11/28/2024
My name is Andre L. Bay Jr., and I am the grandson of an illegal immigrant.
My grandfather, Ettore Luigi Bai, arrived in the U.S. at 20 years old. He “jumped ship,” changed his name to Hector Louis Bay, and started a new life. After 20 years and 10 children, the authorities tried to deport him—but with a large family to support, he was allowed to stay and became a U.S. citizen in 1940.
Over the years, our families—American and Italian—kept in touch through air mail, then later, with the rise of computers and Skype, our connections became even more personal. I’ve had the privilege of visiting Italy seven times, staying with family in Loano (near Genova) and at my great-grandmother’s farmhouse in Giusvalla, Piedmonte. I’ve never taken a formal tour of Italy—no Roman ruins or big tourist sites for me. Instead, I cherish the time spent with my relatives, in the places they call home.
Some of the highlights of their visits to the U.S. have included seeing my small backyard vineyard, visiting our Sons and Daughters of Italy Lodge in Paulsboro, New Jersey, and enjoying a trip to New York City. These experiences are a testament to the deep roots of family, love, and tradition that have shaped my story—and I wouldn’t trade a minute of it. 🇮🇹🇺🇸
Andre Bay
15-year member
Carmel S. Morina #2580, Paulsboro, New Jersey
Orator: Carmel S. Morina Local Lodge - Present
Trustee: NJ Order Sons of Italy Grand Lodge 2024-Present
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