The Vincenzo Bellini Lodge No. 2519, a cherished Italian cultural organization in Chico, California, has officially closed after nearly 45 years of service to the community. The final meeting took place on January 15, 2025, at the Sicilian Cafe, a location that holds sentimental value for many members, including its founder, Antonio Lucido.
The lodge, established in 1982 under the umbrella of the Sons and Daughters of Italy, began as a small gathering aimed at fostering connections among Italian-Americans in the region. Over the years, it flourished into a vibrant community hub, hosting events like spaghetti dinners and charity fundraisers, reaching a peak membership of 150 individuals. However, as time passed, membership dwindled to approximately 40 active members.
Sal Aiello, who joined the lodge shortly after its founding and served as president for a decade, reflected on his experiences, stating, “It made me feel like I was home.” His journey with the lodge began serendipitously when he responded to a classified ad, leading to a phone call with founding member Marie Del Carlo, who recognized his Italian heritage.
As members gathered for the last dinner, there was a palpable sense of nostalgia. Many shared stories of their favorite events, like the annual spaghetti feed that included the labor-intensive task of hand-making 2,500 meatballs. These events supported local charities such as the Chico Housing Action Team and Chico Meals on Wheels, which are now at risk of losing vital support due to the lodge’s closure.
The decline of the Vincenzo Bellini Lodge is not an isolated incident. According to the Survey Center on American Life, American civic life has experienced a significant decline since the mid-20th century. The report highlights fewer opportunities for community engagement, with younger generations increasingly turning to social media for interaction, leaving traditional social organizations struggling to attract new members.
Debbie Rossi, who served as the lodge’s financial secretary for 25 years, noted the challenges of maintaining membership. “There’s no younger members to take our jobs,” she remarked, emphasizing a broader trend of disengagement among youth. Rossi expressed concern that fewer young people participating in social groups could lead to a decline in charitable contributions and community involvement.
The issue extends beyond social trends; it also reflects changing family dynamics and cultural identities. For Michael Colletti Smith, whose children are of mixed heritage, maintaining a connection to Italian culture has become increasingly challenging. “Now, my kids are a quarter,” he shared, highlighting the difficulties of instilling a sense of cultural pride in future generations.
Despite these challenges, many members expressed a commitment to preserving the friendships formed over the years. As the lodge concluded its final meeting, plans emerged to continue gathering informally and potentially join other Italian organizations in nearby areas, such as Shasta.
Lauri Aiello, who is not of Italian descent but felt welcomed by the lodge, emphasized the inclusive spirit of the group: “Nobody was ever singled out for not being Italian.” This sense of community, built on shared values and cultural celebrations, has been a hallmark of the Vincenzo Bellini Lodge.
As the members shared one last meal of calamari and salami, they acknowledged that while the lodge may be closing its doors, the friendships and memories will endure. The impact of the lodge on the Chico community will be felt for years to come, as its legacy lives on in the hearts of its members.
