OCTOBER 2017 PUBLISHED BY THE ITALIAN AMERICAN CULTURAL SOCIETY VOLUME, XXXVI No. 10 43843 Romeo Plank Road - Clinton Township, MI 48038 - Phone (586) 228-3030 ext 15 - FAX (586) 228-1678 - Email iacs@iacsonline.com
SAVE THE DATES
SUNDAY, OCT. 1, 2017 Members and friends of the Columbus Day Celebration Committee will attend a Memorial Mass at 9:15 a.m. in honor of Christopher Columbus and the patron Saint of Italy, San Francesco at San Francesco Church in Clinton Twp. located at 16 Mile and Gratiot. Following Mass, there will be a procession with the statue of San Francesco, followed by fellowship. TUESDAY, OCT. 3, 2017 The Columbus Day Committee will take a bus to the state capitol. We will board the bus at 8:30 a.m.at the Italian American Cultural Center on Romeo Plank Rd. in Clinton Twp. In Lansing there will be an awards presentation followed by lunch. We will return around 2 p.m. (The Bus is by invitation only; however, this is YOUR capitol. Everyone is invited.) SATURDAY, OCT. 7, 2017 The Columbus Day Parade begins at 11 a.m. and will assemble at approximately 9:30 a.m. The parade route will be in Mt. Clemens and begin at Main and Church and end at Main and Market. SUNDAY, OCT. 8, 2017 Members and friends of the Columbus Day Celebration Committee will attend a Memorial Mass at 11 a.m. in honor of Christopher Columbus at Historic Holy Family Church, 641 Chrysler Drive (located on the service drive of I-75 South, the Lafayette exit) in downtown Detroit. Following Mass, there will be a fellowship in the lower level of the church. After fellowship, there will be a memorial ceremony at the Columbus Monument on Jefferson and Randolph where a wreath will be placed at the statue of Columbus. SUNDAY, OCT. 8, 2017 The Banquet will be held at Mirage. Honorees will be Man of the Year Peter J. Lucido, Co-Women of the Year Marilyn Borner and Pam White, Humanitarian of the Year Fr. Giuseppe “Pino” Licciardi, Family of the Year The Dominic Moceri Family and Parade Marshal Domenic Melia. For tickets, call (586) 298-1492.
NON-PROFIT US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 1401 MT CLEMENS MI 48043
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Italian American Cultural Society
OCTOBER 2017
October
Theresa and Tina, Macomb
Michele, Macomb
Aiden and Valerie, Macomb
Judy, Macomb
Dana, Washington Twp
Leza, Shelby Twp
OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Members Night Registration Scopa, Tre Sette, and Briscola October 18th, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Members Night Tournament October 25th, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. October 1- Sunday - San Francesco Church will host a solemn celebration in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi their Patron Saint and the Patron Saint of Italy. The Celebration will commence at 9:15 a.m. with a Mass, procession around the grounds of the church, blessings, and reception in the church hall immediately following. This celebration is held in conjunction with the Columbus Day Celebration and all are cordially invited to attend. October 4 - Wednesday – IACS Senior Membership meeting – 10:00 a.m. – Italian Cultural Center October 4 – Wednesday – Societa Santa Fara di Cinisi meeting at Italian Cultural Center – for more information, call President Michael Biondo 586-453-7878. October 5 – Thursday – FADM presents Ernest & Julio Gallo: An American Vintage, video presentation 6 – 6:45 p.m., at the Italian Cultural Center – (see flyer in newspaper)
Calendar
cont. on page 4
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Italian American Cultural Society
IACS SENIORS CHAIRPERSON MESSAGE
of course, everyone’s purchase will make it a great success.
ESTHER BEAUDETTE Happy Autumn to everyone! …May the colorful changing colors bring happiness to you. October 4th meeting will feature a speaker on balance and falling prevention; be sure to attend. Our November 1st meeting will be our annual bake sale; start thinking of something to donate to the sale. If you no longer bake, your help can be a cash donation, and,
Our senior group is sponsoring a fund raiser with RADA Cutlery Co. Everyone is invited to participate in ordering your favorite cutlery. Remember the holidays are coming up soon. These items make great gifts. Your holiday hostess would be so happy to receive a gift from you. Stay tuned for future trips to be announced for 2018. Your suggestions are always welcome. Your idea could be our next day trip. Read full details in this issue about our 60th Gala Anniversary Party of our Italian American Cultural Society. Save the date to attend…December 2, 2017. Enjoy each day, for each day is a gift.
IN LOVING MEMORY
Lombardo, Jack E. August 31, 2017. Age 74. Beloved husband of Charlene. Dear father of Craig (Linda) and Dean (Julie). Proud grandfather of Katelynn, Alyssa, Eric, and Sarah. Dear brother of Ron (Carol) Wesley and Yvonne (Jeff) Wesley-Payne. Jack
is also remembered by many nieces and nephews. Visitation at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, Inc. (Shelby Twp.) 54880 Van Dyke at 25 Mile Rd. Tuesday 3-9pm. Scripture Service at 7:00pm. Instate Wednesday 10:30am at St. Kieran Catholic Church 53600 Mound (Bet. 24 & 25 Mile Rd.) until time of Mass at 11:00am. Tributes to The American Cancer Society are welcome. Share memories with the family at their "On-Line Guest Book" at WujekCalcaterra.com
OCTOBER 2017
Calendar cont. from page 3
CALENDAR OF EVENTS October 7 – Saturday – A 5:00 p.m. Mass for the deceased members of the Madonna del Campo Society will be held at St. Francis/St. Maxmilian Church. Following the Mass there will be a Spaghetti Dinner to support the church. Cost is by personal choice. October 12 – Thursday IACS Dinner Dance. Music by Pino Marelli. Prepaid reservations. Cost is $20 for members and $22 for nonmembers. Call 586-2283030 for tickets. October 17 – Tuesday – Interdenominational Healing Service - Brother Richard Merling will be at the IACS, 2:00 PM to perform a healing service. All are welcome to attend. Light refreshments will follow the service. Please call 586-2283030 to confirm attendance. No charge. October 18 - Wednesday 1:00 PM IACS Book Club will meet. Please contact Ilene Stanko at 586-8646171 for additional information. October 18 – Wednesday – A Consular representative will meet at the IACS to assist members of the community who find it difficult going to the Consulate in Detroit. Hours are 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. October 18 – Wednesday – AIO General Membership meeting – Fern Hill – 6 p.m. October 19 – Thursday IACS General Membership Meeting/Complimentary Dinner – Italian Cultural Center – 6:00 p.m. October 21 – Saturday - The Federazione Abruzzese will
host a Halloween Pumpkin carving event. The event will take place at the Italian American Cultural Center from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Bring your own pumpkin or purchase one from us for $5.00. Stencils and safe carving tools will be available, or be creative and carve your own design. Cost is $15 and will include Pizza and pop. A prize will be awarded for best costume. Call Pete Fuciarelli at 586248-1159 or Enzo Paglia at 586-207-1063.
November 12 – Sunday – 7th Annual Fall Craft Show (see flyer in newspaper) December 2 – Saturday – IACS 60th Diamond Gala Jubilee – (see flyer and details in newspaper) December 2 – Saturday – St. Louis Center – Christmas Spirit Party – for more information, call Alfonso Chirco at 586-243-0170 or Sebastiano Previti at 586-206-5185 - (see flyer in newspaper)
ANNOUNCEMENT
October 21 – Saturday – 27th Annual Calabria Club Dinner Dance at Palazzo Grande; featuring music by Francesco & Davide (strolling band) and Gino’s Market Band. $65/person; for information, call Lou Guglielmetti at 586-7134856 (see flyer in newspaper)
Continues on Thursdays 10:00 a.m. – 12 noon
October 25 – Wednesday – AIO Board meeting – Fern Hill
For further information, Please call Ms. Rita Barile 734-421-3460
October 26 - Thursday Lodge Figli Della Sicilia No.227 monthly meeting at San Francesco Church at 7:30 p.m. Pizza and pop to follow meeting. For more information, please call President Salvatore Previti (586) 566-3843. November 9 – Thursday – Federazione Siciliana presents Sapore Della Nostra Sicilia at the Italian American Cultural Society Banquet & Conference Center - $35/ person – information, call 586-243-0170 (see flyer in newspaper) November 12 – Sunday Bellini Opera at the Italian American Cultural Society - 7:00 p.m. (see flyer)
Patronato ITAL-UIL at the Italian American Cultural Society Banquet & Conference Center is Closed only on Thursday, October 12, 2017.
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC Please note that the COMITES of Detroit, located at 48770 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, MI 48317-2571 is open to the public as follows: Mondays and Fridays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM For any information please call Teria Delorenzo at 586-262-7482 In emergency please call Mr. Domenico Ruggirello, Comites President, at 586-255-8228.
OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
HATS OFF
TO THE PAST, PRESENT, & FUTURE
The Lombardo family salutes the Moceri’s for their well-deserved honor as being awarded: Family of the Year.
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SANDRA TORNBERG October is the month when we celebrate Christopher Columbus who discovered America. This year’s Columbus Day Committee has organized several great events. On October 3 the busses will roll to the State Capitol Building in Lansing for a ceremony with our elected officials. This annual event is sponsored by Ramo Salerno. On Saturday October 7 the Columbus Day Parade will take place in downtown Mt. Clemens. There will be a mass at Holy Family Church on October 8, followed by the laying of a wreath on the statue of Columbus on Jefferson Avenue. Finally the Columbus Day Banquet will take place that evening. You can read all the details inside this edition of The Italian American. Sadly the Columbus Day holiday is under assault in many parts of the United States. Leaders of this Italian-American community have been following the activities taking place with concern. Recently the holiday was abolished in the city of Los Angeles.
Italian American Cultural Society And now we understand that a petition has been filed to remove the statue of Columbus in downtown Detroit. I want you to know that, with the support of the IACS Board of Directors, we are working with Comites and the Columbus Day Committee to determine a swift course of action. Our plan is to send a letter to the mayor of Detroit, the City Council, Wayne County officials, as well as the representatives and senators of our districts indicating our displeasure with the removal of the statue and any eventual possibility of abolishing The Christopher Columbus holiday. No historical figure has been entirely free of personal imperfections, not even the beloved founders of this country. Whatever of those that Columbus shared, it's indisputable that the discovery of the New World was only possible because of his personal qualities of foresight, bravery, and strength of determination in the face of adversity. Indeed, the feat that he planned and executed was less assured of success and more fraught with danger than our own journey to the moon many centuries later. Those personal attributes of Christopher Columbus have been mirrored by many great Americans since his time and it is the strength of those characteristics that have made ours a great nation, one of the reasons that Columbus has been generally respected and honored in this country over the years.
OCTOBER 2017
OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
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Large Crowd Attends 7th Annual Sportsmen’s Wild Game Dinner The IACS hosted a sportsmen fundraising dinner with enthusiastic guests enjoying a range of wild game meats, prepared by Alex Lozovoj, Executive Chef and IACS-Banquet General Manager. There were outdoor sporting raffles, among those, hunting rifles, shotguns, and various other door prizes distributed throughout the evening. The Honorable Peter J. Lucido, State Representative for the 36th District in Macomb County, was
our special guest for the evening. He is a lifelong resident of Macomb County and has lived in Shelby Township for more than 25 years. He and his wife Ann Marie have been married over 25 years and have three adult children, which he considers his family to be his greatest achievement. Rep. Lucido learned early on from his childhood and family upbringing that the perseveration of his Italian heritage and culture was vital as this was the bloodline of his ancestors. He and his wife have continued this legacy in their three children to preserve and protect their Italian traditions and values which have been passed on.
Rep. Peter J. Lucido, Honoree, and Sandra Tornberg, IACS President
Lucido has decided the proceeds of the 7th Annual Sportsmen’s Wild Game Dinner will be donated to the Italian-American Cultural Center’s Building Fund. Lucido says “To preserve a strong Italian heritage and culture will continue a legacy to our children, grandchildren, and beyond. As a proud Italian-American, I know preserving and handing down our customs of faith, family, and food will ensure a strong foun-
dation of principles will be provided to the generations to come”. Proceeds from this fundraising event to benefit the Italian American Cultural Society Italian Scholarship Program and IACS Building Fund.
Thank You: Villa Bella Luxury Retirement Community Michi-Gun Resurrection Cemetery Lucido’s Insurance Lucido & Manzella, P.C. Honorable Peter J. Lucido Calabria Club Dave’s Sausage Factory, Inc. Federazione Abruzzese Del Michigan Lodge Figli Della Sicilia No. 227 Ramo Salerno, 2016 Special Guest Honoree, Salerno Tool Works Sebastian “Sam” Previti Bickford of Shelby Township Assisted Living & Memory Care
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Italian American Cultural Society
IACS SENIORS BOCCE LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
Tuesday Division Champions Carlo DiVirgilio and Claire Guglielmo (captain), with Antonio Digiorgio. Not pictured are Virginia Giannone and the late Dominic Giannone
Wednesday Division Champions Loreto Martini, Ilene Stanko (captain), Rosemarie Vitale, and Diana Manzo with Antonio DiGiorgio
Overall Champions Stefano Giannola, Adele Masi (captain), Roberto Cicchelli and Giuseppe Bove with Antonio DiGiorgio
The IACS Seniors wrapped up another fun season on September 13 with playoff and championship games, followed by their annual luncheon. This year’s Tuesday Division champions were Captain Claire Guglielmo, Carlo DiVirgilio, and Virginia and Dominic Giannone. Sadly Dominic passed away on September 3 and will be greatly missed by all of his friends on the league The Wednesday Division champions were Captain Ilene Stanko. Diana Manzo, Rosemarie Vitale, and Loreto Martini. The 2017 overall champions were Captain Adele Masi, Stefano Giannola, Roberto Cicchelli, and Giuseppa Bove. Thank you to Antonio DiGiorgio for organizing and maintaining the league, with the assistance of Elio Ripari. The IACS is also grateful to the many volunteers who help Antonio and Elio maintain the courts during the season, including Carlo DiVirgilio, Floyd Zanchetta, Tony Recchia, Mario Lisi, Loreto Martini, and Vince Mariani.
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OCTOBER 2017
OCTOBER 2017
ADVANTAGES TO BEING AN IACS MEMBER: • Monthly home delivery of the Italian American Cultural Society newspaper; • Free dinner for children under 5 during Nonna Nite with Family, Family & Friends, Patron, Benefactor, or Lifetime membership levels; • 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 in order to receive special benefit;
Italian American Cultural Society
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IACS Membership - Levels and Benefits Every member strengthens the Italian American Cultural Society to better educate and preserve our traditional Italian culture. Your membership helps to make the !ACS 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 - $40 Senior Couples - $80 - Gioventu' Couple - $80 - Individual (Under age 60) - $55 Family - $100 -Two adult members and children in same household. Gioventu' Family - $100 Family & Friends - $150 - Two adult members; all children or grandchildren 18 years and younger, and includes two (2) adult guests of the member at an !ACS event at member's price. Patron - $300 -Two adult members in same household and all children or grandchildren 18 years and younger; Includes four guests at member's prices. Benefactor - $500 - 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 !ACS 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 !ACS gift certificate - good towards all IACS special events. Upon receipt of payment, you may start enjoying the benefits of membership. Make checks payable to IACS.
• 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 – 586/263-4200; 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.)
IACS Membership Policy
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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OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
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, Mark Anthony 535 Griswold St #1650 Detroit, MI 48226 313-964-4900 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 St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 586-772-6731 fax 772-6556 Il Fornaio Bakery 13689 23 Mile Road Shelby Twp., MI 48315 586-566-5280 BANQUET HALLS IACS Banquet Center 43843 Romeo Plank Rd Clinton Twp., MI 48038 586-421-5155 www.iacsonline.com CEMETERIES Resurrection Cemetery 18201 Clinton River Road Clinton Twp., MI 586-286-9020 www.mtelliott.com
DENTIST John A. Dobry, DDS 15870 19 Mile Rd Ste 160 Clinton Twp, MI 48038 586-286-0790 www.dobrydental.com
- LAKESIDE
FRUIT MARKET Randazzos Fresh Markets www.randazzofreshmarket. com 36800 Garfield Clinton Township MI 48035 586-293-3500 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 586-9777300 Lee Ellena Funeral Home, Inc. 46530 Romeo Plank Road Macomb Twp., MI 48044 586-412-8999 Resurrection Funeral Home 40800 Hayes Road Clinton Twp., MI 48038 586-412-3000 Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons 54880 Van Dyke Ave Shelby Twp., MI 48316 586-677-4000 INSURANCE AGENCIES Lucido Insurance Agency 39999 Garfield Clinton Twp., MI 48038 586-286-8200
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RETIREMENT LIVING Villa Bella of Clinton Township 15894 19 Mile Road Clinton Township, MI 48038 586-412-8190 www.Villa-Bella.net
OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
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FEDERAZIONE ABRUZZESE DEL MICHIGAN AWARDS 2017 COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
Adrianna DiCesare, Rose-Carmel Goddard, Enzo Paglia, Dr. Maria Manca, Christopher Chiaravalli, Marco DelVillano, Sandra Tornberg The Federazione Abruzzese del Michigan (FADM) held its annual Festa Abruzzese at the IACS on Sunday, September 17. Consul of Italy in Detroit Dr. Maria Manca was a special guest. Always a popular event, the highlight is the introduction of the winners of the college scholarships. This year the Board of Directors voted to award four scholarships based on the scores provided by three independent outside judges.
Catherine Calvino-Goddard. Christopher Chiaravalli’s proud parents are Kathy and Robert Chiaravalli. Chris is a senior at the University of Michigan, majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Marco DelVillano is a freshman at Michigan State University where he will pursue a degree in Electrical Engineering. He is the son of Rolando and Marlene DelVillano. The FADM Board of Directors and its membership are very proud of these four young people, and are dedicated to rewarding talented Abruzzese students with scholarship opportunities.
This year’s winners of one thousand dollar scholarships are Adrianna DiCesare and Rose-Carmel Goddard. Five hundred dollar scholarships were awarded to Christopher Chiaravalli and Marco DelVillano. Adrianna is the daughter of Tony and Tina DiCesare. She is a sophomore at Grand Valley State University pursing a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Rose-Carmel Goddard is a freshman at the University of Michigan and intends to earn her degree in Movement Science. Her parents are Michael Goddard and
GIORGIO MARCHESE ATTORNEY/AVVOCATO Fluent in Italian
586-323-2300
Initial Consultation at no charge • • • •
Dr. Maria Manca, Consul of Itlay in Detroit
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Civil Litigation Personal Injury OUIL/Traffic Offenses Business Transactions
Silver Pine Complex 43455 Schoenherr, Suite 7 Sterling Heights, Michigan 48313
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OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society Federazione Abruzzese del Michigan – Presents
Ernest & Julio Gallo: An American Vintage Our Story: The Italian American Video Presentation Thursday, October 5, 2017, 6:00 to 6:45 pm.
MEMBERS’ NIGHT REGISTRATION
Location: Italian American Cultural Society and Banquet Center, 43843 Romeo Plank Rd., Clinton Twp., 48038
On Wednesday evenings during the fall, winter, and spring, our members meet at the IACS to play spirited games of Scopa, Tre Sette, and Briscola. Registration will be on October 18 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Tournament play will begin on October 25 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Order Sons of Italy in America, Video Collection
If you don’t know how to play these games, you are welcome to come and happily coexist with the group and play other card games or board games of your choice. Please contact Antonio DiGiorgio at 586-322-9575 if you have any questions.
FEDERAZIONE SICILIANA DEL MICHIGAN
Founded in 1985
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
Federation Officers 2017-2018
President
ALFONSO CHIRCO
Vice President
GIOVANNI LoIACONO SEBASTIANO PREVITI
Recording Secretary ROSA BONNI
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”
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
L’italiano al cinema, l’italiano nel cinema
Under the High Patronage of the President of the Italian Republic, the Consulate of Italy in Detroit, the Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago, the Dante Alighieri Society of Michigan, in collaboration with the Italian Program in the Department of Classical and Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures at Wayne State University, with the support of the Federazione Abruzzese del Michigan, the Italian American Cultural Society, the Italian American Club of Livonia Charitable Foundation (IACLCF), and the NOI Foundation, are pleased to present:
Ferrante Fever
Corresponding Secretary
Treasurer
SETTIMANA DELLA LINGUA ITALIANA NEL MONDO
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
By Ann Goldstein Friday, Oct. 27, 2017 at 6pm Where: Wassermann Projects - 3434 Russell St #502, Detroit, MI 48207 Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan Novels, published in English between 2011 and 2015, tell the story, in sometimes excruciating psychological detail, of the sixty-year friendship between two girls from a crumbling, violent neighborhood on the outskirts of Naples. The books became best-sellers in America and England, and because the author had decided to remain anonymous, the translator, Ann Goldstein, became prominent in an unusual way. Goldstein, will talk about the novels, the pseudonymous author, and the process of translating the books. Ann Goldstein is a former editor at The New Yorker. She has translated works by, among others, Primo Levi, Pier Paolo Pasolini, and Italo Calvino, and is the editor of the Complete Works of Primo Levi in English. She has been the recipient of a Guggenheim fellowship and awards from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Her translation of Elena Ferrante’s The Story of the Lost Child was shortlisted for the Man Booker International Prize. Event Open to the Public: Reservation required by October 25th at info@dantemichigan.org or http://www.dantemichigan.org/events/ferrante-fever/
OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
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Thursday, October 19, 2017 IACS General Membership Meeting/Complimentary Dinner Italian American Cultural Society Banquet & Conference Center 6:00 p.m. – Must show membership card
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 Photographer Elio Ripari Sandra Tornberg 586/228-3030 ext 15 iacs@iacsonline. com www.iacsonline. com Deadline for submitting material is the 10th of the month. We reserve the right to edit all copy.
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.
MADONNA DEL CAMPO SOCIETY On Saturday, October 7, 2017, 5:00 p.m., a Mass for the deceased members of the Madonna del Campo Society will be held at St. Francis/St. Maximilian Church. Following the Mass, a spaghetti dinner will be served to support the Church. Cost is by personal choice.
WARMEST SYMPATHY…
Dominic Giannone Age 84. September 3, 2017. Beloved husband of Virginia for 60 years. Loving father of
James, Michael (Dottie), Judy, and Donna (Donald) Herman. Proud grandfather of Andrea (Will), Gina, Laura (Jason), Barbara, Tara, Michael, Jennifer, Erica, Jeremy and the late Daniel and great-grandfather of 5. Dear brother of Susie Williams. Visitation Thursday 3-9pm at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, Inc. 36900 Schoenherr at Metro Parkway (16 Mile). Instate Friday 10:30am until the 11:00am
Mass at St. Michael Catholic Community (40501 Hayes, Sterling Heights, just south of 18 Mile). Dominic was a dedicated Ford Motor Co. employee for 44 years and was proud to have served in the US Marine Corp. He was a member of the IACS and the IACS Seniors Bocce League. Share memories with the family at their "On-Line Guest Book" @ WujekCalcaterra.com.
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OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
IACS PROJECT COOKBOOK: Please print or
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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
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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 ______________________________
OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
Rigoletto By Giuseppe Verdi October 14, 18, 21 & 22, 2017 Detroit Opera House
The Fall Opera Season made possible by the Ford Motor Company
Love, Passion, Treachery, A Curse…in a powerful new interpretation of Verdi’s masterpiece. Lecture by John Zaretti, President of the Verdi Opera Theatre of Michigan, with guest performances of selections from Verdi’s Rigoletto, performed by the MOT Studio Artists
THURSDAY OCTOBER 5, 2017 AT 7:30 P.M.
Chrysler Black Box Theatre at the Detroit Opera House • FREE with RSVP to operaclubs@motopera.org *Complimentary parking in the DOH surface lot
For info: 313.237.7464 or michiganopera.org
SPECIAL OFFER!
Those attending the lecture will receive a 20% discount on tickets to any performance of Rigoletto (October 14-22), if purchased before October . Visit michiganopera.org and enter promo code VERDI
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OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
Calabria Club
27th Annual
Calabria Club Dinner Dance
Saturday, October 21, 2017 at Palazzo Grande 54660 Van Dyke Avenue Shelby Township, Michigan 48316
27930 Lauren St. North, Harrison Township, MI 48045, 586.713.4856
General Meeting (Important) Curatore Di Cultura Calabrese Officers President Luigi Guglielmetti Vice President Larry Roca 2nd Vice President Dominic Bitonti Secretary Lynn Porchia Membership Chairman Pino Lico Activities Coordinator Cynthia Iannuzzi Patrick Treasurer Judi Blindu Sergeant of Arms Frank Tundo Publicity Chairman Lucy Guglielmetti Board of Directors Chairman Dominic Melia Carmine Aquino Giovanni Blindu Maurice Cerra Joe Coscione Giuseppe Garreffa Giuseppe Guglielmetti Dr. Michael Luberto Dann McDonald Donna McDonald Jeanette Tundo Past Presidents Pino Lico Giovanni Notarianni Gino Esposito Frank Guglielmetti Dominic Melia
• Thursday, October 5, 2017, 8:00 pm SHARP (Board of Directors meet at 7:00 pm) at San Francesco Church, 22870 S. Nunneley Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48035. Refreshments will be served.
Mark your Calendars for these Events! September
16 2017
October
7
2017
Adrian, MI Memorial The first anniversary of the ceremony honoring Italian victims in the 1901 Wreck of Wabash is at 12:00 Noon at Oakwood Cemetery in Adrian, MI. A bus may be provided by calling the ItalianAmerican Cultural Center at 586-228-3030.
Columbus Day Parade The Calabria Club will assemble at 9:30 am at Main and Church Street in Mount Clemens, MI. The parade begins at 11:00 am and will end at Main and Market Street.
Entertainment by: Francesco & Davide and
$ 65 per person 6:00 pm ‐ Cocktails & Antipasto 7:30 pm ‐ Dinner
P a y m e n t i s d u e b y O c t o b e r 1 4 . N O M O N E Y A C C E P T E D AT D O O R . Raffle – Prizes or Gift Certificates from your business accepted
October
8
Columbus Day Celebration
Registration Form
For details on the Church Mass and to purchase Banquet tickets for the Columbus Day Celebration event at the Mirage, please call 586-298-1492.
2017
Seating will be in order of reservations received
Name(s): Name(s):
October
21 2017
Dinner Dance The 27th Annual Dinner Dance at the Palazzo Grande will feature music by Francesco & Davide (strolling band) and Gino’s Market Band. More details are included on the enclosed flyer.
Name(s): Name(s):
Please make checks payable to Calabria Club and mail to: Luigi Guglielmetti, 27930 Lauren St. N., Harrison Township, Michigan 48045, phone: 586.713.4856 QUESTIONS ‐ please call Luigi Guglielmetti at 586.713.4856
WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY CERCONE, Mariano "Mario", a respected and successful businessman who owned and operated Mario's Meats in Eastpointe for over 60 years died September 10, 2017. Age 90. Beloved husband of Maria for 67 years. Loving father of Sandra (Michael) Biondo, Giacomo (Juliann) Cercone, Carlo Cercone, Angela (Ron) Recchia and Antonio Cercone. Proud and loving grandfather of Samantha Biondo, Christina (Thomas) Silvestri, Michael (Andrea) Biondo, Mario Cercone, Ma-
ria Cercone, Nicklas Recchia, Alyssia (Dr. David) Moore, Jason Recchia and Anthony Recchia and great-grandfather of Marina and Vincenzo Silvestri and Michael and Daphne Biondo. Dear brother of the late Raphael Gentile. Also survived by many loving family and friends in the United States, Italy and Australia. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Ephrem Catholic Church followed by entombment in Resurrection Cemetery. Please share memories with the family at their "On-Line Guestbook" at WujekCalcaterra
INTERDENOMINATIONAL HEALING SERVICE Brother Richard Merling will be at the IACS on Tuesday, October 17 at 2:00 PM to perform a healing service. All are welcome to attend. Light refreshments will follow the service. Please call 586-228-3030 to confirm attendance. No charge.
OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
PAGE 17 IACS Officers and Board of Directors 2017 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 Treasurer Enzo Paglia Recording Secretary Karen Mack Chaplain Fr. Enzo Addari Special Counsel To the President Hon. Judge Peter Maceroni 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
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
Stay up-to-date with the latest news regarding the Italian American Cultural Center by visiting us at www.iacsonline.com or like us on facebook @www.facebook.com/Italian-American-Cultural-Society-and-Banquet-Center
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
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Italian American Cultural Society
Italian American Cultural Society
60th Anniversary Gala Souvenir Program Book Advertising Contract
43843 Romeo Plank Road – Clinton Township, Michigan 48038
60th 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! ADVERTISMENT: 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:
OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
Payments are Tax Deductible. Proceeds to benefit IACS Building Fund
PLEASE SUPPORT US!
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUINITIES
***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
GOLD SPONSOR = $2,500 • • • • •
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
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)
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)
Program Book Advertisement:
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
DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 15, 2017
OCTOBER 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
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Italian American Cultural Society
OCTOBER 2017
OTTOBRE 2017 PUBLISHED BY THE ITALIAN AMERICAN CULTURAL SOCIETY VOLUME, XXXVI No. 10 43843 Romeo Plank Road - Clinton Township, MI 48038 - Phone (586) 228-3030 ext 15 - FAX (586) 228-1678 - Email iacs@iasconline.com
CRISTOFORO COLUMBUS SOTTO ATTACCO
Ci sentiamo anche noi una minoranza da rispettare
L’ASSALTO ALLE STATUE DI COLOMBO: MA CHI È IL VERO VIOLENTO? di Susy De Martini e Fucsia Fitzgerald lunedì 04 settembre 2017
GENOVA - Guardando le foto dei monumenti dedicati a Cristoforo Colombo imbrattati o presi a martellate in varie città degli Usa, e ci riferiamo alle foto apparse sui siti ed i quotidiani di tutto il mondo delle statue aggredite più che brutalmente,abbiamo provato la sensazione di aver ricevuto sulla nostra pelle un episodio di violenza a nostro avviso più grave da un punto di vista psicologico che fattuale. In nome del “Politically correct”, infatti, alcuni sostenitori delle cosiddette minoranze si sono avvicinati ad alcune statue di un simbolo dell’Italia tutta ed hanno iniziato a distruggerle, ovviamente solo dopo aver accertato che il numero di giornalisti e fotografi presenti fosse più che
adeguato... e tutto questo in nome della protesta contro la violenza e lo schiavismo. Ebbene chi ha fatto violenza a chi? Che ne direste se un tale decidesse di entrare in casa vostra e di appiccicare, ovviamente senza chiedervi alcun tipo di permesso, e dopo aver criticato tutte le vostre scelte di vita, anche un semplice adesivo con una scritta, ovviamente decisa da lui, sul televisore o sulla vostra scrivania e sulla porta della camera dei bambini? Pensiamo non avreste difficoltà ad affermare, anche senza l’ausilio di una psicologa, che le possibilità potrebbero essere solo due: l’una, il gesto di un folle
L’assalto
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USA, LOS ANGELES CANCELLA IL COLUMBUS DAY: «CELEBRAZIONE DI UN GENOCIDIO» Rivolta degli italo-americani, «offesi» dalla decisione della città californiana e dagli attacchi alle statue del navigatore genovese di Andrea Marinelli L’ondata di revisionismo storico che ha colpito gli Stati Uniti abbattendo statue e simboli confederati in tutto il Paese non ha risparmiato la celebrazione del Columbus Day a Los Angeles. Dopo la decapitazione di un busto a Yonkers e la possibile rimozione di una statua a New York, ieri il consiglio comunale della città californiana ha deciso, con quattordici voti favorevoli e appena uno
contrario, l’abolizione della festa nazionale dedicata a Cristoforo Colombo, che sarà rimpiazzata da una giornata per commemorare «le popolazioni indigene, aborigene e native» vittime del genocidio — affermano gli attivisti che hanno sostenuto l’iniziativa — commesso dal navigatore genovese: un gesto che, secondo la mozione promossa nel novembre 2015 dal consigliere comunale Mitch O’Farrell,
discendente della tribù Wyandot, si allinea all’esempio di numerose città americane, fra cui Seattle, Albuquerque e Denver, e, soprattutto, «ristabilisce la giustizia», ma contro cui si sono battute le organizzazioni italoamericane, che con il Columbus Day, il secondo lunedì d’ottobre, celebrano la propria eredità culturale.
USA
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PAGINA 2
Italian American Cultural Society
Continua da pagina 1 L’assalto
e, la seconda, quella di un comportamento sì ‘sano’ ma maleducato e violento, per l’assoluta assenza di rispetto sia per le vostre idee che per gli oggetti a voi più cari. Un folle, infatti, in un episodio più acuto degli altri del suo delirio narcisistico, potrebbe pensare di aver distrutto l’oggetto odiato, solo per il fatto di averlo “posseduto” almeno virtualmente, ad esempio “imbrattandolo” o colpendolo a martellate come purtroppo è avvenuto, seppure solo per pochi minuti. Infatti, l’aggressività e l’odio per la realtà circostante che nasce dal conflitto angoscia-attacco diventa sintomo in caso di nevrosi o peggio di psicosi. Questo non è ovviamente il caso di una persona sicuramente perfettamente equilibrata come sono i pacifisti “politically correct” americani che sono entrati in “casa nostra” imbrattando o cercando di distruggere un nostro simbolo. Si, diciamo casa nostra, perché quei monumenti sono stati donati dagli italiani all’estero alle città nelle quali vivono, da molti anni, dopo aver fatto incredibili sacrifici e che adesso lì sono e si sentono casa loro! Come a casa ci sentiamo noi al Columbus Circle di New York, altro sito nel mirino dei più che violenti esponenti del politically correct (e scu-
sateci ma non ne possiamo più di sentire una a parola così fasulla). Ebbene sì, una di noi due, Susy, è non solo genovese ma vive a poche centinaia di metri da quella statua e la saluta e le sorride tutte le mattine quando passa da lì. Ed ebbene sì, noi due facciamo spesso colazione insieme a New York, per organizzare il nostro lavoro, ed ogni volta che vediamo la statua di Colombo pensiamo anche al suo immenso coraggio che gli ha permesso di sfidare la paura più grande, quella di andare incontro all’ignoto e di insegnare a tutti noi che se si vuole andare “in un posto dove non si è mai stati, bisogna prendere una strada che non si è mai presa! Ci sentiamo anche noi una minoranza da rispettare e perché mai non dovremmo essere rispettate? Forse solo perché siamo italiane e non “Native”? E ci chiediamo, quanti fra quelli che hanno imbrattato e preso a martellate la Statua di Cristoforo Colombo sono realmente “Nativi Americani”? E quanti invece di loro sono in America grazie all’intuizione e al coraggio proprio di Colombo ed alla speranza di costruire un Mondo Nuovo ed aperto a tutti! A tutti vuol dire anche alla minoranza italiana, alla quale noi siamo fiere, ma proprio fiere, di appartenere.
L’impressione che abbiamo di quanto sta accadendo nella mente degli “anti Cristoforo” è quella della rappresentazione di una violenza ben architettata in termini “pubblicitari” con l’arroganza di colui a cui tutto è permesso, anche il diritto di “imbrattare “ il simbolo del lavoro e dei valori di tutto un Popolo. Susy De Martini, medico neuropsichiatra, già parlamentare al Parlamento europeo, è l’attuale Coordinatrice di Forza Italia USA. Fucsia Fitzgerald Nissoli, da oltre vent’anni residente in Connecticut, è la Deputata al Parlamento Italiano – Circoscrizione Estera – Ripartizione Nord America e Centro America – Coordinatrice Forza Italia Nord e Centro America. http://www.primocanale. it/notizie/l-assalto-allestatue-di-colombo-ma-chiil-vero-violento--189197. html?utm_campaign=shareaholic&utm_ medium=facebook&utm_ source=socialnetwork
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USA
La celebrazione di un genocidio «A nome della comunità italiana, dico che vogliamo celebrare con voi, ma non vogliamo farlo a spese del Columbus Day», ha affermato Ann Potenza, presidentessa dell’associazione Federated Italo-Americans of Southern California, cercando di difendere la festività — istituita a livello federale da Franklin Roosevelt nel 1937 — in un’aula stipata di attivisti nativi americani che ne chiedevano l’immediata sostituzione. Il tentativo estremo della
comunità italoamericana non è bastato tuttavia a convincere Chrissie Castro, vice presidentessa della Los Angeles City-County Native American Indian Commission, secondo la quale la città doveva «abolire la celebrazione, sponsorizzata dallo Stato, del genocidio delle popolazioni indigene». Festeggiare in un altro giorno, ha sostenuto Castro durante l’infuocata seduta del consiglio comunale, «sarebbe stata un’ulteriore ingiustizia». La frattura italoamericana La stessa comunità italoamericana di Los Angeles, però, si è divisa sul destino del Columbus Day. L’unico voto contrario è stato quello del consigliere comunale Joe Buscaino, italoamericano di prima generazione, che ha provato a salvare la festività ricordando i pregiudizi di cui erano stati vittime gli italiani negli Stati Uniti. «Non curiamo un affronto con un altro affronto», ha chiesto ai colleghi ricordando che «tutte le nostre culture individuali sono importanti». Favorevole all’abolizione era invece il consigliere comunale Mike Bonin, i cui bisnonni arrivarono dall’Italia in California, secondo il quale la celebrazione del Columbus Day sminuirebbe i traguardi raggiunti dai propri antenati, «che giunsero negli Stati Uniti per costruire qualcosa, non per distruggere». La decisione di rimpiazzare il Columbus Day con l’Indigenous People Day, ha spiegato, «è solo un piccolo passo per scusarci e fare ammenda». L’ideologia esasperata Eppure per molti italiani d’America la guerra dichiarata a Colombo — la cui
OTTOBRE 2017 miccia fu accesa nei primi anni Novanta dauna provocatoria copertina di Time che si chiedeva se il navigatore genovese fosse un eroe oppure un aggressore — rappresenta uno schiaffo in faccia all’intera comunità. «Quello che sta succedendo in questa grande Nazione, e che si espanderà probabilmente in altri continenti, è a dir poco anti democratico, anti storico e deplorevole, frutto di ignoranza e di una ideologia esasperata. Come tanti italo-americani, mi sento offeso e attaccato», dichiara al Corriere della Sera Vincenzo Arcobelli, rappresentante eletto al Consiglio Generale Italiani all’estero per gli Stati Uniti, che denuncia «gli atti vandalici e violenti portati avanti da gruppi radicali di estrema sinistra» commessi contro le statue dell’esploratore italiano e di Italo Balbo a Chicago. «Abolire la giornata di Colombo o rimuoverne una statua significherebbe eliminare un pezzo di storia, di cultura e di tradizione italiana». http://www.corriere.it/ esteri/17_agosto_31/usalos-angeles-cancella-columbus-day-celebrazione-ungenocidio-b6a8f512-8e1711e7-ae8d-f3af6c904a41. shtml?refresh_ce-cp
ANNUNCIO Il Patronato ITALUIL non sarà all’IACS giovedì 12ottobre. Riprenderà servizio il 19 ottobre dale 10:00 alle 12:00. Per ulteriori informazioni si prega di chaiamare la Signora Rita Barile al numero 734.421.3460
OTTOBRE 2017
Italian American Cultural Society
PAGINA 3
SANDRA TORNBERG Ottobre è il mese in cui celebriamo Cristoforo Colombo che ha scoperto l’America. Quest’anno il Comitato Columbus Day ha organizzato numerosi eventi. Il 3 ottobre i bus si dirigono verso la capitale di Lansing per una cerimonia con i nostri funzionari eletti. Questo evento annuale è sponsorizzato da Ramo Salerno. Sabato 7 ottobre la parata avrà luogo nel centro di Mt. Clemens. L’8 ottobre ci sarà una messa alla Santa Famiglia, seguita dalla posa di una corona sulla statua di Colombo su Jefferson Avenue. Finalmente la cena si svolgerà quella sera. Tutti i dettagli si trovano in questa edizione. Purtroppo la festa di Columbus Day è sotto assalto in molte parti degli Stati Uniti. I leader di questa comunità italo-americana stanno seguendo le attività che si svolgono con preoccupazione. Recentemente la festa è stata abolita nella città di Los Angeles. E ora capiamo che è stata presentata una petizione per rimuovere la statua di Colombo nel centro di Detroit. Voglio comunicarvi che, con il sostegno del consiglio di
Ceremonia ad Adrian Il 17 settembre si è celebrato il primo anniversario della commemorazione delle vittime Italiane scomparse nella sciagura ferroviaria vicino ad Adrian, Michigan nel 1901, conosciuta come “Wreck on the Wabash”. Più di cento anime italiane scomparvero in questa tragedia. Quest’anno l’urna contenendo i amministrazione dell’IACS, stiamo lavorando con il Comites e con il comitato di Columbus Day per determinare un rapido corso di azione. Il nostro piano è di inviare una lettera al sindaco di Detroit, il consiglio comunale, i funzionari della contea di Wayne, e i rappresentanti e senatori dei nostri distretti, indicando il nostro dispiacere con la rimozione della statua e ogni eventuale possibilità di abolire la festa di Cristoforo Colombo. Nessuna figura storica è stata completamente libera da imperfezioni personali,
resti di altre vittime della tragedia è stata sepolta vicino al monumento. Ringraziamo il sindaco di Adrian Jim Berryman e la sua comunità per aver preso il destino di questi italiani nel loro cuore. nemmeno i più amati fondatori di questo paese. Qualunque di quelle che Colombo ha condiviso, è indiscutibile che la scoperta del Nuovo Mondo sia stata possibile solo a causa delle sue qualità personali di previdenza, coraggio e forza di determinazione di fronte alle avversità. Infatti, l’impegno che ha pianificato ed eseguito era meno sicuro di successo e più carico di pericoli che il nostro viaggio verso la luna molti secoli più tardi. Quegli attributi
personali di Cristoforo Colombo sono stati rispecchiati da molti grandi americani fin dal suo tempo ed è la forza di quelle caratteristiche che hanno reso grande la nostra nazione, una delle ragioni che Colombo è stato generalmente rispettato e onorato in questo paese nel corso degli anni.
ANNUNCIO Patronato ITAL-UIL non sarà disponibile all’IACS giovedì 17 agosto 2017. Il servizio riprenderà giovedì 24 agosto dalle 10:00 alle 12:00 Per maggiori informazioni, Si prega di chiamare la signora Rita Barile
734-421-3460
PAGINA 4
Italian American Cultural Society
Incendi, cinque cause per cui l’Italia va a fuoco
Si chiude la peggiore stagione degli incendi in Italia da 30 anni a questa parte. Le cause si possono riassumere in cinque punti. Tutti hanno a che fare con la scarsa attenzione al territorio e al bene comune. Ma anche a un sistema organizzativo di scarsa efficienza. di Davide Pettenella (Fonte: lavoce.info) Quasi a termine della peggiore stagione negli ultimi 30 anni per gli incendi in Italia, vediamo di analizzare le cause di questo fenomeno, cercando di fare una valutazione più ampia sullo stato delle risorse boschive. Possiamo raggruppare le cause di questo fenomeno in cinque categorie, di cui le ultime due collegate a problemi generali del settore forestale che travalicano lo specifico tema degli incendi boschivi. Condizioni meteorologiche La prima causa, quasi un prerequisito per lo sviluppo degli incendi, sono le condizioni meteorologiche: aridità, alte temperature, bassa umidità, forte vento con il maggior numero di eventi estremi, come le sette ondate di caldo di questa estate, tutti fenomeni collegati ai cambiamenti climatici. L’eccezionalità climatica sarà sempre più norma; tra l’altro gli scenari di cambiamento climatico prevedono che la regione del Mediterraneo sia più esposta a fenomeni di riscaldamento di altre regioni, con una maggiore riduzione delle pre-
cipitazioni nella primavera e con maggiori ondate di caldo in estate, con incendi quindi potenzialmente più rapidi, intensi e di larghe dimensioni. Incendiari volontari e no. E rari piromani La seconda causa è legata alla diffusione dei casi di incendi volontari o da comportamento irresponsabile. Non si tratta della diffusione della piromania, una malattia mentale molto rara, ma si tratta di comportamenti dolosi di una moltitudine di soggetti: pastori in cerca di pascoli più ricchi e “puliti”, incendiari con motivazioni vendicative, operai forestali stagionali in cerca di future opportunità di impiego, cacciatori interessati a controllare e concentrare le aree di rifugio della selvaggina, raccoglitori di prodotti selvatici. Ma la causa prevalente sono i comportamenti colposi collegati a noncuranza, negligenza, imperizia e sottovalutazione del rischio. Nell’Europa meridionale quasi il 70 per cento degli incendi sono legati a bruciature di residui vegetali e al desiderio di rigenerare e rendere più produttivi i pascoli. Prevenzione e spegnimento Una scarsa attenzione alla prevenzione attiva degli incendi è la terza causa. Nulla di nuovo nel panorama della gestione del territorio in Italia: alla prevenzione viene data una minor attenzione rispetto al ripristino. La prevenzione può essere indiretta o diretta. Per prevenzione in-
diretta si intendono pratiche quali la scelta delle specie appropriate, la realizzazione di diradamenti e di interventi di pulizia del sottobosco, interventi che hanno anche una importanza fondamentale per aumentare la resistenza e la resilienza delle formazioni forestali. Prevenzione diretta significa realizzazione e manutenzione di fasce tagliafuoco, riduzione del materiale combustibile, pulizia delle fasce laterali delle strade e di quelle sottostanti le linee di comunicazione. Nel considerare l’antitesi prevenzione-spegnimento degli incendi non vanno trascurate le differenze in termini di investimento economico delle due opzioni: la prima interessa soprattutto i piccoli operatori del mondo rurale, il secondo coinvolge soggetti esterni al settore forestale e in particolare l’area del business connessa alla flotta aerea e ai sistemi di monitoraggio, settori fortemente legati all’industria militare. La foresta abbandonata Le ultime due cause hanno una rilevanza più ampia, che va ben al di là dello specifico caso degli incendi e interessano le modalità organizzative del settore forestale italiano, negletto dalla politica (in parte perché rappresenta lo 0,08 per cento del valore aggiunto nazionale), nonostante le superfici forestali coprano più di un terzo del territorio e rappresentino quella che è stata definita la più grande infrastruttura verde del paese. Una infrastruttura che, nonostante incendi e attacchi parassitari, è in espansione a seguito della ricolonizzazione di terreni agricoli abbandonati. La prevenzione a costi minori è quella connessa alla rivitalizzazione dell’economia del settore: un bosco che produce valore è un bosco che viene difeso e che difficilmente brucia.
In effetti tutto il settore è ancora condizionato da una cultura che è quella dell’Italia della fine dell’Ottocento quando il paese si era dotato di una rigida normativa di vincolo dei territori boscati e di una forza di polizia specializzata nella tutela delle risorse forestali. Di fatto il singolo, più potente, strumento di politica forestale sono ancora i diversi tipi vincoli (idrogeologico, paesaggistico, naturalistico). Negli ultimi 50 anni la superficie forestale è raddoppiata. C’è bisogno di un cambiamento di paradigma di riferimento nella politica forestale: dal “vietare per proteggere e ricostruire il patrimonio” a “gestire il patrimonio, valorizzandolo anche economicamente, per ridurre i costi della sua tutela”. Un problema di governance E qui entra in gioco il quinto e ultimo fattore: l’assetto istituzionale del settore, profondamente modificato dalla Legge Madia di riforma della pubblica amministrazione, e in particolare dal Decreto legislativo 177/2016 che ha ridefinito le istituzioni che operano nel settore forestale a livello centrale. Come spiegato nella scheda tecnica che ha accompagnato il fact-checking sulle attività di spegnimento degli incendi, con il Decreto 177 è stata fatta la scelta di militarizzare il Corpo forestale dello stato (Cfs) inglobando gran parte dei componenti nell’Arma dei Carabinieri. Il Decreto 177 ha avuto uno specifico effetto sull’organizzazione della difesa dagli incendi boschivi nelle regioni a statuto ordinario. Attualmente le competenze risultano divise tra regioni, Vigili del fuoco, i Protezione Civile e Carabinieri forestali, secondo la ripartizione riportata nella scheda tecnica. Con la riforma delle competenze
OTTOBRE 2017 definita dal Decreto si rendono necessarie nuove convenzioni tra Regioni e Vigili del fuoco i quali, tuttavia, in molte Regioni dovrebbero ereditare le competenze negli interventi avendo problemi organizzativi e di personale. Il rischio che vada sempre peggio Infine, da una lettura del Decreto, si potrebbe ipotizzare che la prevista Direzione foreste del ministero delle Politiche agricole, forestali e alimentari assuma una funzione di indirizzo delle attività anti-incendio. Questa Direzione è ancora in attesa di una definitiva strutturazione. Con il Decreto 177 si è così riusciti a fare due significativi errori con una sola decisione: si sono affidate responsabilità operative ad una organizzazione (i Vigili del fuoco) che non ha una struttura logistica diffusa sul territorio rurale perdendo le competenze nel coordinamento sul campo accumulate da alcuni decenni di attività antincendio del Cfs. Nello stesso tempo si è accentuato quel processo di securizzazione e, più specificamente, di militarizzazione dell’apparato centrale dello stato nel campo della gestione delle risorse naturali proprio in un momento in cui sarebbe fondamentale avere una pubblica amministrazione che accompagni sul piano tecnico e amministrativo la gestione dei beni comuni, che privilegi la prevenzione sulla repressione, i rapporti di cooperazione e responsabilizzazione con i portatori di interesse sugli interventi securitari. Se questa strada, prepariamoci a molte altre estati di fuoco. http://www.ilfattoquotidiano.it/2017/09/02/incendicinque-cause-per-cui-litaliava-a-fuoco/3830921/