By Tiziano Thomas Dossena
The initiation of the new members of OSDIA* Garibaldi Lodge in Eastchester turned out to be a very special evening for all members in attendance, with the presence of two Officers from the Grand Lodge and two National Officers. The surprised members had the remarkable opportunity to hear their Grand Lodge President Biagio Isgro Jr. speak about the values of being a Sons of Italy member after the confirmation of all the new incoming officers. He also took the occasion to congratulate the incoming President of that Lodge, Joe Catania.
After Biagio Isgro spoke Remo Carriero, State Corresponding Secretary, followed by Joseph Rondinelli, National Corresponding Secretary, and Robert M. Ferrito, National Treasurer and National CSJ President. Their speeches were stimulating and passionate and surely motivated the new members to take action in their new positions.
Very touching was the passing of the regalia to the new Lodge President Joe Catania by his father, Vito Catania, who for many times since the Lodge was created was elected as President of Eastchester’s Garibaldi Lodge and is now a State Trustee, as proof that all the hard work Mr. Catania put to make this Lodge grow through the years was well received and fruitful, even in his own family.
The induction of the new members felt, at this point of the evening, more important than ever and their enthusiasm sparked through as they were given their certificate of membership. The new members were Benedetta Campanelli, Lisa Comuniello, Alphonse DePippo, Robert Ferrara, Jackie Holstein, Judah Holstein, MaryGrace Marbach, Louis Panico, and MaryAnn Panico.
The amazing-looking and delicious pastry created by Sister Tina Zaccardi complemented the marvelous cake and both were more than well-received as a conclusion of the evening.
[*OSDIA is the Order of the Sons and Daughters of Italy in America]