SPRING 2021

Joint New Years Message Prince Hall Grand Lodge and Grand Lodge of New York From the Grand East MW WILLIAM M. SARDONE Grand Master 212/337-6643 [email protected]

y Brothers, I know you all saw the cover and said, “Not Session. I do see some loosening for 10% in stadiums—with a again! A sideways issue?” The last time I did that I got negative 72-hour rapid test. It is a step and I feel we are getting Myour attention. But this issue’s cover did not have enough closer. room unless we published this way. While Lodges have been utilizing the newly discovered It highlights our strong relationship and friendship with the virtual world of meeting, we do not have the technical reach Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York. MW Walter C. King to allow all eligible voting members to interact in a virtual and I have more than a relationship, we have a friendship. We Grand Lodge Session at this time. Many members do not have share the same issues and we also share the same solutions. Internet, are on old technology from carriers, etc. In addition, We partner wherever possible. That partnership brought us our Constitution does not have the provisions needed at this together for this picture. We recorded a joint message for the time. new year and our wishes for good health and a safe conclusion “At this time” is the key emphasis. The Deputy Grand to this pandemic. Members of our Grand Lines came together Master is assembling a team to provide potential alternatives in a socially distant evening of brotherhood. Joining us from for consideration for our Constitution. This is more than the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York were: changing our Constitution to say, “Let’s go virtual.” It needs MW Walter C. King, Jr., Grand Master to work. Right now it would be like giving someone a car with RW Gregory R. Smith, Jr., Deputy Grand Master no engine. It may look nice but goes nowhere. I continue to RW Darren M. Morton, Senior Grand Warden interact with our internal IT team as well as external sources RW Jean E. Apollon, Sr., Junior Grand Warden for better options. RW Aubrey L. Moore, District Deputy Grand Master At-Large A lot of airtime and attention has been given to this Worshipful Master Herbert Hardwick, Doric Lodge 53 Grand Lodge meeting. We will be able to comply with our Constitution which will allow all Lodges to move forward Joining me from the Grand Lodge of New York were: with their normal elections and installations in June. RW Oscar Alleyne, Junior Grand Warden RW Richard Schulz, Grand Secretary That last paragraph is probably the most important one. RW Scott Peat, Grand Standard Bearer Focusing on the health and progress of our Lodges is always RW David Menegon, Senior Grand Deacon at the top of my list. It is more than making sure buildings RW Anthony Adamo, Grand Tiler have security or dispensations are given in less than an hour RW Nathan Lipper, Trustee of the Masonic Hall and Home as opposed to weeks. It is the phone calls and emails I receive RW George Filippidis, from the Masters, members and District Deputies with local Trustee of the Masonic Hall and Home concerns. These are concerns that we collectively find solutions for. My continued thanks go to the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home for their support and arrangements at the Masonic So what is next? (Deep breath.) We are watching the Care New Rochelle facilities. How many times have you heard vaccinations roll out. We watch the estimates of when enough me say, “Masonry Never Stops!”? Don’t answer that. The fact of the population will receive it. We watch the different strains of the matter is, we really don’t stop. that are appearing. We keep watching. Having personally beat COVID and pneumonia, I have learned more than my TV We know constraints from the Government and health tells me. And still there are questions. authorities have limited our ability to meet in person but that does not stop our desire, passion and implementation of So what really is next? I am hoping Government restrictions what we do best. We are helping others with food drives, coat will allow safe gatherings in numbers that will permit all of collections or just making a phone call. This issue highlights us to take advantage of the nice weather that is ahead; take some of the outreach you are participating in. advantage in meetings, fundraising, charitable support and more. We all will know how COVID continues to impact our ability to gather in large numbers. As the Governor announces While we are innovative and creative, we also need to be the various zone color changes, we adapt to those changes. patient. That means in Masonry and our in daily life. I am Lodges and associated bodies and organizations have been proud of you. Stay safe. You are the reason Masonry Never given the option of meeting in numbers that adhere to these Stops. zone colors with social distancing and room capacity. This has reinvigorated our membership inductions as I continue to see Lodges with backloads of five to twenty-five and more now moving forward. But as I write this, the Governor has not approved gatherings large enough to have a Grand Lodge 2 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS Volume 70 / Number 1 / SPRING 2021

SPRING 2021 Officers and Committees: From the Grand East 2 Deputy Grand Master 4 Junior Grand Warden 6

Joint New Years Message Grand Treasurer 7 Prince Hall Grand Lodge and Grand Lodge of New York Grand Secretary 8 Award Committee 15 Masonic Care Community 16-19 COVER: Joint New Years Message International Order of the Rainbow Girls of NY 20 Prince Hall Grand Lodge New York DeMolay 21 and Masonic Youth Committee 22 Grand Lodge of New York Grand Lodge Educational Assistance Program 23 For more information Masonic Medical Research Institute 24-25 about the cover, read the article Years of Service 26-28 ‘From the Grand East’ From the Webmaster 29 page 2 Grand Lecturer 30 Articles Deadline and Submission Guidelines 31

TRUSTEES OF THE MASONIC HALL AND ASYLUM FUND Publisher The Empire State Mason is an Official Publication of the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund. Edited by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York for the members of the Masonic Fraternity and their families.

CONSULTANTS POSTMASTER: WILLIAM M. SARDONE richard j. kessler steven adam rubin Please send address changes to: Grand Master – Editor in Chief Deputy Grand Master Grand Treasurer The Empire State Mason Circulation Department JOAN C. BOWER charles m. roberts richard t. schulz 71 West 23rd Street Assistant Editor Senior Grand Warden Grand Secretary NY NY 10010-4149 Periodicals Class Publication 56874 elquemedo oscar alleyne LORAINE DIBLEY 1-(800) 362-7664 Junior Grand Warden Graphic Designer Website at www.nymasons.org Subscription $6.00 Domestic $15.00 Foreign per year. Subscription free to all members of constituent Lodges of the Grand Lodge F. & A.M. State of New York. Copyright ©2021 by the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund. All rights reserved. Reproduction by recognized Masonic organizations is permitted with credit. All others must obtain written permission. Published quarterly in Spring Summer Fall and Winter months by the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund 71 West 23rd Street NY NY 10010-4149. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON (ISSN 0013-6794 Published at 71 West 23rd Street NY NY 10010-4149). Periodicals postage paid at New York NY and additional mailing offices. Deputy Grand Master RW RICHARD J. KESSLER Deputy Grand Master [email protected]

rethren, I believe that as we continue to live in the turbulent Through these teachings we discover the importance of environment of the coronavirus we must continue to draw compassion for our fellow man and to serve God, Country Bon that which first drew us to our gentle Craft. While it is easy and our Community. to succumb to all the negativity that bombards us on a daily We must always go through life with strength and love and basis, we must continue to search for the positivity that has ever remember that we are all a part of the Fellowship of man also presented itself. By the time this article is read, we should under the Fatherhood of God. We also need to remember that be well into having life-saving vaccines being administered the purpose of a Lodge is to provide candidates and initiates to the general population. This will bring us much closer to with the beauty and mysteries of our Craft. During this returning to a sphere of normalcy. While being held captive pandemic, we have been severely handicapped in our approach and unable to assemble in person, New York Freemasonry has to each other but we need to persevere and to cultivate, continued to evolve. nurture and produce productive Masons. We must lay the Many innovative strides in communicating with our foundations during this period of abstinence so that when Brothers have been developed during this pandemic, which we are able to assume meeting in person in a robust manner will greatly add to our proficiency in training the jurisdiction. we will be able to create an atmosphere that will encourage a These enhancements not only provide much-needed training motivated membership willing, through education, training for our future leadership but also improve much-needed and ritual, to be highly functioning members of the Lodge assistance to our every member. They provide Lodges with and assume leadership roles. The simple concepts and goals detailed plans that will help with organizational, management of Freemasonry apply as much in today’s world as they did and leadership skills. in our grandparents’ generation and they’re certainly needed The Leadership and Education Committee has been hard at every bit as much now as they ever were: work during this prohibition from person-to-person contact. • Making good men better: After weeding out men found Many courses are being established or reworked and will be unworthy of being called Brother, Freemasonry concentrates directed and made available to all Brothers to assist in their on candidates through a process of education, esoterism, personal growth and development. Leadership, management, ritual and leadership training. esoteric, ritualistic and communication skills will be stressed, • Building confidence: The Lodge lets men bond with a allowing for more efficient and competent leaders. Lessons small group of other men from all walks of life and get to learned during these sessions will be transferable to the know them on an individual basis. Performing the ritual Brother’s personal and professional pursuits and successes. ceremonies gives members confidence and experience Let’s review some of the basics of Freemasonry, which, speaking in public, along with connecting them to traditions while being tested during this pandemic, have withstood that go back a thousand years. this turbulent era. Our core values allowed us to endure. As • Fostering Brotherly Love: Freemasonry’s ceremonies join Freemasons we are members of the world’s oldest secular society men from diverse backgrounds and from all over the world which is dedicated to a moral and ethical approach to life. We through common experiences shared in the Lodge room. come from all faiths and backgrounds with a central belief in Freemasonry brings together men who might otherwise a Supreme Being. We insist that each member must follow a never have met, and it cuts across all social, economic, racial, moral and ethical approach to life. These core values include religious and political lines. thoughtfulness for others, benevolence in one’s community, honesty and integrity in all facets of life and fairness in all • Offering relief: Freemasonry encourages its members to dealings. As Freemasons we are urged to regard the needs of take a greater part in the community. It inspires Masons our family. Family in this instance is not just limited to our to volunteer, to donate, and to become engaged in their nuclear family, but also all of mankind. neighborhoods, places of worship and governments. During this time of quasi-isolation we need to reacquaint • Searching for truth: Lodges are not places of worship and ourselves with the foundations of our Craft. Our task is Lodge meetings and rituals are not intended as a substitute to promote a way of life that binds like-minded men and for going to church, temple or mosque. Freemasonry does reinforces our connection in a Brotherhood that transcends encourage its members to take more-active roles in their all religious, ethnic and cultural differences, socioeconomics, religious communities. race, creed and color. Through our ritual, a system of legends • Providing timeless principles: The principles of Masonry and allegories, we teach the importance of Brotherly Love, are simple. Reduced to their most basic level, Masonry Relief and Truth. Never have these principles been more provides its members with a place to go for a while to escape important to the viability and the betterment of the Fraternity. Continues onto page 5 – Deputy Grand Master 4 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 Telethon 2020

ecember 8, 2020 saw your Grand Lodge host a second New Rochelle and more. And we had two individuals share LIVE telethon. We kept all broadcast abilities in-house their stories of how your Brotherhood Fund assisted them in Dand thanks to RW Ed Bartels, Brother Kevin Bartels and Cathie their time of need. Bartels, we were able to telecast from the Mooney Center at The entire event: socially distant! And take a look at the Masonic Care New Rochelle. This was a team effort between audience. Who said we couldn’t have over 100 in attendance? RW Scott Peat, RW Nathan Lipper, RW David Menegon and As you can see, we had a nice showing of support. RW George Filippidis to build, set up staging, backdrops and arrange for a surprise visit from the elusive silver monolith Why have a telethon? Well, there is no question that the that was once in Utah and now moved on. Thanks go to the COVID situation has caused a drought in Masonic events. Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home for your support. This was one way of reinforcing awareness that Masonry Never Stops. There was a separate room for those answering the phones. Another room was set for a live interview with RW Steve King. You called and emailed to support the many Masonic There were prior interviews from the MCC, MMRI, Trustees, charities. Once again, New York Grand Lodge is on the map Round Lake, Horticultural Center in Utica, Greenhouse in being innovative and creative. Thank you for your support.

Continued from page 4 – Deputy Grand Master Freemasonry is to promote a way of life that binds like-minded the strife and struggle of the outside world, leaving the most men in a worldwide Brotherhood that transcends all religious, contentious topics between men outside its Lodge room ethnic, cultural, social and educational differences. It teaches doors. the great principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. It Freemasonry has always changed to accommodate the demonstrates the outward expression of these through its needs of its members throughout its history, while retaining fellowship, its compassion and its concern, to find ways to its character, forms and overall philosophy. The Mission of serve God, family, country, neighbor and self. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 5 JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN RW E. Oscar Alleyne Junior Grand Warden [email protected]

Our Masonic Code of Life

e desire to turn the corner on what has been a totally asks you for advice on a subject you do not overwhelming and compelling experience of the last know well, humbly admit your ignorance. year.W Our Masonic principles serve as a beacon of strength and Never stoop to telling lies, backbiting or hope for better things to come, reminding us that Freemasonry slander. If you hear malicious gossip about is an important foundation stone in our civil society. Yet we someone, do not support it by lending a are human and there are moments where we pause and voice willing ear. concerns about where we go from here, how we will survive Respect the laws of your country and endeavor to be a good and what’s next and are we still relevant. citizen. Always remember, the key to human progress lies in Despite the trials and tribulations around us, the evolution of consciousness. Be human and regard all as always consider life as the most precious gift the your family. Beyond race, culture and belief, all human beings Great Architect of the Universe has ever granted are brothers and sisters. As a result, they all deserve the same human beings. It is the medium of our spiritual respect and consideration. We are to do good unto all. evolution and the source of the light and happiness Be and remain a free thinker. Think for yourself and not we seek. Our Masonic Code of Life teaches that the according to what other people think. Likewise, let everyone aim of all human beings is to perfect themselves, think freely; do not impose your ideas on others and always to become better persons. So if you can find a few quiet remember that your ideas are also evolving. Respect all religious moments for yourself every day, try to send thoughts of love, or philosophical beliefs, as long as they do not strike a blow at harmony and health towards humanity as a whole and to all human dignity. Do not support fanaticism or fundamentalism those who are suffering physically or mentally. Also, ask our in any shape or form. As you live your faith, make sure that Great Architect to assist them and protect them as much as you are neither dogmatic nor sectarian. possible from the ordeals of life. Be faithful to your promises and commitments. When you Behave in such a way that all those who share your existence give your word of honor, always consider it to be a sacred or who live in contact with you look to you as an example pledge that binds you. Although it is possible to deceive and feel a desire to be like you. Guided by the voice of your others, no one can escape Divine Justice. conscience, may your ethics be as pure as possible and may your first preoccupation always be to think well, speak well Make yourself available to preserve and present Masonry’s and act well. Be tolerant and defend the right to be different. ideals and philosophy to those who seek Knowledge, but Never use your judgment to blame or condemn anyone, for without ever trying to coerce them. Never cause anyone to you cannot read the hearts and souls of others. Look at them believe that members of the Craft are all sages who are in with benevolence and focus on what is best in them. full possession of the Truth. To those who may ask, present yourself as a thoughtful person who is seeking Wisdom. Be generous towards those who are in need or less fortunate than you. Try to arrange things every day so that you do at In the evening before going to sleep, least one good deed for someone else. Whatever your good summarize the day that is ending deed, do not boast but thank our Great Architect for enabling and see in what ways it has been you to contribute to the well-being of others. For every human constructive or otherwise. In your being has a claim upon your kind offices. soul and mind, weigh what you have thought, said and done throughout Be moderate in your behavior and where possible, avoid the glory and beauty of the day. From this draw useful lessons extremes in all things. Be temperate and follow the middle for your spiritual evolution and make firm resolutions. When way as circumstances best dictate. If you hold a position of this is done, send positive thoughts to the whole of humanity power, do not be overly proud about it and do not become and entrust your soul to our Great Architect before going to intoxicated by the power you think you may wield. Never sleep. use your position to force others to do anything that they disapprove of or that is unfair, illegal, or immoral. Hold your For us to improve ourselves in Masonry we must be the very office with humility and ensure to serve the common good. thing that we want our Craft to embody. Perhaps by relying on our Masonic Code of Life we can find simple, insightful and Be attuned to others and speak with care. If you ever practical ways to accomplish that goal. criticize, make sure that it is done constructively. If someone 6 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 Grand Treasurer RW steven adam rubin, Grand Treasurer 212/643-5402 [email protected]

y Brothers, as I write this article in January for the spring of each Worshipful Master, Warden or Proxy. The question is Empire State Mason, its publication will represent the always asked, who is Grand Lodge? Too often, our Brothers Mconclusion of another Masonic year. It was a most challenging think it is merely the Grand Master and the rest of the elected year, as we all have missed our daily, as well as our Masonic, and appointed Line. Wrong. It is you. Yes, Grand Lodge is routines. Upon reflection, we would be remiss not to remember the elected and appointed Grand Line, but also each District those men and Masons and loved ones whom we lost due to Deputy, Staff Officer, Permanent and Committee Member the pandemic, as well as the many challenges, financial and and every Lodge represented. You comprise that powerful otherwise, that have accompanied these difficult days. body. Yet, I remain as optimist today as I did on the first day I Three years ago I had the opportunity to speak before a was Raised. For I continue to witness that generous spirit of Lodge shortly before Grand Lodge Session. I was disappointed brotherhood that I witnessed that first day: Brother helping to learn that since the Secretary did not read/summarize the Brother and in service to all. We should take pride in all we Call Letter to the Lodge, and the Worshipful Master did have done for each other and our communities, especially not seek discussion on its contents, both the Worshipful during the darkest days of the pandemic. While a profane Master and the Brothers from this Lodge were ill informed would look upon these actions as extraordinary, to a Master as to the significant decisions required to be made at Grand Mason these are merely the fulfillment of our Obligations. For Lodge. What an opportunity lost! Indeed, the Call Letter does this is who we are, this is what we do. not merely advise who are the Candidates for Office or the My Brothers, I have been blessed with many honors during contents of any proposed Constitutional Amendment or any the twenty-four years I have been a Master Mason, from Promulgated Decision, important information in its own right, serving three times as Worshipful Master to my appointment but it also provides the opportunity and the time limit for and re-appointment as Proctor and Judge Advocate by six any Brother—any Brother—to propose an item for the Grand Grand Masters over the span of twelve years. But next to my Lodge agenda. While it is still the Grand Master’s agenda and son’s Initiation and his anticipated Raising once the pandemic not every proposal may be called, this is nevertheless your is lifted, my service to you as Grand Treasurer has been the right and opportunity to request. So, take the time to read highlight. It has truly been my honor to serve you and I thank and understand the contents of the Call Letter. Take the time you for your brotherhood and support. to address its contents in Lodge or your Lodge’s Zoom call. Whether Grand Lodge will be in person or virtual there will be It is also because of these Grand Lodge Offices, my active a Grand Lodge Session, as our Constitutions mandate nothing participation in my Lodge, and my extensive travel around our less. Whether in person or not, attend Grand Lodge with an Jurisdiction that I have garnered a most unique perspective understanding of the significance your decisions will have for of our successes and the challenges remaining before us the direction and future of our Craft. That is your duty. institutionally and Masonically. Few truly know the multitude and magnitude of issues that develop within our Grand Lastly, my Brothers, while it has been my honor to serve Jurisdiction on a daily, let alone monthly or yearly basis. That you as Grand Treasurer, the real joy has been simply visiting is why we must harness our most precious Masonic resource— with you at your Square Clubs, your Lodges and Districts, our brethren—to find real solutions to these challenges. We your holiday parties, Charity Galas, Anniversary Celebrations, can no longer rely upon the few to find the answers for all. Octoberfests/Traubenfests, Festive Boards, Table Lodges and We must engage every Brother, from every Lodge and every breakfast meetings these past several years. Certainly not the Region, as we identify, formulate and implement real long- same, I have also enjoyed visiting with you during many of your term solutions. We can no longer be afraid to have this Zoom calls or seeing your faces and hearing your thoughtful conversation—barely above a whisper. questions during the many Zoom meetings I have held as part of my Buildings and Lodges 101 Series, Historical Lectures As this will be the last publication before Grand Lodge and Virtual Burns Night. I thank you for your friendship and Session, let me make some final observations and a request brotherly love.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 7 Grand Secretary RW richard t. Schulz Grand Secretary Masonic Hall 71 West 23rd Street New York NY 10010 212/337-6644 [email protected]

pring has finally arrived. This winter was the culmination of the COVID darkness that began about a year ago. With Sthe arrival of the vaccines we can hope for a happier social, familial and Masonic outlook as the year progresses. Regarding Masonry, we continue to meet in small physical or virtual groups, to recognize the accomplishments of our Brother Masons with various awards and certificates, and to make an impact in our local communities (with food drives and other charitable endeavors). At Grand Lodge we continue to receive and process inquiries. The Office of the Grand Secretary has soldiered on through the pandemic. As with many businesses, we converted to a virtual office to some degree. From mid-March to late-June we were unable to physically access the office, per the Governor’s personnel, the customer service we provide and efficiency of orders. Once we were able to return to the office we began our office procedures. This past year saw a number of virtual a schedule that was part work-from-home (WFH) and part meetings billed as “Nights with the Grand Secretary.” I believe in-the-office. This allowed us to catch up on Service Award these were very helpful to those attending online but I know and Certificate orders and process the Certificates of Election I haven’t reached all Lodge Secretaries. More meetings will (COE) that resulted from Lodge elections. We eliminated the be scheduled and I encourage you to sign up when they are requirement for Lodge Secretaries to request Dimit, Clearance announced. or Good Standing paper forms from the office, making them Over the course of the last year I’ve had the occasion to available digitally from a web portal accessible from the Grand be part of special events. These are occasions such as the Secretary’s Page on the Grand Lodge website. We add forms presentation of the Wendell K. Walker Award; or a Certificate and documents on a monthly basis. If you’re a Lodge Secretary of Appreciation; or Lodge Service Awards to old friends; or or a District Deputy Grand Master or a Grand Lodge Officer the video with the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge and you’d like access, send me an email and I’ll give you the at year-end. A special event for me as Grand Secretary was password. presenting our Grand Master with his fifty-year anniversary The changes that I began to implement in 2018 proved pin, certificate and apron in his office. These and other crucial once the pandemic hit us. They allowed us to adapt special heartwarming activities are among the most fulfilling to the full lockdown more smoothly. Similarly, our new responsibilities of being Grand Secretary. permanent dues cards relieved us of the burden of printing In closing, I know we all hope for a return to the normalcy 30,000 new paper dues cards in the middle of the second wave that has escaped us thus far. May Masonry remain a light for lockdown. you in your daily life, a light that continues to bring warmth, Despite the current pandemic situation, I am adhering to hope and optimism in the upcoming spring and summer the principle of Continuous Improvement as our long-term months. office goal, primarily in the areas of the talents and skills of our

8 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 GM Receives Fifty-Year Award rand Secretary Richard Schulz presents the Grand Master, MW William Sardone, with his Gfifty-year Masonic Service Pin, Certificate and Apron in the Grand Master’s Office.

Sixty-Year Award Lessing Lodge Awards he Grand Secretary, RW Richard Schulz (center), is pictured with RW Werner Kniesel (left) and W Jack TRohan (right) of Lessing Lodge 608. RW Brother Kniesel, Past Trustee of the MCC and Past Grand Treasurer, poses with the Wendell K. Walker Award. W Jack Rohan, Junior Past Master of Lessing Lodge 608, shows off with a Certificate of Appreciation for his two-year term as Master.

Frederick Garttner Jr. sits with his dad, W Frederick Garttner Sr. Brother Fred Sr. received his sixty-year MasonicW Service Award and apron from Queensboro Lodge 892.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 9

Jacques de Molay Lodge U.D. Celebrates Frank S. Land Memorial Day

acques de Molay Lodge U.D. had their eleventh stated have the opportunity to associate with other boys, a place they communication on November 7, 2020. The Saturday event could share common interests, learn responsibility and other wasJ held at the French Doric Room in the Masonic Hall on skills that would benefit them throughout their lives. Thus, 71 West 23rd Street, New York City. There was a total of fifteen the Order of DeMolay was born. “Dad” Land eventually gave Master Masons and two Fellowcrafts in attendance, including up his Scottish Rite job to focus full-time on DeMolay in Assistant Grand Lecturer VW Joe Belarmino. 1922. The stated meeting was significant for the Lodge—composed “Dad” Land was the recipient of numerous awards and of Senior DeMolays, DeMolay Advisors and supporters of honors. Among the most notable: he was coroneted a 33rd DeMolay—because it was the eve of November 8, which is Degree Scottish Rite Mason in 1925; received the first Gold Frank S. Land Memorial Day. This is an obligatory day for all Service Medal from the General Grand Chapter of the York Rite DeMolays that celebrates the death anniversary of Brother and for work in Humanities in 1951; and received the Grand Cross “Dad” Frank S. Land, the founder of the Order of DeMolay. of the Southern Masonic Jurisdiction in 1955 (an additional rd The evening’s Masonic education focused on “Dad” Land, honorarium given to 33 Degree Masons). However, the title specifically on his Masonic history. The lecture gave a brief he was most fond of was the title of “Dad” given to him by background of “Dad” Land’s early life and eventual entry millions of young men of the Order of DeMolay. into Freemasonry at Ivanhoe Lodge No. 446 AF&AM, under Shortly before “Dad” Land passed on November 8, 1959, the Grand Lodge of Missouri. “Dad” Land realized that when he was advised by his doctor to slow down his frenetic Freemasonry was his passion and he began to involve himself pace, he is said to have responded with, “My work must go in the appendant bodies. Particular attention was given to on. DeMolay must go on.” With Jacques de Molay Lodge’s his activity in the Scottish Rite where, in the course of his raison d’être of lending support to our Masonic Youth Groups involvement in the organization’s relief efforts to needy Kansas within the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the State of City families, he became concerned with the problems of boys New York—the Order of DeMolay, International Order of who had lost their father. He thought, “How lonely it must be the Rainbow for Girls and the Organization of Triangles, for a boy not to have a man to talk with, or a man to provide Inc.—the Lodge continues to honor the memory and legacy some type of inspiration and direction.” of Brother and “Dad” Frank S. Land, and ensures that his It was when he met Louis Lower in March 1919 that he put work will go on. into action his ideas for an organization where boys would

Members of Jacques de Molay Lodge U.D., during their 11th Stated Communication on November 7, 2020.

10 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 Gosh! Goshen Lodge Lobbying for continues support! Good Thoughts he Lobby of Masonic Hall and the roof were busy places during the holiday season. Airspace was cleared for TSanta to land and have a conversation with an Elf; but more importantly, he spoke to some of the children who Zoomed in to listen. We arranged for a replay and all enjoyed. How did we manage to have reindeer land on the roof? Well, they had an air about them.

e were not able to have our three annual events: the Masonic Toys For Tots Foundation 501(c)(3) Gala BallW Fundraiser; the children’s party for patients at New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical, Children’s Cancer & Blood Foundation; or the children’s party at Masonic Hall. RW George Filippidis, Trustee of the Masonic Hall and Home, spearheads this program each year. But we didn’t take the COVID-confinement as an excuse to walk away from giving toys to children and making our annual financial donations to children’s charities. Because this has been a difficult year for everyone, and there have been so many appeals for help and donations, I have been reluctant to send multiple emails and broadcast the need for contributions. But Goshen Lodge came to Masonic Hall in NYC with toys and checks, which helped provide happiness. Even from a distance.

Seventy-Year Award

W George Blasch, Trustee Emeritus of the Masonic Care Community and Past District Deputy Grand RMaster from Queensboro Lodge 892, is honored with his seventy-year Masonic Service Award and apron.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 11 Connetquot Lodge 838 Celebrates Masonic Anniversaries

n Monday, October 12, 2020 Connetquot Lodge 838 in apron. OSayville presented anniversary pins and aprons to several We thank these Brothers for their dedication and continued Brothers in attendance who had achieved various Masonic service to the Craft. Several other Brothers who either live milestones. W Brother Arthur Hall, Chaplain at Connetquot, out of state or were unable to attend due to the pandemic received his ten-year anniversary pin, while RW Brother restrictions received pins and aprons by mail, as well. Richard Frenz, Connetquot’s Secretary, and Brother John J. Sayers, Jr. each received their fifty-year anniversary pin and

(l-r) W John Donato; (l-r) Brother John J. Sayers,Jr.; (l-r) RW Richard Frenz; W Brother Arthur Hall W John Donato W John Donato

Girl Scout Rewarded

dvance Service Mizpah 586 presented Miss Farah Pavri Awith a Gold Award Girl Scout certificate and pin.

12 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 Lego Masonic Cathedral

o add a little competition to the 2020 Telethon we asked for members to build the best Masonic Cathedral. From TLego’s. This was also open to our Masonic Youth Groups. Votes were cast during the Telethon. But more than that, we were all pleasantly surprised with the entries, the details, the work and the fun for all of us. Thanks go to RW Eric Jacobs from Herder Lodge. These are just a few of the pictures, in addition to a video that was sent. The unbelievable detail includes sanitizers. The runner-up, from DeMolay, was Austin Altman. Great work by all—very impressive.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 13 Operation Helping Hand

n November 14, 2020 Jose Rizal Lodge 1172, Fourth The goal was to raise funds for fifty turkeys but the Lodge Manhattan District, donated ninety-one turkeys to the ended up raising far more than that. The funds surpassed OBergenfield, NJ Food Bank. The successful Lodge project, the goal and ninety-one families from Bergenfield, NJ had a under the leadership of Worshipful Master Rico Montero, turkey for Thanksgiving. Bergenfield’s Mayor, Brother Arvin was dubbed “Operation Helping Hand.” It was accomplished Amatorio, a member of Jose Rizal Lodge 1172, expressed through the efforts of its members and the project chairman, thanks on behalf of the residents and the recipients. Brother Emmanuel Hidalgo.

Rebirth of Atholl any of you remember Atholl through Yahoo groups. It was actually a step up from an Mearlier email version that RW Richard Bateman had on AOL (remember those CDs?). Well, Yahoo Groups was closed down by Verizon on December 15, 2020. Thanks to the internal efforts of the Grand Secretary’s office, we now have a new Atholl. This is driven through our internal network. I like to say, Atholl 2.0. It is the same as before. Sign up at NYMASONS. ORG and post. It is moderated and your event—a new baby, etc.—can circulate to all who signed up. Oh, the address is: ATHOLL@NYMASONS. ORG. Enjoy. 14 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 Awards Committee RW GEORGE R. WACOB Chairman 631/838-7508 (C) [email protected]

Committee Ratifies 50 DSAs

he Awards Committee received a total of fifty-six within a short period of nominees approved to receive awards. recommendations for the Dedicated Service Award for This year there was a more than 500% increase in Jacob Tthe year of 2021. Twenty-five were received from the Metro Morton Awards, showing the extraordinary efforts by Masons Region, eight from the Hudson-Champlain Region, thirteen throughout the State during this pandemic. were received from the Mid-State Region and ten came from This year the Grand Master approved a Jacob Morton the Western Region. Fifty were ratified, of whom thirty-six are Award Chest Medallion to be presented to the recipients. Past Masters. Six did not meet the criteria. It was a resounding success, as the percentage increase of All recipients and their Lodge Secretary were notified in recipients shows. This may be purchased at a cost of $20 by January by the Grand Secretary. The DDGMs were notified the Lodge Secretary from Lodge Services. It is also available to of the recipients in their District by the committee. The Lodge past recipients of the award, under the same provisions as for Secretaries were also notified of those who were rejected. The the DSA medal. committee will be accepting 2022 DSA Recommendation Please take note of the Awards Committee’s webpage Forms in September 2021. Letters and 2022 forms will be on the Grand Lodge website: http://nymasons.org/2016/ sent to Lodge Secretaries in late August 2021. committees-departments-programs/awards-committee/. This The DSA Chest Medallion will continue to be included page will give you information, requirements and forms for in the DSA package purchased through Lodge Services. The the various awards. DSA Chest Medallion is also available for past DSA recipients I would like to thank the Awards Committee team for for the purchase price of $20, plus tax and shipping. The the time and efforts they have put into examining all of the medallion must be ordered through the Lodge Secretary. recommendations and fairly determining who will receive the The Community Service Awards (DeWitt Clinton, Jacob awards. The Metropolitan Region is served by RW Gregory Morton and Grand Lodge Certificate of Excellence in Noulas and RW Joseph T. Entler. In the Mid-State Region Service to the Community) have no cutoff date and will be are RW Thomas L. Jenison and W Alfred W. Fergerson. RW processed as they are received. This year seventeen DeWitt Charles E. Knapp Jr. and RW Robert L. Hogan Jr. represent Clinton Awards, thirty-eight Jacob Morton Awards and one the Hudson-Champlain Region and the Western Region has Grand Lodge Certificate of Excellence were approved by the RW William H. Greene and RW Douglas D. Airth. committee. The Lodge Secretary and DDGM will be notified Allen Celebrates Sixty Years W David G. Allen was recently presented with his sixty- year Masonic Service Certificate, apron and pin by District RDeputy Grand Master RW William J. Edwards. RW Allen was Raised a Master Mason at Webster Lodge on June 2, 1960. He was Worshipful Master of Webster Lodge 538 in 1967. For 1996 and 1997 he was the Grand Sword Bearer of the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, serving the St. Lawrence District. He is presently the organist for Webster Lodge, playing at meetings and Degrees. David has been an active member of South Macedon Volunteer Fire Department for many years. We congratulate RW Allen on his many years of dedicated service to the Craft.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 15 Masonic Care Community RW G. stephen getman, President Board of Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund 315/894-5692 [email protected]

s the Trustees welcome 2021, one major project remains At the present time, Acacia Certified and Acacia Licensed to complete the first phase of the updated Master Plan Home Care Agencies use the west wing of the building for forA the Masonic Care Community in Utica. That is the offices. The home care agencies will be moving into the renovation of the former Administration Building, which will Library Annex building as soon as renovations to that building once again become a centerpiece for the campus. For some are complete. time this building has needed substantial work. The heating Heartfelt thanks go to Right Worshipful Steve King, President and air conditioning systems are so old they are hard to repair of the Library Trustees, and Worshipful Dan Williams for the because parts are not readily available. The exterior white countless hours they spent preparing the Library items in the marble surfaces resist attempts to keep them clean. Pieces of Annex building to be moved to new locations, including New the parapet around the roof of the building are crumbling. Rochelle and Masonic Hall on Genesee Street in Utica. One As discussions about repairs were coming to a decision goal of the renovations is to have a venue where our Masonic point, the Trustees were also embarking on a major update history can be displayed for a wider audience. of the Master Plan for the Masonic Care Community. It was After the Acacia Agencies complete their move, work can determined that what made the most sense was to consider begin. The Administration Building will become a Masonic the future use of this building before making costly repairs to Community Center. There will continue to be space for both simply continue use of the building as it is. During the Master tiled and Masonic meetings. There will be improvements in Planning process, one option considered was the demolition layout and equipment to enhance the use of the building as a of the existing building. training and education center. Our plan is to build dining and After a thorough review by the engineers and architects kitchen areas on the ground floor to provide a more attractive from SFCS, it was determined that the bones of the building and larger dining venue. We expect to be able to seat up to 400 are good. Not only is the structure sound, but also the location for indoor dining. on the campus is so strategic that this building should once again become a centerpiece on the MCC campus. It was on May 1, 1893, on the site of the current Administration Building, that Brother James Borden, of Greenwich Lodge 467, first took up residence in the original Administration Building with his wife Margaret. Over the next seventy-one years the Masonic Home and School, as it was then named, saw the construction of new buildings better suited for housing the children, Masons, wives and widows who came to live there. By the 1960s, only the first floor of that first Administration Building was being used. In 1964 the Trustees decided to raze the building and erect a modern, one-story building. Once decided, work proceeded quickly. Ground was broken on May 1, 1965 and the cornerstone was laid on June 19, 1965 and the new building was dedicated one year later. The present plans are to use geothermal energy for heating and air conditioning. Test borings have confirmed that this technology can be used for the renovated building. Although the initial costs of such a system are greater than conventional systems, there are long-term energy cost savings. Visits to local institutions which have been using these systems for many years confirm their suitability not only for air conditioning, but also heating during cold Central New York winters. The well field can be installed in areas covered by parking or green space. Work will start later this spring. Major work is expected to be completed before St. John’s Day in 2022 so that this historic ground can once again become a focal point for fraternal activity and outreach at the Masonic Care Community. 16 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 Masonic Care Community RW Rob Raffle Executive Director Masonic Care Community of New York 315/798-4882 [email protected]

t the time of this writing, I am very pleased to announce of additional homes in the future. Athat the first round of COVID-19 vaccinations has taken Significant progress has been made in the Robert R place at Masonic Care Community! The administration of Livingston Masonic Library and Museum, relocating Masonic this vaccine to our residents and staff has been long awaited, historical items and memorabilia to locations across campus and marks a day that represents real hope for the people who so they can be more widely seen by our residents, visitors live and work here. The first round began on December 21, and employees. To that end, items from the Museum have 2020. been moved to the Masonic Community at New Rochelle so As we look back on 2020 and what we have been through visitors to that campus may also have an opportunity to see and all that we have weathered, it is easy to be overwhelmed. many of the historical items associated with the great work It will likely take time for all of us to process this past year, the and rich history of the Masonic Fraternity. impact it had and will continue to have in the years to come. We are very excited to be finalizing construction on the new As will be the case for so many, MCC will have additional Horticulture Center. In 2021 we hope to welcome not only challenges in the wake of the pandemic. This includes a smaller our residents and community but also the Fraternity to come census, as the number of residents in our Health Pavilion and to visit the Center. We are very fortunate to be able to house Wiley Hall has declined. Understandably, new admissions to this truly unique asset for the benefit of our community, the nursing homes and senior care facilities everywhere have been Masonic Fraternity and most importantly, our residents. down in 2020 because of the virus. In addition, admissions for We are also looking forward to continuing our work on rehabilitative services were also significantly reduced this past the redevelopment of the Administration Building here on year, and this area of MCC programming represents a large our campus. Built-in the 1960s, the Administration Building source of revenue for the organization. Looking forward, we will undergo needed changes, including new technology and hope to regain ground in both residential and rehabilitative heating and cooling systems. The construction plans also service admissions as a vaccine becomes more readily available, include redevelopment and updates to the current auditorium and when the campus is more accessible again to new residents, space, as well as the construction of a new café and food service resident families and the community. area. This project will help to better support campus events for In the midst of the challenges we faced in 2020, we also the Masonic Fraternity as well as the community. had successes. We introduced “The Neighborhoods at Acacia I would like to extend my appreciation to my Brother Village” and sixteen beautiful new homes as an additional Masons and the Masonic Fraternity for your commitment and living option for seniors to live independently. To date, nearly support of the Masonic Care Community during our time of fifty percent of our Garden Homes and Waterside Cottages need and into the future. We continue to be able to execute have been rented. The successful rental of these properties will our mission because of you. help guide us as we evaluate the construction and development

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 17 Masonic Care Community MARA MULLIGAN Director of Strategic Marketing and Philanthropy 315/798-4703 [email protected]

Our MCC Heroes

hough the Masonic Care Community has been in What the MCC employees have done required something existence for 127 years, 2020 will be remembered as a year tremendous. It required courage. Courage to suit up and show Tlike no other. The virus changed everything, and it seemed up when the virus was spreading and surging, as senior care to happen overnight; the way we communicated, celebrated, facilities around the world like ours were being hard hit by traveled and worked. Everything changed. the pandemic. Courage to don masks and personal protective Yet the Masonic Care Community rallied. We adapted equipment to maintain infection control protocols. In addition and changed in response. Through temperature checks and to the courage to care for our COVID-positive residents who employee screenings, through masking and social distancing, needed them most. through testing and gowning, gloving and hand washing, we adapted. Through long nights, early mornings and double shifts, the employees at the Masonic Care Community have done it all, and we will be forever grateful for our staff and the work they have done. Throughout the pandemic, their passion for caring for others and their tremendous compassion never wavered. Even in the face of fear and isolation, of anxiety and worry, our team was able to create happiness, friendships, laughter and inspiration for our residents and each other. Through Zoom and Skype calls, pumpkin decorating and Halloween costumes, bike rides, and gardening outside, the MCC staff were there for our residents when their family could not be. Continues onto page 21 – Our MCC Heroes

18 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 Masonic Care Community CHRISTINA BIEKSZA Director, Wiley Hall Masonic Care Community of New York 315/798-4849 [email protected]

s the Director of Wiley Hall, every day I see firsthand what our residents so that they may continue to lead purposeful a special place it is and how we provide a wonderful home and meaningful lives. While we have had to adjust our andA community for people who need a little extra assistance in community calendar in response to the challenging days with life. At Wiley Hall, we provide residential adult care for people the virus, we certainly look forward to brighter days ahead as with moderate healthcare needs. we ready ourselves for the COVID-19 vaccine. As an Adult Named after the great William J. Wiley, a 33rd Degree Mason Care Facility, we care for individuals who continue to lead and the first Superintendent of the Masonic Home from 1906 very independent and mobile lives. Whether we are riding our to 1945, our goal is to make life stimulating and rewarding two-seat bicycle across the campus or dancing to music during for those people who choose to make Wiley Hall their home. happy hour, developing relationships with residents has been We offer both single and double rooms and can house up to the most meaningful part of my job as the Director for Wiley eighty independent seniors. Our building was designed to Hall. provide a sense of community. We provide daily meals and The care team at Wiley Hall is an amazing group of personal care services. The facility includes an exercise room individuals who help residents in so many ways, from preparing with special fitness equipment, a game room with a full-size medications, helping them travel to doctor appointments, billiard table and a spacious craft room for people to explore ensuring adequate nutritional intake to providing emotional and be creative. Each wing of the building has a community support during adjustment periods and beyond. room with a full refrigerator, microwave and television, and As potential residents takes the decision to move onto the laundry is available on each floor. Residents can do their own Masonic Care Community campus, our care team is set up laundry, or we have staff available to assist them. to support them through the entire process. A key element is Our activity room provides a wide variety of activities to building strong relationships with our residents as well as their keep residents engaged and fulfilled. Residents can gather to family members. Wiley Hall quickly becomes an extension of play cards, board games or watch a show on a wall-mounted your family and we support and watch out for each other—as big screen. Our community life leader hosts jewelry-making we have done to navigate these challenging times during the classes, manicures and baking in the full kitchen. Wiley Hall pandemic. We celebrate together on birthdays, anniversaries has a screened-in gazebo in the back yard, complete with and holidays and we support and comfort each other during Adirondack chairs. Comfortable rocking chairs on the front times of loss and hurt. At Wiley Hall, we continue the Masonic porch let guests enjoy the warmer months in upstate New York. tradition of caring for others in need as we provide a special What has always been special about life at Wiley Hall is the place for seniors to continue to live purposeful and fulfilling wide array of daily activities and programs that we provide to lives. Couple Recognized t the November 18 meeting of the Ismailia Legion of Honor, Bob and Jane Graham were recognized forA their contributions to the WNY VALOR Food Pantry (which was founded by Noble Paul Rudnicki). The presentation was filmed and appeared on Spectrum News that evening. A big thank-you goes to Bob and Jane Graham for supporting local veterans, the Legion of Honor and the Ismailia Shrine. 1st Lt. Cmdr. Bill Paton, of the VVA Chapter No. 77 (second from the left) presents national, state and local awards to Bob and Jane. The Grahams made over $6200-worth of masks, sold them at the Hamburg Farmers Market and donated all of the proceeds to the WNY VALOR Food Pantry. The Food Pantry was able not only to restock the shelves, but also to leverage the funds to secure additional donations.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 19 International Order of the Rainbow for Girls in New York

Ariana Altman Grand Faith and Grand Lecturer

hat do you think of when you see a Rainbow? This In Rainbow the apron can be recognized as a representation of past year in particular, the beauty and symbolism of our Masonic fathers and its significance to any member of the theW rainbow can bring even deeper meaning and significance IORG is because we know how much the Lambskin Apron as the promise that the troubles of today will surely pass means to a Mason and can be interpreted as the tie that binds and bring fresh beginnings. But hopefully, you also think us together. of the thousands of young ladies of the International Order One concept both Masons and Rainbow Girls have in of the Rainbow for Girls who have been an integral part of common is the sense of pride, appreciation and respect for one your Masonic family since 1922, and the contributions they another. The Masons are the ones who founded the IORG; make in bringing love through service to their families and meanwhile, Rainbow girls love to come out and help serve at communities. Within Freemasonry and Rainbow there are a Masonic dinners and other events. We support and encourage unique set of traditions, rules, members and specific symbols one another. which represent various lessons that our organizations strive to teach us. While these symbols might be different for each Beyond this, the delivery of our ritualistic work is similar. organization, the overall lessons and significance of our While the words on the pages of our rituals speak to the organizations are similar. message verbatim, it is always more about understanding and meaningful delivery of our ritualistic words than it is about In Rainbow (IORG), we believe that each color of the rainbow reciting them word perfect. When members of both Masonry represents a virtue that is significant for a girl’s meaningful and Rainbow are able to convey a story and get the meaning journey throughout life. In this we see love, religion, nature, across because they truly believe in and understand what immortality, fidelity, patriotism and service. Specifically, red they are saying, then they are exemplifying the meanings and symbolizes energy, confidence and love. Orange symbolizes lessons of our order perfectly, even if some of the words are off. optimism, friendship and good communication. Yellow symbolizes original thought, inquisitiveness and creativity. So, after reading all of this, I am going to ask you one more Green symbolizes growth, harmony and hope. Blue symbolizes time: What do you think of when you see a Rainbow? devotion, wisdom, loyalty and trust. Indigo symbolizes intuition, integrity and idealism. Lastly, violet symbolizes inspiration, imagination and spirituality. These seven values can be subjectively interpreted and applied not only to what a person does but also to whom she grows into as a person. Along with this, Faith, Hope and Charity are the three crucial elements of life that the IORG International Order really emphasizes in its ritualistic and non-ritualistic work. In of the Rainbow for Girls in NY an IORG initiation, having faith is what furnishes the initiate Mrs. Gale Gould the courage and trust to pass through the journey of learning Supreme Inspector in NY about these ten elements. In Masonry, there is a similar 35 Maple Street concept of passing through various Degrees, which require Auburn New York 13021 the application of previous lessons. Furthermore, these lessons Phone: 315/253-8206 overall teach a man several virtues he should incorporate into e-mail: [email protected] his own life. Website: www.nyiorg.org Between IORG and the Freemasons, most of us already : facebook.com/NY Rainbow know the Lambskin Apron is a vital part of both organizations. For Masons it is a symbol of innocence and also of protection.

20 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 new york demolay

RJ LARSON State Treasurer A Young Man and His Father

he father-son relationship can be one of the strongest, The older I get, the more I regret that I’m realizing my most firm bonds on Earth; or it could be weak and slack father was right most of the time. I don’t regret that he was Tfrom neglect. I count myself fortunate enough to have one of right; I regret because I did not listen. Parents are the people the stronger bonds with my father Richie Larson. There are you should be able to trust will always have your back. I’m many things I could attribute it to: The Fire Exploring Post glad my involvement with DeMolay and my father’s with we were involved in together when I was younger; my Scout Masonry were able to help me realize that. It’s a strange thing, Troop where he was an Assistant Scoutmaster; or the DeMolay looking back on something that isn’t over yet, but it makes you Chapter he encouraged me to join, in which he became an understand what you did right and what you could do better. Advisor. There is one commonality among all these: my dad It is possible that DeMolay and Masonry could exist without made the effort to be there for me no matter what, to which I the other but both would perish without that integral father- attribute our strong bond. But father-son relationships are not son bond. To the fathers reading this: Make the effort to share simply good for individuals, they are also a benefit to Masonry an interest with your son. To the sons: Understand that more and the world overall. often than not, you are the reason that man you call Dad or I cannot remember every detail about the countless, hours- Pop or Father wants to be better. Through the brotherhood of long car rides to DeMolay events but I remember how eager DeMolay and Masonry, my dad and I have a stronger father- my dad still is to drive me when I need it. I cannot count son connection. the times he’s pestered me about sending out emails for the Chapter’s communications but I know he’s only doing it to help me and the Chapter grow. I know everything my father does for me is because he cares, and it shows. A phrase oft repeated is that “DeMolays are the future of Freemasonry.” From what I have experienced in Richmond Chapter and New York DeMolay, the Masons truly take the New York DeMolay idea to heart. Each DeMolay Chapter has an advisory council 2150 Bleecker Street Utica New York 13501 of concerned adults and parents. Many of the advisors within Office 315/798-4922 Richmond Chapter do not have sons in DeMolay but they are Fax 214/446-6537 involved because they are Masons and see the importance of working with youth. The advisors understand that Masonry Peter Brusoe, Personal Representative and DeMolay have aligned goals: to make good men better. [email protected] Website: NYDemolay.org These men who have gone out of their way to make themselves : Facebook.com/NYDemolay role models for my DeMolay Brothers and me are part of the reason I want to join Masonry, but they are only part. : Twitter.com/NYDeMolay : NYDeMolay The major reason is that I have seen the values and virtues in Freemasonry through my father.

Continued from page 18 – Our MCC Heroes

The Masonic Fraternity and our donors have been with us Lodge committees including Chairman of the Screening every step of the way, from financial gifts that were very much Committee for Grand Lodge appointments. I thank every in need due to increasingly high costs of personal protective Lodge, Brother Mason and families for all you have done on equipment and staff testing, to in-kind donations for our our behalf. residents such as puzzle books, markers and pencils from the Please join me in thanking our MCC team, the members of Lodges in the Orange Rockland District Masonic Association. the Masonic Fraternity and our donors for their tremendous Over 100 beautiful poinsettia plants were donated by Wayne support in 2020. We hope for your continued dedication to Hughes (picture in previous page within the article) in honor our cause as our efforts to eradicate the virus continue in 2021 of his father Harold Hughes, a 60-year member of the Utica and as we begin to rebuild what has been lost in the wake of Lodge 47 and a member of various New York State Grand the pandemic. THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 21 Masonic Youth Committee RW Cary S. Cohn Chairman 516/781-1157 [email protected]

ark Alvarado of Oriental– Mark learned early in life about Masonic principles from his Faxton 224 has been recently father Mario, who also was a Master Mason. Mark recounts the Mappointed to the Grand Lodge of the time his dad was participating in a Commandery installation State of New York Masonic Youth and toddler Mark waddled out to the floor to march with Committee. Brother Alvarado is a his father. All Mark wanted was to walk alongside his father, Senior DeMolay of David J. Nye possibly in his footsteps. Sadly, Mario passed away when Mark Chapter and has served as a Past was only seventeen. State Scribe of Ohio DeMolay Mark recalls when he was “asked” to join DeMolay. Mario (1995-1996). called Mark downstairs to sign a piece of paper. He obeyed. Brother Mark’s Masonic resume Shortly, two young men and an older fellow came knocking is varied between professional and on the door, looking for Mark. volunteer service, having worked Meanwhile, Mario was on the phone with other fathers at the DeMolay International Headquarters in Kansas City, and members of the Lodge. They had sons about Mark’s MO and the New York DeMolay Office in Utica. Mark has age. Shortly thereafter they all met and signed the petitions volunteered as an advisor for DeMolay Chapters in Ohio, to join DeMolay and through DeMolay saw the values of Missouri, and for the last eighteen years, at Mohawk Valley Freemasonry in action. Chapter in Utica. He currently serves as their Advisory Council Chairman. He also currently serves New York DeMolay as the Asked about the importance of Masonic youth groups to Co-Director of Membership and Assistant Director of the our Fraternity, Brother Mark shared this. “To perpetuate the State LeadCon. principles of Freemasonry, Masons should be sharing the Masonic Youth Organizations with their children and their Mark brings many years of experience as a very involved grandchildren. A family that works on common goals is member of the Valley of Utica—Scottish Rite, having been strengthened, and a Masonic Lodge and the Masonic Youth elected a D.S.A. and M.S.A. As a member of Ziyara Shriners, Organizations are critical for that to do that.” one would find his alter ego, “Ku-Ko” the clown. Worshipful Alvarado is a Past Master of Oriental-Faxton Lodge 224 The youth organizations are in need of good examples (2010) in Utica, where he is Secretary of the Lodge. today. The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, the Organization of Triangles, Inc. and DeMolay International Professionally, Mark is an Academic Intervention Services for young men could use your help in sharing the Masonic Teaching Assistant for the Utica City School District. He is principles of Faith, Hope and Charity. The contacts for the a night custodian at the Utica Masonic Hall, Disc Jockey for youth groups are all listed. Please contact them and let’s bring Electric Blue DJ Service and a tutor. the Masonic experience to your neighborhood.

Clothing and Toy Drive By RW Bruce Eisenberg

or the past twenty-three years, Bruce Eisenberg has organized a clothing Fand toy drive for the needy of Staten Island through the Richmond Masonic Association and the Staten Island Civic Organization. The photograph shows some of the participants in this year’s event. RW Eisenberg is second from the left, with the white shirt and tie.

22 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 Grand Lodge Educational RW CHRISTOPHER J. HOUGH Assistance Program Chairman

he 2021 Grand Lodge Educational Assistance Program has begun and we are off to a great start. Applications Tbecame available on January 1 and as of the end of January we have received over 110 applications. The year 2020 was a challenging one for our Educational Assistance Program but with an enormous effort from our Lodge Masters and Secretaries across the state we were able to achieve resounding success. Some 465 children and grandchildren of Master Masons in the State of New York received educational grants last year. The selections are made on the basis of academic achievement, community involvement and merit; the grants are not income-based. We are especially proud of the success of the 2020 program and are looking forward to assisting in the continuing education of our students again in 2021. The online application went live on January 1 and can be accessed via a link on the Grand Lodge website: www. 2019 nymasons.org. Returning applicants should use your log‑in credentials from last year. The application process will be • Be a child/grandchild/widow of a New York State Master open until March 31, 2021. Requirements for eligibility and Mason in good standing. instructions for completing the scholarship application are all provided online. • Show academic or vocational achievement and have a minimum GPA of 2.75 or high school equivalent. After all applications are reviewed by an independent rating firm, the awarded students will be notified in May of 2021 as • Submit an essay on “How the Covid 19 changes affected to what further steps are necessary to claim their grant. Public my life.” awards presentations will be held around the state during the months of July and August, if permitted. The Grand Master • Be a full-time student (12 credits per semester minimum and/or the Deputy Grand Master attend these presentations, and 9 credits per semester minimum for graduate level along with local Lodge participation. If applicants have any studies) in fall 2021. questions or need help with the process, assistance can be had Special consideration will also be given to applicants who by emailing [email protected]. participate in community service, demonstrate leadership To be considered for an award, applicants must meet the abilities or perform family duties. A student is eligible for a following criteria: maximum of four awards from this program.

American Lodge of Research and You

ould you like to follow in the footsteps and pathways of Harry Carr, Harold Voorhis, William Peacher and others? Do you enjoy investigatingW the origins of Masonry? Is there more to symbolism than moral lessons? Do you feel you are a Masonic scholar? or aspire to become one? Well, we have the place for you in The American Lodge of Research—the premier Lodge of Research. W Henry Abel III is waiting to hear from you: [email protected]. Now is your time, Brother.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 23 Masonic Medical Research INSTITUTE RW ALVARO QUIROGA President MMRI Board of Directors 917/833-9340 [email protected]

Grand Lodge Teams Up with the MMRI for Global Webinar

hile this year has brought significant changes to our daily blood thinners to potentially limit or slow this response. routines, we have effectively, as a team, come together to Dr. Kessinger’s work focuses on one central question in this makeW the transitions seamless. In the past we would regularly regard—can the body heal from the virus completely? While host seminars, attend conferences and welcome visitors. Now the answer is yet unknown, by looking at other related viruses our interactions look a little different. Virtual meetings have and determining how therapies can be improved, researchers become standard and all of us have needed to become a bit can hopefully arrive at some answers in the near future. more tech savvy. Both Drs. Sathya Unudurthi and Nathan Tucker have On July 30 we virtually attended a live webinar with the centralized their COVID research on cardiac complications. Grand Master of the State of New York, MW William M. Studies have shown 20-25% of all COVID-related deaths Sardone and Dr. Maria Kontaridis, Executive Director of are due to underlying cardiac disease. Scientists have also the MMRI. The webinar focused on the MMRI’s efforts to determined that COVID-19 increases patients’ chances of help combat the global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. contracting cardiovascular disease despite no prior history of In attendance were Drs. Maria Kontaridis, Nathan Tucker, cardiac complications. Dr. Unudurthi’s research focuses on Sathya Unudurthi and Chase Kessinger. This event was so the negative impacts of hyperinflammation in response to the popular we were asked to conduct a repeat performance for virus. the Grand Masters of the North East on Wednesday, October “The virus actually causes less damage to the body than 6, as well as for the Grand Lodge of Indiana on November 7. the body causes to itself by overreacting with increased The COVID-19 is a result of a severe, acute respiratory inflammation,” said Dr. Unudurthi. In previous non-COVID- syndrome coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2. Researchers at related research, a pathway within the heart was found that MMRI have been actively pursuing investigations related to when blocked or controlled can slow down the inflammation the virus and its effects. Much of what we believed we knew process. Dr. Unudurthi now works to determine whether this about the virus in the early days of the pandemic has changed inhibition can be applied to patients with COVID-19. over the past few months as more clinical information and Dr. Nathan Tucker’s COVID approach aims to answer newer research studies have become available. The webinar three questions: 1. How is the heart being affected or infected went into depth on what we currently know about COVID-19 with COVID-19?; 2. Are certain individuals at higher risk and the specific studies our scientists are doing with respect to for cardiac complications?; and 3. What are the effects on understanding the role it may play long-term. common hypertension medications or ACE inhibitors on Dr. Chase Kessinger, who conducts research focused on Sars-CoV-2? While answers continue to evolve, recent studies pulmonary embolism, has been investigating the relationship have shown that certain cells within the heart have higher between COVID-19 and blood clots. Over 30% of COVID numbers of specific receptors for the virus, increasing their patients experience unusual blood clotting. When the body likelihood of infection. This information will aid in the becomes infected it normally engages systems to help fight development of more specific therapies. Moreover, individuals against infection. While these responses, called inflammation, with preexisting cardiac conditions are found not only to be at are necessary, too much can result in further damage to a higher risk for contracting the virus, but also to experience biological systems. Such is the case with COVID-19 patients. increased cardiac complications. Importantly, in these cases Their bodies overreact to the virus’s presence, resulting in research shows that use of ACE inhibitors is considered safe a negative reaction and the formation of blood clots in the and should be continued as usual during COVID infection. lungs, heart and other organs. Given this knowledge, patients Along with the ongoing research, the MMRI has also admitted to the hospital are now given anticoagulants or partnered with the Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) to

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24 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 conduct clinical testing for COVID-19. Since June 1 we have By helping our community fight against COVID-19 and conducted over 10,000 tests with an average turnaround time investigating numerous inquiries of the virus, our team is of ten hours. Normally, test results can take three or more days working towards solutions to a global problem. through other commercial labs, delaying necessary procedures, The webinar invited viewers from all over the world, and hospital discharges and timely tracing measures that could even though “we may be apart, we’re actually coming closer prevent the spread of the virus. Great thanks go to Dr. Nathan together.” Thanks go to the Grand Master for inviting us Tucker for taking the lead on managing this partnership, and to share our research and speak with our supporters. We to Mr. Ryan Pfeiffer and Mrs. Mayurika Desai for running the also thank Mr. Varun Balaji for handling all technological tests day-to-day. aspects. Lastly, a huge thank-you goes to our supporters who “The Institute has a history of not only doing things here, continually stand by our institution and mission, even during locally, but also globally,” said Grand Master William M. these unprecedented times. The webinar can be viewed in its Sardone, and that is exactly what we hope to accomplish. entirety on the MMRI YouTube channel.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 25 Years of Service 79 years 78 years 75 years

0524 Morning Star 1193 Towpath 0128 Ogdensburgh-Acacian 0224 Oriental-Faxton 0633 Richville Gwynn K. Morey Donald B. Ross Robert Denner Samuel L. Booth Wallace K. Hurlbut

74 Years

0013 Apollo-King Solomon’s 0120 Hamilton 0297 Alexandria 0796 Dolgeville 0890 Joshua Clifford H. Vickery Arnold R. Fisher John A. Keeler Grant W. Phillips Malcolm S. Cohen 0084 Amsterdam 0223 Roman-Hatheway 0399 Maine 0839 Athelstane David Rowe Carson A. Thompson Kenneth K. Snavely John T. Thetga Fred Kaplowitz 0892 Queensboro 0093 Crossroads United 0231 Cornerstone 0425 Warrensburgh 0855 Joseph K. Muller Harold P. Naumann Jr Belding F. Clearwater Dennis H. Galloway Paumanok-Port Washington 1185 Western Star 0112 Steuben 0624 Sharon Springs James R. Wells William W. Swenson Donald E. Scott Carleton France

73 years 72 years 71 years

0256 Fort Brewerton 0137 Anglo-Saxon 0965 Geneva 0439 Delaware River 0651 True Craftsman’s Paul C. May George R. Johanson Richard Haag Lester E. Gregory Theodore J. Fuchs 0350 Chemung Valley-Waverly 0155 Fraternal 0970 Johnson City Unity 0472 Tritown 0701 Beacon Light John B. Vale Rodney L. Wright Alton L. Frisbie Elmer H. Vanarkel Charles J. Ericson 0586 Advance Service Mizpah 0164 Philanthropic 0981 Amherst 0533 Round Hill 0787 Gasport Martin Frank Irwin E. Brown Carl L. Hagan Carl Marca Victor E. Fitchlee 0634 Scotia 0406 Humanity 1041 Brotherhood 0639 Somerset 0912 Great Kills John W. Robertson Earl Buchanan Kenneth R. Blum Burnette C. Wayner John G. Anderson 0758 Bay Ridge 0445 Cassia Marcel Seidler Frazer Stockley Hugh D. Greenberg 1174 Schenectady Gerald Stockley 0551 Ransomville Robert L. Johnson 0922 Amos-Fort Greene Albert L. Rusk Morris Horowitz 0970 Johnson City Unity Erwin L. Harrington

70 years

0006 St. George’s 0285 George Washington 0579 Portville 0616 Cazenovia 0814 Sconondoa-Sherrill Sidney M. Brown Gerhart Malunat Eugene L. Newburg Sterling G. Brisbin Curtis J. Hammill Thomas C. Pollock 0019 Midwood Fortitude 0334 Cherry Valley 0634 Scotia 0838 Connetquot Philip Pines Frank E. Green 0586 Advance Service Mizpah Herman S. Stein Peter Greenko 0110 Scipio 0524 Morning Star Harold Prashker 0791 Livingston Manor 1068 David A. Brooks Joseph Lounsbury 0589 Naurashank Albert A. Voorhess James W. Husted-Fiat Lux 0252 Enchanted Mountains Vincent Trojan Neil R. Berzak Thomas P. Latimer

65 years

0009 Unity 0178 Cornerstone 0287 Continental 0445 Cassia 0616 Cazenovia William T. McClintock Harold Hofstein Thucydides H. Vagelos Harvey Drucker Donald C. Hoglund 0044 Evening Star 0183 Farmerville-Union 0290 Mount Olive 0501 Liverpool Syracuse 0622 Central Square Graham B. Barnes A. Curtis Berggren Walter H. Klinger Jr Lloyd J. Diamantis Walter E. Darrh 0063 Wantagh Morton 0224 Oriental-Faxton 0347 Clinton-Hampton 0508 Herschel-Argyle 0689 What Cheer Robert E. Freyer Roger W. Davis Frederick O. Windecker Lawrence E. Allen Harold P. Emlaw 0085 Bethlehem 0230 University 0415 Pulaski Coolidge S. Copeland 0729 Anchor-Astoria Donald Herkowits Glenn E. Bronson Hugh D. Barclay 0538 Webster Apostolas Zaferiou John W. Van Nosdall 0283 Beacon 0438 Marathon James H. Turner 0754 Noah 0087 Van Rensselaer Blair H. Engle Robert C. Bird 0579 Portville Robert L. Marx Samuel M. Poskanzer Curtis L. Fischer 26 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 65 years continues 0772 Rescue 0839 Athelstane 0923 Tadmor 1057 Springfield Gardens 1178 Great Valley William J. Sharrow Bernard M. Patashnik Harold E. Praeg William H. Ekholm David L. Carr 0782 Triune-Obed 0922 Amos-Fort Greene 0968 Philo-Mount Sinai 1101 Parthenon 1188 Renaissance Harold F. Snitzler Salomon Zalusky Jacob M. Buck John Papajohn Norman F. Kraebel 0789 Whiteface Mountain Burton W. Nagel Nathaniel Wells

60 years

0006 St. George’s 0145 Mount Moriah 0349 Peconic 0588 Carpenter-Emanuel 0970 Johnson City Unity Homer E. Trabits Joseph Gerace Harold Haupt Frederic Berk Thomas E. Brown 0019 Midwood Fortitude Herbert W. Lind 0381 Huguenot Henry Wilner Paul Hydock Stanley A. Andersen 0151 Sentinel Everett M. Hannah 0653 John Jay 0981 Amherst 0022 Franklin Jay R. Bangs 0392 Sodus Themistocles P. Hios Carl J. Smith Boyce D. Rawson 0205 Phoenix Donald Bierer 0710 Ridgewood 1000 Publicity 0049 Watertown Walter R. Wiegand 0414 Scriba Phillip G. Roelofsen Dennis A. Daugherty Elton D. Bohall 0221 Cayuga Leonard J. Hass 0785 Niagara River Lodge 1016 Floral Park 0085 Bethlehem David B. White 0458 Shekomeko Norman R. Bock Theodore L. Carman Jr Alvin Herskovitz 0246 Arcana Rudolph W. Macak 0808 Guiding Light-Olympia 1037 Victoria Sea Gate 0110 Scipio Stanley W. Stein 0470 Cortlandville Edward S. Broidy Fred S. Shwom Jack R. Logan 0252 Enchanted Mountains Charles A. Dellow 0814 Sconondoa-Sherrill 1066 Harry S Truman 0112 Steuben Richard A. Grimes 0533 Round Hill Carl E. Staley Norman Mandel Robert W. Mericle 0263 Mount Vernon Charles R. Henneman 0839 Athelstane 1101 Parthenon 0122 Genesee Valley Harlan Holmes 0548 Laurens Leonard Goldblatt Peter Licopantis Alan M. Shoemaker John P. Rigas Robert Flesch Jr 0306 Cuba-Friendship Edward L. Schoepf Jr 0863 Dunwoodie 1126 South Shore-Long Beach 0132 Niagara LaSalle Jack T. May 0581 Winfield Robert H. Pierce 0347 Clinton-Hampton Leighton R. Burns Donald R. Klein John J. Schloss 0934 Joseph Warren-Gothic 1188 Renaissance 0141 Erie Canal Wayne C. Clinch 0586 Advance Service Mizpah Richard H. Lees Charles H. Stratton Jr Charles Denis Wayne H. Leipold Clarence R. Little

55 years

0008 Holland 0203 Munn 0362 Valatie 0581 Winfield 0880 Sibelius-Bredablick Robert W. Radsch Kurt B. Landsberger Ronald G. Schneider Lee D. Peuser Donald A. Maclean 0012 Trinity 0221 Cayuga 0439 Delaware River 0582 Wawarsing Richard Rosenblum Hermann H. Beneke W. Keith Hatfield Arthur G. Maxwell Jr Martin Andersen Jr 0915 Beukendaal 0013 Apollo-King Solomon’s Mark W. Klipple Joseph O. Weaver John J. Phillips Erwin C. Grant Roger W. Minch Jr 0223 Roman-Hatheway 0458 Shekomeko 0616 Cazenovia 0958 Moriah 0051 Fidelity-Hobasco John E. Kelly Erwin F. Green Jr William F. Coffin Howard R. Solomon William T. Royal James G. Williams 0224 Oriental-Faxton 0627 Wallkill 1016 Floral Park Robert A. Stock 0084 Amsterdam Russell E. Clayton Robert W. Marks Michael M. Maziasz 0472 Tritown Kenneth R. Neri 0241 Harmony 0647 Aurora Grata-Day Star 1101 Parthenon James S. Swanker William Henry Robert B. Porteus Franklin D. Spearin John I. Gnesoulis 0506 Rising Light 0111 St. Lawrence Fred E. Muckle 0764 Savannah 1111 West Seneca Guy Schmidt 0252 Enchanted Mountains Maurice L. Matteson Jr Edward L. Williams Edwin J. Hartman Sr Sr 0517 Frontier 0112 Steuben Bruce O. Blackmon 0782 Triune-Obed 1185 Western Star Russell R. Ralston Donald L. Kinnaird Terrance G. Hesseltine William J. Terry Ronald A. Hoak 0265 0521 Sullivan 0115 Phoenix 0788 Fortune Sanford A. Kurth Speedsville-Newark Valley David W. Whiteman Burton Ledina J. Frederick Velott Jr William I. Swart Jr Charles E. Stuck 0527 Akron 1186 Ken-Ton 0121 Queensbury 0819 Composite 0308 Seneca Lake Jimmy I. Riddle James Z. Miklinski Jay R. Rosen Stuart N. Bush John M. Symonds 0538 Webster 1193 Towpath 0131 Myrtle-Jefferson 0826 Sutherland 0341 Clyde Bernard I. Lewis Willard H. Scott Norman W. Karcher Sr Dale E. Cameron Dean N. Shuey 0154 ERAC 0543 Triluminar David M. Weiser Dale K. Reynolds

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 27 50 years

0003 Mount Vernon 0230 University 0438 Marathon 0649 Robinson 0956 Spartan David H. Owens Donald W. Jefferds Donald E. Knickerbocker Homer A. Erway Stephen V. Dubin 0033 Ark 0246 Arcana 0445 Cassia 0713 Social 1015 Mount Sabattis Rob Schwarting Mr. Albert Frater Stephen H. Shifrinson Charles W. Scroger Thomas M. Wilson 0040 Olive Branch 0262 Phoenix 0466 Oneonta 0779 Clio 1057 Springfield Gardens Lee F. Van Delinder James K. Fort Douglas W. Hamilton Jr Kenneth E. Bigelow Jr Richard Noll 0056 St. Albans 0294 Canandaigua 0472 Tritown 0785 Niagara River Lodge Richard Simmons Charles G. Stahl David L. Spoor Richard F. Moravia Larry Moir 1072 Dexter Robert C. Tschampion 0318 Joseph Enos 0477 Wildwood 0788 Fortune Eugene L. Bebernes 0083 Newark Millard E. Austin Jr Jerre F. Clauss Ronald H. Baumler 1172 Jose Rizal Gil Burgess 0333 Westbrook 0549 Warsaw 0820 On Da Wa Alfred B. Dais 0087 Van Rensselaer Douglas A. Martin David E. Johnson Meredith L. 1185 Western Star Norman H. Van Wormer 0350 0581 Winfield Vanderwerken James S. Vogelgesang 0132 Niagara LaSalle Chemung Valley-Waverly Allen J. Huntley 0821 Bethany 1188 Renaissance Sob W. Haick David M. Albertson 0586 Advance Service Mizpah Orrin B. Macmurray William C. Ehmann Jr Donald L. George 0148 Tri-Valley 0374 Monumental Myron Levison 0826 Sutherland 1193 Towpath John Gulick Jr Richard H. Dedrick 0634 Scotia Robert A. Link Fulton A. Rogers Jr 0154 ERAC 0414 Scriba Richard Gedachian 0915 Beukendaal Daniel F. Watson Francis D. De Rosa PhD Wendell B. Jones 0648 Memorial Joseph H. Giaquinto 0167 Tri-Town 0433 Fort Plain C. Gary Bullard 0948 Sweet Home Gary L. Pressler Stanley W. Carson John Gast Jr Roy D. Straka Robert C. Dievendorf

Aurora Grata-Day Star Lodge 647

embers of Aurora Grata-Day Star Lodge 647, adhering 2020–2021 Lodge Officers. Additionally, the Lodge conferred to and implementing all Grand Master’s and the the Sublime Master Mason Degree on three newly Raised MCustodians of the Work “Grand Lodge Ritual Guidelines” Brothers. and preventive measures, successfully elected and installed the

Row 3 (l-r): RW Prentice Collazo, Secretary; W Paul Maravel, Junior Warden; RW Robert Remington, Treasurer; W Joseph Pagan, Master; Brother Kenneth Haas, Tiler; and RW Walter Leong, Grand Director of Ceremonies of the Third Kings Masonic District.

Row 2 (l-r): Brother Erik Nelson, Senior Deacon; Brother Edgar Catalogne, newly Raised Master Mason; VW Americo Paez, Chaplain.

Row 1 (l-r) VW Victor Escorbores; Brother Jamari Robinson, newly Raised Master Mason; Brother Richard Villa, newly Raised Master Mason; RW Richard Izzo, Senior Warden.

28 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 From the Webmaster Brother KENNETH JP STUCZYNSKI Webmaster NYMasons.org 716/241-1329 [email protected]

f I wanted to write something timely, I have no idea how. what our country needs. It may seem like this need is greater We’ve seen what can happen in three months. We have no than ever but it is what is always needed. There is no bad Iidea what message would fit three months from now. Will the time to support one another, to build each other up, to walk world be back to “normal?” Will our Lodges and Grand Lodge uprightly and to engage in Charity. be meeting? Will we need words of encouragement to reboot, But we don’t appreciate what that last word truly means. I or hope to maintain? see so many of us engaging in charity projects as if that’s the Perhaps the nature of our institution holds the key. Do we only thing we can do right now. It’s not. The word Charity erect our edifice specifically to survive the cold of winter? in the context of Freemasonry in its reference to scripture Or do we build it with the heat of summer in mind? Should comes from the Latin word Caritas, which in turn was used withstanding seasonal rains be its purpose? With the world to represent the Greek word Agape, meaning Unconditional moving fast, we are pressed to focus on the next challenge Love. Giving to those in need is only an outward expression or obstacle, then the next, and the next. We are throwing of caring for others. The substance of such being Love is what sandbags here, bailing water there and putting plywood over makes our actions and works endure past our own Earthy windows only to take it off again. existence. The fate of this world isn’t written in stone but our Our duty as Masons is threefold—to God, to our neighbor, principles are. We can do those things that direct our lives to ourselves. So should our Love be. As a skill of the Craft, we forward regardless of circumstance. We can improve our tools, can practice and improve the quality of our Love. We can turn our techniques, ourselves. We can invest in education for inward to know the Divine Parent in times of both need and ourselves and others. We can store treasures for eternity rather plenty. We can embrace the interdependence of His children than wages for the day. Perhaps this is the meaning of “daily and His creation. And we can take the time we need to Love bread” in the Lord’s Prayer, ἐπιούσιον in Greek, which may ourselves, not as something selfish, but a respectful and gentle be taken to mean extra-substantial provisions — that which is care and appreciation of the Temple we were each given. And beyond the needed portion of the moment. these virtues and benefits of the Craft do not expire with a The building up of our institution, one good man at a time, change in the wind. is what our family needs. It’s what our community needs. It’s

North Country Masonry Never Stops

arrensburg Lodge 425 presented a check for $500 to the North Country Ministry here in Warrensburg.W This donation will go towards helping the surrounding communities with food and fuel for families in need. Presenting the check to their director is Warrensburg’s Secretary Greg Bolton, with Brother Dennis Riley, Senior Deacon, behind the camera. Even in the north, Masonry Never Stops.

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 29 Grand Lecturer RW richard FRIEDMAN, Grand Lecturer [email protected]

must begin this article by thanking the Craft for all the well Freemasonry, not withstanding, still survives and thrives. wishes I have received during my current health crisis. Your Why? Because we are one of the last bastions, an organization Isupport and love keeps me going every day. A special thanks dedicated to honor, justice, purity, knowledge and truth. goes out to anyone who may have volunteered to be tested One of the last bastions where the dark forces of any kind of for a kidney match. In these days of “Me, me and me” it is extremist thought, regardless of the brand, cannot thrive. incredible that we belong to a Fraternity that in moments Why? We put any difference aside, political, religious answers the call to help, aid and assist Brothers in need. and personal, in order to carry out our mission of loving Freemasonry is something that we all should take more one another, our families, our God, our Country and the pride in every day. It is special and unique. It contains much communities we live in. of what our country and world needs right now—more than Why? We uphold principles such as racial and religious ever. How many organizations have the kind of moral compass tolerance; the right of every man to be on the level; the desire that Freemasonry has? How many organizations still standing to see everything around us grow into a loving circumstance are built on the incredible foundation that Freemasonry has benefitting all of mankind. Hate mongers will never deter us, always rested on? It is finding good men, making them better nor will the selfish pursuit of gain at everyone else’s loss, or through the ritual and philosophy of the Craft, expecting them those who would say that our country is down the tubes and to hold to a higher way of life than those who have never had has no moral fiber anymore. the blessing of binding themselves to the obligations Masons live by. We fight for all that is good and right and work hard to banish vices and those human conditions that lead to failure, How many organizations have our kind of standards for not success. We will never be swayed by those people stuck in conduct inside and outside their meeting space? We all know a groove of selfish individualism, who care little for anyone that our standards are what the world needs: more love and but themselves. less animosity; a view of the world that is focused on building things up rather than tearing things down. We are trying to help the world by showing the superiority of virtue. Virtually no other body can make those claims with “When we fail to hold the standard we establish new lower a straight face and mean it. Take pride in all that Freemasonry standards. Elite organizations do not look the other way when stands for. Wear it on your sleeve. Talk about it to others teammates come up short of expectations. We must hold each seeking light. As we get back to ritual work, uphold the other accountable. Failure to hold people accountable erodes highest possible standards; for it is through that process that trust and confidence and undermines our ability to accomplish we can give a man the greatest gift of all: the chance to join in our mission.”—David Berger, Commandant United States the mission of loving each other and the world we live in by Marine Corps. making our circumstances better than how we found them. Despite massive political division and hatred in our country, Gung HO!

Challenge Coin Presentation n honor of Veteran’s Day the Brotherhood Committee issued challenge coins to all Ithe Brothers of Goshen 365 who served: RW William Fitzhenry, RW Charles Nagel, W William Ferris, W William Eustance, Brother Steve Coon, Brother Caesar Aviles and Brother Robert Brestovansky. On December 9 the last of these coins were presented. Here are W William Eustance, Tiler of Goshen Lodge; W James Keller; W Ken Skyer; RW William Fitzhenry; Brother Caesar Aviles; Brother Erik Geehern; Brother Victor Melendez; W Bill Ramlow; W Bill Eustance; and Brother Rob Brestovansky. 30 THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE Masonry Never Stops WINTER 2020 Local Lodge honors local heroes W Sheldon Clark

e at Groton Community Nursing Home admire about this organization by texting or calling Larry Jenks the foundational principles set forth by the Tri- at 607/838-3603, or by visiting discovermasonry.com “WTown Masonic Lodge. We could not be thriving today for more information or to inquire about joining. without the brotherhood, charity and fellowship of the Also, we also encourage you to ask about their sister community that we work, live and believe in. organization, Eastern Star, by contacting Karen Bishop at “We are grateful for the Tri-Town Masonic Lodge for 607/280-4431.” recognizing our prevention efforts to keep our residents The members of Tri-Town Lodge elected to recognize the safe during this unprecedented time. We are grateful that efforts of another organization in their community. The Lodge they chose to recognize the hard work and dedication sponsored an appreciation event and donated a supreme pizza of our nurses and essential workers, as they continue for the special employees at the Groton Community Health to carry our residents through a global pandemic. We Care Center—to a total of 101 pizzas. The pizzas were supplied humbly accept their gift of 101 supreme pizzas, one for by Matt Winters, Hometown Pizza in Groton. every nurse and essential staff The photo depicts, from member, made by Matt Winters left, Tritown Lodge committee at Hometown Pizza, Main Street, members Dick Moravia Groton, NY. and Sheldon Clark; Groton “Located next to the American Community Health Care Legion in Groton, NY, the CEO Pat Deptula; Matt Tri-Town Masonic Lodge of Winters of Hometown Pizza; Masons supports and promotes Lodge member Marty George; scholarships for graduating and Master of Tritown Lodge seniors in three communities, Larry Jenks. the Masonic Medical Research Institute in Utica, and others. We invite everyone to learn more

Articles Due Date for the SUMMER Edition of the Empire State Magazine is April 1, 2021

Submission guidelines for publication in the ESM FILE PREPARATION When saving the file into a pdf format colors are set to “Do not • Your name and phone number as the beginning of the color conversion” “Do not downsample” and “embed your fonts”. file. TRANSMITTING: • Save text copy as .txt .rtf or .doc To: [email protected] • Save photographs as .jpg .tif or .bmp format. Subject: ESM Submission Graphics save as .eps. Via Mail • (Do not transmit photos and copy in the same email or file. Send photographs flashdrives and CD-Rom discs (formatted Transmit photos as individual attachments not embedded as instructed as in previous column) via United States Postal as part of email. Files saved as .pub will NOT be accepted. Service or other delivery service to: Mrs. Joan C. Bower • If submitting pdf format be sure that pictures are originally in 37 Oliver Street CYMK color and type are set in black not registration color. Lockport NY 14094-4615

THE EMPIRE STATE MASON MAGAZINE WINTER 2020 31 SOCIALLY DISTANT MEETING