Sons & Daughters of Italy Gratefully Welcome New Members

November was National Gratitude Month – with so much to be thankful for, we need more than just one day! The Wakefield Sons & Daughters of Italy Lodge held their November meeting again at Laurie’s 9:09 and over Zoom. It was a special meeting because we inducted three new members: Anna King, Barbara Verrico and Mariolina Christopher were welcomed to the Lodge in a brief but special ceremony.

We had two wonderful guests from the Boys & Girls Club of Wakefield: Joe D’Alessandro and Lodge member Anthony Guardia. Club Director Joe told us how much the children enjoyed the pasta dinner and desserts Lodge members recently prepared for them. The students even asked if we could cook for them every week! Joe also talked about the programs they run, in particular at the Wakefield location. The Club offers a safe place for students K-12 to do their homework, socialize, run around, have a snack and/or just play. They depend on donations from local businesses, organizations and individuals to keep it running. Joe and Anthony are very grateful to the community for being so generous. The Lodge is making a donation for the Club’s Holiday gift drive and many individual Lodge members will be ‘adopting’ a child and their wish list.

Baking plans were made for a Thanksgiving bread delivery to Lodge members who can’t easily attend Lodge meetings. And speaking of food, the December meeting, which will be held at the Wakefield Elks Lodge, will include a traditional dinner of Chinese food. To reserve a spot (or spots) at the December 14 at 6:30 meeting, contact Lodge President Paula Sasso. As a reminder, there will not be meetings in January and February.

The Grand Lodge January calendar raffle fundraiser is still available until December 14. For just $10 each, the calendars make a great gift and come with more than 31 chances to win a cash prize. Contact any member if interested in purchasing a calendar.

We are thankful that our Lodge is growing, and we look forward to hearing from others who may want to join. Please contact President Paula for information about attending the December celebration/meeting or about joining the Lodge at wakefieldosia@gmail.com. To see more photos and updates, check out the Lodge’s Facebook page. Sii grato (be grateful).