Post #125 has been using the American/Czechoslovakian Club Building. An offer to purchase was submitted by Post #125 but this was not realized due to vote action by the membership. The Post is proceeding with former tentative plans to build a permanent Post Home replacement. Although money is scarce, the Post had other options, one of which was to sell five hundred dollar ($500.00) bonds bearing the current rate of interest.
Architectural plans were submitted to the City of Gulfport Zoning and Planning Commission. Post #125 hopes to break ground for a two story 8,000 square foot building, in Mayor June of 1990.
This bit building step was made possible by the concerted effort, and complete cooperation of all Post, Auxiliary and SAL members including support from the local community.
Since Post #125 has been in the temporary surroundings they have endeavored to put on a function at least once a month to help increase the building fund. Leasing and maintaining the temporary quarters have placed a drain on the treasury and the Post continues to endeavor to relieve this liability.
In 1990, a vacant building was found on 5th Avenue South, near the corner of 64th Street. The building covered 7,550 square feet and was in need of some repairs. Enthusiasm for the building was high.
The membership had to vote on two different buildings at a June meeting, (1) a two-story building at 5th Avenue South and, (2) a design for a one story building for the old burned out site. By a closed ballot the vote was to purchase the building on 5th Avenue South.
The asking price for this building was $150,000 with the seller holding the mortgage at 10% for 15 years and one third down payment. Remodeling costs were estimated at $100,000.00. Parking was more than adequate plus the members could also park on the street. The asking price for the old building site was $60,000.00.
As the current Commander Don Duffy said, "From the ashes the Phoenix did arise". It took over fourteen months, but the wait was worth it to the membership. No expense was spared; it is a beautiful building inside and out. The Grand Opening and the Dedication was held Sunday the 2nd of December 1990.
This Post is active all Legion functions, and was the first in Blood Donors in' 1990 for having the most Blood Donors in the Department of Florida.
