fbpx

Category Archives for Coronavirus

COVID-19 Response for June 7, Syria Shriners have Gone Green

We have entered the green phase of Pennsylvania's reopening and recovery plan, in all of our oasis excepting Beaver County. Beaver County "goes green" Friday, June 12, so our entire service area will be in the green recovery phase by the end of this week.

Watch for additional communication, check our website at syriashriners.org, and follow our Facebook page for ongoing information as developments unfold.

Meanwhile, stay well. We look forward to seeing you soon.

>>You can view our ongoing coverage and news during the coronavirus pandemic at this link here

Our Readers Write

It’s amazing how some of the most beautiful things in life can come to you by total accident.

by Charlie Zurcher

As a new way of life to get through these unprecedented times, the Zoom platform has been something many of us have learned and actually gotten used to. Old goats can learn new tricks. The email notice that we were going to have a virtual June Quarterly meeting was quite a surprise and certainly welcomed by me. I couldn’t wait.

On that first June Monday, I was getting ready in the comfort of my home office and looking forward to logging into Zoom and enjoying the brotherhood that’s been really missed as of late. Earlier, I had been exercising and had to make a mad dash home to be on time for that 7pm meeting. Hardly dressed for the occasion, didn’t have time to change my t-shirt and jean cutoff shorts. The humidity got to my long uncut hair and it was quite the sight to say the least. All set, logged on, admitted to the meeting, the 7pm meeting. No, but wait! No, it’s not a 7pm meeting but rather a 7:30 meeting. All that rushing for naught. Now I had some time and probably should have at least changed clothes.

As the Zoom matrix began to populate, I was comforted by the familiar faces and smiles of some of my Brothers that I’ve dearly missed through all this. The background music played, and we sort of stared at each other and there was some back and forth conversation going on. My t-shirt and unruly hair were definitely noticed and commented on. It’s all fun and games! Just killin’ time ‘til the start of the meeting.

The background music continued to play, and then it happened. I was stopped cold. In total awe, I had absolutely no idea what just hit me. Perhaps one of the most beautiful and inspirational songs and videos I’ve ever heard and seen in my life just started playing. I just stared at the video and listened to the lyrics, totally blocking out the rest of the world. It just went right through me straight to the heart. Totally unexpected and without any reason. This music and video is everything we are as Shriners. WOW!

“The day that I invested so proudly with this ring
I divested the old lifestyle and all the loneliness it brings
Now I walk upon the level with a brotherhood of pride
There’s compassion that we all share deep inside”

So inspirational, so deep, so powerful, so real.

It’s “I’m a Noble of the Shrine,” by Howie Damron. Who? I had no clue who he was and certainly not aware he’s one of us. Learn something new every day, even sometimes by accident! If I would have logged into the meeting on time at 7:30, I would have missed it. I’m sure some of you are aware, but I was not.

Since becoming a Shriner, I’ve had many different and mixed feelings and emotions going in different directions. I’ve been in the trenches taking kids and their families to the three hospitals we work with, seeing the positive results at first hand. I’ve been in that parade in my Patrol Unit uniform with those pointed up shoes, bringing that split second smile to an unknown child as he watches with his family at the curb. I’ve been to a wide variety of our social events just simply to relax and take in the brotherhood. Listening to this song and watching the video seemed to put all these emotions in perfect organized perspective.

Please, if you have not seen and heard it before, you need to do this. Every Shriner should watch the video and hear this beautiful song. It’s truly exactly what we’re all about. Search for it on You Tube. (We've saved you the trouble. Click the video link above to see Noble Howie's video. Ed.) It will touch you.

Brother Damron, you’ve left an everlasting impression. A heartfelt thank you.

I will wear my Fez with honor.

I’m a Noble of the Shrine …

Special thanks to my close friend Martha for helping provide the inspiration to write this. Thank you for being You!

NO MAN STANDS SO TALL AS WHEN HE STOOPS TO HELP A CHILD

Noble Charlie Zurcher is First Lieutenant of the Syria Patrol. He is also Junior Warden of Pittsburgh Chapter of Rose Croix at the Scottish Rite Valley of Pittsburgh.

​

WE ARE ... SHRINERS CHILDREN'STM

Shriners Hospitals for Children® is rebranding our pediatric health care system to reflect current realities in our facilities, delivery model and commitment to serve and treat "more children in more places" than ever before. Our philanthropy is now known as Shriners Children'sTM Click the image to the left to watch a video announcing the change.


THUNDER THURSDAYS DEBUTS WEEKLY AT THE PAVILION!!

Pittsburgh's Syria Shriners, in conjunction with Moondog's and the Starlite Lounge, presents Thunder Thursdays Bike Nights, all summer long in the Pittsburgh Shrine Center Pavilion, beginning this Thursday, June 11, and continuing weekly through September 3.

NO BIKE?? NO PROBLEM!! ALL ARE WELCOME AND ENCOURAGED TO JOIN US!

Gates open weekly at 6pm, and the live music begins at 7pm. We wrap things up on stage at 9pm, so you won't have to stay up past your bedtime to have a good time. The Starlite Lounge, featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, and Fat Cats' Subs will be on hand to feed you, and starting June 18, we'll have Pittsburgh's best rolled iced cream treats from Udderly Fresh. A full bar will be available. All events are rain or shine. You know our pavilion is impervious to inclement weather, so the shows will go on, without regard to any raindrops we may see.

NO COVER CHARGE!! Attendance is limited to 250, so come early!

We kick things off this Thursday with the sultry blues and rock sound of local favorites the Tina Daniels Band. Tina and her band have performed at our pavilion at the Pittsburgh Blues & Roots Festival, and will return later this month for a benefit poker run for the Ryan's Wings Foundation.

Watch this space every week for more information on the bands, vendors, and other fun stuff in store.

Please do your best to support this series. Mark your calendar, tell your friends, and be sure to share on your social media accounts!

Click here to download a flyer.

WE CAN ALWAYS USE HELP. IF YOU CAN VOLUNTEER, PLEASE CLICK HERE.

Calling for ALL SOLD Sporstman's Bash stubs & money to be returned AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!

Please send all of your sold stubs and accompanying money immediately to:

Kenneth D. Stuart 1185 Astronaut Circle Pittsburgh, PA 15241

Our early bird drawing is Saturday, July 11. You will want to get your entry in for that drawing. Additionally, we need to get a better idea of where we stand with ticket sales at this point. Pandemic pandemonium has severely hampered our ticket selling efforts, along with all of our other fundraisers, and we need to make certain we maximize this critically important activity aimed at balancing our budget.

If you have tickets you don't think you can sell, please return them, so we can get them to someone who can get them sold before the early bird drawing. Please buy a ticket if you can afford it, even if the Sportsman's Bash is not your thing. Ken Stuart can mail you a ticket if you send him a check. Tickets can also be purchased through our website. Click the image above to get yours now!

​​In Case You Missed It

With continuing support from Shriners Children'sTM, last night, for the 4,927th consecutive Saturday night, the show went on at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville,featuring Steve Wariner, Lee Brice, Carly Pearce, and Michael Ray, keeping the music playing in Music City, once again without a live audience. Click the image to the right and enjoy the show.

SHC has kept the music playing for over 2 months now. See all the shows here.

Pittsburgh Shrine Center Office Closure

The Pittsburgh Shrine Center office remains closed until further notice. Please keep our office and facilities staff, and our entire Syria Shriners family in your prayers. We all need to remember each other during this trying period. Call your fellow Shriners, and look after their well-being. Run errands to the grocery or drug store if your situation allows, and theirs does not.

Pittsburgh Shrine Center Reopening

Units, Caravans and Clubs may now meet in the Pittsburgh Shrine Center.

In keeping with the Grand Master's directive of May 15, you must continue to practice physical distancing, and follow all guidelines from the CDC, state and local public health authorities. Accordingly, for now, gatherings are limited to a maximum of 25 people. Please be certain to maintain a clean and safe environment in our building and on our grounds.

Beginning June 19, we will be able to gather again in groups of 250 people or fewer.


Rescheduled Events


Canceled & Postponed Events not yet rescheduled

The Walk for Love and Community Day at SHC-Erie, scheduled for Sunday, June 7, has been postponed.

The Butler Shrine Luncheon Club and Butler Caravan 14 picnic, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, has been canceled.

The fall Night at the Races fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, September 19, has been canceled.

THIS YEAR'S BIG BUTLER FAIR HAS BEEN CANCELED. 
AT THIS TIME, THE FAYETTE, WASHINGTON, AND WESTMORELAND COUNTY FAIRS REMAIN ON THE CALENDAR AS SCHEDULED.
THE BUTLER FARM SHOW REMAINS ON THE CALENDAR AS SCHEDULED, AUGUST 10-15.


PARADES CANCELED

​Worthington West Franklin Firemen's Carnival - June 18
Springdate Firemen's Fair - June 26


Independence Day
Brentwood
Canonsburg
Crafton
Leetsdale
Monroeville
Zelienople


We've gone Green, What does that mean?

Here's a summary from WESA-FM of what's open, and what the "new rules" are. Click here: What's open? Do I have to wear a mask?


Taking care of ourselves and each other

Let's make sure we look out for each other as we navigate our way through the "new normal." While we practice physical distancing, let's be sure no one goes without vital social contact. Reach out to your fellow Nobles, Lodge Brothers, friends, family and neighbors. If your situation allows, run an errand to the grocery store, pharmacy or other essential business for someone who can't, or really shouldn't, be leaving their home right now. And while you're at it, be sure to take proper precautions like those below.


​Stay Informed!

There is so much misinformation being shared on social media and by email. Do yourself, and all of us a favor, and go right to a trusted source for your information. Please don't pass along things your seen posted or things you've been sent unless they have come directly from a legitimate public health or government authority. Click on the image to the left to visit the federal government's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, FEMA and the White House at coronavirus.gov.

Syria Shriners Going Green! Covid 19 Response Update

At Syria Shriners, we are doing our best to continue keeping you informed as circumstances quickly change and events are canceled or rescheduled, while our Grand Lodge and Shriners International reach decisions and issue statements that affect all of us. While it has never been our intention to flood your inbox with email, we feel an absolute responsibility to maintain the flow of information.

You can view our previous updates and news at these links below:

Watch for additional communication, check our website at syriashriners.org, and follow our Facebook page for ongoing information as developments unfold. We'll all get through this together, and if we take proper public health precautions, most of us will not become seriously ill.

Let's continue to pray for one another and support each other through safe social contact (i.e., phone, text, email, FaceTime, Skype, etc.), all the while practicing proper physical distancing to control the spread of the coronavirus. We must all do our part. Even if you think this situation is overblown, please exercise caution, as many of your friends and neighbors are counting on you not to increase their likelihood of exposure or illness.

We are repeating some information below, in the hope that more people will see it. More people are signing up for our emails, and our open rate is improving, but most who receive messages from us continue not to open them, so we apologize for the repetition, and hope you understand that redundancy is not a bad thing when the information is important. New calendar announcements are highlighted below.

Meanwhile, stay well, and stay home. We look forward to being together again soon.

We're Going Green! We Can Start to Reopen!

This Friday, most of our oasis will enter the Green Phase of the Commonwealth's recovery process. We will now be able to resume our venue rentals, and our Shrine groups will be able to resume full activity with groups in excess of 25, beginning June 19, as Brother Thomas Gamon IV, R.W. Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania, is allowing all Masonic activity to resume in in counties that have entered the Green Phase, two weeks after the transition. 

Gatherings in Green Phase areas are limited to 250 people. Dine-in food and beverage service can resume, at 50 per cent of normal occupancy. Proper physical distancing remains required, and masks should continue to be worn when physical distancing may not be possible.

Click the chart below for a link to details on state regulations in the various phases of reopening and recovery.

Second Quarterly Meeting Virtually ZOOMs to Monday, June 1

In accordance with Imperial Sir Jeff Sowder's General Order No. 3, we have scheduled a Quarterly Meeting using ZOOM, Monday, June 1 at 7:30pm.

YOU MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE FOR THE MEETING, in order that we may keep it secure. Only those registered, and verified as members in good standing, will be admitted.

CLICK HERE TO SEND AN EMAIL TO THE RECORDER REGISTERING FOR THE MEETING.

We need to create a new and upgraded ZOOM account for Syria Shriners to facilitate this meeting. Once that account is opened, and the meeting scheduled, you will receive an email from the Recorder, confirming your registration, and containing login information.

PLEASE DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO REGISTER!  DO IT NOW, WHILE YOU'RE THINKING ABOUT IT.

You can download the ZOOM app for your tablet or smartphone from The App Store or Goggle Play. For your MAC or PC, go to zoom.us. It will also be possible to join the meeting for audio only from any telephone, without the need for a computer or mobile device, or downloading an app or software. You will still need to register for the meeting.

THUNDER THURSDAYS DEBUTS WEEKLY AT THE PAVILION!!

Syria Shriners, in conjunction with Moondog's and the Starlite Lounge, presents Thunder Thursdays Bike Nights, every Thursday all summer long in the Pittsburgh Shrine Center Pavilion, beginning, June 11, and continuing through September 3.

Gates open weekly at 6pm, and the live music begins at 7pm. We wrap things up on stage at 9pm, so you won't have to stay up past your bedtime to have a good time. Attendance is limited to 250, so come early!

THUNDER THURSDAYS WEEKLY AT THE PAVILION!!

Watch this space next week for more information on the band, and other fun stuff in store.

Mark your calendar, tell your friends, and be sure to share on your social media accounts!

​​In Case You Missed It

With continuing support from Shriners Hospitals for Children®, last night, for the 4,926th consecutive Saturday night, the show went on at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville,featuring Chris Young, Chris Janson, and Brett Young, keeping the music playing in Music City, once again without a live audience. Click here to enjoy the show.

SHC has kept the music playing for over 2 months now. See all the shows here.

Pittsburgh Shrine Center Office Closure

The Pittsburgh Shrine Center office remains closed until further notice. Please keep our office and facilities staff, and our entire Syria Shriners family in your prayers. We all need to remember each other during this trying period. Call your fellow Shriners, and look after their well-being. Run errands to the grocery or drug store if your situation allows, and theirs does not.

Pittsburgh Shrine Center Reopening

Units, Caravans and Clubs may begin to meet in the Pittsburgh Shrine Center.

In keeping with the Grand Master's directive of May 15, you must continue to practice physical distancing, and follow all guidelines from the CDC, state and local public health authorities. Accordingly, for now, gatherings are limited to a maximum of 25 people. Please be certain to maintain a clean and safe environment in our building and on our grounds.

Beginning June 19, we will be able to gather again in groups of 250 people or fewer. So while we will hold our Quarterly Meeting tomorrow night using ZOOM, our third Quarterly Meeting in August will be held as scheduled, Monday, August 3, in the Shrine Center Ballroom.

Rescheduled Events

Canceled & Postponed Events not yet rescheduled

The Walk for Love and Community Day at SHC-Erie, scheduled for Sunday, June 7, has been postponed.

The Butler Shrine Luncheon Club and Butler Caravan 14 picnic, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, has been canceled.

The fall Night at the Races fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, September 19, has been canceled.

THIS YEAR'S BIG BUTLER FAIR HAS BEEN CANCELED. 
AT THIS TIME, THE FAYETTE, WASHINGTON, AND WESTMORELAND COUNTY FAIRS REMAIN ON THE CALENDAR AS SCHEDULED.

PARADES CANCELED

Memorial Weekend
​Springdale Fireman's Fair

Independence Day
Brentwood
Monroeville

Zelionople

Taking care of ourselves and each other

Let's make sure we look out for each other as we navigate our way through the "new normal." While we practice physical distancing, let's be sure no one goes without vital social contact. Reach out to your fellow Nobles, Lodge Brothers, friends, family and neighbors. If your situation allows, run an errand to the grocery store, pharmacy or other essential business for someone who can't, or really shouldn't, be leaving their home right now. And while you're at it, be sure to take proper precautions like those below.

​Stay Informed!

There is so much misinformation being shared on social media and by email. Do yourself, and all of us a favor, and go right to a trusted source for your information. Please don't pass along things your seen posted or things you've been sent unless they have come directly from a legitimate public health or government authority. Click on the image to the left to visit the federal government's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, FEMA and the White House at coronavirus.gov.

Covid 19 Response – Syria Shriners Memorial Day Weekend Update

At Syria Shriners, we are doing our best to continue keeping you informed as circumstances quickly change and events are canceled or rescheduled, while our Grand Lodge and Shriners International reach decisions and issue statements that affect all of us. While it has never been our intention to flood your inbox with email, we feel an absolute responsibility to maintain the flow of information.

You can view our previous updates and news at these links below:

Watch for additional communication, check our website at syriashriners.org, and follow our Facebook page for ongoing information as developments unfold. We'll all get through this together, and if we take proper public health precautions, most of us will not become seriously ill.

Let's continue to pray for one another and support each other through safe social contact (i.e., phone, text, email, FaceTime, Skype, etc.), all the while practicing proper physical distancing to control the spread of the coronavirus. We must all do our part. Even if you think this situation is overblown, please exercise caution, as many of your friends and neighbors are counting on you not to increase their likelihood of exposure or illness.

We are repeating some information below, in the hope that more people will see it. More people are signing up for our emails, and our open rate is improving, but most who receive messages from us continue not to open them, so we apologize for the repetition, and hope you understand that redundancy is not a bad thing when the information is important. New calendar announcements are highlighted below.

Meanwhile, stay well, and stay home. We look forward to being together again soon.

LEST WE FORGET . . .

Monday, May 25th is, of course, Memorial Day. Although it's long been co-opted by retailers as a time for sales, and celebrated by many as the traditional beginning of the summer season, and misused by some to serve as a springtime observance of Veterans Day, let's remember that this day is set aside to honor and remember those men and women of our Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice, laying down their lives in defense of our freedom and way of life. Click the image at left to learn more about Memorial Day.

Lawrence Co. Going Green! Could We be Next?

This Friday, Lawrence County will enter the Green Phase of the Commonwealth's COvID-19 reopening process. We are hopeful that the remainder of our oasis will soon follow.

Brother Thomas Gamon IV, R.W. Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania, is allowing limited Masonic activity in counties that have entered the Yellow Phase, two weeks after the transition. Accordingly, beginning Friday, May 29, for most of our oasis, and Friday, June 5 in Beaver County, Masonic activity may resume. Stated, Speical and Extra Lodge Meetings, however, are still prohibited. Other Masonic activities can be allowed, provided they are in compliance with all federal, state and local guidelines.

Gatherings in Green Phase areas are no longer limited to 25 people. Dine-in food and beverage service can resume, at 50 per cent of normal occupancy. Proper physical distancing remains required, and masks should continue to be worn when physical distancing may not be possible.

Click the chart above for a link to details on state regulations in the various phases of reopening and recovery.

Click the Grand Lodge seal at right to see the May 15 letter from the R.W. Grand Master, outlining guidelines for reopening, and the resumption of Masonic activity.

Click this link to details on state regulations in the various phases of reopening and recovery.

Visit this Grand Lodge to see the May 15 letter from the R.W. Grand Master, outlining guidelines for reopening, and the resumption of Masonic activity.

Second Quarterly Meeting Virtually ZOOMs to Monday, June 1

In accordance with Imperial Sir Jeff Sowder's General Order No. 3, we have scheduled a Quarterly Meeting using ZOOM, Monday, June 1 at 7:30pm.

YOU MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE FOR THE MEETING, in order that we may keep it secure. Only those registered, and verified as members in good standing, will be admitted.

CLICK HERE TO SEND AN EMAIL TO THE RECORDER REGISTERING FOR THE MEETING.

We need to create a new and upgraded ZOOM account for Syria Shriners to facilitate this meeting. Once that account is opened, and the meeting scheduled, you will receive an email from the Recorder, confirming your registration, and containing login information.

PLEASE DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO REGISTER!  DO IT NOW, WHILE YOU'RE THINKING ABOUT IT.

You can download the ZOOM app for your tablet or smartphone from The App Store or Goggle Play. For your MAC or PC, go to zoom.us. It will also be possible to join the meeting for audio only from any telephone, without the need for a computer or mobile device, or downloading an app or software. You will still need to register for the meeting.

​​In Case You Missed It

Grand Ole Opry Livestream -  With continuing support from Shriners Hospitals for Children®, last night, for the 4,925th consecutive Saturday night, the show went on at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, with the traditional Memorial Weekend "Salute to the Troops," featuring Craig Morgan, Stephen Curtis Chapman, and Kellie Pickler, keeping the music playing in Music City, once again without a live audience. Click the image to the right and enjoy the show.

SHC has kept the music playing the last 11 Saturdays. See all the shows here.

Pittsburgh Shrine Center Office Closure

The Pittsburgh Shrine Center office remains closed until further notice. Please keep our office and facilities staff, and our entire Syria Shriners family in your prayers. We all need to remember each other during this trying period. Call your fellow Shriners, and look after their well-being. Run errands to the grocery or drug store if your situation allows, and theirs does not.

Pittsburgh Shrine Center Reopening

Effective Friday, May 29, Units, Caravans and Clubs may begin to meet in the Pittsburgh Shrine Center.

In keeping with the Grand Master's directive of May 15, you must continue to practice physical distancing, and follow all guidelines from the CDC, state and local public health authorities. Accordingly, for now, gatherings are limited to a maximum of 25 people. Please be certain to maintain a clean and safe environment in our building and on our grounds.

Rescheduled Events

Canceled & Postponed Events not yet rescheduled

The Walk for Love and Community Day at SHC-Erie, scheduled for Sunday, June 7, has been postponed.

The Butler Shrine Luncheon Club and Butler Caravan 14 picnic, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, has been canceled.

The fall Night at the Races fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, September 19, has been canceled.


THIS YEAR'S BIG BUTLER FAIR HAS BEEN CANCELED. 
AT THIS TIME, THE FAYETTE, WASHINGTON, AND WESTMORELAND COUNTY FAIRS REMAIN ON THE CALENDAR AS SCHEDULED.


PARADES CANCELED

Memorial Weekend
Carnegie - May 24
Coraopolis - May 25
Lawrenceville - May 25
Monroeville - May 25
Sewickley - May 25

Independence Day
Brentwood
Monroeville

Zelionople


Taking care of ourselves and each other

Let's make sure we look out for each other as we navigate our way through the "new normal." While we practice physical distancing, let's be sure no one goes without vital social contact. Reach out to your fellow Nobles, Lodge Brothers, friends, family and neighbors. If your situation allows, run an errand to the grocery store, pharmacy or other essential business for someone who can't, or really shouldn't, be leaving their home right now. And while you're at it, be sure to take proper precautions like those below.

​Stay Informed!

There is so much misinformation being shared on social media and by email. Do yourself, and all of us a favor, and go right to a trusted source for your information. Please don't pass along things your seen posted or things you've been sent unless they have come directly from a legitimate public health or government authority. Click on the image to the left to visit the federal government's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, FEMA and the White House at coronavirus.gov.

Coronavirus Response Update from Syria Shriners for May 17th

At Syria Shriners, we are doing our best to continue keeping you informed as circumstances quickly change and events are canceled or rescheduled, while our Grand Lodge and Shriners International reach decisions and issue statements that affect all of us. While it has never been our intention to flood your inbox with email, we feel an absolute responsibility to maintain the flow of information.

You can view our previous updates and news at these links below:

Watch for additional communication, check our website at syriashriners.org, and follow our Facebook page for ongoing information as developments unfold. We'll all get through this together, and if we take proper public health precautions, most of us will not become seriously ill.

Let's continue to pray for one another and support each other through safe social contact (i.e., phone, text, email, FaceTime, Skype, etc.), all the while practicing proper physical distancing to control the spread of the coronavirus. We must all do our part. Even if you think this situation is overblown, please exercise caution, as many of your friends and neighbors are counting on you not to increase their likelihood of exposure or illness.

We are repeating some information below, in the hope that more people will see it. More people are signing up for our emails, and our open rate is improving, but most who receive messages from us continue not to open them, so we apologize for the repetition, and hope you understand that redundancy is not a bad thing when the information is important. There's plenty of new content, though, so keep reading!

Meanwhile, stay well, and stay home. We look forward to being together again soon.

Congratulations to the Class of 2020!!

Congratulations and Best Wishes to all of the graduating Seniors in our Syria Shriners family! We are so proud of all that you have accomplished in your academic careers. May you have much success in all of your future endeavors, whether they may be continuing in academic settings, entering the military, the work force, taking a gap year, or whatever else life may bring your way.. Just remember, we're counting on you to pay into the Social Security Trust Fund, so go out there and knock 'em dead!

Now We're All in the Yellow Phase . . Big Changes Coming Soon!

Last Friday, 13 Southwest Pennsylvania counties joined the 24 previously designated counties in the Northwest and North Central regions in transitioning to the Yellow Phase of the Commonwealth's COVID-19 reopening process. Beaver County will enter the Yellow Phase this Friday. Accordingly, all of the counties in the oasis of Syria Shriners will no longer be under stay-at-home orders.

Brother Thomas Gamon IV, R.W. Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania, is allowing limited Masonic activity in counties that have entered the Yellow Phase, two weeks after the transition. Accordingly, beginning Friday, May 29, for most of our oasis, and Friday, June 5 in Beaver County, Masonic activity may resume. Stated, Special and Extra Lodge Meetings, however, are still prohibited. Other Masonic activities can be allowed, provided they are in compliance with all federal, state and local guidelines.

Gatherings in Yellow Phase areas are limited to 25 people. Dine-in food and beverage service remains prohibited. Proper physical distancing remains required, and masks should continue to be worn when physical distancing may not be possible.

Click this link to details on state regulations in the various phases of reopening and recovery.

Visit this Grand Lodge to see the May 15 letter from the R.W. Grand Master, outlining guidelines for reopening, and the resumption of Masonic activity.

Second Quarterly Meeting Virtually ZOOMs to Monday, June 1

Shriners International Imperial Potentate Jeff. Sowder recently issued General Order No. 2, allowing for electronic meetings. The bylaws of Shriners International require all Temples to meet at least quarterly. The bylaws of Syria Shriners establish quarterly meetings on the first Monday of January, April, August and October.

The Quarterly Meeting of Syria Shriners, previously scheduled for Monday, April 6 had to be postponed, as electronic meetings were not yet possible, the Grand Master had suspended all Masonic activity in Pennsylvania, and Imperial Sir Jeff had directed Shrine Temples to take their lead from their respective Grand Masters. We have now scheduled a Quarterly Meeting using ZOOM, Monday, June 1 at 7:30pm. Watch your email for a link and directions to attend the meeting using your computer, smartphone, tablet, or landline. 

You will need to register in advance for the meeting, in order that we may keep it secure. Only those registered, and verified as members in good standing, will be admitted. 

We need to create a new and upgraded Zoom account for Syria Shriners to facilitate this meeting. After we've done that, details will be published in this space next Sunday, and again May 31.

You can download the ZOOM app for your tablet or smartphone from The App Store or Google Play. 

For your MAC or PC, go to zoom.us. It will also be possible to join the meeting for audio only from any telephone, without the need for a computer or mobile device, or downloading an app or software.

You will still need to register for the meeting.

​​In Case You Missed It

Grand Ole Opry Livestream -  With continuing support from Shriners Hospitals for Children®, last night, for the 4,924th consecutive Saturday night, the show went on at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, featuring Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, and Morgan Evans, keeping the music playing in Music City, once again without a live audience. Click the image to the left and enjoy the show.

SHC has kept the music playing the last 10 Saturdays. See all the shows here.

Pittsburgh Shrine Center Closure

The Pittsburgh Shrine Center remains closed until further notice. Please keep our office and facilities staff, and our entire Syria Shriners family in your prayers. We all need to remember each other during this trying period. Call your fellow Shriners, and look after their well-being. Run errands to the grocery or drug store if your situation allows, and theirs does not.

Rescheduled Events

Canceled & Postponed Events not yet rescheduled

The Walk for Love and Community Day at SHC-Erie, scheduled for Sunday, June 7, has been postponed.

The Butler Shrine Luncheon Club and Butler Caravan 14 picnic, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, has been canceled.

The fall Night at the Races fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, September 19, has been canceled.

PARADES CANCELED

Memorial Weekend
Prospect - May 23
Carnegie - May 24
Coraopolis - May 25
Lawrenceville - May 25
Monroeville - May 25
Sewickley - May 25

Independence Day
Brentwood
Monroeville


Taking care of ourselves and each other

Let's make sure we look out for each other as we navigate our way through the "new normal." While we practice physical distancing, let's be sure no one goes without vital social contact. Reach out to your fellow Nobles, Lodge Brothers, friends, family and neighbors. If your situation allows, run an errand to the grocery store, pharmacy or other essential business for someone who can't, or really shouldn't, be leaving their home right now. And while you're at it, be sure to take proper precautions like those below.

​Stay Informed!

There is so much misinformation being shared on social media and by email. Do yourself, and all of us a favor, and go right to a trusted source for your information. Please don't pass along things your seen posted or things you've been sent unless they have come directly from a legitimate public health or government authority. Click on the image to the left to visit the federal government's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, FEMA and the White House at coronavirus.gov.

Syria Shriners Coronavirus Response Update for May 10th

At Syria Shriners, we are doing our best to continue keeping you informed as circumstances quickly change and events are canceled or rescheduled, while our Grand Lodge and Shriners International reach decisions and issue statements that affect all of us. While it has never been our intention to flood your inbox with email, we feel an absolute responsibility to maintain the flow of information.

You can view our previous updates and news at these links below:

Watch for additional communication, check our website at syriashriners.org, and follow our Facebook page for ongoing information as developments unfold. We'll all get through this together, and if we take proper public health precautions, most of us will not become seriously ill.

Let's continue to pray for one another and support each other through safe social contact (i.e., phone, text, email, FaceTime, Skype, etc.), all the while practicing proper physical distancing to control the spread of the coronavirus. We must all do our part. Even if you think this situation is overblown, please exercise caution, as many of your friends and neighbors are counting on you not to increase their likelihood of exposure or illness.

We are repeating some information below, in the hope that more people will see it. More people are signing up for our emails, and our open rate is improving, but most who receive messages from us continue not to open them, so we apologize for the repetition, and hope you understand that redundancy is not a bad thing when the information is important. There's plenty of new content, though, so keep reading!

Meanwhile, stay well, and stay home. We look forward to being together again soon.

Happy Mothers Day!

Today is the day we set aside each year to honor our mothers and other important women in our lives. If you're fortunate enough to still have your mother with you, and even though you may not be able to see her in person this year, please give her at least a virtual hug from all of us, and offer her the best wishes of all of us at Syria Shriners!

Most of Us Enter the Yellow Phase of Recovery Next Friday ... So Now What?

Governor Tom Wolf announced last Friday that 13 Southwest Pennsylvania counties, will join the 24 previously designated counties in the Northwest and North Central regions in transitioning to the Yellow Phase of the Commonwealth's COVID-19 reopening process. At this time, Beaver County remains in the Red Phase, subject to stay-at-home orders.

Gatherings of up to 25 people will now be permissible. That said, the Grand Master's order of May 1, extending the suspension of all Masonic activity in Pennsylvania until at least July 1, remains in effect. Shriners International has told Temples to take direction from their respective Grand Masters, so we still cannot hold meetings.

Click here for a link to details on state regulations in the various phases of reopening and recovery.

Second Quarterly Meeting Virtually ZOOMs to Monday, June 1

Shriners International Imperial Potentate Jeff. Sowder recently issued General Order No. 2, allowing for electronic meetings. The bylaws of Shriners International require all Temples to meet at least quarterly. The bylaws of Syria Shriners establish quarterly meetings on the first Monday of January, April, August and October.

The Quarterly Meeting of Syria Shriners, previously scheduled for Monday, April 6 had to be postponed, as electronic meetings were not yet possible, the Grand Master had suspended all Masonic activity in Pennsylvania, and Imperial Sir Jeff had directed Shrine Temples to take their lead from their respective Grand Masters. We have now scheduled a Quarterly Meeting using ZOOM, Monday, June 1 at 7:30pm. Watch your email for a link and directions to attend the meeting using your computer, smartphone, tablet, or landline. 

You will need to register in advance for the meeting, in order that we may keep it secure. Only those registered, and verified as members in good standing, will be admitted. 

Details will be published in this space next Sunday, and again May 24 and May 31.

You can download the ZOOM app for your tablet or smartphone from The App Store or Google Play. 

For your MAC or PC, go to zoom.us. It will also be possible to join the meeting for audio only from any telephone, without the need for a computer or mobile device, or downloading an app or software.

You will still need to register for the meeting.

​​In Case You Missed It

Grand Ole Opry Livestream - With support from Shriners Hospitals for Children®, last night, for the 4,923rd consecutive Saturday night, the show went on at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, featuring Trace Adkins, Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani, and Dustin Lynch, keeping the music playing in Music City, once again without a live audience. Last night's preshow was from Sara Evans. Click the image to the left and enjoy the show.

SHC has kept the music playing the last nine Saturdays. See all the shows here.

Pittsburgh Shrine Center Closure

The Pittsburgh Shrine Center remains closed until further notice. Please keep our office and facilities staff, and our entire Syria Shriners family in your prayers. We all need to remember each other during this trying period. Call your fellow Shriners, and look after their well-being. Run errands to the grocery or drug store if your situation allows, and theirs does not.

Rescheduled Events

The Potentate's Stag Testimonial Dinner, originally scheduled for March 21, has been rescheduled for Saturday, November 21. Rocky Bleier will join us that day. Hospitality Suite reservations have been shifted to November, and all tickets issued will be honored in November.

The Potentate's Ball, originally scheduled for April 18, has been rescheduled for Saturday, October 24. The same menu, entertainment, and other festivities will be offered in the fall. All reservations have been shifted to the new date.

The North HIlls Home Brew Fest, originally scheduled for Saturday, May 9, has been rescheduled for Saturday, August 29. More information here.

​The Swing Time dances, featuring the Syria Stage Band, scheduled for April 24, and May 15 have been canceled. The dances are scheduled to resume on the third Friday in June, and continue on the third Friday of every month through November.

The Sportsmen's Bash Early Bird Drawing has been rescheduled for Saturday, July 11. Get your ticket stubs in before that date for inclusion in the drawing. The bash has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 5. More information here.

The Legion of Honor meetings scheduled for Monday, May 4, have been rescheduled for Monday, June 8.

The Annual Syria Shrine Ladies Luncheon, honoring First Lady Eleanor Taylor, has been rescheduled from May 30 to Saturday, August 8. The event begins at noon, with luncheon served at 12:30pm, and entertainment following lunch. Ladies, mark your calendar now for the new date for this fun afternoon Girls' Day Out!

Canceled & Postponed Events not yet rescheduled

The Quarterly Meeting, and First Ceremonial, scheduled for April 6, has been postponed to a date to be determined. Shriners International bylaws require Temples to meet at least once a quarter, and we will reschedule when we can safely do so. We have a goal date in mind, but it would be premature to announce that at this time.

The First Choice Wine Festival, scheduled for Saturday, May 16, has been canceled for this year.

The fall Night at the Races fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, September 19, has been canceled by the organizing committee, in consultation with the Illustrious Potentate.

PARADES CANCELED

​Memorial Weekend
Prospect - May 23
Carnegie - May 24
Coraopolis - May 25
Lawrenceville - May 25
Monroeville - May 25
Sewickley - May 25

Independence Day
Brentwood
Monroeville


At this time, we are scheduled to resume activities in June. We will keep you informed as developments unfold.

Taking care of ourselves and each other

Let's make sure we look out for each other as we navigate our way through the "new normal." While we practice physical distancing, let's be sure no one goes without vital social contact. Reach out to your fellow Nobles, Lodge Brothers, friends, family and neighbors. If your situation allows, run an errand to the grocery store, pharmacy or other essential business for someone who can't, or really shouldn't, be leaving their home right now. And while you're at it, be sure to take proper precautions like those below.

​Stay Informed!

There is so much misinformation being shared on social media and by email. Do yourself, and all of us a favor, and go right to a trusted source for your information. Please don't pass along things your seen posted or things you've been sent unless they have come directly from a legitimate public health or government authority. Click on the image to the left to visit the federal government's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, FEMA and the White House at coronavirus.gov.

1 2 3 4 5