13769_NIAF_Cov 8/30/12 11:12 AM Page 1 Ambassador The Publication of the National Italian American Foundation

Vol. 24, No. 1 I Fall 2012 I www.niaf.org

ANNIVERSARY 37 GALA PREVIEW

2012 NIAF Region of Honor—Calabria Columbus Discovered What? Debunking an Ellis Island Myth Bestselling Novelist David Baldacci

Ads to Olives—Villa Cappelli

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AmbassadorThe Publication of the National Italian American Foundation

Vol. 24, No. 1 I www.niaf.org Features

On the Cover: Not only is Calabria one of Italy’s idyllic coastal regions, it is also NIAF’s Region of Honor at the 37th Anniversary Gala and throughout 2013. Pictured is the ancient Aragonese castle on Isola di Capo Rizzuto on Calabria’s Ionian coast.

“Ellis Island Changed Our Name” Paul Cappelli Finds Home 13 The myth refuses to die, 39 Going from the art of persua- but lots of facts debunk this sion to the art of pressing olives, longstanding misperception. a Madison Avenue mogul trades By Aliza Giammatteo Manhattan for Terlizzi. By Marco R. della Cava Italian Heritage in Focus 18 Photographer Frank Van Riper Behind the Books with David Baldacci and his workshop students 47 An interview with bestselling view Italy through a camera lens. novelist about writing his latest By Frank Van Riper thriller and being Italian American Sections Discovering Christopher Columbus By Don Oldenburg 23 Unlikely coincidences some- Lettere ...... 4 times forge what we know as Making a Difference: Dino Privitera Foundation Focus ...... 6 history. . . just ask the “Admi- 51 Working pro bono, the ral of the Seas.” Philadelphia attorney, an Ciao Italia ...... 9 By Roberto Severino immigrant and son of immigrants NIAF News ...... 29 from Italy, changed history for America’s political refugees. Books ...... 45 By Sally Friedman On Film ...... 55 Opinion ...... 59 On Sports ...... 61 Crossword ...... 64

AMBASSADOR Magazine is published quarterly by © 2012 The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without written 1860 19th Street NW, Washington DC 20009. permission from the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF). POSTMASTER: Send change of address to NIAF, 1860 19th Street NW, Washington DC 20009. NIAF — 1860 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 Jerry Colangelo, Chairman Tel. (202) 387-0600, Fax. (202) 387-0800, www.niaf.org John Viola, Chief Operating Officer Five Dollars Designed by Barbieri & Green, Inc. Don Oldenburg, Editor Printed by Mosaic. Elissa Ruffino, Director of Communications

ISSN 1000-9999 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:31 AM Page 2

From the NIAF Chairman

If your summer has been anything like mine, ington, D.C. Our annual Gala Weekend is the you’ve been hot and busy. For me, that hasn’t nation’s premier Italian American cultural event. only meant preparing our Gold Medal-winning This year’s new and invigorated format, presti- U.S. Men’s Basketball Team for the London gious honorees and notable guests from around Olympics. NIAF has been busier than ever as well. the world, promise to make this one of the best You probably heard about the success of ever. And we’ll also formally announce NIAF’s NIAF’s East Coast Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street Region of Honor—Calabria—at the Gala! in April, where we unveiled a new and stream- Among the highlights in this issue is a timely lined gala concept that made for an unforget- and ironic history of Christopher Columbus; a table evening. Just before that, in March, we compelling article about one of the biggest held a nostalgia-filled Frank Sinatra Tribute myths about Ellis Island; and a photo-packed Show featuring Tom Dreesen at the Wigwam story about seeing Italy through the lens of a Golf Resort, followed the next morning by the camera. And, don’t miss bestselling novelist Second Annual Chairman’s Golf Invitational … David Baldacci talking about his Italian roots in a perfect day in the sun! In June, NIAF’s West the Books section. Coast Gala at the Fairmont San Francisco turned into a grand evening celebrating our So, as you’re paging through the magazine, shared heritage and honoring individuals who do yourself a favor and renew your membership make all Italian Americans proud. and encourage family and friends to join NIAF! And now’s the time to register for the Anniver-

FROM THE NIAF CHAIRMAN Since then, NIAF has also launched the Italian sary Gala in October (visit www.niaf.org). By American Relief Fund. Inspired by the tragedy attending and sponsoring the gala, you’re help- and destruction caused by the Emilia Romagna ing NIAF fulfill its mission to promote the earthquakes in May, this is a coordinated effort achievements and preserve the heritage of Italian rallying support of all individuals, institutions and Americans, enhance relations between the organizations in the Italian American community United States and Italy, and serve as the voice for to provide immediate response when natural Italian Americans in the nation’s capital. We can’t catastrophes and other disasters occur in Italy. do it alone. Thanks for your generous support. The initiative’s goal is to collect $250,000 in aid for Italy by later this month, so please consider making a donation now. For more information, visit www.italianamericanrelief.org. These events are featured in the magazine’s NIAF News section, along with a must-see preview of NIAF’s 37th Annual Gala Weekend, October Jerry Colangelo, NIAF Chairman 12-13, 2012, at The Washington Hilton, in Wash-

Chairman Treasurer Chairman Emeriti *Jeffrey M. Capaccio Joseph D. Lonardo, Esq. Jerry Colangelo Gabriel A. Battista Dr. A. Kenneth Ciongoli Linda R. Carlozzi, Esq. Giacomo Marini Hon. Frank J. Guarini Robert E. Carlucci Hon. Anita Bevacqua Vice Chairs Secretary Frank D. Stella * Paolo Catalfamo McBride Joseph M. Della Ratta John F. Calvelli Robert S. Cuillo Joseph Moglia Hon. Louis J. Freeh Board Emeriti Giuliana DePandi-Rancic General Peter Pace, Hon. Patricia de Stacy Harrison General Counsel Mario J. Gabelli John A. DePasquale USMC (Ret.) Vincent Viola Arthur J. Furia Richard A. Grasso Joseph DePinto Julian Rizzuto Salvatore J. Zizza *Matthew J. DiDomenico, Sr. John F. Scarpa President Historian Hon. Mike Ferguson Peter Striano Joseph V. Del Raso Hon. Dominic R. Massaro Board of Directors William C. Freda Mark Valente III Ex-officio *Robert V. Allegrini Enrico Gaglioti Executive Vice Presidents Peter J. Arduini Dr. Antonio Giordano Chief Operating Officer Hon. Marie L. Garibaldi Founding Chairman *Kenneth J. Aspromonte Frank Giordano John M. Viola Dr. John P. Rosa Jeno F. Paulucci Maria Bartiromo Kenneth G. Langone Salvatore M. Salibello Hon. Capri S. Cafaro Gerard S. LaRocca *NIAF Regional Vice President WWW.NIAF.ORG 2 AmbassadorAmbassador 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:31 AM Page 3

NIAF : YOUR HERITAGE GOING FORWARD

JOIN NIAF TODAY! GIVE THE GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP! NIAF offers several levels of support to accommodate all contributors. Membership               join NIAF today, or help friends and family join. Call 202-387-0600, email informa-              I would like to join NIAF as: $25 Student (under age 24) $45 Associate NIAF National Council Network Membership Levels: $250 Silver $1,000 Gold $2,500 Platinum Name: ______ / 8046 4 Name: ______Address: ______Email: ______Home Phone:______Business Phone: ______

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4 WWW.NIAF.ORG LETTERE Ambassador standard Italian language was inspired by becauseof my last name, and Icannot sing. my eldest grandson. thingsat once.” It is one of my favorite idioms Three of our grandchil- articleabout dialects. dren in the same family cross.”The idiomatic translation is: “I cannot do two inherited genes from personwhose mind is not as sharp as it used to be. tifullanguage, but difficult to learn for a 75 year-old three grandparents literaltranslation is: “If Ising Icannot the carry Italianlessons. Speaking of Italian of Speaking whose ancestors emigrated from south- Italian,” in the Spring 2012 Ambassador with a great ern Italy. I am the excep- deal of interest. The reason being that I have been taking informal Italian language courses for a few tion and must state this ReaderFeedback years. His article explains to me why I have so much disclaimer. “ difficulty with the language. Idioms are the most diffi- ma I miei antenati non withwhom to talk.” So Istarted to attend informal cult. erano italiani Ithought to myself, “Self, he’ll need someone happen to be the only living grandfather of our adult grandchildren. tospeak his ancestral language in high school. number.submission All phone daytime and address name, your include Please NW,Washington DC 20009. mailto Editor, Ambassador Magazine, NIAF, 1860 19th Street [email protected],by fax to 202-387-0800, or by of“Ambassador Lettere” via e-mail to think.Please send comments and questions with asubject line and may and Ambassadormagazine encourages readers to tell us what you AmbassadorEditorial ContactUs My romance with the Thankyou Professor Severino for enlightening I’mstill taking informal courses. Italian is a beau- Forexample, “ I read Roberto Severino’s article, “Speaking of Ourgrandson decided to take acourse to learn be published in our magazine or on our website, our on or magazine our in published Mi dispiace, .” I presently Se canto non porto la croce la porto non canto Se s become property of Ambassador of property become s --Art Singer (akaArturo Cantante) Chicago .”The Previousissues ofAmbassador are avai www.niaf.org/ambassador/ambassador_magazine.asp. FindPast Issues line subject a with [email protected] e-mail magazine, Ambassador in advertising on information For of “Advertising” or call 202-939-3108. call or “Advertising” of AmbassadorAdvertising content. objectionable remove clarity,to for or edited space be www.niaf.org.may Letters (above),as well as several staff members. As apart- ducedme to the new COO of NIAF, Mr. John Viola concerningItalian-Americans in Utah. She intro- staffmembers of NAIF. printedearlier in the Ambassador Magazine Ipersonally thank Elissa, COO Viola and the other 10years prior. We reminisced over an article Ihad legeof meeting Ms. Ruffino in aprevious visit some recordingof Luciano Pavarotti’s cordiallygreeted by Elissa Ruffino. Ihad the privi- coat,presented me with NIAF cuff links and aCD tovisit the NIAF office building where Iwas inggift, Ms. Ruffino pinned aNIAF lapel on my suit WalterBorla,a Visit to NIAF’s to Visit Headquarters first-generation residentof Helper,Utah,a ItalianAmerican. I have served as served haveI secretary of our of secretary Italian-American lodge,StellaD’America,hometown my62 for in years. Our lodge is affiliatedColumbianyears.thelodgewithisOur FederationItalian-Americanof Societies.served I as nationalaspresident federationthe years,of 16 for retiringpositionfromthe2010.in forapostmaster’s conference, Ihad the opportunity My name isnameMy DearEditor – Whilein Washington, D.C., on March 28, 2012, A very interestingA very and pleasant afternoon, and -WalterL. -- Borla Helper,Utah lableonthe Web at “tiadoro” . 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:31 AM Page 5

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Frank J. Guarini addresses the New York City Media Forum Among the journalists at the NYC Media Forum were Andrea Fiano, Riccardo Chioni and Francesco Tamburini.

NYC Media Forum panelists Stephanie Capparell, Mario Platero, Carol A. Giacomo and Federico Rampini

FOUNDATION FOCUSNIAF’s 2012 Media Forums

Frank J. Guarini, NIAF COO John Viola and Coast to Coast NIAF President Joseph V. Del Raso at the NYC Media Forum

By Don Oldenburg

n April 10, 2012, two days relations between the United Midwest and U.S. movie company before NIAF’s spectacular States and Italy. Pointing out that DreamWorks Animation building a OEast Coast Gala, the Foun- trade between East and West studio in Shanghai. dation launched its 2012 series of dates back to early Silk Road Veteran Italian journalist the Frank J. Guarini/NIAF Media trade between ancient Rome and Mario Platero, U.S. bureau chief Forums in New York City. NIAF the Chinese Empire, Guarini set of Il Sole 24 Ore, questioned, President Joseph V. Del Raso, Esq., the table for an informative and “How can Italy improve economic hosted the event at the Manhattan insightful discussion. ties with China and have direct offices of Pepper Hamilton, his After NIAF Chief Operating investments in the United States?” law firm located in The New York Officer John M. Viola introduced His answer was echoed by that of Times Building. the panelists, Stephanie Capparell, other panelists: While Italy has Topic of discussion: Today’s senior special writer on The Wall established trade growth through manufacturing and trade policies Street Journal’s International Desk, its fashion and food industries, of the United States, Italy and began by examining the American future economic prosperity will China, and their impact on the perspective on trade policies and depend on exporting more of its future global economy. labor practices. She emphasized high-tech products and machin- In his opening remarks, NIAF the importance of “revenue shar- ery. In fact, Italian high-tech part- Chairman Emeritus Frank J. ing,” the new buzzword in interna- nerships already are on the Guarini said the forum’s topic tional trade. Business “partner- ground in the United States, he was appropriate and timely for ships” between the countries, she said, from Fiat’s Chrysler venture NIAF whose mission includes rais- said, is how to create equitable and and Italian rocketry manufactur- ing awareness about “Italy’s stable economies, describing exam- ing for NASA to the Zamperla unique position on the world ples such as China’s investing in Group’s facelift of Brooklyn’s stage” and encouraging close American farming in the U.S. Coney Island amusement park. WWW.NIAF.ORG 6 Ambassador 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:32 AM Page 7

ing merchandise and machin- professionals, was Italy’s new ery—as was Italy once. The former Consul General in San Francisco, La Repubblica’s Beijing bureau Mauro Battocchi, who will chief added, “The Chinese used to succeed Marcelli. be us. Italians were the Chinese Following NIAF President with their recipe of success—low Joseph Del Raso’s introduction, wages, tax fraud and no respect the evening’s speaker, Aili for intellectual property.” McConnon, co-author of “Road During a question-and-answer to Valor: A True Story of World period that followed, Guarini War II Italy, the Nazis, and the moderated as members of the Ital- Cyclist Who Inspired a Nation,” Consul General Fabrizio Marcelli awarding the ian wire service ANSA, RAI Italian told the forum how she and her distinction of Officer of the Order of Merit of TV, America Oggi newspaper, the brother, Andres, researched the the Italian Republic to NIAF Board Member Jeff Italian national business daily story of Gino Bartali, the Capaccio at the San Francisco Media Forum. Milano Finanza, and other media legendary Italian cycling cham- outlets questioned panelists. pion who became a WWII hero. But Platero cautioned that NIAF leadership attending To close the evening, as guests while small- and medium-sized the media forum included finished wines donated by companies are proving to be Robert Allegrini, John Calvelli, Lorenzo Scarpone of Villa Italia competitive in the world market, Frank Cerza, Art Furia, Hon. and dinner with desserts Italian companies are having Dominic R. Massaro and Sal Sali- prepared by Fabrizio Galla and difficulty obtaining reasonable bello. Guests received a copy of Gary Rulli of Ristobar, Marcelli credit rates as they compete with ANSA’s latest photography collec- awarded the distinction of Officer Italy’s main European competi- tion, “ANSA PhotoBook 2011,” of the Order of Merit of the Ital- tor, Germany. generously donated by ANSA for ian Republic to Capaccio, accom- Carol A. Giacomo, editorial the event. panied by a standing ovation.

board member of The New York Two months later, on June 20, The Frank J. Guarini/NIAF FOCUS FOUNDATION Times, focused on foreign policy, the evening before NIAF’s West Media Forums give communica- looking at issues such as the Coast Gala in San Francisco, tions professionals an opportunity unsettled political structure, labor NIAF hosted the second in the to network with colleagues and unrest and wealth gap in China, 2012 series of Frank J. learn about the Foundation’s and how that’s affecting China’s Guarini/NIAF Media Forums at thought leadership initiatives. economic growth. the Italian Consulate in the Through these events, NIAF culti- China also suffers from lack of Pacific Heights area of the city. vates a working rapport with innovation due to its authoritarian Italy’s Consul General Fabrizio members of the media, promotes system, said Federico Rampini, Marcelli, NIAF COO John M. Italian Americans, and examines U.S. bureau chief of La Repub- Viola and Board Member Board important issues that impact the blica, adding that instead China Member Jeff Capaccio welcomed Italian American community has become adept at stealing intel- guests. Also on hand, besides today. Next Media Forum: In lectual property and counterfeit- numerous journalists and media Seattle on September 25. WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador 7 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:32 AM Page 8 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:32 AM Page 9

Fabulous Figs

By Mary Ann Esposito

It is just possible, CIAO ITALIA according to biblical scholars, that the forbidden fruit that Eve succumbed to in the Garden of Eden was not an apple at all but a tempting, juicy, ripe fig.

In fact, the fig tree is referred to as the Tree of in linoleum and old rugs, bend the branches into Life and Knowledge from Africa to the Far East. The the holes, then cover them and hope the tree Bo tree, under which Buddha meditated, was a vari- survived the winter. In the spring, the unveiling took ety of fig tree, a cutting of which is said to be still place and the cycle continued. Harvest season is perpetuating in Ceylon. Fortunately, Spanish explor- mid-June to mid-October. Figs must be picked ripe ers brought figs to America in the 16th century. and do not ripen further once picked. Figs are not only an ancient fruit; they are, Select figs that are plump looking and soft to the along with dates, one of the sweetest. Italy has great touch with no broken skin or seeping sugary juices. affection for figs and wild trees are everywhere one If they look flat and smell sour, they have begun to looks in the towns and villages. Many are well over a ferment and should not be purchased. It is best to hundred years old and stand 100 feet tall. The culti- store them in the refrigerator, and if you have your vated varieties are more manageable and trimmed to own tree with an abundant harvest, you can freeze heights of about 15 feet. figs whole, sliced or peeled, for up to one year. There are hundreds of fig varieties and, here at My fig tree lives in a gigantic terracotta pot in a home, California is the largest producer with most sunny spot outdoors. After harvesting the figs in mid of its harvest sold as dried figs. It takes over six to late September, it is wheeled into the garage, pounds of fresh figs to produce two pounds of dried covered in black plastic and does not see the light of figs. The two most common supermarket varieties day until a warm day in May when it is safe to bring are Calimyrna (large figs with green skin and white outdoors once again. flesh) that grow in Smyrna, Calif., and Mission figs The most classic way to serve fresh figs is with thinly that take their name from the Franciscan missionar- sliced prosciutto di Parma. But fresh or dried figs have ies who cultivated them in California in the 18th many culinary uses. They have enzymes that make century. Calimyrna figs are best eaten dried; mission them a good meat tenderizer because they break down figs are moist and best eaten fresh. the connective tissue and tough muscle fibers. Dried Italian immigrants so loved their fig trees that figs can stand in for other dried fruits called for in they grew them wherever the climate allowed. But recipes such as apricots or prunes. But the best thing to once cold weather settled in, they had to bury the do when fresh figs are in season is to give into tempta- branches. They would dig holes, wrap the branches tion and just enjoy them before they vanish.

Mary Ann Esposito is the host and creator of the PBS Fig Equivalents series “Ciao Italia,” the • 1 pound fresh figs = 9 medium longest running cooking • 1 pound fresh figs = 12 small show in America. She is also • 1 pound fresh figs = 2 2/3 cups chopped the author of 11 books on • 1 pound dried figs = 44 whole figs Italian cooking. Her latest cookbook is “Ciao Italia • 1 pound dried figs = 3 cups chopped Family Classics.” WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador 9 5:15 PM Page 1

13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:32 AM Page 10

Sicilian Fig Cookies (Cuccidatu) Makes 24

Ingredients Directions Dough • In a large mixing bowl, combine 2¼ cups unbleached flour, sugar and baking powder. all-purpose flour Cut in the butter until mixture 1/3 cup sugar resembles small peas. Stir in the ¼ teaspoon baking powder milk and egg until the dough ½ cup frozen unsalted butter, grated comes together. ½ cup milk • Divide dough into two pieces, 1 egg, slightly beaten wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours or until easy to handle.In Cool slightly, then with a sharp Filling a food processor, grind the figs, knife, slice the logs into 1-inch- 1½ cups dried figs, stemmed, raisins and almonds into a thick wide slices. Place on cooling soaked in hot water for 15 minutes, paste. Transfer to a bowl and rack with wax paper underneath drained and cut into pieces add the marmalade, cinnamon the rack to catch glaze drips.

CIAO ITALIA ¾ cup golden raisins and pepper. Set aside. • For glaze, in a small bowl ¼ cup slivered almonds • Preheat oven to 350°F. combine the confectioners’ ¼ cup orange marmalade • On a lightly floured surface or sugar and juice until smooth; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon between two sheets of parch- add the fior di Sicilia and mix Pinch black pepper ment paper, roll each piece of until a glaze is formed that flows Grated zest of one large orange dough into a 12 inch square. off a spoon but is not too thin. • Spread half the filling evenly over • While the cuccidatu are still Glaze the surface of the dough, then warm, dip the tops of each in 12/3 cups confectioners’ sugar roll the dough up forming a log. the glaze, allowing the excess to Juice of one large orange Flatten the logs slightly with your drip off. Place on cooling racks 1 tablespoon fior di Sicilia hands and place them on a and sprinkle with colored sprin- Colored sprinkles parchment-lined baking sheet, kles. Allow to dry completely. spacing them 2 inches apart. • Cuccidatu can be frozen in layers • Bake the logs for 20 to 25 between wax paper for up to 3 minutes until golden brown. months.

Fig and Prosciutto Pizza (Pizza di Fichi e Prosciutto di Parma)

This wonderful pizza gets its pizzazz from fresh figs and prosciutto di Parma, two classics that always taste great together.

Ingredients Directions 4 tablespoons olive oil plus extra • Preheat a pizza stone to 500°F 30 • Spread the onions over the for brushing on dough and pan minutes prior to baking the pizza. dough, then the figs. 1 medium size red onion, • In a small sauce pan, cook the • Place the pan on the hot stone thinly sliced onions in 2 tablespoons of olive and allow the pizza to bake for 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar oil until very soft, then add 10 minutes, then slip the parch- 1 recipe pizza dough vinegar and continue cooking ment paper off the bottom and ½ pound fresh figs, sliced ¼ inch thick until onions are glazed looking. continue baking the pizza for 20 ¼ pound Montasio cheese Allow to cool. minutes. 8 slices prosciutto di Parma, • In a bowl, gently toss the figs • Sprinkle the cheese over the coarsely chopped with 2 tablespoons of the olive pizza and bake 5 minutes or 6 to 8 fresh arugula leaves torn oil; add salt and pepper to taste. until the pizza is nicely browned into pieces Set aside. and the cheese has melted. • Roll out pizza dough onto a • Remove from the oven. Sprinkle sheet of parchment paper. the prosciutto over the top and Recipes from www.ciaoitalia.com Place on a rimless baking sheet. scatter the arugula leaves over and “Ciao Italia Family Classics” • Brush the dough with olive oil the top. by Mary Ann Esposito and set aside. • Cut into squares and serve. WWW.NIAF.ORG 10 Ambassador

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www.colavita.com 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:32 AM Page 12 C t f Th St t f Lib t Elli I l d F d ti I

GetWhen you have more time, you get to seeOld more. You get to do more. You get to share more. You get to make more wrong turns and explore places you might never have gone to. You get to experience more successes. And just as important, more failures. It’s a chance to not just live longer, but to live fuller. Ultimately, your job is to get to work on your dreams. Ours is to make sure you live long and well enough to achieve them.

Share your thoughts and experiences about getting old at GetOld.com

13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:32AMPage13 Courtesy of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation Inc. years there was no one to rebut it.” rebut to one no was there years for a closed was Island “Ellis long: so for thrived, but survived, only not has legend time. same the at optimistic cautiously and it “shake” to attempt an making American, who seemed both thrilled that I thrilled both seemed who American, and a Foundation Island Liberty-Ellis of Statue the of CEO and President Briganti, roots. Italian their tracing help for me call they when scene that to refer still clients Corleone. Vito as known is Andolini Vito on point that from and down name new the scribbles inspector The Corleone. of hometown his of name the for name last Vito’s mistakes Island Ellis at inspector careless the and Sicily Yorkfrom New in arrives Andolini Vito II”? Part Godfather: re-born and … maker.candlestick the butcher,and baker the the as well as it, repeated Dominic Uncle and sounded a for a made It point.) the (Okay, I and a Island, Ellis at overlords evil the by changed was name last their born… is myth A next generation of generation next the to Briganti offered one explanation for why the why for explanation one offered Briganti Remember that famous scene from “The from scene famous that Remember upon a Once That movie came out almost 40 years ago and ago years 40 almost out came movie That “It’s hard to shake the myth,” says Stephen A. Stephen says myth,” the shake to hard “It’s Italian 120th Anniversary wipe out a wipe if it were a it if that but I added the “evil overlords” part, but you get you but part, overlords” “evil the added lot better than the truth, so Aunt Maria Aunt so truth, the than better lot bestseller list? bestseller the Ellis Island Ellis to And try. to Americans Maybe in this year of year this in think we owe it owe we think would’ve spent would’ve time…someone, somewhere, said somewhere, time…someone, so persistent, so so pervasive, so great American myth was born. was myth American great is that myth a you do How century so popular,so can’t, you great story, one that often that one story, great book it book . . . . on its long time, so for so time, long

fellow Italian fellow Our Name Our Changed Island Ellis to Die to Refuses That Myth The was . . .

let’s but article, this in happened.” have couldn’t simply it that know you place, took process whole the how of understanding an have you “when that added quickly he But there. working started he before case” the was that “thought got a you’ve story, along—the passed even heard—or who’s ones the of one you’re if so myth, this of version own their have descendants those of Many Island. Ellis to tor ances- one least at trace can population, U.S. the of “It simply couldn’t have happened” have couldn’t simply “It sailing Albert Konig S.S. the from Ellis at immigrant an processes inspector An would be impossible be would It he that confessed himself Briganti fact, In roughly a or Americans, million 100 About manifest photo: Background 1907. circa Island, By Aliza Giammatteo Aliza By lot of company.of lot highlights. the of some hit Ellis to Naples from to detail the “whole process” “whole the detail to in Island Ambassador 1907 third

Courtesy of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation Inc. 13 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:32AMPage14 14 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador “EllisIsland changed my name because….” soundfamiliar. An ItalianAnimmigrant circa1906-1914. Seeif any of these Top Three Ellis Island Tales (clerk),who assuredly almost spoke the immi- Truth: Tale#3: Anumber of inspectors immigrants were them- communicatewith your ancestor. immigrant’sclothing. Tale#2: Manifestswere created by the ship’s purser todecipher that old, cursive handwriting. thesteamship company and pinned to each wereprepared for that. Someone there could misspelled,it wasn’t done at Ellis Island. passengerswere processed. passengerlist, or appears to have been manifesttag to refer to, which was created by tocome through Ellis Island so you can bet they errorsthat were made years later as people tried Inspectorsmerely checked off the manifest as fests—ever—soif aname’s misspelled on a writtenon the passenger list. They also had the Italianswere the single largest immigrant group mistakespeople find are actually transcription tendocument was produced at Ellis Island. Truth: grantin their verbal interview with what was werequite rare. More often than not, the oralexams in their language(s) of expertise. onthe ship manifest.” seenin the movies or heard in astory, no writ- checkedinformation provided by each immi- shipset sail. So while mistakes did happen, they Allinterpreters had to pass reading, writing and Tale#1: inspector.Contrary to what you might have ibilitywhen you know the facts. Inspectors cross- inthe immigrant’s home country before the butinterpreters were also on staff as aback-up. namesduring processing, and neither did the lotof sense on the outset, but quickly loses cred- grant’slanguage. They were usually completed selvesand knew at least one foreign language, Truth: at EllisIsland,at Thisof those is one myths that makes a EllisIsland did not create ship mani- Theimmigrants did not write their “Myancestor illiterate.” was “Myancestor didn’t speak English.” “Myancestor’s name is written wrong

Courtesy of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation Inc. mentioned.youAnd readwhen the storybelow, intentionallychange them? The answersimple: is janitorin Chicago. spaghetti-eatershere.” cause—ofthe intentional name changes Briganti valueof hard work from his father who was a soproud of their Italian heritage and their names, tobe told almost immediately “we don’t hire Discriminationwas aleading cause—if not isthe son of Italian immigrants. He learned the company.Gildo sat down for the interview, only prejudiceagainst Italians was at an all-time high. meto my core. Karen’s father, Gildo Fato, now 84, the“number one reason” for names being altered. foran interview with awell-known engineering 1800s-1924)and the decades immediately following, thoughthe’d finally made it when he was called in Italiandiscrimination, but Karen Fato’s storystruck names.Briganti says these intentional changes were Hewas proud of how much he accomplished and selves—whochanged the spelling of their own essentialto put them into context. all-tooeager to Anglicize their names. ourbeloved ancestors—the immigrants them- college,earning adegree in Chemical Engineering. wedo now. Anytime we look at historical events, it’s changenames, who did?” The answer may be a you’llsee why many immigrant families were only helpsupport the family. He put himself through bitterpill to swallow: More often than not, it was Theylived in amuch different time and place than “We don’t hire spaghetti-eaters here” spaghetti-eaters hire don’t “We at a job interview.joba at “Gil”afterfacing discrimination GildoFatonameusedthe Gildostarted workingat the age of eight to Whywould our ancestors, many of whom were Duringthe height of Italian immigration (late Asagenealogist, I’ve heard dozens of stories of Youmay be thinking, “So if Ellis Island didn’t the 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:32 AM Page 15

Historic Ellis Island in 1905 Courtesy of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation Inc. Foundation Island of of Liberty-Ellis The Statue Courtesy

“It was like they called him in just to humiliate What a difference a dot makes! him,” Fato commented. While the majority of name changes were inten- Not surprisingly, Gildo stuck with the name “Gil” tional, plenty of unintentional name changes from then on. “Gil” pushed on to earn a law degree occurred as immigrants started their new lives. To while raising a family and working full-time. He was see just how easy accidental name changes could so dedicated to achieving his American dream that occur after arrival, take a look at the ship manifest the librarians nicknamed him “Old Faithful” because image. On line 27, “Famiglietti” is spelled correctly, he showed up every weekend at the same time, like so there was no mistake upon arrival. But sometime clockwork. “Old Faithful” ended up becoming a after Ellis Island, that old cursive handwriting appar- successful patent attorney. He may have lost his given ently confused someone who didn’t notice the dot name, but in the end, it was the company’s loss. on the second “i” and transformed the “gli” into “gh.” And the name was changed to “Famighetti.” What was your name again? Many Italian immigrants were illiterate and spoke Discrimination and the desire to assimilate in limited English. So if they were applying for a job, for their new environment certainly played a big role in example, they might have just handed someone a those intentional name changes, but there were piece of paper with their name written on it instead of other reasons. My Great Uncle Al Giammatteo, seen spelling it. All it took was for one person to misinter- in the photo playing golf with President Dwight D. pret the writing and a name could be forever changed. Eisenhower, changed his surname to Jamison to make it easier to make his way in country club circles. The height of discrimination against Italians had passed, and with his natural talent for golf, he probably could’ve made it keeping the name Giammatteo, except for one crucial thing: How do you make a name for yourself if nobody can say or spell This 1898 ship manifest proves that Michele your name? So Jamison it was. Famiglietti’s name (line 27) was correct at Ellis Quite a few immigrants, or descen- Island. The name change to “Famighetti” occurred dants of immigrants, changed their sometime after his arrival. Image courtesy of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation Inc. names for similar reasons, even if they weren’t playing golf with the presi- dent of the United States. It just made life easier. And especially during tough times like the two world wars or Al Jamison (formerly Giammatteo) the Great Depression, anything that playing golf with President Eisenhower made life easier was a good thing. at the Marine golf course in Quantico, Va., circa 1954 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador 15 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:33AMPage16 16 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador othershim, like is to tell their real stories. So for humiliationthey endured, was not down passed to aboutas aofresult the trials and tribulations they She can be reached at: [email protected]. [email protected]. at: reached be can She that.The best way to honor Gildo Fato, and all the American publications across the United States. States. United the across publications American betterlife. Often, the storyof their struggles, the werechanged, that change in all likelihood came forthem, and it’s high time we did. We owe them syndicated columnist and guest writer for Italian Italian for writer guest and columnist syndicated table.They did it so we could have achance at a pricefor that forgetfulness. If our ancestors’ names firm headquartered in Las Vegas, NV. She’s a a NV.Vegas, She’s Las in headquartered firm comesto history and they often end up paying a changetheir names so they could put food on the talefor the missing facts. genealogist at Roots in the Boot, an Italian heritage Italian an Boot, the in Roots at genealogist muchbigger than that. neverknew the real storyso we substituted the fairy theywere not always welcome. recordstraight. myththrived for so long, in large part, because we me,or you, or even Ellis Island, for that matter. It’s inanew world in anew language—a world where one’sname was changed at Ellis Island, set the sothey kept them to themselves. The Ellis Island recordstraight as afamily historian, this isn’t about sufferedas newcomers trying to navigate their way theirsake and ours, the next time you hear some- us.They didn’t want to burden us with those stories Right:EllisTheIsland Museum 1990. in Why it matters it Why Above:Immigrants arriveEllisIsland.at Butwe have the facts now. We can tell that story Peopletend to have ashort memory when it Manyimmigrants had to swallow their pride and Aliza Giammatteo is the owner and lead lead and owner the is Giammatteo Aliza Asmuch as I’d love to finally set the Ellis Island PhotoscourtesyStatueTheLiberty-Ellis ofof IslandFoundation Inc. For moreinformation,For visit:http://rootsintheboo helpdiscover tellyourandstory. Let the Roots in the Boot team of professionalBootteamoftheRootstheLetin genealogists expressliketoheartfeltour gratitudeof all to Want to learnWantmoretoaboutyourfamily heritage? GiammatteoBootteam“wouldtheRootstheandinsaysshe in SaltLakeCity,in Utah. one clientonesaid.” from the 2.4 million2.4fromthemicrofilms FamilytheatHistory Library able to ‘lendable(our)toreallyskills domeaningful to work,’as The author,The AlizaGiammatteo, pullinggenealogical records to telltheirtofamily stories. It’sprivilegehonora andan be to visit:www.RootsInTheBoot.com/EllisIsland. fromAmericaAbruzzotoArgentina—who to havetrusted us And for moreinformationforAnd aboutEllisIsland myths, our paisani—our t.com. 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:33 AM Page 17 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:33AMPage18 18 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador PhotosFrankVanby Riper By Frank VanFrank By Riper photographystudentsUmbria in Fran Van RiperFranVanteaching Italian Heritage in Focusin AND F V F ROM RANK IEW Nonnaand meringues in Umbriain H I B IS TALY V HN A EHIND AN S TUDENTS I connectedI with myItalian roots through mycamera. R IPER in Norciain in a porkshopa in Womandogand C AMERA speaking Italian. Still others travel to travel others Still Italian. speaking Italy, connection by studying and then and studying by connection language in the world and make this make and world the in language most beautiful and operatic and beautiful most Others respond to the music of the of music the to respond Others a by told country listening to stories from the old the from stories to listening by roots Italian their with connect study of Italy’s great art and music. and art great Italy’s of study the in themselves immerse bent artistic or academic more a of Those culture Some people, if they are lucky,are they if people, Some picking up bits and pieces of pieces and bits up picking and custom along the way.the along custom zio or a or nonna.

Umbria Photo Workshops

13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:33AMPage19 community,not acarnival- beautyof Umbria’s glorious hill onlybriefly, aliving, breathing while,we’re reveling in the chefsof astounding skill. All the haveleft and Venice becomes, if fabric,ceramic and wood, and fulcity when most of the tourists cheesemakers,artisans of glass, studyof the world’s most beauti- gettingto know winemakers, sima:Venice in Winter.” It’s a dailyphotography and touring, photographsand essays, “Serenis- workshop—throughweeks of becomeour bestselling book of enceUmbria”—the name of the time,as we put together what has Ourgoal each year is to “Experi- observingthe different pace of Venice,two to four weeks at a livingin aplace you love, of sionalpartner Judith Goodman. andItook up residence in canmatch the total immersion of Umbriawith my wife and profes- ledphotography workshops in townsand ancient cities. maskedtheme park. Forsix years before that, Judy Toadocumentarian, nothing Forthe past three years, Ihave providedme with the impetus— itsfoibles and faults). And, it has (whilealso acquainting me with appreciationand love for Italy experiencehas deepened my graphsand words. For me, the ofrecording that life in photo- dailylife there and, in our case, determinedto speak only English. mother lost her Italian and, for immigrantsof the time, they were theUnited States, like so many years after her generation died, no betweenNaples and Bari. Once in diPuglia, a small hill town sisterswere born in Monteleone barely.All of her brothers and NewYork City in 1907. But just CarmellaCasullo, was born in finally—to one language. It was only when Judy and I began working on our Venice book—renting an apart- ment near San Stae for our extended stays—that I began studying at Casa Italiana Language School in Washington. If for no other reason, I wanted to be able to buy vegetables and fish at La Eventually, ine Mymother, the former in our family spoke the parlare Italiano parlare in Perugiain Right:Ancientarches Left:Bevagna trees in Umbriatreesin vineyardCyprusand Above:Sagrantino vitably, my .

Photos by Frank Van Riper stilllove borderson the cliché to say they thereand letting us shoot. or,better, forgetting we were molto simpatico molto dualcitizenship. That ongoing, eitherstanding still for apicture heritage—someeven looking into inevitablyresult in the subject ragazzo am,who eagerly followed their smile, ofthem much younger than I dailylives. Combined with a offellow Italian Americans, most tionof Italian culture. And, if graphpeople going about their there—deepenedmy apprecia- Italyjust weeks after the attacks. photographerseeking to photo- after9/11 as we photographed in dento offer heartfelt condolences Venetianscame up to us unbid- stilltake conversation classes littleItalian was aboon to a throatto think back to how many today,it brings a lump to my Pescaria, Venice’s colorful open-air market on the Grand Canal. Howfriendly are Italians? It AtCasa Italiana, Imet scores Ofcourse, speaking even a Che bella bambina bella Che —youname it) would gliAmericani ,experience—I , but even ,but Ambassador ( cane, 19 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:33AMPage20 20 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador lefttheNews, Daily gone into politicallandscape well. Iwas the gettingto know the American tookanother 14 years, after Ihad scarcelytraveling abroad, but attachmentto the country. Still, it coveringAmerican politics, encedadeeper, more visceral spentmuch of my earlier career throughTuscany, that we experi- pher,journalist and author, Ihad firstin Venice, then by car Judyand Ihoneymooned in Italy, booktour in 2009. encesduring our four-city Italian anywherefor pleasure. onespot long enough to get a orspeaking hesitantly to audi- News.Irarely had time to travel wefinally were able to settle in duringmarket day in Montefalco, spondentof the New York Daily BelowRight:Claudio butcherthe Norciain nistof The Washington Post, that wetraveled—buying groceries laterthe national political corre- Below:DionigiThevineyard Umbria in becomethe photography colum- morecomfortable speaking when Right:Romantic glancePerugiain WhiteHouse correspondent and commercialphotography, and Above:GrapepickerUmbria in nothingelse, it made me feel far Itwas not until 1984, when Asaprofessional photogra- interestedleading photoa in andbook-signing the Italian at column,asked ifwouldI be wehad an exhibition, reception booksigning was at tiny, elegant husbandwasfan a of myphoto aftertravela agent, whose debutedin style. That November, todayprobably came in1998 cameout in the fall of 2008, it moreworkshops in Italy. thatmywife andare I doing bookbecame the catalyst for yet rationfor our book. tionbetween the two ofus. wonderfulreviews. Ultimately, the onVenice inwinter, collabora-a realsense of place, and the inspi- ofother events, as well as some methat mynext book would be fromthe workshop convinced Prosebookstore. There were lots andtouring, but the great photos ingat D.C.’s famed Politics and ballduring that week ofteaching wellas asellout lecture and sign- Notonly did Judy andhave I a tourinVenice during Carnevale. Embassyfor 300 invited guests, as That’sbecause our first very Infact, the impetus for all When“Serenissima” finally Bill and SuzyBill Menardand made us beautifulFattoria Villa del Gelso shopin Bethesda, Md. Owners shop,in October 2010, at the BellaItalia, an Italian specialty Umbria,“just to see how it goes.” 17th-centuryfarm villa in ususe of their fully restored, Billand Suzy graciously offered expandour workshop teaching, Judyand Idiscussed our hopes to all over: one couple from the nearbyAssaggi Mozzarella Bar, as World Bank, another whose encesthat Judy and Ilove. wedding we had shot, a librarian- chocolatier from Connecticut, and key,intensely personal, experi- minutes.Later, over dinner at the a young woman from New York who had been one of my students setthe stage for the kind of low- dozenbooks in what seemed like in Washington. Different folks, different ages,all with the same inCannara, quickly sold out and welcomeas we sold more than a lov fine wine—and, of course, Italy. es: photography, good food, Ourfirst photography work- Our stu Aswith all the workshops that dents have come from

Photos by Frank Van Riper 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:33AMPage21

Photos by Frank Van Riper graphingeveryday Italians who toactually meeting and photo- theirroots, is the time we devote Americansseeking to recover culinarycenter like Bologna, an industrialcenter like Milano, a shopsunique, especially to Italian Umbriamay lack a fashion or region,just below Tuscany, setting.Italy’s only landlocked tour.What makes these work- sionalcontacts. daythis must be Assisi” kind of networkof friends and profes- SuzyMenard’s astounding Andthe pace is unhurried. wecreated, based on Bill and vacation,not aphoto boot camp. duein large part to the itineraries welike to point out, is aphoto madein small quantity, drawn producedgoods, especially foods, theircountry special. This was for needfor pricey equipment. This, anappreciation, even a reverence, andhas retained over centuries, is areso much apart of what makes entrancerequirements and no andbeautiful region does have, likeRoma. But what this tranquil lessa political and financial center Judyand Iteach, there are no artisticcenter like Firenze, much AndUmbria was a perfect Thisis hardly an “if it’s Tues- lecose artigianale —locally and Bicyclistand Cannarain ApartmentbuildingPerugia; in Umbria;Umbrianstill life; run of the famed Biagioli ceramics Venice;Artisanal cheesesin photographthem. studio, we watched an artisan at DellaMadonnadella Salute in the wheel craft an exquisite urn grovesto meet real people and to out of clay—then suddenly slice it Clockwiseleft:fromtopChiesa thetextile factories and the olive spendthe better part atrip of vineyards,the ceramics studios, verdantfields and farms. aftermuseum, we take to the fromUmbria’s abundant and orwhiling away hours in museum giaduring the Chocolate festival, trailingother tour buses in Peru- in h ful spo perfectly uniform were its undulat- glorious textiles emerged from the ing sides. At the family-run din as if by magic. Napolini vineyards in Montefalco, patriarch Matteo Napolini manned a tractor as workers care- fully harvested the famed Sagran- tino grape for some of the finest red wines in all of Italy. And, at the Pardi family textile factory, also in Montefalco, we walked among clat- tering ancient machines and color- In De Sowhere other tours might alf with a wire, to show us how ols of linen and watched as r uta, where we had the been published internationally. His latest journalist and author whose work has documentary and fine art photographer, Frank Van Riper is an award-winning overand over. And so we do. place,this country, this heritage, is “Serenissima: Venice in Winter.” professional partner, Judith Goodman, notto want to return to this book, a collaboration with his wife and wonderfulpictures. More difficult fromour workshop without isavailable www.veniceinwinter.com.at book “Serenissima: Venicein Winter” Andinformation about their photography scheduledfor January 12-18, 2013. (www.TalkingPhotography.com) The Venicein WinterPhoto Workshop,” announced “UnseenSerenissima: enceumbria.com. VanRiper recently Formore information, visit www.experi- scheduledfor October 13-20, 2012. Thenext Umbria Photo Workshopis Itwas difficult to come away Ambassador

Umbria Photo Workshops 21 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:33 AM Page 22 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1211:03AMPage23 Discovering “Admiral of the Seas”the of “Admiral By Roberto Severino Roberto By Nobody ever said ever Nobody certainly not the not certainly Florentine Amerigo Vespucci,Amerigo Florentine history is fair,is history ironically coincides with coincides ironically Christopher Italian early navigators. early Italian celebrating Columbus’ celebrating Columbus Day in 2012 in Day Columbus one of the many great many the of one anniversary 500th the discovery of America of discovery of the death of the of death the of The recurrence of recurrence The Columbus as separate continents. separate as America South and North identified first (above) map Mercator 1538 The Ambassador 23 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:34AMPage24 24 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador Vespuccihad been sent to Spain as a business repre- theeve of Columbus’ history-changing expedition, sometimesforge what we know as history. In 1491, on annalsof history. bus,but after Vespucci, enshrining it forever in the thathe had reached a onlyto South America. Its use became generally discussionssurrounding the all-important planning discoveredin 1492 not after his compatriot Colum- ofPierfrancesco de’ Medici shows, he was convinced tionwas secret, Vespucci may have participated in Portuguesesovereigns. By 1502, as a letter to Lorenzo continents:Europa, Asia and Africa. namedafter an actual living human being. wasreadying his first voyage. Although the expedi- expeditionsunder the patronage of the Spanish or matchthe gender of the then three other known era.”In Seville, Vespucci met with Columbus, who hemispheres“America,” the first and only continent in1497, he organized and led at least four sea-faring Vespucci’sgiven name, written in feminine form to famouspaintings, “The Birth of Venus” and “Primav- MartinWaldseemüller named the new continent landmass spanning the Northern and the Southern emulatehis fellow Italian’s achievements. Beginning derivedfrom forprobably commissioning two of Botticelli’s most mapin which he named the entire newly discovered map,came to be known as America. The name is plishmentreached Europe, Vespucci decided to Pierfrancescode’ Medici, today better remembered Thatnew world, thanks to Waldseemüller’s 1507 pher,Gerard Mercator, issued a more precise world sentativeof the rich Florentine banker Lorenzo of stagesof Columbus’ momentous undertaking. acceptedafter 1538 when the great German cartogra- publishedCurrier1892Ives,byc.& by Dióscoroby Teófilo PueblaTolín, At San Salvador,SanAt W.I., Oct.12th1492,” on the shores of the New World:shoresNewthetheonof “FirstlandingColumbusof Asit so often happens, unlikely coincidences Actually,Waldseemüller’s map applied the name Whennews of Columbus’ extraordinary accom- Whyironic? In 1507, the German cartographer Americus ,the Latinized form of mundusnovus —anew world. journeyVenice from eastward to China, reaching by consensuswithoutand tangible proof, some conjec- reachthe Indies, China, Japan, the riches and of the andmissionaries to undertake along and perilous ously,in the early 19th century, contrary to general purposes:to demonstrate that it was possible to followedthe footsteps of other daring merchants especiallyfor South America. Curi- Aswe know, Columbus’ expedition had two main foralong time refused to accept it, merchantsNicolò and Matteo Polo twice had andtold of his fantastic experiences in “ name,either. Spanish authorities andNova Scotia in 1497. centuriesearlier, the Venetian brothers and reacted. Khan.Marco Polo returned to Venice 24 years later mapmakercreated asmall map GiovanniCaboto sailed toward Newfoundland easyto imagine how he would have obscureGerman town, a ingsome four years later at the court of the Great hehad discovered them. But it is ofhis contemporaries still believed. whohad financed the ship that Italian navigator neverlearned that in arather hithertounknown lands years after histeenaged son Marco on their second trek, arriv- richWelsh merchant, Richard Amerik, provethat the Earth was round and not flat as many valiantcompetitor who visited the footthe fabled Cathay. In 1271, Nicolò took along tured derivedthat the its continent name from a namingthe continent after a FarEast, by ashorter westward ocean route; and to bestowingthe great honor of Butwhy not Columbia—Land of Columbus? Othersweren’t sold on the Columbuscertainly was aware that more than two Columbusdied in 1506, so he ChristopherColumbus Il Milione Il ” 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 11:05 AM Page 25

(“The Million”), a manuscript that was translated that eagerly sought their services and presented into many languages and became an instant best- them with the opportunity to express their genius, seller despite no movable-type press yet. reap financial rewards, and excel within a wider and In general, historians have taken the position more dynamic socio-political context. that Columbus did not imagine that a new conti- Had Italy at that time been a strong and unified nent existed between Europe and Asia, and that he state, its skilled and intrepid explorers—and many died still believing he had reached only the shores others besides Columbus and Vespucci made impor- of Asia, providing easy rationale not to name his tant discoveries on behalf of the nations they served, discovery after him. including Giovanni and Sebastiano Caboto, Giovanni Recently, however, some scholars have argued da Verrazzano, Antoniotto Usodimare and Alvise that by the third voyage he knew he had discovered Cadamosto—would have navigated the unknown for a new continent, an Otro Mundo (Another World), the land where they were born. Modern history as he later wrote in a missive to the King and Queen would have been completely rewritten. Then, besides of Spain. Sailing at the mouth of the great Orinoco Italy’s rich culture spreading even further, the Italian River, Columbus had noticed that, for miles around, language probably would have become among the the ocean water had almost lost its salinity, leading most commonly spoken in the world. him to opine that only a vast land mass could have produced a river so large. On August 15, 1498, he Columbus Revised . . . noted in his ship’s log: “I believe this to be a vast Western cultures for centuries have regarded continent that up to now has remained unknown.” Columbus’ great feat of discovery as a great leap forward for humanity and progress. In recent years, What Might Have Been . . . however, that perspective has begun to undergo a revi- At the end of the 14th century and the begin- sionist assessment. Both in school books and the ning of the 15th, unlike Spain, Portugal, France, national cultural ethos, some historians now credit the Holland and England, each of which were held “Admiral of the Seas” not so much for discovering together by a sovereign under a unified political and America as for launching the Columbian Exchange. military rule, Italy was a much divided, politically A concept coined in 1972 by social historian weaker country. Its sea-faring republics, duchies, Alfred W. Crosby, the Columbian Exchange had principalities and city-states were often at war with positive and, especially for native populations, nega- each other, and all competed for the political and tive effects. Biological and cultural, its consequences economic supremacy in the peninsula. Many Italian since Columbus’ arrival in the New World have been inventors, military and business leaders, scientists, felt in America and the rest of the world. The most explorers, and artists, were drawn to other nations significant consequences were the abundant riches,

Christopher Columbus landing in the West Indies on October 12, 1492; oil on canvas by John Vanderlyn, 1847 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:34AMPage26 26 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador Christianity, or be subjected to “war,fire.” to and subjected Christianity,blood be or to and rule Spanish to Pope, the and King the to immediately submit they that demanded dores, Conquista- the by confronted populations native the to name God’s in aloud read were that “Injunctions” 1514 nonbelievers. A other and Jews of Christianization forced the and land, Spanish from Moors lized civi- highly the of expulsion crusades—the the justify to earlier decades Spain in as theological, and cal politi- both lines, controversial same the along oped devel- population native “heathen” the of tianization Chris- The control. of element additional an added Inquisition, Holy the especially and missionaries, conquest. of war unrelenting also as a also but transportation, or hunting as such purposes ful be a to proved millions. reached abolished, was ery slav- before who, slaves African with losses these ing replac- began owners Plantation defense. natural no had they which against measles, and typhoid pox, small- as such diseases infectious and work harsh to due decimated were century, 16th the of end the by who, Americans Native of shoulders the on fell work plantation demanding The Caribbean. the to duced intro- was cultivation sugarcane 1493, in voyage second Conversely,Columbus’ elsewhere. with and Europe in introduced were beans of varieties and peanuts chocolate, tomatoes, potatoes, (maize), corn as such plants when manifoldly increase labor.forced and enslavement by accompanied often land, native their from cans Ameri- Native of dispossession the and populations, world’s the and Europeans to available became that fauna, and flora new the and metals precious both Even Columbus might have seen himself as a himself seen have might Columbus Even of introduction the colonies, Spanish the in And, The arrival in the Americas of the horse also horse the of Americas the in arrival The supply food its saw Specifically,world the Requerimiento, formidable means of waging a of means formidable mixed blessing. It was used for peace- for used was It blessing. mixed like all “Requirements” or “Requirements” all like cruel and cruel derives from the Greek the from derives which Cristoforo, name Italian given his of form transliteration of the Greek word Greek the of transliteration In Christ.” of “Bearer “ with letters his signed often He Christ. of “bearer” is a and subjects historical and literary many on extensively ten educator. A Severino, a Roberto today.reverberate to continue that civilization our in changes epochal truly motion in set what that’s And discovery. his of world the tell to unknown the to voyage perilous the from back came actually he that is celebrated and remembered be must he which for prophecies. collected of book own his in it included and prediction Seneca’s knew Columbus hairs. thick with inhabitants red-skinned some lived there Atlantic western the in that proclaimed A.D.) 150 (c. Pausanias geographer Greek the And, discovered.” be will land immense an and gates world’s the unlock will Ocean the when come will time “the that predicted “Medea,” tragedy his in A.D.), 30 (c. Seneca philosopher Roman The secret. kept but discovered had Phœnicians the that Atlantic the across sailing of days many of a writes B.C.) Greek word Greek probably,no. is a answer The continent? American The On .journey .the . of conceived even Columbus before shores these reached have may on, so and Chinese, Bretons, Vikings, Phoenicians, the as such peoples, and sailors other years the through ,” a Xferens Georgetown University. Georgetown Italian, of Emeritus Professor However, Columbus’ truly great accomplishment great However,truly Columbus’ 20 (c. Sicilian the Diodorus historian Greek The Was Ground Columbus the first explorer to set foot on the on foot set to explorer first the Columbus contributor to Ambassador,to contributor writ- heregular has mixed, abbreviated, Greek and Latin and Greek abbreviated, mixed, Christos, . . . Mounting evidence suggests that suggests evidence Mounting fabulously vast country to be found be to country vast fabulously native of Catania, Italy,is a Catania, nativeof with , Xferens Christophoros ferens or was conceived himself. conceived was or the X being the Latin the being . phoros stands for the for stands resounding most resounding and means and the New World New the of map 1507 Waldseemüller’s Martin well-known

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13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:34 AM Page 29

N E W S A PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL ITALIAN AMERICAN FOUNDATION

The NIAF’s 2012 Anniversary Gala Preview

Help us Celebrate 37 Years Reserve Your Room Now Friday Night Entertainment When a dedicated group of lead- in the Nation’s Capital On Friday night, experience “A ers of the Italian American community As you know, NIAF will be host- Little Moonlight with Steve Tyrell.” joined together to found the National ing its 37th Anniversary Gala week- Please join NIAF and Grammy- Italian American Foundation 37 years end at the Washington Hilton, one award winning artist as we dance ago, their first NIAF Gala Dinner of the premier hotels in the nation’s the night away to Tyrell’s diverse attracted more than 2,000 guests, capital, located at 1919 Connecti- stylings of jazz, standards, swing including President Gerald Ford, presi- cut Ave. NW, in Washington, D.C. and Big Band. dential candidate Jimmy Carter, vice- By booking your room(s) within You won’t be disappointed as presidential candidate Walter Mondale our room block at the Washington open bar, dinner and dancing are and 150 Members of Congress. Hilton Hotel, you enable NIAF to all a part of the evening’s entertain- Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington continue negotiating the best rates ment. Dress is cocktail attire. Post columnist Mary McGrory wrote on your behalf. You may book your Tickets: $90 each. that never before in history had there reservation directly on the Hilton been a meeting with such political Website or you may call the Hilton power present in one room. at 202-483-3000 and refer to the But that was then and this is now. “NIAF” room block. Ieri, Oggi, Domani! Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow! This year, NIAF invites you to join us not only to celebrate the 37th anniversary of the continued fulfillment of our mission, but to take

stock of our present and project our future. The world is changing;




NIAF is too. Be part of it all!





Reserve your tickets now for NIAF’s 37th Anniversary Gala weekend in Washington, D.C., Octo- W ber 12-13, at the Washington Hilton. 2 This promises to be a star-studded weekend packed with receptions, entertainment, wine tastings, a feature movie screening, seminars and speakers, all culminating with NIAF’s black-tie 37th Anniversary






Gala Dinner. And with our new streamlined Gala format, you haven’t seen nothing yet! 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:34AMPage30 30 WWW.NIAF.ORG 30 Ambassador Education Luncheon: Science and The Economy The and Science Luncheon: Education guished panelists will discuss the revolution of science and technology and its continuing impact on the economy, the on impact continuing its and technology and science of revolution the discuss will panelists guished as well as the future of public and private partnerships between organizations like Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei dei Nazionale Accademia like organizations between partnerships private and public of future the as well as and larger technology corporations like Google. Invited panelists include Professor Lamberto Maffei of Accademia of Maffei Lamberto Professor include panelists Invited Google. like corporations technology larger and Nazionale dei Lincei. Tickets: $70 per person. per $70 Tickets: Lincei. dei Nazionale exciting items, from exotic vacations to this year’s must-have Prada purse! year’sPrada this must-have to vacations exotic from items, exciting and diverse 300 over on bid to able be you’ll p.m., 2 to a.m. 11 From noon. after- Saturday place take again once will Luncheon Auction Celebrity The end, NIAF’sweek- of Gala tradition held dearly and favorite long-time A experiences! Luncheon Auction Venduto!Celebrity Going! Going! NIAF News NIAF The Victoria The Don’t miss out on this season’s must-have fashions and once-in-a-lifetime and season’sfashions this must-have on out miss Don’t J. Mastrobuono Education Luncheon will focus on “Science and the Economy.” A group of distin- Economy.”of group the A and “Science on focus will Luncheon Education Mastrobuono J. rately for $75. for rately sepa-purchasedbe can or Package end Week-the of part as available are tickets Auction Celebrity today! tickets your Reserve seat! your from right Bid sheet! bid that babysitting more No auction. the throughout bids real-time place to iPhone customized a receive will attendee Each bids. your make to technology new using be will Luncheon Auction Celebrity the year Tothis excitement,more even add NIAF Central NIAF autograph her book “My Calabria.” “My book her autograph to hand on be also will Costantino Rosetta more! much so plus ices, serv- Perillo’stravel gists, custom Boot’sgenealo- the expert in Roots fare, Italian and sandwiches deli beer,finest Mike’s Deli’s incredible Italy’sPeroni, of samples feature will Central NIAF services, and ucts prod-culture, American Italian and Showcasing the best of Italian of best the Showcasing 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:34AMPage31 your taste buds ready! buds taste your Valentia’sVibofrom finds Get delicious marketplace. eating while groves lemon and olive overlooking town quaint a to transported be will you Gala, the history. at rich Seated Calabria’sand reflectculture will unique Gala the decor,at treasures.Themenudelicious andand ambianceical geograph- numerous boast Italy,to of it Calabria’s “toe” allows the location AwardsDinner. Gala at Anniversary Situated 37th its at Calabria honoring Honor—Calabria of Region curious, plan on this look into the future. the into look this on plan curious, just organization,or the supporter,to new brand longtime a are you If vision. NIAF’snew exciting discuss will Viola John Officer Operating Chief cans. Ameri- Italian and Italians of needs changing the meet to evolves NIAF as future bright its about learn and survival— NIAF,its and hardships, its successes, its of history the about seminar exciting this for us Join Community.American Italian the for voice prominent and influential an been has NIAF years, 37 For Gala. Ieri,Oggi,Domani Roll out the red carpet for the 2012 NIAF Region of Honor! NIAF will be will NIAF Honor! of Region NIAF 2012 the for carpet red the out Roll NIAF is proud to be celebrating its Anniversary its celebrating be to proud is NIAF Tickets: $20 per person. per $20 Tickets: today! tickets capacity,your buy so limited a has event vineyards.This its and region the of history the as well as wines beautiful these of cies intrica- the discuss will sommeliers and region the of Representatives Honor,of Region Calabria. our from delicacies and wines of selection Tastingyear,This Event.a enjoy Wine NIAF’s anticipated highly Wine Tasting—CalabrianWine Style! NIAF News NIAF Reserve your spot now for now spot your Reserve Ambassador 31 31 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:35 AM Page 32

NIAF News

NIAF to Honor Leaders in Business, Science & Technology, Education, Philanthropy and Sports This year’s list of honorees is exemplary of Italian and Italian American Achievement! Clockwise from top: Geno Auriemma, Head Coach of the Gold Medal-winning USA Basketball Women’s National Team and Head Women’s Basketball Coach at the University of Connecti- cut, will receive the NIAF Special Achievement Award in Sports; Ralph Izzo, Chairman, President and CEO of Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (PSEG), will receive the NIAF Special Achievement Award in Science & Technology; Letizia Moratti, President of Friends of San Patrignano, will receive the NIAF Special Achievement Award in Philanthropy; Giovanni Ferrero, CEO of The Ferrero Group, will receive the NIAF Special Achievement Award in International Business; Mark Del Rosso, COO of Audi, will receive the NIAF Special Achievement Award in Business; and Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei, will be honored as the oldest science academy in the world. NIAF Board Member John F. Scarpa will serve as the Gala Chairman. Visit www.NIAF.org/gala for updates on special guests and celebrities attending the Gala, and for more information on purchasing tickets, becoming a sponsor, and joining the excitement of NIAF’s 37th Anniversary Gala. 32

Other Gala Weekend Activities During NIAF’s Gala Weekend, expect nonstop activities and events, including a screening of Director/actor John Turturro’s latest film, “Passione,” a Conference on Immigration, a Conference on Breast Cancer, a Networking Continental Breakfast, a Member Appreciation Reception, and the ever-popular Chairman’s After Hours Celebration featuring live entertainment and dancing following the Gala Dinner!

Questions? For more information about the NIAF 37th Anniversary Gala and Convention, contact: Weekend Activities: Katie Rictor, [email protected] Gala Dinner: Jerry Jones, [email protected] Young Professional Registration: Michela Greco, [email protected] Luncheons and Friday Night Entertainment Tickets: Youth Professional Seating Discounted Youth Professional Tickets for attendees under age 30 Xavier Atizol, [email protected] are now available for the 37th Anniversary Gala at $250 per person! Or call 202-387-0600, fax 202-387-0800 For more information, email Michela Greco at [email protected]. or visit www.niaf.org/gala today! 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:35 AM Page 33

NIAF News

NIAF East Coast Gala Mixes vice chair Hon. Patricia de Stacy singing the two national anthems, Business and Entertainment Harrison introduced the evening’s the entertainment highlight was NIAF launched its new stream- honorees: “The Bronx Tale” star and American Idol finalist Pia Toscano. lined gala format at the East Coast Academy Award-nominated actor Among the gala guests were Gala on April 12 in New York City. Chazz Palminteri; NIAF Board former Governor of New York Mario The evening began with a cocktail Member and Emmy Award-winning M. Cuomo and Matilda Raffa reception at the Italian Renaissance- journalist Maria Bartiromo; BNY Cuomo; Italy’s Consul General in inspired Cipriani 42nd Street where Mellon’s Senior Executive Vice Pres- New York, Hon. Natalia Quintavalle; NIAF President Joseph V. Del ident Art Certosimo; Pfizer’s execu- U.S. Rep. Michael Grimm; New York Raso, Esq., welcomed the more tive vice president and CFO Frank City Council Speaker Christine C. than 700 guests to the Foundation’s D’Amelio; and Fordham University’s Quinn, NIAF regional vice presidents annual dinner noting the strong Gabelli School of Business Dean Susan Paolercio and Nicholas R. presence of the financial industry. Donna M. Rapaccioli, Ph.D. Caiazzo. NIAF board member and Guests dined on Italian special- Besides Christina Carlucci chief administrative officer at Ameri- ties as mistress of ceremonies NIAF and Italo-Australian singer ALFIO cas, Barclays Capital, Gerard S. LaRocca, served as gala chairman.

Left to right: NIAF President Joseph V. Del Raso, Patricia de Stacy Harrison presenting award to honoree Frank D’Amelio, NIAF COO John Viola addressing the Gala guests

33 Photography Kenneth Rictor Left to right: Honoree Chazz Palminteri and Patricia de Stacy Harrison, Former New York Governor Mario M. Cuomo and wife Matilda Raffa Cuomo with Pia Toscano, Honoree and NIAF Board Member Maria Bartiromo and NIAF Board Member Matthew J. DiDomenico Sr.

Archivist of the United States Keynotes at NIAF Public Policy Luncheon David S. Ferriero, the 10th Archivist of the United States, was the keynote speaker at the NIAF Frank J. Guarini Public Policy Luncheon on June 29 at the U.S. Capitol. Introduced by NIAF Board Member Hon. Anita Bevacqua McBride as the “Collector in Chief,” and the first Italian American to serve as the nation’s archivist, Ferriero mesmerized guests with his own Italian American legacy and stories of finding remarkable documents and genealogical information at the National Archives. A private NIAF event held in collaboration with the Italian American Congressional Delegation (IACD), the luncheon attracted NIAF Council members as well as members of Congress and the Administration, including U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell and U.S. Rep. Mike Capuano.

David Ferriero and NIAF COO John Viola

Photos by Alexandra Dall Anita McBride Italian Embassy Justice Attaché Giannicola Sinisi, Rep. Bill Pascrell and introduces NIAF Board Member Joseph D. Lonardo Ferriero. 13769_NIAF_Text_X2_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/31/12 2:51 PM Page 34

NIAF News Aili and Andres McConnon Below: Joseph V. Del Raso NIAF’s West Coast Gala Bridges Cultures in San Francisco and Kim Polese Celebrating Italian American NIAF President Joseph V. Del “Road to Valor.” heritage and culture in the Golden Raso, Esq., welcomed more than Enjoying the Gate City, on June 21, NIAF featured a 200 guests, and NIAF COO John cocktail reception full slate of distinguished honorees M. Viola, serving as the master of in the hotel’s from Silicon Valley and the worlds of ceremonies, kicked off the evening’s Fountain and design, literature and the environment. awards ceremony. This year’s Crystal Room honorees were: Anna Paola followed by dinner Snaidero, vice president of adver- in the Venetian tising and public relations of Room were members of NIAF’s lead- Snaidero USA; Roberto Crea, CEO, ership, Gabriel A. Battista, Robert founder and president of CREAGRI E. Carlucci, Joseph M. Della Ratta, Inc.; Kim Polese, chairman of Arthur J. Furia, Frank Giordano, ClearStreet Inc.; John A. Legnitto, Joseph D. Lonardo, Giacomo vice president and group manager Marini, Hon. Anita Bevacqua for the San Francisco region at McBride and John F. Scarpa. NIAF Recology; and Aili and Andres Regional Vice Presidents Jeffrey M. McConnon, Capaccio, and Marcella Leonetti- NIAF Board Member coauthors of Tyler served as gala chairs. Blues Joseph D. Lonardo, guitarist Johnny Patricia Lonardo, NIAF Rivers and Holly- Treasurer Gabriel A. wood producer- Battista, Jana Scarpa director and NIAF Board Member Frank John F. Scarpa Mancuso led the list of celebrities at the event. 34 Hollywood producer Frank Mancuso, NIAF Board Member Robert E. Carlucci and Gala Co-chair and NIAF Regional Vice President NIAF COO John M. Viola, with Chiara Di Geron- Jeffrey M. Capaccio imo, founder of Tesori of Sicily Inc., and blues guitarist and musician Johnny Rivers

Book Talk at NIAF Headquarters Novelist, poet and NIAF member Piero Rivolta spoke about Second Annual Chairman’s Golf Invitational his latest book, “Journey Beyond NIAF Chairman Jerry Colangelo hosted NIAF’s Second Annual Chair- 2012: A Novel,” before 40 guests at man’s Golf Invitational on March 17 at the Wigwam Golf Resort, in Litch- a reception at NIAF Headquarters in field Park, Ariz. For a second straight year, sports and media stars took to Washington on May 3. The first of the links with NIAF leaders in support of the Foundation’s mission. NIAF’s Victoria J. Mastrobuono Highlighting the evening before was an Italian buffet and tribute concert, Speaker’s Series began with a “An Evening of Laughter, Memories and Music of Frank Sinatra,” featuring reception featuring Italian special- legendary comedian and for years Sinatra’s opening act, Tom Dreesen. ties from D.C. restaurant Casa Fox 10 Sports Nonna with wines from Sicily and anchor Jude Tuscany, and Peroni LaCava and Azzurra Italian beer. NBA great Bob The evening ended Lanier at the with Rivolta (left) Tom Dreesen signing books. concert

NIAF Board members Joseph Della Ratta and Kenneth J. Aspromonte

Mark Valente III, Gerard S. LaRocca, Joseph V. Del Raso and NIAF President Joseph V. Del Raso, Baseball great Hon. Mike Ferguson Tommy LaSorda, and Board Members Linda R. Carlozzi, Robert E. Carlucci and Mark Valente III 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:35 AM Page 35

NIAF News

Congressional Reception Welcomes Italian Ambassador Greeting the New Prime NIAF hosted a reception at the U.S. Capitol in the Rayburn House Office Minister of Italy Building on April 26 to honor Italy’s newly appointed ambassador to the The dinner at Villa Firenze in United States, Claudio Bisogniero. Attending the private event, held in honor of Italy’s new Prime Minister conjunction with the Frank J. Guarini Public Policy Forum and the Italian Mario Monti on February 9 was American Congressional Delegation, were IACD’s Co-Chairmen, U.S. “the hottest ticket in town,” accord- Representatives Pat Tiberi and Bill Pascrell, Democratic Leader Rep. ing to The New York Times. Fresh Nancy Pelosi, and U.S. Representatives Michael Capuano, David Cicilline, from a meeting with President Rosa DeLauro, Mike Doyle, Virginia Foxx, John Mica and Jim Renacci. Obama, Monti mingled with guests NIAF leadership present included Gabriel A. Battista, John F. before the formal dinner at the Calvelli, Robert E. Carlucci, Joseph M. Della Ratta, Hon. Mike Fergu- home to the Italian ambassador. son, Hon. Patricia de Stacy Harrison, Hon. Anita Bevacqua McBride, Ambassador and Mrs. Claudio Dr. John P. Rosa and Mark Valente III, as well as the Foundation’s Chief Bisogniero hosted the dinner which Operating Officer John M. Viola. From the podium, NIAF President included Italy’s Foreign Minister Joseph V. Del Raso, Esq., welcomed the guest of honor, saying “Italy Giulio Terzi plus many diplomats, always sends the best of the best.” government officials and journalists.

NIAF President Joseph V. Del Raso

Alexandra Dall and Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia

Courtesy of the Italian Embassy

Homeland NIAF Treasurer Gabriel A. Battista Security Sec. and NIAF Executive Vice President Janet Napolitano 35 Dr. John P. Rosa and Italy’s NIAF Treasurer John F. Calvelli, NIAF President Joseph V. Del Prime Minister Raso, Ambassador Claudio Bisogniero and NIAF Treasurer Mario Monti. Gabriel A. Battista

DiDomenico Honored in Italy NIAF Atlanta Reception NIAF Board Member and NIAF hosted an evening of fine Senior Vice President Matthew J. Italian wines and food specialties at DiDomenico Sr. received “Il Veni Vidi Vici restaurant in midtown Premio Salernitani illustri nel Atlanta on April 19. One of the mondo” on June 29, in Salerno, event’s sponsors was FIAT of Atlanta, Italy. The President of the Province which put on display the latest of Salerno, Hon. Edmondo Cirielli, Cinquecento Fiat 500 by Gucci. NIAF presented the prestigious honor Area Coordinator Leo Pieri said Fiat and the DiDomenico family was is planning to host upcoming NIAF Churches Chicken CFO Louis J. Profumo and on hand for the ceremony. events at the dealership. Professor Emeritus of Psychology Luciano Labate of Georgia State University. IACC Reception at Villa Firenze On July 11, Italian Ambassador and Mrs. Claudio Bisogniero hosted the Italian American Congressional Caucus at the Italian ambassador’s home, Villa Firenze, in Northwest Washington, D.C.

DiDomenico family: (L to R) Matt Jr., Michael, Dory, Matthew Sr. and John DiDomenico. Courtesy Courtesy of the Italian Embassy

Ambassador Claudio Bisogniero and U.S. Rep. Pat Tiberi, U.S. Rep. William Pascrell Jr. U.S. Rep. and Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and NIAF President Joseph Del Raso. 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:35AMPage36 36 36

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Copyright © 2011 DeloitteDeloitte DevelopmentDevelopment LLC.LLC. AllAll rightsrights reserved. reserved. Member of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited 36USC220506 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:35AMPage39 Paulcappelli goesHome “Aspetta,” he says in Italian, flavored Sounds like an invitationlongSoundsanlikea to Paul Cappelli’sPaul streettoughvoice, Pugliancallshome.nowestatehe line fromlinesomewhere insideVilla and windingis.andstory.itthat And Boston,boomsacrossSkypethe Cappelli,22,000-square-footthe English hewn on the roughertheonstreetshewn of with the local dialect. Then, in ge t , a declaration: “I need to a glass of cold red wine.” By Marco R. della Cava della R. Marco By From the Art of Persuasion of Art the From to the Art of Pressing Olives Pressing of Art the to Puglia, to Avenue Madison From half is takenhalfup isby business at the villa, which 57, is in semi-retirement 57,is in from astoried career piesonly half his time these days. The other whatyou need to know is that today Cappelli, againsteach other. jointhe priesthood .. . .” AMC’snew reality show that pits agencies tohigh school, and then started studying to TheAd Store were featured in “The Pitch,” killedor killed people. But Igot ascholarship withmemorable spots. More recently, he and currentlysold online as well as through asakid Ilearned fast. Alot of my friends were Coca-Colaand GoDaddy.com woo consumers producesolive oil and other delicacies keptalove affair with Italy,” he starts. “Anyway, TheAd Store and helping companies such as relicof centuries past to rustic manor that inadvertising, one that included founding withmy mother when Iwas seven, but Ialways overthe past decade went from crumbling Butthe fevered world of “Mad Men” occu- We’llpick up that thread. For the moment, “Iwas born in Pisa and moved to America Ambassador 39 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:35AMPage40 40 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:35AMPage41 PaulCappelli with daughterCasey and one of hisofoneand laborershaul PaulCappelli olivesfrom the grove.the The ancientThevilla before Cappelli’srenovations. aboutopeningajob in the mailroom of ad agency startedbartending in New York. Soon, he heard wasnot for him and, college degree in hand, he somehow at the end of the month, it’s all gone. Here, I “But you work hard there, make a lot of money, and lifespent teaching at aChristian Brothers school hilltopspot in Terlizzi, just north of Bari. startedarelationship with Texan Steven Crutchfield, think, ‘How did I get so lucky to end up here?’” thisyear, they decided to move permanently to this 1993, Cappelli started The Ad Store, intent on creat- atage 29 for aGeneral Motors spot. ing a new, no-frills agency model. The successes peace. Sometimes I’ll just sit down and look out, and “ThePitch”—and on Villa Cappelli affairs. Earlier continued, including landing the account of a then- “And16 years ago, Icame out of the closet.” worldwidead agency BBDO. He won aClio Award AdStore business—you can see the duo pitching on new airline, Jet Blue, after cold calling its CEO, David wise-cracks or swearing. “There is a feeling of absolute Ally&Gargano, and before long vaulted to the gotdivorced,” he says, pausing, almost for effect. grows around me. That’s a nice feeling.” whois now 37 and works alongside Cappelli both on some cash, Cappelli began looking for a place to buy feel like if it all goes to hell, I could literally live off what outlets such as Williams-Sonoma. The Villa itself is also Nee in Italy. Initially, he looked at places in and around gratis to help write an open letter to shaken travelers. the city of his birth, Pisa, but on a trip with his kids to for rent at 4,000-6,000 euros a week; it can host up to visit his mother’s ancestral paese restored mine, too,” he says in a rare moment devoid of 20 people, and features a pool, gardens, seven acres of ings. “I might have restored this villa’s soul, but it olive trees, “and views that go on for about 30 miles.” he offers this one up as a genuine testament to his feel- “Don’t get me wrong, I love New York,” says Cappelli. Soback to the thread. Cappelli decided that a After yea Tobe more specific, 16 years ago Cappelli Just aft “Igot married, had three kids, then 16 years ago Buton the home front, life wasn’t as linear. Being an ad guy, Cappelli doesn’t talk in clichés. But leman, just after 9/11 and offering his services er the millennium, flush with success and rs at agency giant McCann Erickson, in stumbled into a Ambassador 41 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:36AMPage42 42 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador ect,partly becausehe always saw abigger, more ministryguy says is from 4,000 around years ago. So, there’sacave under the place that the local arts “Destiny,what can you say,” he says. Thefoundation was from the Middle Ages. And latercame to learn the name of the font was Trajan. ing,”he says. “Part of it was from the 17th century. artistcasually sent him asimple VC logo and he crazy!’There were no windows, no doors, no plumb- tookit as agood sign when an Ad Store graphic showit, and most people would say, ‘You’re ---ing “Oneof my kids said, ‘Dad, this place is acastle,’ becausethat’s the way Ithink,” he says. “It looked asVilla de Lucia was reborn as Villa Cappelli. He peedon my property,” he says, the laugh booming. andayear later it was mine.” commercialpicture. therewas alot to work on.” armiesto cross Italy. Hell, some centurion probably sprawling estate whose derelict buildings and roads seemed to evoke thousands of years of history. Step- sameroad extended by the Emperor Trajan for his ping through the overgrown grass and over discarded hypodermic needles, Cappelli knew this was it. Cappellithrew his heart and wallet into the proj- Butnot everyone shared his enthusiasm. “I’d “Fromday one, Isaw this place as abrand, Indue course, the property once known locally “TheAppian Way literally passes by out front, the morethan products, adozen which include sugared time,success what’sisn’t driving this Madison thevilla, Cappelli currently stamps his VC logo on isnotoriously tough. But you get the sense that this line,followed by Cappelli greeting guests in Italian. admittedlycompetition in the Italian foods category peopleeverywhere could appreciate.” thesmells. It’s astounding to me.” allits own, and that was something that Ithought BronzeAge or modern times. The flowers, the trees, finishcourtesy only of the olives themselves. aboutpopular culture for USA Today. MarcoR. della Cava lives in San Francisco and writes classicallyItalian, with hints of Tuscany but afeeling anddon’t know if I’m in the Roman times or the butteryflavor along with a“Puglia pinch,” aspicy for selling to buy himself a little bit of happiness. polishingoff that once cold glass of red. “I look out oliveoil, which is described as having agrassy, not the image of a contented man who used his talents almonds,arange of fruit conserves, sea salts and his Avenuemaverick. For more information on Villa Cappelli products products Cappelli Villa on information more For “Igotta go, visitors, time to make dinner,” he says. Beyondwelcoming international vacationers at Suddenly,the voice of children comes over the Cappelli’sgoods may yet take off, although “VillaCappelli is just timeless to me,” he says, The international connection drops. But somehow and contact for villa rentals, visit visit rentals, villa for contact and www.villacappelli.com 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:36 AM Page 43 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:36AMPage44 EEA OSRCIN•CNTUTO AAEET•CNTUTO TCNCLCNUTN LCRCLSRIE SELFPERFORMANCE • SERVICES ELECTRICAL • CONSULTING &TECHNICAL CONSTRUCTION • MANAGEMENT CONSTRUCTION • CONSTRUCTION GENERAL h oa Coliseum Roman The DDvlpet osrcinaddvlpetaemr hnjs u os hyr u heritage. our They’re jobs. our just Italian than proud more the are on development carrying and ago. are Construction years we Development. thousand way BD two own than our more in established But never We’d excellence are. Coliseum. building they the and as built construction league extraordinary who of same the giants tradition chambers the by construction of in inspired the network be are Romans, complex to we first a day, claim the animals. Every had of and Roman. it some gladiators born-and-raised And, of of a battles. accomplishments thousands by sea even founded mock or was of military hundreds, Development presentation famous of BD the of containment for re-enactments the water and for of hunts level liters animal ground of as the thousands such beneath hold spectacles, passageways to public and designed and also contests was gladiatorial It for conflicts. used was It spectators. 50,000 44 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador EE AE CONSTRUCTION A FACED NEVER scniee n fhsoysfns xmlso tla osrcinaddvlpet tcudsa oethan more seat could It development. and construction Italian of examples finest history’s of one considered is I THEY TALIANS COULDN ’ T OVERCOME CHALLENGE [email protected] 631.691.4233 .

DEVELOPMENT 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:36AMPage45

Helen Tansey of sports and one and sports of lens the through character and soul Italian the in dichotomies reflects poignantly which narrative remarkable McConnon’s Bartali. Gino legend bicycle-racing Italian heroic of story untold the writing innovativein and thinking scholarship research, to contributions outstanding their for McConnon Andres and Aili the awarded (Tuscans, public. the and 1938. in followed 1937. A in again and year following the d’Italia—both Giro Italy—the in competition cycling prestigious most the win to on going 21, was he when 1935, in professional became a Gino passion, cycling Giulio’s brother his and Gino to lukewarm Torellowere parents, Giulia, and riding a in it, define to came later he as “purpose,” his found soon Bartali ‘40s. and ‘30s the in Italy modern in periods tumultuous most the of one during fame to rise his and Florence, surrounding hills the in a childhood early Bartali’s cles Valor,”to “Road book, latest Their chroni- Bartali. Gino great cycling Italian the in character such of example perfect the found have may McConnon Andres and Aili visionary. and soulful creative, once their—our—ability for sailors, and saints Bernardi Alice By cycling career, it put to good use his consummate his use good career,to cycling put it humor.)of sense healthy and “Toscanacci” as to referred ally interactions cantankerous times, at “Ginettaccio” as known became soon he But Pious.” monikers—”The many his France. If the war put a war the If France. and Britain Great against war of declaration Italy’s in culminated Andrea, son his of birth the by and 1940 in Adriana to wedding his by Bartali for brightened though ‘30s, late the during Italy in Reading List Reading American Italian Fall The is focusing on the on focusing is section Books the issue, This An adage defines Italians as a Italians defines adage An the At earned on early Bartali religious, Deeply as a Scrawny The increasing political volatility and violence and volatility political increasing The West to co-authors to Leadership Thought in Award Mazzei NIAF June, in Francisco San in Gala Coast promising amateur.promising turned He child and struggling with school, with struggling and child

Lettura! Buona athlete. special victory at the TourFrance the De at victory bicycle. While Bartali’s While bicycle. damper on Bartali’s on damper general, in Aili a request from request a accepted Bartali 1943, of fall the In skills. cycling and climbing

and Andres McConnon Andres and directness their for and, direct his for nation of poets, of nation small village on village small with the with are occasion- to be at be to one of one press between friction The the supported Bartali shared winning after the by won elections political almost Their cycling rivalry cycling Their fans sports ian to Valor,”to “Road a fans . . . eulogy,his in a Cardinal TV cycling commentator and cycling entrepreneur cycling and commentator cycling TV at efforts his and man, rich Cycling competition. in ters Italy.of north a averted Togliattinear-lethalPalmiro with Communist Italian hospitalized Alcide Leader of Florence. of occupation German the during housing and food with children and wife his and friend family helped a personally war.also the Bartali survive and hide could they so Jews for cards identity counterfeit to necessary materials carry to Tuscany,farther,through even and Umbria cycle to Costa Dalla Elia Cardinal Florence’s War post-Worldin line fault political star,cycling Italian another ensued quickly that rivalry and competition as career cycling as successful as successful as not were tensions. France a De 5, 2000, a 5, May on died He retired Bartali come-from-behind Bartali’s Meanwhile, Bartali aimed at resuming at aimed Bartali Meanwhile, when 1948, in exploded views political his and, as and, remarked Piovanelli Silvano Florence of almost single-handedly almost it believe Some loomed large in the in large loomed then that war civil days few riding 150,739 kilome- 150,739 riding and races 158 De Gasperi, an assassination an Gasperi, De along the along symbol the authors capture authors the as soon at “champion Italian true the exemplified the exemplified easing to contributed later the two political factions political two the Party.Democratic Christian generations for season 1954 the of end cycling had been. had cycling his the Bartaliani-Coppiani and left; political the with Crown; 336 pages; $25 pages; 336 Crown; McConnon Andres and Aili By Inspired a Who Cyclist the and Nazis, the A Valor:to Road True Ital- split Coppi, Fausto building a him a make not did War Christian Democratic Christian visionary. As visionary. victory in the Tour the in victory on the on Italy,WWII of Story Party ended. The ended. gunshot wounds. gunshot in well so II most pervasive most leader in Bartali Gino career as career cycling of heel Italy.Coppi Nation Jewish in life.” in his the Ambassador attempt of the of with divide.

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13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:36AMPage47 having just finished a just having was looking to shape a to looking was Last year, following the release of his 2011 novel, “Zero Day,”“Zero novel, 2011 his of year,release Last the following Baldacci David book, kid-thriller Clues” “39 new protagonist for his next novel. next his for protagonist new with the Baldacci Baldacci David Books Behind By Don Oldenburg Don By and Being Italian American Italian Being and Latest Thriller about His Writing Novelist Bestselling The Ambassador Talks 47 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:36AMPage48 48 WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador quartersof his nonprofit Wish outprotagonist the new for his novelist’scareer. This is the head- bestinterests. andlegal thrillers. andmementos from the prolific behind-the-scenesin America’s culldetails for upcoming political inghis name), large paintings, andFBI agents in Quantico to readershope really is working withshelves of books (most bear- who’sthe kind of flawed hero withArmy Rangers at Fort Bragg Baldacci’sspacious office is lined doingbook tours, or training nationsare “easy kills” for Robie, suburbof the nation’s capital, wideto scope out new scenes, threats.These sanctioned assassi- nesscorridor in Reston, Va., a exceptwhen he’s travelling world- tobe America’s most dangerous researches,and writes daily— deemedby the U.S. government chairin his office library. personalspace where he thinks, backin abrown-leather club whoefficiently kills terrorists Freshground,” he says, sitting illiteracyin America. And it’s the Robieis acold-blooded assassin worldwith new characters… YouWell Foundation that targets latestnovel, “The Innocent.” Will Thisis also where he fleshed Locatedin anondescript busi- “Ijust wanted to create a library in hisin Baldacci David

Don Oldenburg evolveinto morea one- than withmore110 million than withmediocre characters, half himasoul. andflees directly into the deadly soldin more than 100 countries, novel;if you write agreat plot son,both teenagers. “Julie gave witnessesher parents’ murder intomore than 45 languages, characters,it’s going to be agreat wifeMichelle, of adaughter and Getty,astreet-smart girl who wide(his novels are translated youwrite agood plot with great Baldacci,the proud parent, with ownlife, he saves 14-year-old Julie ofthe bestselling writers world- beingRobie’s conscience,” says Italianimmigrants, became one thetarget. While barely saving his Timesbestseller list. compromisedand he becomes soaredto the top of the New York offire in his novels. phoneoperator. His paternal tionlast April, “The Innocent” actersthat they really care about.” withamoral dilemma. neverput ateenager in the line truckmechanic, and Joyce, atele- goingto happen next to the char- andmurder, he confronts Robie challengefor Baldacci who has characters.Days after its publica- theyoungest child of Rudy, a happennext—but it’s what’s Page-turningplot, compelling plotthick with mystery, violence “characterarc” for Robie is also a Richmond,Va., Baldacci, 52, is pageturners and what’s going to Juliemust survive on their own. readerto care about him. So, in a reluctantguardian angel. That agenciesfail them, Robie and it,”Baldacci says. “People love ingcockroaches. He wanted the aboutcaring and characters. professionalassassin becomes the thepeople aren’t going to finish dimensionalJohn Wayne stomp- lawenforcement and intelligence copiesin print) is also astory terroristplot. So, the willing Asterrorists them hunt and ButBaldacci wanted Robie to “Myrule of thumb has been if “Ialways looked on Julie as HowBaldacci, adescendant of Robie’slatest mission is Bornin the rural suburbs of thathappened was that New sayit sort of tongue-in-cheek, but alwaysmaintained one reason heloved most—writing fiction. “I Richmond,”Baldacci says. “I’ve butspent nights honing the craft smallTuscan village. ratelawyer in Washington, D.C., viaEllis Island, from Barga, a half-hourincrements as acorpo- Hismaternal grandparents were ofwhom served in World War II. grandfathercame to New York, fivesons (including his father), all bookedhis professional life in Theyfell in love, married and had inghouserun by her mother. Tuscanwife at a Richmond board- LawSchool. gotoff there.” fromthe University of Virginia NewYork, so alot of them just warmtown you could get to past Universityand then graduated mond]was probably the biggest throughVirginia Commonwealth highschool, he worked his way grandfather,Columbus Rose. toocold aclimate .. . and [Rich- about his Italian heritage, and formaking stuff up,” he laughs. hiscompany after his maternal RamseyRidge. Baldacci named insouthwest Virginia called where he first noticed the art of neara remote mountaintop town whatwas to come, he says. After York,for alot of Italians, was just Cherokeebloodlines. They lived storytelling, was growing up in a beingalawyer was great training Scottishwith some German and huge extended family. “Big fami- lot lies, boisterous Sunday gatherings, predominant among them,” he recalls. “We’d go to my grand- mother’s house and she’d have all the types of pasta. We’d take time over our meals and there’d be story after story after story. Lots of shortstories, “good training” for my aunts and uncles were just really curious personalities you’d thousandsof pages of notes and like to hang around and listen to.” s of storytellers, my dad “Hetook the train down to Foradecade thereafter, he Baldacci’sgrandfather met his Oneday, walking past the Something Ba Asachild, he kept journals, l dacci cherishes 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:36AMPage49 told his agent. his told Explorer.he Ford Ford,” “David his at looked and window the name. American-sounding an with up come to him asked agent Baldacci’s Martin. Steve as Martini Steve Scott, Lisa as Italy in published was Scottoline Lisa Italians. not Americans, by written thrillers, especially novels, want Italians think name—Baldacci. his was it title, the wasn’t problem the But it. change could they lem, was a it if but Italian, in fully beauti- translated Power” “Absolute the with lem agent be it’ll think “They “Absolute publish house publishing Italian the Mondadori, of the with there was He agent his from call it,” at keep and it at keep just you “But book. the writing years three spent who Baldacci, says error,”equity,and sweat trial it’sis writing novel of lot “A lists. seller best- the climbed novel 1996 the and a up, cover dent, a of a story Power.”“Absolute novel, The breakout his become would what for idea the sparked House White Irritated, Baldacci glanced out glanced Baldacci Irritated, thought he that said Baldacci after,long Not Baldacci they have a they “but said, love ‘Absolute Power,’ ‘Absolute love they

murder, a Step inthe sociopathic U.S. presi- U.S. sociopathic ancestors somuch whosacrificed Pay a betterlife! To a name.” huge hit,” his hit,” huge moral Catch-22, moral in Washington, D.C., contact202-939-3122 commemorative NIAF Walk of Honorbrickcommemorative NIAFWalk of tribute toyour parents, grandparents and Italian publishers Italian at manhunt, a preparing Power” in New York. New in the entrance of theNIAFheadquarters theentrance of chairman in Italy.in prob- or visitwww.niaf.org/walkofhonor. got a prob- to purchase acustom-engraved before a giving a into pressed was Baldacci shirt, polo and a sandals shorts, in Dressed fans. excited 200 and raphers, and Italian flags, Italian and U.S. the with awaited mayor The Barga. in Day” Baldacci “David at mayor,arrived the instead they Baldacci. recalls place,” right the in we’re say I’d there, over wall the on there’s a ‘Ya says, and window the out looks “She close. even were they if lap, her in maps wife, his asked he Frustrated, late. and lost hopelessly was Baldacci broken, GPS the roads, hilly and winding on day that Barga accepted. Baldacci lunch.” “for come to him inviting village, ther’s grandfa- his Barga, of mayor the from email an received he when planning a recognized. is Italy,name his to travels he when Now Baldacci. David just then since and Ford, Baldacci David that, after one the cover,the on Ford B. David had “Genius!” screamed Ferrari,” way,Gianni the is by name, “whose chairman, Mondadori’s pseudonym, the hearing upon that adding Baldacci, jokes Subaru,” Expecting a to hours two than more Driving A Italy in book next Baldacci’s God I “Thank few years ago, Baldacci was Baldacci ago, years few 12-foot tall poster of you of poster tall 12-foot “lunch” that turned into turned that “lunch” RightDirection family trip to Italy to trip family know, considering “grand speech” “grand casual lunch with lunch casual a didn’t have a didn’t in search of insearch of band, photog- band, experience.” was a that …“but wall, office his on hanging now chart framed the out pointing Baldacci, says heritage,” Italian on. century 13th the from Barga in Baldaccis the tracing chart and a 1880, to 1680 from kept had ancestors gifts, a other among with, presented was who Baldacci, festivities. of hours 10 “I’ve always been proud of my of proud been always “I’ve like a was “It www.feedingbodyandmind.com. www.wishyouwellfoundation.organd visit You Wish the at programs literacy his on information more www.davidbaldacci.com.For at website his visit Baldacci, on information more For November.in publication for scheduled is Forgotten,” “The novel, next Baldacci’s David beautiful genealogical beautiful movie,” says movie,” mind-blowing journal his journal Ambassador WellFoundation, 49 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:36 AM Page 50
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13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:36AMPage51 AIG DIFFERENCE MAKING Dino Privitera Dino also juggled caringalso for their sons. factory,and sodid his wife, who Italy,went towork inclothinga trainedasskilleda tailor back in repairstore. modestapartment above ashoe citynorth of Boston, renting a destiniesthein United States with immigrants, standing with the son inLawrence, Mass., an industrial thathad led him there. teens,decided to seek their of one of the most famous families 1967.The Privitera family settled in this country, representing the Kennedy,amazed by the journey he’dmet when she was still in her goto college was agiven in that first person in American history to infantwhen they emigrated in sacrifice. Concettina,the beautiful girl be granted a special type of chambersof the late Senator Ted refugee asylum,” recalls Privitera. aboutthe ethic ofhard work and Philadelphialawyer, stood in married.Giuseppe, atailor, and familiaritybehind. andlasting imprint onDino Privitera’sparents met and yearsago, when Dino Privitera, a tale,and it’s one that left deepa theirtwo sons, leaving family and It’snot anunfamiliar immigrant Provinceof Catania, that Dino Therewas amoment, several and poignant reminder of why his ofBiancavilla, Sicily, in the parents made the odyssey they did, and what it has meant in his life. Rootsand Values Guiseppi,who had been “Here I was, the son of Italian Thatboth Privitera sons would Privitera,now 45, was only an For him Itwas back in the small town , it was a wonderful A HistoricRefugee Case Universityof Massachusetts at school,Dino attended the and a travesty,” says Privitera. “That Anexcellent student in high nized as a miscarriage of justice later executed. “It was widely recog- men during a bank robbery, and dreamsfor their advancement. wrongly convicted of killing two componentof his parents’ Italian immigrants who were household.Education was akey by the story of Sacco and Vanzetti, and become a lawyer was motivated teachingbasic life skills. workedin ahomeless shelter journalism.After college, he ALife in the Law law degree, graduating cum laude Amherstwhere he majored in had bothered me since childhood.” regards as some of his most impor- worked as a prosecutor in Philadel- from Temple University Law phia, where his world revolved School in Philadelphia. “I recall around victims of attempted standing near the bust of Abraham murders, assaults, armed robberies way, hebelieves, to help victims. injuredin accidents—another whohave been catastrophically Lincoln in front of the law school onthe representation of people Eisenberg& Jeck, he concentrates and sexual offences. EisenbergRothweiler Winkler Philadelphia.At his current firm, distinguishedlaw firms in with my parents,” he says. “I don’t think they were ever prouder of me than on the day I graduated.” law clerk for a federal judge, he Barrister and a a and Barrister A Pro Bono Bono Pro A His decision to change course In 1993, Privitera earned his Butask Priviterawent on to join two Following his stint as a judicial this attorney what he

photo by Luigi Ciuffetelli vanin aball of fire. As glass bombambush that engulfed his ing in Mosul, Iraq. Ismael became victimof awell-orchestrated car- DinoPrivitera outsidePhiladelphiahis firmlaw sion to help the U.S. troops land- “American collaborator.” mastery of English, made the deci- by insurgents and terrorists as an year-old college student with danger, causing him to be branded ASingular Opportunity ately thrust him into constant inthe United States. needwas to find life-saving asylum aworld away, but whose urgent preter. And that decision immedi- himself,to a young man who lived nativeson of Italy, an immigrant sionalmilestone. It linked this a “terp,” the military slang for inter- himas a personal and profes- tant work, and he doesn’t miss a beat: “Doing pro bono work is, to me, a moral duty that accompa- nies having a law license. We need to make justice accessible to all people, not just the rich and privi- leged. Ensuring equal justice for all is sacred work and the reason why I became a lawyer.” Twoyears later, Ismael was the In 2003, Safa Ismael, then a 23- Onecase vividly stands out to By Sally Friedman Sally By Ambassador 51 WWW.NIAF.ORG 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:36 AM Page 52

Attorney Brian Watson, Sen. Edward Kennedy and Dino Privitera in 2007 at Kennedy’s U.S. Capitol office following Senate hearings on on the plight of Iraqi refugees preters to get refugee status. But, refugee legislation, invited Privitera in 2006, Congress enacted special and Ismael to speak at Senate Judi- refugee legislation that allowed ciary Committee hearings in Janu- 50 people who had served as ary, 2007, focused on the plight of interpreters for American forces Iraqi refugees. shattered and debris filled the air, to get protective special immi- With his identity concealed, he managed to escape to a local grant status. But not easily. Ismael shared his experience as an hospital for treatment. He mirac- “It actually was a very Iraqi interpreter, describing in chill- ulously survived, but he knew it complex process that required a ing detail the threats on his life that was time to get out of Iraq. lot of paperwork, from absolute made real for the committee the In November, 2005, Ismael proof that the candidate was an humanitarian crisis in Iraq. “I will got a temporary visitor’s visa to Iraqi national who had worked always be proud of what I did, even the United States, specifically to directly for U.S. troops for a though it meant risking my life,” Philadelphia. It was the city period of at least a year, to a the translator said. most of the soldiers he’d favorable written recommenda- That testimony undoubtedly worked with in Mosul called tion from a general,” explains helped pave the way for the 2008 home. Ismael had nearly lost his Privitera, who with a small pro passage of a new refugee resettle- life working for them, so it was a bono team gathered the neces- ment program that expanded the decidedly emotional reunion sary documents and assembled number of special immigrant when he arrived. the evidence to show that for visas to 25,000 between 2008 and And that’s when Privitera Ismael to return to Iraq was a 2012. It was a giant leap forward, entered the picture. When several serious risk because of the coura- and one that validated all the of his soldier friends told the attor- geous work he had done. hard work of this lawyer and his ney of Safa’s urgent need to stay in Safa’s friends—the soldiers immigrant client. the United States or face an almost he had worked with in Mosul— Today, Privitera and Ismael are certain death in Iraq, the attorney eagerly came forward with testi- friends—the sort who have shared immediately knew he would rally monials and written letters of a remarkable, life-altering experi- to the cause. Over the next year, recommendation in support of ence together. “I was so honored Privitera and several colleagues this young interpreter’s applica- to help him,” says Privitera. “He worked tirelessly to build Ismael’s tion for asylum. had earned the right to live here asylum case. “For me, this was in freedom and safety. As an immi- deeply personal,” Privitera says. “I Making History grant and the son of immigrants, had come to this country not to In June, 2006, Safa Ismael that means everything to me.” escape persecution and death, but became the first applicant ever to because of America’s promise. I be granted special immigrant status Sally Friedman is a Moorestown, N.J., felt that Safa Ismael deserved that under the new legislation. So signif- freelance writer and essayist who has same opportunity.” icant was Ismael’s legal victory that contributed to the New York Times, From 2003 to 2006, it was the late U.S. Senator Edward “Ted” the Philadelphia Inquirer and nearly impossible for Iraqi inter- Kennedy, a co-sponsor of the national and regional magazines.

WWW.NIAF.ORG 52 Ambassador 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:36 AM Page 53

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Animated Italian Enrico Casarosa Draws on His Italian Boyhood to Make an Oscar-Nominated Film

By Maria Garcia

ON FILM

courtesy courtesy of Disney/Pixar

Nonno, Papa and Bambino in “La Luna”

f your childhood memories from Pixar Animation Studios. interested me about that shot is include Saturday afternoons “Growing up, I often felt stuck that it was great to see the boat Iat the neighborhood movie between the two.” come in and be so close to the house, then your first film was a As a storyboard artist at the water,” Casarosa says, “because short—a cartoon, a serial, or a California studio, Casarosa draws then I would be able to show the silent comedy “one reeler.” For the first images of what become kid, yet not the parent and grand- Enrico Casarosa, it was Osvaldo animated shorts or feature-length parent who are taller.” Cavandoli’s “La Linea” cartoons, films. “I thought it would be Desiring a timeless, fairy-tale which he watched on Italian TV interesting to tell a story to kids quality for the boat, Casarosa as a boy. Cavandoli’s young char- about finding their own way went home to observe the boat- acter and the unexpected events when people are telling them makers of Genoa, who believe he encounters pop up from la to do things in different ways,” he souls are granted only to vessels linea, a line drawn across a says. crafted of wood. Afterward, as he colored background. The Casarosa’s boy protagonist in sketched La Luna, he thought of cartoons have universal appeal, “La Luna” accompanies his quar- her as his “fourth character.” The yet the character’s temperament relsome father and grandfather film begins in the evening, just is manifestly Italian. to their unusual job and, at a before the moon rises. Stars twin- Casarosa’s childhood in crucial moment, makes a unique kle in the background, and the Genoa, and Cavandoli, inspired contribution to their labors. ultramarine hue of sea and his first film, “La Luna,” an The Oscar-nominated short evening sky bathe the frame. animated short. “I grew up with opens with a glimpse of the prow The seven-minute short, my dad and my grandfather, and of a battered wooden boat. Her which premiers in theaters this they never got along,” the writer- name, La Luna, is printed on the fall along with the animated director says in a phone interview starboard side. “The thing that feature “Brave,” began with WWW.NIAF.ORG Ambassador 55 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:37 AM Page 56 O N F I L M

Enrico Casarosa at Pixar Studio courtesy of Disney/Pixar courtesy

Casarosa’s character sketches and the same one used for its inven- Casarosa’s choices were Nina storyboards, the series of draw- tive feature films, such as “Rata- Rota scores and Neapolitan folk ings that illustrated the film’s touille” (2007). Yet, just as in live- tunes. “I asked Michael to reach narrative progression. Watercolor action films, teams of set for his roots,” the writer-director paintings helped the artist flesh designers, sound professionals, says. “He captured something out his color scheme. Then, as is cinematographers and others are that is Fellini-esque. I love it.” the practice at Pixar, Casarosa required to realize the director’s Listen closely to the clinking pitched his idea to the animation vision of the story. sound of some stars in “La Luna,” team using his images to tell the Riggers, for instance, identify and the musical notes of others, story. Once it was accepted, he the points of movement in the to appreciate an aspect of the became the director in charge of face and body of the character. short’s sound mix which differen- a production team. Their work is a virtual version of tiates the boy from his father and “I draw very simply in 2D, but the rigging decisions made to grandfather. In meticulously of course you need to bring these animate wooden puppets. “The crafted films, style perfectly characters into the third dimen- riggers provide all the controls reflects content so that the direc- sion,” Casarosa explains. “To do that the animators need,” tor’s intent is apparent in every that, I had a wonderful character Casarosa says. aspect of the work. In Casarosa’s designer, Daniel Lopez Munoz. How the character is rigged screenplay, as in Giancchino’s We sculpted the characters, affects the subtlety of its gestures, score, a distinctly Italian world- making clay maquettes.” which are especially important in view emerges. The personalities of animated “La Luna” because the men and It is there in the magical work characters, like those of actors, boy speak gibberish, like Cavan- of the two men and the boy, as are key to cinematic storytelling doli’s character. “‘La Luna’ is for well as the way in which the boy is because events unfold from their kids, and gibberish is something initiated into the family enterprise. point of view. In the hands of a from our childhood,” the writer- In their honest night’s work, good director, the characters’ director explains. “We love to Casarosa expresses his admiration expressions and movements make up languages. We probably for laborers, for the boat-makers shape the film. “After the sculp- sometimes hear adult speech as of Genoa, and for la famiglia. ture in 3D is complete,” Casarosa gibberish.” Casarosa, who lives in Berke- says, “sometimes it is scanned Before movies are scored, the ley, Calif., with his American wife into the computer, and some- soundtrack consists of “temp and four-year-old daughter, times it’s just used for reference, music” that the director chooses remembers his boyhood in but the puppet is brought into to indicate his preferences to the Genoa from a height nearer to the digital world.” composer. To inspire Oscar- the stars. “The views of the sea “La Luna” was produced on winning composer Michael are wonderful in the city, which is Pixar’s computer graphic system, Giancchino (“Up,” “Ratatouille”), between the mountains and the WWW.NIAF.ORG 56 Ambassador 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:37 AM Page 57

Bambino in “La Luna” courtesy courtesy of Disney/Pixar

sea,” he says. “Whenever I go back, I have to look at the city from up high—and, of course, the sea. I wanted to bring my love for that aqua sea to ‘La Luna.’” Early sketches of the boy

Maria Garcia is a New York City- based freelance writer and a frequent contributor to Ambassador. Her reviews and feature articles also appear regularly in Film Journal International and Cineaste. 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:37 AM Page 58 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:37AMPage59 by thebyprolific Dennis Mack ofBritish revisionist historians, led beadisappointment .. . .” phy.’It was thus predestined to Liechtenstein. sinagainst history and geogra- Hungary, Finland and perhaps Italy made meall the more excited becauseit had been truly .. . ‘a with books about counties such as inconception and in execution, books that cover Italy lumped in you will find the few new history itsmaking had been flawed both pean countries.” Here is where section simply labeled “Other Euro- foundershad hoped for because History, French History, and then a Italynever became the nation its labeled British History, German nationalfeeling, and that “united Gilmourdoles out platitudes regionswith little sense of essentiallycan do no right. Sure, Smith,for whom united Italy when I spotted British historian Sir David Gilmour’s recent tome “The Pursuit of Italy.” My excitement allowed me to overlook the W subhead of the book which offered the first clue that I would not be pleased. The subhead reads: “A remainsacollection of disparate History of a Land, Its Regions and theentire book is that Italy not“a country.” The premise of Their Peoples.” The dearth of history books on Notethat it states “a land” and Gilmourfalls into that genre and you will see sections of most major bookstores alk to the history section tivelywell-educated Piemontese, ianpeninsula, if not the compara- explain,however, who on the Ital- the“alien” South. He fails to lawson the unwilling residents of imposingtheir values, norms and Gilmour’s book is without any merit. Some of what he says is wereless than 20 percent. makeItaly in their own image by insightful. He rightfully points out regionsat the time of unification Risorgimentoin attempting to that Italian nationalism could have gotten off to a much better start if flawedindividuals with names compoundedthe mistakes of the literacyrates in the Southern foolishlypropagated by inherently not for the Catholic Church’s Italy’sRisorgimento was a mistake, fromhis point of view, intransigence to t areabject failures. For Gilmour, likerunning a country, Italians administeringaunited Italy when whenit comes to serious matters, youwith the impression that forCavour’s Piemontese who, tectureand cuisine, but he leaves werecapable of forging and aboutthe country’s art and archi- andVictor Emmanuel II. suchas Cavour, Mazzini, Garibaldi His contention that Mussolini “probably made Italy feel more united than ever before—or indeed since” is also right. conclude that: “There is no Italian race and there never has been “The Pursuit of Italy” of Pursuit “The Gilmour’s David at Look A In PursuitIn of a Truea of ItalianHistory By Robert Allegrini Robert By This is Hereserves special criticism However, Gilmour goes on to n ot to say that he Italian state. regional differences in Italy, but certainlyan Italian race. this can be said of nearly any country of a certain size. The Bythis definition, there is most argument isbit a much coming ests,habits or characteristics.” peopleunified by shared inter- Webster’sas a“class or kind of andRegional Vice President of NIAF. definitionof race put forth by RobertAllegrini is a Board Member ablenature of their conclusions. regardlessof the highly question- historianswho take up the subject thosefew American and British isno Italian race negates abasic historyin English written by aredoomed to have Italian marketfor the subject matter, we ianhistory, thereby enhancing the invasions,is diverse, to say there Americansstart reading more Ital- onItalian history, and until Italian fro secession from the United King- dom is a far more real possibility incentivesfor the writing of books financialresources to provide tionsbegin using their collective than any decoupling of Italy’s UntilItalian American organiza- themselvesfor books like this one. mythical Padania from its south. Italians,after successive waves of canshave no one to blame but one. The arguments of those who theorigins of the ethnic stock of claim otherwise . . . are ludicrous.” m a Brit at a time when Scottish Yes, the Unfortunately,Italian Ameri- Whilethere is no denying that re are still strong Ambassador 59 WWW.NIAF.ORG OPINION 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:37 AM Page 60

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By Wayne Randazzo

Baseball in His Blood: Joe Garagiola Jr. Joe Garagiola Jr. with his father Joe Garagiola Sr.

ON SPORTS One of baseball’s most difficult to take a player off the never been a scout, coach or familiar names belongs to one field because it’s potentially impact- player, and had little front office of its most historical characters. ful on a club’s playoff chances, but experience. “It shocked a lot of A catcher from St. Louis who we always come to a decision that people…,” says Garagiola Jr., who grew up alongside Yogi Berra, Joe we feel is the right thing to do.” was working at a law firm in Garagiola didn’t have the big The job isn’t just discipline. Phoenix at the time. “Jerry took a league success Yogi did on the Garagiola Jr. also discusses poten- big chance on me.” field, but he achieved more than tial rule changes within the game, While continuing his MLB exec- the colorful Berra off the field. including the hot topic of expand- utive role, Garagiola Jr. recently Garagiola became one of the ing instant replay. “We’ve elicited fulfilled another lifelong dream: He game’s top TV voices, an advocate views from many different avenues became an Italian citizen. The dual- against chewing tobacco, a game with regard to instant replay,” he citizenship process took him two show host, and a national says, adding that Commissioner and a half years and was made spokesperson. As he carved out his Bud Selig “gets a lot of credit for possible by his grandfather’s Italian

niche as a representative of Major instituting replay in the game.” heritage. “My grandfather became a

League Baseball, the young man His foray into MLB’s executive U.S. citizen in 1949,” he says. “It’s
that also bore that name was earn- office is another unique step in a funny …He did all this work to

ing a law degree and found himself career filled with them. Most become a citizen here, and two an internship with George Stein- notably, Garagiola Jr. was the generations later I’m going back


brenner and the New York Yankees. general manager for the expan- the other way and trying to become Joe Garagiola Jr. never felt sion Arizona Diamondbacks in a citizen over there.” pressure to follow in his larger- 1998. Three years later, he and As three generations of the than-life father’s footsteps. But the Diamondbacks were World Garagiola family retrace their the same thing drove them Series champions. roots, one thing is certain: Many both—an unbridled enthusiasm “Just about everything about generations of fans will feel the for the game they loved, the my time in Arizona was special,” impact the Garagiola family had game they were about to share. Garagiola Jr. says. “Even the initial on the game of baseball. “My father was kind of the anti- meetings with (then Diamond- Epilogue: Joe Garagiola Sr., now Little League parent,” Garagiola Jr. backs owner) Jerry Colangelo to 86, remains a familiar face around says. “He had absolutely no need start the path of achieving the Chase Field in Phoenix, attends to have any vicarious experiences goal were special. He needed to Diamondbacks games, and is still through me. There was no pres- lead the effort. We couldn’t have active in the community with his sure on me to go into baseball. done it without him . . . . charity work. Everything was my choice, and I’m “Then there was the expan- proud of what I’ve accomplished.” sion process, the first game, the Wayne Randazzo is the editor Garagiola Jr. is Major League first playoffs in 1999, and then of Red, White & Green, the Baseball’s Senior Vice President of 2001. To play in New York in that official publication of the National Standards and On-Field Opera- World Series after 9/11, it was an Italian American Sports Hall of

tions. He works with legendary unforgettable experience.” Fame. He’s also the play-by-play skipper Joe Torre, who runs the Garagiola Jr. took an unusual voice of the Midwest League’s department that largely disciplines path to becoming a major league Kane County Cougars Baseball players after on-field incidents. general manager. He had a law Club and an update anchor and

“Basically, we dole out fines and degree and a background of talk-show host for Chicago’s Sports

suspensions,” Garagiola Jr. says. “It’s using it in baseball, but he had Radio 670 the Score. WWW.NIAF.ORG

Ambassador 61 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:37 AM Page 62

The National Italian American Foundation presents

The Enchanting Hill Towns of Umbria & Eastern Tuscany Departures from New York (JFK)*: $2,769 — March 12, 2012 $2,869 — May 14 and October 15, 2012 $3,069 —August 20, 2012 Spend days exploring: Perugia — Assisi — Arezzo — Todi/Orvieto — Cortona — Siena — Pienza/Montalcino/Montepulciano

Campania…A Land That Will Capture Your Heart Departures from New York (JFK)*: $2,649 — October 29, 2012 $2,699 — April 16 and September 24, 2012 $2,899 — May 25 and August 20, 2012 Spend days exploring: Salerno — Benevento/Avellino — Caserta Royal Palace/Pompeii Naples — Capri/Anacapri — Sorrento/Amalfi Coast Paestum/Agropoli

The Jewels of the Riviera with a touch of Piedmont Departures from New York (JFK)*: $2,799 — April 23, 2012 $2,899 — May 21, September 3 and October 15, 2012 $2,999 — June 4, 2012

Spend days exploring: Genoa — Le Cinque Terre — Rapallo/Santa Margherita/Portofino Monte Carlo/Nice — Pollenzo

Grand Tour of Sicily 2012 Departures from New York (JFK)*: $2,799 — March 5 and March 30, 2012 $2,899 — May 21 and October 29, 2012 $2,999 — August 27, 2012

Spend days exploring: Palermo — Monreale –Cefalu — Erice — Agrigento Catania — Siracusa-Noto — Taormina-Etna

Enjoy on All Trips: • Round-trip airfare from New York (JFK) • Six days of sightseeing • Price per person based on double occu- • Transfers from airport-hotel-airport • English-speaking tour manager pancy, includes airfare, current taxes • Seven nights at four-star hotels • All entrance fees and fuel surcharge as of June 2011 • Breakfast and dinner daily [subject to change].

For Information and Reservations, Contact: Marianna Pisano www.niaf.org • [email protected] • Telephone: (800) 777-7432 When making your reservation, mention the promo code: NIAF 13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb 17.4c 8/30/12 10:37 AM Page 63

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Your Heritage Going Foward As the leading Italian American organization in the United States and Italy, the National Italian American Foundation promotes and preserves the culture and heritage of Italian Americans. We’re expanding your options for connecting with us online! Go to www.niaf.org today.

13769_NIAF_Text_NIAF Amb17.4c8/30/1210:37AMPage64 64 WWW.NIAF.ORG CROSSWORD PUZZLE Ambassador 16 the of heart the and baseman Third 15 YorkNew the on mainstay offensive An 12 9 8 6 3 1 Across 18 Considered by many as the greatest boxer greatest the as many by Considered 18 the Navy,won from he back All-American 17 19 One of only two jockeys to win the win to jockeys two only of One 19 ever played. Brother of famous movie star.movie famous of Brother played. ever game NFL greatest the regard many what in touchdown winning scored fullback, All-Pro NFL Trophyfive-time Heisman and winner Championships. WorldSeries straight three with 1970s early the in League American A’s Oakland end. tight 1990. A and 1986 in teams championship Bowl Super Ravens. Baltimore NFL for a million $272 paid He 1974. in Bowl Super the won and (17-0) undefeated went that defense No-Name Dolphins’ Miami the of middle-linebacker Great Royals. City Kansas champion WorldSeries 1985 the Was power.run home his of because Bye-Bye, was nickname His titles. East Big 37 and 2010) 2009, 2002, (1995, seasons perfect four Fours, Final 13 titles, national seven earning basketball women’sin success of meaning the fined rede- has coach head this 1985, Since sisters. Williams the and Becker,Kournikova Seles, Agassi, as ons champi- tennis such trained and academy” “tennis the of concept the Revolutionized ever from Italy.from ever TrophyHeisman 1960. in Kentucky Derby five times. five Derby Kentucky Leon J. Radomile J. Leon by Puzzle Crossword team that dominated the dominated that team prototype for the modern NFL modern the for prototype the first baseman on baseman first the share in the in share A www.myheritageculture.com 6 4 3 2 1 Down A 7 ’ s Pacific. South the in WWII as a service for Heart Purple and Star Bronze the awarded was he U.S. history.Won U.S. in skaters figure greatest the of one as Regarded the around heard shot “the up gave who pitcher All-Star 1981. through 1979 from seasons three of portions for Cubs Chicago the Managed years. 35 over for manager and coach scout, baseball league Major enough.” fast going not you’re control, under seems everything “If said, Who TrophyDame’sHeisman Notrefirst winner, the invention of the 24 second clock. second 24 the of invention the with credited is he 2000, in Fame of Hall Basketball the into Inducted NBA. the of founders the of one was and States United sports +B Solution the to Italy,immigrated of he native ’ s the of for the for Olympic gold medal in 1988. in medal gold Olympic famous home famous Marine captain during captain Marine Brooklyn Dodgers Brooklyn Carmen Basilio (Angelo (Angelo Siciliano) Johnny Addie Doug Baffone Charles Atlas Ben Abruzzo Gary Beban in 1951. in world” Dan Biasone John Beradino italian 7 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 17 known as known run 10 He was known as “The Voice of Boxing” Voiceof “The as known was He 10 17 14 Born bodybuilding. modern-day of Father 13 in played legend football Bears Chicago 12 Champion Middleweight Welterweightand 11 9 Trophy1967. Heisman in the winner was he Former region. Italian an to identical is Surname Oceans. Atlantic and Pacific the across pilot a to man first the was He Italy.Arci, in 1892 in Siciliano Angelo linebacker.at games consecutive 142 World1955-’56-’57-’58. the of championships. world 200 over ever,announcing announcer side ring- famous most the considered is and the ABC the Doctor portrayed went retirement, Upon years. 16 for baseball professional Played Joe Bellino Nino Benvenuti Eddie Arcaro Angelo Bertelli Mario Andretti Joey Amalfitano Ralph Branca Brian Boitano quarterback at quarterback All-American 17 18 19 Down 1 2 3 4 6 TV soap Steve Hardy for Hardy Steve style “General opera to Hollywood and Hollywood to hot air balloon air hot Berra on years 33 Hospital.” UCLA, UCONN Huskies Geno Auriemma Yogi Steve Balboni Nick Buoniconti Steve Bisciotti Nick Bolletteri Mark Bavaro Sal Bando Alan Ameche Across 1 3 3 5 5 6 6 8 8 9 9 12 15 16

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