Sylvester Stallone

Renee Fleming La Traviata

national Restaurant Guide

“patrizio Buanne” Italy Sensation

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NIAF News

Summer 2008

Exclusive Interview with SYLVESTER STALLONE writer- director - actor ITALIAN-AMERICAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Pg. 9,10,11

...“My Baby” is not flying and wears colors commemorating the service of other C-47s in Viet Nam. But she will continue to personify her historical importance, and for me, one of the rewards of writing it down.

Pg. 24,25

Giovanni Bucci,

an engineer by trade and an artist and sculptor by talent...

Patrizio Buanne

Pg. 22,23 “ Every time we had guests coming over at our home, my mamma or papa would put me on a chair. I must have been 2 to 6 years old.

They would ask me to sing.“Canta, Patri canta!!!”

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CONTENTS

Amici Journal Editorial................................................. ..1 Sylvester Stallone. Writer. Director. Actor...... ............2,3 At home with The Giorgio Orofino............................... 4 Giuseppe Garibaldi and Italian Unification....................6 Pg. 13 Elk Grove Village Exchange Trip ...................................8 Giovanni Bucci.....................................................9,10,11 NIAF News Monthly.................................................. ...12 Five Centuries of Italian-American History...................13 A Typical American Day................................................14 Pg. 28 Sicilian Photo Exibition in Milwaukee..........................15 Rome: Engeneering an Empire......................................15 Joseph Gagliardo........................................................... 16 Book Preview. Lucia......................................................17 “...A date which will live in infamy”.............................18 Focus on Italy. Venice................................................20,21 Patrizio Buanne. The Ambassador of Dolce Vita... 22,23 A Perfectly Good Airplane........................................24,25 People should “be able to cook even if Modio Media Web TV............................................. ......26 they don’t have tons of time or money”...

For Rachael Ray success sizzles...................................28 Pg. 29 Summer recipes from Rachael Ray............................... 29 Summer Restaurant Preview. Via Carducci................................. 30 RECIPES from Chris Botti. Trumpeter. Jazz Performer........................ 32 Rachael Ray Puzzle. Sylvester Stallone................................... ..........33 Pg. 5 Enterrtainment. Renee Fleming............................... 34,35 30 Italy tours Restaurant Radio...........................................................36 to choose from...

8 days Restaurant Guide.......................................................... 37 ...From Sports. Esposito....................................................... 38,39 A Mom.......................................................................... 40 Don’t miss. Events........................................................ 41 The Reasons to Learn Italian.........................................42 Italian Jokes...................................................................42

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Copyright © 2004 AMICI JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC. P.O. Box 595, River Grove, IL 60171 www.amiciorgit.net Founders Terry N. Geraci; Andrew Guzaldo; Salvatore Terranova; Joseph C. Nugara, Sr. Publishers Amici Journal Publications Inc. Editor/CEO Andrew Guzaldo Creative Designer Tetiana Vagizova Publishing Consultant & Production Joseph C. Nugara, Sr. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage or retrieval system without written permission of Publisher. All information contained herein is deemed reliable and is submitted subject to errors, omissions, and to change of price or terms without notice.

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Editorial

AMICI JOURNAL

B

Founded in 1907

Officially recognized by the Italian Goverment

envenuti…..

All of us at Amici journal continue to thrive through the great support we get from all of you, our readers. Together, we are doing our part in adding to our shared heritage. As you will see, the summer of 2008 will bring you another exciting and fulfilling issue of Amici Journal. We continue to showcase astonishing individuals that make up our society. We are very excited to finally bring you our interview with the remarkable Sylvester Stallone. He is another proof that being very proud of your Italian Heritage is compatible with the American Dream. Mr. Stallone is not just a Superstar Motion Picture Actor. He is also an accomplished writer and producer, and we applaud him for his contributions.

In our last issue, we celebrated a great addition to our share heritage, the presidential bid of Rudy Giuliani. In this issue, the political turmoil of this presidential election has shown that many still have not learned about or respect the Italian American Contributions to our society. Recently, Italians attacked unprovoked. We were characterized as ”public lynching Italian style”. ”The Italians for the most part look down their garlic noses”. This is at minimum an uneducated biased and prejudicial statement. Those in leadership roles within our community should rise to defend our shared heritage. We at Amici did not sit idle. We contacted several other Associations specially those whose spokesmen were shown on television cowering down and almost defending these derogatory statements. These are the same associations who are quick to denounce revered actors who would dare to portray a character in a movie. I guess that these associations are filled with the same ill minded people who use these derogatory words. These associations probably share the thought that it is okay to slander and ridicule these artists for their work since these actors are “Italian American.”

We at Amici and the Italian American community are appalled that these so called defenders of our heritage would let these words go without demanding clarification and at minimum retractions, together with a public apology. We all know we would be held to a different standard. Since most Italian Americans don’t think of themselves as a minority and have become contributing members of our society, I guess we can’t demand equal treatment and common decency. How would the Italian Americans be scrutinized if we used similar words for other groups in our society? We at Amici do what we can to change this reality. We shine the light on what is good and decent, what is remarkable and outstanding, what is unique and meaningful, “Our Shared Heritage”, Italian and American.

In doing this, we will share an exclusive interview with Patrizio Franco Buanne, the Italian sensation, a true renaissance man, a remarkable individual.

Read about his road to success in the music industry. His story is one filled with curiosity, entrepreneurship, talent, courage and most interesting of all a bit of Italian history and culture.

In our entertainment section, you will find updates on the Lyric Opera.

Read about the delightful and riveting voice of the re-known Renee Fleming.

We also encourage you take advantage of the “Stay and Visit” wonderful package Orofino Tours together with Amici Journal advertise.

As Amici Journal proudly enters its fourth year, we hope that in 2008 we will continue to bring our readers and advertisers together to share our passion.

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Send all correspondence to Amici Journal Publications, Inc. P.O. Box 595, River Grove, IL 60171 or email us at amiitalia@sbcglobal.net.

Look for AMICI JOURNAL in your local stores or order direct at (773)-836-1595 to arrange for your distribution of Amici!

Sincerely Andrew Guzaldo Executive Editor Amici Journal Summer 2008 /AMICI 1

Writer ~ Director ~ Actor

By John Rizzo

S

ylvester Stallone is the best-known Italian American in the world. Most Americans probably don’t realize it, but Stallone is hugely popular in Europe, Asia and Australia. In some places he’s more famous than in the United States. The award winning writer, director, producer and actor is mainly identified with his work in movies and television, but he is also one of those very rare individuals who have become a genuine cultural icon. That is, the influence of his work goes beyond mere entertainment. Recently, when interviewed during a NFL Monday night game in Philadelphia, he was asked why Rocky was so popular that it had to have five more incarnations over a span of 30 years.

Then he responded, “It just took on a life of its own.” Now, in reflecting on the ongoing Rocky phenomenon, Stallone says “It changed my life for the better, knowing that it impacted positively millions of people’s lives.”

That may sound conceited, but it’s very true. Take the long-suffering fans of the Chicago Bears, for example. In 1977, the once dominant NFL franchise had been the league doormat for a long time. The fans were loyal, but they came to expect the Bears to lose one way or another. Then one Sunday during a commercial break, either the public address system or the live band began playing Bill Conti’s “Gonna Fly Now,” the theme from Rocky, and the song was played regularly once per game from then on. Almost from the first time this music was heard, in the northeast corner of the Soldier Field stands, some guy started dancing to the tune. He attracted quite a lot of attention because he was very portly, yet he danced gracefully for his size. As he moved to the rhythm, he repeatedly stretched his arms straight up and gazed towards heaven with an expression of utter supplication as if to say “Lord, if you did it for Rocky, you can do it for us underdogs!” There was definitely a clear connection made by the crowd between the fictional fighter and the Bears of ’77. Almost miraculously, the team made it into the playoffs that year. This season marked the beginning of the team’s resurgence that would culminate in the legendary ’85 Super Bowl Championship. In retrospect, it sure seems like Sylvester Stallone had something to do with it.

Given his incredible success, it is strange that Stallone has received such negative criticism, especially from the so-called “Razzie Awards.”

This institution, founded by a failed movie hanger-on, John Wilson, has bestowed numerous negative awards on Stallone, like “Worst Actor,” in the past two decades. There is also the occasional reference to him on TV that implies that he is nothing more than an “Action Hero,” and thus should not be taken seriously. But the overwhelming positive response to his Rocky and Rambo characters demonstrate that he has tapped in to a

2 AMICI / Summer 2008

deep feeling of resentment among many that certain virtues, like courage, loyalty, patriotism and dedication are somehow out of place, unappreciated or even negative traits in today’s society. Given the politically correct climate that exists in so many areas of our civilization, it is perhaps not surprising that there are so many attempts to marginalize him.

Any truly serious appraisal of Stallone’s creative abilities, however, must find that he is in fact a genius, a talent of the first order. His creativity is most obviously apparent in his writing. After watching the Muhammad Ali-Chuck Wepner fight on March 24, 1974, Stallone was inspired and quickly wrote the screenplay that would make him famous. Just 27 at the time, Stallone had been putting much of his time into writing and had recently contributed some dialogue for the screenplay of The Lords of Flatbush. Ever since he had begun his show business career, Stallone had spent a lot of time reading and writing in between his all too rare acting jobs. Now all the time and effort paid off, as he promptly sold Rocky to United Artists producers Robert Chartoff and Irwin Winkler (who would produce other blockbusters such as Raging Bull and The Right Stuff).

When Stallone approached them with the script, he made it clear that he wanted to star in the film. Although Chartoff and Winkler first thought of either Burt Reynolds or James Caan for the lead, they quickly agreed to cast Stallone. The story that the writer shopped his screenplay all over for a protracted time until someone would agree to his terms was false. The producers did not squelch the story, as they believed it played right in to the Rocky fantasy.

Rocky was nominated for ten Academy Awards and won three (Best Picture, Best Film Editing and Best Director). Nominated for Best Actor and Best Screenplay Writer, Sylvester Stallone was now a superstar. In his next role, as Johnny Kovac in F.I.S.T. (1978), he showed an impressive range of emotions as an actor. “This was based on Jimmy Hoffa, a hundred percent,” recalls Stallone. Both his screenplay and his acting are far more striking than the 1992 movie, Hoffa, with Jack Nicholson. If you carefully compare the two films, Stallone’s dialogue, credibility and personal appeal far outshine Nicholson, even though the latter is considered a more accomplished actor by many critics. What’s more, F.I.S.T. is a real work of art, a film drama, and a tragedy in the classic sense. Its characters are fully fleshed out, and its audience is gripped by the dramatic situations.

Hoffa, on the other hand, is a sterile docudrama that evokes little feeling for its one-dimensional characters. With this accomplishment, Stallone now assumes the resemblance of an all around actor and polished writer, not just a cartoon-like “Action Hero.”

Now successful at both writing and acting, Stallone turned his attention to directing. In the 1978 film, Paradise Alley, he showed that he could direct, but his Rocky II (1979) was the product of a virtuoso director. In this sequel to Rocky, Stallone not only directed himself in standard dramatic sequences, but also in rapid moving fight scenes. When asked how he directs himself, he responded, “I don’t know. You have to be totally committed to learning the dialogue...you have no time to think, so you have to be over-prepared and totally focused.” You’re not going to learn too much about self-direction from that statement, but it does reinforce the idea of genius as just doing something well without knowing how you do it!

Stallone’s next major creation was First Blood (1982) and the character of Special Forces Vietnam Vet John Rambo. With all that happened during the Vietnam War, there are not many Americans that do not revere the sacrifice and courage of all those that served their country in the Armed Forces. Yet the disappointing outcome of the conflict and unforgettable images of cowardly protestors spitting on returning veterans has made the war a difficult issue to contemplate. But Stallone’s John Rambo is not conceived as a loser, but as a winner, and all the millions of viewers root for him in every aspect of his epic battle with the pernicious sheriff Will Teasle, beautifully played by Brian Dennehy. Once again we perceive the imagination and tireless energy of a brilliant writer and actor who has been able to deeply touch the emotions of his audience.

Another test of an artist is the ability to practice his art repeatedly, pleasing a crowd over and over again. And here there is no question about Sylvester Stallone’s talent. As an actor, he has appeared in over 50 film and TV roles. He has written over 20 screenplays, including six Rocky films and four of First Blood. As a director he has directed six big time films including the very difficult dance tour de force with John Travolta, Staying Alive (1983). A considerable body of quality work to say the least, and it didn’t come easy.

Some printed sources say that his father, who became a hairdresser in America, was an immigrant at the age of six years old from Sicily, but Stallone says that his dad came from a small town near Bari. Born in New York City, he survived certain complications that left him with a slightly deformed lip that accounts for his characteristic slurred speech. But this may in fact be a blessing, reminiscent of Humphrey Bogart, who also suffered a childhood injury that resulted in a style of speech that became kind of a personal trademark.

Stallone’s family life was troubled, with frequent issues out of his control between his mom and dad. He moved often and lived in several homes. He was raised partly in Philadelphia where he attended Lincoln High School. In yet another example of how life imitates art, and an example of Stallone’s sentiment for his youth, despite its troubles, in Rocky III, a scene depicts the dedication of a statue of the fighter outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art, proudly donated by the city to recognize the achievements of its native son. The band playing in the movie for the ceremony is the actual Lincoln High School Band. Of course there really is a statue now of Rocky near the museum, whose front steps are now officially called “The Rocky Steps.”

“I was a rebel when I was young,” recalls Stallone, who would attend a few more high schools before graduating, after which he found himself at University of Miami in Florida, where he developed his interest in acting. At a point when he was very close to earning an undergraduate degree, he dropped out. When asked why when he was so close to finishing, Stallone said, “It was kind of a dare. The acting professor was saying that without a degree, you’d end up in the gutter.” We can be thankful that this typical know-it-all academic uttered this foolishness to a guy like Stallone, who was off to New York and, ultimately, glory.

Recently finishing a rousing and highly entertaining production of Rambo IV (2008), Stallone has a number of projects in front of him. None

of these is more intriguing than a film enterprise called Poe, about the early American poet. “I actually wrote the story back in 1970. I used to spend a lot of time at the New York Public Library while I was waiting to get acting jobs. I did a lot of research – he was reviled a lot, you know.

I’ve been wanting to do it for a long time, but something always keeps coming up. Maybe I’ll never do it.” While it’s not surprising that he would have been attracted to such a subject in those days, it is interesting that the creator of Rocky and Rambo would take on this story now. There’s never really been an outstanding film of Edgar Allen Poe before, but it would not be surprising if Sylvester Stallone does one!

Unlike most Hollywood personalities, Sylvester Stallone has long been a staunch Republican. In a recent poll (probably a phony) of movie stars, he was the only one out of over 200 who claimed to be for John McCain for President. When asked why fellow conservative Bruce Willis was not also for the Arizona Senator, Stallone blurted, surprised, in his unique style, “He’s not?”

Sylvester Stallone thought of making his Rambo movie in Afghanistan or Iraq, however he felt this would be an insult to the troops, the brave men and women that are fighting for freedom. “How can anyone think a fictional character could change anything, or compare in the slightest with all they are doing” says Stallone. So poignantly put it is obvious that Sylvester Stallone is more than just an actor, he is a patriot in every sense of the word!

Sylvester Stallone Directed, and Stars in new Rambo Movie

Summer 2008 /AMICI 3

At Home with the Giorgio Orofino

Baia Paraelios Resort- Calabria

By Andrew Guzaldo

T

he Orofino dynasty began with Giorgio Orofino’s greatgrandparents, the Giovannozzis, who came from Pescara and Teramo in the Abruzzo region of Italy; and the Orofinos, of Palermo and Caltagirone in Sicily.

Francesco and Lucia Giovannozzi were blessed with seven children. In 1906 they packed up their family and moved to Wilmington, Delaware to pursue the American dream they so desired for their children. During a vacation to Italy their youngest daughter Rose Orsola, met Giuseppe Nuzzo. A colonel in the Italian Army, distinguished lawyer and Mayor of Acerra, Italy, they were married and lived in Naples there they had their daughter Giovanna.

Pasquale and Giacomina Orofino had two sons, Giorgio and Francesco. Pasquale untimely death at a very age. Caused quite a struggle for Giacomina, to make ends meat, she worked very hard and earned and saved enough money so her children would have the opportunity to go to College in Naples, Italy. Both brothers earned degrees in engineering and following World War II worked together in constructing residential and commercial buildings. This industry would become the family owned business for generations to come.

Francesco Orofino and his brother Giorgio in 1965 constructed their first Hotel, which was the four star Grand Hotel Suisse Resort & Spa located in Ischia. Francesco later married Giovanna Nuzzo and they had three sons, Giorgio, Fabio, and Luca. They later joined their father in the business of building and buying hotels and resorts. With great sacrifice and passionate entrepreneur know-how, they

successfully created one of the largest family owned four star hotel chains in Italy the Aurum Hotels. There are over 10,000 guests hosted at the fabulous Aurum Hotels on a weekly basis.

And they enjoy many unforgettable luxurious vacations, in some of the most beautiful locations in Italy. After working with his father and earning his degree in International business Law, Giorgio Orofino was looking for a new outlet in the hospitality field; this project brought him to the USA. And in 1996 he created the “Stay and Visit Italy Co” located in Sarasota Florida. The company was formed to introduce and facilitate travelers to Italy and all the experiences that it brings the “Dolce Vita” (sweet life). Ever so often tourists embark on tours that may leave them completely exhausted, and they would seldom have the true sentiment of the Italian life, culture, art, and history, not to mention the Italian cuisine. As Giorgio says “Italy will definitely awaken your senses. Italy is not just a country, it is an emotion, it must be felt, lived expressed and shared.” Currently Stay and Visit Italy, Orofino tours offers 30 different regional tours to Italy. With additional options to visit, one or two of the nations 21 regions. Stay and Visit Italy tours is a discovery in offering a more interesting range of area, with three or more regional tour for your pleasure. Special interest tours with themes including Food & Wine, Golf, Scuba Diving, Skiing, Shopping, and Spas.

These are all affordable tours to Italy featuring seven –eight or ten-day tours starting as low as $499.00 per person, this includes house wine and mineral water with dinner. “Orofino tours is able to offer such economically exceptional value to these tours simply because we own the hotels, restaurant and resorts. This eliminates any middle company, and the consumer deals

Giorgio Orofino and his wife, Stefania Iacovella, The Grand Hotel Ischia & Lido Resort. Aurum who run the Stay and Visit Italy tour company in Hotels are located throughout Italy and its nearby Sarasota, Florida islands, including Sardinia and Pantellaria

4 AMICI / Summer 2008

directly with Orofino tours. North America has over 300 tour companies offering a number of tours in Italy. But none of them own a large hotel chain in Italy”, Giorgio replies.

This year Giorgio is launching club Italia, a new concept of vacationing in Italy that offers stays at first class hotels at the exceptional starting price of $19.99 per day including meals, wine and mineral water. By joining club Italia members will have exclusive access to vacant rooms in many regions of Italy at the lowest price possible..

Giorgio is married to his beautiful wife Stefanie Iacovella with whom they have been blessed two wonderful children, Francesco and Noemi who recently won Miss Florida for Miss Italia USA. She will be going to New York for the US finals on April 27th.

The Orofino family spends their time between their home in Sarasota, Florida and Naples Italy.

For more information on Stay and Visit Italy contact Orofino tours or club Italia. Visit www.stayandvisit.com or www.orofinotours.com or call 877-222-4557.

Francesco and Lucia Giovanozzi moved from Italy to pursue the American dream in 1906

The Olympic Hotel in Rome is just one of the many four-star properties in the Orofino famili’s Aurum Hotel chain

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Giuseppe Garibaldi and

I

“The republic, as I at least understand it, means association, of which liberty is only an element, a necessary antecedent.

It means association, a new philosophy of life, a divine Ideal that shall move the world, the only means of regeneration vouchsafed to the human race.”

Garibaldi defends Rome against the French on 30 April 1849

A statue of Garibaldi erected in Washington Square Park in New York City

6 AMICI / Summer 2008

Italian Unification

n 1815 at the close of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars the statesmen representing the great powers, in their efforts to restore stable governance to Europe after twenty-six years of turmoil, came to accept (under the persuasion of Talleyrand - the Foreign Minister of the recently restored French monarchy) that “legitimate sovereigns” should be restored, where possible, to their thrones.

Prior to the first irruption of what developed into French, and European, revolutionary unrest after 1789 the political shape of the Italian peninsula derived in large part from the influence of Papal diplomacy over the previous millenium where the Popes had tended to strongly support the existence of a number of small states in the north of the peninsula such that no strong power might presume to try to overshadow the papacy.

Such political decentralisation may have facilitated the emergence of a number of mercantile city states such as the Florence of the Medicis and the Milan of the Sforzas and to have allowed a scenario where ambitious men such as Cesare Borgia could attempt to establish themselves as rulers of territories won by statecraft and the sword. The burgeoning wealth of these city states, despite much political turmoil, helped to fund that re-birth of classical learning and of artistic expression that is known as the Renaissance.

As time passed some of these mercantile states became reconstituted as Duchies and Grand Duchies. By the mid eighteenth century the north of the Italian peninsula featured a number of such dynastic states together with mercantile republics such as Genoa and Venice. The former Duchy of Savoy meanwhile, originally based on limited territories north of the Alps, had expanded to also include Nice, Piedmont (an extensive territory in the north-east of the Italian peninsula) and the island of Sardinia and was now known now by its senior title as the Kingdom of Sardinia. The Noble House of Savoy maintained its court at Turin in Piedmont.

In the settlements to the Napoleonic Wars statesmen, in their efforts to restore political stability to Europe, reconstituted most of the Duchies and Grand Duchies often under rulers drawn from junior branches of the Habsburg dynasty or otherwise under Habsburg Austrian tutelage. Habsburg Austria was awarded sovereignty over Lombardy and over the former Venetian Republic whilst the Republic of Genoa was similarly entrusted to the House of Savoy. The territories of the chuch that straddled the central portion of the peninsula were again placed under Papal sovereignty whilst to the south the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies (Sicily and Naples) was restored to a junior branch of the Spanish Bourbon dynasty.

Giuseppe Garibaldi, later famous as an Italian patriotic leader, recorded his introduction to the concept of “Italia” as having taken place during a voyage to Constantinople in 1833.

During the course of this voyage he overheard an argument. A young man had been talking about a secret organisation he had joined - La Giovine Italia - or Young Italy. One of his companions commented dismissively, “What do you mean Italy? What is Italy?” The young man now spoke enthusiastically of a “new Italy ... United Italy. The Italy of all the Italians.” Garibaldi recorded that listening to these words he felt “as Columbus must have done when he first caught sight of land”. In response to this awakening to the idea of “Italia - Italy” he moved to skake the young man enthusiastically by the hand.

The belief that “Italia” was a desireable possibility can be associated with the change in perspectives that many people, particularly from the more affluent artisan, middle and minor aristocratic classes, underwent after the American and French revolutions away from an acceptance of more purely dynastic patterns of sovereignty and towards aspiration towards “liberal” constitutional, and possibly even overtly republican or national notions of sovereignty.

The central figure in the origin of “Young Italy” was one Giuseppe Mazzini (1805-1872), who in 1821 in Genoa had witnessed the distress of the “refugees of Italy” who were in the process of fleeing into exile after their failure of the efforts at forcing reform and, moved by their example, had chosen to devote his life to the cause of Italian independence and unity. In 1827 he was initiated into Carbonari movement and was himself forced into exile in 1831 for revolutionary activity. In exile in the French seaport city of Marseilles, then something of a revolutionary hotbed, he advocated subversive activity “even when it ended in defeat” as a method of developing general “political consciousness.” He also began to move away from the philosophy of the Carbonari and subsequently founded Giovine Italia (Young Italy) a movement dedicated to securing “for Italy Unity, Independence, and Liberty.”

Mazzini’s revolutionary vision extended beyond the limited objective of Italian national unity towards the liberation of all oppressed peoples. He hoped for a new democratic and republican Italy that would lead other subject peoples to freedom and liberty and for a new Europe, controlled by the people and not by sovereigns, which would replace the old order.

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ELK GROVE VILLAGE AND TERMINI IMERESE SISTER CITY EXCHANGE TRIP

By Nancy Colby

O

ur sister cities of Termini Imerese and the Province of Palermo invited a delegation from Elk Grove Village and Cook County to take part in a five day exchange meet and great program. The delegates who participated were Mayor Craig Johnson and wife Lorrie, Giovanni Gullo and his daughter Mariann Gullo and husband Karl Krewenka, Village Attorney George B. Knickerbocker, Village Trustee Jeff Franke, Deputy Village Manager, Matthew Roan, Cook County/Elk Grove Village Park District Ronald J. Nunes and wife Gina, Alexian Brothers Hospital attorney Susan Breier and Dr. Debra SusieLattner.

The town is di-vided into two parts: Termini Bassa (Lower Termini) and Termini Alta (Upper Termini).

Almost all of the town’s historical at-tractions are located in Termini Alta, since that area effectively Steps of Basilica: Both Sister City members gather to comprises the town’s old historic take a picture on the steps of the Basilica in San Pietro. center.

Lower Termini is where the railway-bus station and the hotels are located. Viewed from the sea, Termini presents a picture-postcard image of a Sicilian seaside town.

The view from Termini looking out over the sea to Palermo is likewise spectacular On Saturday, March 1, Elk Grove Village’s delegation of 12 people left O’Hare International Airport. After a brief layover in Milan, the delegation arrived in Palermo, Sicily on Sunday, March 2 and was warmly greeted by Termini Imerese’s Sister City delegation.

Following lunch in Termini Imerese, Sister City to Elk Grove Village, whose population numbers 30,000 +, is located on Sicily’s North Coast in the Province of Palermo, the Sicilian capital, the Elk Grove Village delegation was taken to the Grand Hotel delle Terme, an historic hotel located in the heart of the shopping district and known for its natural underground hot springs, where they would stay through the course of their trip. That evening, they attended evening Holy Mass at the Mother Church dedicated to St. Nicholas of Bari. Following mass, they were shown the sights of Termini as they walked along the Belvedere, which provides beautiful panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. On Monday, March 3, the Elk Grove Village delegation was taken to the City Hall where they met with the Mayor Enzo Giunta, President Burrafato Salvatore and other officials of Termini Imerese. Mayor Craig B. Johnson, of Elk Grove Village, provided Mayor Giunta with a 2007 Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove winning cycling jersey. Mayor Johnson noted that Mayor Giunta was only the third person in the world to have the honor of wearing the Tour of Elk Grove winner’s jersey.

Following the meeting with the Termini Imerese officials, the group from Elk Grove Village was given a guided tour of Termini Imerese and all of its ancient landmarks such as Roman Aqueducts. The Elk Grove Village delegation was shown Villa Palmieri, which is home to the Castle and gardens dating back to BC that have been preserved over the years and inhabited by the royal families that ruled during these times.

The next stop for the Elk Grove Village delegation was the S. Cimino Hospital. Upon arrival, the hospital officials threw a warm 8 AMICI / Summer 2008

reception for the visitors from Elk Grove Village, which also included Susan Breier, Attorney and Dr. Debra Susie-Lattner of Alexian Brothers Medical Center. Following the reception, the group was given an extensive tour of the hospital in an effort to foster further exchanges between the two hospitals. .mae Himerenses” or “Hot Springs of Himera.” This ancient site is linked to the ancient history of Termini Imerese.

On Tuesday, March 4, the group was taken to Palermo where they stopped at the Teatro Massimo - “Greatest Theatre” - and toured the Comitini Palace, which is the seat of the Regional Province of Palermo. Part of the tour included a meeting with the President of the Provincial Council Maurizio Gambino and Vice President of the Provincial Council Giuseppe Badali’.

Following the meetings in Palermo, the group was given a guided tour of Bagheria by Trustee Giovanni Battista and visited the “Villas City.” which was Palermo’s country retreat of the aristocracy. The group visited the museum of the great artist Gattuso, who is famous for his paintings.

On Wednesday, March 5, the Elk Grove Village delegation drove into the mountains to meet with the Mayor and other officials in the small town of Collesano. There they met with Trustee Bartolo Vitale and received tours of the Basilica di San Pietro and famous Targa Florio Museum. They also had the opportunity to see artisan Giuseppe Manganello create and hand paint clay pottery.

The culmination of the day’s activities was the Gala dinner hosted at the Grand Hotel delle Terme. More than 200 guests from Termini Imerese and across the Province of Palermo attended Mayor Craig Johnson of Elk Grove Village this formal event, which was presents Mayor Enzo Giunta of Termini Imerese hosted by the Regional Province with a 2007 Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove of Palermo.

On Thursday, Village winning cycling jersey March 6, the Elk Grove Village delegation started their day by visiting the Secondary School “G. Ugediena” in Termini Imerese. There, two students performed a brief excerpt from Shakespearean play.

Following this visit, the delegation traveled back into the mountains to meet with the town officials in Caccamo, which is the native town of Mr. Giovanni Gullo. Upon arrival, the Elk Grove Village delegation was met by Mayor Delio Capitano and his trustees and the folkloristic band that welcomed their guests by playing both National Anthems. Following this, the delegation was taken to a local elementary school and provided a brief tour. Then it was off to tour and have lunch at the infamous Caccamo Castle which is a 12th century fortress in a spectacular location overlooking the scenic San Leonardo River Valley built by the Normans.

The weeklong festivities wrapped up with a visit to the seaside town of Cefalu, one of the Mediterranean’s undiscovered jewels. Once there, the visitors from Elk Grove Village were given an opportunity to walk the streets and visit with local shop owners. Cefalu is know for its beaches, winding, narrow, medieval streets, and delightful restaurants overlooking a rocky coast.

On Friday, March 7, the Elk Grove Village delegation returned home, happy and satisfied with their visit and grateful to the “sisters and brothers” across the ocean for their warm and generous hospitality and friendship.

Our Italian American Heritage and the many secrets of those that have contributed so much to our Society, It is time they were recognized for the GREAT individuals they are. And this is just one of many that we will be sharing with you. The Life and Legends of Giovanni Bucci Andrew Guzaldo

I

f you recently have attended an Italian festival in the Chicago area, then you most likely have seen a 3,000-pound replica of Rome’s famed Trevi Fountain. However, you may not know the artist who made it.

A visit to an unassuming building in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood is an introduction to Bucci Studios International and John Bucci, an engineer by trade and an artist and sculptor by talent.

Bucci, one of Chicago’s most renowned designer and artists, uses fiberglass the way Michaelangelo used marble.

One of Bucci’s first fiberglass projects was a sports car, made in the early 1960s. Today, the car catches the eye of anyone who enters his 40,000-square-foot, three-story studio. “I did not have the money to buy one, so I built one, ” he says about the car.

He drew on his engineering background and, with an Italian engine, the car became a reality. It attracted the attention on a custom car expert,who wanted the car displayed at the 1964-65 World’s Fair in New York.

However, the cost to display it was a staggering $40,000.

“At that time, I don’t know how many years I would have had to work to earn that kind of money,” he says.

By Kathy Catrambone

Giovanni Bucci stands in front of his “warm yellow” painting, a welded pipe tree and classical fiberglass bas relief.

Giovanni Bucci But the car was too good to keep under wraps. Two World’s Fair executives saw it and made it part of the Transportation Pavilion – for free – and billed it as the Paul Anka Dream Car. Anka, a hot songwriter and singer at the time, was photographed sitting in the car.

From there, he went on to build cars and vehicles for a variety of clients, including a concept electric car in 1970.

Today, his fiberglass creations start with clay. The figure is made from a water-based clay, which is smoothed and then covered with shellac and coats of latex rubber. To keep the rubber in place, a layer of fiberglass is applied to create a shell. The shell is taken apart and used as the mold to make as many reproductions aa needed. The reproductions also are made with fiberglass, Bucci says, because it is such a strong material. Bucci has traveled an interesting road to get to where, at 73, he is today. He

was born on May 23, 1934 in Gorizia, Italy. During World War, the area was under Tito’s Communist rule and, one by one, his siblings started to leave. He was the second to leave. He escaped shortly after graduating with an electrical engineering degree. He left, wearing summer clothes, with a bicycle and two engineering books that he thought would help him in his new life.

He was working for a government-owned electric company near the border and decided to take advantage of the situation. “I thought when the guard is not there, I can make and if he is there I will act like I am going to the factory.

“The guard was a couple hundred feet away facing me.” Bucci says.

“Then a miracle occurred.”

The guard went on the Italian side to drink from a fountain and I jumped (the border) with the bike.” When he landed, he left the bike. But he still had his books. “The Italian police laughed at me and said, ‘Why did you bring only books? Don’t you know winter is coming?’ ” He spent 1955 to 1959 in various refugee camps in Italy, working odd jobs from cook to typist to electrical engineer.

According to U.S. law, foreigners needed sponsors if they wanted to come to America. He and his sister wanted to come here. “But we did not know anyone in America, so we put an ad in a local (U.S.) newspaper,” Bucci says. The year was 1959. The first person to respond to the ad lived in Chicago, so here is where they started their new lives.

Other siblings followed, and his parents eventually settled in Trieste, leaving a big house and 150 acres to the Communists.

In 1976, the children brought their parents to America. Bucci did return once to his birthplace, but had a hard time recognizing the area.

This scene of mythical lovers is dazzling in gold. It takes on a completely different feeling in alternative versions, which Bucci has cast in, primary colors and bronze.

continued on the next page...

Summer 2008 /AMICI 9

1 “People don’t cultivate any more,” Bucci says. “Back then we bought only coffee and sugar. Everything else was produced at home.

But with some landmarks, I could recognize it. I don’t know who owns the house now, but I introduced myself to the neighbors who

3

2 remembered me as a child.”

His electrical engineering education proved to be his ticket to success in his adopted country. His sponsor helped Bucci land his first job, which led eventually to a job as an electrical engineer for the Sun Electric Corp.

Captions: 1) Bucci’s Abraham Lincoln ‘on the Road to Greatness” shows a touch of happiness at its location at the crossroads of the Lincoln and Dixie highways in Chicago Heights.

2), 3) Bucci is master welder. He created a bronze rod globe of the Columbus Quin-centennial at Governors State University that required 5000 welds.

4) Bucci used scenes from Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel for Italian Tourist Board exhibits and as a motif for the social hall at San Rocco Oratory.

5) In state of the art studio, with large format computerized printers, Bucci personally prints, trims, frames enlarged picture for his trade show exhibits. Many restaurateurs have sought out his enlarged photos to decorate their establishments.

6) Bucci’s west studio ,will be the site for major exhibits this coming Summer 2008 7) Bucci is master welder. He created a bronze rod globe of the Columbus Quin-centennial at Governors State University that required 5000 welds.

4

5

6 10 AMICI / Summer 2008

Bucci is expected to be one of the sculptors showing their works at the Village Hall in Addison this June. In June Bucci will again be the center of attention at the St. Anthony Festival in Wilmington., DE. He is creating a working model of the Mount Vesuvius volcano, Pompeii, and Bay of Naples for this event.

He worked in research and development at Sun for about eight years until he quit to embark on a new career designing and building custom cars.

That part of his career ended when his shop in suburban Glenview was destroyed by fire in 1975. He turned to other design work, and received many commissions from the Italian Government Travel Office for its trade shows, including replicas of the Trevi Fountain and Sistine Chapel.

At that time he became involved with the Italian Cultural Center in Stone Park, and designed and created its notable art gallery.

His business has grown nationally and internationally through the power of word-ofmouth, and he has had hundreds of commissions. Current clients range from a trade show in Atlanta, to a tour company in Naples to Bella Notte restaurant on Grand Avenue in Chicago.

Bucci now has a standard clientele and about six or seven commissions. He works 12- to14-hour days, seven but does take time to go to mass at his parish church, Queen of All Saints Basilica on the far northwest side of Chicago.

“I had many girlfriends but never married,” Bucci says. “I was always scared. I always felt that a lady is like a beautiful flower. She needs the sunshine. She needs attention and water. If you cannot furnish, well, ” his voices trails off.

He did have a special woman in his life for 25 years. “My folks were

Come experience the taste of Italy!

here and I had to take care of them,” he recalls. But the woman was divorced, and out of respect for his very religious mother, they did not marry. “But we enjoyed life, traveled a lot together. “ She died in 2001 from breast cancer, and Bucci designed and created her tombstone.

Both his parents died when they were 93. If that is any indication about his possible longevity, Bucci can look forward to 20 more years of creating beauty.

“My heart is very young, but the body is old,” he says. “When the devil comes, I will kick him out and say, ‘It is not time for you yet.’ ”

7

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www.the3olives.com FANTASTIC SERVICE REASONABLE PRICES CHARMING ATMOSPHERE

Buonappetito

Italian Restaurant Summer 2008 /AMICI 11

NIAF News

A monthly bulletin for Italian American organizations and media outlets, dedicated to promoting the language, culture and traditions of Italians and Italian Americans.

America’s Polo Cup celebrates Italy vs. U.S. Historic Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia, is the site of the annual America’s Polo Cup with a match between the U.S. team and Italy’s top polo players on May 9 and 10. The weekend event highlights the best American and Italian food, fashion, and music. Festivities include a fashion show, culinary competitions, wine presentations, and musical performances by wellknown artists.

Proceeds from the weekend will benefit the Journey for the Cure Foundation, which helps fund scientific grants for leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple sclerosis research. The U.S. Army, Navy, and Coast Guard bands will perform during pregame and half-time shows.

A trophy presentation and fireworks display will close the two-day event. Sponsors include NIAF and the Italian Embassy.

For more information visit: www.AmericasPoloCup.com.

Bravo, Auguri!

Dave Savini, investigative reporter for CBS 2 in Chicago, recently received the DuPont Award from Columbia University for his year-long, hidden-camera investigation.

Savini’s series, “Fly At Your Own Risk,” uncovered loopholes with security at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.

Savini and producer Michele Youngerman’s news reports exposed security breaches including missing security badges, repeated failures to inspect staff before they entered

Pesce d’Aprile-April Fool’s Day in Italy

the airport’s employee entrance, and allowing workers with criminal histories access to planes.

The 2008 Alfred I. DuPont-Columbia University Award-winners were chosen from a pool of 510 radio and television news entries aired between July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2007. The awards honor excellence in broadcast journalism.

Savini has been a strong supporter of NIAF and co-hosted the Foundation’s media forum in Chicago with Janet Davies, executive producer for ABC 7 in 2006.

In Italy, Il Pesce d’ Aprile (April Fool’s trick) is a day for practical jokes. On April 1, children secretly attach a paper cutout of a pesciolino (small fish) to their friends’ backs as a prank. This day is not only for children.

Adults play jokes on their co-workers and friends, trying to catch an unsuspecting person off guard. The following day, the media reports il Miglior Pesce d’ Aprile (the best trick).

Looking for a job in Italy?

NIAF’s Web site now offers a link to CareerBuilder.com, the largest recruitment and career advancement resource, to facilitate job searches in Italy. With more than 1.5 million jobs and 22 million visitors a month, the site offers career advice, resume writing and interview tips. Employment opportunities are categorized by location and area of expertise, such as accounting, banking, engineering, etc. Job hunting in Italy is now just a click away, so visit www.niaf.org/careerbuilder.

New York Italian film festival

Dove Entertainment held a five-day Italian film festival in New York City to honor the best new films in Italian cinema from April 9-13. A two-day conference, “Everything Italian,” and a student workshop are also scheduled during the

festival. Several short and feature-length films were shown each day, along with food and cocktails. There was also an opportunity to meet the filmmakers. On the final day, films they were given awards based on popularity.

Take a ride on a gondola in the U.S.

For almost a thousand years, Venetians used the gondola as their main source of transportation. Today, the practice has spread to the United States and gondola rides are an attraction in many cities. For more information, contact one of these locations: The Central Park Boathouse: New York, NY (212) 517-2233 The Gondola Company: San Diego, CA (619) 429-6317 La Gondola: Providence, RI (401) 421-8877 The Venetian Hotel: Las Vegas, NV (702) 414-4500 Gondola Getaways: Long Beach, CA (562) 433-9595 Gondola di Venezia: Boston, MA (800) 979-3370 Gondola Tours: Fort Lauderdale, FL (877) 9-ANCHOR Sunset Gondola: Huntington Beach, CA (562) 592-3295

The festival’s goal was to establish closer ties between the American and Italian film industries and attract younger Italian-Americans to the event. Sponsors include NIAF and Filmitalia. For more information, visit www.newyorkitalianfilmfestival.com.

Web sites to explore

TrenItalia.com is the official Web site for the Italian train services. Visitors can search train schedules, book reservations, and get the latest updates on delays and cancellations.

ItalianAmericanShowcase.com serves as a portal to locate Italian and Italian-American businesses. Visitors can search by company name, category, or location.A directory lists everything from foods to physicians.

ItalianFoodNet.com is Web-based television for those who love Italian food and wine. The site offers cooking videos, tips on Italian wines and provides links to Italian restaurants around the world.

News Monthly Coordinator Natasha Borato 1860 19th Street NW Director of Communications Elissa Ruffino Washington, DC 20009 Contributing Writers Francesca Miele, Alex Massara This feature was edited by Monica Soladay, publications editor Please send your group or city’s news of Italian-American exhibits, cultural events, scholarships and special events to Elissa Ruffino at the above address or e-mail elissa@niaf.org.

Events/programs noted are not necessarily endorsed or sponsored by NIAF.

12 AMICI / Summer 2008

Richard Capozola’s

1945

Alessandro Dandini came to the U.S. in 1945, and taught at the University of Nevada in Reno. The three-way light bulb was invented by Dandini, who patented more than 22 inventions, including the rigid retractable automobile top and the spherical system, which concentrates and extracts solar energy. He held degrees in science, languages, hydraulic engineering and classical literature. He died in 1991 at age 88. The Dandini Research Park, home of the Desert Research Institute in Reno, is named after him.

Don Gentile, America’s leading ace, credited with 30 Nazi planes, and Major Florian Martini, who shot down 22 German planes in furious combat over Paris, come home. However, 20% of the “Honor List of the Dead and Missing for the State of New York” are Italian-Americans.

Henry A. Mucci (1909-April 20, 1997) was a U.S. Army colonel and Ranger. He was famous for leading the raid that rescued survivors of the Bataan Death March during World War II. With only 120 Army Rangers, Mucci headed the January 1945 mission that freed 511 men from Cabanatuan Prison Camp despite being heavily outnumbered.

1946 Frances X. Cabrini becomes the first U.S. citizen to be canonized a saint. Mother Cabrini, founder of the Sisters of the Sacred Heart, helps to organize 14 colleges, 98 schools, 28 orphanages, 8 hospitals, and is responsible for thousands of nuns who labored for her causes.

Oscar winning actress “Susan Sarandon” was born Susan Abigail Tomalin (Criscione- mother) in New York. Sarandon kept her husband’s name. She has worked in films and television since 1970 and has won Academy Award for her role in “Dead Man Walking”. She is also noted for her political activism for liberal causes.

Model Micheline Bernandini is the first model to wear a skimpty bikini at a Paris fashion show, creating more debate and controversy than the dropping of the atomic bomb.

1947 Anthony Rossi founds Tropicana and sits on a penny stock in Florida. Today, Rossi’s pasteurized orange juice is distributed worldwide with sales exceeding $2.5 billion annually (one of the world’s largest producers of citrus beverages) Character actor of stage, screen, and television, “Joey Faye” (Joseph Palladino) was among the last of the great burlesque comedians. He stars in the Broadway hit, “High Button Shoes” Jessica Savitch (Spadoni- mother) is born in Pennsylvania. Savitch is one of the most watched TV newscasters of her time. “The Golden Girl” dies tragically in an auto accident.

Summer 2008 /AMICI 13

A native of the Grand and Ogden neighborhood on Chicago’s West Side, Bill Dal Cerro is a teacher, writer and researcher who has been extensively involved in the local Italian-American community over the past 12 years.

Bill was Recently elected President to The Italic Institute of America, a national educational non-profit, where he edits the Institute’s quarterly magazine, The Italic Way. Bill also recently worked as the Associate Producer of “And They Came to Chicago: The Italian American Legacy”, a full-length documentary broadcast.

Bill has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English/Journalism as well as a Teaching Certification in Education, both from Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago. His articles on Italian/Italian-American history have been featured in the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun-Times and the Los Angeles Times as well as in such periodicals as PRIMO Magazine.

Bill and a colleague, David Anthony Witter, are currently working on a book, “Bebop, Swing and Bella Musica: The History of Italian Americans in Jazz,” which highlights the wide influence which American musicians of Italian descent have had on our nation’s richest musical art form.

visit the website www.stereotypethis.com

By Bill Dal Cerro

A Typical ‘American’ Day It’s been over 500 years since Cristoforo Colombo (Christopher Columbus) traveled to the Americas.

Considering that he was, in a way, the “first” Italian immigrant to these shores, what kind of an influence have his Italian brothers and sisters had on the U.S. ever since? Let’s consider a typical “American” day.

BRRing! Your alarm clock radio goes off. (Guglielmo Marconi perfected wireless transmission.) The first thing you do is turn on the lights. (The three-way lightbulb was invented

by Alessandro Dandini.) As you wash yourself in the shower (plumbing was a concept perfected by the Romans), you sing a few songs to yourself: “Chattanooga Choo-Choo” (written by Salvatore Guaragna, aka Harry Warren), “Moon River” (Henry Mancini) or the 1960’s oldie “Stand by Me” (produced by Frank Guida). Or maybe you prefer a Bruce Springsteen song (his maternal family name is Zirilli) or something by Madonna (born Madonna Louise Ciccone).

At the breakfast table, you usually opt for an espresso or cappuccino (Italian coffees), but today you’re in a hurry and make some good, old-fashioned American instant coffee.

(Vince Marotta invented the “Mr. Coffee” machines, which were popularized by their famous spokesman, baseball great Joe DiMaggio.) Your throat feels a little scratchy from eating so fast, so on your way out the door you pop a small lozenge in your mouth. (The cough drop was created by Vincent R.Ciccone.)

As you sprint to your car, you nearly trip over the Radio Flyer red wagon left in your driveway by a neighbor’s kid. (Antonio Pasin invented the wagons in 1917.) You hop into your Chrysler (businessman Lee Iacocca saved the company in the ‘80s) and turn your radio on again.

There’s a story about American Nazi groups planning to march somewhere. (Michael Musmanno of Pennsylvania served as chief judge at the 1945 Nuremberg Trials, which brought real Nazis to justice).

You make a quick call to work on your cell phone.

(Antonio Meucci invented an early model telephone years before Alexander Graham Bell). You tell them that you’ll be a little late, since you remembered to pick up an office report being designed in a print shop in a local shopping mall.

(The American shopping mall was created by two developers from Ohio: William Cafaro and Edward 1. DeBartolo Sr.) While at the mall, you’re told that the report isn’t quite finished yet, so you make a quick visit to Barnes and Noble (built by CEO Leonard Riggio into the nation’s largest upscale bookstore.). You’re a fan of Ed McBain’s mystery novels (McBain’s real name is Salvatore Lombino), so you decide to buy one to read while flying out for a business meeting next week in Arkansas (a state founded by explorer Enrico Tonti). You also visit a gift shop and see a mini-reproduction of the Lincoln Memorial statue (the actual one in Washington D.C. was sculpted by the Piccirilli brothers in 1922).

You run back to the print shop to pay for your report; however, all you have is change, so you have to use a few U.S. “peace dollar” coins. (Theresa DeFrancisci served as the model for Miss Liberty’s face). You remind yourself that you need to get 14 AMICI / Summer 2008

to the bank tomorrow morning. (Banking was codified in Renaissance Italy;also, A.P.Giannini created the Bank of America) While at work, you pound away on your computer.

(Entrepreneur Frank Sordello created the tachometer, the device which speeds up information). Lunch finally arrives. Some co-workers choose to run outside to a Subway store (created by Frank De Luca). Others prefer going to McDonald’s for a Big Mac (created by franchise owner Jim Delligatti). You, however, are going the diet route; broccoli (developed by the Broccoli family of Italy), some peanuts (Planters Peanut Company was founded

by Amedeo Obici), and maybe a low-fat ice cream cone (Italo Marcioni).

You eat light so you can use your remaining lunchtime to work out at the company’s health facility. (The Romans started the concept of health clubs via their famous baths; also, Charles Atlas, fitness expert, was born Angelo Siciliano).

Time to go home! You drive down well-paved roads (the Romans set the standard), though a sudden gust of wind while driving through a tunnel takes you by surprise (inventor Gaetano Lanza developed the first wind tunnel in 1909).

You pass by a federal office building with an American flag displayed outside, recalling those famous words from the Declaration of Independence, “all men are created equal” (words suggested to Thomas Jefferson by his best friend and neighbor, the Italian political writer Filippo Mazzei). Since you left work late, you can even see a faint trace of the moon in the slowly fading sky. (Rocco Petrone headed NASA during the 1969 moon landing.)

Before going to bed, you pay a few outstanding bills, making sure your checkbook balances. (Luca Pacioli invented double-entry bookkeeping.)

Your television drones on quietly in the background, featuring footage of Congress debating a new initiative. (America’s Founding Fathers borrowed the concept of a Senate from the Romans.) A commercial promotes travel to the Midwestern states (which were purchased for the U.S. by a fur trader in St. Louis: Francesco Vigo).

You turn off the television and climb into bed, feeling safe and secure in living in one of the greatest nations on earth, America (named after Florentine explorer Amerigo Vespucci). As you lay awake and stare at the ceiling, trying to mentally plan out the next week’s events according to our modem calendar (created by Pope Gregorio), sleep soon overpowers you Z-Z-Z-Z-Z.....

Brring! Your alarm clock radio goes off again.

Time to begin another typical “American” day.

Mamma mia!

SICiLIAN PHOTO EXIBITION

Courtesy of History Channel

F

or more than 500 years, Rome was the most powerful and advanced civilization the world had ever known, ruled by visionaries and tyrants whose accomplishments ranged from aweinspiring to deplorable. But the primary elements of Rome’s rise to power were its consistently masterful use of engineering and labor, used to build cities and works of architecture that still stand today.

The death of Julius Caesar, who found himself on the receiving end of twenty-three stab wounds on the floor of the Roman Senate in 44 B.C., touched off a 600-year succession of Roman dictators that was a historical rollercoaster ride of extraordinary proportions. These men pushed the Roman borders past unseen frontiers, built its cities to heights never before seen, and installed astonishing public works such as sewers, running water and heated pools.

But the drive for power and growth wrought enemies, decay, and betrayal as well, as Rome often saw its leadership fall to the unfit hands of men who murdered enemies, oppressed citizens, and even burned Rome to the ground. ROME: ENGINEERING AN EMPIRE chronicles the rich history of the Roman Empire from the reign of Caesar in 44 B.C. to its eventual fall around 537 AD, detailing the remarkable works of architecture and technology in between that helped create Rome’s indelible mark on the world.

Highlights include: • Digital re-creations of some of Rome's greatest engineering feats, beginning with Caesar's bridge across the Rhine River, a 1,000-foot long wooden passageway built in just ten days to allow thousands of troops to cross the river and conquer Germania.

• Shocking tales of the brutality of some of Rome's most notorious leaders, including the teenage emperor Nero, whose reign included: presenting the severed head of an ex-wife to a future wife as a gift; kicking a wife to death while she was pregnant; murdering his mother; and allegedly burning much of Rome to the ground to make room for a new palace.

• The revolutionary Roman aqueduct system, which provided 200 million gallons of running water per day into Rome (as much as was provided to New York City as recently as 1985), and a sewer system built 2,500 years ago that still functions today.

Ancient Rome was an empire of architectural brilliance and modernized culture that still affects the world today. Its story is also one of the violence, vindictiveness, greed, and ego that contributed to its ultimate fall. ROME: ENGINEERING AN EMPIRE presents the full picture of one of the truly rich civilizations of all time.

BIG SUCCESS

IN MILWAUKEE

T

he successful inauguration of exposition of beautiful portraits of Sicily, artwork of the most famous photographers, which took place on the beginning of the year 2008 at the Dominican University of River Forest was viewed for two days at the I.C.C. (Italian Community Center)of Milwaukee making their dream a reality for the President of Comites, Angelo Liberati; Luigi Sciortino V.P. and the Treasurer of Comites as well as members of the board of I.C.C., Pietro Tarantino.

The representatives of Sicily Region, Dr. Marco Beltempo, President of CASES,the association that organized the event; Dr. Ezio Pagano, director of Museum of Bagheria and Dr. Biagio Sciortino, Mayor of Bagheria, among many other delegates, were amazed in visiting the Center, a real milestone of proud Italian immigration. The presentation on big screen took speechless attention of all the people present. After the speeches of the representatives of Sicily it was the turn VP of I.C.C. Representing President Dominic Frinzi, the initial speech, was in English, translated by M.C. Pietro Tarantino and then in a colorful and pleasant Sicilian Italian mixture, expressing an immense pride for his Italian-Sicilian heritage.

The delegation left Milwaukee with the promise to return for the next Festa Italiana in 2008.

The exhibition was financed by Regione Siciliana; organized by Museum of Bagheria and sponsored by Comites of Chicago; Consulate General of Italy and Istituto Italiano di Cultura.

Summer 2008 /AMICI 15

Joseph Gagliardo

By Chris Ruys

Trailblazer in the Italian-American Community

A

s a young First Deputy “In a labor law practice, accessibility Corporation Counsel for the is critical to providing quality legal service,” city of Chicago, Joseph M. he said. “Corporation or government leaders Gagliardo won kudos for his legal acumen, with a labor or employee problem usually can’t integrity, devotion to long hours on the job and afford to wait even 24 hours to speak with an enthusiasm for the law. attorney.”

Today, he has parlayed those same It is that type of attention to detail and qualities into a thriving law practice that client understanding that has led the firm to win concentrates in representing employers in labor business from the top management at major relations, employment litigation, employee corporations and government entities. When benefits and business immigration cases.

Donald Trump, for example, was getting ready Gagliardo is managing partner of to build Trump Tower in Chicago, he turned to Laner, Muchin, Dombrow, Becker, Levin and Gagliardo for advice on union-related issues Tominberg, Ltd., one of Chicago’s oldest and and other legal matters. largest independent employment law firms.

Active in numerous professional and civic Under his leadership (he was promoted to the organizations, Gagliardo is a past president of top position in May 2005), the firm has grown, the Federal Bar Association’s Chicago Chapter by adding attorneys, expanded its immigration and the Justinian Society of Lawyers, and he has practice, and hired and promoted more minority been recognized as one of the top 100 lawyers attorneys. in Illinois. He is a past In fact, its president of the Joint “In a labor law practice, successful diversity Civic Committee of Italian accessibility is critical to efforts led to a Americans, an important providing quality legal prestigious award and active hub organization service...” from the Minority of all the various societies Corporate Counsel Association which in 2007 and organizations of the Chicago area’s Italianpresented the firm with its Thomas L. Sager American community.

Award for the Midwest region. It is an honor Gagliardo has won many awards for his usually bestowed on much larger organizations. achievements, including the Peacemaker Award “From our inception in 1945, we have served clients with diverse “I think it’s unfortunate that we workforces,” said Gagliardo, who joined live in a litigious society where the firm in 1988 as a partner and now successful problem-solving heads its litigation practice. “We felt sometimes takes a back seat to it was important to grow our own firm litigation...” by confronting rather than shying away from diversity challenges.”

In the past two years, Gagliardo has also from the Joint Civic Committee for his skills worked to make the firm’s internal processes in resolving disputes and the organization’s more streamlined, and he has involved the Humanitarian Award based on his commitment entire firm in creating solutions that enable it to to, and efforts to promote, diversity and operate more effectively and efficiently. human relations initiatives. Last fall, he won a “The field of labor law continues to grow leadership award from the Clerk of the Circuit because the laws are constantly changing,” Court of Cook County. he said. “Clients lean on us for our advice, A Chicago native, Gagliardo is the son of and relationships are typically very close. It Sicilian parents, Joe and Marie, who owned a is important that we not only understand the small grocery store near Wrigley Field. At age client’s business but also the dynamics in which 10, Gagliardo started working at the store as a the organization operates. We make every bagger and soon took on other duties such as attempt to do so cost-effectively in a way that stocking the shelves and cashier. “My parents builds loyalty and trust.” instilled in me the premise that the customer is Because lawyer accessibility is so always right,” said Gagliardo. “I learned many important, Laner Muchin established a Two- important service concepts from them that have Hour ™ guarantee to return phone calls promptly, been transmitted into my law practice.” a promise which Gagliardo has marketed very Gagliardo received a bachelor’s degree aggressively since taking the helm. from DePaul University in 1974 where he 16 AMICI / Summer 2008

Joseph M. Gagliardo(above) displays an over-sized hourglass, a symbol of the law firm’s commitment to returning client calls within two hours.

graduated with High Honors, and his law degree from The John Marshall Law School in 1977.

He was elected to the school’s Order of John Marshall, the law honor society limited to those whose scholastic records are within the highest 10 percent of the graduating class.

On the personal side, he is a devoted family man. He and his wife Jennifer have three sons: Joseph, 22, Michael, 20 and John, 18.

He is also a devotee of music. His lifelong passion for rock has led to a huge collection of records, albums and CDs. By his own account, he has more than 5,000 albums, 5,000 “45’s” and a ton of CDs. He also plays bass in a rock band called The Boyzz, which has opened for groups such as The Doobie Brothers, Ted Nugent and Cheap Trick. He even once played bass for music great Chuck Berry at a live concert.

At the end of the day, Gagliardo hopes to be remembered for his ability to bring people together and work towards a common understanding, especially when it comes to legal issues. “I think it’s unfortunate that we live in a litigious society where successful problem-solving sometimes takes a back seat to litigation,” he says. “My clients know that I strive to resolve their legal disputes as quickly and efficiently as possible, consistent with their business goals. The approach saves both money and the angst of a long and often unnecessary lawsuit.”

Lucia

BOOK PREVIEW

A Venetian Life in the Age of Napoleon

by Andrea Di Robilant Andrea di Robilant was born in Italy and educated at Le Rosey and Columbia University, where he specialized in international relations. He lives in Rome with his wife and two children and works for the Italian newspaper La Stampa

History 19th Century - Hardcover $24.95 http://www.randomhouse.com/

I

n the winter of 1786, Andrea Memmo, the Venetian ambassador to the Papal States, was visiting Naples with his daughters Lucia and Paolina during the Carnival season, when he received a dispatch from Venice that he had been waiting for anxiously. Alvise Mocenigo, the only son of one of the wealthiest and most powerful families of the Venetian Republic, agreed to marry Memmo’s oldest daughter, fifteen-year-old Lucia. Memmo was an experienced diplomat and he knew this letter was only the first step in what promised to be a long and difficult negotiation.

Alvise’s personal commitment was no guarantee that the proposal would actually go through, for he was on very bad terms with his father, Sebastiano, and did not get on much better with the rest of his family, whose approval of the marriage contract was indispensable. The Mocenigo elders were irked by Alvise’s marital freelancing. Moreover, they did not favour the prospect of an attachment to the declining house of the Memmos, which had been among the founding families of the Venetian Republic back in the eighth century, but whose finances and political power had been waning for some generations. Still, Memmo felt Alvise’s letter was a promising start, and he was confident in his judgment that the twenty-six-year-old scion of Casa Mocenigo was a son-in-law worth an honest struggle. “For some time now he has shown real promise,” he had explained to his closest friends,

“and as I flatter myself of foreseeing the future, I know my daughter will be well taken care of.”

The wisest course, he had concluded, was to cultivate Alvise directly, encouraging him to correspond with Lucia over the heads of the surly Mocenigos (it was Memmo who had convinced Alvise to go ahead and declare himself for Lucia).

Meanwhile, he was going to exercise the full panoply of his diplomatic skills in an effort to bring Alvise’s family over to his side; marrying Lucia off without the consent of the Mocenigos in a clandestine ceremony was out of the question.

The small traveling household in Naples was already dizzy with excitement when Memmo, still clutching Alvise’s letter, summoned Lucia to his quarters. It was not clear to the rest of the family what the mysterious dispatch contained exactly, but it was plain to all that it must carry portentous news. Lucia entered her father’s room anxious and short of breath. Thirteen-year-old Paolina followed, her eyes already swelling with tears of anticipation, while Madame Dupont, their beloved governess, stood discreetly in the background. After revealing with appropriate solemnity the content of the dispatch, Memmo read out a draft copy of the marriage contract. He then handed to Lucia a separate letter in which Alvise, who was marrying for the second time, introduced himself to his young bride-to-be. He professed to remember Lucia from earlier days

AREZZO

in Venice, though in truth he could only have had a vague recollection of her as a little girl.

Lucia did not have any memory at all of Alvise.

Standing in her father’s study, she must have struggled to conjure up an image towards which she could direct the rush of confusing emotions.

Alvise’s declaration called for an immediate reply.

Memmo startled Lucia a second time by asking her to write to her future husband at once, and without his help. He would read the letter over, he assured her, but she had to set it down herself, letting her heart speak out and never forgetting to use her head. Lucia obediently retired to her room, and in her neat, elegant handwriting, penned her first letter to Alvise, a letter so poignant yet also so thoughtful and mature that it deserves to be quoted in full.

Although he took his pleasures, he did not neglect his duties as a father. His best time, in Rome, was the one he spent in the company of Lucia and Paolina, who blossomed, he said, “thanks to their excellent French governess and to my own efforts.” His daughters were indeed much admired and Madame Dupont’s “unequalled vigilance” helped to preserve their innocence.

“Perhaps even excessively,” quipped Memmo, the aging libertine, to Guglielmo Chiarabba, his agent back in Venice, “since it does not seem to me they have the slightest desire to be attractive to men.”

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Alistaire Cooke:

“…a date which will live in infamy.

By Vincent Romano The following was submitted to a group of Italian Americans who saw fit to hold a round table discussion on the experience of Chicago Italians in WWII. .

“Let me tell you, sir. I’ve seen boys younger than these with their arms ripped off and their legs torn out. But there is no sight like that of an amputated spirit…they have no prosthetic for that, you know.”

John Basilone was the only enlisted man in WWII to win both the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross…the two highest awards given by this country for valor under fire? His extraordinary exploits throughout the South Pacific campaign are documented in the chronicles of America’s war heroes. The son of immigrant parents, who found their way here from the shores of southern Italy, Sgt. Basilone was killed during the invasion of Iwo Jima. He was only one of the thousands upon thousands of first generation Italian American warriors who sacrificed life, limb and beyond for their country.

It is not the words of our enemies that will be remembered... it is the silence of our friends.

Fast-forward to Alistaire Cooke’s nationally televised, America: The Immigrant, less than 3 decades later. Alistaire Cooke is depicted drawing names from the files of various immigrant groups at the Department of Immigration in Washington D.C. From various files he randomly draws the names of renowned individuals as being representative of the contributions made by each of their ethnic groups. For various ethnic groups, Russian Jew, German Jew, Greek, etc., he choses a Supreme Court Justice, a musical composer, a Vice President, etc. When he arrived at the file listing the Italian immigrants, the card he pulled out, as being representative of the contributions made by Italian Americans, was none other than Alfonse Capone. Not one voice cried, “Shame!” It is not the words of our enemies that will be remembered; it is the silence of our friends. I repeat, “Not one voice cried shame!”

The half- million Italian Americans who served in WWII, from the beaches of the South Pacific to the skies over Europe, earned their share of the nation’s highest awards. The Congressional Medal of Honor was won by no less than two dozen Italian Americans. We had no airports or bridges named after those Italian American heroes. Those who made the ultimate sacrifice were simply memorialized by family and neighbors.

They have no prosthetic for that, you know!

Thousands upon thousands of gold stars hung from the windows in all of the Little Italies scattered throughout America. One must wonder what thoughts ran through the minds of those Italian American mothers who had lost their sons in the struggle to defeat America’s enemies or had their sons returned to them with their arms torn out and their legs blown off, when Alistaire Cooke announced to the world that Alphonse Capone was representative of the contributions made to America by Italian immigrant.

They have no prosthetic for that, you know!

No other emigrant group, no other ethnic group, had been so maligned, so vilified by the media as the Italian American emigrant. The power of the media rivals that of any force created by man. It played the dominant role in putting to death two men (Sacco and Venzetti)…executed even after others had confessed to the crime of which they had been accused.

The media also played a dominant role in the New Orleans lynching of 18 AMICI / Summer 2008

Italian-Americans who were dragged from their jail cells. For some, the lynching took place despite their having been found innocent in a court of law. Accounts of that event depict Negroes, only two decades removed from the emancipation proclamation, participating in the dreaded lynching.

The power of the media…

On a final note. I have been approached by producers who are intent on doing a TV documentary on the concepts espoused in the Taylor Street Archives. They are intent on producing a documentary that transcends the demographics of the who, when, where, and how of the Italian immigrant.

A documentary that goes beyond the oft-espoused Italian American boasts of family values and family traditions. I agree with the producers that there is a bigger story with more historical value that must be told. If Italian Americans were at the bottom of the educational ladder, then surely there are greater issues to uncover which have a higher priority than reminiscing about how we were taught to “save for college.” If Italian Americans had been excluded from the executive suites, then there is a larger issue to be explored than the “work ethic” we so often boast in our writings about the Italian American experience. The psychological genocide of a people, that media induced plague, is the unexplored and untold story of the Italian American immigrant.

And on the memorable day of, December 7, 2007, what is of relevance is why! John Basilone was not mentioned by Alistaire Cooke as being representative of the contributions made by Italian Americans?.

The producers are in the process of editing their four hour interview in anticipation of producing a one hour documentary. They plan to open with back-to-back-to-back/side-by-side-by-side archive footage to depict: 1. Sgt John Basilone, the only enlisted man to have won both the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross, our nation’s two highest awards, being placed in a body bag on the beaches of Iwo Jima. Just months before the end of that war. A war that produced our ‘greatest generation.”

2. Alistaire Cooke’s comment from America: The Immigrant; 3. An Italian American neighborhood with its share of gold stars hanging in the windows of the homes of those Italian American emigrants that he, Alistaire Cooke, maligned when he deduced, in a nationally televised program, that Alphonse Capone was representative of their contributions to America.

Per our shared vision, the narrator will merge the scenes into an opening statement…an opening salvo, if you will. How ironic that the ethnic heritage of the producers is other than Italian American. Go figure!

Conclusion: Our writers have done a magnificent job in documenting the journey of the Italian American emigrants. Our writers have memorialized the demographics of our people in various chronicles. Evidence of our “family values” and “work ethics” have been well documented by our writers. Our writers have done a great job on the demographics of: who, where, when, why, and how. What is now of relevance is the media induced psychological genocide. A holocaust which, in part, was responsible for a Federal study (1975) identifying that Italian Americans, as measured by enrollment in college, were at the lowest rung of the educational ladder of all European ethnic groups.

A people who spring from the loins of the Caesars, Michaelangelos, Medicis, Da Vincis, etc. And on this memorable day, December 7, 2007, what is of greater relevance is, what part did that same media induced holocaust play in ignoring the likes of a John Basilone when Alistaire Cooke decided who to depict as being representative of the contributions made by Italian Americans?.

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Focus on Italy

E

Venice

veryone knows Venice... Gondolas bobbing on the Grand Canal, and a picturesquely decaying city sinking slowly into the waters of the Lagoon. And yet Venice is a city of many surprises and delights for the visitor.

The first one is that you will spend most of your time walking - the pavements play as major a role in the city as do the canals. The one thing you won’t see is cars, drivers have to leave their vehicles at the city gate, and that makes exploring this romantic, art-filled and utterly unique city very enjoyable. And though tourists crowd the city, most of them head straight for the Basilica di San Marco and the Doge’s Palace; a little trip off the beaten track yields huge rewards, as you nip down narrow alleys and find beautiful little churches, street markets and yet another canal before you.

Hunters and fishermen were living on the mudflats of the Lagoon 2000 years ago, but Venice really grew as a place of refuge. The ravaging of Attila the Hun drove many to seek shelter here in the fifth century, and a century later the march of the Lombards into northern Italy saw more settle here. By now the city was ruled by Byzantium, but in 726 Venetians elected their own leader, the first Doge (or Duke).

San Marco became the patron saint and by the end of the tenth century Venice was a powerful and rich trading nation. It profited from the Crusades, from the sacking of Constantinople and from the splitting of the spoils as the riches of the Roman Empire were finally divided up.

During the Middle Ages, Venice battled Genoa for supremacy in the region, but in the early sixteenth century Venice found itself at war with Spain, the Pope and practically every European power. Victorious yet bankrupt, and with its trade routes superseded by the new powers of England, Holland and Portugal, Venice went into decline.

By the 1800s Venice, though a popular tourist destination, was poor and decaying. Saved by mass tourism - the Lido became a fashionable resort, immortalised in Thomas Mann’s Death in Venice.

With 116 islands, 150 canals, and 409 bridges, this city is an intricate maze - some of the most unexpected architectural delights are to be found as you lose yourself on your walks.

But there are a few things you must see. There is the Basilica San Marco, the most exotic (or over the top) of European cathedrals and boasting 4000 square metres of golden mosaics. Book yourself onto the Itinerari Segreti del Palazzo Ducale an intriguing behind the scenes tour of the Gothic marvel that is the Doge’s Palace, once the seat of government in Venice. Trips down the Grand Canal are a must.

A ride on a gondola won’t get you anywhere fast - that’s not the point - but it will give you a fascinating view of this city built on the water.

Complement this with your wanderings on foot around the highways and byways, the little hidden alleyways and backstreets of old Venice.

Check out the Accademia, one of the finest collections of European painting anywhere in the world. And sit and relax with a cappuccino or a prosecco, and drink in one of the world’s most complex, diverse, beautiful and romantic cities.

Contact “Stay and Visit Italy” for your Venice Tour and much more!..

Look AD on page 5 20 AMICI / Summer 2008

From Italy:

The Ambassador Of Dolce Vita

PATRIZIO BUANNE

By Andrew Guzaldo

R

ecently Amici Journal had a returned to Austria. Buanne was a welldelightful interview with the known culinary legend opened the first Italian singing sensation Patrizio Buanne. To our Ristorante in Austria. This was the same year amazement he is not just a talented singer. Not that Patrizio was born. For the first six years of that his singing isn’t quite an accomplishment in his life, Patrizio lived in Vienna. However, he of itself but he is a renaissance man. His talents recalls traveling from Naples to Vienna, where span the world, as he doesn’t just speak one they tended to the family business. Patrizio has language but six (6) languages. Patrizio has an 2 sisters Irene and Maribella from his mother’s undying love for the Italian culture in the form first marriage. As a young boy, Patrizio grew of his remarkable passion, for music and song. up listening to the old vinyl records. These Patrizio was born on September 20th, antics were Patrizio’s first recorded singing 1978 Naples Italy to Alina Carolina Buanne, performances, since his parents recorded then to Varsavia (Praga) and Franco Domenico Buanne, later play them in their restaurant. Patrizio even Naples (Bagnoli). Their story is a unique one, at a very young age developed the reputation of as Patrizio retells it. In 1967 for the first time singing along loudly to the music while doing a new Italian specialty called “Pizza” was introduced in Austria. Two chefs, “ Every time we had guests coming over at both from Naples, became ambassadors our home, my mamma or papa would put me on of this true Italian cuisine. Patrizio’s a chair. I must have been 2 to 6 years old. They father was one of those Chefs’s. Franco would ask me to sing. “Canta, Patri canta!!!”

Buanne stayed in Austria to follow his career. It is there in 1972, that he met Patrizio’s his chores. At the age of eight his parents gave mother. “My mother was in Austria for the him his first guitar. This only made his passion holidays. They met in a latin for music grow even stronger. club where they danced When Patrizio was asked when he to a tango. One year started to sing in public he replied! “ Every time later, in 1973, they we had guests coming over at our home, my were married and mamma or papa would put me on a chair. I must returned back to have been 2 to 6 years old. They would ask me Italy.” to sing. “Canta, Patri canta!!!” At the age of In 1978, after eleven, he made his first public performance many requests, at a school event. He sang “Only You” by the Franco Buanne Platters. Ever since that time he felt at ease in competition and won countless singing events.

When Patrizio was a teenager there were no shows or competitions that would provide a start in show business like American Idol does now. Patrizio just kept on singing. He took any chance he could get. Then in 1997, he was introduced to an influential businessman who made it possible for him to perform for Pope John Paul II. Oh and not to mention the crowd present at this event was over 85,000 people. Patrizio admits, “This performance for me was a success, and a stepping stone to my first recording contract”. After his graduation, at the age of nineteen, he decided to move back to Italy. There, he undertook his repertoire of languages. At the same time he began to develop numerous acquaintances in the entertainment industry. Patrizio soon was reaching stardom, as he seemed to be destined.

He has sold over 2 million albums 22 AMICI / Summer 2008

throughout the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, South America, New Zealand and Australia.

Besides tremendous record sales, he has also performed record sold out tours. Some of these tours left him with unforgettable nights at places like the legendary Sydney Opera House, the Adelphi theatre in London, Carnival city in Johannesburg, the Esplanade in Singapore and many others.

In the last 2 years Patrizio has gained more and more engagements in the United States. When he finally made the decision to come to the US, he was virtually an unknown.

He performed in venues like the House of Blues and various Jazz clubs. Patrizio says, “It gave me some hot and cold experiences…an extreme contrast, but it helped remind me not to forget and to enjoy every single moment and never give up on my dreams” Could this be another Italian-American Story?

The US introduction and release of his albums came by way of PBS and its radio stations across the nation. Along with this also came a call for a huge six-week tour of major US theatres, like the Kennedy Center in Washington, the Lincoln Center in NY, the Benedum theatre in Pittsburgh, and the Chicago theatre, all which were sold out. These successful performances came in a short period of time and have resulted in a high interest from the biggest managers in the business. Those that handle such Superstars as Mariah Carey, Michael Jackson, Neil Diamond, Macy Grey, Dolly Parton and Hanna Montana along with a number of other agents have convinced him that the next step in his career is to seriously consider making the US a second home. Notwithstanding this high demand, Patrizio continues to maintain his hectic agenda.

Patrizio is not married - Kind of! And it appears to be working for him. He does worry about how his current lifestyle and career would affect a spouse. He says “…when I am not working I feel as though I am one of the loneliest people on the earth, but when I get busy with recording, promotions and tours I am happy to be single and focused ...I think it’s fine to be single although I am not sure for how much longer? These have been such wonderful experiences and I would like someday soon to share them with someone I care for. However for the moment I am married to my passion (singing)”.

Patrizio has even produced his own concerts. However, he prefers to simply just

m

in gs

oo

n!

..

Patrizio was signed to Universal music UK for 3 years. Although his contract has recently run out, he is however looking to be signed in the US. He wants to team up with people that are passionate-realists and that believe in him. In other words, not a bunch of lawyers who believe in nothing else other then a quick deal.

However, at the end Patrizio wants to be remembered as a great performer, somebody who records great songs and makes good records.

Although, it might be more like the entertainer that can unite different generations, nationalities and all those with different beliefs with a simply common goal to have a good time and share his culture.

Patrizio will be performing at the Rosemont Theater April 26, 2008 “LIVE IN CONCERT.” This will be a Proceeds Benefit for “Kids Fight Cancer”. This is quite a charitable accomplishment on Buanne’s part, one that we all can be proud of. He also is working on his 3rd album, which he hopes to have released in September 2008 right around his birthday. If this does not happen it will be out by Christmas or the beginning of 2009.

When Patrizio was asked if he had anything to say to Amici readers, Patrizio left us with these parting words “An artist could be blessed with the biggest talents in the world, but without hard work and people, that appreciate and feel his talent, the support of his fans, nothing would be impossible. Thank you for all the respect, support and love, hopefully for many more years. Don’t be a stranger. Let’s be Amici. (Friends) Viva la Dolce Vita”.

Co

call them shows. Quite a modest statement, for anyone in the business knows the difference. On top of this, to produce a concert as well as perform it is quite a task. He had the concept to create his first two albums.

He made those into a reality and a success. Patrizio replies “ It has not always been financially possible to produce my dream, but as a teenager I did invest all my love and money into my dreams, rather than in cigarettes, cars or nightclubs. Later I had to find good business partners, as recording with orchestras or generally speaking “being” on a professional level costs an abundance of money.” “Investment is the only way to make it to the big league. One must invest their heart, soul and all their savings to make ones dream a reality,” says Patrizio. “This is indeed very risky and can give you many sleepless nights but I am happy that (those) I have had the pleasure of working with, (focused on) the passion and sincerity … rather than just the … show business.”

He believes music is “a tonic for the soul.” That’s the way he really feels about it. At the age of seventeen his father died from virulent cancer. This was a very sad a traumatic time for Patrizio. He was grief stricken over the loss of his father. So much that he became so ill from a perforated ulcer, which almost took his life. These events only helped him focus more. Patrizio says, “Positive thoughts make you understand that everything that happens is our destiny.” Patrizio stresses that fact especially to young people as he encourages them towards success. He believes that “improvements of ones life begin in that special dream and goal.” Patrizio freely says, “I was always a dreamer, and to be honest many of those dreams I have realized … because I believed in them. I am also a spiritual person. I do not particularly belong to any-one charity. I support everything that makes sense to me, that I can identify myself with and that I personally think I can support with my heart and soul.”

When asked how he relaxes all he talks about is the excitement of the US and his dreams. “Working in the US, is a dream come true so I enjoy working so much that at the same time it relaxes me, but not doing anything at the moment is like waiting for your luggage at the airport it is very frustrating for me. I am excited like a player that is waiting to be released on the field. I am passionate and excited about doing what I love best. Talent goes only so far. There is a lot of hard work that is needed ... to fuel that talent … even if it is indeed quite exhausting. So to relax, I go for a swim, cook, eat, watch a movie, write songs and hang out with friends. I love music, eating, cooking, sightseeing, to make people laugh and watching women. Going home to visit my mother and shopping in Hong Kong is above all my most relaxing moments.”

After his papa died, he wanted to pay tribute to him and record all the songs that his father introduced him to. His father was a big factor in him becoming a singer. So Patrizio felt it would be only fitting to pay tribute to his father in song. “He would have been proud,” says Patrizio.

He also realized that many people assumed that Italian music is of narrow range or that being Italian means being a classically trained opera singer.

“I was very surprised, it would be the same as saying that Italian food is only pizza or pasta and that every Italian is a character from the movie classic “the Godfather” or “the Sopranos.” Patrizio explained “…the same way my father decided to explain that issue and educated people about Italian cuisine, I wanted to make that clear in music as well.” He doesn’t want to change anything about what people know of Italy and Italians he just wants to add something more to it.

Getting to know Patrizio means understanding the Italian culture he is so proud of. And knowledge he has, as he gave me a lesson in American music writers.

“Did you know for example that the song “You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me”, was originally an Italian hit single in 1963 for Pino Donaggio named “Io Che Non Vivo”, although made famous by Dusty Springfield? Or the song” A man without love” is originally called “Quando m’ innamoro”. I have chosen and recorded all these songs that are pretty essential for the Italian songbook (plus also some experiments to feature more of the Italian language) on CDs and DVDs. You don’t need to get yourself a flight to Italy to get a little feel of Italy!” So with that Patrizio says it is best to listen to his albums or attend one of his performances. He can show you what he means!

Summer 2008 /AMICI 23

T

oday, this C-47, serial number 43-30652, is still being flown by the HAG and has appeared in many air shows throughout the United States and Canada. My wife and I now join the Museum staff and many volunteers for their annual air shows which take place during the second week of July (“the greatest show on turf”). There I join with young paratroop reenactors, describing the true service of the HAG’s perfectly good airplane. In 2007, we also were able to “sit on” this plane at the Andrews Air Force Base annual air show in Maryland. It is amazing how many folks are anxious to learn about this aircraft and the role it played in our war.

43-15510 During the time I was helping the HAG document their C-47, I received an e-mail from someone who had purchased my Valor book. He learned that aircraft serial number 43-15510 had been restored and was sitting in the outdoor Air Museum at Hurlburt Field, one of the auxiliary fields in the Eglin Air Force Paratroop reenactor at 1941 Base complex near Pensacola, Florida.

The news was exciting to me because 43-15510 was my plane; nose HAG Museum air show Field number “25” and tail radio call sign “F.” I had logged many combat hours as its radio operator after it was assigned to my Squadron in April 1944.

In it, we flew in Operation Eagle, on 12 May 1944. This was the rehearsal for D-Day, Normandy. On 5-6 June 1944, we dropped paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne into Northern France. For the invasion of Holland, Operation Market Garden, we dropped the 82nd on 17 September, followed by glider tows of elements of the 82nd on 18 and 23 September. Then on 26 September, we landed with supplies before the Allies gave up the area to the German forces.

By Mike Ingrisano

Part II

In October 1944, my 43-15510 was exchanged for a newer aircraft. In those combat operations, the plane had sustained its share of hits from small arms fire and from flak. I still remember the heat of one shell flying past my temple, but none of our crew was ever hit. Nonetheless, over the years I was curious, and now anxious, to see how my old plane had been patched up.

Mentally, my wife and I planned a quick trip to Florida so that I could relive those long lost memories. But before we had a chance to cement our plans, the prospect of a reunion disappeared. The base historian said I was mistaken; the C-47 at Hurlburt carried the serial number of 42-100510.

Disappointed? You bet I was. That number did not even register as being flown by my 316th TCG. But my customer was sure of his research. He did not want me to give up on my “ole goose.” In late 2006, Jennifer M. Gradidge, published an updated, hefty two volume study, The Douglas DC-1/DC-2/DC-3 – The First Seventy Years, published by Air-Britain. The book is a fine, detailed history of the manufacture and uses of the plane in both civilian and military venues. Then in small print, with many abbreviations, the book traces the individual history of every DC-1/2/3 ever built. This is the real value of Gradidge’s extensive work.

On page 451, Volume 2, the entry for my D-Day plane states: Constructor’s number: 19976, Serial number: 43-15510. The last entry reads: “ ‘42-510’ Pres. USAFM, Hurlburt Fld Memorial Air Park, FL. 08Jun73 - Sep01.” So my “43” became “42” and was residing in Florida!

#43-15510 in Hurlburt Field 24 AMICI / Summer 2008

#43-15510 September,18 1944. Glider tow

Then came the delicate correspondence with the field historian, pitting military records against the desires of an aged war vet: would they recheck? The answer was the same. Data plate missing; records firm; not mine. I persisted. So much so that the historian requested: “…describe the battle damage your aircraft sustained… give us as much detail as possible… We’ll look at the bird and see if we can find evidence of repair work that matches your recollections.”

I told him that on September 18, 1944, during our glider tow, we were hit in the left wing gas tank by a 20mm shell which did not explode but fell into the gasoline, and fizzled out. And I explained had I not instinctively turned away on another occasion, I would have sustained a head wound as I moved about the crew’s area..

A slow month later I got the word, again by e-mail: “Just a short note to let you know that it’s official – we have your bird.” The historian found two patches in roughly the right places which initiated a renewed search inside the plane for the serial number. Ironically, a small radio call plate provided the evidence: “315510.” It was attached with original mounting screws showing corrosion from the years of service. I later learned the month’s delay was needed to clear up the records confusion through the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, which technically owns the plane.

In early November 2007, we attended the Troop Carrier Community reunion in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. But we also set up a visit to Hurlburt Field so that I could give my old bird a fond hug. Fortunately, I was not alone. My pilot on those combat missions with 43-15510, Bill Prindible, joined me. The rest of our crew has long gone to their rest.

On December 10, 2007, I received an official letter from the Commanding Officer, 1st Special Operations Wing, Hurlburt Field. “It was an honor for our wing historians to reunite you and Bill Prindible with your C-47…Your personal research led to an important correction of our history….Your interest and persistence bore fruit and we appreciate your assistance. You are welcome here any time.”

“My Baby” is not flying and wears colors commemorating the service of other C-47s in Viet Nam. But she will continue to personify her C-47s waiting to unload supplies in Holland historical importance, and for me, one of the rewards of writing it down.

A final word Around the world, the DC-3 and the military C-47 version, is recognized as a wonderful flying machine. During war time it limped home on many occasions with gaping holes its crew could have easily escaped through, had they not felt safer within. But the men who flew her, and those who volunteered to jump from her, share great credit during World War II. On D-Day my pilot, Bill, was 19 years old. He maintained the command of an officer over older subordinates, but treated us as comrades sharing the same fate in a vulnerable sky. He got that plane off the ground with more weight on board than she was certified to fly. He started off in a tight, nighttime formation, but safely scattered when the unexpected cloudbank was encountered on that fateful night. Yet the formation returned well enough so we were only slightly off target for the paradrop.

And with nerves of steel, he flew straight through the flak flying around our unarmed and unarmored “ole goose.”

There is no question in my mind, the good Lord really gets credit for that night, as Bill’s skill flew us to hell and back in that wonderful machine. We were safe in that “old goose.” And so we could not help but give high praise and send many a prayer with those brave lads of the 82nd Airborne that had to jump that night from our perfectly good airplane.

Radio operator, Mike Ingrisano(author) and Pilot, Bill Prindible Summer 2008 /AMICI 25

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Name: Rachael Domenica Ray Birthdate: August 25, 1968 Place of birth: Glens Falls, N.Y Where she grew up: Lake George, N.Y. Background: Her Italian-American family originally came from Sicily, Italy Website: RachaelRay.com

Rachael Thoughts: E.V.O.O. (extra-virgin olive oil), stoup (a cross between a stew and soup), yum-o, sammies (instead of sandwiches)

Her first book: In 1998, she met with an independent Manhattan publisher about turning her bundle of recipes into a book. 30 Minute Meals ended up being produced that same year and sold 10,000 copies locally.

How her culinary career started: At Macy’s Marketplace in New York, first at the candy counter and then as the manager of the fresh foods department. After Macy’s, Rachael helped to open Agata & Valentina, the prestigious New York gourmet

For

By Andrew Guzaldo

RACHAEL RAY is the host of the Emmy-award winning syndicated show Rachael Ray as well as the popular Food Network programs 30-Minute Meals and Tasty Travels. Editor-in-chief of the acclaimed magazine Every Day with Rachael Ray, Rachael is also the author of 13 cookbooks, including the #1 New York Times bestsellers 30-Minute Get Real Meals, 365: No Repeats, Express Lane Meals, and 2-4-68: Great Meals for Couples or Crowds. She also has a successful line of cookware and knives. In the spring of 2007, she launched The Yum-o! Organization, a charity aimed at improving the way America eats. Rachael lives in New York City with her husband, John, and dog, Isaboo.

The birth of the 30 Minute Meals concept: While working at a food equipment store in Albany as a buyer and cook, Rachael began a series of cooking classes to increase grocery sales during the holidays. The 30 Minute Meals classes became so popular that the local media sent a feature reporter to cover the phenomenon, and the following week, an Albany TV station asked Rachael to do a weekly 30 Minute Meals segment for the evening news.

Rachael Ray success sizzles In the seven years since she joined the Food Network, Ray’s message - that people should “be able to cook even if they don’t have tons of time or money,” she says - has made her a household name and sold millions of books and magazines

R

achael went from scraping together the rent as a candy counter girl to a multi-millionaire with her own talk show, cooking show(s), magazine, and books that have sold more than 4 million copies. She’s also spawned a lingo all her own. (EVOO for Extra Virgin Olive Oil has enteres the popular vernacular). All this in a little under ten years.

How cool is that?

Love her or hate her, Rachael Ray, she of the perky smile and Girl-next-door demeanor, gets major points for translating her love of cooking into a multi-million media empire. People can’t seem to get enough of her “regular gal” persona. But her bubbly personality masks some serious business savvy.

Using her mentor Oprah Winfrey as a blueprint, Ray has expanded out of the kitchen this year into many other avenues. Her one-hour daytime talk show, The Rachel Ray Show, is patterned after the perennially popular Oprah Winfrey Show, and was the only syndicated daytime talk show launched in 2007 to be renewed. Her Food Network shows continue to be among the most popular on the channel.

She also cooked up some lucrative endorsement deals with name brands such as Dunkin Donuts and Nabisco.

These media venues help feed her magazine (Every Day with Rachel Ray) and cookbook sales.

One thing is for sure, she doesn’t need to get out of the kitchen; she’s proving that she can stand the heat.

It doesn’t take years of training or a ton of time to make a delicious meal.

In Rachael Ray’s new book, “Just In Time,” she offers dozens of new recipes you can make in less than 30 minutes. If that’s still too much time, there are also 15-minute meals, and for those who have extra time, 60-minute meals.

This is Rachael’s most versatile book yet, the one that will help you get the very most out of every minute you spend in the kitchen- whether you’re rushing to the beat of the clock or taking advantage of a little extra time to stop and smell the veggies roasting. Either way you’ll be dishing up some of Rachael’s most appealing recipes ever- and all on your own schedule.

28 AMICI / Summer 2008

Summer recipes fromRachael Ray

Fish Tacos with Summer Salsa This recipe is great on its own, but it’s also the Sunday option in a week’s worth of recipes.

Ingredients:

`1 pound halibut or other meaty white fish fillets `Juice of 2 limes `One 11-ounce can whole tomatillos, drained `4 small zucchini - peeled, seeded and cut into small cubes `1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves and stems `2 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt, plus more to taste `Eight 6-inch corn tortillas `2 tablespoons chili powder `1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste `1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil `1 Hass avocado, peeled and thinly sliced

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 225°. Place the fish in a medium bowl and drizzle with half of the lime juice. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

2. Using your hands, squeeze the juice and flesh from the tomatillos, 1 at a time, into a medium bowl; discard the skins. Mash the tomatillos with a fork. Add the zucchini, the remaining lime juice, the cilantro and 2 teaspoons of the salt and toss.

3. Spread the tortillas on 2 baking sheets and warm in the oven for about 10 minutes.

4. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cayenne pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt.

Remove the fish from the lime juice, pat dry and cover with the spice rub. Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and cook the fish, about 4 minutes on each side. Break the fish into bite-size pieces and season to taste with salt. Arrange the fish in the tortillas with some of the salsa and avocado slices.

Deviled Chicken and Grilled Stone Fruit This is the perfect recipe for a barbecue on a summer evening.

Ingredients:

`1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), plus more for drizzling `4 cloves garlic, grated `2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce `2 tablespoons spicy brown or Dijon mustard `1 tablespoon sweet smoked paprika `1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce `2 to 2 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs `4 stone fruits (such as plums, nectarines or peaches), halved `Salt and pepper `1/2 cup balsamic vinegar `2 tablespoons brown sugar `2 sprigs rosemary, leaves stripped and chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high.

In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup EVOO and the garlic, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika and hot pepper sauce. Add the chicken, turn to coat evenly and let marinate for 15 minutes. Grill, turning once, until the juices run clear when the chicken is pierced, about 5 minutes on each side.

2. Drizzle the stone fruits with EVOO and season with salt and pepper. Place on a grill, without touching the chicken, and cook until grill marks appear, 5 to 6 minutes.

3. In a small saucepan, bring the vinegar, brown sugar and rosemary to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until reduced by about half, 6 to 7 minutes (watch carefully to avoid burning). Serve the chicken with the fruit alongside and drizzle the sauce over both.

Summer Corn and Tomato Pasta For that quick meal when you are on the go!

Ingredients:

`Salt `1 pound bow-tie pasta `2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil `2 garlic cloves, smashed `1 pint cherry tomatoes `3 ears fresh corn, kernels cut off `2 tablespoons unsalted butter `1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente; drain.

2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the corn, raise the heat slightly and cook until the corn is heated through and golden, about 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt.

3. Add the vegetables, butter and basil to the pasta and toss.

Summer 2008 /AMICI 29

Review

p

estaurant

Via Carducci

Teresa Riccelli

By John Rizzo “Location! Location! Location!” Isn’t that what they say is the most vital ingredient for the success of a restaurant, or for that matter any kind of commercial business. Location is very important all right, but it’s not the most important factor in the success or failure of a restaurant – even an Italian restaurant.

The Via Carducci is on the western edge of the Lincoln Park neighborhood, a very excellent location indeed. It’s close to Wrigley Field, the lakefront, trendy shops, clubs, theaters and Lincoln Park itself with its Zoo, marina, conservatory and well-kept, green, tree-shaded grounds.

Because the Via Carducci has valet parking, dinner here also comes with access to one of the world’s attraction-filled urban locales, especially since you don’t have to worry about what to do with your car. Even without the advantage of having a considerable influx of daily visitors from outside the neighborhood most of the locals are both affluent and knowledgeable about the delights of Italian cuisine. So it’s certainly a great place for an Italian restaurant.

But if a restaurant does not satisfy its clientele, it will soon fail, as about 90 percent inevitably do. The successful dining establishment must have good management, which the Via Carducci has in the person of Teresa Riccelli. This very engaging, professional and experienced young lady comes to us from a small hilltop village in Calabria, “about 20 kilometers from the sea.” She learned the nuts and bolts of the Italian restaurant business as a server and hostess at Phil Stefani’s first place for four years before taking the reins at the Via Carducci. Her native roots are significant because Carducci bills itelf as offering as offering “Rustic Southern Italian Cuisine.” This is certainly a refreshing change from the all-too-common “Northern” fad. Having a person like Teresa around to ensure that the fare really is good Southern Cuisine is definitely a virtue.

Naturally, an outstanding chef is another ultra-valuable asset and the Carducci boasts a great one – Alonzo Perez, who has been plying his ample culinary skills in the same kitchen for 11 years.

As the word “Via” implies, the restaurant’s appearance is suggestive of a picturesque village byway. The Via Carducci is not a huge place but is comfortably cozy and has a very pleasant atmosphere. The downstairs private party room is extremely well decorated and features a replica of a Caravaggio painting on the wall. Offering an attractive, welcoming environment conducive to relaxing is yet another important key for success and the Carducci surely has that.

My wife and I visited the Via Carducci during the day, when free street parking places are plentiful. Typical of most eateries, the lunch menu is not as extensive as the dinner version, but there were still plenty of selections of great interest. As usual, my better half ordered a mixed drink before we ate, which turned out to be an expertly prepared and very potent Cosmopolitan from the full service bar. I went with the first of several glasses of excellent house Chianti. Out of habit, I perused the wine list and found all the major Italian and California vintages well represented.

In keeping with the Southern aura, however, there were a number of wines from Campagna, Calabria, Puglia and Sicily that are just not found at most Italian restaurants.

We tried several appetizers, and the very thought of each makes me hungry as I think about them. I love red sweet peppers. I almost like to 30 AMICI / Summer 2008

look at them as much as eating them. The Peperone ripieno consisted of a big, beautiful fresh red pepper stuffed with rice, peas and ground beef and spiced with oregano. It was almost a shame to cut it open! (But I’m glad I did, it was so good!) Another captivating-looking dish was the Rapini e Fagioli, a plateful of scrumptious white beans laced with sautéed rapini spears in oil and garlic. The third selection (which I always have) was an order of Calamari fritti, cooked perfectly with just the right thickness of tasty, crusty breading.

There were a host of pasta dishes, and we could have tried a number of them, but we decided to share one and ordered the Rigatoni alla siciliana. What a delicious surprise! This was a generous helping of the familiar tubular pasta, cooked al dente, with melted buffalo Mozzarella and roasted eggplant served in a tomato cream sauce. Despite the term “cream,” the sauce was very light and extremely flavorful.

To wind things up, we had two entrees – Vitello Vesuvio and Pollo Marsala. Both meats were extraordinarily tender and juicy, and they were served in absolutely delectable sauces. They were both great. Now we have to go back, this time for dinner, when we can have soup and dessert!

Another thing a successful restaurant must have is friendly and efficient service. Service is really what you go out for, isn’t it? And here the Via Carducci shined. As a matter of fact, this establishment is excellent in all ways, and would certainly be a place I would like to patronize even if it didn’t have such a great location.

Buon appetito!

Via Carducci 1419 W. Fullerton Chicago, IL 60614 773-665-1981 Open for Lunch, M-F 11:30 AM Valet Parking begins at 4:00 PM

www.spaccanapolipizzeria.com

Ask for Bill Nuccio

If you want to go to Italy, but just can’t get away right now for whatever reason, go to Spacca Napoli. After a couple of hours there you’ll feel like you’ve just been to Napoli for a really great dining adventure!

SPACCA NAPOLI PIZZERIA

1769 W. SUNNYSIDE CHICAGO, IL 60640

773-878-2420

Open Tuesday through Sunday Closed Monday Lunch: 11:30 am - 3:00 pm; Wed. - Sat. Dinner: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm; Tue.- Thurs.

5:00 pm - 10:00 pm; Fri. - Sat. 12:00 Noon - 9:00 pm; Sun. Summer 2008 /AMICI 31

When one thinks of Italy certain things come to mind, chief among them—romance, fashion, the culinary arts and a cherished optimistic outlook on life. For years, the Italian arts have chronicled the human condition. And now, prolific trumpeter Chris Botti has personified this through his release, Italia (Columbia, 2007); employing outstanding singers Andrea Bocelli, Paula Cole and a posthumous duet with Dean Martin. The result is something truly extraordinary.

CHRIS BOTTI

TRUMPETER JAZZ PERFORMER

Chris Botti is a native of Oregon who was born in Portland and grew up in Corvallis. His rliest musical influence was his mother, a classically trained pianist and part-time piano teacher. “I can’t really sit down and play a song on the piano,” Chris admits. “But I know harmony, and generally I compose on the piano rather than on the trumpet.” He pursued his music studies with a succession of outstanding teachers: David Friesen in the Northwest, Dave Baker in Indiana, and--following Botti’s move to New York City in 1986--the late trumpet master Woody Shaw.

“After I came to New York,” Chris recalls, “I realized I didn’t want to be a jazz musician. I love improvising, but you really need to live the bebop tradition in order to play it.

That kind of music--the kind that Woody Shaw, for example, played so brilliantly--just moves a little too quickly for me.

“The music that really inspired me as a teenager was more like Miles Davis playing ballads with the second Quintet. You know that spacey thing, when they broke down all the chords in the song? That band playing ‘Stella by Starlight’ is something very different from, say, Bud Powell playing the same tune.

“My music is more reined-in, because it’s in a pop format. But this atmospheric quality is what I really loved about jazz, and on my earlier CD’s I’ve tried to marry that feel to the textures and melodies you might hear on a record by Peter Gabriel or Bryan Ferry.”

In the studio and on stage, Chris Botti has worked with such leading singer-songwriter/composers as Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Sting and renowned film composer John Barry, among others; as a sideman, he has appeared on dozens of albums, compilations and soundtracks. Botti’s association with Sting--who joins Botti on both To Love Again and When I Fall In Love--dates back to 1999, when the trumpeter joined the pop legend’s band as featured soloist on the “Brand New Day” tour, which lasted two years.

“What is unique about him is that he has jazz chops and he comes from the world of jazz,” Sting has said of Chris Botti. “He also has a very refined pop sensibility. He looks great and he presents himself well. He works hard, and you know, you see a star a mile off. So he was in my band for four years. He took the light. I’m very happy when people in my band take the spotlight and say, “Let me run with this ball,” because I’ll just stand back and I’ll look good.”

In addition to receiving an RIAA gold-certification for WHEN I FALL IN LOVE in 2004 and TO LOVE AGAIN (both produced

by Bobby Colomby) in 2005, WHAT ARE YOU DOING THE REST 32 AMICI / Summer 2008

OF YOUR LIFE? (with vocals by Sting) earned a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Arrangement Accompanying Vocals. Since then, Chris Botti has toured constantly, stopping only to tape his own PBS Special and DVD in Los Angeles in December of 2005.

“CHRIS BOTTI LIVE with Orchestra & Special Guests,” shot December 1 and 2, 2005, over a Thursday - Friday run at LA’s fabled Wilshire Theatre, inspired the Los Angeles Times music critic Don Heckman to write, “It was apparent, from the first notes Chris Botti played at the Wilshire Theatre on Friday, that the sold-out house was in for a special evening...Botti’s latest album, TO LOVE AGAIN -- as well as the previously released WHEN I FALL IN LOVE -- features extraordinary lineups of vocal guest artists. Six showed up for the concert -- Sting, Jill Scott, Paula Cole, Renee Olstead, Paul Buchanan and Gladys Knight -along with Burt Bacharach...despite the inevitable audience excitement generated by the appearance of such vocal headliners and despite the artists’ diversity of interpretations, it was Botti’s virtuosic trumpet work, his inventive melody-making, his engaging onstage presence and his powerful band ...that ruled the evening...”

A full concert version of the critically-acclaimed CHRIS BOTTI LIVE with ORCHESTRA & SPECIAL GUESTS, has become a viewergrabbing highlight of PBS Pledge Weeks across the county and is available as either a CD/DVD package, Blu-ray Disc, or a CD-only configuration.

One of the world’s most popular concert attractions, Chris Botti toured with Diana Krall in 2007 and will be one of the featured guests in Andrea Bocelli’s upcoming live concert special slated to air on PBS in the late fall of 2007. He currently maintains one of the busiest touring schedules monitored by the industry and the requests for television appearances, film scoring and other projects are on the rise as the sound of his trumpet is heard by more and more listeners around the world.

-down-

-Across-

1 First film Stallone directed

Multitalented brother of Stallone who wrote and sang this memorable opening song (Take It Back) in the first and last Rocky movie.

3

7. Nickname

by Leon J. Radomile

2.

Rocky Jr. in current movie

Sylvester Stallone Crossword Puzzle

17 Stallone co-hosted this popular reality fight show with Sugar Ray Leonard

Vietnam vet character

8

4.

Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger were Stallone’s business partner in this restaurant chain

5 6

1993 film that reenergized Stallone’s career

Received Bachelor of 20.Fine Arts degree from

This president’s favorite actor along with Chuck Norris. Also share same birthday of July 6, 1946.

this university in 1999

Stallone’s father emigrated to US from this Italian region

11

Stallone wrote, produced and directed John Travolta in this Saturday Night Fever sequel.

18

This fight served as the inspiration for Rocky

19 15

21.

12.

22

13.Stallone’s 16

Starred with Billy Dee Williams in this 1981 police detective thriller One of the most versatile and gifted performers of the American stage and screen was Rocky Balboa’s first fight manager

10

city of birth

Stallone gave fellow Italian American role as Thunder lips in Rocky III

9 Francis Ford Coppola’s sister was an important Stallone co-star

American Film Institute ranks this movie character seventh on its all-time movie hero list

14.Stallone’s

1997 film with Robert De Niro and Ray Liotta that earned Stallone critical acclaim

Played Lieutenant Marion Cobretti in this 1986 action movie

middle name

Look for the soluzione alla pagina 48

Summer 2008 /AMICI 33

ENTERTAINMENT

Renée Fleming and

La traviata

By John Rizzo

In this season of “change,” we note that this applies not only to politics, but to the meaning of words. For example, the word “diva” (lit. “divinity” or “goddess”) no longer means only a brilliant and compelling female opera singer. Thanks mainly to the uncultured, poorly educated plastic-faced mavens of the mass media, “diva” is so liberally used that it now denominates the likes of Madonna and Britney Spears. Call me a neanderthal, troglodyte or just plain old fashioned, but for me the word will always mean an exceptional prima donna. During my lifetime there are only a few such singers that I would call divas. Maria Callas, Renata Tebaldi, Joan Sutherland, Montserrat Caballé and Mirella Freni are divas of the recent past. Today, there is only one diva – Renée Fleming.

Naturally, Fleming has a gorgeous voice. Her enchanting soprano is voluptuous, but very pretty. Like a fine wine, it has sundry highlights that are difficult to savor completely at the same time. She has absolute control of her fine instrument, enabling her to effectively perform both the lyric and dramatic repertoire. Power and authority are consistent in all registers of her voice, while florid coloratura passages are characterized by amazingly precise definition between individual pitches. When an interpretation calls for it, she can float the most delicate pianissimo tones such that the listener is brought to the edge of his seat. With all this musical technique, Fleming is also an excellent actress, consistently displaying a convincing, credible stage personality.

In short, she was born to play Violetta in Verdi’s La traviata.

Verdi, in his later years, is reported to have said, “A mediocrity can sing Violetta.” Right there is a good reason why Verdi is not personally a reliable source for understanding his works. In fact, the role requires a singer with extraordinary abilities to do justice to the entire role. Act I calls for a lyric coloratura soprano, at home with the Bel Canto, while Acts II and III need a far more dramatic singer and a serious actress, one who would not be out of place in later Verdi or Puccini. Typically, when La traviata is scheduled, either a soprano is hired who can shine in the “Sempre libera,” but falls short when she belts out “Amami Alfredo!,” or the opposite type, one who sluffs through the first act pyrotechnics and throbs with passion in the remaining acts.

We must applaud Bill Mason and the Lyric Opera for bringing Renée Fleming and La traviata together on the Chicago stage. After scheduling an excellent production of Verdi’s most

34 AMICI / Summer 2008

popular opera for a series of Fall ’07 performances, the production was re-staged in January for six performances with Fleming in the lead role. This was something I wanted to see for several years. I last saw her (for the first time) at Lyric in 2001 in an unbelievably outstanding portrayal of Desdemona, in Otello. Some time after that, someone told me that she was doing Violetta at the Met. I just couldn’t believe that the same singer could do a good job in two roles that embody such contrasting vocal qualities! Then I heard some of her recordings and her singing on the soundtrack of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1999), in which she sang the “Libiam” from Traviata and the “Casta diva” from Norma. That was enough for me. When the pricey tickets for the Fleming performances became available, I re-financed my house and bought a couple.

In the 19th century, the great diva Adelina Patti was so good and in such demand, that she could not be hired for a normal production in the schedule of even the most prestigious opera companies – her price was just too high. Thus she would sing in specially arranged productions of operas like La traviata with supporting singers whose fees would be far less than that of regular opera company performers. Today, money is still an important factor in opera, but fortunately, even though Renée Fleming is head and shoulders the most coveted opera singer in the world, she still performs with top notch professionals. The supporting principals of Lyric’s January ’08 production, tenor Matthew Polenzani as Alfredo and baritone Thomas Hampson as Germont, were not quite the equals of the Fall ’07 male principals, but each gave strong performances, no doubt inspired by the consummate artistry of the prima donna.

I have seen at least 20 performances of La traviata, I directed a production of it once and have studied it for many years and have commented on it numerous times. With Renée Fleming as Violetta, however, please excuse the cliché, it was if I experienced this opera for the first time. Fleming is simply the definitive Violetta of our age. From the opening party scene, where her commanding presence and brilliant voice first make themselves felt, to the final death scene, which is so emotional that the spectator must exercise the strongest self control, the unshackled talent of this woman is absolutely hypnotic.

like witnessing some poor soul’s last moments on earth.

I have repeatedly lamented the fact that I was not around to attend live performances of the stars of the ‘40s and ‘50s, but in Renée Fleming’s performance in La traviata on January 14, 2008, I experienced opera as good as it ever gets – complete with a genuine diva. If you ever get

Photo by Dan Rest Photo by Dan Rest

Photo by Dan Rest

Swept away by the rollicking gusto of the “Libiam” and the exquisite duo of the last bars of “Un di felice,” I was stunned

by Fleming’s sheer technical virtuosity and immense range of feeling in her act-ending grand aria. With its coloraturalaced cabaletta, it marks the last traditional multi-movement piece of its kind that Verdi ever wrote. It was then that I realized that I had never heard all those notes sung that way before and thus had never really grasped the true depths of Verdi’s musical and dramatic genius.Verdi obviously relished the Fleming & Hampson, Thais challenge of composing music that would express all the nuances of Violetta’s complex personality and Renée Fleming exults in performing it to perfection.

There is no better example of this than in the great duet of the second act, when Violetta becomes a true tragic heroine. As the multisectioned piece progressed, she pulled the audience into her song, and deeper and deeper into her dramatic conundrum. Ultimately, the final “Addio” of the duet was an emotional relief! Also memorable in the second act gambling scene was the way her vocal line soared three times over the busy hubbub in that sighing eight-bar phrase that hauntingly captures the essence of utter despair. Fleming was musically intense and lustrous in the final act but here it was mostly her acting that made her performance so amazing. It was actually

Fleming & Nicias, Thais the opportunity to hear Renée Fleming sing Italian opera live, do it. I guarantee that you will be astounded at what you hear and be proud to be Italian.

Otello- Renee Fleming

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RR E S T A U R A N T

When it comes to wines...either become... or get to know...someone “in the know!”

R A D I O

Tom Reboletti…Editorial Over the last year so much attention has been directed towards wines, from all over the world, but more specifically the direction of pairing wines with food. First let’s start by saying that no longer are the great wines we now enjoy are those from France and Italy...today we are tasting wines of great character from, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, and yes, from our own soil, in the great Napa Valley. For us, common folk who like to drink wine and are not experts by any means, just how do we stay on top of the ever-changing industry? What are the best new wines, what new country has developed a wine, what goes with what? Well the answer is the “Wine Pairings”, you see taking place when you go to your favorite place...many restaurants are now directing you to try specific wines with specific menu selections...what a great thing for us!!! Being able to use this method of selecting wines based on what we are eating and this from the people who know.... it takes the risk out of buying the bottle that turns out not to be the right choice, a costly mistake.

Let’s use the knowledge of the ones who know...when you are out do not be ashamed to ask to sample a taste before you select a wine. The trend of pairing seems to be getting bigger and bigger everyday and is now expanding to pairing wines with desserts. You can ultimately try several different wines with your dinner and experience the selection that enhances your dining experience. I would also like to mention that in addition to promoting the sale of wines through pairing, many wines are now being made available in half bottles, which gives a great opportunity to have wine in a more affordable way. So take advantage of selecting wines based on what they best go with... since many, many of us are not experts in the field of wine...let the pros give us the direction Dane Neal…Editorial Wine…as traditional as time itself, really when you think (or dream) of the perfect meal in the perfect setting with people you enjoy, you (or at least I do) always imagine a glass of wine at the table. That is not to say there aren’t many situations where

enjoying oneself with friends…and food…in a great setting, and a glass of wine is nowhere to be found...including my thoughts… a Cubs game comes to mind as that exact kind of situation.

However, back to the perfect meal (cue the violins)…now although I know wine has a place at the perfect meal, exactly what wine is perfect for that meal is where things get kind of fuzzy for me. Wine is both desirable and intimidating, and without the right information, education and just a little confidence, some people often decide to just forego wine altogether for a different beverage.

Ok, so how can we get the information that will help us be the educated and confident diner, when sitting in that perfect setting, ready to enjoy our meal the right way…with wine. The Internet has opened up countless avenues for information as has the many new shows on new networks dedicated to food, dining, cooking and getting the most out of our need to eat.

Beyond the very basics of red wine for red meat and white wine for fish, through some of these outlets one can dig deeper into different varieties and specific flavors from different regions, and really open up a whole new avenue to compliment food and really more fully enjoy the meal. That said, the television shows Internet websites don’t give you the interaction and advice that an informed restaurateur, store owner or trusted wine distributor can offer. Joe Imperioli of Villa Del Vino and Midways’ International Corp Imports are those in the know. Joe was a guest on a recent episode of Restaurant Radio Chicago (dedicated to wine) and he said part of the service he provides is helping to locate great wines from places around the world especially Italy, but also to educate local store owners about different varieties available and what make them special, important and perfect for that perfect meal in that perfect setting.

This kind of information is invaluable, and where you get it depends on where you look, so whether your teacher is the internet, TV, your waiter, wine seminars at Kendall College, your local store owner or all of the above, the important thing is you get what you need to join all those diners already enjoying THEIR perfect meal…with wine!

Stay tuned to Restaurant Radio Chicago, log onto the website at www.restaurantaradio.tv …And until next time…”We’ll save you a table”

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2008 national italian restaurant guide Email us for info on

Stars Restaurant Review Rating!

CHICAGO AND SUBURBS, IL

BOSTON, MA

NEW YORK, NY

3 Olives Restaurant / Twist Lounge 8318 W. Lawrence Ave. Norridge, IL 60706 Phone: (708) 452-1545

Bacco Ristorante & Bar 107 Salem St. Boston, MA 02113 Phone: (617) 624-0454

Borgo Antico Italian Restaurant 22 E. 13th St. New York, NY 10003 Phone: (212) 807-1313

Amalfi Ristorante 298 Glen Ellyn Rd. Bloomingdale, IL 630-893-9222

Fiorella’s 187 North St. Newton, MA 02460 Phone: (617) 969-9990

Carmine’s 2450 Broadway New York, NY 10024 Phone: (212) 362-2200

Caponies Trattoria 3350 N. Harlem Ave. Chicago, IL 60634 Phone: (773) 804-9024

Ristorante Villa Francesca 150 Richmond St. Boston, MA 02109 Phone: (617) 367-2948

Carmine’s Rhode Island - NEW! 100 Twin Rivers Rd. Lincoln, RI 02865 Phone: (401) 475-8600

Capri Ristorante Italiano, Inc. 1238 W. Ogden Ave. Naperville, IL 60563 Phone: (630) 778-7373

Sorento’s Italian Gourmet 86 Peterborough St. Boston, Ma, 02215 Phone: (617) 424-7070

Massimo al Ponte Vecchio 206 Thompson St. New York, NY 10012 Phone: (212) 228-7701

Custom House 500 S. Dearborn St. Chicago, IL 60605 Phone: (312) 523-0200

MILWAUKEE, WI

Gioacchino’s Ristorante & Pizzeria 5201 St. Charles Rd. Bellwood, IL 60104 Phone: (708) 544-0380 La Piazza 410 Circle Ave., Forest Park, IL Phone: (708) 366-4010 www.piazzacafe.com Osteria via Stato 620 N. State St. Chicago, IL 60610 Phone: (312) 642-8450

Alioto’s 3041 N. Mayfair Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53222 Phone: (414) 476-6900 Buca di Beppo 1233 N. Van Buren St. Milwaukee, WI 53202 Phone: (414) 224-8672 Carini’s La Conca D’oro 3468 N. Oakland Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53211 Phone: (414) 963-9623

NAPLES, FL

Spacca Napoli Pizzeria 1769 W. Sunnyside Ave. Chicago, IL 60640 Phone: (773) 878-2420

Amador’s Bistro Italiano 3367 Bayshore Dr. Naples, FL 34112 Phone: (239) 775-7666

Venuti’s Ristorante & Banquets 2251 W. Lake St. Addison, IL 60101 Phone: (630) 376-1500

Bellagio of Naples 492 Bayfront Pl. Naples, FL 34102 Phone: (239) 430-7020

Via Carducci 1419 W. Fullerton Chicago, IL 60614 773-665-1981

Trattoria Milano Italian 336 9TH St. N Naples, FL 34102 Phone: (239) 643-2030

Vince’s Italian Restaurant 4747 N. Harlem Ave. Chicago, IL 60634 Phone: (708) 867-7770

PHILADELPHIA, PA Dante & Luigi’s 762 S. 10th St. Philadelphia, PA 19147 Phone: (215) 922-9501 Dolce` 241 Chestnut St. Philadelphia, PA 19106 Phone: (215) 238-9983 Mama Yolanda’s Italian Restaurant 746 S. 8TH St. Philadelphia, PA 19147 Phone: (215) 592-0195 Mio Sogno Italian Restaurant 2650 S. 15TH St. Philadelphia, PA 19145 Phone: (215) 467-3317

Puccini & Pinetti 129 Ellis St. San Francisco, CA 94102 Phone: (415) 392-5500 Ristorante Umbria 198 2nd St. San Francisco, CA 94105 Phone: (415) 546-6985

ST. LOUIS, MO Favazza’s 5201 Southwest Ave. St. Louis, MO 63139 Phone: (314) 772-4454 John Mineo’s Italian 13490 Clayton Rd. St. Louis, MO 63131 Phone: (314) 434-5244 Modesto Tapas Bar & Restaurant 5257 Shaw Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110 Phone: (314) 772-8272 Tony’s Restaurant 410 Market St. St. Louis, MO 63102 Phone: (314) 231-7007 Concetta’s Italian Restaurant 600 S. 5th St. St. Charles, MO 63301 Phone: (636) 946-2468 Ricardo’s Italian Cafe 1931 Park Ave. St. Louis, MO 63104 Phone: (314) 421-4833

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Carrabba’s Italian Grill 10923 Olive Blvd.

Creve Coeur, MO 63141 Phone: (314) 872-3241

Kuleto’s 221 Powell St. San Francisco, CA 94102 Phone: (415) 397-7720

The Old Spaghetti Factory 727 N. First St. St. Louis, MO 63102 Phone: (314) 621-0276

Mescolanza 2221 Clement St. San Francisco, CA 94121 Phone: (415) 668-2221

CONTACT US FOR RATES TO BE LISTED IN OUR NATIONAL RESTAURANT GUIDE Summer 2008 /AMICI 37

SEsposito p o rt s Honored as New Ambassador

By Joe Cosentino

T

he Chicago Blackhawks, in a continuing effort to restore its status in the Chicago sports landscape, have announced former All Star goalie and National Hockey League Hall of Famer has been named an ambassador for the legendary hockey team. The Blackhawks previously named former players Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita as ambassadors. All three have had their numbers retired by the team along with former goalie Glenn Hall and current coach Denis Savard.

“I have a lot of friends in Chicago,” says Esposito, who played in goal for 16 years with the Blackhawks. “We’ll make appearances, reach out to the fans, and do whatever the Blackhawks’ organization wants.”

Born on April 23, 1943, Esposito grew up in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. He was the youngest player in a group of friends, who played the Tony Esposito Canadian national pastime hockey - from sun up to sun down in the tiny working class hamlet just across the Canadian border from northern Michigan. The group included his older brother Phil, who would also become an NHL star and an NHL Hall of Famer. It was in those early days that he found great success playing in goal.

Esposito excelled in other sports as well. He was voted most valuable player on the St. Mary’s College (high school) football team in 1962. He also ran track and played softball. Lifelong friend from the “Soo” and former teammate Gene Ubriaco noted Esposito’s speed. “He could run like a deer.”

Following high school, he spent one year with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. He took advantage of a hockey scholarship to attend Michigan Tech where he studied business administration and continue his hockey career.

“You had to study,” he recalls. “If you missed three classes you got a failure.”

In his first season with the varsity in 1964-65, the Huskies won the NCAA championship defeating Boston College 8-2 in the final game. He appeared in 17 games during the regular season, posting one shutout, a 2.35 goals-against-average, and made the first team All-American squad.

His education proved as valuable as his hockey skills. After he retired from the Blackhawks, he was general manager with the Pittsburgh Penguins from 1988 to1989 and was a part owner with the Tampa Bay Lightning from 1991to1998.

“I was in management for 11 years in hockey,” he says. “It helped me 38 AMICI / Summer 2008

for Blackhawks

a lot. I did a lot of contracts. In those days we never had a lawyer. College taught me how to organize and have good business practices.”

In 1967, he graduated from Michigan Tech and was drafted by the Montreal Canadians. He played his first professional game with then Western Hockey League Vancouver Canucks. He moved to the Houston Apollos of the Central Hockey League. After posting a 2.42 goals-against-average with Houston, he was called up by the Canadians.

On Nov. 29, 1968, he made his first appearance for Montreal, replacing Rogatien Vachon in the second period of the game against the Oakland Seals. The Seals beat Montreal 5-4. Canadiens coach Claude Ruel gave Tony his first NHL start against the Boston Bruins on Dec. 5. The Canadiens played to a 2-2 tie. Both Boston goals were scored by his brother Phil.

“It was tough playing against Phil when he was with Boston, because he was with a good team,” says Tony.

“They should have won more than they did (two Stanley Cup championships). They had a real good team.”

Tony remained with Montreal for the rest of the season, appearing in 13 games. He had two shutouts and a goalsagainst-average of 2.73. The Canadiens won the Stanley Cup in 1969. However, Montreal failed to protect him in the interleague draft of the following summer in June of that year. The Chicago Black Hawks, who had finished in last place in the NHL’s

In a ceremony at the United Center on March 19, Tony was honored as an ambassador. He was joined on ice by former teammates and a surprise guest, his brother, Phil, who also played for the Blackhawks.

East Division in 1968-1969, largely because of weak defense, drafted him. Since he played in only 13 games for Montreal the season before, Esposito was still classified as a NHL rookie for the upcoming 1969-1970 season. He took over the starting goalkeeper position and recorded an NHL modern-day record 15 shutouts in 63 games played. He received the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s outstanding rookie and the

Vezina Trophy for outstanding goaltending.

“Teams had different styles,” he recalls. “You knew what Philadelphia was going to be like … Montreal was a skating team. If you weren’t skating at top speed, they would beat you on the power play. Boston had a combination of skill and physical presence.”

With Tony in the net, the Blackhawks became a powerhouse team.

They catapulted from last place to first in their division. Everything was looking up for the Blackhawks. Then came the birth of the World Hockey Association.

Hull bolted to the new league for a one million dollar bonus in 1972.

“We had a disappointment in 1972,” Tony says. “It really set us back.

We were on the verge of winning a few Stanley Cups. Don’t let anybody kid you … we had the best team in hockey. We lost several key components.

The biggest key was a 50-goal scorer (Hull). You can’t replace that. That was the difference between over the top and falling short.”

Tony went on to a long and distinguished career. Before he retired in 1985, he won Vezina Trophies in 1972 and 1974, and was a five-time NHL All Star. In 16 seasons, he played in 886 regular season games winning 423 and tying 151.

“I knew what it took to get up there in the NHL,” he says, “and I knew how tough it was to stay up there … to stay there you have to sacrifice more.

In goaltending you have to be ready. A game can be over in ten minutes if a team gets a couple of quick goals.”

There are several goalies playing today that Esposito has high praise for. He likes Martin Broduer for his endurance in a career that spans 14 seasons with the New Jersey Devils and Rick DiPietro of the New York Islanders as an “up and comer” with an abundance of talent. Additionally, he includes Ilya Bryzgalov of the Phoenix Coyotes, Cristobal Huet of the Washington Capitals, Miikka Kiprusoff of the Calgary Flames, and Tomas Vokoun of the Florida Panthers among the best in the league. “(Vancouver Canucks’ goalie) Roberto Luongo is the best in the league right now,” Esposito says. “If you went around the league and talk to the hockey people, he would be rated No. 1.”

Roberto Luongo “It’s a different game today,” he added. “I played 60 out of 70 games. Shutouts are tough, you can be playing great and the puck could hit somebody and go in … things like that happen. You need a couple of breaks to get a shutout.”

Savard played with Esposito for four seasons with the Blackhawks’.

He credits Esposito for his ability and leadership on and off the ice.

“If he saw something in a teammate that needed help, he would come to you, take you to dinner, and talk about it,” recalls Savard. “He did that to me once. We were in St. Louis during the 1982-83 season. I was going through a slump. We had a bite to eat and a beer. Afterwards, he told me to get some rest. I scored a hat trick the next day.”

Esposito likes the renewed energy surrounding the Blackhawks this season. Anchored by two young talented rookie stars, Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, attendance has risen 45 percent. That includes eight United Center sellouts of more than 20,000 (as of press time). Most importantly, the team is playing an exciting brand of hockey.

“They changed the rules so the young players can get into the league,” he says. “Those kids (Toews and Kane) are exciting to watch.”

Following the passing of team owner Bill Wirtz, his son Rocky took over as chairman of the board. Rocky made some bold moves. First, he allow home games to be broadcast on television and hired long time Chicago Cubs marketing specialist John McDonough as team president.

Bringing in ambassadors was McDonough’s brainchild.

“I’m happy with what I’m doing as an ambassador,” says Esposito.

“Rocky was tremendous with me. He gave me an opportunity to become an employee again and help out any way I can. I’m happy to be involved again.”

One of Esposito’s first assignments for the Blackhawks is an

Esposito Launches New Wine Series C

hicago Blackhawks’ Hall of Famers Tony Esposito and Bobby Hull launched their own brand of NHL Alumni Signature Wine Series in Chicago on March 3. The wine debut was held at Binny’s in Chicago. Esposito and Hull signed bottles of wine for customers.

The National Hockey League Alumni Association formed a partnership with several former NHL stars to create the NHL Alumni Signature Wine Series. The series includes 12 different wines, 6 Chardonnay and 6 Cabernet sauvignon, all bearing a gold-relief likeness of the players who are legends of hockey.

Other players involved include Gordie Howe, Red Lindsey, Bobby Clarke, Dave Schultz, Pat LaFontaine, Rob Ray, Clark Gilles, Mike Richter and Rod Gilbert.

Proceeds from the wine sales will benefit three charitable affiliates. First, a portion will be donated to the charity of the players’ choice. Esposito has designated the Chicago Cougars minor hockey program to benefit from wine sales.

The second portion of the proceeds will be directed to each team’s alumni association which in turn will help other charities and the third portion will benefit the NHL Alumni Association’s “Hockey’s Greatest Family Fund” which helps former players who are in need financially or physically. appearance July 18-20 at the Inaugural Chicago Blackhawks Convention at the Hilton Chicago. The convention is sold out. A crowd of 10,000 fans is expected. Esposito will be joined by fellow ambassadors Hull and Mikita, former and current players, and the coaching staff for autograph and photo sessions, question-and-answer sessions, exhibits and interactive games.

“The young fans coming to the games today never experienced the excitement in the old building (Chicago Stadium),” says Esposito. “The object is to build up the fan base for the future.”

In a ceremony before the game against the Washington Capitals on March 19, Esposito was honored as an ambassador. He was joined on ice by former teammates and a surprise guest, his brother, Phil. Phil presented Tony with his goalie mask. Tony donned the mask one last time much to the delight of the sold out United Center.

“It’s a great feeling to be here on this ice again,” he said. “This is the highlight of my life being back here.”

Esposito resides in Tampa, Florida with his wife. His son Jason is an executive chef in Tampa and Mark is a pilot and is married with two children.

“I’m doing well, everything is great,” says Esposito.

“I think it’s important for the kids to know who they (Esposito, Hull, and Mikita) are,” says Savard. “They are the guys who built the foundation for what the game is today. I will never forget that.”

Summer 2008 /AMICI 39

“Of all the rights of women, the greatest is to be a mother.”

Lin Yutang

W

e are sitting at lunch one day when my daughter casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of “starting a family.” “We’re taking a survey,” she says half-joking. “Do you think I should have a baby?”

“It will change your life,” I say, carefully keeping my tone neutral.

“I know,” she says, “no more sleeping in on weekends, no more spontaneous vacations.”

But that is not what I meant at all.

I look at my daughter, trying to decide what to tell her.

I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes.

I want to tell her that the physical wounds of child bearing will heal, but becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so raw that she will forever be vulnerable.

I consider warning her that she will never again read a newspaper without asking, “What if that had been MY child?” That every plane crash, every house fire will haunt her.

That when she sees pictures of starving children, she will wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die.

I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will reduce her to the primitive level of a bear protecting her cub. That an urgent call of “Mom!” will cause her to drop a soufflé or her best crystal without a moments hesitation.

I feel that I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood.

She might arrange for childcare, but one day she will be going into an important business meeting and she will think of her baby’s sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure her baby is all right.

I want my daughter to know that every day decisions will no longer be routine. That a five year old boy’s desire to go to the men’s room rather than the women’s at McDonald’s will become a major dilemma. That right there, in the midst of clattering trays and screaming children, issues of independence and gender identity will be weighed against the prospect that a child molester may be lurking in that restroom.

However decisive she may be at the office,

she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother.

Looking at my attractive daughter, I want to assure her that eventually she will shed the pounds of pregnancy, but she will never feel the same about herself. That her life, now so

Please share this with a Mom that you know or all of your girlfriends, or daughters, who may someday be Moms.

May you always have in your arms the one who is in your heart.

* * * Our Mom is always with us...

She’s the whisper of the leaves as we walk down the street.

She’s the smell of bleach in our freshly laundered socks.

She’s the cool hand on your brow when you’re not well.

Our mother lives inside our laughter. important, will be of less value to her once she She’s crystallized in every teardrop. has a child. That she would give herself up in a She’s the place we came from, moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years, not to accomplish her our first home... own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish She’s the map we follow theirs. with every step that we take.

I want her to know that a cesarean scar or shiny She’s your first love stretch marks will become badges of honor. My daughter’s relationship with her husband will and your first heartbreak... change, but not in the way she thinks. and nothing on earth can separate you.

I wish she could understand how much more Not time, Not space... you can love a man who is careful to powder Not even death... the baby or who never hesitates to play with his will ever separate us child.

I think she should know that she will fall in from Mom... love with him again for reasons she would now We will always carry her inside of us... find very unromantic.

Etched in our hearts.

I wish my daughter could sense the bond she Happy Mothers Day Mom, will feel with women throughout history who have tried to stop war, prejudice and drunk I Love You!

A MOM...

40 AMICI / Summer 2008

I want to describe to my daughter the exhilaration of seeing your child learn to ride a bike.

I want to capture for her the belly laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog or cat for the first time.

I want her to taste the joy that is so real it actually hurts.

My daughter’s quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes. “You’ll never regret it,” I finally say. Then I reached across the table, squeezed my daughter’s hand and offered a silent prayer for her, and for me, and for all the mere mortal women who stumble their way into this most wonderful of callings.

driving.

Events

Don’t miss

JOINT CIVIC COMMITTEE OF ITALIAN AMERICANS

DANTE AWARD

May, 15. 11:30am Location: Galleria Marchetti 825 W. Erie St., Chicago, IL More info: 708-450-9050

CASA ITALIA

AN EVENING OF MUSIC AND SONG

Sunday, June 1st, 2008 Location: Cultural Center 37th Andsoffel, Stone Park, Il Cost: $15.00 for adults, $10.00 for children More info: 708-345-5933

ITALIAN CULTURAL CENTER

A BOOTH AT THE CHICAGO TRIBUNE PRINTERS’ ROW BOOK FAIR HONORING LARRY WERT

June 7-8, 2008 The Booth will feature hundreds of Italian and Italian American authors and a wide variety of Italian oriented books, including many children’s titles.

More info: Call for location details Dominic Candeloro. 708-354-0952

JOINT CIVIC COMMITTEE OF ITALIAN AMERICANS

COLUMBUS DAY PARADE

July, 18. 6:00pm Queen Pageant Location: Elmcrest Banquet Hall More info: 708-450-9050

JOINT CIVIC COMMITTEE OF ITALIAN AMERICANS CHICAGO WHITE SOX

ITALIAN HERITAGE NIGHT

August, 6. Game time... 7:00pm Location: Sox Park More info: 708-450-9050

ITALIAN AMERICAN WAR VETERANS

2 AUXILLIARY NIGHT AT THE RACES

August, 8. 6:00PM Location: Maywood Park, Il Cost: $30.00 More info: Joann Serpico. 708-456-5945

CASA ITALIA

SUMMER ART SHOW

August 7-25, 2008.

Location: Florentine Room of the Italian Cultural Center 1621 N. 39th Ave., Chicago, IL More info: 708-345-5933

ITALIAN AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE- MIDWEST

ITALIAN STYLE 2008

September 19-21, 2008 The event will feature a trade fair, fashion shows, food and wine tastings, cooking classes, concerts and movies. The Chamber will host its Annual Gala at 6:30 pm on September 20 in the Grand Ballrom of Navy Pier.

Location: Navy Pier, Chicago, IL More info: 312-533-9137

JOINT CIVIC COMMITTEE OF ITALIAN AMERICANS

HONORING ROBERT MARIANO

July, 21. 6:00pm Location: Hilton Chicago, Grand Ballroom More info: 708-450-9050

BY TURANO LADIES OLD BAGS... LADIES LUNCHEON July, 26 Location: 8600 W. North Ave., Maywood Park, IL More info: 630-640-1124

THE GRANT PARK CONCERT SOCIETY

VITTORIO GRIGOLO TO HEADLINE VENETIAN NIGHT

Saturday. July, 26 Italian tenor Vittorio Grigolo– referred to by USA Today as “the next Pavarotti”- will be the featured singer for Venetian Night on Chicago’s Lakefront Location: Millennium Park Concert at the Pritzker Pavilion More info: (312) 553-9137

It’s that time of the year again... So scrape off the ice and snow and get ready for the Annual Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago Golf Classic Friday, June 27, 2008 Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago strives to ensure that all children and adults with autism and other disabilities receive the help, hope and support needed to lead productive, independent lives. That is the vision of Easter Seals and is at the heart of what we do.

Your participation in the Golf Classic is critical to making this vision as reality. Please mark your calendars for Friday, June 27, 2008 and join us at the beautiful Grand Geneve Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wiskonsin.

And remember, “it’s for the kids!”

For more information, please contact us at 312.939.5115 14 East Jackson Boulevard | 9th Floor | Suite 900 | Chicago, IL 60604 www.eastersealschicago.org

Summer 2008 /AMICI 41

The Reasons

to Learn

Italian

Italian is a language full of contradictions: its history goes back thousands of years, and, yet, it has only been the national language of Italy since the nineteenth century. Why should you learn Italian?

Maybe you fell in love with the rolling hills of Tuscany on your first visit to il bel paese—or maybe you fell in love with an Italian! Maybe your grandparents emigrated from Italy, so you want to investigate your family history. Perhaps you’re an aspiring musician who wants to learn what adagio, allegro, and andante mean, or an opera singer who wants to improve her pronunciation. Or you heard that it’s easier to learn Italian as opposed to English.

For all these reasons and more, you’ve decided to learn Italian, improve on what lessons you’ve already taken, or 1. Understand Luciano Pavarotti when he belts out a phrase in a high C. formalize those rudimentary phrases you’ve 2. Order in Italian with confidence at an authentic Italian restaurant. been speaking when traveling to Italy.

3. Improve your cultural understanding and global communication.

No matter what your motivation—the 4. Stop relying on subtitles when watching Italian-language movies. opportunity to work overseas, cultural 5. Get directions in Italian on your next visit to Rome. exchange in a land steeped in history and 6. Converse with your Italian-born grandparents. culture, researching your genealogy, or 7. Choose the right size at the Armani boutique in Florence without guessing. studying other topics such as Italian literature 8. Research your family roots and interpret old documents. or art history—you can discover new worlds 9. Study art history in the land where Michelangelo was born. when learning Italian. So raise a glass of 10. Read La Divina Commedia as Dante wrote it.

Montepulciano and congratulate yourself on embarking on a new adventure.

Top 10 Reasons to Learn Italian

Buon viaggio!

n a i l Ita

~ Divorce After 54 Years ~

(Many parents of grown children can relate to this one

)

Salvatore calls his son in NY and says,” Vinnie, I have something to tell you. However, I don’t want to discuss it. I’m merely telling you because you’re my oldest child, and I thought you ought to know. I’ve made up my mind, I’m divorcing Mama.”

The son is shocked and asks his father to tell him what happened.

“I don’t want to get into it. My mind is made up.”

“But Dad, you just can’t decide to divorce Mama just like that after 54 years together.

What happened?”

“It’s too painful to talk about it. I only called because you’re my son, and I thought you should know. I really don’t want to get into it anymore than this. You can call your sister and tell her. It will spare me the pain.”

“But where’s Mama? Can I talk to her?”

“No I don’t want you to say anything to her about it. I haven’t told her yet. Believe me it hasn’t been easy. I’ve agonized over it for several days, and I’ve finally come to a decision.

I have an appointment with the lawyer the day after tomorrow.”

“Dad, don’t do anything rash. I’m going to take the first flight down. Promise me that you won’t do anything until I get there.”

“Well, all right, I promise. Next week is Passover. I’ll hold off seeing the lawyer until after Passover. Call your sister in NJ and break the news to her. I just can’t bear to talk about it anymore.”

A half hour later, Salvatore receives a call from his daughter who tells him that she and her brother were able to get tickets and that they and the children will be arriving in Florida the day after tomorrow. “Vinnie told me That you don’t want to talk about it on the telephone, but promise me that you won’t do anything until we both get there.”

Salvatore promises.

After hanging up from his daughter, Salvatore turns to his wife and says, “Well Deeana, it worked this time, but what are we going to going to do next time to get them to come home for the holidays?”

42 AMICI / Summer 2008

J kes “What... you’re coming emptyhanded?”

The Elbow

A little Italian grandmother is giving directions to her grown grandson Anthony who is coming to visit with his wife Maria.

“You come to the front door of the apartment. I’m inna apartment 301 .

301 There issa big panel at the front door.

With you elbow pusha button 301. I will buzza you in. Comma inside, the elevator is on the right. Get in, and with you elbow pusha 3. When you get out, I’mma on the left. With you elbow, hit my doorbell.”

“Grandma, that sounds easy, but, why am I hitting all these buttons with my elbow?”

L AW O F F I C E S

JOEL GOULD & ASSOCIATES

Allegretti’s Bakery Fancy Italian and Miniature Pastries

.ATTORNEY AT LAW .Civil Litigation .Medical MalPractice .DUI .Criminal Law

7717 W.Lawrence Ave. Norridge, IL 60706 (708) 453-4412

Sun 7am to 2pm, Monday closed Tues-Fri 7am- 6pm Sat 7am to 5pm

205 W. Randolph Suite 1550 5839 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago, IL

Tel: 773.281.8744

We also speak Polish

Ristorante ITALIAN COISINE

Ristorante

Ristorante

Ristorante

ITALIAN COISINE

ITALIAN COISINE

Ristorante ITALIAN COISINE

Ristorante

ITALIAN COISINE

Ristorante

Ristorante

Wedding and Birthday Cakes

NORTHWEST Auto Sales

Jack E. Stewart’s

“The new car alternative... since 1961” Carlos Posso, Sales Manager NorthWestAutoChicago.com

Ristorante Amalfi 298 Glen Ellyn Rd. Bloomingdale, IL 630-893-9222

www.ristoranteamalfi.com

5726 N. Northwest Hwy. Chicago, IL 60646

Phone: (773) 631-5700 Fax: (773) 631-1044 Summer 2008 /AMICI 43

Lo-Lo’s

Pizza & Sub Shop

7501 W. Diversey Elmwood Park, IL 60707

708-453-2209

Mon ~ Thurs 11:00 am ~ 11:00 pm Fri & Sat 11:00 am ~ Midnight

Free Lunch Delivery 11 am - 3 pm Submarine Sandwiches (Try Our Home Made Meatball Sub!) Grilled Panini - Italian Beef Italian Sausage - Pasta - Soups Salads - Sweets - Italian Ice

Home of the Square Pizza “We don’t cut corners”

708-452-1790 08

08

We Offer Catering for ALL your Occasions at the Office or Home

Call for orders and pricing

Homemade cheesecake

“SAY CHEESE“ CAKE

Place your AD here Call 773-836-1595

Rosemary

Office: 773-792-3000 ext.240 Cell: 773-936-6000 Fax: 773-792-8872

List with TROY REALTY LTD. AND START PACKING 44 AMICI / Summer 2008

5420 N. Harlem Ave Chicago, IL 60656

Call for your special COMMISSION DISCOUNT

CHARLES VALLONE Broker Associate

. . . Flower Fantasy . . .

“Quality Flowers And Gifts For All Occasions” “Fiori Per Tutti Le Occasioni” Welcome to the Flower Fantasy! Our Goal is to provide you with the freshest, highest quality flowers and plants available both in Illinois and across the nation. There are many other selections available, but we have selected ones that are the most popular among our customers. We provide bouquets which are

8321 W. Lawrence Ave Norridge, IL 60706

Tel: (708) 453-1653 Fax: (708) 453-8576 www.flowerfantasyjoanne.com

Winter, Easter, Spring Bouquets, Secretaries Day, Best Sellers, Birthday Roses, Love & Romance, Anniversary, Get Well, Thank You, Congratulations, New Baby, Contemporary, Sympathy, Plants, Corporate Gifts, Weddings

CUMBERLAND FUNERAL CHAPELS 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge, IL Telephone (708) 456-8300

Committed To Providing You With Unmatched Personal Care Owners and Officers Mr. Michael A. Carbonara Mr. Anthony Lupo

Mr. Peter M. Martino Mr. Louis A. Martino

www.cumberlandchapels.com

Summer 2008 /AMICI 45

SPEED’S II CITGO, INC.

FILIPPO’S CAFE

Espresso ~ Gelati ~ Cappuccino

Quick Mart

Peter Spino

7450 W. GRAND AVENUE ELMWOOD PARK, IL 60707

2749 N.Harlem, Chicago, IL, 60634

(708) 453-3529 Fax (708) 453-3562

773-836-7223

Buy your Dependable Car with

Legion Auto, INC. Daniel L. Jaconetti D.D.S. Ltd. General Family Dentistry Hours by Appointment

24 Hour Emergency Service

9442 W. Irving Rd. Schiller Park, IL 60176

(847) 678-1130

(847) 678-1709 (fax)

7601 W. Montrose Ave. (708) 453-8700 Suite 3 (708) 453-1564 (fax) Norridge, IL 60706 We take pride in providing you with a comfortable office experience where our qualified staff is friendly and knowledgeable.

www.jaconettidds.com 1728 S. State St Lockport, IL (815) 838-1333 RETAIL SERVICE REPAIRS

USED CARS & VANS

46 AMICI / Summer 2008

AUTO DEALER

Tooth Whitening * Veneers * State-of-the-art endodontics TMJ Treatment * Children and Infant Care * Dentures/Partials Cosmetic Procedures * Oral Surgery * Intraoral Photography Periodontal Disease * Dental Implants * Crowns/Bridges Trauma * Sports Dentistry

ACTION PAWN INC. 10011 GRAND AVE., FRANKLIN PARK, IL 60131

ALWAYS BUYING

JEWELRY * COINS * DIAMONDS * ANTIQUES CAMERAS * TOOLS * COMPACT DISCS * GOLD & SILVER FIGURINES * ELECTRONICS * POCKET & WRIST WATCHES

“WE MAKE LOANS ON ANYTHING OF VALUE” ASK FOR JOE TELEPHONE: 847-288-9088 For Emergency 630-333-8066 HOURS: M-F 8AM TIL MIDNIGHT, SAT 12-5PM, CLOSED SUNDAY

Restaurant

A taste of the old world Since 1960 Mama Luna’s has brought a taste of the old world to Chicago. Family owned and operated for nearly half a century, we invite you to taste fine Sicilian cuisine in a friendly open atmosphere.

Our dining room seats up to 140 people and is available for private parties.

Catering Available Mama Luna’s can cater any event from 10 to 200 people.

TEL: 773-889-3020 FAX: 773-889-3095

www.mamalunas.com

Delivery Special Order a Megaball Pizza and Receive a 2 Liter RC Free Cold liter must be requested (50c extra)

5109 W. FULLERTON CHICAGO, IL 60639 Summer 2008 /AMICI 47

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS JOURNAL

Give your business the right exposure!

ADVERTISE WITH AMICI JOURNAL

You’ll receive reasonable ad rates, reasonable setup fee, directory listing and link to your business website from our website.

Send us information or contact us at:

Amici Journal, P.O. Box 595, River Grove, IL 60171 773-836-1595 Fax 773-622-2766 www.amiciorgit.net E-mail: amiitalia@sbcglobal.net Call or email for Amici Journal rates, demographics and production information

PHOTOGRAPHERS’ CREDITS ` Stallone by Martin Mann ` Sports by Joe Cosentino

`Bucci by Norman Puccini `Restaurant Review by John Rizzo ‘ Rene Fleming provided by Lyric Opera House by Dan Rest

Attorneys

ROMANUCCI & BLANDIN....................................................27 JOEL GOULD & ASSOCIATES..............................................43

Association

AMICI D’ITALIA.....................................................................35

Automobiles

CITGO.......................................................................................46 LEGION AUTO, INC...............................................................46 THE CARWASH........................................................................44 LAMBORGHINI CHICAGO....................................................31 NORTHWEST AUTO SALES..................................................43

Business Miscellaneous

ACTION PAWN........................................................................47 CHEESECAKES.......................................................................44 CUMBERLAND FUNERAL CHAPLES.................................45 DANIEL L. JACONETTI D.D.S..............................................46 FLOWER FANTASY................................................................45 MORI MILK.............................................................................31 RESTAURANT GUIDE...........................................................37

Books

ANDREW GUZALDO.............................................................23 ANDREA DI ROBILANT........................................................17

Entertainment

IACC GOLF OUTING................................................................1 MODIO MEDIA WEBTV..........................................................26 RESTAURANT RADIO CHICAGO.........................................36 VILAGE PROFILE...................................................................35

Food markets. Bakery

ALLEGRETTI’S BAKERY.......................................................43

Importers

MIDWAYS’ INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION.................27

Jewelers

AREZZO JEWELERS..............................................................17

Real Estate PUZZLE

TROY REALTY........................................................................44

SOLUZIONE

Restaurants. Cafe. Pizzeria

BEAUJOLIE BANQUET.............................................back cover FILIPPO’S CAFE......................................................................46 gioaCchino’s RISTORANTE............................................19 LO-LO’S PIZZA & SUB SHOP................................................44 MAMA LUNA’S RESTAURANT.............................................47 RISTORANTE AMALFI..........................................................43 THE 3 OLIVES ITALIAN RESTAURANT.............................11 SPACCA NAPOLI PIZZERIA..................................................31 VINCE’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT..............inside back cover VENUTI’S RISTORANTE & BANQUETS..............................7

Travel

STAY AND VISIT ITALY...........................................................5

48 AMICI / Summer 2008

Vince’s Vince’s

Vince’s Vince’s Vince’s I talian R estaurant

presents

I talian R estaurant

The 4 th Annual The 4 th Annual presents Italian Restaurant Annual presents “Help EnzoThe Build4 tha School !” Enzo Build a School !”

“Help presents The 4 th Annual “Help Enzo EventBuild a School !” Event Event “Help Enzo Build a School !”

I talian R estaurant

presents

I talian R estaurant

Nuccio D’Argento and Rocco Defrenza invite you to Vince’s Italian Restaurant for this

Nuccio D’Argento and Rocco DefrenzaItalian invite you to Vince’sevent, Italian Restaurant this a fantastic spectacular featuring livefor music, raffle, and of course food a and drink!

Nuccio D’Argento and RoccoEvent Defrenza invite you to Vince’s Restaurant for this spectacular event, featuring livegreat music, Nuccio D’Argento and Defrenza invite to money Vince’s Italian Restaurant for this spectacular featuring live music, a fantastic raffle, and of course great food and drink!

Help usyou raise for Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago build aanew $28$28 million fantastic raffle, and of course great foodevent, and drink!

Help usRocco raise money for Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago totobuild new event, featuring music, a fantastic raffle, andaCenter of course great food and drink!

Therapeutic School and formillion Autism Research.

Nowhere else in the country will education, Help usspectacular raise money for Easter Seals live Metropolitan Chicago build new $28 million Therapeutic School and invite Center for Autism Research.

Nowhere else into Chicago the country will cutting-edge research, us raise money for Easter Seals Metropolitan to build a neweducation, $28 million cutting-edge research, training andwill independent living be so well integrated at a single campus facility.

Nuccio D’Argento and Rocco Defrenza you toHelp Vince’s Italian Restaurant for this Therapeutic School and Center for Autism Research.

Nowhere else in the country education, and Therapeutic independent living be so well at a else single facility.

School and Center Autism Research. Nowhere in thecampus country will education, spectacular event, featuring livetraining music, a fantastic raffle, and of course great foodfor and drink!integrated cutting-edge research, training and independent living be so well integrated at a single campus facility.

cutting-edge research, andmillion independent living be so well integrated at a single campus facility.

Help us raise money for Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago to buildtraining a new $28 Therapeutic School and Center for Autism Research. Nowhere else in the country will education, cutting-edge research, training and independent living be so well integrated at a single campus facility. A night of dining and entertainment hosted What:

What: A night of dining and entertainment hosted by Nuccio & Rocco to benefit Easter Seals and the new

by Nuccio & Rocco to benefit Easter Seals A night for dining and entertainment hosted TherapeuticWhat: SchoolWhat: Autism Research Aand nightCenter of diningofand entertainment hosted and the new Therapeutic School and

by Nuccio & Rocco to benefit Easter Seals Center for Autism Research

by Nuccio & Rocco to Therapeutic benefit Easter Seals Vince’s Italian Restaurant What: Where: A night of dining and entertainment hosted and the new School and Where: Vince’s Italian Restaurant

by Nuccio & Rocco to benefit Easter Seals and the new Therapeutic School and Center for Autism Research 4747 N. Harlem Ave, Harwood Heights 4747 N. Harlem Ave, Harwood Heights and the new Therapeutic School and for Where: Vince’s Italian Restaurant Center Autism Research When: Tuesday April 29, 2008 When: Tuesday April 29, 2008 Center for Autism Research 4747Restaurant N. Harlem Ave, Harwood Heights Where: Vince’s Italian 6:00pm Cocktails Where: Vince’s Italian Restaurant 6:00pm Cocktails When: Tuesday April 29, 2008 4747 N. Harlem Ave, Harwood Heights6:30pm Dinner 4747 N. Harlem Ave, Harwood Heights 6:00pm Cocktails 6:30pm Dinner Cost: $125 per person When: Tuesday April 29, 2008 When: Tuesday April 29, 2008 6:30pm Dinner RSVP: Reservations Required Cost: $125 per person Cost:6:00pm$125 6:00pm Cocktails Cocktails per person 708.867.7770 6:30pm Dinner RSVP: Reservations Required RSVP: Required 6:30pmReservations Dinner Cost: $125 per person “Together, we will find the missing piece.

708.867.7770 Cost: $125 per person 708.867.7770 RSVP: Reservations Required Thank you for your support” 708.867.7770

RSVP:

Reservations Requiredwe will find the missing “Together, we will find the missing piece.

“Together, piece.

Thank you for your support” 708.867.7770

- Nuccio D’Argento

Thank you for your support” “Together, we will find the missing piece.

- Nuccio D’Argento Thank you for your support”“Together, we will find the missing piece.

Nuccio D’Argento - Nuccio D’Argento

Sponsored by Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago and Vince’s Italian Restaurant

Thank you for your support” - Nuccio D’Argento

Sponsored by Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago and Vince’s Italian Restaurant

Nuccio & Rocco Invite You To Sponsored by Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago and Vince’s Italian Restaurant

Sponsored by Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago and Vince’s Italian Restaurant

Vince’s

Sponsored by Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago and Vince’s Italian Restaurant

Italian Restaurant

Holiday Shopping Plaza 4747 N. Harlem Ave., Harwood Heights, IL (708) 867-7770, www.vincesonharlem.com

Serving Pasta, Veal, Steaks, Seafood & Pizza • Distinctive Dining • Cocktail Lounge • Live Entertainment - Fridays and Saturdays • Banquets for all occasions - extensive dining and corporate facilities for up to 100 guests • Delivery and Carry-Out, Catering Service Open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week Proud Sponsor of Easter Seals Chicago

Visit our other restaurants at www.RoccoVinos.com

RoccoVino’s

Ristorante, Pizzeria 902 Army Trail Rd., Carol Stream, IL

Reservations on weekends, Party Rooms available

(630) 736-1600

RoccoVino’s Italian Eatery Counter Service

627 Meacham Rd., Elk Grove, IL

(847) 524-2411