[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 61 (Wednesday, May 17, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E849]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CONGRATULATING THE SAN CATALDO SOCIETY ON ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY

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                         HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 17, 2006

  Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask you and my esteemed 
colleagues in the House of Representatives to pay tribute to the San 
Cataldo Society of Dunmore, Pennsylvania, which is celebrating its 
100th anniversary this month.
  In 1904, a group of Dunmore residents, recently emigrated from the 
island of Sicily, associated themselves for the purpose of promoting 
goodwill, civic betterment and for the benefit of its members in cases 
of sickness, accident or death from funds collected.
  The early history reveals that these pioneers, bearing the customs 
which they inherited from their native land, but handicapped by a 
language barrier, overcame many difficulties and obstacles in the 
formation of the Societa San Cataldese Cooperativa Di Mutua Saccorso in 
Dunmore.
  In March 1905, a group of 48 men held their first meeting at 
Washington Hall, Chestnut and Comer Streets, and they elected the late 
Rosario Bentivenge as the first president.
  The society continued to progress since its incorporation under the 
laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on May 15, 1906. Meetings were 
conducted at various Dunmore landmarks, including DeAndrea's Hall on 
Willow Street; Lalli's Hall on Willow Street; Naro's Hall on Elm 
Street, and Luzio's Hall on Mortimer Street.
  In 1927, after many years of sacrifices and perseverance by the 
members, the society began construction of a building at 316 Elizabeth 
Street. The same building is still in use today.
  The Italian immigrants who made up the San Cataldo Society 
contributed much to their community, working in various occupations 
including coal miners, construction workers and skilled laborers. They 
served in public office and their descendants served and fought 
honorably in defense of this Nation. Their children, grandchildren and 
great-grandchildren have served the community and the nation becoming 
doctors, lawyers, engineers, judges, construction contractors, business 
owners, nurses, pharmacists and public servants.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the San Cataldo Society 
and its members past and present. Their devotion to their community has 
improved the quality of life and serves as a positive example for 
others to emulate.

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