NOVEMBER 2017 PUBLISHED BY THE ITALIAN AMERICAN CULTURAL SOCIETY VOLUME, XXXVI No. 11 43843 Romeo Plank Road - Clinton Township, MI 48038 - Phone (586) 228-3030 ext 15 - FAX (586) 228-1678 - Email iacs@iacsonline.com
THE ITALIAN AMERICAN CULTURAL SOCIETY
CELEBRATES 60 YEARS
Celebrates cont.
on page 4
Breakfast with SANTA for more information turn to page 4
NON-PROFIT US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 1401 MT CLEMENS MI 48043
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Italian American Cultural Society
NOVEMBER 2017
PLACE YOUR A D V E R T I S I N G
HERE!
FULL PAGE - SIZE – 9.5 X 10.5 INCHES MONTHS AVAILABLE 2018 JANUARY MARCH MAY JULY SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
JUST LISTED 6399 SHADYDALE, SHELBY TWP ($699,000)
Your Local Real Estate Experts (586) 354-5380 www.SoldByLeone.com info@theleoneteam.com
Benny & Alkida Offer
The Leone Team Did it Again!
SOLD IN SHELBY SOLD IN WARREN
SOLD IN MACOMB
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Italian American Cultural Society
IACS SENIORS CHAIRPERSON MESSAGE
NOVEMBER 2017 The
Italian American
EDITOR Barbara L. Smith ITALIAN EDITOR Sandra Tornberg LAYOUT & DESIGN American Speedy Printing DISTRIBUTION Lelio D’Aristotile WRITING STAFF Esther Beaudette Antonio DiGiorgio Barbara Smith Sandra Tornberg
ESTHER BEAUDETTE
ITALIAN CONSULATE WILL NO LONGER SEND REPRESENTATIVE TO IACS
from page 1
Deadline for submitting material is the 10th of the month.
Patronato ITAL-UIL Announcement
We reserve the right to edit all copy.
Change of Address for COM.IT.ES Office
The COM.IT.ES Office has moved to a new location effective October 1, 2017. The new address is: Change of Address for COM.IT.ES Office COM.IT.ES di Detroit The COM.IT.ES Office to a new location effective October 1, 2017. The 51424 Van Dyke Ave.,has Ste.moved 7 new address is: MI 48316 Shelby Township,
Celebrates cont.
on page 13
586/228-3030 ext 15 iacs@iacsonline.com www.iacsonline.com
We have been advised by the Italian Consulate in Detroit that effective November, 2017 they will no longer send a representative to the IACS. Consular services are available at their office at 535 Griswold, suite 1840 in Detroit during the hours of 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM Monday through Friday, and also from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Wendnesday. Please consult their website www.consdetroit.esteri.it for information regarding services available.
The Patronato ITAL-UIL will continue to assist the community with their Italian pension issues at the Italian American Cultural Society Banquet & Conference Center on Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. For further information please call Ms. Rita Barile 734-421-3460.
Celebrates cont.
Photographer Elio Ripari Sandra Tornberg
COM.IT.ES dinumber Detroit remains the same at 586-991-0193. Their email address is Their phone 51424 Van Dyke Ave., Ste. 7 and their website is http://comites-Detroit.weebly.com . comites@comitesdetroit.org Shelby Township, MI 48316
Their phone number remains the same at 1:00 586-991-0193. Office hours are Monday and Friday from PM to 5:00 Their PM email address is comites@comitesdetroit.org and their website is http://comites-Detroit.weebly.com . Office hours are Monday and Friday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
LOVE TO READ? The IACS Book Club meets every third Wednesday of each month, one o’clock in the afternoon, at the Italian American Cultural Society Banquet & Conference Center. Please contact Ilene Stanko at 586-864-7171 for additional information.
NOVEMBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ITALIAN AMERICAN CLUB OF LIVONIA FOR 40 YEARS!
IN LOVING MEMORY
Lucido, Angela M. (nee: Meli) August 11, 2017 - Age 75
IACL Charitable Foundation President Maria Capicchioni Harris and Dr. Maria Manca, Consul of Italy in Detroit
IACL President Jerry Ruggirello welcomes his guests
On October 8 the Italian American Club of Livonia celebrated Columbus Day and their fortieth anniversary at a gala attended by four hundred guests. Co-chairs of the event were Italian American Club of Livonia President Jerry Ruggirello and Maria Capicchioni Harris, President of the Italian American Club of Livonia
Charitable Foundation. The IACL’s beautiful facility was completed in 1994, and on the occasion of their fortieth anniversary President Ruggirello announced that the mortgage had been paid off! The IACS wishes to congratulate the Board of Directors of the IACL and the IACL Charitable Foundation and all their members for this momentous occasion.
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Beloved wife of the late Sam. Loving mother of Frances (Sal) Badalamenti, Vinnie (Paul) DiTrapani and Sebastian “Buster” (Elizabeth). Proud nanna of nine grandchildren and one great grandchild. Dear sister of Toni (the late Jack) Tocco and the late Vincent and Sam Meli, and loving daughter of the late Angelo and Vincenza Meli.
Visitation at the Sterling Heights Chapel of Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home 13650 E. Fifteen Mile Road, (@ Schoenherr) Monday 2:00-9:00 pm. Funeral Tuesday, Instate 10:00 am until 10:30 am Mass at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 54045 Schoenherr Rd., Shelby Township.
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SANDRA TORNBERG With mixed emotions I announce the retirement of Barbara Smith effective November 2 after twenty-eight years of dedicated service to the Italian American Cultural Society. I am very happy that Barb will begin a new chapter in her life in Arizona, but selfishly I am sad to lose such a wonderful executive assistant. Only in the two years that I have been president have I truly come to understand how much Barbara has been the glue that has held the organization in place through numerous changes. She has supported many presidents and directors through the years, providing historical information and perspective that will be irreplaceable. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Executive Committee and the membership, I wish Barbara many years of health and happiness in her retirement. Next I would like to provide a brief update regarding status of Columbus Day and the bust of Columbus in the City of Detroit. A letter was sent to Detroit City Council and Mayor Duggan expressing the concerns of the Italian community regarding changing the name of the holiday and removing the bust. We learned on October 9 from a WXYZ reporter who interviewed me that the matter was to come before Detroit City Council on October 10. The matter did not appear on the
Italian American Cultural Society City Council agenda, as we had been looking for it for several weeks. So on October 10 several of us attended the City Council meeting and were allowed two minutes each to express our concerns. Unfortunately the Council voted in favor of changing the name of the holiday from Columbus Day to Indigenous People’s Day, but voted to leave the bust in its current location. Another letter is being prepared, and our group continues to explore options. I just wanted you to know that we did make the best attempt possible and that we represented the feelings of our community. On a more positive note, we have a couple of great events coming up. On November 12 we will be hosting our 7th Annual Craft Show. We will have over 60 vendors with great products. I hope you will attend and start your holiday shopping here at the IACS. Also on November 12 at 7:00 PM we are happy to welcome the Bellini Opera and the Michigan Accordion Society for an evening of Neapolitan music. Finally on December 2 we will be celebrating our 60th anniversary with a gala. All the details are in this edition. We hope that you will come and celebrate our history and help us to secure our future. I wish all of you together with your families a very Happy
Photo taken by: Julia Rinaldi
NOVEMBER 2017
NOVEMBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
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24TH ANNUAL TOYS FOR TOTS CHRISTMAS PARTY Angie’s Toy Chest will hold its 24th Annual Christmas Party at a new location this year. Palazzo Grande will be hosting this event after many years at The Mirage. Palazzo Grande is located at 54660 Van Dyke in Shelby Township. The event is on Friday, December 1st. Angie again invites everyone to join in this charitable event. “Watching this party grow from 75 people into the largest privately sponsored single night Toys for Tots event in the country is a tribute to Macomb County’s generosity and their feelings for the United States Marine Corps. The cover charge has not changed and is only $30.00 with a pre-event ticket purchase and of course, a new unwrapped toy for a tot. A reserved table for 10 people is $270.00. Not a lot for an evening of excellent food and entertainment all for a good cause.” Anyone who would like a table or would like to make a donation can do so by going to www. angiestoychest.org .
Start off your holiday season by sharing with a child who is in need while enjoying a great evening of good food and entertainment with a cash bar. Our entertainment this year will be the Rick Lieder Band, Eva Evola, Antonio Cipriano New Venue, New Entertainment, Same Great Event Eva Evola who will be starting the night off with “God Bless America” and our National Anthem. There will be a silent auction. A contingent of United States Marines in dress blues will be on hand with Santa Claus, of course. It all starts at 6:30PM at Palazzo Grande Banquet Center and goes until Midnight – hope to see you there and don’t forget to get in “Bring a New Unwrapped Toy for a Tot” “Semper Fi” Marine Motto: “Every Child Deserves a Little Christmas” For more information about this event – email Angie at info@angiestoychest.org or call 586-863-2323
WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY
FRANCES SERRA January 15, 1957 September 22, 2017
On September 22, 2017, Fran Journeyed to the Rainbow Bridge for a joyous reunion with her beloved companions, Popi, Teri, Annie, Tootsie Roll, Roxie, Nicki Bird, her ferret Sweet Pea, with whom she will journey over the bridge to everlasting life. She will be remembered for her smile, kindness, and generous heart. Cancer may have claimed
her life, but it can never claim our memories of her, or take away the time we shared with her. May she find peace and comfort in the arms of the angels. Frances Serra beloved wife of Robert W. Mouton, the loving daughter of Virginia, (Vincie Lucido) and the late Joseph Serra, Sister of Rose (Michael A.) Simone, and Virginia (Daniel) Donnelly, sister-in-law to Richard
Mouton and Kathleen (David) Smith, loving ZiZi to Michael and Anthony Simone, Nicole Donnelly, and Aunt to Laura & Leslie Smith. She was preceded by her Father Joseph Serra, an infant brother and sister, Grandparents Sebastian & Frances Lucido, Salvator & Rosa Serra. Fran will be missed by her aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She will be missed most of all
by her beloved pets Sparky, Babe Ruth, and Jojo. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sasha Farm Animal Sanctuary or The Companion Animal Fund, MSU College of Veterinary Medicine. Visitation at the Sterling Heights Chapel of Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home 13650 E. Fifteen Mile Road, (@ Schoenherr)
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Italian American Cultural Society
DOLLY GRZEDZINSKI RECEIVES OUTSTANDING SENIOR AWARD By Fran Guido, Chairperson, Outstanding Senior Award
At the October 4th IACS Senior meeting, Dolly Grzedzinski received the Outstanding Member award. Elected by the Senior Board and Society members, she is the 21st recipient of this award. Her dedication to her Italian American heritage can be seen when she always volunteers to help Rosalie Garrisi with our St. Joseph Day Celebration. She assisted this year at the Italian Festival Senior booth with her sister Fran Feliccia, Floyd and Esther Beaudette. Dolly also has helped at the annual Fall Craft show. Since becoming a member
11 years ago, she has participated in our numerous social events, casino and other trips. The many years that Dolly was our Senior Society’s Sunshine Lady, she did a marvelous job sending many get well and sympathy cards to fellow members and their family. Dolly and her sister Fran have helped Karen Mack, IACS Recording Secretary, collect recipes for our fundraiser cook book. Congratulations, Dolly, on this well-deserved honor. Keep up with the good work you do. (We still can’t be-
Dolly’s Family, L-R: Joe Feliccia (nephew); Carmen Lynn (niece); Fran (Bommarito) Feliccia (sister); Dolly (Bommarito) Grzedzinski; Denise Vasser (daughter); Raymond Vasser (son-in-law).
Our Senior meeting recognized four members who are sisters and have received Outstanding awards in the past. L-R: Fran (Bommarito) Feliccia; Dolly (Bommarito) Grzedzinski; Josephine (Martinico) Strnad; Betty (Martinico) Strnad.
lieve you’re 92 years old.) Upon Dolly receiving the Senior Outstanding award, she was surprised when her family proudly walked into the meeting room to join in her celebration.
NOVEMBER 2017
NOVEMBER 2017
ADVANTAGES TO BEING AN IACS MEMBER: • Monthly home delivery of the Italian American Cultural Society newspaper; • Special 10% discount Italian language classes; • Discounted IACS special events over $25; • Special discount off published Menu Prices given to IACS Members for any event over $500 booked at IACS Banquet & Conference Center (Maximum $1,000). For eligibility, minimum 60-day membership prior to booking event; • Special discount for IACS members on advertising in the IACS newspaper; • Special 20% discount on all baked goods including wedding cakes at Il Fornaio Bakery, 13689 23 Mile Road in Shelby Township; • Giuseppe’s International Oil & Vinegars $1.00 off each bottle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Aged Balsamic Vinegar (200ml size & up); The Mall at Partridge Creek – 586/2634200; www.giuseppesoils.com; • Dr. David Guzzardo – Chiropractor – New Patients – A free consultation, free exam, and half off on x-rays – 39725 Garfield, Clinton Twp., 586/286-6616; www.guzzardochiropractic.com; • St. Clair Eye, Charles G. Shermetaro, O.D. – 15% discount on lenses, frames, and non-prescription sunglasses. Not to be used with insurances, other discounts, or on contact lenses. 48873 Hayes Rd. @ 22 Mile – (586) 247-2121; • SC Lawnscape LLC – FREE first lawn cutting with signed year contract. 10% SAVINGS on any landscape purchase of $2,500 or above. REFERRAL PROGRAM, our current, past, or new customers receive discounts or local gift cards with every signed referral. 586/263-0641 – www.sclawnscape. com; • Attorney Armand Velardo – Free consultation and 10% discount on legal services. (Acquisitions; Civil and Commercial Litigation; Corporate Planning; Estate Planning; Family Law; Mergers; Personal Injury; Probate; Real Estate Transactions; Shareholder Disputes; Tax Issues; Arbitrator; Facilitator; and Mediator.)
Italian American Cultural Society
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IACS Membership - Levels and Benefits Membership begins January 2017 – December 31, 2018. Every member strengthens the Italian American Cultural Society to better educate and preserve our traditional Italian culture. Your membership helps to make the IACS more responsive to the Italian American community it serves. Your membership pays for itself. • One-year subscription to the Italian American newspaper; • Discounted Italian language classes; • Discounted IACS special events over $25. PLEASE CIRCLE MEMBERSHIP LEVEL:
Senior - $49 Senior Couples - $98 - Gioventu’ Couple - $98 - Individual (Under age 60) - $67 Family - $124 – Two adult members and children in same household. Gioventu’ Family - $124 Family & Friends - $186 – Two adult members; all children or grandchildren 18 years and younger, and includes two (2) adult guests of the member at an IACS event at member’s price. Patron - $375 – Two adult members in same household and all children or grandchildren 18 years and younger; Includes four guests at member’s prices. Benefactor - $623 – Two adult members in same household and all children or grandchildren 18 years and younger; Includes six guests at member’s price; $100 IACS gift certificate – good towards all IACS special events. Lifetime - $5,000 – Two adult members in same household and all children or grandchildren 18 years and younger; Includes 10 guests at member’s price; a $100 IACS gift certificate – good towards all IACS special events. Upon receipt of payment, you may start enjoying the benefits of membership. Make check payable to IACS.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------IACS MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION LAST NAME FIRST NAME SPOUSE’S FIRST NAME DATE OF BIRTH CHILDREN’S NAMES & AGES RESIDING WITH PARENTS ADDRESS – CITY – STATE – ZIP TELEPHONE NUMBERS: HOME
CELLULAR
DATE OF BIRTH
Signature of Applicant:
Date:
Visa/MasterCard/Discover Card #
Exp/Date
CID Code
Call Center: 586-228-3030 – 43843 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038 OFFICE USE ONLY
Received
Paid By
Renewal Month/Year
IACS Membership Policy
Member Years
The IACS has adopted a new membership expiration policy beginning g in 2017. So that all members understand the new policy, it will be outlined here. All memberships at the IACS, with the exception of lifetime memberships, will run from January to December. All membership renewals will take place in January. That means that in December, membership renewal should be on everyone’s “to do” list so that there will be no interruption in membership benefits. A person who decides not to renew their membership in January but to do it later in the year thinking that the dues will be cheaper, will find that there will be NO pro-rating of dues. That means that the membership cost in January will be the same in June. That membership will also expire in December along with all memberships. There will be no advantage to waiting to renew the membership thinking that the cost will be less, as that will not be the case. As before, there are a variety of membership types available. If you are currently a member but DID NOT receive your membership renewal, please contact the IACS office and let them know. This new policy is in keeping with other organizations. Should you have any questions, please contact the IACS office at 586-228-3030. Thank you for your support as we continue to streamline our processes and procedures.
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Italian American Cultural Society Membership Changes
It has never been a better time to be an IACS member! The center is being updated. More and more people are booking the center for events than ever before. There are more programs being offered. Best of all, the financial problems that plagued the center a few years ago have disappeared. This has happened because the current board has been working hard to improve the IACS in every possible way. There has also been a review of membership benefits and costs. As a board, we have realized that here, too, changes need to be made. New membership categories have been established and some old ones have been eliminated. There has been an addition to member’s benefits too. To keep up with the cost of doing business, membership costs have also been increased for the new year. It’s important to note that the costs are still lower than any other Italian center in this area and the benefits are more than other ethnic clubs in Macomb or Oakland County. The 2018 membership changes, passed by the Board of Directors, include:
MEMBERSHIP LEVELS Student (18-23 and in school)
$40.00
NEW
Single or Individual Membership (18-59 not including single parents)
$70.00
Family Membership (2 adults in the same home and children living in the home) $125.00 Senior Membership (over 60 years of age) Patron
$1,000.00
Benefactor
single $50.00
couple $100.00
Lifetime Membership $5,000.00
Special savings on events and dinners on selected events and dinners Special savings on any party hosted by them at the IACS Subscription to the newspaper Italian American For members over 21 complimentary “adult beverages” Complimentary dinner/breakfast served at the membership meetings Entrance into the membership meeting Special savings on any Italian language class A member must be in good standing 90 days prior to the ballots going out to the membership. This year, ballots will be mailed out to the members on December 22, 2017. Patrons and Benefactors will receive additional benefits. Those currently enjoying this status will be grandfathered in to the new privileges. Memberships are nonrefundable and nontransferable. There is no pro-rating of membership costs. The price will remain the same no matter when, during the year, someone joins the IACS. The board’s objective with these new changes is to make the IACS an even greater place! Sandra Tornberg - President
PLEASE SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT THE IACS ATTORNEYS J.B.Bieske and Jenifer Alfonsi 19991 Hall Road Macomb Twp., MI 48044 800-331-3530 fax 586-977-8444 www.ssdfighter.com Aiello Law Group Mark Anthony Aiello 3031 West Grand Blvd., Ste. #440 Detroit, MI 48202 313-964-4900
DENTIST John A. Dobry, DDS 15870 19 Mile Rd Ste 160 Clinton Twp, MI 48038 586-286-0790 www.dobrydental.com FRUIT MARKET Randazzos Fresh Markets www.randazzofreshmarket.com 36800 Garfield Clinton Township MI 48035 586-293-3500
LANDSCAPING SC Lawnscape, LLC Macomb Twp., MI 586-263-0641 PHYSICIANS Skardarasy, MD Charles Si’ Parla Italiano 33464 Schoenherr Ste 160 Sterling Heights, MI 48312 586-258-3775 RETIREMENT LIVING Villa Bella of Clinton Township 15894 19 Mile Road Clinton Township, MI 48038 586-412-8190 www.Villa-Bella.net
Lifetime Membership
Benefits include:
Karen Mack – Membership Chairman
CEMETERIES Resurrection Cemetery 18201 Clinton River Road Clinton Twp., MI 586-286-9020 www.mtelliott.com
NOVEMBER 2017
Lucido & Manzella, PC Attorneys & Counselors at Law 39999 Garfield Road Clinton Twp., MI 48038 586-228-3900 Marchese, Giorgio 43455 Schoenherr Rd Ste.7 Sterling Heights, MI 48313 586-323-2300 BAKERIES Bommarito Bakery Michigan Italian Bakery, Inc 21830 Greater Mack Ave
49800 Hayes Rd Macomb, MI 48044 586-566-8700 -13441 13 Mile Rd Warren, MI 48088 586-979-1010 FUNERAL HOMES Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Homes St. Clair Shores & Sterling Heights 586-777-0557 or 586-977-7300 Lee Ellena Funeral Home, Inc. 46530 Romeo Plank Road Macomb Twp., MI 48044 586-412-8999
St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 586-772-6731 fax 772-6556
Resurrection Funeral Home 40800 Hayes Road Clinton Twp., MI 48038 586-412-3000
Il Fornaio Bakery 13689 23 Mile Road Shelby Twp., MI 48315 586-566-5280
Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons 54880 Van Dyke Ave Shelby Twp., MI 48316 586-677-4000
BANQUET HALLS IACS Banquet Center 43843 Romeo Plank Rd Clinton Twp., MI 48038 586-421-5155 www.iacsonline.com
INSURANCE AGENCIES Lucido Insurance Agency 39999 Garfield Clinton Twp., MI 48038 586-286-8200 Auto • Home • Business • Life • Health • Financial Planning
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC COM.IT.ES - Detroit informs the community that as of October 01, 2017 our new physical address will be 51424 Van Dyke Avenue - Ste. 7 Shelby Township, Michigan 48316. The new office is located still on Van Dyke Avenue, just n. of 23 Mile Road, on the 2nd floor of the Shelby Business Center. Our telephone number remains the same: 586/991-0193 E-mail address: comites@comitesdetroit.org Website: http://comites-detroit.weebly.com Office hours to the public are the same: Monday and Friday from 1:00-4:00PM.. For any information, please call Teria Delorenzo at 586-262-7482 In emergency, please call Mr. Domenico Ruggirello at 586-255-8228.
NOVEMBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
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Italian American Cultural Society
NOVEMBER 2017
A GLORIOUS CELEBRATION FOR ITALIAN AMERICANS AT THE CAPITOL Tuesday morning, October 3rd, Italian Americans from all over Southeast Michigan arrived for the annual Columbus Day celebration in Lansing. The trip is held to celebrate Christopher Columbus and the impact Italian Americans have made to Michigan and the United States.
State Rep. Pete Lucido was honored by the Columbus Day Celebration Committee and selected as Man of the Year for his work and contributions to the Italian American community. “This is truly an honor,” said Lucido, of Shelby Township. “It was a blessing to be recognized along with so many local leaders and be
able to continue this great tradition.” The committee honored the Moceri family as Family of the Year, Father Giuseppe Pino Licciardi as Humanitarian of the Year, Domenic Melia as Columbus Day Parade Marshal, Marilyn Borner and Pamela White as Women of the Year, and
FEDERAZIONE SICILIANA DEL MICHIGAN 46080 Snowbird – Macomb, MI 48044 T: (586) 243-0170 “Uniting All Sicilian Organizations Under One Umbrella” Visit us on-line at: www.FederazioneSiciliana.webs.com
the Italian Club of Livonia. Also receiving recognition was Dr. Mike Aiello, an Italian American Cultural Society board member; Sonia Anna Basso, the Venetian Club President; Luigi Guglielmetti, the president of the Calabria Club; Maria Manca, the Console d’Italia a Detroit; Father Giulio Schiavi, Pastor of San Francesco Church; Celestina Silverio, the president of the Italian Study Group of Troy; Jerry Ruggirello, the president of the Italian Club of Livonia; and the Honorable
Joe Toia, Macomb County Circuit Court Judge. During House session, Lucido offered a resolution naming October 2017 as Italian American Heritage Month in Michigan, which passed with a unanimous voice vote. “I can’t wait to continue this tradition for years to come,” Lucido said. For more information, contact Rep. Lucido’s legislative office by phone at (888) MICH-REP, or by email at PeterLucido@house.mi.gov
Founded in 1985
Federation Officers 2017-2018
President ALFONSO CHIRCO
Vice President GIOVANNI LoIACONO
Corresponding Secretary SEBASTIANO PREVITI
Recording Secretary ROSA BONNI
Treasurer ANTONINO CAVATAIO
Consigliere SALVATORE PREVITI MICHAEL BIONDO DOMENICO BONNI PIETRO CASTIGLIONE
Trustee GIOSUE TOCCO MARIO EVOLA GIOVANNI MANIACI
Coordinator - Italy ROSALINO LoDUCA
Coordinator - USA JOSEPH TOIA
Past President FILIPPO CUSUMANO STEFANO DELIA SAM GENOVESE *ANDREA BIONDO
The Federazione Siciliana del Michigan and its affiliated Associations (Alcamo Famiglie, Balastrate Famiglie, Conca D’Oro Club, Downriver Sicilia Club, Grammichele Club, Lodge Figli Della Sicilia, Madonna del Ponte, Madonna di Custonaci, Marsala Club, Mazzara del Vallo Club, Societa’ SS. Crocifisso Club Montelepre, San Giuseppe di Cinisi, Santa Fara di Cinisi, San Vito Lo Capo, Terrasini Club, & Trappeto Club) are collaborating with the Pilgrims of
Southeastern Michigan from the Shrine of the Sorrowful Mother in Bellevue Ohio along with the Federazione Abruzzese to present a:
“CHRISTMAS SPIRIT PARTY” For the Residents at the
“ST. LOUIS CENTER”
Rep. Lucido stands with (from left) Maria Manca of the Italian Consulate in Detroit, his wife Ann Marie, Rep. Steve Marino and Ramo Salerno, Chairman of the Columbus Day Celebration in Lansing, after he is presented with the Columbus Day Celebration Committee Man of the Year award.
16195 Old U.S. 12 in Chelsea, Michigan 48118 (734) 475-8430 Saturday, December 2, 2017 11 a.m. Mass by Father Enzo Addari & Padre Pino Licciardi & Lunch will be served at Noon
Affiliated Associations ALCAMO FAMIGLIE BALESTRATE FAMIGLIE CONCA D’ORO CLUB DOWNRIVER SICILIA CLUB GRAMMICHELE CLUB LODGE FIGLI DELLA SICILIA MADONNA DEL PONTE MADONNA DI CUSTONACI MARSALA CLUB MAZZARA DEL VALLO CLUB SOCIETA’ SS CROCIFISSO CLUB MONTELEPRE SAN GIUSEPPE DI CINISI SAN VITO LO CAPO SANTA FARA DI CINISI TERRASINI CLUB TRAPPETO CLUB Alfonso Chirco 46080 Snowbird Macomb, MI 48044 (586) 243-0170
Please join us in serving lunch for the residents at the Saint Louis Center in Chelsea, Michigan. We need Volunteers to help serve food, but also need donations of food, toys, new and gently used clothing, electronics, and of course any monetary gift would be greatly appreciated. SECRET SANTA: We would also like to help “Santa” bring gifts to the 52 residents there, please contact Andrea Pizzo (586) 843-3319 for their name(s) and sizes for their wish list items! Help us celebrate the Christmas Spirit with the residents of St Louis Center, let’s do this together! Please spread the word and let us know how you will be helping. Please call for more information, or to contribute in any way: Alfonso Chirco Sebastiano Previti (586) 243-0170 (586) 206-5185 Sebastiano Previti 8903 Inverness Drive Washington, MI 48095 (586) 206-5185
State Representative Peter J. Lucido, Ramo Salerno (receiving the state seal), State Representative Steve Marino, Ramo Salerno, Jr.
NOVEMBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
PAGE 13
Celebrates cont. from page 4
GIORGIO MARCHESE ATTORNEY/AVVOCATO Fluent in Italian
586-323-2300 Initial Consultation at no charge • • • •
Celebrates cont.
on page 15
Divorce Real Estate Wills/Estates Corporations
• • • •
Civil Litigation Personal Injury OUIL/Traffic Offenses Business Transactions
Silver Pine Complex 43455 Schoenherr, Suite 7 Sterling Heights, Michigan 48313
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Italian American Cultural Society
NOVEMBER 2017
IACS PROJECT COOKBOOK: Please print or
n ted Recipes Wa
type your recipe(s) and mail to the Italian American Cultural Center, ATTN Project Cookbook or give it to Fran or Dolly at the Senior Meeting or Email
e a Great Do you hav cipes? e Recipe or r w of Do you kno o does? h someone w
their s to share lling all cook k, a fundraiser ca is S C kboo The IA oject. Project Coo pansion pr recipes with oney for a building ex m e to help rais
recipe(s) to: iacsrecipes@iacsonline.com Name ___________________________________________________________________ Home Phone ___________________ Cell Phone ________________________________ Optional: Town/Province you/family are from in Italy ______________________________
NOVEMBER 2017 IACS Officers and Board of Directors 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
PAGE 15
Celebrates cont. from page 13
President Sandra Tornberg Immediate Past President Giovanni LoIacono Past President Ronald A. DiBartolomeo First Vice-President Mark Garagiola Second Vice-President Clarice Squillace Third Vice-President Antonio DiGiorgio Fourth Vice-President Sebastiano Previti
Seconda Settimana della Cucina Italiana nel Mondo
Treasurer Enzo Paglia Recording Secretary Karen Mack
An extraordinary plan to support the internationalization of the Made in Italy brand.
Chaplain Fr. Enzo Addari
Special Counsel To the President Hon. Judge Peter Maceroni
Organized by the Consulate of Italy in Detroit, the Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago, and the Dante Alighieri Society of Michigan,
Board of Directors Dr. Mike Aiello Esther Beaudette Rosa Borgia-Bonni’ Aaron Caruso Alfonso Chirco Giovanni Maniaci Rosanna Maniaci Pino Marelli Mario Moceri Gregory Rogers Domenico Ruggirello Ramo A. Salerno Joseph P. Ventimiglia Past Presidents Giovanni LoIacono Ronald A. DiBartolomeo Mario Moceri Frank J. Palazzolo Hon. Anthony Sanfemio Martin Reno Garagiola Leonard D. Mannina Cav. Vincent J. Bruno Cav. John Floreno Hon. Sam Petitto Jack Grifo Comm. Anthony J. Bellanca
in collaboration with the Federazione Abruzzese del Michigan, the Italian American Cultural Society (IACS), the Italian American Club of Livonia Charitable Foundation (IACLCF)
Live Cooking Demonstration & Dinner Coordinated by Iron Chef America Judge Mario Rizzotti acclaimed television personality and Italian culinary expert together with Chef Adam Weisell
Thursday, November 9, 2017
6:00pm-9pm Culinary Auditorium - Trevarrow, Inc. 1295 N. Opdyke Road - Auburn Hills, MI 48326
(On the corner of Centre Rd and N. Opdyke. Please enter our parking lot off of Centre Rd)
Ticket price
$50.00
Space is limited. Reservation is required in advance. No tickets at the door. ~~ You can make your reservation online at: http://www.dantemichigan.org/events/settimana-della-cucina-italiana-nel-mondo/ Secure Online Payment with PayPal. ~~You can send a check paying for the number of attendees to: Dante Alighieri Society of Michigan at: 630 N Old Woodward Ave - Suite 102 - Birmingham, MI 48009 - Please indicate: Settimana della Cucina nel Mondo 2017
Celebrates cont.
on page 17
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Italian American Cultural Society
NOVEMBER 2017
IACS OUT AND ABOUT
On September 17 the IACS participated in Troy Daze International Day. Photos courtesy of Lisa Bica-Grodsky
Marching in the Columbus Day parade on October 7
IACS Treasurer/FADM President Enzo Paglia and IACS President Sandra Tornberg appealing to Detroit City Council on October 9 in support of Columbus Day.
IACS Board Members Ramo Salerno, Mark Garagiola, and Mario Moceri at San Francesco celebration Mass on October 1.
Columbus Day Mass at Holy Family Church and laying the wreath at the Statue of Columbus on October 8.
NOVEMBER 2017
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Italian American Cultural Society
Italian American Cultural Society
Italian American Cultural Society
60th Anniversary Gala Souvenir Program Book Advertising Contract
43843 Romeo Plank Road – Clinton Township, Michigan 48038
th
60 Diamond Gala Jubilee Dear Friends of Italian Cultural Center, This is to inform you and your family that the Italian American th Cultural Society will be hosting its 60 Anniversary Gala Event on Saturday, December 2, 2017 at the Italian American Cultural Society Banquet & Conference Center, located at 43843 Romeo Plank Road in Clinton Township. There will be a tremendous menu available along with live Italian-American music by Pino Marelli and his orchestra to dance the night away. We are expecting many people at this event! ADVERTISEMENT: During the evening we will be distributing a FULL COLOR Souvenir Program Book to all those present. This is a great way to advertise your place of business or simply place an ad of good wishes! A copy of the program book will be sent to you after the banquet to keep for your records as well. We hope we can count on your support! SPONSORSHIP: We also have Sponsorship packages available, listed on the right of this page, which will spotlight your generosity that evening, and in our newsletter and social media pages. Thank you in advance for your support! Sincerely,
Esther Beaudette Gala Chairman (586) 286-2597
Sandra Tornberg President (586) 907-6631 sandratornberg@comcast.net
Joseph Ventimiglia Sponsorship Chairman (810) 338-1902
Sebastian ‘Sam’ Previti Ad Book Chairman (586) 206-5185 Sspreviti@hotmail.com
Check Payable: “IACS” Deadline:
November 15, 2017
Mail to:
Italian American Cultural Society (IACS) th Attn: 60 Anniversary Gala Committee 43843 Romeo Plank Road Clinton Township, MI 48038
Note:
Payments are Tax Deductible. Proceeds to benefit IACS Building Fund
PLEASE SUPPORT US!
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
***ALL SPONSORS WILL BE LISTED IN THE JANUARY 2018 EDITION OF ITALIAN AMERICAN NEWSPAPER & ALL SOCIAL MEDIA***
DIAMOND SPONSOR = $3,000 • • • • •
VIP TABLE OF 10 TICKETS COMPANY LOGO ON STEP & REPEAT BANNER & BANNER FULL PAGE AD IN PROGRAM BOOK LISTED IN NEWSPAPER AS SUPPORTER HONORABLE MENTION AT GALA W/ RECOGNITION
• • • • •
VIP TABLE OF 8 TICKETS COMPANY LOGO ON STEP & REPEAT BANNER & ON TABLES FULL PAGE AD IN PROGRAM BOOK LISTED IN NEWSPAPER AS SUPPORTER HONORABLE MENTION AT GALA W/ RECOGNITION
• • • • •
VIP TABLE OF 6 TICKETS COMPANY LOGO ON STEP & REPEAT BANNER FULL PAGE AD IN PROGRAM BOOK LISTED IN NEWSPAPER AS SUPPORTER HONORABLE MENTION AT GALA W/ RECOGNITION
• • • •
VIP TABLE OF 4 TICKETS COMPANY LOGO ON STEP & REPEAT BANNER FULL PAGE AD IN PROGRAM BOOK LISTED IN NEWSPAPER AS SUPPORTER
GOLD SPONSOR = $2,500
NOVEMBER 2017
43843 Romeo Plank Road – Clinton Township, Michigan 48038 E-mail: iacs@iacsonline.com I/We agree to a _________ page advertising space in the th IACS 60 Anniversary Gala Souvenir Program Book on Saturday, December 2, 2017. The Gala Committee reserves the right to decide the location of our advertisement unless specific space has been purchased. Sold to: _______________________________________ Address: ______________________________________ City: _________________________ Zip: ____________ Telephone: ____________________________________ Fax: _________________________________________ E-mail: _______________________________________
_______________________________________________ Date: Month Day Year
Sponsorship Level: Diamond Gold Ruby Pearl Silver Crystal
$3,000.00 (Includes Full Page Ad) $2,500.00 (Includes Full Page Ad) $2,000.00 (Includes Full Page Ad) $1,500.00 (Includes Full Page Ad) $1,000.00 (Includes Full Page Ad) $ 500.00 (Includes Full Page Ad)
Program Book Advertisement: Back Cover 2 Center Pages Inside Covers Full Page Half Page Business Card Patron
$500.00 (8” x 11”) 1 Available $500.00 (8” x 11”) 1 Available $350.00 (5” x 8”) 2 Available $250.00 (8” x 11”) $125.00 (5” x 8”) $ 70.00 (Business Card Size) $ 15.00 (1 Line – Name Only)
Solicited by: _____________________________________
AD COPY PLACE HERE – (Please Print Clearly or Affix Sample of Ad)
RUBY SPONSOR = $2,000
PEARL SPONSOR = $1,500
SILVER SPONSOR = $1,000 • VIP TABLE OF 4 TICKETS • FULL PAGE AD IN PROGRAM BOOK • LISTED IN NEWSPAPER AS SUPPORTER
CRYSTAL SPONSOR = $500 • VIP TABLE OF 2 TICKETS • FULL PAGE AD IN PROGRAM BOOK • LISTED IN NEWSPAPER AS SUPPORTER
ANNIVERSARY PROGRAM BOOK ADVERTISING RATES
$500 BACK COVER PAGE (8” x 11”) 1 Available $350 INSIDE COVER PAGE (8” x 11”) 2 Available $200 FULL PAGE (8” x 11”) $125 1/2 PAGE (5” x 8”) $70 BUSINESS CARD SIZE $15 PATRON – NAME ONLY (1 Line of text)
Check Money Order Cash
Buyer’s Signature _________________________________________ Please attach Check or Money Order along with this contract MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: IACS
A team sponsored by the Italian American Cultural Society and the Federazione Abruzzese del Michigan won the Beaumont Bocce Ball Classic on October 14. The annual event is held at the Palazzo di Bocce and benefits programs at Troy Beaumont Hospital.
Pictured from left to right: Team members Elio Ripari and Antonio DiGiorgio, Nancy Susick, MSN, RN, NE-BC FACHE, President of Beaumont Health Troy, Mario Moceri, Team member David Roncelli Executive Vice-president of Roncelli, Inc., Team member Carlo DiVirgilio, and James P. Lynch M.D, M.B.A., Senior Vice-president and physician-in-chief at Beaumont Hospital Troy.
DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 15, 2017
NOVEMBER 2017
September 20, 2017 Virginia Lozen Maria Zarantonello September 21, 2017 Joy Barbara Brickey Mario Paul Giordano Evelyn Helen Grecu Joseph Leonardo Maniaci Louis R. Papale September 23, 2017 Frances Borsellino Olaf Sigfred Helland Zlata Kapic Dennis Allen Keisic Giuseppina Sclafani September 24, 2017 Philippa Lobaido
Italian American Cultural Society
September 25, 2017 Andrew Anthony Marocco Blagoja Simovski September 26, 2017 Stanley Brzyski, Jr. Heather Elaine Collins Lois Marie Kopitzke September 27, 2017 Albert Cataldi John Michael Sitarski William Hillard Sklut September 29, 2017 Joseph Bertrand Hemmen Walter Peter Herman John Paul Istvan Eugene Calvin Nierzwick September 30, 2017 Kenneth Luke Dunnigan Danica Jakovski Carol Ruth Seafert October 1, 2017 Theresa Marie Batko
October 2, 2017 Erma Rose Basacchi Don Kelenski Patricia Ann Ray Anna Louise Rohan October 3, 2017 Beverly Jane Bacha JoAnn Bain Martin Mirashi Gjolaj Mirash Gjoka Gojcaj Thomas Frank Quadrozzi October 4, 2017 Dino DeCarolis Steven Edward Hohensee Paul J. Jaster Novonda Marie Long October 5, 2017 Carmelo Basilisco Stanette Frances Booza Luigj Gojcaj Kenneth Gary Konaszewski Francisco Pacheco Rodriguez Ross Arthur Summers
October 6, 2017 William Charles Casey Leonard James Edalski Dominic Grillo Jr. Joann Lois Lowe October 7, 2017 Thomas George Bomberski Janet A. DeRoy Chester W. Kozak Eugene George Wolonick October 8, 2017 Charles James Carson Stanley Joseph Dominczak October 9, 2017 Beverly D. Schwartz October 10, 2017 Edmund Soczawa October 11, 2017 Hanna Marie Detmers Jeanne Marcella Kippert Mary Elizabeth Lytle Carl M. Puz Emily Grace Schellhammer
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October 12, 2017 Cheryl Ann Chincarini Rafik Daoud Farah Yolanda Marie Hall James Walter Obdziejewski October 13, 2017 Giuseppa Alvaro Robert Howard Galloway John Thomas Sawicki June Eleanor Stewart Karl Heinz Szibey October 14, 2017 Gertrude Demankowski Carol Elaine Knezek Anna Lico Robert Wayne Naski October 15, 2017 Rosary Marie Comaianni Joseph Dominic Cusmano October 16, 2017 Patrick Charles McCormick October 17, 2017 James Deluca Jr.
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Italian American Cultural Society
NOVEMBER 2017
NOVEMBRE 2017 PUBLISHED BY THE ITALIAN AMERICAN CULTURAL SOCIETY VOLUME, XXXVI No. 11 43843 Romeo Plank Road - Clinton Township, MI 48038 - Phone (586) 228-3030 ext 15 - FAX (586) 228-1678 - Email iacs@iasconline.com
La Società Culturale Italo Americana Festeggia Sessant’Anni Con grande onore annunciamo che la Società Culturale Italo Americana (l’IACS) festeggia il suo sessantesimo anniversario “Giubileo di Diamante” con una serata di gala sabato 2 dicembre 2017 presso la sede a 43843 Romeo Plank Road. Il costo del biglietto è di $ 75 a persona. I proventi di questo evento andranno al Fondo Edilizio IACS al fine di costruire un nuovo edificio per aule, biblioteca, archivi, sale riunioni e una stanza per i soci. Gli ospiti potranno gustare una deliziosa cena preparata da Alex Lozovoj, chef esecutivo e Direttore Generale dell’ IACS, che propone antipasti vari e champagne; un’insalata di giardino con vinaigrette della casa; baci di prosciutto e formaggio con salsa di palomino; filetti e gamberetti; fascio di asparagi e patata duchessa; frutta e tartufo, un gelato italiano proveniente da Pizzo, Calabria.
1957
Purtroppo oggi non c’è nessuno dei padri fondatori della Società per testimoniare gli inizi umili, quindi la maggior parte delle informazioni storiche è stata ottenuta da registrazioni dallo Stato della Michigan e informazioni storiche depositate presso Il Centro insieme a note personali del defunto Anthony J. Bellanca. Il signor Bellanca faceva parte della leadership insieme al Console d’Italia e ad alcuni leader di una varietà di organizzazioni italo americane che hanno risuscitato la Società Culturale Italo Americana, che era stato inattivo per un periodo. Il signor Bellanca servì come primo presidente della Società dal 1973 al 1978. I risconti disponibili con la State of Michigan Corporation Divison indicano che la Società Culturale Italo Americana è stato registrato e qualificata come Non Profit Corporation il 10 dicembre 1957. A quel tempo, sedici individui della
60°
comunità italo americana, la comunità religiosa e l’ufficio del console italiano situato a Detroit, firmarono i loro nomi come fondatori della Società Culturale Italo Americana. Questi individui erano il Rev. Joseph A. Viano, il Vice Console d’Italia Vittorio Re, Maria Aceti, Firenze Maiullo Barnes, James V. Bellanca, Sr., Armand L. De Gaetano, Angelina DiMartinoi, Gino Giovanetti, Josephine Giovanetti, Maria O. Giuliano, Vincent Giuliano, Maria Lalli, Rose Louise Lo Cicero, Thomas V. Lo Cicero, Maria T. Peralta e D.L. Pucci. Tutti questi fondatori si dedicarono agli obiettivi e gli scopi dell’IACS, ad eccezione di Mary Aceti, che si è subito dimessa dall’IACS per formare un’organizzazione separata. La prima sede legale dell’organizzazione era presso l’edificio National Bank
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2017
ANNIVERSARIO
Ocse: Italia tra paesi più vecchi, giovani senza lavoro
L’Italia è uno dei paesi più vecchi dell’Ocse (Organizzazione per la Cooperazione e lo Sviluppo Economico) ma sarà ancora più vecchio nei prossimi anni arrivando nel 2050 ad avere, ogni 100 persone che hanno tra i 20 e i 64 anni, altre 74 over 65. Lo scrive l’Ocse nel suo Rapporto “Preventing Ageing Unequally” pubblicato oggi. L’Ocse segnala che i giovani italiani sempre di più sono intrappolati in lavori “non standard” e trovano difficoltà ad avere un lavoro stabile nel mercato. Il tasso di occupazione tra le persone tra i 55 e i 64 anni è cresciuto di 23 punti tra il 2000 e il 2016 mentre quello dei giovani è diminuito di 11 punti. I redditi di coloro che han-
no tra i 60 e i 64 anni in Italia negli ultimi 30 anni sono cresciuti in media del 25% in più rispetto alla fascia di età tra i 30 e i 34 anni a fronte di un gap medio nei paesi Ocse nello stesso periodo del 13%. La povertà relativa in Italia è cresciuta per le generazioni giovani mentre è diminuita per gli anziani. stesso periodo del 13%. La povertà relativa in Italia è cresciuta per le generazioni giovani mentre è diminuita per gli anziani. http://www.ansa.it/ sito/notizie/economia/2017/10/18/ ocse-italia-paesevecchigiovani-poveri_48b78f0f-50bf-4204b2d8-07027f711fd0.html
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È ancora fuga degli italiani all’estero, +15% in un anno. Boom dei giovani
Nel 2016 sono espatriati 124.076 connazionali Continua e si rafforza la fuga degli italiani all’estero: nel 2016 ben 124.076 persone sono espatriate, in aumento del 15,4% rispetto al 2015. E ad aumentare sono soprattutto i giovani: oltre il 39% di chi ha lasciato l’Italia nell’ultimo anno ha tra i 18 e i 34 anni (+23,3%). Il 9,7% ha tra 50 e 64 anni e sono i “disoccupati senza speranza” rimasti senza lavoro. Dal 2006, la mobilità italiana è aumentata del 60,1%. È quanto emerge dal Rapporto Italiani nel Mondo 2017 di Migrantes. Le partenze non sono individuali ma di “famiglia”, intendendo sia il nucleo familiare più ristretto, ovvero quello che comprende i minori (oltre il 20%, di cui il 12,9% ha meno di 10 anni) sia la famiglia “allargata”, quella cioè in cui i genitori - ormai oltre la soglia dei 65 anni - diventano “accompagnatori e sostenitori” del progetto migratorio dei figli (il 5,2% del totale). Le donne sono meno numerose in tutte le classi di età ad esclusione di quella degli over 85 anni (358 donne rispetto a 222 uomini): si tratta soprattutto di vedove che rispondono alla speranza di vita più lunga delle donne in generale rispetto agli uomini. Il continente prioritariamente scelto da chi ha
NOVEMBRE 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
spostato la sua residenza fuori dell’Italia nel corso del 2016 è stato quello europeo, seguito dall’America Settentrionale. Rispetto allo scorso anno, quando la Germania era stata la meta preferita, quest’anno il Regno Unito registra un primato assoluto tra tutte le destinazioni, seguito da Germania, Svizzera, Francia, Brasile e Usa. La Lombardia, con quasi 23 mila partenze, si conferma la prima regione per partenze, seguita dal Veneto (11.611), dalla Sicilia (11.501), dal Lazio (11.114) e dal Piemonte (9.022). C’è però una regione che presenta un dato negativo, ed è il Friuli Venezia Giulia, da cui nell’ultimo anno sono partite 300 persone in meno (-7,3%). Sono quasi 5 milioni, al primo gennaio 2017, gli italiani che vivono all’estero secondo i dati delle iscrizioni all’Aire (Anagrafe degli italiani residenti all’estero). Per la precisione, sono 4.973.942, che costituiscono l’8,2% degli oltre 60,5 milioni di residenti in Italia alla stessa data. Un numero che è costantemente aumentato negli anni (nel 2006 erano poco più di 3 milioni, +60,1%). E’ quanto si legge nel Rapporto Italiani nel Mondo 2017 di Migrantes, presentato oggi a Roma. Oltre la metà risie-
de in un Paese europeo, ma le comunità italiane più numerose sono in Argentina (804mila), Germania (724mila) e Svizzera (606mila). E’ il Regno Unito, comunque, il Paese che ha visto aumentare le iscrizioni all’Aire (+27.602 nell’ultimo anno). Più della metà degli italiani residenti all’estero provengono da regioni del Sud. Aumentano i single, scendono i coniugati. In crescita anche gli italiani nati all’estero: dai circa 1,7 milioni del 2014 ai quasi 2 milioni del 2017. http://www.ansa. it/sito/notizie/ cronaca/2017/10/17/e-ancora-fuga-degli-italianiallestero-15-in-un-anno_2143720f-51e7-471db06e-d9167f173640.html
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nell’ufficio legale dell’incorporatore James V. Bellanca, Sr. Con l’assistenza e l’iniziativa di Antonio Carloni, il Console d’Italia che fu allegato all’ufficio di Detroit nel 1957, cominciarono ad incontrarsi in varie località che includevano gli uffici consolari, l’ufficio legale di Bellanca e le case di vari membri fondatori. Il primo evento culturale si verificò il 25 gennaio 1958. La Società organizzò e sponsorizzò un concerto di pianoforte alla Detroit Institute of Arts Recital Hall presentata da un pianista di Roma. Nel febbraio 1959, la Società ha sponsorizzò una
A partire dal primo di ottobre 2017, l'ufficio del COM.IT.ES di Detroit si è spostato a: 51424 Van Dyke Ave., Ste. 7 Shelby Township, MI 48316 I seguenti contatti rimangono uguali: numero telefonico dell'ufficio 586-991-0193 indirizzo di posta elettronica comites@comitesdetroit.org sito web: http://comites-Detroit.weebly.com orario d'ufficio al pubblico: lunedì e venerdì dalle 13,00 alle 16,00.
Dal 16 ottobre la sede della Società Dante Alighieri ha l’indirizzo nuovo! 4050 West Maple Road, Ste # 250, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 Telefono 248.250.8928
mostra di musica italiana presso la McGregor Hall alla Wayne State University. Poco dopo, nell’aprile del 1959, attraverso una collaborazione, la Società e la città di Detroit organizzarono una mostra di libri italiani che furono esposti presso la Detroit Public Library Central Branch. Negli anni successivi, la Società sponsorizzò e collaborò con altri sponsor per creare attività letterarie, artistiche, musicali, sociali e culturali nella zona metropolitana di Detroit. La società ebbe successo nel raccogliere donazioni per il rilievo alle inondazioni a Venezia e il terremoto a Firenze. In un’estensione della loro missione culturale, la Società fu strumentale negli anni Sessanta nel portare l’Opera Metropolitana da New York
a Detroit. Purtroppo, nel corso degli anni, il numero di eventi diminuì e l’IACS è divenne inattivo ma ancora una valida organizzazione non-profit. Nei primi anni ‘70 un altro gruppo d’italiani non affiliati all’IACS iniziò un’entità con l’obiettivo di trovare un locale dove gli italo-americani potevano incontrarsi e socializzare. Entrarono in un accordo per acquisire un edificio modesto su Frazho Road in St. Clair Shores. Ad un certo punto durante quell’epoca, ci fu un incontro fortuito tra Salvatore Petitto e Anthony Bellanca su un volo aereo da Washington, DC a Detroit in cui
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NOVEMBRE 2017
SANDRA TORNBERG Con un conflitto di emozioni, annuncio che Barbara Smith ha deciso di ritirarsi il 2 novembre dopo ventotto anni di servizio dedicato alla Società Culturale Italio Americana. Sono molto felice che Barbara inizierà un nuovo capitolo nella sua vita in Arizona, ma egoisticamente mi sento triste a perdere un’assistente esecutiva meravigliosa. In questi due anni della mia presidenza, ho veramente capito che Barbara è stata la colla che ha mantenuto l’organizzazione in atto attraverso numerosi cambiamenti. Ha sostenuto molti presidenti e direttori nel corso degli anni, fornendo informazioni e prospettive storiche insostenibili. In nome del Consiglio di Amministrazione, del Comitato Esecutivo e dell’adesione, auguro a Barbara tanti anni di salute e felicità nel suo pensionamento. Adesso vorrei fornire un breve aggiornamento riguardo allo
Italian American Cultural Society status di Columbus Day e al busto di Colombo nella città di Detroit. Una lettera è stata inviata al Consiglio Comunale di Detroit e al sindaco Duggan, esprimendo le preoccupazioni della comunità italiana riguardo al cambiamento del nome della festa e alla rimozione del busto. Abbiamo capito il 9 ottobre da un giornalista di WXYZ che mi ha intervistato che la questione doveva venire davanti al Consiglio Comunale di Detroit il 10 ottobre, giorno seguente. La questione non è apparsa nell’agenda del Consiglio Comunale, che controllavamo per diverse settimane. Il 10 ottobre alcuni di noi della communita’ italiana abbiamo partecipato alla riunione del Consiglio e siamo stati autorizzati due minuti ciascuno per esprimere le nostre opinioni. Purtroppo il Consiglio ha votato a favore del cambiamento del nome della festa da Columbus Day a Indigenous Peoples Day, ma ha votato per lasciare il busto nella sua posizione attuale. Si sta preparando un’altra lettera,
e il nostro gruppo continua a esplorare le scelte. Volevo farvi sapere che abbiamo fatto il migliore tentativo possibile e che abbiamo rappresentato i sentimenti della nostra comunità. Su una nota più positiva, abbiamo un paio di grandi eventi in arrivo. Il 12 novembre si terrà il nostro settimo Fall Craft Show. Avremo oltre sessanta venditori con ottimi prodotti artigianati e commerciali. È un ottimo modo di iniziare lo shopping per le feste presso l’IACS. La sera del 12 novembre alle ore 19:00 siamo lieti di accogliere la Bellini Opera e la Michigan Accordion Society per una serata di musica napoletana Infine, il 2 dicembre celebreremo il nostro sessantesimo anniversario con una serata di gala. Tutti i dettagli sono in questa edizione. Spero che veniate a celebrare la nostra storia e aiutarci a garantire il nostro futuro. Vi auguro tutti una felice Festa del Ringraziamento insieme alle vostre famiglie.
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Photo taken by: Julia Rinaldi
iniziarono una conversazione. A quel tempo, il signor Petitto non era solo un commissario della contea di Macomb ma era coinvolto in un’organizzazione italiana, gli Americani di Origine Italiana (AIO). Con l’incoraggiamento del presidente dell’AIO Frank Torre, il giudice Frank Jeannettte e di altri club interessati, insieme al console d’Italia a Detroit Venanzio Rapolla, si tenne una serie d’incontri per formare un comitato direttivo per sviluppare l’idea di riattivare l’IACS come
un’organizzazione di status esenzione fiscale, trasferendo alla Società i diritti del gruppo d’individui che avrebbero acquisito l’edificio Frazho Road che era una scuola chiusa. Il comitato direttivo, con l’impegno di Bellanca, Petitto, Torre, Grifo, Consol Rapolla e altri fra i quali Edward Baker della Tribuna Italiana, si riunì nel dicembre del 1973 per riorganizzare l’IACS e per discutere l’acquisizione della piccola scuola di St. Clair Shores. A quel tempo, l’IACS aveva $1.100 in banca. La Società fu riorganizzata con sei Consiglieri di Amministrazione che decisero di donare $ 1.000 di tale importo al Detroit Institute of Arts. L’IACS era tornato in affari e possedeva una casa. Il resto, come si suol dire, è storia. Con la dedicazione e le attività del nuovo Consiglio di Amministrazione, nacque il concetto di una Società Culturale e di un Centro Comunale. Comprese corsi di lingua italiana tenuti nella parte scolastica dell’edificio di St. Clair Shores e l’uso della struttura da parte di una varietà di club italiani presto progredì fino a far sì che le esigenze della struttura superassero le sue capacità. La ricerca inizi Comprese corsi di lingua italiana tenuti nella parte scolastica della costruzione di St. Clair Shores e l’uso della struttura da parte di una varietà di club italiani presto progredì fino a far sì che le esigenze della struttura andassero alle sue capacità. La ricerca iniziò per un’altra sede. Nel 1984, il Consiglio di Amministrazione, dopo aver eseguito una ricerca di una nuova struttura più grande, acquistò l’ex Hick-
PAGINA 3 ory Junior High School situata a Warren, Michigan su Imperial Drive. La dedizione del nuovo edificio fu un evento emozionante con la partecipazione anche del governatore James Blanchard. Varie ristrutturazioni erano necessarie per soddisfare le esigenze della comunità italiana come centro comunale. Il sito Imperial Drive consisteva non solo della Junior High School ma di una notevole quantità di terreni. Il Consiglio di Amministrazione decise di esplorare la possibilità di sviluppare una casa di anziani per i membri della comunità italiana. Il 25 settembre 1984, dopo aver ricevuto finanziamento federale di circa 3,6 milioni di dollari, è stato aperto un complesso di ottanta appartamenti. La Tivoli Manor è stata il risultato dell’impegno instancabile di Jack Grifo, presidente IACS dal 1978 al 1983. Il signor Grifo trascorse innumerevoli ore con il Department of Housing and Urban Development degli Stati Uniti nel tentativo di ottenere il finanziamento. Va notato che il presidente precedente, Martin Reno Garagiola, donò ore infinite per seguire la costruzione dell’impianto. All’inizio del ventunesimo secolo, l’edificio del Centro Culturale a Warren stava mostrando la sua età di quasi quarant’anni. Si presentò un’occasione nell’estate del 2003 per vendere l’edificio. Fu una transazione rapida poiché l’acquirente era una scuola privata che doveva essere in funzione entro il settembre 2003. Con saggezza il consiglio di amministrazione fece la vendita
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La Società
consapevole che la Società sarebbe rimasta senza sede, e a ricerca di una casa nuova iniziò subito. L’IACS acquistò l’ex Partridge Creek Golf Club in Clinton Township con tutti i suoi impianti, attrezzature e licenza di liquori. L’edificio fu acquistato, i lavori di ristrutturazione iniziarono, il personale fu assunto e il suo primo evento fu sabato 15 ottobre 2005. Il Centro aveva bisogno di un pianoforte per l’ingresso della sala. Nel 2006, Mario Moceri presiedette sulla raccolta fondi, alla richiesta del presidente Frank Palazzolo. Un concerto di dedicazione è stato tenuto presso il Centro il 9 settembre di quell’anno. Nel 2008, il presidente Moceri, insieme all’On. Anthony Sanfemio e il Consiglio di Amministrazione iniziò il progetto per l’insegna all’entrata che fu completata nel 2009. Nel 2012 sono stati costruiti campi di bocce e un terrazzo, e il giardinaggio è stato rifatto sotto la guida del presidente Ronald DiBartolomeo. Nello stesso anno, dopo la morte dell’On. Anthony Sanfemio, la signora Nina Sanfemio, in memoria del marito, ha dedicato una bellissima fontana, che si trova nel giardino. Giovanni LoIacono è diventato presidente nel 2013. Con il suo consiglio di amministrazione, ha immediatamente deciso di rinnovare la sala d’ingresso del banchetto. Con l’IACS Gioventù ha supervisionato la costruzione di un gazebo per matrimoni e
Italian American Cultural Society feste all’aperto dedicato alla memoria di Giuseppe “Joe” Serra. Zhaneta Nikolovska, vedova di Joe, ha fatto una donazione della struttura del gazebo. Siamo grati alla famiglia Serra per la loro generosità. Dal 2016, fino ad oggi, la presidente Sandra Tornberg ha supervisionato numerosi aggiornamenti al Centro, inclusi riparazioni al parcheggio, un nuovo impianto audio e video, pittura e moquette per le sale di banchetti e aggiornamenti nei servizi igienici. Inoltre, ha posto l’enfasi sul nostro programma dell’insegnamento della lingua italiana, sugli eventi culturali e sulla creazione e rafforzamento di rapporti con altre organizzazioni della nostra comunità.
PRESIDENTI DI DISTINZIONE
Anthony J. Bellanca 1973-1978 Jack Grifo - 1978-1983 Salvatore Petitto 1983-1986 John Floreno 1987-1989 Leonard D. Mannina 1990-1993 Vincent J. Bruno – 1994 Leonard D. Mannina 1995 Martin Reno Garagiola 1996-1998 L’Onorevole Anthony Sanfemio - 1999-2002 Frank J. Palazzolo 2003-2007 Mario Moceri – 2008 L’Onorevole Anthony Sanfemio -2009 Ronald A. DiBartolomeo 2010-2012 Giovanni LoIacono 2013-2015 Sandra Tornberg 2016-2017
Patronato ITAL-UIL
NOVEMBRE 2017
Il Patronato ITAL-UIL continuerà ad assistere la comunità con questioni di pensioni italiane, procure, ecc. al Centro Culturale Italo Americano ogni giovedì dalle 10:00 alle 12:00. Per ulteriori informazioni si prega di contattare la Sig.ra Rita Barile 734-421-3460.