Nore Lodge hold their Gala evening with a hint of lavender
Saxon Hall was the venue for this modern take on the traditions of a Ladies Night with an evening of dining, dancing and divas
On Saturday, 1st February 2025 and in a modern take on the traditions of a Ladies Night, the Worshipful Master (WM) of the Nore Lodge No. 3610, Paul Palmer and his husband Rich, hosted their Gala Night at Saxon Hall, Southend.
95 guests turned up for a fabulous evening of dining and divas, with a dress-code of black with a hint of lavender. So not only was the room beautifully themed in shades of purple, but so were the guests!
The evening commenced with free-flowing pink prosecco, then Paul (as President) and Rich (as Vice President) entered. A unique and light-hearted Grace was delivered before the presidential party visited each table in turn for walking wine-takings, by means of introductions for everyone. In a nod to equality, table gifts were then unveiled for everyone. With a delicious 3-course meal served, minimal formalities then followed.
The Vice President explained the President likes his after-dinner speeches like his coffee... a dark roast! – in reference to the US Comedy Central Roast TV series which prompted a suitable dose of lampooning from Graham Turner, Assistant Director of Ceremonies. The President responded in kind with some additional cheeky jokes aimed at his husband and mother, before they were each presented with bouquets of flowers. The second and final toast of the evening was to the guests, with a humorous response on behalf of all the guests from the Vice President.
Paul then reflected on his 15 years (so far) in Freemasonry, and how wonderfully inclusive it is. Taking that further, he commented that within equality, we should also celebrate diversity and how our differences enrich us. Such is why he has been selling Masonic Pride pins across the Province and globally to raise money for charity during his year as WM.
The President then introduced the entertainment for the evening and emerged on stage himself as Cher. Halfway into the first number, he was booted off stage after a showdown with the real Cher tribute act, right on cue.
A photobooth was then unveiled with props galore, and all photos (printed and digital) were included free for guests. The raffle was drawn with over 35 prizes won, a private flying experienced for two was auctioned, and more Masonic Pride pin badges were sold. The tribute act returned, this time as Madonna, as guests filled the dance floor.
Finally, a giant cheque for £3,210 was unfurled made payable to the St Vincent’s Centre, Southend, a charity supporting vulnerable people in the community. A delighted Daniel Cauchi, the Centre Manager was overjoyed and expressed his thanks for such a generous donation.
A DJ and dancing closed out a wonderful and successful evening full of fun and love.
Photos
Top: Paul Palmer, Daniel Cauchi, Rich
Bottom: Paul as Cher – can you tell the difference?
