This month has been very active for our Local Lodges. With this being an election year, they have been recruiting new officers to take on new responsibilities. As members of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, it is important for each of us to give a little time and energy to our Lodges. We are always in need of innovative ideas and new energy to keep our Lodges going in a growing direction. We can not afford to become stagnant. For those of us that are not able to take on an office, we must support our Officers in any way we can. Congratulations to all our new and returning Officers.

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the Saddleback Valley Lodge meeting to install new members. My apologies to President Hank Lowinger and the members of that Lodge. My First Gent, Ken, is down with a bad back. Hopefully, by the time you read this he will be back to his old self again. I’m afraid

Dear Brothers and Sisters….

Have you ever thought about our organization and its members? Are we truly following the path and guidelines of OSDIA? When I think of our organization, I think of members who were/are remarkable members of a family. Have you truly realized what a marvelous organization you belong to? How much you have learned of your Italian Heritage? What friends do you have who are now like family? I have in fact, have friends/members that are so proud

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I’m sorry to start this article on a sad note but our dear friend Manny Finazzo passed away suddenly on October 15th. Manny held several positions over the last 20 years, currently as Orator of the Grand Council. I am sad to say that I did not know him well but to say hi in passing at conventions, until last year. I began to know him better when collaborating with him on the Grand Council. He was always there to help if I had a question about a rule

Emanuel passed away on October 15, 2022 He is now with his wife Veta, Brother Fred, His Mom and Dad with the rest of his relatives Emanuel Joseph Finazzo Obituary Emanuel (Manny) Joseph Finazzo, age 85, of Fontana, California passed away on October 15, 2022, surrounded by family and close friends.

Manny was born August 27, 1937, in St. Louis, Missouri. He came to California as a child, joining the growing network of Italian families drawn by employment and kinship to the Inland Empire.

A proud member of the first graduating class of Fontana High School in 1955, Manny found employment at Kaiser Steel. He soon enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving actively from February 4, 1957 to

Tom Loliva and Madalyn Ogburn are among the members to be initiated at the upcoming November “Thanksgiving Dinner” meeting on November 9. Election of officers will also be on the agenda. Happy Thanksgiving to all. Felice giorno del Ringraziamento!! (translation by Alexa)

Sadly, we note the passing of our president, Carol Watson. She has guided our lodge through many happy seasons and gave of herself willingly. As of this writing, I have no details. She will be missed by us all.
Last month (October) we met at Luna’s with an expanded group, including Grand Lodge 2nd Vice President Pauline Richmond and State Trustee Central Pamela Buldo. Our own membership was well represented, and a good time was had by all. Discussions related to our winter schedule and the upcoming holidays.
Next month’s meeting will be at Luna’s at 6:30 PM, on the first Wednesday of October. Come and join the