Order Sons of Italy in America®
55th Biennial National Convention & Guglielmo Marconi Award Gala Commemorative Journal
August 14-19, 2017 Hyatt Regency Resort Hotel Sarasota, Florida
CONGRATULATIONS
AND BEST WISHES TO 2017 GUGLIELMO MARCONI AWARDEE HON. MARIA LORTS SACHS (2010 - 2016)
WITH DEEP GRATITUDE & APPRECIATION FOR THE 2015 MARCONI AWARD UFF. JOSEPH SCIAME CHAIR CONFERENCE OF PRESIDENTS OF MAJOR ITALIAN AMERICAN ORGANIZATIONS (2010 - 2016) AND OSIA NATIONAL PAST PRESIDENT (2003 - 2005)
Order Sons of Italy in America®
55th Biennial National Convention & Guglielmo Marconi Award Gala Commemorative Journal Greetings from Sarasota Mayor Shelli Freeland Eddie...................................................... 2 Welcome: Convention and Marconi Gala Chair................................................................. 3 The Guglielmo Marconi Award: History and Recipients.................................................. 4 2017 Marconi Award Honoree: Hon. Maria Lorts Sachs.................................................. 5 Marconi Gala Menu................................................................................................................. 6 Marconi Gala Program............................................................................................................ 7 2017 Dr. Vinccenzo Sellaro Award Honoree: William (Bill) Zuppa................................ 8 2017 Sports Award Honoree: Joan Bonvicini...................................................................... 9 OSIA National Officers........................................................................................................10 OSIA National Past Presidents............................................................................................ 12 The Order Sons of Italy in America®................................................................................. 14 The Sons of Italy Foundation®............................................................................................ 18 The Commission for Social Justice®................................................................................... 22 Marconi Gala Sponsors.........................................................................................................24
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
Guglielmo Marconi Award & Biennial National Convention Chairs
Welcome Frank J. Panessa
National Treasurer Chairman, Guglielmo Marconi Award Committee
Daniel J. Longo National President
Welcome to the Order Sons of Italy in America’s 55th Biennial National Convention and the Guglielmo Marconi Award Gala. In keeping with a long-standing tradition, we gather here in convention as leaders and delegates to call upon the principles of our beloved Order—Liberty, Equality, Fraternity—to guide us in making decisions that will steer the course of the organization over the next two years. We are a national organization, our members and supporters stretching coast to coast and north to south. Although we are unified through our common Italian ancestry, our experiences with our heritage and OSIA vary. This convention provides the opportunity to share stories, exchange ideas, and forge new friendships that will facilitate working together as brothers and sisters. Tonight we conclude our convention with a wonderful banquet—the Guglielmo Marconi Award Gala—during which we proudly present OSIA’s highest honor. Named for the Italian inventor of wireless telegraphy, the Guglielmo Marconi Award is given to an individual who has made important contributions to the United States, exemplifying the ideals of the Order. This year we honor Maria Lorts Sachs, an Italian American who has held public office and championed women’s and veteran’s causes. In 2006, she was elected to the Florida House of Representatives and served two terms until she was elected to the Florida Senate in 2010. She served one term as State Senator, and rather than seeking reelection, she became Executive Director of Innovation Florida, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of innovation by providing support in the areas of policy advancement, academic outreach, workforce development, talent acquisition, entrepreneurialism, and global outreach. In a true World War II romance, Maria’s parents met in Naples when her father was a commissioned officer in the United States Army Infantry helping to liberate Italy. We are proud of Maria’s accomplishments and pleased to honor her tonight at this dinner which formally ends our 55th Biennial Convention. Enjoy the evening! 55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
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Guglielmo Marconi Award
Previous Recipients The Guglielmo Marconi Award is named for the Nobel Prize-winning Italian physicist who invented wireless telegraphy. It is the Sons of Italy’s highest honor, presented biennially to a person who has made significant contributions to the United States. 2017 2015 2013 2011 2009 2007 2005 2003 2001 1999 1997 1995 1993 1991 1989 1985 1983 1981 1977 1975 1973 1971 1967 1965 1963 1961 1959 1955 4
Hon. Maria Lorts Sachs, Florida State Senator Joseph Sciame, National Past President, OSIA; Chairman, Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations Hon. Tom Marino, U.S. Congressman from Pennsylvania Frank J. DeSantis, National Past President, OSIA Joe Mantegna, Award-winning Actor Paul S. Polo, Sr., President Emeritus, Sons of Italy Foundation; National Past President, OSIA Michael Massimino, U.S. Astronaut, NASA Gen. Anthony Zinni, USMC (Ret.) Hon. Argeo Paul Cellucci, U.S. Ambassador to Canada George L. Graziadio, Chairman, Imperial Bank Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia Jeno F. Paulucci, Chairman, Paulucci Enterprises Joseph Cicippio, American Hero Mariapia Fanfani, President, Together For Peace Foundation Hon. Peter Secchia, U.S. Ambassador to Italy Hon. Frank J. Montemuro, Jr., National Past President, OSIA Dr. Augustine Verrengia, Deputy Manager, Program Planning, Space Shuttle Program, NASA Hon. Pete Domenici, U.S. Senator from New Mexico Hon. Frank Annunzio, U.S. Congressman from Illinois Hon. John Scali, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Hon. Ella T. Grasso, Governor of Connecticut Hon. Richard M. Nixon, President of the United States Hon. Peter W. Rodino, U.S. Congressman from New Jersey Hon. Anthony J. Celebrezze, Judge of U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals Hon. John O. Pastore, U.S. Senator from Rhode Island Hon. John A. Volpe, Governor of Massachusetts Judge Eugene V. Alessandroni, Grand Venerable, Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania Brig. Gen. David S. Sarnoff, President and Chairman of the Board, R.C.A. Order Sons of Italy in America®
Guglielmo Marconi Award - 2017 Honoree
Hon. Maria Lorts Sachs Florida State Senator (2010 - 2016) Maria’s Italian heritage is rooted in World War II. Her father, born on a dairy farm in Michigan, was a commissioned officer in the United States Army Infantry in the war. After combat in North Africa, his troop continued northward to Salerno for the march to Rome and the liberation of Italy. It was in old Napoli that he met, fell in love, and married a young Neapolitan woman named Annarosaria. Following the end of the war, he returned home to Michigan, and Annarosaria followed soon after as a war bride. Together, they had four children and were married for 60 years. Having worked hard to become an American citizen, Annarosaria instilled a strong sense of American patriotism in her daughter. Maria’s first civic activism began at a Catholic school in Los Angeles, Bishop Amat Memorial High School, where she was elected as Student Body Vice President. She would have run for President of the Student Body, but at the time, the position was not yet possible for female candidates. Maria graduated from the University of Maryland, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree with honors in Political Science. Maria went on to earn a Master’s Degree in International Political Relations from Boston University and later lectured in Political Ideology at various military bases throughout Europe on behalf of the University of Maryland. Maria volunteered to teach at the John F. Kennedy School in Naples, Italy, while attending classes at the University of Maryland. After a period of nearly seven years abroad, Maria returned to the U.S. and earned her law degree from the University of Miami. She began her law career under Janet Reno’s direction and moved to Palm Beach County to continue practice law until she held public office. In 2006, Maria was elected to the Florida House of Representatives and served two terms until she was elected to the Florida Senate in 2010. In her early years in office, Senator Sachs was chosen by her peers to become minority leader pro-tempore. With a focus on promoting the richness of the Italian culture and history in Florida, Sen. Sachs became the President of the Italian Caucus in Tallahassee. It was during this period that Maria met Ed Mottola, President of the Sons of Italy, Boca Raton. He proposed that a law be passed which would ordain that the language and culture of Italy be taught in our public schools. His idea, along with the signatures of hundreds of members of the Sons of Italy organizations, passed the Florida House, the Florida Senate, and was signed into law by the Florida Governor in 2008. Today, there are entire counties, such as Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, where the Italian language and culture are part of the school’s curriculum. On May 1, 2014, the Florida Senate adopted Senate Resolution 720. Promoted by the Grand Lodge of Florida, Order of the Sons of Italy in America, this resolution recognizes October 2014 and each October thereafter as Italian and Italian Heritage Month. It is meant to honor the 1.7 million Florida citizens of Italian heritage and has made possible ceremonies, tributes, and educational opportunities throughout the State in honor of our beautiful Italian heritage. In 2016, after a decade in public service, Maria became the founder and Executive Director of the Coalition Against Human Trafficking. Maria and her husband, Peter, currently live in Palm Beach County, Florida. They have three children (Natasha, Marcello, and Taylor). Maria is proud to support the work of the Sons of Italy, as together they promote the Italian language and culture throughout the State of Florida. 55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
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Guglielmo Marconi Award Gala
Menu Reception Shrimp Cocktail Iceberg Wedge with Candied Bacon
Dinner Petit Filet with Roasted Garlic Herb Butter & Seared Salmon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Grilled Asparagus
Dessert Espresso Tiramisu Coffee & Tea
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
Guglielmo Marconi Award Gala
Program Welcome Singing of the National Anthems
Edward Mottola, Jr. Chairman, 55th Biennial National Convention
Invocation
The Rev. R. Adam Forno National Chaplain, OSIA
Dinner
Introduction of Dais
Edward Mottola, Jr.
Introduction of 2017 Guglielmo Marconi Award Honoree
Frank J. Panessa National Treasurer, OSIA Chairman, 2017 Marconi Award Committee
Maria Fassio Pignati Immediate Past State President, CA National Trustee, CA
Presentation to 2017 Guglielmo Marconi Daniel J. Longo Award Honoree National President, OSIA & Frank J. Panessa Remarks, 2017 Guglielmo Marconi Award Honoree
55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
Maria Lorts Sachs Florida State Senator Dancing
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Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro Award - 2017 Honoree
William (Bill) Zuppa William, or “Bill” as he is known to OSIA members, was born in Brooklyn, New York, and was one of seven children born to Michael Zuppa (Capua, Campania) and Giovanina Molino (Eboli, Campania), who came to the United States in 1915 and 1919, respectively. He is a Charter member of the Joseph B. Franzalia Lodge #2422 and has been a member of that lodge since 1978, serving as President, Treasurer, and Financial Secretary. He has also held several offices in the Grand Lodge of Florida, including Financial Secretary (2007 – 2011), Second Vice President (2011 – 2015), and First Vice President (2015 – 2017). Bill served twenty years in the United States Air Force (1953 – 1973), retiring as a Senior First Sergeant. Over the course of his service, Bill received numerous distinctions, including the Bronze Star, Korean Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. True to his service roots, Bill served as President, Past President and Charter Founder of the Veterans Tribute Tower Memorial, a memorial in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The Memorial Tower is dedicated to all past, present, and future veterans. In addition he played a key role in helping raise more than $250,000 for the memorial, which was officially dedicated on Memorial Day 2016. Bill continues as a board member of the Veterans Memorial Tower. In addition to serving as a volunteer little league baseball coach, he also played a key role in the organizing/founding of the Shalimar Florida Little League Baseball Program. Bill is the consummate OSIA member. A Charter member of the Joseph B. Franzalia Lodge #2422 for thirty-nine years, he was instrumental in acquiring land and overseeing construction for the lodge’s building—one of just five lodge buildings in Florida. In addition to serving as the lodge’s President, Treasurer, and Financial Secretary, Bill was a co- founder/organizer of the lodge’s Festa Italiana as well as a Charter/Founder of the lodge’s Amici d’Italiani golf tournament. He is a founder of three OSIA lodges, all located in Northwest Florida—Buona Fortuna Lodge #2835 in Pensacola (2006), William Zuppa Lodge #2845 in Panama City (2008), and Richard A. Capozzola Lodge #2865 in Crestview (2010). Bill then mentored and counseled these fledgling lodges to ensure their success and survival. Bill has also been integral to bringing the Grand Lodge of Florida accounting programs online. He is the founder and webmaster of the Grand Lodge of Florida Website (www.osiafl.org). A loving husband of more than sixty years to his wife, Chiyoko, Bill met his wife when he was stationed in Okinawa. He is the proud father of three (Dr. Jim Zuppa, Attorney Donna Ansell, and Security Consultant/Entrepreneur Joseph Zuppa), grandfather of six (Jessica, Jenna, Jovonna, Ryan, Alyssa, Michael), and great-grandfather of three (Ellen, Vera, Rowley). 8
Order Sons of Italy in America®
Sports Award - 2017 Honoree
Joan Bonvicini Joan Bonvicini was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and was one of five children born to Gaetano (Thomas) Bonvicini and Jane Casey Bonvicini. Gaetano emigrated from Verona by way of Ellis Island in 1929. One of the winningest coaches in women’s college basketball history, Joan became just the 17th head coach to reach 700 career wins. She began her head-coaching career with Long Beach State University (1979 – 1991), leading them to back-to-back NCAA Final Four appearances in 1987 and 1988. She also led them to ten NCAA tournament appearances, nine Sweet Sixteen appearances, and six Elite Eight appearances, and was named the NCAA Division I Coach of the Year in 1981. She was inducted into the Long Beach State University Hall of Fame in 1996. After her tenure at Long Beach State, Joan took over as Head Coach of the University of Arizona (1991 – 2008), where she won the 1996 Women’s National Invitation Tournament championship. In 1998, she was named the PAC-10 Coach of the Year, and in 2005, she was inducted into the Pima County Sports Hall of Fame. Her most recent head coaching position was with Seattle University (2009 – 2016), where she won the 2013 WAC Conference championship and was also named WAC Coach of the Year. On four separate occasions, Joan has served as Head Coach of the USA women’s basketball team, including for the 1981 USA Olympic Sports Festival and the 1993 USA World University Games. She served as Assistant Coach twice, including at the 1991 Pan American Games in which the women’s team earned the bronze medal. From 1988 to 1992, Joan was on the USA Olympic Selection Committee. A former college basketball standout, Joan played guard at Southern Connecticut State University while earning her Bachelor of Science in Health Education. In 1989, she was inducted into the Southern Connecticut State University Hall of Fame, and in 1994, she was inducted into the Connecticut Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2005, she was inducted into the New England Basketball Hall of Fame. Joan currently works as a broadcasting/color analyst on the PAC-12 Network/ESPN3 and a supervising agent for American Income Life. She is the proud mother of her daughter, Shea, who is currently a sophomore at University of Arizona.
55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
2015-2017 National Officers
Kevin A. Caira President, Commission for Social Justice®
Joseph J. DiTrapani
National Immediate Past President
Joseph A. Boncore, Esq.
Joseph J. DiTrapani President, Sons of Italy Foundation®
Vera Girolami
Nancy Di Fiore Quinn
Michael G. Polo
Christopher Cannatella
National 1st Vice President
National 4th Vice President
National 5th Vice President
Thom A. Lupo
Frank J. Panessa
National Financial Secretary 10
Daniel J. Longo President, Order Sons of Italy in America®
National Treasurer
National 2nd Vice President
National Orator
Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. National 3rd Vice President
Dr. Mark S. DeNunzio
National Recording Secretary
Richard R. Della Croce, Esq. The Rev. R. Adam Forno National Historian
National Chaplain
Order Sons of Italy in America®
Order Sons of Italy in America®
2015-2017 National Trustees & State Presidents National Trustees
Maria Fassio Pignati, CA Neil A. Velleca, Sr., CT Edward Mottola, Jr., FL John A. Saladino, MA Vincent A. Zaccaria, MD Dominic Pucci, NJ Diane Y. Scillo, NW Carlo Matteucci, NY Joseph F. Rondinelli, NY Terry Lattavo, OH Michael P. Creedon, Esq., PA
State Presidents
Cathy Quagliata, AZ Lynn Lawrence-Murphy, CA Dominic LoSasso, CO Neil A. Velleca, Jr., CT Joseph Facciolo, DE Carolyn Cianciotta, FL Marie Marsalli, IL/WI Antonio Sestito, MA Frances A. Cipriotti, MD Dr. Thomas Pruse, NE Ralph M. Capaccio, NJ Tony Bisceglia Anderson, NW Carolyn Reres, NY Mac Comparetto, OH John Oliano, PA Valentino D. Lombardi, Esq., RI Robert Amante, VA Anthony Lanna, WV
55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
National Past Presidents PHOTO NOT AVAILABLE
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Vincenzo Sellaro 1905-1908
Antonio Rubino 1908-1909
Achille Sabatino 1909-1912
Francis Mezzatesta 1912-1914
Vincent Buffa 1914-1916
Francesco Palleria 1916-1917
Stefano Miele 1917-1921 & 1935-1940
Giovanni M. Di Silvestro 1921-1935
Felix Forte 1940-1947
George J. Spatuzza 1947-1957
Frank J. Gimino 1957-1957
Joseph Gorrasi 1957-1961
John Ottaviano, Jr. 1961-1965
Peter J. Bertoglio 1965-1969
Americo V. Cortese 1969-1973
Peter B. Gay 1973-1975
John G. Spatuzza 1975-1977
Frank J. Montemuro, Jr. 1977-1981
Aldo A. Caira 1981-1985
Bruno S. Giuffrida 1985-1987 Order Sons of Italy in America®
Order Sons of Italy in America®
National Past Presidents
S. Joseph Avara 1987-1989
Albert J. Riccelli, Sr. 1989-1991
Peter R. Zuzolo 1991-1993
Joanne L. Strollo 1993-1995
Paul S. Polo, Sr. 1995-1997
Frank J. DeSantis 1997-1999
Philip R. Boncore 1999-2001
Robert A. Messa 2001-2003
Joseph Sciame 2003-2005
Vincent Sarno 2005-2007
Alfred A. Affinito 2007-2009
Joseph J. DiTrapani 2009-2013
Daniel J. Longo 2015-2017
55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
112 Years of Liberty, Equality, Fraternity OSIA is the oldest (established 1905) and largest organization representing Americans of Italian heritage in the United States, with hundreds of thousands of family members located in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Our mission is to serve as the leading organizational voice on behalf of the cultural, social, political and economic issues of importance to Americans of Italian heritage. Celebrating Our Culture and Preserving Our History The backbone of OSIA is Italian heritage. The celebration and record of that heritage is found in the historical Garibaldi-Meucci Museum, OSIA’s archives at the Immigration History Research Center, the beautiful Italian America magazine and with lodge members across the country. like those gathered to honor OSIA’s centennial in 2005 when Grand Street in New York City was renamed Sons of Italy Way .
NATIONAL OFFICE Andrea K. Beach National Office Manager
Carly Jerome Director of Programming & Operations
Miles Ryan Fisher Editor-in-Chief, Italian America® magazine 14
Katie Vivian Project Coordinator
Adam Jacobs Bookkeeper/Adminstrative Assitant Order Sons of Italy in America®
Order Sons of Italy in America®
112 Years of Liberty, Equality, Fraternity Innovative Fundraising Beyond Dues Recognizing the need to create revenue beyond dues, OSIA leaders are always evaluating projects that have the potential to derive income, as well as provide a cultural, historical or educational benefit. OSIA’s official cookbook was especially successful, as was an at-large member drive which included a drawing for a free genealogy research package from My Italian Family.
Government and International Relations As the largest group representing Italian Americans, OSIA’s role in keeping close relationships with government leaders is important, whether it’s OSIA’s national president meeting with the president of the United States or maintaining a close bond with the Embassy of Italy and Italy’s Ambassador to the United States.
OSIA Gold Membership Program As of August 1, 2017
Member and Public Communications for Today’s World OSIA keeps in touch with members and supporters through a variety of communications, including OSIA. org and social media like Facebook and Twitter. “Questo Mese,” the monthly OSIA National email newsletter, is a member favorite.
55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
Bob Amante Tony Anderson-C Phil Boncore Dianna Britting Tony Cianciotta Frances Cipriotti-C Michael Creedon Mark DeNunzio-C Verne Foss-C Louis Gallo Al Girolami-C Vera Girolami-C Biagio Isgro Eleanor Jobbagy Joe LaBanca-C Sal Lanzilotta Daniel J. Longo Marie Marsalli Lynn Lawrence-Murphy-C Tom LiPuma Anita Lombardi-Riley-C Nicholas Mauro-C
Michele Ment Bill Murphy-C Arlene Nunziati-C Frank Panessa -C Maria Fasio Pignati-C Paul S. Polo-C Michael G. Polo-C Thomas Pruse-C Dominic Pucci-C Nancy Quinn-C Joseph Rube Frank Sammartano Joseph Sciame Luigi Squillante Sadie Tamburine Steven Trent Joseph Vallone Kurt Weis, Jr Keith Wilson Paul Zanobelli “C” denotes Charter Member
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
Historical Timeline 1905 June 22 OSIA founded as “Figli d’Italia” at 203 Grand Street in New York City at the office and residence
of Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro. (Later renamed “L’Ordine Figli d’Italia in America.”) A week later, Dr. Sellaro is elected first “Supreme Venerable” or president. 1911 The Grand Lodge of New York becomes first state chapter; puts a representative on Ellis Island to help new Italian immigrants. 1913 OSIA encourages members to join unions and support labor protests such as the Paterson textile workers strike in New Jersey. 1914 OSIA holds first convention in Paterson, N.J. Beginning in 1917 in Cleveland, OSIA begins holding conventions every two years. 1915 OSIA publishes the weekly “Bollettino Ufficiale.” In 1946, the Bollettino is replaced with OSIA News, a monthly newspaper. In 1996, the newspaper is replaced with Italian America, a full-color quarterly magazine free to all members. 1917 President Woodrow Wilson receives OSIA leaders at the White House. Since then, every U.S. president has publicly acknowledged the contributions of OSIA, including Herbert Hoover, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard M. Nixon, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. 1918 An estimated 28,000 OSIA members serve in the U.S. armed forces during WWI. Of these 1,278 are wounded and 975 killed. OSIA gives subsidies to servicemen’s families. OSIA lodges contribute $2 million and 3.5 million lire for war victims, Liberty Loans (war bonds), the Red Cross and post-war loans to Italian government. OSIA establishes free English language and citizenship classes for members. 1919 OSIA takes over administration of Antonio Meucci’s home on Staten Island, N.Y. In 1956, OSIA turns the home into the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum, a center for Italian culture and language learning. Today it is one of only two 2 ethnic museums in the U.S. with landmark status. [Ed. Note: the actual date of the OSIA takeover is disputed. It may have been in 1913 or 1914.] 1922 The government of Italy designates OSIA its official representative of Italians in the United States. OSIA sponsors student exchanges and annual pilgrimages to Italy where OSIA leaders meet with the Pope, the king of Italy and government leaders. 1927 OSIA protests the execution of Sacco and Vanzetti. 1930 OSIA membership peaks at 350,000 in more than 1,000 lodges coast to coast. 1931 Louise Porreca becomes first woman to serve on Supreme Council when she is elected a Supreme trustee. 1932 OSIA founder, Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro dies on November 28 of diabetes and heart disease at age 64. OSIA enrolls 1,500 young Italian Americans in 12 youth lodges during a mass meeting in New York City. Eventually 366 youth lodges were created, 132 of them in Massachusetts. 1942 OSIA hires Leonard Pasqualicchio as its first national deputy to lobby in Washington, D.C. He served until 1957. Among his achievements, he convinces government to drop wartime “enemy alien” designation of non-naturalized Italians living in America and presses successfully for federal government to include Italy in the Marshall Plan to rebuild post-war Italy. 1947 OSIA launches letter-writing campaign urging members’ relatives in Italy not to vote Communist in the first democratic election in Italy’s history. 1954 OSIA steps up campaign to make Columbus Day a federal holiday. In 1932 the Order began lobbying Congress and the White House for this holiday. 1959 OSIA establishes Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF), its philanthropic arm. 1965 Grace Grenco is elected president of the Grand Lodge of Florida, becoming the first woman to hold the office of grand lodge president. OSIA supports passage of the 1965 Immigration Act which abolishes the 1924 McCarran-Walter Act that discriminated against southern Europeans by establishing unfairly low quotas. 1968 President Lyndon B. Johnson signs law designating the second Monday in October as “Columbus Day” and a federal holiday. 1971 President Richard Nixon receives the OSIA Marconi Award during a ceremony at the White House. 1973 OSIA helps create the Italian American Congressional Caucus, uniting for the first time all the Italian-Americans serving in the U.S. 16
Order Sons of Italy in America®
Order Sons of Italy in America®
Historical Timeline House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. OSIA helps found the National Italian American Coordinating Association, a federation of national Italia- American organizations now known as the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations. 1979 President Jimmy Carter addresses OSIA’S 36th Biennial Convention in Baltimore. 1980 OSIA celebrates 75th anniversary; Congress proclaims June 22 “National Italian American Day” President Jimmy Carter awards OSIA member & WWII veteran Anthony Casamento the Medal of Honor, following OSIA’s three-year campaign. 1981 OSIA purchases a building for its national headquarters and hires a full-time national executive director in Washington, D.C. From 1905 to 1955, the headquarters was in New York City and, later, Philadelphia. OSIA establishes the Commission for Social Justice (CSJ), its anti-defamation arm. 1984 SIF approves $100,000 project to record and preserve OSIA archives at the University of Minnesota’s Immigration History Research Center (IHRC). 1989 SIF holds first National Education & Leadership Awards (NELA) Gala in Washington, D.C. to honor outstanding Italian American students and leaders. OSIA archives at the University of Minnesota’s IHRC opens. Its 1,200-plus linear feet make it the largest Italian American resource materials collection in the United States. 1993 Joanne L. Strollo is elected OSIA’s first, and presently the only, woman national president. 1998 President Bill Clinton becomes the first U.S. president to attend the NELA Gala and attends again in 1999 and 2000, and post-presidency in 2006 and 2010. 2002 OSIA delegation makes first official visit of 21st century to Italy to meet with Italian government, business and culture leaders including the president of Italy, Carlo Azeglio Ciampi. 2004 President George W. Bush and Italy’s Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi attend the NELA Gala. It was the first time a sitting U.S. president and a prime minister of Italy attended a major nonprofit event in America together. OSIA holds pilgrimage to Italy to kick off upcoming centennial year celebrations. Delegation meets with then-Pope John Paul II, President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi and other government officials and holds gala dinner in Rome. Grand Street in New York City is re-named “Sons of Italy Way.” 2005 OSIA celebrates its 100th anniversary. Since its founding it has established more than 2,800 lodges in 43 states and the District of Columbia. 2009 U.S. Vice President Joseph R. Biden becomes first non-Italian American to receive the SIF Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service. Accepting the award, he calls it “one of the finest honors” he’s received. 2010 Former President Bill Clinton accepts the second SIF Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service at the NELA Gala. Italian President Giorgio Napolitano travels to the United States to attend the NELA. The College Board reinstates the Advanced Placement (AP) Italian Language and Culture Program, thanks to $3 million raised by the Sons of Italy and other organizations. 2011 SIF presents a $10,000 scholarship to SSgt. Salvatore Giunta, the first living American serviceman to receive the Medal of Honor since Vietnam. Four-star Army General Raymond Odierno introduces the staff sergeant. 2012 Then-Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Peter Pace, USMC (Ret.) are honored by the SIF at the NELA Gala. 2013 The Sons of Italy® attracts the attention of global auto powerhouse Chrysler and Italian automaker Fiat, and their CEO Sergio Marchionne accepts the SIF’s Award for Excellence in Global Business at the NELA Gala. Also recognized at the Gala are former Secretary of State and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Colin Powell, USA (Ret.), and actor/veteran’s activist Gary Sinise. 2015 OSIA celebrates 110th anniversary of its founding. The State Lodge of Pennsylvania is re-established. 2016 Establishes the first university chapter (Susquehanna University Lodge #2933). Financial stability returned to the Supreme Council. 2017 Redesigns OSIA website and upgrades technology in National Office. 55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
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The Sons of Italy Foundation®
Making A Difference & Seizing the Future The Sons of Italy Foundation® (SIF) is the philanthropic arm of OSIA. The SIF was founded in 1959 as a private, grant-making institution with the purpose of preserving Italian American culture, encouraging educational excellence among Italian Americans and improving lives in other areas. To date, the SIF has given $163 million to these efforts.
Medical Research, Support and Social Services Members work hard raising money to help OSIA/SIF national charities find cures for the most devastating diseases like Cooley’s anemia, which affects the lives of little Gabriella and her family.
Special Projects The SIF supports the establishment and restoration of U.S. monuments and memorials, including the National 9/11 Memorial. [Photo © Amy Dreher]
Scholarships, Educational Opportunities and Support The SIF and OSIA lodges give thousands of scholarships each year to bright Italian-American students. The 2016 SIF National Leadership Grant recipients are an outstanding group!
Photo Courtesy of Leggi il Firenzepost
Disaster Relief SIF efforts to raise funds for the Central Italy earthquake relief generated a total donation that exceeded $150,000. 18
Photo © Max Taylor
Order Sons of Italy in America®
The Sons of Italy Foundation®
Making A Difference & Seizing the Future Recognizing Extraordinary Achievement and Supporting the Mission The SIF’s NELA Gala annually attracts leaders in government, business and philanthropy, as well as corporate sponsors. At the 2017 NELA Gala, back row (L. to R.): Matthew McCarville, Joseph DiTrapani, and 1993 Marconi Award Honoree Joseph Cicippio. Front row (L. to R.): Karen McCarville and Elham Cicippio.
Photo © Reflections Photography
Sustaining the SIF’s Important Philanthropic Efforts The SIF relies on individual fundraising programs to sustain its efforts, including legacy giving, matching gifts, memorial & tribute giving and recurring giving – The Sustaining Patrons Circle. SIF Sustaining Patrons Circle Honor Roll As of August 1, 2017
Honoring and Assisting Those Who Protect and Serve The SIF helped fund the creation of the National World War II Memorial and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. In recent years, the SIF has given tens of thousands of dollars to various groups that support wounded service members like CPT Michael Trost, USArmy (center), who was presented with a customized van made possible in part by an SIF contribution to Help Our Military Heroes.
55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
Nick & Jeanne Ameli Tony Bisceglia Anderson & Linda Anderson Joyce & Thomas Bollenbacher Joseph T. Cangemi Carlo Lizza & Sons Paving, Inc. Anthony & Carolyn Cianciotta Mark DeNunzio Joseph & Carol DiTrapani Judge Al Girolami & Vera Girolami Mark Gregorio Angela & Chuck Harrington Nami Kim Joseph LaBanca Bruce & Annette Lankewish Salvatore & Rachele Lanzilotta Terry & Sue Lattavo Daniel J. Longo Thomas A. Lupo Michele & Eric Ment
Bob & Betty Messa New York State Grand Lodge Foundation, OSIA Arlene Nunziati Marianne Principe O’Neil & John O’Neil Geraldine Parrilla Philip R. Piccigallo Maria Fassio Pignati Michael G. Polo Michael S. Polo Paul S. Polo, Sr. Nancy DiFiore Quinn & John Quinn Rose Carolyn Rizza Joseph & Joan Rondinelli Joseph & Pauline Russo Patricia Russo Richard Sanvenero, Jr. Vincent & Paula Sarno Diane Y. Scillo 19
The Sons of Italy Foundation®
History of Philanthropy 1959 Sons of Italy Foundation® (SIF) established as the philanthropic arm of the Order Sons
of Italy in America®, the nation’s oldest and largest organization for people of Italian heritage. 1964 Donates $25,000 for flood victims in Belluno, Italy 1966 Donates $200,000 for flood victims in Florence and Venice 1967 Designates March of Dimes as one of its official charities and donates more than $14 million over the next two decades 1968 Raises more than $127,000 for earthquake victims in Sicily 1974 Names Cooley’s Anemia Foundation as an official charity; donations to date equal more than $3 million. 1976 Raises $217,000 for earthquake victims in Friuli, Italy 1981 Donates $3 million in funds and sends medicine and clothing to 97 southern Italian towns devastated by 1980 earthquake 1985 Contributes to restoration of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty 1987 Donates $30,000 to earthquake victims in Mexico 1989 Holds first National Education & Leadership Awards (NELA) Gala in Washington, D.C. 1990 Contributes $50,000 to establish the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. 1993 Names the Alzheimer’s Association one of its official charities and donates $1 million over the next 10 years 1998 Donates $50,000 to Barbara Sinatra Hospital for Abused Children 2003 Contributes $66,000 to help establish an Advanced Placement program in Italian 2004 Donates $100,000 to help build the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. 2005 Donates $15,000 to the Tsunami emergency relief effort in Indonesia 2006 Donates $35,000 for Hurricane Katrina Relief 2007 Pledges $100,000 to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City. Donates $100,000 to Coaches vs. Cancer 2008 Donates $100,000 between 20042008 to the Rienzi Foundation to cure deafness through cochlear implants 2009 Collects an estimated $300,000 in relief funds to aid victims of Abruzzo earthquake 2010 Selected by The Charles Evans Foundation, formed by Evan-Picone fashion house co-founder Charles Evans, to receive a quarter-million-dollar endowment to establish the perpetual Charles Evans Scholarship, presented by the SIF annually at the NELA Gala. Fulfills its pledge, giving $100,000 to build the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Gives a special $10,000 scholarship to Medal of Honor recipient SSgt. Salvatore Giunta. Raises additional $50,000 to re-instate the Advanced Placement Program in Italian Language and Culture 2011 Donates $235,000 to help rebuild the Fondazione Il Cireneo Onlus per L’Autismo, a center for children with autism, destroyed by the 2009 earthquake that struck L’Aquila. Makes first gift of $24,600 to newly-selected official charity, the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, Inc. Pledges a second $1 million contribution to the Alzheimer’s Association 2012 Answers the call of natural disaster victims in Italy and the United States, launching fund-raising campaigns for Emilia-Romagna earthquake relief and Hurricane Sandy relief 2013 Donates $25,000 to Super Storm Sandy relief. Makes a $15,000 gift to The Gary Sinise Foundation. 2014 Donates $20,000 to Help Our Military Heroes 2015 SIF/OSIA gives more than $300,000 to Alzheimer’s Association; Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, Inc.; and Cooley’s Anemia Foundation 2016 Donates $150,000 to relief efforts for the Central Italy earthquake in the Umbria, Lazio, Abruzzo, and Marche regions; $20,000 to Help Our Military Heroes; $10,000 to the Gary Sinise Foundation; $10,000 to K9 Partners for Patriots, Inc. 2017 Donates $20,000 to Help Our Military Heroes 20
Order Sons of Italy in America®
The Sons of Italy Foundation®
Snapshot of Philanthropic Giving The list below represents the broad scope of charities, causes and programs to which the Sons of Italy Foundation has given its support. It is not all-inclusive.
MEDICAL RESEARCH, SUPPORT & SOCIAL SERVICES
Alzheimer’s Association American Fund for Dental Health American Italian Cancer Foundation The American Foundation for St. George Hospital, Inc. Annette Funicello Fund for Neurological Disorders Arthritis Foundation Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center Boys Town of Italy CES Foundation Children’s Inn at NIH Coaches vs. Cancer Cooley’s Anemia Foundation Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America The Daniel Pitino Children’s Health Foundation The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism The Fondazione Il Cireneo Onlus per l’Autismo Fox Chase Cancer Center The Italian Hospital Society Lombardi Cancer Center Lupis Foundation & Elizabeth Fund March of Dimes Michael Bolton Charities for Battered Women Multiple Sclerosis Smile Train Special Olympics St. Jude Research Hospital for Children The V Foundation
CULTURAL PRESERVATION & THE ARTS American Italian Historical Association Center for Migration Studies Columbus Citizens Foundation Commission for Social Justice Concordia Language Villages Italian Program Council for the Promotion of Italian Language FIERI National Garibaldi-Meucci Museum In Italiano language program Istituto Italiano di Cultura Italian Americana Italian American Cultural Center Italian American Welfare League Italian Cultural Society Italian Musicale John D. Calandra Italian-American Institute U.S. State Department/American Embassy in Rome
55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
EDUCATION
AIFS & Academic Year in America exchange programs American University of Rome Bard College College Board Advanced Placement Program in Italian Dante School for Children Italian Studies Chair at California State University John Cabot University OSIA National Student Summit Pepperdine University The SIF National Leadership Grant Competition
DISASTER RELIEF
9/11 disaster relief American Red Cross (Hurricane Andrew relief) Assisi earthquake relief Cassino Memorial Orphanage Rebuilding Catholic Relief Services Central Italy earthquake relief Ethiopian famine relief Florentine flood relief Haiti Earthquake Relief Katrina Relief Fund Mexican earthquake relief Naples earthquake relief Oklahoma City bombing relief Tsunami relief (Indonesia) L’Aquila earthquake relief Emilia-Romanga earthquake relief
OTHER SPECIAL PROJECTS
Arab American Institute Foundation The Business Council for International Understanding Christopher Columbus Catholic Center Don Orione Home & Madonna Queen National Shrine Ellis Island Foundation The Gary Sinise Foundation Help Our Military Heroes Immigration History Research Center Luke’s Wings National Football League Players Association National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial National Policy Association The National September 11 Memorial & Museum National World War II Memorial The PenFed Foundation The Statue of Liberty Restoration Project TF Peace Foundation The William J. Clinton Foundation The Wounded Warrior Project 21
The Commission for Social Justice®
Protecting Our Heritage The Commission for Social Justice® (CSJ) is the anti-defamation arm of the Order Sons of Italy in America® (OSIA). It was established to fight the stereotyping of Italian Americans by the entertainment, advertising and news industries. It also collaborates with other groups to ensure that people of all races, religions and cultures are treated fairly. A precursor to the CSJ was established as early as 1970, evolving into the CSJ, as it exists in its current form, in 1981. The CSJ monitors the entertainment, advertising and news industries, contacts offending parties and encourages other Italian-American organizations, e-mail networks and concerned individuals to take action. The CSJ’s Positive Image Program was established to counter the negative depictions that are pervasive in media, advertising and pop culture by promoting positive Italian American achievements and contributions to our history and culture. As part of its Positive Image Program, the CSJ conducts research, produces studies, teaching tools, pamphlets, exhibits and other materials on the achievements and contributions of Italian Americans. Some reports and studies that the CSJ has conducted or commissioned and are available to the public include: • Italian Americans in Law Enforcement • Columbus: Fact vs. Fiction • With Justice for All: Italian Americans & Civil Rights • Honoring Diversity: A Selection of Commemorative U.S. Postage Stamps • Italian American Stereotypes in U.S. Advertising • Public Image of Italian Americans: A Survey The CSJ conducts campaigns at both the community and the national level that support cultural and social issues of importance to Italian Americans (legislation, commemorative stamps, Columbus Day/Heritage Month, etc.). To achieve its objectives, the CSJ engages in community and government relations as well as in grassroots campaigns and fund-raising efforts. However, given its non-profit status, the CSJ cannot offer legal advice or assistance in lawsuits.
CSJ Sustaining Patrons Circle Honor Roll As of August 1, 2017
The CSJ extends its gratitude to these members of the Sustaining Patrons Circle: Tony Bisceglia Anderson & Linda Anderson * Maria Fassio Pignati * Diane Y. Scillo 22
Order Sons of Italy in America®
The Commission for Social Justice®
Historical Timeline 1970 OSIA establishes its national Anti-Defamation Committee under Judge P. Vincent Landi, president of the Grand Lodge of New York. 1971 The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania establishes a Commission on Anti-Defamation under its state president, Justice Frank J. Montemuro, Jr. 1978
OSIA renames its national Anti-Defamation Committee “the Institute for Liberty and Justice.” Justice Frank J. Montemuro, Jr. becomes its first chairman. 1980 The Grand Lodge of New York’s Institute for Liberty and Justice is renamed the Commission for Social Justice. 1981 OSIA renames its national Institute for Liberty and Justice to the Commission for Social Justice® (CSJ). Justice Frank J. Montemuro, Jr. becomes first CSJ national president. CSJ receives tax-exempt status. 1983 CSJ National co-sponsors national media conference with the National Italian American Foundation in New York City on Italian Americans and the Media. 1984 The CSJ hosts reception in Washington, D.C., for Italian- American members of Congress. 1999 Under CSJ National President John Dabbene, the CSJ launches its Positive Image Campaign to research and publish information about ItalianAmerican history, achievements and contributions. The program includes reports and promotional and educational materials such as bookmarks, pamphlets and posters. 2004 OSIA/CSJ co-found the Coalition Against Racial, Religious and Ethnic Stereotyping (CARRES), an alliance of more than 30 Italian-American organizations, that marks the first time so many Italian American organizations united to fight stereotyping. 2009 The CSJ successfully CSJ leaders, OSIA members, and others in the Italian-American community protest outside HBO headquarters in 2000. campaigns to remove three offensive national ad campaigns by Verizon, Denny’s and Miller/Coors Beer. 2010 CSJ officials meet with MTV producers to discuss negative stereotypes in the television show “Jersey Shore.” Thanks to the efforts of National CSJ President Santina Haemmerle, President Emeritus John Dabbene and NY CSJ President Stella Grillo MTV executives agree to remove Italian imagery from the house. 2011 On Sept. 20, CSJ National urged New Jersey Governor Chris Christie to veto a $420,000 proposed tax credit to the company that produces “Jersey Shore.” Governor Christie responds and vetoes the tax credit. 2013 In February the Grand Lodge of California and CSJ National successfully lobby California Assemblyman Roger Hernandez to amend his proposed bill that would replace Columbus Day with Native American Day. He ammended his bill to propose Native American Day as a separate holiday, maintaining the status of Columbus Day in the state of California. 2016 Launched the “Save Columbus Day” Petition Campaign in September with the goal of getting 100,000 signatures by April 30, 2017. Opposed renaming of Columbus Day in citites (Baltimore, Los Angeles, Seattle, Spokane), states (Colorado, Montana), and universities (Brown University, University of Utah), and National Education Association. 2017 Rallied against National Geographic, NBC, and other organizations for defamation against Italians and Italian-Americans. Opposed renaming of Columbus Day in Nebraska and Los Angeles. 55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
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Order Sons of Italy in America National Recording Secretary Dr. Mark S. DeNunzio Congratulates Guglielmo Marconi Award Honoree Maria Lorts Sachs & Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro Award Honoree William “Bill” Zuppa & Sports Award Honoree Joan Bonvicini For representing Italian Americans most admirably
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
CONGRATULATIONS TO SENATOR MARIA LORTS SACHS FOR BEING THIS YEARS RECIPIENT OF THE GUGLIELMO MARCONI AWARD
FROM THE GRAND LODGE OF CONNECTICUT
2017 Convention Delegation; Neil A. Velleca Jr. – President Lauri DeRiu - Delegate Paul DeRiu – Delegate Patricia Velleca – Delegate Paul S. Polo – National Past President Michael G. Polo – 5th National Vice President Neil A. Velleca Sr. – National Trustee
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CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES TO HON. MARIA LORTS SACHS FLORIDA STATE SENATOR (2010 - 2016) 2017 GUGLIELMO MARCONI AWARDEE AND TO ALL SISTER AND BROTHER NATIONAL DELEGATES
COMPLIMENTS OF MARK A. VENTIMIGLIA PRESIDENT, CELLINI LODGE #2206 AND MEMBERS OF THE CELLINI LODGE FOUNDED IN 1968 NEW HYDE PARK, NEW YORK 26
Order Sons of Italy in America®
The Grand Lodge of New Jersey Congratulates
Senator Maria Lorts Sachs 2017 Guglielmo Marconi Award Recipient
We celebrate your many accomplishments & thank you for your contributions as a role model for Italian Americans. Dominick Burzichelli - State President Stephen Camiscioli - State 1st Vice President Diane Santoro - State 2nd Vice President Anthony Cipriano - State 3rd Vice President Ralph Capaccio - Immediate Past State President Dominic Pucci - National Trustee Christopher Cannatella - National Orator Vincent Sarno - Past National President & Past SIF President Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. - National 3rd Vice President Angelo R. Bianchi, Esq. - National SIF Trustee Frank Gattuso, Esq. - National CSJ Vice President Louis R. Santoro - National CSJ Treasurer 55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
The Grand Lodge of California Congratulates 2017 Guglielmo Marconi Award Recipient
Senator Maria Lorts Sachs 2017 Vincenzo Sellaro Award Recipient ~ William (Bill) Zuppa 2017 Sports Award Recipient ~ Joan Bonvicini JOHN COSTA ~ STATE PRESIDENT State 1st Vice President ARLENE M. NUNZIATI
State 2nd Vice President SADIE TAMBURINE
State 3rd Vice President BARBARA WISNIEWSKI
State Imm. Past President CAROLYN-LAWRENCE MURPHY
State Orator MARK VAONA
State Recording Secretary LORI ROSSI
State Financial Secretary GABE DOMENICI
State Treasurer AL TRENTINI
State Trustees ~ North RAY BINI WILLIAM MURPHY National 1st Vice President VERA FERRARA GIROLAMI
State Trustees ~ Central PAULINE RICHMOND, HEAD STATE TRUSTEE LOUISE SILACCI
National Past President COMM. FRANK J. DE SANTIS
State Trustees ~ South CARMINE BAFFO MANNY FINAZZO
National Trustee COMM. MARIA FASSIO PIGNATI
S.I.F. TRUSTEE COMM. JOSEPH LA BANCA
THE GRAND LODGE OF MARYLAND EXTENDS SINCERE ‘CONGRATULATIONS’ TO … SENATOR MARIA LORTS SACHS Anita Lombardi Riley – State President Tony Montcalmo – State First VP Lou Marzullo – State Second VP Jerry Pentaleo – State Third VP
55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
Frances Cipriotti – State Immediate Past Mike Transparenti - State Orator Rosalie Ranieri – State Recording Secretary Fran Transparenti – State Treasurer Sue Palamara – State Financial Secretary
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BUONA FORTUNA LODGE # 2835 PRESIDENT AND MEMBERS SENDING
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR
FOUNDER, MEMBER, FRIEND AND BELOVED BROTHER WILLIAM (BILL) ZUPPA ON RECEIVING THE DR. VINCENZO SELLARO AWARD
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
Congratulations Guglielmo Marconi Award Honoree Maria Lorts Sachs & Sports Award Honoree Joan Bonvicini
Tanti Auguri, Bill Zuppa Recipient
We
of the
Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro Award
could not be more proud
of your many accomplishments through your years with
OSIA
Love, Your Brothers
and
Sisters
at the
Grand Lodge
of
Florida
With Extreme Gratitude & Love, Carolyn, Tony, Richard, 55th Biennial National Convention & Marconi Gala Commemorative Journal
and
Gus 31
Congratulations
Senator Maria Lorts Sachs 2017 Guglielmo Marconi Award Recipient
Congratulations to
Maria Lorts Sachs on receiving the prestigious
William Zuppa
2017 Guglielmo marconi
2017 Vincenzo Sellaro Award Recipient
award
Joan Bonvicini 2017 Sports Award Recipient From
Carly Jerome
Joanne L. Strollo National Past President (1993 - 1995)
Director of Programming & Operations, OSIA
OSIA 55th Biennial National Convention
Autographs & Notes
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Order Sons of Italy in America®
THE SONS OF ITALY FOUNDATION ® of the ORDER SONS OF ITALY IN AMERICA® Congratulates Guglielmo Marconi Award Honoree Maria Lorts Sachs Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro Award Honoree William “Bill” Zuppa Sports Award Honoree Joan Bonvicini
2015-2017 Officers Daniel J. Longo, MD Chairman Joseph DiTrapani, NY President Vera Girolami, CA Vice President Dr. Mark S. DeNunzio, FL Recording Secretary Thom A. Lupo, NY Financial Secretary Frank J. Panessa, MD Treasurer Paul S. Polo, CT President Emeritus Valentino Ciullo, MI Trustee Emeritus Vincent Sarno, NJ Trustee Emeritus
Trustees Angelo R. Bianchi, Esq., NJ Al DeNapoli, Esq., MA Joseph LaBanca, CA Salvatore Lanzilotta, NY Marianne Principe O’Neil, NY Michael S. Polo, CT Philip J. Privitera, Esq., MA Joseph Sciame, NY Joanne L. Strollo, PA
Resource Persons Lynn Lawrence-Murphy, CA Antonio Sestito, MA Carolyn Reres, NY Mac Comparetto, OH
ORDER SONS OF ITALY IN AMERICA® 2015-2017 Supreme Council Congratulates Guglielmo Marconi Award Honoree Maria Lorts Sachs Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro Award Honoree William “Bill” Zuppa Sports Award Honoree Joan Bonvicini
National Line Officers
Daniel J. Longo, MD Vera Girolami. CA Nancy Di Fiore Quinn, NY Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., NJ Joseph A. Boncore, Esq., MA Michael G. Polo, CT Joseph DiTrapani, NY Christopher Cannatella, NJ Dr. Mark S. DeNunzio, FL Thom A. Lupo, NY Frank J. Panessa, MD Richard R. Della Croce, Esq., IL/WI Father Adam Forno, FL
National President National 1st Vice President National 2nd Vice President National 3rd Vice President National 4th Vice President National 5th Vice President National Immediate Past President National Orator National Recording Secretary National Financial Secretary National Treasurer National Historian National Chaplain
National Trustees
Maria Fassio Pignati, CA Vincent A. Zaccaria, MD Neil A. Velleca, Sr., CT Dominic Pucci, NJ Edward Mottola, Jr., FL Diane Y. Scillo, NW John A. Saladino, MA Carlo Matteucci, NY
Cathy Quagliata, AZ Lynn Lawrence-Murphy, CA Dominic LoSasso, CO Neil A. Velleca, Jr., CT Joseph Facciolo, DE Carolyn Cianciotta, FL
Joseph F. Rondinelli, NY Terry Lattavo, OH Michael P. Creedon, Esq., PA
Grand Lodge Presidents
Frank J. De Santis, CA Paul S. Polo, Sr., CT Philip R. Boncore, Esq., MA
Marie Marsalli, IL/WI Antonio Sestito, MA Frances A. Cipriotti, MD Dr. Thomas Pruse, NE Ralph M. Capaccio, NJ Tony Bisceglia Anderson, NW
Carolyn Reres, NY Mac Comparetto, OH John Oliano, PA Valentino D. Lombardi, Esq., RI Robert Amante, VA Anthony Lanna, WV
National Past Presidents Vincent Sarno, NJ Joseph Sciame, NY Joanne L. Strollo, PA
Peter R. Zuzolo, NY
CSJ President: Kevin A. Caira, MA, CSJ President National Chaplain: Rev. R. Adam Forno Order Sons of Italy in Canada National President: Joseph S. Monachino
