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Pictures from our September meeting. We initiated four new members, Wendy Benedetti, Dave Coloiaro, Joanne Klebes, and Julia McRoberts. Mark and Lori Rossi initiated our members. We sold the rest of the salamettes left over from the picnic. Dinner was delicious: Italian sausages and creamy polenta. All is well.

Recent Event Pictures of the Italian Festival at the El Dorado October 12.

Festa Primavera, May 2025

2025 Calendar

2025 Scholarship Winners

Ella Ricci

I feel incredibly honored to be this year’s recipient of the Sons and Daughters of Italy Scholarship. As someone who is proud to be both a Ricci and a Bonaldi, this recognition means so much to me—not just for what I’ve accomplished, but for the values and traditions that have shaped me.
Throughout high school, I pushed myself to grow in every way I could. I maintained a 4.5 GPA, took dual credit college courses, and worked part-time at a karate school, where I helped teach younger students and supported the day-to-day operations. Not only do I work there but, I also train at the academy. I am currently a Brown Senior Belt, two belts from Black Belt. That job taught me discipline, patience, and how important it is to give back and lead by example.
But no matter how busy life got, I always stayed connected to my Italian roots. Since I was a little girl, I’ve been attending Sons of Italy events with my family—celebrating our culture, hearing the stories of past generations, and learning what it truly means to be part of a strong and supportive community. Those moments have stayed with me. Being Italian isn’t just something in my background—it’s a huge part of who I am and how I see the world.
Looking ahead, I’ll be attending the University of Nevada, where I plan to major in Kinesiology. My dream is to become a physical therapist or work in sports medicine—helping people heal, move, and live healthier lives. I know it will be challenging, but I’m ready to put in the work, just like I always have.
I’m so grateful for this scholarship and for the Italian-American community that has been with me every step of the way. I carry our traditions and values with pride, and I’m excited to take them with me as I start this new chapter.
Con gratitudine,
Ella Ricci

Annabella Laird

My name is Annabella Rose Laird, and I am so thankful to be receiving this scholarship from the lodge. I’ve spent my life being able to admire so many wonderful Italian figures in my life, and all of the credit for my success should be given to my amazing family. They have been my pillars to stand on, and I am so glad to be able to celebrate them.
My father has been my pillar of poise; he collects and carries himself in a way I’ve always admired, he’s intelligent, funny, and someone I will always look to for inspiration and      guidance.
My mother has been my pillar of confidence; she walks tall and shows me every day that   anything I put my mind to, I can achieve. My mom has pushed me to strive for greatness and is always there to cheer me on, and more importantly, be there for me in all of my mistakes.
My grandmother is my pillar of service. Since I was small, I’ve had the opportunity to watch her give back. Whether that service was in the form of the annual Italian festival or at her local food bank. My grandmother’s dedication to her community inspires me   every day, and I am so grateful to share our wonderful heritage together.
In the fall, I’ll be attending the University of Nevada, Reno to study political science. While this will be a new chapter of my journey, I know I am fully equipped to handle it, thanks to the wonderful influence of my family.
grazie per l'ascolto
(Thank you for listening)
Annabella Laird

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