MESSAGE FROM THE STATE SECOND VICE PRESIDENT

I hope everyone had a safe Fourth of July.

What an amazing convention this year. As your newly elected 2nd State Vice President-Central, I am excited to work with all our new and existing officers and represent a larger role in our organization. I want to thank all our delegates who have put your faith in me to help make the changes needed to keep our organization going for another 100 years. My first order of business is to focus on helping with making our organization more visible and with your local lodges help make the Order of Sons and Daughters of Italy a common name. We no longer want to be the “Best Kept Secret”.

This year’s convention was one of the most fun I have had. The hotel accommodation, food and events were wonderful. Thank you to Centinela Lodge for hosting our event, Annette Porter and her team for a wonderful time.

The Court of the Golden Lion recognized two well deserved organizations, GiGi’s Playhouse and Star Homes. Both organizations work with people with disabilities. Each received $2,500 each.

Maria Fassio Pignati put together the 100th Anniversary celebration. What an event to remember. Reneé Adair and her team put together some beautiful centerpieces, the setting was beautifully decorated with stunning lights and music was such fun. Everyone seemed to have such a wonderful time dancing that the band finished before the people did.

The Black and White Ball was also a wonderful and heart-felt event. Four young men and their family attended and accepted their scholarships. Each heading in different directions with diverse career goals.

I truly enjoyed meeting all the new people each year at our convention and always look forward to meeting those who couldn’t attend.

On June 8th I had the opportunity to attend the C. Columbo Lodge #1315 meeting in Antioch. Such a great group of people, wonderful food and a fun raffle. Roseanne is a first-time president and is doing a great job. During their meeting they initiated 2 new members.

I am planning on attending as many events as my schedule allows during my term as your 2nd Vice President. Hope to see you there.

Sincerely,

Tina Sparlin
State Second Vice President