Roma Lodge #1573

Roma Lodge is celebrating their 95th anniversary this year and our membership is composed of some of the most outstanding leaders in Tulare County.  We have had several members who have been honored as the Man of the Year, Woman of the Year, Farmer of the Year, Hall of Famers and other distinguished awards given by community organizations in the San Joaquin Valley.

This year is no different when our own Nancy Pitigliano was honored as the Woman of the Year by Senator Shannon Grove of the 12th District representing Tulare, Fresno and Kern Counties.  Nancy is a 46-year member of Roma Lodge and along with husband Charlie are big supporters of the lodge.  Shannon Grove states, “A lifelong advocate for agriculture, Nancy and her husband Charlie have been farming in Tulare and Kings County for nearly 48 years. She has served in leadership roles with the Tulare County Farm Bureau, California Women for Agriculture, and on state water policy committees - all while raising a family and giving back to her community. Her dedication to agriculture, public service, and preserving her heritage makes her truly deserving of this honor. Congratulations, Nancy!”

Vince Sola joins a long list of Roma Lodge members to be honored by the Tulare Kiwanis Club as the Tulare Farmer of the Year.  Vince has been a member of Roma Lodge for the past 56-years and has served as president of the organization in 2003-04 and along with wife Pam are big supporters of the lodge. Vince is a fourth-generation farmer farming the family farm homesteaded in 1903.  Now, along with his son, Vin the family is on their 5th generation of farming cotton, corn, wheat, tomatoes, sugar beets, cauliflower and watermelons. Pam runs the office and serves as our junior member activities for the lodge. Congratulations Vince and Pam!

Roma Lodge held its March meeting with our traditional potluck which was enjoyed by over 65 members and guests.  Joann Beecher served as the refreshment chair for the potluck and members brought a wide variety of delicious food for everyone to enjoy.