Month: September 2024

Greetings from the East!

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Gulf Beach Lodge has faced significant challenges as our building sustained extensive flood damage due to the unprecedented storm surge.

The floodwaters rose higher than anticipated, leaving much of our beloved Lodge inundated. Despite the damage, we are thankful that all of our brothers and their families are safe, which is our greatest priority during this difficult time.

While our physical Lodge has been impacted, it is crucial to remember that our true strength lies in the bonds of brotherhood that unite us. The officers and members of the Lodge have already begun the process of assessing the damage and establishing a
plan to repair and restore our Lodge, and with their dedication and hard work, we are confident that Gulf Beach Lodge will soon be restored to its full glory.

It is through collective effort and perseverance that we will overcome this obstacle, and we call upon all brothers to rally together in support of one another, as we always have.

Now more than ever, we are reminded that the heart of Freemasonry is not in brick and mortar, but in the fellowship we share and the values we uphold. This should be a time for all brothers of Gulf Beach Lodge to come together and demonstrate our commitment
to the Lodge, to support each other, and to move forward with our business and mission.

Until further notice, all non-essential events will be canceled or postponed as we focus on the vital work of repairing and restoring our Lodge. However, we remain committed to maintaining the regular course of our Masonic work. Stated and called
communications will continue to be held at Northside Lodge No. 283 on Thursdays and times as usual, ensuring that our Lodge’s business moves forward without disruption.

We encourage all brothers to attend and participate in these meetings. Your presence is more important now than ever as we navigate this challenging period together. It is through our collective efforts that we will ensure the Lodge continues to function and
thrive, even as we work to rebuild.

This is an opportunity for us to stand united, undeterred by the setbacks we face. Together, we will rebuild, renew, and continue to serve as a shining example of brotherhood, charity, and resilience. Let us rise to the occasion, support one another, and move forward with the strength and determination that has always defined Gulf
Beach Lodge.

Upon the Square,
Bobby Burkett, Worshipful Master

We know that many of our friends and brothers have lost a great deal after Hurricane Helene and we are keeping them in our thoughts and prayers and offer any assistance we can to them in this time of need.

Unfortunately our Temple did not escape the ravages of the storms fury. We had 4′ of water at our front door and the entire downstairs of the Lodge was flooded. You can see from the photo that the flooring has already begun to buckle and our large appliances have been washed all over the kitchen.

The Master has asked that all recovery efforts at the Lodge be orchestrated through him, and the recovery team he has appointed. For safety reasons he has asked that nobody enter the Lodge without his prior approval.

Obviously we won’t be able to use the Temple for some time while recovery efforts are underway. To that end, Northside Lodge has graciously allowed us use of their Temple throughout October. Our regular Thursday night meetings will be held there (3325 1st Street N.E., St. Petersburg, FL 33704).

All other events scheduled for October at Gulf Beach Lodge will be canceled/postponed including the Breakfast on October 6th, Oktoberfest October 26th, and Family Night October 31st.

If anyone is inclined to make a voluntary donation to help us in what will be a very expensive recovery, donations can be made via Zelle to gro.e1791279056gdolh1791279056caebf1791279056lug@y1791279056rater1791279056ces1791279056 (put Hurricane in the memo)

(“Florida Registration Number Ch65725 – A Copy of the Official Registration and Financial Information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling toll-free within the state 1-800-435-7352., Registration does not imply endorsement , approval, or recommendation by the state”)

Thank you all for adding us to your prayer list.

Our 2024 Table Lodge was a resounding success! The food and fellowship was outstanding! Our Master, W∴ Bobby Burkett led a great program and all the officers did very well with the toasts and responses. The meal was second to none and the Junior Warden Br∴ Tim Delaney and Stewards Brs∴ Jim Tizzano and Brian Marshall (with help from Br∴ Jon Reed) did a fantastic job in preparation, serving and cleaning up. We were honored to have our sitting DDGM, R∴W∴ Michael St-Laurent, with us and enjoyed the Grand Master’s message he presented. R∴W∴ Howard Knapp was the guest speaker and everyone enjoyed the talk that was given on Freemasonry. — It was an event that will not soon be forgotten by those in attendance.

All who attended the meeting yesterday enjoyed a wonderful evening of fellowship. Here is what went on.

• The altar was draped in memory of Br∴ Doug Lowery who passed away on September 13th.
• Our Junior Warden and Stewards served a delicious meal beforehand.
• Br∴ Jon Reed returned a fantastic catechism led by W∴ David Neville.
• R∴W∴ Howard Knapp presented Br∴ Jon Reed his Lambskin Apron.
• W∴ Bobby Burkett presented Br∴ Reed his Master Mason Certificate and proficiency card.
• Seminole Elementary will be taking part in our Bikes For Books program this year.
• The craft donated $100 to the 1st Lady’s project in memory of our 1st Lady, Dee Cowart, who recently passed away.
• The craft approved a gift card for Dee Marshall (our Junior Steward’s lady) in appreciation for her donating preparing and donating the meal for our Master Mason Degree.
• The craft donated $150.00 to the Children’s Dream Fund.
• Br∴ Al Yoder gave Masonic Education on the Cable Tow in Freemasonry.

Gulf Beach Lodge welcomes our newest Master Mason, Brother Dagoberto Cruz, who was Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason last night. The evening began with a wonderful Greek dinner prepared by Dee and Brian Marshall.

Among the many brothers in attendance were five first time visitors from five different states.

The degree was conferred by the Past Masters of Gulf Beach Lodge, and was done in very fine fashion.

The lecture was delivered by Howard Knapp PDDGM and the charge was delivered by Derryl O’Neal PDDGM

Members of Gulf Beach Lodge attended the 9-11 Members of Gulf Beach Lodge attended the Patriots Day Memorial in Madeira Beach today. Our own Brother Dom Bueller with the MBFD rang the fire bell at the end. Never forgotten!

Members of Gulf Beach Lodge attend Hillsborough Lodge’s Table Lodge and greet the Grand Master.

Great job today by the breakfast kitchen crew!! Food was excellent and a good crowd to enjoy it. See you on October 6th for our next breakfast.