Weirtonians learn about senior living

Lisa Conti, executive director of the Wyngate Senior Living Community, was the guest speaker at a recent meeting of the Weirtonian Lodge 183 Order Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

Wyngate, located at 100 Wyngate Drive, provides services for residents in an independent living atmosphere or in assisted living. Cottages in the independent area are single-story, ranch-style homes with a variety of activities, trips and special events planned, promoting the mixing of people.

Conti stated the assisted living area promotes home-like surroundings, private apartments and a well-balanced program of social events and entertainment. A team approach is used with a resident, family physician and staff participation. Residents are encouraged to he independent as well as self-sufficient. She also explained in detail costs, and involvement of Medicare and Medicaid.

A graduate of Madonna High School, Conti completed her college courses at Shepherd College and received her Master's Degree from West Liberty State College. She has been in nursing for 32 years and held positions in home health care and as an administrator at Weirton Medical Center. She is married to Chris Conti and they are the parents of one son. Salvador.

The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence for deceased members.

Principles of the Order were read on "Liberty" by Louise Enrietti; "Duty" by Chuck Kittle; and Unity" by Dino Martini. Minutes were read by Thelma Kittle and Ann Yuhas gave the treasury report.

John Grossi, vice-president of the West Virginia/Ohio District, recognized member Tony D'Ulisse, who will be honored as the "Italian-American of the Year" at the Upper Ohio Valley Italian Festival Kick-Off Dinner on July 17 at Wheeling Island Hotel, Casino and Racetrack.

A donation was made to Al Ruggieri, host of the Italian program on WEIR?on Sunday mornings who has headed a relief fund on behalf of victims and families suffering from the earthquake in L'Aqila, Italy.

The Chester P. Grossi Golf Tournament is scheduled for June 25 to 27 at the Reserve Run Golf Course in Boardman, Ohio. Grossi was instrumental in organizing the tournament for over 35 years. A?scramble will be played Saturday with dinner in the evening at the Holiday Inn. The weekend will conclude with brunch on Sunday where prizes will be awarded.

Election of officers for 2009-2010 was conducted. New officers are John Grossi, president; Lou Sera, past president; Joseph DiBartolomeo, vice-president; Thelma Kittle, recording secretary, Maria DiBartolomeo, financial secretary; Ann Yuhas, treasurer; Mary Longhi and Connie Bernardi, ceremonial officers; Gabriel Arlia, sentinel; Frank Notni, national officer; Louise Enrietti, orator; Irene Grossi, publicity; trustees, Frances Butcher, chairperson; Trent Ciarrocchi, Mario Patrizio, Helen Ferrari, Dolores Proakis and Jim Fulciniti; and Agnes Watt, sunshine chairperson. John Bertone of Irwin, Pa., serves as national councilor.

Bill Marino awarded the half and half proceeds to Martini. Because of the golf tournament, there will be no June meeting.

The annual lodge picnic will be held at Marland Heights Park on July 27. Members will be contacted to note the change of location and time.