January 2007
Published electronically by The Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of New York Volume 1 Issue 8
Message from the Grand East
In this Issue To My Brothers:
Message from the Grand East Welcome back from your holiday season. I hope each of you will have a MMRL Press Release Happy and Healthy New Year.
Masonic Compact
Bro. Gerald R. Ford Today, our Craft is moving forward in many areas. The strides made in From the Editor Communications, Community Involvement, Education and in the Masonic Breakfast
presentation of our Ritual are becoming apparent. One obvious measure of Mark Russell success is the number of new raisings in our Craft. We are beginning to see
the results of your efforts in presenting our Craft to the public and to your The Knights Templars, the Holy Grail, and the Tarot friends. Remember, Encourage Your Friends to Become Your Brother, along with Brother Bring A Friend Night programs, will Lodge Services help your Lodges grow. Use these programs and see the results. From the Grand Lecturer Grand Lodge Calendar As we start our New Year, we have some exciting news from our Masonic Committee Chairmen Medical Research Laboratory. Their ongoing work in the area of cardiac Brotherhood Fund arrhythmia research continues to result in new breakthroughs that not From the Chairman of Grand Lodge only help our members to live longer and healthier lives but their research Communication Umbrella Public Relations has impact on the entire world. For almost 50 years, the scientists at your Community Involvement Umbrella Committee Masonic Medical Research Laboratory have worked to aid humanity. Be Child ID proud of their efforts and stand proud that we as members of this great Masonic Student Assistance Training Program Fraternal Order are making a difference and contribute every day to the (MSAT) welfare of the world around us. Masonic Care Community
Fellowshiip committee Best regards to all,
Masonic University of New York (MUNY) Neal Bidnick Grand Master Camp Turk / Youth Committee Chancellor Livingston Library Lodge Renewal 225th Anniversary
Masonic Medical Research Laboratory From Whose Bourne Around the State
Bro. Ron Kamp [email protected]
MMRL Scientists Discover New Genes Responsible for Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Scientists at the Masonic Medical Research various ions to move in and out of the cardiac Laboratory (MMRL) in Utica, NY have cell leads to an electrical imbalance that can uncovered a new genetic basis for abnormal disrupt the normal distribution of the electrical rhythms of the heart responsible for sudden charge throughout the heart, resulting in cardiac arrest. abnormal rhythms. Some arrhythmias are benign, such as premature beats, and others are The landmark discovery is reported in the deadly, including ventricular tachycardia and current issue of Circulation, the leading fibrillation. The ECG, which records the Cardiology journal published by the American electrical activity of the heart from electrodes Heart Association placed on the body surface, can be used to (AHA). Dr. Charles detect these rhythm disturbances. The ECG is Antzelevitch and a normally comprised of a P wave, reflecting the team of activation of the upper chambers of the heart investigators and (atria), a QRS wave denoting the activation of collaborators from the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles) and Canada, Germany, a T wave, which is inscribed as a result of the France and Italy repolarization associated with relaxation of the describe a new heart. The interval between the QRS and T clinical entity waves (QT interval) normally ranges between characterized by 360 and 460 milliseconds and the ST segment distinctive changes of the normal ECG is isoelectric (neither in the electrocardiogram (ECG) in three families elevated or depressed). with a history of sudden cardiac death. Affected family members were all found to have The new clinical entity is a combination of two mutations in the genes that encode the cardiac distinct sudden death syndromes known as the calcium channels. These channels permit the Brugada and Short QT syndromes. The flow of calcium ion in and out of cells in the Brugada syndrome is characterized by an heart. The defective genes called CACNA1C and elevation of the ST segment in the ECG and the CACNB2b were found to generate a smaller short QT syndrome distinguished by a briefer than normal electrical current and thus to be than normal QT interval (less than or equal to responsible for creating an electrical imbalance 360 milliseconds). These syndromes have that results in potentially fatal abnormal heart previously been shown to be due to defects in rhythms, known as cardiac arrhythmias. genes that control the flow of sodium and potassium ions across the membrane of the Although the heart is a mechanical pump, each cardiac cell. Antzelevitch, who serves as and every beat is initiated by electrical activity Executive Director and Director of Research of that originates in the upper part of the heart the MMRL, and his colleagues at the MMRL called the sinus node and is transmitted in a were the first to identify the KCNH2 gene very orderly fashion through the remainder of responsible for the Short QT syndrome and the heart. The electrical current is due to the together with colleagues at Baylor College of movement of ions such as sodium, potassium Medicine were the first to describe the SCN5A and calcium across the cell membrane. Defects gene responsible for the Brugada syndrome. in the function of the channels that permit these Each syndrome is capable of independently
Page 2 January 2007 producing sudden cardiac arrest. The new found to affect ion channels within the heart clinical entity, by combining the two leading to sudden cardiac arrest.” Antzelevitch malfunctioning electrical features, presents a agreed, indicating that “we are at the tip of the situation of double jeopardy. iceberg and have a great deal to learn before we can routinely use genetic screening to identify Antzelevitch, the leading investigator in the new children and adults at risk for sudden cardiac study, recently presented preliminary results of arrest.” the research at the late-breaking abstract session at the annual scientific sessions of the “The impressive progress that we have made in AHA. Dr. Guido Pollevick, acting head of the this field of medicine in recent years is Molecular Genetics program at the MMRL, encouraging and with appropriate commitment presented a poster at the AHA meeting of resources, we can look forward to dramatic regarding additional aspects of this new clinical advances in the months and years ahead”, he entity. added
According to Founded in 1958 by the Grand Lodge of Free & Antzelevitch “our Accepted Masons of the State of New York, the ability to link calcium MMRL is internationally renowned medical channel loss of research and educational institute dedicated to function mutations to studies of the electrical activity of the heart and sudden cardiac death the mechanisms responsible for abnormal opens exciting new rhythms of the heart. In recent years, the avenues for better MMRL has also become a central hub for diagnosis and genetic screening of inherited arrhythmic treatment of inherited diseases in the United States. MMRL scientists sudden death have uncovered the mechanisms responsible for syndromes that affect many forms of life-threatening cardiac young adults, children and infants.” Scientists arrhythmias as well as the mechanisms by at the MMRL, in collaboration with colleagues which some drugs act to precipitate in Italy, were the first to identify the genetic arrhythmias. In recent years, they have defect responsible for Sudden Infant Death delineated the genetic basis for several inherited Syndrome, linking SIDS to a malignant cardiac sudden cardiac death syndromes. Prominent arrhythmia. among their most recent achievements is the identification of a novel strategy for the Dr. Jonathan Cordeiro, a research scientist pharmacologic treatment of atrial fibrillation, involved with assessing the effects of the one of the greatest unmet medical needs facing mutated genes on electrical function, thought our society. that “in time many more mutations will be
Page 3 January 2007 Page 4 January 2007
In Honor of Gerald Rudolph Ford, The 38th President of the United States, Born 1913 - Called Home by the Grand Architect December 2006.
GERALD RUDOLPH FORD(1913-2006 ) Thirty-eighth President (1974-1977)
MASONIC RECORD Initiated: September 30, 1949, Malta Lodge No. 465, Grand Rapids, Michigan, along with his half-brothers Thomas Gardner Ford (1918-1995), Richard Addison Ford (1924-) and James Francis Ford (1927- ). The Fellowcraft and Master Mason Degrees were Conferred by Columbia Lodge No. 3, Washington, D.C., on April 20 and May 18, 1951, as a courtesy to Malta Lodge. Brother Ford was made a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, 33°, and Honorary Member, Supreme Council A.A.S.R. Northern Jurisdiction at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia, on September 26, 1962, for which he served as Exemplar (Representative) for his Class. Brother and President Ford was unanimously elected an Active Member of the International Supreme Council, Order of DeMolay and its Honorary Grand Master, at its Annual Session held at Orlando, Florida, April 6-9, 1975; Brother Ford held this post until January 1977, at which time he became a Past Honorary Grand Master, receiving his Collar and Jewel on October 24, 1978 in Topeka, Kansas, from the Hon. Thomas C. Raum, Jr., Grand Master, Order of DeMolay. Brother Ford was the last President who is a Freemason.
The following is the text of a message of condolence on the passing of our Brother Mason, Gerald R. Ford, 38th President of the United States of America and a member of Malta Lodge No 465, Grand Rapids, Michigan. This statement was issued December 27, 2006 by the Grand Masters of New York and Michigan and the Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association of North America.
"Gerald R. Ford embodied the tenets of Freemasonry. He upheld the values of personal integrity and of being true to his word, and in a time of great crisis, Brother Ford, a true patriot, also sought to heal our ailing Nation. As our President, he represented our fraternity well. On behalf of the Grand Lodges of Free and Accepted Masons of the States of Michigan and New York, the Masonic Service Association of North America, and Masons everywhere, we offer our sincere condolences to Betty Ford and her family on the passing of Brother Gerald Ford, a humble man who calmly guided our country out of one of its darkest hours."
Neal I. Bidnick Grand Master Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York
Walter F. Wheeler Grand Master Grand Lodge of Michigan, Free and Accepted Masons
Richard E. Fletcher Executive Secretary Masonic Service Association of North America
December 27, 2006
Page 5 January 2007
In 1974, the Grand Lodge of New York presented then-Vice President Ford with the Distinguished Achievement Award, the highest honor presented by the Grand Lodge to a Brother Mason. MW Charles Froessel, as Chairman of the Committee, said the following:
Mr. Vice President and Brother Ford: As a faithful public servant of the highest character, dedicated to the principles of truth, duty and the precepts of our Craft; as a devoted member of the House of Representatives, in whom your fellow citizens have appropriately and consistently had abiding faith for so many years; and, now, as Vice President of the United States; as an outstanding All- American devotee if sports; as a loyal and patriotic Veteran of World War II; as one who is proud to be a Brother in our Craft and says so in our Who’s Who in America; and for your devotion to God, to country and to your splendid family; we hail you and claim you as one of our own, and, in recognition of your outstanding and distinguished achievements, our Grand Master MW Lloyd S. Cochran will now present you with our Grand Lodge Medal.
Brother Ford’s response included this comment:
The fact that I had been brought up in a family that is dedicated to the principles of Masonry and lived by them, gave me the assurance that I could meet the test of new responsibility. It so happens, from my point of view, that these principles which are important are the principles that cut across America and all segments of our society.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Page 6 January 2007
Brother Ford visited the George Washington Masonic National Memorial in Alexandria, Va. on George Washington's birthday in 1975 to unveil the bronze plaque of himself that now hangs in the auditorium.
Left to right in the picture are: Brother Gerald R. Ford, Worshipful Raymond C. Ellis, Past Grand Master of New York and the President of the GWMNM Assoc, Don Robey, Worshipful Master of Alexandria- Washington Lodge No. 22, (unknown), Most Worshipful Marvin E. Fowler, Past Grand Master of District of Columbia and Executive Secretary-Treasurer for the GWMNM Assoc. The aassociated picture and information was provided by Brother Don Robey.
To honor our fallen Brother, former President Gerald R Ford, 33rd Degree Master Mason, fellow Brethren from the Washington DC area gathered at Naval Lodge No. 4 at 330 Pennsylvania Ave SE Washington DC Sunday December 31st at 10:30am and walked together to the U.S. Capitol rotunda. We walled about three blocks from Naval Lodge No. 4 to the U.S. Capitol stopping briefly in front of the Capitol at the statue of former President and Brother James A. Garfield and there gave a sort speech. Then we made our way through a one hour wait inline passing through security check points then into the rotunda where Brother Ford was ling in state. One by one we gave our respect and honors to our fallen Brother.
Page 7 January 2007
Above is a souvenir, it is a copy of the card they handout to each person that enters the rotunda.
Page 8 January 2007
Welcome to NETNEWS!
For those of you who are new to this publication, we hope you enjoy what you see and come back. Below you will find all you need to know in order to submit articles or pictures and the timeframes for those submissions. Suggestions and opinions are welcome. In any case, we are gearing up for another exciting year of Free Masonry and we hope you are as excited as we are. Here are a couple of guidelines with regards to submitting information to NETNEWS. As before, NETNEWS will focus on: • Messages from Grand Lodge Officers; • Messages from Grand Lodge Committees; • Local items / News by District; • News from around the state; and • Calendars & upcoming events by District. Input for NETNEWS comes from the Grand Lodge Officers, Committee Chairmen and Appendant Bodies. However, content will also be collected and/or generated by an appointed representative in each District. Every month, you will be able to count on NETNEWS to provide you with important Masonic information you may not find elsewhere. Please remember a couple of important rules regarding submissions that are not identical to those of ESM. The two publications may be similar, but NETNEWS is a monthly publication and ESM is quarterly. ESM deadlines are on the first of the months due and NETNEWS is due on the 5th. • ALL INPUT DUE BY THE 5TH OF THE MONTH • Written information should be in Microsoft Word, Text File, or Email • Please include your name and contact information (address, email and/or phone number) with your submission. All submissions selected for publication will be reviewed and you will be contacted to confirm authenticity. Please understand that anything submitted without the proper permission or forms cannot be published. • Anything you submit must either be original or, if it has been published before, must be accompanied by written permission of the publication in which it appears as this is now copyrighted. If you wrote the article, please include a paragraph to that effect. • Photographs must be scanned at no more than 150 DPI and saved in JPG format. Photos must be accompanied by a release stating that you have been granted permission to publish the person’s likeness. If a child (under the age of 18) is in the photo, a “Child ID Photo Release Form” must accompany your submission. This form is available by going to the Forms Page on the ESM website: http://esmason.com/forms.html Please make sure to tell us who is in the photo! A separate release is required for each person in the photo. • Input and questions should be sent to: [email protected] OR; Steven P. Koch 43 Robert Lane Wappingers Falls, N.Y. 12590
The NETNEWS team looks forward to serving you, our Brothers, with the latest information on a regular basis, every month of the year. S&F Steven P. Koch – NETNEWS Editor
Associate Editor – Bro. Mel Lipetz Layout & Design – Bro. Brian Welsh Initial Layout & Design – Bro. Louis Gaal Consultant & Artwork – Bro. Joe Leo
Page 9 January 2007
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S&F Louis Gaal -- Masonic Computer Geek Page 10 January 2007
Announcing the Sixty-Second Annual Metropolitan Region
Masons and Families Dedication Service and Breakfast
Sponsored by the MASONIC BROTHERHOOD FOUNDATION, INC. Hosted by the 2006-2008 Metropolitan Region District Deputy Grand Masters
Sunday, March 11, 2007 at Leonard’s Of Great Neck 555 Northern Boulevard <> Great Neck, New York <> (516) 487-7900
Seating will begin at 8:30 am. The Site offers easy access from major highways and ample free parking. The Worship Service will bring everyone together in an interdenominational ceremony conducted by our Grand Chaplains. The Breakfast, immediately following the worship service, will include a DeWitt Clinton Masonic Award for Community Service presentation to a prominent individual in the State of New York. The price is the same as 2006’s Breakfast ~~ $25.00 per ticket. Metropolitan Region District Deputy Grand Masters have the tickets. The sooner you can make the reservations, the better the seating of your Lodge ... so don’t delay ... do it today!
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –reply form / cut and mail– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
Grand Lodge Convention Committee, 71 West 23rd Street, NYC, NY 10010-4149 Enclosed is my check of $______for ______tickets (at $25.00 each) made payable to the Masonic Brotherhood Foundation, Inc. for the Sixty-Second Annual Masons and Families Dedication Service and Breakfast—Sunday, March 11, 2007.
Name:______
Address:______
City/State/Zip:______
Lodge:______District:______
METROPOLITAN REGION LODGES SHOULD CONTACT THEIR DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS DIRECTLY
Page 11
Comedian Mark Russell to Perform a “Benefit” For Masonic Care Community on June 21
The Masonic Care Community is proud to announce that it is sponsoring a major benefit performance featuring Mark Russell, America’s foremost musical satirist, on Thursday evening, June 21, 2007 – the night before the St. John’s Masonic Festival which annually takes place on the 400-acre campus of the Masonic Care Community. Mark Russell’s one-night only performance will be held in the new 900-seat Clinton Performing Arts Center in Clinton, NY (which is only 10 miles south of the Masonic Care Community campus in Utica).
Mark Russell is well known for performing his “star-spangled” satire on TV and throughout the nation. With his trademark piano in tow, he is famous for skewering official pomposity and spotlighting the utterly outrageous, wielding his wit as deftly as a surgeon wields a scalpel. In presentations reflective of the day’s headlines freshly crafted for each event at which he performs, he turns the Washington, D.C. scene into a musical comedy tour-de-force that leaves audiences rolling in the aisles. Tickets for the June 21st performance will be available in May. For further information, please contact Bro. Ira Cooperman, (315) 798-4703 or (800) 593-3353.
Page 12
Aurora Grata Day Star Lodge No. 647
Cordially and Fraternally invites you to attend A Lecture and Discussion
By: Dr. Tim Wallace-Murphy Author of: Templars in America, Custodians of Truth, Rosslyn Guardian of the Secrets of the Holy Grail, Cracking the Symbol Code
Subject: The Knights Templars, the Holy Grail, and the Tarot.
When: Wednesday March 14th, 2007, at 8:00 p.m.
Where: Masonic Hall, 19th Floor American Room 71 West 23rd Street, New York, NY
Dr. Tim Wallace-Murphy is flying in from England to lecture for us; he will raise some very interesting ideas about the Templars, their voyages to America way before Christopher Columbus, and the mysteries around Rosslyn Chapel. A night not to be missed.
Who can attend: This is an open lodge meeting, everybody is welcomed to attend, masons and non masons. This is a great event if you want to learn what Freemasonry is all about. This is also a Brother Bring A Friend Night. Dress Code: Tie and jacket required.
Contact and tickets: Please contact the secretary ([email protected]) to reserve your tickets. Tickets will also be available the night of the event for $20 suggested donation to the lodge.
For more info check www.agds.org
Book Signing: At the end of the lecture Dr. Murphy will autograph the following books which will be available for purchase: • The Mark of the Beast. • Rosslyn Guardian of the Secrets of the Holy Grail. • Templars in America. • Custodians of Truth. • Cracking the Symbol Code. • What Islam did for Us. • The Enigma of the Freemasons.
Page 13 January 2007
Dear Brethren:
Please take note that we have a new Customer Service Representative in the Lodge Services / Registry Department at the Office of the Grand Secretary. It is with pleasure that the Grand Secretary and I introduce Mr. David Fransen to our staff at the Office of the Grand Secretary. Up until yesterday, Mr. Fransen had been assigned to the Masonic Brotherhood Fund Department. The Grand Secretary and I assure you that we have every confidence in Mr. Fransen and his ability to provide helpful, friendly and courteous service to the members of the Craft.
All calls for Lodge Services / Registry and inquiries pertaining to the MORI System should be addressed to Mr. David Fransen, Monday through Friday between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM at (212) 337-6647, Toll-Free at 1(800) 362-7664 Extension # 647; E-mail at [email protected]; and Fax # (212) 463-7485.
In addition, RW Bro. Howard Bonsaing is available on a part-time basis to respond to your inquiries in the Lodge Services / Registry Department at (212) 337-6648, Toll-Free at 1(800) 362-7664 Extension # 648; and Fax # (212) 463-7485.
Our former employee, Mr. Andrew Beatrice, has accepted a position with another employer. I certainly join with the Grand Secretary in wishing him much success with his future endeavors.
Sincerely and fraternally,
Richard W. Bateman, GP Assistant Grand Secretary - Grand Lodge F & AM State of New York
Brethren in the New York City Metropolitan area:
We need a few good men ... urgently !
No, not to join the Marines, but to give a few hours of your valuable time to help in a very worthwhile Masonic Public Relations effort.
We need help in conducting tours of MASONIC HALL in New York City to members of the public and visiting Brethren from around the world. Specifically, each year in October, one of the most successful promotions to attract visitors to New York is held in the Big Apple ... it is appropriately called "OPEN HOUSE NEW YORK."
MASONIC HALL, home of our own Grand Lodge and one of the foremost architectural gems of the capitol city of the world is a featured attraction in New York City. In the past, when Masonic Hall was open for visitors on only the Saturday of Open House New York, we attracted more than 2,000 visitors.
We are asking for volunteers to help serve as tour guides. Please call for more information: 1-800-3MASON4 or (212) 337 - 6602. Ask for our Brother Jose Camacho, Chairman of Masonic Hall Tours.
Page 14 January 2007
Dear Brethren:
Happy New Year! I wish for each of you a healthy and prosperous 2007. Gail and I had an outstanding holiday that was spent with Gail’s dad, our two children and five grandchildren.
Special Event: As part of our 225th Anniversary activities, plans are being formulated for a “celebration of ritual.” RW Charles Bunton, the Metropolitan Region AGL, and the Assistant Grand Lecturers in the Metropolitan area are putting together a team to exemplify the Hiramic Legend of the Third Degree. The Grand Lodge auditorium has been reserved for February 24, 2007 for the exemplification of the drama section. Brothers will be able to observe the correct method of performing the drama ritual by some of the best ritualists in the State. As Lodges begin to put together the series of degrees for the spring, brethren will see how the drama should be done.
The auditorium will be open at 8:00 am with the drama set to begin at 8:30 am. Following the drama, members of the Scottish Rite from the mid-state region will perform the “December Rose” play – a play that shows the true meaning of Freemasonry. You will be moved by the lesson.
In between the drama of the third degree and the play, refreshments will be provided. Everything should be completed by noon. Everyone should put Feb. 24 on your calendar and plan on attending. The “celebration of ritual” will also be done in other areas in the State after we evaluate the success in the Metropolitan area.
Your Brother,
Grand Lecturer Conventions: January/February
January 29 2nd Erie February 14 Queens 15 1st Manhattan February 1 3rd Kings 16 4th Manhattan 7 10th Manhattan 20 Richmond 12 1st Kings 26 1st Nassau 27 5th Manhattan
Mission Statement: To provide training, education, assistance, and motivation to the officers and brothers in the District Lodges in order to optimize the learning of the Standard Work and Lectures.
The “R” in CCER=M Means RITUAL
Page 15 January 2007
Saturday, January 20, 2007 Tampa Luncheon - Scottish Rite Masonic Center - Monday, January 22, 2007 Sarasota Luncheon - Sahib Shrine Center Thursday, January 25, 2007 Orlando Luncheon - Bahia Shrine Center Friday, January 26, 2007 First Kings Lunch - Benevenuto Caterers - Boynton Beach, FL Saturday, January 27, 2007 Sixth Manhattan District Breakfast - West Palm Hilton Saturday, January 27, 2007 Lake Worth Luncheon - Scottish Rite Center 1/28-2/8/07 Grand Lodge 225th Anniversary Cruise Wednesday, February 14, 2007 Valentine's Day 2/16-21/07 Conference of Grand Masters of North America - Portland, OR Monday, February 19, 2007 Chinese New Year March 1 to 4, 2007 Royal Arch Masons Sessions - Albany, NY Friday, March 09, 2007 Consolidated Lodge No. 31 - 200th Anniversay - NYC Saturday March 10,2007 Grand Master's Regional Meeting Saturday, March 10, 2007 Consolidated Lodge No. 31 - 200th Anniversay - NYC Sunday, March 11, 2007 Metropolitan Region Interfaith Breakfast - Leonard's of Great Neck, NY Monday, March 12, 2007 Grand Master's Regional Meeting - Suffolk - Nassau Tuesday, March 13, 2007 Copernicus Lodge 3rd Degree - College Point, NY Saturday, March 17, 2007 DeMolay Grand Master's Class - Utica, NY Saturday, March 17, 2007 Orange-Rockland District Masonic Association Dinner Sunday, March 18, 2007 DeMolay Legion of Honor Observance Tuesday, March 20, 2007 Adah Chapter OES - Northport, NY Friday, March 23, 2007 International Order of Rainbowfor Girls Annual Convention - Fallsview Hotel Chancellor Robert R Livingston Masonic Library of Grand Lodge Dinner Dance – Sunday, March 25, 2007 Russo's on the Bay - Queens, NY Thursday, March 29, 2007 Feast of the Pascal Lamb - Valley of New York Friday, March 30, 2007 Brotherhood Night - Nur Temple - Delaware Saturday, March 31, 2007 Rochester Educational Session - Shrine Saturday, March 31, 2007 Oriental Shrine Potentate's Ball - Albany Sunday, April 01, 2007 Palm Sunday 4/2-4/07 Passover Eve and First Two Nites Sunday, April 08, 2007 Easter Sunday
C C E R = M
Page 16 January 2007
COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN TELEPHONE NO. EMAIL ADDRESS Awards * Gilbert J. Walter (315) 492-5743 [email protected] Brotherhood Fund * Robert D. Stack (516) 569-1951 masonic_brotherhood_fund@ yahoo.com Camp Turk Dennis A. Breheny (315) 724-2226 [email protected] Charters * Ralph Bailey (814) 368-9996 [email protected] Child Identification Charles P. Uhle (845) 226-8145 [email protected] Communications Umbrella Ronald J. Steiner (845) 354-4192 [email protected] Community Involvement Umbrella Clarence J. Eckhoff Jr. (315) 646-3564 [email protected] Community Service Jordan Kaplan (631) 730-5781 [email protected] Constitutions * Gary A. Henningsen (609) 409-1204 [email protected] Custodians of the Work * Richard Friedman (585) 425-1981 [email protected] DGM Advisory Committee Edward Gilbert (716) 822-2051 [email protected] Endowments * Ivan S. Obolensky (212) 861-4240 Finance * Alan J. Berk (212) 861-3012 [email protected] Fraternal Correspondence Gary A. Henningsen (609) 409-1204 [email protected] George Washington National Memorial Robert E. Freyer (516) 221-4039 Bernhard Nick (845) 365-4055 [email protected] George Washington Tappan ' C.F.' Bill' Maurer (201) 294-5503 [email protected] GL Educational Asst. Program H. Stephen Lieb (914) 723-4476 [email protected] Grand Lodge Convention Kurt Ott (845) 735-4557 [email protected] Historians George Peter (315) 364-8455 [email protected] Individual Development Course (iDC) Lawrence J. Hammel (718) 631-9816 [email protected] Law Enforcement * Martin A. Danoff (212) 982-7144 [email protected] Leadership & Education Services * Marino Cesarini (516) 741-6989 [email protected] Martin Kanter (732) 632-8229 [email protected] Lodge Renewal Task Force ' Chris Heberle (315) 656-8326 [email protected] Lodges and Buildings * Fred C. Fredrickson (518) 861-7013 [email protected] Long-Range Planning * Martin Kanter (732) 632-8229 [email protected] Masonic Benevolence Committee * Michael J. Mimozo (631) 586-7905 [email protected] Masonic Blood Donor Program Sheldon D. Stachel (718) 998-8569 [email protected] Masonic Brotherhood Foundation Bruce Widger (315) 673-9142 [email protected] Masonic Fellowship & Family Involvement Clayton ‘Skip’ Swain (518) 863-4694 [email protected] Masonic Hall Tours Jose J. Camacho (212) 337-6600 Masonic Home Activity George N. Wineberg (315) 429-8411 [email protected] Masonic Jurisprudence * Bruce Widger (315) 673-9142 [email protected] Don Vetal (315) 491-0960 Masonic University of NY (MUNY) ' George Peter (315) 364-8455 [email protected] Membership Bruce Chilton (585) 478-4631 [email protected] Mentoring Track Arthur P. Fisch (718) 237-0603 [email protected] Military OutReach Umbrella David Crawford (585) 482-0400 [email protected] National Foundation for Children (MSAT) Thomas M. McMullin (607) 748-6284 [email protected] Necrology * Herbert M. Groce, Jr. (973) 361-8816 [email protected] Online Newsletter Steven P. Koch (845) 702-7430 [email protected] Proctor Steven Rubin (212) 643-5402 [email protected] Public Relations Walter Gillis (914) 271-5309 [email protected] Publications Committee * Ronald N. Bower (716) 434-4946 [email protected] Related Organizations Edward Gilbert (716) 822-2051 [email protected] Restorations * Manuel Abad (631) 331-3256 [email protected] Technology Stu Card (315) 845-6249 [email protected] Unity * Daniel M. Semel (212) 628-5613 [email protected] Veterans Service Thomas M. Paglia (716) 227-2046 Youth Cary S. Cohn (516) 781-1157 [email protected]
Page 17 January 2007
Bro. Robert D. Stack masonic_brotherhood_fund@ yahoo.com
A short note to tell the Brothers that for the first time in a couple of years, the total amount contributed so far this year will be close to or at $500,000. Past history has shown that a figure like this can mean a Million Dollar campaign at the end on May 31, 2007.
Everyone please make an effort to see this happen by promoting the MBF at every opportunity. The $100 + crystal promotion will continue only until the end of this campaign. Thanks for all your anticipated contributions.
RW Robert D. Stack State Chairman
• 225th Anniversary Commemorative Crystal • Etched with Official Grand Lodge Seal • Dated 1781-2006 • Issued exclusively for contribution of $100.00 to Masonic Brotherhood Fund
In celebration of the 225th Anniversary of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, a special crystal commemorative, finely etched with our official Grand Lodge Seal and the dates 1781-2006 will be issued exclusively to those donors who give a contribution of $100.00 or more to the Masonic Brotherhood Fund during this landmark year.
Even if you cannot donate at this level, you have our heartfelt thanks for your support of any amount sent to help us reach our goals for Charity.
Page 18 January 2007 Bro. Ronald J. Steiner [email protected]
OK … how many New Year’s resolutions have you broken??
More importantly, how many resolutions have you kept up to this point?
I hope somewhere on your agenda is a resolve to help us communicate better.
As one of our early reader-subscribers to the electronic edition of our new New York Grand Lodge NETNEWS we might consider you a pioneer in computer technology … a Brother who is really with it and “gets it” when we talk about all of the new programs designed by Grand Lodge to reach our membership.
From my perspective, I think we have made great strides these past months, but frankly, we are looking for feedback from you. As the former Mayor of New York, Ed Koch, used to say, “How am I doing?” So, on behalf of our Communications Umbrella Committee … Steve Koch (no relation to “hiz honor”) of NETNEWS, Ron Bower of the ESM Magazine, Steve Zabriskie of ESM Advisory Team, Ted Pierce of Masonic News Network (MNN), and Walt Gillis and Donald Klein and Rob Leonard from our PR Committee … how are we doing? We’d really like to have your input and suggestions as to how we can communicate better.
One of the key jobs the Grand Master has laid out on our Trestleboard is really up to each and every Brother in our craft, but since you are still among the electronically elite as far as communications is concerned, my question today is directed to you:
How can we communicate more effectively?
Remember CCER=M
And that first “C” is communication.
The better we are at communicating our thoughts and ideals, our words and deeds, the better we will be in fulfilling the rest of the equation. Communication plus Community Involvement plus Education plus Ritual equals Membership.
Why not take the bull by the horns and sign on today as a Public Relations Liaison? We’d love to have you onboard.
Fraternally,
Ron Ron Steiner
Page 19 January 2007 Bro. Walter Gillis [email protected]
NEW YEARS RESOLUTION
I KNOW SOME OF YOU HAVE MADE NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS AND WILL TRY TO SEE THEM THRU TO REALITY, SO WHY NOT SOME FOR YOUR LODGE?
WHAT, YOU NEVER THOUGHT OF THAT, WHY NOT, IS IT WRONG FOR A MASTER TO ASK FOR NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS FOR HIS LODGE OR ITS MEMBERS.
CAN WE TRY TO ENRICH OUR RITUAL; CAN WE TRY TO INCREASE OUR ATTENDANCE; CAN WE TRY TO INCREASE OUR MEMBERSHIP; CAN WE TRY FOR BETTER COMMUNICATIONS; CAN WE TRY TO INVOLVE THE PUBLIC MORE;
IF YOU TAKE THE "CAN WE' AND REVERSE IT TO "WE CAN", YOU HAVE SOME RESOLUTIONS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS. AS JANUARY IS THE CONTACT MONTH WITH ALL YOUR BROTHERS REGARDING DUES AND THE BROTHERHOOD DRIVE, WHY NOT ASK THEM FOR SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO MAKE THE LODGE BETTER OR MORE RESPONSIVE. YOU MAY BE SURPRISED AT SOME OF THE ANSWERS YOU GET.
IN YOUR PLANNING FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR, HAVE YOU INCLUDED A "MEMBER HONOR NIGHT" WHERE YOU PAY TRIBUTE TO A LONG TIME MEMBER.
WHAT A GREAT STORY THIS WOULD MAKE FOR THE LOCAL PAPERS AND A GREAT REMEMBRANCE FOR A BROTHER WHO HAS ENJOYED HIS LODGE FOR YEARS. OF COURSE YOU WOULD MAKE THIS AN OPEN CELEBRATION AND INVITE HIS FAMILY AND THE PUBLIC TO ATTEND. WE HAVE A GREAT STORY TO TELL AND I WISH YOU SUCCESS IN YOUR PLANS FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR.
BEST REGARDS,
GRAND LODGE PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE
Dear Brethren:
Very Glad Tidings!! Eleanor and I have just received the news that our daughter Heidi has brought our fifth grandchild into the world this afternoon (January 10th). William Conner Dern weighed in at a healthy 8 pounds 10 ounces. Mother and child are doing fine.
Fraternally,
Richard Bateman
Page 20 January 2007
Bro. Charles P Uhle [email protected]
Is your Lodge/ District doing its part to protect our children?
I am sure you see the news and hear about the large number of kidnappings lately, many of which have had sad endings. We must keep doing our part to assist in the safe recovery of lost or missing children. At this time there are 32 - New Child ID Systems around the State. Grand Lodge has placed 18 – of them, 4 – in each Region. The rest are owned by Districts or Lodges. Some Districts own 2 or 3 systems. I would like to see every District purchase at least one system this year. I understand this is a big commitment for some Districts but that should not stop you, it could not be for a better cause. Please call me or e-mail me for any information you need I am always here to help. Home # 845-226-8145, or [email protected].
To the Lodges and/or Districts that have an effective Child ID Program I congratulate you. Using the new system some have exceeded their previous totals hats off to you keep up the good work.
Brother Don Elliott has been put in charge of the Training Program. He can be contacted at 607-692-3134 or [email protected] As of this article Don is in the Hospital in Florida and is under going an operation, please keep him in your prayers.
Brother Allen Bryant Committee Vice Chairman can be contacted while Brother Elliott is recovering. 518-365- 7137 or [email protected]
There have been a number of changes in the Program that effect the way the mini disks are ordered and the session reports are turned in. Check with your Regional Chairman to find out what they are. Or visit the web site at www.nychip.org
The Regional Chairman are; Joseph Keeler – Metropolitan, 718-833-0900, [email protected] Gary Bolstere – Hudson-Champlain, 518-260-0677, [email protected] Kenneth Bates – Mid State, 315-639-6110, [email protected] John Dwyer – Western, 716-434-0574, [email protected] Distribution Chairman; Gary Kettelle – 518-398-5427
Fraternally,
Charles P. Uhle -- State Child ID Chairman
Page 21 January 2007 Bro. Tim McMullin – Chairman [email protected]
December was another busy month for MSAT! The December 5-7, 2006 workshop was a great success. For the first time we held the workshop away from Utica, in Westchester County. The sessions were at the Hawthorne Cedar Knolls Junior and Senior High School. Educators from this school plus the Linden Middle and High school and the Abbott School also attended the three day workshop. Special thanks go out to RW Donald R Klein, for organizing and arranging for the workshop, and to Michael Holstein for taking photos of the event.
The program was attended by two Masons who wanted to attend and learn more. They are Richard Frenz and Glenn Rubin, who are from Long Island. These two Masons saw the power of the training and have gone back, equipped with knowledge, first hand experience with the training, and a desire to help Lodges and schools learn about the program. Look for a future training to be held on Long Island thanks to their efforts. If you read this, and would like to have one of them speak to your group, call me at 1 888-694-0511, and we can set something up.
By the way, Brothers, if you would like to learn more and have the time to pay a one day visit to Utica, why not take a day and visit. We can arrange to have you see the program in action, have lunch, and meet the trainers. January 29 starts the next three day workshop in Utica. Why not pay a visit and learn more? Just give a call to MSAT Chairman, Tim McMullin at 1 888 694 0511
I have received many phone calls over the past three months from Masons who have read about MSAT and want to learn more. You may want to relay this information to a school person whom you know.
1. View the video. To learn more about young people at risk and our program go to http://www.johnsonrauhoff.com/msap/mmsap_video.html and view the six minute video. This is a six minute overview, and it provides a great introduction to MSAT.
2. A one page overview of the program can be found by visiting www.nymasons.org/cms/msat There is much information about the program, the trainers, the research, what teachers have to say who have taken part...all good stuff.
Thanks, Brothers, for all that you do for young people in New York. We have the only program that research has shown to be effective in helping young people deal with problems that weren’t there when we were in school.
Help us help teachers help kids. Questions? Email Tim at [email protected] or call 1 888 694 0511
Tim McMullin, Chairman, New York Masonic Student Assistance Training (MSAT) Program Sponsored by the Grand Lodge of New York
In the past five years, more than one thousand New York educators have taken the three day training, and all expenses were paid by the Masonic Fraternity.
This student intervention program was developed by Newman and Stecher Associates more than twenty years ago, and MSAT has evolved into a comprehensive student assistance program for schools. MSAT emphasizes a systematic team approach to intervention to reach young people who are engaging in behaviors that put them “at risk.”
Remaining Workshop date for 2006-2007 are scheduled for March 27-29, 2007. For more information, including a registration form, visit www.nymasons.org/cms/msat.
Thank you for all that you do to make this world a better place.
Page 22 January 2007
Bro. Ira Cooperman [email protected]
NEED A PROGRAM FOR YOUR TRESTLEBOARD?
Angie Caiola, Director of Community Relations, Brother Rob Lauducci, and Brother Ira Cooperman, are eager to give a presentation at your Lodge. They will provide a very informative program regarding the health care options at the Masonic Care Community. All New York State Masons need to be informed of what services are available to them and their families.
Call toll-free, (800) 322-8826, or phone Rob Lauducci directly at (315) 798-4828, Ira Cooperman at (315) 798- 4703 or Angie Caiola (315) 798-4768 to schedule a program for your Lodge.
Visit your Campus!
Schedule a bus trip for your Lodge or for your District to the beautiful 400-acre Masonic Care Community campus in Utica. Receive a guided tour and learn what “continuum of care” means to the Fraternity. See the exquisite architecture of the buildings and the home-like atmosphere created where our residents live. Spend time with the residents from your Lodge or District at their home and receive an understanding of what this caring community means to them.
You’ll marvel at this breathtaking campus and the unique lifestyle that is now available for all brethren. Enjoy a specially prepared lunch (free of charge) at Acacia Village. Also, the bus transportation is provided by the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home (free of charge). Call Angie Caiola, Director of Community Relations at 800-322-8826 or (315) 798-4768 to reserve your bus trip. You’ll be glad you did!
…I know that charity is the distinguishing human virtue, and that personal community service is the best demonstration of one’s commitment to humanity; I acknowledge that words without deeds are meaningless, and I vow to help in the mission of the Craft to provide service to the community, and to promote charity, friendship, morality, harmony, integrity, fidelity and love. From the Masonic Compact
The second “C” in CCER=M Means
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Page 23 January 2007 Bro. Clayton “Skip” Swain [email protected]
Brothers All, How can it possibly be a new year already? Time has passed many of us by, if we have not been involved with our Masonic Brothers and the Lodges which need our support. Family Involvement should be in full swing at this time of the year. Cabin Fever has set in and most Brothers need an outlet. The lack of snow or the ability to ski is surely causing some of us stress which we need to release. Has your Lodge had its annual “Widows Night” as every Grand Master in the last 20 years has instructed us to do? Has the Fellowship and Family Involvement Committee in your district kept you informed of the projects and events that are available and you should be involved in? The Brother appointed by your District Deputy to guide and encourage each district can’t do it all himself. Why not get on the phone and see what you can do to help him get a program off the ground or suggest a program of your own. Teamwork is the key Brothers in any project.
The Brothers in the First Erie District have solved their “Cabin Fever”. They have taken the task of helping their Brothers and widows with minor repairs around their homes, they call it “Habitat for Our Masonic Family”. These are “Brothers helping Brothers” who have enlisted Brothers from all sections of the work force; a banker will help with bill paying problems, a Brother carpenter or plumber will do or supervise minor repairs needed to ensure a families security and safety. Brothers will paint and do upkeep maintenance as needed. A simple project of cleaning out an attic or spare room for a Brother or widow, who cannot move around as well as they could when younger, is a worth while project. Besides working at a Brothers’ home they make sure they take the time to socialize thus letting the person know he or she is remembered. At times other family members accompany the workers to also socialize and encourage good relationships. At the end of the work project the only payment expected is a “Thank You“, truly an act of charity in a brotherly way. What a great and simple project that can mean so much to an elderly Brother or a widow of a past Brother, Family Involvement at one of its brightest moments.
The goal of the Brothers who started this project is to get other Lodges within their district to establish “Habitat for Our Masonic Family”. Could this be a project that could catch on throughout the New York Grand Lodge Jurisdiction, of course it could and should. Contact your Fellowship and Family Involvement Committee chairperson and tell them you want to be involved. Don’t know who that is, contact your District Deputy.
Thanks to Brother Al Hoffman for this great Fellowship and Family Involvement report. A simple act of love and charity he took one step farther and we all can do. Do you have any news about your districts projects or good will? Send them to me and I will try to include it in a future NetNews article, till then have a great Masonic Day.
Fraternally, Clayton “Skip” Swain, State Chairman
…I know that friendship, fidelity and family are the foundations of a well-lived life; I therefore vow to be a faithful friend to my Brothers, as I expect my Lodge to respect my personal obligations and treat my family as though my family were their own.
From the Masonic Compact
Page 24 January 2007
Bro. George Peter [email protected]
The fourth of six iDC sessions was held on December 16.
The students continued to report that the skills they learned at the three previous sessions were put to use in their everyday lives and in their Masonic endeavors. These included: (1) Public Speaking – being at ease and presenting a more focused speech; (2) Mentoring brothers and Coaching/Empowering; (3) Running a meeting; (4) Decision Making and implementing the decision process; (5) Project Management; (6) Time Management and Scheduling – more effective use of their time; (7) Dealing With Difficult People and Negotiating With a Difficult Person; and (8) How to conduct a survey. Putting into practice what the students are learning is significant – MASONRY in ACTION. Based on many of the student assessment forms the program is a major success.
Once again, the ratings before and after the five session topics were discussed increased by 30% to 45%. The topics consisted of: (1) Data Analysis and Surveys; (2) Brainstorming and Problem Solving; (3) Project Management; (4) Social Marketing; and (5) The Group Process (Project Teams). A number of students continued to assume the role of facilitator during their team breakout discussions.
What the students liked best about session four: the group activity embodies the spirit of Masonry; team breakout participation; spirited group discussions; the sessions are building towards a meaningful conclusion; and I can’t wait until session five will be held on January 20.
Cordially & Fraternally,
The iDC Core TEAM
Please contact Larry Hammel during the day at (917) 545-5608 and (718) 631-9816 after 6:00 pm, or at [email protected], for information concerning next year’s course which will be open to our ladies.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><> Programs of Interest to All Masons by George Peter and Steve King
Brothers,
The good news is that we are starting to receive inquiries about the availability of speakers through the MUNY Speakers Bureau. Those of you who have been following the progress of your Grand Jurisdiction’s Masonic University know that there is a reservoir of talented and knowledgeable Brothers available with an interest in sharing topics of interest for Masons and non-Masons alike.
We have Brothers who are prepared to talk about anything and everything. Subjects touch on aspects of European Masonry, Masonry during the Civil War Period, various aspects of local Masonic history and a number of philosophic and esoteric talks that are suitable for tiled meetings.
Now we have presenters who are generally spread across the State. The number of Speakers Bureau presenters continues to grow, giving the possibility of an even more varied spectrum of program topics.
If you are trying to lessen the number of purely “business meetings,” if you would like to show off your Fraternity to the non-Masonic members of your community, or if you are just interested in giving the Brothers of your Lodge an evening of Masonic Education in the broadest and best sense, try the Speakers Bureau at [email protected]. If we don’t have a topic that specifically suits your needs, we will do our best to reach out to Masons in your area who have the talent and the topics to give your event the touch it needs.
Page 25 January 2007
Bro. George Peter [email protected]
Hello My Brothers, As Parade Chairman, I am charged with keeping track of the parades that are attended by the fraternity in this jurisdiction. The following are the parades that your Grand Lodge has listed for the coming year. If your parade has wrong or incomplete information, or is not listed at all, please contact me with your corrections. Your Grand Lodge will be putting their calendar together for next year in the upcoming weeks. I would like to get accurate and complete information as soon as possible so that Grand Lodge can be present for as many parades as their calendar allows them to be in. Thanks for your help in this matter.
Sincerely & Fraternally R∴W∴Roy Puckhaber, Parade Chairman
Parade Date Place Contact Person Norwegian Day 5-20-07 N.Y.C. Gary Solberg
Memorial Day 05-28-07 Waterloo David Locke
Memorial Day 05-28-07 Baldwin Chris Brunner
Flag Day Parade 06-?-07 Troy Rich Dzembo
Bergen Park Day 06-09-07 Genn-Wyom Dist Harry L. Tyson Festival Puerto Rican 06-10-07 N.Y.C. John Andrades, Jr
July 4th 07-04-07 Waterloo David Locke
Canal Fest 07-?-07 North Tonawanda Bruce Brand Steuben Day 09-15-07 N.Y.C. Wolfgang Schlichter
Columbus Day 10-08-07 N.Y.C. Roy Puckhaber
Veterans Day 11-11-07 N.Y.C. Patrick Gualtieri Executive Parade Director ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The reports from the L&ES Liaison Officers from throughout the State are in and I am happy to say the ROAD TO THE EAST COURSE and the MASONIC DEVELOPMENT COURSE is being or has been given in approximately 50% of the Districts. As of this report there have been 162 Brothers who have taken the RTTE and 166 Brothers have taken the MDC, a total of 328 over the past 6 months. Many Districts have programs already planned for the first part of 2007 and we hope that we will have even greater success. If you are interested in taking either the Road to the East or the Masonic Development Course contact the Grand Lodge Staff Officer in your District and ask him if and when he is planning to have these courses given. Page 26 January 2007
Bro. Dennis Breheny [email protected]
Camp Turk The Masonic Youth Camp
Is looking for a
General Counselors
Qualifications:
Minimum of 19 years of age plus one year of college.
Starting pay is $2,100.00 plus room, board & food. (One day off per week after the first week)
Dates for 2007 season:
Staff Orientation July 1, 2007 – July 8, 2007 Boy’s Encampment July 8, 2007 – July 28, 2007 Girl’s Encampment July 29, 2007 – August 18, 2007
Camp Turk is located in Woodgate, New York on over 1,500 acres of land including a private lake in the Adirondack Park Preserve.
Camp Turk offers a variety of camper activities including field sports, water sports, computers, arts & crafts, hiking, biking, drama, music, etc…
If you are interested in finding out more information, please give us a call at (315) 392-2081.
Check out our website at nymasons.us
Page 27 January 2007
Bro. Dennis Breheny [email protected]
Camp Turk The Masonic Youth Camp
Is looking for a
ARC Certified Lifeguards / Counselors
Qualifications:
Minimum of 19 years of age plus one year of college. American Red Cross Certification
Starting pay is $2,300.00 plus room, board & food. (One day off per week after the first week)
Dates for 2007 season:
Staff Orientation July 1, 2007 – July 8, 2007 Boy’s Encampment July 8, 2007 – July 28, 2007 Girl’s Encampment July 29, 2007 – August 18, 2007
Camp Turk is located in Woodgate, New York on over 1,500 acres of land including a private lake in the Adirondack Park Preserve.
Camp Turk offers a variety of camper activities including field sports, water sports, computers, arts & crafts, hiking, biking, drama, music, etc…
If you are interested in finding out more information, please give us a call at (315) 392-2081.
Check out our website at nymasons.us
Page 28 January 2007
Bro. Dennis Breheny [email protected]
Camp Turk The Masonic Youth Camp
Is looking for a
Registered Nurse or LPN
Qualifications:
Health Director Minimum of 25 years of age plus NYS license Minimum of 5 years experience & training in nursing and Admin. Assistant Health Director Minimum of 21years of age plus NYS license (Asst. Health Director) Minimum of one year experience & training in nursing and Admin.
Starting pay is $7,000.00 for an RN and $5,000.00 for an LPN plus room, board & food. (One day off per week after the first week)
Dates for 2007 season:
Staff Orientation July 1, 2007 – July 8, 2007 Boy’s Encampment July 8, 2007 – July 28, 2007 Girl’s Encampment July 29, 2007 – August 18, 2007
Camp Turk is located in Woodgate, New York on over 1,500 acres of land including a private lake in the Adirondack Park Preserve.
Camp Turk offers a variety of camper activities including field sports, water sports, computers, arts & crafts, hiking, biking, drama, music, etc…
If you are interested in finding out more information, please give us a call at (315) 392-2081.
Check out our website at nymasons.us
Page 29 January 2007
Page 30 January 2007
Martin Kanter [email protected] Chris Heberle [email protected]
Grand Lodge, Lodge Renewal Task Force
Our mission is to help you revitalize your Lodge to encourage new growth by working along side you and your members as you seek to make this a successful endeavor!
The program was first introduced at the April 1, 2006 training sessions; to date we have started working with one Lodge and we stand ready to assist as many Lodges as we can. The following explains our procedures and how to reach us.
We believe that every Lodge has the ability to survive and prosper. In fact every Lodge has the duty to spread its Light to its present and its future membership and its community.
The Task Force consists of eleven Brothers all of whom have firsthand experience in turning a Lodge around. As a team we are prepared to help as many Lodges that requests our help as our resources allow. The Task Force is practice, not theory!
This is not a free ride. It is very hard work to turn a Lodge around and in the end only the Lodge members themselves can renew and sustain their Lodge.
We will not go into a Lodge if we are not requested and we will not go into a Lodge without the full support of a Lodges leadership and membership. Also we will not get involved in the internal politics of a Lodge!
The requirements are as follows: 1. We must be invited. 2. The Lodge needs to demonstrate the viability of its meeting place and finances; or be prepared to create and follow a plan to this end. 3. We need the support of at least two active leaders of a Lodge. 4. These two Brothers need to be able and willing to work hard to renew their Lodge. Hard and consistent Labor is essential. 5. We expect any Lodges we help to commit to helping us help other Lodges in return.
The members of this team have been selected from all areas of the state and will have the knowledge of the problems you face in your geographic region. We are not miracle workers but we have the experience through past successes to assist in revitalizing your lodge.
Why are we doing this? It is what Brothers do who care!
Our core philosophy is that a Lodge needs to be place Brothers want to be. Excellent Ritual is essential. Programs are indispensable but the critical factor is that the Brothers of the Lodge value the time they spend with one and other. That they consider their time spent in Masonry and in particular the time spent in their Lodge and with the Brothers of their Lodge as the most rewarding time in their busy lives.
We can help you build this Brother to Brother bond, this Mystic Tie that is the foundation of every successful Lodge!
Please contact me at [email protected] or phone me at 908. 208. 5261. R W Martin L. Kanter, co-chairman
Page 31 January 2007
Bro. Ron Kamp [email protected]
The Legacy of Brother Clinton Clark By Ronald P. Kamp Director of Development and Communications
Clinton Clark joined the Masonic Fraternity as a member of Warren Lodge 147 at the age of 21 in 1928. He was a Master Mason who served with loyalty, honor and distinction for 76 years and was elected Worshipful Master of Warren Lodge in 1938. He conducted his business and professional life the same way having a keen sense of duty and always sought to aid his fellow man. For these reason and many more, Clinton gained and maintained the admiration, esteem and affection of his Brethren, friends, neighbors and business associates at large.
Although Brother Clark retired in 1967 after owning and operating Clark Oil Company for 31 years in Auburn, he never forgot his fellowman. He traveled the world and made numerous yearly donations to many worthwhile organizations. His legacy is as broad as it is deep and we are the better for it.
I remember first meeting Worshipful Clark at a Laboratory Endowment and Action Fund (LEAF) dinner at Wells College, Aurora, NY in 1990. Brother Clark had recently made a significant gift to the MMRL which was recognized on The Raymond C. Ellis Tree of Humanity. During the course of our conversation, he mentioned that he had never been to an affair where the Grand Master was present. I asked him if he would like to meet him and his eyes glistened. I took him by the arm and escorted him right up to then Grand Master Roswell T. Swits. It was a cherished meeting that neither Brother Clinton nor I ever forgot.
Up until the day he died, Worshipful Clark made annual gifts for scientific equipment to the MMRL. Clinton remembered that grant money no longer covered the cost for equipment and that scientists needed state-of- the art equipment to conduct novel research. Quiet and unassuming is the way I remember the man. Always there when you needed him but with little fanfare.
On November 28, 2004 Clinton died in Florida. His great-nephew, Paul Schenck and I were working to bring him to the Masonic Care Community but unfortunately his health was poor and he was too frail for the journey. He died at age 97 having lived a full and rich life. The Fraternity and Laboratory lost a true Mason and a gentle gentlemen but that is not the end of the story as Paul Harvey would say.
Several months later, Paul contacted me to say that he was the executor of his great uncle Clinton’s estate and that the MMRL was a beneficiary along with the Shrine Children’s Hospitals. One last time Clinton made another gesture of compassion and benevolence for his fellow man. His concern for the welfare of humanity, no doubt, was inculcated by his strong belief in the principles and tenets of Freemasonry.
I am honored to have known this gentleman and Brother. His bequest of $1.9 million, one of the largest legacies the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory has received gives meaning and purpose as to who he was and what Freemasonry meant to him.
Medical research saves lives and legacies such as this help to ensure the future health and well-being of society. God bless you Worshipful Brother Clinton Clark for you have bequeathed a lasting legacy for generations to come.
To learn more about Planned Giving or how to include a bequest in your Will for the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory, please contact the Development Office on our toll free line at 1-888-888-6675.
Page 32 January 2007
Bro. Ron Kamp [email protected]
Antzelevitch Delivers Keynote Lecture
Dr. Charles Antzelevitch, MMRL Executive Director recently delivered the 17th annual keynote Gordon K. Moe Lecture at the international Cardiac Electrophysiology Society annual meeting in Chicago this past November. His topic was Heterogeneity and Cardiac Arrhythmias: An Overview.
Dr. Antzelevitch has earned international recognition for his research into cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and the electrical heterogeneity within the heart. It wasn’t long ago that scientists everywhere regarded the ventricular myocardium (muscle of the main pumping chambers of the heart) as homogeneous both with respect to electrical activity and contractility. Research by Antzelevitch and his team was the first to show that ventricular myocardium was not homogeneous, but consisted of three principal cell types, known as epicardium, endocardium and a unique population of cells in the interior of the ventricular wall that he discovered and named M cells. This novel finding has led to the understanding of the various waves in the electrocardiogram (ECG) as well as to an understanding of the mechanisms responsible for life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms. These finding have also been instrumental in identifying drugs that can prevent arrhythmias as well as drugs that can cause them and lead to sudden cardiac death.
The retrospect of ground-breaking cardiac electrophysiology research will cover the many scientific developments and discoveries pioneered over the last fifteen years by Dr. Antzelevitch and his talented team of investigators.
The Cardiac Electrophysiology Society (CES) is an international society of basic and clinical scientists and physicians interested in cardiac electrophysiology and arrhythmias. The society meets once a year on the day proceeding the annual scientific sessions of the American Heart Association. The day is devoted to presentations by leading experts in areas of research representing the cutting edge of new developments.
MMRL Scientists Present at AHA Meeting
Dr. Charles Antzelevitch, MMRL Executive Director and Director of and members of the scientific staff announced a landmark discovery at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association in Chicago this past November.
Dr. Antzelevitch will be presenting a talk regarding a new clinical entity responsible for Sudden Cardiac Death at the “Late Breaking Abstract Session”. The syndrome is caused by mutations in the cardiac calcium channels of the heart. The malfunctioning genes called CACNA1C and CACNB2b are responsible for an electrical imbalance that results in a potentially fatal heart rhythm.
The new clinical entity is a combination of two distinct clinical sudden death syndromes, Brugada and Short QT syndromes, whose genetic basis was previously identified at the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory. The mutations in the two calcium channel genes lead to a high risk of sudden cardiac death due to recirculating electrical activity within the heart.
Dr. Antzelevitch will describe the ion channel defects produced by three different mutations in these genes found in three families with a family history of sudden cardiac death. Dr. Guido Pollevick will also present a poster at the AHA meeting regarding additional aspects of this exciting discovery.
Page 33 January 2007
Bro. Ron Kamp [email protected]
MMRL Collaborating on Safety Test for Cardiac Drugs
Gene Network Sciences (GNS) has recently been awarded a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research Grant (SBIR) from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The three-year, $1.6 million grant will be used to further develop VisualHeart, the company’s cardiac modeling software platform.
Dr. Charles Antzelevitch and his Experimental Cardiology team at the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory (MMRL) are collaborators in the grant proposal. Central to the GNS methodology is the combination of experimental data and computational methods. The MMRL together with Cornell University will provide the experimental data necessary to validate the computer software, known as VisualHeart, developed by GNS.
By quantifying a drug’s effect on ion channels, action potential and electrocardiogram (ECG) data provided by the MMRL and Cornell, GNS hopes to be able to generate pro-arrhythmic markers. The cardiac modeling software will then incorporate the research data on a drug’s effect at the molecular/ion channel level into a computer/mathematical simulation of cardiac electrical activity to determine pro-arrhythmic markers and mechanism of action. The technology is designed to improve risk assessment of new drug candidates in clinical trials by simulating a drug’s effect on the ECG, including the long QT index.
Eugene D. Schmidt Mourned
The MMRL family and friends were saddened by the death of Past Board President Eugene D. Schmidt this past October. Gene was a devoted member of our Board of Directors since 1984 and served as President from 2000 to 2003. His love of the Laboratory and of our Fraternity was boundless, as was our love of him.
Gene retired in 1996 as plant engineer manager for Fred M. Velepec Company, Inc. His military service was with the United States Army as an Ordinance Instructor at Aberdeen Proving grounds in Maryland. Right Worshipful Schmidt served as District Deputy Grand Master in 1976-77. He was a recipient of the coveted Charles Henry Johnson Medal of the Grand Lodge of New York.
We will miss his always positive “can do” approach to difficult problems and his always cogent advice. He always carried a smile on his face and was a constant source of encouragement. Gene contributed importantly to positioning the MMRL to meet the challenges that lie ahead. His legacy will live on for years to come.
Gene is survived by his wife, Marion, son Eric and daughter-in-law Monica and grandson, Spencer.
Page 34 January 2007
It is with deep sorrow that we receive the news of the death this morning of Mrs. Concetta Eterno, the mother of Nina Quarequio and mother-in-law of RW Joseph A. Quarequio, Grand Treasurer. She passed away quietly in her sleep at her home near Port Jefferson, Long Island.
Mrs. Concetta Eterno will be waked on Wednesday, January 17th from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM until 9:00 PM at the Krauss Funeral Home located at 1097 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square, NY. The funeral will be held on Thursday morning. The telephone number for Krauss Funeral Home is (516) 352-2080.
Sympathy and Mass Cards may be sent to:
Joseph & Nina Quarequio 786 Caryl Street Franklin Square, NY 11010-3321 E-mail: [email protected]
We express our sincere condolences to Joe and Nina and will keep them in our prayers during this difficult time.
It is my sad duty to inform you that W William C. Hopkinson passed last night. Bro. Hopkinson was Master of Smithtown lodge in 1983. His Brother Donald called me this afternoon to request a Masonic funeral. Bro. Donald was also Master of Smithtown Lodge, 1990.
The Masonic funeral was held on Thursday 12/21/06 at 8pm
We are sad to report the passing of Sister Merion Isabel Landel. She was a member of Lockport Chapter 73 Order of the Eastern Star and also a member of Amaranth Chapter 145. Mrs. Landen had three sons and seven grandchildren. James Jr. was a member of Lockport Lodge 73 , her grandson is Wor. Kevin Gaskill of Lockport Lodge 73. Cards of Condolence may be sent to Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Gaskill, 4035 Purdy Rd., Lockport, NY 14094
W Joe Cesare Past Master of Garibaldi Lodge # 542 was admitted to San Francis Hospital for quadruple heart bypass. The procedure is to be done tomorrow morning. May the GAOTU guide the hands of the operating team and the operation to be 100% successful, and our Brother can recover soon. Please keep our Brother in your prayers.
Illustrious Peter Samiec, 33º Active Member of Supreme Council, had a total hip replacement on Jan 4. The physical therapy people had him up and walking the next day. If you would like to send him a card, his address is: 139 Bieniek Drive, Fort Johnson, NY 12070-1658.
RW William H. Mueller, Past Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of New York and Past President of the Trustees of the Masonic Hall & Home is expected home from the hospital today, Thursday Jan. 11th. He has successfully had his pacemaker installed and wants to rest for a few days before receiving any telephone calls from the Brothers. Let's keep this "Mason's Mason" in our future thoughts and cheer him up, with a call over the week end.
RW Brother Jack Malfatti, Past Grand Marshal is very seriously ill. He served as the Grand Marshal for MW Bro. Gary A. Henningsen, PGM and PGS. Get well cards and letters may be sent to Jack at the following e-mail and snail mail addresses: [email protected] or 2419 Pinyon Court Kissimee, FL 34746-3645
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The Brothers & officers of True Craftsman's Lodge #651 would like to invite you, your friends & families to join us for the celebration of the next Chinese New Year. The Year of the Boar.
Date: February 9, 2007 Time: Cash Bar - 6:30 PM, Dinner - 7:30 PM. Location: Golden Bridge Restaurant, 50 Bowery, NYC, 10013 Cost: $60 each, $550 per table (seats 10)
Upon receiving your payment, we will send you the tickets. Deadline is on January 31, 2007, there will be no tickets sell at the door.
Hope to see you there.
Sincerely & Fraternally, Tommy Lam
718-259-5511 646-706-1218 (Cell)
Brothers,
February 4th is Super Bowl Sunday.
More importantly it is also the date for Schenevus Valley Lodge's annual chili contest.
Brothers and family are invited to our Family Room to help judge the chili entries ... watch the Super Bowl on a big screen ... sample the chili entries ... from the best (mine) to the worst (I'll be kind and not mention his name) ... and enjoy great fellowship.
Brothers from all Lodges are welcome to bring a chili entry or just come and take part in the fun.
Dennis
Charles L. Holmes - Secretary Schenevus Valley Lodge 82 Main Street Schenevus, NY 12155 (607)-397-8109
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George Washington's Birthday Celebration The annual celebration of the birthday of our nation's first President and a revered Freemason, George Washington, will be held at the George Washington National Historic Site in Tappan, NY, the landmark De Wint House, on Sunday, February 18th, at 2:00 p.m. All Masons, their family members and friends are cordially invited to attend.
The speaker is W. Cary Eberly and he will present a talk entitled “And They Followed Washington.” Painter Greg Valentine and Mr. Eberly have created, researched and combined their talents to render a painting of George Washington based upon a 1787 Charles Wilson Peale original. Surrounding General Washington are eleven smaller portraits based on newly discovered daguerreotypes made in the 1840s and even of some soldiers who lived into the Civil War period. These heretofore undiscovered images are essentially photographs of actual soldiers who served in the Continental Army.
The George Washington Birthday celebration and program is free. Light refreshments will be served. Prior to the ceremonies on the grounds of the George Washington Headquarters site there will be a Dutch treat brunch at the nearby Old ’76 House Restaurant on Main Street, open to all, at 11:30 a.m. with a cost about $25.00.
For further information, please contact: C.F. William Maurer III [email protected] (Bill Maurer)
201 - 391 – 1631
ORANGE-ROCKLAND DISTRICT MASONIC ASSOCIATION (ORDMA) ANNUAL DINNER DANCE
The 2007 annual ORDMA Dinner Dance will be held on Saturday March 17th at Anthony's Pier Nine in New Windsor. The evening will feature a full cocktail hour, dinner, live music, and dancing is only $55 per person. Ticket price has been supplemented with income from journal ads to make it easier for people to attend. Profits from the affair support ORDMA's charitable projects which include the Masonic Child ID program. An enjoyable evening is promised.
For more information on tickets or ads, please contact Wor. Bob Morlang or Bro. John Gebbia
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MASONIC NIGHT AT THE METROPOLITAN OPERA Mozart's Die Zauberflote (The Magic Flute) Hosted by the Brother's of St. John's Lodge No.1 A.Y.M., F&A.M.
Saturday 8:00pm (sharp), February 24, 2007 30 Lincoln Center Plaza New York NY
Questions should be directed to Conor Moran at [email protected] or 518.281.8873
The cost for the evening will be $120 ($124 if paying by credit card) and can be purchased by sending the full amount online using PAYPAL (www.paypal.com) to [email protected] by Sunday, January 14, 2007
To help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the highly influential composer and Masonic brother, the brothers of St. John’s Lodge #1 will be sponsoring a night out at the Metropolitan Opera.
Please join us for an evening at one of the world’s finest opera houses.
State Fresh Water Fishing Contest
The results of the State Fresh Water Fishing contest are in and here are the winners: In the Masonic Division Brother Warren Johnson of Chaumont, NY took first place in the Large Mouth Bass division with a catch weighing in at 3lbs, a length of 18” and a girth of 12”.
Brother Doug Russell of Liverpool, NY caught a 36” Fresh Water Salmon weighing 20½ lbs, girth of 20¼”. Brother Russell also caught an 8lb Steelhead measuring 28” long and a 28½” Lake Trout weighing 9½ lbs.
In the Family Division Alan Schwartz of Clay, NY caught a Northern Pike weighing 6lbs, 2ozs, a length of 31” and a girth of 11½”.
The Fellowship Committee congratulates these men and encourages all Brothers who are fisherman to get involved and submit your catch; hey you never know, you just might win.
Page 38 January 2007
Brethren:
All Masons and Gentlemen Friends are invited and encouraged to attend the 30th Annual Brother Robert Burns Supper, hosted by Scotia Lodge No. 634 on Thursday, January 25, 2007.
The gala festivities will take place at 8:00 PM in Banquet Room 2-West on the Second Floor of the Masonic Hall, 71 West 23rd Street, New York, NY.
The $30.00 per person admission includes:
Full traditional Scottish Dinner of Steak Pie, Peas, Neeps, and homemade Haggis. Plus a wee dram of Scottish Spirits, Coffee and Shortbread. The Haggis is made in strict observance of an old family recipe brought from across the pond by our own R:.W:. Andrew Marshall.
The evening will include Piping in the Haggis, a theatrical rendition of Robert Burn's poem "The Address to the Haggis" and "Tam O'Shante"; the reading of Burn's biographical history and lore; and singing of Auld Lang Syne; and other Scottish niceties.
Dress is business casual. Wear your best tweed and tartan tie. Highland dress is very much welcomed and admired.
Reply to [email protected] to reserve your ticket today!
Knickerbocker Chapter #13 National Sojourners, Inc. Elects Officers for 2007 Looks to Expand Chapters throughout NYS
National Sojourners local New York Chapter of Masons who have served as Commissioned and NCOs in the military forces of the United States has elected its Officers for 2007. Major (RW) CF William Maurer, III was elected President; Capt (RW) Ron Steiner was elected Secretary-Treasurer; Capt. (RW) Arthur Fisch was elected First Vice-President, Capt (RW) Eugene Erickson was appointed Second Vice President and (RW) Ed Kolb was elected Commander of the local Hero's of '76. Elections and installation of officers took place at a recent luncheon at the historic Old '76 House in Tappan. The Most Worshipful Neal I. Bidnick was elected and installed as an Honorary Member of Knickerbocker Chapter No 13, National Sojourners, Inc.
In his keynote address to the Chapter, Grand Master Bidnick called for renewed support for American military forces and for veterans and asked the National Sojourners and Masonic War Veterans to expand their membership and chapters servicing military and veterans throughout the Empire State.
Knickerbocker Chapter pledge to do so.
All interested Veterans and members of the Armed Forces are invited to participate in the next Sojourner luncheon meeting scheduled as part of a Washington's Birthday Celebration on Sunday, February 17th at 1130 hours at the Old '76 House Restaurant in Tappan. For further information, contact:
C.F. William Maurer III [email protected] (Bill Maurer) 201 - 391 - 1631
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Page 40 January 2007