APRILE 2025
Marzia Varvaglione
New President of CEEV
European Wine Committee
Mondo Italiano
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
Marzia Varvaglione of Varvaglione 1921 Appointed
President of The European Wine Committee (CEEV)
Varvaglione 1921 proudly announces that Marzia Varvaglione, Head of Business Development, as well as Marketing and Sales Director of the Puglia-based winery, has been elected President of the Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins (CEEV) during the General Assembly on March 20th in Brussels.
As the voice of the EU wine companies, the Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins (CEEV) has a key mission to lead and coordinate the dialogue within the European and international wine sector, and to defend the common interests of EU wine companies before national, European, international authorities and stakeholders across all policy areas affecting the industry Varvaglione succeeds Mauricio González-Gordon, President of González Byass, and will serve a three-year term. Her presidency begins as the European wine industry navigates complex issues such as market fluctuations, regulatory changes, and the impacts of climate change on viticulture. Her leadership is expected to foster stronger collaboration among European wine producers and advocate for policies that support the industry's growth and sustainability.
"As we navigate one of the most challenging periods in decades", said Marzia Varvaglione, newly elected CEEV President "It is more important than ever for the wine sector to stand united Together with the CEEV team and our members, I am fully committed to guiding our sector through these difficult times and overcoming the challenges ahead during my presidency Born in Taranto in 1989,
Marzia Varvaglione's journey in wine began in 2013 at Varvaglione 1921, the family-owned winery in Leporano, Puglia, Representing the fourth generation of a family business, Marzia has played a pivotal role in expanding its global presence while honoring its deep-rooted Pugliese tradition Under her leadership, Varvaglione 1921 has evolved from a company focused on mainly bulk wine production to one of Puglia's most dynamic wine producers, blending tradition with innovation to bring native varieties like Primitivo to international audiences Her dedication and leadership have earned Marzia key positions in the wine industry, including serving as President of the Associazione Giovani Imprenditori Vinicoli Italiani (AGIVI) since 2023 and as a board member of Unione Italiana Vini (UIV) since 2020 Her election as President of CEEV is a testament to her commitment to promoting responsible wine consumption while advancing the cultural and educational aspects of wine appreciation This prestigious appointment underscores Italy's significant role in the European wine sector and highlights the growing influence of young Italian entrepreneurs on the international stage.
Varvaglione 1921 is one of the leading and fastest developing wineries of Puglia, thanks to a winning combination of native grape growing and winemaking expertise spanning four generations, proactive entrepreneurship, and a strong presence on both the domestic and foreign markets. Varvaglione 1921 addresses an international audience of wine lovers who are looking for a different, modern Italian and Puglia wine experience. Varvaglione 1921 key products such as Papale and Papale Linea Oro offer consumers a new way to approach Primitivo and other traditional grapes in an innovative and unforgettable way
Colavita Acquires Vitelli Foods, Strengthening Presence in Pasta and Tomato Markets
Colavita USA, a leader in premium Italian specialty food products, is excited to announce its acquisition of Vitelli Foods, the owner of the historic Luigi Vitelli brand. Known for its high-quality pasta and tomatoes, this acquisition not only diversifies Colavita's product offerings but also strengthens its position as the third-largest importer of Italian pasta in the United States. Furthermore, it significantly bolsters Colavita's presence in the tomato market, a strategic move to enhance its competitive stance in both categories.
Established in 1885, Luigi Vitelli is the first Italian food brand ever registered in America, symbolizing a long-standing tradition of culinary excellence. "Luigi Vitelli is an iconic brand that we want to preserve and introduce to the next generations, continuing the great work done by Claudia Vitelli and Roy Taormina," said Giovanni Colavita, CEO of Colavita USA. "I've known Claudia for years and have always respected and admired what she has built, preserving the great family tradition that we share. The Vitelli brand's importance to the history of Italian food in this country is truly unmatched," Colavita continued. "In fact, this year marks the 125th anniversary of Vitelli's membership in the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the U.S., an organization that includes Amerigo Vitelli among its founders."
This acquisition follows Colavita's successful integration of the California company O Olive Oil & Vinegar, a leading producer of California vinegar and organic extra virgin olive oil. It further showcases Colavita's commitment to expanding its portfolio of authentic, high-quality food products.
Under the Vitelli Foods banner, Colavita aims to leverage its extensive distribution network and industry expertise to increase the reach and recognition of Luigi Vitelli products, emphasizing their unique history and Italian authenticity.
About Vitelli Foods
Since 1996 the Vitelli family has been operating as Vitelli Foods and has expanded the line of products to include pasta, beans and other Italian specialties. Today's Vitelli is quite different from the Vitelli of 1885 when it served the growing Italian immigrant community in the five boroughs of New York City. Today, products imported by Vitelli can be found in major supermarket chains and distributors throughout the United States. The company is still managed by a member of the Vitelli family, Claudia Vitelli.
About Colavita
Family-owned and operated Colavita has been producing, importing and distributing premium quality specialty food products since 1938. The Colavita brand is present in over 80 countries worldwide. In the U.S., Colavita is a leading national brand of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic and wine vinegar, and pasta, with distribution throughout the retail, eCommerce, club and food service sectors. Colavita is committed to quality assurance and sustainability principles throughout its supply chain. All Colavita facilities in the U.S. and Italy are GFSI certified and powered by solar energy. For more information about Colavita, visit colavita.com.
Italian American Future Leaders Drives Cultural Windfall
That's Shaping a New Generation
Restoring passion and purpose, IAFL is rallying young pioneers to elevate Italian American culture for generations to come.
Italian American Future Leaders is making waves at every level, from neighborhood clubs to national organizations and all the way to Italy's diplomatic community, as it amplifies the voices and vision of younger generations, ages 21 to 35
IAFL, a fellowship platform and leadership incubator founded by Basil Russo, John Viola and Pat O'Boyle, concluded the third installment of its evolving annual convention a premier three-day event held at Amerant Bank Arena Jan 17–20 in Sunrise, Fla , which attracted 260 of the brightest young leaders from Italian America and Italy
"This convention has reversed the demographic trajectory of the Italian American nonprofit world All eyes are on IAFL as we do what seemed unthinkable only a few years ago: rally young people around our history, traditions and heritage," said Russo, who leads the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations (COPOMIAO).
This year's convention, dubbed "IAFL3," featured actor Chazz Palminteri, and Sabino Curcio & Rocco Loguercio the multi-million follower influencers behind Growing Up Italian who helped drive motivational and strategy sessions among the convention's "Fellows" (first-time attendees) and "Alumni" (returning attendees). Presentations and breakout activities also included navigating government affairs, ancestry and dual citizenship tutorials, community leadership & social media challenges, and cultural workshops to address opportunities and obstacles
“IAFL3 confirmed what I’ve long believed: this is the event Italian America has needed for years,” said IAFL co-founder and COPOMIAO VP John Viola. “I was blown away by the number of young people who told me this was the kind of weekend they hadn’t realized they’d been waiting for their entire lives. Over 250 passionate young Italian Americans came together to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping our community today and those that will influence us in the future."
Planning for the annual convention is led by Andrea Mauck, IAFL's executive director, and its' 10 committees, headed by Patrick Ross Campesi and Gianna Pileggi
During the convention, attendees enjoyed VIP access to a Florida Panthers game (the 2024 Stanley Cup champions), catered Italian meals, karaoke and open bar accommodations all complimentary, thanks to IAFL's lead sponsors: the Viola Family and the fundraising efforts of Basil Russo
"As we look ahead to 'IAFL4' in 2026, our mission remains steadfast: to unite and empower young leaders, ensuring the vitality of our culture for generations to come, said Mauck. "Tomorrow belongs to us."
Each year, all Fellows receive free hotel stays, as IAFL aims to raise the bar and grow attendance from hundreds to thousands in the coming years.
ABOUT COPOMIAO
Based in NYC, COPOMIAO is an Italian-American collective of 71 of the most influential, cultural, educational, fraternal and anti-defamation groups in America Contact us
SOURCE The Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations
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
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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.
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