GRANDSONS OF ITALY IN AMERICA

Minutes of October 16, 2004 Meeting

Sgt.-at-Arms Greg Holzer called the meeting to order. President Joe Picarella led the membership in the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer. A moment of silence followed for our deceased brothers and those that are ill, especially Frank Valentino, and those in the services.

Leo Matranga motioned to accept the minutes for Oct. 2. Jimmy D’Arrigo seconded it. The motion carried. The club’s web sight is: http://leejpappas.com/goiia.htm (case sensitive, all lower case).

Sec. Bill Poleri announced that he received a phone caller from Liz Taylor, not the motion picture star but a TV food program producer who is looking for Italian-American woman to judge a food competition show. Poleri said Taylor added that she would accept men if enough women couldn’t be found. There will be two shows with competing chefs on Monday night at 5 and 7 p.m. at a studio restaurant. The judges would receive free parking, free food and $50. Anyone interested should call (203) 436-2988, ext. 207, today, Sunday or Monday.

Treas. di Milo read the financial report. Incomes from Oct. 2nd meeting were Luncheon, $299, and non-eaters, $30 for a total of $329. Luncheon expenses were $329 and gratuities $27, for a loss of $17. The treasurer explained that he erred by tipping the waiter twice last time. Other income was 50/50 winnings, $25; a misc. donation, $7, and Dues, $630. Other expense was postage, $46. Balance is $3421.28. Holzer motioned to accept. Sal Pacino seconded it. The motion carried.

DUES ARE NOW DUE.

di Milo reminded all that the club’s picnic is set for Sunday Oct. 24 at Crestwood Hill Park in Brentwood, from noon to 4 p.m. He said only 14 persons had signed up so far, but he got a lot of maybes. He stressed that Poleri and himself need to have accurate counts by Tuesday so they can buy the food. Matranga urged members to get with it because these guys have a tough job. di Milo replied that remark came from a guy who hasn’t made his reservation yet. To make reservations call (818) 907-6777. Adults, $5; Kids under 16 free.

NEW BUSINESS: Outgoing President Joe Picarella praised G.O.I.I.A. and its members. He said that the guys are nice and he loves being in the club. He added that he enjoyed being president these past five years. Picarella will be leaving the area at the end of the year for Washington but he said he will drop by now and then as a guest when he’s in the area visiting family. He thanked the staff, saying they did well during his tenure. He again announced that he would treat members to lunch at the last meeting of the year. He claimed it’s cheaper then paying the postage Christmas cards.

Past President Picarella then introduced the new president, Vinny Raso, saying that Raso “will now be yelling at you.”

President Raso said he didn’t have any mikes so he passed out empty toilet paper rolls to Matranga and John Murgo, saying that the rolls are their toot-a-tooters since they interrupt meetings so much.

The new president said he’s only been a member for three years during which time he found the club a pleasure, adding he loves the group. He mentioned that he and Karen, his wife, would continue to participate in the club’s events by performing their music.

President Raso said he would work on gaining recognition for the club. He said it needs more respect and to become better known to the public. “We should participate in parades and other events as a group.” He suggested more prominence for the club. He proudly said that G.O.I.I.A. has a big heart by giving to several charities. He feels that we should look into sponsoring some Italian-American needy youngster, one that the club could take care of. He repeated that the members are a great bunch of guys and he will do his best for the club.

He finished with an elegant thank you to the man who got him into the club and who nominated him for president. Raso said he is honored that Frank Valentino got out of his sick bed to be involved in his installation. Valentino received a big hand.

There was also a big hand for both the Outgoing and Incoming Presidents.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Vice President Steve Loyacano apologized for his behavior at the last meeting.

Brother Mike Ardizone reported that he was scheduled to go to Iraq this coming Tuesday but his outfit has enough NCO’s that he won’t be going there now but he might be going in January.

Pres. Raso adjourned the meeting. The next meeting will be at 11:30 a.m. on Nov. 6th at the Villa Sorrento, followed by the Nov. 20th meeting.

Submitted by Sec. Bill Poleri