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PREVIOUSLY ON CIAO AMERICA 2009 Remember Monongah: We Must Never Forget 09|12|06 They came to Monongah, West Virginia, from some of the poorest regions of Italy--
Italian Americans Robert De Niro and Bruce Springsteen in Washington to Receive Kennedy Center Awards 09|12|06 Italian Americans Robert De Niro and Bruce Springsteen are among the five performers to be honored tonight at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The Kennedy Center will also be honoring Mel Brooks, Dave Brubeck, and Grace Bumbry. Robert De Niro won an Academy Award for best actor for the 1980 movie "Raging Bruce Springsteen’s songs tell stories of everyday American life and of
Italian Americans Seek Congressional Recognition Italian Americans are being asked to urge their Congressmen to co-sponsor and to support two resolutions honoring Galileo and 16th century architect Andrea Palladio. Washington, D.C. attorney Joe Grano noted that 2008 was the 500th anniversary of the birth of the influential Italian architect. “His influence can be seen in the architecture of Europe, England and the United States, including the White House and the U.S. Capitol.” This year is the 400th anniversary of the first use of the telescope for astronomical observation. “With that act, Galileo literally and figuratively changed the way we see the universe,” said Grano. This anniversary is so significant that the United Nations has declared 2009 the International Year of Astronomy.” Read more . . .>>
New Jersey Honors Fallen Italian-American Police Detective MarcAnthony DiNardo Italian-American police detective MarcAnthony Di Nardo was honored at the Annual
Building Bridges to Italy The late Bruno Marolo, a long-time and respected ANSA correspondent whose journalism took him around the globe, was honored last Thursday evening at the Italian Embassy. The Alba International Music Festival Concert and benefit was co-sponsored by St. Mary College of Maryland and the Italian Cultural Institute.
Welcoming the guests at the evening’s concert were Rita Venturelli, director of the Italian Cultural Institute; Larry Vote, acting president and provost of St. Mary College; Fausto Perletto, president of Ente Turismo Alba Bra Langhe Roero; Robert Cerrato, president of the S. Giuseppe Cultural Foundations; and Nancy McKeon, the event’s honorary chair . The evening’s master of ceremonies was Jeffrey Silberschlag, director of the St. Mary College of Maryland Alba Campus. He introduced the talented musicians, including a trio who traveled from Alba: Giusepe Nova, Rino Vernizzi, and Giorgio Costa. Mariuccia Chiantaretto Marolo, widow of Bruno Marolo, expressed her sincere thanks to all the guests and sponsors. The evening concluded with a dinner reception highlighting the typical foods from the Alba region and showcasing the area’s specialty—tartufo—white truffle, generally considered the best in Europe. Dinner was accompanied by the famous Barolo wines, also produced in that region. The Bruno Marolo Cultural and Educational Student Exchange Scholarship Fund was established in 2008 by St. Mary College and the Italian Cultural Institute. The benefit concert at the Italian Embassy raised funds to provide scholarships for American students at St. Mary College to travel to Alba, and for Italian students from Alba to study in the U.S. |09.10.14|
Veteran's Day 2009 Ciao America! salutes the men and women who serve and have served in our armed forces. On this Veteran’s Day, we are particularly proud of the hundreds of thousands Ciao America! applauds the efforts of Italian American Patricia Orsini, who is the program director for the U.S. House of Representatives’ Wounded Warrior Program. Orsini works to place returning wounded soldiers into fellowships within Congressional offices. |09.11.11|
Italian Armed Forces Day Celebrated in Washington Italian Armed Forces Day was celebrated in Washington with a wreath laying ceremony at Arlington Cemetery, a reception at the Embassy of Italy, and a solemn Mass celebrated by Papal Nuncio Pietro Sambi at the Holy Rosary Church. Italy celebrates Armed Forces day on November 4th to mark the victory at the end of World War I in 1918, when, sadly, 650,000 Italian lost their lives. O On Sunday November 8, a solemn Mass in commemoration of the fallen soldiers was celebrated by Archbishop Pietro Sambi, the Papal Nuncio to the United States. Amb. Terzi, his companion Antonella Cinque, and members of the diplomatic corps attended the Mass and afterward joined the parishioners for a reception at Casa Italiana. |09.11.09|
Jeanette Perno Fenty Honored in Washington Jeanette Perno Fenty, mother of Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, was honored on Saturday by the Abruzzo and Molise Heritage Society at a Gala dinner held at the Casa Now retired, Mrs. Fenty said she enjoys attending and participating in Italian-American events and has even taken Italian classes at the Casa Italian Language School in the past. Last year she was the Grand Marshall of the “Festa Italiana” in Washington. In accepting the award from the Abruzzo and Molise Heritage Society, Mrs. Fenty recalled her days growing up in Buffalo with a hard-working Italian father who was employed in the construction industry. She said it was his example that taught her the value of hard work, which she and her husband also instilled in their three sons.. |09.11.08|
Giro d'Italia Coming To Washington A couple of days ago we received an inquiry from a UK journalist asking us what we thought about the Giro d’Italia biking races coming to Washington. At first we thought he was "prendendoci in giro," just kidding us. But, the more we thought about it, the more sense it made and we became excited about the possibility. Washington’s Mayor Adrian Fenty is an avid sports enthusiast – a triathlete – and an amateur cyclist. His mother, Jan Fenty is Italian American. Much of the architecture in our nation’s capital reflects the splendor of Italy. The rumors have been confirmed that D.C. is indeed in the running. Jack Pfeiffer, Mayor Fenty’s spokesman, told us yesterday that there have been discussions about hosting the start of the race, although “nothing is final.” Pfeiffer said that “the city welcomes discussions with race officials and shares their enthusiasm for the District to serve as a host city.” The director of Giro d’italia, Angelo Zomegnan, was quoted quoted as saying, “There exists a concrete interest from the city of Washington.” The 2010 Giro will start in Amsterdam. In 2011, let’s make it happen in Washington, DC.! (09/11/06)
Italian Ambassador Giulio Maria Terzi di Sant'Agata Italy’s new ambassador to the United States, Giulio Maria Terzi di Sant’Agata, presented his credentials to President Barack Obama on November 5, 2009. In a story published in the
Christmas Stamp Features Madonna and Sleeping Child Painting by Italian Painter Sassoferato The United States Postal Service has issued a 44–cent, Christmas:
Italian American Carla Gugino Shines at NIAF Gala We liked what actress Carla Gugino had to say at the 34th Annual National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Gala on Saturday upon receiving NIAF’s Special Achievement Award in Entertainment. Carla recounted that when she was growing up, her Italian-American father liked to say that there were two types of people in the world: “Italians, and those who wanted to be Italian.” READ MORE . . .>>
L'Alta Marea Arrives in Washington Antonello Venditti is in Washington, DC. for the NIAF GALA. He will be performing tonight at the HIlton Washington. Earlier today he took a tour of NIAF's "Piazza Italia" where he was mobbed by adoring fans.
Joseph Maselli
Washington, DC Readies for NIAF Gala Italian American Heritage month culminates in Washington, DC, with the Annual National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Gala. The who's who of the Italian American community will be joining thousands of guests at the 34th Annual NIAF Gala to be held this weekend at the Hilton Washington. Among the personalities Secretary Napolitano, former governor of Arizona, will receive NIAF’s Public Service Award. During her tenure as governor, she became the first female chair of the National Governors Association and had previously served as the first female attorney-general in Arizona. Lidia Matticchio Bastianich, star of the popular PBS cooking series Lidia’s Italy, will receive NIAF’s Special Achievement Award in Humanitarian Service. Bastianich is an Italian war refugee who migrated to the United States. She is active in numerous charities and humanitarian causes, including fighting violence against women and raising awareness of the plight of female refugees. Click here for an initial list of who's who in the Italian American community who will e attending the NIAF gala.
Rosanna Schiaffino Glamorous Italian actress Rosanna Schiaffino, who had been fighting breast cancer since 1991, passed away today. She was 70-years old. She was born in Genoa, Liguria. Related links: http://www.lovegoddess.info/Rosanna.htm
Al Martino - Oct. 7, 1927- Oct. 13, 2009 His Italian immigrant parents ran a masonry business, and he worked alongside his brothers as a bricklayer while growing up. However, he was more interested in music, and was inspired by Al Jolson and Perry Como to try his own hand at singing. When his boyhood friend Alfredo Cocozza changed his name to Mario Lanza and became an international opera star, the possibility of a career in music suddenly seemed plausible. READ MORE...>>
Columbus Day Ceremony in Washington Italian Ambassador Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata represented the Italian Government at the Columbus Day ceremony held in Washington, DC at the Columbus Memorial Statue at Union Station. In his remarks, Terzi said that "Columbus Day should be celebrated as the event which more than anything else honors the Italian community in America. Italians’ industrious contributions, together with their cultural and moral legacy, remain fundamental to the growth of this great nation that is the United States." READ MORE..>>
[Washington Photos courtesy of Loui Scalfari and Marco Fiorante] New York City Columbus Day Parade
NEW YORK CITY - It was “Ciao America!” day in New York City on Monday, as thousands of people lined Fifth Avenue to watch the 65th Columbus Day Parade. Grand Marshall Kenneth G. Langone, founder of Home Depot, marched along side Mayor Michael Bloomberg, followed by a who’s who of New York’s politicians. New York Gov. David Paterson marched with his own entourage, keeping a good distance from unannounced Governor -hopeful, Andrew Cuomo. “It feels very Italian and it feels very American,” said Langone. “How much better it can be than that?” Even Sen. Chuck Schumer tried to sound Italian as he cheered the crowds.
But the person who excited the Italians among the crowds the most was Ignazio La Russa, Italy’s Minister of Defense, who waved an Italian flag with cries of “Viva Italia” and “Viva Berlusconi.” It seems that everybody in New York City knew “Ignazio.” Marching with him were his wife Laura La Russa, Italian Consul General Francesco M. Talo' , Amato Berardi, member of the Italian Parliament, Robert Leonardi, and numerous other politicians. READ MORE....>>
Pictured above, Ciao America group from Sicily; Ignazio La Russa with NYC Italian Consul Francesco Talo; Ignazio La Russsa with Amato Berardi; Louis Aidala leading the Columbian Lawyers Association. [NYC Photos Francesco Isgro]
Grand Opening of the American Italian Museum in Albany On October 4, 2009, the American Italian Museum and Cultural Center opens its doors in Albany, New York. The museum, operated by the American Italian Ciao America congratulates Prof. DiNovo, the Museum's Board of Directors, and all those Italians and Americans who made this possible.
Flooding, Mudslides Kill at Least 24 in Messina, Sicily Torrential downpours in Messina, Sicily, on Thursday and Friday, caused significant flooding and mudslides killing at least 24 people in the nearby towns of Scaletta At Ciao America we extend our condolences to the families of the victims. |10.02.2009| Columbus Day Parade on Staten Island The Italian heritage was celebrated at the 19th Annual Columbus Day Parade held on October 4, 2009, on Staten Island. This year’s grand marshal was Mayor Thomas D'Addonna of Crespina, Italy. Crespina, a town of 4,000 residents located near Florence, is Staten Island's sister city – citta’ gemella. Borough President James P. Molinaro, noting that it was not long ago that Italian-Americans were llimited to manual labor, and that many changed their ethnic-sounding last names to improve their career prospects, said, "We have paid our dues; we have contributed to the growth of this country. We are great citizens, tolerant, forgiving and hard-working." New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg joined the parade along with other politicians.
October is National Italian American Heritage Month Here is the Thirty-One Days of Italians 2009 List for Italian American Heritage Month developed by Janice Therese Mancuso.
Antonello Venditti Coming to Washington The National Italian American Foundation will be welcoming Antonello Venditti as its featured Friday night entertainer, in conjunction with the Oct. 23-24, NIAF's 34th Annual Convention & Gala. Venditti will receive a NIAF Special Achievement Award in Entertainment at the Gala on October 24, 2009, He will perform at the International Ballroom, The Hilton Washington, on Friday, October 23, 2009. Contact NIAF for additional information. |09.27.2009|
Should Little Italy in Baltimore Change?
"I live in Little Italy and there are still many Italian-Americans living here. As far as the restaurants, I would agree that many of them are just too pricey for what they are..." 09/26/2009
The Italians Are Coming! Residents of Birmingham, an affluent Detroit suburb, are wondering when exactly the Italians are coming, now that Fiat has taken over Chrysler: “Everyone is genuinely excited that the Italians are coming. Everyone thinks they are these chic people,” noted a re |2009.09.25| PS: The Detroit Free Press article ignited a lively debate on Italian food and customs. Check it out. A front page story in the Wall Street Journal (September 26-27) states that a typical home in Detroit sells for $7,100.
Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi in NYC and Pittsburgh Italy's Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi spoke today at the United Nations General Assembly. Tomorrow, September 24, Berlusconi will participate at the G-20 summit in Pittsburgh.
Italians Mourn Soldiers Killed in Afghanistan Readers picking up Tuesday’s Washington Post and the New York Times, among other ||09.22.2009 | Suicide Bomber Kills Italian Troops in Afghan Capital
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Speaker Nancy Pelosi Receives Gold Medal Award On September 16, 2009, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi received the Gold Medal award from the American Society of Italian Legions of Merit (ASILM) at a ceremony The gold medal is presented to heads of state, heads of government, principalities of internationally-recognized entities. ASILM awarded the Gold Medal to President Giorgio Napolitano in September 2007 in Rome, President George W. Bush in 2006 at the White House, and President Carlo Ciampi in 2005. Among the dignitaries attending the ceremony were Congressman Bill Pascrell, Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta, NIAF Secretary John F. Calvelli, Holy Rosary Church Pastor Lydio Tomasi, NOIWA President Eileen Riotto. DC Comites President Carmelo Cicala, AMICO Editor Pino Cicala, ASILM's Board Member and former Honorary Vice Consul of Connecticut Alfonso Panico, Honorary Vice Consul of Italy in St. Louis, Joseph Colagiovanni, and ASILM's Chief of Protocol Rosemary Gallina Santangelo. (Pictured above House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Judge Dominic Massaro - Photo Isgro) |09.16.2009|
Remembering Prosecutor Ferdinand Pecora
A former New York prosecutor, Pecora was the last in a series of investigators hired to examine the causes that led to the stock market crash of 1929 for the Senate Committee on Banking and Currency." READ WASHINGTON POST ARTICLE. . . .>> "The riveting confrontation between Pecora and the Wall Street grandees was so theatrically apt it might have been concocted by Hollywood. The combative Pecora was the perfect foil to the posh bankers who paraded before the microphones. Born in Sicily, the son of an immigrant cobbler. . ."READ NEW YORK TIMES ARTICLE. . . .>> Read Pecora's biography from Wikepedia.
The Joys Of Growing Up Italian American Elvira S Oliver, from Carmel, New York, claims that at age 99 she is the author of The Joys of Growing up Italian American which is on the internet as anonymous. We don’t know who Elvira is – we never met her – she might not even exist – but the story is intriguing. |09.15.2009| READ MORE . . .>> Read the response from Eric Shackle, a retired Australian journalist whose hobby is searching the Internet and blogging. He first wrote about Elvira in his blog.
Kenneth G. Langone The Columbus Citizen Foundation has announced that Kenneth G. Langone, Home Depot Co-Founder, Chairman of the NYU Langone Medical Center, will Lead 65th Annual Columbus Day Parade as Grand Marshal. |09.16.2009| READ MORE . . .>>
Maria Perrusi from Cosenza, Calabria is Miss Italia 2009
Perrussi's dream is to become a model or a physical therapist. Her favorite singers are Laura Pausini and Celine Dion. (AP Photo)
"Eat [Pizza at Da Michele], Pray, Love” If you ask Elizabeth Gilbert’s author of Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia
Italian American Firefighter Father Recalls John Vigiano Jr. was a New York City firefighter. His younger brother, Joe, served on the police force as a detective. Both died in the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Their father, retired firefighter John Vigiano Sr., recalls how the two became public servants. READ THE NPR STORY LISTEN TO INTERVIEW . . . >> AMERICAN HEROES: THE VIGIANO BROTHERS
The Vigiano brothers were the subjects of an Academy Award-winning short film, Twin Towers. They also inspired the Vigiano Brothers Scholarship Fund for Italian-Americans.
Miss Italia 2009 The 70th Miss Italia Pageant finals will be held in Salsomaggiore Terme on September 12, 13 and 14. Anchor woman Milly Carlucci will host the show. The events live on RAIUNO and Rai International. Click here to view the finalists.
Sons of Italy Elects 2009-2011 National Officers
Italy Hosts International Conference on Violence against Women (Rome, September 9-10, 2009) Si è aperta oggi a Roma la Conferenza internazionale sulla violenza contro le
Addio a Mike Bongiorno, il papà della tv italiana E' scomparso a Montecarlo Mike Bongiorno uno dei presentatori televisivi più amati del piccolo schermo tricolore. Il popolare presentatore televisivo è stato colpito da un infarto. Mike, vero nome Michael Nicholas Salvatore, era nato a New York il 26 maggio 1924 ma era tornato in Italia da bambino e durante la Seconda guerra mondiale era stato impiegato per i contatti tra Alleati e gruppi partigiani. Era stato arrestato dai tedeschi, rischiando di essere fucilato prima di essere liberato grazie ad uno scambio di prigionieri di guerra tra Stati Uniti e Germania. READ MORE . . . >>
NIAF Announces 2009 Honorees
Berlusconi: ''Allarme libertà di stampa? Una barzelletta'' L'allarme lanciato sulla libertà di stampa in pericolo "è una barzelletta di una minoranza di comunisti e catto-comunisti e dei loro giornali, che purtroppo sono il 90%", assicura Silvio Berlusconi parlando delle polemiche sulle azioni giudiziarie intentate contro alcuni quotidiani e della manifestazione indetta dalla Fnsi. "Loro intendono la libertà di stampa come libertà di insulti, diffamazione, calunnie. Io sono stato costretto a rivolgermi alla magistratura per dimostrare che la libertà di stampa non è tutto questo", ha detto il presidente del Consiglio lamentando il fatto che "il diritto alla riservatezza è violato sistematicamente dalla sinistra". Secondo il premier, tra l'altro, nei suoi confronti è in atto una "campagna eversiva, perché è contro la volontà del popolo. L'ho detto e lo ripeto: povera Italia. Credo che si dovrebbe interrompere qualunque campagna che attacca chiunque su basi false e calunniose". /09.09.07/
3 settembre 1982 «Il sacrificio del generale dalla Chiesa e quello di tanti altri caduti per mano di mafia "La Sicilia sara' per sempre grata a Carlo Alberto Dalla Chiesa, uno dei piu' alti esempi di dignita' morale e di dedizione alle Istituzioni che il nostro Paese abbia mai avuto". Ministro dell'Ambiente, Stefania Prestigiacomo. /09.09.03/ "La Mafia non fa vacanza, macina ogni giorno i suoi delitti.. READ THE LAST NTERVIEW OF DALLA CHIESA BY GIORGIO BOCCA OF LA REPUBBLICA . . . >>
Freedom of the Press Challenged in Italy Italy’s international image is being tested in light of Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s lawsuits against some of the major newspapers in Europe and Italy, including La Repubblica and l’Unita'. The papers are being sued for defamation for
Death of Boat Migrants Off Coast Of Sicily Last week's death in the Mediterranean Sea of up to 75 boat migrants - as told by the five rescued Eritrean migrants - who were trying to reach Italy, has reignited the immigration debate in Italy and Europe. Italy's Foreign Minister Franco Frattini, is defending his country's record as he responds to criticism from the European
Tornatore and Turturro To Show Their Sicilian Roots Oscar winner Giuseppe Tornatore will open on September 2, the 66th Festival del Cinema in Venice, with "Baaria,” a partly autobiographical movie which examines three generations of life in Tornatore’s native Sicilian village of Bagheria. It is the first time in two decades that an Italian film headlines the festival. The 53-year-old Italian American director, screenwriter and actor Sylvester Stallone will be the recipient of the “Jaeger-LeCoultre Glory to the Filmmaker Award”, the prize recently instituted by the Venice International Film Festival.
MORTA FERNANDA PIVANO 2009-08-18 - "E' morta questa sera Fernanda Pivano, in una clinica privata di Milano, dove era ricoverata da tempo. I funerali si svolgeranno probabilmente venerdì prossimo, a Genova, dove era nata il 18 luglio 1917.... La Pivano è stata "Quando negli anni '50 Fernanda Pivano si reca per la prima volta negli Stati Uniti è una giovane studiosa innamorata dell'America di quegli anni e desiderosa di incontrare dal vivo, sul campo, i maestri di una narrativa che in Italia si era appena cominciato a conoscere, grazie a Cesare Pavese ed Elio Vittorini..." READ FROM PIVANO'S OFFICIAL WEB SITE . . . >>
"All Broads Lead to Rome" The foreign media continues to focus on Silvio Berlusconi's love affairs. The latest salvo is from Vanity Fair. "All Broads lead to Rome" is the headline. "Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi is a national joke. He’s also the richest, most successful politician in Europe—and has no intention of changing his ways. Will Italy change without him?" READ THE ARTICLE . . . >>
Five Italian Tourists Among Victims of New York Air Crash Five Italian tourists from Bologna, were among the nine victims of last Saturday air incident above the Hudson River in Manhattan when a small plane, a Piper PA-32, collided against an helicopter. Also dead, three members of a Pennsylvania family who were in the private plane, and the pilot from New Jersey in the Liberty Tours helicopter. The collision was the city's worst air disaser in eight years. The names of the five Italians are: Michele Norelli, 51; his son Filippo Norelli, 16; Fabio Gallazzi, 49; his wife, Tiziana Pedroni, 44; and their son Giacomo Gallazzi, 15. The group had arrived in the United States on August 4 and were planning on returning to Bologna on August 13. On Monday, Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta wil travel to New York City to meet with the victims' relatives and Mayor Michael Bloomberg. We offer our sympathy to the victims' relatives and their loved ones. /09.08.09/
August 8 - Giornata nazionale del sacrificio On the occasion of the anniversary of the mining tragedy in Marcinelle, Belgium, on August 8, 1956, where 262 miners perished including 136 Italians, Franco Frattini, Italy's Foreign Minister, issued a statement to Italians abroad honouring all Italian workers who died abroad in the workplace and who brought throughout the world the best image of a hardworking and proud Italy. READ MESSAGE IN ITALIAN . . . >> /09.08.07/
WSJ Reports Mediterranean Tourism Industry Battered The Wall Street Journal reported today that Europe's Mediterranean countries are being
Carmine Cornelio Created a Film in 1948 In 1948, Sicilian-born, Carmine E. Cornelio, created a16-mm celluloid film in color in Winsted, Connecticut. His intention was to take it back to Floridia, his hometown in Sicily, to allow people there to once again see the faces of their relatives, and also to show them the successful life of the “American." In the early 70s the film was saved from the ravages of time. Luigi Cornelio, Carmine's grandson, built a website to share the film (updated with music) with all of us. You can visit the site at http://winsted1948.wordpress.com. Below is a 3-minute clip from the movie showing lively Italian ladies at a picnic, accompanied by Paolo Conte's Via con me. /09.08.05/
Italian American Joe Fiorentino
The Italian American Congressional Delegation All the news that we can find about the Italian American Congressional Delegation - - From Congressman Bill Pascrell to all others ... READ MORE . . . >> /09.08.02/
Giulio Terzi Di Sant'Agata New Ambassador to Washington
Giovanni Verrazzano at Rehoboth Beach If you go to Rehoboth Beach his Summer, as many Washingtonians undoubtedly will, you will not miss the The monument was sponsored by the Delaware Commission on Italian Heritage and Culture and officially dedicated on October 18, 2008. Click here for copy of the brochure. The dedication ceremony was led by Attorney Richard DiLiberto, Chairman of the Commission. The inscription on the monument reads as follows: Giovanni Da Verrazzano, Born c. 1485 - Died c. 1528. A native of Val di Greve in the Tuscany Region of Italy, he studies navigation as a young man and became a master mariner. He was engaged by the King of France to lead a voyage to North America in 1524. The purpose of Verrazzano's journey was to learn more about the continent traveling in a small ship known as the Dauphine. He explored coastal areas from the present day state of North Carolina to Canada, observing the natural abundance of the land and the vibrant culture of its native peoples. Hi voyage is the earliest documented European exploration of this part of the Atlantic coast. This monument rests upon stone from Castello di Verrazzano, the explorer ancestral home.
Heaven on Earth - Extended Through August 16 Don't miss Heaven on Earth: Manuscript Illuminations from the National Gallery of Art National Gallery of Art, Washington. The exhibit has been extended through August 16, 2009. READ MORE . . . >>
Italian POW Camp To Be Remembered Vincenzo Arcobelli, President of the Italian COMITES of Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. is leading the campaign to restore the “votive” Chapel built by the Italian POWs. READ MORE . . . >>
David Thorne Ambassador-Designate To Italy On July 16, 2009, David Thorne, Ambassador-Designate to
Garibaldi Meucci Museum Rededicated
Cavaliere Vito Catalano Vito Catalano, who for twenty-five years has photographed the who's who of the
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY
Tough Immigration Law Enacted in Italy Italy enacted today tough new measures against illegal immigrants. It is now a crime to enter Italy illegally and Italians who rent even a room to an immigrant who does not have authority to reside in Italy may face up to three years prison. The new law was strongly contensted between the Berlusconi camp, namely the Northern League, who pushed for these harsh measures, and the more moderate opposition parties. In the end the Senate passed the new law by 157-124 votes. The Vatican quickly condemned the new law. The law becomes effective fifteen days after it is published in the Gazzetta Ufficiale. /09.07.02/
President Obama and First Lady to Meet Pope Benedict XVI
An Antiquity of Imagination: Tullio Lombardo and Venetian High Renaissance Sculpture - at the National Gallery of Art Led by Tullio Lombardo (c. 1455–1532), the great Venetian sculptors of the High Renaissance created new ideals of beauty, shaped by a poetic and nostalgic
11th Annual Festa Italiana The 11th Annual Festa Italiana was celebrated in Washington, DC on June 28, 2009. This year's feast The Festa commenced with a procession to the National Law
Enforcement Officers Memorial, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony. Dottoressa Andreina Nardini, the Italian Consular Attache', delivered the welcoming remarks on behalf of the Italian Embassy in Washington. She noted that a number of Embassy officials had their roots in the Puglia Region, including Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta. Among the Puglia-related activities, a "Teatro Puglia" was set up inside Casa Italiana to show videos from that region. Chef Antonio Lazzettti from Il Fornaio Restaurant provided a cooking demonstration on how to make "Focaccia Pugliese." (click here for focaccia recipe) (Pictured top, Holy Rosary Church parishioners march to the Law Enforcement Memorial; pictured above Dottoressa Andreina Nardini, Italian Consular Attache)
Diana Curmei, Miss Moldovia Diana Curmei, Miss Moldavia, was crowned Miss Italia nel Mondo at Jesole Italy on Miss Curmei, whose father is Romanian and whose mother has her roots in Sicily ( .Campofelice di Roccella, Palermo), is a college student who loves dancing, photography, and speaks four languages, (russian, french, spanish and English) and a little Italian thanks to the songs of Laura Pausini and Tiziano Ferro.
"Io sono fatto così e non cambio. Se mi vogliono, sono così. E gli italiani mi vogliono: ho il 61%. Mi vogliono perché sentono che sono buono, generoso, sincero, leale, che mantengo le promesse".
White House Nominates David Thorne Many Americans of Italian descent had hoped that President Obama would name an Italian-American Ambassador to Rome. Not this time. On June 25, 2009, the White House released a statement announcing the President's intention to nominate David Thorne as Ambassador to Rome. The following is a statement on Mr. Thorne as released by the White House:
Thorne is a longtime close friend of Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry, the Democratic Party's 2004 presidential nominee, and twin brother of Kerry's first wife. Kerry and Thorne were classmates at Yale, belonged to the university`s exclusive Skull and Bones Society and played on the varsity soccer team, having learned the sport when they both lived in Europe. “David will bring to the post a lifelong connection to Italy, a keen intellect, fluent command of the Italian language, and a rich background in Southern European affairs, said Sen. Kerry, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “David is a veteran who cares deeply about his country and comes from a family steeped in public service, and I’m thrilled that he’s been tapped to serve his nation.”
Miss Italia nel Mondo Pits Two Contestants from USA Miss Italia USA, Christina Marraccini of Harrison, New York, whose roots are in Sicily and Lazio, and Miss Italia North America, Rosanna Capriati from Chicago, whose roots are in the La Puglia Region, will be among the 49 contestants vying for the title of Miss Italia nel Mondo currently underway at Jesolo, Italy. READ MORE... >>
(Pictured above, Rosanna Capriati and Christina Marraccini, and Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta with Christina and Rosanna, photographed at the Italian Embassy in Washington) (Photos Isgro)
New Movie: La Siciliana Ribelle
War of Words Between Prime Minister Berlusconi "Non avete dignità, non sapete cos'é la democrazia e la libertà, siete "Non credo ci sia un rischio di instabilita' per il governo, invece c’e'
White House Meeting Cements Friendship Between
"Buona sera. I want to welcome Prime Minister Berlusconi here. Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi received a very warm greeting from President Barack Obama during their tete-a-tete at the White House on June 15. The transcript of the remarks between the two leaders clearly shows that President Obama is very appreciative of Italy's contributions to stabilization of Afghanistan, and its role as Chair of the G8. Obama in his remarks " emphasized the strong, historic ties between the United States and Italy. " "Overall," said Obama, "I am very grateful to Prime Minister Berlusconi's leadership, his consistent friendship towards the United States. We have some of the strongest bilateral relations in the world. I am confident that that will continue as long as both of us are occupying our positions." Prime Minister Berlusconi, remarked that President Obmas expresses views that "are not only innovative positions looking at a different future, but they're always very concrete and absolutely based on common sense. And it is extremely comforting and a pleasure to see that the destiny of the biggest democracy in the world is in very good hands." Prime Minister Berlusconi at National Art Gallery During his visit to Washington, and following his talks with President Obama and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Prime Minister Berlusconi stopped at the National Gallery of Art where he signed the guest book, and admired The Beffi Triptych, which will be on display in the West Building's Rotunda until September 7, 2009.
Pictured above, Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta, Italy's Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and, National Gallery of Art Director, Earl A. Powell.
Prime Minister Berlusconi signing the National Gallery of Art guestbook. (Photos Isgro)
Conference on the Promotion of Italian Language On June 13, 2009, a conference to promote the Italian language in United States. schools K-16 and continuing education, was held at the Italian Embassy in (Pictured above, Anthony J. Tamburri, Dean of the J.D. Calandra Italian American Institute (CUNY).
49th Annual Ceremony Commemorating Charles J. Bonaparte On June 11, 2009, at the United States Department of Justice the Italian American community honored Charles Joseph Bonaparte, the 46th Attorney General of the United States and the Founder of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This Annual Ceremony, now in its 49th year, was instituted by John LaCorte, Sr., founder of the Italian Historical Society of America, in 1961, with the collaboration of local Italian American organizations in the Washington area, including the Lido Civic Club. Since then, Charles Bonaparte has been commemorated at the Department of Justice in the month of June, the month of his birth.
This year's speakers included John Di Cicco, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Tax Division at the U.S. Department of Justice, Hon. John Facciola, Magistrate Judge in Washington, D.C., Dr. Giannicola Sinisi, Justice Attache' at the Embassy of Italy. Welcoming remarks were extended by John LaCorte, Jr., the President of the Italian Historical Society, and Francesco Isgro, Acting Director of Training for the Civil Division and Senior Litigation Counsel at the U.S. Department of Justice. Among the special guests attending the ceremony were Arthur Gajarsa, Federal Judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, and Ron Cimino, Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Tax Division, U.S. Department of Justice. (Pictured above, Dr. Giannicola Sinisi speaking at the 49th Annual Charles J. Bonaparte Ceremony; Francesco Isgro, John LaCorte, John Di Cicco, Hon. John Facciola) Text of Remarks by John Di Cicco
Statement by the Press Secretary on the Visit of (Washington - June 6) President Obama will welcome Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy to the White House on Monday, June 15th. The United States and Italy, a NATO ally, have strong bilateral relations and partner together around the world to promote peace, prosperity, and democratic freedoms. The President looks forward to discussing preparations for the G-8 Summit that will take place in L'Aquila, Italy in July, and consulting with the Prime Minister on a broad range of strategic issues of mutual concern.
FESTA DELLA REPUBBLICA - June 2, 2009 At Italian Embassy in Washington, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi Pays Tribute to Italian Americans “In terms of who we are as people, 40 million bridges between Italy and America. A country discovered by an Italian, named by an Italian, developed by Italian Americans, continuing to take pride in our Italian American heritage." La Festa della Repubblica was also celebrated in various cities in the United States, including Philadelphia and New York.
Presidente Giorgio Napolitano - "C’è bisogno di più coesione sociale e nazionale: nel rispetto dei diversi ruoli istituzionali; nel libero e civile confronto tra le diverse opinioni." “Un cordiale augurio a tutti gli italiani per la Festa della Repubblica. Un saluto particolare, affettuoso e solidale, alle tante famiglie de L’Aquila e dell’Abruzzo che vivono questa giornata fuori delle loro case distrutte o colpite, tra gravi disagi e difficoltà, anche se assistite e sostenute con ogni premura ; che vivono questa giornata nel ricordo di perdite dolorose e incolmabili”. Così il Presidente della Repubblica, Giorgio Napolitano, si è rivolto agli italiani in occasione del 2 giugno, Festa Nazionale della Repubblica.
Vice President Joseph Biden, Federal Judge Arthur Gajarsa Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Vice President of the United States, became the first non-Italian American recipient of the SIF’s Highest Honor: The 2009 National Education (Pictured above at the Gala dinner Vice President Biden, OSIA's Philip Piccigallo, and Franco Nuschese; pictured at right, Hon. Amato Berardi and Hon. Judge Arthur Gajarsa)
Jerry Colangelo New Chairman of NIAF
Memorial Mass For
Judge Giovanni Falcone
Susanna Agnelli 1922-2009 Susanna Agnelli, former Italian Foreign Minister, sister of Fiat Chairman Giovanni Agnelli, died in Rome on May 15, 2009. She was 87 years old.
Washington's Deputy Mayor Dan Tangherlini
Pino Cicala’s Antenna Italia - 50 Years of Service More than one hundred of the who's who of the Nation's Capital area Italian American community turned out for a reception Friday evening, May 15, at the Italian Embassy in Washington to honor Pino Cicalas' 50 years of service to Antenna Italia. The reception held under the auspices of His Excellency Giovanni Castellaneta, Ambassador of Italy, attracted dignitaries from as far away as Cal (Pictured above Marco Mancini, Rosanna Capriati, Pino Cicala, Christina Marraccini) (Click here for more photos from the event)
National Police Week 2009 It's National Police Week (May 10-16) across America and in particular in our Nation's Capital where the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Monument Let's pray this Sunday not only for Italian American police officers who have fallen in their line of duty but for all police officers who have given their lives to protect ours.
Franco Frattini Back in Washington as Hon. Franco Frattini, the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs will be back in Washington to address the American Jewish Committee at its Annual General Minister Frattini will be also addressing the issue of “Italy in the Global Outlook” to Members of Congress, Government officials, business and community leaders, and other DC insiders on Capirol Hill on. Thursday, May 7th, 2009. This event is being held under the auspices of the Frank J. Guarini Public Policy Forum and is sponsored by. The National Italian American Foundation, in collaboration with the Italian American Congressional Delegation.
Stefania Prestigiacomo, Italy's Minister of Environment Participates in "Major Economies Forum" in Washington Fresh from a three-day G-8 summit in her hometown in Siracusa, Sicily, Italy's (Pictured above Minister Stefania Prestigiacomo at Italian Embassy in Washington, Photo Isgro)
Artist Paolo Staccioli Exhibits at Italian Embassy
(Pictured on the left is Paolo Staccioli with one of his ceramic works"Traveler")
Thomas Friedman Winner of the 2009 Urbino Press Award Thomas L. Friedman, New York Times columnist and best-selling author, is the The Urbino Press Award in recognition of excellence in journalism is awarded to American reporters, who through their commitment and daily work, conscientiously to inform millions of people. Friedman follows Martha Raddatz who was awarded the prize in 2008. Among those attending the event were prior Urbino Prize winners, ABC News' Martha Raddatz and Time magazine reporter Michael Weisskopf. The official award ceremony will be held later this year in Urbino, Italy. Read more . . .
The 4th Sicilian Film Festival Winners!
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) has established a special NIAF/Abruzzo Relief Fund to help the victims and their families who perished from the recent earthquake in the town of L’Aquila and other small towns in central Italy in the region of Abruzzo. Click here.
X Festival della Canzone Siciliana
Thomas J. Perrelli No. 3 at Justice
Assassination of Petrosino Commemorated in Washington NIAF Executive Director James De Santis At a ceremony held on March 12, 2009, at the National Law Enforcement Officers M Click here to read remarks by NIAF's James De Santis. (Pictured above Hon. Francis Allegra, Judge U.S. Court of Claims, Ronald A. Cimino, Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice, Francesco Isgro, Friends of Charles Bonaparte, and James De Santis, Nat'l Executive Director, NIAF- Photo by Erika Madrigal) Giuseppe ("Joe") Petrosino's Assassination The 100th Anniversary of the assassination of NYC Lt. Giuseppe ("Joe") Petrosino in Sicily View Italian video of Petrosino
Granddaughter of Amadeo P. Giannini, Founder of
Giannini was born on May 6, 1870 in San Jose, California. His parents were from Chavari, Genoa. On October 17, 1904, he opened Banca d"Italia and sought out Italian American depositors in San Francisco's North Beach. Following the 1906 earthquake he lent money to help rebuild San Francisco. The bank expanded and after a series of bank acquisitions mergers, in 1928 he formed the Bank of America of California. He resigned as Chairman on May 5, 1945. During Giannin's last years, Bank of America's capital wa above 6.2 billion. He died on June 3, 1949. Read Giannini's profile by Time Inc. in Time 100 [09.03.07]
Washington Post Runs First Page Story On March 1, 2009, the Washington Post ran a front page story, under the headline "As Italy's Banks Tighten Lending, Desperate Firms Call on the Mafia." The story, which looked at the loan sharking business at a time of tightening credit, notes that "the Mafia is most famous in Sicily and southern Italy, but its tentacles spread throughout that country." This critical story prompted the Italian Ambassador to Washington, Giovanni Castellaneta to send a letter to the editor criticizing the "one-sided content of the article." Read Castellaneta's letter . . . We note for the record that the Washington Post did not write one story on Italy's Foreign Minister Franco Frattini's official visit to Washington, and Italy's plans for the upcoming G-8 summit. Here's what one student wrote in her blog: " I went to The Brookings Institution to hear what are the priorities for the Italian G8 Summit. Franco Frattini, Italy’s minister of foreign affairs, surprised me. He said the rich countries should share responsibilities and be accountable." /09.03.02/
Italy's Foreign Minister Franco Frattini Meets On February 26-27, the Foreign Minister of Italy, Franco Frattini, was in Washington on an official visit to the Department of State. In her welcoming Italy, which took over the presidency of G-8 earlier this year, is preparing to hos During his visit in Washington, Mr. Frattini also had talks with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other senior official in the Obama Administration. Most importantly, on Friday, Feb. 27, Mr. Frattini spoke at the Brookings Institution about the priorities that Italy is setting for the next G-8 Summit and of its proposal for a new global governance. One proposal is to include Brazil, China, India, Mexico, and South Africa in a more structured and stable association with the countries of the G8. Italy is of the view that a moderate, Arab, Muslim, and African country like Egypt would also be a useful addition to this exercise.
On Friday, following his meeting at the State Department, Mr. Frattinin gave a press conference at the Italian Embassy.
The 81st Annual Academy Awards Sadly, no Italian film is competing in this year's Best Foreign Film category. Mi dispiace! If you're nostalgic, click here to see previous Oscar nominees and winners.
59th Festival of Sanremo Apparently RAI has been prohibiting YouTube from showing any of the RAI Sanremo events, including the clip of Marco Carta singing Forza Mia which we had earlier on this site. You may as well hear Marco Masini's song, L'Italia, which made it to the top 10.
Futurism Centenary Celebrated Around the World [20Feb.1909.2009] Visit Jessica Palmieri's web site - All you ever wanted to know about Italian Futurism. ItalianFuturism.org.
Prof. Pietro Frassica on Marinetti's La Cucina Futuristica
The Piccirilli Brothers: As we commemorate the 200th Anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birthday, let's
Christina Pirello at the Washington D.C. Christina Pirello, host of the
Hon. Michele Iorio, President of Molise Region On February 3, 2009, T Iorio was welcomed by Omero Sabatini, the current President of the Society. Among the honored guests were Ambassador Connie Morella and her husband, Mrs. Jan Fenty, First Counselor to the Italian Embassy Marco Mancini, Father Lydio Tomasi, Pastor of Holy Rosary Church, Hon. Salvatore Ferrigno, Carmelo Cicala, and Lucio D'Andrea frounder of the Abbruzzo and Molise Society. Read more. . . . xx
Search Begins for Miss Italia nel Mondo USA 2009 |
Abruzzo, Calabria, Campania--to work the coal mines. Like the millions of Italians who migrated to “L’america” in search of a brighter future, most had no idea of the challenges they would face. The promise of a financed voyage and a secure job was an incentive that few could resist. But none, one suspects, could have imagined that they would end up working in conditions as inhumane as in those in the mines of Monongah. Yet, they left their homes in Frosolone, Roccamandolfi, Duronia, San Giovanni in Fiore, Castrovillari, Canistro, and dozens of other Italian towns and came in droves to Monongah. 
Bull," but he is probably best known for his performance in "Godfather II," in which he played the young Vito Corleone. De Niro has appeared in more than 70 films and has also produced and directed several movies, including "Everybody's Fine," released this year. De Niro was born in 1943 and grew up in the Little Italy section of New York City. He acquired the nickname "Bobby Milk" because he was so thin and as pale as milk. De Niro was close to his Italian paternal grandfather, whom he visited frequently in Syracuse, N.Y. The actor, who once stated that he identifies with his "Italian side," was inducted into the Italian-American Hall of Fame in 2002. 
growing up in New Jersey. Springsteen was born in Long Branch, N.J. in 1949. U2 lead singer Bono has said that Springsteen’s role as an interpreter of the American identity cannot be overemphasized. He is “the greatest ambassador for the idea that is America,” said Bono. Springsteen’s 1984 album "Born in the U.S.A." has sold more than 15 million copies in the U.S. alone and is considered among the greatest rock and roll albums of all time. Known for his live performances, Springsteen and his E Street Band remain one of the top acts in the world. Springsteen’s Italian-American mother, Adele Zirilli, a former legal secretary, was born in Puerto Rico. Her parents were born in Italy. 
Mass for Law Enforcement officials held on November 12, 2009, at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, New Jersey. DiNardo was slain on July 21, 2009, as he tried to arrest two robbery suspects. He was 37 years old and married with three young children. The mass was celebrated by the Archbishop of Newark, H.E. John Joseph Myers. Among the attendees were N.J. Gov. Jon Corzine and Gov.-elect Chris Christie, who met for the first time since the election, and deputy police chief William Schievella, president of the Italian America Police Society of New Jersey. |09.11.14|
Marolo who lived in Washington from 1991 until his untimely death in 2007 at the age of 64, was born in Alba, a thriving city in the Piemonte region of northern Italy. During his career in Washington he was the head of ANSA North America. Although his career with ANSA spanned 25 years, he also wrote for L’Unita’ and Famiglia Cristiana. He had a degree in Arabic languages from Turin and spent much of his career covering the Middle East Together with Ennio Caretto, another Italian correspondent who settled in Washington, he co-authored Made In Italy, Le origini americane della repubblica italiana.
of Italian Americans who served in World War II and in particular those who helped liberate Italy. Their courage, valor, service and allegiance to America makes us all proud to be Italian Americans. 
n November 4, Italy's Deputy Chief of Mission, Minister Sebastiano Cardi, presented a wreath at Arlington Cemetery in honor of the four Italians who are buried there. That evening hundreds of guests attended a reception held at the Italian Embassy. In welcoming remarks Amb. Terzi noted Italy’s close cooperation with the U.S. in particular Italy’s support for the NATO mission in Afghanistan. Terzi quoted President Obama’s remarks from earlier that morning, “Our countries’ collaboration to support the NATO mission in Afghanistan will ensure that the Afghan people continue to have an opportunity to build the future that they so richly deserve.” A special guest at this year’s reception was Admiral Michael Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who also praised the close collaboration between Italy and the United States. 
Italiana Cultural Center. Mrs. Fenty, who grew up in Buffalo, N.Y., moved with her husband Phil Fenty to Washington in the late 1960’s. A graduate of Buffalo State College and with a masters’ degree from George Washington University, she taught for 15 years in Washington-area schools. For 24 years, the Fenty’s owned and operated an athletic shoe store in the Adams Morgan neighborhood. 
The two countries have traditionally enjoyed a friendly partnership. Washington, we concluded, would be an ideal location for the start of the Giro d’Italia!
Washington Post Style section the following day, it was noted that Ambassador Terzi was accompanied by his longtime girlfriend Antonella Cinque, an attorney, and former head of Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco, the U.S. equivalent of the FDA. “That Cinque is not his wife would have caused a fuss just a few years ago,” said the Post. Terzi was quoted as saying, “I can tell you that I’m excited and pleased to have my family with me.” The Ambassador and Ms. Cinque have 19-month-old twins, Giulio and Nina. The back garden at Villa Firenze, the Italian Ambassador’s residence, is soon likely to gain a swing set, according to Cinque. 
Madonna and Sleeping Child by Sassoferrato special stamp, designed by Carl T. Herrman of North Las Vegas, Nevada. Since 1978, the theme of each “traditional” Christmas stamp has been the Madonna and Child. The 2009 Christmas stamp features Madonna and Sleeping Child, a painting by Italian artist Giovanni Battista Salvi, (1609–1685), more commonly known as Sassoferrato. The painting depicted on the stamp shows a blonde Madonna clothed in red and cradling the sleeping Christ Child in purple cloth. From each of the two top corners, the childlike face of a cherub looks down from the clouds. The painting is currently in the collection of Hearst Castle in California. (09/10/31)
"Joe Maselli, an ebullient businessman and activist who missed no opportunity to celebrate Italian culture and highlight its gifts to New Orleans, died Sunday (October 18, 2009) after a brief hospitalization at Ochsner Foundation Hospital, his family said. He was 85." 
who will be honored are Janet Napolitano, Secretary of the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security, and
Lidia Matticchio Bastianich, PBS cooking
show host, restauranteur and philanthropist.
When she was 14 she won the Miss Liguria beauty contest and started playing small parts in Italian, French, and later also British films. She had become famous by the end of the 1950s for her appearance and temperamental performances. Despite the increase in nudity in films at the end of the 1960s, Schiaffino, however, refused to appear in such scenes. Her film career ended in 1977, and she dropped from public view. She was married twice: to Alfredo Bini (divorced in 1977) and to Giorgio Falck (since 1977). In a 1966 story in the
Heritage Association, is dedicated to recording and preserving the contributions of Italian-Americans . The American Italian Heritage Association, founded in 1979 by Philip J. DiNovo, has published books, organized conferences and Italian food festivals and events and worked with schools and colleges. The museum will feature an Italian immigrant room with a photo exhibit, immigrant memorabilia and artifacts; an art gallery featuring works of Italian-American artists; an Italian folk art room featuring photos, artifacts, dolls and other memorabilia from Italy; and exhibits on famous Italian-Americans and Italian Americans; and other displays. The center will also offer language classes and cultural and history programs. Philip J. DiNovo is the current President and Director of the Association and Museum. 
Zanclea and Giampilieri. The death roll is likely to rise as the emergency crews continue the rescue and clean up efforts. In the small town of Giampilieri, home to 1000 residents, at least 400 were left homeless. The Italian authorities were quick to blame the local governments for not having taken precautionary measures after a similar flooding occurred two years ago in the same area. Italian President, Giorgio Napolitano, in expressing his condolences to the victim’s families, said Italy could choose between ''a serious plan to invest in security'' or ''monumental works'' at the risk of more disasters striking down the line. As he said in Italian: "O c'é un piano serio che piuttosto che in opere faraoniche investa sulla sicurezza in questo paese o si potranno avere altre sciagure." Italy’s Prime Minister, Silvio Berlusconi is expected to travel to Messina this weekend. 
sident in an interview with the 
papers, were faced with a moving front-page photo of a row of coffins and a young boy placing a kiss on one of them. The coffins were draped with the Italian flag and lay in front of St. Paul Basilica in Rome. The state funeral services were being held for six Italian soldiers killed last week in a suicide attack in Afghanistan. A national day of mourning was declared in Italy.
held in the House Speaker's Office. The medal was presented by Cav. di Gran Croce, Justice Dominic R. Massaro, Justice of the Supreme Court of New York, and current President of ASILM. 
"The last time Washington enacted sweeping financial reform, more than 75 years ago, the catalyst was a cigar-smoking, Sicilian-born immigrant named Ferdinand Pecora. 
The new Miss Italia 2009 is Maria Perrusi a tall 18-year old student from Cosenza, Calabria. In her first brief comments following her crowning she talked about her father's sacrifice of living in Switzerland for 25 years to support his family. "Ha vissuto 25 anni in Svizzera per lavorare e poter mantenere la nostra famiglia. Ci raggiungeva in Calabria una volta al mese. Per me questa lontananza e' stata difficile da sostenere," said Perrusi.
, where is the besta pizza in the world, she will tell you: “Pizzeria da Michele. Order the double mozzarella. If you go to Naples and don’t eat this pizza, please lie to me later and tell me that you did.” This week, actress Julia Roberts is in Italy filming scenes for her new film based on Gilbert’s book. This Monday, she will probably get to taste a slice of that pizza as a key scene will be filmed at the 
The Order Sons of Italy, meeting in San Diego on August 9-15, elected its new National Officers. Joseph J. DiTrapani from New York was elected the National President and Anthony J. Baratta from Illinois was elected the National 1st Vice-Presidents. The other four elected vice-presidents are: Kevin A. Caira (MA), Daniel J. Longo (MD), Anthony F.M. Spaziani (OH), and Vera Girolami (CA).
donne nell'ambito delle iniziative della Presidenza italiana del G8. Mara Carfagna, il Ministro per le Pari Opportunità fa appello al coraggio delle donne di tutto il mondo: "Vogliamo portare tutto alla luce e lottare, usando contro un problema globale un'arma globale". E ribadisce l'impegno del governo italiano per l'affermazione dei diritti delle donne, sia sul piano nazionale che internazionale.
The National Italian American Foundation has announced the honorees for its 34th Anniversary Convention and Gala to be held at the Hilton Washington on October 23-24, 2009. Among them is Janet Napolitano, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. 
debbono restare vivi nella memoria di tutti ed imporre alle Istituzioni, alla società civile ed alle nuove generazioni una continua vigilanza contro le persistenti forme di presenza e di infiltrazione della criminalità organizzata, non meno pericolose anche quando meno appariscenti». Presidente della Repubblica Giorgio Napolitano 
reporting Berlusconi’s alleged affairs with various women. La Repubblica, in particular, is being sued for having published 
Community and the United Nations High Commissioner's for Refugees. The tension is rising between the Northern League and the Vatican regarding their respective views on immigration. Meanwhile, Roberto Maroni, Italy's Minister of Interior has said that Italy's immigration policies are working because fewer migrants are being intercepted off the coast of Lybia. According to government statistics, since Italy's policy of pushing back migrants took effect in May, 1,345 boat migrants have arrived compared to14,128 in 2008. Italy's Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi will be traveling to Lybia for a meeting this Sunday August 20, with Col. Moammar Gadhafi and immigration issues will be the hot topics. 
Tornatore won an Oscar for best foreign film in 1990 with Cinema Paradiso. He was also nominated in 1996 for The Star Maker. 
una figura di rilievo nella scena culturale italiana, protagonista e testimone dei più interessanti fermenti letterari del secondo novecento, amica, ambasciatrice e complice di autori leggendari, a lei si deve la pubblicazione e la diffusione in Italia degli autori della cosiddetta Beat Generation."
At a ceremony held on 
hard hit by one of the worst tourist season in years. In paricular, in Italy, private sector estimates of tourism-related job losses are as high as 150,000. The paper also noted that "in the Lazio holiday village of Bracciano, -- popular with visitors from Britain, France and Germany -- vacation home prices are down 4.3%." 
Joe Fiorentino, a Cook County Deputy Sheriff and a proud Italian American, was inducted on August 1, 2009, into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame. Joe started training in the martial arts in 1977 taking judo. Over the years, he has trained in many styles accumulating a lifetime of awards. including a Championship Belt at the Naga Midwest Grappling Championships and most recently became the #1 Ranked Director Division Grappler in the Nation. 
ANSA reports that Italy will name Ambassador Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata, currently the Permanent Representative of Italy to the U.N. in New York, as the new Ambassador of Italy to the United States. Ambassador Terzi was appointed Permanent Representative on August 20, 2008. Prior to his New York assignment, Terzi served in the Foreign Ministry in Rome as Deputy Secretary General, Director General for Multilateral Political Affairs and Human Rights, and Political Director. 
Italian American community in New York and at major national events, was honored with the Cavaliere dell'Ordine della
Stella della Solidarietà Italiana by Francesco Maria Talo, the Consul General of Italy in New York at a ceremony held onboard a yatch with the Statue of Liberty in the background. Vito is a contributing photographer to Voce Italiana Online. Congratulations! 
Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed - else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die. ~Dwight D. Eisenhower
The White House has announced that the President and the First Lady will meet Pope Benedict on July 10, during the President's official visit to Italy to attend the G8 meeting, in L'Aquila. President Obama is expected to arrive in Rome on the morning of July 8, following his stop in Moscow. He is also scheduled to meet with Italian political leaders, including a bilateral meeting with President Napolitano, before leaving Rome and heading up to L'Aquila. /09.07.02/
approach to classical antiquity. Their expression shares much with Mantegna, Bellini, Giorgione, and Titian, the northern Italian masters of Renaissance painting. In about 1500 painters in Venice went beyond traditional commissions for altarpieces and household devotional images to develop new art forms—imaginative evocations of ancient mythology, poetry, history, or philosophy made for a growing audience of private collectors.
celebrated the region of La Puglia.
June 27, 2009. She beat in the finals Miss Romania Elena Lungu, who came in second, and Miss Argentina Ana Paola Ras Vitiello, who took third place.
Washington, DC. Welcoming the participants were Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta, Hon. Valentina Aprea, Presidente della Commissione Permanente ed Istruzione della Camera dei Deputati, Hon. Vincenzo Maria Vita, Vice Presidente della Commissione Permanente Istruzione e Beni Culturali del Senato della Repubblica, and Joseph M. Della Ratta, Board of Directors of the National Italian American Foundation. 
& Leadership Award. The gala was held on May 28, 2009, at the National Building Museum, in Washington, DC. Also honored were Arthur J. Gajarsa, Judge, U.S. Federal Court of Appeals, who received the 2009 SIF Lifetime Achievement Award in Jurisprudence and Italian American Leadership; Mary Ann Esposito, host 
and rreator of Public Television’s Ciao Italia, who received the 2009 SIF Lifetime Achievement Award in the Culinary and Cultural Arts of Italy; and, Robert A. Scardelletti, International President, Transportation-Communications Union International Association of Machinists, who received the 2009 SIF Humanitarian Award. 
Jerry Colangelo, chair of the USA Basketball Board of Directors who was instrumental in assembling the 2008 U.S. Men’s Basketball Olympic team and chairman of the Phoenix Suns, has been selected as the National Italian American Foundation's new chairman. Colangelo is joined by four vice chairs: Paul J. Chiapparone, a former vice chairman of EDS; Hon. Louis J. Freeh, a former FBI director and senior managing partner of Freeh Group International; Patricia de Stacy Harrison, president and CEO of the Corporation of Public Broadcasting, and Vincent Viola, chairman and CEO of Virtu Financial LLC. 
President Obama has nominated DC's Deputy Mayor Dan Tangherlini to be Assistant U.S. Secretary for management and chief financial officer. Early this year, Tangherlini was honored by the Lido Civic Club when he was selected for the Man of the Year Award. At Treasury, Tangherlini will be Secretary Timothy Geithner's right hand man. /09.05.17/ 
abria. Praising Pino's service to the Italian Community were Marco Mancini, the Embassy's First Counselor, Rita Venturelli, the Director of the Italian American Cultural Institute, Melo Cicala, the Director of the Washington, DC COMITES, Luis Scalfari, the President of the Lido Civic Club, Pino Parise, President of the Magna Grecia Association, and Father Lydio Tomasi of Holy Rosary Church who gave the benediction. The event was graced by the presence of 
is located, steps away from the Italian parish Holy Rosary Church. Thousands of police officers from throughout the States have come here to pay special recognition to officers who have lost their lives or become disabled in the line of duty. The names of the 134 officers killed in 2008, along with an additional 254 officers who have died in previous years, will be engraved on the Memorial Wall joining the names of the 18,200 U.S. law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. As someone who wallks through the Memorial twice a day, this has been a sobering week. 
Meeting in Washington on May 7. As reported in the Jerusalem Post " Frattini openly admits his commitment to Israel, the memory of the Holocaust and the fight against resurgent anti-Semitism, and proudly states that 'the Jewish community always receives me as the great friend I feel I am.'" 
Italian American, Thomas J. Perrelli, a former partner at the law firm of Jenner & Block was sworn in as Associate Attorney General, the number 3 post at the U.S. Department of Justice, on March 13, 2009. The last Italian American to hold the post was Rudy Giuliani, who was appointed Associate Attroney General in 1981, by President Ronald Reagan. [09.03.14]
emorial, to commemorate the assassination of Giuseppe "Joe" Petrosino, James De Santis, Executive Director of the National Italian American Foundation, said that it was important to recall the story of Lt. Petrosino because "too many journalists still feel comfortable in drawing associations between Italian Americans and organized crime. " 
will be commemorated at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial on March 12, 2009, at 12:00 Noon. (
Virginia Hammerness, the heiress to A.P. Giannini's family fortune, was recently interviewed by a San Francisco TV station. She said that she had little doubt that Giannini was "rolling over in his grave." 
statement, Secretary Clinton said she was "pleased to welcome the Italian foreign minister. It’s always good to see our friends from Italy – reliable partners and leaders on so many important issues." Minister Frattini gave the full commitment of the Italian Government, "to work completely and very closely with the United States on international issues that are of common interest, ranging from Afghanistan and Pakistan, to Middle East, nonproliferation, and of course, strengthening Euro-Atlantic ties." 
t 35th Summit on the Sardinian island of La Maddalena from July 8-10. Frattini readily acknowledged, that, "as President of the G8, Italy has inherited a difficult and demanding challenge," giving the worsening of the global economic scenario..
Mr. Frattini also outlined the five priorities that Italy would like the G-8 to be focus upon, namely: (1) the financial and economic crisis; (2) climate change and energy security; (3) non-proliferation and terrorism; (4) development and Africa; (5) the regional crises, with particular reference to Afghanistan. 
Futurism at 100, February 13–April 6, 2009, at the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) in New York City. "The first Futurist Manifesto, published in 1909 by poet and writer F. T. Marinetti, proclaimed a burning desire—fueled by industry, war, and the machine—to race into the future. Italian Futurists followed suit by calling for a new aesthetic language appropriate for these modern times. On the one hundredth anniversary of Futurism's founding, this exhibition explores the movement's aesthetic and political concerns with a display of books, manifestos, periodicals, and handwritten correspondence by Futurist artists." 
Princeton's University Professor, Pietro Frassica, presented La Cucina Futurista, his anastatic reprint of Marinetti and Fillìa volume, to a capacity crowd at the auditorium of the Italian Embassy in Washington, DC. The Italian Cultural Institute sponsored the event on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Italian Futurismo. 
also celebrate the contributions of the Piccirilli Brothers--the Italian Americans who carved the renowned Lincoln statue located at the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The one hundred and seventy-five-ton statue, stands 19 feet tall and 19 feet wide, and was carved by the Piccirilli Brothers in a studio in the Bronx from 28 blocks of white Georgia marble. Daniel Chester French is the sculptor of record. 
Emmy Award-winning television series “Christina Cooks,” who has been described as the woman “who put the fun back into healthy cooking,” was in Washington, D.C. on February 15, 2009, sharing her healthy Mediterranean cooking at the Washington D.C. International Wine & Food Festival. Also present at the Festival were Villa Banfi, Domenico Winery, and the Vignaioli selection. 
he Abbruzzo and Molise Society of the Washington, D.C. Area, welcomed Hon. Michele Iorio, President of the Molise Region at Casa Italiana. at a special dinner in his honor. 
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Verba volant, scripta manent
Italian Embassy Diplomatic Italian-American Books for Italian Americans
Miss Italia USA 2009 Christina
Janet
. John
America's Kara
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