May - June 2009

PAGE 1 MAY/JUNE 2009SONS OF ITALY NEWS

MAY/JUNE 2009(ISSN 0038-1446)VOL. LXXXIV - NO. 3

Email: [email protected] • Website: www.osiama.org

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE

GRAND LODGE OF MASSACHUSETTSNew England’s Largest Italian-American Newspaper

(Continued on Page 3)

The Commission for Social Justice of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, Order Sons of Italy in America held its 26th Annual Law and Justice Day Breakfast on Sunday morning, May 3, 2009, at Lombardo’s in Randolph.

Anthony R. Pelusi, Jr., Esq., introduced the head table guests, and the Middlesex Sher-iff’s Department Honor Guard

COMMISSION FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE26th Annual Law and Justice Breakfast

by Dorothy Berlandi

under the direction of James V. DiPaola, Sheriff of Middlesex County, posted the colors. Todd Angilly of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Probation Department sang the National Anthems of Italy and America.

Reverend Gregory Mercurio, State Chaplain, gave his very uplifting invocation. At this time breakfast was served. This breakfast had a special theme:

“Italian”. The Chairman and his committee could not have selected a more appetizing and fi lling breakfast. It consisted of fruit, a “mile high” egg, cheese, and vegetable quiche; sausage, bacon, stuffed tomato with a pesto and cheese filling, po-lenta, breakfast rolls, muffi ns, tea, coffee and juice. There was also a selection of either cap-puccino or espresso available

for the coffee lovers.The Toastmaster for the

morning was the Commission of Social Justice Chairman, Robert “Ted” Tomasone, who welcomed all to the breakfast and then called upon State President Florence Ferullo Kane for her greetings. She congratulated all the recipients and underlined the importance of the Social Justice Commission. She also

noted the work being accom-plished by both the National Office and the State against the stereotyping and discrimi-nation of Italians, and the necessity for this Commis-sion to continually be the “watch dog” against this type of discrimination.

The f irst presenter was

MICHELE CAIRA NORTONENState 2nd Vice PresidentConvention Coordinator

FLORENCE FERULLO KANEState President

Honorary Chairman

JAMES DiSTEFANOState 1st Vice PresidentConvention Chairman

95th Annual ConventionGRAND LODGE OF MASSACHUSETTS

June 25-28, 2009 — Radisson Hotel, Nashua, NH

Members of the Commission for Social Justice with the Awardees. Seated, left to right: Chief Mario A. Orangio, Justice Maurice R. Flynn, III, Offi cer Gerard Eramo and State President Florence Ferullo Kane. Standing, left to right: Joseph Boncore, Esq., Ms. Rita Botti, Albert DeNapoli, Esq.; Commission for Social Justice Cbairman Robert “Ted” Tomasone, Anthony R. Pelusi, Jr., Esq.; Anthony R. DiPietro, Esq., Marie Jackson, Audrey L. Marinelli, Esq.; and Massachusetts State Past President Charles Perenick.

GOLDEN LION BANQUET — SATURDAY EVENING


SONS of ITALY NEWS

The Sons of Italy News (ISSN 0038-1446) is published bi-monthly by, the Grand Lodge Of Massachusetts, Order Sons Of Italy In America, a Fraternal non-profi t organization with offi ces at 93 Concord Avenue, Belmont, MA 02478. Phone (617) 489-5234.

All manuscripts, photos, art work, and editorial material should be type written and mailed to: Editor, Sons Of Italy News - 93 Concord Avenue, Belmont, MA 02478. Photo and copy will be returned if accompanied by a self-addressed envelope and return postage. Closing date for publication is the 10th of the previous month. Photos should be clear and sharp and people must be identifi ed on a separate sheet.

Direct all subscription correspondence, orders, change of addresses, etc., to Sons of Italy News, Subscription Dept., 93 Concord Avenue, Belmont, MA 02478. Subscription price is $2.00 per year. When changing address, please allow six weeks advance notice. Send old address (clip address from past issue) along with new address. Please include Lodge name and zip code.

Periodical Postage paid at Boston, MA. and additional mailing offi ces. Postmaster, address corrections requested - send to Sons Of Italy News, 93 Concord Avenue, Belmont, MA 02478.

Pamela Donnaruma, Editor Dorothy Berlandi, Public Relations Chairman

CommissionersMichele Caira Nortonen - John Christoforo

Dom Campochiaro, Photographer

NO. 3 - May/June 200984TH YEAR OF PUBLICATION

STATE COUNCIL FLORENCE FERULLO KANE State President JAMES DISTEFANO State 1st Vice President MICHELE CAIRA NORTONEN State 2nd Vice President KEVIN A. CAIRA Immediate Past President ANTONIO SESTITO State Orator RITA L. MALETTA-ROBAK State Recording Secretary TINA M. HELTON State Financial Secretary THERESA FARINA State Treasurer

STATE PAST PRESIDENTS JOSEPH A. RUSSO CHARLES H. PERENICK ANGELO FURNARI PHILIP R. BONCORE, ESQ. JOSEPH S. GIUFFRIDA HON. STATE PAST PRESIDENT PETER B. GAY, ESQ.

STATE TRUSTEES DISTRICT NO. 1 LOUIS E. FLORIANI, JR.

DISTRICT N0. 2 MARY ANN BELLO

DISTRICT NO. 3 MICHAEL DiSTEFANO MATTHEW EZEKIEL ANNA C. SACCA

DISTRICT NO. 4 ELEANORA DIRUZZA

DISTRICT NO. 5 ORAZIO BUTTAFUOCO EDMUND DEMKO

DISTRICT NO. 6 RICHARD VITALI, ESQ.

DISTRICT NO. 7

RICHARD FARINA

AT-LARGE RON HILL MARIE A. JACKSON LISA LUTHER

BENEFIT INSURANCE COMMISSION WALTER ROBAK, President

ANTHONY PANAGGIO, JR., TreasurerCATHERINE BOURASSA, Secretary

COMMISSIONERSRobert Boncore, Esq. - Paul DiBona -Dorothy D’Onofrio -Antoinette Papagno - Richard Picone - Davide M. Villani

CHAIRMEN OF PERMANENT COMMISSIONS

BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMISSION ARTHUR BENNETT

CHARITABLE AND EDUCATIONAL TRUST RUTH-ANN BERLANDI

CHARITY COMMISSION DENISE FURNARI

COMMISSION FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE ROBERT “TED” TOMASONE

HISTORICAL COMMISSION DELIA BARTUCCA

ITALIAN CULTURE COMMISSION ROGER MARROCCO

JUDICIARY COMMISSION JAMES FICCO

JUNIOR DIVISION COMMISSION LISA HILL

MAGAZINE COMMISSION PAMELA DONNARUMA

MEMBERSHIP COMMISSION CARMELITA BELLO

ORGANIZATION AND EDUCATION COMMISSION STEPHEN COZZAGLIO

PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMISSION DOROTHY BERLANDI

SCHOLARSHIP COMMISSION PATRICIA PROVENZANO

SPORTS COMMISSION STEVEN CEDRONE

STATE DEPUTY FRANK BATTISTA

STATE CHAPLAINREV. GREGORY MERCURIO

NATIONAL OFFICERS DOROTHY BERLANDI, National 3rd Vice President

CARMELITA BELLO, National Recording SecretarySTEPHEN COZZAGLIO, National Trustee

JOHN DE PINTO, National TrusteePHILIP PRIVITERA, ESQ., National Foundation Trustee

RICHARD FARINA, National Foundation Trustee

President’sMessage

The

from Florence Ferullo Kane

Grand Lodge Events

For more information call the Grand Lodge office at 617-489-5234 or check the Activities section of the website at www.osiama.org

June 25-28, 2009 State Convention Radisson Hotel – Nashua, NH

Dear Brothers and Sisters,I hope that you and your fami-

lies will enjoy the warm weather and sunny days ahead. I look forward to seeing many of the delegates at the State Conven-tion, which will take place June 25-28th at the Radisson Hotel in Nashua, New Hampshire. It’s a time to get together and converse about what we have accomplished over the year. Also, you have a chance to voice your opinions and comments. No matter what transpires, we should all leave the convention as Brothers and Sisters work-ing for the betterment of the Order.

I can hardly believe that the end of my administration is just about a month away, and the phrase “time flies when you’re having fun” comes to mind. I have decided not to seek re-election for the State President’s position. Serving as your State President for the last 2 years has been an extreme honor and I was proud to be the First Woman President in the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts Order Sons of Italy in America. There is a great responsibil-ity within the office of State President and I have taken all my duties very seriously. My commitments to the fi lial lodge Presidents and members are my number one concern. Communication with the fi lial lodges has been a great part of my administration.

I am pleased that WE have accomplished many things over the last 2 years to move the Order forward in Massa-chusetts and to work with Na-tional President Alfred Alfi nito. TEAMWORK is a very important aspect in helping the Order go forward. Membership is our #1 priority and we need to in-crease the membership. If each member brought in one new member, we would double in size. We need to reach out to our family and friends and tell them what the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts Order Sons of Italy in America contributes to its members.

I am happy to say that be-cause of the efforts of many: fi lial lodges, state offi cers, com-missioners and the Benefit Insurance Commission that everything we have done has been for the good of the mem-bership and for the advance-ment of the Order Sons of Italy in America. I sincerely thank my brothers and sisters who stood next to me and be-lieved in what I was promot-ing within the Order Sons of Italy.

Please continue to check our website at www.osiama.org and pencil in your calendar with the Grand Lodge events.

I had the pleasure and honor of attending and being a guest speaker at many of the instal-lations, in fact too many to mention. To the newly elected offi cers, may I be among the fi rst to offer you my sincerest congratulations on the leader-ship role you have undertaken in your fi lial lodge.

On Sunday, April 19th I stopped in to greet all my brothers and sisters who were bowling at the tournament. There were twenty-two fantastic teams this year. Sports Chairman Steven Cedrone has done a great job with the Grand Lodge sports events. Steven, I am proud of what you have accomplished these past two years.

After greeting all my brothers and sisters at the Bowling tournament, I attended, with National Third Vice President Dorothy Berlandi, a 70th Anni-versary Mass for the Haverhill Drum and Bugle Corps and a great cook-out afterwards. The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts thanks the Haverhill Drum and Bugle Corps for participating each year in the Columbus Day Parade. We are very proud of these members of the Haverhill Sons of Italy. Later in the af-ternoon we visited the Granite State Lodge in Rochester, New Hampshire. We were honored to participate in the Installa-tion of Offi cers. State Trustee Matthew Ezekiel was the guest

speaker and did an outstand-ing job.

A special thank you to Chair-man of the Commission for Social Justice Ted Tomasone for the fantastic Law Day Break-fast held at Lombardo’s in Randolph. Congratulations to the Honorees: Public Service Award: Mario Orangio, Chief of the Watertown Fire De-partment; Law Enforcement Award: Gerard Eramo, Chief of the Rockland Police Depart-ment and Justice Award: The Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III, Presiding Justice of the Somerville District Court. Each of you exemplify the BEST IN OUR COMMUNITY and in our ITALIAN HERITAGE.

On May 17th it was with great pride and honor that I was the guest speaker at the Annual Scholarship Luncheon. Spe-cial thank you to Scholarship Chairman Patricia Proven-zano and her commission who spent many hours updating materials, reviewing scholar-ship applications, and planning and conducting the Annual Scholarship Luncheon held at the Braintree Lodge. It was a great day to watch 40 deserv-ing students receive these scholarships for their aca-demic excellence. These re-cipients hold the key to the future success of this great country and we are so proud of them.

In closing, I sincerely appreci-ate the friendship, dedication, cooperation, and hard work of my brothers and sisters of the affi liate lodges, the Permanent Commissioners and those of my State Offi cers who believed and supported me as State President. I promise to all of you that as Immediate Past State President, I will continue to work hard for the Order Sons of Italy in America in whatever way I’m asked.

See you all at Convention!

Fraternally Yours,Florence Ferullo Kane

State President

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MAY/JUNE 2009 SONS OF ITALY NEWS PAGE 3

26th Annual Law and Justice Day Breakfast (Continued from Page 1)

Father Gregory Mercurio & State President Florence Ferullo Kane.

Socializing before Law Day Breakfast are Judge Domenic Russo by his side Past State President Joseph Russo and Commissioner Anthony DiPietro.

Kate Flynn with husband Commission for Social Justice Honoree The Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III.

State President Florence Ferullo Kane; Officer Gerard Eramo, Law Enforcement Award; Chief Mario A. Orangio, Public Service Award; Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III, Justice Award and Ted Tomasone, Chairman of the Commission for Social Justice.

Grand Lodge Officers: Standing, Left to Right: State Trustee Richard Vitali, Immediate Past President Kevin A. Caira, State Trustee Ron Hill, State 2nd Vice President Michele Caira Nortonen, Chairman of State Trustees Anna Sacca, State Trustee Marie Jackson, State Trustee Mary Ann Bello, Chairman of the Commission for Social Justice Robert A. “Ted” Tomasone, State Trustee Richard Farina, State Trustee Michael DiStefano, State Trustee Eleanora DiRuzza, State Trustee Matthew Ezekiel and State 1st Vice President James DiStefano. Seated, Left to Right: State Financial Secretary Tina Helton, State Recording Secretary Rita Maletta Robak, Honorees: Public Service Award Chief Mario Orangio, Justice Award The Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III, Law Enforcement Officer Gerard Eramo, State President Florence Ferullo Kane and State Chaplain for Sons of Italy Reverend Gregory Mercurio. Missing from the picture Orazio Buttafuoco.

Seated, Left to Right: Honorees, Public Service Award Chief Mario Orangio; Justice Award The Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III; Law Enforcement Officer Gerard Eramo and State President Florence Ferullo Kane. Standing, Left to Right: Historical Chairman Delia Bartucca; Governors Councillor Marilyn Petito Devaney; Chairman of the Commission for Social Justice Robert A “Ted” Tomasone; Nina Cipollone and Educational Director for Consulate General of Italy Dr. Carlo Cipollone.

Honoree Law Enforcement Award Officer Gerard Eramo (far right) with his co-workers of the Rockland Police Department.

Left to Right: Past Recipient of the Justice Award Honorable Judge Neil Walker, Attorney Karen Lombard, Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III, and Anthony DiPietro, Esquire.

Anthony R. Pelusi, Jr., Esquire, member of the Commission for Social Justice.

State Chaplain Reverend Gregory Mercurio giving the Invocation. Thank you Father for your blessings on myself and the entire delegation.

State President Florence Ferullo Kane and Salvatore Pinzone. Thank you Sal for taking time to do a video for the Commission for Social Justice. I really appreciate your dedication and time.

Executive Director Paul Guida who always does an outstanding job. Thank you for helping out with the Law Day Breakfast.

Ms. Marie Jackson, State Trust-ee and Liaison Offi cer for the Commission, who introduced the recipient of the Public Service Award, Chief Mario A. Orangio of the Watertown Fire Department.

Chief Mario A. Orangio was born in Jersey City, New Jersey on May 19, 1966. His father was also born in Jersey City, and his mother Italia was born in Atina in the Province of Frosinone, Lazio Region. Italia spoke no English at the time she immigrated to the United States.

Mario graduated from Water-town High School in 1984. After attending one year of college, he found his true calling and en-rolled in an Emergency Medical Technician Program at Sancta Maria Hospital in Cambridge.

He was appointed a fi refi ghter in 1989 and received his fi rst promotion to Lieutenant in 1997, followed by a promotion

to Captain in 2001 after scoring a perfect 100 on the promo-tional exam. Mario is the only member in the history of the Watertown Fire Department to accomplish this.

In 2003, while in line for a promotion to Deputy Fire Chief, he made the decision to become a candidate for the Chief’s position, following the Chief’s announcement of his retirement. He was appointed the 6th Permanent Fire Chief in the more than 100-year history of the department at the age of 37. Not only is he the youngest to receive this appointment, but is also the fi rst of Italian descent.

Chief Mario A. Orangio is married to Sandra Orangio (Robak) and the couple has three daughters: Katlyn, 16, Ja-clyn, 15, and Jocelyn, 12. Mario and Sandra are members of the Belmont Mixed Lodge #1094 of the Order Sons of Italy.

Sharing in this special day for Chief Orangio were many family members and friends. We wish Chief Orangio many years of success in his department.

Audrey L. Marinelli, Esq., a member of the Commission, was the presenter for Offi cer Gerard Eramo of the Rockland Police Department. Offi cer Ge-rard Eramo began his career in law enforcement after graduat-ing from high school in 1980 and joining the Air Force as a Law Enforcement Specialist. After serving his country in the Air National Guard he became a police offi cer in the town of Rockland.

Offi cer Eramo has strived to move the police department forward in Firearms and Use of Force training, and has been instrumental in the writing and implementation of the depart-ment policies in both areas. He holds many instructor trainer certificates that he utilizes (Continued on Page 4)


Chairman of Permanent Commission: Standing, Left to Right: Public Relations Commissioner Dorothy Berlandi, Chairman of Membership Carmelita Bello, State President Florence Ferullo Kane, Chairman of Magazine Pamela Donnaruma and Chairman of Commission for Social Justice Robert A. “Ted” Tomasone. Seated, Left to Right: Honorees: Public Service Award Mario A. Orangio, Justice Award The Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III, and Law Enforcement Officer Gerard Eramo.

Past State Presidents, Standing, Left to Right: Immediate Past President Kevin A. Caira, Past State President Joseph Russo, State President Florence Ferullo Kane, Past State President Charles Perenick and Chairman Robert A. “Ted” Tomasone. Seated, Left to Right: Honorees: Public Service Award Chief Mario A. Orangio, Justice Award Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III, and Law Enforcement Award Officer Gerard Eramo.

Benefit Insurance Commission: Standing, Left to Right: State Trustee & Liaison Officer Ron Hill, Benefit Insurance Commission Recording Secretary Catherine Bourassa; State President Florence Ferullo Kane, President of the Benefit Insurance Commission Walter “Sonny” Robak and Chairman Robert A. “Ted” Tomasone. Seated, Left to Right: Honorees: Public Service Award Chief Mario A. Orangio; Justice Award, The Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III, and Law Enforcement Officer Gerard Eramo.

Middlesex Sheriff’s Department Honor Gurad: Honorable James V. DiPaola and Sheriff of Middlesex County Thank you for an outstanding performance.



National Officers: Standing, Left to Right: National Foundation Trustee Richard Farina, Past National Commission for Social Justice President and Commissioner of the Commission for Social Justice Albert A. DeNapoli, Esquire; National 3rd Vice President Dorothy Berlandi, State President Florence Ferullo Kane, National Recording Secretary Carmelita Bello and Chairman of the Commission for Social Justice Robert A. “Ted” Tomasone. Seated, Left to Right: Honorees: Public Service Award Chief Mario A. Orangio, Justice Award The Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III, and Law Enforcement Officer Gerard Eramo.

Left to right: Kathy DiStefano, President of the Benefit Insurance Commission Walter “Sonny” Robak, Membership Chairman Carmelita Bello, State Trustee Orazio Buttafuoco and State 1st Vice President James DiStefano.

MAY/JUNE 2009 SONS OF ITALY NEWS PAGE 5

From left to right: Florence Ferullo Kane, Audrey L. Marinelli, Esq., Leann Eramo, Gerard Eramo, Mrs. Gerard Eramo and Robert “Ted” Tomasone.

Mr. Todd Angilly singing the National Anthem and John Rampino.

Toastmaster & Chairman, Commission for Social Justice, Robert A. “Ted” Tomasone. Thank you Ted you did an awesome job. Thank you for all your contributions to this Commission.

State President Florence Ferul lo Kane welcomes everyone to the Law Day Breakfast at Lombardo’s in Randolph, MA.

Presenter/Liaison State Trust-ee Marie Jackson presenting the Public Service Award to Chief Mario Orangio of the Watertown Fire Department.

Presentor Anthony DiPietro, Esquire. Commissioner for Social Justice. presenting the Justice Award to The Hono rab l e Mau r i c e R . Flynn, III, Presiding Justice, Somerville District Court.

Public Service Award Honoree Mario Orangio’s family.

Honoree Justice Award — The Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III Presiding Justice, Somerville District Court with friends and family.

Honoree, Law Enforcement Award Officer Gerard Eramo with his family.

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President Florence Ferullo Kane stopped by to congratulate Richard Eramo the Father of the Honoree Officer Gerard Eramo of the Rockland Police Department.

Members of the Newton Sons of Italy enjoying Law Day Breakfast.

Presentor Audrey L. Marinelli, Esquire Commissioner for Social Justice presenting the Law Enforcement Award to Officer Gerard Eramo of the Rockland Police Depatment.

(Photos byDom Campochiaro,

D&S Video)

Announced Candidates - STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL


State 1st Vice President

CARMELITA BELLOWorcester, MA

Worcester Lodge #168Candidate for election to the offi ce of

STATE 1ST VICE PRESIDENTCandidate for election to the offi ce of

NATIONAL DELEGATEBORN: Worcester, MA PROFESSIONAL: Vice President and Chief Financial Offi cer of the Colleges of Worcester Consortium, Inc.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: President, Vice President, TrusteeGRAND LODGE: State Orator, State Recording Secretary, State Trustee.NATIONAL: Recording SecretaryCOMMITTEES: Chair, Membership; Member of CSJ, Laws & Historical; Chaired 100th

Anniversary Committee.Her focus for the Sons of Italy is to ensure that the fi lial lodges and their members are well represented at the State and National level. The members need an advocate to voice their views while working within the system.She has been a member of the Order of Sons of Italy since 1982.

State 1st Vice President

MICHELE CAIRA NORTONENWilmington, MA

Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli Lodge #2183Candidate for election to the offi ce of

STATE 1ST VICE PRESIDENTCandidate for re-election to the offi ce of

NATIONAL DELEGATE - DISTRICT 3BORN: Newton, MAPROFESSIONAL: Retired Elementary School Principal; 37 years in the field of Education.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Member since 1969. Currently on the Board of Directors of the Roncalli Trust; Delegate to State Convention 20+ years; President, 5 years; Orator, 2 years; Recording Secretary, 6 years; Trustee, 8 years; Past Chairman Scholarship Committee for several years; served on numerous committees.GRAND LODGE: State 2nd Vice President, 2 years; State Trustee – District 3, 4 years; Acting Public Relations Chairman, 3 years; Coordinator Conventions 2008 and 2009; Co-Chairman, Convention Ad Book; Co-Chairman Purple Aster Committee; Co-Chairman Columbus Day Parade; Magazine Commission; Scholarship Commission; Walk-A-Thon Committees; State President’s Testimonial Committee; Alzheimer’s Committee; Quincentennial Committee, Liaison to “October is Italian-American Heritage Month” Committee.NATIONAL: Delegate to National Convention 2007; Education Committee.

CATHY BOURASSAFramingham, MA

Regina Margherita Lodge #1402Candidate for election to the offi ce of STATE FINANCIAL SECRETARY

EMPLOYMENT: Maryland Casualty Insurance Co., 7 years; John J. Ryan Insurance Agency, 3 years; Payroll Clerk for Zayre Corp., and TJ Maxx Co.; Retired Liberty Mutual Insurance Co., after 21 years as a Senior Claim Representative.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Vice Member of the Francesco DeSanctis Lodge #1411. Offi ces held: Secretary, Orator, Assistant Venerable, Venerable Treasurer of the Corporation. Member of the Regina Margherita Lodge #1402. Offi ces held: Orator, 1st Vice President, President.GRAND LODGE: Trustee District #3, 6 years; Trustee-at-Large, 6 years; Financial Secretary 4 years; Recording Secretary, 2 years.COMMISSIONS: Benefi t Insurance Commission, 4 years; National Delegate, District 3, 4 years; Chairman, District 3, Deputy; Chairman Historical Commission, 4 years; Chairman Purple Aster; Chairman Winter Carnival Fundraiser; Chairman Memorial Mass, Madonna Queen Shrine; Co-Chairman Columbus Day Parade; Chairman Italian Night Conven-tion; Co-Chairman Cooley’s Anemia Foundation; OSIA Folk Dance Team; Founder of Know Your Presidents. Liaison Offi cer, Historical Commission, Sports Magazine, Benefi t Insurance Commission; Commissioner on Charitable & Educational Commission; Commissioner Charity Commission; Commissioner Italian Culture Commission.COMMITTEES: Ad Book; First Lady’s Tea; Clam Bake; President’s Testimonial; Quincentennial Committee; Purple Aster.CIVIC: Captain, Heart Fund; Den Mother; CCD Teacher; Ladies Guild; Family Camping Association; Treasurer, Secretary and President of the Liberty Mutual Club.Member of the Order for 36 years. In those 36 years have served the Local Lodge, Grand Lodge and National Lodge.

State Financial Secretary

RITA MALETTA-ROBAKBelmont, MA

Belmont Mixed Lodge #1094Candidate for election to the offi ce of

STATE ORATORBORN: Cambridge, MassachusettsSPOUSE: Walter “Sonny” Robak, 4 children; 5 grandchildrenEDUCATION: Fisher College, AS Medical TechnologyPROFESSIONAL: Cardiovascular Technologist, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, Massachusetts

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Belmont Mixed Lodge #1094, Co-founder, PresidentGRAND LODGE: Current State Recording Secretary; State Trustee, District #3 2005-2007; Liaison Officer to Historical Commission; State Deputy to the Maria Montessori Lodge (1984-2005).NATIONAL: Delegate to National Convention 2005, 2007; Co-chairperson, National Alzheimer’s Association.COMMITTEES: President’s Testimonial 2009; Co-chairperson Purple Aster Dinner Dance 2008; Co-chairperson for the Grand Lodge Calendar Raffl e 2006, 2007, 2008 & 2009; Co-chairperson for Italian Night activities/entertainment for the State Convention 2007 and 2009; Fundraiser Chairperson 2007-2009, successfully running the fi rst Foxwoods Casino Trip for the Grand Lodge; State Arbitrator.PROFESSIONAL AND CIVIC: Cardiovascular Technologist for 39 years at Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, Massachusetts; Basic Life Support & Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifi ed; First ever recipient of the President’s Award at Mount Auburn Hospital for excellent work ethics (1974); assisted in programming the fi rst computer program to be used for reporting test results for the Cardiovascular Department at Mount Auburn Hospital (1994); fi ve-year term on the Board of Directors for the Mount Auburn Hospital Employees Federal Credit Union during which time aided in the successful merger with another credit union enabling broader services for members.

State Orator

RICHARD M. FARINA, D.M.D.Rochester, NH

Granite State Lodge #2380Candidate for election to the offi ce of

STATE 2ND VICE PRESIDENTOFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ON

FILIAL: Trustee, Vice President, and PresidentGRAND LODGE: Trustee District #7; State TreasurerSUPREME LODGE: National Recording Secretary 2 years; National Foundation Trustee, 2 years.COMMITTEES: Pot-of-Gold co-chaired and chaired; Trustee Chairman, Budget and Finance Chair; Site Committee, Las Vegas Nite Co-chair; M.C., Golden Lion Award Banquet; Feasibility & Implementation Chair of 1 day convention.Having served on many different committees and after holding many different offi ces at not only the fi lial level but also the state and national level, I feel that I am uniquely qualifi ed to handle the duties and responsibilities of State 2nd Vice President.As with all the positions I’ve held in the past, I promise to give to the Grand Lodge my 100% commitment to carry out my duties and to help further our order.

State 2nd Vice President

State Treasurer

MICHAEL DISTEFANOWaltham, MA

Piave Fiume Lodge #1036Candidate for election to the offi ce of

STATE TREASURERBORN: Cambridge, MASPOUSE: Maura DiStefanoCHILDREN: 2, Valerie & Michael

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Currently a member of the Watertown Land Trust.GRAND LODGE: Currently State Trustee, District 3, 4 years; Sports Chairman, 5 years; Sports Commissioner, 1 year.COMMITTEES: Co-Chair Convention Ad Book; Co-Chair Convention Pot-of-Gold; Co-Chair Convention Vegas Night; Co-Chair Convention Lottery Ticket Raffl e; Ad Book Committee; Liaison to Walk-A-Thon; Liaison to Jr. Division.

State Treasurer

ANNA C. SACCAWinchester, MA

Winchester Ladies Lodge #1592Candidate for election to the offi ce of

STATE TREASURERCandidate for re-election to the offi ce of NATIONAL DELEGATE-AT-LARGE

BORN: Medford, MAPROFESSIONAL: Contracts Administrator, and I am a very proud Veteran of the United States Navy.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Trustee; Treasurer; President, 2 terms.GRAND LODGE: State Trustee, 2 years.NATIONAL: National Delegate-at-Large.COMMISSIONS: Sports Commission, 1997-1999, 2003-2006, 2007-2009; Scholarship Commission; Charity Commission; Historical Commission.COMMITTEES: Chairman, Memorial Mass; Ad Book; Purple Aster; Columbus Day Parade; Treasurer, 25 years; Bowling League.CIVIC AFFILIATIONS: Navy Veteran; Treasurer for 25 years of my bowling league.

State 2nd Vice President

ANTONIO SESTITOHingham, MA

South Shore Lodge #1850Candidate for election to the offi ce of

STATE 2ND VICE PRESIDENTCandidate for election to the offi ce of

NATIONAL DELEGATEOFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ON

BORN: Palermiti, Catanzaro Calabria, Italy .SPOUSE: I’ve been married to my wife Marieanne Pappalardo Sistito for 38 years and we have a daughter Marissa Caterina and a son Antonio Mario Jr., two grandsons Thomas and Patrick.FILIAL: South Shore Lodge #1850 - Vice President, President (5 terms) and Immediate Past President.I served as State Deputy to the Braintree Men’s Lodge for 12 yearsGRAND LODGE: State Trustee, District 5; State Financial Secretary Orator, State Deputy to Braintree News.COMMISSIONS: Scholarship, Historical, Ad Book, Cookout, Columbus Day Parade, Walk-a-Thon and the Judiciary.I’ve been a dedicated member of the South Shore Lodge #1850 in Hingham for 20 years and in that time I have served as an offi cer for over 18 years, between Hingham Lodge and the Grand Lodge.

TINA M. HELTONArlington, MA

Fiore D’Italia Lodge #1640Candidate for election to the offi ce of

STATE RECORDING SECRETARYCandidate for election to the offi ce of

NATIONAL DELEGATE-AT-LARGE

BORN: Brighton, MA. My Italian family names are: Amendola & GattiPROFESSIONAL: CVR Administrator, Notary Public.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Member & Offi cer; Fiore D’Italia Lodge since 1993. I am currently the Immediate Past President. Other offi ces held: Recording Secretary; Orator; Vice President & President. Currently Treasurer, Newton Sons of Italy Lodges Scholarship Commission, previously Chairman of Scholarship Commission.GRAND LODGE: Currently State Financial Secretary & Liaison MembershipCommission; Chairman Reception Committee 2009 State Convention. Previously State Trustee District 3; Grand Lodge Sports Commission Chairman.NATIONAL: National Delegate District 3, past member of National Good & Welfare of the Order Committee.COMMISSIONS: Previous member of Grand Lodge Scholarship Commission; Grand Lodge Sports Commission; Grand Lodge O & E Commission.COMMITTEES: Convention Italian Night; Merchandise Committee; Columbus Day Parade; Purple Aster; Ad Book; Clam Bake; President’s Testimonial — Joseph Giuffrida & Kevin Caira; First Lady’s Reception — Sandra Giuffrida & Pauline Russo.

State Recording Secretary

State President

JAMES DISTEFANOWatertown, MA


STATE PRESIDENTBORN: in Abruzzi Italy.SPOUSE: Kathleen (Kimberley) DiStefano, 2 Children: Michael, State Trustee, &Kimberley, Financial Secretary, Belmont Mixed Lodge #1094. 2 Grandchildren: Valerie & Michael.EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science Degree, Business Administration, New Hampshire College.PROFESSIONAL: President, Watertown Equipment Corp., President, Tornare Construc-tion Corp., Trustee, DiStefano Realty Trust.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Member since 1968. Guard, Trustee, Master of Ceremonies, Orator, Honorary President.GRAND LODGE: State 1st. Vice President, State Orator, State Treasurer, State Trustee, State Deputy, Dante Alighieri Lodge #648, Waltham.COMMITTEES: State Convention Chairman, Co-Chairman, Christopher Columbus Parade, Purple Aster, Pot-of-Gold, Cooley’s Anemia, Convention Vegas Night, President’s Testimonial, Ad Book. Grand Lodge Liaison to: OSIA Magazine Commission, Public Relations Commission, Sports Commission, Convention Site Committee.NATIONAL: National Delegate, National Trustee, National Co-Chairman to Cooley’s Anemia.CIVIC: Member of the Watertown/Belmont Chamber of Commerce.TRADE AFFILIATIONS: Member of the Utility Contractors Association, Member of the Government Relations Committee.

State Recording Secretary

BORN: Watertown, MA.SPOUSE: Deceased, 4 children, 10 grandchildren.PROFESSIONAL: Retired from Waltham High School, Secretary to Housemaster.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Guard, 2 terms; Financial Secretary, 1 term; President, 2 terms; Sergeant of Arms in April 1983; Chairman, Charity Committee, May 1983; Charity Committee, 4 years; Financial Secretary, April 2004; President April 2005-2007; Appointed Chairman of Lodge Piave Fiume #1036 Bulletin;GRAND LODGE: Member, Sports Commission 2001-2003; Chairman Annual Golf Tournament, 2002- 2004; State Deputy to the Massimo d’Azeglio Lodge (Braintree Men’s); Chairman Cooley Anemia Golf Tournament; Co-Chairman Annual Cooley’s Anemia Breakfast Fundraiser (2006-2009); State Trustee-at-Large, June 2007 (resigned as Vice President of Lodge Piave Fiume #1036 June 2007); Appointed Liaison Offi cer to the Benefi t Insurance Committee; Co-Chairman 2008 Convention Ad Book; Member of the Membership Committee; Co-Chairman 2009 Convention Ad Book.Joined the Order Sons of Italy in America, Lodge Piave Fiume #1036 in 1982.

RONALD J. HILLWatertown, MA


STATE RECORDING SECRETARY

ROBERT A. BONCORE, ESQ.Winthrop, MA

Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057Candidate for election to the offi ce of

STATE ORATOROFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ON

FILIAL Lodge: President; Vice President, Orator.GRAND LODGE: Arbitration Committee.COMMITTEES: Arbitration Committee, elected Chairperson; President on two occasions – Benefi t Insurance Commissioner, Committee on Laws; Election Committee.As a member of the Arbitration Committee, I have been elected as Chairperson/President in the only two arbitrations in the history of the Grand Lodge. I have in-depth knowledge and experience in knowing and interpreting our by-laws. This coupled with my educational background and experience as an attorney, make me the most qualifi ed candidate for the position.

State Orator

MAY/JUNE 2009 PAGE 7SONS OF ITALY NEWS

STATE TRUSTEESSTATE TRUSTEE - District 1

LOUIS E. FLORIANI, JR.North Adams, MA

North Adams Lodge #704Candidate for re-election to the offi ce of

STATE TRUSTEE - DISTRICT 1Candidate for election to the offi ce of

NATIONAL DELEGATE - DISTRICT 1

BORN: North Adams, MASPOUSE: Diane St. Laurence, 5 childrenPROFESSIONAL: Retired

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL Lodge: Vice President, 4 years; Building Supervisor, 2 years; Bar Manager, 2 years; Events Coordinator, 2 years.GRAND LODGE: State Trustee, District 1, 2 years; O&E Liaison.COMMITTEES: Don Orione Fundraising; 1 year; Pot of Gold, 1 year; Souvenir Committee 1 year.CIVIC: Post 100, North Adams, MA: Commander, 6 years; District 3, 3rd Vice Commander, 1 year; District 3, 1st Vice Commander, 1 year; District 3, Commander, 1 year; VAVS Deputy Representative, Veterans’ Hospital Leeds, MA; Massachusetts State Arbitration Commission; American Legion Post 125, North Adams, MA, Chaplain, 6 years; Masonic Temple A&E, Adams, MA, Candidate Investigation Team; Benevolent Order of the Elks #1335, Adams, MA; Fraternal Order of Eagles #510, North Adams, MA; Greylock Community Club, North Adams, MA.

RICHARD L. VITALILynn, MA

Santa Famiglia Mixed Lodge #2834Candidate for election to the offi ce of STATE TRUSTEE - DISTRICT 6

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: President, 1 year; Immediate Past President, 1 year.GRAND LODGE: State Trustee – District 6.Richard L. Vitali was appointed by the State Council as Trustee for District 6 last year. He is an attorney in Lynn, Massachusetts. He is also Assistant City Solicitor for the City of Lynn.A founding member of Santa Famiglia Mixed Lodge #2834 in 2006, with State Chaplain Father Gregory Mercurio, he is Immediate Past President of that lodge. He wife, Kathy, is Recording Secretary of the Lynn Lodge and his son, Turi, a freeman at The Catholic University of America, is a member also.Mr. Vitali is the Chairman of the Don Orione Advisory Board in East Boston, Massachusetts.

STATE TRUSTEE - District 6

JOSEPH MORRAFairhaven, MA

Giulio Cesare Lodge #1880Candidate for election to the offi ce of STATE TRUSTEE - DISTRICT 5

Candidate for election to the offi ce of NATIONAL DELEGATE - DISTRICT 5


OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: President of #1880 – 4 yearsGRAND LODGE: State Deputy – 3 yearsI am the President of the Guilio Cesare Lodge #1880 in New Bedford, Massachusetts and the State Deputy of Vittorio Veneto Lodge of Fall River.I am the owner and President of Stylin Cycles Inc., and am in my tenth year of business.Currently I hold a position on the Planning Board and am also a member on the Zoning Board of Appeals for four years. Both positions held in Fairhaven, Massachusetts.I am a Notary Public and a Constable for the State of Massachusetts.I am a Second Degree Knight at the Knights of Columbus, Damien Council in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts.My mother and father’s families both moved here from Salemi, Sicily many years ago. My mother’s side migrated to New Bedford and my father’s side moved to Federal Hill in Providence, Rhode Island. Many of my aunts and uncles, including my parents were members of the Sons of Italy. Some of them held positions in offi ces dating back to the 1930’s. It is an honor to serve as a member and President of the Sons of Italy and would like to further my service as a State Trustee for District 5.

BORN: Revere, MASPOUSE: Deceased; 4 children; 4 grandchildren.PROFESSIONAL: Hairdresser.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL Lodge: President; Orator; Trustee.GRAND LODGE: State Trustee, District 4.NATIONAL: National Delegate; National Delegate-at-Large, District 4.COMMISSIONS: Chairman, Cooley’s Anemia Comedy Night; Chairman, Pot of Gold; Treasurer, Convention Ad Book; Chairman, Columbus Day Parade.COMMITTEES: Treasurer, Clambake; Co-Chairman, Purple Aster Ball; Member C&E Trust; Co-Chairman Quincentennial; Chairman, United Cerebral Palsy; Chairman, Memorial Mass; Co-Chairman, Hospitality at National Convention; Chairman, Walk-A-Thon; Co-Chairman, Italian Night; Chairman, Alzheimer’s.CIVIC AFFILIATIONS: Past President of St. Mary’s Women’s Club, Revere; Avid Supporter of Rosie’s Place; Past Deputy Winthrop Ladies Lodge #2071.Member of the Order for 36 years. In those 36 years have served the Local Lodge, Grand Lodge and National Lodge.

ELEANORA DIRUZZARevere, MA

Revere Ladies Lodge #1601Candidate for re-election to the offi ce of

STATE TRUSTEE - DISTRICT 4Candidate for re-election to the offi ce of



OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONRecording Secretary for the last 9 years, Trustee.COMMITTEES: Membership, Ad BookI have been a member of the Worcester Lodge #168 for the past 9 years, I began as Trustee and have held the position of Recording Secretary for the last 8 years.I have chaired and co-chaired many functions which include our Annual Columbus Day Ball, Installation Dinner, Spaghetti Dinner, ’70s Night, Annual Golf Tournament and many others.I am also currently serving as a State Deputy, and working on the Membership Committee and Ad Book Committee.

MARGARET CAMPBELLWorcester, MA

Worcester Lodge #168Candidate for election to the offi ce of STATE TRUSTEE - DISTRICT 2



BORN: East Boston, MA.SPOUSE: Loretta (DeVito), and sons, John and Michael.EDUCATION: Bachelors Degree from Boston State College, Masters Degree in Educa-tion from Boston State College, Certifi cate in Advanced Graduate Studies in Romance Languages and Culture from a joint Boston State College/Harvard University program, Doctoral Degree in Education from Boston University. PROFESSIONAL: Teacher in the Boston Public Schools for over 40 years. Currently teaching at Boston University. For the past 16 years I have been a feature writer for the Post-Gazette, one of the nation’s oldest Italian American newspapers.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL Lodge: Orator, 6 consecutive terms; member Scholarship Committee member Election Committee; member Planning Committee; member Finance Committee; Event Host in the absence of Lodge President; member Entertainment Committee; Delegate to State Convention.GRAND LODGE: State Trustee – District 4, 2 years.COMMISSIONS: Education/Scholarship Commission; Historical Commission; Parade Coordinator; Magazine; Public Relations; Liaison to Post-Gazette; Ad Book; Guard at Conventions; Flag Bearer, Credentials Coordinator; member Calendar Fundraising Committee; member Public Relations Commission (12 consecutive years); member Ad Book Committee.CONVENTION RESPONSIBILITIES: Guard; Flag Bearer; Sergeant-at-Arms; Master of Ceremony; member of Credentials and Registration Committee; Chairman of Credentials and Registration Committee; Election Ballot Committee.I have spent much of my life as an educator, teaching in the Boston Public Schools and as a professor for several colleges. I have been a member of the Greater Boston Renaissance Lodge #2614 for 25 years.I have been a feature writer for the Post-Gazette for 18 years, New England’s oldest Italian American newspaper. My featured column is “Nanna & Babbononno,” a continuing story about the generations of my family coming from Italy at the turn of the 20th Century and “making it in America.”Over the years I have covered a variety of events for the Sons of Italy News.I am the Director of Public Relations for October is Italian Heritage Month, and annually run an essay contest throughout the public school systems in Massachusetts. The theme is “Italian and Italian American Contributions to World Civilization.”I have decided to run for offi ce in the Sons of Italy to help make a difference in the future.

DR. JOHN J. CHRISTOFOROArlington, MA

Greater Boston RenaissanceLodge #2614

Candidate for election to the offi ce of STATE TRUSTEE - DISTRICT 4

Candidate for election to the offi ce ofNATIONAL DELEGATE - DISTRICT 4

THERESA FARINABarrington, NH

Granite State Lodge #2380Candidate for election to the offi ce of STATE TRUSTEE - DISTRICT 7

Candidate for election to the offi ce of NATIONAL DELEGATE - DISTRICT 6 & 7


BORN: Newton, MAPROFESSIONAL: Printing.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL Lodge: President, Recording Secretary, Financial Secretary and Trustee of Granite State Lodge #2380, Rochester, NH.GRAND LODGE: State TreasurerCOMMISSIONS/COMMITTEES: Chairman of Trustees, Pot-of-Gold Chairman, Liaison to Italian Culture Commission.I have been a Sons of Italy member for over 20 years. I am currently State Treasurer and have served as State Trustee for District 7 and National Delegate District 6 & 7.


MATTHEW J. EZEKIELStoneham, MA

Medford Lodge #1359Candidate for election to the offi ce of STATE TRUSTEE - DISTRICT 3

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL Lodge: Trustee for numerous years.GRAND LODGE: State Trustee – District 3 for 1 year.COMMISSIONS/COMMITTEES: Co-Chair Pot-of-Gold, Arbitrator for Medford Sons of Italy Lodge #1359 for 5 years.Matthew Ezekiel is a third generation Italian-Irish American. His family roots are from a little town called Centrache in Italy, Province of Catanzaro, Region of Calabria. His grandparents arrived on the shores of America to the town of Charlestown, MA between 1910 and 1911. Charlestown became the home of Giuseppi and Catherina Papsodoro “surname Papasodaro.”Matthew was born in 1979 and has grown up to be an Events Producer as well as a production technician. He became a State Trustee in 2008, where he has served with pride not only for his Filial Lodge, Medford Sons of Italy #1359, but also for any and all lodges that have called upon him.

DOTTIE D’ONOFRIOWinthrop, MA

Winthrop Ladies Lodge #2071Candidate for election to the offi ce of

SECRETARY -BENEFIT INSURANCE COMMISSION

BORN: Boston, MAMAIDEN NAME: Sarno-Hamilton – 2 childrenPROFESSIONAL: Retired

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL Lodge: Inner Guard; Arbitrator; Trustee; Orator; Recording Secretary; Assistant Venerable; Venerable; President, National Delegate-at-LargeGRAND LODGE: Public Relations Chairman; State Deputy; Numerous State Committees over these many years.Having been duly elected by my brother and sister delegates, I believe I have brought some meaningful ideas in support of this important arm of the Order. Writing several OSIA News articles, promoting many concepts of the programs offered to our membership and working in support of the upgraded in-house record-keeping system.My business and managerial background lends itself to my hard skills (computer, accounting, development and planning).My community and civic endeavors have supported my soft skills (organization, detail-oriented and people skills).

Secretary

BENEFIT INSURANCE COMMISSION

BORN: Boston, MA.SPOUSE: Rita (Maletta), 4 children, 5 grandchildren.PROFESSIONAL: Retired Police Offi cer Town of Watertown; Past President of the Watertown Police Association; Retired Head Coach of Track and Field, Belmont High School; Currently a United States Track and Field Certifi ed Offi cial; Collection Manager Drive Tech Corp, Stowe, Massachusetts; Maitre D Wellesley Country Club; America West Airlines Ramp Lead, Operation Manager.EDUCATION: Graduate of Watertown High School; B.S. from Northeastern University.FILIAL LODGE: Co-founder Belmont Mixed Lodge #1094. Previously of the Golden Lion Lodge #2644 and the Arlington Men’s Lodge #1349; Master of Ceremonies; Vice President and President.GRAND LODGE: State Orator (2 terms); State Trustee District 3 (2 terms); State Deputy to the Golden Lion Lodge #2644; Liaison Offi cer to the Sports Commission; Liaison Offi cer to the Organization and Education Commission; Liaison to the Judiciary Commission; Liaison to the Membership Commission.COMMITTEES: Alzheimer’s; One Day Convention; Site Committee; Pot of Gold Chairman; Picnic Committee; Walk-a-Thon Committee; Co-Chairman Columbus Day Parade; Good and Welfare of the Order Committee; Chairman of the Convention Banquet; Chairman of the Las Vegas Night; Hotel and Housing Chairman; Co-Chairman of the Purple Aster Ball; Education Seminar Committee; 2-Year Chairman of the Calendar Raffl e.NATIONAL: Past National Trustee; Member of the By-Law Committee; Member of the Membership Committee; Member of the Fund Raising Committee; Liaison Offi cer to the National Foundation Drawing.

President

WALTER “SONNY” ROBAKBelmont, MA

BELMONT MIXED LODGE #1094Candidate for re-election to the offi ce of

PRESIDENT -BENEFIT INSURANCE COMMISSION

MARIE A. JACKSONWinthrop, MA

Figli D’Italia Mixed Lodge #2692Candidate for re-election to the offi ce of

STATE TRUSTEE-AT-LARGECandidate for election to the offi ce of

NATIONAL DELEGATE - DISTRICT 6 & 7

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Mistress of Ceremonies; Trustee; Vice President and President for two terms.GRAND LODGE: Trustee at Large; Liaison to Commission for Social Justice; Liaison to Historical Commission; Public Relations Commission Chairman; State Deputy to two lodges; Co-Chairman of Memorial Mass; Co-Chairman of Italian Night for 2009 Convention.NATIONAL: Delegate 2005 and 2007.COMMITTEES: Convention Ad Book; Walk-A-Thon; Purple Aster; Columbus Day Parade; Alzheimer’s Cookout; Historical Commission.I joined the Sons of Italy in 1989. I try to visit and support many lodges and their functions throughout the State. It is great to visit old friends and meet new ones. I have helped some lodges with their installation of offi cers. I believe in the goals of the Sons of Italy and try me best to help to accomplish them.

STATE TRUSTEE-AT-LARGE

NATIONAL DELEGATES

BORN: Winchester, MASPOUSE: Cheryl (Lumb); two children, Amy and David.EMPLOYMENT: Supervisor of Retirement Counselors with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Treasury.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Held various elected positions including 5 terms as President, Chairman of Lodge Trust and State Delegate.GRAND LODGE: Immediate State Past President, State President, State 1st Vice President, State 2nd Vice President, State Treasurer, State Trustee, Chairman of State Trustees, State Deputy Chairman, Membership Chairman, Vice Chairman 1998, 2000 & 2003 State Convention, Chairman 1999, 2001 & 2002 State Convention, Co-Chairman State Presidents Testimonial, Co-Chairman Purple Aster, Chairman of State Convention site, Chairman of Alzheimer’s, Co-Chairman Pot of Gold, Liaison to Sports Commission, served on numerous committees including Membership, Junior Division, Ad Book, Walk-a-Thon, Quincentennial, Future Good and Welfare of the Order, State Presidents Testimonial.NATIONAL LODGE: Vice Chairman Supreme Cabinet for State President, Advisor to SIF and CSJ, National Delegate Membership Commission, Co-Chairman for Youth Lodges, Chairman National Future Good of the Order, Member of the Order Sons of Italy for 35 years.CIVIC: National Vice President Northeast Region of the American Society of the Ital-ian Legions of Merit (2009), Chairman Italian-American Heritage Committee (2009), Member of Knights of Columbus, Member on Advisory Board of the Don Orione Home, Vice President Wilmington High School Band Parents (2009), former member of SOI Junior Lodge in Winchester. Recipient of the 2005 Calabrese Society Man of the Year Award, 2007 Pirandello Lyceum “I Migliori” Award, 2008 Cavallieri from the Italian Government.

KEVIN A. CAIRAWilmington, MA

Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli Lodge #2183Candidate for election to the offi ce of



BORN: Boston, MAOFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ON

FILIAL LODGE: Trustee, 2 years; Secretary, 4 years; President, 6 years.GRAND LODGE: Trustee, 2 years; Recording Secretary, 4 years; 2nd State Vice President.NATIONAL: National Recording Secretary, 4 years; Foundation Trustee, 6 years; National Delegate 40 years; National Executive Director, 2 years.COMMISSIONS: Benefit Insurance Commissioner, 10 years; Chairman O&E Commission, 2 years; Past Director of Sales Benefi t Insurance, 15 years; Gold Lion Award Recipient; National Deputy, 15 years; State Convention Coordinator, 25 years.

JOHN A. SALADINOMedford, MA

Winchester Men’s Lodge #1580Candidate for election to the offi ce of


NATIONAL DELEGATE - District 3

BORN: Worcester, MAPROFESSIONAL: Teacher, Diocese of Worcester. Professionally, as a teacher, I am serving as a Union Representative for my school, as well as Union treasurer. I am on the Professional Development Committee for the Diocese of Worcester, and served as Chairman of my school’s Accreditation Committee.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: President, 2 terms; Orator, 2 terms; Trustee, 2 terms.GRAND LODGE: State Trustee District 2, 2 terms.COMMITTEES: Ad Book Committee, 2008, 2009; Co-Chairman Memorial Mass; Liaison to Scholarship Commission; Past member Cultural Commission.

MARY ANN BELLOWorcester, MA

Worcester Lodge #168Candidate for election to the offi ce of




on a daily basis to teach and train police offi cers. In 1998, Offi cer Eramo became the de-partment’s fi rst fi eld training offi cer and has developed the department’s field training program.

Anthony R. DiPietro, Esq., a member of the Commis-sion, was the presenter for The Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, III, who is the recipient of the Justice Award.

Judge Maurice R. Flynn, III, was born on December 5, 1950, in Malden, Massachusetts, the son of the Honorable Maurice R. Flynn, Jr., and Phyllis Flynn. He was raised and educated in the Malden school system and graduated from Malden High School as President of the Class of 1968.

Judge Flynn’s family has a respected and distinguished history within the judiciary. Judge Flynn’s father, Maurice R. Flynn, Jr., and his grand-father, Maurice R. Flynn, Sr., both served as judges with the Massachusetts Trial Court.

Judge Flynn spoke of his maternal grandmother, Theresa Sava, who was born in Italy and immigrated to America as a young girl. He shared some very warm memories of his days with his “Italian” side of the family.

Judge Flynn and his wife Kate were married in a traditionally romantic wedding in Tuscany in 2000.

After serving in the Massa-chusetts Army National Guard he joined John Droney’s District Attorney’s Offi ce and served for four years, prosecuting numer-ous criminal cases ranging from minor misdemeanors to major felonies in courts throughout Middlesex County.

He next accepted an appoint-ment by U.S. Attorney Edward F. Harrington as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts. During the six years he served, he was suc-

cessful in every case he was assigned. In 1985 he received an award, given annually to only one federal prosecutor in the country, for “excellence of performance in the administra-tion of justice”.

Judge Flynn then went into the private sector as a sole practitioner for the next eight years, with offi ces in Boston. He concentrated principally on federal criminal justice representation.

Governor William F. Weld appointed him Associate Jus-tice of the Malden District Court in 1993. In 2004, Chief Jus-tice Samuel E. Zoll appointed him as First Justice of the Somerville District Court. Chief Justice Lynda M. Con-nolly recently re-appointed him for another fi ve-year term as First Justice of the Somerville District Court.

Judge Flynn has distin-guished himself as a jurist, an attorney and as an individual. His extensive background and his multi-faceted career have combined to create an out-standing and remarkable jurist. Anyone who appears in his Court — attorneys, prosecutors,

For more information contact Lisa Luther at 978-667-1848

and citizens — are certain that he not only dispenses justice, but also wisdom, reason, and most importantly, compassion. His associates on the bench and within the court structure admire and respect him. Judge Flynn’s method of adminis-tering justice effectively and compassionately is unwavering. He is the prototype of what an excellent jurist should be.

The Order Sons of Italy Com-mission for Social Justice is proud and honored to have presented the Justice Award to Maurice R. Flynn, III.

This brought to a close the award program for the Commis-sion for Social Justice, but not before Chairman Robert “Ted” Tomasone acknowledged the many dignitaries in the audi-ence, the families and friends of the awardees, and the Offi cers of the Order Sons of Italy.

The 26th Annual Law and Justice Day Breakfast drew to a close with the hope that so-cial justice will always prevail. Toastmaster “Ted” Tomasone thanked all who attended and looked forward to the following years of this very important Commission.

• 26th Annual Law and Justice Day Breakfast (Continued from Page 5)Recipes from the HomelandHomelandby Vita Orlando Sinopoli

COPYRIGHT, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Vita can be reached at [email protected]

1 swordfi sh steak (about 1 1/4 pounds)1 medium onion chopped2 celery stalks chopped3 teaspoons capers in vinegar and water3 fresh ripe tomatoes chopped or 10 ounces crushed tomato2 sprigs bay leaf3 small potatoes cut in quarters1/4 cup olive, canola or vegetable oil1 cup water2 tablespoons white wine (optional)

Heat oil in a skillet and add chopped onion, chopped celery stalks and simmer until onion is opaque. Add capers, stir, and simmer slowly. Do not brown onion. Add tomato and cover. Cook slowly for about fi ve minutes. Check frequently. A little water can be added to keep mixture from sticking to skillet.

Meanwhile, peel and cut potatoes into quarters. Wash and set aside. Rinse swordfi sh under running water and dry. Cut sword-fi sh into two-inch portions. It is not necessary to remove outer skin of swordfi sh. Add potatoes fi rst to skillet; add half a cup of water and cover. Allow cooking for about ten minutes. Then add swordfi sh pieces to skillet. The swordfi sh can be placed on top of potatoes if skillet becomes crowded. Spoon some of the tomato sauce over the swordfi sh. Add only small amounts of water if needed after a few minutes. Cover and simmer slowly for about ten to fi fteen minutes or until swordfi sh is fork tender. Try not to overcook swordfi sh. Add wine (optional), cover and bring to a slow boil. Then remove from burner.

Serve with fresh Italian bread, vegetable of choice or salad. Serves two.

Variation: Prepare the swordfi sh recipe without potatoes. Instead, cook rice or pasta of choice as directed on the package and serve topped with the tomato sauce from the skillet. Serve the swordfi sh separately with vegetable of choice or salad and Italian bread.

NOTE: Each time I prepare this swordfi sh meal, I picture my mother-in-law, Mary Sinopoli, at the kitchen stove in our Battery Street apartment. As she carefully prepared the ingredients, she stated, “Swordfi sh should not be cooked too much as it becomes dry and loses its fl avor.” I found that to be very true.

In recent years, I have varied this on occasion for my pasta-loving husband by substituting pasta for potatoes as mentioned above.

SWORDFISH ALLA MESSINESESwordfi sh Messina Style in Tomato Sauce

For information on Grand Lodge events,call the Grand Lodge offi ce at 617-489-5234

ANTHONY J. PANAGGIO, JR.Newtonville, MA

Ambrose D. Cedrone Lodge #1069Candidate for election to the offi ce of

NATIONAL DELEGATE - DISTRICT 3BORN: Newton, MAPROFESSIONAL: Printing.

OFFICES, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES HELD OR SERVED ONFILIAL LODGE: Chairman Building Trust; Building Board Treasurer, 4 years; Trustee, 4 years; Orator, 4 years and President of the Ambrose D. Cedrone Lodge in Newton, MA.GRAND LODGE: State Trustee, 2 years. Served as a Commissioner on the Charitable and Educational Trust for 2 years.NATIONAL: Delegate for 18 years.BENEFIT INSURANCE COMMISSION: Commissioner of the Benefit Insurance Commission for 4 years; and presently serving as the Benefi t Insurance Treasurer for 2 years.CHAIRMAN OF COMMITTEES: Served as Chairman of the Walk-a-Thon from 1997 to 1999; 2007 thru 2008. Served as Chairman of the Pot-of-Gold in 1988 thru 1989; Chairman of Bocce for 1 year and Chairman of New Year’s Jackpot in Connecticut 1985 thru 1988.COMMITTEES: Christopher Columbus Quincentennial; Columbus Day Parade; Ad Book; Clambake; Italian Home for Children and Annual Cookout.


PAGE 9MAY/JUNE 2009 SONS OF ITALY NEWS

LODGE NEWSSunday, April 26, was a beau-

tiful day. The sky was a deep blue with the temperatures in the 80’s and the sun shining brightly down on our great Com-monwealth of Massachusetts. A great day for guests from the eastern part of our Common-wealth and Springfi eld to visit the ITAM Lodge on the shores of beautiful Lake Pontoosuc in Pittsfi eld for the joint installa-tion of ITAM Lodge #564 and G. Marconi Lodge #1620.

The afternoon began with the following officers being recognized by the Toastmaster, Richard Rilla, as they were escorted by the Mistresses of Ceremonies, Jeanne Bresna-han and Nicolene Wendling: President of ITAM Lodge, Ralph Magri; President of G. Mar-coni Lodge, Nelson Daley; State Deputy for ITAM Lodge, Eleanor Desautels; State Deputy for G. Marconi Lodge, Shirley DiNicola; State Deputy for North Adams Lodge, Sato Valenti; Benefit Insurance Commis-sioner, David Villani; State Trustee District 1, Louis Flo-riani, Jr.; State Trustee At Large, Marie Jackson; State Past President, Joe Russo; State Past President, Kevin Caira; SIF Trustee; Richard Farina; Na-tional Trustee and O & E Chair-man, Stephen Cozzaglio; and Guest Speaker, 1st State Vice President, James DiStefano.

ITAM Pres iden t Ra lph Magri began the installation by asking State Deputies, Eleanor Desautels and Shirley DiNi-cola, to take his place for the Joint Installation of Officers for ITAM Lodge #564 and G. Marconi Lodge #1620. Richard Rilla was asked to act as Herald and Stephen Cozzaglio to act as Assistant Herald.

The State Deputies then called the Outgoing Offi cers of ITAM and G. Marconi alternately (with the ITAM Offi cers being called fi rst and G. Marconi Offi cers second) forward to be placed in their proper positions before the Altar. They were: Presi-dents: Ralph Magri and Nelson

Daley; Vice Presidents, Dr. William Cristo and Lisa Bow-ers; Immediate Past Presidents, Joseph DiCroce and Arlette Webster; Orators, Tom Piacenti and Michael Baccoli; Record-ing Secretaries, Guy Noto and MaryAnn Antoniazzi; Financial Secretaries, Gelma Newton and Linda Winters; Treasurers: Alba Wendling and Alex Nardacci; Trustees, Rose A. Blasioli, Linda Curley, Rita Kane and Ronald Nickerson, Ann O’Brien and Lorita Trombly; Trustees, An-toinette Mastrangelo and Larry Pularo and Judy Brittain and Sandra Cozzaglio; Mistresses of Ceremonies, Jeanne Bresne-han, and Peggy Daley and Kathy O’Brien; and Guards, Francis Curly, Jr. and Robert Boynton.

The Herald read the Appre-ciation of the Lodges to these officers. The State Deputies called each offi cer forward and the Herald took each regalia and gave it to the Assistant Herald to be placed on the regalia tree. After each offi cer gave his regalia to the Herald, the offi cer was asked to join the general audience.

The State Deputies asked the Herald to place the new offi cers in their proper positions as their names were called. They were: Presidents, Justin DiNicola, Ronald Nickerson; Vice Presidents, Dr. William Cristo, Jr. and Lisa Bowers; Immediate Past Presidents, Ralph Magri and Nelson Da-ley; Orators, Thomas Piacenti and Michael Baccoli; Record-ing Secretaries, Guy Noto and MaryAnn Antoniazzi; Financial Secretaries, Gelma Newton and Linda Winters; Treasurers, Alba Wendling and Alexander Nar-dacci; Trustees, Rose Blasioli, Linda Curley and Kathy O’Brien and Lorita Trombly; Trust-ees, Rita Kane, Larry Pularo, Antoinette Mastrangelo, and Sandra Cozzaglio, Ann O’Brien and Judy Brittain; Mistress of Ceremonies, Rita Gordon and Shirley Papas and Margaret Daley and Eleanor Baumann;

Guard: Francis Curley, Jr. and Robert Boynton.

The State Deputies instructed the Herald to read the Oath of Offi ce: “We, the Offi cers of the ITAM LODGE #564, and G. MARCONI LODGE #1620, elected by the will of the as-sembly, before the worthy State Deputies and the emblem of our Order, declare and promise to respect our offi cials and to obey and have obeyed, the laws which govern us. In fulfi llment of the duties of our respective offi ces, we promise to uphold the interests of this Lodge and of its members. Worthy Offi -cers, do you so promise?” The Offi cers accepted the oath and the State Deputies stated “Now that the newly elected offi cers of this lodge have taken the oath of offi ce, we declare them duly and lawfully installed.”

The State Deputies called each member individually in

inverse order, starting with the Guard, before the Altar where each was vested with the regalia of his offi ce by the Herald and then led to his/her place by the Assistant Herald.

The State Deputies called the Presidents to the Lectern and stated: “Worthy Presidents, now that you and your offi cers have been duly installed, I hand you these gavels, which are the symbol of authority. I trust you will use them with discre-tion, justice and impartiality in the interest of the members of this lodge. Please take your places.”

The Lodge Presidents in-structed the Herald to notify all present that the Installation was at an end.

President Justin DiNicola and President Ronald Nickerson said a few words at the request of the Toastmaster, Richard Rilla.

Toastmaster Rilla invited our guest speaker, 1st State Vice President James DiStefano to the Podium, who spoke of Dr. Vincent Sallaro and the men who met with him in a little upstairs room in New York. He referred to the “I Have a Dream” that Dr. Sallaro had back in 1905. He asked, “How would

we handle leaving a country we loved and moving to a country where we could not speak the language of that country, nor had a job to support our fam-ily?” He, indeed, gave us food for thought and some appre-ciation for what our forefathers did for us.

After the enlightening talk, we spent time socializing with friends, some we might not have seen in a year or two. Follow-ing the Installation, a beautiful speech, some socializing, we came to a fantastic buffet pre-pared by Chef Mario DeMartino and his crew (Joe Kynsh, Ralph Magri, Jr., Paul Baldasarro, and Tyler Virgilio). We as Americans of Italian descent loved it. A GREAT JOB by Mario and the crew.

In closing, I think most would agree that this was a beautiful day. This was, in my memory, the first joint installation of two senior lodges in Berkshire County. It went off beautifully. The surroundings were out-standing. The sun shining over Pontoosuc Lake was a pictur-esque scene. The friendship was priceless. If you were unable to make it, you missed a great time, but you can make up for it next year by attending.

Joint Installation of ITAM Lodge #564 and G. Marconi Lodge #1620by Stephen A. Cozzaglio

1st Generation

Italian-American

Vita Orlando SinopoliShares with us

a delightful recollection

of her memories as a child

growing up in

Boston’s “Little Italy”

and a collection of

Italian family recipes

from the homeland.

Great as GiftsAvailable thru the web at WWW. FROM MY BAKERY PERCH

or order an autographed copy fromVita Orlando Sinopoli, P.O. Box 906, Wilmington, MA 01887

Hardcover: $25.00 Softcover: $20.00 plus $3.00 shipping and handling

Seated, L to R: Kathy and 1st State Vice President Jim DiStefano, G. Marconi Lodge State Deputy Shirley DiNicola, State Trustee Marie Jackson, ITAM State Deputy Eleanor Desautels. Standing, L to R: SIF Trustee Richard Farina, Benefit Insurance Commissioner David Villani, State Trustee Louis Floriani, Jr., Toastmaster Richard Rilla, Immediate Past President Kevin Caira, Past First Lady Pauline Russo and Past President Joseph Russo and National Trustee and O&E Chariman Stephen Cozzaglio.

Seated, L to R: Recording Secretary MaryAnn Antoniazzi, Vice President Lisa Bowers, President Ronald Nickerson, Trustees Lorita Trombly and Catherine O’Brien. Standing, L to R: Trustee Sandra Cozzaglio, Treasurer Alex Nardacci, Orator Michael Baccoli, Mistress of Ceremony Peggy Daley, Financial Secretary Linda Winters, Trustee Ann O’Brien, Trustee Judy Brittain, Immediate Past President Nelson Daley and Mistress of Ceremony Eleanor Baumann.


LODGE NEWS

Every Thursday — Italian Buffet at Cape Cod Lodge #2404, Route 28, Cotuit. For reservations, please call (508) 540-2407 or 420-3172.Every Friday — Dancing at Cape Cod Lodge #2404, Route 28, Cotuit. For reservations (508) 540-2407 or 420-3172.The First Friday of Every Month — Come Come Dance to Live Music Dance to Live Music from 7:30-11:00 P.M., at the Sons of Italy Hall, 520 Pleasant Street, Watertown. A light collation is served. For additional information, please contact Sal at (781) 894-5749 or Mary at (781) 646-8578. Proper dress is required.The Last Friday of Every Month — Arlington Men’s Lodge #1349 sponsors Ballroom Dancing at 7:30 P.M., with music by Trilogy. In October and November the dance is held on the third Friday of the month. For further information contact George Arena at (781) 646-1252.Second Sunday of Every Month — Quincy Sons of Italy Lodge, 120 Quarry Street, Quincy, MA — Meat Raffl e at 1:00 P.M. For information, please call (617) 773-1295.Every Thursday – Progressive Raffl e at the Quincy Sons of Italy – 120 Quarry Street – Quincy. 7-9pm. Tickets: 3 for $5.00. Jackpot grows weekly until hit. For more information, please call (617) 773-1295.Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25, 2009 — Circus Smirkus presents “Smirkus Ever After: A Big Top Fairytale” — at the Sons of Italy, Lodge #902, 155 Marston Street, Lawrence, MA. Shows are at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. For tickets or further information contact 1-877-Smirkus (1-877-764-7587) or Sons of Italy Lodge #902, A. Buonanno at (978) 688-2258.

Lodge Events

ANGELO GIUSEPPE RONCALLI LODGE #2183

The Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli Lodge #2183 of Wilmington held its Fifth Annual Breakfast with the Easter Bunny on Sunday, April 5, 2009. As in the past, all proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association, through the Grand Lodge’s Charitable and Educational Trust Fund.

The lodge would like to thank the following members for contributing to/soliciting for the raffl e table: Arnie Aprile, Jennifer Bolanos, John Bulens, Mary Buscone, Dianne Boebel, Cheryl and Kevin Caira, Laura Caira, Josie Ciaccio, Lucille Clark, Maria and Tony Cota, David Dello Russo, Barbara DeStefano, Peg Dicey, Joan Foresteire, Lynne Martell, Nina Maiella, Roberta Mauriello, Ann Morell, Michele Caira Nortonen, Leann Otis, Glenn Picone, Ginny and Jerry Pupa, Sally Radomski, Mary Ricci, Karen Scalzi, Susan Schainost, Vita Sinopoli, Susan Tocci, Lisa Troy, Anna Visconti, and Connie Walker. Special Thanks to Kristina Bentley, Betty Sandquist, Anna Sacca, Janice Kalmes, and Annette Shelley.

The Wilmington Sons of Italy Lodge gratefully acknowledges the following local businesses that contributed to the success of the raffl e by donating gift certifi cates or baskets: All Seasons Florist, AJ’s Kitchen, As Good As It Gets Cafe, Beauty Terrace, Cafe Molise, Candlewood Bowling Lanes, Cota Funeral Home, Custom Stitch, Dello Russo - Cavanaugh Funeral Home, Designs by Don, Dr. Ficcocello, Eastern Bank, Exotic Nails, Firestone Complete Auto Care, Gaetano’s Ristorante, Hair N’ Now Salon, Lucci’s Supermarket, Market Basket, Michael’s Place, Michel Coiffeurs, NAPA Distribution Center, RMA Fitness, Rocco’s Restaurant & Bar, Royal Dynasty, Sal’s Just Pizza, Stelio’s Family Restaurant, Touch of Elegance Salon and Spa, and Utopia Salon.

Many thanks for your generosity.Michele Caira Nortonen

Chairman, Raffl e Committee

Sonny Rebeiro and Evan and Emily Pinto had fun with the Easter Bunny (a.k.a. Amy Caira, President of the Wilmington Junior Lodge) at the Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli Lodge’s Fifth Annual Breakfast with the Easter Bunny to support Alzheimer’s Association.

(Photo by Maureen Lamoureux)

The 2009-2010 Offi cers of the Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057 were installed on April 28, 2009.

Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057

INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS

Many Grand Lodge officials attended the Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057 Installation of Officers held on April 28, 2009. Newly inducted President Attorney Joseph A. Boncore was humbled by the many state officers who came out in support of him and the Winthrop Lodge. Standing, L to R: Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057 Past President Janis LaRosee, State Recording Secretary Rita Maletta-Robak, State Treasurer Theresa Farina, District #3 Trustee Michael DiStefano, State Trustee at Large Marie Jackson, Benefit Insurance Treasurer Anthony Panaggio, Jr., National Past President Attorney Philip R. Boncore, Mixed Lodge Past President Goldie Boncore, District #3 Trustee Matthew Ezekiel, State Deputy Frank Battista, District #4 Trustee Eleanora DiRuzza, Benefit Insurance Commissioner Paul DiBona, and State Trustee at Large Ron Hill. Seated, L to R: State Past President Joseph Russo, State Orator Antonio Sestito, State First Vice President James DiStefano, State President Florence Ferullo Kane, Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057 President Attyorney Joseph A. Boncore, National 3rd Vice President Dorothy Berlandi, District #7 State and National Foundation Trustee and Guest Speaker Richard Farina, DMD and State Financial Secretary Tina Helton.

Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057 Order Sons of Italy in America has had the benefit of the talent and energy of the Boncore family. In fact, four of them have been Lodge President. On April 28, 2009, Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057 installed Joseph Boncore as its newest President. Attorney Joseph A. Boncore (2nd from left) follows his brother Attorney Robert A. Boncore, first woman Lodge President Goldie Boncore and his father National Past President Attorney Philip R. Boncore as Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057 President. The family has also been actively involved in the Order Sons of Italy at the State and National levels.

Guest Speaker Dr. Richard Farina, State Trustee – District 7 and National Foundation Trustee , congratu lates Attorney Joseph A. Boncore (left) who was installed as President of Winthrop Mixed Lodge #2057. Both Farina and Boncore accented the need for the Order to get back to its roots of offering a network of financial, employment, educational scholarship, and social supports for its members during these tough economic times.

Victor Emmanuel Lodge #1646Installation of Offi cers

The 2009-2010 Offi cers of the Victor Emmanuel Lodge #1646 of Haverhill were installed on March 18, 2009 at the Haverhill Sons of Italy, 124 Washington Street, Haverhill, MA.

State First Vice President James DiStefano and

Lodge PresidentRick Picone

The newly elected officers

5th Annual Alzheimer’s Fundraiser Breakfast with the Easter Bunny

PAGE 11MAY/JUNE 2009 SONS OF ITALY NEWS

LODGE NEWS

Present and past members, relatives and friends of the Sons of Italy, Drum and Bugle Corps met on Sunday, April 19th 2009 for a Memorial Mass and a celebratory cookout.

It has been said that the Hav-erhill Drum and Bugle Corps, which, is a part of the Victor Emanuel Lodge, is the one and only, Sons of Italy, Drum and Bugle Corps, in the entire United States! On Sunday, April 19th the Corps celebrated their 70th anniversary! The Sons of Italy Drum and Bugle Corps marched up Washington Street on the fresh, sunny, Sunday morning of April 19th. The guest of honor, Sal Amari, not only a former band member, but the Victor Emanuel Lodge’s histori-an for many years, participated as the Guest of Honor.

Led by Drum Major Stephen Iannalfo, the Drum and Bugle Corps’ brass and percussion in-struments and the color guard performed as they marched from the lodge to the All Saints Parish. As the band marched, many Haverhillites lined the streets and leaned from their windows. Onlookers that morn-ing caught sight of the glorious sounds punctuating a beautiful spring morning.

Frank Quintiliani spoke at the end of the Mass on the history of the drum corps. He recounted the story of the drum corps par-ticipating in a parade on Sep-tember 16th 2001, fi ve days after our nation’s tragedy. Frank said “That day we played 26 patriotic songs and we did what no other

Drum and Bugle Corps Celebrates70TH ANNIVERSARY!!

drum corps has ever done … We played the Star Spangled Ban-ner seven times and every time the crowd cheered “God Bless You!” After Quintiliani and Lar-ry Gaiero fi nished speaking, the buglers retreated to the back of the chapel and offered up taps in memory of those who have passed on over the last year.

Following the Memorial Mass, the Drum Corps marched and played as it returned to the Victor Emanuel Lodge. That afternoon the Corps shared not only food but many memories. Former members such as Sal Amari, Frank Azzarito, Joe Ni-colosi, Joe LoConte, Philip Car-done and others had returned especially for this celebration.

It was a busy day and fi nally all went home and the sun set once again on the one and only Sons of Italy, Drum and Bugle Corps in all of these United States!

Vinnie Bonano and Rick Picone

Guest of Honor Sal Amari

The Officials


LODGE NEWS

The Grand Lodge received notifi cation of the death of the following members. The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts extends sincere condolences to the members of their families.

In Remembrance

In Memory of

Franca Caiolaby Mildred Caiola MacKenzie

In MemoriamRobert A. Buttiglieri by Wakefi eld Lodge #1734

Helen Petrillo by Linda Burke

Ann Josephine Giannusa by Winthrop Ladies Lodge #2071

In Memory

Lodge Name City Name

Worcester #168 Worcester William S. Alicandro

Amerita #379 Springfi eld Silvio Scagliarini

Cambridge Italian Mens & Ladies #506 Cambridge Helen Petrillo

Cambridge Italian Mens & Ladies #506 Cambridge Raymond P. Durette

Cambridge Italian Mens & Ladies #506 Cambridge Madeline Marolda

North Adams #704 North Adams Laura D. Carmel

Massimo d’Azeglio #760 Braintree Jerry L. Avitable

Massimo d’Azeglio #760 Braintree Rocco Sarni, Jr.

Veturia Romana #1200 Salem Leah M. Ferris

Arlington Mens #1349 Arlington Leo E. Szymanski

Arlington Mens #1349 Arlington John A. Gallant

Medford #1359 Medford Frank J. DePinto

Regina Margherita #1402 Waltham Delia Oliveri

Francesco DeSanctis #1411 Natick Bruce Buxton

Stella del Nord #1436 Quincy Noreen P. Barbati

Tasso Cabrini #1479 North Attleboro Joseph A. Grimaldi

Winchester Mens #1580 Winchester Joseph Cabral

Cornelia dei Gracchi #1583 Watertown Marie Sullo

Cornelia dei Gracchi #1583 Watertown Joan Valchuis

Sgt. Guido Petrilli #1606 Roslindale Frank Zonfrilli

Melrose #1931 Melrose Marie Salamanca

Peabody Ladies #1964 Peabody Rita L. O’Connell

Winthrop Ladies #2071 Winthrop Ann J. Giannusa

Santa Famiglia #2834 Lynn Caesar Gargano

In April we held our installation of offi cers offi ciated by State Deputy, Sister Josephine Tan-ner. Visiting dignitaries were Grand Lodge 1st Vice President, James DiStefano who assisted in the ritual ceremonies as Herald. Brother Ron Hill, Grand Lodge Trustee served as assist-ing Herald. Also sharing in the evening were Rosemarie Con-nell, President of the Venturia Romana Mixed Lodge, Salem; Rita Panetta, Vice President of the Sempre Avanti Lodge, East Boston; Jennie Laverty, Trea-surer of the Salem Lodge #1200 and Lillian Darcy, Trustee from East Boston and friends to the Winthrop Ladies Lodge.

Duly installed were: Presi-dent, Dottie D’Onofrio; Vice President, Elizabeth ‘Betsy’ Gallant; Immediate Past Presi-dent, Ann Giannusa; Orator, Mary ‘Bette’ Federico; Financial Offi cer, Marie Parrinello; Trust-ees: Mary Saggese, Ann Ciano, Mildred DiSessa, Ruth Vosolo, Joanne Ceraso; Mistresses of Ceremonies: Antonette ‘Toni’ Cea and Kathleen ‘Kay’ DiChi-ara; Guard, Margaret ‘Peggy’

NEWS and NOTES from theWINTHROP LADIES LODGE

TUTTO ITALIANO Pictured are some of the Winthrop Ladies Lodge members and paesanis (hometown friends) who recently visited the Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline to view this wonderful Italian Exhibit. Passion, Design, Performance: The Art of Italian Style. It was so interesting to view the fashions, the old and the new in transportation in this great historical museum.

Pacifi co.Brother DiStefano brought

forth the greeting of the Grand

NANCY PELOSI:Cavaliere di Gran Croce

The Speaker of the House of Represen-tatives, Nancy (D’Alessandro) Pelosi was summoned to “Villa Firenze”, the offi cial residence of the Italian Ambassador to Washington, Giovanni Castellaneta, on September 10, 2008. The occasion was the handing of the Highest Civilian Medal by the Italian President, Giorgio Napolitano, the “Cavaliere di Gran Croce” (Knight of the great Cross) to a most prominent Italian American, and the fi rst woman ever elected Speaker of the House by her peers. Many guests had been invited to the ceremony, particularly the members of the ‘Italian American Congressional Caucus, as well as other distinguished members of Con-gress who have displayed warm feelings and interest toward Italy.

Scientific Research in Italy:an Update

Expectations were raised months ago during the election campaign (2008) by the PDL (Berlusconi’s Coalition) when the issue of scientifi c research ushered a long debate. Now that the new Berlusconi Government has taken over, and several months later, many are asking what is the new Govern-ment doing to promote scientifi c research in Italy. Several appeals have been directed to the Italian (lifelong) politicians even by prominent researchers who claim that it

REMINISCINGAbout Things ‘Italiano’

by Orazio Buttafuocoshould be a priority for the country, for Italy has been slowly sliding backward in scientifi c and technological fi elds. Italy cannot afford to sink further to a position of mediocrity on the international scene. Italian politicians seem to fi nd considerable diffi culty to appro-priate the necessary funds toward research, with only a pittance to this or that research project. It is no wonder that young, brilliant scientists prefer to accept offers from abroad and leave their country, knowing that their talent is well recognized elsewhere.

When People Choose Strange Names for their Children!

I trust you read, or saw on television, as I did, that a couple named their son Adolph Hitler Campbell. Those of you who read the Post-Gazette every week, have noticed that my colleague Ray Barronmentioned this story in his entertaining ‘Eleven o’clock News’, concluding with an obvious question: Is there an Italian who has called a son Benito Mussolini? To this, Ray, I have the answer. There is a family living on the South Shore that once named their son precisely ‘Benito Mussolini XXXXX. I omit the last name for a simple reason: privacy! When I asked the individual why his father called him after “il Duce” he said to me that his father had been smitten by Mussolini in the early days of Fascism. And there you have it, Ray. Keep up the good work!

Lodge Council and extended best wishes for the ladies come this new and challenging year. He praised their continuing efforts around their annual scholarship and charitable en-deavors and wished them much success with their forthcoming

Fall Fashion Show. Reaching out and involving community leaders and friends of the ladies is quite the undertaking and he congratulated this spirit.

Dottie called upon sister Tan-ner to present her with a special birthday cake and bouquet

from the Lodge. Jo celebrated her 90th birthday on May 9th. Everyone sang and extended their well wishes. A few surprise friends of Jo were on hand to join in the festivities.

The evening ended with a lovely collation.

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Documents

May - June 2009