Gulf Beach Lodge Final Hurricane Helene Recovery Update:
We are proud and deeply thankful to announce that Gulf Beach Lodge successfully completed the final inspection for our Hurricane Helene Recovery refurbishment on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
This marks the official completion of the permitted recovery and refurbishment work following the damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Our refurbishing permit was received on April 10, 2025, seven months after the hurricane and the remediation process began. From that point forward, the road was long, difficult, and at times uncertain.
There was a time in early 2025 when the Lodge was not sure whether we would be able to complete this project. But because of the amazing outpouring of support, generosity, donations, and hard work from our members, Grand Lodge, brothers from around the country, family, friends, and supporters, we were able to complete the recovery work using only the funds that were raised.
We extend our sincere thanks to Jeff Fincher, who served as our contractor and guided us with his knowledge, experience, and insight throughout this process.
We also thank every brother, family member, and friend who contributed sweat equity to help bring our Lodge back. That work included hanging insulation, hanging drywall, mudding, taping, texturing, painting, installing bathroom vanities, hanging doors, installing baseboards and door trim, replacing ceiling grids and tiles, and so much more.
We are also incredibly grateful to the wonderful subcontractors who helped make this recovery possible. Their work included fully replacing the electrical system, installing new plumbing, connecting sinks and the urinal, blocking in windows, installing flood barrier systems, working on the hood fire suppression system, and completing many other critical parts of the project.
While there are still smaller projects to address — such as new flooring downstairs, a small section of soffit work, exterior painting, landscaping, and other improvements — these items are not part of the recovery permit and will be handled as funds become available.
Again, thank you to everyone who played a part in this recovery. Your support, donations, labor, encouragement, and commitment made this possible.
It was a rough and rugged road, but together we have successfully ascended to the summit of the mount.
Gulf Beach Lodge is recovered, refurbished, and moving forward.