As we approach the end of another month in our Masonic journey, I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to the officers and members of Humboldt Lodge No. 79. Your steadfast dedication, faithful attendance, and brotherly support continue to strengthen the pillars of our beloved Lodge.

I am profoundly honored to have represented Humboldt Lodge No. 79 at the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge. This responsibility speaks to one of our most fundamental principles—the Twelfth Landmark of Masonry: the right of every Mason to be represented in all general meetings of the Craft and to instruct his representatives. While our ancient Brethren once gathered individually at General Assemblies, the Craft evolved in 1717 to representation through Masters and Wardens for practical convenience. Yet the Landmark’s integrity remains uncompromised—the sacred principle of representation endures. As your representative, I carried forward not merely my own voice, but the collective wisdom, concerns, and aspirations of every Brother in our Lodge. We now await with bated breath the results of these important deliberations that will shape the future of our Craft in California.

Fraternally,

Davin Bowerman, Worshipful Master, Humboldt No. 79

2025 Annual Communication Legislation

Voting Requirements: New legislation and Grand Master’s Recommendations require a 5/6 vote (83.3%) to pass on first presentation. Carryover legislation (items that received majority support but did not reach the 5/6 threshold) requires a 2/3 vote (66.7%) to pass. Grand Master’s Decisions require only a simple majority as they are already in effect and voting codifies them into the California Masonic Code.

Grand Master’s Decisions and Recommendations:

• GM Decision No. 1: Clarifies the esoteric or secret portion of the Ritual
• GM Decision No. 2: Installation of Lodge Officers Not Included in the Ritual
• GM Recommendation No. 1: Updates Grand Lodge Committee Membership, Duties, and Tenure
• GM Recommendation No. 2: Eliminates Code Provisions Relating to Officers Associations
• GM Recommendation No. 3: Centralized Notifications for Suspensions of Non-payment of Dues
• GM Recommendation No. 4: Updates the Duties of the Lodge Secretary
• GM Recommendation No. 5: Permits Charges to Be Withdrawn During Pre-trial Phase

2024 Carryover Legislation:

• 2024 GM Recommendation No. 4: Updates required applicant contributions and contribution amounts (2024 Result: 74.53%)
• 2024 GM Recommendation No. 6: Modifies lodge vote required to restore a Mason suspended for non-payment of dues (2024 Result: 83.15%)
• 2024 GM Recommendation No. 8: Clarifies procedures to approve alternate rituals (2024 Result: 77.84%)
• 2024 GM Recommendation No. 11: Permits a secretary to serve as master, warden, or secretary of another lodge (2024 Result: 74.14%)
• 2024 Resolution No. 24-01: Makes third degree proficiency a prerequisite for nomination to the office of master, senior warden, or junior warden (2024 Result: 78.73%)

New Legislation for 2025:

• Resolution 25-02: Allows Cicero Research Lodge to Hold a Single Stated Meeting Annually
• Resolution 25-04: Changes the Offices of Grand Organist, Assistant Grand Organist, and Organist to Grand Musician, Assistant Grand Musician, and Musician

For detailed explanations of each item, visit https://freemason.org/the_leader/september-2025/

Brethren,

July has been a month of quiet diligence and meaningful connection. On July 10th, we conferred the Third Degree on Brother Stillinger. His steady progress through the degrees is a reminder of the journey we all share in the Craft. Thank you to all who made the degree a success, especially our newest officer team.

Fellowship this month took on a relaxed form with informal Thursday night dinners. From stuffed pork loin to taco night, the dining hall has been filled with laughter, stories, and brotherhood. If you haven’t joined us lately, you’re missed.

Our charitable work continues through preparation—our school outreach team is organizing fall support for local teachers, and we encourage Brothers to suggest worthy causes that reflect our shared values.

Together, we are building something greater than ourselves—one evening, one handshake, and one good work at a time.

Fraternally,

Davin Bowerman, WM

Humboldt Lodge No. 79

Brethren,

As we meet upon the level and part upon the square, let us remember our core mission: to make Masons, provide charity, and enjoy true fellowship. Each of these pillars strengthens not only our Lodge but our greater Masonic family.

This month, we are honored to welcome Worshipful Brother Bill McBroom as our Officer’s Coach. His guidance and experience will help us rise to the challenge set forth by our Grand Lodge Inspector—to elevate our degree conferral work. Let us answer that call with the same zeal that has defined our Lodge for generations.

June is filled with opportunities to gather and celebrate our shared work. On Saturday, June 7th, we’ll support the Job’s Daughters during their installation ceremony. On June 14th at 2 PM, we will present the Hiram Award to Brother Allen Nielsen in recognition of his outstanding service. And on June 21st at 9 AM, join us for the annual Masonic Trap Shoot—a great time to bond and share in brotherly competition.

These events remind us why we labor—to uplift one another, to celebrate excellence, and to strengthen the bonds that unite us.

Fraternally,

Davin Bowerman

WM, Humboldt 79

Greetings Brethren,

We’ve had a full and rewarding few weeks, and there’s even more on the horizon. Here’s what’s been going on and what we’re looking forward to as spring unfolds.

Remembrance & Renewal in Fortuna

After our lodge’s degree practice on March 17th, several of us traveled to Fortuna at the kind invitation of our Scottish Rite Brethren. We attended their annual Remembrance and Renewal Ceremony, a tradition that honors the memory of our recently departed Brothers. The ceremony not only pays tribute to their lives but also reminds us of our duty to carry the light of Masonry forward in the world with purpose and integrity.

Charity in Action: Scholarships

Tomorrow night, our scholarship committee will be meeting between 5:00 and 7:00 PM to review over twenty scholarship applications from local students. If you’re able, please stop by and lend a hand—even if you arrive late, your presence and input are welcome and appreciated. This is one of the key ways we support and give back to our community, and your participation truly matters.

Fellowship with Job’s Daughters

On March 31st, our fellowship extended to the youth of Job’s Daughters as we shared a lively potluck dinner followed by a friendly cornhole competition. There was no shortage of laughs—or surprises. A special word of warning for future games: don’t underestimate Betsy. She might lull you into a false sense of security with a couple of wild throws, only to follow up with a streak of perfect shots. A stealth champion!

Quiet Acts of Leadership

I also wanted to take a moment to recognize the quiet but powerful leadership shown by our Stewards. After many of us have gone home, they remain behind, rolling up their sleeves to clean and maintain the dining hall. It’s a humble, often unseen part of lodge life—but one that exemplifies the very heart of Masonic service. Thank you, Brothers, for your tireless work.

Looking Ahead: A Week Full of Fellowship and Celebration

We’ve got a special evening coming up on Thursday, April 24th, as we confer the First Degree of Masonry on Mr. Shamus Kistner, the nephew of Brother Doug Brown. It will be a particularly meaningful night, with Bro. Doug sitting in the East for the degree. We invite all local Masons to join us for dinner at 5:30 PM, with the ceremony to follow. Let’s give Shamus a warm and memorable welcome to the Craft.

The next evening, Friday, April 25th at 5:30 PM, we’ll descend upon the Elk’s Club for a casual “Cook Your Own Steak Night.” Bring your appetite and enjoy good food and fellowship in a relaxed setting—these are the moments where bonds are built and strengthened.

And finally, on Saturday, April 26th at 1:30 PM, we’ll gather to honor Worshipful Brother William Lambo as he celebrates an extraordinary milestone: 50 years in both the Shrine and Scottish Rite. It’s a rare and inspiring achievement, and we hope to see many of you there to share in the celebration.

As always, thank you for all that you do—seen and unseen—in upholding the principles and spirit of Masonry. See you at lodge.

Fraternally,

Davin Bowerman, WM

Humboldt Lodge No. 79

Dear Brethren,

As Masons, our Lodge has embodied the principles of Charity, Fellowship, and Masonic Development in meaningful and impactful ways, and we are proud to share some of our efforts with you.

Charity is the cornerstone of our Masonic work, and we continue to support our community. A testament to this is our humble donation to the sponsor the Senior Moments Softball Team, which will help ensure that the members of this local group can enjoy their game and foster camaraderie. We are spreading the light of charity, one pitch at a time.

Fellowship is the bond that unites us, and our Lodge has been a place of great joy and celebration. This month, we surprised two of our own with heartwarming gatherings: one to celebrate the wedding anniversary of Bill & Sandy Lambo, and another for Brother Barry’s birthday. These surprise parties were not only a moment of fun and laughter but a reminder that fellowship is about more than just meetings—it’s about the relationships we build and the memories we create together.

Masonic Development is an essential part of our journey, and we are pleased to welcome Brother Vance, who was initiated as an Entered Apprentice on March 7th. His initiation marks the continuation of our shared Masonic journey.

These actions speak volumes about who we are as a Lodge. Through charity, fellowship, and development, we strive to embody the very best of Freemasonry. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our shared work.
Fraternally,
Davin Bowerman, WM
Humboldt Lodge No 79

Brethren, 

Masonic Development, Fellowship, & Charity. It’s what we do.

Our stated meeting on Feb 6th was quite busy. Masonic Development is going well, as we balloted favorably on Mr John Vance & on Mr Travis McBroom. Their initiations are scheduled for March. We know fellowship is strong when we see our brothers choose to spend Super Bowl Sunday together. We were delighted to spend time dining with our ladies at the Sweethearts Night at the Sea Grill. At February’s stated meeting we heard from our Inspector representing Most Worshipful Salazar who invites us to celebrate our commitment to charity by participating in a statewide day of service March 17th followed by a Grand Lodge Festive Board on the 19th. Housekeeping – check.

Have you ever wondered what ‘Our Ancient Landmarks you are carefully to preserve’ means? I did a bit of poking around, and as with our craft there is a literal (operative) and a metaphorical (speculative) meaning. Reference to ‘landmarks’ goes back to Old Testament bible and refers to what today we would call surveyors’ markings.  In a modern context, the landmarks can be interpreted as a warning against disregarding the boundaries set by previous generations. In 1856, Bro. Albert Mackey wrote what he believed were 25 Ancient Landmarks. My favorite is 22, restated thus:  

The  Equality  of  all  Masons  is  another  Land-mark of  the  Order.  This  equality  has  no  reference to  any  subversion  of  those  gradations  of  rank which  have  been  instituted  by  the  usages  of  society. The  monarch,  the  nobleman  or  the  gentleman  is  entitled  to  all  the  influence,  and  receives  all  the respect  which  rightly  belong  to  his  exalted  position. But  the  doctrine  of  Masonic  equality  implies  that, as  children  of  one  great  Father,  we  meet in  the Lodge  upon  the  level — that  on  that  level  we  are  all traveling  to  one  predestined  goal — that  in  the  Lodge genuine  merit  shall  receive  more  respect  than boundless  wealth,  and  that  virtue  and  knowledge alone  should  be  the  basis  of  all  Masonic  honors,  and be  rewarded  with  preferment. When  the  labors of  the  Lodge  are  over,  and  the  brethren  have  retired from  their  peaceful  retreat,  to  mingle  once  more with  the  world,  each  will  then  again  resume  that social  position,  and  exercise  the  privileges  of  that rank,  to  which  the  customs  of  society  entitle  him.

In the last century, several American Grand Lodges attempted to enumerate the landmarks, ranging from West Virginia (7) and New Jersey (10) to Nevada (39) and Kentucky (54). While brothers may disagree on the speculative meaning of Landmarks I contend, nevertheless, that reading them and contemplating them ourselves is a worthwhile reflection. For those reading this on the website, here is a link to Mackey’s Landmarks.

Davin Bowerman, 

2025 Worshipful Master, Humboldt 79

Brethren, 

Masonic Development, Fellowship, & Charity. It’s what we do. On January 9th our officers and coach Bill Lambo, PM,  discussed our expectations of each other for ritual practice and development, which is always a good conversation to start the year. If you cannot be at a practice, notify Bill. If you need a substitute for a degree, ask a Past Master at least a week ahead of the night. We are scheduled to confer Bro. Sheyenne “Shiny” Stillinger a 2nd degree on Thursday January 30th. Fellowcrafts and Master masons are welcome to join us for dinner at 5:30pm and Lodge Opening at 6:30pm. 

Thank you brothers who brought 6+ prospects to our Thursday night practice yesterday! It’s our earnest desire to make every Thursday at 5:30pm a Lodge night. We’d like every brother to come grab a bite, enjoy fellowship, and if inclined and eligible watch our officers practice their ritual. 

We hope you’re looking forward to the return of Sushi Night on Saturday, January 18th. Bro Reed has taken steps to ensure that the flaws of last year don’t repeat, this will be a fantastic fellowship event to start the new year. Thank you Josh for your tireless successful efforts. There will be Taiko drummers and Karaoke to round out the sushi feed. Humboldt 79’s Ladies’ Luncheon is scheduled for 26 January at 12pm. 

Charity- The brethren elected to donate $x to the local Special Olympics to soften the blow of the theft of their sports equipment storage. 

See you at Lodge, 

Davin Bowerman, Worshipful Master

Brothers and Friends;

Please join the officers and families of Humboldt Lodge No. 79 this Saturday December 7th, 2024 at 2 o’clock for the annual installation of our officers for 2025. We expect to finish by 3pm when we will have light refreshments in the dining room. Our officer’s corp is full of enthusiasm to make the year ahead full of Fellowship, Charity, and a year to better ourselves and our community. All are welcome to this event and we look forward to your support. 

Fraternally yours, 

Davin Bowerman

Greetings brothers.  

Last month was the Annual Communications and with it we welcome our new Grand Master, Most Worshipful Arthur L. Salazar Jr. And with the new grand line of officers we also saw a change in districts for all of California. Humboldt Lodge is now in the 201^st District along with Arcata and Crescent City. Ferndale and Fortuna are now part of the 203^rd district. Both new districts will have separate inspectors and schools of instruction.

As the year winds down, I would like to remind the officers that proficiencies are due. Please make an appointment with your inspector if you haven’t already.

Upcoming events:  

November 7th, Thursday – Stated Meeting at 7:00pm 

November 14th, Thursday – 3^rd Degree Proficiency for Brother Josh Reed at 6:15pm 

Respectfully,  

Dan Sarver  

Master  

Humboldt Lodge No. 79