NYNETNEWS Winter2009

`
Copyright 2008 NY NETNEWS, GLNY F & AM

Jan/Feb 2009
All rights reserved Permission to reprint articles contained herein with credit to NY NETNEWS is granted.
Published electronically by The Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of the State of New York Volume 3 Issue 8
Message from
the Grand East
Brethren Family and Friends …
In this Issue
Message from the Grand East
Table of Contents
This month there are several dates that are of great importance to all of us as
From the Editor
Masons and family men. First there is St. Valentine’s Day, February 14th, when
Navigating NETNEWS we all pause to remember our ladies and express our HEARTFELT thanks and
Grand Master's January Message appreciation for all that they do to make our lives happier and richer by their
SCAM ALERT support. Don’t forget to say “Thank You!” in a meaningful way to our wives and
228th Annual Communication
2009 Sojourners in Florida
mothers and sisters and daughters and especially the surviving spouses of our
Information for Veterans Brother Masons.
Presidental Inauguration 2009
NY Brother in Arizona Back when I was a youngster, we used to observe Brother George Washington’s
7th District Association
Oldest Shriner
Birthday on February 22nd and Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday on February 12th.
Fellowship - Tappan They were two separate holidays … each deserving this very special
Congratulations recognition in appreciation of what they meant individually in the development
Grand Lodge Calendar of our great nation. Nowadays, there is a collective President’s Day Holiday
Masonic Hall Tours
Omission
tied in with a long weekend and celebrated this year on Monday, February 16th.
Grand Lodge Committee Chairmen Unfortunately, I really think something has been lost in this combined
Brotherhood Fund observance. Too many just take it as a day off, without remembering the
MSAT underlying reason we have to celebrate.
Public Relations
Masonic Care Community
MUNY Therefore I am asking that we all stop and think of just where we would be if it
Robert R. Livingston Library were not for these two very special forefathers. Our great leaders during the
Camp Turk American Revolution, so many of them Brother Masons, truly our founding
Youth
Knights Templar
fathers, were led by our Brother and first President George Washington. This
American Lodge of Research is true of Lincoln as well. Even though we have no proof of any Masonic ties,
Masonic Medical Research Lincoln espoused so many of our Masonic virtues … especially Brotherhood and
Laboratory MMRL all it stands for.
Masonry in Stamps
From Whose Bourne…
Sickness & Distress Please enjoy these holidays with your loved ones, but observe their special
Thank You & Glad Tidings significance and meaning to us as Freemasons.
Around The State
In The NEWS
Lodge Services - Grand Lodge Forms
Fraternally,
EDWARD G. GILBERT
Grand Master
Page 1 Jan/Feb 2009

Table of Contents
Message from the Grand East 1 Masonic Student Assistance
Training (MSAT) 21
Table of Contents 2
From the Editor 3 Public Relations 22
Navigating NETNEWS 4 Masonic Care Community 23
Grand Master’s Message 5 MUNY 24
IDC 24
SCAM ALERT 5
Robert R. Livingstone Library 25
228th Annual Communication 6
Camp Turk 26
2009 Sojourners 11
Information for Veternans 11 Youth 27
Presidental Inauguration 2009 15 KnightsTemplar 28
American Lodge of Research 29
NY Brother in Arizona 15
7th District Association 16 Masonic Medical Research

Laboratory (MMRL) 30
Oldest Shriner 17
Masonry in Stamps 32
From Whose Bourne 32
Sickness & Distress 36

Fellowship Committee – Tappan 17 Thank You & Glad Tidings 37
Around The State 38
Congratulations 18
In The NEWS 49
Grand Lodge Calendar 19
Masonic Hall Tours 19 Lodge Services – Grand Lodge Forms 50
Omission 19
Grand Lodge Committee Chairmen 20
Brotherhood Fund 21
Page 2 Jan/Feb 2009

From the Editor
Welcome to the new NETNEWS!
For those of you who are new to this publication, we hope you enjoy what you see and come back. For everyone who has enjoyed
these pages during the last two years, you will see some changes. With your help, there will be more. If you are planning an
event, let us know and we can let others know who may not necessarily be in your area. During the last two years, we have
received communications from Canada, Great Britian and Austrailia, to name a few. Some have been additional information
while others have been requests to find a Brother from years ago.
Below you will find all you need to know in order to submit articles or pictures and the timeframes for those submissions.
Suggestions and opinions are welcome.
In any case, we are gearing up for another exciting year of Freemasonry and we hope you are as excited as we are. Here are a
couple of guidelines with regards to submitting information to NETNEWS.
As before, NETNEWS will focus on:
Messages from Grand Lodge Officers; Messages from Grand Lodge Committees;
Local items / News by District; News from around the state; and
Calendars & upcoming events by District.
Input for NETNEWS comes from the Grand Lodge Officers, Committee Chairmen and Appendant Bodies. However, content will
also be collected and/or generated by individual Lodges.
Every month, you will be able to count on NETNEWS to provide you with important Masonic information you may not find
elsewhere.
Please remember a couple of important rules regarding submissions that are not identical to those of ESM. The two publications
may be similar, but NETNEWS is a monthly publication and ESM is quarterly. ESM deadlines are on the first of the months due
and NETNEWS is due on the 5th.
• ALL INPUT DUE BY THE 5TH OF THE MONTH -- Remember, since NETNEWS is published on the 15th of the
month, events for the first fifteen days of a month must appear in the previous month’s issue.
• Written information should be in Microsoft Word, Text File, or Email
• Please include your name and contact information (address, email and/or phone number) with your submission. All
submissions selected for publication will be reviewed and you will be contacted to confirm authenticity. Please
understand that anything submitted without the proper permission or forms cannot be published.
• Anything you submit must either be original or, if it has been published before, must be accompanied by written
permission of the publication in which it appears as this is now copyrighted. If you wrote the article, please include a
paragraph to that effect.
• Photographs must be scanned at no more than 150 DPI and saved in JPG format. Photos must be accompanied by a
release stating that you have been granted permission to publish the person’s likeness. If a child (under the age of 18) is
in the photo, a “Child ID Photo Release Form” must accompany your submission. This form is available by going to the
Forms Page on the ESM website: http://esmason.com/forms.html
Please make sure to tell us who is in the photo! A separate release is required for each person in the photo.
• Input and questions should be sent to: nynetnews@gmail.com OR; Steven P. Koch
43 Robert Lane
Wappingers Falls, N.Y. 12590
The NETNEWS team looks forward to serving you, our Brothers, with the latest information on a regular basis, every month of
the year.
C&F
Steven P. Koch – NETNEWS Editor
Associate Editor – Bro. Mel Lipetz Initial Layout, Design & Consultant – Bro. Louis Gaal
Page 3 Jan/Feb 2009

Navigating NETNEWS
A Note About Navigating NETNEWS
As you already know (since you are reading this), NETNEWS is produced in Portable Document Format (PDF). For those new at
working with PDF files, here’s a quick hint to getting around the document quickly.
While you have NETNEWS open on your computer, use your mouse to click on the tab located to the left of the
page you are currently viewing.
When you select the tab, a menu opens to the left of the page.
This menu corresponds to the table of contents. At the top of this menu, the label changes to display to
indicate that you are looking at the bookmarks tab. Click any topics in the tab and you will go to that page. For
example, if you click, the page containing Navigating NETNEWS will be displayed.
Click on the tab to see miniature pictures of each page. The label at the top of
the menu changes to display . Think of this as a visual table of contents.
If you would prefer to see the text in a larger or smaller font, look
in the menu at the top of the PDF Viewer. You will see a number
followed by a percentage sign. If you want to make the text bigger,
choose a higher percentage. If your viewer has and buttons on
either side of the magnification size, use those to increase or decrease the magnification instead.
Currently, the and tabs contain no information.

I hope this helps you to navigate quickly and easily to your preferred articles in NETNEWS. There is something for everyone,
so please read it all!
S&F
Louis Gaal -- Masonic Computer Geek
Page 4 Jan/Feb 2009

Grand Master’s January Message
My Brothers ...
This coming Monday our nation will pause to pay respect to the memory of a very gentle man whose lifelong
work ... his calling ... and his message ... was translated into a "dream" he shared with all Americans and has
now become a reality in our lifetime.
Martin Luther King Day is a federal holiday observed on the third Monday in January. In 2009, it falls on the
19th.
As Masons, we have long held to the philosophy as written into our Constitution and Bill of Rights by our
founding fathers and Brothers,"...that all men are created equal." It is fitting and appropriate that on this
holiday, as we are about to witness the Inauguration of a new President, that we remember it was the basic
tenants of Freemasonry that were preached and as they were practiced by Dr King.
May his memory serve as a reminder that we should all share a pride in what has been accomplished by peaceful
citizens of the greatest land of liberty on this earth...regardless of race, color, creed or national origin. We are all
Brothers under the fatherhood of GOD! This is a holiday, which we all share. As Brothers we all respect the
memory of the Rev. & Dr. Martin Luther King ... a great American...
God Bless America !
Fraternally,
Edward G. Gilbert
Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York
SCAM ALERT
BEWARE - THIS IS A SCAM
Greetings,
My name is Carl Williams, 3rd Degree Master Mason, Lodge #155, F&AM
As a "Traveling Man" born at Fort Bragg, N.C. and reborn again raised to a Perpendicular in Miami Military Lodge I'm
currently in Mexico, I came to help a friend with a business who offered employment which I viewed as an attractive
possible means of retirement. Unfortunately the business offer has not materialized into what was promised, hoodwinked
would be the best word I could find for it, pure clandestine. In turn I'm contacting you in request of a "Cable Tow" in that
I've exhausted my funds in driving down here and need to return to the USA, whatever "Relief" that you might be able to
offer will be greatly appreciated, I would also appreciate if you could keep this close to your breastplate because it is really
humbling and embarrassing to have to petition for assistance, I have searched for the local lodge on the internet and have
not found one.
"Oh Lord, My God, How Great It Is When Brothers Dwell Amongst Each Other !".
"Oh Lord, My God, Is There Any Help For A Poor Widow's Son ?"
So Mote It Be,
Brother Williams
Carl Williams, 3rd Degree, Lodge #155, F & A.M. Cell: (XXX) XXX-XXXX, SolomonTemplar@XXXXXX
P.S.: If there is any work that I can do on-line to earn my passage be it "WebSite Design / Marketing via SEO-Search Engine Optimization" of
course I'm always willing to work to avoid being portrayed as a "Knife & Fork", problem here in Mexico is that I don't have my FM3-Visa
(Mexico's equivalent to a U.S.-Green Card) to work, I only have a FMT-Visa, a tourist Visa, my degree of course is in the tools: the Square, the
Compass & the Letter-G, in that by education I'm a Computer-Aided Design Draftsman, but now I only do Websites.
Page 5 Jan/Feb 2009

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Page 9 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 10 Jan/Feb 2009

2009 Florida Sojourner’s Luncheon
If these Brothers look tanned and rested it's because they are... and the locale was not the frigid north, but the
sunny climes of Florida. Athelstane Lodge No.839 F&AM celebrated it’s Third Annual Florida Luncheon on
January 23, 2009 at the sumptuous catering Hall at Benvenuto in Boynton Beach, Florida with close to forty in
attendance.
At this Luncheon were also

Brothers of the First Kings
District and the Grand Master,
MW Edward G. Gilbert with the
Grand Line. At the Luncheon
were the following Brothers of our
Lodge: W Harold J. Dresdale,
W Harold Eder, W Richard H.
Fassberg, Brother Joseph
Feld, RW Benjamin Gilman,
Brother Bernard Goldberger,
Brother David Goldman, Brother
Jack Greene, Brother Joseph
Halfon, Brother Fred Kaplowitz;
Brother Steven Katoff; RW
Martin Lindenberg, W Robert
Maidman, Brother Fred
Melamed; W Henry L. Morris; W
Leonard Plotch, RW Giles M.
Purvis; Brother Charles Ruback,
Brother Morton L. Weiss,
Brother Allan Eisenkraft, and
Past Grand Master, M W Neil Bidnick, and of course, many of their spouses.
It was a wonderful getting together of old friends and much appreciated by our Brothers who now reside in
Florida.
Information for Veterans

Good list to print for reference.
Below are websites that provide information on Veterans benefits and how to file/ask for them.
Accordingly, there are many sites that explain how to obtain books, military/medical records, information
and how to appeal a denied claim with the VA. Please pass this information on to every Veteran you know.
Nearly 100% of this information is free and available for all veterans, the only catch is: you have to ask for
it, because they won't tell you about a specific benefit unless you ask for it. You need to know what
questions to ask so the right doors open for you -- and then be ready to have an advocate who is willing to
work with and for you, stay in the process, and press for your rights and your best interests.
Appeals http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch05.doc
Board of Veteran's Appeals http://www.va.gov/vbs/bva/
CARES Commission http://www.va.gov/vbs/bva/
CARES Draft National Plan http://www1.va.gov/cares/page.cfm?pg=105
Center for Minority Veterans http://www1.va.gov/centerforminorityveterans/
Center for Veterans Enterprise http://www.vetbiz.gov/default2.htm
Center for Women Veterans http://www1.va.gov/womenvet/
Clarification on the changes in VA healthcare for Gulf War Veterans
http://www.gulfwarvets.com/ubb/Forum1/HTML/000016.html

Classified Records - American Gulf War Veterans Assoc http://www.gulfwarvets.com/ubb/Forum18/HTML/000011.html
Compensation for Disabilities Associated with the Gulf War Service
http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/part6/ch07.doc
Compensation Rate Tables, 12-1-03 http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Rates/comp01.htm
Department of Veterans Affairs Home Page http://www.va.gov/
Directory of Veterans Service Organizations http://www1.va.gov/vso/index.cfm?template=view
Disability Examination Worksheets Index, Comp http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Benefits/exams/index.htm
Due Process http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch02.doc
Duty to Assist http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch01.doc
Electronic Code of Federal Regulations http://www.gpoaccess.gov/ecfr/
Emergency, Non-emergency, and Fee Basis Care http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/fedben.pdf
Environmental Agents http://www1.va.gov/environagents/
Environmental Agents M10 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1002
Establishing Combat Veteran Eligibility http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=315
Evaluation Protocol for Gulf War and Iraqi Freedom Veterans with Potential Exposure to Depleted Uranium (DU)
http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/DUHandbook1303122304.DOC and
http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1158
Depleted Uranium Fact Sheet http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/DepletedUraniumFAQSheet.doc
Evaluation Protocol for Non-Gulf War Veterans with Potential Exposure to Depleted Uranium (DU)
http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/DUHANDBOOKNONGW130340304.DOC
Fee Basis, Priority for Outpatient Medical Services and Inpatient Hospital Care
http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=206
Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependants 2005 http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/fedben.pdf or,
http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/current_benefits.htm
Forms and Records Request http://www.va.gov/vaforms/
General Compensation Provisions http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter11_subchaptervi_.html
Geriatrics and Extended Care http://www1.va.gov/geriatricsshg/
Guideline for Chronic Pain and Fatigue MUS-CPG http://www.oqp.med.va.gov/cpg/cpgn/mus/mus_base.htm
Guide to Gulf War Veteran's Health http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/VHIgulfwar.pdf
Gulf War Subject Index http://www1.va.gov/GulfWar/page.cfm?pg=7&template=main&letter=A
Gulf War Veteran's Illnesses Q&As http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/GWIllnessesQandAsIB1041.pdf
Hearings http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch04.doc
Homeless Veterans http://www1.va.gov/homeless/
HSR&D Home http://www.hsrd.research.va.gov/
Index to Disability Examination Worksheets C&P exams http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/benefits/exams/index.htm
Ionizing Radiation http://www1.va.gov/irad/
Iraqi Freedom/Enduring Freedom Veterans VBA http://www.vba.va.gov/EFIF/
M10 for spouses and children http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1007
M10 Part III Change 1 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1008
M21-1 Table of Contents http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/M21_1.html
Mental Disorders, Schedule of Ratings http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/regs/38CFR/BOOKC/PART4/S4_130.DOC
Mental Health Program Guidelines http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1094
Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Centers http://www.mirecc.med.va.gov/
MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Centers of Excellence http://www.va.gov/ms/about.asp
My Health e Vet http://www.myhealth.va.gov/ NASDVA.COM
National Association of State Directors http://www.nasdva.com/
National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention http://www.nchpdp.med.va.gov/postdeploymentlinks.asp
Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders, Schedule of Ratings
http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/regs/38cfr/bookc/part4/s4%5F124a.doc
OMI (Office of Medical Inspector) http://www.omi.cio.med.va.gov/
Online VA Form 10-10EZ https://www.1010ez.med.va.gov/sec/vha/1010ez/
Parkinson's Disease and Related Neurodegenerative Disorders
http://www1.va.gov/resdev/funding/solicitations/docs/parkinsons.pdf and, http://www1.va.gov/padrecc/
Peacetime Disability Compensation http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-
bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_usc&docid=Cite:+38USC1131

Pension for Non-Service-Connected Disability or Death
http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter15_subchapteri_.html
and, http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter15_subchapterii_.html
and, http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter15_subchapteriii_.html
Persian Gulf Registry http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1003
This program is now referred to as Gulf War Registry Program (to include Operation Iraqi Freedom) as of March 7,
2005: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1232
Persian Gulf Registry Referral Centers http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1006
Persian Gulf Veterans' Illnesses Research 1999, Annual Report To Congress
http://www1.va.gov/resdev/1999_Gulf_War_Veterans'_Illnesses_Appendices.doc
Persian Gulf Veterans' Illnesses Research 2002, Annual Report To Congress
http://www1.va.gov/resdev/prt/gulf_war_2002/GulfWarRpt02.pdf
Phase I PGR http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1004
Phase II PGR http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1005
Policy Manual Index http://www.va.gov/publ/direc/eds/edsmps.htm
Power of Attorney http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch03.doc
Project 112 (Including Project SHAD) http://www1.va.gov/shad/
Prosthetics Eligibility http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=337
Public Health and Environmental Hazards Home Page http://www.vethealth.cio.med.va.gov/
Public Health/SARS http://www.publichealth.va.gov/SARS/
Publications Manuals http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/publications.cfm?Pub=4
Publications and Reports http://www1.va.gov/resdev/prt/pubs_individual.cfm?webpage=gulf_war.htm
Records Center and Vault Homepage http://www.aac.va.gov/vault/default.html
Records Center and Vault Site Map http://www.aac.va.gov/vault/sitemap.html
REQUEST FOR AND CONSENT TO RELEASE OF INFORMATION FROM CLAIMANT'S RECORDS
http://www.forms.va.gov/va/Internet/VARF/getformharness.asp?formName=3288-form.xft
Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans Illnesses April 11, 2002 http://www1.va.gov/rac-
gwvi/docs/Minutes_April112002.doc
Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans Illnesses http://www1.va.gov/rac-
gwvi/docs/ReportandRecommendations_2004.pdf
Research and Development http://www.appc1.va.gov/resdev/programs/all_programs.cfm
Survivor's and Dependents' Educational Assistance
http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partiii_chapter35_.html
Title 38 Index Parts 0-17
http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?sid=
1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfrv1_02.tpl
Part 18
http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?sid=
1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfrv2_02.tpl
Title 38 Part 3 Adjudication

Subpart Aa"Pension, Compensation, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation
http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?c=ecfr&sid=
1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfr3_main_02.tpl
Title 38 Pensions, Bonuses & Veterans Relief

(also A 3.317 Compensation for certain disabilities due to undiagnosed illnesses found here)
http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?c=ecfr&sid=
1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfr3_main_02.tpl
Title 38 PART 4--SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES

Subpart B--DISABILITY RATINGS
target=_blank> ab7641afd195c84a49a2067dbbcf95c0&rgn=div6&view=text&node=38:1.0.1.1.5.2&idno=38

Title 38
A 4.16 Total disability ratings for compensation based on unemployability of the
individual. PART 4a"SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES
Subpart Aa"General Policy in Rating http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?c=ecfr&sid=
1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&rgn=div8&view=text&node=38:1.0.1.1.5.1.96.11&idno=38
U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims http://www.vetapp.gov/

VA Best Practice Manual for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
http://www.avapl.org/pub/PTSD%20Manual%20final%206.pdf
VA Fact Sheet http://www1.va.gov/opa/fact/gwfs.html
VA Health Care Eligibility http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/home/hecmain.asp
VA INSTITUTING GLOBAL ASSESSMENT OF FUNCTION (GAF) http://www.avapl.org/gaf/gaf.html
VA Life Insurance Handbook a" Chapter 3
http://www.insurance.va.gov/inForceGliSite/GLIhandbook/glibookletch3.htm#310
VA Loan Lending Limits and Jumbo Loans http://valoans.com/va_facts_limits.cfm
VA MS Research http://www.va.gov/ms/about.asp
VA National Hepatitis C Program http://www.hepatitis.va.gov/
VA Office of Research and Development http://www1.va.gov/resdev/
VA Trainee Pocket Card on Gulf War http://www.va.gov/OAA/pocketcard/gulfwar.asp
VA WMD EMSHG http://www1.va.gov/emshg/
VA WRIISC-DC http://www.va.gov/WRIISC-DC/
VAOIG Hotline Telephone Number and Address http://www.va.gov/oig/hotline/hotline3.htm
Vet Center Eligibility - Readjustment Counseling Service http://www.va.gov/rcs/Eligibility.htm
Veterans Benefits Administration Main Web Page http://www.vba.va.gov/
Veterans Legal and Benefits Information http://valaw.org/
VHA Forms, Publications, Manuals http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/
VHA Programs - Clinical Programs & Initiatives http://www1.va.gov/health_benefits/page.cfm?pg=13
VHA Public Health Strategic Health Care Group Home Page http://www.publichealth.va.gov/
VHI Guide to Gulf War Veteransa(tm) Health http://www1.va.gov/vhi_ind_study/gulfwar/istudy/index.asp
Vocational Rehabilitation http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/
Vocational Rehabilitation Subsistence http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/InterSubsistencefy04.doc
VONAPP online http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main.asp
WARMS - 38 CFR Book C http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/bookc.html
Wartime Disability Compensation http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-
bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_usc&docid=Cite:+38USC1110
War-Related Illness and Injury Study Center - New Jersey http://www.wri.med.va.gov/
Welcome to the GI Bill Web Site http://www.gibill.va.gov/
What VA Social Workers Do http://www1.va.gov/socialwork/page.cfm?pg=3
WRIISC Patient Eligibility http://www.illegion.org/va1.html

Presidential Inauguration 2009
One of our Brothers has been a part of Presidential Inaugurations in the past.
“This will mark my 11th Inauguration. 10 here and 1 in the Army (Eisenhower-
Nixon)”, says Brother and Captain Kenneth R. Force, USMS. Brother Force is
the Director of Music at the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings
Point, New York. “We will be leading the 6th Division of the Inauguration
Parade on Jan 20th. Usually broadcast live on the USA Channel. I’m sending a
band of 67 {U.S. Merchant Marine Band}. We have 35 additional band members
currently serving at sea.”
Brother Force is a member of St. Cecile Lodge No. 568
United States Merchant Marine Academy

Inauguration of President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
President Harry S. Truman on left. Vice
President Richard M. Nixon on right
NY Brother in Arizona
NEW YORK RW BROTHER INSTALLED AS MASTER IN ARIZONA LODGE
It may possibly be a "first time ever event" ... the start of the New Year 2009 saw RW Louis Fish, a life
member of Binghamton Lodge No 177 (NY) installed as the Worshipful Master of Green Valley Lodge No.71
in Green Valley, Arizona. RW Brother Lou, who was at New York's Grand Lodge Convention in May
2008, recently retired and moved to Arizona with his wife Helene where they are active in Blue Lodge and
Shrine Mason activities.
On hand to help in the presentation ceremonies in Arizona were long time friends, RW Edward Giesler and
his wife, Norma, and Mrs. Sigrid Schwenk. RW Ed Giesler is a Past Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge of
New York and Sigi Schwenk is an Honorary Chairperson of our Masonic Youth Camp, Camp Turk, where
her late husband Charles was a Camp Turk Committee Chairman.
During the well-attended public Installation ceremonies, Brother Giesler presented Brother Fish with his NY
Grand Lodge Fifty Year Certificate and Pin and Mrs. Schwenk presented him with his Master's gavel. Look
well to the East.

Seventh District Association
Seventh District Association (*)

Supports Pediatrics at Beth Israel
The Seventh District Association recently continued its history of generosity to Beth Israel Medical Center in NYC
with a $30,000 gift that will enable the Bernice and Milton Stern Department of Pediatrics to purchase a new ventilator
for its Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Since 1999, the Association has donated over $132,500 to help children and
families at Beth Israel through grants for Child Life Services, equipment for the Neonatal ICU, and other needs.
“The Seventh District Association is a wonderful group of very generous and altruistic people who have been helping
sick children in the metropolitan area for many years,” said Honey Shields, Child Life Director at Beth Israel. “Beth
Israel has been fortunate to receive these funds for our NICU babies and pediatric patients.”
Ms. Shields has been working with the Seventh District Association for about 20 years, first at another hospital and
then at Beth Israel. During a NICU fundraiser in 2007, she mentioned that the unit needed equipment—and the
Association immediately offered to help. Their grant that year funded a ventilator for the NICU.
“We got involved with the program through Honey Shields,” said Dave Mordo, President of the Seventh District
Association. “We followed her from another hospital because of her work and her love for children. She introduced us
to this program and this project, and we just latched on to it.”
The Seventh District Association is a Masonic organization originally chartered in 1918 by the Grand Lodge of the
State of New York. The organization now supports a wide range of children’s charities, from summer camps for
physically, emotionally and financially disadvantaged youth to groups that serve children through medical research,
treatment, education, housing and social work.
“Helping those less fortunate is the cornerstone of what the Seventh District Association believes in,” Mr. Mordo said.
“We want to do whatever we can to help children get high-quality medical care with up-to-date equipment, and the
program at Beth Israel helps us do that.”
(*) NOTE: The Seventh District Association is the philanthropic organization of the Brothers who are members of the
five Lodges of the Seventh Manhattan District. For over 60 years the Brothers of the Seventh Manhattan owned and
operated Masonic Camp Seven, a renowned summer camp for underprivileged or financially disadvantaged girls.
Since Camp Seven closed in 1980s the Seventh District Association has supported various community and Masonic
charities, primarily supporting children, by contributing more than a third of a million dollars annually.
Beth Israel Medical Center is a 1,106-bed, full-service tertiary teaching hospital that was founded on
Manhattan's Lower East Side before the turn of the 20th century. Beth Israel originally was dedicated to
serving a vulnerable population in that community. Now a century later, the Medical Center serves
individuals and families from every walk of life throughout New York City and beyond.
Taken from their website at http://www.wehealny.org/patients/BI_home/BI_Petrie.html

Oldest Shriner
Walter Breuning was born in Melrose, Minnesota, on
September 21, 1896. He worked for the Great Northern
Railroad from 1913 to 1963. A member of Great Falls,
Montana Lodge No. 118 since 1925 having served as
Worshipful Master in 1934, he served as Lodge Secretary
for 25 years, from 1945 to 1970. Since joining the Scottish
Rite in 1937, Valley of Great Falls, he has served on
various work committees, including Director of Work, from
1940 to 1985. Breuning served as Venerable Master in
1950, received the K.C.C.H. in 1949, and was coroneted a
33° Inspector General Honorary in 1958. Noble Breuning
has been a member of Algeria Shriners since 1951. He
served as manager of the Elbon (Noble spelled backwards)
Shrine Club for many years. He is also a member of the Royal Order of Scotland and Royal Order of
Jesters. He is also the recicpient of the DeMolay Honorary Legion of Honor.
Among his many activities since turning 100, he spoke at the Great Falls Feast of Tishri at age 104
and Maundy Thursday at age 106, published "This is the Day the Lord has Made" in the Scottish Rite
Journal at age 104, and tossed the first pitch at the Great Falls White Sox season opener at age 110!
Walter broke his hip at age 108, spent 8 days in the hospital, and was healed in 21 days. He uses a
walker to get around, but it hasn't slowed him down. Everyday, Walter eats breakfast and lunch - no
dinner. In November 2007, at the age of 111, he was fitted with hearing aids. On his 112th birthday,
Walter said "the secret to long life is being active. If you keep your mind busy and keep your body
busy, you're going to be around a long time."
Go to the following to see a video of Walter

http://www.greatfallstribune.com/multimedia/Breuning/index.html
Fellowship Committee - Tappan

As you remember Sunday, February 15th is the celebration of His Excellency's George Washington's 277th Birthday. This will be
at 2 pm. at his headquarters at Tappan. RW Dan Semel will talk on "The Art of Arthur Szyk."
Prior to this celebration, Knickerbocker Chapter No.13, National Sojourners, will have its Annual Meeting and obligation of new
members. This will take place at the Old '76 House at noon (1200 hrs).
As a special accommodation, Rob Norden has offered us a complete package for $27 to include tax and tip - and Mimosas - in
Andre's "Prison Room," for our luncheon and program.
We will definitely need to have a head count prior to the day to be sure we have sufficient seating.
Please RSVP to Ron Steiner at nysmason@aol.com or phone (845) 354 - 4192
The Heroes of '76 have been tasked with the presentation of the colors and to be in uniform please.
All Sojourners and Brothers (and guests, friends and family) are certainly invited to attend the lunch and meeting.
Cordially and Fraternally,
C. F. William Maurer
President
Knickerbocker Chapter No.13

Congratulations
RW DANIEL SEMEL NAMED
HONORARY MEMBER PRINCE HALL GRAND LODGE
Just before the close of the New York Prince Hall Grand Lodge Mid-Year Assembly session RW Semel was called to the podium
and informed that he had been elected to Honorary Membership in Prince Hall Grand Lodge. It is a first for both our Grand
Lodges. Congratulations Bro. Semel. Below is a copy of the certificate.

Grand Lodge Calendar
Friday Feb 13-Wed Feb 18 GM Conference California
Thurs. Mar 5-Sat Mar 7 RAM Grand Chapter Albany

Sunday March 8 Masonic Breakfast Leonards
Thurs. Mar 5-Sat Mar 7 RAM Grand Chapter Albany
Friday March 27 Brotherhood Night Delaware
Wednesday April 1 150th Rededication of White Plains Lodge No. 473 White Plains
Thursday April2 Scotia Lodge NYC
Friday April 3 Riverhead Suffolk District
Saturday April 11 Cortlandville Rededication Cortland
Wed. Apr 15-Thurs Apr 16 Grand Lodge of New JerseyRAM Grand Chapter New Jersey
Saturday April 18 Dedication Oswego
Thurs. April 23 McCloud Scholarship Dinner NYC
Friday April 24 Garibaldi Lodge – GM Reception NYC
Saturday April 25 10th Manhattan, Joe Q. Luncheon NYC
Saturday April 25
th
6 Manhattan Dinner NYC
Sunday April 26 Livingston Library Dinner NYC
Thursday April 30 Inauguration Reenactment NYC
Sat. May 2-Tue May 5 Grand Lodge Session NYC
Bro. John Andrades Jr.

Masonic Hall Tours
As interests are increasing in knowing more about FREEMASONRY the Masonic Hall Tours are
experiencing many more visitors each year. Many visitors have been duly noted to say that our meeting
rooms "Speak for themselves." We welcome our world wide members of the craft, their families and friends.
We have been eager to increase conducting tours for the guests and families of our immediate brethren
within our Grand Lodge of New York. We ask the Masters of the lodges if they would stimulate interest in
group tours of the Masonic Hall Tours, located at 71 W 23rd Street, NY, NY, 10010 4149, for more
information Telephone 1-212-337-6602.
Omission
Ed. In the December issue, we inadvertedly omitted a thank you to Bro Ted Jacobsen for providing the
photos for the Masonic Toys for Tots story. We apologize for the oversight.

Committee Chairmen
COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN TELEPHONE NO. EMAIL ADDRESS
Advisory Griffith Jones III (716) 833-8612 griffj3@verizon.net
Awards * Carter Dorzbacher (914) 769-4374 cld714@optonline.net
Brotherhood Fund * Robert D. Stack (516) 569-1951 nyfreemason@yahoo.com
Camp Turk David F. Stoy (607) 988-2545 dstoy@stny.rr.com
Charters * John E. de Meurers Sr (315) 783-9832 johndem@ridgeviewtel.us
Child Identification Donald H. Elliott (607)692-3134 NYCHIP1@nychip.org
Child Identification F.A.S.N.Y. C.H.I.P Joseph M. Keeler (718)833-0900 keeler533@msn.com
Community Service Kenneth E. Wagner (718)359-0279
Constitutions * John Leventhal (212) 600-1420 jmlad360@aol.com
Correspondence & Relations Gary Henningsen (609)409-1204 garyhenningsen2@aol.com
Credentials of Members & Returns of Lodges Edmund Kolb Jr. (201)385-2315
Custodians of the Work * Richard Friedman (585) 425-1981 richddgm@frontiernet.net
Distinguished Achievement Award Gary Henningsen (609)409-1204 garyhenningsen2@aol.com
Endowments * Ivan S. Obolensky (212) 861-4240
Finance * Alan J. Berk (212) 861-3012 alan-lrco@nyc.rr.com
Fraternal Correspondence Gary Henningsen (609)409-1204 garyhenningsen2@aol.com
George Washington National Memorial Ronald Sablosky (212)246-3345 RASMAO@aol.com
George Washington Tappan C.F.' Bill' Maurer (201) 391-1631 bill@maurer.org
Grand Historian James H. Rice (585)554-6032 jameshrice@frontiernet.net
Grand Lodge Convention Kurt Ott (845) 735-4557 schiller.304@verizon.net
GL Educational Asst. Program H. Stephen Lieb (914) 723-4476 slieb@aol.com
Law Enforcement * Martin A. Danoff (212) 682-4500 legaleagle70@att.net
Leadership & Education Services * Marino Cesarini (516) 741-6989 marinoDD96@verizon.net
Library & Museums Edward G. Gilbert (716)822-2051 rwegilbert@roadrunner.com
Lodges and Buildings * Fred C. Fredrickson (518) 512-3105 Ffredrickson@hesc.com
Long-Range Planning * M. Donald Darrohn III (585)225-1782 mddiii@frontiernet.net
Masonic Benevolence Committee * Wesley Powell (631) 691-7367 salwes@optonline.net
Masonic Blood Donor Program Sheldon D. Stachel (718) 998-8569 maxstach@aol.com
Masonic Brotherhood Foundation Gary Henningsen (609)409-1204 garyhenningsen2@aol.com
Masonic Family Fellowship Roy Puckhaber (631) 754-8467 rpuckhab@optonline.net
Masonic Hall Tours John Andrades Jr. (212)686-3996 acoljon@aol.com
Masonic Home Activity Leonard E. Coon
Masonic Jurisprudence * Bruce Widger (315) 673-9142 drbwwidger@alltel.net
Masonic Student Assistance Training (MSAT) Tim McMullin (607)748-6284 tmmcmullin@yahoo.com
Masonic University of NY (MUNY) Stephen King (518)489-1341 sking1@nycap.rr.com
Membership Development Bruce Chilton (585) 478-4631 boxman@rochester.rr.com
(585) 482-0400 &
Military OutReach David Crawford & Thomas M. Paglia (585)227-2046
Necrology * Herbert M. Groce, Jr. (973) 361-8816 archgroce@msn.com
NETNEWS Steven P. Koch (845) 298-2502 Stevenpkoch@aol.com
Pay of Members & Representatives Tommy Lam (718)259-5511 tlox710@yahoo.com
Proctor Steven Rubin (212) 643-5402 stevenadamrubin@msn.com
Public Relations Ronald J. Steiner (845)354-4192 nysmason@aol.com
Publications Committee * Ronald N. Bower (716) 434-4946 ronnbower@aol.com
Related Organizations Vincent Libone (718) 229-2841 enobilpartition@aol.com
Restorations * Manuel Abad (631) 331-3256 mabad@suffolk.lib.ny.us
Surviving Spouse & Loved Ones William C. Jones (315)986-9150 wjones@rochester.rr.com
Technology Stu Card (315) 845-6249 cards@ntcnet.com
Unity * Daniel M. Semel (212) 628-5613 dansem@aol.com
Youth Cary S. Cohn (516) 781-1157 ccohn1127@aol.com
* Standing Committee

Brotherhood Fund Bro. Robert D. Stack
nyfreemason@yahoo.com
Dear Brethren,
As I am sure most of you know by now, we are again offering special gifts of
appreciation for donations of $100 and $500. For $100 or more you will receive a one
of a kind, beautifully framed, hand stitched commemorative tapestry of the Grand
Lodge Seal of NY with Square and Compasses.
For $500 or more to the Masonic Benevolence Endowment Fund you will receive a
New York Masonic Pocket Watch, Chain, and Knife. Your initials will be engraved
on the back of the pocket watch.
Fraternally,
Robert D. Stack, PGT

State Chairman
Bro. Tim McMullin –

Masonic Student Assistance Training MSAT Chairman
tmcmullin@yahoo.com
In late January eighty-four educators, representing sixteen school districts from across New
York, met on the campus of the Masonic Care Community to attend a three day MSAT Workshop.
Problems with Gangs, Alcohol, Tobacco, and other Drugs, Bullying, Depression, and even suicide
plague our youth and the educational system. MSAT helps schools get kids back on track.
From October 2001 to January 31, 2009, 35 workshops have been offered to 2120 educators. To
date 407 school-based Student Assistance Teams have been trained. These teams worked on plans for
specific youth, and returned to their schools better prepared to work together to help those young
people get back on track.
New York Masons provide the financial support, relieving the schools of almost all costs to
attend a great workshop.
Future workshops will be offered on the campus of the Masonic Care Community in Utica, NY.
Remember, costs of lodging and meals are paid by the Masonic Fraternity. The next Utica workshop
will be held March 31-April 2, '09. Another Utica workshop is scheduled for October 2009.
There are also regional workshops scheduled, and the next will be held in Jamestown, NY, April
28-30, 2009. Participants commute from home daily. Call for details. Regional workshops are also
planned for the summer.
If your Lodge, Club or Group would like to hear more about MSAT, contact Tim McMullin at the
numbers listed.
To learn more about MSAT, call 1-888-694-0511 or e-mail msat@nymasons.org, or visit the
website at www.nymasons.org/cms/msat
Thanks,
Tim McMullin, MSAT Chair

Bro. Ronald J. Steiner
Public Relations NYSMASON@aol.com
HOW DOES THIS STORY (*) RELATE TO YOUR MASONRY ???

A man sat in a Metro station in Washington DC and started to play the violin; it
was a cold January morning. He played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes During
that time, since it was rush hour, it was calculated that thousand of people went
through the station, most of them on their way to work.
Three minutes went by and a middle-aged man noticed there was musician playing.
He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried up to meet his
schedule.
A minute later, the violinist received his first dollar tip: a woman threw the money in the till and without
stopping continued to walk.
A few minutes later, someone leaned against the wall to listen to him, but the man looked at his watch and
started to walk again. Clearly, he was late for work.
The one who paid the most attention was a 3 year-old boy. His mother hurried him along, but the kid stopped to
look at the violinist. Finally the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk turning his head all the
time. This action was repeated by several other children. All the parents, without exception, forced them to move
on.
In the 45 minutes the musician played, only 6 people stopped and stayed for a while About 20 gave him money
but continued to walk their normal pace. He collected $32. When he finished playing and silence took over, no
one noticed. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition.
Apparently no one knew this, but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the best musicians in the world. He played
some of the most intricate pieces ever written with a violin worth 3.5 million dollars.
Two days before his playing in the subway, Joshua Bell sold out at a theater in Boston and the seats at an
average $100.
This is a real story. Joshua Bell playing incognito in the metro station was conceived by the Washington Post as
part of a social experiment about perception, taste and priorities of people. The outlines were: in a commonplace
environment at an inappropriate hour: Do we perceive beauty? Do we stop to appreciate it? Do we recognize the
talent in an unexpected context?
One of the possible conclusions from this experience could be:
If we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the world's best musicians playing some of the
finest music ever conceived and written by the mind of man, how many other things are we missing?
My question for you today ... When was the last time you visited your Masonic Lodge?
Start the New Year 2009 with a resolve to rediscover the hidden beauties of the mysteries of Freemasonry and
the warmth and camaraderie of your Lodge Brothers.
Happy New Year!
Fraternally,
Ron Steiner
(*) Note: This story was taken from the web without attribution as to the source. The conclusion and admonition
were mine.
Bro. Ronald J. Steiner
Public Relations NYSMASON@aol.com
Here are some pictures taken at the public relations seminar

held at Washington's Headquarters in Tappan on November 1,
2008 for the brothers in the New York City and suburb districts.
Over twenty brothers representing their lodges and districts took
part. RW Ronald J. Steiner and Sid Dinsay led the
instructional session. RW Paul Gibbon, of the Masonic Safety
Identification Program, also took part updating the brothers on
the new program.
Bro. Ira B. Cooperman

Masonic Care Community CoopermanI@masoniccommunityny.org
Donations from an IRA can Reduce Your Taxes

by Bro. Ira Cooperman, CFRE
Winter is here and that means that tax-time (April 15th) is not too far away. Here is some information about
how you can reduce your tax liability and help the Masonic Care Community -- your Masonic “Home” -- at the same
time.
Because of a new law that Congress passed at the end of 2008, the opportunity to make a tax-free gift from your
Individual Retirement Account (IRA) to a charitable non-profit organization, such as the Masonic Care Community,
now is available -- but only through the end of this year (Dec. 31, 2009), so please take a moment to review the
questions and answers below to see whether this easy way to make a difference is right for you.
Q. I've already named your organization as the beneficiary of my IRA. What are the benefits if I make a gift
now instead of from my estate?
A. By making a gift this year of up to $100,000 from your IRA, you can save on your income taxes sooner than later,
and you can see your philanthropic dollars at work. You are jump-starting the legacy you would like to leave and
giving yourself the joy of watching your philanthropy take shape.
Q. I'm turning age 70½ in a few months. Can I make this gift now?
A. No. This new legislation requires you to reach age 70½ by the date you make the gift.
Q. I have several retirement accounts -- some are pensions and some are IRAs. Does it matter which retirement
account I use?
A. Yes. This legislation covers gifts made from IRAs only. Pension, profit sharing, 401(k), 403(b) and other forms of
retirement funds do not fall under this tax legislation.
Q. Do I need to give my entire IRA to be eligible for the tax break?

A. No. You can give any amount this year under this provision, as long as it is $100,000 or less. If your IRA is valued
at more than $100,000, you can transfer a portion of it to fund a charitable gift.
Note: It is wise to consult with your tax professional if you are contemplating a charitable gift under this new law.
Please feel free to contact Bro. IRA Cooperman at (315) 798-4703, or toll-free at (800) 593-3353, or
coopermani@mccny.com with any questions you may have. The Masonic Care Community has been generously
supported by our brethren for over 115 years. With your help, it will continue to provide the best possible healthcare
for everyone.

Bro. Stephen S. King
MUNY Steveking1@mac.com
Masonic University of New York

Every Worshipful Master looks for educational programs that will enhance the Lodge experience
of the Brothers. Indeed, providing opportunities for Masonic education is one of the most important
responsibilities of any Master.
The Compleat Master: A Primer for the East is a compilation of educational materials that
addresses this responsibility. It contains lessons on all the Degrees, on our Symbolism, on early
Masonic constitutional documents, on etiquette, the working tools, famous Masons and on many other
items of interest to anyone committed to Freemasonry. All of these can be adapted for educational
presentations in a Lodge setting. In addition to being a great resource for Masters, it’s a superb
compendium of general Masonic information for any Brother.
The Compleat Master was distributed to every Lodge in the jurisdiction several years ago, so
there may well be a copy readily available to anyone interested in taking advantage of this educational
tool. Any Brother—or any Lodge—interested in getting more copies can contact me at sking@e-
muny.net. The cost is $15, which includes shipping.
And don’t forget the other great educational resources available through MUNY: We’ve just
completed the first strictly Internet offering of the Leadership Development Course (LDC-8), and we
are still offering the Individual Development Course which can be administered in a variety of ways to
suit the needs of the Brothers in each District. Please request more information on these course
offerings through the e-mail address noted above.

Bro. Thomas Savini
Robert R. Livingston Library tmsavini@nymasoniclibrary.org

Camp Turk Bro. David F. Stoy
dstoy@stny.rr.com
TIME TO THINK SUMMER … Summer camp that is!

2009 Plans announced for CAMP TURK our NY MASONIC YOUTH CAMP
Details of the 2009 summer camping season at
CAMP TURK, our New York Grand Lodge
Masonic Youth Camp have been announced, and
now is the time to start thinking of the
youngsters you would like to sponsor for an
unforgettable three-week summer vacation.
New York Masons have a unique opportunity to
give a boy or girl a summer camping experience
in the Adirondack Mountains they will
remember for the rest of their lives. Here are
the details for the upcoming 2009 Camp Turk
season:
Applications are welcome for boys and girls
between the ages of 9 and 16 (at the time camp
begins).
The 2009 Camp Turk sessions will be: Boys -
July 5th - July 25th. Girls July 26th - August
15th. There is a one-week training session for
staff only the week before camp begins.
Camp Turk is staffed by a carefully screened
and trained cadre of adult counselors from the
United States and abroad, many of whom are
returning to our Masonic Youth Camp year after
year, and many of whom were once campers
here.
Costs for sending a youngster to Camp Turk are
heavily subsidized by our Masonic Lodges and
by the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Home
in an effort to make this summer camping
experience affordable for the children and
grandchildren of our membership and as a
service to the youth of our communities.
This year the tuition will be $900 plus a $100 registration fee, significantly less than privately operated camps.
Please note that all fees must be paid in full by June 1, 2009.
The programs and amenities at Camp Turk are second to none. Our Masonic Youth Camp is beautifully situated
on 1,600 acres of pristine forestland surrounding a magnificent fresh water lake near the hamlet of Woodgate,
NY. Today, “Camp Turk” is an all around camp that accommodates up to 200 boys and 200 girls at each of 2
three-week sessions. Camp Turk offers a complete host of activities including tennis, basketball, softball,
volleyball, archery, lacrosse, bike riding, arts and crafts, canoeing, sail boating, windsurfing, swimming, chorus,
computers, yoga, movies, talent shows, fishing and outdoor overnight camping, just to name a few activities.
Applications for Summer campers and staff are now available on-line at www.nymasons.org and click on CAMP
TURK.
For further information please call Mollie Denslow, Camp Turk Administrator: 315-392-2081 Or e-mail: CAMP
TURK@aol.com.

Youth
We congratulate the following Lodges for going into their communities to recognize good work done by others.
These following Lodges show through concrete action that Masons care! We encourage all Lodges to share their
talent, time, concern and the resources of their Lodge buildings, to provide service to other worthy organizations
and institutions in their individual communities.
Eagle Boy Scout Recognitions
Warren No.32, Dutchess District, honored two worthy Eagle Scouts in Hyde Park in December. Boy Scout Troop
80, Hudson Valley Boy Scout Council 374. In January, they honored another two worthy Eagle Scouts from the
same Boy Scout Troop once again!
Clinton F. Paige Berean No.620, Cattaraugus District, honored a worthy Eagle Scout in early January Boy Scout
Troop 652, Ellicottville, Allegheny Highlands Boy Scout Council 382.
Kedemah No.693, bestowed the Eagle recognition on a worthy scout from Troop 43, Greene-Ulster District, Cairo
NY, Rip Van Winkle Boy Scout Council 405
Maimonides-Marshall No.739, 6th Manhattan District, bestowed the Eagle recognition on two worthy scouts from
Manhasset and Garden City, Boy Scout Troops 71 and 55, Theodore Roosevelt Council 386
Cassia No.445, 2nd Kings District, bestowed the Eagle recognition on two worthy scouts in Brooklyn New York
Troop 715 Greater New York Boy Scout Council 645.
Fraternal No.155, Clinton District, honored a worthy scout from Boy Scout Troop 46, Twin Rivers Boy Scout
Council 364.
Spartan No.956, 1st Nassau District will honor one young man from Boy Scout Troop 577, in North Bellmore in
February. Theodore Roosevelt Council 386
Jamaica Queens Village No.546, Queens District will honor one worthy scout, Boy Scout Troop 357, in February,
Greater New York Queens Council
Warsaw No.549, Genesee-Wyoming District, honored two young men from Boy Scout Troop 4033. Iroquois Trail
Boy Scout Council 376. Warsaw N.Y, in early January.
Western Star No.1185, 2nd Erie District, will recognize an Eagle in Eden N.Y, Boy Scout Troop 603, Greater
Niagara Frontier Boy Scot Council 380
DAN BEARD MASONIC SCOUTER AWARD

Paumonok –Port Washington No.855, 2nd Nassau Masonic District will be honoring Arthur H. Mittelstaedt for
his exemplary work with the Boy Scouts of America in the near future. Theodore Roosevelt Boy Scout Council
386
Huguenot No.381, Richmond District, will be honoring Mark G Peerson, for his exemplary work with the Boy
Scouts of America on Staten Island in the near future. Greater New York Boy Scout Council 645

Youth
General Douglas MacArthur Award For Exemplary Service To Youth
John Jay No.653, 2nd Westchester Putnam District will be honoring two Boy Scout Leaders for their service to
the youth of their community over the long years. Mr.Gregory Vajda, Scoutmaster of Troop 11 and Mr. Laurence
Head Asst-Scoutmaster, Troop 11
Westbrook No.333, Chemung Schyuler Tioga District, Nichols, New York has requested that a replacement
certificate of recognition be made available to James and Cindy Trout to replace what was originally presented to
them in January 2003, for their work with Scouts in their community from Troop 36, due to a house fire.
Knights Templar

American Lodge of Research
AMERICAN LODGE of RESEARCH INSTALLS 2009 OFFICERS
The American Lodge of Research installed its 2009 Officers on December 29 in Manhattan. Bill
Thomas was installed as Master, and presented his inaugural paper, entitled "Curious George: The
Problem of George Cooke." The paper traced the strange circumstances of a mid-19th Century Brother,
whose feet were firmly planted in both New York and London - and whose actions and behavior had an
impact on both Grand Jurisdictions.
Other installed officers are Pierre de Ravel D'Esclapon (Senior Warden), Steven Starkes (Junior
Warden), Richard Bateman (Treasurer) and Harvey Eysman (Secretary).
The American Lodge of Research is the oldest Masonic research Lodge in the United States. It was
organized in 1931, and has been continuously active and productive since. Although its activities were
originally directed towards the study of Masonic history in the United States, the Lodge now
encourages work in wider and more general topics of Masonic study.
Next meeting is March 30. Visit the Lodge online at http://www.nymasons.org/cms/ALR
(Left to right) Richard Bateman-Treasurer, Steven StarkesJunior Warden, Bill Thomas-Master,

Pierre de Ravel D’Esclapon-Senior Warden, Harvey Eysman-Secretary

Masonic Medical Research Laboratory (MMRL) Bro. Ronald Kamp
kamp@mmrl.edu
From: RW Brother Ron and Joan Steiner
Joan and I are very proud to support the Masonic Medical Research Lab where a special fund has been
established to support research in causes of cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death syndrome (adult) in
memory of our son ... Steven ...
The Steven Steiner Memorial Fund at MMRL..
Please click on this link to watch a short movie about the Masonic Medical Research Laboratory.
http://www.impactmovie.com/mmrl
Masonic Medical Research Laboratory (MMRL) Bro. Ronald Kamp
kamp@mmrl.edu
Will you have enough retirement income?

Watching your budget and taking fiscally prudent means to ensure that you
can ride out theses turbulent times is something all of us must face. It is not
just retirees that are faced with the perils of economic uncertainty.
Countless baby boomers are beginning to think about retirement and the appropriate steps necessary
for ensuring long-term financial security and that of their family. Everyone is beginning to realize that
guaranteed sources of income such as social security, pensions, savings and investments may not be
enough and are seeking a higher rate of return. Others may desire more tax-free income during
retirement.
If you fit into either scenario, a Deferred Charitable Gift Annuity or Charitable Gift Annuity to the
Masonic Medical Research Laboratory may help you increase your retirement income by providing you
with a fixed guaranteed rate of return for the rest of your life and that of a love one. In addition you
will be entitled to
certain tax benefits.
Single annuitant
rates are currently
paying between 5.7%
and 10.5%.
Including charitable
giving as part of a
well-rounded
financial and estate
plan, may provide
you very attractive
options that you did
not know were
available. For more
information and a
free personal annuity
illustration, please
contact the Masonic
Medical Research
Laboratory’s
Development Office
at
development@mmrl.
edu or call toll free 1-
888-888-MMRL.

Masonry In Stamps
Attached is the personalized USPS-recognized stamp (designed and produced by Ted H. Jacobsen, Secretary of
Harry S Truman Lodge No. 1066 and Masonic Philatelist) First Day Cover commemorating the 250th
Anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns, Bard of Ayrshire and Poet Laureate of Scotland. The cacheted cover
(also designed and produced by Ted H. Jacobsen) was canceled in Ayrshire, the county in Scotland where Burns
was born. However, being a personalized USPS-recognized stamp, it was canceled in Ayrshire, IOWA. Observe
the Masonic Jewel around Bro. Robert Burns's neck. Bro. Jacobsen distributed unpostmarked cacheted covers
with stamp below at Scotia Lodge's Robert Burns Dinner night for brothers to get canceled themselves,at their
neighborhood post offices.

It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the call to the Celestial Lodge of RW Richard J Roberts, Secretary of
Pacific Lodge No.233. Richard laid down his working tools on Saturday January 3rd in the vicinity of 3:00pm. A
Masonic Service was held. We ask that you keep Arlene in your prayers through this trying period.
It is my very sad duty to report the "black camel" has visited Kismet Temple. Our Colnel of units Emiritus,
William J. McMonigle died sometime during the night on the 29th/30th of December, 2008. He will be
cremated, after donating his organs and having his body used for medical research. A Masonic Service was held.
RW Brother Lester Demerle has been called by the Great Architect. Bro. Lester was a member of
Lessing Lodge No.608, a member of the Copernicus Lodge No.545 Fellowcraft Club and was also a
member of United Brothers Lodge No.356, serving the Lodge as Master for the years 1990-1991.

Bro. George Arnott Meiklejohn, of Flushing, age 87, died Monday, December 29, 2008, surrounded by his loving
family. A Masonic Service was held. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Shriner's Crippled
Children’s Transportation Fund. Cards may be sent to his wife & Family at: Mrs. George Meiklejohn, 412
Chestnut St., Flushing, MI 48433-1410
It is my sad duty to advise you that Estelle Olmo, wife of RW Robert Olmo, Jr., passed away on December
23, 2008. Please keep Estelle and the Olmo family in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this
difficult time. Letters of sympathy can be sent to Robert Olmo, Jr.; 1431 Hancock Street; Elmont, NY
11003
RW Robert E. Besaw, 85, of Hannibal, died Monday, Dec. 22, 2008, at Pontiac Care and Rehabilitation
Center in Oswego. Brother Robert was Grand Steward for the Oswego District 1998-2000, and a Past
Master Hannibal Lodge No.550. He was also member of the Elizabeth Chapter, Fulton,NY and Lake City
Victoria, Oswego NY OES. He served the Star as District Grand Lecturer and Patron for many Matron's
in both Chapters. Contributions may be made to the Hannibal Masonic Lodge No.550, PO Box 145,
Martville, or to the Order of the Eastern Star, Lake City Victoria Chapter 205, c/o Natalie Woodall, 324
W. Seneca St., Oswego 13126.
Denise Smith, wife of Brother Vincent Spampinato died peacefully on Saturday, December 20, 2008 at
North Shore Hospital. Denise was a member of Laurel and Bredablick Chapters, O.E.S. as well as Past
Matron of Bredablick Chapter. Sympathy cards can be sent to Brother Spampinato at
133-03 Boss St., Ozone Park, NY 11417
W Keith N. “Bud” Bane, Jr., 67, of Lyndonville, NY passed away on Monday,

December 29, 2008, at the Medina Memorial Hospital. Keith was a former member
of the Yates Masonic Lodge No.695, where he served as Master in 1985 and 1998.
He was most recently a member of the Medina Masonic Lodge No.336. He was an
active member of the Order of the Eastern Star formerly with No.215 in Yates and
most recently in Medina No.381, Keith served as Patron and Grand Officer in 1997
and 2007. Masonic and Eastern Star Services were held. In lieu of flowers,
memorials may be made in Keith’s name to Hospice of Orleans Co., P.O. Box 489,
Albion, NY 14411 or to Future Farmer’s of America, 2 Mustang Dr., Medina, NY
14103. Online condolences may be made at www.batestuttle.com. Sympathy Cards
may be sent to: Mrs. Keith Bane and Family, 1167 Marshall Rd., Lyndonville, NY 14098.
RW Brother Lester Demerle has been called by the Great Architect. Bro. Lester was a member of Lessing Lodge
No.608, a member of the Copernicus Lodge No.545 Fellowcraft Club and was also a member of United Brothers
Lodge No.356, serving the Lodge as Master for the years 1990-1991.
Bro. Richard A. Kiczek, a member of Sibelius-Bredablick Lodge No.880, Bredablick Chapter No. 851 OES and a
Past Master of a Lodge in Francestown, NH passed away suddenly on December 26, 2008. Cards of sympathy
should be sent to his wife, Janet, at 247 Jennifer Lane; Carrollton, GA 30116-5776
Its with a heavy heart that I inform you that Br. Michael Condra passed away today January 19, 2009

Peggy Williams, mother of VWDonald G. Williams II, Assistant Grand Lecturer of the First Erie District passed
away on Christmas Eve. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to her Church or the charity of your choice.
Mrs. Williams was a member of Ailiamsi Court No.12 Ladies Oriental Shrine, Athor Temple No.19 Daughters of
the Nile and Past Matron of Betsy Ross Levant Chapter No.695 Order of the Eastern Star.
It is with profound sorrow that Herder Lodge No. 698, Ninth Manhattan District, announces the passing
of W Brother Walter Lyba, who was called to the Grand Lodge on High, on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008
Gasport Lodge No. 787 regrets the passing of Brother John C. Willis on Jan. 15. He was our oldest member at
age 95. He was made a Master Mason in Hartland Lodge No. 218 on July 10, 1944. He affiliated with Gasport
Lodge No. 787 on November 1, 1983. A Masonic Memorial Service was held. Cards maybe sent to:
John Willis, Jr.
20 Francis Street
Middleport, NY 14105
It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of Pauline (Polly) Freer of Red Hook, NY. She was the wife of
former DDGM Dutchess and member of Hendrick Hudson Lodge No. 875, the Late RW Brother Douglas Freer.
Bro. William G. Owler, a member of Niagara River Lodge 785 F and AM, Royal Arch Masonic Lodge 200,
Commandry 64, Lockport Shriners, and was recognized by the Grand Lodge of NY State for more than 65 years
of service died Sunday, January 18, 2009. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ethel L. Owler. A Masonic
Service was Visit www.legacy.com/niagara-gazette for on-line guest register. Your Prayers for the family are
most welcome, cards may be sent to Mrs. William G. Owler & Family at: 1753 Lake Road, Youngstown, NY
14174
It is a sad time as Eggertsville-Grand Island Lodge reports the death of Ruth Lavin, surviving spouse of
RW James Lavin. The Lavins worked tirelessly together to make the Erie County Masonic Child ID Program a
shining star.
It is our sad duty to announce the passing of Marie J. Leonard, mother of RW Robert Leonard on January 20,
2009. While flowers are quite welcome, my brothers and I also ask that consideration be given to donations to
Ozanam Hall, a local Catholic nursing home that had helped Mom through the rehab of her shoulder surgery
some years back; she was very grateful for their care. Their information is here:
Ozanam Hall
42-21 201 Street
Bayside, NY 11361
RW Robert Fairservice, past Grand Staff Officer and Past Master of Collabergh-Radium No.859, passed away
this past Saturday, January 17th. There was no Masonic service.
Our Brother Robert W. Thompson has passed on January 18, 2009. Bro. Thompson was a member of Konosioni
Lodge F&AM, Shriners Field Band and the Royal Order of Jestors. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, CNY Chapter, Learbury Centre, 401 North Salina Street, Syracuse, NY 13203-
1770.A Masonic Funeral Service.
RW James Skinner past DDGM of the Onondaga District has past to that great body with the Grand
Architecture of the Universe.
I have just been informed that our dear Brother, Companion & Sir Knight John Schweback was called from labor
and laid down his working tools On February 1, 2009.
It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of Bro. John Anderson Sr. Bro. Anderson was a 48 year mason and
had the distinct honor of being the first receipient of the Masonic Dedicated Service Award in New York State.
John was a former member of Yorktown Lodge and Chatham Lodge. There will be a Memorial in the next few
weeks for John. Please send cards and prayers to:
John and Linda Anderson
2271 New Hackensack Road
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
John will be passing these along to his mother Jeanne Anderson. Jeanne is also ill so she will be staying with
John and Linda off and on. John and Linda have been outstanding supporters of the Masonic family
including Tri Po Bed Grotto, Shekameko Lodge No. 458, NY Masonic Identification Safety Program and FDR
DeMolay.
It is with deep regret that we have learned of the untimely demise of Mrs. Irene McCloud, the surviving spouse
of our late Past Grand Master, MW Stewart C. McCloud. Mrs. Irene McCloud had been admitted to the hospital
and died on Sunday, January 25, 2009. Our Grand Master, Most Worshipful Edward G. Gilbert, and Deputy
Grand Master, RW Vincent Libone, join the entire Grand Line and our Permanent Members in extending heart-
felt sympathies and condolences to the McCloud Family during this time of sorrow. Sympathy cards may be sent
to the family via their son as follows:
RW Brother Stewart C. McCloud II
84 Ruland Road
Selden, NY 11784-1741
It is my sad duty to inform you of the death of RW Peter Rober t Yanalavitch, 59, on December 21,
2008. Peter was raised a Master Mason in Johnson City Lodge No.970 where he served as Master twice.
RW Yanalavitch also served as Master of Windsor Lodge No.442. He was a member and past High Priest
of Vallonia Chapter No. 80, Royal Arch Masons, Windsor; and a member of Western Broome Chapter
No.332 Royal Arch Masons, Maine. He was Grand Representative of the Grand Chapter of
Newfoundland & Labrador near the Grand Chapter of New York, Royal Arch Masons. He was a past
Illustrious Master of Ahwaga Council No.30, Cryptic Masons, Owego. He was a past Commander of Malta
Commandery, No.21, Knights Templar. He was inducted as a member of Crusade Priory No.57, Knights
of the York Cross of Honour in 2006. He was also active in the Order of the Eastern Star and also served
as a Daddy for the Johnson City Triangle Girls. Peter was an active member of the Otseningo Bodies,
Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite and a recipient o f the Meritorious Service Award. He was a past
Sovereign Prince of the Council of Princes of Jerusalem, past Thrice Potent Master of the Lodge of
Perfection, and past Commander-in-Chief of the Consistory and past Chairman of the Executive Board of
Otseningo Bodies, AASR. Peter was a member and past Monarch of Aahmes Grotto and a past president
of the Empire State Grotto Association. Peter was a member and Potentate of Kalurah Shriners,
AANOMS in 2006 and a member of the International Cabiri. He had served as secretary - treasurer of the
Arab Patrol, was a past President of the Johnson City Shrine Club, a member of the Stewards Unit, a
member of the Mini Bike Patrol and a past President of the Knights of Mecca. A Masonic Funeral Service
was held.
It is with deep sadness that I report the death of Helene Mandel, dear mother of Bro. Gary Mandel, who passed
last week at the age of 80. The Mandel's can be reached at: Gary Mandel
4308 Bedford Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11229
I would like to inform you of the passing of Bro. Wilson (Sergeant First Class) from the 340th MP Unit passing.
Bro. Wilson served with me In Camp Bucca, Iraq.
It is with deep sadness that I must report that our dear Brother, R W John Dethlefsen was called from labor and
laid down his working tools last evening. A Masonic service was held.
It is with deep sadness that we report the untimely death of the young grandson of W James R. Skene, a Past
Master and member for 58-years of Scotia Lodge No. 634. Jimmy's grandson died in his early twenties sometime
last week. Sympathy cards may be sent to James and Vivian Skene at 137 Rudolf Road, Mineola, NY 11501-
3213.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Betty Bontemps Vernello - sister of RWWilliam
Bontemps Jr. She had been hospitalized for a time and was in hospice the past weeks. In leiu of flowers, should
friends desire, contributions may be sent to: The American Cancer Society (ACS) 1-800-ACS-2345 or cancer.org
or the charity of your choice. The family has set up a memorial page on the American Cancer Society website in
memory of our mother that we will continue to update. To visit please click on the below link:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/Events/MosaicofHope?px56179&pg=fund&fr_id10
With the American Cancer Society 71% of the money goes to Research, Prevention, Treatment, and Support.
The other 29%goes to Admin (9%) and fundraising (20%).
It is with great sadness and heavy heart that I inform you of the passing of RW Reverend Campbell Thompson,
Past Master of Hudson River Lodge, dual member of Cornerstone Lodge, Assistant Grand Lecturer, and Past
District Deputy Grand Master of the Orange~Rockland Masonic District. There was no public or Masonic
services. Please keep the family and friends of Right Worshipful Reverend Thompson in your thoughts and
prayers.
Sickness & Distress

Monday, January 19th, RW Bruce Klein, Commissioner of Appeals, Past President of the Orange-Rockland
Masonic District Association and Past Master of Athelstane Lodge No 839, Pearl River, NY had a perforated
(ruptured) appendix removed. The successful surgery was performed by our W Dr. George Liberis. Happy to
report that Brother Bruce is doing well post op. If you wish to send a card of cheer:
Bruce Klein
158 Eagle Ridge Way
Nanuet, New York 10954
Please keep Bruce in your thoughts and prayers for a speedy and complete return to good health.
I have been informed tonight that W Brother Hunter Cole-Hatchard had a quadruple by-pass - a 6 + hour
operation - and is doing great. He is expected to be moved from ICU to a regular room, if he hasn't been
already. As some of you know, Hunter's home burned up about a month and a half ago and his wife
perished in the fire. Hunter could not get in to save her, by the time he saw the flames (he was in the yard
working). Cards may be sent to Hunter Cole-Hatchard, Ellis Hospital, - Rm 5A, 1101 Knott Street,
Schenectady, NY12308 Hunter belongs to about 16 Masonic Bodies.
R W Warren Brown, Past Grand Staff Officer and current Secretary of Fraternity-Dunderberg No.942, suffered
severe injuries on the evening of 26 January. A dramatic drop in his sugar levels caused a sudden dizziness
whereupon Bro. Brown fell down a flight of stairs. He is in Critical Intensive Care at the Westchester Medical
Center. Br. Brown is improving and off life support. Visitors are not currently allowed, but your thoughts and
prayers are greatly needed.
RW Herb Wasserman and we were told he had fallen and was hospitalized and not doing well. I called and was
able to speak with his wife Gert today and learned Herb had fallen back in December and was hospitalized but is
now in rehab and Gert said he is now doing well. Gert has also had a number of falls and she does not sound
very good herself. Herb is now in the Sarah Neuman Rehabilitation Center, Room 203, Weinberg Pavillion,
245 Palmer Avenue, Mamaroneck, NY 18543. Phone 914 - 698 - 6005.

Sickness & Distress
I know you will join me in wishing Sister Linda Riha the wife of Brother David Riha of Smithtown Lodge
No.1127 a speedy recovery from her recent illness while on a "Eastern Star" cruise to Panama. Our prayers go
out to the entire Riha family and wish Sister Linda well. A special thanks goes to VW Glenn Rubin, AGL West
Suffolk, who answered a call from the Master of Smithtown Lodge. Brother Rubin gave the name of a visiting
Brother he had just met while witnessing a Degree at Jephtha Lodge. This Brother was from Columbia and he
was able to contact his fellow Masons who gave Masonic assistance to the Riha family in Columbia.
This my Brothers shows Masonry in Action. A special thanks goes to all involved.
We have recently learned that RW Brother Michael Winkler's Mother has been admitted to Sloan - Kettering
Cancer Center in New York. Please keep her in your prayers. Get well cards may also be sent to Mrs. Winkler's
home as follows:
MRS.HERMAN R. WINKLER
101 Woodloch Springs
Hawley, PA 18428-9712
We have also learned that RW Brother Paul A. Dionisio's Wife, Margareth has been under the weather in recent
days. Get well cards may be sent to Margareth Dionisio as follows:
Residence St. Georges
7 Blvd. St. Georges
Le California, Canne, 06400
FRANCE
Prayer is always appreciated and more updates to follow regarding calling and visits in the near future.
Thank You & Glad Tidings

I am sure that all friends of RW Brother Glen and Sandy Weinberg (Athelstane Lodge) will be interested to know
that Glen has been accepted for admission and has moved as of December 18th to the Masonic Care Community
in Utica so he can receive the specialized medical care he requires.
We all owe a special thanks to our good Brother RW George Blasch, a Trustee of the Masonic Hall and Home, for
his assistance in the admission process.
We know that Sandy will have great comfort in the knowledge that Glen will be in a facility assuring him the
finest medical, nursing and loving care among his Brother Masons.
I would like to thank everyone for their cards, calls and well wishes that I have received after my surgery on
December 5th. I am doing much better and hope to be fully backed up and around by January 5th.
RW John P. Wells, DDGM Sullivan
I spoke with W E. Daniel Walther, IV this morning regarding his son, Bro. Edward D. Walther, V.
Edward is a Sergeant in the NY Army National Guard and has completed his tour of duty with the U.S.
Army in Afghanistan. Edward safely arrived Stateside late on Christmas Day and is currently stationed
at Fort Bragg for the typical post-deployment debriefings. He will be home in Tonawanda in the very
near future.

Around The State
Greetings my Brothers
My goal this year as the Commander of the Grand Post is to insure a flag presentation to as many open Lodge
functions and D.D.G.M. Official visits as possible. I am looking for your help and assistance to spread the word out to
all the Lodges to seek out all the War Veteran Masons to join their District Post and if a District does not have a Post,
the District Deputy should contact me, the Commander of the Grand Post or the Adjutant Gen and we will Charter a
new Post for your District. The only requirement is that the Charter members should be a member in good standing
with a Lodge in the State of NY and be a War Veteran.
I am looking forward to working with you in this very important undertaking. With your help we can have a Post in every
district, spreading patriotism, respect for the men and women serving our country and spreading good will to all of our
Lodges and Communities across the State.
A Post in your District will act as a strong right arm to the District Deputies in all Districts, Presenting our flag will bring
honor and dignity to the office of the District Deputy Grand Master in all official visits, Patriotic Celebrations and other
Lodge Ceremonies.
May God bless our Troops for our freedom, God bless our Fraternity, God bless the Veterans and may God bless Our
United States of America.
With fraternal regards.
Eustace G. Kiriakos - Commander General
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
BLOOD DRIVE DONOR COMMITTEE
EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT
GRAND LODGE OF FREE & ACCEPTED MASONS
OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK
M.·. W.·. Edward Gilbert, Grand Master
R.·. W.·. Sheldon D. Stachel, Chairman, Masonic Blood Donor
Program Committee
Masonic Blood Donor Program Committee

Blood Drive Announcement
Masonic Hall, 71 West 23rd Street, New York City

Wednesday, March 11, 2009 (3:00 — 8:30 PM)
Monday, May 11, 2009 (3:00 — 8:30 PM)
Bring Valid Photo ID
————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————
NOTE: if you have never donated blood and/or have questions about your eligibility you are strongly encouraged to
contact the New York Blood Center at 1-800-688-0900 (Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM) or visit
www.nybloodcenter.org in advance of the blood drive.
Contact: W.˙. Patrick A. Kelsey,

Vice-Chairman, State Masonic Blood Donor Program Committee
www.nymasonicblooddonorprogram.com
718-689-0620 / info@nymasonicblooddonorprogram.com

- Around The State
HENDRICK HUDSON LODGE No. 875
WELCOMES THREE LOCAL SOLDIERS HOME
It was with great joy that the Hendrick Hudson Masonic No. 875 of Red Hook welcomed three local soldiers back from
Afghanistan this past on January 17th, 2009. Sgt. Ramon Miller of Red Hook, Sgt. David Saunders of Highland and
Spc. John Kelly of Montgomery were honored at a potluck luncheon, with almost 100 friends and family members
present. All three soldiers are members of the New York Army National Guard and were deployed out of Camp Smith.
Worshipful Master Dr. Branden Burkley led the celebration, which began with an invocation by US Navy Reserve
Chaplain Lieutenant Michael Anderson. Special toasts of recognition were made by Brother and Rev. Dr. Mark D.
Isaacs (St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Wurtemburg in Rhinebeck), New York State Assemblyman Marcus Molinaro,
Army Reserve Lieutenant Valerie Savino, RW Dennis Breheny, W Neil Hegeman, Bro. H. Martinez and R.W. Steven
Koch.
Lt. Valerie
Savino
displayed a
collection of
war-related
memorabilia
that she has
photographed
over the years,
and gave a
power-point
presentation
honoring the
memory of
many local
veterans. All in
attendance
were asked to
sing "God
Bless
America" by
Irving Berlin
and recite the
Pledge of
Allegiance. L to R – Bro. John Kelly, Bro. David Saunders and Bro. Ramon Miller
Sgt. Miller, Sgt. Saunders and Spc. Kelly were all deeply moved by the warm reception on that frigid, January day and
each expressed their gratitude for the support shown to them.
Ed. Note – Sgt Miller and Sgt Saunders are Brother Masons. On Wednesday February 11, 2009 Brother John
Kelly and Brother Michael Anderson together with Brother Thomas Miller (a visitor to the Breakfast) took their
Entered Apprentice Degrees.

- Around The State

- Around The State

Around The State
Otsego Lodge No. 138 Holds Communication at Local Adult Care Facility
&
Herkimer Lodge No.423, Ilion Lodge No.40 and Richfield Springs Lodge No.482
Hold Joint Fellowcraft Degree
The great privilege of being a District
Deputy Grand Master keeps becoming
clearer. Over the past two evenings I have
participate in events that reflected the
heart and soul of our great Brotherhood
and the dedication to the Craft by the
Brothers in the Otsego-Schoharie District
as well as the wisdom and compassion of
our Grand Master. These events could not
have occurred without our Grand Master
MW Edward G. Gilbert as it was his
recognition of the merits of the events and
the dedicated Brothers behind them that caused him grant the Dispensation requests.
The first was an event held by Otsego Lodge No.138 in Cooperstown NY. Although it is an annual event it
does require the Grand Master's Dispensation.
Every year the Brothers of Otsego Lodge holds a Communication at The Manor, a local Adult Care
Facility, where Past District Deputy Arthur Jenkins Jr. has resided for several years. RW Jenkins is
unable to attend Lodge so they take the Lodge to him and he always demonstrates great appreciation for
this act of Brotherly Love.
Although the Dispensation has never been refused it is the wisdom of each Grand Master that must
determine the merits of the petition for a Dispensation to hold a Communication outside of their Temple.
Otsego Lodge Brothers truly exemplify Brotherly Love and embrace their obligation of outreach to their
Brothers who are unable to attend Lodge. In the many times I have attended one of their
Communications or special events it is a rare occasion when I do not have the pleasure of listening to
them addressing the needs and visitation plans for a Brother or Surviving Spouse and just as often
someone in need in their community.
Even on this special occasion the most discussed topic was the issue of another Brother who needed their
special attention and a visit. This is not unique to Otsego Lodge as it is a care I find deeply woven into the
fabric of the Otsego-Schoharie District, however any Lodge following No.138's model on this obligation
would find great success. The beauty I find in Otsego's program is that it doesn't seem like a program, it
is really from caring hearts who embrace every Brother in their Lodge. To make the evening even more
complete six Brothers from Schoharie Valley Lodge No.491 traveled many miles to see their old friend RW
Jenkins. After conducting business the Brothers enjoyed a presentation of the 3rd Degree Historical
Lecture by RW Richard Vang.

Around The State
The second event was a joint Fellowcraft Degree for Herkimer Lodge No.423 and Ilion Lodge No.40 in the
Herkimer District and Richfield Springs Lodge No.482 of the Otsego-Schoharie District held at the
Morgan Street Temple in Ilion on January 21st 2009.
Once again the Grand Master recognized the merits of a petition for a Dispensation that would allow
Entered Apprentice Frank Chiodo to be Passed to the Degree of Fellowcraft in a Lodge outside of the
Otsego- Schoharie Masonic District.
In support of their Brothers

from Richfield Springs Lodge,
their love of Degree work, and
because they had enjoyed
participating in Degrees with
the Herkimer and Ilion Lodge
Brothers in the past, seven
Otsego-Schoharie District
Brother sojourned a
considerable distance to have
the honor of participating this
degree.
Five of the Brothers were

from Cobleskill Lodge No.394
and two from Schoharie Valley
No.491. There were also
several Brothers who
represented dual memberships
across District lines as well as
the DDGM's and AGL's from
the O/S and Herkimer Districts and Past Jr Grand Warden Dennis Breheny.
In all nine Lodges and four Districts participated in the Passing of Brother Frank Chiodo from Richfield
Springs No.482 and Maurice Luck from Ilion No.591.
I could not be prouder to be a Mason.I am blessed to be surrounded by so many great Brothers in the
Otsego-Schoharie Masonic District. On behalf of the Otsego-Schoharie Masonic District I send a heartfelt
and Fraternal thank you to Grand Mater Edward G. Gilbert for these two nights of pure Masonic
expression and Fellowship, for an opportunity for reflection, to experience Masonic education and to bring
two more Brothers one step closer to being Master Masons.
I pray that the fruits of these Dispensations you granted will bring an additional satisfaction and
pleasure to your memories of being our Grand Master.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
RW Richard A. Sherman
District Deputy Grand Master Otsego-Schoharie Masonic District

Around The State
You are cordially invited to view the Historical Page of the Onondaga & Oswego Masonic Districts Historical
Societies (OMDHS) at http://www.omdhs.syracusemasons.com/history.htm
Among some of the papers and uploads are Biographical Sketches of Freemasons of the State of New York in the
Revolutionary War, War of 1812 and Volume I (of five Volumes) of the Civil War. Also appearing are
Biographical Sketches of the Grand Masters of New York, Scotland and Ireland (England is available, but has
not been uploaded).
Any Brother (or Lodge Secretary) having an interesting article or paper . . . or having corrections or additions to
the Biographical Sketches is cordially and fraternally invited to contact us at [ boazz@twcny.rr.com ]. You are
also cordially invited to view the other pages of the OMDHS website, including our 'What's New' and20extensive
'Links' pages.
To view a specific file of those listed below, you may click on the link . . .
Fraternally yours,
RW Gary L. Heinmiller
Director, OMDHS
Area 11 Historian
Early American History

Freemasons of NY in the Revolutionary War
Freemasons of NY in the War of 1812
Early Masonic Lodges in Northern New York State
Freemasons of NY in the Civil War - Vol. I of V
Onondaga Masonic District History
Craft Masonry in Onondaga County 1799-1826
Craft Masonry in Onondaga County, Part II, 1826-ca 2001
Craft Masonry in Onondaga County, Part III, Active Lodges as of 2007
Local History
Prospect Hill and Richard Husted Parker
Liverpool Telegraph
Other District History
Ensign Robert Wilson at Yorktown
Colonel Henry A. Barnum
Freemasons in the Ancestry of L. Frank Baum
Illustrious Bro. Orrin Welch and Commodores Perry
District Deputies of the Onondaga District
Bros. Gardner, Redfield, Longstreet, Teall and Tyler Families
Bro. T. Walker Gaggin, Architect of Syracuse Masonic Temple
Grand Masters - Socio-genealogical History
Biographical Sketches of Grand Masters in the State of New York
Grand Masters at the Battle of Culloden
England
John Murray, 4th Earl of Dumore - British governor of the
Province of New York (1770-71) and the Virginia Colony,
from 25 Sep 1771 through the start of the Revolutionary War
=0 A Grand Masters of Grosvenor Square (England)
Grand Masters of Ireland
Grand Masters of Scotland (large file - 155 pages)
George IVs Visit to Holyrood
Genealogical Charts - a series of charts showing the long and interesting biological connections of these Grand
Masters . . .
GMs of England, Scotland & Ireland

Around The State
TRI-PO-BED GROTTO
WINTER CLAMBAKE
FEBRUARY 15, 2009
32 CANNON STREET
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY
1:00PM UNTIL 5:00PM

HOT DOGS, HAMBURGERS,
SAUSAGE & PEPPERS,
RAW CLAMS, SODA, BEER
5:00PM - MAIN BAKE STEAMERS,
CHICKEN, BAKED POTATO,
CORN ON THE COB
$35.00 PER TICKET
CHILDREN UNDER 12 FREE
CALL: JOHN ANDERSON 845-485-7384
TOM ADSMOND 845-473-7788
MIKE ADSMOND 845-471-1820

Around The State
Annual Masons and Families Dedication Service and Breakfast
The Annual Masons and Families Dedication Service and Breakfast hosted by the Metropolitan District Deputy
Grand Masters Association will be held this year at 9:00 AM on Sunday Morning, March 8, 2009 at Leonard's of
Great Neck (located on Northern Blvd., Great Neck, NY).
Please note that Daylight Savings Time begins on March 8, 2009, so remember to set your clocks ahead by one
hour.
The Price per Person is $25.00 each. Tickets are available from any Metropolitan Area District Deputy.
We are very pleased to announce that our Grand Master, M:.W:. Edward G. Gilbert, has
chosen as this year's keynote guest speaker the Honorable Howard Safir, former New
York City Police Commissioner and NYC Fire Commissioner.
Howard Safir is currently the Chairman and CEO of SafirRosetti, a premier company
serving the security and investigation needs of its clients both nationally and
internationally. Mr. Safir also serves as consultant to the Chair of ChoicePoint, a
leading provider of credential verification and identification services. Howard Safir was
appointed 39th Police Commissioner of the City of New York by then Mayor Rudolph W.
Giuliani on April 15, 1996.
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
998 – 2000
METROPOLITAN GRAND
LODGE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION
R∴W∴Stewart C. McCloud II 84 Ruland Road
District Deputy Grand Master Selden, NY 11784-1741
Second Queens District Home: (631) 846-9388
1998 – 2000 Email: STEMMCII@juno.com
February 01, 2009
Dear Brothers,
On Thursday April 23, 2009 the Queens District will hold the Most Worshipful Stewart C. McCloud
Scholarship Dinner Dance at 7:00 PM. It will be held at Koenig’s Restaurant, 86 South Tyson Avenue,
Floral Park, NY. Tickets are $40.00 per person, and checks may be made payable to the Queens District.
We will be honored that night in having both our Grand Master, MWEdward G. Gilbert and Deputy
Grand Master, RW Vincent Libone join with us! As we have not had a social event in a while, I hope
everyone can attend that night so we can not only kick start our Association again but also have a toast and
share stories about our Past Grand Master. Both RW James Maskiell and I look forward to hearing that you
and your lady can attend. Please call me at home or on my cell (347) 386-9134 if you have any questions.

Around The State
James W. Husted-Fiat Lux Lodge No.1068
Save the date
Dear Brethren
The Master, Wardens and Brethren of James W. Husted-Fiat Lux Lodge

No.1068 will celebrate our 72st annual Idaho Brotherhood Night on Monday
June 1, 2009. Idaho Brotherhood Night is open to Masons, family and friends.
The guest will be MW Richard E. Kaiser, Deputy Grand Master of Masons in

the Grand Lodge of Idaho A.F.&A.M.
And
RW Vincent Libone, Deputy Grand Master of Masons in the State of New
York, F.&A.M.
And
MW Edward G. Gilbert, Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York,
F.&A.M.
The occasion will take place at 8 PM, in the Renaissance room on the 6th floor
of the Masonic Temple.
Sincerely and fraternally
R W Melvin J. Silverman
Chairman of Idaho committee, and Grand Rep of Idaho
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
LOST WATCH
A member of our Poughkeepsie Lodge No. 266 found a "lost" watch in good working condition that we believe
belonged to a Brother Mason. If you lost or know of someone who lost a watch in the Masonic Temple of
Poughkeepsie Lodge, please contact the Assistant Grand Secretary, RW Richard Bateman &nbs p;at
atholl1781@aol.com so we can return it to its owner.

Around The State
SCHENEVUS VALLEY LODGE No.592 ANNOUNCES CHILI CONTEST WINNER
Schenevus Valley Lodge No.592 is proud to announce the winner of its fifth annual chili contest as Ms Holli
Oberacker. The retiring champ, and humbled runner-up, Brother Beau Reed, presented the crown, robe and
trophy with a magnanimous concession speech. Ms Oberacker informed this reporter that she had developed her
recipe deep within the bowels of the Oberacker Test Kitchens, far from the prying eyes of her father. She stated
she was afraid he would screw it up. The event was well attended, with seven entrants to the contest. Ms
Oberacker refused to divulge her winning recipe, but the number seven runner-up makes the following available:
Take a crock pot; open two cans of Bush Home-style chili and one can of Hormels; stir, and plug in. Serves about
25 more people than you can get interested. This reporter can vouch for the results.
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
The Eighth Masonic District Association of Manhattan

Thirty third Annual
Mason of the Year Dinner
MONDAY EVENING MARCH 23, 2009

DOORS OPEN PROMPTLY at 6:00 PM
INVOCATION & DINNER PROMPTLY at 6:30 PM
Grand Lodge of the State of New York
Second Floor Banquet Hall
71 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10010
Black Tie Preferred Tickets: $40.00 p/p
Dark Business Suit Optional
APPETIZERS WILL BE SERVED FROM 6:00 – 6:30 PM
TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LODGE SECRETARY or DINNER CHAIRMAN

REMEMBER – BRING A FRIEND – MEN ONLY
Committee
RW Joseph N. Mandel, RW H. Stephen Lieb - Chairman
Bro. Carl Lentoni
Master & Secretary of each Lodge

In The NEWS
SHRINERS PUBLICIZE BURN PREVENTION AWARENESS
Shriners from Mother MECCA and KISMET Temples arrived for NBC’s TODAY show at 6:30am on a
cold, Monday morning (January 20) to publicize the Shriners Burn Prevention Awareness Program. Thanks to
Bro. Ted Jacobsen for sending this photo and the story.

Lodge Services
The sources listed below are available through Lodge Services
Medal for Fifty Years of Service to the Craft $15.00

24 Inch Gauge $45.00
Compleat Master $12.50
LDC-8 Course - includes course, pin & certificate $25.00

Lodge System of Masonic Education LSOME (five 3 for $10.00
part book) or $4.00 each
Lodge System of Masonic Education LSOME (four 4 for $10.00
part book) or $3.00 each
3 for $20.00 Both for
The Craft and Its Symbols by Allen E. Roberts or $7.50 each $9.00
Masonic Memorial Service incl. Officiant's Guide $4.00 Both for
Masonic Graveside Service incl. Officiant's Guide $2.00 $5.00
Masonic Development Course (MDC) $20.00
The forms listed below are available from the Youth Committee or through your District Deputy Grand
Master.
Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award
Douglas MacArthur Award for Exemplary Service to Youth
Eagle Scout Nomination Form
Frank M. Totten Essay Contest 2009
Girl Scout Gold Award Certificate Application
Service to Youth Nomination Form

NYNETNEWS Winter2009

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Copyright 2008 NY NETNEWS, GLNY F & AM

Page 1 Jan/Feb 2009

Presidental Inauguration 2009 15 KnightsTemplar 28

American Lodge of Research 29

7th District Association 16 Masonic Medical Research

Sickness & Distress 36

Page 2 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 3 Jan/Feb 2009

Currently, the and tabs contain no information.

Page 4 Jan/Feb 2009

God Bless America !

Page 5 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 6 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 7 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 8 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 9 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 10 Jan/Feb 2009

At this Luncheon were also

Information for Veterans

Page 11 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 12 Jan/Feb 2009

Title 38 Part 3 Adjudication

Title 38 Pensions, Bonuses & Veterans Relief

Title 38 PART 4--SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES

Page 13 Jan/Feb 2009

U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims http://www.vetapp.gov/

Page 14 Jan/Feb 2009

Brother Force is a member of St. Cecile Lodge No. 568

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Page 15 Jan/Feb 2009

Seventh District Association (*)

Taken from their website at http://www.wehealny.org/patients/BI_home/BI_Petrie.html

Page 16 Jan/Feb 2009

Go to the following to see a video of Walter

Fellowship Committee - Tappan

Please RSVP to Ron Steiner at nysmason@aol.com or phone (845) 354 - 4192

Cordially and Fraternally,

Page 17 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 18 Jan/Feb 2009

Thurs. Mar 5-Sat Mar 7 RAM Grand Chapter Albany

Sat. May 2-Tue May 5 Grand Lodge Session NYC

Bro. John Andrades Jr.

Page 19 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 20 Jan/Feb 2009

Robert D. Stack, PGT

Bro. Tim McMullin –

Page 21 Jan/Feb 2009

HOW DOES THIS STORY (*) RELATE TO YOUR MASONRY ???

One of the possible conclusions from this experience could be:

Happy New Year!

Here are some pictures taken at the public relations seminar

Bro. Ira B. Cooperman

Donations from an IRA can Reduce Your Taxes

Q. Do I need to give my entire IRA to be eligible for the tax break?

Page 23 Jan/Feb 2009

Masonic University of New York

Page 24 Jan/Feb 2009

Page 25 Jan/Feb 2009

TIME TO THINK SUMMER … Summer camp that is!

Page 26 Jan/Feb 2009

Eagle Boy Scout Recognitions

DAN BEARD MASONIC SCOUTER AWARD