2017 Officers (Divan) for the Zem Zem Shrine in Erie, rom left to right, are, in front, Randy Burr II - Chief Rabban (Vice President), Ill. Sir Timothy Hofius – Potentate (President), Leroy Woods – Assistant Rabban (2nd Vice President), Back row; Richard Crabb – Treasurer, Randall G. Ferguson – High Priest and Prophet (3rd Vice President), Robert Perrine – Oriental Guide (4th Vice President), Ill. Sir Jeffrey Stephenson P.P. – Recorder (Secretary).

On Saturday, Jan. 21,the Zem Zem Shrine in Erie elected its new officers (Divan) for 2017. It was a full day of events. Starting at 1 p.m. the annual meeting began. At this meeting the 2016 officers wrapped up the past year and thanked everyone for their help and support. The new officers for 2017 were then elected. They presented their schedule and budget for 2017. They then accepted donations from the Zem Zem Clubs and Parade Units for the Shriners Hospital for Children in Erie and the Shrine. A reception and dinner followed honoring Ill. Sir Timothy Hofius Potentate, the newly elected 2017 officers (Divan), and their ladies.

The Zem Zem Shrine covers Erie, Crawford, Warren, Mercer, Venango, Forest, Elk, and McKean counties and is part of Shriners International, now covering more than 200 Temples (chapters) across North America, South America, Europe and Southeast Asia. The organization is best known for the Shriners Hospitals for Children it administers, and the red fezzes that members wear. Headquartered in Tampa Florida, Shriners International describes itself as a fraternity based on fun, fellowship, philanthropy and the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth.

Shriners Hospitals for Children is a network of 22 medical facilities across North America, one of which is located in Erie, PA. Children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the family’s ability to pay. Patients must be under the age of 18 and are not required to have any familial affiliation with the Shriners or with Freemasonry.

If you would like more information about becoming a Shriner or, making a donation to our hospital system please call the Zem Zem Shrine at (814) 833-3391.  If you know a child who could use our help, please contact the Erie Shriners Hospital at (814) 875-8700.