ITALIAN TIMES THE
Published 11 times annually by the Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202 www.ICCMilwaukee.com DECEMBER 2017 • VOL. 39, NO. 6
NON-PROFIT US POSTAGE PAID MILWAUKEE, WI Permit No. 5716
Become a member of the Italian Community Center and you will receive home delivery of this publication. Your address label will placed here.
A message from Dean Cannestra, Italian Community Center President
– CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED –
This past Oct. 30, Bartolotta Catering at the Italian Community Center held an invitation-only event to showcase the extensive remodeling that has been done at our ICC over the last five months. This was an event that provided Bartolotta Catering an opportunity to demonstrate to its clientele, potential new clients, area businesses, community leaders and special guests what the ICC has to offer as a venue for events, both big and small. As you know, the remodeling project was undertaken as a joint venture, funded both by The Bartolotta Restaurant Group and the ICC. We are very proud and excited about what has been accomplished
and look forward to seeing what this significant investment will mean for the prosperity of both the ICC and Bartolotta over the next 5 to 10 years. While some pictures from the Bartolotta event appear here, the best way to witness how our building has been transformed is to come and see it for yourself.
More remodeling will be done in the future, as funding allows, ensuring that the activities of the ICC membership and Bartolotta Catering can continue to meet the demands that are placed on our building. Acknowledging your service Last month, my message for The
Pompeii Grand Ballroom
Italian Times was written before the announcement of ICC election results. Hence, I did not have a chance to acknowledge and thank Pietro Tarantino and Karen Dickinson for their service as directorsat-large over the past two years. Both contributed to our discussions at Board meetings and always placed the ICC paramount in their decisions. I’m pleased to be working with our newly elected officers: Vice President Joe Emanuele, Treasurer Ted Catalano, Secretary Susie Christiansen and Sergeant-AtArms Joanne Czubek, our newlyelected directors: Ralph Busalacchi, Ray Martinez, Mary Anne CerasoAlioto and Joe Jannazzo, our Festa Ballroom
A Merry Christmas rose to all
by Blaise Di Pronio Once upon a time, in a distant place, a child was born. Many came from near and far to greet and praise this special infant. Those who could brought gifts. Those who couldn’t brought love and adoration. Some brought gold and frankincense. Some brought hope and despair. Legend tells us about a young girl named Madelon. She too was drawn to bear witness at that humble birthplace, but she was disheartened over her poverty and the inability to bring a gift to that newborn. She was destitute indeed. But Madelon was resolved to bring something. She searched the countryside hoping to find and bring some flowers, but the winter season was bitterly cold, snowy and harsh and none were to be found. The young girl was overcome with sadness and anguish, so much so that she began to cry. Her eyes welled up and overflowed with tears. Her grief knew no bounds and the ground around became wet
newly-appointed director: Rose Anne Ceraso-Fritchie, our returning directors: Tony Lupo, Blaise Di Pronio and Tony Zingale, and our Immediate Past President: Giuseppe Vella. I want to recognize Tony Lupo, Tony Zingale and Ray Martinez for the great job they did in collecting donations for the Thanksgiving Day meal that our ICC volunteers presented to the homeless and less fortunate in our community at the Open Door Cafe at St. John’s Cathedral on Sunday, Nov. 12. The Please turn to page 8 for the completion of the President’s message and more photos from Bartolotta Catering’s grand opening event
with the drops and melting snow. As legend would have it, at the same time an angel was passing over her bound for the same destination. The angel stopped to provide comfort and ease Madelon’s unhappiness. Upon noticing the wet ground, saturated by tears and snow, the angel gently brushed aside the snow at her feet and, where her tears had fallen, out sprang a beautiful cluster of white winter roses with pink tipped petals. “Christmas Roses for the newborn king,” said the angel upon leaving. And so, young Madelon continued on her way to visit a special baby now bearing the best of all gifts as symbolized by the roses: her love and her tears. Since then, the Christmas Rose has came to symbolize hope, love and all that is wonderful in this season. As we all know, since way back when, we have made gifts a mandate for Christmas. But, this must be remembered: As our legend of Christmas Rose shows us, the gesture counts more than the gift as long as it comes from the heart and soul.
Cosa c’è dentro? What’s inside?
Homeless and destitute feted on Thanksgiving dinner by ICC volunteers page 3 Are you coming to Members’ Christmas party page 4
La Befana coming to ICC for children’s party page 5
Porticello team wins fall bocce championship page 6 Carnevale will be Saturday, Feb. 10
page 6
Upcoming events
page 7
Long list of memorials
page 7
News from Italian clubs and organizations pages 10 & 11
Christmas memories
page 12
UNICO Ladies donate for draperies at ICC
page 14
Italy’s Marco Belinelli stars in NBA
page 14
Victory K-8 Italiam Immersion report
page 19
Candela, Italy wants to make you an offer page 13 Contributions welcome for Bake Sale page 14 Sezione Italiana
pagine 16-18
PAGE 2 – DECEMBER 2017
THE ITALIAN TIMES
Homeless and destitute given a Thanksgiving feast courtesy of ICC volunteers and numerous donors
Thanksgiving dinners to fill the stomachs of up to 300 homeless and destitute men, women and children were served Sunday, Nov. 12, courtesy of the Italian Community Cen-
ter and its volunteers, The buffet-style turkey dinner was made in the kitchen at the ICC by the Bartolotta Catering staff and was dished out by the volunteers at
the Open Door Cafe, the meal site at St. John’s Cathedral. Many generous donations made the dinner possible. Spearheading the fundraising campaign were Tony Lupo, Tony Zingale and Ray Martinez, the volunteer chairmen of the annual event. A complete list of donors appears at the end of this article. This Thanksgiving dinner tradi-
tion was started 41 years ago by a group of local Italian American men who called themselves the “Ragione Club.” The dinner was coordinated for the first couple of decades by Mario Bartolotta, Dr. Jim Balistreri and Tom Busalacchi, Continued on page 9
– Times photos by Tim Townsend –
Volunteer servers of the Thanksgiving feast included Bill Jennaro, a past ICC President and retired Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge.
Peter Greco (first on left) is seen serving a guest here.
Shelly Roder, Director of Outreach Ministers at St. John’s Cathedral, presented Tony Lupo and the ICC with a framed picture with a statement from Pope Francis referring to serving those in need and a T-shirt, which commemorates the 15 years of meal service at the Open Door Cafe. The ICC and its volunteers have served a Thanksgiving dinner at the site for each of the 15 years.
THE ITALIAN TIMES
631 E. Chicago St. Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916 (414) 223-2180 Published 11 times annually
Publisher . . . Italian Community Center ICC President . . . . . . . Dean Cannestra Newspaper Committee Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . .Blaise Di Pronio Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thomas Hemman Advertising Sales Manager . . . . . . . . . . Thomas Hemman Advertising Sales Representative . . . . . . Faye Ann Kessler Editorial Contributors, Reporters and Columnists . . . . . .Blaise Di Pronio, Barbara Collignon, Elizabeth Zizzo Angela Bozano and Donato Di Pronio
For advertising information, please call (414) 223-2180 or send an e-mail to: themman@iccmilwaukee.com. Copyright 2017 The Italian Community Center, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Here are all the volunteers who helped out at the event. It included ICC members, Pompeii Men’s Club members, individuals from St. Domenic Catholic
THE ITALIAN TIMES
Church’s Youth Council and staff of the Open Door Cafe.
All advertisements must be in accordance with the rules and requirements as determined by editorial policy. Paid advertisements are not to be interpreted as an endorsement by the Italian Community Center or its newspaper, The Italian Times. In addition, the Newspaper Committee reserves the right to reject ads based on editorial policy approved by the Board of Directors of the Italian Community Center. The Italian Community Center is a member of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, Visit Milwaukee and the Historic Third Ward Association.
DECEMBER 2017 – PAGE 3
Are you coming to the Members’ Christmas dinner and dance on Thursday, Dec. 14?
by Susie Christiansen All members and non-member guests are invited to the Italian Community Center Christmas Party on Thursday, Dec. 14. This event will include a delicious sit down dinner and wonderful entertainment, all for the price of $20 per member and $35 per non-member. Dinner Dinner will begin with an Ital-
ian salad comprised of fresh greens topped with Italian meats and cheeses. Guests will then enjoy an entrée of tender Sicilian steak, side of pasta, fresh sautéed vegetables, and Italian bread, with creamy gelato for dessert.
Dancing Providing the entertainment for the evening will be Music on the Move Plus, whose deejays always bring us an evening full of dancing,
ICC General Membership Christmas Party Reservation Form
Name(s) ___________________________________________________
Address ___________________________________________________
City, State, Zip ______________________________________________
Phone No. _______________ Email _____________________________
Number of ICC members attending _______ x $20.00 = $_____________ Number of non-members attending _______ x $35.00 + $_____________
Make check or money order payable to: Italian Community Center. Send this form and your payment to: ICC, Attn.: Membership Christmas Dinner & Dance. 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916. Reservation deadline: Thursday, December 7, 2017.
music and fun! Whether it’s swing, polka, disco, the rock-and-roll of the ‘50s and ‘60s, or today’s best music, these deejays can provide it. What better way to celebrate the holidays than to dance the night away. Come jitterbug, cha cha, rock-and roll and electric slide your way into the holidays.
Bake sale It’s back by popular demand, the holiday bake sale that has become a scrumptious part of the Members’ Christmas party. Look for a vast array of fresh-baked cakes, cookies, cupcakes and pastries. Most of the items are homemade, resulting in a bake sale that is second to none. One hundred percent of the sales go directly to the ICC. If you would like to donate baked goods, please see Rosemary DeRubertis or Joanne Czubek. You can also call the ICC office at 414223-2180 or send an email to office@iccmilwaukee.com. Thank you in advance to those who donate bakery to the sale. (See separate sotry on bake sales on page 14.) Child care room The ICC Youth Committee, Gruppo Adolescenti, will provide
child care that evening in a separate room. They welcome children of all ages, and will entertain and care for your children under the supervision of an adult. If you can’t find a babysitter, or would simply prefer to have your children with you, please take advantage of the child care room. Reserve a spot for your young ones by contacting me, Susie Christiansen, at smdcicc@outlook.com.
Reservation details Like all of our events with dinner, advance reservations are required. The cost is $20 per member, $35 per non-member. Please use the form accompanying this story to make your reservations. Checks are payable to the Italian Community Center. You may also call 414-223-2180 and make your payment with a credit card. Please note: the reservation deadline is coming up quickly – it’s Thursday, Dec. 7. The event will begin at 6 p.m. with a half-hour cocktail reception. The dinner and dance are replacing the regular general membership dinner and meeting. However, after dinner and before the entertainment begins, there will be a brief business meeting. Let’s come together to celebrate our friendship and our love for the Italian culture. Buon Natale!
ICC meetings move up one week in December
Not wanting to interfere with the early Christmas plans of the members, Italian Community Center officials have decided to move up the dates of three regular monthly meetings in December. The Finance & Personnel Committee will meet on Monday, Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m. (instead of Dec. 11). The ICC Board meeting will come to order on Thursday, Dec. 7 at 6:30 p.m. (instead of the usual second Thursday of the month, Dec. 14). The general meeting, which will be a brief part of the membership Christmas dinner and dance, will be held on Thursday, Dec. 14 starting with a reception at 6 p.m. The general consensus was that it would be better to advance the date to Dec. 14 than hold it on Dec. 21, three days before the start of the Christmas holiday. Details on the membership Christmas party can be found in the article above. All of the meetings will return to the regularly scheduled dates in January 2018: Finance & Personnel Committee – Monday, Jan. 8; ICC Board – Thursday, Jan. 11 and general meeting on Thursday, Jan. 18.
PAGE 4 – DECEMBER 2017
Interested in advertising in our next issue? Get all of the details by calling 414-223-2189 or sending an email to Tom Hemman at themman@iccmilwaukee.
THE ITALIAN TIMES
La Befana will be coming from Italy to ICC with gifts for the good children on Saturday, Jan. 6
The Italian Community Center’s Avanti Committee is pleased to announce that La Befana, the legendary Epiphany witch of Italian folklore, is coming to the ICC for her annual visit. A luncheon party has been scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 6 at noon. After a child friendly lunch, La Befana will meet and greet all of the children and present gifts to those who have exhibited good behavior this past year.
Youngsters who have been naughty should be aware: La Befana might give you a stocking filled with coal. (Foot note needed for Parents and Grandparents: A Ripley’s Believe or Not insert is needed here. In the 16 years that the ICC has invited La Befana to come to the party, no child has ever gone home with a stocking filled with coal yet!) “Since the mission of the ICC is to promote Italian culture, we think it’s important that our children and grandchildren learn about La Befana,” said Liz Ceraso, Avanti Committee Chairperson. Party details Children are encouraged to wear socks the day of the party (Jan. 6) because, after they eat lunch, the children will be asked to take off their shoes and leave them behind a curtain. Avanti Committee members have told The Italian Times that La Befana has expressed an interest in leaving special treats in the children’s shoes.
Santa Claus story). Legend has it that, when Christ was born, the Three Wise Men (I re magi) stopped at Befana’s hut for directions on their way to Bethlehem and, in the conversation, asked her to join them. Befana said no, she was too busy.
Later, a shepherd asked her to join him in paying respects to the Baby Jesus. Again, Befana declined.
La Befana told her Epiphany Eve story to the children who attended the ICC’s party in January of 2017. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)
Please make sure to give the names and ages of each child so that gifts appropriate for every age group are given out. Walk-ins on the day of the event will not be permitted. Avanti Committee members wish to thank longtime ICC member Anna Pitzo, for making the arrangements for La Befana’s visit.
The lunch will feature a buffet with food to please both the children and the adults in attendance. For dessert, everyone will be able to make their own ice cream sundae. There will also be an opportunity for children to decorate their own Christmas cookie! The cost to attend will be $5 per child and $15 per adult. Pre-paid reservations are required by Friday, Dec. 29. Please use the form accompanying this article to make your reservations or call the ICC office at 414-223-2180 and have your credit card ready. You can also fill out a reservation form on the event flyer found on the rack in the south entrance lobby.
La Befana: The Yuletide Witch In Italy, a tradition is carried on about the beneficent witch named Befana. On the night of the Feast of Epiphany (the 12th and final day of the Christmas holiday observance), Befana leaves presents in children’s stockings, hung upon a hearth or a stairway railing (a tradition quite similar to the American
When it became dark, Befana noticed a great star illuminating the sky just as the Wise Men had told her earlier in the day. She then realized that perhaps she should have gone with them. So, she gathered some toys that had belonged to her own baby, who had died as an infant, some charcoal to heat the stable and boarded her magic broom to find the kings and the place where the Christ Child lay.
The legend states that, regretfully, Befana was unable to locate either the Three Wise Men or the place where Jesus was born. Since then, each year at this time, Befana continues her search for the Christ Child and leaves gifts along the way for good children and pieces of charcoal for bad ones.
CHILDREN'S LA BEFANA PARTY & LUNCH RESERVATION FORM
NAMES OF BOYS ATTENDING ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________
AGE ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
NAMES OF GIRLS ATTENDING _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________
AGE ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____
Names of male adult members attending: __________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Names of female adult members attending: _________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Cost: $5.00 per child, $15.00 per adult. Total Amount Enclosed: $ . Make your check payable to: Italian Community Center. Mail this form with your payment to: Italian Community Center, Attn.: La Befana party, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916. Reservation form with payment due Friday, Dec. 29. No walk-ins permitted.
Welcome new ICC member!
The following individual became a member of the Italian Community Center between Oct. 10 and Nov. 9, 2017. Benvenuto (Welcome!) Charles Maniaci of Eugene, Oregon
Deadline for January 2018 issue
All advertising copy, news stories and photos for publication in the January 2018 issue of The Italian Times must be submitted to the editor no later than Saturday, Dec. 9. All materials can be emailed to editor Tom Hemman at themman@iccmilwaukee.com or sent to The Italian Times, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202. For further information, call 414-2232189.
THE ITALIAN TIMES
The “Christmas Magic... In Miniature” display is open throughout the holiday season. Bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Hunger Task Force.
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DECEMBER 2017 – PAGE 5
Porticello wins fall bocce championship
ICC Fall Championship Tournament Scores
Quarterfinal Round Pallino Magnets – 12 Como Si Chiama – 8 Pallino Magnets was first place team in the Tuesday afternoon seniors league. Como Si Chiama was the first place team in the Thursday afternoon seniors league.
Metaganni’s – 11 Little Sicily – 12 Metaganni’s was the second place team in the Monday night league. Little Sicily was the second place team in the Wednesday night league.
Porticello – 12 Helga & The Jennaros – 3 Porticello was the first place team in the Monday night league. Helga & The Jennaros was the second place team in the Tuesday afternoon seniors league.
Here are the bocce champions of the fall 2017 season at the Italian Community Center. Porticello, which came in first place in the Monday night league, rolled past three opponents in the eight-team playoffs on Monday, Nov. 13 to capture the title. From the left: Mario Orlando, Vince Corrao, Tony Lo Coco and Bob Schneider. (Times photo by Troy Halverson)
Winter bocce season to start week of Jan. 8
After a Christmas season break, bocce leagues will start up again at the Italian Community Center. Get your team together now.
Manuela Francavilla Italian Translator
MF Italian Language Services
For your Italian Genealogy and Ancestry Translation needs Manuela.francavilla@gmail.com mfitalianlanguageservices.com
The winter bocce season gets underway the week of Jan. 8. Teams in the senior citizen leagues play on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons. Teams in the mixed couples’ leagues compete on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. The regular season lasts eight weeks. The winter season champion playoffs will take place Monday, Mar. 12 at 7 p.m. If you’re interested in registering a team to play in a winter league, here are a few things you need to know. There are two sets of player registration fees. The lower fee is for players who are members of the ICC. That fee is $30 per person per league season. The nonPlease turn to page 9
Harder Funeral Home
JAMES T. GUARDALABENE 18700 W. Capitol Drive
“Three generations of my family serving yours.” www.Guardalabene.com Phone: (262) 781-8350
Proud sponsor of the Festa Italiana Mass since 2002. PAGE 6 – DECEMBER 2017
• AN ASSOCIATE OF THE HARDER FUNERAL HOME SINCE 2010. • Personally providing the services you have come to expect at the Harder Funeral Home or your church or cemetery chapel. • Funeral pre-planning and Title 19 expertise. • Longtime member of the Italian Community Center. • Not associated with Schmidt & Bartelt – Guardalabene & Amato
Club Garibaldi – 1 Celtic Clan – 12 Club Garibaldi was the first place team in the Wednesday night league. Celtic Clan was the second place team in the Thursday afternoon seniors league. Semi–Final Round Pallino Magnets – 6 Little Sicily – 12
Porticello – 12 Club Garibaldi – 7
Championship Round Porticello – 12 Little Sicily – 4
Scores courtesy of Troy Halverson Bocce Coordinator
Attenzione – Attention: Il Grande Carnevale XXXIX – Carnevale 39 10 Febbraio 2018 – Feb. 10, 2018
Whether you prefer to do it in Italian or English, it’s time to mark your calendars for the Italian Community Center’s social event of the year: Il Grande Carnevale. This pre-Lenten costume and mask ball, to be presented by the ICC for the 39th consecutive year, is set for Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018 starting at its customary time of 5:11 p.m. Co-Chairs Joanne Czubek and Rosemary DeRubertis said attendees should expect to enjoy many of the same elements and flair that have made Carnevale the not-to-be missed event for everyone who relishes the merrymaking and pageantry of an Italian tradition dating back to the 15th century.
Expect soon an announcement of the 2018 Royalty – Il Re e La Regina (the King and the Queen), Il Principe e La Principessa (the Prince and the Princess), Il Nonno e La Nonna (the Grandfather and the Grandmother), Il Piccolo Principe e La Piccola Principessa (the Little Prince and the Little Princess) and Il Gran Maresciallo (the Grand Marshal masculine or La Grande Marescialla (the Grand Marshal feminine) or I Grandi Marescialli (Grand Marshals plural). Other event details, including the theme and the cost to attend, will be announced as well. Follow The Italian Times and/or iccmilwaukee.com for the latest details.
Christmas is the time of year for cooking and giving. My cookbook, “Recipes My Nonna Taught Me,” makes a wonderful hostess gift for the person who has everything, a stocking stuffer, and contains several easy holiday recipes. Available for the special sale price of $10.00 with FREE S & H to FRANCENA, 125 Boyce Road, Centerville, OH 45458 937-433-7313 • francena514@gmail.com Dedicated to my nonna who inspired me to cook – Mangia, Mangia! Buon Natale!
THE ITALIAN TIMES
Thanks for your donations to the ICC
The officers and directors of the Italian Community Center wish to thank and acknowledge all those who pledged, fulfilled a pledge, or made a contribution to the nonprofit organization. To obtain information on how to make a pledge or a donation, please call 414-223-2808. The following donations were received between October 10 and November 9, 2017.
In memory of Peter Frank Sorce Peter T. and Kathy M. Sorce Christina Sorce
In memory of Salvatore B. “Sam” Purpero Tony A. Machi Dr. Grace Machi Paul and Rose Iannelli George and Judy Menos Ted A. Catalano Jason, Michelle and Max Sedovic Tony and Barbara Lupo
Raymond and Carol Martinez Dan and Christine Conley Bill and Rita Jennaro Jimmy and Linda Spataro Rose Purpero Spang Gerry Accetta Purpero Mary Winard Joseph Gazzana Joan (Busalacchi) Pulkkila Bob and Rose Mary Jennaro Otto and Joan Satula Gino A. Dentice William and Rebecca Komisar David and Jeannie Doern Pompeii Men’s Club Anna L. Pitzo Sal and Carole Colla Sal and Antonette LoCoco Sonny and Melody Gensler Bill and Karen Dickinson Joe and Ann Zambito Joe and Virginia Besasie Mason Wells Ray and Caroline Besasie Michael and Connie Cordelli Goffredo and Maria Alferi
ICC Membership Christmas Dinner & Dance Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017 Details in this issue. ICC’s La Befana party for Children Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018 Details in this issue.
ICC’s 39th annual Il Grande Carnevale Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018 Details in this issue.
ICC’s 26th annual St. Joseph’s Day Luncheon Friday, Mar. 16, 2018 (tentative) ICC’s 23rd annual “A Taste of Italy” Sunday, Apr. 22, 2018
41st annual Festa Italiana Friday, July 20 – Sunday, July 22, 2018 Henry W. Maier Festival Park (Summerfest Grounds)
2663 N. Holton St., Milwaukee
Scarvaci Florists & Gift Shoppe Your Wedding and Holiday Floral & Gift Headquarters
Kathy Balistreri Ted and Rosemary Glorioso Kelly M. Schwab Sarah Giffin Patti Wicks Isabelle Richmond Jerry and Kathy Wicihouski Joe and Carole Casamento John Cefalu Katie and John Barry Pauline Cannestra John and Barbara Cherney Leanne Starr Antonia M. Vodnik B.A and S. M Kangas Dennis and Mary Sobatta Lawrence and Debra Ratzlow James and Annette Surfus Charles & Catherine Lazzaro Vincent (Jim) Lo Duca Dean and Deborah Koening Kathleen and Helen Roszak James and Toni Hanson Catherine Labinski Robert and Terese Bonan Anthony and Adeline Zingale Timothy and Mary Margaret McCaule Kathleen Mirenda Ronald and Joanne Czubek Rose Emanuele
And now, a word from Italy
by Blaise Di Pronio Falsetto: It is a musical term for a male voice that’s artificially high and above the normal voice range. It comes from the Italian word falso for “false.” When men suddenly sing way up high above their speaking voices, it can sound almost fake. Thus, an artificial voice. When you see the word falsetto, think “high voice.”
Nicholas Fricano John and Theresa Gamsky Stephen and Maureen Busalacchi John and Carol Flannick Carlo and Jeanne Fricano Donal & Dorothy Bourdo Tri State Equipment Co. Inc. Isidore and Mary Pecoraro
In memory of Mary Ann Sanicola Gino A. Dentice
In memory of Vincent J. Machi Dr. Grace Machi In memory of Marlene La Licata Salvatore and Donna Agnello
In memory of Salvatore Mussomelli Mary Rondinelli Fred and Karen Rondinelli Anthony and Char Rondinelli Angela Mathias Don Rondinelli and Scott Pirraglio In memory of Marie (Catalano) Gazzana Ted A. Catalano
In memory of Joseph Catalano Ted A. Catalano In memory of Catherine P. “Katie” Casamento Tony A. Machi
In memory of Thomas J. Aliota Tony A. Machi
Words in an Italian word
by Blaise Di Pronio How many words can you make with the letters in “CANNOLI”? Answers on page 12
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THE ITALIAN TIMES
www.BoulderJunctionGrill.com DECEMBER 2017 – PAGE 7
A message from Dean Cannestra, ICC President
from page 1 ICC is grateful to all the individuals, organizations and businesses that donated cash or products for the event. Our thanks also to all of the volunteers who came out and helped to serve the buffet-style dinner. I also want to recognize and thank Karen and Bill Dickinson for the magnificent job they did coordinating, promoting and heading the operation of the ICC’s Holiday Boutique on Saturday, Nov. 26. This event is a fundraiser for our organization that not only helps our or-
ganization monetarily, but it acquaints new people to our building and what we have to offer.
Members Christmas party Our last event in 2017 will be our Members Christmas dinner and dance on Thursday, Dec. 14. I encourage our members to attend and enjoy a fun evening. Susie Christiansen is once again serving as chairperson of this event, which begins with a cocktail reception at 6 p.m. Rosie DeRubertis and Joanne Czubek are the coordinators of the
Pompeii Grand Ballroom with Bartolotta Catering fare.
bake sale that always accompanies this holiday event. See the article in this issue for all of the details. I for-
ward to seeing you there. – Dean Cannestra ICC President
Board Room
2018 schedules of Italian societies and organizations that regularly meet at ICC are needed promptly
The 2018 meeting and social event schedules of all of the societies, clubs and organizations that regularly use the Italian Community Center for their activities are needed by The Italian Times. ICC Business Manager Laurie Bisesi uses the information to coordinate room scheduling with Bartolotta Catering. Times editor Tom Hemman needs the information to provide an accurate reporting in the calendar published in each issue of the newspaper. All groups are asked to submit their schedules including the starting time of all events as soon as possible. The goal is to have the schedules from all societies, clubs and organizations by Nov. 30. Please submit schedules using any one of these methods: • Send an email to Tom Hemman at themman@iccmilwaukee.com. • Drop off the schedules in person at the ICC. • Mail them to Tom Hemman, ICC, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202.
Our thanks to all of the societies and societies that have already complied with this request. Groups that fail to comply with this request may experience difficulty in securing the accommodations they most desire. Please note: The Members Room can no longer be reserved for individual meetings and private parties. The room is available to members at all times that the ICC is open.
And now, a word from Italy
by Blaise Di Pronio Soldier: A member of an army, of any rank. It comes from the Italian soldi or money and soldato, literally “one having having been paid” and,thus, one who serves in the army for pay.
Calendar of Events
November 25 – December 25, 2017
Saturday, Nov. 25 • ICC Holiday Boutique, 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Public welcome. Details in this issue. Sunday, Dec. 3 • Abruzzese Society dinner with spouses, 6 p.m. at That’s D’Amore.
Monday, Dec. 4 • Italian Community Center Finance Committee meeting, 6:30 p.m. Please note: Meeting is one week earlier than usual.
Tuesday, Dec. 5 • Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO and Pompeii Women’s Club Christmas party, 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 7 • Italian Community Center Board meeting, 6:30 p.m. Please note: Meeting is one week earlier than usual. Tuesday, Dec. 12 • Abruzzese Society meeting, 2 p.m. • Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National meeting, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 14 • Italian Community Center membership Christmas dinner and dance with brief general meeting, 6 p.m. Details in this issue. Please note: General meeting is one week earlier than usual.
Wednesday, Dec. 20 • Filippo Mazzei Lodge of the Order Sons of Italy in America general meeting, 6:30 p.m.
PAGE 8 – DECEMBER 2017
Sunday, Dec. 24 • Christmas Eve. The Italian Community Center, Festa Italiana and Italian Times offices will be closed. Monday, Dec. 25 • Buon Natale! Merry Christmas! The Italian Community Center, Festa Italiana and Italian Times offices will be closed.
Daily and weekly classes and activities • Bocce leagues. The fall season ended with the championship playoffs on Monday, Nov. 13. Winter season will begin the week of Jan. 8. Details in this issue. • ICC Italian classes. Details on the spring semester of classes will be announced in an upcoming issue. • ICC Children’s Italian class. Details on the spring semester of classes will be announced in an upcoming issue.
• I Bei Bambini, The Children’s Italian Dance Group. This children’s folk dance group practices weekly on most Monday nights at 6:30 p.m. at the ICC. New dancers are welcome. For details, visit: www.tradizionevivente.com. Breaks are taken during the holidays.
• Tradizione Vivente, The Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee. This folk dance group practices weekly on most Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. at the ICC. Visit: www.tradizionevivente.com for details. Breaks are taken during the holidays. Ballate con noi! Dance with us!
• Hula hoop dance fitness class. Every Tuesday night, 5:45 – 6:45 p.m. in the bocce court room. Everyone is welcome. Cost: $5 per member, $10 per non-member. No classes during the holidays.
THE ITALIAN TIMES
Thanksgiving feast served to homeless and destitute courtesy of ICC volunteers and numerous donors
from page 3 all of whom are deceased. The tradition was then continued, for the next 10 years or so, under the guidance of the late Bob Cefalu. For the last several years, the dinner has gone on through the leadership of Lupo (chairman), Zingale and Martinez (vice chairmen).
Thanks to donors The chairmen wish to extend their “heartfelt thanks” to all who donated product, money or time and talent to the 41st annual Thanksgiving dinner for the less fortunate. “Your input – be it product, monetary or onsite volunteering – made the serving of a Thanksgiving feast to the less fortunate a wonderful success,” Lupo said. After seeing the article in the November issue of The Italian Times about the request for donations for the dinner, relatives and friends of the late Sam Purpero chose to make memorials in his memory for the dinner. All of those donations are noted below. Product donations were provided by the following: • Giuseppe Vella, Peter Sciortino Bakery (bread, rolls) • Mike Toffler, The Chocolate Factory (candy) • Vince Carini, (sausage)
Monetary donations were made by the following: • Jane Gertler, in memory of Dr. Coleman Gertler and Sadie P. Machi • John Pellmann • Società Santa Rosalia • Donald and Dorothy Bourdo, Bourdo Investments, in memory of Sam Purpero • Tri State Equipment Company, Inc., in memory of Sam Purpero • Pompeii Women’s Club • Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO • Mangiamele Arts Foundation
• Pompeii Men’s Club • Tim and Margaret Kezman, in memory of Sam Purpero • Rose Spang • Gordon Boucher • Paul Lamarre • Salvatore “Ted” Glorioso • Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National • Joseph and Carol Casamento • Leanne Starr, in memory of Sam Purpero • Jeffrey and Kelly Schwab, in memory of Sam Purpero • Antonia Vodnik, in memory of Sam Purpero • James and Annette Surfus, in memory of Sam Purpero • Vincent and Connie Megna • Jacqueline Maggiore • Robert Gensler • David Richards • Tom and Susie Christiansen • John and Mary Anne Alioto • Ted Catalano • Dave and Jeannie Doern • Ray and Carol Martinez • Tony and Barbara Lupo • Mary and Timothy McCauley, in memory of Sam Purpero • Lawrence and Debra Ratzlow, in memory of Sam Purpero • Vincent (Jim) Lo Duca, in memory of Sam Purpero • Dean and Debra Koenig, in memory of Sam Purpero • Kathleen Mirenda, in memory of Sam Purpero • Nicholas Fricano, in memory of Sam Purpero • Patricia Coccia • Margaret Carini • Bill and Karen Dickinson • Tony and Lena Zingale • Robert Trotalli • Società Maria Santissima • Joseph Lembo • Mary Winard • Mike Palmisano • Joe and Ann Zambito • Brian Kangas, in memory of Sam Purpero • Catherine and Charles Laz-
Paul Lamar and Ray Martinez are seen here serving a guest in the buffet line. (Times photo by Tim Townsend)
Winter bocce season to start week of Jan. 8
from page 6 member registration fee is $40 per at 414-223-2180 or by picking one person per league season. Each up at the ICC. The form can also be team must consist of at least four emailed to you. League coordinaplayers, with one player designated tors are: Troy Halverson (Monday as the team captain. Each league night), Craig Lieber and Carole is interested in having eight teams. Casamento (Tuesday afternoon), That way every team can compete Tony Tarantino (Wednesday night), each week. Loretta O’Boyle (Thursday afterTeam registration forms are noon) and David Alioto (Thursday available by calling the ICC office night).
THE ITALIAN TIMES
Mike Toffler (first on left), a donor and a volunteer, put some gravy on top of the turkey dinner of an individual who came up to the buffet. (Times photo by Tim Townsend)
zaro, in memory of Sam Purpero • James and Toni Hanson, in memory of Sam Purpero • Catherine Labinski, in memory of Sam Purpero • Terese and Robert Bonan, in memory of Sam Purpero • Rose Emanuele, in memory of Sam Purpero • Stephen and Maureen Busalacchi, in memory of Sam Purpero • Carol and John Flannick, in memory of Sam Purpero • George and Aggie Collura • Wayne and Sheila Kitzerow • Josephine Spano • Sal and Josephine Fazio • Kathleen and Helen Roszak,
in memory of Sam Purpero • Joanne and Ron Czubek, in memory of Sam Purpero • Anna Pitzo • Peter Spera • Anna Rose San Felippo • Charles Lazzaro • Isidore and Mary Pecoraro • Thomas Spera • Dennis and Mary Sobotta, in memory of Sam Purpero • Anthony and Lena Zingale, in memory of Sam Purpero • John and Theresa Gamsky, in memory of Sam Purpero • Jeanne and Carlo Fricano, in memory of Sam Purpero • Rose Anne Ceraso-Alioto • Joanne Czubek
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Italian Society and Club News
Pompeii Women’s Club report on Halloween dinner meeting
Twenty-five members attended the Pompeii Women’s Club Oct. 26 general meeting. Co-Chaplain Mike Hammer provided the invocation before dinner. Sister Anne Catherine, the club’s Spiritual Director, gave a brief presentation on the tri-colored ribbon prayers to the Blessed Mother. The club’s project for the meeting was to bring unused or damaged eyeglasses, which would be given to Tower Optical in Wauwatosa. Tower Optical will recycle the eyeglasses and give them to persons in need.
The club’s Christmas party project will be to bring in toiletries, as have been done many times in the past, to donate to the Open Door Cafe meal site at St. John’s Cathedral. The entertainment for the Oct. 26 program was presented by John Puchner on his portable piano/keyboard for everyone’s enjoyment. Many of the members who speak fluent Italian did a great job of singing along in Italian. John was very helpful in bringing sing-along sheets for those who needed them. The program ended with the singing of “God Bless America” to
John’s piano accompaniment. President Suzanne Wipijewski thanked the hostesses, Pauline Cannestra (reservations), Peggy Zoet (Halloween-themed potted and felt-bagged plants) and Mary Winard (entertainment). President Suzanne also acknowledged all those who wore a
Halloween costume to the dinner meeting. President Suzanne thanked everyone for attending and the centerpiece plants were awarded as door prizes. – Submitted by Mary G. (Mineo) Winard Public Relations Chair
Each month, the Pompeii Women’s Club designates a program or activity for which members can make donations. For October, the ladies collected 60 pairs of unused prescription eyeglasses which will be repaired, if necessary, by Tower Optical and donated to persons in need, but don’t have the means to make this kind of purchase.
Above: Pauline Cannestra (left) and Peggy Zoet are seen here.
Pompeii Women’s Club Vice President Karen Dickinson (left) is seen here with board member Mary Winard. Photos provided by Suzanne Wypijewski except where noted.
Decked out in witch hats were Mary Rose Vicini (left) and Rosalie Giano, Recording/Corresponding Secretary.
This year, the Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO and the Pompeii Women’s Club will have a joint Christmas party on Tuesday, Dec. 5 at the Italian Community Center, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Persons who aren’t members of either club may also attend. A festive dinner and entertainment by the Wisconsin Lutheran High School Show Choir is planned.
The cost is $20 per person. Reservations are necessary and can be made by calling Carla Pellin at 414-351-0707. Payment and reservation information can be sent to Pellin at 500 W. Bradley Rd., #A115, Fox Point, Wi 53217. Please state your choice of chicken marsala or baked cod. Served with the entrée will be a baked potato, sautéed vegetables, and a holiday dessert prepared by Chef Sal of
UNICO Ladies and Pompeii Women to share Christmas joy at Dec. 5 party at ICC
Suzanne Wypijewski, Pompeii Women’s Club President, dressed in a flapper costume. (Photo by Valentine Sturdevant)
PAGE 10 – DECEMBER 2017
Bartolotta’s Catering. The evening will also include installation of the officers for the Ladies of UNICO for the 20182019 term. There will be a collection of toiletries, hats, gloves, scarves and socks for women, men and children, which will be donated to local organizations which serve the needy in our community.
THE ITALIAN TIMES
Peter Gustin becomes 10th member of Verdi Club to be inducted into WSA Hall of Fame
Italian Community Center member Peter Gustin was inducted into the Wisconsin Soccer Association Hall of Fame at a dinner on Oct. 22. Gustin is the 10th member of the Verdi Sport Club to receive this award. The others are: Louis De La Pasqua (1985), Tom Vicini and Domenic Zizzo (1994), Nick D’Amato (1996), Joe Dentice (1997), Mario Ferrise (2001), Annibale Cesarini (2006), Stefano Carini (2013) and Mario Carini (2013). Soccer in Wisconsin began after World War II. It began very slowly. The few Italian soccer players here at the time, including Dentice, Vicini and D’Amato, had to play with teams of other nationalities until more players arrived from Italy. More immigrants arrived in the early 1950s, and the Verdi Sport Club was born. Why the name Verdi? They were not only soccer players, but they loved music, especially opera, and the Italian Giuseppe Verdi was one of the greatest opera composers. With the steady influx of new immigrants, Verdi Sport Club became a powerhouse in the Wisconsin Soccer Association. They competed in the WSA Major League with three German teams (Bavarians, Brewers and Sport Club), Croatians, Serbians, Hungarians, Latinos and the Kickers. The Kickers were the first American team. These team players became the ambassadors of the new sport, which grew by leaps and bounds in this country.
Gradually, a good number of these immigrant players became coaches who started soccer programs in the grade schools, high schools and colleges. Some became
by Italian Senator Ron Turano I’d like to start off this month’s column celebrating the work done by Italy’s vice-minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Vincenzo Amendola, in regards to a recent meeting held between the local patronati and the elected officials representing Italians living abroad. The activities and services rendered by the patronati outside of Italy are fundamental for both the community and for the consular network. The work they do on a daily basis has proven throughout the years to be a vital part of the “Italy System” and their activity in assisting our communities abroad must be recognized on every level, especially given that many of the functions they perform go hand in hand with the work done by embassies and consulates. Having a deep knowledge of the territory is an extremely valuable asset that makes up the basis of the patronati’s approach. The meeting coordinated by Amendola is a first step that will lead us to a larger framework. Before getting there, we will need to meet again to establish the parameters to collaborate, as well as what responsibilities and control systems need to be put in place, with the hope that these talks can soon become a regular occurrence within consular districts. All in all, it was a very positive meeting. For years, discussion of a convention between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the patronati has been in the air for awhile, with a general agreement that such a convention would pave the way to
many improvements. Services to our compatriots living abroad would certainly benefit from such a gathering, where ideas and innovative techniques can be passed on. But for some reason, plans for such a meeting always fell through. So this initial meeting coordinated by Amendola sets the stage for more involvement in the community and a better understanding of its needs. The next step will be to put together a group of people — hopefully by the end of the year — that will be in charge of compiling a list of requests and needs from the community. This input will be at the center of a future convention. Some issues are well known: We need to constantly research and implement better ways to serve our community, both at the consular level and within the patronati. There are a number of functions that the patronati often perform in
close collaboration with consulates: registering as an Italian living abroad with the Anagrafe Italiana Residenti all’Estero (AIRE); issuing passports, citizenship and visa applications; and explaining sometimes arcane tax codes and systems. The patronati are also a reassuring presence for the high number of new immigrants, given the new immigration patterns and increased mobility. By creating a better network among patronati, we would be able to follow and help globetrotting Italian citizens in need of assistance. A convention will ultimately lead to an improved definition of the laws and rules that regulate the collaboration between patronati and consular offices. What we need to keep in mind at all times is the need to address the requests for more efficiency and protections that we receive from our fellow citizens
living abroad. In closing, I would like to briefly update you on the new electoral law that is being discussed as I write this article. As we all know, a previous attempt to radically transform the Italian parliament fell through more than a year ago. Since then, many ideas have been floated, and it appears one has finally stuck. I will go into more detail about the new electoral law once it is finalized and approved by parliament, but I can already say with great satisfaction that representation of Italians living abroad will not suffer. In fact, the new law will maintain the 12 deputies and six senators currently representing Italians living abroad. This is a significant victory for our rights and I am glad that the government has listened to our requests.
1. Jeans: Especially blue ones – are usually identified with American culture, but their origins are Italian. In fact, denim can be traced back to the northern city of Genoa in the 17th century, where the cloth was worn by sailors. It is thought that the word “jeans” comes from the French word for Genoa: Gênes. 2. Newspapers: Arguably, the newspaper can be traced back to Venice in 1556, when the government published monthly handwrit-
ten news-sheets, called “avvisi.” No crosswords or cartoons: the avvisi typically was used to carry political, military and economic news. 3. Jacuzzi: Relaxing in a jacuzzi may be a fun way to unwind after a hard day’s work, but the first whirlpool bath was in fact designed as a hydrotherapeutic device for pain relief. It was invented in 1949 by Candido Jacuzzi, an Italian immigrant to the United States, for his toddler son Kenny, who suffered
from rheumatoid arthritis. 4. Telephone: Although Alexander Bell was the first to be awarded a patent for the electric telephone, Italian Antonio Meucci is often credited as the true inventor of the phone. The Italian immigrant to the U.S. began developing a voice communication device - called the “teletrofono” - in 1849. True, it didn’t look much like a telephone, but it apparently worked. Only in 2002
soccer referees. “It was a tremendous peaceful revolution,” Gustin said. “Thanks to their efforts, kids today have another sport choice. Soccer will pro-
vide an excellent alternative because it is the great equalizer. The average size kid has a wonderful opportunity to enjoy and excel in it.”
A precious resource in Italy Peter Gustin (third from the left) was among the 2017 inductees into the Wisconsin Soccer Association Hall
THE ITALIAN TIMES
of Fame. (Photo provided by Peter Gustin)
Top 10 best Italian inventions
Please turn to page 12
DECEMBER 2017 – PAGE 11
Christmas memories
by Blaise Di Pronio Christmas season is a time for celebrations, donations and contemplations. The world’s many and diverse cultures each have their own particular ways to commemorate these holidays. Italy is no different, but here are a few unique Italian customs with which you may not be familiar.
In Italy, the Christmas festivities kick off on December 8, the day of the Immacolata or Immaculate Conception. The day celebrates Mary, and not her son. It remembers His conception only with His birthday soon to follow. There are parades, bonfires and fireworks throughout Italy but especially in Rome where the Pope goes all out with festivities and prayers topped with his coronation of a statue of the Madonna. The Irish and Scottish do not have a monopoly on bagpiping as at this time of the year, bagpipe music can be heard all over Italy and most often in the little mountain towns whose slopes are frequented by shepherds and their herds. Shepherds and bagpipes go hand-inhand there (keeping in mind that, traditionally, the bags are made from goat hides that are turned inside out, then tied off just in front of the rear legs, one of the front legs
serving to house the blow pipe and the other tied off). They are known as zambognari, aptly named after the zambogna (bagpipe) instrument itself. The zambognari play the many traditional carols usually accompanied by singers and they both take part in the tradition of the novena (nine days) which involves singing and playing of carols in front of the many Nativity scenes during the nine (Dec. 16 to 24) days leading up to Christmas.
A more recent year end holiday tradition is that of the tredicesima (the 13th). This represents an imaginary/non existent 13th month of the year, which actually results in an extra month’s wages for many public and private employees along with many pensioners – even those pensioners overseas – which might explain why the Italian government is always broke. The American equivalent would be a year-end bonus. There is also the tradition for families with fireplaces to have the burning of the ceppo or single wood log which has to be big enough to burn all night from the vigilia (vigil or eve) through Natale (Christmas). Food items and gifts are often placed in front of the hearth. All of the above little-known cus-
Top 10 best Italian inventions
from [age 11 was his role in the invention process acknowledged by the U.S. Congress. 5. Radio: Guglielmo Marconi is one of the chief minds behind the invention of radio. On Dec. 12, 1901, he sent and received the first transatlantic radio signal. His pioneering work later earned him a Nobel Prize for physics, along with Karl Ferdinand Braun. Soon afterwards, his wireless system was used by the sinking RMS Titanic to call for assistance, thus saving hundreds of lives. 6. Battery: The first electric battery, the voltaic pile, was created by Alessandro Volta (the name should give you a clue), who published his findings in 1800. It was the first practical way of generating electricity that could continuously provide an electrical current to a circuit. 7. Piano: Bartolomeo Cristofori, who came from Padua, northern Italy, is recognized as the inventor of the piano. He worked as a harpsichord maker for the Grand Prince of Tuscany, Ferdinando de’ Medici,
Words in an Italian word
from page 7 73 words in “CANNOLI.” 1. cannoli 2. alnico 3. oilcan 4. aloin 5. ancon 6. anion 7. canon 8. colin 9. conia 10. conin 11. linac 12. nicol 13. alco 14. anil 15. anno 16. anon 17. cain 18. calo 19. cann 20. ciao 21. cion 22. clan 23. clon 24. coal 25. coil 26. coin 27. cola 28. coni 29. conn 30. icon 31. laic 32. lain 33. linn 34. lino 35. lion 36. loan 37. loca 38. loci 39. loin 40. nail 41. nain 42. naoi 43. noil 44. nona 45. noni 46. ail 47. ain 48. ani 49. ann 50. can 51. col 52. con 53. inn 54. ion 55. lac 56. lin 57. nan 58. nil 59. non 60. oca 61. oil 62. ai 63. al 64. an 65. in 66. io 67. la 68. li 69. lo 70. na 71. no 72. oi 73. on.
PAGE 12 – DECEMBER 2017
and used his knowledge to build the first piano around 1700. 8. Banks: These can be traced to medieval and early Renaissance Italy, the most famous being the Medici Bank, founded by Giovanni di Bicci de’ Medici in 1397. The oldest bank still in operation today is Monte dei Paschi di Siena, which opened in 1472. 9. Espresso machine: No great surprise, the espresso machine is an Italian invention. It was built and patented by Turin-based Angelo Moriondo, who then demonstrated it at the Turin General Exposition of 1884. Later, the machine was improved by Milanese mechanic Luigi Bezzera. 10. Liposuction: Although the first use of suction to help remove fat is attributed to a French surgeon in the 1920s, it was Italian gynaecologists Dr. Arpad Fischer and his son, Giorgio, who in 1974 invented the liposuction procedure as we know it today. Their technique involved using a blunt hollow cannula equipped with suction. – Courtesy of: www.thelocal.it
Hear the sounds of the zampognari playing many traditional carols in Italy, especially between Dec. 16 - Dec. 24.
toms, of course, combine with usual seasonal festivities evolving around family, food, feasts, presents, trees, Santa and the rest. But celebrations don’t end on the 25th as they often extend into December 26 with the national holiday of Santo Stefano (St. Stephen) at which time families get together and eat leftover Christmas dishes and sweets. The official end of the Christmas
season isn’t until January 6. That, of course, is the Day of the Epiphany and the 12th day of Christmas. On the eve of the Epiphany, families usually prepare a large dinner to mark the end of the holiday season at which time children are given candy or coal(usually made of black sugar), depending on if they were naughty or nice. So, until next year then...
Word Search: Weeks, months and seasons by Blaise Di Pronio
Find Word Search solved, turn to page 14
THE ITALIAN TIMES
They made them an offer
Mayor of the Italian town of Candela makes an offer which would pay people to come and live there
by Blaise Di Pronio Don Vito made them an offer they couldn’t refuse. The lawyer made them an offer they couldn’t understand. So what do you say about an offer of money from an Italian town to have you move there? An offer so good that you cannot believe that such a situation is possible, i. e., that old too good to be true? There is in Italy a small town in the Puglia Region some two hours outside of Naples offering up to $2,350 to anyone willing to relocate there. The town is Candela (Lit.: candle). At one time, Candela, whose origins date back to the medieval ages, was once known as “Little Naples” as it also had a bustling town center. Its population peaked at more than 8,000 but it has since diminished to about 2,700. There was some post-war exodus but the majority of the dwindling has been occurring in the more recent times with younger residents searching for job opportunities elsewhere and the birthrate shrinking to 1.34 child per Italian woman. In contrast, your baby booming author is one of nine children! And, of course, the unreplaced old continue dying. The idea of paying newcomers, including foreigners, to become residents of the town was its mayor, Nicola’s Gatta’s brainchild. He is in effect on a crusade to save Candela from dying out. According to CNNTravel, the town is a picturesque collection of mostly empty baroque buildings, arched passageways, panoramic terraces and ornate balconies. Here is how it works: 800 euros for single individuals, 1,200 euros for couples, 1,500 to 1,800 euros for three-member families and over 2,000 euros for families of four to five people. There are three main requirements to receive the cash: New residents must take up residency in Candela, rent a house and have a job with a salary of at least 7,500 euros per year. So, no freeloaders allowed apparently. To date, six families have settled in and five more have applied.
So if you would like to live in a small mountain town in Italy, Candela offers traditional palazzos and piazzas, food fairs, flower and art
legendary Saint Nicholas, who is said to be buried in a nearby town of Bari. Pack your bags and get on board!
ICC Membership Dues Benefits of Italian Community Center Membership
And now, a word from Italy
by Blaise Di Pronio Cavalry: highly mobile army unit using vehicular transport, such as light armor and helicopters. In pre-modern times it used to consist of troops that served on horseback. It comes from the Italian word for “horse” or cavallo and cavaliere or mounted soldier and cavalleria or mounted militia. It evolved into the word “chivalry” which were the qualities idealized by medieval knights and soldiers on horseback, such as bravery, courtesy, honor and gallantry toward women- which qualities were derided and scoffed at as out of touch and unrealistic in the Mascagni Sicilian opera Cavalleria Rusticana.
Interested in advertising in our next issue? Get all of the details by calling 414-223-2189 or sending an email to Tom Hemman at themman@iccmilwaukee.com
festivals and next-to-no crime It is also the perfect place to spend the holidays – it’s home to a “House of Santa Claus,” commemorating the
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DECEMBER 2017 – PAGE 13
Italian native Marco Belinelli has made a career playing in the NBA
by Thomas Hemman Times Editor While nine Italian-born and raised players have performed in the National Basketball Association since its inception in the late
1940s, no one has, arguably, experienced the success of Marco Stefano Belinelli. The lone exception might be Andrea Bargnani, who played in the NBA for 10 seasons for three different teams and was a
quite productive scorer and rebounder when healthy. What Belinelli has on Bargnani and the seven other native Italians is that he has played in more regular season games, more playoff games and is the only one to participate in the NBA Finals and be a member of a team that won the NBA Championship. Belinelli played for the San Antonio Spurs when it captured the title in 2014. Today, the 6 ft. 5 in. shooting guard plays for the Atlanta Hawks, his eighth NBA team since entering the league in the 2007 season. At the time this article was written, he was averaging 14.6 points per game. Belinelli was born Mar. 25, 1986 in San Giovanni in Persiceto, Italy, which is a comune outside of the metropolis of Bologna in the northern Italian region of Emilia-Ro-
magna. Bologna is a hotbed for Italian basketball. Belinelli was selected 18th overall in the 2007 NBA draft by the Golden State Warriors. He had previously played in Italy’s Serie A and the EuroLeague for Virtus Bologna and Fortitudo Bologna (2002-2007). In 2004, his team lost in the EuroLeague Finals to Maccabi Tel Aviv. A year later, as a member of Fortitudo, his team won the Serie A title. In 2006, as a member of the Italian national team in the FIBA World Championship tournament, Belinelli scored 25 points against the United States national team, including a dunk on Carmelo Anthony. In that tournament, he averaged 13.5 points per game and was the top scorer on his team. Continued on page 15
Calling all holiday bakers ICC looking for volunteers to donate baked goods for Dec. 14 Christmas party fundraiser
UNICO Ladies donate for draperies for Members’ Room Here’s Marco Belinelli holding the 2014 NBA championship trophy.
The Italian Community Center’s Members’ Christmas dinner and dance is all set for Thursday, Dec. 14. As in the past, one of the big attractions of the evening is the fabulous bake sale featuring all the delicious holiday baked goods donated by ICC members. Sale Coordinators Bake Joanne (Sanfilippo) Czubek and Rosemary DeRubertis are asking members to “bring out the pots and pans, nonna’s favorite recipes and your baking skills” to help make this year’s holiday bake sale truly successful. “Anything goes – cakes, cookies, candy, whatever your favorite holiday treats might be – we welcome your donation,” Czubek said. If you are unable to bake, bring something from your favorite bak-
ery. Baked items can be dropped off at the ICC office on either Dec. 13 or Dec. 14. “If you are unable to package your items, we will do that for you,” Czubek said. “We will also do the pricing.” “If you prefer to bring your items the night of the party, please have them packaged nicely so they are ready to be priced and sold,” DeRubertis noted. Everyone who is interested in donating to this fundraising event is asked to call Czubek at 414529-0183 so the committee can get a handle on what to expect. “Please come and join us for a night of fun, friendship, holiday cheer and delicious holiday treats. Hope to see you there,” the coordinators added.
Word Search: Weeks, months and seasons solved from page 12
On behalf of the Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO Community Projects Committee a donation was made for the draperies purchased for the Members’ Room at the Italian Community Center. The presentation was made by Ann Romano, chairperson of the UNICO Ladies’ committee to ICC President Dean Cannestra at the Nov. 15 general meeting. Romano said she and the members of the Ladies of UNICO hope this will inspire other organizations to donate for this project. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)
PAGE 14 – DECEMBER 2017
THE ITALIAN TIMES
Opera insights
by Barbara Collignon Milwaukee’s own Florentine Opera must be very proud of its young Florentine Studio Artists. They distinguished themselves royally at the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions held Nov. 4 at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts. Soprano Rachel Blaustein, whom many of you heard perform at Festa this summer, was one of the six singers out of 28 who were chosen to go on to the next level. She will compete at the Upper Midwest Region in St. Paul, Minn. on Mar. 25, 2018. Not only does she have the honor to continue but, she won $2,250. She was also voted the “People’s Choice” and awarded $250. Her performance at the audition included Par le rang...Salut à la France from Donizetti’s “La Fille du Regiment” and Caro Nome from Verdi’s “Rigoletto.” Blaustein says, “I have been singing for as long as I remember. I have been singing professionally since graduating school in 2015.” Her voice has graced the stages of the Fort Worth Opera, Kentucky Opera, Des Moines Metro Opera, Opera Santa Barbara and Chautauqua Opera. Baritone Nathaniel Hill also was chosen to go on to the next level of competition in St. Paul in the spring. He also was awarded $2,250. Hill sang in his first opera at age 14 in “Carmen” with the Toledo Opera. “I was hooked instantly”, he confided. Hill earned a Bachelor’s in Music from Indiana University and a Master’s in Music from Northwestern. He subsequently sang as a young artist with the Madison Opera, Cedar Rapids Opera Theatre, Aspen Music Festival and the Seagle Music Colony and the competitions for Starbuck’s Aria from “Moby Dick” by Jake Heggie and
Onegin’s Act III Arioso from Eugene Onegin by Tchaikovsky. Hill is fond of new music and sang one of his favorite arias for the competitions. Other examples of new music that Hill counts among
December 8th – the Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception – is a national holiday in Italy. Across the country, there are celebrations and special masses held by churches. Many towns and cities mark the holiday with music, parades and feasts.
Throughout the region of Abruzzo, people celebrate this day with bonfires and by singing traditional songs. In Rome, there is an annual papal procession near the Spanish Steps. The Pope pays homage to Please turn to page 18
from page 14 After two unproductive seasons with Golden State, Belinelli played for these NBA teams: Toronto Raptors (2009-2010) with Bargnani, the New Orleans Hornets (20102012), the Chicago Bulls (20122013), the San Antonio Spurs (2013-2015), the Sacramento Kings (2015-2016), the Charlotte Hornets (2016-2017) and his current team, the Atlanta Hawks. In 2014, Belinelli won the NBA Three-Point Shootout during the All-Star weekend, becoming the third European player to win this award after Peja Stojakovic and Dirk Nowitzki. Belinelli also played in the 2007, 2011, 2013 and 2015 editions of the FIBA EuroBasket and the 2006 FIBA World Championship with the Italian national basketball team. At the time this article was written (late October), Belinelli had played in 651 NBA games, had a
career scoring average of 9.7 points per game, a .425 field-goal percentage, a .380 three-point field-goal percentage and an .833 free-throw percentage. He has quite a following in northern Italy. His fans keep an up-to-date blog about him and his career (in both English and Italian). Visit: www.marcobelinelli.it.
Soprano Rachel Blaustein
Tenor Edward Graves
Baritone Nathaniel Hill
Mezzo-Soprano AshleyPuenner
Feast Day of Immaculate Conception is a national holiday in Italy
his favorites are Batter My Heart from “Dr. Atomic” (American opera by John Adams and Peter Sellars) and Teflon Cookware from “Glory Denied” (the opera by Tom Cipullo for four singers.) Tenor Edward Graves was one of three singers to receive a $500 “Encouragement Award.” He began singing at the tender age of five in his church choir and continued singing all kinds of music from gospel, madrigal and jazz through high school. In 2010, he was the
featured soloist on a CD that received a Stellar Award, an award for gospel music. Once a baritone, he transitioned to tenor while studying at Indiana University. His performance at the competition included Fuor del mar from Mozart’s “Idomeneo” and Lonely House from Weill’s Street Scene. Originally a Music Education major, he switched to Music Performance while studying at Towson University. Encouraged by Aaron Sheehan, he attended Indiana University for his graduate studies. Graves has this to report: “My favorite arias are Fuor del mar from Mozart’s “Idomeneo,” Parmi veder le lagrime from Verdi’s “Rigoletto,” In fernem land from Wagner’s “Lohengrin” and Salut demeure chaste et pure from Gounod’s “Faust.” Mezzo-soprano Ashley Puenner is in her second season as a Florentine Opera Studio Artist. She received her Bachelors in Music from Illinois Wesleyan University and her Masters in Music from the University of Kansas. She was also a young artist with the Brevard Music Festival. Her favorite arias include Mon coeur s’ouvre à ta voix from “Samson et Dalila” and the Seguidilla from “Carmen.” She says, “My favorite operas would be The Marriage of Figaro and The Tales of Hoffmann.” On Jan. 26, 27, and 28, the Studio Artists will perform a double bill with Great Lakes Baroque at the Marcus Center’s Wilson Theater at Vogel Hall: “Venus and Adonis” and “Dido and Aeneas.” In “Venus and Adonis”, Blaustein will sing the role of the shepherdess and Puenner and Hill will portray the two shepherds. Graves will sing in the chorus. In “Dido and Aeneas,” Blaustein will sing the role of the second lady and Puenner will be the first witch. Hill will perform the role of Sailor and Graves will sing in the chorus. In a production of “Viva Opera” on Mar. 16 and Mar. 18, they will perform arias and ensembles of opera’s greatest hits with the Florentine Opera in Uihlein Hall at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts.
Belinelli has made a career playing in the NBA
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La Pagina Italiana Una risorsa preziosa
da Senatore Renato Turano Lodevole iniziativa portata avanti dal sottosegretario Vincenzo Amendola in occasione dell’incontro MAECI Patronati e tra Parlamentari eletti all’estero. L’attività svolta da tutti i Patronati all’estero è di fondamentale importanza per la Comunità e per i Servizi Consolari, il lavoro che hanno svolto negli anni e che egregiamente continuano a svolgere fa parte a tutti gli effetti del Sistema Italia, le loro attività alle nostre nell’assistenza Comunità nell’espletamento di molte pratiche devono essere riconosciute a tutti i livelli soprattutto perché molti dei servizi che erogano sono di coadiuvazione al lavoro svolto dalle ambasciate e consolati. Partire dall’esperienza sul territorio dei vari operatori dei Patronati costituisce essa stessa base delle loro competenze. L’incontro è stato un primo passo che ci porterà alla costituzione di un tavolo tecnico per ulteriori confronti per meglio parametri di stabilire collaborazione, ambiti di responsabilità e sistemi efficaci di controllo con l’auspicio che questo confronto possa essere svolto anche a livello di circoscrizioni consolari al fine di migliorare i Servizi. È stato certamente un incontro positivo. Sono anni, ormai, che il tema di una convenzione MAECIPatronati periodicamente riaffiora
come un’indifferibile esigenza di sinergia e di collaborazione volta a migliorare, nel loro complesso, i servizi offerti alle nostre comunità e connazionali all’estero e ai altrettanto periodicamente esso esce dall’orizzonte delle concrete soluzioni operative. Obiettivo dell’incontro è stato quello di avviare concretamente un percorso, al quale un tavolo tecnico chiamato ad operare nelle prossime settimane dovrà dare una forma definita, fino ad arrivare ad una bozza di convenzione da sottoporre alle decisioni di chi ne ha la responsabilità. Si deve perseguire e ricercare un costante miglioramento dei servizi resi dalla nostra rete consolare e uno sforzo di miglioramento e di sempre maggiore qualificazione dei servizi resi dagli stessi Patronati. Tanti i campi di azione dei Patronati e tantissimi i campi di collaborazione: dall’AIRE al rilascio dei passaporti, dalle pratiche di cittadinanza a quelle per i visti, fino ad arrivare alle informazioni sulla fiscalità concorrente. C’è poi la nuova ed impegnativa sfida dei nuovi flussi di emigrazione e delle nuove mobilità, che inducono sia le strutture pubbliche che la rete dei Patronati a innovare, arricchire e qualificare le loro funzioni per favorire l’insediamento, la mobilità e l’integrazione dei nuovi arrivati. Creando una rete ben strutturata, anche la migliorerebbe
Vincenzo Amendola
collaborazione e la comunicazione tra patronati e consolati, e soprattutto si potrebbe assistere meglio quegli italiani che si spostano di frequente da un paese all’altro o all’interno di un paese estero. Bisogna definire con precisione e nel rispetto delle normative i rispettivi ambiti di responsabilità e di azione e creare una convenzione che metta in sinergia la rete consolare con quella altrettanto presente e radicata dei patronati. Dobbiamo dare una convincente risposta alla domanda di maggiore efficienza e tutela che insistentemente proviene dalle nostre comunità. Vorrei chiudere l’articolo dedicando qualche parola alla nuova legge elettorale che si sta discutendo mentre scrivo questo articolo. Come sappiamo, un precedente tentativo di cambiare il sistema elettorale in maniera
abbastanza radicale non ha avuto buon esito, e da circa un anno si discute di varie misure per migliorare la rappresentanza in parlamento. Alla fine, pare che una nuova legge ci sarà, e che sarà leggermente modificato il sistema elettorale quando ci appresteremo a votare a inizio 2018. Entrerò più nello specifico in un altro articolo, una volta che la legge sarà finalizzata ed approvata, però vorrei già adesso esprimere la mia soddisfazione per un risultato importante: La rappresentanza degli italiani residenti all’estero non cambierà. Mentre sembrava quasi scontata una ridotta presenza di parlamentari eletti all’estero nel precedente disegno di legge, quello proposto adesso manterrebbe i 12 deputati e sei senatori eletti fuori dai confini italiani. È una vittoria significativa per i nostri diritti e sono contento che il governo abbia ascoltato le nostre richieste.
Il brutto, il cattivo e il buono… della guida in Sicilia
di Blaise Di Pronio Nel titolo che ho preso in prestito dal grandioso western all’italiana, ho invertito volutamente l’ordine degli aggettivi per lasciare il Buono alla fine ed avere così un finale positivo. L’estate scorsa ho avuto l’opportunità di fare un viaggio in Sicilia e lascio qui di seguito alcune delle mie osservazioni e note stonate che ho potuto rilevare. Il Brutto di guidare in Sicilia l’ho notato principalmente nella città di Palermo e nei paesi confinanti come Sant’Elia, Porticello e Bagheria. Ciò che ritengo sia brutto sono lo stile e i metodi di guida. Il più evidente è quello che definisco la sindrome da autoscontro che sembra una gara a chi si scansa per ultimo. Guidare in queste zone non è adatto ai deboli di cuore. I principianti potrebbero persino avere un attacco cardiaco. Non c’è un momento in cui non si rischi una collisione per pochi millimetri e millisecondi. Rispettare le fermate agli stop non è la regola. La regola è lanciarsi per strada senza rispettare i segnali. Questo costringe a manovre e arresti dell’ultimo secondo che irritano i nervi. Freni e frizione hanno vita breve. Se si aggiunge a ciò una guida costellata di automobili, persone e animali da evitare lungo strade e vicoli già di per sé stretti, guidare diventa una vera e propria impresa a tempo pieno. Al Brutto causato dal caos della guida aggiungerei anche l’accumulo scandaloso di detriti (per meglio dire liquami e spazzatura) sparsi ovunque si transiti, lungo i cordoli, i marciapiedi e di fronte agli edifici: buste di plastica sovraccariche, pannolini usati, bottiglie di plastica di ogni tipo e frantumi di vetri in gran quantità. Non serve che vi nomini anche gli
PAGE 16 – DICEMBRE 2017
odori che tali rifiuti emanano e gli animali che vi circolano attorno durante la notte. Sembra che a nessuno interessi vedere i mucchi crescere invece di ridursi. Io la definirei la sindrome dell’atteggiamento del “tutti lo fanno, perché io non dovrei?”.L’aspetto Cattivo sempre legato alla guida include i frequenti segnali della polizia per far accostare le auto e controllare documenti e assicurazione, a cui si accompagna spesso una violazione erroneamente riscontrata per non aver allacciato le cinture di sicurezza. Se un poliziotto italiano sventola una piccola paletta rotonda davanti a voi non è un amichevole saluto all’italiana: significa che bisogna accostare o inizierà un inseguimento. Un altro aspetto cattivo è rappresentato dall’autostrada, soprattutto quando, dopo aver ricevuto il biglietto a tempo per la tratta ed averlo presentato all’uscita si viene informati di aver ricevuto anche una multa per eccesso di velocità per aver raggiunto l’uscita troppo in fretta, il che presuppone che si sia marciato a velocità troppo sostenuta lungo il tragitto (vedere il Buono alla fine dell’articolo per scoprire come risolvere questo dilemma). Nella categoria del Cattivo inserisco anche la linea di mezzeria della tangenziale di Palermo, infestata da cespugli, fiori e piante che si sporgono fino a occupare la corsia di sinistra, costringendo le auto a sterzare pericolosamente verso la corsia di destra per evitarli. Alla luce delle proteste appena elencate, è possibile trovare il Buono di guidare in Sicilia (e in Italia in generale)? Si può pensare ad esempio alle superstrade a scorrimento veloce e strade principali senza crepe, buche e rigonfiamenti dell’asfalto che fanno stridere i denti. A ciò si
aggiunge l’apparente mancanza di aggressività al volante forse perché tutti sono vittima degli stessi problemi sopracitati. Come non citare poi la bellezza e la comodità della corsia di sorpasso usata correttamente. Volete superare qualcuno? Spostatevi nella corsia di sinistra, lampeggiate con i fari all’automobilista davanti a voi e vedrete che questo immediatamente sposterà il suo veicolo senza causare rallentamenti per dispetto o per rabbia, senza farvi gesti sgradevoli o dirvi parolacce. L’unico inconveniente è che dovrete rimanere pronti a ricevere lo stesso segnale da qualcuno dietro di voi dotato di un’auto più veloce. Il Buono di questo è che potrete assistere al sorpasso di una Lamborghini o una Ferrari che sfreccia di fianco a voi alla velocità del suono. Devo ammetterlo, per me è il soddisfacimento di un desiderio personale! Brum! Che ne è stato di quella multa per eccesso di velocità lasciata in sospeso, quella che vi è stata fatta per aver fatto credere di essere alla guida di un’Alfa 4C invece della vostra piccola Fiat Punto ed essere arrivati troppo presto all’uscita? Qui si rivela il Buono: fermarsi ad uno dei numerosi autogrill che si trovano in autostrada, riforniti di cibo, cocktail, caffè e aperitivi e aspettare con comodo che termini quel fastidioso conteggio di tempo e velocità per poi raggiungere l’uscita senza problemi. Per concludere, è vero che guidare in Sicilia e in Italia può essere un’esperienza spiacevole vissuta a vostro rischio e pericolo, ma può diventare anche esaltante se guidate la macchina giusta circondati dal paesaggio adatto sulla strada giusta fornita del miglior autogrill. – Tradotto dall’Iglese da Laura Duonio
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Pagella da Victory K-8
Angela Bozano attualmente sta offrendo un corso di Italiano al personale della scuola Victory. Le
lezioni sono strutturate affinche’ il personale possa comunicare con gli studenti nelle classi di immersione.
Antichi e tramontati mestieri - l’arrotino e l’ombrellaio
di Donato Di Pronio Giorni fa mentre distrattamente passeggiavo, mi ha sorpassato un furgoncino e da un altoparlante installato su di esso si diffondeva un annuncio, un tempo, spesso, tanto atteso: “Donne, è arrivato l’arrotino! Arrota coltelli, forbici e forbicini. Aggiustiamo anche ombrelli e mille altri oggetti”. Mentre il furgoncino lentamente si allontanava, mille ricordi mi portarono indietro negli anni.
L’arrotino, l’ombrellaio Erano dei disoccupati che praticavano questi poveri mestieri che, quando andava bene, procuravano loro pochi soldi. Erano fortunati se prima di sera, qualche anima buona li rifocillava con un piatto di minestra. E per dormire? Fienili, stalle e posti riparati dal vento e dalle intemperie erano i loro … hotel !
Arrotino…arrotino! Al richiamo che risuonava, alto e solenne, nelle viuzze dei piccoli borghi, ma anche per le vie dei grandi centri, spuntavano massaie con coltelli di ogni grandezza e misura. E non mancava l’accorrere di ragazzini per godersi lo spettacolo e l’incanto delle mille faville che si
involavano nel cielo dalla mola, installata nella piccola e “ambulante officina” di questo insolito ma utile lavoratore, fatta girare a forza di gambe, sulla quale faceva “scivolare” la lama dei coltelli. E tra un richiamo e l’altro, tra una facezia, una battuta e un frizzo, e racconti di misteriose fiabe e favole, questo umile artigiano, con il suo curioso laboratorio, cercava di raccogliere qualche moneta per sbarcare il lunario. L’Arrotinoè sempre esistito come testimoniato da incisioni rupestri scoperte in una grotta del Tagikistan. La denominazione forse deriva, secondo alcuni studiosi, dal latino “adrotinus” (dal verbo “adroto”) e forse, secondo altri, dall’arabo medievale “Al-ruhttini”, che significa “ruttatore” (con evidente richiamo all’urlare, “ruttare”, le urla per richiamare l’attenzione della gente). Ma con la digitalizzazione che costantemente avanza e con i progressi tecnologici in continua ascesa, i mestieri dell’arrotino e dell’ombrellaio (un ombrello lo si trova anche per pochi soldi), come tanti altri antichi mestieri, sono diventati un ricordo per noi di una certa età: non certo per giovani delle nuove generazioni!
La Provincia Catanese
La provincia Catanese comprende 58 comuni per una superficie totale di 3.552 kmq e più di un milione di abitanti. La città di Catania e’ principalmente nota grazie alla vicinanza estrema con il più grande vulcano europeo ancora attivo, l’Etna, che ha sempre giocato un ruolo preponderante nella storia cittadina. Nonostante alcuni eventi nefasti, come alcune eruzioni molto violente di questo vulcano ed almeno tre grossi terremoti ancora oggi ricordati a causa dell’ingente numero di vittime e la distruzione che essi determinarono e l’epidemia del colera verificatesi verso la fine del 1800, la città ha saputo sempre rinnovarsi e ricostruirsi dimostrando un forte senso di sopravvivenza ed un forte orgoglio cittadino. La città e’ ricordata anche per la sua forte devozione per la Santa Patrona, S. Agata, festeggiata nei primi giorni del mese di febbraio. Tale vergine siciliana perseguitata da Quinziano, prefetto
dell’imperatore Decio, e’ festeggiata attraverso la processione il tre febbraio denominata delle “Candelore”, dei grossi ceri legati fra loro, introdotti in un monumentino di legno e raffiguranti scene del martirio subito dalla Santa. Il giorno seguente si ha la processione del fercolo della Santa racchiuso in uno scrigno d’argento contenente le reliquie della Santa. La città va ricordata anche per aver dato i natali a personalità illustri per la musica e la letteratura, come Vincenzo Bellini e Giovanni Verga. La cucina Catanese va ricordata innanzitutto per il forte stimolo che riceve dalla fiorente attivita’ agricola locale e per la vera specialita’ locale, le pizze e le “scacciate”. La notevole vicinanza col mare, poi, ha favorito lo sviluppo della cucina a base di pesce che qui ha una lunga e fiorente tradizione che prevede, tra l’altro, anche numerose pietanze a base di mascolino. – dal sito: catania-sicilia.it
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Una volta al mese gli studenti della classe vanno in cucina e imparano una ricetta italiana. Il personale della scuola che partecipa alle lezioni si diverte a parlare italiano, e a sperimentare a casa le ricette. Gli alunni della classe K4 di Angela Bozano stanno imparando a scrivere il loro nome. E’ bello vedere come si emozionano quando riconoscono alcune lettere! Sono bambini molto curiosi, attenti a tutto quello che accade in classe. Hanno festeggiato la raccolta delle zucche organizzata nella scuola e assieme alla classe di Rita DeFilippis sono andati in cucina e hanno preparato il cream cheese frosty per la festa di Halloween. Erano bellissimi menre sfilavano verso la cucina con il loro cappello da cuoco! Bravi bambini! Nel mese di ottobre, gli alunni di Sabrina Lupoli hanno continuato a lavorare sui suoni delle lettere dell’alfabeto e ad imparare nuove parole. Hanno lavorato sulla differenza tra mele e zucche e hanno fatto alcuni esperimenti. Alla “Swan’s Pumpkin Farm” hanno ricevuto una zucca che hanno osservato, tagliato e cucinato. Tutti i bambini hanno mangiato le mele e i semi di zucca arrostiti nella cucina della scuola. E a tutti i bambini è piaciuta tanto la torta di zucca che ha preparato Sabrina Lupoli. In matematica i bambini hanno lavorato con le forme. Dopo aver imparato il vocabolario della sicurezza antincendio, hanno costruito un camion dei pompieri con le forme. Il 27 ottobre, i bambini hanno imparato e scritto le parole su Halloween e hanno decorato una maschera; poi hanno sfilato in costume con le altre classi nei corridoi della scuola. Parecchi bambini hanno partecipato anche alla”Monster Mash dance”, che si è svolta il pomeriggio dello stesso giorno e si sono divertiti tanto. Sotto la guida di Enrica Fracchia-Miller, i bambini della classe prima continuano il loro percorso sulle fiabe, in particolare racconti che riguardano l’autunno, i frutti dell’autunno e Halloween. In Matematica iniziano a correlare addizioni e sottrazioni, in Scienza abbiamo osservato la mela e in Studi Sociali hanno parlato dei
pompieri e di cosa bisogna fare in caso di incendio. Anche in cucina i bambini si sono divertiti molto con le mele al caramello e il Frankepudding preparato il giorno di Halloween. A questo proposito un grazie particolare va a Erik Markowski per aiutare la Enrica Fracchia-Miller nelle attivita` culinarie! Un grazie particolare va anche alla classe quinta di Amy Domagalski per averci accolto e fatto lavorare con loro sulle decorazioni di Natale per l’albero SHARP che sara` esposto nella Piazza della Cattedrale a Milwaukee durante il periodo natalizio. I venticinque fantastici studenti nella classe di Annette Robertson stanno avendo un anno spettacolare! In matematica hanno imparato le moltiplicazioni e a risolvere i problemi in lingua italiana. Ogni alunno ha scritto una breve presentazione che rappresenta la sua nuova foto della classe terza. Gli studenti si divertono a ripassare le parole italiane imparate negli anni scorsi, e I nuovi alunni sono contenti di imparare italiano per la prima volta. Uno dei nuovi alunni viene da Baghdad. La classe terza seguira’ l’iniziativa dell’MPS YOTA (Year of the Arts) per tutto l’anno scolastico. Questo mese si recheranno in gita alla Milwaukee Symphony e il giorno seguente visiteranno Oriental Theater per vedere una serie di cortometraggi offerti dal Milwaukee Film Festival. La classe di Cathy Laurenzi si e’ recata a Discovery World. Gli studenti hanno imparato come funziona l’energia solare e eolica. Hanno anche avuto l’opportunita’ di osservare la mostra di Les Paul che spiegava come funzionano le onde sonore. La classe quinta di Rita DeFilippis, ha iniziato a studiare la Costituzione degli Stati Uniti, la Dichiarazione dei Diritti, le Nazioni Unite e i Diritti umani. Si stanno preparando per le Elezioni Presidenziali di classe. Gli studenti hanno cominciato a conoscere il ruolo del governo nella vita dei cittadini e l’obbligo che il governo ha di sostenere i diritti e la libertà per i cittadini, nonché prendere decisioni importanti a beneficio della società.
Italian idioms and expressions
1. La goccia che ha fatto traboccare il vaso. Literally: The drop that made the vase overflow. Equivalent: It’s the last straw. 2. Sputare nel piatto dove si mangia. Lit.: To spit in the plate where one eats from. Eq.: Bite the hand that feeds you. 3. Rimanerci di stucco.
Lit.: Remain in plaster. Eq.: To be dumbfounded. 4. Cotto a puntino. Lit.: Cooked to the small point. Eq,: Well cooked. 5. Mettere la pulce nell’orecchio. Lit.: Put a flea in the ear. Eq.: Arouse somebody’s doubts. 6. Fare il contropelo. Lit.: Shave against the growth. Eq.: Go against the grain.
DICEMBRE 2017 – PAGE 17
Babbo Natale
Babbo Natale viene di notte viene in silenzio a mezzanotte dormono tutti i bimbi buoni e nei lettini sognano i doni Babbo Natale vien fra la neve porta i suoi doni la dove deve non sbaglia certo conosce i nomi di tutti quanti i bimbi buoni.
Babbo Natale quest’anno verrà e nel suo sacco che ci sarà? Treni blu, bambole grandi Macchine rosse e telefoni gialli E pennarelli di tutti i colori Per fare un fiore nel cielo là fuori. E adesso è ora di andare a letto E mentre dormo tu scendi dal tetto Per lasciare i doni a tutti i bimbi buoni. Natale è festa di gioia e pace, ogni rancore si spegne o tace; tutto si scorda, tutto si oblia, deve esser giorno sol d’allegria. Dunque scordatevi, o miei diletti, le mie mancanze e i miei difetti. Se io promettessi di essere buono, mi neghereste, forse, il perdono? Tace la mamma, tu, babbo, taci. Son dunque assolto: che io vi baci!
Jingle Bells all’ Italiano Jingle bells, jingle bells suona jingle bells tintinnando nei cammin le campanelle d’or. Jingle bells, jingle bells suona jingle bells e suonando porterà la gioia in ogni cuor.
La neve scesa già col bianco suo mantel e su la neve fitta andiamo a scivolar e mentre noi cantiam la sonagliera d’or suonando allegramente ci accompagna nel cammin Jingle bells, jingle bells suona jingle bells Dai monti scivoliam a valle noi scendiam e per le strade bianche suonando jingle bell ognuno ascolterà con gran felicità un dolce tintinnare delle campanelle d’or!
Santa Lucia Day celebrated Dec. 13 in Italy
Santa Lucia Day on Dec. 13 is celebrated in many places in Italy such as Trentino, Bergamo, Brescia, Cremona, Mantua, Verona, Piacenza, Parma, Reggio Emilia and all of Friuli, but the biggest celebration is in the city of Siracusa (Sicily). Siracusa holds a huge procession in honor of its patron saint. A solid silver statue of Santa Lucia is carried from the Cathedral to the Basilica del Sepolcro, where it remains on display for eight days. It takes 60 believers to carry the heavy statue, which was made by the goldsmith Pietro Rizzo in the 16th century. There are celebrations throughout the eight-day period and thousands of pilgrims come to Siracusa. The festivities end with a big fireworks display over the harbor.
PAGE 18 – DECEMBER 2017
Detti popolari – Popular sayings
1. (Dialect-Campania) Lu vino fa sango e la fatica fa jetta lu sango. (Literally) Wine makes blood while tiredness makes one shed blood. (Meaning) Wine makes one healthy and hard work makes you sweat blood. 2. (Dialect-Campania) Fa chi’u miracule ‘o vino che Sant’ Andulino. (Literally) Wine does more miracles than Saint Anthony. (Meaning) Wine makes you forget lack of a miracle. 3. (Dialect-Campania) Io me
vevo lu vino e tu te’imbriachi. (Literally) I’m the one drinking but you’re the one getting drunk. (Meaning) I’m doing all the work and you’re getting all the credit/benefit. 4. (Dialect) Quann’ uno s’a da umbrianca, e meglio ca o fa cu o vino buon’. (Literally) When one has to get drunk, better to do it with good wine. (Meaning) If you’re going to lose your head drinking and do something rash, it better be for a good reason. 5. (Dialect-Campania) Guaglio’
‘e chiacchiere non ghienceno ‘a panza. (Literally) A person who talks all the time doesn’t fill his stomach. Equivalent) You can’t eat and talk at the same time. Actions, not words. 6. (Dialect) A marito muscio dalle peope assaje. (Literally) To a lifeless and dull husband you should give a lot of pepper. (Meaning) To get your husband interested in you again, you have to spice up your lives.
Cappuccetto Rosso era nel bosco ed incontrò uno scoiattolo che la salutò; anche lei lo salutò e iniziarono a parlare ma dopo qualche minuto si accorse che era in ritardo: “Mi dispiace scoiattolino, devo andare dalla nonna!” ed il roditore risponde: “Ah ok Cappuccetto...buona fortuna ma sopratutto in bocca al lupo!”
sorella e fratello sotto la doccia. Il fratello dice: “che cos’è questo?” e la mamma: “il tuo rubinetto mentre tua sorella ha un lettore di DVD” e la sorella: “allora abbiamo rischiato di prendere la scossa!”.
- “Vai male a scuola, pensi solo al calcio.” - “Non è vero.” - “Si,ti meriti una punizione!” - “Di prima o di seconda?”
E fatt’na risata
Un giorno la mamma mette
Florence Noel goes on through Jan. 6
The city of Florence, Italy, hosts a very popular annual holiday celebration known as “Florence Noel.” This family-friendly Christmas fair, which started the weekend of Nov. 4-5, goes on through Epiphany Eve, Saturday, Jan. 6. During Florence Noel, exhibitors decorate their stands as creatively as possible inside the Stazione Leopolda. Games, interactive activities and interesting reconstructions of the North Pole and the house of “Babbo Natale” (Father Christmas or Santa Claus) create a fun and magical atmosphere.
Saint Stephen’s Day is a national holiday in Italy
December 26th is the day to honor San Stefano (Saint Stephen) in Italy and many other countries. The Feast of San Stefano is a national holiday in Italy. San Stefano was one of the early disciples who joined the Church of Jerusalem when it was in its infancy following the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven. He is said to be the first Christian martyr.
La sera del di’ di Festa di Giacomo Leopardi Dolce e chiara è la notte, e sanza vento, e queta sovra i tetti e sovra gli orti posa la luna, e di lontan rivela serena ogni montagna. O donna mia, già tace ogni sentiero, e pei balconi rara traluce la notturna lampa. Tu dormi, che t’accolse agevol sonno nelle tue chete stanze; e non ti morde cura nessuna; e già non sai, né pensi, quanta piaga m’apristi in mezzo al petto.
A scuola un bambino dice alla maestra di avere una gallina che fa un uovo ogni mezz’ora e la maestra aspetta un po’ e poi dice: “Si va bene, ma allora?” ed il bambino candidamente risponde: “due uova!”
- “Mariolino ti piace andare a scuola?” “Sinceramente preferisco tornare dalla scuola.” La mamma al figlio:
Un bambino manda un telegramma alla mamma: “Bocciato prepara papà.” Risposta: “Papà preparato ora preparati tu!”
Un bambino a scuola dice al maestro: “maestro, maestro, Ciro mi ha mandato al diavolo!” E il maestro: “e tu cosa hai fatto?” E il bimbo: “sono venuto immediatamente da te maestro!”
Milan’s Festival of Sant’Ambrogio is on Dec. 7
Once a year, on Dec. 7, Milan (Lombardy), Italy, celebrates its patron saint, Saint Ambrose (Sant’Ambrogio), with a fair called: “O bei O bei.” This festival takes place on the streets in the area surrounding the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio in the center of Milan. The streets are full of displays where you can find antique furniture and handicrafts and wife variety of food. In fact, you can
find cured meats, cheese, sweets and the customary wine of the day, vin brulé, which is enjoyed with roasted chestnuts - just what you need to warm up on a cold day. There is a special morning Mass in the Duomo cathedral. The festivities actually start two days earlier and culminate with the fair on Dec. 7 and overlap the opening of the opera season at La Scala.
The Sicilian city of Paternò (Catania province) celebrates the Feast of St. Barbara during the first week of December. St. Barbara is honored as the saint who saved the city from destruction during the fires, storms and eruptions of nearby Mount Etna. The celebration begins on Dec. 1 and continues for a week, but the big day is Dec. 4, which is the formally designated day. Paternò festival has been held since the 16th century when St.
Barbara appeared in a dream to a Benedictine nun in quarantine, and the nun begged her to save the city. Once the prayer was answered and the city was saved from the epidemic, St. Barbara was named Paternò’s co-patron saint along with St. Vincenzo. Along with the emotional religious ceremony and procession, the modern celebration includes sporting and musical events, and the biggest draw of all, a spectacular fireworks display set to music.
from page 15 the Virgin Mary with a procession led by the Order of the Knights of Malta to Piazza Mignanelli at the Colonna del’Immacolata in the southeastern section of the square. The 40-foot ancient column was discovered in 1777 under a monastery and was erected in this location in 1856. A statue of Mary was placed at the summit of the column. After the Pope speaks and
prayers are said, a choir sings and one lucky fireman gets to place a wreath of flowers at the top of the column on the statue of Mary, usually on her extended arm. The Holy Father blesses a basket of roses that is placed at the base of the column, and the Mayor of Rome and other civic department heads follow suit. In the evening, there is a concert at the Basilica of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli on Capitoline Hill.
St. Barbara Day celebrated in Paternò, Sicily in early December
Feast Day of Immaculate Conception is a national holiday in Italy
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Report from the Italian Immersion Program at Victory K-8
Our K4 teacher, Angela Bozano, is currently offering an Italian language class to the entire Victory staff. Angela Bozano plans her lessons so the staff is able to support students in the immersion classrooms. Every month there is a cooking lesson in the school culinary area. The staff loves attempting to use the language. Students in Bozano’s K4 are learning to write their own names. It is nice to see how thrilled students get when they recognize letters. The students are very curious and attentive to what is happening in class. They participated in a pumpkin picking event organized by the school. Together, with Rita DeFilippis’s students, they prepared frosting in the school culinary room for the Harvest Celebration. They were adorable while walking down to the culinary room wearing their chef’s hats. In October, the K5 students continued to learn the sounds of the letters and new words. They learned about the differences between apples and pumpkins and participated in some experiments. The class went on a field trip to Swan’s Pumpkin Farm where they were able to pick their own pumpkins. The entire class was able to taste the apples and pumpkin seeds that they roasted in the school culi-
nary area. Everyone loved the pumpkin pie their teacher Sabrina Lupoli baked. Students are learning to name and identify shapes during math. They learned useful vocabulary related to fire safety since October was “Fire Safety” month. They applied their new knowledge of shapes when they created fire trucks using various shapes. On Oct. 27, the students learned to write words about Halloween and decorated masks for a schoolwide costume parade. Later that evening, some students attended the Monster Mash dance with their families. Needless to say, they had a great time. Under the guidance of Enrica Fracchia-Miller, students in first grade continued their work on fables, specifically stories about autumn, the fruits of fall, and Halloween. In math, they are beginning to correlate addition and subtraction. In science, they studied one of the fall fruits, the apple, and in social studies, they discussed firefighters and fire safety. In the kitchen, the students had a great time making caramel apples and pudding for Halloween. A special thank you to Erik Markowski for helping with the culinary activities. Another special thank you to Amy Domagalski for
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including the first graders when working on the decorations for the SHARP Literacy Christmas tree that will be displayed at Cathedral Square Park this winter. Annette Robertson’s class of 25 stellar students is off to a great year. In math, they have been learning the operation of multiplication and using Italian math vocabulary in problem solving. The students wrote their own identification cards with a brand new 3rd grade photo. They are enjoying a review of the Italian vocabulary
learned in the past four years and there are four new students who are enjoying learning Italian for the first time. One of the students is from Baghdad. Second graders will be integrating MPS’s Year of the Arts initiative all year. This month, they took a field trip to the Milwaukee Symphony and the following day students visited the Oriental Theater to view a series of shorts put on by the Milwaukee Film Festival. Cathy Laurenzi’s 4th grade class went on a learning journey to Discovery World. Students learned how energy travels through light and air. They also had an opportunity to explore the Les Paul exhibit that offered a hands-on experience with sound waves. Rita DeFilippis’s 5th grade class has begun studying the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and UN Human Rights to begin our preparation for our class Presidential Election. Students have begun to explore the role of government in the lives of citizens, and the obligation the government has to uphold rights and freedoms for citizens, as well as making important decisions to benefit society. – Submitted by Elizabeth Zizzo and Angela Bozano
DECEMBER 2017 – PAGE 19
BUON NATALE A TUTTI!
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