Trestle

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Brothers,

Success is Often Measured

I want to share what has been honorable, pleasurable and a host of other accolades. It’s not about “I” or “me” it is about “all” and “we”. This is one of the ways our society and Freemasonry embraces “Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth”. As well, there are some successful attributes. Of course, there are many others; in which no argument should exist.

I encourage each one of us, to stay strong, in his ability to withstand adversity and motivate himself in the face of frustration. To have self confidence, surround himself with diverse views and perspectives with those who disagree; without the possibility of retaliation or taking matters personal. Have the ability to acknowledge and the willingness to learn from your mistakes (if there be any). To have a willingness to change when conditions warrant it. The skill to work with fellow officers and advise them from time to time -- that they are doing a good job and continue to do their best. To have the skill to manage self-control and emotions; to keep a popular and personal touch knowing when to wait and knowing when to lead. Do what is moral, have courage and integrity to follow your convictions when there is a possibility of losing popular support. Most importantly, take the time to relax and spend time with family and friends who are non-masons; another words, enjoy and have fun.

I urge you to keep checking the Masters & Wardens website as it is constantly being updated with ‘District News’ and photos. All of you, my Brothers, need to be commended on the support you have shown with great enthusiasm, excitement and demonstrated your pride by reflecting on the benefits of being a Freemason. That makes the Suncoast Masters & Wardens Association the best and finest group of Brothers around. I am personally honored and humbled by it and this comes from the bottom of my heart and with sincere gratitude.

It’s always a pleasure whether in our “labors” or for fun and good times. I am looking forward to seeing you, my Brothers, at the next Masters & Wardens meeting on Wednesday, November 19^th at Gulf Beach Lodge No. 291. There are a variety of topics and events scheduled and to participate in to closeout the year. A gentle reminder – elections of officers for the ensuing year will also take place on that evening as well.

Fraternally and Sincerely,

Billy Garrett Jr. PM,

President

VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

My Brothers,

This was an event “fore” the records

The 7^th Annual Suncoast Masters and Wardens Charity Golf Tournament was a huge success! We exceeded all of our expectations with over 50 friends and brothers attending; we had eleven teams and every hole on the course was sponsored. To recap the event for those who were unfortunate enough to miss it and did not attend, the day began with a brief welcome by our President W:. Garrett Jr and an explanation of the rules by the Saint Andrew’s Link Manager and PGA pro Paul Sylvester. Everyone tee’d off shortly after 8 AM. When the dust settled and the golfers finished the last hole, the smell of a BBQ filled the air! Br:. Tom Willmot had begun cooking two whole pigs before the golfers arrived that morning. Everyone lined up to enjoyed a roasted pork meal that was fit for a king! After the meal was finished, the awards were presented. The 1^st Place trophy went to Dunedin Lodge No. 192, 2^nd Place went to All R’s Pest Control (Nitram Lodge No. 188), and in 3^rd Place was Star Lodge No. 78. The winner of the longest (and most accurate) drive contest was John Schlenker. Photos will be posted on the website. A summary report will be presented at the next Suncoast Masters and Wardens Meeting which is going to be held at Gulf Beach No. 291 on Nov 19^th . In closing, it was one of the best golfing events that we have had. We raised money for our charities, and raised our spirits thru fellowship, camaraderie, and the exchange of brotherly love. My heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone who participated, helped, and assisted with this event; we could not have done it without you!

Optional: On another note my Brothers, this Association is designed to help all of the Lodges in the 20^th and 21^st Masonic Districts. We want to help promote your degrees, social events, and thereby help you raise money for your Lodge. To do this, we need your help! Those aspiring to the East should be developing their calendar of special events for next year. This events should be well thought out and the planning begins now! If you send your Lodge’s information to the Assn, our webmaster (RW:. Knapp) will posted on the calendar and the Assn will help spread the word about your good work. Brothers from other Lodges are interested in what your Lodge has going on. In return for their support of your Lodge’s events, you must be considerate of their activities. Check the Districts’ calendar and don’t over book. Let’s spread the word for the good of the brethren, the Lodges of the 20^th & 21^st Districts and the Fraternity as a whole!

Fraternally,

Derryl B. O’Neal, PM

Vice President

DISTRICT 20 DDGM MESSAGE

Brethren,

I have traveled all over the state with the Grand Master, and have one official visit to come – East Gate on October 7. Whew! After several years in the Tampa Scottish Rite line, and then five more in the Egypt Shriners officer line, I am so pleased to be able to spend more time with the brothers of the Suncoast Masters and Wardens Association. I have been around long enough to remember some great District 19 and later 20/21 masons who served with great distinction, and I now see many more who will lead us in the next decade. We have a most promising future ahead of us my brothers.

I would like to tell you of a program at the Masonic Home that will assist the Endowment Fund. A granite stone ($150) or a brick ($50) may be purchased with an inscription, and the stone placed in the interior courtyard nearest the dining room. Wouldn’t it be something to be proud of, if all the lodges in our district purchased a granite stone? As an example:

Please discuss this idea with your members, vote on it if you will, and let me know your thoughts and questions. All proceeds go to the Masonic Home Endowment Fund!

I only have bronze souvenir Grand Master’s coins remaining if you collect them as I do for each year you have been a Mason; please contact me ($5). If you have EA or FC brothers who have not progressed as you hoped, maybe consider a short of time class? We can organize help for the degrees from other skilled brothers in the district, and promote visitation at the same time. I look forward to greeting you in lodge!

R. James Rocha, DDGM

20^th Masonic District

DISTRICT 21 DDGM MESSAGE