Mondo Italiano Magazine: Maria Grazia Chiuri Named 2024 Recipient of the Neiman Marcus Award

FEBBRAIO 2024

Maria Grazia Chiuri

Mondo Italiano magazine

PUBLISHER Luxury Chamber Media Group

EDITOR Jay Parnassa Shapiro FASHION EDITOR Juliana Labonte TRAVEL EDITOR Christina RicciCampagnone CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS Edmondo Catania Frank LoRe Jr.

Claude Luciani Venus Baratta John P. Contini Kyle Cavaliere

Absence of Younger Italian Americans in Legacy Organizations Drives Creation of Leadership Incubator on National Level Italian American Future Leaders (IAFL), an influential fellowship and networking platform that's empowering and engaging younger generations (ages 21 – 35), held its 2nd national conference, "IAFL2," at Amerant Bank Arena.

The latest conference was comprised of nearly 200 fellows (first-time attendees), alumni (returning attendees), mentors and presenters, who, together, conducted rounds of group ideation, cultural analysis and networking sessions — all to develop initiatives and strategies that are either tailored toward younger generations, or that seek to drive inter-generational collaboration.

"This event flies in the face of the idea that younger Italian Americans don't want to engage their heritage," said IAFL Co-Founder and President John Viola. "In fact, they have a clearer vision, better ideas, and more passion than any prior generation. They just need a venue to be heard, with resources to take ideas into action, and at IAFL, we provide those conditions. I think the future of Italian America is very promising."

Planning for "IAFL3" in 2025 is already underway, and, on the local level, fellows and alumni — from California to New York — are launching new organizations and events on the local level to engage the next generation of the Italian American experience.

Nine committees comprised of alumni and mentors co-organized IAFL2; and a chair and vice chair, Patrick Campesi and Gianna Pileggi, have been appointed to help lead this bellwether platform.

"These young folks have the acumen, ambition and charisma to chart a new course for the Italian American culture that pays tribute to our past and ignites a future built on their vision, not mine — and that's the point," said IAFL Co-Founder and COPOMIAO President Basil Russo.

ABOUT COPOMIAO Formed in 1975 and based in NYC, the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations (COPOMIAO) is a collective of 63 of the most influential, cultural, educational, fraternal and anti-defamation groups in the nation. https://copomiao.org

Maria Grazia Chiuri Named 2024 Recipient of the Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in the Field of Fashion The accomplished Creative Director for Dior is celebrated for advancing the historic French house to a modern era of fashion for women by women

Neiman Marcus announces Maria Grazia Chiuri, Creative Director of Women's Haute Couture, Ready-To-Wear and Accessories Collections for Dior, as the 2024 recipient of the Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in the Field of Fashion. This is the same distinction that was given to Monsieur Dior in 1947. Dior's first female creative director receives the honor as a transformative creative visionary who has made a significant impact on the luxury fashion industry.

"The Neiman Marcus Awards celebrate global fashion luminaries who have inspired and shaped the industry," said Geoffroy van Raemdonck, Chief Executive Officer, Neiman Marcus Group. "We recognize Maria Grazia Chiuri with the same award Monsieur Dior won for her extraordinary work at the House of Dior that has catapulted female creative representation in the industry. Her historic appointment at the Parisian Maison has ushered in a new era of cultural impact for the brand."

Chiuri's internationally acclaimed career spans over 25 years with some of the world's most iconic fashion houses including Fendi and Valentino. Through her leadership and creative passion, she has brought an elegant and modern vision that pays homage to the house's heritage and revolutionary codes originally created by Monsieur Dior. Her insightful perspective inspires and engages women who recognize themselves in her fashion.

"I am honoured and delighted to receive the Neiman Marcus Award. Receiving this award given to Christian Dior in 1947, in recognition of the extraordinary impact his first collection had on the world of fashion, fills me with pride. Since my arrival at Dior, I have striven every day to respect this heritage that is part of the history of fashion, while also using my own poetic approach to shape the future of the brand in our complex world that is constantly bringing new challenges," said Chiuri. "This award pushes me to keep giving my all, doing the best I can for women, helping them to find the awareness they need to never give up on themselves and to overcome all hurdles. It is to them, to all the women who have made me a better woman, that I dedicate this award. I also dedicate it to Michela Murgia: an author, activist, friend, and endless source of inspiration."

The Truffle Family: Sabatino Introduces New Brand Identity

A new chapter of Sabatino Tartufi (known simply as Sabatino) has begun. Sabatino, a cherished name synonymous with truffle excellence since 1911, proudly unveils its new brand identity. This transformation celebrates the brand's century-old legacy, its recommitment to a family unearthing the best ways to enjoy the truffle, and an embrace of a dynamic new suite of brand assets, including a new logo, reimagined website and more.

At the heart of this rebrand is the unveiling of a new Sabatino logo, marking a bold move for a company that has thrived on tradition for over 110 years. "No detail was overlooked," said Federico Balestra, Sabatino's C.E.O. and third-generation family owner, highlighting the meticulous approach to the brand evolution. "Each element reflects a dedication to preserving tradition while embracing a dynamic and modern identity for the future." From the foundational letters used to the shapes they form and the words they create, each detail respectfully nods to the truffles at the foundation of Sabatino's legacy of excellence.

The evolution of Sabatino includes ushering in new brand assets as well as a deepening of all that makes the family brand so special: A New Look: A Symbol of Heritage and Elegance Sabatino's refined logo is a work of art, embodying the deep connection to truffles, the rich Italian heritage dating back to 1911, and the lush landscapes of the Umbria region of Italy. Sabatino's monogram has been carefully crafted to visually represent the origin story of truffles and the story of its growth within the roots of a tree. Sabatino Tartufi has been streamlined to 'Sabatino,' and the 'The Truffle Family' identity is introduced, a nod to the rich history that defines this culinary institution. The color palette of black, white, and gold exudes sophistication, paying homage to the luxury of truffles and the Italian heritage Sabatino holds dear.

Truffle Runs Deep in Our Family Sabatino's story began in 1911 when Sabatino Balestra and his wife Giuseppina opened a cozy store front in the heart of Umbria. This humble venture evolved into a destiny entwined with truffles, igniting a passion for unearthing these treasures – known as "diamonds of the earth" and "gems of the kitchen" – and crafting from them premium truffle products. Today, Sabatino is the global truffle expert, still guided by the warmth of family ownership, preserved values and traditions, and an enduring passion for the art of truffle. Sabatino remains dedicated to sourcing only the finest truffles, offering a delicious range of premium truffle products.

Our World is Made of Truffle Sabatino stands as a world-renowned expert in truffles, proudly represented by manufacturing facilities in Umbria, Italy, and West Haven, Connecticut. Sabatino's strategic offices span across Europe, Asia, and the United States, ensuring global accessibility of the truffle experience. Trusted by renowned chefs worldwide.

"Even after 110 years, our truffle journey is merely beginning, and we wholeheartedly invite you to join us. With just a touch of truffle, you can experience the enchantment of one of the world's rarest and most cherished delicacies," continued Balestra, C.E.O. and grandson of founder Sabatino Balestra.

What's on the Horizon Don't miss Sabatino's unveiling at the Fancy Food Show in Las Vegas, exhibiting from January 21-23. We encourage all attendees to visit Booth 2904 and savor the magic of our truffles. For more information about Sabatino and the rebrand, please visit the newly revitalized www.sabatinotruffles.com.

MarToni Pizza Lounge Wins Over Clients Underpriced and Over QUALITYfied, Marco Muscarella Wins over Guests with Great Food, a Firm Handshake and a Smile!

6 mos in and MarToni’s is winning over guests the old fashioned way.

Fair pricing, great food and quality entertainment. This already legendary burnt crust style pizza gem is located just north of Sundance Marine in Pompano Beach.

Founded by Sicilian and Proud American Marco Muscarella around April 2023 they offer: Live Music Pizza by the Slice Super Friendly Bartenders Large Space for Events including VIP area Italian-American Menu This house of pizza and music has alot to offer. An undisclosed diner we had the priveledge of speaking with recently at the 33rd Street Block Party said that: They have the best red sauce marinara I have ever tasted! We concur....

Barstools Pizza Reviewer Scott Eiss gave the establishment a solid review. Scott is a NY pizza fan and loves the well done undercarriage. That is what this place is famous for! They do also offer Sicilian Slices and anything you can imagine catering wise!

The founder Marco was born in Sicily and has worked in the Fort Lauderdale area for decades. Well known as a local DJ, producer, actor, chef and now restaurantuer.

The entertainment at this joint is top notch! Performers have included opera tenor Andrea Garofalo and other crooners. Sunday nights at MarToni are Open Jam Blues Night by Kilmo the former owner of Alligator Alley Bar on Commercial Blvd. back in the day!!

Rick Coulthurst, J. Parnassa, Marco Muscarella & Jessica Cline

Fincons signs agreements to acquire US based company PDG Consulting The Italian at heart international IT business consulting company continues to expand internationally Fincons.US, Inc., a fully owned subsidiary of Fincons Group AG, an international IT business consulting and system integration company incorporated 40 years ago in Italy, with more than 2,700 professionals, announces today that it has signed an Asset Purchase Agreement with PDG Consulting LLC, an IT, business intelligence and digital transformation company specialized in the media & entertainment sector, to acquire 100% of its assets. PDG Consulting is based in Los Angeles and has an offshore office in Mumbai (India) and accounts for over 100 professionals, 15 years of experience on the market and 13 million USD in turnover.

The closing date is set on December 31st 2023, and starting from January 1st 2024, PDG US based employees and customers will be transferred into Fincons.US, Inc, while the Mumbai office, with its 40 professionals, will form an integral part of Fincons India Private Limited, a fully owned subsidiary of Fincons Group AG and sister company to Fincons.US, Inc. With Fincons India, Fincons Group aims to further enhance Fincons' offering of IT services in SmartShore, adding a strategic option to complement the Bari Delivery Center maintaining competitiveness and customary high quality levels to the benefit of all the Group's customers.

With its first strategic acquisition Fincons Group continues its trajectory of international expansion. From 2013 to today, the Group has quadrupled its turnover and opened 8 new offices in the UK, United States, Germany, France and Belgium, in addition to the historic offices in Italy and Switzerland.

Michele Moretti, CEO Fincons Group, comments: "We have always grown organically to date, thanks to our skills, our focus on building lasting and solid relationships with customers and partners and our commitment to research and development. As a result of our efforts, we're proud to have achieved key positioning on the international market. Now the time has come to move even further forward and consolidate our expansion plans with a significant step both for Fincons, which becomes more and more a global business, and for our customers, to whom we will now offer even more experience, quality and passion everywhere in the world."

PDG was in fact selected not only for its strategic positioning on the US market but also for its affinities with Fincons' values, in particular its attention to people, customers and sustainability. Furthermore, the skill and experience of PDG Consulting's executives will complement the Fincons team in the United States, consolidating the expansion process across various target sectors.

"This acquisition will contribute to making Fincons' turnover even more consistent. Fincons' revenues in the US will in fact exceed 25 million euros. It will also strengthen the Group in terms of assets and workforce, allowing us to offer even more rounded and competitive services to our international customers, who will benefit from an even more complete team, delivering our high standards of service and forward-thinking approach to technological integration, based on the ongoing scouting of best-in-class solutions around the globe," declares Francesco Moretti, Group Deputy CEO and CEO International.

Appian Appoints Silvia Speranza as Regional Vice President for Italy Experienced leader to drive business growth and foster innovation in the Italian market with the Appian Platform.

Appian (Nasdaq: APPN), a global leader in AI process automation, today announced the appointment of Silvia Speranza as the new Regional Vice President of Appian Italy. In her pivotal role, Ms. Speranza will spearhead strategic initiatives aimed at propelling business growth and expanding Appian's customer base within the Italian market. Her mission is to enhance the competitiveness, productivity, and efficiency of Italian organisations by leveraging the power of applications built on the Appian Platform.

In Italy, the AI market in 2022 reached €500 million, with 32% growth in just one year, of which 73% was commissioned by Italian companies (€365 million) and 27% represented project exports (€135 million). To date, 61% of large Italian companies have already started at least one AI project, 10% more than five years ago, and among these, 42% have already started more than one.* Appian recently announced its strategy and roadmap for integrating AI into the Appian Platform, which provides secure, reliable private AI to protect customer data while enabling new, generative AI-based capabilities that make developers' lives easier. Appian also has shown real-world AI use cases that democratise access to AI for immediate use.

In Italy, Appian has helped Poste Italiane decrease case handling time from over 30 days to just 8 days, with a 70% improvement in production efficiency. Iccrea Cooperative Banking Group was able to create 13 enterprise banking applications in just one year on the Appian Platform by using low-code. In addition, the Municipality of Milan and its partner created an app in less than two months to help citizens obtain parking permits in the city faster and from their mobile phones.

"Ensuring our customers' success has always been a personal priority, and it remains at the forefront of our mission," said Speranza. "I look forward to collaborating closely with our dedicated team and valued business partners to help Italian organisations transform and grow with innovative technology that bolsters competitiveness."

She continued, "Appian solutions stand as the optimal choice for facilitating the digital transformation of Italian enterprises. As our country navigates this critical phase for its future, it is imperative that we streamline processes, refine methods, and optimise workflows to positively impact the lives of our users and citizens."

As an experienced professional in the technology industry, Speranza is an expert in the system integration sector and has held Italian management positions for multinational enterprise software companies. Having been part of the Appian team since 2018, she has steadily assumed roles of increasing responsibility, contributing to the management and development of several market segments in Italy. Prior to Appian, she managed the Italian market for Alfresco (now Hyland), overseeing local and national public administration projects.

Silvia began her professional career in 2004 at Accenture, where she helped Italian and foreign companies with transformation projects in operations in telecommunications and other businesses. She obtained a master's degree with distinction in electronic engineering from the University of L'Aquila.

Italian-Americans in Superbowl 58

Mike Caliendo Mike Caliendo (born October 21, 1997) is an American football guard for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Western Michigan and was signed by the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2022. Brookfield, Wisconsin, U.S.

GOOD PLANET is disrupting the food industry with the world's first olive oil cheese. With exceptional taste, meltability, and more heart health benefits, the Olive Oil Cheeses are projected to change the cheese category. GOOD PLANeT's Olive Oil Cheeses are dairy-free and better for people and the planet. This first-of-its-kind product is poised to appeal to all, especially the growing number of Americans who identify as "flexitarians." "We are thrilled to bring the world's first Olive Oil Cheese to the market," said David Israel, Founder & Co-CEO of GOOD PLANeT Foods. Made for the foodie in all of us who is looking for new and better, we're incredibly proud of our Olive Oil Cheese line that is appealing for all, not just to specific diet or lifestyle."

Princess Cruises Appoints Captains for Star Princess Princess Cruises announced the two captains who will serve as masters of the line's second, sensational Sphere Class cruise ship, Star Princess, during an official keel laying ceremony in Monfalcone, Italy.

Captain Gennaro Arma, who currently serves as the newbuild site lead for the construction of both Sun Princess and Star Princess, will be master of the 17th Princess ship when she debuts in summer 2025, bringing her into service from the shipyard. When Captain Arma is on leave, Commodore Nick Nash will take over the navigation and leadership of Star Princess.

"It is my privilege to introduce and congratulate the masters of the stunning new Star Princess," said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. "Captain Arma and Commodore Nash have remarkable histories with Princess, and will provide great experience and excellent leadership on our newest vessel."

Commodore Nick Nash, a 33-year veteran of Princess Cruises, was promoted to the rank of commodore of the line's global fleet in 2020. He currently serves as captain of Enchanted Princess, having navigated the ship out of the Fincantieri shipyard for the first time. Commodore Nash first joined the company in 1989 and was promoted to staff captain in 1997. In 2002, he became captain and has been at the helm of many Princess vessels. Commodore Nash also has served as President of the Nautical Institute and after two years now serves on the council. He was awarded the United Kingdom's Merchant Navy Medal for meritorious service in 2018. He is a Chartered Master Mariner, a Fellow of The Nautical Institute, The Royal Institute of Navigation, The Royal Geographical Society and a Younger Brother of Trinity House.

Captain Gennaro Arma

Captain Gennaro Arma has always been passionate about the sea. He began his career with Princess Cruises in 1998 as a Cadet and moved up the ranks achieving his first command as Captain of Sea Princess in 2015, where he navigated the ship on two world cruises. He took the helm of Diamond Princess in 2018 and in 2020 and was honored with the recognition of Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, the highest of the orders of the Italian Republic, and selected among the 20 most influential Italian characters of the year by Vanity Fair in December 2020. Arma has also received the title of Magister of Amalfi Civilization for the Byzantine New Year, the Emanuela Loi award for courage, and the Assarmatori prize from the Italian maritime association awarded by the Minister of Transportation. He most recently served as captain of Discovery Princess. He was born in Sorrento, Italy, where he lives with his wife Mariana and his son Diego.

Star Princess makes her debut in August 2025, with cruises on sale now.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.

Commodore Nick Nash

The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

John Trotta Named Midwest District Leader at WSP Senior vice president and national director of client services will be responsible for growth and oversight of operations across the firm's 13-state region.

John Trotta has been promoted to Midwest district leader at WSP, a leading engineering, environment and professional services consultancy.

Trotta, a senior vice president who was recently interim Midwest district leader, has assumed this role on a permanent basis. He will continue to serve as WSP national director of client services with the government affairs team. WSP's Midwest district includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

In this leadership role, Trotta is responsible for growth and oversight of operations across the district. He collaborates with leaders across WSP to empower teams to reach their greatest potential for clients, cross-sell WSP's broad national and multidisciplinary expertise, recruit impressive talent and advance career growth for employees.

Trotta joined the firm in 2006 as a regional business manager. Prior to joining WSP, he served in multiple leadership and development roles during his 22 years with the Chicago Transit Authority.

"Over the past 18 years, John has brought his infectious energy to his work at WSP, and his passion and leadership make him a natural fit for this role," said Chris Peters, West region president for WSP in the U.S. "He has been a respected leader within our firm and a trusted voice of experience to our many clients who look to him for guidance."

Additionally, Trotta will continue to engage in a leadership role with WSP's national Inclusion and Diversity Council, mentor/protégé programs and the Developing Professional Network. He also serves in a strategic advisory role focused on project teaming and key client accounts and will continue as a member of the government affairs team.

Trotta is a graduate of Roosevelt University with a bachelor's degree in business administration. He was awarded the Italian American Executives of Transportation Man of the Year Award, and the Community Service Award from the Illinois chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies. He earned the 2022 Excellence in Leadership Award from SOS Children's Villages Illinois where he is currently a board member and fundraising chair for its Evening of Hope.

Hollywood Actress and Model Sistine Stallone is the Cover Star of Dolce Magazine Fall 2023 Issue After its two recent wins for the Spring 2023 edition of Dolce Magazine at the prestigious Summit International Awards, which recognize publishing creativity and excellence from around the world, Dolce Media Group follows up on that triumph with the launch of its Fall 2023 edition that features an exclusive cover profile of Sistine Stallone, the entrepreneurial daughter of Sylvester Stallone and his wife, model Jennifer Flavin.

Stallone, the 25-year-old Los Angeles-born actress, writer, model and podcast host, is the latest member of Hollywood royalty. She enjoys 1.6 million followers on Instagram and her reality show, The Family Stallone, which dropped in May 2023 on Paramount +, features the lighter side of her life with her father and such celebrity friends as Al Pacino and Dolph Lungren.

The Fall 2023 edition of Dolce Magazine features two different covers of Stallone and one candid interview in which she discusses the influence of her parents and sisters, the start of her career and her plans for the future.

The exclusive interview and video shoot were both done on location in Los Angeles at the stunning SheatsGoldstein Residence.

Stallone's appreciation for her strong Italian heritage, especially when it comes to enjoying la dolce vita, or the sweet life, and her love of family shine throughout the feature article. "If I were to close my eyes and picture my perfect dolce vita moment, I would probably be in Tuscany with my family, perhaps with an Aperol spritz in my hand," she says. "Everyone is happy, everyone is healthy and I'm eating a lot of good pasta. That's my dolce vita."

Dolce Magazine, with a global circulation of approximately one million, is one of the world's leading luxury lifestyle publications and forms the foundation of Dolce Media Group. Founded in 1996 and based in Toronto with a global reach, Dolce Media Group specializes in print, website design, graphic design, multimedia productions, social media campaigns and marketing strategies for some of the world's leading luxury brands.

FS Collezione Hair Brushes: Where Healthy Hair Meets Italian Design Fabio Scalia Salons Announces Launch of Luxury Hair Brushes

"I have been designing FS Collezione for 10 years," says Artistic Director Fabio Scalia. "This is a luxurious brushing and styling experience that respects hair and scalp. Made of the finest materials, and designed for professionals, these are truly the 'Ferrari of hairbrushes.'"

FS Collezione hair brushes are the ultimate styling tool for professionals, but also enable anyone to maintain healthy hair and salonquality styling at home. The 12-brush line is designed for certain types of hair and usage, and to protect hair health and integrity.

The line includes: La Claudia (a paddle brush); La Chiara (an all-around brush, but also for extensions); La Monica (boar bristle and ash wood); La Sophia (boar bristle and burgundy); La Mora (boar bristle and nylon); and La Bionda (for fine and short hair).

"Hair brushes are like shoes—you use them for specific purposes. Just like you wouldn't wear a stiletto to the beach, you must use the right one for your type of hair and the desired styling result," says Fabio. "These brushes also get better over time and with use. I've had some of mine for 20 years."

A high-quality boar bristle hair brush, like those in the FS Collezione line, is also an essential tool for fall since it can help repair seasonal damage—from UV rays, salt water and chlorine—and prepare your hair for colder, drier air. Brushing with a boar bristle brush is beneficial since it distributes oil throughout the hair, which moisturizes it. The benefits are twofold, says Fabio: shiner hair, and protection from dryness and UV rays.

Fabio Scalia started styling and cutting hair at age 16 in Sicily, where salon culture required impeccable blowout skills. As an artist who is a master of his craft, he learned quickly that success required both technical skills and the right tools. It was this passion that led him to create the FS Collezione line.

MASSIMO ZANETTI BEVERAGE USA AND ULTRAMAR CAFFE' - NATURA LIFESTYLE SIGN A PARTNERSHIP FOR THE PRODUCTION OF ALUMINUM ESPRESSO CAPSULES

*Nespresso® is a registered trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. Neither MZB-USA nor La Natura Lifestyle AG (Ultramar Caffè) is affiliated with Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.