I want to congratulate our Lodge Presidents who are setting up either all Zoom or Hybrid meetings. Some of our Lodges are doing take out/drive by dinners to keep in touch and to do fundraising during this time. There is one Lodge that is doing a “Dining on Zoom” meeting twice a month. They pick a type of food and everyone makes it. Then they spend an hour eating and socializing. If you don’t make the meal you can still socialize. It is a wonderful way to keep in touch safely. All our Lodges are doing a great job of keeping in touch with our members.

We have just celebrated Valentine’s Day. Here are some fun facts about the history of this day. This day is celebrated in Italy but didn’t start with Saint Valentine it began about eight hundred years before he was born. Valentine’s day history has its roots in ancient Roman culture

With the beginning of a new year, I am raring to get back to my Sons and Daughters of Italy family.

Your Vice-Presidents are still sending emails to your Lodge Presidents telling them what other Lodges are doing during this time. I think the best way to keep you all engaged is through communication. Without communication we are all disconnected from our Order. I love the way some of our Lodge Presidents are posting on social media interesting facts from Italy or information on our Order. I know of several Lodges that have increased members during this time by reaching out to friends that may be interested. Remember the words of our Membership Chair of the North, Louie Lodi, “JUST ASK”. That holds true even during a pandemic. If you are speaking with someone who is not a member, remember why you joined and share. We will be back together soon to share the fraternity