“Service above Self ”

TOAST OF THE TOWN Page 35

SHOWCASING

OUR HERITAGE Page 2

UNICO Gives Back NIAF GALA RECAP Pages 24-25

ADDIO, AL Page 32

The largest Italian American service organization in the United States 29- August 2, 2009R 2011 CALENDAR

Eastern Regional Meeting January 5th and 6th, 2010 Scranton PA

Meet the President- West Coast Saturday, January 22nd San Diego CA

Mid Year Board Meeting March 11th and 12th, 2011 Kansas City MO

National Convention August 3-7, 2011 Marriott Crystal Gateway Arlington VA

Foundation and get that tax deduction you may need. from the To make things easier and secure, you can now donate using UNICO’s website and our partner PayPal. Just EDITOR’S DESK president’s desk simply log-on to our website or call the National Of- Matteo Risi CHRISTOPHER DIMATTIO fice, we will be happy to take your contribution and include you in our 2010 Annual Report for donors to be published soon. ComUNICO Editor, Matteo Please take a moment to read the cover story Risi, visited San Francisco of Ralph Torraco’s gift of the Torraco Scholarship in during Thanksgiving week. memory of his parents, the largest personal gift ever The Crown-Zellerbach given to UNICO. Hopefully, this will inspire others to building in the background consider a bequest or charitable donation to the Foun- was the first significant dation and create a legacy gift. So on behalf of all structure built in SF in UNICANS, we say “Mille Grazie” to our friend Ralph the 30 years following the Torraco! Great Depression. Despite its Italian North Beach By now, you should have received your com- neighborhood, San Fran- plimentary 2011 Italian and Italian American Heritage cisco inexplicably has no Calendar. If not, please contact your chapter President UNICO chapter! The Holy Father’s Representative to the United or the National Office. A great deal of thanks goes to States (Apostolic Nuncio), the Archbishop Pietro our very dedicated and hard working UNICO team I appreciate all of your contributions to Sambi with UNICO National President Christopher lead by co-chairs, Manny Alfano, Andre’ DiMino and ComUNICO! Your photos and articles with chap- DiMattio at the fall NIAF Gala in Washington DC. Steve Pelonero who provided the information and ter and district news are what our publication is all produced the calendar. What a terrific activity that about. I work with my proof reader Marianne Lalli- SHOWCASING OUR produces positive images of our heritage. Hope you Regan and Mary Racila of Fra Noi News to create a appreciate and enjoy the calendar (it also makes a chronicle that we can all be proud of. HERITAGE! great gift)! Please help me by carefully proof reading UNICO invites you to share your heritage with Personally, it is with sadness that I say “So- your articles. A spell check is a great start. If a per- the world! When you get a call from Harris Connect in long” to my UNICO mentor and dear friend, Al Dante. son's name is misspelled then it is unlikely that we Tears are still falling as I type this but he would want February - don’t “hang-up”- it’s not a telemarketer – it’s will be able to catch it. me to smile to say, “Thanks” to so many of you who UNICO! We are proud to announce a partnership with Here are some common standards we have visited him while he was ill and sent cards or drove a Harris Connect for the purpose of creating a lasting at ComUNICO. Special thanks to Marianne Lallli- long distance to bid him a final farewell and respects legacy for our members and Italian Americans through- Regan of San Diego UNICO and Mary Racila of Fra out the country. to his daughter Lisa and family during the services. With or without the porketta sandwich in hand, he Noi for their suggestions. We are in the process of producing a Member • UNICO and UNICAN will be spelled with all Showcase Book for UNICO members both past and was a shining example of a gentleman – he was “Mr. UNICO” to all who were privileged to know him and capital letters. present featuring photos and stories of your family’s • Italian American does not have a hyphen history. To be included doesn’t cost you a dime – you he will be sadly missed. “May Eternal Rest Shine on • Spell the "V" Foundation or Jimmy "V" Founda- need to just answer the phone, letter or e-mail. After Him for Ever and Ever”! tion with quotes around the letter V. the stories and photos have been collected, a beautiful On behalf of Ann, Louis and Robert, we wish to you hard-cover “coffee table-style” book complete with an and yours Buon Natale e Felice Anno Nuovo! • After naming a city and state there should be al- introductory content of UNICO’s proud history will ways be comma before more text. make a great addition to your personal library. Of For example: Patterson, NJ, held their fund raiser ... course the majority of the book will contain stories The deadline for the MARCH • After dates there should be always be comma be- provided by you – the member! We hope this project Edition of fore text. motivates you to share your stories of Unity, Neigh- For example: On Saturday, February 6th, 2010, the borliness, Integrity, Charity and Opportunity! We will ComUNICO is Monday, Scranton Chapter ... certainly keep you updated with the project’s time line February 7th, 2011 -e-mail will be spelled: e-mail and you are welcome to contact me if you have any • WWII will be written either WW II or spelled out questions. Again, providing the data to be included in Send chapter news to Matteo Risi at: World War II the book is FREE, however, obtaining the publication • Dashes: We will use only a long dash — with a will involve some cost, for you or your chapter. But e-mail: [email protected] space before and after more on that later… or by mail to: -Ellipsis (dots): Always use three ... and have a space These past months we have been busy present- Matt Risi- UNICO on either side of the three dots. ing checks on behalf of your generosity to UNICO c/o Minuteman Press -Punctuation falls inside quotation marks. charities such as the “V” Foundation, Mental Health 7525 Metropolitan Drive For example: "Chapter President Pieri was surprised programs, Cooley’s Anemia, Heritage and Anti-Bias by the generous contributions!" efforts, and Scholarships. On behalf of the Committee Suite 303 -In photo captions use (L-R) to identify people in the Chairs and John DiNapoli, UNICO Foundation Presi- San Diego, CA 92108 photo and list the titles before the name. dent, we wish to sincerely thank you and your chapter Cell: (619) 993-3913 For Example: (L-R) Jimmy "V" Chair Frank Paoler- for your much needed support. As year-end approaches cio chats with PNP Kathi Strozza. there is still time to make a contribution to the UNICO Fax: (858) 278-9408 Thank you again for all your help!

Page 2 ComUNICO January 2010 CONTENTS

NEWS FROM UNICO NATIONAL Pages 2-4...... ViewPOINT

2 PRESIDENT’S message 4 chaplain’s MESSAGE 2 editor’s DESK Christopher DiMattio...... President pageS 5-11, 13-23, 25-31, 33....CHAPTER NEWS Glenn Pettinato...... Executive Vice President David Donnini...... 1st Vice President pageS 4, 7, 10, 12, 19-22, 26, 30-31 ...... NAT’L REPORTS Michael Veselka...... 2nd Vice President page 12, 32...... in memoriaM Richard D’Arminio...... 3rd Vice President Michael Pisano...... Secretary Pages 24-25...... NIAF GALA Sam Prudente...... Treasurer Frank T. Blasi, Esq...... General Counsel PAGE 25, 29, 31...... presidential travels Mark McDade...... Membership & Retention Dir. Page 47...... MID-YEAR MEETING FORMS Bernard Brutto...... Expansion Director Joan Tidona...... Scholarship Director Sebastian D’Elia...... Communications Director NEWS FROM AMERICA & ITALY Anthony D’Alessio...... Auditor PageS 35-37...... AMERICA Dr. Frank Greco Jr...... Sergeant-at-Arms John Borgese...... ComUNICO Business Manager 35 newsmakeRs 35 LOU& A 35 FEATURE 36 books Rev. Robert Wolfee...... Chaplain Dominick Nicastro...... Eastern Regional DG Chair PageS 39-41...... ITALIA Paul Domico...... Midwest Regional DG Chair 39 la mia italia 39 Spotlight Jim DeSpenza...... Western Regional DG Chair 39 Cinema 40 circo italia 41 VIAGGIO UNICO Charity Chairs Page 43-44...... LA VERA CUCINA COOLEY’S ANEMIA ComUNICO Sharon Thompson 21ST CENTURY Matteo Risi...... Editor [email protected] CAPITAL CAMPAIGN For ComUNICO advertising information call (973) 808-0035 Chris DiMattio MENTAL HEALTH 888-845-3622 Ext. 1 Bus Barbara Lipari Laborim 570-348-2295 Fax STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION [email protected] Title of Publication: ComUNICO Publication No. 00647700. Filed 11/01/10. Frequency of Issue: Every Other Month 570-848-2582 Res No. of Issues Published Annually: 6. Annual Subscription Price: $25.00. Mailing Address of Office of Publication, [email protected] Headquarters, and Publisher: 271 U.S. Hwy. 46 West, Suite A-108, Fairfield, NJ 07004. Editor: Matteo Risi. The pur- SCHOLARSHIP pose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for Federal income tax purposes has Joan Tidona “V” FOUNDATION FOR not changed during the preceding 12 months. ComUNICO is the official publication of UNICO National. Pages 1-33 [email protected] and 47-48, editorial content copyrighted by UNICO National ©2010. Pages 34-46 editorial content copyrighted by CANCER RESEARCH Fra Noi Inc. ©2010. The name “Fra Noi” and the front page and pages 34-46 folio designs are all federally regis- ITALIAN STUDIES Frank Paolercio Sr. tered trademarks owned by Fra Noi Inc. 908-531-4379 Cell Frank Cannata Volume 66 No. 1 • ComUNICO (ISSN-1044-7202) • Total Circulation 7,000+ [email protected] [email protected] Phone: 973.808.0035 Fax: 973.808.0043 Periodical postage is paid to Caldwell, NJ and additional offices. Charitable donations to these UNICO charities are tax deductible! Send your contributions to the UNICO Foundation at: Postmaster, please send Form 3579 and all address changes to: 271 US Highway 46, Suite A-108, Fairfield, NJ 07004 271 US Highway 46 West, Suite A-108, Fairfield, NJ 07004-2458 COVER PHOTOS UNICO National Office Team 1)President Chris and First Lady Ann join NFL legend Joe Montana at the ESPN stu- Sal Benvenuti...... Executive Administrator dios in Manhattan. (Page 31) Pat Pelonero…...... Office Manager 2)Top UNICO leaders attended the National Italian American Foundation Gala in Clelia Alfano...... Full-Time Administrative Assistant Washington, D.C. National President Christopher DiMattio (right) caught up with NIAF Patrizia Trento…...... Part-Time Administrative Assistant Chairman Jerry Colangelo, who is also the Chairman of the Board of USA Basketball. Joyce O’Hara…...... Bookkeeper (Pages 24 and 25) The Staff of the National Office is dedicated 3)UNICO National Scholarship Director Joan Tidona (left to right), National President to serving our UNICO Members and Chapters! Christopher DiMattio and UNICO Foundation benefactor Ralph Torraco present $250,000 to the UNICO National Foundation President John DiNapoli to support their scholarship 973-808-0035 • [email protected] • www.UNICO.org program. (Page 4) UNICO V foundation CHAPLAIN’S foundation presentation MESSAGE

We recently UNICO Memorial Grant celebrated New UNICO presented our 9th Annual $50,000 Year’s Day. In the Memorial Grant to The “V” Foundation for Cancer Catholic Church, Research to “HELP FIND A CURE.” The venue we celebrate this was the 2010 Jimmy “V” Basketball Classic New day as a Holy Day, York Dinner Auction at Pier Sixty at New York not because it is City’s Chelsea Piers. the first day of the The UNICO donation of $50,000 was raised year, but because it by chapters and districts across the country. Many is the last day of the individuals also donated money often in memory of Christmas octave. Christmas is so important in the a loved one lost to cancer. Church’s calendar that one day is not enough. So, UNICO FOUNDATION This year’s grant brings UNICO’s total we celebrate an octave, a period of eight days. It donation over nine years to $450,000 for Cancer is appropriate that the eighth day of the Christmas RECEIVES $250,000 Research. The “V” Foundation and UNICO ensure octave is the feast of Mary, the Mother of God. DONATION that 100% of direct donations go directly towards There would be something very crucial missing cancer research. Administration and fundraising if our celebration of the birth of our Lord did not expenses are paid from money generated by the include remembering his mother’s role also. FAIRFIELD, NJ---Ralph Torraco, of “V” Foundation endowment. UNICO members can One of society’s traditions is to start the New Franklin Lakes, NJ made a $250,000 contribution be proud of the fact that every dollar raised goes Year with resolutions. We try to commit ourselves to in the name of his parents, Bernard and Carolyn directly to fight cancer. tackling those areas of our lives that need changing, Torraco, to the UNICO Foundation, the charitable to resolve to try new things and avoid what has been non-profit corporation of UNICO National to harmful in the past. So, why not make one of our establish a scholarship in the nursing field. The resolutions to try to follow Mary’s example? contribution was the largest ever made to the UNICO Mary did her best to always follow God’s Foundation. will for her. She wants to help us, both with a Besides honoring his parents, Torraco also mother’s love and the love of a fellow disciple. She noted he made the donation to encourage others wants to lead us to her son. She wants to help us to to honor their loved ones in the name of UNICO be good disciples, by our witness and our charity. National, and to honor nurses who live on a daily None of us knows what this year will bring, basis to provide “service above self” to help others. but our faith tells us that God will be there to see Ralph’s father, the late Bernard Torraco, was us through both the good and the bad. Each of us a Past National President of UNICO from 1959-60. is unique and precious to him. He rejoices over He was also UNICO National’s auditor for eight (L-R) Mike Pisano, Bob Montalbano, Gary Grecco, us and wants the best for us in all things. He has years. Bernard was also a prominent accountant with PNP Andre DiMino, UNICO “V” Chairman, Frank a resolution for us and that is to bless us and to his own business for many years in Jersey City. Paolercio, “V” Foundation CEO Nick Valvano, transform our lives. UNICO National announced the scholarship program UNICO National President Chris DiMattio, PNP We can confidently seek God’s blessings just will be set up and made available next year. John Alati and UNICO Foundation President John as Mary did. The beginning of a new year is a natural The presentation was recently made at DiNapoli. time to reflect on the past. As we begin another year, UNICO National’s Eastern Regional meeting in let us take some time to recall all the ways that God Scranton, PA. UNICO SOCIAL has blessed us in the past and then tell him that we UNICO National, founded in 1922, is the want to receive His gifts this year as well. largest Italian American service organization in MEDIA No matter what we face this year, we should America. Its volunteer members support charitable, trust that God can give us his peace. He is always educational & community service projects while shining on us. When challenges come our way, we promoting Italian heritage. http://www.UNICO.org. UNICO National is now on many Social can rely on His strength and presence to aid us. For Networks. Below is a list, please add us and help all we know, God may have an amazing year in store spread the word! Let’s all stay connected!! for us. So, like Mary, we should stay close to him Facebook: and let nothing block his flow of blessings. http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/ UNICO-National/334346317744 God Bless, Twitter: Fr. Bob Wolfee, National Chaplain http://twitter.com/UNICONational LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/UNICONational Advertise in ComUNICO !! We are also trying to raise money for the UNICO Foundation on the website, http://www. globalgiving.org/projects/cancer-research-cooleys- anemia-mental-health/ now till December 22, 2010. To Advertise in ComUNICO: (L-R) National Scholarship Director Joan Tidona, UNI- Our goal is $4,000. CO National President Christopher DiMattio, UNICO Please forward this on to all your friends and member and UNICO Foundation benefactor Ralph Tor- Contact our ComUNICO family so that we can expand our organization!!! J raco and UNICO National Foundation President John DiNapoli. Here Ralph presents a $250,000 check to the National Office UNICO Foundation to support national scholarships. Clelia Alfano UNICO National Office 1-800-877-1492 Phone (973) 808-0035 [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Page 4 ComUNICO January 2010 roseto PA rehoboth DE lincroft NJ

CENT’ ANNI 2012 UNICO BEAUTIFIES Day At the Races

Roseto PA will be celebrating cent’ anni in THE COMMUNITY On Saturday, August 21st, the Lincroft 2012 and the Roseto chapter of UNICO will also be chapter held their third “Day At the Races” at 50 years old that year. On Thursday, October 14th, UNICO’s Monmouth Park Racetrack. This was one of our Two chapter officers were sworn in recently Italian-American Rehoboth Area Chapter of largest fundraisers of the year, with 175 people at the Franklin Hills Winery. Ladies of UNICO Delaware donated the gift of gardening, time and attending the event. It was a beautiful day and we officers were sworn in during a recent dinner at the money as members worked hard to beautify the had good food, games, competitions and of course Roseto Fire Co. hall. area surrounding the Verrazzano monument located great people. along the Atlantic Ocean at Boardwalk & Olive Ave. We had hermit crab races for the kids and With so many fall festivities planned in the city of the adults also participated in a homemade dessert Rehoboth, the organization wanted our community contest. Participants were encouraged to bring and our visitors to enjoy reading the history of homemade desserts that were judged, with awards Giovanni da Verrazzano, an Italian explorer, who for both presentation and taste. explored the coast of Delaware. Several local businesses donated certificates that served as prizes for the fundraiser competitions. These businesses include Ryan’s Ice Cream in Shrewsbury, The Atlantic Club, Work Out World and the New Corner Restaurant and Pizzeria, all of Red Bank. Everyone had a great time and looking forward to next year. (L - R) Secretary Carmella Carrescia, Vice President Joe Danubio, President Dr. Frank DeFrank. The ceremony was conducted by UNICO National President Christopher DiMattio.

(L - R) Vice President Bob Palese, Secretary Rose Marie Patin, Committee Chair Ann Jack, Treasurer Joe Polinski, President Mary Jane Deets, member Tom Deets. Dede Anderson, District Governor Marie Teresa Morrison and Bernie Polinski also participated in the beautification.

chicago il EAST (L- R) President Anne Marie Robertone, Vice LONGMEADOW MA President Mary Ann Mcevoy, Treasurer Gloria Martino and Secretary Marie Pullo. The ceremony was performed by Roseto chapter president Dr. Frank DeFrank. UNICAN Recognized Italian Heritage Month

The Italian American Police Association Celebration of Illinois honored Cook County Deputy Sheriff and UNICO Chicago member Joe The Italian Cultural Center of Western Massachusetts Fiorentino with the 2010 Officer Achievement celebrated Italian Heritage Month this past October. Award on October 23rd, 2010, in recognition Everybody loved our Porchetta recipe. The boys had for his dedication and accomplishments in the a successful evening in service of East Longmeadow community. The award was presented by founder UNICO. and Chairman of the Board Ralph DeBartolo at the 47th Anniversary Dinner Dance with over 500 people in attendence.

Roseto’s Mayor Desiree DeNicola and Council President Michael Romano presented a proclamation declaring the month of October Italian heritage month to Roseto chapter president Dr. Frank DeFrank. SEND YOUR CHRISTMAS EVENT PHOTOS (L - R) Ron Waite, Giuseppe D’Arco, Moe Ghedini and Mike Craig at the Taste of Italy in the Mt. TO COMUNICO Carmel hall in Springfield, Massachusetts.

January 2010 ComUNICO Page 5 waterbury ct brick NJ

Welcome Back Home Columbus Day One of Their Soldiers Festival & Parade Seaside Heights NJ October 8-9-10, 2010

Soldiers from the Connecticut Army Brick Chapter Members toast to a fantastic National Guard stationed in Afghanistan returned Columbus Day Parade and to a great fundraising home just in time to celebrate Thanksgiving Day effort. The Brick Chapter raised money to benefit with their families. Among them was SGT Nick their scholarship fund and UNICO Charities. The Ciullo who is the grandson of Waterbury UNICO dinner was held at Luna Rosa Restaurant in Seaside member and CT-I PDG Peter Ciullo. SGT Nick Heights, NJ. was the first soldier after his commander to set foot in US soil while proudly carrying the 102 Infantry Battalion Colors. Welcome home SGT Ciullo and all other soldiers serving abroad. We are all proud of MAJOR SPONSOR you and thank you for serving. CAMPAGNA

Brick Chapter Members Ken Moglia & Linda UNICO THANKS Starzman raise money for UNICO Charities at the Columbus Day Festival and Parade in Seaside CAMPAGNA FOODS Heights, NJ . Picture this...Salerno, Italy! The beautiful region di- vided by mountains and seas, the home of Campagna Products. The food of Italy is doubly appealing, alive with so many flavors, textures, colors and aromas. This is the Mediterranean diet, forever growing in popular- ity in the Western World's way of cooking and eating. Proud grandparents Lucille and Peter Ciullo (R) Such popularity could be attributed to the modern trend and family patiently wait to Welcome Home their of healthy eating, all of which can be found in Italy's hero SGT Nick. produce: • Olive oils, fruity, deep and rich. • Tomatoes (Pomodori), sweet and juicy, the base for so many authentic salads and sauces. • Pasta, made of the finest semolina flour, a canvas for The Brick Chapter marches in the Columbus Day wonderful and wholesome dishes. Parade in Seaside Heights, NJ. Leading the chapter • Herbs, an integral part of cooking, well known for are John Terranova & Chris Carbonaro. their health benefits, but often only considered as a garnish in most parts. • Cheese (Formaggio), like the marriage of Basil and Tomato, so would be the pairing of pasta and Parmi- giano (Parmesan). Such is the value attached to this cheese, that banks long ago would accept a wheel of Parmesan as collateral!!! A very interesting fact...... SGT Nicholas Ciullo was very happy to be at home Recipes vary from each region, town and chef with Grandpa Pete, Grandma Lucille and his family. (even the most humble of cooks), provide a unique rep- resentation and expression of the variety of ingredients on offer. Campagna is able to bring a medley of flavors and aromas to the consumer's table. Both traditional Ken Moglia of the Brick Chapter welcomes the and innovative techniques are incorporated into the sig- Polizia di Stato (Italian State Police) to the UNICO natory cuisine. Good food is not complicated, but about Booth at the Seaside Heights Columbus Day choosing the correct, nutritious ingredients. Festival. Feasting on Campagna Products will take you back to the dining customs of Greek and Roman times. What better way to eat and live healthy? This is the Campagna and Mediterranean way!!

CT Governor M. Jodi Rell and AG Martin welcome home the soldiers of the Connecticut Army National Brick Chapter Members Phil Terranova and Linda Guard and SGT Ciullo carrying the Colors of the Starzman welcome Miss New Jersey 2010 Ashleigh 102 Infantry Battalion, one of the oldest battalions in Udalovas to the Columbus Day Parade in Seaside the U.S. Army, serving our nation for over a century Heights NJ. Page 6 ComUNICO January 2010 UNICO youth plainfield NJ

At times, I think that today’s teens and young Day At the Races adults get a bad rep. To some, it might seem as Members of Plainfields’ UNICO held their if we were born with a own flag raising at Borough Hall in South Plainfield cell phone in our hands, with Municipal, State and Federal officials, including Plainfields’ UNICO President Anthony Bengivenga an iPod in our ears, and South Plainfield Councilman Robert Bengivenga, stops during Columbus Day march in front of St. an innate desire to talk South Plainfield Mayor Charles Butrico, State Patrick’s Cathedral where his Eminence, Cardinal to people on Facebook Senator Barbara Buono, and Congressman Leonard Edward Egan was greeting marchers. instead of in real life. Or Lance. Members of Plainfields’ UNICO then perhaps even worse for proceeded to later march in the Columbus Day those from New Jersey, Parade in New York. some might think our lives revolve around GTL: gym, tan, laundry. Thank you, Jersey Shore, for making it seem like everyone under 25 is superficial, unproductive and orange. But if anyone has ever been to, or heard of, the Cedar Grove UNICO’s annual Turkey Drive, you would know that my generation really isn’t like this at all. Each year, dozens of high school students volunteer in collecting and sorting the hundreds of turkeys we received. This year, we also collaborated UNICO District X Deputy Governor and past with the Cedar Grove High School Italian Club. Plainfields’ UNICO President Robert Bengivenga Developing a connection with the local tips cap as he carries Clark UNICO banner along school system is a great way to help establish an with Henry Varriano. ACES program in your chapter. If you don’t have a connection with your town’s high school, send an Members of the Plainfields’ UNICO and District X e-mail to the principle or a guidance counselor. Ask UNICO raised the flag at Borough Hall in South if there is an Italian Club or a National Italian Honor Plainfield. (L - R) Plainfields’ UNICO President Society. Explain that you would like to collaborate Anthony Bengivenga, Plainfields’ UNICO member on some service projects. I doubt that any school and Past National President Frank Licato, UNICO would turn down the chance for its students to help First Deputy District X Governor Robert Bengivenga in the community. High school students are always and UNICO District X Governor William Hearon. looking for ways to bulk up their resumes or get community service hours for Confirmation or gradu- ation requirements. UNICO’s presence within high schools should be equally as strong as the programs implemented by other national service organizations. Creating an ACES program within your (L - R) Plainfields’ UNICO members at Columbus community can begin with a simple e-mail. ACES Day Parade: Sergeant At Arms John DeAndrea, Tina is designed to bring Italian-American young adults Dubas, UNICO District X Deputy Governor Robert together in the name of service; to foster a greater Bengivenga, Plainfields UNICO President Anthony understanding and appreciation of the Italian culture Bengivenga, and Plainfields’ UNICO Vice President and traditions; to socialize and network with people Michael Colucci. of the same heritage. Isn’t this the perfect founda- tion for great future UNICANs? I certainly think so. E-mail me if you agree and we can talk Members of Plainfields’ UNICO line up for the about getting an ACES program started in your local annual Columbus Day Parade in New York City. chapter. I can be reached at [email protected], (L - R) Plainfields’ UNICO President Anthony or you can follow me on Twitter @katiemcorrado. Bengivenga, Sergeant at Arms John DeAndrea, My co-chair, Marissa Gynn, can also be reached by UNICO Communications Director Sebastian D’Elia, e-mail at [email protected]. Plainfields UNICO Vice President Michael Colucci, Don’t forget: UNICO’s website now has a and UNICO District X First Deputy Governor YOUTH section. Find it in the “National Programs” Robert Bengivenga. tab on www.UNICO.org. Plainfields’ UNICO President Anthony Bengivenga Katie Corrado Advertise in ComUNICO !! addresses the crowd at the Plainfields’ UNICO Flag [email protected] raising on Columbus Day at borough hall in South To Advertise in ComUNICO: Plainfield. GOT FACEBOOK? “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace; Contact our ComUNICO where there is hatred, let me sow love; where If you have any questions about social National Office there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, media or want your event posted on faith; where there is despair, hope; where there Facebook, please contact Clelia Alfano at 1-800-877-1492 is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, the national office: [email protected] joy.” [email protected] -St. Francis

January 2010 ComUNICO Page 7 UNICO WEDDING Westfield nj San Diego ANNIVERSARYS Pizza Party Celebration on the Westfield Students Membership in San High Seas Winners in UNICO Essay Diego’s Little Italy Manny and Patricia Alfano of Bloomfield, NJ celebrated their 41st wedding anniversary while Contest Phil and Marlene Echo celebrated their 50th. The San Diego Chapter invited prospective Manny and Pat were married on August 26, Two Westfield High School students were members to a pizza party at Landini’s Pizzaria in 1969 in Belleville, NJ. They have lived in Bloom- named winners of $250 savings bonds each in Little Italy. The weather on Tuesday, October 19th, field for 40 years and are the parents and in-laws of the 2010 Westfield UNICO essay contest. Seniors was uncharacteristic for Southern California with Stephen and Tracy Alfano of East Hanover; Victor Shannon Reilly and Adrian Szycowski composed torrential rains! The hearty souls that braved the Alfano of Bloomfield and Maria Alfano of Norwalk, their essays based on the contest’s theme: “The most storm enjoyed great food and fun. Connecticut. The couple have four grandchildren; influential Italian or Italian-American.” On hand to San Diego makes contact with prospective Ashley, Stefano, Alyssa and Gabriela. congratulate the students were (L - R) UNICO Essay members with a booth at the Columbus Day Festa in The Echos were married September 18, 1960 Contest Chairman Robert Tarte; President, Dave Little Italy. The pizza party is a way to invite these and have lived in Nutley for 50 years and are the Lovato; and Secretary, John Chiesa; with students prospective members to a casual setting to meet parents and in-laws of Dr. Philip and Dr. Rosa Echo, Shannon Reilly, Adrian Szycowski, and Westfield members and discuss membership. Jill Echo from New York and Tara Echo now liv- High School Social Studies Teacher, Adam Pizzi. ing in New Orleans. They have two granddaughters For her essay, Shannon wrote about Dr. Anthony Andrea and Julia. Fauci, an immunologist who contributed research The cruise sailed from Italy to Cairo Egypt to the study of AIDS. According to Shannon, Fauci were they saw the great pyramids and ended in had a large part in creating the vaccinations that we Genova on October 12th, the birth place of Christo- have today. “Everyone should know more about him pher Columbus. because he is an unsung hero,” she said. Adrian wrote about John Sirica, the judge presiding over the Watergate Scandal. Adrian wrote about Sirica because as a Junior at Westfield High School last year, Adrian took Advanced Placement United States History and “was always interested in how society’s thought process evolved into a mistrust of the government and second guessing the government,” he said. Sirica was named TIME San Diego Chapter president James Pieri Jr. (R) magazine’s Man of the Year in 1973 for his work on presents a ‘Qui Si Mangia Bene !” certificate to Max the Watergate Scandal. Landini. Max is dressed to scale the Italian Alps! The UNICO essay contest was established 11 years ago. The organization also provides scholarships to graduating seniors. The name Outside of Cario, Egypt, in the shadow of the pyra- UNICO means “one” or “only” or “only one of its mids, (L-R) Phil and Marlene Echo and Pat and kind.” Additionally, the letters are interpreted as Manny Alfano. U-unity, N-neighborliness, I-integrity, C-charity, and O-opportunity.

There were three people from Kenosha Wisconsin at our pizza party! (L-R) Visitor Pat LaMacchia, San Diego UNICAN Dana Blasi and prospective member UNICANs relax in Limassal,Cyprus, south of the Sue Chacon. Green Line.

Objective of UNICO To promote and enhance the Image of Italian Americans; for members to be of service to the community; to promote Italian heritage and cul- ture; to promote, support and assist charitable, scientific, cultural, educational, and literary projects; to promote members' interest in public welfare; and, to cooperate with others in civic, social and cultural development. San Diego membership chairman Michael Monaco The Cristoforo Columbo Statue in Genova. tempts Western Regional District Governor Chair Jim DeSpenza with the last two slices of pizza. Page 8 ComUNICO January 2010 Greater Belleville NJ SAN DIEGO CA ramsey nj

Ramsey UNICO Supports Eastern Regional Feeding America Ramsey HS Italian- Meeting The San Diego Chapter of UNICO once again assisted “Feeding America.” San Diego UNICO American Club volunteers helped stack and shrink wrap pallets of food stuffs. Feeding America is the nation’s leading do- Ramsey High School after school clubs have mestic hunger-relief charity. Our mission is to feed been discontinued due to budget cuts. Not the case America’s hungry through a nationwide network of for the Italian-American Cooking and Culture Club. member food banks and engage our country in the The Greater Ramsey UNICO Chapter members fight to end hunger. voted to financially support the club for the second Each year, the Feeding America network straight year with a donation of $1000.00. The provides food to more than 37 million low-income members also voted to provide a $1000.00 per year people facing hunger in the United States, including for the next 5 years to ensure interested students can 14 million children and nearly 3 million seniors. continue to actively learn and improve their Italian cooking techniques and gain knowledge of their Manny Alfano, Pat Alfano, Ann DeGenaro, Tom Italian heritage. DeGenaro, Marie Antonio and Gene Antonio. In addition to financially supporting the after school club, Ramsey UNICO raises funds to support local organizations such as: Hearts and Crafts, Meals-on-Wheels, Woodlands Senior Center, Mahwah Center for Food Action, Meaningful Movements, and many others. Ramsey UNICO also provides scholarships for Ramsey High School seniors annually. For more information visit: www.grUNICO.org

(L-R) Nick Gistaro, Roger Maury, Jennifer DeSpen- za, Steve Codrero, Anita and Maury. Other par- The Eastern Regional Meeting took place in ticipants were Western Regional District Governor Scranton, PA home of the fictitious Dunder Mifflin Chair Jim DeSpenza, Marianne Lalli-Regan and her Paper Company. As you can see above, UNICANS sister. were joined by various characters from the NBC hit television show “The Office.” Ridgefield nj Denville nj RHS Students at Italian-American Cooking and Culture Club. Christmas Tree Lighting Meet the President Enjoying the “Meet the National President” night dinner for NJ, NY and PA at the Venetian honoring Chris DiMattio are Denville UNICO members and guests. They all had a great time “mixing it up” with Chris and fellow UNICANS.

(L - R) Former Ramsey UNICO President, Ron Muzzillo, Tom D’Angelis, Cooking Instructor, Lou LaVigna, Ramsey UNICO President. The Ridgefield Tree Lighting took place at Colum- bus Circle on December 2nd. The event was in part sponsored by Ridgefield UNICO. The city of Ridge- field puts the village up and the Slocum School Singers VISIT UNICO ONLINE perform Christmas Songs for the people. 200 or more AT (L - R) Standing are Lou Maffei, Nicki Carpinelli - families were there. Ridgefield UNICO handed out District Governor, Anne Marie Mattaliano and Lou candy canes to all the kiddies at the end of tree lighten- WWW.UNICO.ORG Mattaliano - Vice President. Sitting are Carol Maffei, ing ceremony. The firehouse gives hot chocolate and Jim Scannelli - Treasurer and Sue Carol Scannelli - Cookies to all families. Secretary. January 2010 ComUNICO Page 9 I ask every chapter to review the various awards that we present at the national convention. THIRD VICE These include the Vastola, Professional Athletic, kearny nj Amateur Athletic, Cianci and Rizzutto awards. PRESIDENT Talk about these awards at your chapter board meetings and propose a candidate to the committee Did you know that chairs. we have 44 National Let all of us share the load to make our Kearny Chapter Committees listed in service and charity more effective. our recent directory? Delivers Thanksgiving As Third National Richard D'Arminio Day Baskets to Needy Vice President, I am 201-704-1146 supervising each one. [email protected] Families My goal this year is to This year, the Kearny Chapter restarted its make chapters more tradition of providing Thanksgiving Day Baskets to needy aware of the func- families of the community. Members gathered over a tion of each one. I period of several days to shop for the basket contents, put will highlight a few bridgeport ct the baskets together and then make the deliveries. The committees in each baskets were well received by the local families. issue so that chapters can know more about them and choose a few Bridgeport UNICO to help out that may be of particular interest. For example, I believe that every chapter Chapter Celebrates should have an ACES Club and more youth mem- bers. I have asked Katie Corrado and Marissa Gynn, Columbus Day our youth co-chairs to write an article offering some ideas on how each chapter can get started. My own Chapter, Greater Ramsey UNICO, recently donated money to our local high school to keep the Italian Club from folding, and now we are looking to get Denise Ficeto and Celeste Pandolfi shopped for all the the members to become ACES in our chapter! If you “fixin’s” of the Thanksgiving Day Baskets at a local simply ask young people to join, many will become supermarket. involved. Today’s youth need to do community service for their college applications. At your Brian Piccolo awards dinners, please be sure to include the recipients as youth members at $1 per month dues. Even if they go away to college, they will be able to receive ComUNICO and spread our messages to their friends. The scholarships are also a great way Driving in a convertible convoy and tossing candy to reach their parents! along the route were chapter members Louis Many chapters give annually to our National Gallucci and Christopher Carroll, Giancarlo Scholarship, “V” Foundation for cancer research, Vincenzi, and Perry J. Vincenzi. Cooley's Anemia, 21st Century and Mental Health programs. I encourage all chapters to set aside some John Lacki, Denise Ficeto and Celeste Pandolfi unpacked the groceries and began assembling the funds annually. Imagine if every chapter gave just baskets. even $100 to support these causes. Joan Tidona, Frank Paolercio, Sharon Thompson, President Chris DiMattio and Barbara LaBorim have done an out- standing job in their respective committees. Our National Fund Raising Chairs, Lou and Celeste Pandolfi, are one heck of a team and I think that all chapters should share ideas that work to raise funds and increase membership. Write an article for ComUNICO and share your chapter’s successes. My chapter recently raised over $22,000 at a wine tast- ing at a nearby hotel. Money was generated by silent Bridgeport Chapter President Perry R. Vincenzi and his wife Angela carry the chapter banner in the and live auctions, raffle baskets, and vendor contri- Time to deliver the Thanksgiving Day Baskets - Gerry Columbus Day Parade. butions. Ficeto, Celeste Pandolfi and Denise Ficeto loaded up Our National Columbus Day Chairman, one of the cars and prepared to deliver the baskets to Ralph Contini, has done an exceptional job in assist- needy families in Kearny. ing chapters from across the United States in spread- ing our message during the month of October. I at- tended functions in Hackensack and Seaside Heights, NJ and New York City. I attend as many functions and local chapter meetings as I can. Invite me and I'll be there! Congratulations to Hillside UNICO as they celebrated their 50th Anniversary at a recent dinner that I had the priviledge to attend. In future columns I will write about Anti Bias, Heritage, and other committees. It was a great day to honor Columbus with our Gerry Ficeto and Jim Cifelli handled the job of getting fellow Italian Americans in Bridgeport. the turkeys ready for delivery. Page 10 ComUNICO January 2010

CEDAR GROVE NJ elizabeth nj point pleasant nj

A Gift of Thanksgiving Elizabeth Chapter Youth Members’ Clothing Turkeys Attends John Basilone Drive The Cedar Grove Chapter of UNICO held its an- Memorial Parade Since Point Pleasant Beach UNICO has 27 youth nual turkey drive this year, collecting frozen turkeys On September 26, 2010, thousands of people members, officers decided to let them run their own and canned goods to be distributed so that those less lined the streets of Raritan Borough to honor World fundraising event in addition to participating in regu- fortunate could enjoy a good Thanksgiving meal. We War II hero John Basilone. The annual parade is lar UNICO events. Most youth members were past collected 553 turkeys, with more than 100 of those given to honor Basilone, a Congressional Medal of scholarship winners and lose interest after a year or turkeys being collected by Oratory High School Honor Winner, and other past war heroes who have two since their schedules do not coincide with chapter student Jack Andonian! The turkeys were brought proudly served our country. This annual parade meetings and these young people do not feel actively down to St. Lucy's Church in Newark where they continues to grow in popularity and is supported by involved in UNICO. That is why Point Pleasant Youth were distributed. many local organizations, bands, schools, military Chairperson Jessica Kreutzer organized a Thanksgiv- personnel and celebrities. The Elizabeth Chapter ing Weekend Clothing Drive so that all youth members of UNICO National was proudly in attendance and can participate even if they are away at college and can’t attend other events. Youth members were notified its members wore jackets to represent the UNICO by e-mail and Facebook to collect unwanted clothes, National organization. shoes, toys etc that would be distributed to the needy With crowds approaching 10,000 people plus raise some money for their treasury. Along with this year, almost 4,000 more than last year’s adult member Chairperson Diane Grabowski, Jessica parade, the parade atmosphere was energetic and arranged for a truck to pick up the clothing the Satur- the marchers were clearly appreciated by the day after Thanksgiving while most college students are crowd which included young and old alike. The home for the long holiday weekend. ACES Chairperson Elizabeth Chapter was represented by President Madelyn Richiuso also had her Junior Chapter mem- Joe Marretta, Pete Paolucci, Joe Chiari, Courtney bers participate along with youth members so that all Villani, Arnold Ricerca, Ralph Abbate and Paul young people of UNICO worked together on a chari- Collecting and delivering hundreds of turkeys for Rinaldi. The members were excited to be invited by table project. Jessica, a high school French teacher, was Thanksgiving tables has become an important Cedar the Raritan Chapter of UNICO National and truly one of the chapter’s first UNICO Scholarship recipi- Grove UNICO tradition. enjoyed participating in the picnic that followed the ents and wishes to thank Diane Grabowski for all her parade. The Raritan Chapter was a gracious host to assistance and use of her garage for storage. Also on a wonderful parade honoring a true Italian-American Jessica’s committee were Mike Gynn, a Junior Ac- war hero, John Basilone. counting major at Rider and Paulo Rubierio who works John Basilone (November 4, 1916 for New York Cares as a volunteer specialist. All youth – February 19, 1945) was a United States members and ACES will be invited as special guests to Marine Gunnery Sergeant who received the the regular chapter’s Holiday Dinner the Tuesday after Medal of Honor for his actions at the Battle of Christmas when they are home again for winter break. Guadalcanal during World War II. He was the At the dinner, the students be introduced and thanked by the chapter. Money raised at this clothing drive will only enlisted Marine in World War II to receive go towards a local scholarship that UNICO youth will both the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross. present to a high school senior in June.

Cedar Grove youth were instrumental in collecting turkeys.

Members of the Elizabeth, NJ ,Chapter of UNICO Organizers of Point Pleasant UNICO Youth Clothing proudly display their chapter banner! Drive: Paulo Rubierio, Jessica Kreutzer and Mike Gynn.

Cedar Grove UNICO unloads a truck carrying hun- dreds of turkeys to St. Lucy’s Parish in Newark NJ. Point Pleasant Youth members home for Thanksgiv- The turkeys were distributed to struggling families so John Basilone was a son of Raritan, NJ, and it is ing weekend load donated clothes to fund a new that they could enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. only fitting that there should be an annual parade to honor the Guadalcanal Marine Corps hero. scholarship. January 2010 ComUNICO Page 11 V Foundation for HERITAGE & Cancer Research CULTURE

He’s Had A Good Life in The Deadly Little Italy Sting of By Christopher Cadelago-San Diego Union Tribune Nanobees [email protected] Tommy Battaglia is the “Mayor: of the San Diego A newly developed SAN DIEGO’S LITTLE ITALY — Tommy Batta- Little Italy Neighborhood.” Tommy is a member of beneficial bee “sting” glia, 87, moved to Little Italy in San Diego from San San Diego UNICO. carried by “nanobees” Francisco in 1925 and again in 1933. could deliver a targeted “San Diego came alive with the tuna in- treatment for cancer. dustry. When we came to Little Italy I was a young At the boy, 10 years old. The whole family came on the breakthrough’s core is the taming of the potent Yale, one of two ships that ran from San Francisco to in memorium venom pepitide melittin that bees inject into their San Diego. I worked in the meat market and killed victims. Researchers at the School of Medicine poultry. We used to wheel the chickens and rabbits attached it to nanometer-sized carriers targeted to out onto the curb. People would pick their chicken tumors, injected those into mice and stopped the and I would take it into the backroom and pull its On October 22, 2010 James growth of tumors without damaging other tissue. neck or stick it. Some people wanted you to pull the Vincent Ingala died in his sleep The nanobees fly in, land on the surface of neck because they would eat the neck with the blood. of old age. He would have been cells and their cargo of melittin, which merges with I was just a little kid.” 99 years old on January 29, 2011. the target cells. It has been shown that the bee toxin I was a commercial fisherman for maybe Proud of his Sicilian roots and gets taken into the cells, where it pokes holes in their 15 years. We would go out and be gone two, three deeply grateful for having been internal structures. That ability for melittin, a small months, sometimes. We unloaded our fish and within brought to our land of opportunity protein, or peptide, to attach to cells also spawned a 10-day period we would be going back out to sea as a toddler, he was born in the significant new spin-off research. again. I got married and my wife had my first son village of Sommatino, province of Melittin is of interest to researchers because and then she got pregnant with my second son. I Caltanisetta, Italy, the son of the in high enough concentration it can destroy any cell thought, this is no life for a married man, you know? late Ignazio Ingala and Paolina Dori` Ingala Terenzo. it comes in contact with, making it an effective anti- So I quit fishing. An alumnus of Wilby High School, he bacterial and antifungal agent and potentially an anti “Then I came in and bought the meat market apprenticed in Bridgeport and Waterbury as a cancer agent. Cancer cells can adapt and develop I used to work at. And then I bought the grocery store portrait photographer before opening The Sterling resistance to many anti-cancer agents that alter gene next door. And then I bought the building. I moved Studio downtown in 1940. His business was so well function or target a cell’s DNA, but it’s hard for cells to Columbia Street and I built a whole plant. The city received that he adopted the motto, “Everybody to find a way around the mechanism that melittin said I couldn’t have the meat company there so we Smiles for Jim” and joked that he photographed uses to kill. moved. Today my sons run Tommy’s Quality Meats, everyone in Waterbury once, and the Italian- The scientist tested nanobees in mice with or TQM. The Busalacchis have seven restaurants in Americans at least three times. A genial, courtly cancerous tumors. One mouse breed was implanted the area and they make the best food in San Diego. gentleman of the old school, he made friends easily, with human breast-cancer cells, another one with They came from the Old Country and I remember had a calm temperament, warm heart, and deep, wry melanoma tumors. After injecting the mice with the when they were little and had no money. They came sense of humor. He always had a positive attitude melittin-carrying nanoparticles over several days, into the market and I told the parents to take what- on life which was reflected in his spirited post- the mice’s breast-cancer tumor growth slowed some ever they want and feed the kids. They never forgot retirement oil and acrylic paintings. 25%, and the size of the melanoma tumors decreased it. He was married to the late Christine DeCicco 88% compared to untreated tumors. “Joe Busalacchi now has restaurants in my for almost 55 years. His full partner in business, civic The results suggest that nanobees could building. A lot of us made a good living. Then we and volunteer activities, and as supporters of the arts, not only retard the growth and reduce the size of bought properties in different areas. The Italians are she died in 1998. They raised two daughters, Patricia established cancerous tumors, but also prevent scattered, but our church (Our Lady of the Rosary) Scalzi of Scottsdale, Arizona and Christine Seethaler cancer from developing. holds this community together. Every Sunday it’s Tobis of South Glastonbury, CT. In his late 80s, he Nanobees are an effective way to packed with Italians. It’s the hub. The fisherman remarried and enjoyed over 11 happy years with package the useful but potentially deadly melittin, helped to build it. They gave the church $25 for Louise Cappelletti Ingala. In addition to his work sequestering it so that it neither harms normal cells every ton of tuna. And that’s when money was worth with the Waterbury and Connecticut Photographers nor gets degraded before it reaches its target. money. It was guys from the church, where every Association, he volunteered for the Republican Much promising research is being done. year we have a formal dinner and party, who helped Party and other philanthropies. He was especially UNICO’s participation in research has been choose me as the first honorary mayor of Little Italy. devoted to UNICO National’s Waterbury Chapter, outstanding and our commitment to “HELP FIND A “There’s nothing in this whole area that which honored him for his leadership and over 60 CURE” is commendable. We chapters must continue hasn’t changed for the better. I look around and year-long service. In 1987 he was appointed Italian our support. Our goal is $50,000 per year. UNICO remember the neighborhood the way it was. There mayor of the day in honor of his contributions to the Grants are making a difference. All our monies go used to be a bar where Filippi’s Restaurant is now. Waterbury community. for research with no administrative fees. Next door was a little grocery store, a competitor to In addition to his parents and wife Christine, me. Then there was a parking garage. Then the meat he was preceded in death by his sisters Teresa Ingala market and grocery store. It was a quiet area, not too D’Orazio, Helen Ingala Floriani, and Marie Terenzo Advertise in ComUNICO !! much activity. People here worked. The men were in Santoro, his brothers Thomas Ingala and Salvatore the fishing industry and women worked in the clean- Terenzo, and his grandson Giancarlo Scalzi. He To Advertise in ComUNICO: ers. was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren, Contact our ComUNICO “My father died of pneumonia and my Gina Scalzi Strawbridge, Lisa Seethaler, Richard National Office mother remarried. That’s when we came back to San Seethaler, Jr., James Seethaler, and Kathryn Diego and settled on the corner of Union and Grape. Seethaler, and six great-grandchildren, Ian and 1-800-877-1492 All of my life has been on India Street. It’s a good Lisa Strawbridge, Emily and Olivia Seethaler, and street, a good life.” Madison and Alanna Baker. [email protected] Page 12 ComUNICO January 2010 scranton pa philadelphia pa Plainfield NJ

Scranton Chapter Columbus Day Parade Italians of the New York Hosts Radunata Marathon

The Scranton chapter hosted its annual Radunata, a roundup of the chapters in PA. Held every November at Arcaro and Genell’s, Old Forge, (the pizza capital of the world) PA, this event enhances the camaraderie of the chapters and increases appreciation of our Italian heritage.

Members and friends celebrating Columbus Day. (L - R) Anthony Bengivenga, President of Plainfields Chapter of UNICO, congratulates Giacomo Pedrini and Giovanni Parietti as they display the medals they won in finishing the New York Marathon on Sunday, May 7th, in Manhattan. Mr. Pedrini and Mr. Parietti are two of 50 Italians from the surrounding towns of Terno D’Isola in the Province of Bergamo, (L - R) Chapter Representatives Dominic Ortolani, Italy who ran in this year’s New York Marathon. Wilkes-Barre; IPDG Chip Calabro, Carbondale; Anthony Bengivenga, President of Plainfields EVP Glenn Pettinato, also from Carbondale, Dr. Chapter of UNICO and Giacomo Pedrini former Frank DeFrank, Roseto President; Chris DiMattio, Councilman of Terno D’Isola, Italy established a National President; Jack Brunetti, Scranton John Ferrara Vice President with from left, Luanne sister city program with South Plainfield, NJ. Every President and Jeff Addley who spoke on his Caruso, Miss UNICO, middle is Ivana Fichera, year Mr. Bengivenga of Green Brook, NJ hosts some experiences as a student in Perugia. Little Miss UNICO, right is Selena Denardo, Jr. Miss of the Italian runners and greets all of them hardily UNICO, as they cross the finish line at the marathon in NY. This year a total of 3,000 Italians participated in the marathon.

(L - R) Members enjoying the Radunata, Amy Yando, Gene Peters and Gloria Bernardi. Left is Joe Delullo, Mark Maggi, Stephanie Capocci, Nick Gomez , John Ferrara. Plainfields Chapter District 10 in NJ participates in Eastern Regional Conference in Scranton, PA November 5th and 6th. (L - R) Renato Biribin, Past National President of UNICO; Bob Bengivenga, Past President of Plainfields’ Chapter; Renowned Tenor, Christopher Macchio; Anthony Bengivenga, President of Plainfields Chapter and Mike Colucci, V.P. of Plainfields Chapter all of UNICO District 10 in New Jersey. The tenor Christopher Macchio entertained all the UNICO members at a special dinner banquet on Friday November 5th at the Eastern Regional Conference in Scranton PA. (L - R) EVP Glenn Pettinato, Terri Pettinato, Chip Calabro and standing, Mike Dobrowski all from the UNICO Members and Friends. Summer Convention Carbondale Chapter. in Washington DC

The History of the Italian Flag Plan to attend the UNICO National Convention at the Crystal Gateway Marriot in Arlington, The Italian tricolor was first established during the NapoleonicWars by French republics in northern Virginia this summer. The convention starts Italy, who styled it after the French tricolor. In 1848 the design was adopted by the house of Savoy, on Wednesday, August 3rd, and runs until the which went on to lead the Italian unification. The present flag was adopted in 1946, when Italy became a Inauguration Ball on the evening of Saturday, republic and the royal arms were removed. August 7th.

January 2010 ComUNICO Page 13 holiday honoring military veterans. A federal holiday, it is observed on November 11. It is also Armed Forces celebrated as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day memphis tn in other parts of the world, falling on November 11, the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. (Major hostilities of World War I were formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day Veterans of the 11th month of 1918 with the German signing Bocce Tournament of the Armistice.) Day The holiday is commonly printed as On August 28, 2010, UNICO Memphis Veteran’s Day or Veterans’ Day in calendars and the Bocce Club held our annual Bocce and advertisements. While these spellings are Tournament where we raised $1,000 for the Jimmy Our National President, grammatically acceptable, the United States “V” Foundation. A good time was had by all who Chris DiMattio has government has declared that the attributive (no either played, watched, fellowshipped or just came indicated that he would apostrophe) rather than the possessive case is the to eat the delicious food. At the following monthly like to see the Chapters official spelling. It honors the 24.9 million military meeting we presented the trophies. and Members of UNICO veterans in the United States honor our fallen warriors The U.S. President Woodrow Wilson first on Armistice Day. This proclaimed an Armistice Day for November 11, can be done in many 1919. In proclaiming the holiday, he said different ways. If you “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice have a Federal Cemetery in your area you can Day will be filled with lots of pride in the heroism pay a visit and say a group prayer for those of our of those who died in the country’s service and military who are buried there. In the G.I. Bill passed with gratitude for the victory, both because of the immediately after World War II, under the Truman thing from which it has freed us and because of administration, provisions were inserted that anyone the opportunity it has given America to show her serving in the military would be entitled to be buried sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of in a Federal Cemetery. Where that was not possible the nations.” The winners pictured were John Dubach, Jean the surviving family members would be given a The United States Congress passed a Hamilton, Armon Grandi and Billy. Flag that covered the coffin, prior to internment. In concurrent resolution seven years later on June 4, addition the local military unit, active or reserve, 1926, requesting that the President (Calvin Coolidge) would provide someone to play taps. Veteran’s issue another proclamation to observe November 11 families also are eligible to receive $250 towards the with appropriate ceremonies. An Act (52 Stat. 351; 5 cost of the funeral. U.S. Code, Sec. 87a) approved May 13, 1938, made The important thing to remember is that we the 11th of November in each year a legal holiday; “a honor all those who served right up to the time they day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and reach their final resting place. You can contact your to be thereafter celebrated and known as ‘Armistice local VFW or American Legion to learn about what Day’.” they do when one of their own passes away. Many In 1953, an Emporia, Kansas shoe store have a special detail in the unit that serves as an owner named Alfred King had the idea to expand honor guard and fires a rifle volley over the casket. Armistice Day to celebrate all veterans, not just those You can also inquire if there is anyway you can assist who served in World War I. King had been actively Jean Hamilton enjoyed a wonderful day on the the family, at the time of burial. involved with the American War Dads during World bocce court. At the forthcoming 2011 National War II. He began a campaign to turn Armistice Day Convention we intend to have President DiMattio into “All” Veterans Day. The Emporia Chamber help UNICO start a place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, of Commerce took up the cause after determining in Arlington National Cemetery. For those of you that 90% of Emporia merchants as well as the new chapter in one attending the Convention you can take the Metro Board of Education supported closing their doors of these cities! (directly under the hotel) to the Cemetery. It is on November 11 to honor veterans. With the help a very short ride. There you can observe a very of then-U.S. Rep. Ed Rees, also from Emporia, a special group of young men who serve as the Honor bill for the holiday was pushed through Congress. MIDWEST EAST Cleveland, OH Hershey, PA Guard for the Tomb that faithfully march their 21 President Dwight Eisenhower signed it into law on steps in each direction, with their rifle always on the Tiffin, OH Lincoln University, PA May 26, 1954. Wooster, OH Milford, PA shoulder furthest from the Tomb. The changing of Congress amended this act on June 1, 1954, the guard is an impressive ceremony and you can Glen, MI Norristown, PA replacing “Armistice” with Veterans, and it has been Detroit, MI Pittsburgh, PA find the schedule on line. There is a great deal of known as Veterans Day since. Nashville, TN Ocean City, MD symbolism attached to the layout of the Tomb and Although originally scheduled for Austin, TX Weymouth, MA for those who guard it. For instance, the distance celebration on November 11 of every year, starting Houston, TX Morristown, NJ from where our President walks to lay the wreath is in 1971 in accordance with the Uniform Monday Old Tappan, NJ exactly 21 steps. It corresponds to a 21 gun-salute. Holiday Act, Veterans Day was moved to the fourth Vineland, NJ WEST I have already mentioned that the sentries walk 21 Monday of October. In 1978 it was moved back to West Milford, NJ Phoenix, AZ Tampa, FL steps in each direction, for the same reason. If you its original celebration on November 11. Since this Scottsdale, AZ Loudonville, NY do attend please treat the visit with a great deal of change, there has been a trend against being closed reverence and be respectful of the Cemetery and Tucson, AZ New York City, NY on the holiday. It began with businesses (excluding Ocean County Area, CA those who rest there.While it is too late to organize Staten Island, NY banks) and in recent years some schools and local Sacramento, CA Cranston, RI a UNICO response to this solemn occasion, for this governments have also chosen to remain open. San Pedro, CA Columbia, SC year, we intend to outline an annual activity that we Let us all join with President Chris DiMattio and Santa Clarita, CA Greenville, SC can all partake in. This should become a part of our make every effort possible to honor our fallen heroes Walnut Creek, CA Burlington, VT community service and a way to demonstrate that we and all those who serve our country. Denver, CO truly respect all those who have served. Missoula, MT Seattle, WA Frank Cannata A Day To Remember Chairman Armed Services Committee Contact: Bernard M. Brutto Veterans Day is an annual United States National Expansion Director 570-573-1801 [email protected] Page 14 ComUNICO January 2010 PITTSFIELD ma the villages fl

The Villages - Off and Pittsfield Chapter Running Columbus Day The Villages Chapter was chartered on April Celebration 6, 2010 and within four days held its first charity event, a Bocce Tournament to benefit a homeless shelter for women and children in Leesburg, Fl. Dan The Pittsfield chapter celebrated Columbus Triceri, President, umpired and ruled on all close Day by holding its ninth annual “Taste of Italy” calls for the event. dinner at the Itam Lodge on Monday, October 11. For the Columbus Day/Italian Festival The Itam Lodge is situated on the southern shore of in The Villages, a first was our UNICO Chapter scenic Pontoosuc Lake in Pittsfield. The event was marching with our UNICO Banner, decorated golf chaired by Rick Gregory who is also on the board Part of the kitchen crew that spent most of the day carts, tarantella dancers and Italian music. of directors. Rick was supported by many chapter preparing a variety of Italian favorites for the event At our last meeting on November 9th, volunteers who worked all day in the kitchen to (L - R) Kevin Dondi, Tom Angelini, Andy Pozzone seven new members were installed. We are now 31 make this event a success as it usually is. The event and Gene Scapin. members and growing. was attended by over 200 people who were not only On November 14 President Dan Triceri and treated to a gourmet, multi course Italian meal but his wife Toni represented our Chapter by entering were also serenaded by an Italian duet that, not only their decorated golf cart with a UNICO banner in sang popular Italian songs, but played the guitar and the 2010 Village’s Golf Cart Parade in support of mandolin as well. the Hope for the Warriors Organization. The event The “Taste of Italy” offerings were preceded attracted 3,124 golf carts in a 2.2 mile parade to by a platter of antipasto at each table as well as support the Warriors. salad and bread with olive oil The meal included Italian spiced baked chicken, roast pork, polenta, egg plant parmigiana, risotto and penne pasta with either marinara sauce or olive oil and garlic. Dessert consisted of a big plate of Italian cookies on each table. Proceeds from this event go into the One of two serving lines is ready for action. This scholarship and general charities accounts. serving line is headed up by Chuck Romano.

Members of the Villages, FL, chapter of UNICO proudly display their banner as they march in the Columbus Day Parade.

philadelphia pa

Rick Gregory, the “Taste of Italy” chairman, has done another outstanding job overseeing and Italian serenaders going from table to table playing San Gennaro Feast coordinating this very successful event. guitar and mandolin and singing favorite Italian songs. bayonne nj passaic valley nj

Thanksgiving New Inductees On the streets with Philadelphia PA Chapter presi- dent Ben Ferrara and chapter VP John Ferrara. With love in their hearts, the Bayonne Chapter of UNICO prepared and served dinners to 200 of Bayonnes less fortunate citizens.

New members inducted (L - R) Terry Probst, Cathy (L-R) Chapter Sargeant-at-Arms Guiseppe Cifoni, (L - R) Head chef M. Masone, President R. Treonze Faggioni, Nancy Bertelli, Lawrence Salvatore, President Ben Ferrara and Vice President John Fer- and members F. LoRe Jr., and S. Lasko. Marziale Caripoli and Paul Face. rara in the neighborhood! January 2010 ComUNICO Page 15 northern our heritage and the chesapeake Italian language College Board to Reinstate Advanced Placement Program in Italian Beginning in 2011-12 Academic Year

NEW YORK - The College Board Company, National Italian American Foundation, announced that the Advanced Placement Program National Organization of Italian American Women, (AP) will reinstate the AP Italian Language and Order Sons of Italy in America, Berado Paradiso, Culture course and exam next fall, with the first David Pope, Louis Tallarini, UNICO Foundation, AP Exam to be administered in May 2012. The UNICO National and UniCredit. AP Italian Language and Culture course and exam “Promoting Italian language is a high will immerse students in Italian culture while also priority for our foreign policy. The Italian helping them master the Italian language. government has strongly supported the reinstatement “We are so pleased that students will once of Italian in the AP Program, and I am here tonight again have the opportunity to develop their reading, to show our great appreciation and gratitude to writing, listening and speaking skills within a frame those whose contributions made it possible,” said of reference that reflects the richness of Italian Vincenzo Scotti, Italy’s Undersecretary of State language and culture and the rigor of college-level of Foreign Affairs, at a signing ceremony at the Advanced Placement,” said Gaston Caperton, Consulate General of Italy in New York. “Over the president of the not-for-profit College Board. years, Italian language has been growing in U.S. “Thanks to the hard work of the Italian Embassy schools and universities. It is actually the only and the advocacy of proud Italian Americans, the European language with a positive trend, and today’s program is now fully funded. This is a great day announcement is a very important step to foster the for the Italian language, the Italian people and all of teaching of our language. I am sure that, also with us who are enraptured by the culture of Italy and its the support of the Italian American community, beautiful language.” American families will take the opportunity the The College Board began offering AP Italian College Board is giving them to advance their in September 2005. However, a decision was made children’s education through the study of Italian to suspend AP Italian following the 2008-09 school language and culture.” year because student participation failed to meet “What we see today is nothing less than a projections and the costs to maintain the program success story of Sistema Italia at work. Teamwork became unmanageable. Since the suspension of proved to be key in reinstating Italian in the AP Italian in 2009, the Embassy of the Republic AP Program,” said Giulio Terzi di Sant’Agata, of Italy has coordinated the effort to raise funds, ambassador of Italy to the U.S. “The Italian with donor contributions from the Republic of government, major Italian American organizations Italy, Italian American organizations, individual and some of the most important corporations in the donors and Italian companies, including American U.S. made it possible, and I think they deserve our southington ct Association of Teachers of Italian, American Society gratitude and appreciation.” of the Italian Legions of Merit, Coccia Foundation, The AP Italian Language and Culture Columbus Citizens Foundation, Conference of course is part of the College Board’s embrace of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations, globalization and the recognition that American’s COPILAS, Margaret I. Cuomo, M.D., Matilda students must be well-versed in world languages and Meet the President Raffa Cuomo, ENI, FIAT, Finmeccanica, Frank cultures. In addition to Italian, the College Board Guarini, Italian Language Foundation, Italian offers AP classes in Chinese, Japanese, French, The officers of the Southington Chapter of UNICO Welfare League, Luxottica, Mediterranean Shipping German, Latin and Spanish. pose with National President Chris DiMattio and his wife Ann at the Meet the President night held October 20th in Waterbury at the Villa Rosa Banquet Facility of the PonteLandolfo club.

(L - R) Secretary Fran Delfino, Sergeant at Arms Nick Botsacos, Treasurer Marc Ingriselli, National (L - R) Former Governor of New York Mario Cuomo, UNICO National President Chris DiMattio, Matilda President Chris, his wife Ann, Vice-President Luigi Cuomo, PNP John Alati and UNICO Foundation Chair John DiNapoli. Matilda was honored at our UNICO Barbato, Chairman of the Board Carmine Votino and National Convention in San Antonio for her efforts to get Italian established as a Advanced Placement Chapter President Mark Mongillo College Board language back in 2005.

Page 16 ComUNICO January 2010 plainfield nj hillside NJ elizabeth nj

Plainfields UNICO 50th Anniversary! Elizabeth Chapter Chapter Visits Annual UNICO Bowl Representatives from UNICO National, Terno D’Isola along with district, local chapters and eastern regional Football Game officials celebrated Hillside UNICO’s 50th anniversary recently at Snuffy’s Pantagis in Scotch Plains. Various On October 15, 2010, a football game County, business and Municipal representatives were between Elizabeth High School and Union High also on hand to mark the occasion with the Hillside School was played in Elizabeth. This annual game, Chapter. known as the UNICO Bowl, is a competitive but UNICO National, founded in 1922, is friendly event hosted every other year by either the America’s largest Italian American service organization. Elizabeth or Union Chapter of UNICO National. It’s members in local chapters support charitable, This year’s winner was Elizabeth High School who educational, and community service projects while emerged victorious with a 32-6 win over Union. promoting Italian heritage and combating negative Members of both UNICO Chapters were present stereotyping. including Union’s Joe Almeida, Elizabeth UNICO members Ralph Abbate, Lou Bani, Chapter President Joe Marretta, Mike Bani, Rocco DiPaola and event coordinator Paul Rinaldi and his wife. Paul Rinaldi has made this annual event successful and a game that both cities look forward to playing. Following the game, Joe Marretta presented the beautiful trophy to the Elizabeth High School northern coach and team. They were very pleased and thanked UNICO for the award. We hope that we can keep it chesapeake md in the city again next year. Special thanks to all those who made this event possible from the Union and (L - R) Chapter Treasurer Bob Trotte, Chapter Elizabeth Chapters. Lecture Series Secretary Sean Prawdzik, NJ District X Governor William Hearon, Chapter President Angelo Bonanno, Eastern Regional District Governor Perry Hall, MD- The Northern Chesapeake Chair Dominick Nicastro, PNP Joe Agresti, UNICO Chapter of UNICO held its first lecture in its speaker National President Christopher DiMattio, PNP series on Wednesday, October 13, 2010. Speaking Mike D’Arminio, Third National Vice President on Alzheimer’s was David Pisanic, a representative Rich D’Arminio, PNP Sal Mangano, Chapter Vice from the Alzheimer’s Association. The lecture President Frank Catena and PNP Frank Tidona . covered broad aspects of the disease including symptoms, treatments, and effects this insidious disease has on the victims and their families. The lecture was attended by forty members and guests of the Northern Chesapeake Chapter of UNICO. UNICO is the largest Italian American service organization in the country. The Northern Chesapeake Chapter chartered in March is the first chapter in Maryland. Any person with interest in joining can email the Northern Chesapeake Chapter ATTN: Membership Chairman at (L-R) Plainfields’ UNICO Vice President Mike [email protected]. Colucci, Plainfields’ UNICO President Anthony Bengivenga, Hillside UNICO President Angelo Bonanno and UNICO National President Chris DiMattio.

Pictured above are Dolores Rockstroh, David Pisanic and Mike Gallo. Dominick Peterpaul, Charter Member of the Hillside Chapter and Past Gov. of UNICO District X. Standing (L - R) is Donnie Kirk and his wife Marie Kirk (Dominick Peterpaul’s niece) and to her right is Victoria DeAugustine, Plainfields Chapter Board Member. Victoria is also a niece of Dominick Peterpaul. January 2010 ComUNICO Page 17 southington CT SAN DIEGO CA

Big Breakfast & Italian American Wine Tasting Chamber of Commerce

The Big Breakfast event is used to raise money for The San Diego Italian-American Chamber many organizations and services we support. This of Commerce - (SDIACC) is a non-profit business one in particular was to support the Unified Sports association founded to provide services to the Italian Program (a division of Special Olympics) of which business community and to American businesses we are a major sponsor for these ‘special’ athletes. oriented to the Italian market or products. The organization is a natural fit for many San Diego UNICANS. On October 21st, the group met at a mosaic and glass tile showroom, called “Il Tuo Sogno Bisazza.”

Long time UNICO member and past President of the Southington Chapter Bill Della Vecchia with his wife Peg enjoying the evening at the Chapter’s Columbus Day Italian Celebration. “Wine Tasting Meet the National President night in Waterbury at Extravaganza II” celebrating our Italian Heritage the PonteLandolfo Club. It is all the officers of the held October 23rd. Southington Chapter of UNICO with the President and his wife.

San Diego Chapter President James Pieri Jr.(R) is the President and CEO at Gateway Financial Real Estate. Real estate developer and San Diego UNICAN Steve Codrero (L) enjoys the reception.

Denise and her friends were invited by member Bob Tonon and enjoyed the wine and festivities at the Brothers and members Marc and Ron Ingriselli Chapter’s Columbus Day Italian Celebration.“Wine (Chapter Treasurer and Chairperson of our Unified Tasting Extravaganza II” celebrating our Italian Sports program respectively) along with Ron’s Heritage held October 23rd. daughter take the time to smile for the camera along with Julie our olympian.

GREATEr Ramsey nj Anthony Ybarra is the Executive Director of the San Diego Chapter of the Italian American Chamber of On Oct 19th, the Greater Ramsey chapter of UNICO Commerce. Jeannie Obenchaine owns the elegant attended the annual Joan’s Joy Dinner Party to boutique bella Stanza in San Diego’s Little Italy. provide a donation to help support the Joan Angela UNICO member and co-chair of our Italian-Amerian D’Alessandro Memorial Foundation. For more festival Joe Laporte and his wife Dolores enjoying information please visit their web site at the dancing at the Columbus Day Celebration. www.joansjoy.org

Members and officers of the Southington Chapter Anthony Ybarra presents Valerie Orsini of San Diego (L - R) Ron Targove, Elizabeth Musso, Joe and getting ready to serve their annual ‘ Big Breakfast’ UNICO with her new member gifts. Valerie runs a Dorothy Verdone, Rosemarie D’Alessandro, Laurie which we do twice a year. commercial insurance business. Anthony is also a and Steve Wekar, Janine Teel and Louis LaVigna. member of San Diego UNICO. Page 18 ComUNICO January 2010 longmeadow MA stamford ct cooley’s anemia

Longmeadow UNICO celebrated its 10th Highly prevalent annual Food and Wine Tasting at the Naismith Giuseppe Garibaldi hemoglobin disorders Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield Award are recessive genetic on October 23rd. This event is the Longmeadow diseases in which chapter of UNICO’s biggest event; raising funds co-inheritance of two to provide scholarships for local students. Over the Connecticut Lieutenant Governor Michael defective globin cells past ten years, this chapter has been able to raise Fedele bestowed the 3rd UNICO Stamford Chapter result in severe anemia over $75,000 and provide between three to five “Giuseppe Garibaldi Award”. such as Cooley’s scholarships to students every year. This year during the Celebration of the anemia. Although The Food and Wine Tasting not only raises Italian American Culture and Heritage Month, our drug and transfusion money to promote education, it allows over 30 first Italian born Lieutenant Governor of the State of therapies improve the restaurants in the local area to display delicious Connecticut, Hon. Michael Fedele received the 2010 quality and duration of food samples. The events’ highlight is M.S Walker Giuseppe Garibaldi Award from the UNICO Chapter life for many individuals, developing curative treat- Wine Distributor who supplies more than two dozen of Stamford CT-I. ments for Cooley’s anemia (beta-thalassemia) is the varieties of wine samplings throughout the night. The Award was presented by CT-I IPDG desired goal. Beer, Vodka, and cappuccino samples were also Giuseppe Pampena, Award Committee Chairman, Researchers from St. Jude Children’s Re- available at the tasting. and Paul Bova President of the Italian Center, and search Hospital have successfully introduced two Chapter President Dennis Scibelli explained also member of UNICO and recipient of last year’s new genes into blood-producing bone marrow stem “The success of the event is the contribution of our award. cells in resent studies. Hematopoietic stem cell members, the contribution of our vendors, and the The Award was created by the chapter to (HSC) gene transfer is an attractive approach for the attraction of the Basketball Hall of Fame.” honor a man or woman of Italian descent who has treatment of a number of hematopoietic disorders Returning taster Carol Rickless explained, made significant and quantifiable contributions to caused by single gene defects. Cooley’s anemia “It’s an event I’ve attended for many years. It’s a the advancement of the Italian culture and tradition is one of the disorders that can benefit from this great place to meet with your friends and neighbors in the United States. The awarded individual, by his/ particular study. Beta thalassemia results from def- while supporting an excellent cause.” her life, work and example, has brought honor to the ficient beta-globin chain synthesis due to a variety of Italian heritage. In addition, he or she can qualify deletions and mutations in the beta-globin gene. because of his/her personal philanthropy and/or work Research that has recently been published in with charitable organizations. the journal Blood raises new hope that an individu- Lieutenant Governor Fedele was the main al’s own bone marrow cells can be used with gene promoter of the celebration of the “Festa della therapy to treat and possibly cure Cooley’s anemia. Repubblica Italiana” that took place at the Hartford According to Derek Persons, MD, Phd, Hematology, Capital Building with the raising of the Italian Flag. “Now we are talking about new gene combinations Two legislators, a Democrat and a Republican of and new molecules to expand the hematopoietic stem Italian descent, were presented with the “CIAO” cells (HSC).” HSCs are the parent cells in bone mar- Italian Ambassador Award. row that give rise to blood cells. Lieutenant Governor Fedele opened the Aerial View of the Wine Tasting. doors of the capital to Italian organizations for this great event of Italian History He also co-sponsoried the Declaration of October as “Italian American belleville nj Cultural and Heritage Month.” Grazie Mille!

The Belleville Chapter of UNICO National delivered Thanksgiving baskets on behalf of the chapter and Nanina’s in the Park to needy families in their local areas. They also brought baskets to Belleville School Number 10. Chapter President Steve Rovell wishes Longmeadow UNICO President, Dennis Scibelli. to thank everyone who supported this year’s Thanksgiving basket project. President Rovell stated “as our membership grows the chapter will be able to donate more.” In December, the chapter collected food for Among the attendees of the “Giuseppe Garibaldi Christmas baskets. Award’’ presentation were: (L - R)Mike Battinelli, Ricky Castiglione, Sebastian D’Acunto, Giuseppe Pampena, Honoree LG Michael Fedele, Stamford Mayor Hon. Michael Pavia, Lee Rizzuto, Silvana Orsaia, Paul Bova and Nino Antonelli.

Longmeadow High School Key Club Volunteers. VISIT UNICO ONLINE "Teach us to give and not count AT the cost." -St. Ignatius de Loyola WWW.UNICO.ORG (L - R) Dr. Manny Alfano, Susan Rovell, principal and Gene Antonio.

January 2010 ComUNICO Page 19 expansion carbondale pa North chesapeake md EXPAnDING UNICO Fundraiser Fund Raiser for Hunger UNICO IN Stuffed Peppers! Perry Hall, MD- The Northern Chesapeake Chapter 2011 of UNICO held its first fundraiser on September 26, Carbondale UNICO had a fundraiser in November. 2010 at Harford Winery. September is designated The event was the annual stuffed pepper dinner. First It is with great pleasure, as “Hunger Action Month” by the Maryland Food Vice Presdient Dave Donnini and PA II DG Dr. Felix Bank. The Northern Chesapeake Chapter chartered once again, to inform all DeSio were present. UNICANs that another in March is the first chapter in Maryland. Any person Chapter will soon be with an interest in joining can e-mail the Northern joining our UNICO Famiglia…that of Wayne, Chesapeake Chapter ATTN: Membership Chairman NJ. By the time you read this message approval at [email protected] to charter this new chapter and preparations for a Charter Night with 19 Charter members in Wayne, NJ should be completed. Notification will be sent out concerning the date and details. Please send congratulations and Best Wishes welcoming the new Chapter to our UNICO family to President-elect Jeff Fossati at [email protected]. We are also hoping Santa will help find one Italian American in the Ocean City, MD. area to join the current 14 charter members so we can proceed with chartering of a chapter in this location! Above, Mike Gallo, president, and Faust Miraglia, There have been inquiries from the East, vice president, of Northern Chesapeake Chapter of Mid-West, and West that have shown interest in UNICO are shown presenting $600 raised at the starting a chapter. Movement takes time to find wine event to Amanda DeBoy, the Maryland Food promising leads that will follow through and commit Bank representative. UNICO is the largest Italian to starting a chapter. Contacting individuals and American service organization in the country. meeting with potential chapter members is essential in having people become more aware of UNICO, its history, purpose and accomplishments to develop east into potential chapters that will exemplify our motto of “Service Above Self.” longmeadow ma If you know someone who is interested in starting a chapter in a nearby community consider SPRINGFIELD, MA - The celebration of Italian inviting them to one of your meetings or a fundraiser Heritage Month kicked off on a Friday with a cer- to observe how we function.....especially after emony at City Hall that included honoring men for an initial expansion meeting, with said person/ their contributions to the Italian-American commu- persons, if you intend on being a sponsoring nity. chapter. Needless to say, the experience would be Many people attended the ceremony and advantageous to see how UNICO helps others. reception including guest speakers Mayor Domenic Members of the Expansion Committee have J. Sarno and state Rep. Angelo J. Puppolo, D-Spring- been doing their best to encourage fellow Italian field. Americans to join UNICO in various locations in the The Italian Cultural Center of Western country. Massachusetts' Serviam Award which recognizes My fellow UNICANs, it is important to individuals of Italian ancestry who have significantly remember that when a member moves he or she contributed to the community, said Teresa Regina, can transfer their membership to a chapter near his co-chairwoman of the Italian Heritage Month activi- new residence. In several cases, members who have ties with Antonette E. Pepe. relocated have been influential in starting a new The Serviam Award winner: Dr. Leo Hood, chapter and old friends have helped in sponsoring a dentist with an office in West Springfield, who that new chapter. I am counting on you for any leads has civic and social club memberships including that would seem to be very promising so that we can UNICO National, and the East Longmeadow chap- move forward in adding new chapters to our UNICO ter of the Knights of Columbus No. 4306, including Famiglia. being named the chapter's "Man of the Year." He has served UNICO as district governor representing Dis- Bernard M. Brutto trict 1 which includes Springfield, East Longmeadow Nat’l Expansion Director and Wilbraham. 570-573-1801 [email protected]

VISIT UNICO ONLINE “Pray as though everything depended on AT God. Work as though everything depended on you.” WWW.UNICO.ORG -St. Augustine

Page 20 ComUNICO January 2010 NATIONAL denville nj orange / west SCHOLARSHIP orange nj APPLICATION PROCESS Second Annual Golf UNICO Beautifies Every active UNICO Outing the Community Chapter has been sent application forms for The Denville chapter could not have asked Orange/West Orange UNICO helped to our 2011 Scholarship for a nicer day for their 2nd Annual Golf Outing spread some cheer to seniors at the Stratford Manor, Program. If your chap- this year at the beautiful Knoll Country Club. The West Orange, NJ. ter needs additional chapter teamed up again with the New Jersey “211 The two residents pictured are Susan hard copies, please First Call for Help” group and had over 110 golfers Brewington the resident council president and request them from the come out for their event. The Denville chapter alone office. Applications are Gerald Fishbane the resident council vice president. raised over $7,500 with this golf outing. They will also available on the Their roles are to be a liaison between residents use this money in their community to help the less Members Section of and staff. Also pictured are UNICO members Ken the website. fortunate, especially around the holidays. The golf Broderick and Frank Paolercio presenting a check It is essential that outing is the largest of their three major fund raisers. to Renee Ann Chimento, Recreation Director at chapter scholarship The Denville chapter is a fairly new UNICO chapter Stratford Manor. These funds donated will go toward chairs make certain to just finishing its third year. the manor’s Secret Santa program.. Renee, along distribute the Revised 2010 form. The date is clearly with some elves, will go shopping and purchase gifts indicated on page 4. To use obsolete applications will that the residents need. They are wrapped and placed put your candidates at disadvantage. Please discard in each room for Christmas morning. For some of outdated forms to avoid mistakes. the residents this will be the only gift they receive In addition to using current forms, be sure ap- since they do not have family. Some of the gifts will plications are complete and all required signatures and include clothing. Opening presents on Christmas letters of recommendation are included. We have pro- morning will help to uplift their spirits and add some vided two check lists: one for the student, the other for additional joy to their day. the chapter representative, to make it easier to confirm UNICO an Italian American service compliance. organization is very active in the community raising Undergraduate candidates should be advised Second from the left is chapter president Jay Clauss funds for local and national scholarships, Cancer to apply for all four scholarships offered. To do so with his foursome. Thank you Jay for selling all of Research, Mental Health programs, First Aid Squad, requires that they submit the original application and those hole sponsors. Cooleys’ Anemia and much more. three complete copies, including attachments. Multiple copies are necessary because scholarships are judged in different states. Applications must be submitted to the sponsor- ing chapter by April 15 and to National by May 1. This timeframe allows chapters to review applications and request any necessary corrections prior to sending them to National. Every year, I am amazed at the qualifications of the young Italian Americans who apply for our scholarships. The accomplishments of these students are outstanding. I wish all our candidates every suc- cess. Left to right are Denville UNICO members Mark Sabeh, Jr. and Delegate Mike Rizzo with two other Joan N. Tidona members of their foursome. Scholarship Director stamford CT memphis tn

UNICO Stamford Chapter sponsored a local soccer team of the Italian Americans Clubs League. This Viking Cooking School year after a winning season they qualified in 4th Vice President Joe Cardinale far right poses with his place at the finals played on the Columbus Day UNICO Memphis members went to the Viking foursome at Denville’s 2nd. Annual Golf Outing. weekend. Posing with the team are Chapter VP Cooking School. We learned recipes and helpful Giorgio Papallo kneeling on the front left and CT 1 techniques. We enjoyed eating a delicious meal that IPDG Giuseppe Pampena on the far right. was prepared right in front of us. Everyone had a wonderful time.

Jim and Sue Carol Scannelli monitoring the hole- in-one “car” hole. Unfortunately, no one was lucky enough to win the new 2010 Mazda. Maybe next year. January 2010 ComUNICO Page 21 HERITAGE AND André’s Italian CULTURE Table Italian American Tenor Thanksgiving Sings for UNICO Italian Style I don’t Fairfield, NJ - At a recent UNICO know if it is ingrained in our National regional meeting, young Italian American psyche or is just part of our tenor, Christopher Macchio, a rising star in the genetic makeup, but it seems entertainment world, gave a special, surprise guest that it is just not a holiday performance of his vocal talent to UNICO National meal without pasta! This is delegates and guests from across the Eastern Region. fairly straightforward with Macchio sang some classic Italian songs and ended holidays such as Christmas with the very beautiful aria from Puccini’s Turandot - with the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve, preceded - “Nessun Dorma.” He received multiple standing by two kinds of spaghetti or macaroni and then ovations from the standing-room only crowd of Christmas Day with a big pot of gravy with meat- UNICANS. All were enthralled by his powerful balls, pigs knuckles, braciole, sausage and other as- voice which is described as a cross between Andrea sorted meats simmering away to be later served with Bocelli and Mario Lanza. lasagna, manicotti, ravioli or other special pasta dish. The surprise performance was arranged Christopher Macchio singing at UNICO National’s Eastern Regional meeting in Scranton, PA. And, Easter is the same with traditionally prepared between UNICO Past National President and Chief Italian entrees served after the specially prepared Media Executive André DiMino and Macchio’s pasta for that holiday. manager Vincenzo D’Angelo, who met recently But what about Thanksgiving? This was while both were working on a campaign against where there was a convergence of a distinctly Ameri- Italian American stereotyping in the media. Kearny nj can holiday with our Italian American traditions. Plans were made to have Macchio appear My parents and grandparents, who came at the UNICO National meeting in Scranton, PA in from “the other side” wanted us to be American. early November. UNICO National President Chris When it came time for Thanksgiving, they wanted DiMattio of Scranton, was enthusiastic to have Kearny UNICO supports to celebrate like Americans. But the only thing that Macchio perform. “What a great musical treat for differentiated Thanksgiving from our other holi- our membership and what a terrific way to support a Kearny Project days was that, in addition to pasta and other Italian talented, young Italian American.” At the conclusion courses, there was a turkey. That’s it. There were no of Macchio’s performance, DiMattio presented Graduation other “American” dishes – no cranberry sauce, can- Macchio with a new membership pin, naming him an died yams, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, green honorary member. Macchio stated, “I am speechless bean casseroles, squash, cornbread, etc. Instead, we and so pleased to be part of the UNICO family.” would enjoy our typical multi-course meal - starting “This is the type of young Italian American off with a cold antipasto with cappicola, prosciutto, that the world should be celebrating, not the mortadella, salami, provolone, roasted hot peppers disgraceful stereotypes portrayed on so-called and homemade giardinera accompanied with some ‘reality shows’ throughout the media,” DiMino said. delicious crusty Italian bread. Then the pasta course “Through our accepting Christopher into our UNICO would be served – it was usually a baked pasta, like family, we are again leading the way in supporting lasagna or baked Ziti. It was then on to the meat those who honor our heritage.” course with meatballs, sausage, chicken cutlets and Macchio, a native of Long Island, is fluent steak pizzaiola. Along with the meats would be the in Italian and is proud of his heritage. He is a great side dishes of caponata, fried cardone, carcioffi, sau- example of an accomplished, talented young Italian This year, the Kearny Chapter purchased a teed hot peppers with potatoes and onions, etc. American. With a tremendous vocal instrument, sponsorship in Kearny Project Graduation’s fund- After the meat course would be, you guessed he performs the great music of his Italian heritage. raising wrestling event. Representing the Chapter at it - the turkey! But, at this point, there was not much Macchio is also the founding member of Bell’ Aria. the November 19th event were (L – R) Vice President room left to eat it – but it was served, just like “real” The five-person vocal ensemble revived beautiful Joe Sgalia, Secretary Celeste Pandolfi and President Americans! After courteously picking at the turkey Italian songs in its musical debut in a recent PBS Lou Pandolfi. for a while it was cleared from the table. Then the special. For information on Macchio, please feel bowl of nuts and nutcrackers with a tray of fresh fruit free to visit his website at www.christophermacchio. would be laid out. This was followed by the dessert com. . – usually some homemade Italian cookies and some special pastries from the Italian bakery – like Babas - dripping in rum, cannolis and sfogliatellas. Now that was Thanksgiving!!! As the years passed, the turkey did move closer to the center stage of our Thanksgiving meal. And, we did cut back on some of the other Italian dishes and began to add some “American” dishes like yams and mashed potatoes. But, we would not - could not - relinquish our pasta! It just would not be a holiday without it! How about you? Do you have pasta on Thanksgiving? (L - R) UNICO Past National President André DiMino, Editors Note: I also remember all of us Italians Tenor Christopher Macchio, UNICO National National Wrestling Superstars entertained the crowd fighting over the dark meat! Today, my kids, like President Chris DiMattio, and Vincenzo M. D’Angelo, at Kearny H.S. Project Graduation’s fund-raising most Americans, only want the white breast meat! Macchio’s manager. event. Page 22 ComUNICO January 2010 palaces. Visitors have the chance to learn Venetian style rowing in the canals and get to know Venetians atlantic city nj and residents. Celia provided Chapter members with portland or a wealth of information and history about the City of Venice. She also prepared and shared a traditional Venetian dish of Pumpkin Risotto with everyone! Celia also offers Venetian cooking classes for local Ciao UNICANI!! Over the past few months, the Portland residents. I am delighted to submit to ComUNICO this Chapter has enjoyed some interesting and Check out Celia’s Web site at: www.inveniceveritas.com article about the Atlantic City, New Jersey Chapter entertaining guest speakers at their monthly General of UNICO. I plan to submit an article on a regular Meetings. basis to highlight our chapter’s activity and to share Vincenza Scarpaci, author of The Journey the pride our members harbor for the good service of the Italians in America, gave a talk about her our chapter provides for our community. book, and signed copies for members and guests. But first, a brief history. Our chapter was President Gallo purchased a copy of the book, chartered in April 1980 and is in its thirty-first year autographed with a special message from Vincenza of existence. It was given birth through the good to UNICO-Portland, to keep in the UNICO-Portland efforts of locals Nick Russo and Paul Longo. As the Library for members to check-out. The Journey of casino era in Atlantic City took flight in the late 70’s, the Italians in America explores the presence and there were several casino employees who moved in influence of Italians in small rural towns as well as to the area. They were eager to share the UNICO large urban areas. Originally from Brooklyn, New experience and services provided in their hometowns York, Vincenza grew up in an ethnically diverse with Nick and Paul. Both Nick and Paul took an neighborhood where she recognized and observed immediate interest and began to lay the groundwork the ongoing interaction of Italians with other ethnic (L-R) Vincenza Scarpaci presents a copy of her book, for an Atlantic City Chapter. After many meetings, groups. Vincenza attended Rutgers University “The Journey of Italians in America” to Portland resulting in the drafting of by-laws, the chapter was where she researched the field of Italian American Chapter President Jo Ann Gallo. chartered and has served the Atlantic City region studies. She then travelled to Louisiana to learn how faithfully and ardently for the last three decades. immigrants, mostly from Sicily, worked on sugar Today, our chapter boasts over 100 members, each plantations. There, she discovered and broadened of whom takes great pride in our fine record of her appreciation of how Italian immigrants became community service. involved with every aspect of America’s economy torrington ct Our chapter meets monthly at one of several and society. Vincenza now resides in Eugene, outstanding local restaurants. We recently updated Oregon, where she continues to be intrigued by and revised our chapter by-laws and instituted a the phenomenon of how the descendants of Italian leadership continuum to ensure that our chapter’s immigrants retain a strong identity with their heritage An Italian Journey leadership will remain strong. although they live in communities where they constitute a small portion of the population. The Service activities and fund-raisers in which The Torrington Chapter of UNICO Journey of the Italians in America is available for our chapter engages include spaghetti dinners, sponsored an “Italian Journey” at the Torrington purchase through Vincenza’s Web site. You can visit golf outings, car raffles, clothing drives for the Library on Thursday October 21st. Ashley Turney Vincenza’s Web site at www.italianamericanjourney. homeless, toys for kids, and an annual “Person of who spent five years working throughout Italy as a com the Year” ceremony which honors individuals in tour guide and ten years in a travel agency gave a Anne-Louise Sterry, a.k.a. Aunt Lena, also the community that exemplify the UNICO motto very informative talk. The presentation covered the paid the Chapter a visit. Anne-Louise is a dynamic of “Service above Self.” Ninety-five percent of our 20 regions of Italy, from north to south, including and compelling inspirational speaker, singer and money raised through our fund-raising efforts is the islands of Sardinia and Sicily. Ms. Turney spoke storyteller working nationally and internationally, designated for scholarships for local high schoolers. on ”la vita italiana” (the Italian style of life) and and a current UNICO-Portland member. Born To date, over three hundred thousand dollars have what it means to live in a country that contributes so in New Jersey into a large Italian-American been awarded to worthy high-schoolers. The balance much of the world’s culture. She touched on Italy as family, Anne-Louise experienced the joy, fun and of the monies is contributed to a fund for a member a rich and complex culture with its unique history community that come from music, storytelling suffering from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) and to of foreign invasions and occupations. She discussed and lively family discussions. This background, programs devoted to cure Cooley’s Anemia. Italy’s geographic peculiarities with the Apennine combined with her experiences as a Psychiatric In closing, we are proud of the work our mountains dividing the country into west and east. Nurse and in the educational world following her BA Atlantic City Chapter performs and look forward Torrington UNICO is committed to in Psychology, is the foundation of her work. Anne- to a busy, exciting, service-oriented future. We are promoting awareness of Italian Culture and Heritage Louise speaks and performs for audiences of all ages honored to join UNICANs around the country who in the community. provide needed service to our communities and, and all walks of life. Her performing repertoire is as a result, enhance the fine reputation of Italian- extensive, ranging from the sublime to the riotous, Americans everywhere. and includes the notorious ‘Aunt Lena’, everyone’s outrageous Italian Aunt, whose view of life and advice to get through it, are both hilarious and full of “Cutting Edge Mediterranean Wisdom.” You can learn more about Anne-Louise and her alter ego, ‘Aunt Lena’ at www.auntlenasez.com They say the best way to enjoy Venice is with a Venetian . . . someone who loves and understands the unique qualities of this incredible city, and recently, Celia Curfman Latz, gave UNICO- Portland members and guests a chance to do just Back: Dave Lorenzini-Director, Nick Russo III-vice that. Celia Curfman Latz is an “adopted” Venetian (L-R) Event co-chair Joe Adorno, event presenter pres. Front: Gina Benvenuto-Director, Michael who has lived and worked as an artisan in Venice Ashley Turney, event co-chair Ray Mascetti. Jennetta-Executive Vice Pres., Linda Novelli-Chapter for 32 years. Now based in Portland, Celia conducts Pres., Chris DiMattio-National Pres., Tina LoBiondo what she coins, ‘Secret Venice’ tours twice a year, “All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish -Director, Joe Mangano-Treasurer, Maryellen and offers experiences inaccessible to most visitors! the light of a single candle.” Capuano-Secretary, Bo Christian-Director, Andrea Tour participants meet artists and artisans in their -St. Francis Longo Wescoat-vice pres. private studios and enjoy Venetian cuisine in private January 2010 ComUNICO Page 23 NIAF GALA WASHINGTON DC

Annual Gala in the Nation’s Capital

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan educational foundation (L-R) President Chris with ESPN Host of “Around that promotes Italian American culture and heritage. the Horn” Tony Reali, UNICO Foundation President NIAF serves as a resource on the Italian American Immediate past Speaker of the House of Representa- John DiNapoli and PNP John Alati. community and has educational and youth programs tives, the Honorable Nancy Pelosi. including scholarships, grants, heritage travel, and mentoring. NIAF is also the voice for Italian Americans in Washington, DC and works closely with the Italian American Congressional Delegation and the White House. NIAF’s mission includes advancing American and Italian business, political, and cultural relations and has a business council that promotes networking with corporate leaders. The NIAF was founded in 1975 as a non-profit organization in Washington, DC. It is entirely non-partisan. NIAF and UNICO compliment each other and have developed a close working relationship. (Second from left) ESPN National Correspondent, First Lady Ann with cctor Danny DeVito. Sal Paolantonio.

It has become a UNICO tradition to hold an Execu- tive Board meeting in Washington DC to coincide with the annual NIAF gala. UNICO National General Counsel Frank Blasi (L) and President Chris DiMattio (R) flank Univision Baseball great Mike Piazza is a 12 time All-Star. Sports Host Fernando Fiore.

Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen- eral Peter Pace (L). Emmy-Award Winning Actor (The Practice), Michael Supreme Court Justice, The Honorable Antonin Badalucco also serves as a UNICO spokesman. Scalia.

The Honorable Amato L. Berardi is a member of the President Chris and First Lady Ann with Actor Tony Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Samuel Alito. Italian Parliament. LoBianco. Page 24 ComUNICO January 2010 NJ, NY & PA Meet the president

Chris and Ann DiMattio Honored at Gala Dinner

On Tuesday, October 26, 2010, a very large delegation of members from UNICO National Chapters in the states of New Jersey, New York and Actor Joe Pantoliano. Pennsylvania assembled to meet, greet and honor our The royal couple! President Chris with his lovely National President, Chris DiMattio and his lovely wife Ann. wife, our First Lady, Ann. There were 348 people at this event. The event was held at the very elegant Venetian Restaurant in Garfield, NJ. A superb dinner was served. The committee put a great amount of effort into making this another successful “Meet The President” Dinner. We are confident that our National President and his wife, First Lady Ann, thoroughly enjoyed the entire event. Twelve Past National Presidents, along with many of our National Officers from the East, and two Mario Gabelli, from the Gabelli Funds. of Our National Vice Presidents were in attendance to help make this a most successful evening. A porttrait of UNICO leaders from New Jersey, New The Co-chairs of this event were Past York and Pennsylvania. National Presidents, Joseph Agresti, Salvatore J. Mangano and Michael J. D’Arminio. The committee consisted of all the District Governors and National Officers from this area and a few special members of UNICO. Immediate Past National President, Andre DiMino, served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening and did a great job. Executive Vice President, Glenn Pettinato and Third Vice President, Rick D’Arminio, assisted with the presentations. PDG Lou Pandolfi and Past National Ambassador of Italy to the United States, H.E. Treasurer Gene Santoli, and their ticket committee Giuliomaria Terzi. did a super job. For that matter the entire committee is to be congratulated for a job well done. (L-R standing) UNICO National President Chris We wish our President, Chris DiMattio, DiMattio, PNP Michael D’Arminio, PNP Sal a most prosperous and successful year in UNICO Mangano, Immediate PNP André DiMino. (L-R National. sitting) Bill Greco, U.S. Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-8) and PNP Joseph Agresti.

Noted Italian Chef, Lidia Bastianich.

Actor Robert Davi sang the songs of Sinatra at the NIAF Gala. January 2010 ComUNICO Page 25 nutley nj scotch plains NJ ANTI-BIAS COMMITTEE

UNICO Italian Heritage Nutley Celebrates Scotch Plains Fanwood Calendars The Nutley, NJ Chapter of UNICO National has New Jersey UNICO National’s had a very successful start to its new year. The September meeting speaker was Tina Cervasio, a reporter with a long 2010 Columbus Day Anti-Bias Committee resume of work in the sports entertainment business. Tina (“ABC”) was was a reporter for MSG (Knicks), MSGNY, FOX 5 NY Ceremony & Banquet founded to foster a Sports and the Imus in the Morning show. She continues positive image of to be an engaging ambassador of sports and the Italian 25 members of the community joined with Italian Americans heritage as she progresses in her career as a sideline SPF UNICO, the Knights of Columbus and the by opposing reporter. Italian-American Club of Scotch Plains to honor stereotyping and Several chapter members received individual Cristoforo Colombo, Admiral of the Ocean Seas. denigration of our accolades, including Sal Cocco who was inducted as a culture and heritage. member of the Seton Hall University, Stillman School of The Columbus Monument, affectionately known The ABC actively Business Entrepreneurial Hall of Fame, Dan Geltrude who as “The Hand,” stands in the center of our town. It was named to the New Jersey State Board of Accountancy commemorates Columbus showing Queen Isabella of and continuously by Governor Chris Christie and Steve Mairella who was Spain that, in his view, the world was shaped like an monitors the Nutley “Man of the Year,” in the Nutley-Belleville orange. In the statue the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa entertainment, Columbus Day parade. Maria are shown sailing to discovery. Students of the advertising and news industries. ABC contacts October found the chapter celebrating Italian primary schools were asked to find these ships in offending parties by e-mail, letter and telephone. We Heritage Month in New Jersey. Among the activities town as a part of the holiday celebration. network with other Italian American organizations to were a ceremony at the Columbus statue donated to have one united voice. the community of Nutley by the chapter in 2001. In Through our “Mille Grazie Award” program attendance were local dignitaries and honored guests the ABC honors individuals and institutions that from Italy; Gino Trematerra, Mayor of Acri, Michelango promote a positive image of Italian Americans and Famiglietti, Deputy Mayor of Torelli dei Lombardi and honored members of the Italian Carabiniere. A dinner speak out against negative stereotyping. for the guests from Italy was held at Nanina in the Park, Through our Italian and Italian American Belleville, NJ. New members sworn in at the October Heritage Calendar we celebrate the incalculable meeting were Mark Conti, Pasqual Pisani and Vito contributions made by Italians and Italian Americans Marturro. around the world. UNICO National is so proud of Nutley UNICO honors its members who are these calendars that we are sending one free to every veterans each november. This year’s honorees are Carl member of UNICO! Cases of calendars are shipping Graziano, Charlie De Lorenzi, John Verrico, Mike Festa, Knights of Columbus and SPF UNICO member Pat now to our districts and chapters, Vincent Cappabianca, John McGuire, Al Pepe, Ernie Harrington with Chapter President Joe Triano in front We need your Chapter’s involvement now Capalbo, Bob Montanino, Angelo Moscaritola, Joe Pepe, of our Columbus Monument. in our 2011 Heritage Calendar Project! By having Carmine Ucci, Anthony Biondi, Sal Cocco, Sr., Mario DiMaggio, Sam Stellatella, Mario Cocchiola and Paul chapters distribute our heritage calendars to schools, Digaetano. universities, libraries and museums, we educate and celebrate our heritage, improve our image and promote UNICO National. The UNICO Heritage Calendar helps to counter the media’s continuous negative portrayal of Italian Americans. This Heritage Calendar is UNICO National’s legacy to instill pride in our children and grandchildren and improve the country’s perception of our culture and heritage. Please support our calendar program by Students from town with their Mom happy to becoming a sponsors or booster: successfully find the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria. • Back Page Sponsor- Get 300 Heritage Calendar (includes shipping costs) Nutley UNICO President, Marie Solimo (right) and Secretary, Bob Montanio (left) welcome new members • Month Sponsor- Get 2 200 Heritage Calendars sworn at its October Meeting; Mark Conti, Pasqual (includes shipping costs) Pisani, and Vito Maturro. • $200 Booster- Get 40 Heritage Calendars • ABC Donation of $200 or more- Get 40 Heritage Calendars • ABC Donation of $100 to $199- Get 20 Heritage Calendars • Sponsors, Boosters and donors to ABC can purchase cases of 100 Heritage Calendars for $100 Master of Ceremonies and SPF UNICO member John plus postage. Perrotta with Chapter President Joe Triano. • All others can purchase cases of 100 Heritage Calendars for $200 plus postage. • Single copies are $6.00 which includes postage. "Give something, however small, to the one in Please join the ABC in helping to distribute the 2011 need. For it is not small to one who has nothing. Tom Sposato (left) and First VP Anthony Malfitano (right) Heritage Calendar across the country! Neither is it small to God, if we have given what from Nutley UNICO present checks to local charities in- we could." Sincerely, cluding: The Nutley Library, Special Young Adults, Nutley Family Service Bureau and Breast Cancer Awareness at -St. Gregory Nazianzen Dr.. Manny Alfano their October meeting. ABC Chair Page 26 ComUNICO January 2010 point pleasant & brick nj memphis tn

Point Pleasant & Brick UNICO Memphis Italian Culture Night Columbus Day Banquet Ron and Regina Giometti Two chapters in NJ District 1 joined forces to plan events to celebrate October as Italian Heritage UNICO Memphis remembered Columbus Day with Month. Chapter Presidents Alan Floria from Brick and an Awards and Dinner Banquet on October 9, 2010 at Tony Scardaville from Point Pleasant Beach are part of the Double Tree Hotel. We honored Director Larry the Ocean County Columbus Committee which organized Godwin, recipient of the Italian American Award and the parade in Seaside Heights’ Columbus Day weekend. Each chapter marched with its banner along with the Lewis Donelson, Recipient of the Civic Award. Both UNICO National float. Then both chapters hosted an gave heart felt speeches which included gratitude Itallian Culture Night later on in the month at The White for the award and stories of their Italian Heritage. Sands Hotel. District Governor Grace Gynn opened the UNICO Memphis also awarded Ron Giometti with evening with an introduction of special guests including a Special Recognition award. This wonderful event UNICO National President Chris DiMattio and Anti- was co-chaired by Mike Camurati and Michael (L-R) Mike Camurati, Sharon Thompson, Sally and Bias Chair Manny Alfano. Point Pleasant heritage Spano. Some UNICO members in attendance were Frank Navarra chairperson Michael”Zeke “ Zaccaro gave an interesting Sharon Thompson (Memphis Chapter President), and interactive quiz on famous Italian Americans and Frank and Sally Navarra, George and Linda Bond, then guests were treated to entertainment by the New Ted and Kellie Cortese, Dan and Theresa Vaccaro, Jersey Cameo Club. Teenagers from the Point Pleasant Junior Chapter (ACES) as well as officers from other NJ Joe Monti, Angelo and Denise Lucchesi, Manette 1 chapters were also in attendance. All proceeds from the Singer, Chrisann Schiro-Geist, Jack Conway, Mike evening will be donated to UNICO charities. and Anna Delosso, Ann Barnett, Mike and Gerri Camurati, Ron and Kathy Poletti, Michael, Linda and Donna Spano. Everyone had a festive and lovely time.

(L-R) George and Linda Bond, Manette Singer, Angelo Lucchesi and Ron Giometti

district VI nj Point Pleasant ACES Co-Presidents Danny Richiuso and Allison Kreutzer greet the National President during Italian Heritage Night Celebration.

Award Winners (L - R) Mike Camurati, Dan Vaccaro, DistrIct IV Sponsors Lewis Donelson (Civic Award), Sharon Thompson, Larry Godwin (Italian American Award), Frank a Scholarship Fund Navarra, Michael Spano and Ron Giometti (Special Raiser Recognition Award). Help raise money for UNICO and enjoy a tour of Yankee Stadium and lunch at Arthur Avenue. All net proceeds from the event will be donated to Montclair Scholarships. Even Red Sox fans are invited! District Governor Grace Gynn and IPDG Lisa Pizzella join NJ One Chapter Presidents Marco Gugliemini:Stafford/Toms River,Mark Mastroberti:Lincroft Chapter, Alan Floria:Brick Chapter, Tony Scardaville:Point Pleasant in celebrating October as Italian Heritage Month with UNICO National President Chris DiMattio. (L-R) Linda Spano, Ann Barnett and Regina Giometti.

Speakers for Italian Culture Night at The White Sands Resort in Point Pleasant Beach were Manny Kathy and Ron Poletti. Alfano, National President Chris DiMattio, Alan Floria,Tony Scardaville and Zeke Zaccaro.

January 2010 ComUNICO Page 27 Fornelli as a fundraiser and awareness builder for Culture & the museum, as well as a tribute to his uncle James Orlando “Lon” Fornelli. “Uncle Lon” was an memphis tn Army sergeant stationed at Guadalcanal during the Heritage war, and earned a Silver Star after single-handedly dispatching 13 Japanese snipers in a valiant effort to get his platoon out of a battle zone and back to UNICO Memphis Shows safety. “Lon didn’t talk much about what he did Community Support during the war,“ Fornelli says. “He was very typi- cal of that generation — men who did their duty UNICO Memphis supported the local community by and returned home to their lives without thought participating in the annual University of Memphis of acclaim. The goal of ‘5,000 Miles From Home’ Homecoming Parade. We decorated a truck and was to spotlight these heroes and offer them the trailer, displaying the UNICO Memphis Banners. opportunity to share their unique experiences with Along the parade route we threw out lots of candy future generations.” and beads to the crowd. Afterwards the gang went to Fornelli and Fra Noi editor Paul Basile, dinner to continue the camaraderie. It was a fun time. who served as the film’s producer and co-writer, enlisted the help of co-directors Jim Distasio and Mark McCutcheon of Forward March Media to bring the veterans’ stories to life. After amassing more than 50 hours of interviews and historical footage, the filmmakers began the arduous task of assembling all of the pieces into a feature-length movie. “We were blessed with a treasure trove of information — everything from the vets’ oral his- tories to the personal mementos and photographs they shared — that gave the film a distinct perspec- tive not typically seen in your run-of-the-mill war documentary,” Distasio says. “It’s a one-of-a-kind story about these humble Italian-American guys from the old neighborhood who contributed to a The Emmy Award-winning documentary “5000 defining moment in American history.”To give the Miles From Home” tells the untold story of Chi- film a distinctly Chicago voice to match its local cago's Italian Americans and World War II. subject matter, the filmmakers approached leg- endary newsman Bob Sirott to serve as the film’s narrator. Sirott, who previously hosted the news program “Chicago Tonight” on WTTW, graciously Honoring Our Heroes donated his time in an effort to keep the film on budget. “5,000 Miles From Home” earned the title “‘5,000 Miles From Home’ is a touching “the little documentary that could” along with a host portrait of Chicago's Italian-American community of accolades in 2010. and its contributions to America's victory in World Funded entirely by a $22,000 grant from the War II,” Sirott says. “This is a stirring and worthy UNICO Foundation, the hour-long film about World tribute, not only to this proud ‘Greatest Genera- War II’s impact on the Chicago-area Italian-Ameri- tion,’ but also to the uniqueness of the American can community garnered two Midwest Emmys this way of life.” fall on the strength of five nominations. The victories Distasio and Basile earned an Emmy for capped a banner year that included six national Telly writing the documentary, and Joe Flood received awards and a viewers’ choice nod from the local PBS another for sound. Earlier in the year, the film station, which aired the documentary twice in two took home Telly awards for documentary, cultural DENVILLE NJ years. programming, writing, music, sound and editing. “I couldn’t be prouder,” says Executive Pro- ducer Anthony Fornelli. “These honors are a testa- To order a DVD: ment to the courage of a generation of heroes and the www.5000milesfromhome.com. talent of a dedicated band of filmmakers.” “5,000 Miles From Home” tells the rivet- ing tale of tens of thousands of Italian kids from the rough-and-tumble streets of Chicago who became American men in the crucible of war. In-depth inter- views with two dozen veterans are interwoven with film footage and archival photos as the film tracks the arc of their lives from working-class roots to wartime travails to the very different lives they lead when they come back home. Enjoying the "Meet the National President" dinner The documentary also serves as a testament at the Venetian honoring Chris DiMattio are Den- to the vision and perseverance of Fornelli, a past ville UNICO members and guest . (L-R standing) president of UNICO; founder of the Italian American Lou Maffei, District Governor Nicki Carpinelli, Veterans Museum in Stone Park, IL, and publisher of Anne Marie Mattaliano and Vice President Lou Mat- the Chicago-area Italian-American newspaper, Fra taliano. (L-R sitting) Carol Maffei, Treasurer Jim Scannelli and Secretary Sue Carol Scannelli. They Noi. (L-R) Jim and Kathy Distasio and Paul and Sheryl The documentary was conceived in 2007 by all had a great time "mixing it up" with Chris and Basile celebrate Jim and Paul's Midwest Emmy win. fellow UNICANS. Page 28 ComUNICO January 2010 connecticut denville nj Greater ramsey nj Meet the president

The UNICO Chapters of Connecticut sponsored a District Meeting Fund Raiser "Meet the President's Night" at the Villa Rosa Pontelandolfo Club on October 20th. The Pon- The Denville Chapter of UNICO hosted the District A great traditional fundraiser for UNICO telandolfo Community Club was formed in 1965 in XI November District Meeting at the Hanover is the Greater Ramsey Chapter's Charity DiVino. Waterbury, Connecticut. The Pontelandolfo Com- Manor in New Jersey. Besides a live and silent auction, hundreds attend to munity Club was founded by Italian immigrants from sample wine and Italian delicacies. the village of Pontelandolfo.

Front row (L - R) Gino Loiacono-Denville Chapter Past President, Lou Mattaliano-Chapter Vice President, Dominick Nicastro-Eastern Regional District Governor, Nicki Carpinelli-District XI Governor, Jay Clauss-Chapter President, Mike Celebrity guest Chef "Cooking with Nonna" sensa- Rizzo-Chapter Delegate, surrounded by the rest of tion Rossella Rago poses with her Nonna, National the Denville Chapter members. President Chris DiMattio, Greater Ramsey President Lou LaVigna, National Third Vice President Rick D'Arminio. Memphis tn

National Scholarship Winner On August 17, 2010, at our monthly dinner Ann and Chris DiMattio pose with their friends Bob meeting, UNICO Memphis Chapter honored Summa from the Torrington Chapter and Patti and Troy Anthony Mannino, winner of the National Bill Mascetti, PDG. UNICO Theodore Mazza Scholarship!! Troy will be attending the University of Mississippi (Sally Barksdale Honor College) in the fall. He plans to WCBS Channel 2 News Food Expert Tony Tantillo major in science and hopes to use these courses presents his newest sauce and dressing to Chris in his plans to become either a doctor or engineer. DiMattio and Hackensack Chapter President Ralph His wish is to use his knowledge of the sciences in Contini. order to serve those in need. At the meeting, Troy spoke of his love of his Italian heritage, how proud he is to be Italian, his plans for his career and of his family. Troy, the son of Carl Thomas Mannino and San Diego ca Ollie Avery Mannino, has one brother and one sister (Carmelo and Avery). He is a recent graduate of After the dinner, President Chris toured the Pon- Christian Brothers High School. UNICO Memphis’ telandolfo Club with leaders of the Club. Scholarship Chairperson, Alicia McKenzie, New Members. presented him with a framed certificate for the National UNICO Theodore Mazza Scholarship. Memphis UNICO is proud of this young man!

President Chris is pictured with Francine Nido, Maryann Maletta-Paul and her daughter Catarina Chairperson, and the Honorable Michael Jarjura, display their completed membership application. Mayor of Waterbury. January 2010 ComUNICO Page 29 heritage & culture st louis mo

Vince Edwards Meet Me in St. Louis Vince Edwards was born Vincent Edward President Chris DiMattio was given the "first Zoine III in Brooklyn, class" treatment when he headed for a weekend visit New York, the son of to St. Louis. PNP Angelo Sita even arranged for a Julia and Vincenzo local proclamation for Chris. Zoine (a bricklayer), National President Chris DiMattio was an honored immigrants from Italy. guest and speaker for the 144th Societa Unione é He had a twin brother Fratellanza Italiana Dinner. Pictured, (L-R) Hon. and was the young- Chris Saracino, President St. Louis Metro Chapter est of seven children. Joe Gandolfo, President St. Louis Chapter Vince His parents were hard Monteleone, Mr. DiMattio, PNP Angelo Sita, Past working people who wanted the best for their chil- National Chaplain Fr. Leo Spezia. dren. Vince worked with his father as a laborer on the Eigth Avenue subway, wielding a pick ten hours a day during the summers of his youth. When asked about his family life, he re- sponded by saying: “ I was one of seven children in a family that had its problems in surviving and want- ing to get ahead. I was the baby. I wasn’t spoiled, Father Leo Spezia, Past National Chaplain (St. Louis I don’t believe. My parents got along well. I loved Ram's Chaplain) was able to grant Chris entry on them and had great respect for them.” the field before the Rams took on the Atlanta Fal- Vince was a standout on his high school cons. swim team and went on to study at Ohio State Uni- versity on an athletic scholarship. There, he was part of the university's swim team that won the United States National Championships. Zoine later studied acting at the American National President Chris DiMattio and St. Louis Academy of Dramatic Arts. He then earned a small Chapter President Vince Montelione pose at "The part in “High Button Shoes” on Broadway. Vince Italian Immigrants." The statue memorializes the then toured with the road company of “ Come Back Italian families that arrived in St. Louis looking for Little Sheba.” It was during this time that Vince fell a better life. Today, the statue has become a pre- under the spell of the then-fashionable “Method” ferred symbol of the neighborhood, right along with school of acting. the Hill's famous green, white and red painted fire In 1950, he was signed to a contract by President Chris meeting with members of the St. hydrants. Paramount Pictures, making his film debut as "Vince Louis Metro Chapter after the Rams game. Edwards" in 1951's “Mr. Universe” then played the lead next year in “Hiawatha.” Although he had major or lead roles in several films, including the 1958 film noir, “ Murder by Contract,” it was not until he starred as the title character on the highly successful Denville nj “Ben Casey” television series that he achieved a real level of stardom. The medical drama show, which he occasionally directed, ran from 1961 to 1966 and as a result of his popularity, Edwards released several Ella Grasso music albums that met with reasonable success. When the television series ended, Edwards Essay Winner returned to acting in motion pictures with a major role in the 1968 war drama, “The Devil's Brigade. In 1970, he starred in the brief series “ Matt Lincoln.” Denville Chapter member Lou Maffei was He continued to act in films as well as in guest spots Chris and Vince belting out a few Neopolitan med- the winner of the UNICO National Ella Grasso Essay on television. He also directed a number of episodes lies. Contest. His essay on “Growing up in an Italian in a variety of television series including the original family” won him the first place honor this year. “Battlestar Galactica.” Edwards made his last film in 1995, after which he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Vince died in Los Angeles, California on March 11, 1996. He was 67 years old, and was buried in the Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California. His life was short but his memory lingers on.

Researched and adapted from various Internet sites by Salvatore J. Mangano, PNP. UNICO National, Chris having breakfast with members of the St. Louis (L-R) Essay winner Lou Maffei is congratulated by 2009-2010, Italian Heritage and Culture Chair Chapter after mass at St. Ambrose Church on "The NJ DG XI Nicki Carpinelli and Denville Chapter Hill." President. Jay Clauss. Page 30 ComUNICO January 2010 ANTI BIAS on the road with PARAMUS NJ president chris Big Friggin Wedding Big Friggin Italian American Stereotype

Contact: Sebastian D’Elia 908-770-3662 UNICO National Communications Director

FAIRFIELD, NJ - Describing the show as yet another disgraceful and disheartening chapter of Executive President DiMattio was invited to speak at the Ocean Producer SallyAnn Salsano’s malicious exploitation County Columbus Day Parade Meeting in December. and stereotyping of young Italian Americans for profit, There he thanked the organization for presenting a UNICO National is asking VH1 to pull the plug on tremendous display of Italian heritage and culture. “My Big Friggin’ Wedding.” As a token or gratitude, Chris presented all in at- “Stereotyping and slurring young Italian Amer- tendance with the UNICO 2011 Italian and Italian Three generations enjoy the national convention in icans means big, big bucks for bottom-feeder networks American Heritage Calendar. Pictured (L-R) are Hershey, PA, together. like MTV and VH1,” said André DiMino, UNICO’s parade co-chair Paul Perillo, Chris DiMattio, pa- Chief Media Executive and immediate past National rade chair Mike Blandina, and parade co-chair Cav. President. “No one does this better than Salsano, who’s Mario Marano. done more harm to the perception of young Italian Americans than everyone before her, combined.” Salsano’s, “495 Productions” that specializes in trashy reality programming, also produced MTV’s infamous “Jersey Shore” series, which UNICO Nation- al successfully fought last year. “It’s hard to believe, but Salsano actually tops the damage she did to the Italian American community with ‘Jersey Shore’ with her newest pile of garbage on VH1,” DiMino said. “Salsano sells out her ethnicity in a big way for her ‘30 pieces of silver.’ The damage is especially insidious and malicious since it comes at the The Paramus Chapter had a large group of members expense of young Italian Americans, who will endure Gathered in a corner at the Brick Christmas Party attend the convention. these stereotypes for years to come.” chatting about UNICO finances are President DiMat- “My Big Friggin’ Wedding” is a “reality” show tio with current National Auditor, Anthony D'Alessio about 5 couples preparing for their wedding in the New (L) and past National Auditor Joe Colino (R). Jersey area, and as DiMino notes, Salsano outdid her- self to find the “…worst bunch of bad-acting, insipid individuals portraying themselves as trashy, drunken, low-class, bimbos and buffoons.” At least six of ten cast members are identified as Italian Americans, while two do not have their eth- nicity identified and two others are identified as Haitian and Hispanic. Of special note is “celebrity wannabe” Johnny DeCarlo, who in the past has blogged and appeared on a panel, defending the use of the pejorative term, ‘Guido’ in ‘Jersey Shore.’ “It a appears Salsano paid him back for defending ‘Jersey Shore’ with an opportu- nity to disgrace himself before a much wider audience,” Chapter President, Joseph Iula with Gerry Heytink. DiMino said. (L-R) President DiMattio, restauranteur Nino Selim- “DeCarlo, so desperate for his 15 minutes of aj, PNP John Alati and Foundation President John fame, starts the show off explaining that he started dat- DiNapoli. The UNICO trio dined at Nino’s newest ing his current fiancé when he was married and she was restaurant, Scarpina, on University Place in Manhat- engaged at the time with a child. She is now pregnant tan. UNICO members have long dined at many of with his kid. But, she says ‘I’m really stressed out the five Nino's located throughout New York City. because I want to drink at my wedding so I need to pop the kid out before the wedding.’ What class!” chided DiMino. “It’s particularly sad that it’s Italian Americans prostituting themselves to make this show the next ‘train wreck’ for people to watch - and connect with The Paramus Chapter re-dedicated the Christopher Italian Americans,” DiMino said, ending with a call to Columbus Monument in Paramus. District Govenor action: NJ IX Frank Putrino and Chapter President Joseph “If you’re Italian American or of any race or Iula conducted the ceremony. A wreath was placed ethnicity and you don’t stand for bigotry, please contact at the monument and mums were planted to make the VH1 and its parent company, VIACOM, and express monument more noticeable from the road. In the photo your disgust and lack of support for negative stereo- above, chapter members and their families enjoy the types by demanding they pull ‘My Big Friggin’ Wed- ceremony. ding’ off the air,” DiMino stated. Chris and Ann with Mike Greenberg of ESPN. January 2010 ComUNICO Page 31 prevent him from attending any UNICO National function and meetings. But Al wouldn’t allow that, in memorium he arranged for Joe’s transportation and, holding his LOMBARDI hand, kept Joe close to his side every step of the way, just as a brother would do for his brother. Al made him feel comfortable and special even when his own Al Dante health wasn’t one hundred percent. UNICO ON BROADWAY But that’s just one example of how he Al Dante, a Past National cared. I’m sure you are recalling your own experi- On Friday evening November 19th, over 100 President and recipient of the ences. Many experienced his personal out of the UNICO members and guests attended a showing of prestigious Vastola Award, way hospitality by how he always greeted you with a "Lombardi," the smash Broadway hit featuring the tal- passed away after a brief ill- warm smile, making sure your meal was right or you ents of Dan Lauria and Judith Light. The Hazleton and ness on November 15th. He had a special seat at the table. He was as (PNP) Nick Scranton Chapters both chartered busses to attend. was 83. He served UNICO Quercetti told me a gentleman’s “gentle man.” The play was written by Academy Award winner and with distinction and last July, Appropriately, one of his last duties in Steppenwolf Theater Company member Eric Simonson was presented a 50-year pin UNICO was serving as head usher for Mass for the The play is based on the bestselling biography for his active involvement convention in Hershey, a task he performed excep- “When Pride Still Mattered: A Life of Vince Lombar- at the National Conven- tionally at each National meeting, making sure the di.” tion in Hershey by National priest had the proper arrangements and that everyone The play brings the audience into the life and times President and close friend was appropriately seated for worship. He also made of one of the most inspirational personalities, and fellow Scranton Chapter member Chris DiMattio. sure the collection was given to the priest for the Hall of Fame football coach Vince Lombardi. He served UNICO as National President from 1979 to poor. 1980 and rarely missed a national meeting in almost And you never doubted his integrity – he forty years. On Thursday, November 18th, UNICO was as honest as his life was long and fulfilled. members and friends gathered with Al’s daughter Lisa Whether dealing with him during an automobile sale Bieri and family for the UNICO Memorial Service or UNICO business Al put the needs of the customer which was led by Fr. Robert Wolfee, National Chap- and his friends FIRST! He was the one man in lain. Participating and attending the service were UNICO National so many called upon for advice for fellow Past National President’s Joseph Agresti, Renato they knew they would get an honest and true opinion Biribin, Frank Cannata, Salvatore Mangano, Anthony – and that’s just what you got – as he would holler Gaglioti and Frank Tidona, UNICO Foundation Presi- “NO BOLONEY – just do the right thing!” And you dent, John DiNapoli, past and present UNICO National know your conversation was always kept in the strict- officers, the UNICO National office staff both past and est of confidence because you could trust Al. present and over 100 members from the Scranton Chap- We’re here tonight certainly out of respect Chris and Ann DiMattio pose outside the show's ter, PA District II and surrounding chapters. Others for his family but more importantly to gather together visited the home earlier in the day. in prayer to give thanks to God for having him. And marque window. if each one of us can live our lives just a little bit The eulogy offered by UNICO National President like he did, we’d all be better people. His passing Chris DiMattio is as follows: certainly leaves a void in UNICO and the Scranton community but it also leaves us a shining example This is certainly a sad day in the almost ninety and a legacy of how to live our lives. years of UNICO. But Al wouldn’t want it that way. In There’s a passage from Corinthians in the fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if he, (his wife) Louise Bible that is so appropriate for Al and whenever you and Father Cottone were all dancing the Tarantella right hear it, I hope you think of him and say a prayer for now having a big reunion dinner with all their friends his soul: and family who went before him! Love is kind; it does not envy, it does not To the family of Al Dante especially (daughter) boast. It is not proud, it is not rude, it is not easily Pictured at the November Lombardi trip are (L-R) Lisa, we in UNICO express our deepest sympathy and angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not PNPs John Alati and Mike D'Arminio, Third Na- gratitude for sharing with us the gift of Al. Many of us delight in evil, but rejoices in truth. It always pro- tional Vice Presidet Rick D'Arminio who made the know so much about you because Al was so proud of tects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. arrangements for UNICO, “Lombardi” star Dan each and everyone of you and often loved to brag about Love never fails. And now these three remain: faith, Lauria and National President Chris DiMattio. his family at every opportunity. hope and love, but the greatest of these is love. How fitting that we are in the home of one Please allow me one personal privilege in re- of his closest friends Pat “’Bucky” Guido who joined membering Al. (Chris imitating Al’s voice) “Hey get HONORING ANOTHER UNICO the same day Al did fifty years ago. it while it’s Hot!” Well Al ... we got it when it was The word UNICO in Italian means “UNIQUE” hot and your memory will live warm in our hearts GRIDIRON GREAT – and that certainly was Al Dante. In today’s world forever! where so many people drift away from what’s really God Bless You! important in life – Al didn’t – he was the strong naviga- tor who never left the ship. He was unique - maybe that’s why he was known as “Mr. UNICO”! He was unique because, in today’s society, we rarely see people who truly care about another human being. As I look around, none of us are shocked at the sight of so many who are gathered here tonight for his service because in some way, Al touched the lives of each and every one of us. How many of us here did Al telephone to ask how you or a family member were feeling after an ill- ness or loss? How many did he visit when times were tough or when he thought you just needed a smile or a joke? Al Dante was very active at the most recent national Honoring a promise made long ago, Manny and Pat Al cared – that’s why he was as PNP Frank convention at the Hershey Lodge! Above, Al (R) Alfano were the guests of President Chris DiMattio Licato told me today, “Mr Nice Guy” in New Jersey! works the limbo stick with another PNP Renato for a Penn State Nittany Lions football game versus He cared! Whether helping his wife Louise during the Biribin. Michigan State at Beaver Stadium in November. difficult times when she was ill, other family members Although, they didn't want to say "no" the Alfano's and friends – he really cared and his actions spoke were hoping for an earlier game as the Mount Nit- louder than any word could. One person who is not tany chilling wind got the best of them. Here Chris, here tonight knew just how much Al cared and that’s Manny and Pat pose with the legendary coach, Joe (PNP) Joe Manganaro, who’s loss of vision was to Paterno's winning statue outside the stadium. East longmeadow ma

Dinner for Senior Citizens

NJ District IV

ridgefield nj

Halloween Canteen The Ridgefield, NJ, chapter held its annual Halloween Canteen in the Ridgefield community center on October 17th in support of the UNICO Mental Health Program. 189 clients with their counselors attended. Food was donated by Anna Bella's Deli in South Hackensack, Cake was donated by Cosco's, Ice Cream was donated by Shop-Rite and music was do- nated by DJ Joe Gennuaro. Volunteers were Al and Stacey Oriente, Lucy Cintron, Maddy Massare, Carlo The Annual Christmas Party for UNICO and Lee Buonsanto, Danny and Estelle Buonsanto, Dom Ranuado and Gerry Hanson. NJ - District IV

Held now for over 25 years, the NJ District IV Christmas party was started by UNICO member Michael Corradino. After all these years, the celebration is still actively attended by many members and is held for the clients and staff of the North Jersey Development Center, which is located in Totowa, NJ. (L-R) UNICO National Sargeant-At-Arms Frank Greco, PNP Frank Tidona, National Scholarship Director Joan Tidona, PNP Sal Mangano, UNICO National President Chris DiMattio, Michael Corradino from the NJ District IV Passaic-Clifton Chapter and past co-chair, PNP and also the current co-chair of this event Joe Agresti, Nina Corradino who is this events long time other co-chair, PNP André DiMino, ERDG Dominick Nicastro, NJ DG IV Lou Serafini, and PNP Paul Alongi. All the pictures from this event will be put onto the UNICO National website www.UNICO.org and uploaded into the photo gallery section. Just click on the upper right corner of Event chairpersons were Chapter President Annette the photo gallery page and then on the Picasa Photo Album link. Tabbachino and Grace Oriente. January 2010 ComUNICO Page 33 Makes the perfect gift …

Born when Fascism was very well established, author Dr. Nicholas La Bianca superbly pens down a recollection of the early years of his rich and colorful life in his unforgettable stirring memoir. Tender and poignant, “Growing Up Under Fascism in a Little Town in Southern Italy” shows how people coped up with the same difficult dilemmas of making a living, striving to improve their living condi- tions, and secure a better future for their children. This book is also a clear representation of real life battles and of family goals — once founded with precision and strength, political regime and economic conditions that control the daily life could not obstruct in achieving success. Through “Growing Up Under Fascism in a Little Town in Southern Italy,” readers will have a glimpse at the author’s memorable life dur- ing the fascist regime and will learn more truths on human existence.

Fra Noi’s FRED GARDAPHE says, “this book is a lesson in life wor- thy for all to learn.”

(254 pages, illustrated with personal and historical photos)

About the Author: Dr. Nicholas La Bianca was born in Giovinazzo, (Bari), Italy in 1930, and during his early life had to live under the Fascist regime and witness depravation, death, and destruction brought by World War II. He received the best classical education available in that country and after the war moved to the United States. He joined the US Air Force during the Korean Was and after being discharged he obtained a BA from the University of Illinois (1957). Moved to New York City and attended night school at CCNY where he obtained an MA in Education (1965). After three years of teaching in the public schools of New York City and an additional three years teaching overseas for the State Department, he settled in Stony Brook, Long Island, where he received a DA from SUNY at that location. He spent the next 25 years teaching Languages at the Three Village School District in that area. He retired in 1990 and continues to be active in the field of Education. He is the author of an article on a linguistic study he made on the influence of the Romance Languages on the English Language. In addition to “Growing up under Fascism in a Little Town in Southern Italy,” La Bianca has pub- lished “Life: Its Problems and Some of Its Unanswerable Questions,” “Education — A View From Inside” and “An Immigrant’s Long & Difficult Way to Become American.” For more information, visit www.drnicklabs.com. Order your books today! Visit www.xlibris.com, www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com or call (888) 795-4274 ext. 7876. LOU&A Toast of the town 3

by Louis R. Carlozo 5

When it comes to conveying the pas- them right away. With television, it’s a bit sion, artistry and precision of Italian cui- more complicated — you have to take three sine — and we mean authentic dishes people around with you. It’s also very stress- made by authentic Italians — you’d be hard ful. [Laughs.] But it’s a fun experience, defi-

pressed to find a classier ambassador than nitely. A Ornella Fado. FN — Why restaurants as opposed to As the CEO and executive editor of some other expression of Italian culture? Brindiamo! magazine, Fado helms a publi- OF — Restaurants are something imme- A big DeNiro fan growing up, hunky half-Italian cation just as stylish and substantive as its diate that everyone can approach. If you do M Bradley Cooper has transitioned effortlessly from leader. Fado is a dynamo: She’s celebrating a show about fashion, not everyone can go the dramatic to the comic in just over a year. five-plus years of “Brindiamo!” on NYC TV to Versace on Madison Avenue, Ch. 25, and has just launched the very first (See Fado on Page 45) Brindiamo! Scholarship with the Italian NEWSMAKERS Food Style Education Culinary Institute. As if that weren’t enough, she’s also working on E by Jim Distasio “Brindiamo! The Movie.” It’s a fabulous run for this native of Italy, who studied at the Conservatory of R Accidental Music Stanislao Giacomantonio in Cosenza, while earning a second degree in

Ballet Studies. Eventually, Fado found her I passion in hosting, performing and pro- comedian C ducing for TV. Now it’s a dance of a different When producers were looking to revive the sort as she expands her ambitious 1980s television show “The A-Team” for the big Brindiamo! enterprise, based in New screen, everyone wondered who would be cast as York.

B.A. Baracus, the role made famous by the fool- Fra Noi caught up with Fado to learn A pitying, tough-talking Mr. T. her secret recipe for folding her many pas- But as the film started coming together for its sions into a multi-faceted career. summer 2011 release, all of the attention shifted to the casting of actor Bradley Cooper as the charm- Fra Noi — How has it been adding ing, fast-talking team member Templeton magazine publisher to your list of accom- “Faceman” Peck, or simply “Face.” plishments? A half-Italian, half-Irish actor from the Ornella Fado — It was a natural transi- Philadelphia area, Cooper was suddenly in tion. The magazine is just a paper version demand after a small comedy he co-starred in of my television show. I am so lucky that struck big at the box office in the summer of 2009. I’ve had a photographer, almost That movie was “The Hangover,” and it went on to from the beginning of the show, gross more than $465 million worldwide, making it who has given me so many the highest-grossing R-rated comedy of all time. beautiful pictures. So the maga- Cooper’s acting career up until that point con- zine excites me a lot. It sisted mostly of playing, for lack of a better term, gives me an opportuni- jerks in smallish television and film projects. His ty to go behind the most high-profile role was as Vince Vaughn’s show; if I am in Italy obnoxious, blue-blooded tormentor in 2005’s and meet someone

“Wedding Crashers.” interesting, I can talk to As queen of Italian dining in the Big Apple, Ornella Fado really cooks. 2 J

(See Newsmakers on Page 45) A 0 1 N FEATURE Recapturing L.A.’s rich Italian past 1

by Jim Distasio C

When you think of Los Angeles, a once underway for the estimated $1.5 million thriving Little Italy isn’t the first image that project. The Foundation already has comes to mind. But the City of Angels has secured a healthy grant from the National o been home to Italian Americans since the Trust for Historic Preservation, and has 1820s, and this rich — albeit largely unknown made inroads with potential donors while — history will take center stage with the hosting a successful Taste of Italy fundrais- m planned Italian American Museum of Los er in October. Angeles. The museum has not yet crossed the Targeted for an early 2012 opening, the million-dollar fundraising threshold, but state-of-the-art historical and cultural educa- Gatto says the group is “getting close.” U tion center will be located in downtown Los The project is part of a decades-long Angeles at Italian Hall, a historic brick build- plan by the foundation to commemorate ing constructed in 1908 to serve as the social and recapture the ethnic flavor of Los N and cultural hub for Italian-American resi- Angeles’ Little Italy. During the early 1990s, dents who once called the area home. the group raised approximately $2 million

“Most Italian Americans have no idea for badly needed repairs to the building, I there is a substantial Italian community in Los which along with more than two dozen C Angeles,” says Marianna Gatto, executive other historical structures nearby, is owned director of the Italian American Museum. by the City of Los Angeles and leased to the Today, the Los Angeles metropolitan area is Historic Italian Hall Foundation, the group home to the nation’s fifth-largest Italian- behind the museum. O American population, according to statistics A century-old social club will soon be home to a state-of- Phase two of the project is the estab- from the U.S. Census Bureau and compiled by the art museum celebrating the vibrant history of one of lishment of a museum in the 7,000-square- the Order Sons of Italy in America. the nation’s largest Italian-American communities. foot hall, which will serve as a mixed-use A major fundraising push is currently (See Los Angeles on Page 45) JAN ComUNICO 2011 AMERICA 36 o m m f t a t p l n e s m A t m t i f q t u t m t t C f c i a s L L y i m h i i t h h i h h i h o c o r t a r r h o o u c n o n c o e a

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LA MIA ITALIA CINEMA Italy’s clown prince 3

by Dr. John Bello, M.D. by Jeannine Guilyard 9

With a larger than life personality that He started his career working in Roman immortalizes every character he plays, theaters and earned a reputation as one of Never let Roberto Benigni is one of the most recogniz- the area’s funniest comics. He then moved able faces in Italian cinema today. Widely on to television, where he soon became a I known on this side of the Atlantic for his national sensation. Italians loved him and go of your Oscar-winning film, “Life Is Beautiful,” his slapstick humor, but Benigni had much T Benigni has had his share of career ups and more in store for Italy and the world. downs but manages to win over audiences Considered a genius by his idol, Federico A dreams! with each new project he tackles. Fellini, Benigni lived up to expectations Born in 1952 in Tuscany, Benigni’s when he made the transition to the big beginnings were humble. Benigni’s mother screen.

After a long day of examining patients, I feel worked as a fabric inspector in the textile He delivered his first hit movie in 1985 L drained, yet at the same time, I feel satisfied, ful- industry and his father was a farmer, car- with “Non ci resta che piangere” (Nothing filled and elated. These emotions consume me at penter and bricklayer. Luigi Benigni was Left to Do but Cry), which he co-wrote, co- I the end of a typical day in my office. They are actually a prisoner in the concentration directed and co-starred in with the beloved incredible emotions to experience every day. I real- camp Bergen-Belsen located in northwest- Massimo Troisi. The story centers around a A ize I am fortunate and a very lucky man to live in ern Germany for two years. The camp was teacher and a schoolkeeper who get lost in America, which was my parents’ dream. liberated by the British 11th Armoured the Italian countryside and find themselves When I become disappointed with myself and Division in 1945 and Luigi was freed. in the late 15th century. Among their adven- begin to whine about how difficult it is for me, I Benigni drew from his father’s experience in tures, they meet up with Leonardo da Vinci look at the photo on my desk of my nonni. One the making of “Life Is Beautiful.” (See Cinema on Page 45) look at that photo is all it takes to bring me back to reality, and for me to realize that I have no reason to complain! Every day, as I pass by their photo, I thank them for the heroism and courage they had, as they transplanted their family from Italy to Chicago. As I continue to concentrate on my efforts to obtain an Italian medical license, I feel myself begin to weaken in my resolve. I look back to when I first started on this journey to fulfill my dream. Even though it has been over 10 months already, it seems as if I am still at the beginning of my jour- ney. Fortunately, I have been able to get help from a cousin in obtaining the correct documentation that I need to satisfy the Italian government’s bureaucracy. This has been a perfect example of “the spirit of the Italian family.” We help our family members in their time of need by giving of our- selves and our resources. This “spirit” of help is what I draw on when there is no more fight in me! Since I started this journey, I cannot and I will not give up on my dream. I have my own and my fam-

ily’s pride to honor and protect. My hope is to 2 J

obtain my Italian medical license in the next few A 0 months — “Buona fortuna!”

No Italian comedian has captured the imagination of the world quite like Roberto Benigni. 1 (See Bello on Page 46) N 1 SPOTLIGHT Perfection in protection C by Nicola Orichuia

Leonardo’s “Mona Lisa,” Michelangelo’s

Monzeglio. Despite the success, the company o “David” and the prized jewels of the British royal went back to commercial glass casings for the house have one thing in common: They are all next two decades. In the ’70s, Alessandro protected by glass casings created by Goppion, a

started working in his father’s workshop while m small glass-works company in Trezzano, Milan. studying political science at university. Outside the world of museums, few are familiar The breakthrough that would change the with the work done by Alessandro Goppion, the company forever came in 1977, when Milanese entrepreneur who joined his father’s Alessandro transposed his passion for early U small commercial glass-making workshop in 1900s German industrial design into the Alva 1977 and soon came up with a successful design glass casing, which soon became the gold for museum showcases that has transformed his standard for small art collections’ showcases. N “Laboratorio museotecnico” in Milan into one The Alva’s success convinced Alessandro to of the most sought-after producers of glass cas- create the Laboratorio museotecnico, a work- ings for invaluable works of art. shop within Goppion dedicated to research- The company’s story is the perfect example ing and producing museum showcases. What I of how a great idea can transform a seemingly makes Goppion so special is the fact that C dull product into a valuable asset that combines everything, every single detail, is thought of efficiency with style. Founded in 1952 by and created, modeled, cut, sized, assembled Alessandro’s father, the Goppion company spe- and tested within the group’s laboratory. The O cialized for many years in commercial glass cas- 1980s were a period of slow growth and exper- ings. In 1956, the Museum of Ancient Musical imentation, as the company sought and Some of world’s most prized possessions are encased Instruments in Milan commissioned the elder achieved recognition within Italy. Goppion to produce showcases designed by in shatterproof glass cases produced by a small Milanese company. Commissions came from museums in Rome, local architects Sergio Cossovich and Aldo (See Spotlight on Page 45) JAN ComUNICO 2011 ITALIA 40 C e s T f e r a G d o a w c W t t p C p P d s t P t s e d t i t a m h h o h u i r o o t r y e d n s f h o e e r i o e o u l a r b y u o

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Contact us today, Phone: Fax: Call the National Office for a pledge form: 1-800-877-1492 or [email protected] (973) 595-9500 (973) 595-7442 973-808-0035 CHEF’S CHOICE IN VINO VERITAS 4

by Charles P. Pecoraro Quality meets affordability 3 The Montillos share by Dick Rosano The Bianchi Winery is the culmination melon and toast on the nose; soft textures,

their recipe for of an immigrant’s dream, and of four gener- medium body, flavors of melon, toast, and L ations of Italian-Americans pursuing the hazelnut. Score: 86

Cheesecake Bars dream of owning a winery that can produce Pinot Grigio 2008 Los Alamos Vineyard A premium wines at affordable prices. (Santa Barbara County, $16) — A crisp, dry There’s an old proverb among pork produc- It began with Carmelo Bianchi, a leather wine with flavors of pineapple and tanger- ers that everything is used in a pig except the glove maker from Sicily, who came to the ine. Score: 85 squeal. That same logic can be applied to the United States in 1906. He was followed in Sauvignon Blanc 2009 San Lucas grape harvest, where everything is used except 1907 by his future wife, Carmela who hailed Vineyard (Monterey County, $12) — Zesty V the wind whistling through the vineyard. from Rome. How they survived at first is not aromas of grapefruit, citrus and lemon peel, Wine is the principal product of grapes, of well documented, followed by similar course, but nothing is wasted, including a juice

although Carmelo’s glove- impressions on the palate, E byproduct called vino cotto that infuses recipes making machine was sent zesty and bright. Score: 85 with a naturally sweet element without the fer- from Italy to America mented essence of wine. sometime after they emi- RED WINE R Vino cotto (cooked wine) has a smooth, rich grated. Barbera 2006 (Paso flavor similar to that of plums, figs or raisins. It Like many other Robles, $22) — High notes contains no alcohol or vinegar, and isn’t as thick immigrants from the of cherry pie and cinna- A as honey or maple syrup. Its versatility is evident boot, Carmelo made his mon on nose, soft oak and

with uses in meat, seafood, poultry, vegetables, own wine and surrepti- brown spice accents, fla- C desserts, sauces and salad dressings. tiously selling it during vors highlight cherry and One of the more prominent makers and dis- Prohibition. Sons Joe and raspberry. Score: 87 tributors of vino cotto is Montillo Italian Foods, Ray were the delivery Cabernet Sauvignon founded by Greg and Deena Montillo and based boys, and they made a 2007 (Paso Robles, $19) — U in Framingham, Mass. The two-year-old venture tidy profit selling their Deep sensuous aromas of actually is the U.S. extension of a company wine to the Irish neigh- earth, toast, and black established by the Montillo family 100 years ago borhoods nearby. But fruit; soft textures, black in Montepaone, Calabria. beyond wine, Joe (origi- cherry, plum, and rasp- C The Montillos buy freshly pressed grape nally, Giuseppe) had quite berry flavors; touch of juice from a California source, cook it in a com- a varied list of accom- cassis on finish. Score: 91 mercial kitchen, bottle and distribute it to retail plishments. A self-educat- Merlot 2006 (Paso and wholesale outlets plus direct via the inter- ed chemist by trade, he Robles, $17) — Ripe red net. The shelf-stable product has earned U.S. flew helicopters and air- cherry aromas, soft tex- I

Food and Drug Administration approval. planes, spoke four lan- tures, cherry focus contin- N From a health perspective, vino cotto con- guages, wrote books on philosophy and ues on the palate. Score: 87 tains no salt, fat or cholesterol, no artificial fla- winemaking, and played the piano. Petite Sirah 2007 Plummer Vineyard voring or coloring, is low in calories and rich Joe and his son, Glenn, bought a winery (Paso Robles, $20) — Deep dense purple red,

with antioxidants. in Kerman, Calif., on the San Joaquin River, suggestions of coffee, spice, and black cherry A The business has become a family affair for in 1974. With unrelenting hard work, the continue from nose to palate, chewy mouth- the Montillos. Son Joseph designed www.mon- family business grew and today is run by feel. Score: 87 tilloitalianfoods.com, while daughter Christine Beau Bianchi, Glenn’s son and Giuseppe’s Pinot Noir 2007 (Edna Valley, $22) — helped design the packaging. grandson. Beau proudly boasts his Italian Subtle accents of coffee and tea on the nose, Here, in time for making holiday season heritage in the wines he produces, including soft textures, earthy red fruit flavors, light desserts, is the Montillo family recipe for Vino

varietal wines like Pinot Grigio and Refosco, bodied. Score: 84 2 J Cotto Cheesecake Bars:

and proprietary wines like Quattro. Quattro 2007 (Paso Robles, $32) — A 0 “Our focus today is to make world class Forward aromas of earth, plums, and roasted 1 Vino Cotto Cheesecake Bars wines at a good value,” says Beau. “I’m also coffee; soft textures, medium body, long vel- N coming out with a red table wine, ‘Omaggio vety finish. Score: 88 1 Crust: de Giuseppe,’ which will be a throwback Refosco 2006 San Juan Vineyard (Paso 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour label design to our original 1974 Chianti Robles, $22) — Black fruit aromas accented C 1/4 cup almond flour label.” by notes of cinnamon; medium body, red 3/4 cup pecans, finely chopped Ever inventive, like his grandfather fruit flavors with tobacco leaf and cinnamon 1 stick margarine, melted Giuseppe, Beau intends to continue to accents. Score: 86

1/4 cup vino cotto improve the wines, add new varietals, Zinfandel 2007 Zen Ranch Heritage o 1/4 cup sugar accentuate his Italian heritage, and deliver Selection (Paso Robles, $20) — Rich, dark great values for the wine-consuming public. fruit and earth on nose, dark fruit flavors, Filling:

When asked to describe what’s next, subtle yet evident acidity, soft tannins. Score: m 8 ounces cream cheese Beau says, “Future plans … to become a 88 1 cup granulated sugar household name for excellent wines.” With 3 eggs Editor’s Note: Dick Rosano’s wine rating system is four generations and decades of experience 1 teaspoon vanilla based on quality and price and breaks down as to build upon, and a host of already good

follows: 96-100 (excellent, worth any price), 91-95 U wines, his future should be secure. (very high quality, worth a high price if you can Preheat oven to 350 degrees. afford it), 86-90 (high quality, worth the price if you like that type of wine), 81-85 (moderately Crust: Using fork, mix all dry ingredients WHITE WINE into a bowl. Add margarine and vino cotto, thor- good, should shop around for best price), 76-80 N Chardonnay 2008 El Camino Vineyard (some defects but generally acceptable), 70-75 (of oughly combine all ingredients. Hand press (Santa Barbara County, $15) — Scents of doubtful value), below 70 (not worth drinking). dough evenly into ungreased 13x9x2-inch pan.

Bake for 20-30 minutes, until lightly brown and I

firm. C Filling: In separate bowl, add all filling ingredients and mix until batter is smooth. Pour filling over crust. Bake 20-30 minutes or until surface is golden brown and springy. To deter- O mine doneness, insert toothpick then remove immediately. Toothpick should emerge clean Bianchi isn’t a household name, but that may soon change thanks to the unrelenting hard work and when cake is done. Allow to cool before cutting innovation of this fourth-generation winemaking family. into squares. Yields 35 bars. ComUNICO JAN LA VERA 2011 CUCINA 44 1 i 1 T 1 3 3 1 1 1 1 2 W 1 G v C r t D a t e b f p t r t w a h s h v o w c b w w n l s a k s o W c c T f v o o i t n o e r o h R y o e o l x m p h e e e o -

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o e h a v v n o 6 o t e a t t e r l s i s s l s d h d d d o d o i o o o l e a e e c n ) r r - - - r r - l l . , , Copley, Cooper’s costar in “The A-Team,” JAN THERE TO NEWSMAKERS told Details. “He’s still a guy. He’s got that ComUNICO man’s-man, I-like-football thing. But he’s 2011 HERE 45 (Continued from Page 35) way more gentle and has more heart than you might think watching him in some of his roles.” Joe Carnahan, Cooper’s “A-Team” direc- during their internment in a Nazi concentra- tor, says it’s the actor’s commitment to his LOS ANGELES tion camp. Perhaps just as entertaining as But “The Hangover” allowed Cooper work and friends that makes him one of the movie was Benigni’s enthusiasm at the room to not only be funny in an ensemble Hollywood’s good guys. (Continued from Page 35) 1999 Academy Awards ceremony. The film alongside comedic heavyweights such as “Bradley’s one of the guys I’d go to war earned Oscars for Best Foreign Language Zach Galifianakis (“Due Date”) and Ed with,” Carnahan told Details. “If I’m in a Film, Best Actor in a Leading Role and Best Music, Original Dramatic Score. When Helms (“The Office”), it also let him flaunt bad way, I’m calling him, saying ‘Can you facility for permanent and traveling his more female-friendly attributes — the help me out?’” Benigni accepted his second Oscar of the exhibits, lectures, film screenings, art show- night, he said, “Thank you. This is a terrible hair, the blue eyes, the permanent five ings and festivals. o’clock shadow. On screen, amid a circus of mistake, because I used up all my English!” The adjacent historical structures, which His appearance at the Oscars was so wacky Vegas debauchery, a naked Asian man include the Avila Adobe Museum, Chinese trapped in a trunk and Mike Tyson, was an and memorable, that the following year, FADO American Museum and the Firehouse when he announced the nominees for the actor effortlessly applying for movie star sta- Museum, already welcome more than 2 mil- tus … and nailing the interview. Best Actress Award, Billy Crystal stood (Continued from Page 35) lion visitors annually, so the Italian behind him with a large net to keep him in “In an industry that is desperately low on American Museum is thinking big. Plans for real nuts-and-bolts leading men, I don’t line! interactive exhibits, multimedia presenta- After the international success of “Life Is think it’s a surprise that Bradley has rocketed tions and an Internet-era approach to shar- to the top of all the lists. Because he is that or meet the stylist who created the suit. Beautiful,” Benigni went on to make a big- With food, you can have a direct approach ing information are in the works, and those budget version of Pinocchio and the guy,” “A-Team” director Joe Carnahan told bells and whistles have fueled the need for Details magazine. to the people who make the dishes. The wartime love story “The Tiger and the Snow.” recipe you see, you can actually meet the additional funding, Gatto says. Both films garnered their share of criticism But Cooper’s ascent to the top of the “In order to do that, we’re looking at rais- Hollywood food chain seems almost acci- chef and try it. but did little to harm Benigni’s enduring rep- ing more money than a 20th-century muse- utation. His most recent project is a new dental. Even while shooting “The Hangover,” um that’s more static and text-driven would Cooper and his costars were surprised the FN — Why is Brindiamo! such a pas- English translation and stage adaptation of sion? require,” she says. Dante’s “Divine Comedy.” studio was betting big on a summer comedy Although the physical space isn’t com- starring three guys who never headlined a OF — In Italy we have so many shows and all the personalities from Dustin pleted, Gatto and her team already have Many of Benigni’s films are available through single mainstream film in their careers. produced Italian-American-themed exhibi- “It was the first opportunity for all of us to Hoffman to Julia Roberts have a place to go rental venues and Amazon. to promote their work. But Italian personal- tions for other institutions, including one do starring roles,” Cooper told GQ magazine. titled “Sunshine and Struggle” that debuted “I remember thinking, ‘When are the other ities coming to America have so few places, and few Americans may know them. So my in Los Angeles and has since traveled to the actors who are the stars of the movie going California State Capitol Museum in to come and shoot their scenes? The whole goal is to give Italians a place to promote SPOTLIGHT their art and the Italian lifestyle. Sacramento and to Los Angeles’ San Pedro. movie about the three of us? That’s so f---ed When the museum eventually opens, the up!’” (Continued from Page 39) FN — I notice that you said “lifestyle,” Historic Italian Hall Foundation will have a Although his big break came in comedy, vast and growing collection of historical Cooper always planned to be a dramatic not food. OF — It’s not only about food. It’s a path artifacts to populate the space. Those actor. A graduate of the prestigious Actors include approximately 5,000 objects — Studio Drama School in New York City, he to discover everything else. I’m sorry but if you are not Italian, you can’t create that comprising journals, maps, legal docu- Palermo, Venice, Milan and many other grew up idolizing fellow Italian-American ments, artwork and personal belongings — Italian cities, and German and French thespian Robert De Niro. Most of his dra- atmosphere. It’s one of my issues. Restaurant owners who aren’t Italian can and more than 2,000 extremely rare, one-of- museums also started paying attention to matic roles to date have been on television, a-kind photographs. the group’s work. including stints on “Alias” and “Jack & celebrate Italian food, but they can’t give you the Italian culture. Brindiamo! is more a Plus, Gatto says the museum’s collection The big leap forward came in 1991 Bobby,” which makes his emergence as will be digitally catalogued, which means thanks to an unfortunate incident. Late that Hollywood’s go-to guy when you need hand- celebration of how Italians immigrated here and what’s behind the dish. visitors can find out if they are a part of his- year, a failed artist hit Michelangelo’s David some and hilarious such a surprise. tory by giving their surname and seeing if on the left foot, chipping one of its toes. Italy “I’m not even funny at all,” Cooper told FN — Tell us about “Brindiamo! The any artifacts can be traced back to their and the whole world were shocked, but it Details. “That’s what’s so ironic.” families. gave Goppion the opportunity to design and But “Hangover” director Todd Phillips Movie.” OF — To me the movie is visual and I do It’s all part of the museum’s efforts to produce the low glass fence that surrounds says Cooper’s success has more to do with highlight how deep the city’s ethnic roots the gigantic statue today. When visiting the the actor’s fearlessness — a staple of dramat- television, so I like visual. But I’m not going to play myself, so I’m going to be more dis- extend, Gatto says. 17-foot statue in Florence’s Galleria ic actors — than with his comedic timing. “Los Angeles today and pretty much dell’Accademia, visitors hardly notice the “The key with any comic actor is the will- tant. I want to do this movie for the same reason I want to do the television show: throughout its history has been a multieth- elegant barrier that prevents them from get- ingness to fail and make a fool of yourself,” nic place, and the Italian American Museum ting too close to Michelangelo’s master- Phillips told Details. “A lot of times, guys that Food is food, and sometimes I think Americans give it too much importance. It’s will speak to that history,” she says. piece. That glass fence caught the attention look like Bradley think, ‘Ah, I don’t have to do That means the institution won’t be of the world’s finest collections and most that. I have this other thing.’ But Bradley natural and it’s beautiful, but it’s not every- thing. I want to show the real Italians. No geared just toward Italian Americans curi- renowned museums. After the work in doesn’t give a f---.” ous about their heritage, Gatto says, but also Florence, Goppion was called to produce Cooper, who is currently shooting a one in American will think it’s romantic and cute; it’s being written with a filmmaker will focus on capturing the attention of the the glass casings that would hold the pre- sequel to “The Hangover” in Thailand, is also wider populace and discovering some com- cious jewels that have been in the British making headlines of a tabloid variety thanks who’s also Italian. Julia Roberts going to Italy with a bed and breakfast and no hot mon cultural ground among the area’s royal family for centuries. The showcases to his romantic relationship with actress diverse ethnic groups. had to be perfect in every detail: Fifteen dif- Renee Zellweger (“Chicago”). Last water? No, no, no! We’re going to write a movie that says the truth about Italy as it is. “The story of Italians, while it’s unique in ferent case sizes, all made of shatterproof Christmas, the duo hosted Cooper’s parents many respects, is also the story of our glass, with maximum-security locks and (his dad is Irish American and his mom is FN — So what do Americans expect nation and immigrants regardless of where internal fiber optic lighting. Needless to say, Italian American), and were famously spot- they’re from,” she says. “This isn’t just an when the new exposition was inaugurated ted by paparazzi buying Italian delicacies at from the Italian restaurants here? OF — Americans have traveled so much Italian pride museum.” in 1994, Her Majesty was quite satisfied with the Bay Cities Italian Deli in Santa Monica, the casings. Calif. to Italy that now they want the real thing. The first immigrants who arrived here For more details, visit www.italianhall.org. In the 1990s, as the Laboratorio kept The actor has tried to keep his relation- researching technological innovations to be ship with Zellweger out of the limelight, but brought “la cucina povera,” the poor peo- ple’s cuisine. They had to cook what they applied to its showcases, the company start- he has cited his parents’ and grandparents’ ed receiving dozens of orders from all over successful marriages as an inspiration for could afford; it was meatballs and Parmigiana, the cuisine of the South. Then the world, including the Getty Research keeping the romance alive in a relationship Institute in Los Angeles, the Byzantine and where both halves of a couple are fiercely you had people who arrived from culinary school, and they opened things up. It’s a lot CINEMA Christian Museum of Athens, Greece, the independent. Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds and the “I grew up in a very old-fashioned Roman different now, and it’s been a long process where 20 years ago, you couldn’t find as (Continued from Page 39) Victoria and Albert Museum in London. In Catholic, Italian-Irish family in Philly,” 1999, Goppion’s workshop was entrusted Cooper told Us Weekly magazine. “Now my many good Italian restaurants as you can today. No way. with the new frame for one of Renaissance’s parents have evolved into completely differ- most sublime paintings, the “Lamentation ent creatures, in terms of their marriage and FN — How about Brindiamo! 20 years Over the Dead Christ” of Andrea Mantegna, the roles of the man and the woman. And I and try to teach him how to play cards. It is held at the Pinacoteca di Brera, in Milan. think that’s great, but it’s still romantic.” from now? a ridiculously funny movie that put both OF — I just want to grow and build; I Three years later, Leonardo’s “Vitruvian Cooper is big on tradition, and often cites filmmakers on the map. Of course, Massimo Man” at the Gallerie dell’Accademia in his Italian heritage as a major influence in don’t want to throw a big party and disap- Troisi went onto make the Oscar-winning “Il pear in a year. I don’t want Brindiamo! to be Venice was given a new Goppion-signed his life. He learned to cook by watching his Postino” right before his untimely death in home, too. The thin sheet paper on which grandma Assunta create handmade pasta trend; I want it to last a long time. It can’t 1994. Benigni’s next hit was the 1991 film, just be a thing of the moment. I want to cre- the great Leonardo drew a perfectly propor- every Saturday while growing up, according “Johnny Stecchino,” which he wrote, direct- tioned man is now held inside a showcase of to Details, and the actor would often spend ate a show that is international; I want to go ed and starred in. Benigni plays two roles in around the world and discover Italians. We colorless laminated safety glass, with a top- his days wreaking havoc in the kitchen. the film: a down-on-his-luck school bus hinged opening system. The showcase is not “He’d get up in the morning and make have so much to say; I’m going to London to driver and the town mobster whom he do a show soon, because I discovered a chef just a box. As with most of Goppion’s works, himself a huge breakfast,” Cooper’s sister, uncannily resembles. The film is brilliant on the container comes with microclimate Holly, told Details. “Eat it, clean it up, start there who is from Calabria and has a restau- so many levels, showcasing Benigni’s rant called Anima. I am 100 percent sure control and a highly sophisticated dehu- making something for lunch, pasta or impeccable comic timing and his razor- midifying and humidifying machine. A sys- stromboli, that he’d make himself. Then he’d when we do shows in Japan, we’ll discover a sharp screenwriting skills. different way of presenting Italian dishes to tem of miniscule directional mirrors allows clean that up and start working on a snack.” “And the Oscar goes to Roberto!” Those for the fiber optic lighting to be set in dozens For audiences and co-stars alike, the Japanese public. That’s what’s fascinat- famous words were delivered by Sophia ing: how Italians learn to adapt in present- of different ways. Cooper’s off-screen behavior — humble, Loren at the 71st Annual Academy Awards Perhaps the most prestigious showcase congenial, old-school — is at odds with his ing their culture while preserving it as well. ceremony in 1999. Benigni’s life changed That’s what I want it to be — Italians outside made by Goppion so far is the Mona Lisa’s various onscreen personas. forever with the mega-hit “La vita è bella” new home in the Louvre Museum, in Paris. “I expected Bradley to be more like his of Italy. (Life Is Beautiful). The film is about the rela- character in ‘The Hangover,’” actor Sharlto For more, visit www.brindiamotv.com. tionship between a Jewish father and son (Continued on the next page) um spaces. The restoration also cleaned and princess-for-a-day, as she presides over a TO JAN THERE ComUNICO restored some of Francesco Gai’s original reception in the same place once occupied 46 2011 decorations, making the rooms themselves by a young American girl who really did HERE as interesting (at least to me) as the objects marry a prince. they contain. Curators at the French museum had long parents and grandparents with me. My Palazzo Brancaccio is so huge that even a wanted the world-famous painting to stand hope was to not only evoke a strong sense of good-sized museum doesn’t fill up all its alone while staying within the museum’s cultural pride in all of you, but to motivate spaces. There’s also a library specializing in Salle des États, or Room of the States. The and help you restore your heritage and tra- Oriental art, a restoration laboratory, a pho- RECIPES chance to do so came in 2004, when the ditions before they become extinct. tographic archive, another archive of other painting was given some “time off” for cura- Continue to dream out loud so others collections of Oriental art in Italy, a (Continued from Page 44) torial maintenance, recording and analysis. can hear and help you make your dreams Department of Bio-archeology featuring That’s when Goppion was handed the task of come true. electronic microscopes, and an Education designing and creating a glass framework Department. And if this weren’t enough, 1/4 cup red wine that would make sure the painting remained Dr. John Bello is a Chicago ophthalmologist there are rooms left over for commercial 3/4 teaspoon basil safe at all times, but could also be rescued and founder of Advanced Vision Specialists. purposes. The splendid banquet hall of the 1/2 teaspoon oregano quickly in case a fire broke out in the muse- original palazzo — where Princess Elizabeth 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste um. So in 2005, Leonardo’s famous painting and Prince Salvatore once famously hosted Black pepper to taste was given an entire wall constructed with a Umberto di Savoia, the King of Italy — is 1/2 teaspoon sugar, or to taste metal structure and veneered with plaster- VIAGGIO now available from a company called 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese board. At the center of the wall is a recess in Società Roma Party as a rental for wedding (optional) which a rectangular glass casing holds the (Continued from Page 41) receptions and other festive occasions both “Gioconda,” as it is also known, and only the public and private. Another room is used as Heat the oil in a skillet and sauté the car- museum curators know how to open it. a restaurant and contains a kitchen also rot, celery and onion slowly, until they soft- Regulated by a specially built humidifier, a used for preparing the dinners held in the en and begin to take on color. Stir frequent- complex system of small pipes and ventila- 1917. He produced numerous portraits, banquet hall. The Società Roma Party peo- ly. Add the garlic and sauté for 2 or 3 min- tors filters the air inside the casing, prevent- especially of the Princess Elizabeth, her ple claim that the original carpets, tapes- utes longer. Dice the tomatoes in small ing dust or humidity from gathering on the husband Prince Salvatore, and their three tries, crystal chandeliers, and silver service pieces. Add them to the skillet along with painting’s surface. children. His works also leave us a precious that belonged to the Brancaccio family are their juices. Add the wine and seasonings Now, with more than 300 expositions record of the appearance of the interior of still used by their company for the grand through the sugar. Cook, uncovered, until worldwide — the latest one being the new the palazzo and of the gardens that he events they host, but this seems somewhat the liquid is reduced by half. Cover, reduce Art of the Americas wing at Boston’s helped design. In addition, he painted the doubtful, given the number of tenants who heat to lowest simmer and cook an addi- Museum of Fine Arts — showing off their couple’s daughter Eleonora with her new- have tramped through the place in the last tional 30 minutes. Stir in the optional cheese masterpieces through the protective eye of a born son. She’d married Prince Francesco century. Still, it’s pleasant to imagine a near the end of the cooking time. Laboratorio glasswork, Goppion is more Massimi, a member of a Roman noble fam- young Italian bride feeling like a Brancaccio — Dolores Sennebogen active than ever, constantly refining both the ily that claims to trace its ancestry all the protective and artistic aspects of his craft. way back to Imperial Rome. Not a bad entrance into the nobility by the grand- daughter of a lady from New York City. Gai’s paintings within the palazzo are mostly not to the taste of people today, but BELLO the majority of them are typical of the over- decorated, fussy style favored by wealthy (Continued from Page 39) individuals of the 19th and early 20th cen- turies in both Europe and America. Some seem unintentionally comical, such as the As with all dreams, mine started out small “Glory of the Brancaccio Family” — a ceil- and then began to grow, just as I’m sure the ing painting in a pseudo-Baroque style full dreams of my parents and grandparents did. of clumsy figures flying and floating up into I continue to challenge myself, questioning the sky. The inspiration was the fresco in the why my desire is to fulfill this dream at this Grand Salon of Palazzo Barberini, painted stage of my life. Part of the drive that I feel by Pietro da Cortona in the 1600s, but Gai can be attributed to pride in myself, pride in couldn’t even begin to compete with the my family, but also, pride in my Italian her- work of his great predecessor. Nonetheless, itage. Gai was a cheerfully eclectic, uninhibited I would like to see a new practice of decorator who must have had a wonderful exchanging doctors between America and time going from room to room, covering the Italy. This would encourage and promote surfaces of each with an amazing variety of new experiences, both medically and per- painted and sculpted decoration. Some sonally, for doctors and patients alike. I rooms reflect a rather austere style, while would also like to create a new medical cen- others are Rococo confections full of flying ter in Southern Italy, where I can help the cherubs. The room that was originally the Italian people with our American medical Princess Brancaccio’s bedroom is painted Join UNICO? Perchè No! … expertise. I would also like to learn about with scenes that feature the goddess Venus. new medical devices and surgical techniques Gai also designed elaborately decorated used in Italy and throughout Europe. Many fireplaces, chimneys, cabinetry, mirror of these medical advances are not yet FDA frames and even candlesticks. approved in the United States. My dream During the early years of the 20th centu- includes bringing my skills and knowledge ry the family seems to have fallen on hard Looking to rediscover that I obtained in Italy back to Chicago so times, and were obliged to rent out parts of they can be used as soon as the medical their palazzo — not an unusual happening advances become approved in America. among members of the often cash-poor It saddens me that my parents and their Roman nobility. Today, many of Rome’s your Italian heritage? friends are slowly departing from us, to noble palazzos have sections that have return home to God. As they leave, they take been turned into apartments for which ten- with them a piece of our hearts. Their pres- ants pay outrageously high rents just so ence is no longer in our children’s and our they can say they share a home with a Looking to help your community? grandchildren’s lives, but we must always “prince.” From 1901 to 1905 George Meyer, remember to share memories of our fun- the American ambassador to Italy, rented filled days with them. The familiar sound of the first two floors of Palazzo Brancaccio, broken English, so easily recognized when forcing the family to move into the upper spoken throughout the Chicago area, will be stories. In subsequent years the palazzo silenced forever. This thought also drives me hosted a variety of tenants, and numerous on my journey to fulfill my dream, of creat- changes were made in the original decor. JOIN the Organization of Choice! ing a medical center in Southern Italy. This Although Prince Salvatore Brancaccio center would have medical, social and other died in 1924, his descendents continued to The Largest Italian American Service Organization outreach programs to keep our Italian her- occupy a portion of the palazzo until 1961. itage alive. This dream will hopefully bring The last family member to live there was in the United States! me to new places, allow me to meet new Principessa Fernanda Brancaccio, the wife people, and provide enriching interactions of Prince Salvatore’s youngest son, that will continue to allow me to grow as a Marcantonio. But a new chapter in the his- person. tory of Palazzo Brancaccio was about to I plan on expanding my eye care practice begin. In 1957, a decree of the President of Join our nationwide ranks supporting charitable efforts like … to treat patients with the best of each coun- the Republic founded Rome’s first museum try’s medical and surgical expertise, not only dedicated to non-Western art, which Mental Health • Cooley’s Anemia • Scholarships in my Chicago office, but in Southern Italy, as opened to the public in 1958 on the ground Cancer Research • Local Community Needs well. I am NOT retiring my eye care practice floor of Palazzo Brancaccio. The Museo dell’ in Chicago, but rather, EXPANDING my Arte Orientale contains an impressive col- practice to include Southern Italy. This is my lection of objects from Asia, India and the personal challenge and desire to help “my Middle East, ranging from pre-history 1-800-877-1492 people” (Italian and American) with the best through the present. Each object is identi- medical and surgical advantages from each fied with a label in both Italian and English. [email protected] country. Between 1992 and 1994 the museum was I want to thank all of you for reading my renovated, removing many of the false walls Visit our website: www.unico.org articles over the past few months, and I and other impediments that had been part appreciate those of you who have shared of the initial transformation of the palazzo’s your own warm memories of your immigrant enormous salons and ballrooms into muse- One key part of the Mid Year Meeting is the selection of winners Year One key part of the Mid The UNICO Foundation will also convene to determine how we give All members of UNICO are welcome to attend these meetings. Get national committees will meet to discuss business. for all of our convention awards. away our charitable dollars. involved in UNICO at the national level! Mark your calendars for March 24th-27th This meeting will also include both the The event will the UNICO National Board Meeting. take place in Kansas City at the InterContinental are encouraged to attend, participate You the Plaza. and join the discussion! Regional Meetings and various and Mid-West West

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January 2010 ComUNICO Page 47 eASTERN REGIONAL DISTRICT MEETING SCRANTON PA

On Saturday morning, Eastern Regional District Gov- ernosrs met at the Hilton in Scranton, PA.

Eastern Regional District Governor Chair (ERDGC) Dominick Nicastro and National First Vice President David Doninni. The photo was taken at a seminar class for District Governors.

UNICO’s new major sponsor, Campagna Mediterra- nean Classics, being introduced at the Saturday morn- ing meeting. Campagna is headquartered in Salerno Italy and imports a wide variety of Mediterranean foods including olive oil and pasta.

Sal Benvenuti, UNICO's Business Administrator at the Eastern Regional Meeting. Sal reviewed the efforts of the national office and answered questions from the floor. Sal is a true professional and is of great service to our organization! PNP André DiMino, (L) and National President Chris DiMattio (R), flank Chris Macchio. Chris is our newest UNICO member and sings with the musical touring group Bell ‘Aria. The photo was taken at Friday eve- ning’s casual dinner get-together in Scranton, PA.

Celeste Pandolfi waits patiently for her next sale of merchandise from the UNICO National Store. All items will also be on-line soon and available through the UNICO National Website. Wear the UNICO emblem proudly on your hats, shirts and ties!

Glenn and Terri Pettinato. Glenn is our current Execu- tive Vice President and will be sworn in as President of UNICO National at his convention in Arlington, VA in August of 2011.

At the Saturday Night Dinner,(L-R) PNP Mike D'Arminio and his wife Mae, and our National Third VP Rick D'Arminio and his wife Emanuela

Gene Santoli at the podium! Gene serves as the 2011 Convention Chairman and in the photo he is talking about our next UNICO National Convention . The event will be held in Arlington, VA at the Marriott Crystal Gateway Hotel. Please visit the Convention website at www.2011UNICOconvention.org. President Benvenuti in Scranton. Special thanks to the Scranton PA chapter for hosting the 2010 Eastern Regional Meet- Mark McDade, UNICO's Membership and Retention Chris DiMattio sits in the foreground concentrating on ing Chairman at the Saturday morning meeting the presentation.