THE TIMES SONS & DAUGHTERS OF ITALY PHILADELPHIA PA, September 25, 2019 Dunphy Humbly Accepts PENNSYLVANIA GRAND LODGE INSTALLS Grand Lodge Gold Medal CERRUTI AS PRESIDENT AT CONVENTION With a grace and dignity which justified his selection, Francis Dunphy accepted the Gold Medal of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Sons and Daughters of Italy on Friday night, June 14, 2019 at the FOP #5 Hall in Philadelphia, concluding the 55th Biennial Convention. Along with Phil Martelli, both were named Co-Gold Medal Honorees but Coach Fran Dunphy at Podium Grand Council Officers Posing After Installation at 2019 Convention Martelli was unable to attend due to his new professional force in the Philadelphia Area Michael Cerruti was in- His installation ceremony Biennial Grand Lodge Con- commitment in Michigan. for Coaches vs. Cancer for stalled as President of the took place along with the vention. Dunphy was the all time win- more than twenty years and Grand Lodge of Pennsylva- other Grand Lodge Officers Cerruti’s Background ningest basketball coach in Phil- for no small measure that his nia, Sons and Daughters of who had been nominated and President Cerruti is a adelphia Big Five history, hav- mother's maiden name was Italy immediately prior to the elected by acclamation earli- Philadelphia Command Po- ing accumulated a total of 580 DiDomenico. Gold Medal Banquet at the er in the day. The ceremony lice Sergeant who is a mem- wins between 310 victories at Dunphy has been involved FOP Lodge #5 Hall in Phil- was witnessed by over two ber of Custodes Pacis Lodge the University of Pennsylvania, with Coaches vs. Cancer for adelphia by past Gold Medal hundred guests took place #2085 which is headquartered along with an additional 270 more than 20 years and in his Honorees, Judge John Fora- in the beautiful lobby of the at the FOP Lodge Hall. He pre- wins at Temple University. acceptance speech, he dora and Francis Recchuiti on building at the conclusion of viously served as President of Other Accomplishments continued on page 3 His basketball accomplish- Friday night, June 14, 2019. the cocktail hour of the 55th his local Lodge, State Trustee ments were not the only rea- MISSION STATEMENT for District 1 and most recent- The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS ly as Grand Lodge First Vice son that the retiring coach Sons and Daughters of Italy President. from Temple was feted, but “Promoting a positive image FROM OPENING TO CLOSE also for the fact that he was of Americans of Italian Rose Larsen Mumbauer was an educator, having received a In addition to the instal- installed as the State First Heritage within the lation and the presentation Master's Degree in Counseling framework of American of the Gold Medal, the Ban- Vice President. Mumbauer, who and Human Relations at society through involvement quet Night starting with the is a Past President of the Villanova, after receiving his in cultural,educational, cocktail hour was a full and Ufficiale Bersaglieri Lodge undergraduate Degree from social and charitable complete evening. #138 of Williamsport, is an LaSalle University as a player, endeavors.” The police officers' bag- airplane parts company but also the fact that along with pipe squad dressed in their Executive and will be re- Martelli has been the driving Paolucci Retires regalia of kilts entertained the cocktail hourbefore the ceiving her MBA from Notre Roxborough Lodge As Exec. Director Installation. The cocktail Dame in May of 2020. She hour itself was a splendid previously served as Commis- Surprises The Blasis Of Grand Lodge affair with butlered hor sion for Social Justice Presi- At President’s Affair Michael N. Paolucci, Jr. d'oeuvres and a special hor dent and also as the President has retired as Executive Di- d'oeuvres table in addition of the Dante Commission. The President’s Dinner, which to the open bar. rector of the Grand Lodge of String Band Appearnce President Cerruti Addresses Members Other Officers Elected was held on the first night of the Pennsylvania which became Long time Capital City Convention, Thursday, June 13, Also appearing during effective September 1, 2019. the cocktail hour was the Lodge #272 member, Ed- 2019, ended up with a surprise Paolucci, who had been Ex- Mummers String Band ward Carabin stayed on as when the members of Roxbor- which was a delight for the Second Vice President and ough Longe #2217 honored crowd. he previously had served a their longtime leaders, Judge During the banquet and Robert S. and Alice D. Blasi after the meal was served, number of years as the Pres- a great disc jockey who ident of the Benefit Insurance was current and organized, Commission for the Grand played music for dancing Lodge. Maryann Nativio of and the crowd's entertain- the Ladies of Connellsville ment. Lodge #1686, a retired Com- Michael Paolucci The night itself was a ecutive Director since prior to fittingconclusion to a -suc monwealth of Pennsylvania the Grand Lodge resignation cessful 55th Biennial Grand String Band Entertains Delegates Administrator, was placed as from the National organiza- Lodge Convention which State Third Vice President, tion, began his service in Sep- actually started on Wednes- having previously been Grand Blasis’ receive citation tember of 2011. day night with the final outgo- Lodge Recording Secretary. Judge Blasi, who is serv- Paolucci has had health ing Grand Council meeting. Outgoing President ing his second term as Di- Sessions on Time problems which go back to Richard Barber of Liber- rector of Insurance, along For sessions which out- last year which culminated in ty Lodge #206 of Brockway, with his wife, Alice, have going President Rick Barber a massive operation and hos- let longtime member Fran was installed as State Immedi- been longtime anchors of the pitalization. He was unable Roxborough Lodge #2217, Recchuiti act as Chair ran ate Past President. Philadel- to come to the office and as a on time for the two days and Police Officer’s Bag Pipe Band phia trial lawyer, Amato San- with Blasi always being the result of the serious surgery, continued on page 3 continued on page 3 continued on page 7 continued on page 3 Page 2

SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF ITALY STATE CHAPLAIN’S CORNER TIMES by Msgr. Charles L. Sangermano OFFICIAL ORGAN of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, COLUMBUS IS OURS! Sons and Daughters of Italy One of the infamous institutions that were established in many of the- countries that came under the communist yoke after World War II, was the Lawrence McGlynn, Editor dreaded ‘reeducation camp.’ The leaders of these regimes knew that they Marlene Matarazzo, Associate could not succeed as long as there remained a living memory of the proud Linda M. Mondelli, Associate past of its peoples, and their national heroes. In these camps, the ‘science’ 1518 Walnut Street, Suite 1410 of torture and brainwashing was perfected, leading to the ‘reeducation’ of Philadelphia, PA 19102 its unfortunate victims. Phone: 215-592-1713 In this process, one of the first goals was the cleansing of the mind of its Fax: (215) 592-9152 self-esteem, pride and confidence in the former institutions of the country. Email: [email protected] National heroes were depicted as evil and former systems were derided. The articles printed in the Sons and Daughters of Italy Times do not necessarily express the opinions or the ideas of the Grand Lodge of Pennsyl- Once the mind had been weakened through lack of sleep, frequently as- vania and neither the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania nor the editorial staff of the Sons and Daughters of Italy Times is responsible for the editorial sisted by mind-altering drugs, all resistance fell away and the ‘residents’ content submitted by any of the writers. The views expressed and the claim of the originality of the articles is the direct responsibilty of the writers of the reeducation camps were ready to believe anything. Distorted or who submit them for exaggerated ‘facts’ concerning formerly admired leaders and national his- publicantion to the periodical. torical events were used to destroy all sense of pride in one’s country and confidence in its traditions. Only after the completion of this process, was the mind ‘emptied’ of its past and ready to receive the imposed doctrine of the new state. Grand Council 2019-2021 You will receive this issue of our Order’s newspaper shortly before or after the celebration of Columbus Day. For well over a hundred years, this Michael Cerruti-State President celebration has been a centerpiece of the Italian-American community. It has become a focal point to recall, to honor and be proud of the many Rose Larsen Mumbauer-State First Vice President accomplishments of those of Italian extraction in the United States; ac- complishments which are very well documented with facts. Edward Carabin-State Second Vice President I had the honor of being responsible for the Church of Saint Mary Magdalen de Pazzi in South Philadelphia, the first Italian National Parish Maryann Nativio-State Thrid Vice President in the United States. Among the many interesting artifacts I found there, Continued on Page 6 Richard Barber-State Immediate Past President Amato Sanita, Esq.-State Orator Melody Yeardie-State Recording Secretary From the Pen of the President BROTHERS AND SISTERS, Vaughn Piper-State Fianancial Secretary I would like to introduce myself and personal thank everyone that Gregorrio Santiago-State Treasurer attended convention and put their faith in me and my team and elected us as your new Grand Council. Frank Palumbo-State Historian I am Mike Cerruti from Lodge 2085 Custodes Pacis where I was trustee and President and a proud member for 29 years. I am proud Hon. Robert Blasi-Director of Insurance father of three children and married to a wonderful woman for the past 25 years. I am the oldest of four (all brothers) and uncle to 15 nieces and Joseph V. Galati-President, Mortuary Fund Commission nephews. I strongly believe that the Grand lodge is here to serve the local lodg- Steve DeFrank-President, Dante Commission on Education/Culture es and the local lodges exist to serve the members. I believe that we have much to offer in ways of exploring and learning of our culture, history, Santo Bocchinfuso-Commission for Social Justice values and traditions. We are the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania sons and daughters of Italy. Anthony M. Lizza-State Past President In Pennsylvania Italians represent almost 1.5 million people. When I hear that number, I am so impressed with that number and the contributions Jospeh Sanders-State Past President that we as a people make to society every day. Imagine our organization with 5 percent of that number. I know some are thinking that I am crazy Monsignor Charles Sangermano-State Chaplain to think this way, that could never be accomplished. Well let’s explore this for a minute. We have a membership committee that is enthusiastic State Trustees and exploring new ideas and ways to bring new members into our great organization. Another way is to talk about and show to others what this Joseph Merenda-District 1 organization is all about, our culture, traditions and contributions to soci- ety. Imagine the possibilities of growth all the positives that come with it. Angelo Mancini-District 5 The newspaper is vital for our organization to inform our members of what is occurring in our commonwealth but so is other forms of commu- Robert Piccolo-District 7 nications Facebook, twitter, emails to name a few. We must embrace this technology and allow it to help us grow as an organization. Rita Ruhl-District 8 We as a board have many ideas to help us grow and become stronger but this is where I need each and everyone’s help. let’s talk about all the Gina Mastrine-Sowers-District 9 positive and possibilities of this great institution. Lets us continue to be proud Americans of Italian descent. Continue our great traditions expand Anthony Ferlazzo-Deistrict 10 our contributions to society. I look forward to hearing from each and every one about positive John Menefee-District 11 ideas to move us forward please contact me at the Grand Lodge where I am every Tuesday. Victor Nardelli-District 15 Fraternally, Mike Cerruti State President Page 3 Robert and Alice Blasi Dunphy Humbly Accepts Grand Lodge Gold Medal continued from page 1 Continued from Page 1 Financial Secretary and Alice Roxborough section of Philadelphia demonstrated the passion Dunphy entertained the crowd Course entitled "Management, doing all of the jobs while Judge Blasi graduated from and ability that he had in with stories about his Italian Theory and Practice: & From never holding an official office. Simon Gratz High School, actually seeking the follow up in mother, and about his Italian the Locker Room to the Board Under the Blasi’s guidance, Temple University, and Wid- what the organization does, in uncles who made sure that his Room." He also had previously the Lodge met on a monthly ener Law School. The former addition to contributing father passed muster when his been a lecturer at the Wharton basis for many years in a number Alice D’Amato was a graduate money for both research and mother dated his father and Executive Education Program of different location and most of Yeadon High School in treatment.He gave a couple of how the DiDomenico broth- at the Wharton School at Penn. recently arrangements have been Delaware County. anecdotes about some of the ers were there to make sure Received Smith Award made to have monthly meetings at Sculpture Given work that he has done with that his father was acceptable. In 2018, Dunphy received the Venetian Club in the Chestnut The presentation of a Coaches vs. Cancer and was Original Neighborhood the prestigious Dean Smith Hill section of Philadelphia. beautiful crystal glass formation presented a check that had been He talked about growing up Award from the USBWA for Retired Judge sculpture from the Lodge raised at the Convention from in Southwest Philadelphia and his Coaches vs. Cancer work Judge Blasi retired as the was also supplemented with a the charities in the amount attending Malvern Prep where and his service and tireless Administrator of the Municipal Citation from the Pennsylvania of $20,500.00 which he he had the background of a dedication to those in need. Court in Philadelphia and was also Senate as proposed and read acknowledged was a surprise good education and then In addition to the Coaches vs. designated as Common Please by Senator John Sabatina and that he was also pleased LaSalle University where he Cancer, he has devoted a Court Judge. Alice, while who personally read the same that our organization was played under all time great tremendous amount of time to being a stay-at-home mom for at the surprise presentation. demonstrating that interest. player and Head Coach, Tom the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of a while and raising two boys, Outgoing President Rick Friend of the Lodge Gola, and helped the Explorers Greater Philadelphia's Board retired as a City of Philadelphia Barber of the Grand Lodge Dunphy had previously to a 23 and 1 record as a Junior. of Directors. Municipal employee. Prior to of Pennsylvania was also Prior to becoming the Head He has made sure that his feted and passed out awards appeared at both Conventions going on the bench, Judge Blasi Coach at Penn, Dunphy served basketball teams participated to people who had served and Purple Aster Balls in practiced and was a Democratic as an assistant at Army, the in the Big with him and received an the past as a representative Ward Leader in Philadelphia. Head Coach at his alma mater, Brothers/Big Sisters Program emolument for the charity of of Coaches vs. Cancer, and The Blasis, in addition to Malvern Prep, and later as an each year. He is a member of his choice from the L.A.M. the Grand Lodge of Penn- having two children, have five assistant at LaSalle, American the Philadelphia CYO Hall of Valley Forge Lodge #1776 sylvania had been actively grandchildren and live in the University, back to LaSalle, Fame and also the Big Five President, Bernie Barbone Wesler. contributing for a number of years to that cause. and finally as an assistant at Hall of Fame. Paolucci Retires In addition to accepting Penn and became the Head His 17 NCAA tournament ap- continued from page 1 the Gold Medal, Dunphy Coach there in 1989. His head pearances as a coach; 14 Confer- was also presented with a coaching career between Penn ence championships; 8 Big Five had been also regimented with He had graduated with a De- Citation from State Senator John and Temple spanned 30 suc- titles and 1 NIT slot is an out- chemo therapy and radiation. gree in Business Administra- Sabatina which had been passed cessful years. standing career accomplishment Having lost a tremendous tion and Marketing from in Harrisburg with a Resolution Distinguished Educator which puts him in an elite status amount of weight and unable Temple University and worked recognizing Dunphy and As an educator, both on and as a coach, but he is even more to drive, he has undergone a with Provident Mutual Life In- Martelli for the work that off the Court, Dunphy spent 12 complete as a person and a role long period of recuperation surance Company as a Man- they had done and the years in Temple's prestigious model, which his fellow Italian and is successfully emerging agement trainee and became awarding of the Gold Medal. Fox School of Business where Americans in the Grand Lodge from the battle, with recent an expert in insurance before he has co-taught an Honors can respect and appreciate. tests showing the complete being employed by the Princi- absence of continuing activity. pal Financial Group. In the process, Paolucci Grand Lodge Moved Cerruti Installed as President has lost fifty pounds, was recom- When the Grand Lodge was continued from page 1 mended that he remove him- able to negotiate out of the self from any stressful activ- horrendus lease at the Curtis ita, Esquire, from the Greater Mortuary Fund. Steve De- ities, and recognizing that he Builiding, Paolucci supervised Roxborough Lodge #2217, Frank, President of the Capi- had served the Grand Lodge the packing and moving the was retained as State Orator tal City Lodge #272 of Harris- for seven productive years, Grand Lodge office to its pres- for another term and Melody burg also took on the position realized that it was time to retire. ent location which is locat- Yeardie of the Rosa Garabaldi of President, Dante Commis- Successful Career ed on the 14th floor of 1513 Lodge #1818 of Brownsville sion on Education and culture Paolucci had previously Walnut Street Philadelphi, PA became State Recording Sec- of the Grand Lodge, while retired from the Principal 19104, with the new orders retary. Vaughn Piper of Civ- Santo Bocchinfuso, of the Financial Group where he had saving the Grand Lodge about New Officers Sworn In ilta e Progresso Lodge #649 Custodes Pacis Lodge #2085, County will serve as State spent thirty ­five years where he $5000 a month. of Scottdale became State Fi- returned again to serve as Trustee for District 9; An- worked as the Regional Direc- The office staff, who were nancial Secretary. President of the Commission tor of Marketing and Customer also involved with the move, thony Ferlazzo of Due Palme Gregorrio Santiago, anoth- for Social Justice. Relations in the Philadelphia incudes Marlene Mattarazzo Lodge #189 of Clearfield will er Philadelphia Police Officer The two Past Presidents that National Accounts Office and administrator, Linda DiDona- be State Trustee for District and member of Custodes Pa- round out the Grand Coun- further had been a Supervisor to, who is the bookeeper and 10; John Menefee of Civilta of Claims in Administration. Linda Mondelli as member- cis Lodge #2085, moved over cil in those positions will be e Progresso Lodge #643 of He came on to supervise the ship director and general ser- to become State Treasurer, Scottdale's Anthony M. Lizza Scottdale for District 11 and Grand Lodge office staff on vices coordinator. with his Lodge Brother, Frank of Civilta e Progresso Lodge Victor Nardelli from the Co- a part time basis and, in fact, A Lifetime of Service Palumbo, also a Philadelphia #643 and Joseph Sanders of lombo Lodge #1348 of Mo- devoted himself effectively in Prior to his illness, he Police Officer and member of the Giosue Carducci Lodge naca will continue as State bringing the Benefit Insurance had also been very active in Custodes Pacis Lodge #2085 #146 of Lock Haven. Trustee for District 15. Commission back into the St. Anastasia’s Roman of Philadelphia, becoming New Trustees An Exciting Future compliance with the Pennsylvania Catholic Parish in Newtown State Historian. State Trustees that were se- The election took place Insurance Commission Regulations Square and as a member of Commision Presidents lected and installed were Jo- in the afternoon and as and reorganizing actuarial the Knights of Columbus, Retired Philadelphia Mu- seph Merenda of the Custodes previously indicated was standards and dealing with having risen to and served as nicipal Court Administrative Pacis Lodge #2085 for Dis- by acclamation and the additional compliance issues. the Grand Knight of Mater Judge, the Honorable Robert trict 1; Angelo Mancini of the He had previously been in- Dei Council. new Officers will serve Blasi, longtime President of L.A. M. Valley Forge Lodge until the 56th Biennial volved with Sons of Italy as Living with his wife, Marie, Greater Roxborough Lodge #1776 for District 5; Robert the Financial Secretary, Trea- in Broomall, the Paoluccis are Grand Lodge Convention #2217, continued on as the Piccolo of the York Lodge surer, Vice President and Pres- now empty nesters and hope- to take place in 2021. Director of Insurance as will #528 as State Trustee for Dis- This Grand Council rep- ident of the L.A.M. Valley fully in the future, Paolucci Forge Lodge #1776; served as Joseph V. Galati, the founder trict 7; and Rita Ruhl of the resents experience, inter- will be able to resume a com- the State President of the Com- of the Galati Lodge and also Alpine Star Lodge #1827 of est and also new blood plete solid food diet regimen. mission for Social Justice; and longtime member of Capital Lock Haven as the StateTrust- with fresh ideas which later on, went on to serve as the He can be reached through the City Lodge #272 of Harris- ee for District 8. will benefit our members National President of the Com- Grand Lodge for those who burg, and the former Gold Gina Mastrine-Sowers of for the future. The new mission for Social Justice, Or- wish to contact him and wish Medal Honoree, retained the the Monte Grappe Lodge Grand Council had its first der Sons of Italy in America. him well as does THE TIMES. position of President of the #1507 of Colver in Cambria meeting Saturday morning. Page 4 LODGE NEWS Roxborough Lodge L.A.M-VALLEY FORGE LODGE #1776 Person Of The Year HAS MONTHLY DINNER MEETINGS INCLUDING SPEAKER PROGRAMS Patton Lodge 310 Awards Scholarship Set For October17 L.A.M.- Valley Forge The Greater Roxborough Lodge #1776 has din- Lodge #2217 will host its ner meetings the second annual Person Of The Wednesday of every month Year Award ceremony on at Pepper’s Restarunat in Thursday night, Ocotober King of Prussia. After the 17th, 2019. review of the communica- This 44th annual dinner tions, the board meeting will honor Dr. John Caccia- agenda and actions and their mani, who is the Cheif Ex- followers a speaker who ecutive officer of the Chest- will speak about Italy and/ nut Hill Hosptial. or Italian American events. The event will start at Below is a photograph 7:00 PM at the North Hills from the March meeting Country Club. Cocktails where President Bernadette and dinner will precede the Wesler presented Chris Ves- ceremony and for more in- co a certificate of apprecia- formation and to make res- tion for discussion the bene- ervations, please call Rob- fits of marijuana and talking ert Blasi at 215.482.1507 about her connection with District Nine Scholar Award Scholarship Awardee Matthew Illig With Presenters To Vinglas Kin Matthew Illig attend- 60 fire calls. As the wood- ed by George Baranick and The 2018 District 9 $500 ed Cambria Heights High wind section leader, he has John Rowland of Lodge 310 Scholarship Award was pre- School in Patton, PA. He marched in many local hol- at the Cambria Heights Hon- sented to Jack Robert Mur- was selected by a com- iday parades. He is also ac- ors & Awards presentation. phy, Grandson of past Dis- mittee who was very im- tive in his local church by This is the first year the club trict 9 Trustee, Rose Marie Chris Vesco receives certificate pressed of his volunteer participating in weekly ser- presented this scholarship. Vinglas. Jack is attend- activities. Matthew is very vices, fundraising efforts, The scholarship was made three dispensaries in the ing Point Loma Nazarene active in the Patton Fire general maintenance and possible the fundraising area. University, San Diego, CA and Company with more than decorating for the holidays. efforts completed through- The only speaker for the majoring in Exercise & Sport 500 hours of training and The award was present- out the year at the club. Science – Fitness Professional. May meeting was Erica Plo- One of the requirements tegher who was born and L.A.M.-VALLEY FORGE LODGE #1776 Brownsville Lodge of the District 9 Scholar- raised n Italy and runs spe- CARRIES ON ITALIAN TRADITIONS Goes To The Theater ship is to write a 500 word cial concierge trips to Italy. L.A.M.-Valley Forge organizations participate, On Sunday July 28, 2019, essay on “What my Ital- In addition to the certificate Lodge #1776 of the Grand the L.A.M.-Valley Forge 15 members of Rosa Garibaldi ian heritage means to me”. of appreciation, President The following is an excerpt Lodge of Pennsylvania, Sons Lodge turnout is always the Lodge #1818 spent the after- Bernie presented her with a from the essay submitted by and Daughters of Italy has largest. noon at the State Theatre in Lodge golf shirt when she continued the tradition of For the State Convention, Uniontown watching and filled out her application to participating in the Italian Joe D’Orazio, Vice President enjoying a live presenta- become a member. feast of the Italian parishes of the Lodge prepared stands tion of Mama Mia. on Sundays this past summer. for each of the banners and The cast included a few The lodge has a collection they encircled the conven- local residents of Browns- of all of the banners of the tion hall where the delegates ville and some high school regions of Italy and this past met and it added a festive students from the Union- summer presented them- spirit to the proceedings. town area. The talent of selves for the Our Lady of In the old days, these Ital- each individual was awe- Mount Carmel Feast Black ian festivals attracted thou- some!If you enjoy the mu- Horse in July and also at sands of participants and sic of Abba, you need to the Holy Saviour and MSS the parishoners would pin Erica Plotegher at May meeting see this production. We later dined at Mar- As other organizatoins ilyn on Main, a quaint re- join the L.A.M. for its acti- Jack Robert Murphy strurant across the street vites, members of the Lodge from the State Theatre.All Jack: “Being exposed to my attended and particpated in in attendance had a wonder- Italian culture and heritage the Associazione Regionale ful time and look forward has helped to shape me into the Abruzzese Annual Schol- person I want to become. I will to our next outing.We are arship and Awards Banquet planning another trip in the carry on my Italian traditions”. at Drexelbrook on May 1, Jack comes from a long near future, possibly to the line of members of the Al- Lancaster area. toona City Lodge #1415. Along with his grandpar- Lodge Participation at Holy Saviour Procession Respectfully Submitted by, ents, Luke and Rose Vinglas, Melody Yeardie Feast which took place in money on the statues of the his mother, sister, and aunt. Treasurer/Financial August. In each of these saints, but in modern times They have together over 150 Members of the Lodge 1776 at Secretary processions with the Saints the only money is given to membership years of serv- Regionale Abruzzese Dinner Publicity Chair for Rosa ing the Altoona City Lodge. and the other local Italian the vendors. Garibaldi Lodge #1818 Page 5 LODGE NEWS Fesitvals and Street Fairs: An Italian Tradition As you may have noticed, along with the warmth of the summer season come street fairs and festivals, many are ethnically oriented. Pardon my prejudice but I feel the best are the Italian “festas.” There you will see the bustle of people moving about under the red and white striped canopies of the booths set up for hours of evening fun and fellowship with friends, neighbors and family. All, of course, centered about a variety of delicious ethnic food. Add some good music to the mix and you are in for a very pleasant evening under the stars. My parish church, St. Rita of Cascia, located in Connellsville, Western Pennsylvania recently held their 91st annual Street Fair in the Church parking lot on July 11th, 12th and 13th. St. Rita’s is an Italian parish formed in 1914 by an Italian priest from the Bronx. He had the Church built by 1915 with the first Mass celebrated on Christmas Eve of that year. Less than two decades later the parish began a yearly street fair in the summer, as is so common in many Italian parishes. The annual summer event is dedicated and celebrated around the feast day of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. This feast day, devoted to our The crowd enjoying the evening at the St. Rita of Cascia Street Fair in July. The Church is in the background. Blessed Mother under the title “Our Lady of Mt. Carmel” is an Italian tradition celebrated in Italy and brought to America by our ancestors. Parish Celebrates As part of our parish celebration Mass on Saturday evening was followed by a procession from the Church to the street fair grounds. Members of our Christian Mothers organization carried the statue of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel on a palanquin (an open litter carried by means of poles) and placed the statue in the center of the festival area. The procession was accompanied by music played by the Molinaro marching band. The actual feast day of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel is July 16th. Devotion to her began in the 12th century when hermits living on Mt. Carmel near the Fountain of Elijah in northern Israel, dedicated a chapel to her. By the 13th Century they became known as “Brothers of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.” Soon they celebrated a special Mass in honor of Mary. In 1726, their devotion became a celebration of the universal Church under the title “Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.” For centuries the Carmelites have seen themselves as specially related to Mary. Continuing Itialian Culture Several saints have credited Mary with miracles on their Demonstration of the dance, the Tarantella, at the Washington County Italian Heritage Festival in 2018. Festival sponsored by the Primo behalf. There is a tradition – which may not be historical- that states Mary Italiano Lodge, #2800. appeared to St. Simon Stock, a leader of the Carmelites, and gave him a scapular, brown in color and a modified version of her own garment (see picture above). She told him to promote a devotion to it. The scapular symbolizes her special protection and calls wearers to consecrate themselves to her in a special way. When Our Lady gave St. Simon Stock the scapular she said: “Receive this habit of thy Order. This shall be to thee and to all Carmelites a privilege, that whosoever dies clothed in this shall never suffer eternal fire. It shall be a sign of salvation, a protection in danger and a pledge of peace.” This information on Our Lady of Mt. Carmel was obtained from a post by the Franciscan Media where more information is available on the history of this devotion. Many members of Ladies Lodge #1686, most of whom belong to the Christian Mothers of St. Rita’s, participated in the festival in the preparation of food and as workers in the booths. In addition the Lodge sponsored a booth at the festival. The Italian culture is alive and well in many festivals that focus more on the Italian cultural heritage versus having a religious or Church affiliation. The Primo Italiano Lodge, #2800, from Washington, PA is hosting an Italian festival on September 27th and 28th, 2019 on Statue of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel on display at the St. Rita of Cascia Street Fair following the procession from the Church. the streets of downtown Washington. They have hosted a festival since 1980 when they organized the affair in order to keep the Italian Your Lodge News Could have been here if a traditions alive and for the express purpose of preserving the Italian member of your lodge had taken the time to culture in the County of Washington. Admission is free and so is the fun and entertainment. Activities include demonstrations of the Italian email a short story and photo to Lawrence dance, the Tarantella, a winemaker competition, meatball contest, the McGlynn at [email protected], or the opportunity to play bocce and of course plenty of Italian food and great music. For more info and pictures of past events go to “The Washington Grand Lodge at [email protected] Italian Festival presented by the Primo Italiano Lodge #2800” on Facebook. So if you haven’t been to a festival lately I hope this article may have given you the desire to do so. There are plenty of opportunities remaining as summer and the festival season are not over. Check you local newspaper or go on line and “Google” festivals in your local area. Then go and have fun! Page 6 Chaplain’s Corner Continued from page 2 The Forerunners of Columbus: were those recalling the Columbus Celebrations of 1892, the four hundredth anniversary of Columbus’ voyage. I noticed that, while the Italian community of Philadelphia played a role in the celebrations, it was also very much an Early Italian Forays into Africa American celebration. Hence, the famous Columbian Ex- position held in 1893 in Chicago, which drew over 27 mil- By Peter Tafuri lion visitors from throughout the world. The main attrac- Political correctness aside, Christopher Columbus Photo tion of the Fair, celebrating this anniversary, was a large is arguably the greatest and most important explorer pool, representing the long and arduous voyage Columbus of all times, changing the world and the very course took to the New World. This was a celebration of America of history. Vespucci, Verrazano, and the Cabots are and its connection to Columbus. just some of the other Italians who lead the Age of With the arrival of numerous immigrants from Italy to Discovery. As Americans, we focus largely on the ex- our country, and their contributions to it, Columbus Day ploration of the Western Hemisphere, but what lay became a day to honor both America and its citizens who south and east of Europe was also mostly unknown trace their origins to the great Admiral from Genoa. In re- before that time, and there were many Italians who ven- cent years, the exaggeration of certain facts, the ignoring tured into it, one of whom was Alvise Cadamosto . of others and the impossible task of imposing our expec- Born into a prominent and wealthy Venetian fam- tations on a world of over 500 years ago, have caused the ly in 1432, he went to sea at the age of ten, sailing name of Christopher Columbus to be dishonored in some to North Africa, the Greek islands and other ports in Caption quarters. Despite the rational answers given to many of the Mediterranean. At the time Venice was the great- the criticisms and even a movie which debunked many of est commercial and naval power in Europe. Her fleets them, this critical movement will probably not come to an carried on a robust trade with the Turks and Saracens, and occasionally engaged end very soon. in hostilities with them to protect against their onslaughts. Already an On the occasion of the four hundredth anniversary men- experienced trader, Cadamosto was appointed an officer of the marines which tioned above, Pope Leo XIII wrote an encyclical recalling protected ships sailing to Egypt and later Flanders. It was on a voyage to the latter Columbus’ zeal for the Catholic Faith. In recalling this, that his role as one of the great explorers was to begin. Pope Leo wrote: “Columbus is ours.” Indeed, for many African Adventures reasons, as Americans; as Americans of Italian extraction; In 1454 his ship put in at Portugal to wait out a prolonged storm. At the time and, for those of us who are Catholics, Columbus is in- that nation was just beginning to venture down the unknown coast of Africa. deed ours! While we all seek truth, let’s not make our- Learning of this, Cadamosto was eager to join in, and was immediately given selves modern victims of invisible, but just as powerful, command of a vessel by Prince Henry the Navigator. ‘re-education camps!’ He set out the next year and eventually anchored off what is now northern Senegal, essentially the limit of that part of the then known world. There he met Italian-American Heritage Month October 12 had tradition- in his daily log of the trav- Budomel, the king of the region, and was invited to travel inland to stay with his ally been in American histo- el going westward from nephew, prince Bisboror, and thus became one of the first Europeans to explore ry celebrated as Columbus Spain and his arrival upon the interior of sub-Saharan Africa. He spent a month there carefully noting local Day, when it was officially the shores somewhere in the politics, customs, ceremonies, food, plants, animals and numerous other details documented that the New Dominican Republic. of this new world. Upon returning to his ship, he decided to venture into the un- World had been discovered Columbus Day has be- known and sailed south. by Christopher Columbus, come the day for Italian Antoniotto Usodimare The Sons and Daugh- Americans to celebrate their Shortly after, he met up with two other Portuguese ships and teamed up with ters of Italy have been able heritage. It must be noted the commander of one, Antoniotto Usodimare of Genoa. The latter had been a to organize the Italian Cau- that the largest number of prominent merchant and banker, but fell into debt and went to Portugal to remake cus legislators in both the casualties in World War II his fortune. Senate and the House in of any ethnic group were They eventually put in off the coast of southern Senegal, and sent an interpreter ashore to Harrisburg to have procla- Italian Americans. greet the natives, who immediately murdered him. Wishing to avoid mations for Italian Ameri- This year, the legislators hostilities, they set sail and soon discovered the Gambia River. Despite being can Heritage Month in Oc- and the Sons and Daugh- constantly fired upon with arrows from the natives there, they went up it around tober. ters of Italy will meet at the 60 miles, but had to turn back to save themselves from a massive canoe attack, While Columbus has Capitol and celebrate the and returned to Portugal. come under attack by a proclamation of October as Cadamosto’s Major Contributions whole array of radical Italian American Heritage Besides expanding knowledge of the world on this voyage, Cadamosto also groups, it is still undisputed Month and continue to cel- contributed to navigation and astronomy. That far south, the all that he kept precise records ebrate Columbus Day. important Pole Star, was almost invisible, but a new constellation, the Southern Cadamosto’s Death and Legacy Cross, appeared. He was the first person to record and draw it and thus guided Of more importance to posterity was his book, Il future sailors. Navigazioni (The Navigations), the first account of In 1456 he and Usodimare led three ships back to Africa. They soon enough the exploration of West Africa. In it, he accurately de- encountered a storm and sailed over 300 miles out to sea to escape it, probably scribed the land, rivers, people, places, flora, fauna, further than anyone had ever gone from there before, and made another discovery, trade, customs and a host of other details, which made it the Cape Verde Islands. Finding them uninhabited, and nothing of commercial an invaluable contribution to the knowledge of that then interest, they made their way to the Gambia River. mostly unknown part of the world, and a guide for This time they were not attacked, and were able to communicate with the future explorers. natives, who said they were warriors of one of the Mandinka kings who had small Before the book itself was published, his accurate realms along the river and were part of the Empire of Mali. They went to the court maps of West Africa were printed in 1468 in an atlas of one and stayed as welcome guests for over a week, did some trading, but by Grazioso Benincasa. Although there is no way of contracted malaria and headed back to sea to escape the unhealthy environment. knowing, perhaps they were used by Columbus, who For Part Of Africa before his epic voyages, sailed along the African Determined to continue their explorations, they headed further south, discovering more rivers along the way, finally anchoring in the largest of them, coast to learn firsthand about the currents, winds and the Geba, in what is now Guinea-Bissau, just a little north of the Equator. They positions of the stars. conducted what trade they could with the inhabitants, but finding nothing of Cadamosto died on a diplomatic mission in 1483. much value, and still suffering from malaria, they returned to Portugal. The Age of Discovery, like too many human discover- Usodimare, who made enough from his expeditions to regain his wealth, ies, certainly had its negative consequences, which sadly returned to Genoa where he died in 1462. Cadamosto remained in Portugal seem to be all that is emphasized of late, but the world where he engaged in trade and commerce, returned to Venice in 1463, con- and life as we know it would not exist otherwise. Alvise tinued in business, rose in prominence, served as a diplomat, and eventually Cadamosto and Antoniotto Usodimare earned their place became captain of a fleet. of honor among those who made it so. Page 7 Una Scatola di Informazioni FINALMENTE IL Tragedies In Connellsville Bocce - An Ancient Game GIORNALE RITORNA President Dies; Lodge Fire By Finalmente dopo quattro The old saying that when for meetings, hall rentals, Anna L. Forte anni ii giornale dei Figli e Figlie D’ltalia ritorna a tut- it rains it pours happened on and any activities they may Mario Pagnoni in his dish-brown, four are dark ti I membri dell’organizazi- the 16th of July at the Fran- want to schedule. book The Joy of Bocce in- green, and the pallino is yel- one. cesco Fiorentino Concordia Civilta e Progress also dicates there is no docu- low. The object of bocce is Grazie all’insistenza del Lodge #454 in Connells- asked the Ladies of Con- mentation of the history of to roll the big balls as close Presidente della Grande vile Pa. The Lodge mem- nellsville Lodge to use their this sport. However, there as possible to the pallino. Loggia dello Stato MI- bers were just mourning building if and when they are some fascinating facts The game runs to 12 CHELE CERRUTI, ii gior- the passing of their Lodge need to use it. that evidence bocce as the points, 16 points, 21 points, nale ritorna piu grande e President Francesco Russo, In the true sense of Broth- ancestor of all ball games. or another score that is ac- piu informante di prima. when their Vice President erhood, their members were A professor of Egyptology ceptable to all the partici- Lui a dato ordini a tut- Tim Sines Sr. received a asked to combine their year- at the University of Lon- pants. There are many vari- ti gli uffuciali della Grande call notifying him that their ly picnic with the Scottsdale don discovered an Egyptian ations to the rules so it is Loggia di scrivere e dare in- Lodge Building was on fire. Lodge. Work is in progress tomb from 5200 B.C. giving difficult to elaborate on the formazioni a tutti I membri The bottom floor, which to hold a fundraiser for the evidence of a bowling game subject. However, groups dell’organizazione. housed a bar, and the meet- Lodge to be hosted at the played by young boys toss- affiliated with the United Grazie mille Signor ing area was completely Scottsdale Lodge, which is ing balls or polished stones. States Bocce Federation Presidente finalmente tut- destroyed. Their main floor always ready to help those Some wall paintings and have attempted t establish a ti I nostri membri saranno that housed a bar that was in need, as they have held vases also depicted similar standard set of rules. notificati e riceveranno- in just remodeled two years events in the past to raise games in progress. Personal Memories formazine di quello che suc- prior received so much money for all kinds of lo- Potential Origins My earliest memory of cede nello State. damage that the building is cal charities and individuals Possibly, the Egyptian bocce was watching my Dal’ est al’ oest e dal no longer usable. who are in need of help. inhabitants became the first grandfather and his pals nord al sud tutti sar·anno Tim Sines Sr. immediately With the passing of their bocce players. They were measuring to find out which notif1cati alla stessa volte. notified Past State President long-time President, all followed by the Romans ball was closest to the pall- Se ave e informazione Anthony Lizza, who went day-to-day business of the who played with rounded ino. Mamma mia! What che volete fal sapire a tutti to assess the situation and Lodge has fallen on the rocks and the Greeks who commotion! What heated fratelh e sorelle per piacere to render any possible help. shoulders of Vice President exercised by throwing var- arguments as choice words scrivete e man ate tutto all When he arrived the fire Tim Sines Sr. He has been ied size balls for distance flew around. I especially 0 della Grande Loggia per had already been brought doing a fantastic job keep- practice. enjoyed watching the mea- ii prossmo g1ornale. under control and some of ing their membership up to During the Punic Wars, surement that included de- [ se avete fotografie per the different fire companies date and dealing with the the Romans modified the vices such as feet, hands, piacere man atele per la that responded were already insurance company, paying sport by rolling balls along fingers, string, tape, or spe- pubhcaz, one del giornale } leaving. bills, ect. He scheduled Au- the ground to strike a sta- cialized implements to de- Neighboring Lodge Civ- gust 21st as the day to hold tionary target to pass the termine who would receive ilta e Progresso was made elections of new President time between battles. This the point. Convention available to their members and other offices available. pastime grew in populari- Italian immigrants ty but Charles IV, the Holy brought this game with Highlights Judge McLaughlin Explains Roman Emperor, had a ban them and played in their Continued from Page 1 placed on the game. He felt backyards and social clubs. finished on time giving the Receiving Dual Citizenship the soldiers were not con- While many of these clubs attendees a chance to dress for Friday night dinner. Superior Court Judge connections and the ease centrating fully on the war. are still in existence, boc- Final Banquet Successful Maria McLaughlin is now that being a citizen creates Eventually, the game spread During the two days, the of two worlds, having re- while traveling. throughout the Middle East buffet lunches were served ceived dual Italian-Ameri- “For me, it’s definitely and Asia. and in addition to the Pres- can citizenship last year. for pleasure,” McLaughlin Foreunner of Variations ident's Dinner there was the Gold Medal Banquet. “For me, It wasn’t just said. “Because it’s nice to The first authentic bocce In the morning, there was a for fun,” McLaughlin said. get off the plane and going balls were designed by Lu- tasty continental buffet that “It was because I have a son into the Italian citizen line. igi Boccahrini (nicknamed was spread out prior to the who was enrolled at the Cu- It’s easier for a number of Bocci) and they were made morning sessions for which linary Institute of America, things; if I ever wanted to from willow tree roots. In- the members were able to partake. and it was his dream when retire there a couple months terestingly, bocce became Typcial equipment used in Boc- The Radisson Hotel lo- he graduated to go to Italy out of the year it’s certainly the forerunner of the French ceball cated approximately four and work.” nicer to be a citizen.” game petanque* as well as ce has become a game for and a half minutes from the Without dual citizenship, Year-Long Process English lawn bowling. everyone. What once was FOP Hall was a comfort- McLaughlin explained, her The process, however, able facilty and access back Today, bocce is a great considered an Italian older son would not have been is laborious and can be te- men’s game seems to have and forth was supplied by game for individuals who the Custodes Pacis Lodge able to work in Italy. dious, McLaughlin said, are physically challenged spread from the Italian­ #2085 members for those Benefits of Citizenship and can take up to a year. for you need only roll a ball American communities to who did not want to drive. “For practical purposes, “If I’m giving anyone to participate. Other than grassy backyards through- Hospitality Suite they can put him on pay- advice,” McLaughlin said. At the hotel, there was a bocce balls, there is no re- out the states. roll,” McLaughlin said. “He “Number one, get on the In fact, a few years ago, hospitality suite which was quired equipment or ex- open and utilized by the can get health insurance, computer and make your pensive wearing gear. If a the competition known as attendees on both Wednes- a bank account. If you’re appointment (with the Ital- court is not in your vicinity, the World Cup of Bocce day after the Grand Council American citizen, you ian consulate) if you are in you can use your backyard was held in the Imperial meeting and on Thursday can’t do these things. It’s Philadelphia, because the and Friday after the festiv- or even the neighborhood Ballroom of Trump Plaza in so difficult for Italians to appointments are so back- Atlantic City, New Jersey. ities at the FOP Hall with park. During low tide the beer, wine, refreshments hire Americans with visas. logged. You probably won’t beach can also serve as the Bocce, a favorite game in It- and the Italian delicacies There are so many things get an appointment for a court. aly, is played today in Aus- which some of the lodges you have to complete just to year. And that gives you a Rules of the Game tralia, South America, other had brought and supplied. have an employee stay over year to do all of the docu- From the opening of the The game is played with countries and is spreading there.” ments.” throughout our country. Convention with the Spe- eight large balls and one cial Police Color Guard on McLaughlin herself was McLaughlin said that small ball referred to as *petanque -French game Thursday morning to the interested in obtaining Ital- a lot depends on how far the pallino (Italian for lit- Convention adjournment that uses small metal balls ian citizenship along with back you can trace your tle ball). Generally, four after the banquet, the dele- her son because of familial family line so that you can that are placed in an under- gates had an enjoyable and of the large balls are red- Continued on Page 8 hand with palm down. successful Convention. Page 8

NON-PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 280 LANC., PA 17604

Advertising Information Judge McLaughlin Explains Dual Citizenship Deadline for advertising: Two weeks before issue date Continued from page 7 Ad Size Inches Flat Rate prove the veracity of your If they approve it, they send (a different name) in Italy. Full Page 10” X 14” $600.00 claim, and all documents all the documents to where My grandmother was Phi- Half Page 10” X 7” $325.00 attesting to your heritage your family is from.” lomena, but she was born 1/4 Page 5” X7” $165.00 must be originals. Ameri- The second appointment Filomena. I had to file for 1/8 Page 5” X 3 1/2” $85.00 can documents being sent is to finalize the applicant’s a court order to legally 4” X 2” $50.00 to Italy must be affixed with passport. McLaughlin said change the name. I filled out an Apostille seal, which that there is no telling how an affidavit that stated that For 4 color advertisements add 25% according to the State De- long this part of the process none of my living relatives For further infomation pleae call Linda Mondelli at (215) partment, verifies that these could take. were opposed to me chang- 592-1713.Issue dates vary, time senstive ads can not be documents are official. Consul General ing my grandmother’s name guaranteed due to material available for sufficient coentnet Significant Documentation “The Consul General was form Philomena to Filome- to publish paper, call to confirm date of isue each month. “You also need to make wonderful to me because na. Everything has to match your family tree,” Mc- they knew my son was going up with the original docu- Laughlin said. “I ran into to work there,” McLaughlin ments.” **PLEASE NOTE** a kink because… my said. “We were time-con- Great Expereince Adversing material must be camera-ready. (We do not de- great-grandmother was strained so they actually Despite, and perhaps be- sign ant advertisements.) IF you prefer to e-mail the mate- born before the 1940s and called Italy. I told them that cause of, the year-long pro- rial, please send a TIFF or JPEG format. Send all artwork women were not considered my son wouldn’t have this cess, McLaughlin said she in PDF format. citizens in Italy at that time, job without the citizenship, was very pleased to have Email address: [email protected] so it was no good.” I’m very thankful.” gone through with the expe- “It’s two appointments,” McLaughlin shared some rience. If you are changing your address, please notify McLaughlin said. “The first of the minor details that can “I loved the experience,” the Grand Lodge at the following email address: is for them to go through all derail an application. McLaughlin said. “It was of your documents to make “My grandfather’s name something I could do with my [email protected] sure you have everything in wasn’t his name,” Mc- sons. We’re very proud of our 1518 Walnut Street, Suite 1410 order. They then give you Laughlin said. “He was Italian heritage, we’re very Philadelphia, PA 19102 w another date to come back. Charles here, but he had proud of our Irish heritage.” Phone: 215-592-1713