20 Cypress Ave., Saint Cloud, FL 34769, US
Presidents message July 8th, 2020
GRAND LODGE OF FLORIDA
SONS & DAUGHTERS OF ITALY IN AMERICA
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
We are now into the summer rains and heat. In some areas we are only in the 2nd phase of the pandemic guidelines. Now we’re entering the hurricane season.
On June 13th we held our Grand Lodge and Florida Foundation quarterly “Zoom” meeting. We conducted as much business as possible, but we did have the opportunity to see each other to share greetings. Brother Nick Cantore will be conducting the Trustees meeting via Zoom on July 13 at 7 p.m.
Thank you to all the Lodge presidents who were able to participate in the June Quarterly Zoom meeting.
I’m sure we are all doing our part to endure this continued period of social distancing and wearing masks to protect ourselves and others.
The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America celebrated the 115th Anniversary of the founding of “Figli D’Italia” by Dr. Vincenzo Salerno in New York City on June 19th 1905. Also celebrated was La Festa della Repubblica, when Italy officially became a republic on June 2nd, 1946.
Our investment committee has been very busy managing our dormant foundation funds, taking advantage of opportunities and doing very well building our Scholarship and operating reserves.
As most Officers already know the mileage rate has been modified for conducting approved OSIA business that requires travel. The Per-Diem for National Delegates who attend the Supreme convention has been changed to reflect the “in-State and Out-of-State” allowances.
Our next quarterly meeting has been confirmed and hopefully we will be seeing each other on September 18th-20th at the Embassy Suites, Buena Vista South in Kissimmee. Please remember to make your reservations (407) 597-4000 . Make sure you tell the reservationist that you are part of the Sons of Italy group to get the rate of $129.00.
It will be so nice to see each other in person again. The hotel is very nice and close to attractions and many restaurants. Bring family members and lodge members who may want to break away from being home bound for so long and get out and enjoy some activities.
The celebration of our country’s Independence Day has just passed. Let’s keep up the flame of Liberty burning high and bright. Let us celebrate the spirit of our Fraternity. Let peace be the only way to reach Equality.
Hope that everyone had a remarkable day with family and friends, and maybe, even enjoyed some firework. God Bless the USA
We continue to pray for those who have been directly or indirectly affected by CoVid-19.
Please remember “Italian Heritage Matters.” Support the Commission on Social Justice – CSJ .
Many Thanks go out to all the CSJ commission members from all the Grand Lodge CSJ chairs and the Supreme office for their relentless determination to protect our history and culture.
Fraternally yours,
Tony Cianciotta, Pres.
OSIA FL Grand Lodge