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On Growing Up Italian “My parents and grandparents were great teachers and the best role models. They kept their Italian heritage alive in the face of many challenges, never wavering in their core beliefs that one should be proud of one’s roots, work hard, live by good example, revere family, help others, and dream big. They gave me the tools to carry on the legacy of their beloved Italy through the vehicle of food, which for them was the glue that held everything together. I am so fortunate and proud of my Italian heritage. It is a privilege to share it with others.”
– Mary Ann Esposito
“My mother, from Perugia, and my father, from Verona, instilled in me the understanding of being Italian. They wanted me to know that being Italian required that I dedicate myself to my family and my adopted country. That excellence was expected in all aspects of life because it reflected on my Italian heritage.”
– Hon. Arthur J. Gajarsa
“Growing up in an Italian neighborhood in Cleveland infused my life with old country values. My grandmother never let me forget my rights as an American and the importance of standing up for those rights. Most importantly, she helped me understand the power of my vote. As a young man, I knew the value and stability that a good job provided to my family. The Italian American heritage from my grandparents is a proud source of my motivation.”
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– Robert A. Scardelletti
The Sons of Italy Foundation
The Sons of Italy Foundation 21 st Annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala May 28, 2009 - Washington, D.C.
Table of Contents Welcome from the SIF Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The 2009 SIF NELA Gala Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 The 2009 SIF NELA Gala Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The 2009 SIF NELA Award Hon. Joseph R. Biden, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 The 2009 SIF Lifetime Achievement Award Mary Ann Esposito .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 The 2009 SIF Lifetime Achievement Award Hon. Arthur J. Gajarsa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The 2009 SIF Humanitarian Award Robert A. Scardelletti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The 2009 National Leadership Grant Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 The 2009 SIF Scholarship Donors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 The SIF Acknowledges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 The Sons of Italy Foundation: 50 Years of Giving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 The 2009 SIF NELA Gala Chairman Joseph Plumeri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 The 2009 SIF NELA Honorary Chairman Robert F. Corrao . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 The 2009 SIF Gala Master of Ceremonies Joe Mantegna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 SIF National Executive Director & CEO Philip R. Piccigallo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Featured Performers Giada Valenti & Michael Amante. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The Celebrity Chef Expo Tasting Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 The Celebrity Chefs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Highlights from Past NELAs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 SIF Past Honorees (2008-1989). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The SIF Board and Committees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 The SIF Staff and Volunteers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 The Order Sons of Italy in America. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 The Sons of Italy Commission for Social Justice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Silent Auction Donors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 The 2009 NELA Sponsors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
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Welcome From The Sons of Italy Foundation Leadership
Alfred A. Affinito, Chairman
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Robert A. Messa, President
his year, the Sons of Italy Foundation celebrates its 50th anniversary. Founded in 1959 as the philanthropic arm of the Order Sons of Italy in America, the SIF has
a remarkable record of giving over the five decades of its existence. Through the SIF,
members of the Sons of Italy have donated nearly $105 million for medical research, disaster relief, cultural preservation and scholarships. Through the SIF, they have supported research in Cooley’s anemia, Alzheimer’s disease, birth defects, lupus, arthritis, cancer, deafness and multiple sclerosis. They’ve helped victims of earthquakes, floods and other natural catastrophes here and abroad, who have received more than $5 million. The SIF also has preserved Italian American history and heritage by funding the archiving of early Italian American documents, photographs, newspapers, and letters in the Immigration History Research Center at the University of Minnesota. Over the years, the SIF has contributed to the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Assisi’s historic cathedral and artwork, damaged in the 1997 earthquake; helped establish the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., contributed to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and now has pledged to help establish a memorial in New York City for the victims of 9/11. The SIF’s scholarships have sent the nation’s brightest students of Italian heritage to Harvard, Princeton, Stanford and other outstanding institutions. Clearly there is much to celebrate on this golden anniversary! Thank you for sharing this important milestone with us tonight.
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
The Sons Of Italy Foundation 21 st Annual NELA Gala
Menu d
ARUGULA SALAD WITH CHERRY TOMATOES and ARTICHOKE with a classic Italian vinaigrette of olive oil, lemon and sea salt TUSCAN ROULADE OF STEAK Oven-roasted roulade of flank filled with sun-dried tomato, spinach, pine nuts and prosciutto on a bed of slivered endive and arugula sprinkled with Nicoise olives and Parma curls drizzled with a red wine reduction paired with GRILLED SALMON served with a roasted tomato relish and TIMBALE OF GORGONZOLA AND ANGEL HAIR PASTA ZUCCHINI AND TOMATO CARPACCIO WITH PECORINO ITALIAN LEMON TORTE & STRAWBERRIES WITH ZABAGLIONE d
This Evening’s Featured Wines Coppola Ivory Label Cabernet & Pinot Grigio donated by Avalon Caterers
Nuschese Wines Il Sogno Prosecco Greco Di Tufo 2007 La Pietra 2006
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T h e S on s of I ta ly F o u n d at i on A n n u a l N at i on a l E d u c at i on & L e a d e r s h i p A wa r d s G a l a T h u r s d a y, M a y 2 8 , 2 0 0 9 N at i on a l B u i l d i n g M u s e u m ~ W a s h i n g t on , D C
Program
Greetings
Robert A. Messa - President, Sons of Italy Foundation Alfred A. Affinito - Chairman, Sons of Italy Foundation
SFC Antonio Giuliano Senior Vocalist and Soloist The U.S. Army Band & U.S. Army Chorus
The Star Spangled Banner Fratelli d’Italia
Welcome
Joe Mantegna Master of Ceremonies
THE 2009 SIF SCHOLARSHIP PRESENTATIONS
Invocation
Rev. Lydio F. Tomasi, C.S., Ph.D. Pastor, Holy Rosary Church Washington, DC
DINNER SERVED
Gala Chairman’s Salutations
Joseph Plumeri Willis Group Holdings
Special Acknowledgement of the Rienzi Foundation for Cochlear Implant Research Commemorating Speech & Hearing Awareness Month 2009 SIF Lifetime Achievement Award Mary Ann Esposito in the Culinary and Host & Creator of Ciao Italia Cultural Arts of Italy Presented by Frances Visco, 2004 Humanitarian Honoree 2009 SIF Humanitarian Award Robert A. Scardelletti International Association of Machinists Presented by Richard Trumka, 2003 Humanitarian Honoree Performances by Michael Amante & Giada Valenti
2009 SIF Lifetime Achievement Hon. Arthur J. Gajarsa Award for Jurisprudence and Italian US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit American Leadership Presented by Robert Gallo, 2002 NELA Honoree 2009 SIF NELA Award 4
Hon. Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Vice President of the United States The Sons of Italy Foundation
The Hon.Joseph R.Biden,Jr. Vice President of the United States
The 2009 S IF National Educ ation & L ea ders h i p Awa r d • Born in Scranton, PA and raised in Claymore, DE, the first of four children • Graduated from the University of Delaware and Syracuse Law School • At age 29, became one of the youngest people ever elected to the U.S. Senate • That same year, he lost his wife and infant daughter in an automobile accident • In 1977, married Jill Jacobs, PhD. The couple raise three children including two sons from his first marriage • Spent 36 years in the U.S. Senate, representing Delaware • Was chair or ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee for 17 years & the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for 11 years • Among major legislation he sponsored was the landmark 1994 Crime Bill and the Violence Against Women Act • Elected vice president of the United States in 2008 • Vice President Biden is the first non-Italian American to receive the SIF’s highest honor, the National Education and Leadership Award
Mary Ann Esposito
Host & Creator, Public Television’s “Ciao Italia” The 2009 S IF Lifetim e A c h i e vemen t Awa r d i n th e Cu linary and Cultur a l A rts of I ta ly • Born in Buffalo, N.Y. of Sicilian and Neapolitan heritage • Learned cooking from grandmothers who were professional cooks • Earned a B.A. from Daeman College in Amherst, N.Y. • Taught high school before starting her own catering business • M.A. in food history from the University of New Hampshire • Wrote MA thesis on the food of the Italian renaissance • Has studied and taught at numerous cooking schools throughout Italy • In 1989, launched PBS’s “Ciao Italia,” today TV’s longest-running cooking show • Author of 11 cookbooks, including her latest, “Ciao Italia Slow and Easy” • This year, the Mary Ann Esposito Foundation awarded its first scholarship for in depth study of Italian food and culture. • She and husband, Dr. Guy Esposito raised two children 21st Annual NELA
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The Hon. Arthur J. Gajarsa Federal Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
Th e 2009 S IF Lifetim e A c h i e vemen t Awa r d i n J urisprudence and Ita l i a n A mer ic a n L ea ders h i p • Born in Norcia, near Perugia; raised in Rome until age 8 when family immigrated to Boston • Holds a B.S in Electrical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute; an M.A. in Economics from the Catholic University of America and a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C. • Has practiced law both in the federal government & the private sector • Has represented Native American tribal interests, arguing their cause before the U.S. Supreme Court • Nominated to the Federal Circuit in 1996 by President Bill Clinton • A founder and officer of the National Italian American Foundation. has also served on numerous non-profit boards here and in Italy • He and wife, Melanie raised five children
Robert A. Scardelletti
International President, Transportation Communications Union/IA M The 2009 S IF Hum anitar ia n Awa r d • Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio • Began as a yard clerk with the NY Central Railroad in Cleveland • Rose through the ranks of the TCU/IAM leadership, then called the Brotherhood of Railway and Airline Clerks • Elected international president of the union in 1991 • Today represents the interests of about 140,000 active and retired union members principally in the railroad industry • Is union’s chief negotiator and collective bargainer • Instrumental in winning ground-breaking improvements to workers’ retirement and survivors’ benefits • Under his leadership, union members have strong contracts, education programs and solid representation • Is also V.P., AFL-CIO; executive board member, International Transport Workers Federation and chair of Cooperating Railway labor organizations • He and wife Diana raised four children 6
The Sons of Italy Foundation
The 2009 SIF National Leadership Grant Recipients ERIC ZULLI SULLIVAN The Vincenzo Sellaro Scholarship Hometown: Las Vegas, NV School: Amherst College – Amherst • National Merit Finalist • Rated superior for piano performance by the National Federation of Music Clubs • Represented Nevada at American Legion Boys Nation
JACLYN TESTANI The Angelo Tomasso, Sr. Scholarship Hometown: Trumbull, CT School: Columbia University – New York City • National Merit Finalist • Captain, Varsity Cross Country Team • Student Representative to the Trumbull Board of Education
RILEY CATALANO MCCLUSKEY The George & John Spatuzza Scholarship Hometown: Los Angeles, CA School: University of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia • National Merit Finalist and AP Scholar with Distinction • Researched Alzheimer’s and other neurological disorders at UCLA • Four-year varsity golfer with low competitive score of 68
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MATTHEW D’ALLEVA The Joseph L. Bracone Memorial Scholarship Hometown: Bayside, NY School: St. John’s University – Queens • National Merit Scholarship Commended Student • Chairman, Model U.N. Conference at Saint Francis Prep High School • Captain and MVP of Varsity Golf team
ANTHONY JOSEPH DeMusis Sorrento Lingue Study Abroad Scholarship Hometown: Clinton, CT School: Colorado State University – Fort Collins • Scholar-Athlete , National Football Foundation & Hall of Fame • Studied Italian history & culture in Ferrara, Italy • Elected to Alpha Kappa Delta Sociology Honors Society
MEGAN RUSSO FOUNTAIN The Henry F. Salvatori Memorial Scholarship Hometown: Montgomery, TX School: New York University – New York City • National Merit Finalist • AP Scholar • National Forensic League two-time National Qualifier
LISA SCARAVILLO DOLASINSKI The Pearl Tubiolo Memorial Scholarship for Italian Hometown: Boardman, OH School: Ohio State University – Columbus • Soprano & acting experience in English & Italian • Volunteer teacher of reading & Italian to elementary school children • Member, Volleyball Team that made the National Junior Olympic Finals
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
ALICIA M. DESANTIS The Cappellotti Family Scholarship Hometown: New York, NY School: Columbia University – New York City • Phi Beta Kappa, Harvard University • Presidential Scholar for Connecticut • Best Master’s Thesis, Columbia University
BARBARA SIDOTI American University of Rome/SIF Scholarship Hometown: Boston, MA School: American University of Rome – Rome • Honor Roll Student • AP Scholar • UNICEF volunteer
JOSEPH DeBellis SULLIVAN National Education & Leadership Grant Hometown: Manhasset, NY School: Harvard University – Cambridge • Perfect SAT score of 2400 • All-County and All-Conference wrestler • Volunteer tutor in English, Math, Spanish
We Congratulate the 2009 Scholarship Winners.
Tantissimi Auguri!
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The 2009 SIF National Leadership Grant Donors The Sons of Italy Foundation Deeply Thanks the SIF Perpetual Scholarship Donors Giulia Besozzi Scholarship
George L. Graziadio/SIF Scholarship
Boncore Family Scholarship
Polo Family Scholarship
Cappellotti Family Scholarship
Frank D. Privitera Scholarship
Carlone Family Scholarship
Henry F. Salvatori Scholarship
Lou Carnesecca Scholarship
Pietro Secchia Scholarship
Esposito Family Scholarship
Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro Scholarship
Simone Giuffrida Scholarship
George J. & John G. Spatuzza Scholarship
Giovanni Glessi Scholarship
Angelo Tomasso Sr. Scholarship Pearl Tubiolo Scholarship
The SIF thanks the donors of this year’s additional scholarships: American University in Rome/SIF Study Abroad Scholarship The Joseph L. Bracone Memorial Scholarship The 2009 National Education & Leadership Award Sorrento Lingue Study Abroad Scholarship
The SIF also acknowledges the generous contributions of Anthony Baratta Joseph Di Trapani And Paul S. Polo
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
2009 SIF NELA
Acknowledgements The Sons of Italy Foundation expresses its sincere gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their generosity in making the 21st Annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala a success. Alitalia Hon. Frances M. Allegra Banfi Vintners The Honorable Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Colavita Chuck Conconi Nicholas M. Donofrio Mary Ann Esposito Fariborz S. Fatemi Hon. Arthur J. Gajarsa Dr. Robert Gallo SFC Antonio Giuliano Joe Mantegna Franco Nuschese & CafĂŠ Milano Michael Rienzi & Rienzi & Sons, Inc. Robert A. Scardelletti Sheetmetal Workers International Association Transportation Communications Union-International Association of Machinists Richard Trumka Vantage Group Services, Inc. Frances Visco
Very Special Thanks to Robert E. Corrao, 2009 NELA Gala Honorary Chairman Joseph J. Plumeri, 2009 NELA Gala Chairman
Additional Thanks to Dan Ashwell, Printing Solutions, Inc. Avalon Caterers Lynn Kessler, Kessler Video Production Jack Lucky, Jack H. Lucky Floral Designs Inc. Carlo Tamburro, Williams/Gerard Productions Max Taylor, Photography Diane Vincent, Graphic Design Passport to Italy auction donors & chefs
And finally, the SIF expresses its admiration for the work of the Rienzi Foundation for Cochlear Implant Research, supporting a treatment that restores hearing 21st Annual NELA
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50 Years of Giving
The Sons of Italy Foundation:
T
he Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) is the philanthropic arm of the Order Sons of Italy in
America (OSIA). Established in 1959, the SIF has given nearly $105 million to scholarships,
philanthropy, medical research, disaster relief and cultural preservation.
S C HOL ARS HI P S Every year, the SIF gives $100,000 in scholarships to promising young Italian Americans
M EDIC A L R ESEA RC H The SIF supports research to cure Cooley’s anemia, Alzheimer’s disease and other serious threats to life and health
DI S AS TE R R E L I E F The SIF donates generously to disaster relief in the U.S. and abroad
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
CU LTU RAL P R ESERVAT ION The SIF’s GaribaldiMeucci Museum is a center of Italian culture on Staten Island, NY
I M M IG R A N T H I S TORY The SIF contributes to preserving Italian immigrant documents at the Immigration History Research Center in Minnesota
SPECIA L P ROJ ECT S The SIF supports the establishment and restoration of U.S. monuments, including the Statue of Liberty, the WW II memorial and the projected tribute to 9/11 in New York City.
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
A History of Giving MEDICAL RESEARCH & SOCIAL SERVICES Alzheimer’s Association American Fund for Dental Health American Italian Cancer Foundation 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 Fox Chase Cancer Center Lombardi Cancer Center March of Dimes Michael Bolton Charities For Battered Women Multiple Sclerosis Lupis Foundation & Elizabeth Fund Special Olympics CULTURAL PRESERVATION & THE ARTS American Italian Historical Association Center for Migration Studies Commission for Social Justice Concordia Language Villages Italian Program Council for the Promotion of Italian Language in American Schools FIERI National Garibaldi-Meucci Museum In Italiano language program Istituto Italiano di Cultura Italian Americana Italian American Cultural Center Italian Cultural Society Italian Musicale John D. Calandra Italian-American Institute The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts SIF Patron of the Arts & Culture program U.S. State Department/American Embassy in Rome Washington Revels
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EDUCATION American Institute for Foreign Study & Academic Year in America exchange programs Bard College The College Board Advanced Placement Program in Italian Dante School for Children Hoop Dreams Italian Studies Chair at California State University John Cabot University Mentoring and Internships Order Sons of Italy in America National Student Summit Seton Hall School of Diplomacy &International Relations The SIF National Leadership Grant Competition DISASTER RELIEF American Red Cross (Hurricane Andrew relief ) Assisi earthquake relief Cassino Memorial Orphanage Rebuilding Catholic Relief Services Ethiopian famine relief Florentine flood relief Katrina Relief Fund Mexican earthquake relief Naples earthquake relief Oklahoma City Bombing SIF/OSIA 911 Disaster Relief Fund Tsunami Relief (Indonesia) L’Aquila Earthquake in Abruzzo, Italy OTHER SPECIAL PROJECTS Arab American Institute Christopher Columbus Catholic Center DC Friends of Ireland Don Orione Home & Madonna Queen National Shrine Ellis Island Foundation Greater Washington Urban League, Inc. Immigration History Research Center The Isaac Hayes Foundation National Football League Players Association National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial National Policy Association National World War II Memorial The Statue of Liberty Restoration Project TF Peace Foundation The Sons of Italy Foundation
The Sons of Italy Foundation
Highlights from SIF History 1959 1964 1966
Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) established as the philanthropic arm of the Order Sons of Italy in America, the nation’s oldest and biggest organization for people of Italian heritage. Donates $25,000 for flood victims in Belluno, Italy 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: 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 Award (NELA) event in Washington, DC
1990 Contributes $50,000 to establish the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC 1993 Names the Alzheimer’s Association one of its official charities and donates $1 million over the next 10 years. Pledges another $1 million donation by 2015. 2003
Contributes $66,000 to help establish an Advanced Placement program in Italian
2004 Donates $100,000 to establish a World War II memorial in Washington, DC 2005 Donates $15,000 to the Tsunami Emergency Relieve effort in Asia 2006
Donates $35,000 for Hurricane Katrina Relief
2007
Pledges $100,000 to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in NYC
2007
Donates $100,000 to Coaches vs. Cancer
2008 Donated $75,000 over past three years to the Rienzi Foundation to cure deafness through cochlear implants 2009 Collected an estimated $250,000 in relief funds to aid victims of the Abruzzi earthquake 21st Annual NELA
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Joseph Plumeri
Chairman, 2009 NELA Gala & Gala Journal As chairman and CEO of Willis Group Holdings, Mr. Plumeri was honored last year by the Sons of Italy Foundation with its prestigious National Education & Leadership Award. This year, he graciously consented to chair the 2009 SIF gala. A graduate of The College of William and Mary in Virginia with a major in history, he attended New York University Law School and during a 32-year career at Citicorp, helped mastermind the merger of Citicorp and Travelers Group that created Citigroup. He also served as CEO of Citibanking North America and Chairman/CEO of Travelers Primamerica Financial Services division before joining Willis Group in 2000 to lead this global insurance broker. He and wife, Nancy raised three children.
Robert F. Corrao
Honorary Chairman, 2009 NELA Gala & Gala Journal Chairman and chief executive officer of Sports Impact Inc., a publishing and multimedia corporation, Mr. Corrao has taken on an additional role for the Sons of Italy Foundation as honorary chairman of the 2009 gala and journal as well as the NELA Selection Committee. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, he served in Vietnam and completed his MBA at Adelphi University. In 1970, with the help of Red Auerbach of the Boston Celtics, Robert Corrao started Professional Sports Publications and sold the company in 1983 to form Sports Impact. He and his wife, Peggy, have four children. They have made it a family tradition for each child to spend one year of college studying in Italy.
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
Joe Mantegna
Master of Ceremonies The career of award-winning character actor Joe Mantegna encompasses stage, screen and television. He won a Tony for Glengarry Glen Ross and an Emmy for Bleacher Bums, which he conceived and co-authored. In Hollywood, his film credits include Alice, Searching for Bobby Fischer and the sleeper hit Uncle Nino. Currently, he plays Special Agent David Rossi in the television series Criminal Minds. A native of Chicago, Mr. Mantegna lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Arlene and their daughters, Mia and Gina.
Philip R. Piccigallo, Ph.D. National E xecutive Director & CEO, The Sons of Italy Foundation & National E xecutive Director, Order Sons of Italy in America Since 1988, Dr. Piccigallo has led the Sons of Italy in Washington, DC where his efforts have strengthened ties between Italian Americans and leaders in government and public policy. He brought to the Order a background in unions and specifically the American Federation of Teachers, the Seafarers International Union and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. Born and raised in New York City, he holds a B.A. in economics; an M.A. in economic history and a Ph.D. in history and international affairs from the City University of New York. He has written two books on U.S. foreign policy, and articles on education, politics and international affairs. He and wife, Rose have raised two children.
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Giada Valenti Featured Performer
Singer and songwriter Giada Valenti is making her first appearance at the Sons of Italy Foundation National Education & Leadership Awards Gala. Born and raised in Venice, Ms. Valenti began touring professionally at age 12; studied piano and music theory at a Venetian conservatory and moved to New York in 2004 where she records her albums, performs locally and tours here and abroad with her shows, La Dolce Vita Swings and Moonlight & Romance. In her latest CD, And I Love You So, she sings classic love songs in French, Italian and English, including “La Vie En Rose,” “It’s Impossible” and “Grande, Grande, Grande.”
Michael Amante Featured Performer
The Sons of Italy Foundation is pleased to welcome Michael Amante back for his seventh performance at its annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala. A classically trained opera performer, Mr. Amante has had leading roles in “Madama Butterfly,” “La Traviata,” and “La Boheme.” He has performed for former president Bill Clinton, Luciano Pavarotti, and other dignitaries and celebrities as well as on national and international television and in film soundtracks. The New York Times writes, “this swashbuckling Italian tenor exhibits both the voice and the charisma of a crossover star.”
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
Celebrity Chef Expo TASTING MENU VIP Reception By Cafè Milano Wine: Il Sogno Prosecco d
A Tasting Tour of Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oils Sicily – Apulia – Tuscany – Umbria By Colavita d
Gnocchi di Ricotta con Margiorana, Asparagi e Pomodorini Ricotta and Asparagus dumplings with creamy marjoram sauce and cherry tomatoes By D’Acqua d
Melone e Prosciutto Compressed Melon, Prosciutto San Daniele By Darlington House d
Ravioli Porcini Cooked in a champagne & black truffle cream sauce By Il Mulino d
Insalata di cappellini con salsa d’erba cippolina cremosa e tartato di mortadella Cappellini pasta salad with creamy chive dressing & tartar of mortadella By Galileo III d
Sorbetto Limone & Vodka Vodka and lemon flavored sorbet By G.S. Gelato d
Bruschetta con Caponata Siciliana Grilled bread with an eggplant tomato topping By Lia’s d
Scaloppine di Vitello Veal cutlets with Soft polenta, prosciutto, provolone, sage, and spinach By Potenza d
Cocktail di Cavolfiori Cauliflower soup with basil, candied cherry tomatoes, fried Sicilian capers & Ligurian black olives By Teatro Goldoni 21st Annual NELA
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T H E S O N S O F I TA LY F O U N D AT I O N
2009 Gala Celebrity Chefs Our 2009 Tasting Menu was prepared by these chefs from leading Washington restaurants as well as by Colavita and GS Gelato, distributors of authentic Italian products. ALBERTO BAFFONI, Chef, Darlington House • Raised in Fano, south of Rome • Came to DC after Culinary School • Worked at Bice’s and Sesto Senso • Joined Darlington House in 2008
ROBERTO DONNA, Executive Chef/Owner, Galileo III • Born in Turin, Piedmont • Entered professional cooking school at age 14 • Came to Washington, DC in 1984 • Among his many restaurants is the award-winning Galileo’s
COLAVITA, Award-winning Extra-Virgin Olive Oil • Fourth generation family business founded in Molise • Certified the #1 Olive Oil in the U.S. • Established the Colavita Center for Italian Food & Wine at the Culinary Institute of New York (Hyde Park campus)
ENZO FARGIONE, Chef, Teatro Goldoni Restaurant • Born and raised in Turin • Graduated top of class from Culinary Institute of Turin • Arrived US in 1986 to work Roberto Donna opening 5 restaurants • In 2008, became chef of Teatro Goldoni
ENZO FEBBRARO, Chef/Owner, D’Acqua Restaurant • Born and raised in Naples, Italy • Graduated from culinary school at age 16 • Worked in restaurants in France, Germany, Spain, and England • In DC since 1995, has also worked at Cafè Milano and Filomena’s
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
G.S. GELATO & DESSERTS, Wholesaler, Authentic gelati and sorbets • Leading manufacturer & distributor of Italian desserts • Products are 93% fat-free and have no additives • Made from fresh ingredients only • Based on Renaissance Italian recipes MICHELE MAZZA, Executive Chef, Il Mulino Restaurant • Born and raised in Torre del Greco, near Naples • Began cooking at age 8 in mother’s kitchen and family’s restaurants • After culinary school, worked on cruise ships for 10 years • Arrived U.S. in 1980; opened several restaurants before Il Mulino
BRYAN MOSCATELLO, Executive Chef, Stir Food Group • Raised in the West where he began culinary career • Has worked in Colorado, Utah and Panama City, Panama • In DC, oversees Zola, Spy City Cafè and special events at Spy Museum • Named one of Food & Wine’s “Best New Chefs in America” in 2003
FRANCESCO RICCHI, Chef/Co-Owner, D’Acqua Restaurant • Born and raised in Florence, Italy • Came to Washington in 1989 to found I Ricchi, authentic Tuscan fare • Opened Cesco Trattoria in Bethesda, among Washington Post’s “50 Best Restaurants” • In 2007, opened D’Acqua with partner Enzo Febbraro FABIO SALVATORE, Executive Chef, Cafè Milano • Born and raised in Abruzzi, Italy • Entered culinary school in Pescara at age 14 • Worked with famous chefs in Italy & London • Came to U.S. in 1998 at age 23 as Executive Chef of Terrazza • In 2003, became Executive Chef of Cafè Milano GEOFFREY TRACY, Founder/Owner, Lia’s • Graduated first in class at Culinary Institute of America • Opened Chef Geoff in 2000 • Opened Chef Geoff ’s Downtown (2002) & Lia’s (2006) • 2006 Best Neighbor by National Restaurant Association for his philanthropy
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Highlights from Past NELAs
Five women trailblazers at the 2007 NELA. (L. to R.): Madeleine Albright; Hillary Rodham Clinton; Geraldine Ferraro; Nancy Pelosi and Mary Landrieu
Scientist and AIDS researcher Anthony Fauci, M.D. received the 1992 NELA honor
The 1993 NELA honoree Annette Funicello with Congressman Bob Michel
The legendary Tony Bennett received the SIF Humanitarian Award in 1999
U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonin Scalia received the 1991 NELA honor
Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi with President George W. Bush at the 2004 NELA 22
The Sons of Italy Foundation
Past NELA M.C.s newsman Sam Donaldson (L) and acclaimed actor Joe Mantegna
President Bill Clinton has attended many NELAs over the years
Television’s Larry King was a NELA Master of Ceremonies in 1999
Leon Panetta, the former congressman and current head of the CIA, was a NELA keynote speaker
Then-Vice President Al Gore spoke at the 1994 NELA
TV’s Regis Philbin was honored in 1991
Former FBI Director Louis Freeh (L.), honored in 1994, with Senator Patrick Leahy 21st Annual NELA
The NELA 1996 honoree, the legendary Joe Paterno (L) with Senator Bob Dole 23
The Sons of Italy Foundation
The SIF Award Recipients 2008 - 1989 The Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) Awards are given annually at the SIF’s Gala Dinner, held every May in Washington, D.C.
2008 Joseph Plumeri National Education & Chairman & CEO, Leadership Award (NELA) Willis Group Steve Wynn SIF Award for Global Chairman & CEO, Wynn Resorts Vision & Philanthropy Michael Petruzzello SIF Award Founder & Managing Partner, Excellence in Business Qorvis Communications Alfred Rotondaro, PhD SIF Humanitarian Sr. Fellow, Center for American Progress Award 2007 Nicholas Donofrio NELA Executive VP, IBM Geraldine Ferraro Lifetime Achievement Former Congresswoman Award for Public Service FRANK GIORDANO Humanitarian Award President, Union League of Philadelphia Joseph G. Procacci The Rienzi Foundation Making A Difference CEO, Procacci Brothers Award Sales Corp.
OSIA Centennial Award
2006 Michael Rienzi NELA President & Founder, Rienzi & Sons Franco Nuschese Excellence in Business President, Georgetown Entertainment Group, LLC Robert E. Juliano SIF Humanitarian Chairman, Robert E. Juliano Associates
2004 Joseph Grano NELA Award Chairman, UBS Financial Services Silvio Berlusconi International Leadership Award Prime Minister of Italy John De Gioia Excellence in Academia Award President, Georgetown University Frances Visco Humanitarian Award President, National Breast Cancer Coalition
2005 Dana Gioia NELA Chairman, National Endowment For the Arts Joseph Battipaglia Business Award CIO, Ryan Beck & Co. Karen Ignagni Lifetime Achievement President & CEO, in Management America’s Health Insurance Plans
2003 Charles Gargano NELA Award Chairman, Empire State Development Corp. Andy Granatelli Lifetime Achievement Automotive designer, driver & engineer Richard L. Trumka Humanitarian Award Secretary-Treasurer, AFL-CIO
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
2002 Robert Gallo, M.D. NELA Award AIDS & cancer researcher Martin J. Maddaloni Humanitarian Award General President United Association (union) Joe Mantegna Excellence in Media Award Actor
1996 Joe Paterno Head Football Coach Pennsylvania State University Alfred A. Checchi Former Co-Chairman Northwest Airlines Corporation
2001 John F. Mariani NELA Award Chairman, Banfi Vintners Robert A. Georgine Humanitarian Award Chairman, President & CEO ULLICO, Inc. Regis Philbin Lifetime Achievement Award Television Host
1995 Joseph E. Antonini President, JEA Enterprises, Inc.
2000 Mario Andretti NELA Award Racing Legend & Business Entrepreneur Phil Guarascio Crystal Lion Recognition Former Vice President & General Manager North American Marketing & Advertising General Motors Corporation Connie Stevens Humanitarian Award Actress & Businesswoman 1999 Andrew A. Giancamilli NELA Award Former President & General Merchandise Manager Kmart Corporation Tony Bennett Humanitarian Award Legendary Entertainer 1998 Phil Guarascio NELA Award Former Vice President & General Manager North American Marketing & Advertising General Motors Corporation Frank Sinatra Humanitarian Award Legendary Entertainer, Producer & Philanthropist 1997 Peter F. Secchia NELA Award Chairman,Universal Forest Products, Inc. & Former U.S. Ambassador to Italy Tommy Lasorda Humanitarian Award Vice President/Former Manager LA Dodgers
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NELA Award NELA Award
NELA Award
1994 The Honorable Louis J. Freeh NELA Award Senior Vice Chairman Administrative & Legal Affairs MBNA America, Inc. 1993 Annette Funicello Entertainer
NELA Award
1992 Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Director, The National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Disease at the NIH
NELA Award
1991 The Honorable Antonin Scalia U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice
NELA Award
1990 The Honorable Silvio O. Conte U.S. Congressman [Massachusetts]
NELA Award
1989 Lou Carnesecca Head Basketball Coach (Ret.) St. John’s University
NELA Award
The Sons of Italy Foundation
Salutes
these Accomplished Men and Women
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The Sons of Italy Foundation B oar d and Commi ttees
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Resource Persons
Alfred A. Affinito Chairman
Florence Ferullo Kane Joseph La Banca Nancy Di Fiore Quinn Vincent A. Turco
Hon. Robert A. Messa President Joseph Di Trapani Vice President Carmelita Bello Recording Secretary Gennaro R. Vuono Financial Secretary Louis C. Ambrosio Treasurer
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National Executive Director/CEO Philip R. Piccigallo, Ph.D. NELA Gala Chairman Joseph Plumeri Honorary NELA Gala Chairman Robert F. Corrao 2009 SIF SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION COMMITTEE
President Emeritus Paul S. Polo
Michelle Ment, Chair Louis F. Cappelli, Sr. Joseph Cicero Joanne L. Strollo
Trustees
2009 SIF SCHOLARSHIP
Anthony M. Acchione Angelo R. Bianchi Joseph Cicippio Frank J. De Santis Richard Farina Richard F. Furia Edward Innella Michael S. Polo Philip R. Privitera Albert J. Riccelli, Sr. Vincent Sarno Joanne Strollo
SELECTION CONSULTANTS Mark Lindenmeyer Assistant V.P. & Director of Financial Aid Loyola College, Maryland Michelle Arcieri Senior Associate Director, Office of Student Financial Assistance, George Washington University, Washington, DC
The Sons of Italy Foundation
The Sons of Italy Foundation STAFF, CONS U LTA NTS & 2009 NE L A V OLUN T E E RS
NATIONAL OFFICE STAFF
NELA GALA VOLUNTEERS
Philip R. Piccigallo, Ph.D. National Executive Director/CEO
Jessica Abeshouse Kylie Cafiero Clarissa Caprio Robert D’Onofrio Krissy Ellison Kevin Fellin Donald V. Fletcher Michael Rui Gomes Patricia Moynihan Gomes Elizabeth Greksouk Patricia Greksouk Gina Vitella Lanzetti Ringo Lanzetti Julie Lohela Lily McManus Kelly Moura Daniel Nabors Margaret Cirona O’Rourke Kristin Parent Luca Plazzogna Giordana Segneri Ted Skirbunt John Tatulli Rachel Turner Corinne Verzoni
Andrea K. Beach Office Manager Sylvia F. Cacciato Executive Assistant/Event Coordinator Diane Crespy Director of Development Alyssa Ciccone Director of Marketing Dona De Sanctis, Ph.D. Editor, Gala Dinner Journal Amy Petrine Administrative Assistant Zac Milner Staff Assistant Tara Juliard Intern Zac Sempsey Intern CONSULTANTS Dan Ashwell Printing Lynn Kessler Video Carl Tamburro Event Producer Max Taylor Photography Diane Vincent Graphic Design
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The Sons of Italy Foundation National Headquarters is in an historic district of Washington, D.C. at the foot of Capitol Hill. 27
The Order Sons of Italy in America
The Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA) is the oldest and largest national organization for Italian American men and women in the United States. Founded in 1905 to help the early Italian immigrants, today OSIA is the nation’s leading Italian American service and advocacy organization, with a grass roots network of more than 700 lodges or chapters coast-to-coast. Its programs include • Italian America Magazine the most widely read quarterly in the U.S. for people of Italian heritage • Passport To Italy OSIA’s travel bureau arranges low-cost group tours to Southern Italy and its cultural patrimony
• Scholarships Financial support for young Italian Americans attending college and graduate school • Study Abroad Partnerships Opportunities for students and adults to study, live and work in Italy. • the Sons of Italy National Book Club Promotes fiction and non-fiction works by and about Italian Americans
The Sons of Italy Commission for Social Justice • The CSJ was founded in 1979 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. • The CSJ monitors the entertainment, advertising and news industries, contacts offending parties by letter and/ or telephone and encourages other Italian American organizations, e-mail networks and concerned individuals to take action. • Through its Positive Image Program, the CSJ regularly informs the media and general public about Italian American achievements, contributions, 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. 28
The Sons of Italy Foundation
Auction Donors AIRC Alitalia Bearly Christmas Bice Ciao Italia Colavita Commission for Social Justice Darlington House David Piccerelli DelGrosso Foods Fallon Fine Art Giada Valenti GS Gelato & Desserts Inc. Il Mulino Isernio’s Sausage Company Joe Mantegna King Arthur Flour Lladro USA, Inc Lloyd-Meurer Portrait Studio Mary Ann Esposito Mia Gemma Michael Castaldo Newport Preservation New York City Olive Oil Coop Oleificio Dell’Orto Patsy’s Italian Restaurant Paul Polo Perla Entertainment Rachael Ray RI Market Tours Ristorante Tosca Sesto Senso Sons of Italy Foundation Studio Regionale The Breakers Vince Ferragamo
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2009 NELA Gala Sponsors Gala Sponsors Willis, led by 2009 NELA Gala Chairman Joe Plumeri, is a global leader in insurance brokerage and risk management services. Special thanks for generous in-kind donation of wines: Michael Rienzi, President, Rienzi Foods, Inc.
Platinum Sponsors Alzheimer’s Association – www.alz.org Anonymous Donor Cooley’s Anemia Foundation (CAF) – www.thalassemia.org Honorable Arthur J. Gajarsa Vantage Direct Services – www.vantagedirect.com OSIA Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania – www. www.sonsofitalypa.org Fred & Kathy Rotondaro Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association – Michael J. Sullivan, General President – www.smwia.org Transportation Communications Union / IAM – www.TCUnion.org
Gold Café Milano – www.cafemilano.net Columbus Citizens Foundation – www.columbuscitizensfd.org International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers (IAM) – www.goiam.org Norfolk Southern Railway Company – www.nscorp.com OSIA New York Grand Lodge Foundation, Inc. – www.nysosia.org OSIA Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania-Benefit Insurance Commission OSIA Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania-Mortuary Fund Paul S. Polo, Sr.
Silver Anonymous Donor AFL-CIO – www.aflcio.org AFSCME Arab American Institute – www.aaiusa.org Angelo R. Bianchi, LLC – www.bianchilaw.net
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
BNSF Railway Company & Foundation – www.bnsf.com CN – www.cn.ca Georgetown University Law Center – www.law.georgetown.edu Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield – www.highmarkbcbs.com International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers – www.bacweb.org Irish American Democrats Italian American Democratic Leadership Council (IADLC) Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA!) – www.liuna.org National Italian American Foundation – www.niaf.org Joseph Guerrieri Jr. & the Law Firm of Guerrieri, Edmond, Clayman & Bartos, P.C. – www.geclaw.com OSIA Grand Lodge of Connecticut OSIA Grand Lodge of Maryland Qorvis Communications – www.qorvis.com Seafarers International Union – www.seafarers.org TN Marketing, LLC – Cal Franklin Union Pacific – www.uprr.com UnitedHealthcare – www.unitedhealthcare.com
Bronze Carole Taran Lee & Bob Lee – Adam Productions, Inc. – www.adamprod.com American Italian Cancer Foundation – www.aicf.org Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen – www.brs.org Building & Construction Trades Department, AFL-CIO – www.bctd.org Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield – www.highmarkbcbs.com Kelly Press Tonita and Frank McKone Medco – www.medco.com Naden/Lean, LLC - Jeff Drake, CPA – www.nlgroup.com National Organization of Italian American Women (NOIAW) – www.noiaw.org OSIA Grand Lodge of Massachusetts Charitable and Educational Trust & Benefit Insurance Commission – www.osiama.org George F. Pappas and the Honorable Kathleen M. O’Malley Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Harry J. Roper Stephanie & Frank Razzano Sette Bello – www.settebellorestaurant.com Sette Osteria – www.setteosteria.com United Mine Workers of America Vizuäl, Inc. – www.vizual.com
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Sponsors American Federation of Teachers, afl-cio – www.aft.org Castello Banfi – www.castellobanfi.com Anthony J. Baratta The Breakers Hotel and Resort – www.thebreakers.com Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division - IBT The Commission for Social Justice (CSJ) CuisinArt Resort & Spa – www.cuisinartresort.com DC Friends of Ireland Nicholas M. Donofrio Eberts & Harrison, Inc. (insurance & bonds for Labor) – www.EbertsandHarrison.com Guy, Beth & Chris Esposito – www.ciaoitalia.com The Garibaldi-Meucci Museum – www.garibaldimeuccimuseum.org Joe & Kathy Grano IBM – www.ibm.com Edward A. Innella, Sons of Italy Foundation Trustee Judlau Contracting, Inc. – www.judlau.com Keystone Computer – www.keystoneisIT.com The Hon. Robert A. Messa, SIF President, OSIA National Past President & Mrs. Betty Messa METRA-Chicago, IL MYINE Electronics, LLC (exhibitor) National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund – www.nleomf.org The Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA) – www.osia.org OSIA Grand Lodge of California – www.sonsofitalyca.org OSIA Grand Lodge of Delaware OSIA Grand Lodge of New Jersey – www.sonsofitalynj.org OSIA Grand Lodge of Ohio & Anthony F. M. Spaziani, National 5th Vice President OSIA Grand Lodge of Rhode Island OSIA L.A.M. Valley Forge Lodge #1776 – www.osia1776.org OSIA National Line Officers: Louis Ambrosio, Raymond Dettore Jr., Francis Recchuiti OSIA National Vice Presidents: Joe Di Trapani, Dorothy Berlandi, Dan Longo, Anthony F. M. Spaziani Palumbo & Cerrell, Inc. Neil Proto, Esq. Vince & Paula Sarno Schneiders of Capitol Hill Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) – www.twu.org Joseph Turchi Jr. Under the Italian Sun Custom Tours of Italy – www.italiansun.com M. B. Futhey, Jr., International President, United Transportation Union International Offices Vangrossi & Recchuiti 32
The Sons of Italy Foundation
A Special Message
TO OUR HONORED GUESTS ON OUR GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY This year, as the Sons of Italy Foundation celebrates its 50th anniversary, we are acutely aware of our mission to give not only to those in need but to our planet. Therefore, we decided to reduce the size of our NELA Gala journal by listing our generous sponsors rather than devoting a page to each of them. As a result, we have reduced the size of our dinner journal by fully two-thirds and printed it on recycled paper. Through these small steps we hope to leave a smaller carbon footprint , but a greater, more altruistic and responsible one. Thank you for supporting our goals by attending our 21st Annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala. We hope to see you all next year.
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The Sons of Italy Foundation