Combined Convention 2026

The Grand Encampment of NY had their meeting on April 18, 2026 in Binghamton, NY. We did a year in review and elected new officers. We encourage all Patriarchs to attend next year.  Richard Keller was given the award for Meritorious Service. All had a grand time at the dinner after and we look forward to a great new year.

The 90th Tomb of The Unknowns Wreath Ceremony

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows, a venerable fraternal organization committed to charitable endeavors and community service, solemnly laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. With reverence and respect, members of the Order honored the memory of those brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, yet whose identities remain unknown.

This symbolic gesture reflects the Order's enduring commitment to honoring and remembering those who have served and sacrificed in the name of freedom and democracy. As the wreath was placed, it served as a poignant reminder of the gratitude and indebtedness owed to all who have given their lives in service to the nation. In the video below, we have the trio of the highest ranks in our order:

General Commanding, General Military Council, Patriarchs Militant: Gen. Howard G. Malin

President, International Assoc. of Rebekah Assemblies: Sister EllenJean Whited

Sovereign Grand Master, The Sovereign Grand Lodge IOOF : The Honorable John S. Cupp, Jr.

Our own Grand Patriarch of NYS, Vincent Cafiso laid a wreath on the tomb that day representing New York amongst all state Odd Fellow Encampments.

Shown here with NYS Grand Master Glenn Keenan and Barbara Quick, Rebekah Assembly President

 

Installation of Fort Hill Encampment #18 in Saugerties, NY

 The NYS Grand Encampment visited Saugerties, New York on Oct.9, 2022 to install Fort Hill Encampment #18 - members included: Garry Kram, Frederick Gazer,  Amy Ganzer, Herbert Ehrich, Mark Issacs, Francis Boertlein, Eugene Boertlein, Alice Legg, Carolyn Newkirk, Gloria Todd, David Barkstedt, Robert Siebold, Richard Kerimoglu, John Shekit, Gerry Irwin, Richard Transue, Percy Spruill, Floyd Burgher Jr., and William Nugent. CONGRATULATIONS. 

A great job was done by New York State Grand Encampment staff; Lee Faklis, Dom Oreste, Ed Pyne, Jeff Nogid, Mike Zurell, and Aaron Kupferberg.

Canton Bowl-O-Rama Fundraiser 2022

 East Meadow, NY – Integrity Encampment #158 – After a few delays on June 4, we finally got to go Bowling at Levittown Lanes. This event was well attended by Oddfellows, Patriarchs, and Chevaliers, all to benefit Autism Speaks. Proud of our brotherhood!

TESTIMONIAL HONOR: General Michael Bowers

 Patriarchs and Chevaliers all, the New York Delegation went to Tennessee to pay tribute to General Commander of the Military Council, Patriarchs Militant, General Michale Bowers.

Jeff Nogid, Aaron Kupferberg, Mike Accurso, General Bowers, Lee Faklis

Presentation of the Colors and National Anthem

Presentation of New York by Commander Dick Keller

Gifts from Lady Margaret Gardener, Past President, International Association Ladies Auxiliaries, Patriarchs Militant

Remarks by Charles E. "Chuck" Lusk, Sovereign Grand master, Sovereign Grand Lodge,

Independent Order of Odd Fellows

Address of General Michale Bowers, General Military Council, Patriarchs Militant, I.O.O.F.

An after-dinner musical performance by C.J. Garton

18th Century Odd Fellows

This 18th-century print shows the 2 branches of Odd Fellowship side by side; the Noble Grand on the left, and the Grand Patriarch on the right. 

 

TESTIMONIAL HONOR: Lady Margaret Gardner

In Cheektowaga, NY at the Buffalo Airport Hotel - The International Association of Ladies Auxiliary Patriarchs Militant honored President Lady Margaret Gardner. Presided by Kathie Bays, PGM it was a celebration filled with dignitaries, family, and friends of Lady Margaret Gardner.

Friday, in the Halloween Spirit, was a fun night of costumes and games. 

 

Brother Angelo in a scary costume!

costume contest winners

The banner for the Ladies Auxiliary Patriarchs Militant of NY is now retired

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Then the honors for Lady Margaret were the following night.