Mondo Mondo Mondo IItaliano Italiano taliano
PUBLISHER
Luxury Chamber Media Group
EDITOR
Jay Parnassa Shapiro
FASHION EDITOR
Juliana Labonte
TRAVEL EDITOR
Christina RicciCampagnone
CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS
Edmondo Catania
Frank LoRe Jr.
Claude Luciani
Venus Baratta
John P. Contini
Kyle Cavaliere
UNICO, once again celebrates Growth & Achievements with an Installation Dinner for 4 new members at Arturo’s Italian Restaurant in Boca Raton, FL
Highland Beach, FL - Nov 5, 2024 – UNICO, the largest Italian American service organization in the U S gathered at Arturo’s in Boca Raton to celebrate the induction of their new members; Chuck & Sonya Lynch, Angela Genduso, Steven Valtri to the Highland Beach Chapter.
The evening underscored UNICOs commitment to community service and the preservation of Italian heritage The addition of these new members reflects the organization's continuous growth and influence in the local community
UNICO is a national organization founded in 1922 by Dr. Anthony P. Vastola of Waterbury CT Italian and began raising money for charity, college scholarships and Veterans of War.
Unity, Neighborliness, Integrity, Charity & Opportunity.
For information about the UNICO Highland Beach Chapter and its upcoming events, please visit us at www highlandbeachunico com
Media & additional information contact is: Frank Lo Re’ Jr. at (201) 491-1077 / franklore0046@hotmail.com or Mike Federico Sr. at (516) 551-2915 / mike@libertymoving.com
L to R. Chuck & Sonya Lynch. Pres. Mike Federico, Angela Genduso, Steven Valtri & Jo Anne Rioli Moeller UNICO secretary.
In Memoriam: Wine Dynasty Matriarch Maddalena
Riboli,
Passes at 102
Visionary Who Transformed California's Wine Industry
A few days shy of what would have been her 102nd birthday, Maddalena Riboli is remembered as a woman who followed her dreams, broke gender barriers, and never settled for anything less than what she believed was right.
Born on December 7, 1922, in the small agricultural village of Mombaruzzo in Piemonte, Italy, Maddalena Satragni grew up in a close-knit community where hard work was a way of life Her parents, Katerina and Giovanni, along with her brothers Carlo and Giovanni, cultivated grapes and tended livestock in a town of just 400 people In 1929, seeking better opportunities, the Satragni family sold their land and embarked on a journey to America The voyage was emblematic of the immigrant experience filled with hope, uncertainty, and resilience
Settling in the Guasti Winery Village in Southern California a company town founded by fellow Mombaruzzo native Secondo Guasti the family found a community of Italian immigrants united by shared values Life in Guasti was demanding but rewarding, and it was here that Maddalena's indomitable spirit and work ethic began to shine. At Chino High School, she excelled academically, particularly in mathematics and science, and was an active athlete in basketball, tennis, and swimming.
In 1944, while driving a tractor on her family's ranch, Maddalena met Stefano Riboli, an Italian immigrant who would become her husband and partner in life and business Stefano was captivated by her confidence and beauty, recalling how his heart stopped upon seeing her step off the tractor Their love blossomed, and they married in 1946 A year later, Maddalena established one of California's first wine tasting rooms, creating a direct connection between the winery and consumers
Beyond her professional achievements, Maddalena was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She balanced her ambitious career with a deep commitment to her family, instilling values of education, integrity, and perseverance in her children Santo, Cathy, and Steve who continue her legacy at the San Antonio Winery. Her grandchildren Anthony, Lisa, Michael, Jennifer, David, Dante, Blake, Christopher, and Alexander and great-grandchildren Alena, Sofia, Shane, Devyn, Kathryn, Dylan, and Weston carry forward her spirit and dedication They are the living embodiments of her legacy, continuing to innovate and contribute to the wine industry and beyond
Maddalena lived by the credo: "Work hard, love your family, and always keep moving forward " Her life was a testament to what can be achieved with vision, courage, and an unwavering belief in oneself Maddalena's favorite saying, "Sempre Avanti," perfectly encapsulates her life's journey She moved forward with determination, never losing sight of her goals or her commitment to her family and community
Maddalena Riboli Holding a bottle of Maddalena Merlot
Portillo's Appoints Tony Darden as Chief Operating Officer
Restaurant industry veteran brings three decades of operational expertise to support Portillo's national growth
Portillo's (NASDAQ: PTLO), the fast-casual restaurant concept known for its menu of Chicago-style favorites, today announced the appointment of Tony Darden as Chief Operating Officer (COO). A seasoned industry leader with more than 30 years of experience with multi-unit restaurant concepts, Mr. Darden will play a pivotal role in enhancing operations as Portillo's accelerates its strategic nationwide expansion. He will begin work with the brand on December 9, 2024.
"I'm thrilled to welcome Tony as we continue to grow Portillo's with purpose," said Michael Osanloo, CEO and President. "Tony is a proven leader with an incredible ability to elevate operations while fostering innovation and building inspiring teams. His wealth of experience will be instrumental in scaling our iconic brand while maintaining the commitment to high quality and exceptional guest service that make Portillo's unique."
Mr. Darden joins Portillo's from Jack in the Box, where he served as Chief Operating Officer overseeing systemwide operations for more than 2,200 locations across 21 states. During his tenure, he led transformative initiatives, including implementing AI order-taking systems to enhance efficiency and guest experience. Throughout his career, Mr. Darden has proven his ability to drive operational excellence and develop strong teams at the restaurant level. He previously served as President of MOOYAH Burgers, and held COO positions at Taco Bueno and Sun Holdings, the fourth largest franchisee in the U.S.
As COO, Mr. Darden will oversee Portillo's operational strategy and execution. His core responsibility will be to execute a seamless experience for both guests and team members as the company scales its concept while staying true to its roots. Mr. Darden's commitment to innovation and operational rigor aligns with Portillo's long-term target of operating as many as 920 locations, including full-scale restaurants and alternate formats such as Portillo's Pick-Up locations, while preserving the company's signature commitment to quality and speed of service. In December, the brand will open its first-ever "Restaurant of the Future" in Grapevine, Texas with a smaller, more efficient design, plenty of seating, and elements such as kiosks and a Grab and Go area to ensure a best-in-class experience for guests, whether they prefer to dine in or take their order to go. "I am honored to join Portillo's and be part of a brand that has built such a loyal following through its incredible food and guest experience," said Mr. Darden. "I look forward to working alongside the team to help Portillo's reach new heights." With the addition of Mr. Darden, Portillo's continues to strategically strengthen its leadership team to support its long-term growth ambitions.
About Portillo's
In 1963, Dick Portillo invested $1,100 to open the first Portillo's hot dog stand in Villa Park, Illinois, calling it "The Dog House." Today, Portillo's has grown to more than 80 restaurants across 10 states and is beloved for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, char-grilled burgers, fresh salads, and famous chocolate cake. Portillo's ships food to all 50 states via Portillos.com
Portillo’s Appoints Tony Darden as Chief Operating Officer
Tint World® Earns Prestigious Spot on South Florida Business Journal's Private 100 List
The National Automotive Styling Centers™ celebrates prestigious ranking among the most successful companies in the region
Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, has earned a spot on the South Florida Business Journal's 2024 Private 100 list, recognizing the top private companies in the Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade tri-county region based on growth and revenue
"I always dreamed of starting and growing a thriving business in Florida," said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. "To be included on this list of elite companies reflects our dedication to excellence for our customers and franchise owners both in our home state and nationwide Each new location we open not only provides drivers with the latest trends and technology in automotive styling, but it provides a business opportunity for each individual owner and introduces more jobs into the community "
So far in 2024, the nation's fastest-growing automotive styling franchise has opened 14 new locations and entered three new states In 2023, a record 22 Tint World locations earned at least $1 million, with three topping the $2 million mark "Over the past year we've continued to build on our own record success and have introduced the brand in new states," said Bonfiglio. "The overall growth and success of Tint World is a reflection of the dedication each franchisee has to serving their communities with the highest quality products and service."
Recent partnerships with leading global brands Xpel, Transitiv and Netsertive as well as multiple strategic leadership hires helped drive Tint World's continuing success.
Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio and video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, and more Tint World is a leading provider of residential, commercial and marine computerized window tinting and security film services, operating locations throughout the U S and abroad, with franchise opportunities available worldwide
About Tint World®
Founded in 1982, Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™ is America's largest and fastest-growing automotive accessories and window tinting international franchise, specializing in window tinting, protective films, vehicle wraps, audio and electronics, security systems, car and truck accessories, wheels and tires, detailing and ceramic coatings, and installation services.
Tint World® Mobile Services™ include marine, residential, and commercial window tinting films, solar films, decorative films, safety and security films, and protective ceramic coatings Tint World® has locations in the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, with master franchise opportunities available worldwide To find out more, please visit www TintWorld com or https://www tintworld com/franchise-opportunities
Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World, speaks to franchise owners at the 2024 annual convention
Learn Italian by Subscribing!!!
Impara l'inglese leggendo la nostra rivista
How to Secure Italian Citizenship?
Gather Documents: Collect birth, marriage, death, and naturalization records for all ancestors in the direct line.
Translation and Legalization: Translate documents into Italian and have them apostilled/legalized.
Submit Application: Submit your application at the Italian consulate serving your area.
Appointment: Schedule an appointment at the consulate for document review.
Wait for Processing: The processing time can vary; it might take several months to years.
Citizenship by Marriage
If you are married to an Italian citizen, you can apply for citizenship after:
Two years of marriage if residing in Italy.
Three years of marriage if residing abroad. These periods are reduced by half if you have children together.
Steps:
Gather Documents: Collect required documents, including your marriage certificate, spouse's citizenship documents, and your birth certificate.
Language Requirement: As of 2018, you need to demonstrate an adequate knowledge of the Italian language (level B1).
Submit Application: Submit the application online through the Italian Ministry of the Interior's website.
Background Check: A background check will be conducted.
Wait for Processing: The process usually takes around 2-4 years.
3. Citizenship by Naturalization
You can apply for Italian citizenship by naturalization if you have legally resided in Italy for a certain period:
10 years for non-EU citizens.
4 years for EU citizens.
5 years for stateless persons or refugees.
GOOD PLANET is disrupting the food industry with the world's first olive oil cheese. With exceptional taste, meltability, and more heart health benefits, the Olive Oil Cheeses are projected to change the cheese category. GOOD PLANeT's Olive Oil Cheeses are dairy-free and better for people and the planet. This first-of-its-kind product is poised to appeal to all, especially the growing number of Americans who identify as "flexitarians." "We are thrilled to bring the world's first Olive Oil Cheese to the market," said David Israel, Founder & Co-CEO of GOOD PLANeT Foods. Made for the foodie in all of us who is looking for new and better, we're incredibly proud of our Olive Oil Cheese line that is appealing for all, not just to specific diet or lifestyle "
John Trotta Named Midwest District Leader at WSP
Senior vice president and national director of client services will be responsible for growth and oversight of operations across the firm's 13-state region.
John Trotta has been promoted to Midwest district leader at WSP, a leading engineering, environment and professional services consultancy.
Trotta, a senior vice president who was recently interim Midwest district leader, has assumed this role on a permanent basis He will continue to serve as WSP national director of client services with the government affairs team WSP's Midwest district includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.
In this leadership role, Trotta is responsible for growth and oversight of operations across the district. He collaborates with leaders across WSP to empower teams to reach their greatest potential for clients, cross-sell WSP's broad national and multidisciplinary expertise, recruit impressive talent and advance career growth for employees
Trotta joined the firm in 2006 as a regional business manager. Prior to joining WSP, he served in multiple leadership and development roles during his 22 years with the Chicago Transit Authority
"Over the past 18 years, John has brought his infectious energy to his work at WSP, and his passion and leadership make him a natural fit for this role," said Chris Peters, West region president for WSP in the U.S. "He has been a respected leader within our firm and a trusted voice of experience to our many clients who look to him for guidance."
Additionally, Trotta will continue to engage in a leadership role with WSP's national Inclusion and Diversity Council, mentor/protégé programs and the Developing Professional Network He also serves in a strategic advisory role focused on project teaming and key client accounts and will continue as a member of the government affairs team.
Trotta is a graduate of Roosevelt University with a bachelor's degree in business administration. He was awarded the Italian American Executives of Transportation Man of the Year Award, and the Community Service Award from the Illinois chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies. He earned the 2022 Excellence in Leadership Award from SOS Children's Villages Illinois where he is currently a board member and fundraising chair for its Evening of Hope
MASSIMO ZANETTI BEVERAGE USA AND ULTRAMAR CAFFE' - NATURA LIFESTYLE SIGN A PARTNERSHIP FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM ESPRESSO CAPSULES
*Nespresso® is a registered trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Neither MZB-USA nor La Natura Lifestyle AG (Ultramar Caffè) is affiliated with Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.