The 4th of July is really the beginning of summer. Farmers markets are full of beautiful fruits and vegetables. Safe family and friend picnics in the beautiful outdoors are being planned. I always look forward to fireworks, but with COVID restrictions we may be limited to laser light shows or watching fireworks on TV.

We can continue to list the restrictions we have lived through, but each day brings a healthier environment that will result in ongoing freedoms. I for one want to celebrate the fact that California has been successful to cap the terrible numbers of infections to a livable percentage. It has been through sacrifices of personal freedoms, but we all did the right thing. We are still wearing our masks when necessary. We got our COVID vaccines to help keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. We have gone without the great Italian comradely and the delicious Italian dinners at the Colombo Club.

Well, the Club is finally opening with health restrictions, but we build on this and know we will be back to a resemblance of normal soon. Our women’s auxiliary is planning future meetings and dinners. The men have already begun paving the way for a safe and healthy environment.

Hoping we all celebrate our freedoms and our blessings and our wonderful spirit of America.

May we think of freedom, not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right.

Che Dio benedica l’America e che Dio ci benedica.