Filippidis, Jerry Filippidis, Christopher Allen, Martin Medicine. This recognizes his extraordinary accomplishments Kanter, Leo Wisniewski and others too numerous to mention, in the field of medicine and the awe-inspiring benefits spent countless hours working very hard to raise monies for imparted to humankind. the fine work of this world-class institution. This year the Masonic Community presented $35,000, accumulating almost $1 million dollars in donations to date.
After the presentations, those assembled took much pleasure The Grand Master congratulates all of the participating in the professional holiday season entertainment provided by Metropolitan Brothers who continue to contribute in so many the USO Troupe of Metropolitan NY 2016 Liberty Bells. ways to help our communities in times of need. We thank Next, the children who are patients in the hospital were you because you truly believe that what we do is “A Way of invited into the Griffis Faculty Club. Masonic Santa James Life!” Without hope of reward, our Fraternity volunteers in Roberts presented them with a multitude of gifts for the our communities, churches and places of employment. We deserving young patients. Allynn Gooen, a master balloon volunteer for the deep and personal satisfaction of helping impresario, delighted the little ones by bending and stretching mankind. the balloons into fun figures and shapes. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 45
GM Plans Pilgrimage to UGLE
ost Worshipful Jeffrey M. Williamson, Grand Master, is A stop in the City of York precedes our arrival in London, pleased to invite you to join him on an historic pilgrimage where group members will have time to explore. You will Mto the United Kingdom. Here, we will explore our Scottish also have the option of attending the special UGLE 300th Masonic roots as well as celebrate the 300th Anniversary of the Anniversary celebrations. We will visit Sulgrave Manor, the United Grand Lodge of England. ancestral home of George Washington, returning to the U.S. The journey begins on October 23, 2017 with an overnight on November 2. flight from the U.S. to Glasgow. We will spend four days Full details of the trip are available on the Grand Lodge exploring Scotland, which offers us a unique opportunity to website. Please visit: https://nymasons.org/2016/trip-united- bond together while experiencing some of the most distinctive kingdom/. This pilgrimage is offered on a first-come, first- and important places in Masonic history, such as a visit to served basis and promises to be sold out very quickly. We Kilwinning Lodge No. 0, the Mother Lodge of Scotland. strongly recommend that you register early to ensure your Brothers will also have the option of attending the quarterly participation in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. session of the Grand Lodge of Scotland during our visit to Edinburgh.
Annual RW Herman Weiss Award
(Foreground) Award Recipients: W Adam Schoepflin and VW Alan Schneider Row 2 (l-r) RW Larry Schlesinger, Second Vice President; Elizabeth Schoepflin; RW Gregory Noulas, President; and RW George Wacob, First Vice President. In the rear are all the past recipients of the award.
n November 14, 2016 the Queens also in the District and Freemasonry in A great time was had by all at OMasonic District held their 28th general. Westbury Manor. Thanks go to the Annual RW Herman Weiss Award Congratulations go to VW Allan 150 members and guests who came out Dinner. This event is sponsored by the Schneider and W Adam Schoepflin. and made it a special night for both our Queens Purple Circle. The award is They were chosen this year’s recipients Brothers. In attendance also were RW given to a Mason within the District of the RW Herman Weiss Award for Paul Rosen, Grand Secretary, and his who exemplifies the true meaning of their dedicated service in their Lodges lovely wife Clare. Masonry, not only in his Lodge but and the District.
46 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Grand Lodge of New York’s 2017 Grand Master’s UK Journey Exploring Masonry’s Scottish Roots & Celebrating the UGLE 300th Anniversary
October 23 – November 2, 2017
UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND 2017 brings an extraordinary journey to the Grand Pricing* Lodge of New York, and the Grand Master is pleased to Per person, double occupancy: $3,299 pp invite you to join him to trace Masonic history in the United Single Occupancy: $4,499 pp Kingdom. We arrive in Scotland to experience the warmth of the Prices quoted include accommodations, daily people and the history of the country. Visits are planned breakfast one lunch, two dinners, driver and to such ancient sites as Stirling Castle, Roslyn Chapel tour guide gratuities and most tours. and Edinburgh Castle. We will also visit Lodge Mother Airfare and travel insurance are additional. Kilwinning No. 0, the mother lodge of Scotland, dating Insurance is strongly recommended. Please ask back to the year 1140. Brothers may opt to attend the us for a quote. quarterly session of the Grand Lodge of Scotland during A $500 per person deposit is due at time of our visit to Edinburgh. booking. Final payment is due August 10, From Scotland we journey to London but not before 2017 stopping in historic York for sightseeing and an overnight. *Exclusive UGLE event; extra charge applies Then it’s on to London where our group members will have the exclusive opportunity to celebrate the 300th Anniversary of the United Grand Lodge of England. An exclusive visit to Sulgrave Manor and the ancestral home of George Washington is our final stop before heading back to the U.S. Masonic Trips Support Masonic Causes
Itinerary Date Activity Oct. 23 Depart U.S. for Glasgow, Scotland Oct. 24 Glasgow, Scotland Oct. 25 Glasgow Sightseeing Oct. 26 Edinburgh Sightseeing Oct. 27 Visit Lodge Mother Kilwinning No. 0 Space is extremely limited. Oct. 28 Depart Glasgow; York Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Oct. 29 Depart York; London Reserve your space now! Oct. 30 London sightseeing; UGLE 300th Anniversary Events* For more information and to make your Oct. 31 “On your own”; reservation, contact: UGLE 300th Anniversary Events* Judi Stern—JPS At Your Leisure Travel Nov. 1 Depart London; Sulgrave Manor [email protected]; 917/692-3806 Nov. 2 Depart London for U.S. In partnership with
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 Mary Madison rW William M Sardone Office 315/798-4922 Supreme Inspector in NY State Director 35 Maple Street Grand Master DeMolay International fax 315/798-4798 Auburn, New York 13021 Email: [email protected] [email protected] Website: NYDemolay.org Phone: 315/253-8206 Website: www.nytriangle.org : Facebook.com/NYDemolay e-mail:[email protected] : facebook.com/OOTNY Website: www.nyiorg.org : Twitter.com/NYDeMolay : facebook.com/NY Rainbow : NYDeMolay
Youth Org. Confers Honors at Masonic Hall
he Degree of Chevalier and the these ceremonies. While the room was highlighted the strong presence of Cross of Honor are two forms of filled many rows deep with visitors and Senior DeMolays who became members Trecognition that are conferred on the members, it was great that the Grand of the Craft. Special thanks go to the best of the best. Such was the intent Treasurer, the RW Peter Flihan was able Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home of the evening at Masonic Hall when to bring greetings. for allowing DeMolay to meet, flourish the RW Charles Catapano, Deputy This ceremony not only highlighted and grow in our Masonic Hall. Grand Master, joined DeMolay for seven well-deserving recipients, it also
48 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 DeMolay GM Shows How It’s Done By RW Bill Sardone, Grand Master DeMolay International
t may seem as if the last issue of the said his son is thirteen, had researched spending next summer. We are truly IEmpire State Mason wrapped up the DeMolay and would love to join. But global. historic meetings in Brazil that MW as we all know, DeMolay has not started I could easily continue to write about Jeffrey M. Williamson Grand Master; in Portugal at this time. W Derrica this coordination of cooperation, but I RW Edmund D. Harrison, Past said they would be in the States for the think it is best to end with some words General Grand High Priest of General holidays and that was all I needed to written by Brother Paulo Derrica, a Grand Chapter International; and RW hear. new, thirteen-year-old DeMolay. William M. Sardone, Grand Master Once I knew the dates we checked “The best part was when I arrived and DeMolay International, witnessed calendars. NJ DeMolay was having a and participated in. Actually, it was it seemed that I had known everyone for one-day induction in Point Pleasant. W a long time, I felt home. I’m very happy the beginning of networking that is Derrica said they would be there and spanning multiple countries—not just that I’ve become a DeMolay and cannot RW Edmund D. Harrison came, too. even imagine.” with Masonry but with DeMolay, as Derrica’s son Paulo became a DeMolay well. that day and became a member of Many people effortlessly came Our time in Brazil introduced me to The Knights of Antiquity Chapter in together. Proud moments such as these, a W Paul Derrica from Portugal. He Brentwood, NY, where they will be none will forget.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 49
Grand Lodge Supports “The Harry Chapin Memorial Run Against Hunger” By MW James E. Sullivan
Harry Chapin with guitar.
rother Walter Gillis loved and was inspired by Harry Chapin. Along with his wife Shirley and a few other Bdedicated folks, Walt was a lead organizer of the annual Croton-on-Hudson area Harry Chapin Memorial Run against Hunger. The goal was to raise funds for Why Hunger (then World Hunger Year) and local organizations fighting hunger and poverty. He talked many times to MW James Sullivan to encourage other Masons to get involved in the Run Against Hunger.
MW James E. Sullivan with Steve Stout, holding picture of Harry Chapin.
on-Hudson, NY created an annual race. Using the name of Harry Chapin, they began to raise funds to fight hunger and provide food to children and adults in need locally, across the U.S. and around the world. Harry Chapin was best known for his amazing story songs: “Cat’s in the Cradle,” “Taxi,” “W*O*L*D,” and “Circle.” As a humanitarian, he also dedicated his life toward the cause of ending world hunger. He successfully lobbied congressmen and President Jimmy Carter to establish a Presidential Commission on World Hunger and he started Why Hunger Harry Chapin check presentation by (then named World Hunger Year) and Long Island Cares MW Jeffrey M. Williamson (one of the country’s first regional food banks). He raised and donated millions of dollars to fight hunger and he inspired In 2013 MW Sullivan made a contribution to the Run, and thousands of his fans to support the cause. he was followed by MW William Thomas in 2014 and 2015. The day includes a 1-Mile Fun Run, a 5K Run/Walk and This year Grand Master MW Jeffrey Williamson again made a 10K Race. Local Lodges host a NY Masonic ID program. a contribution to support the “Harry Chapin Memorial Run The Harry Chapin Memorial Run Against Hunger is Against Hunger” to show the world one of our great tenets: organized and managed by a committee of volunteers and is a Charity. registered 501(c) 3 non-profit organization. The 37th annual In 1981, just a few short months after the tragic death of Harry Chapin Run and Walk Against Hunger will be Sunday, singer-songwriter, Harry Chapin, the community in Croton- October 15, 2017. 50 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Grand Chaplain’s Corner RW & Rev. Charles M. Roberts, Grand Chaplain Emeritus 585/259-3796 [email protected]
Patrons of the Order
reemasonry teaches us as we come into the Lodge, opening that all men shall stand upon an exact equality and receive the ancient expression of our ritual, which speaks of hailing its instructions in a spirit of due humility, emphasizing, in Ffrom a Lodge of the Holy Saints John of Jerusalem. This is demeanor, in conduct, in ceremony, and in language, the a reference to the gathering of the early brotherhood under helpless, groping nature of man at his birth, and his need of the leadership of John the Baptist out in the wilderness of reliance upon Divine guidance throughout life. Masons are Jerusalem to repent and be one with God, and later under taught to divest their mind and conscience of all the vices and the leadership of John the Evangelist (the Apostle of Jesus) superfluities of life; and the Fraternity suggests what we can in the early years of the Jewish Church after the death of expect when admitted to the Craft, divesting ourselves of all its Lord Jesus Christ. Saint John the Baptist was indeed the those distinctions and equipments which are not in keeping only patron for the Order for many centuries. It was not with the humble, reverent, and childlike attitude which is the until subsequent to the sixteenth century that St. John the duty of all Masons to assume before their God. Freemasonry Evangelist was adopted by Freemasonry as a patron of the encourages each man to be steadfast in the faith of his Order as well. Masonry holds times of festive boards for each acceptance. It takes all good men by the hand and leads them of these patrons: John the Baptist is June 24 and St. John to its altars, points to the open Bible thereon, and urges upon the Evangelist, on December 27. Why do we hold these two each that he faithfully direct his steps through life by the light patrons so highly in the Fraternity? he there shall find as he there shall find it. John the Baptist is revered because of his stern integrity, Brethren, as the new year 2017 is unfolding before our which induced him to forego every minor consideration in very eyes—upon our Fraternity, our world, our Nation and discharging the obligations he owed to God; the unshaken hopefully in our personal lives—let it urge upon each of us as firmness with which he met martyrdom rather than betray his Masons a concerted effort and determination to live out the duty to his Master. His steady rebuke of vice and continued teachings of our great Fraternity to even greater heights. May preaching of repentance and virtue make him a fit patron of we infuse in our Lodges and ourselves those noble qualities, the Masonic institution. St. John the Evangelist is honored or rather emulations, bound by duty, honor, and gratitude, to because of his constant admonition to the cultivation of be faithful to our trust, to support the dignity of our character brotherly love, undying devotion to his God, and the mystical on every occasion, and to enforce, by precept and example, nature of his apocalyptic visions (revelations of a new world to obedience to the tenets of the Fraternity. come)—perhaps the principal reasons for the veneration paid Finally, my brethren, may 2017 bring to light in you that to him by the Craft. realization that your manhood does not depend upon your Both patrons are illuminations for us as Masons to emulate position, but upon your character. Be a true man in your in our Masonic life and throughout our daily walk of life. home as well as out in life. Make others know that a gentleman Why do I state this? Because both patrons teach us to subdue stands before them. Make the most and the best for yourself. It our passions and improve ourselves in Masonry and for life. is your duty as a man among men; a son or husband, or father; Freemasonry is far removed from all that is trivial, selfish, and as a citizen of this Great Republic; as a duly obligated Master ungodly. Its structure is built upon the everlasting foundation Mason; as the most glorious climax of all created things; for of that God-given law, the brotherhood of man in the family the true man is the human image of the Mason’s God. Be as whose Father is God. Freemasonry welcomes to its door our Patrons of the Order. and admits to its privileges worthy men. It insists, though,
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 51 Trinity Lodge Feeds Needy much appreciated by the recipients of the baskets and the church that they work through. This annual event brings happiness to many that would otherwise not have the traditional holiday meal. RW Robert Stein is a Social Services liaison and is able to guide a number of these individuals to seek help through the local food pantries and soup kitchens. Trinity lost one of its elder statesmen this fall, which brought a great sadness to the brotherhood. RW Rudy Feye had been a Trinity institution for many years and continued to be an active member until he gave up his working tools. Brother. Rudy was a fifty-one year Mason and was the District Deputy in 1971-1972. After a short Lodge meeting on October 18 the Lodge was open to ladies and guests as a memorial rinity Lodge 12 continued its in need in the community are not service was held to honor RW Rudy Ttradition of feeding the needy by forgotten. Trinity Lodge puts together Feye. It was very well attended, which organizing its annual Thanksgiving food baskets to feed twenty-five demonstrated the place of respect that Basket giveaway. The Lodge established families, supplying everything needed Brother Rudy held amongst his peers. a relationship with a church in a needy for a Thanksgiving feast. There is food His wise words, advice and kindness area many years ago and has been enough to provide for these families will be greatly missed by his Brothers, working with them to ensure that those for the holiday week. Their efforts are friends and family.
Masonic Education in the Ninth
asonic education in the Ninth Lodges took the class and became Grand Master would like to see at least Manhattan District continues at a certified. Members of our District are two Brothers from each Lodge become Mrapid rate. In June there was a Master’s encouraged to take this class. This is certified. Please consider joining the Chair class that was very well attended. a new program under the guidance of next class when the date becomes RW Bob Stein, with the assistance our MW Jeffrey M. Williamson. The available. of RW Georg Dauterman, recently conducted a Masonic Development Course. It was very successful, as many members of the District completed the course. These classes are a great source of information for those Brothers seeking to move up the line as well as those who have gone through the chairs. Brothers Georg and Bob continue to learn new things as they give these classes. Continuing your Masonic education is important for all Brothers and anyone who has not taken these classes is strongly encouraged to do so. In October the District hosted a NorthStar program class, which was well attended. Many Brothers from multiple Brothers in the Masonic Development Course
52 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 Lodge Delivers Toys to Hospital
embers of Ancient Temple Lodge 14 assisted Santa in delivering toys Mto the Albany Medical Center Children’s Hospital on Saturday, December 17. Present for this event were: W Gary Messina, RW Roy Stock and Brother Michael DellaValle.
DATES TO REMEMBER MARCH 2017 Submission guidelines for 2–4 Grand Chapter RAM - Albany, NY 5 72nd Metro Districts Interfaith publication in the ESM Breakfast Marina Del Rey - Bronx, NY 11 DeMolay GM’s Class and Table Chapter FILE PREPARATION TRANSMITTING: - Utica, NY • Your name and phone number as To: [email protected] 12 Dundee Lodge 123 Building the beginning of the file. Subject: ESM Submission Dedication - Dundee, NY • Save copy as .txt, .rtf or .doc Via Mail 18 Chemung-Schuyler Tioga District • Save photographs as .jpg, .tif, or Send photographs and CD-Rom awards - Spencer, NY .bmp format. Graphics save as .eps. discs (formatted as instructed in the 23 Queens District Testimonial Dinner - (Do not transmit photos and copy left column) via United States Postal Westbury, NY in the same email or file. Transmit Service or other delivery service to: 31 Delaware Night photos as individual attachments Mrs. Joan C. Bower APRIL 2017 not embedded as part of email. 37 Oliver Street 1 QUEST - Rockville Center, NY Files saved as .pub will NOT be accepted. Lockport, NY 14094-4615 8 DD/SO Training 21 suffolk District Dinner - Riverhead, NY 22 Wallkill Lodge 627 150th Anniversary re-dedication 28 George Washington Re-enactment - Articles Due Date nyC MAY 2017 for the SUMMER Issue 1–2 Grand Lodge Session - NYC 7 Trumansburg Lodge 157 of the 100th Anniversary of Building 11–14 Grand Court Amaranth Empire State Magazine 21 erie Districts Masonic Breakfast is SAVE THE DATE: The Grand Line will be conferring the 1st Degree of Masonry on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at the April 1, 2017 George Washington Masonic Memorial Site in Tappan, NY.
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 53
From the Grand Lecturer RW richard j. kessler, Grand Lecturer 716/698-9324 (C) [email protected]
rethren, in contrast to my previous articles, I decided to Q. Why is a Symbolic Lodge sometimes called a “Blue Bgo into length on a few questions that are periodically Lodge?” asked. The length of the responses has thereby limited the A. The mother of all Freemasonry, the place where every space reserved for the Grand Lecturer’s column. I hope that man begins his journey into the Ancient Craft of Free the explanation of these recurring questions can alleviate some and Accepted Masons: The Blue Lodge. It has been concerns regarding our ritual. Remember that our ritual is here in America that the term “Blue Lodge” has become a combination of theological, philosophical and academic popularized and so widely used. Originally, it was frowned disciplines. It is not stagnant, but instead a living, breathing upon, and Lodges were called Craft Lodges or Ancient part of our Craft’s history and the source of our future vibrancy. Craft Lodges; some were even called a St. Johns Lodge. Q. Does the additional Proficiency Requirement in open According to Coil’s Masonic Encyclopedia there may Lodge affect determining proficiency for advancement? be a number of reasons why symbolic Lodges are called A. No. As always, the Worshipful Master determines Blue Lodges. Since ancient times the color blue has proficiency for his Lodge. The new program is a strongly been associated with immortality, eternity, and fidelity. recommended suggestion endorsed by the Grand Master, References to the color blue in the Bible emphasize the Grand Lecturer and Custodians of the Work to improve special place blue has as a color symbolizing goodness and our collective ritualistic performance. The program is immortality. The Druids also honored the color while the intended as a first step towards all proficiency being held ancient Egyptians used the color to represent Amun, one in open Lodge. Having the new Brother prove that he of their most important gods. The ancient Babylonians knows the signs, grips and words in open Lodge is a check associated the color blue with the gods. In Medieval times, and balance for the Lodge that he is receiving the tools he Christians saw blue as the symbol of perfection and hope needs to be comfortable being in Lodge after his Raising. as well as of immortality and fidelity. It also presents the opportunity for the Brother to get more It is not known when blue first came to be associated with comfortable speaking in open Lodge. Lastly, it proves that Freemasonry, although some historians think that initially the Lodge and candidate are working with each other and the color was used in Craft Masonry to represent the bonding. sky. Today, blue for Masons symbolizes brotherhood and I find it extremely disheartening that there is a significant symbolizes the fact that Masons should seek out virtues as pushback from some brethren regarding this program. extensive as the blue dome of heaven. While there are no repercussions for not adopting this Albert Mackey’s Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, under “Blue,” new initiative, I believe that Lodges that embrace this has further light to share. He says, “Blue is emphatically new program are much more likely to provide a rich and the color of Masonry. It is the appropriate tincture of the meaningful learning environment for their membership. I Ancient Craft degrees. The Hebrew word for blue when also believe that the participant Lodges will be stronger and referring to spiritual matters is tekhelet derived more vibrant as a reult. from a root word meaning perfection. It is well known Q. What is a Cowan? that among the ancients, initiation into the mysteries and A. The origin is unknown but it may be early Scottish. It “perfection” are synonymous terms and this is why blue was used of a man who practiced Masonry, usually of the is the appropriate color for the greatest of all the systems roughest character, as in the building of walls, who had of initiation the world has ever known, The Ancient Blue not been regularly trained and initiated, corresponding in Lodge Craft.” some sense to “scab” as used by labor unions. If a man has Q. Where can I find instructions for the placement of the learned the work by some illegal method he is a Cowan. Bible for our three Degrees? An “eavesdropper” is one who spies on a Lodge, and may A. There is nothing in the existing Standard Work and Lectures be such without having learned anything about it before. (SWL) that specifies that the Bible is to be opened to a A “clandestine” is one who has gone through initiation specific passage of scripture when the Lodge is working ceremonies but not in a regular Lodge. An old Scottish in a specific Degree. To the best of my knowledge, it is dictionary gives the following definitions: one of those things that has been assumed to be known. • A term of contempt and applies to one who has not When a Lodge is working in a specific Degree, the Bible been regularly trained. is supposed to be opened to the scripture reading from the • One not acquainted with the secrets of Freemasonry. ritual for that Degree. In order to alleviate any confusion, • An intruder, one who claims to be a Mason but never the Custodians of the Work will address this issue in future receiving his degrees in a legitimate Lodge. editions of the SWL.
54 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE “A Way of Life” SPRING 2017 THE GRAND SECRETARY’S GOLF CLASSIC SPONSORED BY: GRAND LODGE FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE
Prizes Date: Thursday, June 8, 2017 SPONSORSHIPS PURPLE PACKAGE: $800 Outing will be held at • 4 Golfers in Outing & Sign on Course A Hole in One Prize of a Woodmere Country Club, 2017 Harley Davidson Motorcycle Woodmere NY. BANQUET SPONSOR: $1500 This outing will be held to help • Logo at Buffet Dinner Longest Drive Men & Women support The Masonic Care Closest to the Pin Community, Camp Turk & other CART SPONSOR: $1000 • Logo on all Golf Carts Masonic Charities. Most Accurate Drive Men & Women HOLE SPONSOR: $125 Low GROSS Team & Low NET Team • Sign on Tee Box All Golfers & Non Golfers Low GROSS Single & Low NET Single welcome. PUTTING GREEN SPONSOR: $350 • Sign on Putting Green Low Score Mason It’s all for charity. DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR: $750 Low Score Women • Sign at Driving Range
GIFT GIVEAWAY SPONSOR: $1500 • Sign at Registration Range
TICKETS: Come and enjoy the day, be with friends, make new friends. Please fill out the brochure and send back on or before June 1, 2017 to secure your place • $175 PER GOLFER OR $700 PER FOURSOME for this fun-filled afternoon of golf. Delicious buffet dinner with full open OR bar after golf and door prizes. • $75 PER PERSON FOR JUST DINNER OPEN S C H E D U L E BAR, BUFFET AND PRIZES Time Event Contact Persons: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sign in and Full Service Brunch Walter J. Wasnieski III 516/507-4502 Mark Suckle 516/448-3124 1:30 p.m. Shotgun Start Angel Ruiz 347/234-2800 6:30 p.m.– 9:00 p.m. Cocktail hour & buffet dinner & awards Marshal D. Shichtman 516/652-5220 Richard Giordano 516/426-2260 Directions to Golf Course From All Points: Make Payment out to: Take Southern State to Exit 19S. Then take Peninsula Blvd to Woodmere Second Kings Charities Fund Inc. Blvd and make a left. Take this to Pond Lane and make a right. Then make Mail To: a right onto Ivy Hill Road. The club will be on your left. 1732 Lehigh Road Wantagh, NY 11793
THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE SPRING 2017 55 Boy’s Camp Girl’s Camp July 2nd – July 22nd July 23rd – August 12th One, two or three-week options available Contact us for a Financial Aid Application (deadline to apply for aid is May 1st) For more information call 315/392-2081 OR Visit us on the web to register! www.CampTurk.org