Finally a Welcome Tax Rise
Michael Tax became a joining member of Baines Lodge in December 2021. This followed years of personal support at meetings and his attendance at a plethora of social events hosted by the members’.
Michael regularly involved and invited his mother Elizabeth, sister Rachel, extended family and his many friends. Indeed, his late father Leon, also played an integral role in the development of several of the Lodge’s key members. Michael’s membership was never in doubt, and many would say, it was written in the stars.
Michael was initiated in to North Shore Lodge in November 2010. His father Leon conducted Michael’s initiation and ceremony of raising which were both spectacularly heartfelt and of the highest quality. Michael progressed through all the usual offices prior to being installed as Master in 2016. He subsequently became ADC in 2017 before moving to DC in 2019. Michael has been Lodge Almoner since 2018. This role has been particularly poignant during the Covid-19 pandemic.
In September 2020, Michael was appointed Mentor for the Blackpool Group. He was also delighted to receive his first appointment to Provincial Grand Steward that same year. Although the suspension got in the way of most things masonic, Michael immediately commenced visiting in his crimson attire across the entire province. His passion, commitment and the enjoyment he’s displayed has been infectious and unquestionable throughout.
Michael was exalted in to Peace and Unity Chapter in September 2017 and he is the current First Principal. He is also a proud member of Quingenti Lodge which now meets in Preston. Michael has been nominated ‘The Steward’ and he will become Master of the Lodge later in the year.
Outside of the organisation, Michael has held various roles within the Scouting community to include Assistant District Commissioner for Cub Scouts in Blackpool and as a County Cub Scout Leader with responsibilities for organising events and supporting Cub Packs throughout West Lancashire.
Michael is a focal figure for the Blackpool Reform Jewish Congregation and a member of the Synagogue Council. He is a key holder with particular responsibility for maintenance, the organisation of interfaith visits and for providing information sessions for school and youth entities. He has conduct of both website and media functioning and he has even managed all Zoom services during and since the COVID-19 outbreak. This included the arrangement of equipment and training to facilitate the members joining all online services. Michael has even had sole responsibility for security, requiring him to check the premises regularly, whilst closed.
Michael is a devoted volunteer of Donna's Dream House. He deals with various aspects of the charity including the organisation of the annual charity ball. Michael can also be found driving the minibus which facilitates families staying at Donna's Dream House. He also assists with many fundraising activities. Michael agreed to assist in the security and maintenance of the premises whilst closed during the pandemic. He even enlisted himself on the Royal Voluntary Service as a volunteer responder and was a proud recipient of a Certificate of Commendation from the Grand Master.
The members of Baines Lodge are extremely proud of our brother and friend. He is a prominent figure within the local community, and also, within our ancient and honourable institution. Michael’s imminent appointment to Secretary of the Blackpool Group at the next meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge is not only fitting of the man and mason of Michael’s undoubted qualities, but it brings particular pride to all his family and friends who love and support him. Michael has brought tremendous honour to his father’s choice and we’ve no doubt he will continue to do so in the future.
