LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 46th Anniversary of Cellini
Lodge No. 2206, Order Sons of Italy in America

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body, in keeping with its
time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those organiza-
tions which foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural
diversity which strengthens the fabric of the communities of New York
State; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 46th
Anniversary of Cellini Lodge No. 2206, Order Sons of Italy in America,
to be celebrated at its 46th Annual Scholarship/Charitable Benefit
Dinner Dance on Friday, April 4, 2014, at the Chateau Briand, Westbury,
New York; and
WHEREAS, This singular evening also features Cellini Lodge No. 2206,
Order Sons of Italy's salute to its forbears, "2014 - The Year of Itali-
an American Culture in the United States," recognizing the Lodge's 46
years of achievements on behalf of the Italian American community, and
paying special tribute to three individuals designated for special
honor; and
WHEREAS, The Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA) encourages the
maintenance of Italian culture and language, as well as the assimilation
into American social and political life; it has sponsored a wide variety
of programs in furtherance of its mission, as well as countless Italian
heritage events; and
WHEREAS, The Order Sons of Italy in America was established in New
York City on June 22, 1905, by Vincenzo Sellara, M.D., and a small group
of other professionals; for almost 109 years, the Order Sons of Italy
and its many local Lodges have been of service to the Italian American
community throughout New York State and the Nation; and
WHEREAS, Cellini Lodge No. 2206, OSIA was founded in 1968 in New Hyde
Park, New York; 46 years later, with a vibrant membership of 387 indi-
viduals, it is one of the largest lodges of OSIA in New York State,
attracting members from other areas because of its demonstrated commit-
ment to and engagement with the New Hyde Park community, promoting
education, culture, and charitable giving; and
WHEREAS, Through its Cellini Charitable Foundation, this venerable
organization assists the Italian American community in a variety of
ways, supporting many charities, scholarships, and Italian culture and
language school programs; and
WHEREAS, As Cellini Lodge No. 2206, OSIA looks back on its sparkling
history with just pride, it also recalls the founding of the Order Sons
of Italy in America itself, as well as that of the Grand Lodge of New
York; and
WHEREAS, Cellini Lodge No. 2206 is part of OSIA's rich tradition of
service, advocacy, and cultural pride; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body salutes all of the individuals, past
and present, who have given their time to this worthy organization,
noting their commitment to enhance and improve the quality of life in
their community; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 46th Anniversary of Cellini Lodge No. 2206, Order Sons
of Italy in America; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Cellini Lodge No. 2206, Order Sons of Italy in America.