News from the North

I want to take this opportunity to say that I did not realize how much this would help me become a better member by taking this position. In talking to numerous members, I really see the dedication that many of our members have for the Sons and Daughters of Italy. Summer is almost over, and Fall is upon us. I hope all the Lodges are finding their way through this Pandemic safely. I’ve been in contact with most of our Lodges in the North and I find it exhilarating that the Lodges are getting together and starting to plan functions for the rest of the year. I hope the fires are starting to calm down and we can enjoy our lives again.

I want to give a shout out to my brothers and sisters especially Richard Negro, President of the Weed Lodge. We had a great conversation last month and I am looking forward to going back to visit their Lodge. I’ve made a multitude of friends over the years in OSDIA, but I just made a new one in Ernie Giono. He is a dedicated President of The Cesare Battisti Lodge in Petaluma. They have been trying to open their Lodge but because of the new strain of Covid they’ve had to postpone their August meeting. I’m sure they will have a September dinner.

In last month’s Il Leone, I mentioned “Just Ask.” Membership is the salvation of our organization. We need to grow to maintain and continue the success of our Lodges. There’s lots of Italian who would be interested in becoming members if someone would “just ask” them. I think one area to look at is small business owners like restaurants and Delis and other small businesses. These people care about their families and work hard to better themselves. I look forward to hearing from the Lodges on innovative ways of how to attract new members. The rest of 2021 will be a challenge. We will look back at the year and say the hard times brought us together to appreciate the love of the order. In 2022 we will work to make it stronger.
Ciao for Now,