(Photo (L-R : Al Yoder; Dan Kuhl)
Admiral Farragut Academy Receives Paddle Board Donation from Gulf Beach Masonic Lodge
Madeira Beach, FL – September 27, 2025 – Dan “Chief” Kuhl of Admiral Farragut Academy proudly accepted the delivery of two brand-new Tahoe SUP (Standup Paddle Boards) from Junior Steward Brother Albert “Al” Yoder of Gulf Beach Masonic Lodge No. 291. The donation marks an important step in restoring Admiral Farragut’s Waterfront Program, which suffered significant losses during Hurricane Helene one year ago.
“Many of our small boats and paddle boards were either lost or damaged during the storm,” said Chief Kuhl. “These new SUPs will immediately benefit our cadets, giving them more opportunities to train, learn, and enjoy being on the water.”
Admiral Farragut Academy, a K–12 private college preparatory school founded in 1933, is one of only two Naval Honor Schools in the United States. The school’s mission is to provide a challenging and supportive environment that promotes academic excellence, leadership skills, and character development. Farragut’s signature programs include sailing, SCUBA, aviation, and S.T.E.M. — all designed to prepare students for success in higher education and beyond.
“Our waterfront program is spearheaded by our team of Cadet sailing instructors certifying all upper school cadets in sailing on C420’s, as well as Lasers, Zuma, Hobie Cat, Opti’s and other watercraft including kayaks and paddleboards,” added Kuhl. “Fishing, seine/casting, volleyball, and other educational and recreational opportunities are available across the street from our main campus at our beautiful four-acre waterfront location on upper Boca Ciega Bay.”
The donation was facilitated by Brother Yoder, who has a personal connection to the school’s history. As a former student of Sanford Naval Academy, Yoder once competed against Admiral Farragut Academy in basketball. He later became a Naval Fighter Pilot and, after his military service, retired as a pilot for Delta Air Lines. “It is a privilege to support Farragut’s cadets and help restore their waterfront program,” said Yoder.