Over the last 30 years Thanksgiving has taken on a special meaning for the leadership, and many of the members, of Local 38. Along with the family traditions of Thanksgiving, many Local 38 officers, members and friends have found themselves at Golden Gate Fields, spending their day paying more attention to horses than turkeys.

     That’s because this year marks the 30th running of the Joseph P. Mazzola Memorial Horse Race, honoring the life and achievements of former Local 38 Business Manager Joe Mazzola. 
The 30th Annual Joseph P. Mazzola Memorial Horse Race will be held on Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 22, beginning at 11:15 a.m., and including a full Thanksgiving turkey luncheon. 

     “This is a very special celebration to our family and to our union,” said Local 38 Business Manager Larry Mazzola Jr. “Joe Mazzola was far more than just my grandfather. For almost 70 years Joe Mazzola’s vision has guided Local 38 to become one of the premiere local unions, not just in the pipe trades or the United Association, but in any trade throughout the United States and Canada.”

A CITY BOY WHO LOVED THE COUNTRY 

     Joe Mazzola, the Local 38 Business Manager from 1952 until his untimely death in 1989, was raised in New York, but developed a strong affinity with horses and the outdoors early in life. Raised in an orphanage, Joe was often “farmed out,” sent to neighboring farms to work for the day to help earn money for the orphanage. It was during that work that Brother Mazzola developed a deep love for the country, the land, and for horses.

     In later life when he was busy leading one of the premiere building trades unions in the country, that love led him to found—along with his union brothers and sisters—the Konocti Harbor Resort and Spa, and for the sons and daughters of Local 38, Camp Konocti. Then when he had time it led him to the track. 

30TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL RACE

     This year marks the 30th Annual Memorial Horse Race. Over the years it has become a popular event, attracting members of the Mazzola family as well as old family friends and long-time Local 38 members. 

     Admission for the event is $51 per adult and $20 per child age 4-17. Children under four are free. Admission includes parking, a turkey lunch, a program and admission to the track. 
If you are interested in attending the race, please fill out the accompanying form and return it to the Joe Mazzola Memorial Horse Race, c/o Lisa Andrini, 1621 Market St., San Francisco CA 94103, along with a check payable to Larry Mazzola Jr. for your tickets. Your tickets will be mailed to you prior to the race date. 

      “I want to personally invite everyone who enjoys racing, or just wants to join us in celebrating one of the great joys of Joe’s life,” said Mazzola Jr. “It’s always a fun day, and a unique way to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday.”