Gulf Beach Lodge hosted District Deputy Grand Master, R∴W∴ Rusty B. Valle, District Instruct, R∴H∴ Joseph Griffith, and the District 18 Committeemen last night for the DDGM’s Official visit to our Lodge. Here is what was enjoyed:
- The Junior Warden, Br∴ David Marrs, prepared a wonderful meal with the assistance of the Stewards, Brs∴ Al Yoder and Brian Marshall
- M∴W∴ Taleb T. Atala and R∴W∴ Rusty B. Valle were elected Honorary Members of Gulf Beach Lodge.
- The DDGM and his party were welcomed into the Lodge room and Grand Honors were rendered to the DDGM.
- The Chaplain and Stewards draped the altar in honor and memory of M∴W∴ Donald Cowart who passed away.
- First time visitors were introduced and presented a commemorative lodge coin.
- W∴ Buck Owens presented R∴W∴ Rusty B. Valle his Honorary Membership Certificate.
- W∴ Bobby Burkett II was presented a beautiful hand carved wooden bench crafted by W∴ David Neville commemorating his year as Master in 2024.
- W∴ Bobby Burkett II also received a certificate of recognition for reaching the Masonic Education goals in 2024.
- Br∴ Dago Cruz was presented his Masonic Leadership Training (MLT) completion certificate.
- The craft donated $150 to “Hero to a Child”
- Br∴ David Marrs reported for the Hurricane Rebuild Committee that the electric replacement passed inspection and that we are preparing for drywall installation.
- It was reported that the “W∴ Bob Meeks Bikes For Books” program at Seminole Elementary last month was a great success.
- The craft approved spending $48,000 from our Operating and Hurricane Recovery Accounts to continue rebuilding our Lodge.
- Br∴ Tim Delaney reported that we will be scheduling our Keep Pinellas Beautiful Highway cleanup day in July.
- R∴W∴ Howard Knapp reported that he is publishing a paperback book on the History of Gulf Beach Lodge which proceeds from the sales will go toward the Lodge rebuild.
- R∴H∴ Joe Griffith, District Instructor, encouraged the brothers to earn or renew their proficiency cards.
- Each of the District 18 Committeemen gave a brief talk about his particular committee.
- R∴W∴ Rusty B. Valle gave his remarks and then presented the Grand Master’s Message which was met with a standing ovation.
- R∴W∴ Howard Knapp was called upon to deliver the closing charge.