Caffè con Buona Fortuna: Where Conversations Become Connections
Saturday, April 18, 2026
By Diana Mancini
On April 18, Buona Fortuna Lodge gathered for another meaningful morning of Caffè con Buona Fortuna—where conversations turn into connections. With new members welcomed, stories shared, and even a special collection of Italian travel books passed along, the spirit of la famiglia was on full display. As we look ahead to a full month of events and preparations, here’s a look back at what made this gathering so special.
On Saturday, April 18, Buona Fortuna Lodge gathered at The Drowsy Poet for another meaningful morning of Caffè con Buona Fortuna—where coffee is simply the backdrop, and connection takes center stage.
Led by our Emissari, Andy Fricano, along with Membership Committee members Joe Lorette and Tina Radosevich, the morning brought together both familiar faces and new connections. We were especially pleased to welcome Perry Doggrell, joining his daughter Sydney as part of our Buona Fortuna Family.
As we look ahead, please note we will pause our May Caffè con Buona Fortuna as we shift to all hands on deck in preparation for Gallery Night on May 15—a major community event for our Lodge.
But before that, we have several opportunities to gather:
- Tuesday, May 5 – Annual Blue Wahoos Baseball Outing, where this year we celebrate la Mamma. Tickets are still available, so be sure to reserve your seats.
- Saturday, May 31 – Day at the Shore, our annual picnic-style gathering and a perfect way to enjoy time together along the water.
And don’t forget to join us for our next General Lodge Meeting on Thursday, May 14, as we continue to celebrate our members, share updates, and grow together as a Lodge.
Returning to the morning itself—what makes these gatherings so special isn’t just the setting, it’s the experience. Each Caffè is different. Each conversation is unique. Every person brings their own story, perspective, and piece of Italian heritage to share. Without the structure or distractions of larger events, these moments allow for something deeper—authentic connection. It’s truly one of the best ways to get to know a member, to listen, to laugh, and to build the kind of friendships that define our Lodge.
Adding to the spirit of sharing, Andy brought along a collection of Italian travel books—a personal library he has gathered since joining the Lodge in 2008. These books were offered for members to take home and enjoy, continuing the tradition of sharing experiences, memories, and a love for Italy.
Thank you to all who joined us:
Ronald Bongiorno, Ralph Caiazza and Georgetta Sharpe, Thomas and Kimalee Dragon, Andy Fricano, James and Donna Giliberto, Rosanna and Joe Lorette, Diana Mancini, Tina Radosevich, Matthew Santillo, David Shepherd, and Susanne Wintz.
Caffè con Buona Fortuna—simple, genuine, meaningful.
This is where la famiglia comes to life.
