July/August 2016 - Section A by Italian Community Center

ITALIAN TIMES THE

Published 11 times annually by the Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202 www.ICCMilwaukee.com

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JULY/AUGUST 2016 • VOL. 38, NO. 2 SECTION A

Excitement growing for Festa Italiana, July 22-24

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Times photos by Joe Spasiano, Paul Inzeo, Tim Townsend, Craig Schoenung and Tom Hemman

A message from Giuseppe Vella, ICC President and 2016 Festa General Chairman

Volunteers and sponsors are among keys to a successful Festa

Without the thousands of volunteers who step forth each year, with their undying pride in their Italian heritage and their love for Festa Italiana, we would not be discussing, with such great anticipation, the 39th annual Festa! As the General Chairman of Festa 2016 and the President of the Italian Community Center, I implore all of our volunteers – young and old, veteran and newcomer – to do all that you can again to support our festival to the fullest. We need you if you are returning to do the same job you have done the last 10, 20 or 30 years. Every volunteer position is important, and we want you to know your efforts are greatly appreciated. We need you because you have offered to take on a new position at Festa this year. Your willingness to be versatile and assist us in a new area is vitally important to us. We need you when you are not volunteering to attend Festa, sup-

port our vendors and our raffle. We need you even if you can no longer volunteer due to your age, health or impairment, but are doing everything you can to tell your family and friends about Festa. Your demonstration of your pride in your being Italian and your love for Festa helps us to draw bigger crowds, who discover that your enthusiasm is genuine and sincere.

Our planning and budgeting process this year has been intense as many of you can attest. Since we started our planning for the 2016 Festa, many of you have already logged in hundreds of hours in a voluntary basis to help us succeed. For this, you have my heartfelt thanks!

Our sponsors On behalf of everyone who is involved in Festa, I want to say that we are most grateful for the many corporate donations and sponsorships we have received this year. The support of the business community or private donors is

essential to putting on an event like ours. We made wider efforts this year to acquire new sponsors and community support. Through the efforts of Betty Puccio, Kate

Schroeder and others, we have expanded our sponsorship base significantly, which should go a long way toward improving our bottom line. Please turn to page 44A

Cosa c’è dentro? What’s inside?

An interview with singer Jackie Evancho page 4A

Festa collecting food for Hungry Task Force page 32A

Tuscan flag throwers eager to return page 7A

What’s cooking at ‘La ‘Cucina’ Showcase page 34A

Win the ‘Golden Spoon’ in recipe contest page 6A Festa’s free carnival rides are back page 8A

Treasures of Pompeii Church page 33A

Advance tickets info page 9A

Could you win Festa’s Cannoli-Eating Contest? page 35A

Celebrating 90 years of Balistreri’s Sendik’s page 18A

Relax and enjoy Italian cinema

Performing at the 2016 Festa Italiana pages 10A-16A A Festa love story

page 21A

Fr. Mike Hammer to lead Festa Mass page 31A

Saluting Italy’s Umbria Region pages 36A-37A Ride a gondola

page 38A page 39A

Lombardi Walk/Run to tackle cancer page 40A

PAGE 2 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

THE ITALIAN TIMES

‘When you eat Italian, you are Italian’ A sneak peek at what’s to eat at Festa

by Lauren Sutton Festa Italiana will be here in less than a month. That seems like an eternity when you had a “taste” of the incredible deliciousness at “A Taste of Italy” back in April. Alas, I have been tasked with the cruel duty of enticing your taste buds until Festa Italiana starts July 22nd. Luckily, Festa brings back some familiar faces and a few newcomers. Here’s the list of vendors: Pizza, Alioto’s Angelo’s Reataurant of Wauwatosa, Baked Custom Desserts, Badger Corn, Cedar Crest Ice Cream, Charcoal Grill, Carini’s La Conca d’Oro, Catalano Fruit/Fruit Cup/Lemonade, Cataldo’s, Crocker Root Beer Barrels, Festa Sausage, Gelateria Italiana, Glorioso’s Italian Market, Hawaiian Shave Ice of Milwaukee, Koepsell’s Popcorn, Divino Wine & Dine, Lemon Chill, Mille’s Spaghetti Factory, Milwaukee Ice Cream Company, Nuts for You, Palermo’s Pizza, Papa Luigi’s, Pietro’s Pizza, Saz’s, Scrima’s Wood Fired Pizza, Peter Sciortino Bakery, Peter Sciortino Cafe, Sil’s Mini Donuts, Trattoria di Carlo and Venice Club. This year’s new faces include: Baked Custom Desserts, Cedar Crest Ice Cream, Charcoal Grill and Scrima’s Wood Fired Pizza, which brings the total vendors to a whopping 30. It is fair to say that there is something for everyone. For appetizers/side dishes: You can find fried mushrooms, fried zucchini sticks, and fried cheese ravioli at Mille’s Spaghetti Factory. Fried ravioli can also be found at Pietro’s Pizza and Trattoria di Carlo. For mozzarella sticks and bruschetta, head to Trattoria di Carlo’s booth. Alioto’s has garlic breadsticks, french fries, and Roman Potato Chips. Saz’s booth has white cheddar cheese curds and sour cream and chive fries. Lemon

Chill has stuffed gourmet pretzels and pretzels with cheese. Venice Club is selling meat and cheese platters for the more traditional antipasto. For the Carnivore Fest-er: Get your chicken parms at Mille’s Spaghetti Factory and Venice Club. Meatball sandwiches can be found at Saz’s, Glorioso’s Italian Market, and Angelo’s Pizza booths. Saz’s brings the Sicilian spiedini bites, their braised pulled pork sandwich, and chicken tenders. Glorioso’s Italian Market brings the Italian beef, Philly Italian beef, as well as their pepperoni calzone. Carini’s La Conca D’Oro perfects their Sicilian pork sandwich and meatballs on a stick. Alioto’s features Italian sausage sliders, chicken Romano sandwich, and Italian beef. Trattoria di Carlo is providing tomato basil chicken sausage sandwiches. Angelo’s Pizza has their hot Italian sub and Sicilian chicken

wings. Charcoal Grill brings the traditional American fair food of ham-

burgers, brat burgers, turkey legs, whole chicken, and ribs. Try their Please turn to page 28A

More than 30 restaurants, bakeries, caterers and purveyors will be serving a wide variety of Italian food and beverages during the three days of Festa Italiana. Sometimes, the lines outside the booths can look long like this picture shows, but the lines tend to move quickly as the vendors are experienced and well prepared for large crowds. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

THE ITALIAN TIMES

631 E. Chicago St. Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916 (414) 223-2180 Published 11 times annually

Visit Our Booth at Festa Italiana on the North End.

Publisher . . . Italian Community Center ICC President . . . . . . . . .Giuseppe Vella Newspaper Committee Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . . Blaise DiPronio Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thomas Hemman Advertising Sales Manager . . . . . . . . . . . .Thomas Hemman Advertising Sales Representative . . . . . . Faye Ann Kessler Editorial Contributors, Reporters and Columnists . . . . . . .Blaise Di Pronio, Donato Di Pronio, Pam Pietravalle, Lorraine Sutton, Susan Christiansen, Barbara Collignon, Roberto Ciampi, Paul Salsini, Christina Ziino and the late Mario A. Carini Staff Photographers. . . . . . .Joe Spasiano, and Tom Hemman

Featuring: Arancini (Rice Balls) with Meat or Spinach

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.

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Chicken Spiedini Fried Eggplant Caesar Salad Chicken Caesar Salad Chicken Asiago Panini New Item – Tuscan Specialty: Wild Boar Ragu with Pasta JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 3, SECTION A

‘The best things come in small packages’

An interview with Italian American prodigy and Festa Italiana headliner Jackie Evancho

by Lauren Sutton Jackie Evancho said it herself, and boy does she deliver. Just watch her sing, well, anything, and you will be forced to lift your jaw back up from your table. The 15-year-old with an old soul has performed with her idol, Andrea Bocelli, in Italy, appeared on PBS specials, sang the National Anthem at a Pittsburgh Pirates game and released albums, all while going on tour and balancing her education. On Sunday, July 24, she is performing at Festa Italiana. An interview with her proved to be full of great surprises. For example, Jackie is proud of being one-quarter Italian on her mother’s side. She loves to sing in Italian. And her favorite Italian food? Spaghetti –what else? LS: Now I read that you became interested in music after seeing the

Get your tickets now for Jackie Evancho concert

Don’t miss soprano prodigy Jackie Evancho at Festa Italiana on Sunday, July 24 at 7 p.m. in the BMO Harris Pavilion. Tickets are $78, $48 and $22. Italian Community Center mem-

Jackie Evancho

movie “Phantom of the Opera”, and after that, you entered talent contests at around 8 years old. What

was it about that movie that inspired you? Jackie: I have no idea. I was so young. I think it was the way the notes worked. There was a certain kind of chord and the movie was full of beautiful notes that captivated me. LS: How did you know you could sing? Jackie: I really don’t know. Everyone sings a little. (Laughs) I

Congratulations to Festa Italiana on 39 wonderful years!

Enjoy all the great entertainment, Jireworks and family-fun activities that Festa has to offer. Congratulations and best wishes to ICC President/Festa General Chair Joe Vella and Festa managers and volunteers. Major Goolsby’s 340 W. Kilbourn Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53203 (414) 271-3414 Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Major-Goolsbys

PAGE 4 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

bers can receive a $10 discount on the $48 tickets by using the code FESTA. Purchase your tickets at www.ticketmaster.com or the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office.

didn’t expect to be good. LS: Wow! Well, many people do not know this, but you actually released your own debut album before appearing on “America’s Got Talent,” which placed No. 2 on the Billboard Classical Albums chart. That’s quite an accomplishment! Jackie: Yes. Thank you! LS: I remember seeing you on “America’s Got Talent” and it seems like things happened very quickly for you after that. People were stunned at how big your voice was at, what, 9? How did you process your overnight success at such a young age? How did you handle your new stardom? Jackie: I didn’t really process that at the time. I try to live in the moment. I stayed in Los Angeles that night because “America’s Got Talent” tapes you twice. Someone in the show came up to me to say that I needed to sing again, as some people didn’t believe that it was me singing. I still had a lot of fun! LS: And you got Piers Morgan to give you a huge compliment: To quote him: “I have never seen an act, on this show or the British show or any of the other talent shows in the world, with more potential than Jackie Evancho. That was perfection. Perfection!” He’s a pretty tough critic. How did you feel after he said that? Is he as grumpy as he comes across? Jackie: (Laughs) I was happy to be that person [that received his compliment] and was really excited about my performance. He is very critical, but a very nice person. LS: How did you manage your singing gigs and going to school? Jackie: I tell the school when I am going to be gone and they give me my work ahead of time. LS: Good. School’s very important. Jackie: (Laughs) Yes. LS: Some of your songs have included ballads in Italian, including “O Mio Babbino Caro” and “Con te partiro”. How hard is it to sing in another language? Jackie: It’s really easy. It could be my singer’s ear, but it’s easy for me to pick up accents and learn languages. The problem with me is maintaining the language in my head. I cannot read music, so I have to learn the accent and the language. LS: In singing such favorites as “When I Fall in Love”, “Somewhere”, “Can You Feel The Love Tonight?”, which song resonates with you the most? Do you have a favorite? Jackie: I don’t have a favorite, but I can pick up things that resonate in the song I am singing. Some of the songs make me feel a certain way, and I just remember that. LS: I know you’ve also dabbled Please turn to page 14A

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JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 5, SECTION A

Make an Italian baked good that impresses people? Enter Festa’s ‘Chef’s Choice Recipe Contest’

Festa Italiana is calling upon amateur cooks everywhere to participate in its third annual “Chef’s Choice Recipe Contest,” which will take place on Sunday, July 24 at the Cucina Showcase. This year, Festa organizers have made some new and exciting changes to the contest. Instead of accepting recipes for Italian appetizers, organizers are calling for favorite baked goods recipes, including cookies, cakes and bread. Contestants can bring their favorite baked items to the Cucina Showcase on July 24 between 1 and 4 p.m. along with the recipes for each item. No prepared mixes can be used, and entries should be brought in disposable containers. At approximately 6 p.m., a panel of judges will sample each entry in front of a live audience. Each entry will be judged on taste and appearance. The winner of the Chef’s Choice Recipe Contest will receive the third “Golden Spoon Award,” along with food-related prizes. When entering your submission, please provide the following information: • Cook’s name. • Cook’s email address. • Cook’s address and phone number. • Recipe title and details including ingredients, measurements, step-by-step preparation, cooking directions, amount of servings, and a photo of the baked good as a finished product. Persons with questions should contact Cucina Manager Marie Andaloro Lieber at this email address: marie@tshglaw.com or call 414-708-1607. More information is also available at http://festaitaliana.com/cucinashowcase/chefs-recipe-contest.

ICC members: Get your free Festa tickets

PAGE 6 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

As a benefit of membership in the Italian Community Center, each member is entitled to four free Festa Italiana tickets, which are good for admission to the festival any one of the three days. Those with a family membership are entitled to eight free tickets. There are two ways for members to obtain these member-only tickets. Those members who wish to pick up their tickets in person can stop in at the ICC office reception desk weekdays between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Be sure to bring your current membership card with you. You will be asked to present the card. Those members who can’t pick up their tickets in person can order them through the mail. You must include a self-addressed, stamped return envelope. Ticket requests that do not have the return envelope will not be processed. Orders must be received by Tuesday, July 5 to allow time for processing and delivery to your residence. Festa is July 22-24 on the Summerfest grounds. Anyone with questions can call 414-223-2180.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Flag throwers from Tuscany eager to return for Festa 2016

by Paul Salsini It has been a busy year for members of the Sbandieratori dei Borghi e Sestieri Fiorentini, but the group of flag throwers from outside of Florence are eager to cap it off by returning to Milwaukee for Festa Italiana in Milwaukee, July 22-24. The group dazzled crowds last year with their intricate exhibitions of tossing colorful flags high in the air, their outstanding medieval costumes, and the booming sounds of their musicians. But also, Festa-goers agreed, they were just fun guys. This year, the flag throwers will perform daily on the T.J. Bartolotta Sports Court from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., July 22; from 8 to 9 p.m., July 23, and from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., July 24. They will also put on spontaneous performances in open areas of the grounds. Via emails, a leader of the group who traveled to Milwaukee in 2015 took time to answer The Italian Times’ questions. Italian Times: Last year was your 50th anniversary. What were the special observances for that? Andrea Camiciottoli: Last year, we had several celebrations for our anniversary. We published a book with our history, we had a photo exhibition and we organized a special event in our city with some of the groups we have been in touch with for many years. It was an opportunity to recall our roots and our values, to consider where we have come from and to think about what we are going to do in the future. We realized that before the members who now compose the group, there have been several important people before us, and now we have the duty to leave something important to the next generation. IT: What have you been doing since you were in Milwaukee last July? Where have you performed? AC: Last summer we did the summer camp at Elba Island in Tuscany. We spent a week to practice and lived some days together. We performed in San Gimignano and in other cities. I remember the Italian Festival in Denver and other important celebrations, but

Saluti Festa Italiana

Sbandieratori dei Borghi e Sestieri Fiorentini playing on the Sports Court at Festa 2015. (Times photo by Tim Townsend)

above all I have in my heart the celebration for the Festival de Colombo in Porto Santo, a small island in the Atlantic Ocean where Christopher Columbus lived for some years and the place where he dreamed of a trip to the west, across the ocean. It was a wonderful experience. IT: Are there new members of your team? Who are they? AC: The group is composed of about 100 elements, and for this reason, the teams we send around the world are composed of different people. This year, you will have in Milwaukee some of the young flag throwers and musicians, but at the Please turn to page 16A

(Times photo by Paul Inzeo)

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THE ITALIAN TIMES

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 7, SECTION A

Festa brings back free carnival rides

Where else will you find free carnival rides, other than Festa Italiana? Festa officials are pleased to bring them back for the 2016 festival, Friday, July 22 through Sunday, July 24. The ride operator is the same as last year: Lake Enterprises, a family owned carnival with a home location in Eagle, Wisconsin. The Lake family has been in the entertainment industry since the 1930s when it all began with a traveling Penny Arcade. The company is now run by Mark Lake and his children, Beau and Lindsey.

This year, Lake Enterprises will be bringing to Festa these rides: • Tilt-A-Whirl • Paratrooper • Round Up • Go-Gater • Helicopters • Rio Grande Train • Glasshouse “We are happy to be back at Festa and look forward to seeing a lot of happy faces,” Lake said. The rides can be found on the north end of the Festa grounds. Your family will have as much fun as the Lake family has in bringing all of the rides to you.

Times photo by Joe Spasiano

Best Wishes to Festa Italiana 2016

Times photo by Joe Spasiano Photo provided by Lake Enterprises

Our best wishes to the Italian Community Center and Festa Italiana on 38 great years!

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THE ITALIAN TIMES

Get your advance Festa tickets now

Can’t wait for Festa Italiana? Then get your advance admission tickets now. Festa officials have kept the price for an advance admission ticket for the 2016 festival the same as the last four years – just $10. That’s a $3 saving over the gate admission price. The 39th annual Festa is Friday, July 22 through Sunday, July 24 at Henry W. Maier Festival Park (Summerfest grounds). The easiest way to order advance tickets – good for admission any of the three days – is to go to http://festaitaliana.com and purchase them with a credit card. Once on the website, go to the “Ticket” link, follow the instructions and

print your order. These online ticket-purchasing opportunities will be available through Thursday, July 21. There are three other ways you can get your advance tickets. • Stop in at the Festa Italiana office at the Italian Community Center, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, during regular business hours (7 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday). Advance tickets will be sold at the ICC through July 21. • Call the ICC at 414-223-2180 and have your credit card ready. Your tickets will be mailed to you. This offer ends Monday, July 11 to allow staff the time that is neces-

Who will be Festa 2016 “Italian Idol”?

Think you have the vocal chops to be this year’s Italian Idol? One of Festa Italiana’s most popular features – the Italian Idol competition – is back again this year on the Piazza Stage on the Summerfest grounds, Friday, July 22 through Sunday, July 24. Presented by WFA Asset Management Corporation (Nick Enea, President) and supporting sponsor R&R Insurance (Jeff Thiel, Account Executive), Italian Idol is an amateur singing contest featuring all genres of music. Contestants must be 14 years of age and have vocal ability. On-site registration begins on Friday and Saturday, at 6 p.m., and will continue until there are 16 registered contestants for that evening’s show. At the time of registration, competitors will select their songs to perform from the extensive karaoke repertoire of Kim Marie and will compete in random order. A panel of judges will select four finalists and an alternate from the Friday and Saturday shows. These finalists will receive return tickets to Festa Italiana to compete for the cash prizes at the Sunday evening show. The eight finalists will sing for a chance to win $1,000 in cash prizes on Sunday night. This year, the prizes are: $500 for first prize, $300 for second prize and $200 for third prize. In the Sunday show, finalists will perform two songs. The first song will be of the contestant’s own choosing. The second song will be a portion of an Italian song selected by the organizers of the competition. “Competitors are encouraged to bring friends and family to show their support. Audience reaction has an impact on the judges’ scoring”, says Andrew Etier, Italian Idol co-manager. Italian Idol has always provided fun, entertainment, and lots of excitement. Serving as the show’s emcee since its beginning, Sandy Winard looks forward to another great competition, “Every year, we have more people wanting to compete in Italian Idol, and many audience members from the Friday and Saturday shows return for the Sunday show to cheer on their favorite.” Winard added, “I’m always as excited as everyone else when I’m handed the list of winners to announce.” For more details, contact Sandy Winard at swinard@wi.rr.com, or call 262-573-7222. Italian Idol is managed, and

THE ITALIAN TIMES

emceed by Sandy Winard. Andrew Etier, who has served on the Italian Idol production staff for the past 10 years, will be assisting as this year’s co-manager.

sary to process all of the orders. • You can also use the form that accompanies this article to order your advance admission tickets. Persons using the advance ticket order form must have their envelope postmarked by July 11. As always, children 12 and

younger are admitted to Festa for free when accompanied by an adult. No special ticket is needed for any of the entertainments acts in this year’s lineup. The festival hours are 11:30 a.m. – midnight, Friday and Saturday and 11:30 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sunday.

ORDER YOUR MONEY-SAVING ADVANCE TICKETS TO FESTA ITALIANA 2016

Name(s) ____________________________________________________

Address _____________________________________________________

City, State, Zip _______________________________________________

Phone ________________ Email _________________________________ I/we want to order _____ advance tickets @ $10.00 each.

Total amount enclosed: $________________________________________

Payment by check, money order and credit card accepted.

Credit Card No. _______________________________________________

Credit Card Expiration Date _____________________________________

Mail this form with your payment to Festa Italiana, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202. Checks or money orders are payable to Festa Italiana. Your advance tickets will be mailed to you. Requests for advance tickets must be received no later than July 11, 2016.

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JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 9, SECTION A

Enjoy a variety of entertainment across the Festa grounds

While it is next to impossible to satisfy everyone’s taste in music, Festa officials have given a good shot at it this year. The entertainment lineup includes acts performing numerous musical genres and styles. This article gives you a sneak preview of nearly all of the acts performing on stages, including the Calypso Lemonade Stage, the Miller Lite Stage, the Palermo’s Pizza Stage, the Cucina & Piazza Stage, the T.J. Bartolotta Sports Court/Stage, and strolling musicians. Look for separate stories in this section on these acts: Sbandieratori dei Borghi e Sestieri Fiorentini, the flag-throwing troupe from Figline Valdarno, Italy; the Jackie Evancho concert on Sunday, July 24 at the BMO Harris Pavilion, which requires a special admission ticket; twin brothers Will & Anthony; Tradizione Vivente, the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee, the Italian Idol contest; and the Children’s Stage entertainers. Festa Italiana takes place Friday, July 22 through Sunday, July 24 on the Summerfest grounds. READY TO ENTERTAIN YOU • Bostyx featuring David Victor formerly of Boston on Saturday at 9 p.m. on the Calypso Lemonade Stage. What do you get when you combine all the smash hit music of two great American classic rock artists Boston and Styx into one powerpacked show? The answer is Bostyx, a completely unique act that performs the feel-good, highlypolished hit music which dominated radio in the 1970s and 1980s. Bostyx features lead vocalist and guitarist David Victor, formerly of the actual multi-platinum band Boston, and a spectacular lineup of Los Angeles’ finest professional musicians. • John Michael Coppola’s A Jersey Voice followed by The Four C Notes: Recreating the Music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons on Friday and Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 6:30 p.m.. All shows are on the Calypso Lemonade Stage. John Michael Coppola is best known for his appearance in Chicago’s Broadway smash hit, Jersey Boys. He has since gone on to create an irresistible concert of everyone’s favorite tunes from Sinatra to Springsteen and everyone in between, including artists

such as Dion & The Belmonts, Michael Bublè, The Beatles, The Blues Brothers, Stevie Wonder and Queen, to name a few. Immediately following, the Midwest’s only tribute dedicated to recreating the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, The Four C Notes – created by Coppola – will take the stage. Audiences at Festa can sing along with The Four C Notes to “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t’ Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” and “Let’s Hang On,” to name a few favorites. • Hotel California: The Original Tribute to The Eagles on Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 8:30 p.m. on the Calypso Lemonade Stage. With over 25 years of international touring experience under its belts, Hotel California is the original Eagles tribute show in North America. Audiences have acclaimed Hotel California for having the closest sound to Don Henley of the Eagles. Close your eyes and you’d swear it was The Eagles, note for note. Hotel California performs such Eagles hits as “Take it to the Limit,” “Desperado,” “One of These Nights,” “Heartache Tonight” and “Hotel California.” • The Bronx Wanderers on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 9 p.m. on the Miller Lite Stage. One of Festa’s most popular acts in recent years, this father and sons act is living the American rock ‘n’ roll dream. Captivating fans across the country, The Bronx Wanderers deliver the best of America’s rock ‘n’ roll songbook, from the first generation right through the music of today. Former gold-record producer Yo’ Vinny along with sons Vinny “The Kid” and Nicky “Stix” form the heart and soul of the band that delivers a non-stop barrage of hit after hit. When the 20-year-olds in the crowd are jumping right alongside the 70-year-olds, you know it’s

John Michael Coppola

The Four C Notes: Recreating the Music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

PAGE 10 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

Vinny “The Kid”, Yo’ Vinny and Nicky “Stix, the family members of the Bronx Wanderers

no ordinary concert. • The Sicilian Tenors – Aaron Caruso, Elio Scaccio and Sam Vitale on Saturday and

Sunday at 9 p.m. on the Palermo’s Pizza Stage. Also Aaron Caruso performance: Saturday at 3 p.m. on Continued on page 11A

The Sicilian Tenors – Aaron Caruso, Elio Scaccio and Sam Vitale

THE ITALIAN TIMES

from page 10A the Palermo’s Pizza Stage; Elio Scaccio performance: Sunday at 5 p.m. on the Palermo’s Pizza Stage. The Sicilian Tenors bring together three marvelous tenor voices, each singing his own interpretation of the world’s best music in a recital format. The Sicilian Tenors will take Festa audiences on a romantic journey from Hollywood to Broadway to Italy with operatic voices singing a wide variety of marvelous songs that America loves. Combined with light-hearted fun, this is a concert for all ages to enjoy. • Dean Martin Tribute – Vocalist Joe Scalissi on Friday at 4:30 p.m. on the Palermo’s Pizza Stage, Saturday at 3 p.m. on the Miller Lite Stage and Sunday at 6:30 p.m. on the Miller Lite Stage. Joe Scalissi, a Midwesterner of Italian heritage, is an internationally recognized entertainer, best known for his tribute to Dean Martin. Scalissi has garnered praise from countless audiences, talent scouts and agents across the country as perhaps the most authentic and accurate portrayal of Dean Martin known today.

returned to Italy for additional training to perfect his Neapolitan style of singing. Examples of that style can be heard on the four albums he has produced: “Core N’ “Canta Napoli,” Grato,” “Neapolitan Classics” and “Smile.” The list of selections on each CD can be found at the singer’s website, www.tonyspavone.com. Several years ago, he became the restaurateur of Tony Spavone’s Ristorante in Bloomingdale, Ill. He often performs for his dinner guests.

The Russo Brothers

Tony Spavone

Joe Scalissi

• Michéal Castaldo on Saturday and Sunday at 7 p.m. Palermo’s Pizza Stage. Michéal made a lasting impression on Festa-goers in 2013 and is now back in 2016. Representing the living embodiment of authentic Italian culture for modern North Americans, Michéal is an accomplished pop-classical crossover singer of his native songs and a purveyor of his family-made, heirloom Italian luxury products in North America. He is a native of the Calabria region of Italy.

• The University of Wisconsin Marching Band on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m. at the T.J. Bartolotta Sports Court. Members of the UW Marching Band will be performing a 5th Quarter performance for Festagoers on Saturday and Sunday. Some of these students have represented the University of Wisconsin at the Holiday Bowl for football, at the Sweet 16 for Men’s Basketball, and Women’s Hockey Frozen Four. The Wisconsin Band maintains a high profile among musicians and Badger enthusiasts throughout the state and region. • Doo-Wop Daddies on Friday at noon and at 1 p.m., both Saturday and Sunday on the Calypso Lemonade Stage. Based in Milwaukee, the DooWop Daddies capture the demanding vocal styles of doo-wop music with unsurpassed excellence that has allowed the group to remain a popular drawing for more than three decades. While personnel have changed over the years, the sound remains first-rate, and their fans love it. • The Russo Brothers & The Paesans on Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 3 p.m. and Sunday at Continued on page 12A

Doo-Wop Daddies

Michéal Castaldo

• Tony Spavone on Friday at 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday at 5 p.m. on the Miller Lite Stage. Spavone received classical music training at the Conservatory of Chicago as a young man. Later, he

THE ITALIAN TIMES

The University of Wisconsin Marching Band

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 11, SECTION A

Performing at Festa Italiana 2016

from page 11A 4:30 p.m. on the Calypso Lemonade Stage. The Russo Brothers perform annually at Festa Italiana. One reason why they perform each Festa is because they are so wildly entertaining and enjoyed by people of all ages. Their band is made up of guitar, bass, drums, saxophone, trumpet, and trombone. The Russo Brothers feature Nick, 28, and Dominic, 24, Italian-American brothers, who grew up right outside of Milwaukee and have been playing at Festa since they were 8 and 4 years old, respectively. Their shows mix Italian favorites – Sinatra, Martin, Pavarotti – with today’s favorite upbeat music and some good comedy, too. • Cold Sweat & The Brew City Horns on Friday at 9 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. on the Calypso Lemonade Stage. Cold Sweat features some of the area’s best musicians, multiple dynamic vocalists and the renowned three piece horn section, the Brew City Horns. Cold Sweat’s energy, talent and non-stop fun will infect you until you can’t help joining in. Their ultimate strength is their versatility, playing danceable music that draws from many genres and eras - truly providing that rare “something for everyone” appeal. • Noyz Boyz & Gyrlz on Friday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. on the Miller Lite Stage. The Noyz Boyz & Gyrlz features three vocalists and a 10-piece horn section. They specialize in rhythm and blues, rock and roll, and straight out blues music, along with covers from the 1950s through the present. Italian Community Center members are likely to recognize Laura Easey-Jones as one of the vocalists. • Tom Sorce Band and special guest vocalists on Friday at 1 p.m. on Palermo’s Pizza Stage and 7 p.m. on the Piazza Stage; Saturday at 12:30 p.m. on the Palermo’s Pizza Stage and 7 p.m. on the Piazza Stage; and Sunday at 7 p.m. on the Piazza Stage. Versatile guitar and music producer Tom Sorce is bringing some of the area’s most respected musicians and vocalists with him for the Festa shows. The band includes Jeff Stoll (keyboards), Mike Miller (sax), Brian Ford (drums) and his son, Tom (drums). Vocalist Anita Stemper will perform with Sorce’s group at both shows on Friday and the afternoon show on Saturday. Tom Anthony will sing with the band on Saturday night. Taking the stage with them on Sunday

The Festival Strings, a musical ensemble under the direction of Becky Arthurs and Jacqueline Crema, is returning to Festa Italiana for the fifth consecutive year. The ensemble came into existence through a Milwaukee Public Schools’ summer program. The group features both young and older musicians who enjoy performing.

Noyz Boyz & Gyrlz

The Tom Sorce Band with vocalist Janet Planet

Anita Stemper

night will be jazz recording artist Janet Planet. Jazz fans will want to see these shows. Anita’s Dance Group on Friday at 4:30 p.m., 9 p.m. on Saturday and 8:30 p.m. on Sunday at the T.J. Bartolotta Sports Court. An annual participating act at

The Sicilian Serenaders

PAGE 12 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

Tom Anthony

Festa Italiana, Anita’s Dance Group is comprised of young amateur dancers, who perform for programs within the state and across the nation. The group features dancers from kindergarten age through high school seniors. Their programs are varied and are always crowd-pleasers. Festival Strings on Sunday at 1 and 4:30 p.m. on the T.J. Bartolotta Sports Court.

Strolling musicians and dancers There will also be two strolling musician groups and another dance group appearing at Festa. These are entertainers who are not performing on any stage but rather in open areas of the grounds such as the area between the Mid Gate and the Festa information booth, around the north end patio dining area and in the piazza. Among the groups of strolling musicians will be the Sicilian Serenaders, featuring Peter Balistrieri and Tom and Ted Pappalardo. Balistrieri and the Pappalardo brothers are carrying on the strolling musician tradition started by their fathers, Frank Balistrieri and Joe Pappalardo, more than 60 years ago. Balistrieri said that they are certain to be playing their Italian and Sicilian music near the Mid Gate each day at 5:30 p.m. and afterward in and around the north end patio dining area. The Sicilian Serenaders, who perform regularly at Festa, are one of the groups that can be heard each year at the Italian Community Center’s “A Taste of Italy” in April. La Società di San Giuseppe sponsored that appearance of the group. Another group of strolling musicians are John Carini and Ron Erskine, known as the Italian Serenaders. This duo has a link to the original Sicilian Serenaders in the person of accordionist John Carini. He played for two decades alongside the late Frank Balistrieri, who played guitar and sang. When the Italian Serenaders play at Festa, Carini is joined by guitarist Ron Erskine. Carini, a native of Porticello in Italy’s Sicily region, has been playing accordion since he was 14 years old. During his career, he has written big band arrangements and music for jingles. Erskine’s wife, the former Domenica DiSalvo, is also a native of Porticello. Carini and Erskine started working together in the early 1980s. Look for the Festa Regional Dancers performing in the area around the Mid Gate and other open spaces on the grounds. The Festa Regional Dancers are a group of 12 girls who take pride in their Continued on page 13A

The Italian Serenaders

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Famed duo Will and Anthony Nunziata to perform twice at Festa

by Paul Salsini Identical twins Will and Anthony Nunziata have come a long way since they sang in a choir in nursery school. They’ve sung with the Boston Pops, made a splash in New York cabarets, released a CD and performed in symphony halls around the world. In December, they’ll make their debut at Carnegie Hall. Now, these internationally acclaimed artists will bring their program of Broadway, pop and Italian songs to Festa Italiana, performing on the Miller Lite Stage at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 23, and 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 24. The Italian Times caught up with them for a joint interview. Italian Times: Tell us about your roots going back to Italy. The Nunziata side? On your mother’s side as well? Anthony: The Nunziatas come from Torre Annunziata, just outside of Naples, Italy. My greatgrandparents came to Ellis Island in 1911.

Will: Our mother’s side is German and Irish and a little French. Mom was born and raised in New York, and along with her amazing home cooking, everyone thinks she’s Italian. IT: What do you remember as some of the Italian customs in your home growing up in Brooklyn? Will: We were only there for the first six months of our lives, but the Italian customs continued when we moved to Westchester County, New York – meatballs, spaghetti, family, love and laughter every Sunday and especially during the holiday time. Anthony: Our family still plays bocce in the family backyard during our holiday get-togethers. Always a fun time. IT: How about Italian meals? Anthony: Gramma Nunziata made the best meatballs and gravy. Mom now uses Gramma’s recipes when cooking so the food tastes just the same as it did when I was a kid. Please turn to page 13A

Will & Anthony

See these acts perform at Festa

from page 12A Italian heritage. All of them are of Italian descent. The dancers’ costumes represent the various regions of their ancestors. They perform exclusively at Festa every year in an open area near the Mid Gate. The majority of the girls have been performing for more than five years now and have kept the traditional dances alive and fun-spirited through various routines, tambourines and audience tarantella. “Everyone loves to participate,” the dancers told The Italian Times. Each dancer is between the age of 15 and 25 and from the Milwaukee area. You can find them on Facebook at: https://www,facebook.com/p ages/Italian-Regional-RenaissanceDancers/150122611857777. Girls interested in joining the group can contact Alyssa LaBarbera at alysssa@alwaysdapper.com or at 414-339-7409.

FESTA’S ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Festa Regional Dancers

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 13, SECTION A

An interview with Italian American prodigy and Festa Italiana headliner Jackie Evancho

from page 4A into acting, including appearing on the show “Wizards of Waverly Place”, such films as “The Company You Keep”, “She’s Out of My League” and several stage plays. Will you continue acting? Jackie: Yes! I think I will continue acting, as well as modeling. I do want to eventually master singing. LS: You’re quite good already. Are you a perfectionist? Jackie: (Laughs) Yes. LS: You have worked with such big names as producer David Foster (who has produced songs for Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand). How does it feel working with such a music great? Jackie: David and I worked previously on one of my albums and we had a really great connection. We hope to continue working together in the future. LS: Speaking of Andrea Bocelli, you did a duet with him last year in Italy. What was it like to meet one of your idols and sing with him? Jackie: I actually don’t get starstruck, but I felt honored to sing with him. LS: I also read that you were honored by a cotillions‘ organization for being one of the “Ten Best-

Mannered People of 2011” for your humility and politeness. I, for one, don’t appreciate that as we see too many stars with big egos. Where did you get your politeness? Would you say that your humble roots in Pittsburgh helped to keep you down-to-earth? Jackie: Yes. I have also seen some stars that behave that way. I don’t want to be like that. My family, and my mom especially keeps me in check. If they see something that I am doing, they just warn me not to act like that. LS: I appreciate that. I think that politeness is so important and so understated. Jackie: Yes. Thank you. LS: I read that you think giving back is important. What are some charities or causes that are most important to you? Jackie: I love animals! I work with the Humane Society of the United States boycotting the seal trade. They get clubbed and it’s so sad. Seals are so cute. I am also a part of another program with the Humane Society called Mission: Humane. (This project gets grade school kids and teenagers involved in animal welfare projects.) LS: Very cool! I love animals, and yes, seals are so cute. What pets do you have?

BARTOLOTTA

Jackie: (Laughs) Yes they are! We have cats, two fish tanks, two lambs, and six dogs – two Pomeranians, two Papillons, a Cockapoo, and a Yorkie. LS: Wow! I guess you do love animals! Jackie: Oh yes. LS: Well, in closing here, you have accomplished so much already, but I’m curious – What’s on your plate for the next five years? What would you like to accomplish? Jackie: In addition to acting and modeling, I would like to make more music and branch out into pop music. I do want to make it clear to my fans that I will not be

leaving my classical roots. LS: I will definitely let them know that. And I mean, you’re young and I could see why you would want to try pop music. Jackie: (Laughs) Yes. LS: Well Jackie, thank you so much for your interview. We will see you in Milwaukee on July 24th! If you make it to the booths at Festa Italiana, the food is incredible. Jackie: Thank you! Ooh. I might have to try! Miss Jackie Evancho is America’s Sweetheart. She is everybody’s daughter, granddaughter, and cousin. A force to be reckoned with while still being down-toearth, and very polite. Jackie Evancho graces our lovely city at Festa Italiana on July 24. To get tickets, please visit festaitaliana.com.

In the meantime, feel free to YouTube her performances, including: her new song “Apocalypse”, “My Heart Will Go On”, and her America’s Got Talent performances. Bring your Kleenex.

Identical twins Will and Anthony to perform at Festa

from page 13A IT: Did you have big family getfavorite Italian songs? togethers? Will: I love the song Will: Yes, mainly during holi“Arrivederci Roma” – it’s hauntingdays or special occasions. Lots of ly beautiful and poignant. family members around the triAnthony: “O Sole Mio” – visits state area (New York, Connecticut, to Gramma Nunziata in Staten New Jersey) come to see our shows Island often began with us going in New York City often, so every into her indoor/outdoor porch, sitperformance seems a bit like a famting down on her couch (of course, ily affair. it was covered in plastic!) and she IT: Was Italian spoken at home? would sing Neopolitan songs like a Do you speak it now? lullabye… Anthony: Italian was sung to IT: You’ve been at at the Wilson me as a kid by Dad and Gramma. Center in Brookfield a couple of All those classic Neopolitan songs. times, but this is your first concert Classically trained in singing, I in Milwaukee. Excited? learned how to understand and Will: Of course! sing in Italian. I’m still working on Anthony: Very! speaking the language, getting IT: Can you give us a clue to tell there! which is Will and which is IT: Many of your concerts focus Anthony, or do you try to keep that on Broadway and pop songs, but a secret? will you also include Italian songs Will: Once people get to know in your program for Festa? us, the differences are extremely Will: Yes, we will be blending apparent. We weren’t raised wearall of the above… ing the same colors or outfits – ours Anthony: Expect some parents raised us as individuals, favorites, including “Funiculi which I am very grateful for. Funicula” and “O Sole Mio.” Anthony: I sing more of the IT: What are some of your other Italian songs.

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"May Festa live forever." PAGE 14 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

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THE ITALIAN TIMES

Florentine Opera performing acts from Italian masterpieces at Festa

by Blaise DiPronio Festa Italiana is excited to welcome back The Florentine Opera Company as it performs each day of the festival, July 22-24. The Florentine Opera, the sixth oldest professional opera company in America, was founded by the late Italian Community Center member John-David Anello as the Italian Opera Chorus in 1933 in Milwaukee’s old Third Ward. At Festa, the Florentine Opera will return to its roots by performing acts from two of Italian opera’s greatest masterpieces – Act 4 of Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto and Act 3 of Giacomo Puccini’s La Boheme. A cast of some of this country’s leading young opera singers will be led by tenor Rodell Rosel, who in addition to performing regularly with the Florentine, has essayed

featured roles at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Metropolitan Opera, the Los Angeles Opera, and the Houston Grand Opera. Rosel made quite a splash performing Italian favorites at last year’s Festa. The cast will be directed by the Florentine’s General Director William Florescu with music direction by the Florentine’s Scott Stewart. Complete with costumes, narrative and intermission, Festa audiences can sit back and enjoy the beautiful performance of The Florentine Opera. The Florentine Opera Company is Wisconsin’s oldest fully professional performing arts organization. It was named after the Italian city of Florence- the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region and birthplace of the Renaissance and home

CARAVELLA CEMENT

to masterpieces of art and architecture.

Founder Anello explained that its name was given “to honor the birthplace of opera as we know it. The craft originated in the Italian city of Florence, which has been known as a bustling center for the arts for many centuries.” Opera is part of the Western classical music tradition and, it did, in fact, start in Italy at the end of the 16th century with Jacopo Peri’s lost Dafne, produced in Florence in 1598. Here is the Florentine Opera’s performance schedule on the Palermo’s Pizza Stage at Festa:

• Friday, July 22: 7:30-9:30 p.m. • Saturday, July 23: 4:30-6:30 p.m. • Sunday, July 24: 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Tenor Rodell Rosel

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Coming Thursday, Nov. 26, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. –

The Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO will par cipate in the ICC’s Holiday Bou que in the Festa Ballroom! We are pleased to be among the artists and artisans who are selling beautifully crafted items. All the handmade goods sold at the UNICO Ladies booth will benefit the 2017 UNICO Scholarship Program.

The Ladies of UNICO wish Buona Fortuna to the 39th annual

THE ITALIAN TIMES

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 15, SECTION A

Sbandieratori dei Borghi e Sestieri Fiorentini eager to return for Festa

from page 7A same time you will have the opportunity to meet some of the members who have been in the group for several years. The group is composed of teenagers and adults and because we live together, the younger guys learn from the adults and vice versa. IT: Andrea, you say you will not be coming to Milwaukee this year. Who will be the leader? Can you tell us something about him? AC: Unfortunately this year I can’t come to Milwaukee and I’m really sad about that. The leader will be Alessandro Mini, one of the founders of our group. When the group started, Alessandro was a student and he was one of the guys who created the group. In 1965, some teachers of a Catholic school in Figline decided to bring back to life the art of the flag and started to teach the movements and the tradition to some students. Alessandro was one of them and, for 50 years, he has been part of the group. Over the years, he performed in several important events (for example the opening of the World Soccer Championship in 1978 in Germany) and he has been the connection for all the other flag throwers. For this reason, he is a very important member of the group. He has two sons and one daughter and the two sons are also flag throwers, showing that this is a heritage that passes from father to sons. IT: Tell us again how often the group practices and what a practice session consists of. AC: We practice twice a week. First, we work on our physical conditioning and after that we practice the essential movements. We do this all together so that everybody does it in the same way and we learn to be coordinated when we

Times photo by Joe Spasiano

perform in a group. The musicians practice by themselves and after that we work together to create the show. We can change something in the show but we never change the fundamental movements because they come from history and we want to preserve the tradition.

IT: What do you remember most about being in Milwaukee? AC: I’ll never forget the community I met last year. Milwaukee is a beautiful city. The downtown is pretty, tidy, a nice place to live. I really loved the lakefront and the Calatrava museum, but above all I’ll never forget the people we met, their friendship, their kindness, the attention we had from the Italian community. They really made me feel at home. IT: Will the team members walk around the grounds again like last year?

AC: I’m sure they will. IT: Do you also plan to do some singing at the Cinema Tent late at night like last year? AC: Of course they will! Singing together is one of the specialties of our group. We are flag throwers not only with our costumes. We enjoy having fun together and singing traditional songs. I think singing is something written so deep in our human nature; we sing when we are happy, we sing when are sad. Singing together makes us feel strong and allows us to transmit the power of the group, our energy and our love for life. It allows us to communicate with other people even if we don’t speak the same language. Music is a universal language. And what’s better than singing Italian songs during an Italian festival? IT: What is one thing the team will want to do in Milwaukee this

time? AC: We had a very good time last year, it was really interesting visiting the city, the brewery, the Harley Davidson! This time there are several new members that haven’t been in Milwaukee so I’m sure that they will appreciate these things. Also I’m sure they really would like to spend some time in Chicago, if it’s possible. IT: Thank you, Andrea, and we hope you will be able to come next time! * * * Editor’s note: Paul Salsini’s new book, “The Fearless Flag Thrower of Lucca: Nine Stories of 1990s Tuscany,” includes a fictional story about how a centuries-old flag throwing tradition is broken. It will be available with others in his award-winning “A Tuscan Series” in the literature tent at Festa Italiana.

Tradizione Vivente looking for new dancers Come be a part of our famiglia

Ciao! Tradizione Vivente, the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee, is looking for new members to join the dance group. This Italian folk dance group, which has been in existence for more than 60 years, strives to preserve the Italian culture through folk dancing, music, costumes, and a genuine love for all things Italian.

ment to attend practices and interest in learning new dances. Having fun with a close-knit group of people is definitely required.

Please come to one of our practices, meet us, and see what Italian folk dancing is all about. For more information, contact

Mark DeSanctis, dance director, at mark.desanctis@gmail.com or by phone at 414-550-6419. Benvenuto e ballate con noi!

It is a volunteer group comprised of young men and women of all ages and backgrounds. The group practices weekly on Tuesday nights at 7:15 at the Italian Community Center and performs a variety of dances originating from various parts of Italy.

Some of its past performances include Festa Italiana, Holiday Folk Fair, Taste of Italy and other ICC events, weddings, baptisms, and folk art conferences throughout the country.

The group will be traveling to Sicily and Italy in June 2018.

The group is seeking new members, especially male members, to join as several members have left for other activities or to attend college. No experience is necessary as the dance directors will instruct you in everything you need to know. You do not need to be of Italian descent but have a commit-

Tradizione Vivente performing at a previous Festa Italiana. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

PAGE 16 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

THE ITALIAN TIMES

JULY/AUGUST 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PAGE 17, SECTION A

Innovation at core of Sendik’s 90-Year history

Sendik’s celebrates 90th anniversary with Festa-goers at the Pompeii Tent and Vintage Photo Display

The Balistreri family is known among many in the Italian community, with grocery store roots dating back to 1926. After immigrating to Milwaukee from Sant’Elia, Sicily, the Balistreri family began peddling quality fruits and vegetables by wagon. This business started on the northeast side of Milwaukee, and eventually led to the opening of produce markets on Oakland and Downer Avenues. In 1949, the store on Silver Spring Drive in Whitefish Bay opened, featuring a so-called “magic door.” The Whitefish Bay Herald noted when “customers step upon the mat, the door will swing open, leaving arms and hands free for packages.” An accompanying ad proclaimed the store to be “as new and as modern as any fruit and vegetable market you have ever seen.” Before long, Grandpa Tom Balistreri was joined in business by his two sons, Ted and Tom Jr. In the early 1970s, the brothers took over the operation and, in 1975, the store expanded to include groceries, meat, deli, dairy, bakery, and wine and spirits. During this time of

growth, the store’s reputation for quality products and excellent, attentive customer service grew, drawing customers from all over the Milwaukee area. In 2001, the third generation of family owners began building on the strong, 75-year history that was established. Ted’s sons, Ted, Patrick and Nick, purchased Tom Jr.’s interest in the Whitefish Bay store that year, and along with their sister Margaret, have continued the legacy of Sendik’s, while expanding the business.

Growing through innovation As Sendik’s celebrates 90 years, it now has locations in Bayside, Brookfield (Lilly Road), Elm Grove, Franklin, Germantown, Grafton, Greenfield, Hartland, Mequon, New Berlin, Wauwatosa, West Bend and Whitefish Bay. Much of what has kept companies like Sendik’s vibrant through the changing trends of 90 years is the ability to adapt and innovate. The store continues to serve its customers with the high-quality cus-

What does “Sendik” mean?

The name Sendik’s is derived from a simple misunderstanding. As new immigrants to America, the Balistreri family needed to acquire many household items. While attempting to purchase a stove, Great Grandpa Balistreri overcame the language barrier and asked the clerk to “send it” to him. When the stove arrived, the delivery person asked some neighbors where he could find “Mr. Sendik.” The rest, as they say, is history.

PAGE 18 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

tomer service it is known for, while making the grocery shopping experience more convenient and seamless for its customers. With the launch of Sendik’s Express, the first-of-its-kind program in Milwaukee, customers are able to now shop online from a 40,000+ catalog of items, have

them selected by a personal shopper and then delivered right to their car via curbside pick-up. This idea of re-imagining the shopping experience is something locally owned companies must continue to do to meet the needs of guests for the next 90 years and beyond.

Celebrating 90 Years at Festa Sendik’s is celebrating its 90year history with our Italian community at this year’s Festa Italiana through its sponsorship of the Pompeii Church Tent and Vintage Photo Display. As part of our longstanding tradition of showing Italian heritage and history through priceless photographs, Sendik’s will add several vintage photographs of their family history and growth of Sendik’s in the Milwaukee community. These pictures will join other timeless photos that capture the Italian experience in Milwaukee for all generations to cherish. Those visiting the Pompeii Tent and Vintage Photo Display this year are also eligible to sign up for a daily drawing to receive a $90 Sendik’s gift certificate. “Sendik’s is a stunning example of the Italian experience in Milwaukee, those who love what they do, those who insist on quality, those with a strong work ethic, and those whose businesses stand the test of time. Sendik’s history is our history. Many Italian immigrants had been farmers and grocers who sold fruits and vegetables in Italy and Sicily. When they came to Milwaukee, they specialized in what they knew. They loaded small carts with seasonal fruits and vegetables, pushed their carts through Milwaukee’s streets and sold produce. Festa Italiana is honored to feature vintage photographs celebrating the history of Sendik’s and the Balistreri family. We are thankful for Sendik’s partnership this year and wish the store much success for the next 90 years in business,” said Susie Christiansen and Christine Conley, managers of the Pompeii Tent. Sendik’s “Red Bag” free admission special As part of Festa’s partnership with Sendik’s, Festa-goers can get into Festa FREE Friday and Saturday by bringing a Sendik’s “Red Bag” during these indicated time frames: Friday, July 22 from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday, July 23 from noon to 4 p.m. Red bags will be collected upon entrance into the grounds.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

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THE ITALIAN TIMES

A FESTA LOVE STORY…

by Betty Puccio It started with a phone call to the Festa office from Jackie Vitucci. She was referred to Betty Puccio. The two had never met, and a lunch meeting was arranged. After much conversation and laughter, they realized that they shared the loss of a parent with whom each was extremely close. Betty’s mother, Jennie, took a strong leadership role in several Italian organizations in her day and was Betty’s “best friend.” Jackie’s father, Frank Sr., was the center of her life. By the time dessert arrived, both had shed a few tears. Jackie and her brother, Frank Jr., were looking to honor their Dad, who passed away three years ago. Maybe plant a tree in his memory, name a bench at a city park, or pay for a fireworks display at a park in his honor on July 4th. Or maybe, do something spectacular at Festa Italiana. After all, he attended every Festa since the first one. That’s 35 years in a row! Frank, Sr. also never missed a chance to see Sinatra sing. Many years ago, Sinatra performed at a fundraiser for the new Italian Community Center at the Main Stage on the Summerfest grounds. Frank Sr. bought tickets for the entire Vitucci family. “You’ll never ever see a better performer than Sinatra; he’s the best in the business,” Frank told his family. And added, “What a place to hear him sing . . . right here in the Third Ward.” Jackie continued searching for a

way to remember her Dad that connected him to his family and his Italian heritage. He was so proud of both. At lunch at the ICC, Jackie finally found the remembrance for her Dad that honored both. Betty described the replicas that have been brightening the Festa grounds in recent years: the imposing statue of David, the Memorial Arches, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the graceful Gondolas and the dignified 42-foot tall replica of Venice’s famed St. Mark’s Bell Tower (Campanile di San Marco). Could one of these serve as a memorial of sorts to a man who couldn’t wait for Festa to arrive each year? When Festa was over, he would count the months and days until the next one. Finally, the months rolled by, and it was time to go back to the Old Third Ward. Time to meet old friends, reminisce and bask once again in “being Italian.” Jackie thought the replica of the St. Mark’s Bell Tower of Venice was a fitting place at Festa to linger and bring back all the memories of her Dad. So, Jackie and Frank, Jr. have chosen to make a donation to Festa Italiana in memory of their beloved father, Frank M.Vitucci. A sign will be placed at the site of the Bell Tower. Jackie and Frank, Jr. know that their Dad will be present at yet another Festa Italiana. And they say they are delighted and comforted to remember him in this way. A celebration of his life and love of Festa! Perhaps the idea will spark

interest in another family to honor a loved one through a one-time “Recognition Memorial” donation at the Venice Bell Tower or one of the other replicas of the Italian land-

marks in 2017. Please read the ad next to this article. The language appearing in the ad will be placed in a billboard at the site of the Bell Tower.

VENICE BELL TOWER 2016 RECOGNITION MEMORIAL In Memory of our Father, Frank M.Vitucci

T here are two thing s our Dad never missed – F esta I taliana and a chance to see S inatra sing . Our D ad was at every F esta since 19 78. He pas s ed on to us his lov e o f fam ily and his pr ide in his heritage. We will always remember his counting the months and then days to the next Festa. It was his time to meet old friend s, reminisce and bask once again in ‘b eing Italian.’ Dad , your laughter, smile and joy will always b e p art of Festa Italiana. We know that you will b e p resent at yet another Festa. T HIS WEEK EN D IS FOR YO U D AD !

Yo ur lov ing childr en, Jackie Vitucci S zab o and F rank Vitucci, Jr.

Goodwill partners with Festa Italiana 2016

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Goodwill Industries is pleased to provide free wheelchairs at Festa Italiana this year. For nearly 100 years, Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin’s mission has been to provide training, employment and supportive services for people with disabilities or disadvantages who seek greater independence. Goodwill’s social enterprises – services such as laundry, Goodwill TalentBridge, Goodwill DataShield and Goodwill Manufacturing – serve area employers and provide them quality work at highly competitive rates, with all proceeds benefiting mission programs and services in local communities. Last year, your Goodwill served nearly 70,000 men and women and placed 8,495 individuals into community employment. The organization has also made significant gains in the number of persons enrolled in workforce development programs. Goodwill

Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin is the largest organization among 164 agencies in North America with 98 locations (63 of them store and donation centers) throughout its territory. In 2015, Goodwill purchased and renovated the former Reader’s Digest building in Greendale to house several of the organization’s mission programs as well as administrative support services. This 154,000 square-foot facility sits on 14 acres where 400 employees and program participants work each day. Visit www.amazinggoodwill.com for the Goodwill Store & Donation location near you. Bring your Goodwill receipt to Festa for free entry on Friday, July 22 between 2 and 6 p.m.

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 21, SECTION A

Admission deals and specials

Harder

Festa Italiana offers some opportunities for you to attend the festival for free or at a reduced cost. Festa will take place for the 39th year, Friday, July 22 through Sunday, July 24, at Henry W. Maier Festival Park (the Summerfest grounds).

Funeral Home JAMES T. GUARDALABENE

PRE-FESTA DEAL Advance tickets can be purchased online on the festival website http://festaitaliana.com and at the Italian Community Center, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, for $10 through Thursday, July 21. During the three days of the festival, gate admission will be $13.

EVERYDAY OFFER Free children’s admission Children, 12 and younger, are admitted for free all three days when accompanied by an adult.

FRIDAY OFFERS VIP Day Since 1981, Festa Italiana has been presenting a VIP Day for persons with physical and mental challenges. Each year, Festa offers the VIPs and a caregiver free admission. The tradition continues at the 2016 festival. Special VIP Day tickets are needed to be admitted. Contact the Italian Community Center at 414-2232805 for details or read the story on VIP Day in this section. This year’s program runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, July 22. Festa’s food vendors also have a special promotion going on during three hours of VIP Day. Each venPlease turn to page 29A

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.

Buona Fortuna, Festa Italiana!

• 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. • No longer associated with Schmidt & Bartelt – Guardalabene & Amato

BUONA FORTUNA,

FESTA ITALIANA! C.W. PURPERO, INC. ESTABLISHED 1919

EXCAVATING CONTRACTORS

Wisconsin’s First Green Tier Specialty Contractor Earthwork • Demoli%on • Sewer & Water

Sam & Phil Purpero 1180 W. Rawson Ave., Oak Creek, WI • (414) 856-2850 www.purpero.com

Proud Sponsors of the Festa Volunteer Tent PAGE 22 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Don’t forget to visit

Glorioso’s Gold Imports & Diamond Center 1018 E. Brady St. (2nd Floor) • (414) 347-0992 Headquarters for Italian charms, Italian gold necklaces and bracelets. We have the perfect gifts for any occasion. Check out our extensive collection of diamond jewelry, engagement rings, wedding rings,earrings, necklaces, diamonds of all sizes, bracelets, charms, charm holders, pendants, religious medals and more! THE ITALIAN TIMES

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THE ITALIAN TIMES

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THE ITALIAN TIMES

Palermo’s Pizza: Keeping the Festa tradition alive

Second and third generations of Fallucca family proudly carry on Papa Palermo’s work

When Palermo’s Pizza sets up its booth on the festival grounds this year, it will mark 30plus years that the family-owned business has participated in Festa Italiana as a sponsor and vendor. “Palermo’s vision is to celebrate Italian culture to unite and serve others, and Festa is one of the ways we carry out that vision,” says Giacomo Fallucca, president and CEO of the company that was started in Milwaukee in 1964 by his father and mother, Gaspare (Papa Palermo) and Zina Fallucca, after they immigrated here from Sicily. “Our Pizzaiolos look forward to coming back to Festa year after year.”

Now run by the second and third generations of the Fallucca family, Milwaukee’s hometown frozen Pizza manufacturer began as a small ethnic bakery on the city’s East side, evolved into a popular restaurant and is now a leading name in the frozen Pizza industry – recognized for its innovative products that cater to consumer needs. In fact, Palermo’s was responsible for a number of “firsts” in the frozen Pizza industry – the first rising crust Pizza, first super premium private label Pizza, first ultrathin Pizza and first domestic hearth-baked crust. More recently, Palermo’s launched its highly successful line of Screamin’ Sicilian™ – a bold and unapologetic craft Pizza; took pubstyle Pizza to a new level with P’MOs™; and introduced Urban Pie™ Pizza Co. – a line of upscale, sophisticated Pizzas featuring a fusion of contemporary flavors.

This year, Palermo’s participation in Festa includes offering its popular Pizza and Stromboli to hungry festival-goers, sponsoring the opera stage and partnering with Hunger Task Force to collect food donations from those attending Mass on Sunday morning.

Palermo’s dedicated Pizzaiolos help the familyowned business outpace industry growth, which in turn allows it to support a robust stewardship giving program that is committed to caring for employees, the community and the environment. This year alone, Palermo’s expects to donate more than a half million frozen Pizzas to food banks in cities in which it does business. In 2016, Palermo’s expects to donate more than a half million frozen Pizzas to food banks in cities in which it does business.

ny’s much-loved founder, who was known for raising his voice on more than one occasion!) “Palermo’s has always served Pizza at Festa,” explains Nicholas Fallucca, vice president of Marketing and R&D. “But this is the first time we’re offering Screamin’ Sicilian Pizza and Screamin’ Sicilian Stromboli. We’re confident that people attending Festa are going to love the big and bold ingredients, over-the-top flavors and real Wisconsin cheese.”

“It’s been a long-standing tradition for Palermo’s employees and their families to team up with Hunger Task Force to collect non-perishable food items before the Festa mass on Sunday morning,” points out Laurie Fallucca, chief creative officer. “This is one of several events that we participate in each year to benefit Hunger Task Force.” She added that Palermo’s signature stewardship program, Easter Baskets for the Hungry, provides Easter dinner and a week’s worth of meals for 1,500 Milwaukee families each year. Today, Palermo’s growing Family of Brands includes Palermo’s Pizza™, Screamin’ Sicilian™, P’MOS™ and Urban Pie™ Pizza Co. The company handles all facets of the manufacturing, distribution, sales and marketing of its extensive product line – ensuring it can continue to carry out its mission to Deliver a Great Pizza Experience. In addition to the company’s popular branded products, Palermo’s is the nation’s leading producer of premium private label frozen Pizza for the retail and club industries.

With so many great kinds of Pizza in Palermo’s Family of Brands, it can be hard to choose. So Festa will be a launch site for Palermo’s newest branding campaign, What’s Your Pizza Mood?™ – a series of 12 fun questions to help Pizza lovers determine their Pizza preferences. Stop by, take the quiz and you could win a limited-edition Palermo’s Pizza “What’s Your Pizza Mood?” T-shirt. Find out more at www.PalermosPizza.com/mood. Celebrating Italian culture on the Palermo’s Pizza Stage The company enjoys doing something different every year at Festa. For example, in 2013 it sponsored the Sicilian Tamburinari of Aspra, an incredible drum group straight from Sicily. This year, Palermo’s is proud to sponsor the Palermo’s Pizza Stage, featuring Festa’s Opening Ceremonies, the Florentine Opera, Lombardi Run festivities, Sicilian Tenors and more. Grab a slice, come on over and enjoy! Teaming up with Hunger Task Force for the Festa food collection The spirit of innovation and the passion of

Screamin’ Sicilian Pizza and Stromboli – Festival favorites with a twist You’ll find Palermo’s food booth in the heart of Festa. New in 2016: Palermo’s will feature Screamin’ Sicilian products, including four varieties of Pizza – Bessie’s Revenge, Holy Pepperoni, Mambo Italiano and Spicy Clucker – and Screamin’ Sicilian Supremus Maximus Stromboli. (Insider information: The Screamin’ Sicilian product line was named for the compa-

THE ITALIAN TIMES

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 27, SECTION A

A sneak peek of what’s to eat at Festa

from page 3A delight, the Oostburger, which includes one hamburger patty and one brat patty. Side Note: Greco & Sons is providing the Italian sausage for the Festa booth this year. Get their sandwiches with green peppers and marinara sauce. “We are very grateful to Greco & Sons for this donation,” said Giuseppe Vella, Italian Community Center and Festa General Chairman. “It’s support like this that makes Festa successful.” For desserts: The most important part of the meal (for some) requires a stop at Cedar Crest ice cream and Milwaukee Ice Cream Company for their assorted flavors of ice cream, malts, and shakes. In addition, Milwaukee Ice Cream

Company will have their regular and dipped waffle bowls, as well as mango or Berry Lemony smoothies. Cedar Crest will have waffle cones, floats, and numerous sundaes, including the Dirt Sundae, Turtle Sundae, and Peanut Butter Cup Sundae. Crocker Root Beer Barrels and Venice Club will have root beer floats. If you are not in the mood for ice cream, try the scrumptious gelato, sorbetto, spumoni, and brioche at Gelateria Italiana. It’s going to be hot, so head to Hawaiian Shave Ice of Milwaukee for shave ice. Koepsell’s Popcorn will be selling snowcones and cotton candy. Nuts for You will have Rock Candy suckers. Tip: Burn off your little bambino’s energy at the free carnival rides, the Lego

PAGE 28 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

Activities Tent, Pinocchio Parade, the Children’s Stage, or the Kids Pizza Making Contest! Take your unofficial cannoli mini-tour at Baked Custom Desserts, Peter Sciortino Bakery, and Pietro’s Pizza. Baked Custom Desserts also offers eclairs, a limoncello torte, and a salted dulce de luche cupcake while Peter Sciortino Bakery and Café is selling Italian cookies, tiramisu, and biscotti. Tip: Try some of Koepsell’s popcorn or kettle corn during or after your dessert for a sweet/salty fix. Get your donut fix at Cataldo’s for their sfingi, or at Sil’s for their mini donuts. Top off your donuts with a glass of milk at Peter Sciortino Café, Sil’s Mini Donuts, and Cedar Crest Ice Cream.

For drinks: Need a pick-me-up? Find regular, flavored coffee, iced coffee, or latte at Baked Custom Desserts, Pietro’s Pizza, Glorioso’s Italian Market, Peter Sciortino Bakery, Cataldo’s, and Crocker Root Beer Barrels. Need more than just coffee? Try espresso at Gelateria Italiana, Pietro’s Pizza, Peter Sciortino Café, and Bellini/Limoncello Bar. Italian sodas will be sold at Bellini/Limoncello Bar, while regular fountain soda can be found at Crocker Root Beer Barrel. Fresh lemonade will be available at Scrima’s Wood Fired Pizza and Catalano Lemonade booths. For those over 21, Roman Terrace Cocktail Lounge will be serving wine, martinis, and mixed drinks, while Bellini/Limoncello Bar will be serving Bellini cocktails and Italian Libations, featuring Campari, Sambuca, and Limoncello. For the healthier Fest-er: Badger Corn is selling roasted corn on the cob or in the cup. Catalano Fruit will have pieces of fruit, fruit cups, fresh squeezed orange juice, and vegetable platters for sale. Nuts for You is selling cinnamon roasted assorted nuts in various sizes for some sweet/salty protein. For new, featured food, for the gutsy Fest-er: Try the Tuscan specialty Wild Boar Ragu with Pasta from the Divino Wine & Dine booth or the Granny Apple Fries at Cataldo’s. Also new from Cataldo’s is their bruschetta pork sandwich and spicy Italian pork. Angelo’s Pizza will be offering Chicago Style Stuffed Pizza as well as new handmade pizza. Koepsell’s Popcorn will have kettle corn on hand this year. For pizza: It depends on what you like. For traditional or Chicago style pizza slices, try Angelo’s Pizza. For an artisan crust, Palermo’s Pizza will be featuring a variety of their flavors, including: “Bessie’s Revenge” (cheese), “Mambo Italiano” (Italian combination), “Spicy Clucker” (jalapeno chicken, bacon, ranch sauce and cheese), and “Holy Pepperoni.” For a thicker crust, try Pietro’s sfincione. For a slightly smoky taste, three words: wood fired pizza. Scrima’s Wood Fired Pizza is serving a few different varieties, including Margherita (olive oil, mozzarella, crushed tomatoes, garlic sauce, and fresh basil), Harley Special, Classic Scrima, Mediterranean, and gluten-free. For pasta: Festa has quite a variety of pasta this year. Trattoria di Carlo brings a four cheese lasagna pocket with pink or Bolognese sauce. Papa Luigi’s will have stuffed lasagna cheese rolls and baked meat mostaccioli. Cataldo’s is selling your choice of spinach or veggie lasagna and pasta with meatballs. Pietro’s Pizza has pasta alla Norma. Mille’s Spaghetti Factory has spaghetti with plain sauce, with or without meatballs. For seafood: For calamari, visit Carini’s La Conca D’Oro, and Pietro’s Pizza, which also has octopus salad. For skewered shrimp scampi, (one plate is featured with rice pilaf) head to Papa Luigi’s. Venice Club has a fish sandwich, as well as a Friday Fish Fry, complete with French fries, cole slaw, and tartar sauce. For the Vegetarian or Lighter Fare Fest-er: Divino Wine & Dine Continued on page 29A

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Mangia, mangia, mangia

from page 38A has fried eggplant and spinach rice balls. Try the Margherita pizza at Scrima’s Wood Fired Pizza, the cheese, spinach, and Roma pizzas at Angelo’s, and the three cheese ravioli in red sauce at Alioto’s. Pasta alla Norma, or eggplant pasta, can be found at Pietro’s Pizza. Glorioso’s is bringing cheese calzones, Venice Club is providing eggplant sticks, and Cataldo’s has spinach or veggie lasagna. Trattoria di Carlo rounds out the veggie options with di Carlo 4 Cheese Lasagna pocket with pink sauce and penne alfredo with mattarocco. Divino Wine & Dine also has Caesar and chicken Caesar salads. For further planning, the full menu can be found at: http://festaitaliana.com/fooddrink/ menus/2016-festa-italiana-menuwebsite/ Be sure to bring your appetite for the Festa weekend of July 2224. You will sure need it!

Admission deals and specials

from page 22A dor will have two selected items available at half price. VIP Day ticket holders can also receive a piece of fresh fruit donated by Milwaukee area produce merchants. The free fruit will be available from the Catalano’s fruit stand in the Miller Lite area from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. only.

Sendik’s Red Bag promotion Between noon and 6 p.m., Friday, July 22, patrons presenting a Sendik’s red shopping bag will receive one free admission ticket. Stop by the Mid Gate to receive your ticket. Find your neighborhood Sendik’s location at sendiks.com. BOGO deal From 2 to 7 p.m., buy one Festa ticket, get one free on Friday, July 22, courtesy of YELP.com/Milwaukee.

Catholic Financial Life promo Starting at 2 p.m., Friday, July 22, receive a Catholic Financial Life knapsack while supplies last.

Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday Closed Sunday and Monday Located in the Park & Shop 13425 Watertown Plank Road, Suite #7 Elm Grove, WI 53122 ( 262) 923-7166 www.FaziosChocolate.com

Congratulations and Best Wishes Festa Italiana 2016! Please visit our booth in the Market Place at the 39th Annual Festa Italiana, July 22-24, 2016 “Like” us on Facebook

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FRENCH BREADS & ROLLS ITALIAN COOKIES & CANNOLI CASSATA CAKES & CAKES FOR ALL OCCASIONS EUROPEAN PASTRIES & PARTY TRAYS DELI & LUNCH SPECIALS

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Goodwill Industries offer Present your Goodwill stores receipt of $25 or more and receive free entry to Festa Italiana on Friday, July 22 from 2 to 6 p.m.

SATURDAY DEALS Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation Walk/Run Participants in the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation Walk/Run on the morning of Saturday, July 23 will receive free admission to Festa Italiana with an identifying wristband. Festa opens at 11:30 a.m. The activites for the walk/run start at 7:30 a.m. with registration at the North Gate. Guest passes will be available from 7:30 a.m. to noon for $5.

Sendik’s Red Bag promotion Between noon and 4 p.m., Saturday, July 23, patrons presenting a Sendik’s red shopping bag will receive one free admission ticket. Stop by the Mid Gate to Continued on page 30A

THE ITALIAN TIMES

1100 EAST OKLAHOMA AVE., MILWAUKEE 1/2 MILE WEST OF 794 OKLAHOMA EXIT

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 29, SECTION A

Admission deals and specials

from page 29A receive your ticket. Find your neighborhood Sendik’s location at sendiks.com. Catholic Financial Life promo Starting at 11:30 a.m.., Saturday, July 23, receive a Catholic Financial Life knapsack while supplies last.

SUNDAY OFFERS Come to Mass, enter Festa for free As usual, Festa is admitting Mass attendees for free at the Marcus Amphitheater gate starting at 10 a.m. on Sunday, July 24. The Mass begins at 11 a.m. in the amphitheater. Those attending Mass may enter the Festa grounds for free after the service or after they participate in the procession of religious societies, organizations and marching bands. Those attending are asked to bring along non-perishable food items for a collection being organized in conjunction with the Hunger Task Force of Milwaukee. The food collection will take place outside the amphitheater and in the amphitheater forecourt. This year’s goal is to collect 10,000 pounds of food. Festa is joining all of the lakefront festivals in a food collection effort which has a goal of collecting 160,000 pounds of food by the end of summer. By bringing at least three non-perishable food items to Festa, this goal can be achieved. Admission into the amphitheater forecourt is free whether you attend the celebration of the Catholic Mass or not. At 1 p.m., those waiting in the forecourt will be able to enter the Festa grounds for free. Day of service To honor the service of law enforcement, firefighters, teachers and military personnel, Festa Italiana is offering free admission for the individual of service and one guest on Sunday, July 24. To receive your free entry, present a valid employee ID at the cashier window at the Mid Gate. Military personnel – past and present In recognition of the dedicated service of all of our military personnel, active and retired, Festa Italiana invites them and their guest to receive free entry on Sunday, July 24. Present a valid military ID or a DD-214 (certificate of release or discharge from active duty) with a valid ID at the cashier window at the Mid Gate. Festa Italiana thanks you for your service!

Congratulations Festa Italiana from

Koepsell's

Festival Popcorn Wagons Jim Kocovsky Mary Lynn Kocovsky

Visit our popcorn wagons at Festa 2016!

PAGE 30 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Rev. Mike Hammer, founder and director of Milwaukee Archdiocese AIDS Ministry, to be main celebrant of Festa Italiana Mass

by Thomas Hemman Times Editor Rev. Mike Hammer, in his 47th year as a priest in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, has accepted the invitation from the Festa Italiana Mass and Procession Committee to be the main celebrant of the 2016 Festa Mass on the Marcus Amphitheater on Sunday, July 24. Members of the Italian Community Center and the various local Italian organizations and societies might know him as an assistant priest at St. John’s Cathedral and, more recently, Three Women and Old St. Mary’s. Others know Fr. Mike as the co-chaplain of the Pompeii Women’s Club. People who attended the ICC’s 2016 Carnevale may remember that he offered the invocation. Those who came to the organization’s St. Joseph’s Day Luncheon in 2015 should recall him blessing the St. Joseph’s altar and all in attendance with Holy Water. Still, several hundred more of God’s children know Fr. Mike for a completely different reason. On a visit at a Catholic hospice in 1983, he asked the Sister in charge whether the facility had ever admitted an AIDS patient. She directed him to two young men, who seldom had visitors. It was at that moment that Fr. Mike began an AIDS ministry. It became his calling. “With the AIDS epidemic, I have

Fr. Mike Hammer

truly witnessed the power of love,” he said. “Because of the devastating nature of AIDS, I have seen families overcome huge differences and turn to love and support one another.”

He added, “Initially, I was fortunate to be supported by Archbishop Rembert Weakland – who, at the time, was co-founder – along with Karen Lamb, of MAP (Milwaukee AIDS Project, later ARCW, the Resource Center of AIDS Wisconsin).” In the early years, before treatment could prolong the lives of AIDS patients, Hammer attended two to three funerals a week. That only strengthened his resolve to be an advocate for those impacted by the virus. As the director of Catholic AIDS Ministry of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, Hammer has supported and counseled hundreds of people who have confronted AIDS in their lives. “This ministry focused my view of the Church, deepened my need for prayer, and challenged my cock-eyed optimism to move into the unknown,” Hammer said. “It is a challenge to get people to be open, accepting and loving of parishioners with AIDS, but I know that God wants us to be present.” Hammer began his service in the Milwaukee Archdiocese as an assistant priest at St. Veronica Parish in the Bay View area, followed by St. Bernadette on the city’s northwest side. He went on to co-coordinate the Office of Parish Councils with Marliss Rodgers. Together, they published Parish Council Manuals that were used in at least 35 dio-

cese in the United States and Canada. During the same period, Hammer held various offices for Padicon, the National Organization for Parish and Diocesan Councils. “This was a marvelous opportunity to see the church at work throughout the United States,” he said. “I could give a keynote speech one day, and the next day, tour the city and parishes at work. Promoting clergy-lay team leadership has been one of the great joys of my priesthood.” This was followed by a several year stint in the Office of Combined Collections. Next came his inner call to serve the HIV-AIDS community. “It has spanned those painful early years with several hundred funerals to the change brought about by the famous cocktail drugs,” Hammer said. “Throughout these years, I have been blessed to be an assisting priest at the Cathedral and also at Three Holy Women and Old St. Mary’s.” For 10 years, he was the celebrant of Sunday Mass on Channel 6 in Milwaukee. To this day, he says, “The grace of that experience is how many viewers continue to keep me in their prayers.” Hammer said he most enjoys celebrating Mass and preaching. He will get that opportunity before a large crowd at Festa Italiana on Sunday, July 24 at 11 a.m.

Buona Fortuna, Festa Italiana from

The Vella Family

Giuseppe, Maria & Luigi Vella Proprietors

We specialize in Italian - French Bread

Rolls - Cookies - Cannoli

1101 E. Brady St., Milwaukee, WI 53202 Phone: (414) 272-4623 • Fax: (414) 272-1456 www.petersciortinosbakery.com

Tuesday – Saturday, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday, 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Closed Mondays.

Please visit our booths at the 39th annual Festa Italiana, July 22 – 24, 2016.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 31, SECTION A

Festa collecting nonperishable food for Hunger Task Force at Sunday Mass

Festa Italiana officials are urging people who come to the festival on July 24 to bring along a minimum of three nonperishable food items for donation to the Hunger Task Force. This year, Festa is again joining forces with Summerfest and all of the members of the United Ethnic Festivals to collect a grand total of 160,000 pounds of food over the course of the summer. The campaign is called “The Fests Feed Milwaukee.” Last year’s campaign resulted in the collection of

147,000 pounds of donated food. At Festa, the Hunger Task Force will collect nonperishable foods near the entrance to the Marcus Amphitheater, just outside the South Gate and in the roadway near the amphitheater forecourt. This will allow people attending the Sunday Mass or just wanting to attend Festa easy access to the Hunger Task Force trucks where volunteers will be on hand to accept every donation. Last year, more than 6,000 pounds was collected for the

Reasons for participating in the Festa Mass

by Anna Marie Filiapiak Festa Mass Committee One of the highlights of Festa Italiana is the Sunday Mass at the Marcus Amphitheater. Many people come together to pray in many varied ways. Some will pray through the liturgical ministries of readers, Eucharistic ministers, choir, ushers and more. Some will pray through the many hours of preparation to organize this Mass. Some will pray in the “pews” with their voices, hearts and hands. Some will pray in the procession and special Benediction following Mass. This is a most special and sacred gathering for the Italian community as we give witness not only to our beloved culture, but also to our beloved faith in Jesus as Risen Savior. We are honored to have Father Michael Hammer, of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, who will lead us in prayer. The Mass is on Sunday, July 24 at 11 a.m. All are welcome to attend this spectacular Mass. Some of the musical features for the Mass include fanfares from the brass of the “Sbandieratori” (the trumpets from the flag throwers), a brass quartet, strumming mandolins, and, of course, the Festa Italiana Choir. New this year is the addition of the Milwaukee Children’s Choir. They will add their voices at special moments of our liturgy to give

praise through the mouths of children. Additionally, it has been an honor and joy for many years to sing Italian hymns both in Italian and English. Thanks to the musicological efforts of Professor Marisa Gatti-Taylor, some of the most beautiful and moving Italian hymns bring our sung prayer to the heavens. Persons interested in singing in the Festa Italiana Choir are asked to contact Music Director Michael Kamenski at mkamenski@saintsebs.org for further information. All voices are needed: soprano/alto/tenor/bass. Some choral experience is very helpful. Please let your voice be heard at Festa Italiana as we gather the Italian Community to give praise and thanks to our God! Sister Marie Louise Balistreri, Mass Committee Co-Manager, provided The Italian Times with an insight to the theme for Mass: “Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has designated this year of Mercy and Compassion. With that in mind, let us remember to feed the hungry, comfort the sorrowing, visit the sick and those in prison and bury the dead.” Sal Lo Coco, Festa Committee Manager, said that as of June 14, 23 societies and organizations had registered to participate in the Mass and procession. He said he expected about 600 people to walk in the procession.

Celebrating 20 years in business

Hunger Task Force before the Festa Mass, according to Sal Lo Coco, Festa Mass Co-Chair. “We want to encourage all of our ICC members and all of our Festa volunteers to join the public in making these nonperishable food donations and help us to achieve our goal,” Lo Coco said.

Fests Feed Milwaukee The “Fests Feed Milwaukee” campaign has been in existence each summer since 2014. “When people come together,

like the United Ethnic Festivals and Summerfest have done to support this campaign, it makes a positive statement about our city. It is great for the Hunger Task Force and for the hungry people we serve,” said Sherrie Tussler, Executive Director of the Hunger Task Force. The Hunger Task Force’s aim is to prevent hunger and malnutrition by providing food to people in need today and promoting social policies to achieve a hunger free community tomorrow.

Donations sought to offset cost of Festa Mass

The Festa Italiana Mass and Procession Committee is seeking donations to offset the cost of the celebration of our Mass and procession on Sunday, July 24. “We’re extremely grateful and appreciative of all the support we have received from the sponsors of the Mass and procession over the last several years,” said committee co-chairs Sister Marie Louise Balestrieri and Sal Lo Coco. “It is a very costly undertaking to convert the Marcus Amphitheater from a concert venue into a place of worship.” “For the last several years, a number of people have stepped forward with individual donations to help defray those costs, and we hope that people will be similarly moved this year,” the co-chairs said. Every year, the overnight transformation of the Amphitheater is accomplished successfully by the Mass Committee, as evidenced by

comments received on a regular basis from people – including visiting clergy – who attend the Mass for the first time. The Mass and the traditional procession that follows have, since the beginning, been an essential component of Festa Italiana. Festa itself is an outgrowth of the street festivals held at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church to honor patron saints. Persons interested in making donations for the Mass and procession are advised to send checks made out to the Italian Community Center with “Festa Mass” written on the memo line. Mail those checks to the ICC at 631 E. Chicago St.,. Milwaukee 53202-5916. Donations by credit card can be made by calling Constance Palmer at 414/223-2808. Persons with questions are invited to call Lo Coco at 414/9619823 or 262/617-8727.

Ted Catalano, Mass & Procession Committee member and ushers manager, has issued a call for at least 15 new ushers to step up and volunteer for this year’s Festa Italiana Mass on Sunday, July 24. To be an usher, you must be at least 16 years old. The only other requirement is that you attend a brief instructional meeting at the Italian Community Center on Monday, July 18 at 7 p.m. At that time, information on the duties of an usher during the Mass and the

procession, which follows the Mass, will be discussed. Catalano requests that new ushers sign up with him early and then follow through on their commitment. To volunteer as an usher or for more information, call Catalano at 414-305-9769. At least 55 ushers are needed every year for the Mass, which has drawn up to 15,000 people. Catalano said he has about 40 dedicated ushers who show up automatically each year.

Call put out for Festa Mass ushers

Sicilian Food

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PAGE 32 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

THE ITALIAN TIMES

A mural of the altar of Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church graces the stage of the Marcus Amphitheater where the Festa Itaiana Mass is held

Treasures of the Italian church presented in the Pompeii Exhibit

by Susie Christiansen Exhibit Co-Manager To convey the importance that Italians have long placed on their religious beliefs and customs, Festa Italiana presents its inspirational Pompeii Exhibit, a tribute to Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church. The church was built by Milwaukee’s Italian immigrants in the city’s old Third Ward and served the community from May 1905 until its demolition in October 1967, due to an urban renewal project order. This “little pink church” was truly the heart of Milwaukee’s Italian community for more than 60 years. Many of the artifacts displayed in Festa’s Pompeii Exhibit were salvaged before the demise of the church by the late Mario A. Carini, the longtime Italian Community Center Historian, who sadly passed away shortly before the start of Festa Italiana 2015. Mario had the good sense to rescue many of the paintings and statues from an auction. In fact, he personally stored most of the items and found good homes for others. He donated many items to the Milwaukee County Historical Society.

In the absence of Mario, how do we wrap our arms around all that he did? It is so important that we continue his legacy and pay tribute to his meticulous and thoughtful display of paintings, statues and religious artifacts in the Pompeii Exhibit. Mario did not do this alone – one must also recognize and appreciate the presence of Mario’s family – Rosemary Carini Strzelec, Margaret Carini and Annamarie Carini Quaranta – and the nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who supported him and helped him create such a hallowed tribute to Pompeii Church each year at Festa. We will do our best to continue Mario’s vision, proudly and in awe of the magnitude of his love, respect and commitment to our history. This year, the Pompeii Exhibit will be displayed on the north end of the Festa grounds, in the Piazza area, sharing this captivating area with Festa’s Italian Region Display, Arts and Artisans Tent and Cinema Tent amd la Cucina Showcase. To truly immerse yourself in the Italian culture, you are encouraged to visit the Festa Italiana Piazza.

Seeking singers for Festa Choir

The Festa Italiana Mass and Procession Committee welcomes and invites singers to join their voices to this year’s Festa Choir. The choir will rehearse at St. Sebastian Catholic Church, 5400 W. Washington Blvd., Milwaukee. Rehearsals will last two hours, and music will be provided. Some hymns will be sung in Italian and Latin, but no previous knowledge of either language is necessary as language coaching is provided. The mixed choir is open to all voice parts – soprano, alto, tenor and bass. No auditions are necessary. However, previous choral experience is recommended. Maestro Michael Kamenski requests that singers participate in at least four rehearsals including a mandatory dress rehearsal. Rehearsal dates are as follows:

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Thursday, July 14, 7 p.m.; Saturday, July 16, 8:30 a.m.; Monday, July 18, 7 p.m.; Tuesday, July 19, 7 p.m.; and a dress rehearsal Wednesday July 20, 7 p.m. The Mass, which is the heart of Festa Italiana, will be held on July 24 at 11 a.m. in the Marcus Amphitheater. The Mass Committee welcomes back members of the Milwaukee Mandolin Orchestra and are happy to add members of the Milwaukee Children’s Choir to this mass. To register to sing with the Festa Choir please contact the director, Michael Kamenski, by email at mkamenski@saintsebs.org (please use “FESTA CHOIR” in the subject line) or by phone at 414-453-1928. – Anna Marie Filipiak Festa Choir Liaison

each year, The mural was done by Gaetano Vicini and John Yanke. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Festa’s Italian Heritage Photo Exhibit will bring emotions and memories Balistreri Sendik’s, celebrating 90 years, is sponsoring the exhibit

by Susie Christiansen Exhibit Co-Manager Always one of the most viewed and most commented upon attractions at Festa Italiana is the Italian Heritage Photo Exhibit that will appear in the Pompeii Tent, in the Festa Piazza on the north end of the grounds. When witnessing the thousands of people who annually view the vintage photo exhibit, expect to see a wide range of emotional reactions. You will see tears from some upon viewing a photograph of a deceased family member or relative they so loved and cherished. You will see smiles from others when they see a photograph from years gone by of their mother, father or grandparents at work or in a military uniform or enjoying themselves at a picnic. You will certainly see many people conversing with each other as they view the vintage photos and recall the good-old-days. For younger generations, the exhibit gives them an opportunity to see what life was like for their ancestors – from the living conditions years ago, to the type of work they performed, and the experiences they had. This year, our collection of more than 2,500 photographs of families, street scenes and the places of business of Milwaukee’s early Italians

will be showcased in the vintage photo exhibition at Festa Italiana, Friday, July 22 through Sunday, July 24.

Buon Anniversario Sendik’s Happy Anniversary Sendik’s! This year, we are especially proud to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Sendik’s. We feel privileged that they have chosen to share this significant milestone with Festa Italiana through their sponsorship of the Pompeii Tent and Italian Heritage Photo Exhibit. Sendik’s is a stunning example of the Italian experience in Milwaukee, those who love what they do, those who insist on quality, those with a strong work ethic, and those whose businesses stand the test of time, because they are emotionally invested in what they do for a living. Sendik’s history is our history. Since many Italian immigrants had been farmers and grocers who sold fruits and vegetables in Italy and Sicily, when they came to Milwaukee they specialized in what they knew. They loaded small carts with seasonal fruits and vegetables, pushed their carts through Milwaukee’s streets and sold produce. When people heard the call of the vegetable and fruit peddler, Please turn to page 35A

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 33, SECTION A

What’s cooking in Festa’s ‘La Cucina’ Showcase?

by Pam Pietravalle “La cucina” (the kitchen) is the heart and soul of the Italian household. It is all about family and friends coming together to enjoy good food, great wine and each other’s company. This same sense community warmth will be experienced in “La Cucina” Showcase this year at Festa Italiana with the great line-up of celebrity chefs demonstrating their unique recipes, the Kids Pizza Making, the Cannoli Eating and the Italian Idol contests and the music of the Tom Sorce Band with popular vocalists. With new and returning chefs, you will have the opportunity to see demonstrations of the classic recipes they serve in their restaurants. David Magnasco of The Chef’s Table is a graduate of the Italian Culinary Institute of Costigliole D’Asti’s Master’s program in Piedmonte, Italy. Like many chefs, his focus is on quality ingredients. He has won numerous awards and recognitions. Chef Suzzette Metcalfe of the Pasta Tree says, “I’m not a recipe follower, but a creator. The beauty of the ingredients should be celebrated and seasonings should complement but not overtake the flavors.” Also, sporting many culinary accolades for his exceptional pastry is Andrew Schneider of LeReve Patisserie & Cafe of Wauwatosa. He will be making one of his masterpieces.

Executive Chef Joel Johnson of Maggiano’s Little Italy says he got the cooking bug while cooking with his grandmother. Chef Santo Alioto, who will be providing a demonstration, comes from a long line of restaurateurs. The very popular Chef’s Choice Recipe Contest will be held in La Cucina Showcase this year as well. Making it even more like a fun gathering place is its move to a new location in the new Piazza area at the north end of the park in good company with these exhibits: La Cinema Italiana, Arts and Artisans, Umbria Regional, Genealogy, Pompeii Church and Vintage Italian American photo. Purveyors E. Formella & Sons and C-Squared will have their products on display. E. Formella & Sons, Inc. is a global company that offers a wide variety of authentic Italian specialties in addition to other gourmet products. The founders of the company, Enrico and Rosina from Sicily introduced their special family recipe of Giardiniera to friends. Soon people were talking about it and wanting more. Now over 100 years later, they are still selling it amongst other delectable products like muffuletta, olives and pickles. This year Kathy and Brandon from C-Squared of Hartland, WI, will display some of their beautiful hand-made, one of a kind wooden cutting boards and cribbage boards. Each one is a unique design, beau-

I love the summer because I get to plant my herb garden and enjoy cooking with fresh herbs all summer long. The fresh herbs are so healthy for you and delicious, too! Enjoy recipes in my cookbook “Recipes My Nonno Taught Me” at the sale price of just $12. Just send a check or money order to: FRANCENA, 125 Boyce Road Centerville, OH 45458 Phone: 937-433-7313 Email: fslyd@aol.com I love spreading the word of my Italian heritage of which I am so proud!!

Congratulations and Best Wishes Festa Italiana 2016!

Cucina Showcase schedule

Friday 1:00 p.m. – Frank Mirenda of Andretti National Distribution will provide wine and cheese samples. 2:15 p.m. – To be announced. 3:30 p.m. – Chef Tina Conley of Divino Wine and Dine 4:45 p.m. – Chef Miles Borghgraef of Forequarter Restaurant of Madison 5:45 p.m. – Chef Joel Johnson of Maggiano’s Little Italy 7:00 p.m. – Tom Sorce Band with vocalist Anita Stemper 8:30 p.m. – Italian Idol Saturday Noon – Chef Santo Alioto of Papa Luigi 1:15 p.m. – Chef Jason Gorman of Milwaukee Art Museum 2:30 p.m. – Chef David Magnasco of The Chef’s Table 3:15 p.m. – Name selection for Cannoli Contest 3:30 p.m. – Cannoli Eating Contest 4:30 p.m. – Chef John LeClair/Phil LeClair of Mozzaluna Pizzeria 5:45 p.m. – Chef Suzzette Metcalfe of The Pasta Tree & Wine Bar 7:00 p.m. – Tom Sorce Band with vocalist Tom Anthony 8:30 p.m. – Italian Idol

Sunday 1:00 p.m. – Frank Mirenda of Andretti National Distribution will provide wine and cheese samples 2:00 p.m. – Chef John Smith of Bravo Cucina Italiana 3:00 p.m. – Name selection for Kid’s Pizza Making Contest 3:30 p.m. – Kid’s Pizza Making Contest (10-17 years age group) 3:45 p.m. – Kid’s Pizza Making Contest (5-9 years age group) 5:15 p.m. – Chef Andrew Schneider of LeReve Patisserie & Cafe 6:15 p.m. – Chef’s Choice Recipe Contest Judging 7:00 p.m. – Tom Sorce Band with Janet Planet 8:30 p.m. – Italian Idol - Finals

tifully crafted by them by hand. You will be amazed by their beauty and the opportunity to have a unique addition to your kitchen Frank Mirenda, the Andretti National Distribution Representat-

ive of Andretti Wines, will provide wine and cheese tasting. Mario Andretti, auto racing legend, founded the winery with his namesake. He assembled a world-class team of Continued on page 35A

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THE ITALIAN TIMES

Could you become the 2016 Festa Italiana Cannoli-Eating Contest champion?

No matter your size or cannolieating history, everyone 18 years or older is welcome to register for a chance to compete in the 2016 Festa Italiana Cannoli-Eating Contest. Simply visit the Cucina Showcase on Saturday, July 23 by 2:45 p.m. to enter your name into the drawing. If your name is one of the 10 drawn at 3 p.m. to participate in the contest, get ready to chow down as many cannoli as you can in four minutes. The contest will officially begin at 3:30 p.m. Aside from bragging rights, the winner will receive prize money as well as the official Festa cannolieating champion T-shirt. All of the cannoli is provided by the Vella family of Peter Sciortino Bakery, the famous bakery on Brady Street in Milwaukee. Festa provides cups of water to help contestants down the gooey, tasty Italian pastry treats. The record for most cannoli eaten in the Festa contest is 10-1/4, downed by seven-time champion Tony Paulis of Milwaukee. He accomplished that feat in 2011. Make sure you are in the crowd at the very beginning as the cannoli are delivered from the Sciortino Bakery booth to the Cucina Showcase by entourage of guards under the order of the famous emperor Julius Caesar. The pomp and circumstances is not to be missed by fans of Roman history or, for that matter, cannoli eating!

In an epic battle at Festa 2015 between of competitive cannoli eating masters, Anthony Paulis (right) of Milwaukee defeated Tom Carlson of Minnesota in a showdown. Paulis downed eight cannoli in the four minutes allotted and Carten ate seven. This victory

made Paulis a seven-time Festa cannoli-eating champion. He won his first title in 2009. In 2010, he and Carlson tied for the crown. Since 2010, Paulis has been the undisputed champion. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Festa’s Italian Heritage Photo Exhibit will bring emotions and memories

from page 33A they came out of their homes to shop. Festa Italiana is honored to feature vintage photographs celebrating the history of Sendik’s Market and the Balistreri family.We are proud to open our doors and welcome them in, and we encourage all guests at Festa to show their support by walking through the exhibit and celebrating this momentous occasion with such a fine, wellrespected Milwaukee business.

Sendik’s daily drawing Those visiting the Pompeii Tent and Vintage Photo Display this year are eligible to sign up for a daily drawing to receive a $90 Sendik’s gift certificate.

Weddings – la storia d’amore We have taken all of the beautiful wedding photographs and transformed them into a heart-warming slide show of vintage wedding photographs, some taken 60 or more years ago. The warmth and nostalgia of these photos will no doubt touch the hearts of those who stop to enjoy the slide show – the photos portray love, promise, joy, family and friends. They are timeless. The love they felt and the anticipation of a long, happy, healthy marriage are no different than the hopes and dreams of those who marry today.

Our military personnel A second poignant slide show will be devoted to Italians and Italian Americans who served in the military. As guests see their faces, we hope they will feel a sense of gratitude and respect for their service and appreciate that those soldiers considered themselves to

THE ITALIAN TIMES

be both Italian and American as soon as they arrived in the United States, and they fought proudly for our country and for our freedom, and for our future.

St. Rita photo display In 1919, responding to the needs of the growing Italian immigrant population, St Rita of Cascia Church began as a mission of the Blessed Virgin of Pompeii Church. The St. Rita Mission, located in a residence at 1329 N. Cass St., provided a place, in the heart of the community, for Sunday mass, social events, and religious instruction for the children. In the middle of the Great Depression the communities of Pompeii Church and St. Rita Mission began a building drive to

raise funds for a church and a school for Italian immigrant children. In September of 1936, construction began on the St Rita Basement Church on the corner of Pleasant and Cass Streets. It served as both church and school during construction. On March 12, 1939, the first Mass was celebrated in the completed church. St. Rita’s, still a mission of Pompeii Church, did not become a parish in its own right until December 1, 1942.

This year, 2016, marks 80 years since the placing of the cornerstone on Pleasant Street at the entrance of the Basement Church. The journey of St. Rita’s from mission to church, school, and parish will be documented in this year’s photo exhibit.

Calling all future chefs: Kids Pizza Making Contest returning to Festa

Festa Italiana invites all children in the age groups of 5 to 9 and 10 to 17 to participate in the sixth annual “Kids Pizza Making Contest.” The contest is a fun way for children to create fresh, madefrom-scratch pizza and compete for prize baskets in front of a live crowd at the Cucina Showcase on Sunday, July 24. This year, the contest is sponsored by Divino Wine & Dine, the Italian restaurant at 2315 N. Murray Ave., Milwaukee. Make sure your children are signed up before 2:45 p.m. to participate in the contest on Sunday.

At 3 p.m., the names of the participants in both age categories will be drawn. The contest for the 10 to 17 year olds will begin at 3:30 p.m. The young children will compete at 3:45 p.m.

A distinguished panel of judges will make the final decisions. Winners in each age group will receive a basket filled with foodieinspired prizes.

The 2015 winners were Madeline Schultz of Sheboygan in the 5-9 year old category and Steven Schilts of Milwaukee in the 10-17 year old group.

Guardian Angel photo display Guardian Angel Learning Center closed its doors on March 24th of this year. For more than 82 years it had served the children and families of the Milwaukee community. With gratitude to the loving service they have given, we are including the Guardian Angel story in our photo exhibit this year. In 1932 the Sisters of Charity of St. Joan Antida answered the call to assist in religious instruction of the children of the Blessed Virgin of Pompeii Church and St. Rita Mission. The sisters cared for preschool children in the nursery, taught catechism to the youngsters, and directed a choir. Many children learned to cook, sew and embroider from the sisters. The photo exhibit will chronicle the establishment of Guardian Angel Nursery, which began in 1933, and its expansion over the years. Visitors will see how the Sisters of Charity had provided trusted child care to generations of pre-school children.

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JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 35, SECTION A

Festa’s tour of the regions travels to ‘The Green Heart of Italy’

by Christina Ziino Regional Exhibit Manager The 2016 Regional Exhibit at Festa Italiana will transport its visitors to the beautiful region of Umbria. One of Italy’s smaller regions, it is covered in lush green fields, rolling hills and mountains. It is referred to as “The Green Heart of Italy” because of its central location and because it is the only region that does not border another country or body of water. The name Umbria is thought to derive from the word “ombra,” which means shadow. It may refer to the thought that Umbria lives in the shadow of its famous neighbor, Tuscany. Or is it because the many hills and mountains cast long shadows over the green river valleys? One can only speculate.

This landlocked region’s overwhelmingly medieval character harkens one back to the mysticism and mysteries of the Dark Ages. In so many ways, Umbria has lain in the shadows for centuries. The very identity of its original inhabitants, the Umbrians, is so clouded that we still have no clear understanding of the meaning of their name. Umbria has only two provinces, Perugia and Terni. Perugia is the capital. The city of Perugia is famous for its chocolate producer, Perugina. Who hasn’t enjoyed a delicious “Bacio”(Kiss)? This company was founded by an early Italian female entrepreneur, Luisa Spagnoli. Her biography is just a small part of our interesting information section of the exhibit.

In Terni, one will find the timeworn remains from the Iron Age to the 4th Century B.C. As a Roman “municipium” on the Via Flavinia, it is not surprising that there are a number of Roman ruins in Terni. First and foremost perhaps, the amphitheater, with a capacity for 10,000 people, built in the 1st Century B.C. Umbria is also home to the beautiful and world famous Deruta Pottery Company. Various pieces will be on display at Festa. Several important saints and religious orders hail from this beautiful land, most notably St. Francis of Assisi, making this town a pilgrimage destination for thousands of people every year. Once again, we will be raffling off some wonderful items. In addition, we will have on sale beautiful

candy dishes, made in Italy, and filled with Perugina candy, We will also be selling our “Mangia” aprons and dish towels exclusively in the tent. We will have the Italian Holy Bear available in the tent and at the calia/simenza cart. Get a jump on your Christmas shopping at Festa. Come to the north end of the Festa grounds and be transported across the ocean. No passport or luggage needed. Please note our new location. We will be sharing space in the Pompeii religious artifacts and vintage Italian photo tent. The Regional Exhibit, along with the genealogy display, will be located on the east end of the tent. There will be an entrance from inside the tent or directly from the walkway. Look for our sign!

Umbria genealogy to be highlighted in the Regional Exhibit

By George Koleas The 2016 Regional Exhibit at Festa Italiana will feature a presentation on genealogy focusing on the region of Umbria, but will provide information on all parts of Italy. The genealogy display will be presented by Pursuing Our Italian Names Together (POINT), Chapter 22, the Italian Community Center’s Italian Family History Club. They will be joined by members of the Milwaukee County Genealogical Society, MCGS, which joined us at last year’s Festa and has participated in other ethnic festivals. POINT is the society’s Italian Area Interest Group. Last Nov. 7, along with the MCGS, POINT presented “Trova i Tuoi Antenati,” (Find Your Ancestors), an event at the Italian Community Center. Using resources available online and private databases, we helped people learn how to find more information about their family. Our groups will recreate that kind of event at Festa. To help you, we need information from you about the family you are interested in studying. Please bring information from these resources: A family group sheet, available at: http://c.mfcreative.com/pdf/trees/charts/famgrec.pdf and an ancestral chart that can be found at: http://c.mfcreative.com/pdf/trees/charts/anchart.pdf. Fill these out as best as you can with information you know and bring it to our display. If you want to view the material from our display, all but the family trees, family pictures, genealogical records and maps can be found at the websites listed in this article. Records of births, marriages and deaths can be found at the Diocese and in individual Catholic churches. A list of Catholic Diocese (Diocesi) in Umbria can be found at: http://www.chiesacattolica.it/chiesa_cattolica_italiana/regioni__diocesi_e_parrocchie/00007907_Dioc esi_e_Parrocchie.html# These Diocesi include: • Assisi - Nocera Umbra - Gualdo Tadino: Indirizzo della Curia:Piazza Vescovado, 3, 06081 Assisi (PG) E-mail: curiadiocesana@assisi.chiesacattolica.itCittà di Castello Indirizzo della Curia: Piazza V. Gabriotti, 10, 06012 Città di Castello (PG) E-mail: diocesidicastello@tiscali.it, • Foligno: Indirizzo della Curia: Piazza Mons. Faloci, 3, 06034 Foligno (PG) E-mail: info@diocesidifoligno.it • Gubbio: Indirizzo della Curia: Largo Vescovado, 1, 06024 Gubbio (PG) E-mail: amministrazione@diocesigubbio.it; cancelleria@diocesigubbio.it • Orvieto - Todi: Indirizzo della Curia: Piazza Duomo, 19, 05018 Orvieto (TR) E-mail: cancelleria@diocesiorvietotodi.it • Perugia - Città della Pieve: Indirizzo della Curia: Piazza IV Novembre, 6, 06123 Perugia (PG) E-mail: info@diocesi.perugia.it • Spoleto - Norcia: Indirizzo della Curia: Via Aurelio Saffi, 13, 06049 Spoleto (PG) E-mail: segreteria@spoletonorcia.it • Terni - Narni - Amelia: Indirizzo della Curia: Piazza Duomo, 11 – 05100 Terni E-mail: info@diocesi.terninarniamelia.it, segreteriavescovotna@gmail.com Not all family history records are at the Diocese or the church. Records of births, marriages and deaths can also be recorded in archives. The archives with family history information in Umbria are found at: http://www.italyworldclub.com/genealogy/state_archives_umbria.htm These archives include: • Archivio di Stato di Perugia: Piazza Giordano Bruno, 10, 06121 Perugia. Website: http://www.archiviodistatoperugia.it/ E-mail: as-pg@beniculturali.it, mbac-as-pg @mailcert.beniculturali.it • Archivio di Stato di Terni:

PAGE 36 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

Via Cavour 28 - 05100 Terni Website: http://www.asterni.beniculturali.it// E-Mail: as-tr@beniculturali.it, mbac-as-tr@mailcert.beniculturali.it • Sezione di Archivio di Stato di Assisi: Corso Mazzini, 10, 06081 Assisi. Website: http://www.archivitaliani.it/strutture/archivio-di-stato-di-perugiasezione-di-assisi/ • Sezione di Archivio di Stato di Foligno: Piazza del Grano, 2, 06034 Foligno. Website: http://www.comune.gubbio.pg.it/turismo/sezione-di-archivio-distato-di-gubbio E-mail: aspg.foligno@gmail.com; mbac-as-pg@mailcert.beniculturali.it • Sezione di Archivio di Stato di Gubbio: Piazza XL Martiri, 1, 06024 Gubbio E-mail: sasgubbio@gmail.com; mbac-as-pg@mailcert.beniculturali.it • Sezione di Archivio di Stato di Spoleto: Largo Giuseppe Ermini, 1 06049 Spoleto (parcheggio riservato agli utenti della Sezione) E-mail: sass.aspg@gmail.com, mbac-as-pg @mailcert.beniculturali.it A mailing list is a way for people with a common interest to share information and ideas about a particular topic by e-mail. ITA-UMBRIA is a mailing list for anyone with a genealogical interest in the Umbria Region of Italy. To subscribe send “subscribe” to ita-umbria-l-request@rootsweb.com (mail mode) or ita-umbria-d-request@rootsweb.com (digest mode). Mailing lists for other parts of Italy can be found at: http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~jfuller/gen_mail_country-ita.html To learn more about your Italian genealogy, go to https://familysearch.org/wiki/en/Italy . You will be taken to a page with many topics. The Mormon Church, the parent of this website, is in the process of digitizing the considerable store of records that it has microfilmed throughout Italy and the world. You can return to the home page and use this site to search for records about your family. Return to this site again and again, as more records are constantly being digitized and added. To learn more about researching your Italian family, we welcome you to visit our website at http://www.orgsites.com/wi/point22/. You will find our meeting dates, our last meeting minutes, and the list of surnames our members are researching. Taking advantage of many of the resources listed in this article requires you to have access to a computer and an Internet connection. We recognize that many people do not have this. While you can use a computer and get Internet access at many public libraries, we understand that many people have no interest in doing this but are interested in researching their family history. Computers facilitate this research, but you can research your family without a computer. Like many of us, I started researching my family this way. We hope that you can come to our display and talk to us about researching your family. If you cannot visit us at Festa, we invite you to come to one of our meetings. There is no cost or obligation. At these meetings, we discuss new developments in researching our family history; members report on the progress they are making in their research; members describe the obstacles preventing them from finding the information they need and other members offer suggestions on how to overcome those obstacles. When we have new visitors and members, we answer their questions and get them on the right path to discovering more about their families. If you or your families are from the Milwaukee area, you may even meet a new cousin. You are welcome to attend our next meeting on Saturday, Sept. 24, at the Italian Community Center, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, starting at 10 a.m. and ending at noon. Our last meeting for 2016 will be on Saturday, Continued on page 37A

THE ITALIAN TIMES

‘Mangia’ aprons and dish towels on sale in Umbria Region exhibit

Get a head start on your Christmas shopping with the unique and lovely designed “Mangia” apron and dish towels. You will find them only in the Umbria Region Exhibit located on the north end of the Festa grounds inside the Pompeii and Historic photo tent. They are certain to put a smile on any nonna’s face. The apron is $20, while the dish towel is $10. To pre-order call Christina Ziino at 262-783-4024.

Umbria genealogy to be highlighted

from page 36A Nov. 12. Please feel free to bring guests. Whether you are just starting or have been researching your family for many years, anyone with an interest in Italian family history is welcome.

Many of our members are also researching families from other nationalities. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact me, George Koleas, by e-mail at GeorgeJK676@wi.rr.com or by calling 262-251-7216 after 7 p.m.

Wide variety from artists and writers in new tents in Festa’s ‘Piazza’

Visitors to Festa Italiana 2016 will be offered a mind-boggling range of art, jewelry, pottery and literature, so much, in fact, that you might want to bring some extra money along because these items will be difficult to resist. Instead of the usual Arts and Artisans tent as in past years (the Cucina will be located in that tent), there will be several tents on the North End and this will create a piazza-style environment. Tents will be near the Regional culture tent, the Pompeii exhibit, the Cinema tent and at the archway leading to the gondolas. This will give Festa-goers a chance to wander around and pay particular attention to the works on display. Here are just some of the artisans you’ll be able to meet. Pottery Angela White. She will display Horse Hair Pottery. Growing up in an artistic household, Angela now teaches the magic of art to students in the Iowa area. “I am a clay person first. It’s what I love to work with but broader I like to work 3D.”

Hand painted ornaments Marie White. The mother of Angela White, Marie works in mixed media, painting and clay. She will be exhibiting pottery and hand-painted glass ornaments depicting people and scenes from their lives taken from photos.

Wood, indoor and outdoor décor Peter Gustin is a principal in The Green Man, a firm that cuts and removes trees and makes various functional works of art with them. The firm is headed by Peter Gustin Sr. and his son. Designing and building pieces of art from the wood has become the latest passion of Peter, Sr. Visitors came to the genealogy exhibit at Festa Italiana in 2015 for many reasons. The volunteers from the Italian Family History Club and the Milwaukee County Genealogy Society will be on hand all weekend to help you find your roots during your visit to Festa 2016. (Times photo by Paul Inzeo)

Adorable Italian Holy Bear is back

The Italian Community Center and Festa Italiana have brought back for only a limited time a favorite stuffed animal for everyone to enjoy, the Italian Holy Bear. The bear, in the Italian flag colors – green, white and red – is adorned with a golden halo and a sewn-in color map design of Italy on the left chest side. The bears will be available at Festa Italiana in the Umbria Region tent. The cost is $10. Prior to Festa, these bears can be purchased at the ICC. They make great gifts for all the “Italophiles” in your life.

Photography Shelly Orlandini. A member of the artistic Orlandini family, Shelly will display her photography taken from the town and her travels.

Literature Paul Salsini just published the sixth and last volume of his “A Tuscan Series”:“The Fearless Flag Thrower of Lucca” will be available along with other volumes of the series. Gloria Italiano Anzilotti is a writer who has published “St. Teresa of Avila,” “An English Prince: Newcastle’s Machiavellian Political Guide to Charles II” and “Four English Italian Stories.” Ceramic sculptures Valorie (Sanfilippo) Schleicher.

Valorie has been coordinating the exhibits for the Festa Art Tent and other local nonprofits for the past 16 years. A sculptor and photographer, she has gained a national and international reputation for her art, has traveled to SoHo and London with her art, and has works in many countries around the world. She will be bringing her award-winning Strong Woman sculptures and photographic series to Festa.

Painting Debra Stubbe Burkhart Orlandini. Her paintings are done with acrylic paint on raw canvas and magic marker. Originals as well as affordable prints and greeting cards will be available for purchase. Yvonne (Marchetti) Stevenson. A painter primarily in oils, acrylics and mixed media, Yvonne also designs jewelry. “Sensitivity to color and design are integral to all areas of life,” she says. Sue Cibulka. A representational/impressionist style artist, Sue paints primarily in oils. Sue says: “My artistic passion lies in color and texture. While my work does not make strong social or political statements, I do try to make a strong personal statement.” Susan Kamholz works combine several different mediums that she has learned at a variety of institutions including the Chicago Art Institute, The Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies of St. Peters College, Oxford University and St. Olaf College. Her work is inspired by her travels and experiences of global landscapes. Wearable art Paula DeStefanis. She will be displaying acrylic paintings and hand-painted wearable art. Paula is a accomplished artisan with works across the USA and Europe. Her works are inspired by her travels and life passages.

Jewelry Mary Anne Schall. The Shorewood resident is a jewelry artist who manipulates wire into wearable pieces of art. She uses a variety of techniques adapted from basketry, knitting, and metal work, and combines silver, gold, and copper wire with pearls, precious gem stones, found objects, antique and ethnic pieces, fused glass, and china shards. Barb Schoenherr is the artisan behind “Barb’s Baubles.” A Wauwatosa native, she began making and selling her jewelry while caring for her mother. Working with stones and wire has become her passion while showing at many art and craft fairs in the area.

Look for calia and semenza cart at Festa

The calia and semenza cart will once again be located on the north end of the Festa grounds. Snack size packages will be available to enjoy as you walk the grounds. In addition, there will be cannellini ricci, the “bumpy” candy with a sliver of cinnamon in the center. Something special we will have this year will be assorted fruit flavored hard candy from the Perugina Candy Company of Umbria, Italy, said Christina Ziino, Regional Exhibit Manager. The stuffed Italian Bear will also be available for purchase from the cart. The cost is $10.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

See Us at Festa Italiana 2016!

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 37, SECTION A

All Italians, Italian Americans and Italophiles – Come be entertained in the Cinema Tent while you relax and refresh at the Bellini/Limoncello Bar

by Pam Pietravalle Get away from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of the Festa grounds and come relax in the Cinema Tent. While regaining your energy, wander the tent looking at all the film posters, get your picture taken with the life size Oscar statue, watch the Italian travelogues and Italian movies and enjoy an Italian refreshment. Some of those refreshments are free popcorn, delicious libations like a Bellini, Limoncello, Espresso, Campari, Sambuca, Amaretto and Italian sodas. Italian films, since the development of the Italian film industry in the early 1900’s, have had a great influence on the Italian culture and influenced filmmaking around the world. Italian filmmakers and performers have experienced great international acclaim. In 2014, of the 28 nominated Italian films, 14 Academy Awards were won for Best Foreign Language Film, marking that the most of any country, as well as 12 Palmes d’Or, the highest prize awarded at the Cannes Film Festival. That marked second-most of any country. See the list of award-winning films below. 1947: Shoeshine – Vittorio De Sica 1949: The Bicycle Thief – Vittorio De Sica 1950: The Walls of Malaga – Rene Clement 1956: La Strada – Federico Fellini 1957: Nights of Cabiria – Federico Fellini

1963: 8 ½ – Federico Fellini 1964: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow – Vittorio De Sica 1970: Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion – Elio Petri 1971: The Garden of the FinziContinis – Vittorio De Sica 1974: Amarcord – Federico Fellini 1989: Cinema Paradiso – Giuseppe Tornatore 1991: Mediterraneo – Gabriele Salvatores 1998: Life is Beautiful – Roberto Benigni 2013: The Great Beauty – Paolo Sorrentino The Italian Cinema Tent is located in the Piazza area at the north end of the festival grounds. Passionate about movies, particularly Italian films, Ann Zambito is the Cinema Tent Manager and has been associated with it since the inception when it was only a “movie screen and a few chairs.” It was Betty Puccio who initiated the idea of having the Italian films and asked Ann to come up with some creative ways to enhance the Cinema Tent. Every year since, Ann has added new offerings to make it fun and exciting for Festa attendees. According to Ann, this year will be especially chock-full of things to do and see with the goal being to introduce the public to the great influence Italian films have and continue to make on the film industry. First and foremost, there will be a movie theater where acclaimed films, starring or directed by Italians and/or Italian-Americans will be showing every day of Festa Italiana. (see list and description below). In between the featured films will be the travelogues of Italy. Some of those playing will be Visions of Italy, which is an aerial view of Italy; 7 Days in Italy, which is an in-depth 7-day sightseeing tour; Italia which depicts Italy’s diverse landscape. The travelogues give you an opportunity, if you do not have time for the feature film,

to enjoy an arm-chair trip to Italy. The following are the light-hearted films being shown this year.

Featured films synopses All Roads Lead to Rome – An uptight woman from New York (Sarah Jessica Parker) on a trip with her daughter to rekindle their relationship, reconnects with an old flame (Raoul Bova). The fun begins when her daughter (Rosie Day) and the man’s mother (Claudia Cardinale) run away together. La Mossa del Pinguino (The Move of the Penguin) – This is a comedy in which two workers, (Edoardo Leo and Ricky Memphis) having recently discovered curling, decide to compete in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy. (English subtitles)

Benvenuti Al Sud (Welcome to the South) – Overwhelmed by his wife, a Northern Italy postal worker (Claudio Bisio) fakes a disability to request a transfer to Milan. But when his ruse is discovered he is sent for two years to Castellabbate, a village near Naples. He will move there alone, frightened and full of the typical prejudices about the south. However, he meets lovely people who make him feel at home. His challenge is to explain to his wife that all of his experiences confirm the criticism of the south and that his life there is a hell! This movie has a popular sequel called Benvenuti al Nord. (English subtitles) Noi e la Giulia (The Giulia and Us) – This is the story of three guys, Claudio, Diego and Faust and an Alfa Romeo Giulia who, going through mid life crises, decide to join forces and take up the offer to buy a bed and breakfast (agriturismo) which just happens to be in Camorra country. Also joined by Sergio, a communist-nostalgic middle-aged man, they find themselves in very dangerous territory. It stars Claudio Amendola. Here is the 2016 Festa movie schedule:

Friday, July 22 2:00 p.m. – All Roads Lead to Rome 4:30 p.m. – La Mossa Del Pinguino 7:00 p.m. – Italian Movie Trivia with Frank Cossentino Sud

Saturday, July 23 2:00 p.m. – Benvenuti Al

4:30 p.m. – Noi e la Giulia 7:00 p.m. – Italian Movie Trivia with Frank Cossentino

Sunday, July 24 2:00 p.m. – All Roads Lead to Rome 4:30 p.m. – Noi e la Giulia 7:00 p.m. – Italian Movie Trivia with Frank Cossentino

In the Cinema Tent, itself, you will find walls covered with film posters, biographies and other trivia about some of the best known movies made, starring and directed by Italians or Italian-Americans. While perusing and relaxing, the Bellini and Limoncello Bar will be open for refreshments. A new and fun feature this year will be the Film Trivia Hour each night of Festa Italiana, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., hosted by Frank Cossentino. This will be a contest where Frank asks questions and whoever answers the most correctly will earn a prize. Frank Cossentino is well known for his trivia hosting every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn at 545 W. Layton. Then, if all that is not enough, this year there will be Glorioso’s MiniMart where you can peruse and purchase everything from jewelry to household goods. As Ann says, “Come visit the Piazza at the North End, have your picture taken with the life-size Oscar statue and enjoy all the wonderful information we have to offer in the Cinema tent, as well as, our volunteers’ happy and smiling faces. Festa Italiana is much more than just a festival of foods and rides but a wealth of culture and lots of fun.”

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Sandy and Linda Gottwald looked at the posters, photos and movie memorabilia on the panels in the Cinema Exhibit during their visit to Festa Italiana

PAGE 38 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

2015. Linda was visiting from Travers City, Mich. Both said they are big Italian movie fans. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Pretend you’re in Venice, ride a gondola A proud reminder of Italian accomplishment and a simpler time

by Lauren Sutton Cue the Sinatra music, take off your shoes, and leave your worries in the hands of Festa’s capable and experienced gondoliers. (Sigh!) If only every day was Festa Italiana. Once again, Festa Italiana brings back one of the most popular features: The gondolas! The origin of the name ‘gondola’ has never quite been satisfactorily established. Gondolas were first noted in 1094 and have inspired painters since the 1400s. These boats were a necessary mode of transportation to navigate the tight spaces of Venice’s 177 canals and its six islands. In the earlier versions, gondolas had a small cabin to protect passengers from the weather, with windows and blinds that eventually became…Venetian Blinds! It takes a lot of work to get that pretty ride! Gondolas are traditionally handmade using eight different types of wood, including fir, oak, cherry, walnut, elm, mahogany, larch, and lime. At one point, the City of Venice required that all gondolas were to be painted black to avoid unnecessary extravagance among nobility. Fun Fact: To be a gondolier requires training, an apprenticeship, and a major final exam. Only around 425 gondolier licenses are available to issue. Although gondolas were typically used as ferries, they have since become legendary and synonymous with Italian romance. Today, they are a proud reminder of Italian accomplishment driven by necessity and a much simpler time. At Festa Italiana, the gondola rides are $25 for an individual and $30 for a couple. If you wish to ride during the evening fireworks, (which would be an unforgettable experience, especially for a wedding proposal; hint, hint!) the cost is $40 for an individual and $50 for a couple. Please see the “Gondolas” sec-

tion of the Festa Italiana website for further specifics: http://festaitaliana.com/activities/go

ndolas/. Festa Italiana extends a great big thank you to the Vella family

and Peter Sciortino Bakery for sponsoring the gondolas this year. Enjoy this Venetian tradition.

A variety of distinct and unique gifts available in Festa’s marketplace

The Festa Italiana marketplace will be open for business each day of the festival for a variety of distinct and unique gifts. Listed below are the vendors that will have operations in the marketplace. • Because I Like It, Orland Park, Ill.: Jewelry, handbags, scarves, sweaters, hats, gloves and a variety of other accessories. • C Squared Wood, Hartland, Wis,: Wood-cutting boards, cribbage boards, peppermills, salt and pepper shakers, wall clocks and wall art. For more details,visit : http://csquarewoodproducts.weebly. com/.

Having dinner for up to 300 guests?

• Fazio’s Cioccolatini (Fazio’s Sweet Moments Sweet Life), Elm Grove, Wis.: Artisan chocolates. Visit Fazio;s website: http://www.fazioschocolate.com/. • Foranart – Milwaukee, Wis.: Handmade polymer clay and wire jewelry • Grapes & Olives on Tap, LLC, Fort Mill, S.C.: Bottles of naturally flavored balsamic vinegars and olive oils. Visit: http://www.goontap.com/. • Tisana Enterprises, LLC (The Spice and Tea Exchange of Mequon), Mequon, Wis.: Fine savory spices, gourmet teas and seasonings. • Gina’s Collections, Glenview, Ill.: Ladies clothing, accessories and costume jewelry • Italian American Store on

Wheels, Chicago, Ill.: All Italian novelty items. • Hardcore Italians, Woodridge, Ill.: T-shirts, Sweat shirts & pants, Italian novelties. • Designs by Gina, Glenview, Ill.: Wine bottle holders, blown glass stirrers, wine and beer signs, seagrass hats, palazzo pants. • Renee Scheer, Milwaukee, Wis.: Handwoven baskets and handwoven jewelry. • Usborne Books & More, West Allis, Wis.: Educational books from infancy through high school. To learn more you can visit, visit: www.myuban.com/u3165. • Giftworks, Waukesha, Wis.: Personalized custom frames, mattes, magnets and ornaments. • Northern Light RecogPlease turn to page 45A

The staff of Cafe La Scala invites you to stop in for lunch or dinner.

Entertain them at the Italian Conference Center’s FESTA BALLROOM. A gorgeous setting in which to enjoy great food! The Italian Conference Center in the Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St. (a block west of Summerfest) Call David 414/ 223-2800 to reserve your party or meeting space at the ICC. Visit: www.ItalianConference.com

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Arancini • Boneless Buffalo Chicken Strips • Panzanella • Italian Beef Sandwich • Reuben • Sicilian Chicken Sandwich • Chicken Basil Panini • Sicilian Steak Sandwich • Mushroom Swiss Burger • Pasta alla Norma • Chicken & Spinach Alfredo • Sicilian Steak Dinner • La Scala Pizza • Alfredo Pizza • Prosciutto Pizza and much more!

WEEKDAY LUNCH BUFFET FOR JUST $10.95/PERSON! Monday ; Mexican • Tuesday ; Pasta • Wednesday ; Southern BBQ; Thursday ; Italian; Friday ; Fish Fry

Cafe La Scala 631 E. Chicago St. • 414-223-2185 LaScalaMilwaukee.com Lunch, Mon.-Sat., 11am-2pm

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 39, SECTION A

‘Vince Lombardi Walk/Run to Tackle Cancer’ comes to Festa Italiana 2016

Festa Italiana officials are proud to announce that the 29th annual Milwaukee “Vince Lombardi Walk/Run to Tackle Cancer” will be held for the first time at Festa. The 3K walk and 5K run, which support local cancer care and research initiatives, will be Saturday, July 23 and will celebrate Coach Lombardi’s Italian heritage. All proceeds from the Lombardi Walk/Run to Tackle Cancer support local Aurora Cancer Care programs and are eligible for a 50% match from the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation. “We are thrilled to bring the memory and legacy of Lombardi, the Green Bay Packer and NFL legend to Milwaukee’s original ethnic festival,” said Giuseppe Vella, president of the Italian Community Center and general chairperson of Festa Italiana. “We can’t imagine a better partnership that not only commemorates Vince Lombardi’s strong Italian roots, but also fights for an extremely worthy cause.” Registration for the Walk/Run is $35 per adult runner and $30 for adult walkers. For children, ages 3-12, the registration fee for the 3K walk is $15. Children, age 2 and younger, are free. Participating runners and walkers receive free admission into Festa Italiana,

as well as have access to $5 parking in the ICC parking lot from 6:30 to 10 a.m. the day of the event. Green Bay Packers alumni Santana Dotson and Jerry Kramer will be in attendance during the Walk/Run.

The schedule for the 2016 Vince Lombardi Walk/Run to Tackle Cancer at Festa Italiana is as follows: • 7:30 a.m. – Registration opens (North Gate). • 9:30 a.m. – Run begins. • 10:00 a.m. – Walk begins. • 11:00 a.m. – Noon – Post walk/run festivities at the Palermo’s Pizza Stage • 11:30 a.m. – Run awards, 50/50 raffle, Kessler’s Diamond Quarterback Awards • Noon – 2:00 p.m. – Lombardi Food Hour. 10% of each purchase will benefit the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation.

Check out the 2016 Lombardi Walk/Run to Tackle Cancer at Festa Italiana webpage or call 414649-7019 to register and to start building your team today. Fundraising prizes will be available at varying levels after the event. Information about the prizes is also available on the Walk/Run webpage. “The entire Lombardi team is proud to honor Coach’s Italian her-

itage and partner with Festa Italiana,” said Erin Hareng, executive director of the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation. “We are looking forward to a fun day of celebrating with our friends at Festa, all while raising funds for local cancer care and research.”

you and your caregiver on Friday, July 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.! Additionally, you can get two menu items and soft drinks at half price from participating food vendors during those hours, as well as two free pieces of fruit for each guest at the fruit stand in the Miller Oasis Area! “We graciously thank the anonymous area fruit wholesaler that is keeping our VIPS healthy!” Jennaro said. To get tickets, you are welcome to stop into the Festa office at the

Italian Community Center from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. to obtain them in person, or you may mail Festa Italiana a self-addressed stamped envelope (with proper postage on both items, of course) to this address: VIP Day, c/o Festa Italiana 631 E. Chicago St. Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916 For mail orders, be sure and include the name of the VIP and one guest, a contact phone number, the type of disability and indicate if you require any special needs for

Festa officials encourage Walk/Run participants to attend the Sunday Mass, at which there will be a special Lombardi-style blessing for those suffering with cancer, the families of cancer patients and those who have lost loved ones to cancer.

Festa Italiana honored to have persons with disabilities as its very own VIPs on July 22

by Lauren Sutton This year will be Festa Italiana’s 34th annual VIP Day! Can you believe it? VIP Day Chairman Bill Jennaro sure can’t: “We are very excited to have the VIP Day again this year. We have been doing the VIP Day now for 30-plus years and consider it a privilege to provide an opportunity to persons who would might otherwise not have the opportunity to attend a festival. We really love VIP Day!” And the benefits of being a Festa VIP? First, you get free admission for

Ferragosto celebrated Aug. 15 in Italy

Just in time to give themselves a break from the summer heat, Italians will celebrate the ancient feast of Ferragosto on Aug. 15. Since the seventh century, this national holiday has coincided with the Feast of the Assumption in the liturgical year of the Roman Catholic Church, but the celebrations date even further back than that. In the era of the Roman Empire the festivities were known as Feriae Augusti and marked the end of the summer agricultural season. Ancient Romans celebrated by spending weeks indulging in feasting and revelry to honor the gods. Women were encouraged to make sacrifices to Diana, goddess of the hunt.

the disability. For group VIP ticket orders, please an email to Constance Palmer at cpalmer@italianconference.com or you may call her at: 414-223-2808. The deadline for ticket mail orders will be July 8, and deadline for ticket pick up is July 14 at the Festa office. We will see you there! Jennaro extends a warm thank you to these longtime VIP Day sponsors: Goodwill Industries, the Italian Community Center, and Milwaukee World Festivals (Summerfest).

Thanks to the advertisers and volunteers who helped to make this issue possible

It is with great pleasure that we publish the July/August 2016 Festa Italiana edition of The Italian Times. We have attempted to provide our readers with information on nearly all aspects of the 39th annual Festa, produced by the volunteer members of the Italian Community Center. We hope you enjoy the stories, the features and the photographs. We want to thank everyone who placed advertising in this issue. Without the support of our advertisers, it would be impossible to publish this large of a newspaper. We encourage our readers to patronize those businesses that have placed advertising in this edition. We also hope that everyone who reads this issue will be able to attend Festa Italiana. The festival opens Friday, July 22 and runs through Sunday, July 24 at Henry W. Maier Festival Park (the Summerfest grounds) along Milwaukee’s beautiful lakefront. The staff of The Italian Times is looking forward to covering the festival. Our reports on Festa Italiana will appear in the September 2016 issue. That issue will be published in late August. I wish to thank Paul Salsini, Pam Pietravalle, Lauren Sutton, Susan DeSanctis Christiansen,

PAGE 40 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

Christina Ziino, Jessica Huebner and George Koleas, who volunteered to write stories for this issue. My thanks also to those who volunteer to contribute articles to every issue. These individuals include Blaise DiPronio, Barbara Collignon and Annette Robertson. My sincerest thanks to Anna Pitzo and Danita Wendorf for doing the proofreading. I want to acknowledge sales representative Faye Ann Kessler, who did a great job doing the advertising sales for this issue. If you happen to misplace your print edition of this newspaper, you can also find a copy of it online at the Italian Community Center’s website, www.ICCMilwaukee.com. You can also follow Festa Italiana on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/festamke/ or go to https://mobile.twitter.com/FestaMKE to talk it up. Become a fan of Festa on Facebook at www.facebook.com/festaitalianamilwaukee to join the conversation. Use the hashtags #MyItalian or #FestaMKE to share your thoughts. See you at Festa! – Thomas Hemman Times Editor

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Milwaukee County Transit System gets riders to Festa Italiana two different ways

Celebrate Festa Italiana with ease and convenience by taking the bus. The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) offers two easy ways to get to Festa Italiana, July 22-24 at Henry Maier Festival Park. Take either the Downtown Shuttle service along Wisconsin

Avenue and Freeway Flyers from three park-ride lots.

Downtown Shuttle service Shuttles provide service roughly every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Friday, July 22 and on Saturday, July 23 and from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, July

24. Buses operate in both directions along Wisconsin Avenue. When traveling to Festa, the Shuttle stops between N. 6th Street and N. Jackson Street, then proceeds directly to the Mid Gate. Stops are made at all bus stops marked with the Summerfest smile logo.

Freeway Flyer service Festival-goers can catch a Freeway Flyer from the following park-ride lots: Brown Deer East (Brown Deer Road, west of I-43), College (College Avenue, at I-94, north and south lots), and State Fair Park (I-94, S. 76th and W. Kearney Street). Service is provided during all hours of the festival, beginning a half-hour before the event and ending a half-hour after the event. Frequency of service is approximately every half-hour. For Sunday Mass, buses will drop off at South Gate. Local routes MCTS also serves downtown with numerous local routes from all over Milwaukee County. Many local routes connect with the Downtown Shuttle.

Fares Shuttles are $3 round trip for adults or $2.50 using an M•CARD. Shuttle fare for children (ages 611), seniors (age 65 and older) and disabled persons with the proper ID is $1.50 round-trip cash or with the M•CARD. Freeway Flyer fare round-trip $6.50 for adults or $4.70 when paying with an M•CARD. For children, seniors and the disabled with proper ID, Freeway Flyer fare roundtrip is $3 cash or when paid with an M•CARD. M•CARDs with a one-, seven- or 31-day pass also work as round-trip fare on the Shuttle and on the Freeway Flyer plus $2. On the Shuttle and Freeway Flyer, U-PASS (summer semester only), GO Pass, New Freedom Pass and Commuter Value Pass are accepted as full fare. Customers can find additional information and suggested routing via Google Trip Planner by visiting RideMCTS.com, or by calling the 24-hour automated bus information line at 414-344-6711.

For your Wedding Reception and Rehearsal Dinner

The Italian Conference Center located at the Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee

You'll welcome our attention to detail and the way our staff goes out of its way to meet your every need. Your guests will love the setting, the food, and easy access and parking. Our wedding specialists will work closely with you to make certain that your day is everything you dreamed it would be. They'll even assist with floral arrangements, music, photography, ordering the wedding cake and other extras. Call David now for available dates and a tour.

(414) 223-2800

THE ITALIAN TIMES

www.italianconference.com JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 41, SECTION A

Win $5,000 at Festa

Raffle awards cash prizes

Festa Italiana is offering you a chance to win $5,000 or $1,000 or $500 in its 2016 raffle. Tickets are $2 each or three for $5 or seven for $10. You can purchase raffle tickets through July 21 at the Italian Community Center during regular business hours. During Festa, Friday, July 22 through Sunday, July 24, you can purchase raffle tickets at three locations. Raffle booths will be situ-

ated on the north end of the grounds, near the main gate and near the Calypso Lemonade Stage, according to Liz Ceraso, raffle chair. The drawing for prizes will be held on Sunday, July 24 at 10 p.m. at the Miller Lite Stage. Winners need not be present. All ICC members should have received raffle tickets and are encouraged to purchase them or sell them to family and friends.

Residents of Sassari, the secondlargest city on the island of Sardinia, will hold a celebration on Aug. 14 to commemorate their long heritage of candle-making. Every year groups of men parade through the streets carrying candlesticks three-meters high decorated with vibrantly-colored ribbons and flowers. Enthusiastic crowds cheer them on as they race one another through town to the tune of drumbeats and fife music.

The origins of the festival are said to be found in the medieval era when the area was settled by migrants from Pisa, who brought the art of candle-making with them. The candles of Sardinia came to be symbols of gratitude to the Blessed Mother for survivors of the Plague in the 1700s, and this is thought to be why the celebration falls on the eve of the Feast of the Assumption.

Best wishes, Nick Santoro

Festa dei Candelieri

Your Special Occasion Deserves Our Special Attention.

Whether you're planning significant family functions -- reunions, christenings, quinceañera, bridal or baby showers, or you're faced with organizing a last-minute event, such as a funeral luncheon . . .

Or you want the perfect setting for a wedding reception or engagement or wedding rehearsal dinner, or your company is looking for an ideal location for a business or social gathering . . .

the Italian Conference Center is your answer.

Our Catering Director will work closely with you to make sure that every detail that goes into a successful event is planned. And the food at the ICC! Ah, the food. Your guests will shower you with compliments after they've eaten the delicious meals prepared by our outstanding chefs and served by our friendly and efficient wait staff.

Everything you need for a successful event is ready and waiting at the Italian Conference Center. For assistance in scheduling and planning your event, call David at

414-223-2800 or visit: www.ItalianConference.com

In the Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee Free parking • Handicapped accessible

Minutes from downtown and freeway access in the Historic Third Ward PAGE 42 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

Ralph Busalacchi, Jim Backes, Myron Koceja and Clarence Graff, longtime managers of the Festa Security Patrol, recently attended the 60th birthday celebration of fellow manager Nick Santoro (seated). They also extended the best wishes of all Festa volunteers to him. Santoro, who has worked on the Festa Patrol for 30 years, has experienced a serious health setback that has prevented him from volunteering at Festa Italiana. Busalacchi asked that Festa volunteer keep Santoro in their prayers. (Photo supplied by Ralph Busalacchi)

Festa de Noantri

The annual street fair of the Trastevere district in Rome is being held every year in mid to late July. Called Festa de Noantri, the celebrations begin with a procession of the Madonna Fiumarola statue through the packed and winding Trastevere streets. Throngs of devoted onlookers murmur prayers and appeals to the Virgin as she passes, carried by 10 local men, led by the bishop and accompanied by music and the protection of the carabinieri, or local police. The statue is carried from the church of Sant’Agata – where it has been housed for centuries – to the church of San Crisogno, where it stays for the festival’s duration. Though the tone of the street fair is joyous throughout the two weeks, even the festivities that follow in the subsequent days – street performances, musical groups, and excellent food and drink – have a carefully-cultivated religious tone. Local legend is cherished, and an especially ubiquitous tale has it that the statue of the Madonna was caught by local fishermen in their nets after a terrible storm and venerated in the church of Sant’Agata. The Festa de Noantri is a uniquely Roman celebration that is important to the locals and interestingly devoid of the effects of tourism. The event is closed by fireworks over the River Tiber.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

1018 E. Brady St. Milwaukee (414) 347-0992 Ted Glorioso, Proprietor

Gold Imports & Diamond Center Sales for Festa-goers – The Week of July 18-24

HALF OFF ALL PRICED ITEMS. SPECIAL DISCOUNTS ON ALL ITALIAN JEWELRY.

Chains • Bracelets• Necklaces • Pendants • Charms • Religious Medals

Check out our extensive collection of diamond jewelry, engagement sets, wedding rings, earrings, necklaces,diamonds of all sizes, bracelets, charms, charm holders, pendants, religious medals and more!

Monday – Friday, 10am – 5pm, Saturday, 11am – 3pm. Closed Sunday.

Festa Italiana’s Favorite Gelato

is available at Cafe La Scala and in your grocer’s freezer – ask for it by name!

Visit our Gelateria Italiana at Festa 2016 North End – just north of the Palermo’s Pizza Stage South End – southeast of the Calypso Lemonade Stage Planning a special occasion? Make it unforgettable with gelato – just ask us how!

Gourmet Italian Ice Cream, Sorbet, Italian Soft Drinks and Espresso Coffee

THE ITALIAN TIMES

414.380.9678 europeangelato@msn.com

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 43, SECTION A

ICC President/Festa General Chair Giuseppe Vella thanks volunteers and sponsors from page 1A

Festa is for everyone Our 39th Festa, July 22-24, offers the general public a diversified and varied program of events, entertainment for all ages, Italian culture and superb cuisine and spectacular nightly display of presented by pyrotechnics Bartolotta Fireworks. Let us not lose sight of the essence of our celebration, the Sunday Mass and religious procession of all the patron saints of the hometowns of our parents, grandparents and ancestors. We are pleased to have Fr. Mike Hammer,

Director of AIDS Ministry for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, as the Main Celebrant of the Mass. I hope everyone who is reading this message has already signed up to volunteer, has purchased advance tickets and raffle tickets, and is spreading the word about Festa. I ask that you put Festa in your prayers. Pray for good weather. The weather is one key to the success of Festa that we can’t control. See you at Festa! – Giuseppe Vella ICC President Festa General Chair

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Giuseppe Vella and his son, Salvatore, in a photo taken at Festa 2015. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Find a variety of unique gifts at Festa’s marketplace

from page 39A nition, Brookfield, Wis.: Wood products such as cutting boards, pasta boards, wine tasting boards, cribbage boards, games, plaques, wooden pens, wooden wine bottle stoppers, wooden kitchen items, wooden pet items. • Just Around a Corner, Waukesha, Wis.: Venetian wine glasses, beads, pottery and much more. • Wanderer & Co., LLC, Wau-

watosa, Wis.: Handmade wood sunglasses, reclaimed wood headphones, handcrafted jewelry and notebooks.

If you’re looking for a fun caricature to remember your day at Festa, make sure to visit Ryan Biddle, Festa’s caricature artist,

on the grounds. Or, if you’d rather have your day captured with a snapshot, stop by the Belle Immagini Photo Booth.

Pompeii Men’s Club needs help at its T-shirt booth

Since the beginning of Festa Italiana in 1978, the Pompeii Men’s Club has operated the Festa “T-shirt booth” to raise funds for the Italian Community Center. This year, Festa is the weekend of July 22-24 on the Summerfest grounds and the Pompeii Men’s Club is looking forward to doing its part. The club is in need of volunteers to help sell Festa sportsware each of the three days. Shifts are from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. If you are 16 years or older and would like to volunteer for one shift or more, please contact Chuck Lazzaro at 414-421-7359. The Pompeii Men’s Club is a non-profit organization that uses the income generated at Festa Italiana to fund scholarships for needy students entering Catholic high schools and various charities in the Greater Milwaukee Area. The club has provided a grant to St. Joan Antida High School and participated in the kitchen remodeling efforts at St. Rita Church of Three Holy Women Parish, allowing the church to generate successful fund raising through its spaghetti dinners and fish fries over the past several years.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 45, SECTION A

Times seeking photographers for Festa

Tom Hemman, editor of The Italian Times, is looking for individuals to take pictures at Festa Italiana, Friday, July 22 through Sunday, July 24. You must have your own camera and feel secure with taking photographs in differing lighting conditions. You can be assured that some of your photos will appear in the September issue of The Italian Times or on the Festa Italiana website, http://festaitaliana.com. These are voluntary positions. Hemman will supply interested individuals with free admission and free parking. Each photographer will be given a badge to wear to ensure the access needed to get the pictures they desire. Interested individuals should contact Hemman at his email address: themman@italiancc.org or call 414-223-2189.

Festa Patrol still looking for additional volunteers

Ralph Busalacchi, manager of the Festa Patrol, is seeking volunteers to serve on his crew during Festa Italiana, July 22-24. Volunteers on the Festa Patrol serve as first responders to a vari-

ety of situations on the festival grounds, ranging from security and first aid to lost children. They strive to keep order along parade and procession routes and work to ensure that Festa’s guests experi-

ence a pleasant and safe family event. Those interested in volunteering should contact Busalacchi at 414483-1562 or email him at abodanza1@sbcglobal.net.

Interested in advertising in our next issue? Get all the details by calling (414) 223-2189 or sending by an email to the editor at themman@italiancc.org.

NOW FEATURING . . . Handmade Pizza (New for 2016) Hot Italian Sub Lasagna Sticks Potato Chips Romano Sicilian Steak Sicilian Chicken Wings Meatball Sandwich Cappucino Puffs

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Mon.-Fri. 9am-4pm or by appointment PAGE 46 – SECTION A – JULY/AUGUST 2016

THE ITALIAN TIMES

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JULY/AUGUST 2016 – PAGE 47, SECTION A

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THE ITALIAN TIMES