State President Tony Cianciotta’s Message

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I had a previous message ready to send out then the health problem has risen in the form of the Coronavirus outbreak. Our National Lodge President has suggested that we reduce our exposure to large groups of people, possibly postponing lodge meetings until there is 

a plan of action in place to address this COVIN19 Pandemic.

Many lodges have already postponed or cancelled installations, meetings and events.

An Alternate “Oath of Office” form was sent out in order for elected officers to accept the 

Oath of Office and be able to assume their positions in lieu of a formal installation of office. A formal installation ceremony may be held at a later date at the discretion of the Local Lodge.

I recently had the honor to install the Officers of the Deltona Lodge and the Port Charlotte lodge; I had seven other Lodges on my schedule but those have all cancelled or postponed meetings and installations of Officers due to the health hazard. 

Due to the concern surrounding this global Pandemic COVID-19 Coronavirus, there is a need for us to be aware and act accordingly for the sake of the Health and welfare of all our members. I have made the decision, which was supported by the officers of the Grand Council, to CANCEL the approaching Quarterly meeting scheduled for April 24th and 25th in Altamonte Springs.

I fully understand that this cancellation may create schedule conflicts and I apologize for any inconvenience but your safety and well-being is our main concern. If you have already made your hotel accommodations at the Hilton Altamonte Springs please remember to cancel your reservations, they will honor cancelations up to 24 hours prior to April 23rd, 2020.

Information on the next Quarterly meeting in June that will be held in Tampa will be sent out by Brother Ed Mottola Jr. as we get closer. 

The recent plenary meeting was held this past Feb. 13-15; National President Nancy DiFioire Quinn will be having information distributed to all Grand Lodge that may want to have their own “At-Large” membership program. Sister Carolyn chair of the Future Good of the Order made her presentation at the Plenary to the entire Grand lodge Presidents and Brother Mark DeNunzio presented a very informative membership Power Point presentation.

The Foundation Investment committee will be meeting weekly via conference calls to keep abreast of the best investments for our funds. The Grand Lodge Florida Foundation is committed in making better use of our stagnant funds for investments for the future of our continuing scholarship program and developing a secure portfolio. 

Brother Nick Cantore our 2nd V.P continues to spearhead Trustee education and support. Thank you, Nick, for taking the initiative.  He will continue to be the proctor of the President’s Forum after Council meetings.

Brother Joseph Dente our 1st V.P. is charged with overseeing all of the Foundation Committees and all Committee Chairs are reminded to send your quarterly reports to Brother Joe with all updates, changes and financial updates.

I hope everyone continues to be healthy and safe during these very stressful times. 

I hope to be seeing everyone soon. My best wishes and prayers for everyone.

Fraternally,         

Tony Cianciotta