Activities

The John Michael Marino Lodge and the John Michael Marino Foundation, Inc., working together through the Culture and Heritage Committee, have built a vibrant calendar of activities that meaningfully enrich both their members and the broader communities of Port Washington, Manhasset, and Roslyn. Their efforts reflect a deep commitment to fellowship, cultural preservation, philanthropy, and community engagement.

For lodge members, the organization offers a wide range of social, cultural, and educational experiences that strengthen camaraderie and connection. Members have enjoyed memorable outings such as performances of The Three Tenors at Tilles Center, attending La Bohème at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, group dinners at local restaurants, baseball games, and participation in New York State Grand Lodge events—many of which are made more accessible through discounted tickets provided by the Foundation. Additional initiatives like the “Dine Around” fundraiser for Cooley’s Anemia demonstrate how social gatherings are paired with meaningful causes.

Lodge life is further enriched through regular lodge meetings that often include shared meals, fostering both tradition and fellowship. Members are also actively involved in supporting important community fundraisers, including La Festa di San Giuseppe, which benefits St. Peter’s and Our Lady of Fatima outreach programs. Beyond participation, members contribute creatively by writing articles and sharing family recipes in lodge publications, helping to preserve and pass down Italian-American traditions.

For the broader community, the Lodge and Foundation have established themselves as cultural leaders and active contributors. Signature events such as the Italian Festival bring together families from across the region to celebrate heritage through food, music, and tradition. Educational and cultural programming has included events like “Chef Frank: Meals and Memories with Nonno” at the Manhasset Library, as well as the powerful presentation “Son of Port Washington PVT John Michael Marino: In His Own Words” at the Port Washington Library, honoring the Lodge’s namesake and local history.

In addition, the Lodge and Foundation have taken an active role in preserving Italian-American heritage and history through meaningful civic efforts, including their involvement in the restoration of the Christopher Columbus statue in Mineola. This important initiative reflects their dedication to honoring cultural identity, history, and the contributions of Italian-Americans within the broader community.

Each October, the organizations proudly celebrate Italian Heritage Month with a series of events that highlight the richness of Italian culture. These have included musical performances such as “A Musical Celebration” featuring tenor Angelo Tannuzzo and accompanist Violetta Zabbi, as well as community-wide celebrations held in partnership with the Town of North Hempstead at Clinton G. Martin Park. These events not only entertain but educate and unite the community around shared cultural appreciation.

The Lodge also maintains a strong and visible presence in community traditions by proudly marching in numerous parades each year. These include the Port Washington Memorial Day Parade, as well as Columbus Day parades in both New York City and across Long Island. Through their participation, members honor veterans, celebrate heritage, and demonstrate their ongoing commitment to community pride and unity.

Equally important is the Foundation’s ongoing financial support of the community. Through  grant allocations, the John Michael Marino Foundation provides meaningful contributions to a wide range of local organizations, including the Port Washington Library Foundation, VFW Henderson-Marino Post, Kiwanis Club, Landmark on Main Street, Port Washington Youth Activities, Poppy’s Friends and the Port Washington Senior Citizens Center, and many others. In addition, the Foundation proudly awards numerous scholarships each year to graduating seniors from Port Washington and Manhasset High Schools, helping to support the next generation in their educational journeys.

In addition to these highlighted programs, the Lodge continues to host and support a variety of other activities, including charitable drives, scholarship events, cultural lectures, and collaborations with local libraries, schools, and civic organizations. Their consistent presence at community events and ongoing partnerships reflect a deep-rooted commitment to service.

Together, the John Michael Marino Lodge and Foundation have created a dynamic and impactful presence—offering meaningful experiences for their members while serving as a cultural and philanthropic pillar for the greater Port Washington, Manhasset, and Roslyn communities.