Hanford Lodge #1543

Hi Brothers and Sisters: I am so sorry to report that I have been lax in getting information about the Hanford Lodge to the Il Leone. After Christmas, I thought I had sent a message, but the Editors of the Il Leone did not print it, so I guess they did not get it!!! So, I am now reporting on our “drive-thru” Christmas Party for our Junior Members, which is a little late to say the least!!!

On December 13,2020, the Junior Members of the Hanford Lodge were treated to Christmas stockings filled with lots of goodies and also a monetary gift from the Lodge.

Over 20 stockings were filled by older Junior Members, Gianna and Giiulia Fernandez, while “elves” Miro and Gio Giacomazzi, along with their Nanna Jackie Giacomazzi and parents, Dino and Julie, welcomed cars driven by parents and grandparents into their driveway to deliver the goodies. Drivers were offered drinks of their choice and some Giacomazzi Brothers flavored almonds donated by the two boys. (Okay, I will pay a fine for advertising)!!! All this was done in a very heavy downpour!!! Dino came to the rescue and set up a popup tent to help us try to stay dry!! It was great having several members drive by to say “hi” even though they did not bring a child!! It was fun, despite the weather! This was our Covid friendly way of having a Christmas party!!

Hanford Lodge has not had a regular meeting since Hanford Lodge #1543 Handord, CA by Jackie Giacomazzi, last February; we are waiting until the pandemic allows us to do so.

We are saddened that we have lost a couple of longtime members in 2020: Nicholas (Nikki) Mary Garrone was born on January 4, 1923, and passed away on October 22, 2020. Nikki was a very community-minded person and left a legacy with many organizations in Hanford.

She joined the Hanford Sons of Italy on November 19. 1970 (making her a 50-year member). Letizia (Lina) Italia Corsina Jones was born on September 18, 1925, in the Lago di Garda area in Italy and died on December 8, 2020. Lina met her husband during WWII, marrying him in Italy and emigrating to America, She joined the Hanford Lodge on April 4, 1994 (27- year member). Lina was very generous with her time and talents as a member. She and her husband were instrumental in establishing the Valley Christian Home in Hanford. Both Lina and Nikki were residents of this home at the time of their deaths. We offer condolences to their families. May these wonderful members rest in peace.

On a lighter note, we offer best wishes to Dominico and Molly Johnston and son, Joseph, on the arrival of Dominic Sterling Johnston on February 5, weighing in at 8.1 lb. He will become a member as soon as we can sign him up!!! Happy St. Patrick’s Day and Happy Easter too!!!! Stay safe!!!