The Sons of Italy-Columbus Lodge #2143 President Tony Ragno announced the scholarship journal committee is currently engaged in preparing the lodge's annual scholarship journal, which benefits graduating high school seniors from Bethpage HS, Farmingdale HS, Massapequa HS, and Plainedge HS who are enrolled in a college program the following fall.

The 18 scholarships are awarded to students of all nationalities who might not qualify for Merit Scholarships, but are deserving of financial assistance. To fund the scholarship program the Columbus Lodge publishes a scholarship journal. Those who wish to make a donation, and/or sponsor an advertisement in the scholarship journal are encouraged to call Al Parise at 799-2607 or Pete Gisonda at 798-3972.

In the 2003 journal there will be a special remembrance for those affected by the tragic events that transpired on September 11th. "These local heroes shall be honored in our journal and remembered in our hearts for their ultimate sacrifice," said journal chairman Al Parise.

The Columbus Lodge #2143 is a not-for-profit fraternal organization and member of the Order Sons of Italy in America. The Lodge offers its members various social and recreational activities, as well as community and charity involvement. For more information on becoming part of this organization one may telephone Steve LaScala at 735-2535.