The local chapter of the Order of the Sons of Italy in America is inviting applications for the Elena Buonpane Memorial Scholarship to aid students of Italian heritage or students interested in Italian culture to further their education.

Two scholarships of $650 each are to be awarded for the academic year 2010-2011 to be used at any college or technical school. Funds may be used for books or tuition and are sent to the school of the student’s enrollment upon notification. Residents of Clallam and Jefferson counties, in high school or college, are eligible to apply.

Applications are available at local high schools and Peninsula College’s counseling offices or by calling Don Zanon at 452-8677.

Criteria for eligibility are Italian heritage; Clallam or Jefferson county residency; evidence and name of college or technical school enrolled in or applying to; and a written essay of 200-500 words.

To apply, fill out an application along with the written essay and send to: Order of Sons of Italy in America, Attn: Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 3089, Port Angeles, WA 98362.

Deadline for written applications is May 24.

Read more about the national Order of the Sons of Italy in America group at www.osia.org.

The local chapter of the Order of Sons of Italy in America was established in 1999 with membership from Jefferson and Clallam counties. The OSIA is a fraternal/social organization bringing together persons of Italian heritage and/or interest in order to foster and enhance awareness of the Italian language and culture in the community.

Association members meet monthly and have chapters throughout the state and country.

This scholarship is named for Elena Buonpane, a charter OSIA member and longtime resident of the Forks area, who died recently.