Sons of Italy-Columbus Lodge #2143 President Frank Musarra last week presented Kelsey Durken, director of development for the New York Easter Seals Society, with a $500 donation at the Columbus Lodge building in South Farmingdale.

Among those on hand for the presentation were Columbus Lodge First Vice President Anthony Ragno, Past President Armond Vella, Lodge members Ed Bocynski Jr., Pete, Gisonda, Daron Tripoli, Frank Salamone, and several members of the Lodge. "This donation will provide the funds necessary to send a disabled child to camp," said Kelsey Durkin.

In addition to their donation, the Columbus Lodge #2143 members will participate in the Easter Seals Softball Classic 2000 on Saturday, July 29 at Cantiague Park in Hicksville. Last year's event raised over $15,000. For more information regarding sponsorship or participating in the event, one may contact Easter Seals' Kelsey Durkin at (212) 572-6227.

For over 80 years, the Easter Seals Society has provided expert services that are community-based and community-driven. These services include child developmental center, elementary and secondary educational services, and recreational camp for disabled children, loans of special equipment (e.i. braces, crutches, wheelchairs, and hearing aids).

From childhood through their adult years, the Easter Seals Society provides employment training and placement services for individuals with disabilities, counseling and support groups, medical treatment and prosthetic care. "It's a wonderful organization," said Pete Gisonda.

For over 35 years the Columbus Lodge #2143 members have provided community service for those in need. Among the other charitable organizations which benefit yearly from the efforts of the Columbus Lodge membership are the Alzheimer Association, Arthritis Foundation, the Boy Scouts, Coolies Anemia, Farmingdale Hawks, Gift of Sight, the Ronald McDonald House, Nassau County Special Olympics, OSIA Foundation, Telecare, and Winthrop University Hospital.

The Columbus Lodge #2143 is a not-for-profit fraternal organization and a member of the Order Sons of Italy in America. Located at 2143 Boundry Avenue in South Farmingdale, the Lodge offers its members various social and recreational activities, as well as community and charity involvement. For information on becoming a Lodge member, one may contact Pete Gisonda at 798-3972.

Other OSIA news: Arthritis Foundation's Jeff Jackson has tentatively set Sept. 9 for the 3rd Annual Sons of Italy-Arthritis Foundation Celebrity Benefit Game, featuring UWF Wrestling Champion Sonny Beach. 97.5 WALK-FM's David Weiss will broadcast the game.