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St. Helena Odd Fellows Return Inspired from 2026 Grand Lodge Sessions in Reno

The 2026 IOOF Grand Lodge Sessions in Reno were a meaningful and uplifting experience for St. Helena Lodge, embodying the very principles of Friendship, Love, and Truth. Eight Past Noble Grands proudly represented our lodge:

Tony Albright, Sam Baxter, Tash Bunge, David Dirito, Russell Gold, Clark Harding, Tony Montelli, and Cante Swearingen.

Several representatives arrived early on Thursday, with Friday and Saturday filled with productive sessions. Delegates thoughtfully discussed and voted on important resolutions covering budgets, procedures, and key matters affecting the future of our Order.

True to the spirit of Odd Fellowship, the week offered rich opportunities to build Friendship through meaningful connections with brothers and sisters from across the jurisdiction. In an atmosphere of Love and mutual support, members exchanged ideas with Sovereign Grand Lodge representatives, Rebekahs, and fellow Odd Fellows from many lodges. These gatherings reinforced the Truth that unites us all — a shared commitment to making our communities better.

Our representatives returned to St. Helena with a deeper understanding of the Order’s leadership and processes, along with renewed inspiration to live out the principles of Friendship, Love, and Truth in both our lodge and our local community.

Thank you to all who attended and represented St. Helena Lodge with dignity and dedication. Your efforts strengthen our Order and carry its timeless values forward.

Early this morning, while most of the Napa Valley was still quiet, members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows accompanied by family, friends and treasured pets were already at their posts along Pope Street in St. Helena.

Since the early hours, a dedicated band of Brothers has been manning a vital water station for participants in the Kaiser Permanente Napa Valley Marathon and Half Marathon.

Positioned along one of the most scenic and demanding stretches of the course, the station has provided thousands of runners with hydration, encouragement, and a friendly face during the long push toward the finish line.

The Odd Fellows’ involvement is part of their long-standing tradition of community service, and today’s effort was coordinated with local race organizers to ensure runners had reliable support at a key point in the race. Volunteers arrived well before sunrise to set up tables, fill cups, and prepare for the first wave of athletes passing through.

“Being out early is a small price to pay when you see the determination on the runners’ faces,” said one Brother who has volunteered at the station for several years. “We’re proud to give back to the community and help make this event successful and safe.”

The Kaiser Permanente Napa Valley Marathon and Half Marathon draws thousands of runners each year, many traveling from across California and beyond to experience the stunning vineyard-lined course.

Race officials have expressed gratitude for the Odd Fellows’ early-morning commitment, noting that volunteer support like this is essential to the event’s success.

FLT — Friendship, Love, and Truth — were on full display today as the Brothers served, smiled, and cheered on every runner who passed by.

If you see the Odd Fellows in their signature vests along Pope Street today, give them a wave or a thank-you.

It was a good day to be an Odd Fellow.

Stay tuned for more community highlights from the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

The St. Helena Odd Fellows Lodge #167 is currently being featured in a special display at the St. Helena Public Library (1492 Library Lane), offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the lodge’s enduring legacy in the heart of Napa Valley.

Titled “St. Helena, Then and Now: St. Helena Odd Fellows”, the exhibit features a curated selection of historical pictures, artifacts, and memorabilia in the library’s display case. These items highlight the lodge’s founding in 1870, its role in early community life (including charter members who were farmers, physicians, a viticulturist, and a cabinetmaker/undertaker), and the construction of its iconic 1885 Italianate building at 1352 Main Street, one of the largest stone structures in St. Helena. Designed by architect Albert Schropfer and built for about $20,000 as a nearly fireproof gathering place, the IOOF Building has hosted meetings, socials, theatre productions, and more for generations.

On January 20, 2026, Brothers from Lodge #167 attended a reception at the library to support the exhibit. Their presence and the thoughtful presentation left a genuine impression on the community, including the City Manager and members of the St. Helena Historical Society. Attendees appreciated the lodge’s commitment to its core principles: Friendship, Love, and Truth, and its ongoing contributions to local aid, support for the less fortunate, youth, elders, and environmental efforts.

This temporary showcase is a wonderful opportunity to explore the Odd Fellows’ impact in St. Helena over more than 150 years. Stop by the St. Helena Public Library during regular hours to view the display case up close. The artifacts and photos bring the lodge’s story to life in a quiet, welcoming setting.

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows remains dedicated to service and connection in Napa Valley, and events like this remind everyone of the lasting value of community involvement. If you’re in the area, it’s well worth a visit!