Madeira Beach, FL.
Gulf Beach Masonic Lodge presents Scholarship Award
by Howard Knapp

Gulf Beach Masonic Lodge, located at 14020 Marguerite Drive in Madeira Beach, presented its annual Ernest J. Freeman Jr. Memorial Scholarship to Mr. Brett Harris Thacher and Mr. Jeremiah David Miller, both graduating Seniors at Seminole High School in Seminole. Mr. Thacher will be attending College in the Fall at University of South Florida in Tampa and Mr. Miller will be attending University of Central Florida.

Ernest J. Freeman Jr., Master of Gulf Beach Lodge in 1984, had a vision. This vision was to create a scholarship program that would grant deserving local students funds to assist in their college tuition. It was also his vision to create a program which would be self perpetuating thereby being a source of assistance well into the future. After the passing of Ernest Freeman the Scholarship program was renamed in his memory and has helped support four college students each year since its inception. The annual Scholarship winners receive $2,000.00 to assist in their College or University expenses.

Gulf Beach Masonic Lodge is a fraternal organization which seeks to assist the youth of our community in becoming better citizens through education, and higher learning. High School Seniors in the area can apply for the Ernest J. Freeman Jr. Memorial Scholarship each February on the Lodge's website at www.gulfbeachlodge.org . Donations can also be made online at the Lodge website by choosing the 'donations' link on the main page. For further information, please email the Lodge Secretary at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call the Lodge at 727-391-8073.

Photo by Howard Knapp
(L-R Tom Willmot, Master; Brett Thacher; David Brown, Scholarship Chairman)