Fra Noi Embrace Your Inner Italian
The Amerigo Vespucci Lodge 1722 of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America celebrated its 90th anniversary on May 11 at the Quality Inn in Bradley, Illinois. More than 170 guests, including families from across the country, converged on the venue for the occasion. The lodge is based in Kankakee.
The event included a fabulous meal, entertainment by the Frank Rossi Trio and dancing into the night. The decorative centerpieces contained copies of the anniversary booklet as well as balsamic vinegar, olive oil and a seasoning blend to be used with the dinner’s rustic bread. Guests were encouraged to take the anniversary booklets home with them, along with the other centerpiece items.
Organizers invited attendees to bring photos or other memorabilia to share with guests, launching a tradition they hope will continue at future gatherings. Longtime members Marie Marsalli, Rita Panozzo Mill and Margurite Cappello Rowley were presented with white-rose bouquets. Since the evening took place during Mother’s Day weekend, all women in attendance received a rose.
Lodge President Sandi Cianci presented the lodge’s newest youth member, Liam Hurst, with a membership pin that belonged to his great-grandfather. Liam is the great-grandson of Rita Panozzo Mill and the late LaVern Mill.
As the society strides confidently toward its 100th anniversary, family picnics, spaghetti dinners, cooking and Italian-language classes, and a group tour to Italy are on the drawing board. (815-592-0099, osdia.kankakee@gmail.com)
