From August 9-10, the National Lodge held its Summer Plenary Session in St. Louis, MO, the heartland of America.  This article provides only a general overview of what transpired. The meetings were held at the Hyatt Regency at the Arch, within a stone’s throw of the beautiful Gateway Arch.  Members and guests from all over the United States attended the information-packed sessions and events that highlighted our Italian heritage and 119-year history.  Representing the Grand Lodge of California was State President Arlene M. Nunziati (Co-chair of the Supreme Cabinet) Past State

On Tuesday, July 9, Italian Heritage Night with the SF Giants vs. the Toronto Blue Jays was held at Oracle Park,.  As a Community Sponsor with the Giants, members of our Grand Lodge were present, including our State President Arlene M. Nunziati. The Aurora Mandolin Orchestra serenaded guests walking in, and the orchestra from La Scuola Internazionale under the baton of Maestro Carlo Dean provided the on-field pregame entertainment.  Italian Vice Consul General Davide Corriero threw out the first pitch, and

Francesco Paolo Calise
1934 - 2024
Napa Lodge 2043
By Anna Galbo Graeber

The Napa Lodge was saddened to hear about the passing of our Brother Frank, a member ofour Lodge for nearly 20 years. He was born on the beautiful island of Ischia, Italy, in the town of Forio, growing up with his mother and two sisters, Orsola and Maria. His father was separated from the family due to World War II.  Despite having very little, he always said they were happy. They lived only steps from the sea, where he swam and played soccer on the beach with his friends. After finishing school, he apprenticed at a local barber shop. Seeking more opportunities at the age of 17, he embarked on the ocean liner MS Vulcania and immigrated to the United States.

C. Colombo Lodge Celebrates 100th Anniversary

C. Colombo Lodge #1315 is located in Antioch and recently celebrated its 100th anniversary as a chapter of the Grand Lodge of California. It is one of the longest running lodges of the California jurisdiction. To mark the occasion of their 100th anniversary, a gala dinner-dance was held at the lodge meeting site, the American Legion Hall of Antioch. Heading the list of honored guests was State President Arlene Nunziati. Other distinguished guests

Gianna Fernandes was unable to attend the Black and White Ball at our Grand Lodge convention this year.  In good keeping with protocol, Rosmarie Vandehaar sent the scholarship certificate to our Western Foundation Trustee, Pauline Richmond, ensuring Gianna would receive it.  The Capparelli Family Scholarship was presented to Gianna Fernandes at a luncheon held on July 19, 2024, in Visalia, California.  The luncheon was hosted by