Roma Lodge #1573

For as long as anyone can remember, Roma Lodge #1573, has held their November meeting along with a great dinner of polenta and stew. Many Roma Lodge members ancestors come from Northern Italy, where polenta originated during the days of the Roman Empire. Polenta was the stable diet of many peasants who had little else to eat in poverty-stricken Italy during those times. Over 70 members joined for the meeting and dinner enjoyed by all.

Lillian Pedroncelli-Cotta was a member of Roma Lodge for 68 years making her the longest member of the lodge. She passed away at the age of 96. Lillian was married to Enrico Pedroncelli in 1945 and they lived in Waukena just outside of Tulare. Enrico was a member of the lodge and she joined in 1953 and he passed away in 1961. She married Lawrence Cotta in 1968 and was married for 49 years before his death. Lillian enjoyed attending Roma Lodge activities over the many years she was a member. She often joined son Ronnie and daughter-in-law Karen Pedroncelli at our annual ravioli dinner or Christmas party. Farewell Sister Lillian may you rest in peace.