The Lodge Celebrates its 85th Anniversary Some two hundred people gathered on August 1st at the Colonial Inn in Norwood to celebrate the 85 anniversary of Loggia Giovanni da Verrazzano No. 1236 of the Order Sons of Italy. The gala Dinner Dance also honored Grand Lodge of New York President Nancy DiFiore Quinn and the Past Venerables and Presidents of the Lodge. Also in attendance was National Sons of Italy 1st Vice President Joseph DiTrapani who presented to Lodge President Nick Frustaci a Certificate from the National Office citing the Lodge for its accomplishments over the past 85 years. Orangetown Councilman Mike Maturo and Orangetown Receiver of Taxes Robert Simon presented Certificates of Recognition to the Lodge and Honorees on behalf of the Town, District Attorney Tom Zugibe and Senator Thomas Morahan. County Executive C. Scott Vanderhoef also provided Certificates for the Lodge and State President DiFiore Quinn. A Proclamation from the Rockland County Legislature, introduced by Legislator John Murphy, Proclaiming August 1st, 2008 as Loggia Giovanni da Verrazzano Day in Rockland County was read to those gathered. Attending the Dinner were Past Venerables/Presidents Phil DeLorenzo, Louis “Sonny” DiCasoli, Angelo Sama, Joe Stillo, Carlo Greco, Paul Oddo and Nick Frustaci. Also present was Ann Hickey and other family members of Giovanni Mercurio Past Venerable from the 1930’s, Nick Gatti son of and other family members of Emil Gatti and Joe D’Auria son of and other family members of Vincent D’Auria. Joining the celebration were also National Officers, State Officers and Presidents and members from every Lodge in District 5 which encompasses the Counties of Rockland, Orange, Sullivan and Ulster.