GRANDSONS OF ITALY IN AMERICA

Minutes of March 4, 2006 Meeting

Sgt.-at-Arms Greg Holzer called the meeting to order. Past Pres. Joe Picarella led the membership in the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer. A moment of silence followed for our deceased brothers, those that are ill, especially Frank Valentino, Chicky Russo and Jimmy D'Arrigo's wife who is in the hospital and those in the services. After which he said a prayer of thanks.

Rocco Telese motioned to accept the Feb. 18th minutes. Carmine Marinelli seconded it. The motion carried. The club's web sight is http://goiia.pbwiki.com/ (case sensitive, all lower case).

Sec. Bill Poleri reported that Lee Pappas has donated the fee for the web site. Vince Carbo who is working with Pappas on enlarging the site reported that work is progressing nicely.

Poleri reminded the members of Pres. Raso upcoming play, a comedy by William Van Zant called "Lie, Cheat and Genuflect." The production will be on March 29-31 and Apr. 1 at 8 p.m. and Apr. 2 at 2 p.m. at Leisure Village in Camarillo. For reservations call Raso at (805) 383-3635. Tony di Milo warned that Leisure Village is a gated community so you have to call. He suggested carpooling. Anyone interested, call him at (818) 907-6777.

Treas. di Milo read the financial report for the Feb. 18th meeting. Income from the Luncheon was $204 and non-eaters, $12 for a total of $216. Luncheon expenses were $300 and gratuity, $19 for a loss of $84. Other incomes were Dues, $280; 50/50, $25, and Rocco Telese's donation of his 50/50 winnings, $25. Expenses were Postage, $48. The balance is $1917.64. Ronnie La Barbera motioned to accept. Nick Oliver seconded it. The motion carried.

Treas. di Milo announced that today was the deadline for dues. He reported that 20 members haven't paid their dues yet but he has had promises of the checks being in the mail. John Murgo said it they don't pay today they are out.

di Milo also reported that today's 50/50 of $90 is the highest ever. He said it was due to the large turnout of which he praises all those in attendance.

Sec. Poleri turned the meeting over to Past. Pres. Picarella.

Past Pres. Picarella thanked all the members who showed up today. He said that it hurts him to see the club dwindling, having heard of the poor attendance at recent past meetings. "This club has been around since 1989 with several of the founders and early members being here. He named Leo Matranga, John Murgo, Joey Dorando, Tony di Milo, Bill Poleri and others. He spoke of the club's heritage, culture, and camaraderie, saying we have something beautiful. It has to be kept up, he added. Chicky Russo yelled "keep it together." Picarella finished with "don't let it go."

NEW BUSINESS: None.

OLD BUSINESS: None.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Dax Litto announced that he is shooting a film and will be needing men as extras on upcoming weekend shoots. Anyone interested should contact Litto at (818) 785-7270.

Bill Bellows won the 50/50 and donated his $45 winnings to the club

Past Pres. Picarella adjourned the meeting. The next meeting will be at 11:30 a.m. on March 18th at Villa Sorrento followed by the April 1st meeting. Submitted by Sec. Bill Poleri

Addition to the Directory: Ian Castellucci

1163 Cherokee St.

Topanga CA 90290

(818) 884-0911 (H)

(415) 640-4697 (B)

sirlucci@aol.com