October 2015 online 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 OCTOBER 2015 • VOL. 37 NO. 4

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ICC election boils down to five candidates seeking four director-at-large seats

By Thomas Hemman Times Editor While the candidates nominated for officer positions – Giuseppe Vella (president), Dean Cannestra (vice president), Sam Purpero (treasurer), Rose Anne Ceraso-Fritchie (secretary) and Joanne (Sanfilippo) Czubek (seargeant-at-arms) – are unopposed, five candidates will battle it out for the four open directorat-large seats in the Italian Community Center election.

Those candidates are (alphabetically): Mary Anne Ceraso-Alioto, Susan (DeSanctis) Christiansen, Karen Dickinson, Joseph Emanuele and Pietro Tarantino. The election slate was finalized at the Aug. 20 general membership meeting. The Nominating Committee has confirmed that all the individuals nominated met the eligibility requirements set forth in Article V of the organization’s bylaws. Nearly

all of the ICC’s nomination and election-related matters are spelled out in Article V.

By Thomas Hemman Times Editor Several ethnic dance and music groups will come together for performances at the Italian Community Center’s third annual Festival di Danza e Cultura on Monday, Oct. 26. This multi-cultural program, which is part of the ICC’s celebration of National Italian American Heritage Month in October, will be presented in the Festa Ballroom starting at 7 p.m. A pasta and

meatballs dinner buffet will be available at 6 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for a reception (cash bar). The dinner and program prices have been set at $17 for adult ICC member, $20 for an adult nonmember and $9 for children (12 and younger). Performance-only admission is $8. Reservations can be made using a credit or debit card and by calling the ICC office at 414-223-2180 or by completing the form at the conclusion of this

article and sending it in with a payment. Festival di Danza e Cultura is a presentation of the ICC Culture Committee and Tradizione Vivente: the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee, in conjunction with the International Institute of Wisconsin. The program celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Wisconsin Chiba (Japan) Sister State Relationship and is a kickoff

Voting procedures The same article stipulates that ballots must be mailed to all members in good standing within eight days following the September general meeting. (That meeting took this past Thursday.) The bylaws define a member in good standing as anyone who

ICC invites all to Festival di Danza e Cultura on Oct. 26

Please turn to page 8

became or renewed a membership at least 60 days prior to the day when the election results are to be announced. In terms of this election, if you’ve been a member since at least Aug. 17, 2015, you are eligible to vote and will receive a ballot in the mail. The Nominating Committee is in charge of mailing the ballots to eligible voters. This is the last official duty of the Nominating Committee. Regarding the submission of ballots, the bylaws state in Article V, Section 9: “All ballots must be postmarked no later than the Thursday preceding the October general membership meeting. Ballots marked after that date will be saved, but will not be opened or counted.” The October general meeting is Thursday, Oct. 15. Therefore, ballot envelopes must be postmarked no later than Oct. 8, 2015 to be opened and counted. Instructions for voting and returning ballots will be included in the mailing sent out by the Nominating Committee. Election results will be announced as part of the proceedings at the Oct. 15 general meeting. Incumbent president Giuseppe Vella will appoint the tellers to open the ballot envelopes, validate Please turn to page 6

Festa makes donations to organizations that stepped forth to operate booths

Each of the organizations that provided volunteers to operate food and wine booths at Festa Italiana was recognized and given a donation by Festa officials at the Italian Community Center’s Aug. 20 general meeting. The ICC hosted the 38th annual Festa this past July. The organizations that stepped forward to supply volunteers included the Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Lodge of the Order Sons of Italy in America (sausage booth and wine bar), Verdi Sport Club (sausage booth), the Christian Women’s Society of Three Holy Women Parish (pasticceria), Garibaldi Society (wine bar), and volunteers from St. Joan Antida High School (wine bar). ICC President/Festa General Chair Giuseppe Vella said, “The ICC and Festa Italiana want to show their support for the Italian organizations in our community and greatly appreciate the help they receive from them.” “The assistance that these organizations provided to Festa helped us to succeed and we look forward to growing our relationship with each and every Italian organization in the future,” said Dean Cannestra, ICC Vice President.

Representatives from each of the organizations that provided volunteers to operate food and wine booths at Festa Italiana were on hand at the ICC’s August general meeting to receive a donation from Festa. From the left: Mariano Carini, Verdi Sport Club; Peter Russo, Filippo Mazzei Lodge/OSIA; Ann D’Acquisto,

Christian Women’s Society of Three Holy Women Parish; Joe Emanuele, President, Filippo Mazzei Lodge/OSIA; Gary Lisiecki, Garibaldi Society; Elizabeth Lingen, St. Joan Antida High School; and Dean Cannestra, ICC Vice President. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Susie Christiansen donates computer to ICC

A Dell desktop computer, equipped with Windows Office, has been donated to the Italian Community Center for members’ use by Susie DeSanctis Christiansen, a longtime member and director-at-large on the ICC Board. The computer is set up at a work station in the Members Room. Christiansen informed The Italian Times that when Whyte Hirscboeck Dudek (WHD), the law firm for which she works, updates its computers, WHD conducts a raffle among its employees for the equipment it is replacing. “I have felt for some time now that the ICC Members Room should have a computer station, so I had been patiently waiting for the next raffle,” she said. “Right after Festa Italiana, WHD held a computer raffle. I immediately entered and was given a really nice Dell desktop computer. I told them I was donating it to the ICC,” she added. As for the software, Christiansen was also able to purchase Windows Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint) through WHD for just $10. She then turned her attention to Craigslist for a computer desk and found one – used but in excellent condition – for $25. After everything was purchased and obtained, she set up the computer and work station in the Members Room. The computer station is available for all ICC members to use, for whatever reason, whether it be to look up something on the internet,

find someone’s address, take notes at a meeting, or whatever they might be interested in doing. Read the sign A sign with the following language has been posted on the computer desk:

Computer for ICC Members On behalf of the Italian Community Center, please feel free to use the computer for whatever your needs may be. For access to the computer and WI-FI/Internet, simply turn in your ICC membership card to the manager at La Scala or the receptionist in the ICC office and sign the register. You will be given the log-in password. When you sign out, your membership card will be returned to you. Note: Computer may not be used for inappropriate websites. Please do not abuse this privilege and gift. In addition to the sign and the register, Christiansen installed a web protection program, which blocks inappropriate websites, and a highly regarded security program to prevent viruses and to protect the computer. President thanked Christiansen During the Aug. 20 general meeting, ICC President Giuseppe Vella thanked Christiansen for her generosity and acknowledged her efforts to promote membership through the ICC website, as a board member and a volunteer. He encouraged members to make use of the computer.

Here is the computer and work station that Susie Christiansen donated and set up in the Members Room for use by ICC members. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

The ICC will be one of about 60 venues participating in Gallery Night & Day. Liz Ceraso, Avanti Committee co-chair, said Smith will display and sell his photographic works from 6 to 10 p.m. on Oct. 16 and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 17 in the Board Room. Admission and parking are free. Smith is the son of ICC member Gina Jorgensen and is a longtime

member of Tradizione Vivente, the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee. Smith was Il Principe (The Prince) of the ICC’s Il Grande Carnevale in 2008. Attendees are invited to enjoy a meal at Cafe La Scala before or after viewing Smith’s works. There will be a banner outside Cafe La Scala, indicating that the ICC is a Gallery Night & Day participant. The Historic Third Ward offers

Nick Smith to present photographic works as ICC participates in October Gallery Night & Day event

By Thomas Hemman Times Editor The Italian Community Center’s Avanti Committee has announced that local photographer Nicholas J. Smith will be showing his photos entitled “Batter” and “Dirt” at the ICC during the Gallery Night & Day program, Friday, Oct. 16 and Saturday, Oct. 17. In its 28th year, the program is a quarterly event organized by the Historic Third Ward Association and the East Towne Association.

Stop in for Cafe La Scala’s “Happy Hour” Monday – Friday 4:00 p.m . – 6:00 p.m.

free Gallery Night Xpress Shuttles that art fans can utilize to attend several of the participating venues. For more information, visit www.historicthirdward.org.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

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

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 DiPronio, Barbara Collignon, Susie Christiansen Angelo Castronovo, Annette Robertson, Gina Jorgensen and the late Mario A. Carini Staff Photographers. . . . . . .Joe Spasiano, and Tom Hemman

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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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Italian Community Center to host Holiday Boutique on Saturday, Nov. 7

By Susie Christiansen Holiday boutiques are a most wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit – they inspire holiday cheer and provide shoppers with an opportunity to give a unique gift to the people in their lives. On Saturday, Nov. 7, the Italian Community Center will host its own Holiday Boutique featuring artists, designers, and the brilliantly creative to showcase their work in a festive atmosphere. “We hope this is the first of many boutiques to come,” said Karen Dickinson, who is chairing this fundraiser. The Holiday Boutique will take

place in Festa Ballroom from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission is $2 per person. The event boasts a number of artisan booths where shoppers will find a magnificent variety of goods – handcrafted goods, unique items and gifts that you won’t find in stores. List of artists Petra Ahnert – Beeswax products Nina Dentici – Painted folk art Karen & Bill Dickinson – Jewelry Joan Drouin – Quilted Bee Emmel – Fiber Trina Frost – Letter art

Genealogy event set for Nov. 7 at ICC Trova i tuoi antenati – Find your ancestors

The Italian Community Center Culture Committee is collaborating with the Pursuing Our Italian Names Together, Chapter 22, the Italian Community Center Italian Family History Club and the Milwaukee County Genealogical Society to give members and the community an opportunity to research their Italian (or other) heritage. This event will take place Saturday, Nov. 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the ICC in Classrooms 1 and 2. This will be a chance to spend some time researching online resources that can help answer questions. Volunteers familiar with doing this type of research will be available to help. A few of the main reasons as to why people search for their ancestors: • Validate family stories. Are those family stories about their ancestors true? • Learn about how one’s family arrived. Did an ancestor come through a port other than New York? From what port did they sail? • Community history. What is the history that helps to understand the families that founded

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Faith Givings – Watercolor ceramics John & Trudie Hechel – Wood Jenn Hintz – Wire sculpture Gina Jorgensen – Painted silk scarves Judith Lesniewski – Hand painted ornaments Jen Loberg – Leather Ursula McCarthy – Wearable art Linda Menge – Exquisite sweatshirts Evelynn Mubasa – Clothing Eric Nelson – Pottery Sarah Pelshek – Upcycled clothing Kari Priebe – Floral Jon Reddin – Photography Nancy Rollag – Silk embroidery Renee Scherr – Baskets Mary Spencer – Stained glass James Steeno – Watercolor painting Julia Taylor – Watercolor

painting Ruchita Varma – Block prints

Sweet treats For those interested in taking home something edible, they will be strongly encouraged to visit the Boutique Pantry, where vendors will offer chocolates, pies, pickles, pecan bread, Italian cookies, homemade bakery and jellies.

Boutique Pantry Tradizione Vivente – the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee Italian cookies Chapter CA – Pies, pickles, fudge, Hungarian nut rolls Jennifer Grundy and Gil Petrovic – Gourmet jelly Lynn Sobye – Chocolate candy

Guests are encouraged to have lunch at Cafe La Scala, which is next to the ballroom. The restaurant will be open at 11 a.m.

and influenced the community? • Find vital records information. When were specify people born? When did they die? Where did they live? The cost to participate in this event will be $5 for a member ($8 for a non-member) plus printing fees* if you would like to take information with you. There will also be a fee if you would like them sent to an email address.** Some information that can be searched for includes: • Ship records • Census records • Newspaper clippings/stories • Military records. There will be cheese and crackers provided. A cash bar is available in Cafe La Scala. The restaurant will also be offering a lunch special for $10 for a large 16-inch one topping pizza for attendees. *The fee for printing will be .50 per page. **The fee for emailing will be determined by the amount of information provided.

OCTOBER 2015 – PAGE 3

A message from Giuseppe Vella, Italian Community Center President

I can’t believe how fast the first year of my presidency has gone. I want to thank you – the members – for your ongoing support and your show of confidence in nominating me for a second term. With the help of our officers and board members, we can accomplish many great things in the next year. Several decisions that your board made during the past year are paying off, putting the ICC in a better position financially and for making long term decisions on matters such as what we should do with our building and our property. We recently completed negotiations with PyraMax Bank to refinance the mortgage on the building. The lower mortgage rate will save the organization a substantial sum of money over the years. I want to acknowledge treasurer

Dave Spano and director-at-large Liz Ceraso for their service this past year. Neither will be returning to our board in the next term, but I’m sure, they will remain active and help us in whatever way they can to accomplish our goals.

Support our activities In both October and November, the ICC has several activities going on for which I’m asking for your support. These include: • Gallery Night & Day: Friday night, Oct. 16 and Saturday, Oct. 17. • Corso di Cucina per Bambini (Italian cooking class for children), Saturday, Oct. 17. • Festival di Danza e Cultura (our multicultural dance festival), Monday, Oct. 26. • Holiday Boutique: Saturday,

ICC offers adults a chance to learn to mix cocktails from experts on Oct. 29

By Susie Christiansen Instructors, who are true mixologists in the Milwaukee bar and restaurant scene, will lead a second mixology class at the Italian Community Center on Thursday, Oct. 29 at 6 p.m. (The first class was Sept. 24, the day this issue came out.) The instructors will enlighten students with the basic skills of the craft, such as mixing, shaking, muddling, pouring, and straining. Recipes for the cocktails will be provided. Students will learn the following, as they make classic and original cocktails: • Taste and compare liquors. • Learn the origins of spirits. • Learn when to shake or stir. • Build cocktails the way they were intended to be created. • Study different bitters, and learn the taste and aroma of each. • Walk away with a basic understanding of craft cocktails. At the start of this hands-on experience, students will be taught the skills using bottles of water that are colored and tinted to replicate the color of the liquor being used in the lesson. This allows each

student to learn and practice without pouring out expensive alcohol and ingredients with each “less than successful” attempt. At the end of each lesson, when they feel they have practiced enough and are ready, students will be provided with the bottle of real alcohol, along with the accompanying ingredients, and will be encouraged to create, drink and enjoy their final exam! Students should come to class with the following bar tools: cocktail shaker, strainer, bar spoon, jigger, muddler and pour spouts. If they don’t have the tools, we suggest asking a friend if they can borrow them. We may have three or four sets available that night for purchase, just in case someone forgets the tools. State law dictates that students must be at least 21 years old to participate in these classes. The registration fees are as follows: • $30/non-member, $20/ICC member. Use the registration form accompanying this article. You may also register by calling 414-2232180.

ICC Mixology Class Registrations Form

Name(s) _______________________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip ________________________________________________________________________ Contact information: Phone number and email address: ____________________

Nov. 7. • Trova i tuoi antenati – Find your ancestors (Genealogy event with the Italian Family History Club): Saturday, Nov. 7. – Giuseppe Vella ICC President

Have your kids take part in ICC’s Oct. 17 cooking class

Even if your children or grandchildren were unable to participate in the Italian Community Center’s cooking class on Sept. 19, they can still register for the Saturday, Oct. 17 class, in which they will learn to make pasta from scratch with a tasty Italian sauce. Corso di Cucina per Bambini is open to children, ages 4 and older. The class begins at 10 a.m. and is expected to last about three hours. The registration fees for the Oct. 17 class are $15 per child of an ICC member and $20 per child of a nonmember. Fees must be paid in full by Thursday, Oct. 8. Please use the form accompanying this article or call the ICC office at 414-223-2180 and have your credit card ready. Course flyers are also available at the ICC. Susie Christiansen, the ICC director-at-large who coordinated

the cooking classes, told The Italian Times that the kids will have an opportunity to use the pasta rolling and cutting machines during the Oct. 17 class. “We anticipate having five or six pasta machines in the classroom. After all of the prep work is complete, the kids will create a tasty sauce. The instructors will help them cook the fresh pasta.” There will be two chaperones at each table to assist to ensure everyone’s safety.

At the conclusion of the class, the children will be able to eat everything they made with one parent or grandparent joining them for lunch. “This should be a fun and educational day for children,” Christiansen said. “Make sure they are registered by October 8th.”

CORSO DI CUCINA BAMBINI 7 CHILDREN’S COOKING CLASS REGISTRATION FORM

Name and age of each child participating in the class: _______________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Name of parent or grandparent who will be enjoying the meal at the end of the class: _________________________________________________________________________________________

Contact information for parent or grandparent (best way to reach you):

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Number of children of ICC member attending Oct. 17 class: ______________ x 15.00 Total amount of member fee for attending Oct. 17 class:

______________

Number of children of non-member attending Oct. 17 class: _____________ x 20.00

Total amount of non-member fee for attending Oct. 17 class: _____________ Registration fees for attending the Oct. 17 class only are due on Thursday, Oct. 8.

CHECKS ARE PAYABLE TO THE ITALIAN COMMUNITY CENTER. Mail this form with your check to: ICC, c/o Kids’ Cooking Class, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Number of ICC member attending Oct. 29 class:

Total amount of member fee for attending Oct. 29 class:

Number of non-members attending Oct. 29 class:

______________ 20.00

______________ _____________ 30.00

Total amount of non-member fee for attending Oct. 29 class: _____________

Registration fees for attending the Oct. 29 class only are due on Tuesday, Oct. 20. CHECKS ARE PAYABLE TO THE ITALIAN COMMUNITY CENTER. Mail this form with your check to: ICC, c/o Mixology Class, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202.

PAGE 4 – OCTOBER 2015

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Calendar of Events September 24 – October 29, 2015

Thursday, Sept. 24 • Ladies of UNICO Craft Fair, 5 – 9 p.m. • Courtyard Music Series: Rock and Roll with the Larry Lynne Band, 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 29 • Italian Community Center Mixology class, 6 p.m. Details in this issue. • Courtyard Music Series: Tuesday Bluesday with Nick Moss & Friends, 6:30 p.m. Season finale. Wednesday, Sept. 30 • Pompeii Women’s Club scholarship awards dinner, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5 • Solomon Juneau Social Club meeting, 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7 • Pompeii Women’s Club Board meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 8 • Italian Community Center Board meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 12 • Italian Community Center Finance Committee meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 13 • Italian Community Center Culture Committee meeting, 6 p.m. • Abruzzese Society meeting, 7 p.m. • Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National meeting, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 15 • Italian Community Center membership dinner, 5:30 p.m. • Italian Community Center general meeting, 6:30 p.m. Election results announced. Friday, Oct. 16 • Abruzzese Society social, 6 p.m. • Italian Community Center participates in Gallery Night, 6-10 p.m. Details in this issue.

Saturday, Oct. 17 • Corso di Cucina per Bambini (Italian cooking class for children), 10 a.m.

Details in this issue. • Italian Community Center participates in Gallery Day, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Details in this issue.

Wednesday, Oct. 21 • Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Area Lodge/Order Sons of Italy in America general meeting, 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 27 • Italian Community Center Culture Committee meeting, 6 p.m. • Ladies of UNICO Board meeting, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28 • Pompeii Women’s Club general meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 29 • Italian Community Center Culture Committee hosts the 3rd annual Festival di Danza e Cultura, 5:30 p.m., buffet dinner, 6:30 p.m. program. • Italian Community Center Mixology class, 6 p.m. Details in this issue.

Daily and weekly classes and activities • Bocce leagues. Fall leagues are underway on Monday and Wednesday nights and Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Championship playoff: Monday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.

• ICC’s free Children’s Italian class. Held each Saturday, 2 – 4 p.m., through Nov. 14. Children, ages 6-12, can be registered to participate at any of the remaining classes.

• ICC Italian classes for teens and adults. Held each Tuesday through Nov. 10. Italian I class at 7:30 p.m. Italian II class at 5:30 p.m. No new registrations accepted.

• I Bei Bambini, The Children’s Italian Dance Group. This children’s folk dance group practices weekly on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at the ICC. New dancers welcome. For details, visit www.tradizionevivente.com.

• Tradizione Vivente, The Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee. This folk dance group practices weekly on most Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the ICC. Visit www.tradizionevivente.com for details. Ballate con noi! Dance with us!

2016 schedules sought from societies and organizations that regularly use the ICC

The 2016 meeting and social event schedules of all societies, clubs and organizations that regularly use the Italian Community Center for their activities are needed by the Italian Conference Center’s Sales and Catering Department and The Italian Times. David Stachowiak, Director of Sales, Catering & Special Events, and Kim Marie Fasciano, Sales & Catering Assistant, need these schedules to guarantee dates and hall/room availability. Tom Hemman, Times editor, needs the information to provide an accurate reporting of events in the calendar published in each issue of this newspaper. All groups are asked to submit their schedules including the starting time of all events as

soon as possible. The goal is to have the schedules from all societies, clubs and organizations by Nov. 30. Please submit schedules by using any one of these methods: • Send an email to Tom Hemman at themman@italiancc.org or to David Stachowiak at dstachowiak@italianconference.com or Gina Manning at kmfasciano@italianconference.com. • Fax the information to either The Italian Times or the Italian Conference Center Sales and Catering Department at 414/2232187. • Drop off the schedules in person at the ICC. Groups that don’t comply with this request may find it more difficult at a later time to get the

Thanks for your donations to ICC building fund

The officers and directors of the Italian Community Center wish to thank and acknowledge all those who pledged, fulfilled a pledge, or contributed to the building fund. To obtain information on how to make a donation, please call 414-223-2808. The following donations were received between August 7 and

September 8, 2015.

In memory of Mario A. Carini August J. Amoroso Carmen Schlotthauer Joseph and Christina Ziino In memory of Prudence C. Maglio Anthony T. Machi In memory of Nick Tripi Gino Dentice

Having an estate sale or rummage sales this fall? Get the word out to our readers with an ad in our next issue. For ad sizes and prices, call 414-223-2180 or send an email to themman@italiancc.org.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

accommodations they most desire. “We always try our best to accommodate all requests, but if we can reserve dates and rooms early, it’s to everyone’s advantage,” Stachowiak said. Added Hemman, “If we don’t have the schedule of events for your

organization with the starting time of each event, it impossible to prepare an accurate calendar listing for the newspaper. We depend on the presidents or the designated representatives of the many organizations to supply this information.”

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OCTOBER 2015 – PAGE 5

ICC election boils down to five candidates seeking four director-at-large seats; President Vella, other officers unopposed

from page 1 the eligibility of voters and count the ballots. The newly-elected officers will for one year while the new directors-at-large will fill two-year terms. All terms begin officially on Nov. 1.

The uncontested officers Giuseppe Vella was elected president last fall, succeeding Gina Spang. Vella had previously served as vice president (2012-2014) and as a director-at-large (2010-2012). A longtime ICC member, Vella has participated as a volunteer and donor in many of the activities hosted by the organization. He has been active in Festa Italiana, serving this year as general chairman, on the Management and Steering Committees, the ICC Finance and Personnel Committee and assisted various other committees. Vella, his brother, Luigi, and his sister, Maria Sali, have been the coowners of Peter Sciortino Bakery on Brady Street in Milwaukee for 19 years. Giuseppe and his wife, Rhiana, were honored as Re and Regina (King and Queen) of Il Grande Carnevale in 2010. Carnevale is the organization’s pre-Lenten costume and mask ball. Their three children, Salvatore, Maria and Isabella, are actively involved in the ICC and Festa. Dean Cannestra was elected to his first term as vice president last fall. He had served as a director-atlarge (2010-2014) and as Membership Committee chairman (2011-2013). He has been a member of the Festa Food Committee since 2012 and has served on the Festa Management Committee and Festa Steering Committee. He has long been a donor and a volunteer for “A Taste of Italy” and Carnevale. Dean and his wife, Mary, were also the Re and Regina of Carnevale. That honor was given to them in 2008. The couple’s children, Joe and Benedetta have also been active in the ICC and Festa over the years. Dean is the owner/manager of Divino Wine & Dine Restaurant and Nessun Dorma Bar & Restaurant. Sam Purpero is replacing David Spano as treasurer, who opted out of seeking re-election after serving the past year. Purpero certainly doesn’t lack familiarity with the position as he was elected to the post for six years before Spano’s service the last year. In the 37 years that the ICC has been in existence, Purpero has held every position on the Board except secretary and sergeant-at-arms. He was the organization’s president in the 1982-1983 term and has served as either an officer or director for all but two years and a couple of months since 1978. Last fall, choosing not to seek re-election as treasurer, he was appointed to the Board as a director in early January 2015 to fill a vacancy. Purpero is the chief executive officer of C.W. Purpero, Inc., a southeastern Wisconsin excavating company. Rose Anne Ceraso-Fritchie, a longtime active member of the ICC, has held the office of secretary for the past 11 years. She has had extensive volunteer involvement in

PAGE 6 – OCTOBER 2015

President Giuseppe Vella

the ICC and Festa Italiana. In the most recent years, she has served as manager of Festa golf carts, cochaired the ICC’s children’s postChristmas party with La Befana, served as a member or chair of the Avanti Committee, and a member of the Carnevale Committee. Fritchie is the president of the Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National. She is employed as the human resources manager at Everbrite, LLC. Joanne Czubek first won the sergeant-at-arms post in the 2010 election, making her the first female to hold the position in the history of the organization. She previously served on the Board as a director-at-large (1997-2002). She has a long history of volunteer participation in the ICC and with Festa. She has been co-chairperson of Carnevale the last eight years and chaired the Membership Committee and the Election Committee (now called the Nominating Committee), She has volunteered for many events and has been co-manager of Festa Signage the last several years. For the last 20 years, Cubek has served as Festa’s volunteer coordinator. She is currently a member of the Newspaper Committee. As a crafts and floral designer, she has used her expertise for displays at numerous events including Carnevale, St. Joseph’s Day luncheon, installation dinners, holiday parties and at Festa.

Seeking your vote As an informational service to the ICC membership, The Italian Times asked the five candidates for the four director-at-large positions to complete a questionnaire. After stating their name, occupation, title and employer, each candidate was asked to answer two questions. The first involved their ICC and/or Festa Italiana during the last year. Their responses were limited to 50 words. The second question asked them to describe in 150 words or less what they are going to do to help the organization. Their comments are presented here in the same order as their names appear on the election ballot. A drawing for ballot positioning was conducted by Nominating Committee co-chairs Rosemary DeRubertis and Salvatore Lo Coco and committee member William Dickinson on Aug. 31 at the ICC. It was witnessed by this reporter. * * *

Vice President Dean Cannestra

Incoming Treasurer Sam Purpero

Statements of the five candidates for director-at-large

Secretary Rose Anne Fritchie

Sergeant-At-Arms Joanne Czubek

Name: Karen Ann Dickinson Occupation: Retired. Title: Sales Representative – (39 years) Employer: Nordberg Mfg. Co.

Fundraiser. • Future Fund Raising Committee member • Volunteer, Taste of Italy.

How have you been involved in the ICC and/or Festa during the last year? • Festa driver for entertainers. (7 years) • ICC Membership Chair (3 years) • Casino Night Chair. Securing funding and raffle prizes. Fundraiser. • Holiday Boutique Chair. Attended many local art fairs and selected quality artists.

Karen Dickinson

If you are elected to the Board, describe what you are going to do to help the organization? I look forward to being part of the decision process for a more enjoyable, usable and practical Center. I enjoy fundraising, and would assist in forming a sustaining source of revenue for these purposes. I would also work to preserve the valued heritage of the Center, and want to be active in its renaissance. As an ICC member for eight years, I have strived to become an integral part of the Center, and will continue for the betterment of the organization. In the coming years, some important decisions will be made for the Center, it’s my belief that I can be an added value in this effort. I want to promote the ideas of an annual “new members welcome night” that would define membership along with learning about special events, societies and activities. The ICC is a marvelous organization that I now consider family. The statement of Pietro Tarantino, Joe Emanuele, Mary Anne (Ceraso) Alioto and Susie (DeSanctis) Christiansen follow on the next page – Page 7.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Statements of the five candidates for the four director-at-large positions

Name: Pietro Tarantino Occupation: Self-employed Title: Employer:

Name: Joseph T. Emanuele Occupation: Police Officer Title: Identification Systems Specialist Employer: Milwaukee Police Department

How have you been involved in the ICC and/or Festa during the last year? • ICC Board Member, DirectorAt-Large • Festa Steering Committee Member • Italian Language Committee Chairperson If you are elected to the Board, describe what you are going to do help the organization? ICC members worked extremely hard to acquire our Center, and it would be a shame to see it vanish in thin air. THE ICC IS A COMMUNITY CENTER! Issues should be brought to members for discussions, not having a select few make the decisions for all. I’ll make positive differences in making necessary changes to bring back the Center to its members, and make positive relationships with the board, committees, chairs and members. I can create solutions with an atmosphere of trust, cooperation and honest dialogue. With the right people, we will make nec-

Pietro Tarantino

essary changes to bring back the Center to what it once was. I’LL PROVIDE FISCAL AND FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY to establish budgets for Festa and the Center. Dismal finances require ACCOUNTABILITY and TRANSPARENCY. As a board member, I am ready for the challenge of RETHINKING, RENEGOTIATING and REBUILDING the ICC to make it an EQUAL place for all.

How have you been involved in the ICC and/or Festa during the last year? • ICC Children’s La Befana holiday Party Committee. • ICC Children’s Easter Party Committee. • Co-Manager, Festa Wine Booths. • Assisted with tallying votes for 2014 ICC election.

I have watched and participated as the ICC grew and matured since the first Festa Italiana to present day. I want to ensure that future

Mary Anne Ceraso-Alioto

generations of Italians have the opportunity to know their rich backgrounds and also a chance to celebrate our traditions. If chosen for the Board, I will be open to new ideas and ways to work toward their goals and I will bring to the organization a strong commitment of volunteerism, business sense and a desire to be a part of something important to our generation and the ones to follow.

Apply conventional wisdom when planning your next business conference, banquet or meeting. Hold it at the

ITALIAN CONFERENCE CENTER LOCATED AT THE ITALIAN COMMUNITY CENTER

The Italian Conference Center offers . . . • First rate conference, convention, banquet & meeting facilities for groups from 4 to 1,400. • Professional planning assistance. • Outstanding food service. • Handicap access & convenient parking. • Easy access to freeway & downtown.

For professional assistance in coordinating your event, call David or Kim Marie at (414) 223-2800 or or visit www.italianconference.com. Italian Conference Center, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI Just a block west of Summerfest in the Historic Third Ward.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Joseph T. Emanuele

this progress we must reach out to the younger generation. Working with our youth will assure prosperity for years to come. We must continue to monitor our finances and reduce the current debt. This will restore confidence with our members and allow for a facility upgrade to accommodate the new age. As your director, you have my word I will work for you and the future of our Italian Community Center.

Name: Susie (DeSanctis) Christiansen Occupation: Legal Secretary Title: Litigation Legal Secretary Employer: Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek, S.C.

Name: Mary Anne Ceraso-Alioto Occupation: Sales Title: Account Manager Employer: Time Warner Cable Business Class

If you are elected to the Board, describe what you are going to do to help the organization? My goal in pursuing election to the ICC Board of Directors is simple. Continue the tradition my father, Sam Ceraso, past president, and family set forth to advance the culture and traditions of the Italian American in Milwaukee.

How have you been involved in the ICC and/or Festa during the last year? • Festa Sausage Booth Captain. • Worked with Festa Operations and Grounds Crew. • Arranged for military color guard for Festa Mass and Procession. • Arranged for South Milwaukee High School Band for Festa’s opening ceremonies. If you are elected to the Board, describe what you are going to do to help the organization? As members we must ask ourselves where we would like the Italian Community Center to be in the next five years. We have entered into a new generation and necessary changes are essential in order for our organization to excel. Throughout the years, our senior members have put their hearts into building one of the largest Italian community centers in the country. In order to continue with

How have you been involved in the ICC and/or Festa during the last year? • ICC Board. I’ve expressed myself well. Respected others. Worked hard. Supported my officers. Made decisions thoughtfully. • Maintained positive relationship between Italian Dance Groups, Tradizione Vivente and I Bei Bambini, and ICC. • Festa Parade Manager (7 years) • ICC Website Editor/Page Designer • Membership Committee • Fundraising Committee • Christmas Party Chair If you are elected to the Board, describe what you are going to do help the organization? The ICC should be the center of the Italian community – bustling with activity – ongoing classes and social events that celebrate the language, music, dance, art, food, history and traditions of Italy – a place where Italian is taught and spoken – a place where memories

Welcome new ICC members!

The following people became members of the Italian Community Center between August 7 and September 8, 2015. Benvenuti! (Welcome!) Daniel and Debra Balistreri of Dousman Mary Ann Maynard of Milwaukee Michael DeMichele of Milwaukee Marianne St. Marie Fleming of McHenry, Ill.

Susie (DeSanctis) Christiansen

and customs are passed down, where we appreciate our history and also plan for the future – a place to combine traditional ideas with new ideas, creating a dynamic, inviting ICC for members to enjoy. The more I learn, the more beautiful I find the Italian culture. I will strive to maintain that culture at the ICC and share with others all the aspects of Italy that I find captivating. My opinion and suggestions come from the heart, yet are logical and realistic. I am devoted and will work tirelessly to contribute to the success and long-term strength of the ICC and commitment of our members.

Letter to the Editor

Dear Tom Hemman, Times Editor: Thank you so very much for the touching article you wrote about Mario A. Carini. As we were reading it, we could hardly believe he is truly gone. You captured everything beautifully. Cosmo and I wanted to let you know we are touched deeply. And compliments to you on your talent. Margaret Carini

OCTOBER 2015 – PAGE 7

ICC hosting 3rd annual Festival di Danza e Cultura on Oct. 26

All are welcome to this multi-cultural dance and music program

from page 1 for the 2015 Holiday Folk Fair International, which is Nov. 20-22 at State Fair Park’s Expo Center in West Allis. The traditional Italian dinner buffet includes pasta with meatballs, salad, Italian bread, dessert, coffee, tea or milk. It will be available until the start of the program. “We are looking forward to presenting an entertaining and culturally enriching program again this year,” said Gina Jorgensen, ICC Culture Committee chair and chief program organizer. “We’re excited to introduce several new visiting groups this year. This is truly a mini-Folk Fair that gives people a solid glance at what they can expect at the Holiday Folk Fair in November. We truly appreciate the visiting ethnic groups that are generously giving their time and talents to our event.” She added that there will be a raffle for some interesting prizes and that tickets for the 72nd Holiday Folk Fair will be available for purchase at the event. (Look for a separate story on the Folk Fair in this issue.) Jorgensen has confirmation of the participation of performers visiting Milwaukee from Chiba, Japan. These include the goodwill delegation dance group, Nezumi Mobara, and Tsuji Fuga, a performing calligrapher and master instructor of the art form. Other groups that will perform in this year’s event are: Tatra Slovak Dancers, Ina Onilu Drum and Dance Ensemble (African), Lykkeringen Norwegian Dancers, Garlic Mustard Pickers Folk Band, Tradizione Vivente, the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee, and possibly a Serbian group (waiting for confirmation). If anyone is interested in sponsoring any of the dinners for the visiting dancers, the cost is $11. “Even if you are not attending the event, you can still sponsor a dancer’s dinner,” Jorgensen said. “We would appreciate your support. All dancers are volunteering and in return we provide dinner for them. Please indicate on the form if you would like to sponsor a dancer. You can sponsor a dancer when you arrive at the event as well.”

Performers from Japan Nezumi Mobara will play songs that represent the four seasons of the year. The ensemble is from the city of Mabara in Chiba Prefecture of Japan. The ensemble’s name Nezumi means silvery, pure, clean sound. Shinobue is a seven-hole transverse folk flute that is often used in rites and festivals. The ensemble plays festival music and dances such as the shishimai (lion dance). The musicians play shinobue flute, small drum, surigane (gong), chappa (Japanese small hand cymbals) and shamisen (three-stringed lute). Many festivals feature decorated dashi (floats), which are pulled through the town, accompanied by drum and flute music played by the people sitting on the dashi. This music plays important roles in noh and kabuki theatre music. It is heard in Shinto music such as kagura-den and in traditional Japanese folk songs. The Shinobue songs that they have selected for their performances depict the seasonal changes that take place in a year, folk songs and children’s songs. Tsuji Fuga is an award-winning calligrapher and master instructor of performance calligraphy, which gained popularity among young Japanese, especially high-school students. It began in a high school in 1993 and added music in 1998 to the performance. Several high schools in Japan offer performance calligraphy as a club activity. A variety of different brushes are used in performance calligraphy. It is performed on large canvases, sometimes as much as 30feet long and 15-feet wide. In the vast majority of cases, it is performed by women. Performers usually wear traditional Japanese hakama. Performance calligraphy requires strength and stamina, and the training. Performance calligraphy is also known as karaoke calligraphy because it is done to Japanese pop or J-pop music from such groups as the Beatles. Tsuji promises that attendees will not be disappointed. Tatra Slovak Dancers The Tatra Slovak Dancers of Milwaukee has been in existence since May 1972 and is a nonprofit

Reservation form for Festival di Danza e Cultura Name(s): __________________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip: _____________________________________________________________ Contact information (home or cell phone number and/or email address: __________________________________________________________________________ No. of Adult ICC Members attending dinner & program _____ x $17.00/person = $_________ No. of Adult Non-Members attending dinner & program _____ x $20.00/person = $_________ Children (0-12 years) attending dinner & program ______ x $9.00 per child = $___________ No. of adults & children attending program only ______ x $8.00 per person = $___________ I would like to sponsor a dinner or dinners for a visiting dancer or dancers? K Yes K No No. of dinners for visiting dancers _________ x $11.00 for dinner = $___________________ Total amound enclosed: $______________________________________________________ Please make your check payable to: Italian Community Center, and mail with this form to: ICC, Attn.: Festival, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202.

PAGE 8 – OCTOBER 2015

organization comprised of Slovak and non-Slovak people of various backgrounds from the Milwaukee area. Tatra members celebrate the culture of Slovakia through folk song and dance. The group performs throughout the State of Wisconsin, the Midwest and, in previous years, has participated in several folk dance festivals in Slovakia. Through its hard work and the generosity of others, the group was able to purchase new beautiful costumes from Slovakia in 2014. Ina Onilu Drum and Dance Ensemble Ina Onilu Drum and Dance Ensemble is a nonprofit organization based in Milwaukee. Its mission is to unite the youth of Milwaukee through traditional West African art, which includes West African drum, dance and theater. The group draws upon the skills and knowledge of various local, national and international artists to aid in this endeavor. The group fosters a sense of unity and discipline among Milwaukee’s youth with the aim of alleviating violence in the city’s neighborhoods. The ideal way is to use African traditions, teaching and culture to rebuild and bring diversity to the community. Classes offer instruction on proper technique, positioning and posture for

both dance and drum and teach the origin of dances and the rhythms.

Lykkeringen Norwegian Dancers Lykkeringen Norwegian Dancers of Milwaukee was formed in the 1970s to celebrate Norwegian heritage through dance. The group consists of two parts – adult and child groups. Both groups often perform together to create a family entertainment event. The name Lykkeringen means “happy circle”, and that name is very true to this dance group. The members of the adult group come from all walks of life as well as many ethnic origins. The friendliness and camaraderie carry through to their dances. Some dances are formal and elegant while others are spontaneous and fun. There are even dances that lend themselves to audience participation. Garlic Mustard Pickers The three original members of the group – Don Lawson, Debbie Wilhelm, and Pam Uhrig – were part of “Weed-Out!”, a volunteerbased program sponsored by The Park People of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County Parks. Weed-Out works to keep invasive plants like “garlic mustard” from destroying the woodlands. The band got its start in the spring Continued on page 9

Holiday Folk Fair tickets to go on sale at the ICC in late October

Italian Community Center volunteers, Tradizione Vivente and I Bei Bambini will once again serve as the representatives of Italian culture and traditions at the 72nd Holiday Folk Fair International, which is set for Friday, Nov. 20 through Sunday, Nov. 22 at the Wisconsin Exposition Center at State Fair Park, 8200 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis.

Advance tickets for the event, priced at $10, will be available at the ICC starting in late October. Folk Fair tickets will be available for purchase the night of the ICC’s Festival di Danza e Cultura. This multi-cultural event, a prelude to the Folk Fair, is Thursday, Oct. 29. (See separate story.) The Folk Fair also offers family four-packs for $36 and can be purchased online at www.folkfair.org.

Admission during the fair will be $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (62 and older) and $8 for children (6-12). Children, five and younger, and military personnel with a military ID card will be admitted for free. Folk Fair hours are 2 –10 p.m., Friday, Nov. 20; 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21; and 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 22. Folk Fair details A program of the International Institute of Wisconsin, Holiday Folk Fair International celebrates the cultural heritage of the people living in southeastern Wisconsin.

This year’s theme, “Celebrate the Culture of Light,” will allow fairgoers the opportunity to learn the ways in which light is incorporated into the music, food, dance, art, and crafts of those that participate in Folk Fair. The three-day event features the All Nations Theater with traditional music and dance, the World Cafè offering traditional dishes, the International Stage where young people perform their ethnic dances, the Music Pavilion, with a variety of musical styles, Heritage Lane with unique traditions and customs through interactive exhibits, the International Bazaar where cultural artifacts create a unique shopping experience, and the Chef Demonstration Stage featuring local chefs preparing traditional cuisine. Italian representation ICC volunteers will operate an Italian culture booth. Members and volunteers on behalf of Tradizione Vivente: the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee will operate a food booth. Tradizione Vivente and its youth group, I Bei Bambini, will perform. Tradizione Vivente performs Italian folk and regional dance all three days of the fair while I Bei Bambini takes the stage on Sunday only. Look for complete details on the activities of ICC volunteers and the two dance groups in the November issue of The Italian Times.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Nezumi Mobara

Performance Calligrapher Tsuji Fuga

Tatra Slovak Dancers

Lykkeringen Norwegian Dancers

from page 8 of 2003 when these three “garlic mustard pickers” began to discuss their love of music as they wiled away a sunny afternoon, pulling the invasive weed out of a Grant Park natural woodlands area. The three musical weed-pickers dusted off their instruments and got together to play just for fun. But soon, they pulled in spouses and friends on a variety of instruments, and voila, by August of 2003 the band was having regular rehearsals. “The Garlic Mustard Pickers” was the obvious choice for the band name. Their first “paid” gig was in December 2003. By consensus, their earnings were turned over to a community project, and that set the tone for its mission: using profits from performances, CD sales, and tips to support worthy public service projects in the community after the minimal band

THE ITALIAN TIMES

expenses are met. In 2014 the band was selected to be the Cultural Exchange Contingent for the Wisconsin-Chiba Inc. delegation that traveled to Chiba Prefecture, Japan. Band members were grateful to the Chiba-Wisconsin Association (the Japanese hosting organization) for giving them a view of Japanese culture and honored to be given the opportunity to take part in the festival marking the 60-year anniversary of the City of Narita. (In Japanese culture, a 60th birthday is a very big event, and the city’s official birthday party was a huge affair requiring five stages for the numerous performing groups).

Tradizione Vivente Tradizione Vivente, which means “living tradition” in Italian, has been in existence for over 65 years. The original members of the group have since departed, only to

Ina Onilu Drum and Dance Ensemble

leave behind a treasured legacy – Italian folk dancing. The members of Tradizione Vivente preserve the Italian heritage through what they love most – the music, dancing and costumes of Italy. Their performances are vibrant and entertaining and transport audiences to another place. It has been their honor to travel throughout the United States performing for various events, such as festivals, weddings, benefits, anniversaries, religious functions, Italian conferences and all other types of events both near and far. In Milwaukee, they are proud to

participate in local events, such as International Holiday Folk Fair and, of course, Festa Italiana, where they have performed since its inception 37 years ago. This year has provided some really memorable experiences and also promises some exciting opportunities to come. One of the group’s favorite performances was at “A Taste of Italy” at the Italian Community Center, with the smells from the delicious food and the upbeat sound of the Italian music. From Oct. 2-4, members of Please turn to page 10

OCTOBER 2015 – PAGE 9

Festival di Danza e Cultura:

A multi-cultural program worthy of your attendance from page 9

Tradizione Vivente are attending and performing at the Italian Folk Art Federation of America (IFAFA) conference in Philadelphia, Pa. The IFAFA conference is educational and enriching as it brings together those who love the Italian culture. Offered are workshops and classes in every aspect of the Italian culture – Italian dance and song, Italian costumes and instruments, Italian history, art and traditions and, of course, Italian food and cooking.

It is a gathering that brings together people with a common cause – to keep alive the Italian folk heritage in America. Tradizione Vivente has been attending these conferences since 1990 and has hosted three conferences in Milwaukee. The group will also be one of the representatives of Italian culture and dance at the Holiday Folk Fair in November. Tradizione Vivente has begun fundraising for its 2017 trip to Italy.

Ina Onilu Drum and Dance Ensemble

Queenie Oliva to appear on MPTV Channel 10 program ‘I Remember’ on Oct. 19

Tradizione Vivente, the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee

October is National Italian American Heritage Month

Every year the United States president signs an executive order designating the month of October as National Italian American Heritage Month. The proclamation is recognition of the many achievements, contributions and success of Americans of Italian descent as well as Italians in America. More than 5.4 million Italians immigrated to the U.S. between 1820 and 1992. Today, there are over 26 million Americans of Italian descent in the U.S., making them the fifth largest ethnic group. As you might have learned in school, our country was even named after an Italian, the explorer and geographer Amerigo Vespucci (1454-1512). The purposes of Italian

American Heritage Month are educational and celebratory. The goal is to inform the public about the contributions made by Italians and Italian Americans to our civilization, especially in the arts, the humanities and the sciences, and to celebrate the impact that Italian culture and language have had and continue to have on the lives of Italian Americans. The Italian Community Center of Milwaukee traditionally salutes National Italian American Heritage Month with a cultural and educational program. The ICC is hosting the third annual Festival di Danza e Cultura, a multicultural dance program with dinner, starting with a 5:30 p.m. reception on Monday, Oct. 26.

Nick Tripi, last surviving member of Jolly Polkats, dies at age of 87

Nick Tripi, the last surviving member of the Jolly Polkats, a popular Milwaukee-based polka and Italian band formed after World War II, has died. Tripi was 87. The Jolly Polkats featured skilled musicians, all of Italian descent, and included Tripi, Frank Balistrieri, Peter Orlando, Jimmy D’Amato and Joe Pappalardo. The Jolly Polkats played at clubs throughout the Midwest and Canada and recorded their music on Capitol Records. They also had a prime time radio show each weeknight on WEXT, a Milwaukee radio station. Tripi was born May 22, 1928. He

PAGE 10 – OCTOBER 2015

served in the United States Marines and was proud to have served his country and in the Marine Corps. For many years, he owned East Side TV. Tripi is survived by his wife of 64 years, Frances (nee Balistreri); his children Roseanne Rech, Tana Tripi, Celia Chramegna, Carla Tripi (Al Sisson), Gia (Anthony) Bosch and Charles (Linda) Tripi; his grandchildren Bryan, Sean, Jessica, Ashlee, Nicholas, Tristan, Elizabeth, Joshua; two step-grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; his sister Mary Jane (Richard) Teays; and other relatives and many friends.

Quentin “Queenie” Oliva, a longtime Italian Community Center member and World War II Marine Corps veteran, speaks about his experiences with the USO during the war on the Milwaukee Public Television (MPTV-Channel 10) program “I Remember” on Monday, Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. The program, hosted by Jim Peck, will focus on the history of the USO, a volunteer organization that has been supporting American troops and their families since the 1940s. Oliva, who enlisted in the Marines after being called in the draft, began his service in April 1943. He served on the South Pacific front. On Jan. 24, 1945, Oliva was among the Marines who rescued fellow soldiers from an aircraft that crashed upon take-off on an island in the Philippines and burst into flames. In the rescue, Oliva received burns to his back and was hospitalized for an extended period. He was eventually released from active duty in November 1945. During his service, Oliva served in the ordinance unit, loading gunnery and bombing artery for jet missions. He obtained the rank of Corporal. Oliva told The Italian Times that he viewed the USO as his Here’s Quentin “Queenie” Oliva with his wife, Rosalea, in a photo taken at Festa Italiana 2012. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

“home away from home. It was a good place to get away from the war, meet other soldiers, play checkers and just relax.” He said he appreciated the packages of goods that the USO volunteers arranged for the service members. Through the USO’s efforts, Oliva was able to see performances by Bob Hope, Frances Langford and Jerry Colonna. After the war, Oliva went on to have a 39-year career as a police officer with the Milwaukee Police Department. Oliva’s appearance on “I Remember” was arranged by Tom Balistreri, also an ICC member and a member of the USO of Wisconsin Board of Directors. Balistreri said he and Peck attended and graduated from Marquette University High School and have been close friends over the years. The program about the USO and the good work it does for Americans troops and their families resulted from a two-hour meeting that Balistreri and Peck had at Miss Katie’s Diner. Balistreri said he appreciates the efforts of Peck and the producer of the program in researching the history and presenting the importance of the USO in the lives of military members. Balistreri encourages everyone to watch “I Remember” on Oct. 19.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

High rollers and fun seekers come to Casino Night fundraiser

About 100 people, some high rollers and some just looking for a fun time, came out Friday, Sept. 11 to support the Italian Community Center’s second annual Casino Night fundraiser. The event was successful due, in large part, to the many table sponsors and donors, said Karen Dickinson, chairperson. All of the sponsors and donors are recognized in a special billboard on page 12. Dickinson’s committee of volunteers included her husband, Bill, and Sheila and Wayne Kitzerow.

Photo on right: Karen Dickinson (left), Casino Night chair, is seen here with a couple of her volunteers, Wayne and Sheila Kitzerow, alongside the raffle prize table. A collage of photos from the event appear below. These pictures were taken by Times Editor Tom Hemman.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

OCTOBER 2015 – PAGE 11

Casino Night 2015

Times photos by Tom Hemman

Thanks to the 2015 Casino Night Sponsors and Contributors

Casino Night Sponsors Abruzzese Galilei Society Amelia's Restaurant Louise Au Crowne Plaza Hotel – Airport Rosemary DeRuber)s Divino Wine & Dine - Dean Cannestra Doris & Charlie Evans Farmers Insurance – Jill Legge* Steelmacher Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Jennifer's Talent Unlimited – Jennifer Berg Wayne & Sheila Kitzerow Sal LoCoco Tony & Barbara Lupo Joe Mangiamele Na)onal Recycling -Dave Doern Papa Luigi Pizza - Sal Purpora Anna Pitzo Be*y Puccio C.W. Purpero – Phil & Sam Purpero Sal Quarino Scior)no's Bakery - Giuseppe Vella Lynn Sobye The Pompeii Men's Club The Pompeii Women's Club Gina Spang Rose Purpero Spang PAGE 12 – OCTOBER 2015

Casino Night Contributors Amelia's Restaurant BBC Ligh)ng Brass Bell Music Studio Ambrose Ciano Joanne Czubek Karen & Bill Dickinson Divino Wine & Dine – Dean Cannestra Green Bay Packers Harley-Davidson Hilton Milwaukee City Center Intercon)nental Hotel Italian Community Center Milwaukee Admirals Milwaukee Brat House Milwaukee Brewers Milwaukee Bucks Milwaukee Chop House Milwaukee Food Tour Milwaukee Repertory Milwaukee Wave Next Act Theater Papa Luigi’s Pizza – Sal Purpora Pizza Shu*le Reina Interna)onal Auto – Joe Reina Gina Spang

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Italian Society and Club News

Sons of Italy award scholarship to Muskego student

Antonio Amaya, a 2015 graduate of Muskego High School, was the recipient of a $2,000 scholarship awarded by the Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Area Lodge of the Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA). The presentation was made at the organization’s Aug. 19 banquet at the Italian Community Center. Thirty-two students applied for

the scholarship, which was open to students residing in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth, Washington and Waukesha counties. Selection was based on academic achievements, references, citizenship, personality, leadership and a personal essay about their Italian ancestry. Amaya is enrolled at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay this fall.

OSIA President Joe Emanuele leads charge to get sausage maker to end derogatory TV commercial

After learning of a Johnsonville Sausage television commercial that depicted Italian Americans in a stereotypical, derogatory manner, Joseph T. Emanuele orchestrated a campaign on behalf of his organization to take the ad off the air.

Emanuele is the president of the Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Lodge of the Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA).

The commercial entitled “Family Flavor” was brought to Emanuele’s attention by John Balistrieri, an attorney and a longtime member of the Milwaukee OSIA lodge. Balistrieri said he happened to see it late one night while flipping through the channels.

Emanuele said, “I watched the commercial myself and found it to be disrespectful and insulting to our heritage. On behalf of the Filippo Mazzei Lodge, I drafted a letter to the OSIA Grand Lodge of Illinois/Wisconsin informing them of this ad and requested that action be taken and that the commercial be taken off the air.

“My letter was forwarded to the National Order Sons of Italy in America office in Washington, D.C. Another letter was then drafted by Frank Cipolla, the National President for the Commission for Social Justice, and was sent to the Johnsonville Sausage Corporation.”

The letter, in part, said: “That’s what ‘Family Flavor’ is? Might I remind you that there are two Italian American U.S. Supreme Court Justices, governors of major states and captains of business, but somehow this is what you insist on focusing on.” After an exchange of letters, Johnsonville agreed to pull the commercial, which aired for a short time this summer. “Joe really stepped up for Italian Americans,” Balistrieri said. “I think it speaks well of his leadership of OSIA. It took a lot of work and determination on his part to get this offensive commercial off the air.” Emanuele said the termination of the commercial demonstrates the benefit of being part of a national organization and that “the Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Lodge has a voice nationwide to address issues such as this and is supported across the country. We are not just a local club. We are part of a nationwide organization, which has raised over $153 million for medical research and has been recognized by every United States President since Woodrow Wilson. “We may never completely eliminate the image that has been attached to us, but that does not mean we have to stand idle and accept it either.”

Plans announced for Pompeii Men’s Club’s VIP dinner fundraiser

Antonio Amaya (center), the recipient of the Filippo Mazzei Lodge/OSIA 2015 scholarship, is seen here with Lodge President Joseph Emanuele (left) and scholarship director Frank Schiro

The Pompeii Men’s Club is sponsoring its 24th annual Joseph P. Caminiti VIP Dinner and Fundraiser on Tuesday, Oct. 6 at Alioto’s Restaurant, 3041 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa. The event, which is open to the public, begins with a cash bar with appetizers at 5:30 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. followed by the fun and raffles. One lucky winner will take home $1,000 cash in the grand prize raffle. The cost is $60 per person. For tickets or to make a donation to

this fundraiser, contact chairperson John A. Sanfilippo at 414-2822667 or President Tony Baudo at 414-324-6347. “Your support goes a long way toward helping our various charities and our high school scholarship fund,” Baudo said. The Pompeii Men’s Club, a nonprofit organization founded in 1968, is dedicated to improving the community through charitable work and has been a major supporter of the Italian Community Center and Festa Italiana over the years.

Pompeii Women’s Club to present scholarships at Sept. 30 meeting

The Pompeii Women’s Club is hosting its annual Scholarship Awards Dinner at the Italian Community Center on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m. We are pleased and proud to be presenting awards totaling $3,000. These awards go to schools that were recommended by our mem-

THE ITALIAN TIMES

bers. The Scholarship Committee, chaired by Carla San Felippo and Lucy Sorce, is pleased to announce the schools that are the recipients and the students from those schools who are being recognized. They are as follows: • Messmer High School – Amina Mathews-Hinton.

• Catholic East – Emma Ross. • Alverno College – Crystal Rose and Angela Hammer. The Pompeii Women’s Club congratulates the awardees. Fathers Tim Kitzke and Mike Hammer are expected to attend. As in the past, Pompeii Women’s President Pat

Consolazione and our members welcome women who are not members to attend the scholarship event and to join the club. If interested, call Lucy Sorce at 414-795-7683 for details.

– Mary G. Winard Public Relations Chair

OCTOBER 2015 – PAGE 13

Help for researching your Italian family history is available to you

By George Koleas The Italian Family History Club at the Italian Community Center, also known as Pursuing Our Italian Names Together, Chapter 22, had our largest display of any previous Festa at this year’s Festa Italiana. We presented materials on the featured region, Lazio, as well as Sicily and Italy in general. For the first time, we were joined by Milwaukee County Genealogical Society members. http://www.milwaukeegenealogy.org/. We also serve as the Milwaukee County Genealogical Society’s Italian Area Interest Group. The Milwaukee County Genealogical Society members made arrangements with Ancestry and other database providers to use computers that were brought along to look up family information for visitors. We were also joined by members of the Family History Library, located at 9600 W Grange Ave, Hales Corners (414-425-4182 or https://familysearch.org/ learn/wiki/en/Milwaukee_Wisconsin_Family_History_Center). With our new friends from these organizations, we spoke with many visitors whose questions ranged from general questions about Italy to specific questions about their family surname. Some visitors had made substantial progress in researching their family history but had become stuck and asked for advice on how to move forward again. Other visitors, who had seen shows like “Who Do You Think You Are? or “Genealogy Roadshow”, and were inspired to start their research but did not know how to get started. There were visitors who were eager to tell us a favorite family story or

Report from Milwaukee’s Victory School Italian Immersion Program

Victory School’s Italian Immersion Program is off to an amazing start and gaining momentum. Our student population this fall represents 26 different nations, making our program an international spectacle, like Italy’s famous cycling race, the Giro d’Italia! For the second consecutive year, our staff includes three teachers hailing from Italy. They are Enrica Fracchia, Angela Bozano and Sabrina Lupoli. No doubt the most exciting news this school year is that we are increasing the amount of Italian instruction. Starting this fall, we are re-launching full immersion in the Italian K4 (four year-old kindergarten) and K5 (five year-old kindergarten) grades. In K4, Maestra Annette Robertson is introducing her young students to their school career and acclimating them to the simple rules and procedures of the school climate and facility. The children eat lunch at 10:30 a.m., and they are already hungry at 9:30 a.m. The four year olds will learn numbers from 1 to 20 in Italian, simple conversation such as: “Mi chiamo…”, “Come stai?”, “Buon giorno”, “buona sera”, “Ciao”, and “A domani”. They will also learn to write their names and the alphabet. Maestre Bozano e Fracchia, the K5 teachers, have 22 students who are learning all subjects in the Italian language. The subjects are handwriting, Italian, language arts, reading, math, science and social studies. Gianlucca Zingales, a student in the class, is half Italian. In science, the students are studying gravity and motion. In math, they are learning numbers 1 to 100. They have been reviewing numbers 1 to 20. They practice a song in the morning and study about family and self in the afternoon in social studies. The Italian team has a new addition working alongside Maestra Elizabeth Zizzo in the first grade. She is Maestra Rita

PAGE 14 – OCTOBER 2015

Szopinski, who was born in Milwaukee and completed a double major in Italian Studies and Sociology and is currently working on a masters in Italian Translation. The first graders are excited to be back in class. They are looking forward to visiting the Oriental Theater for their first field trip of the year. Thanks to the generous sponsors of Milwaukee Film Festival, students will be able to attend a special educational screening that is part of the festival. The screening called, “Animals!,” is a presentation of multiple short films. This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce students to international and independent directors and provide students with a global perspective. In second grade, Maestro Kaftan and Ms. Carrie Brunelli have begun reviewing math and language arts with their students. In science, students are observing and measuring matter. In third grade, Maestre Alex Lupoli and Cathy Laurenzi have 25 students. Adriana Lo Pipparo Denakas, one of their students, is half Italian and spends her summers in Porticello, Sicilia, where her mother, Maria, grew up. Students are learning social studies and science in Italian. They are reviewing Italian language, math, science and social studies in order to see what they know. Maestro Steven Falsetti is teaching a merged class of 4th and 5th graders, a total of 25 students. Students are excited to incorporate more Italian in their day and planning ways to fold it into their subjects. They are studying geography, matter in science and story structure. Maestra Kristin Beierlein, in addition to teaching art, has a new role in teaching Italian to the 6th and 7th graders as a foreign language. She is incorporating art and other disciplines in the Italian class. Students have begun labeling all areas of Victory School in Italian. They are designing houses that they will label Please turn to page 19

family mystery. Often, the visitor explained that they knew very little about their family, and they wished that they knew how the other family surnames in their story were related. Whether you spoke to us at our display or not, you can still get our help. If you are interest is learning more about Italian genealogy in general, I recommend that you read the information on this website: https://familysearch.org/italy. You can also go to your public library to get books such as Italian Genealogical Records: How to Use Italian Civil, Ecclesiastical & Other Records in Family History Research by Trafford R Cole, published by Ancestry Publishing (September 1, 1995) ISBN-10: 0916489582 ISBN-13: 978-0916489588 or Finding Italian Roots: The Complete Guide to Americans by John Philip Colletta published by Genealogical Publishing Company; 2nd edition (July 2003) ISBN-10: 0806317418, ISBN-13: 978-0806317410. Then, come to our meeting and discuss your interests and get answers to your questions from people who are researching their family. If you are interested in researching a particular surname or surnames, you should complete a family group sheet for you, your father and your mother and an ancestral chart, also known as a family tree, and bring them to our meeting. Don’t worry if you do not have all the information on these forms. Fill them in as best you can. These forms will help us to identify your family and to connect your information to that which our members have and to advise you about what to do next. A family group sheet is available at this website: http://c.mfcreative.com/pdf/trees/charts/famgrec.pdf An ancestral chart is available at: http://c.mfcreative.com/pdf/trees/charts/anchart.pdf Our members range from people who are just starting to people with many years of research experience. Everyone is welcome and everyone has an opportunity to get help. Nov. 7 event at ICC An opportunity for you to learn about and how to search for your relatives will be held on Saturday, Nov. 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Italian Community Center. The event is called: Trova i tuoi antenati, (Find your ancestors): A genealogy event. It is hosted by the ICC’s Culture Committee in collaboration with our organization and the Milwaukee County Genealogical Society.

Members of the Milwaukee County Genealogical Society will be bringing their computers to search in their databases for your family. We will be bringing our private database of 45,123 names and 14,052 families from the areas in or around Palermo, Sicily. If your family is from this area and if your surname is related to Alioto, Dentice, Balistreri, Busalacchi, Machi, Sanfilippo, Tarantino, or any other spelling of these and other related surnames, you do not want to miss this event. You might even meet a new cousin.

Our organization’s next meeting after the Nov. 7 event will be held on the following Saturday, Nov. 14, at the ICC beginning at 10 a.m. and ending about noon. Please feel free to bring guests. We welcome anyone with an interest in Italian family history. 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.

Milwaukee Public Market donates to MPS Italian Immersion Program

The Milwaukee Public Market recently made a $2,000 donation to the Italian Immersion Program at Victory K-8 School, a Milwaukee Public School on the city’s south side. Funds for the donation were generated from Milwaukee Public Market’s “Bevi Mangia Italiano,” an educational Italian food and wine event in July that celebrated Festa Italiana. “The Victory School community is grateful for the Milwaukee Public Market’s generous donation to the Italian immersion program,” Victory Principal Janine Cano Graber said. “The gift will enhance our Italian language instruction and help strengthen the immersion program.” The Bevi Mangia Italiano (meaning “Drink Eat Italian) event packed the second level mezzanine and kitchen area of the market with attendees from all across southeastern Wisconsin. An educational seminar was conducted by master sommelier Jesse Becker, who gave a presentation about Italy’s rich winemaking history.

The public market’s gift will provide support for technology that will enhance students’ Italian experiences. Victory’s Italian immersion program was launched in September 2006 and has grown to 190 students as of the end of the 2014-2015 school year. The school is undertaking transition to a full immersion program in the fall of 2016 beginning with four-year-old kindergarten, which means that students in the program will be taught exclusively in Italian as they learn about language and culture. The change includes an additional 60 seats in the program and citywide transportation. Victory students correspond with sister schools via Skype, and three faculty members are from Italy. During the summer months, student partake in extracurricular programs such as culinary classes, where they make pasta from scratch and other authentic Italian foods. The Milwaukee Public Market is located in the city’s Historic Third Ward.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Spotlight on Cultural Arts By Blaise DiPronio The Japanese city of Nagasaki is famous for being the second and last city in the world to undergo a nuclear attack. It is also, not as famously, the pre-world wars setting for Giacomo Puccini’s opera, Madama Butterfly. His full name was – get ready – Giacomo Antonio Domenico Michele Secondo Maria Puccini. He was born in 1858 in Lucca, Tuscany. He became the greatest composer of Italian opera after Verdi. His early works were of the Romantic theme but they later evolved into the Verismo (realistic) style. He wrote several versions of Madama Butterfly beginning in 1904 with the final version premiering in 1907. Our tragic heroine is the 15 year old Cio-Cio San (Cho is the Japanese word for butterfly). The marriage broker, Goro, arranges her marriage to a U.S. naval officer named Pinkerton for whom this was a marriage of “convenience” while stationed in Japan. His real intent is to look for a “proper American wife” and leave Cio-Cio San. But as for the young bride to be, you can imagine her excitement and anticipation at the prospect of marrying a renowned American naval officer, whose real intentions were unkown to her. In fact, she is so enamored that she renounces her ancestral religion and converts to Christianity. The wedding is set to take place at a small house on a hill overlooking the bay found for them by Goro. Amongst the attendants is Sharpless, the American Consul, to whom Pinkerton reveals his true motivations to “have her, even though I injure her butterfly wings” and then toasts to the “day when I will have a real wedding and marry a real American wife.” Do you hate him yet?

To kill a butterfly

Some of the most famous arias from Giacomo Puccini’s Madama Butterfly were performed at Festa Italiana in 2008. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

The ceremony proceeds but it is soon interrupted by Butterfly’s uncle, the Bonze, who is upset over her religious renouncement and so he curses her and orders all the guests to leave. And so begins the famous long love duet between a crying Butterfly and a consoling Pinkerton. It begins with his “Bimba, Bimba Non Piangere” (Baby, baby don’t cry) and ends with her “Vogliatemi Bene” (May you love me). They spend the night together and Pinkerton returns to America soon thereafter. Fast forward to three years later and Butterfly is still waiting for Pinkerton to come back even though everyone is telling her that isn’t going to happen and the marriage broker is even trying to marry

her off again. But she won’t listen to any of them, as she will not betray her love. She soon gets a visit from the American Consul who has gotten a letter from Pinkerton. The letter states that he is now married and, along with his new wife, he’s coming back to Japan for a visit. He asks the Consul to please break the news to Butterfly as best as possible. Sharpless is unable to do so especially when she reveals that she gave birth to Pinkerton’s son aptly named Dolore (Sorrow) and so it is back to waiting for her. She now sings the opera’s most famous but poignant aria: Un Bel Di Vedremo. “Some beautiful day, we will see a rising strand of smoke” from the bay she sings.

L’Angolo del Poeta

Prepared by Barbara Collignon and Roberto Chiampi

This month’s featured poem, the moving Consolazione, is by Gabriele D’Annunzio, a very complicated man. The poem is dedicated to his mother. D’Annunzio is described as a linguistic virtuoso, as the artist who most influenced generations of Italians since the 1800s. An atheist, a hedonist, a “tombeur de femmes” (lady’s man or heartthrob), his love life was scandalous.

He was born in Pescara (Abruzzo) in 1863 and died in 1938. One Italian textbook, “Le Ore e le grazie” claimed he demonstrated “many bad aspects of our contemporary life in his reduction of life to pleasure.”

In his essay “Mussolini and The Cult of the Leader”, John Whittam writes: “This famous poet, novelist and war hero was a self-proclaimed Superman. He was the outstanding interventionist in May 1915, and his dramatic exploits during the war won him national and international acclaim. In September 1919, he gathered together his ‘legions’ and captured the disputed seaport of Fiume. He held it for over a year, and it was he who popularized the black shirts, the balcony speeches, the promulgation of ambitious charters and the entire choreography of street parades and ceremonies. He even planned a march on Rome. One historian had rightly described him as the ‘First Duce’. Mussolini must have heaved a sigh of relief when he was driven from Fiume in December 1920 and his followers were dispersed. But he remained a threat to Mussolini and, in 1921, Fascists, like Balbo, seriously considered turning to him for leadership.”

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Although once in disfavor, he is again indisputably recognized as a talented, influential poet. Known as il Vate, the Prophet, his poetry is still appreciated and capable of moving its readers. This poem is an abbreviated version of a poem composed in 1891, one of 54 poems whose structure suggests an autobiographical path. The poet imagines a visit to his mother. The pale mother, the overgrown garden and faded flowers are all signs of the long period of time spent in the absence of the poet and inevitably are signs of death. However, he hopes to be able to relive the happy past and console the mother thanks to his reassuring presence. The poem’s main motifs express the desire to take refuge in the family “nest” from a foreign, corrupt and false world, the need for purification, and the recovery of the condition of childhood innocence. The lyrics, therefore, express the will of the poet to change his life, to give up refined experiences, appreciative of the worldly life and to return to the simplicity and innocence of childhood. But given what we know of D’Annunzio’s sensual temperament, the poem sets unrealistic, ostentatious and artificial goals. Taken by itself, however, the poem is undeniably beautiful.

Consolazione Non pianger più. Torna il diletto figlio a la tua casa. È stanco di mentire. Troppo sei bianca: il volto è quasi un giglio. Vieni; usciamo. Tempo è di rifiorire, Please turn to page 19

In the next scene, that some day comes as a cannon is heard announcing the arrival of Pinkerton’s ship and Butterfly and her maid Suzuki keep watch from the hill. Soon Suzuki and the child fall asleep while Butterfly stays up all night waiting anxiously for Pinkerton, The morning comes and she finally falls asleep. In the meanwhile, Pinkerton and his new wife Kate arrive at the house along with the Consul with intentions of taking the child back to America. When Pinkerton sees the preparations and decorations laid out by Butterfly for his arrival, he realizes that he’s made a major blunder. He readily admits to being a coward unable to now face her. So he runs off leaving the others to tell her the shameful news, which they do. As her tragedy sinks in, Butterfly is wrought with emotion. She does, however, agree to give up her son but Pinkerton must return to get him. He must “come up the hill again.” She is left alone with her father’s heirloom knife which has the inscription: “Who cannot live with honor, must die with honor.” Her little son enters. She tells him not to feel sorrow for what she’s about to do but rather try and keep a “faint memory” of his mother’s face. She sits him on the floor. She blindfolds him She places a miniature American flag in his hands. She picks up the knife. She walks behind a screen. She cuts her throat. The knife hit the ground. Butterfly now staggers to the front of the screen, her neck covered by a scarf. She kisses her son and collapses. Pinkerton’s woeful cry of “Butterfly!” is heard. He rushes into the room. All the while, the child is seen waving the little flag. Curtain. * * * Madama Butterfly is being performed by Milwaukee’s Florentine Opera Company on October 16 and 18 at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts.

OCTOBER 2015 – PAGE 15

La Pagina Italiana

Sicilia Mondo ha celebrato a Catania la tragedia di Marcinelle

Anche quest’anno Sicilia Mondo ha sensibilizzato le Associazioni aderenti e la struttura organizzativa a ricordare la tragedia di Marcinelle, avvenuta l’8 agosto 1956, dove morirono 262 minatori, di cui 136 italiani. Per ricordare l’immane tragedia, la giornata dell’8 agosto è stata dichiarata nel 2001 “Giornata Nazionale del Sacrificio e del Lavoro Italiano nel Mondo” ed inserita nelle celebrazioni nazionali. Per Ricordare e non dimenticare. Come momento di

riaggregazione ed unità nazionale. A Catania, la Giornata dell’8 agosto, ormai istituzionalizzata da tempo, è stata celebrata nella sede sociale di Via Renato Imbriani n° 253, in concomitanza con la riunione del Consiglio Direttivo allargato con i collaboratori ed un gruppo di invitati. Azzia, nel suo breve discorso, ha detto che Sicilia Mondo si prefigge di ricordare la tragedia di Marcinelle alle nuove generazioni perché capiscano cosa è stata l’emigrazione per milioni di italiani

Stagione operistica inizia

Notate bene che la nuova stagione lirica sta per iniziare. Due famose opere Italiane saranno presentato dalla Fiorentina di Milwaukee e la Lirica di Chicago. A Ottobre 16 e 18, la Florentine Opera Company di Milwaukee presenta il capolavoro di Giacomo

Puccini, Madama Butterfly e a Ottobre 26 e 30, la Lyric Opera Company of Chicago mette in scena La Cenerentola di Gioachino Rossini. I loro riassunti in Inglese si trovano su altre pagine di questa edizione. Buon divertimento a tutti.

Barzellette – Andiamo al dottore

“Dottore, dottore mia moglie crede di essere un cavallo, che devo fare?” “Portala qui subito!” “Io provo a sellarla e vengo.” Un uomo va dal medico: “Dottore, dottore mia moglie in macchina si sente male!” e il dottore: “Allora gli metta l’antenna!”

Paziente: “Dottore,sento sempre delle voci, ma non vedo nessuno” Dottore: “E quando accade questo?” Paziente: “Quando telefono.” Una signora va dal dottore e gli dice che non riesce a smettere di fumare. Il dottore le chiede se ha provato con le caramelle e la donna risponde che ha provato però non gli si accendono.

“Dottore, dottore, ogni volta che faccio l’amore sento dei fischi. Che devo fare?” “Mi scusi, ma lei quanti anni ha?” “Ottanta, perchè?” “Ma allora che vuole gli applausi??”

Un uomo va dal dottore e gli dice: “Dottore, dottore ho un problema. Ho i denti gialli. Cosa mi consiglia?” E il dottore risponde: “Una bella cravatta marrone.” Signore: “Dottore mi fanno male le ossa” Dottore: “Allora non te le devi mangiare.” “Dottore, dottore mio figlio ha bevuto un litro di benzina. Cosa può fare?” “Be, almeno 20 kilometri.”

Una signora va dal dottore: “Dottore, dottore, sono ingrassata di settanta chili!” e il dottore: “Stia calma signora. Apra la bocca e dica muuuuuuh.”

e che cosa è ancora oggi. Una riflessione che ci porta a meditare sul concetto di solidarietà ed accoglienza, di assoluta attualità, nei confronti di intere popolazioni, di disperati con mogli e bambini che incalzati da guerre, dittature ed oppressioni, bussano alle nostre porte alla ricerca disperata del diritto alla vita ed alla dignità umana. Un tema che ci

deve impegnare e coinvolgere direttamente. Sono persone come noi. Sono nostri fratelli. A conclusione dell’Incontro sono stati inviati messaggi di solidarietà al Borgomastro di Marcinelle, al Console Generale d’Italia di Charleroi e ad Angelo Lavore, Presidente dell’Associazione siciliana TRINACRIA di Charleroi.

Italian idioms and expressions

Non c’era anima viva. There wasn’t a living soul there. Anima gemella. Soul mate.(Literally: soul twin). Rendere l’anima a Dio. To give up the ghost (die)(Lit.: Give your soul to God). Un sacco di. A lot of. (Lit.: A sack full of...). Andare a piedi. To go on foot.

Essere del mestiere. To be an expert. (Lit.: To be of the trade).

Arrivo! Coming! (when someone calls you). (Lit.: I’m arriving).

Farsi scrupoli. To hesitate or think twice. (Lit.: To review one’s scruples).

Non mi va giù. I can’t accept that. (Lit.: It isn’t going down right).

Fare salti mortali. To try really hard or bend over backwards. (Lit.:Doing mortal jumps). * * * Grazie al tutorino.ca

Indovinelli

1. Su un tavolo ci sono dieci mosche ed un uomo con lo schiacciamosche ne ammazza quattro. Quante mosche rimangono sul tavolo?

2. Non mi vedete, non riuscite a prendermi e nemmeno a trattenermi perchè scappo veloce, ma posso essere ascoltata e sono da qualsiasi parte. Chi sono? 3. La mattina mi abbandoni, la sera poi ti aspetto, siamo amici buoni. Sono il?

4. Mi tengono legato ma sono innocente, a tanta gente piaccio e anche molto, dormo appeso con un filo e sono buono a tutte le ore del giorno. Che cosa sono? 5. Più mi accarezzi, più divento piccola. Cosa sono?

6. Siamo sorelle nere, ci muoviamo sempre in gruppo, viviamo in un palazzo con tante stanze. Chi siamo?, 7. Dopo la morte, che c’è?

Risposte – pagina 20

Dice un paziente: “Dottore sto perdento i capelli.” e il dottore: “Esci subito ho appena spazzato.”

“Dottore ma l’appendicite è pericolosa?” “Non preoccuparti. Solo a uno su mille succede qualcosa.” “Dottò a che numero stiamo?”

Il cucchiaio d’oro vinto da una ‘Bloomerese’

Se ricordate, in antecipo della Festa, i suoi ufficiali avevano richiesti dagli amatori cuochi di inviare a loro le loro preferite ricette di antipasti per avere un’opportunitá di vincere il Cucchiaio d’Oro nella seconda competizione annuale della Ricetta Scelta dal Cuoco. Dalle ricette ricevute, 5 individui sono stati selezionati per partecipare nella gara delle Ricette del Cuoco a Domenica, Luglio 19. Le persone scelte sono stati invitati a preparare le loro ricette

PAGINA 16 – OTTOBRE 2015

difronte al pubblico vivo. Alla fine, un gruppo di giudici hanno scelto il vincitore basato al sapore, apparenza e facilitá di preparazione della loro ricetta. Dopo tutto fatto e detto, ha vinto una ricetta di crostatini con prosciutto fatta da Karen Barlow di Bloomer, Wisconsin. Il secondo posto é andato a Mari Cucunato con una ricetta con i fichi. Le ricette degli vincitori le potete trovare sul sito internet della Festa a festaitaliana.com.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Crossword Puzzle No. 4 answers with explanations

Italian Times Puzzle No. 5 – By B. DiPronio

Across 1. Pope – From papa(Italian for father). 3. Sighs – It led into a prison. 6. Torino – Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino. 8. Bradley – First part of basketball arena’s name. 10. Toga – Remember Animal House’s bed sheets? 11. Cucina – Italian for kitchen and a Festa staple. 14. Cannoli – From Italian cannoni(cannons). 17. Christians – One way they were martyred in Rome. 18 Sciortino – Pronounced ‘shorteeno’. 20. Conca d’Oro – Carini’s East Side eatery. 24. Alfa Romeo – Juliet’s tragic counterpart. 25. Arthur – Milwaukee’s bronze Fonz. 26. Sistine – Named after Pope Sixtus(6th) IV. 27. Schlitz – Beer’s famous slogan.

Down 1. Pabst – Famous Milwaukee winning beer. 2. Miller – The Brewers’ sliding mascot ballpark. 4. Center – Other half of the name. 5. Lunatic – From Italian luna(moon). 7. Seasons – The 4 symbolic statues in the courtyard. 9. Romulus – Rome founder who killed his twin Remus. 12. Third – As in “The old......”. 13. Cataldo – Has nothing to do with cats. 15. Leone – Italian for ‘lion’. 16. Futsal – From Spanish indoor futbol sala. 17. Coachyards – What the ICC grounds used to be called. 19. Calderone – Club, eatery. Italian for cauldron or cooking pot. 21. Remus – The other Rome founder killed by his twin. 22. Venice – Shakespearean play set there. 23. Puccio – Betty. ICC’s first woman president(1989-90). 28. Car – Master of the obvious strikes again.

Italian Times Puzzle No. 4 solved – By B. DiPronio

Make your sure advertising appears in our next issue. With the holiday season approaching, now is the time to starting your advertising campaign. Get your message out with an ad in our November 2015 issue. Didn’t delay. For details on ad sizes and costs, please call 414-223-2189 or send an email to

THE ITALIAN TIMES

themman@italiancc.org. OCTOBER 2015 – PAGE 17

PAGE 18 – OCTOBER 2015

THE ITALIAN TIMES

L’Angolo del Poeta

from page 15 the ground bloomed beneath your feet?

Vieni: usciamo. Il giardino abbandonato serba ancora per noi qualche sentiero. Ti dirò come sia dolce il mistero che vela certe cose del passato.

Risposte

You need to be strong; You mustn’t think of the bad things ... If we go toward those roses, I’ll speak softly; your soul will dream.

Tutto accadrà ben che non sia d’aprile. Usciamo. Non coprirti il capo. È un lento sol di settembre; e ancor non vedo argento sul tuo capo, e la riga è ancor sottile.

Translation by Barbara Collignon and Roberto Ciampi

Perché tu neghi con lo sguardo stanco? La madre fa quel che il buon figlio vuole. Bisogna che tu prenda un po’ di sole un po’ di sole su quel viso bianco.

1. Quattro, perchè le altre olano via! 2. La voce.

3. Pigiama.

4. Il salame.

5. La saponetta. 6. Le formiche.

Bisogna che tu sia forte; bisogna che tu non pensi alle cattive cose… Se noi andiamo verso quelle rose, io parlo piano, l’anima tua sogna.

7. E’ semplicissimo. Il funerale no?

Gabriele D’Annunzio

Consolation Weep no more. Your beloved son is coming home. He’s tired of lying. You’re too pale: your face is almost white as a lily. Come on; let’s go outside. It’s time to bloom again.

I’ll tell you how sweet is the smile of certain things that forgetfulness made sad. What would you feel, if suddenly

and write about it in Italian. In addition, they plan to submit some of their Italian writing to The Italian Times in the near future. Stay tuned for more exciting news from the only Italian immersion school in Milwaukee Public Schools and Milwaukee County. – Annette Robertson K4 Italian Immersion teacher

Why do you refuse with that tired look? A mother should do what a good son wants. You should get a bit of sun, a bit of sun on that pale face.

Ti dirò come sia dolce il sorriso di certe cose che l’oblio afflisse. Che proveresti tu, se ti fiorisse la terra sotto i piedi, all’improvviso?

There are still some roses on the rose bush, even some faint smell of grass. Though abandoned, the dear place will smile again, if only you would smile.

from page 14

It will all happen even though it‘s not April. Let’s go outside. Don’t cover your head. The sun’s a gentle September sun; and I still don’t see any silver in your hair and your wrinkles are still even faint.

Ancora qualche rosa è nei rosai, ancora qualche timida erba odora. Nell’abbandono il caro luogo ancora sorriderà, se tu sorriderai.”

Come on; let’s go outside. Although abandoned, the garden still offers us a path. I’ll tell you how sweet is the mystery that veils certain things of the past.

Victory School report

Commitment Membership Payment Options

Presently, there are two payment options available to you should you choose a 2-year membership or a 3-year membership. 1. You may pay each January for the duration of your 3-year or 2-year membership. As an show of good faith, you must sign the statement at the bottom of the new application (that appears on the next page). 2. You may pay for your full 3-year or 2-year membership by the end of the first year – in 4 quarterly payments.** ** If a member pre-pays for a 2-year or 3-year membership, and passes away or moves out of state, the remainder of their membership dues will be donated to the Italian Community Center in the member’s name. Pro Rated Amount You may have received a bill for a smaller amount of money. This dues payment doesn’t relate to the new dues program, but rather, is a transitional amount that is intended to return everyone to a Jan. 1 through Dec. 31 Membership. You are not being charged an additional amount.

Milwaukees Italians who served in the U.S. Military during World War II – Part 5

Researched and written by the late Mario A. Carini, Italian Community Center Historian The information presented here was researched and copyrighted as a historical record of the men and women of Italian descent who lived in the City of Milwaukee and served in the United States Military during World War II. The information recorded and documented by this researcher from records kept at the Milwaukee County Historical Society and the City of Milwaukee Legislative Reference Bureau. These works were copyrighted in 2004 and an original copy has been placed in the repository at the United States Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The research was secured from City of Milwaukee Directories 1941, 1942 and 1944-45. No directory was published in 1943. The years 1944 and 1945 were combined into one directory.

Name Cialdini, Arthur Cialdini, Beno Cialdini, Edward Cianciola, Anthony Cianciola, Anthony Cianciola, John Cianciola, Ted Cianciolo, Rocco J. Cianciolo, Salvatore Cianfichi, Americo Ciardo, Sebastian Cicerello, Carmello Cicerello, Salvatore Cicero, Dominick Cina, Jacob Cinquemani, Nick Cinquemani, Paul Ciofani, Domenic Ciofani, Louis Citta, Steve Citta, Steve Clementi, Angelo Clementi, Charles Clementi, Peter

Branch Army Army Army Coast Guard Navy Navy Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Navy Army Marines Army Army Army Navy

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Address 2534 S. Lenox 2534 S. Lenox 1327A. E. Russell 3253 N. Bartlett 445 N. Jackson 445 N. Jackson 3253 N. Bartlett 230 N. Jefferson 3364 N. Oakland 2626 W. Lloyd 1144A E. Kane Pl. 1759A N. Marshall 1759A N. Marshall 1530 N. Warren 2650 N. 47th St. 134 E. Vine 933 S. 11th St. 815 E. Lyon 815 E. Lyon 1818B N. Pulaski 2939 N. 27th St. 1702 E. Bradford 1702 E. Bradford 1702 E. Bradford

Clementi, Anthony Clementi, Anthony J. Clementi, Steve Coffaro, Frank Colavita, Henry Colla, Basilio Colla, Betty Colla, Frank Colla, Mike Colla, Peter Colla, Peter F. Colla, Sylvester Colla, Tom S. Comforti, Charlie Commorato, Nick Congelliere, Jim Congelliere, Julius Congelliere, Peter Conigliaro, Nick Conte, Frank Conti, Emil Conti, Guy Contresceri, Tony Coraggio, Anthony Coraggio, August Corra, August Corriere, Nick Corriere, Sebastian Corrao, Andrew Corrao, Cono Corrao, Anthony Corrao, Carl Corrao, Frank Corrao, Joe Corrao, William Corraro, Carlo Corraro, Jim

Army Army Army Army Army Army Wave Army Navy Navy Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army

3057 N. Holton 2009 N. 1st St. 1877 N. Pulaski 2211 N. Weil 2042 N. 2nd St. 787 N. Marshall 1539 N. Jefferson 1539 N. Jefferson 1539 N. Jefferson 532 N. Van Buren 1624 N. Jackson 1916 N. Oakland 713 E. Brady 604 W. Vine 1435 N. Astor 1718 N. 16th St. 1718 N. 16th St. 1718 N. 16th St. 610 E. Ogden 2422 N. Hubbard 1453 E. Seeley 2966 N. 29th St. 526 W. Wright 511 N. Jackson 1752 N. Arlington 1538 N. Franklin 2307 N. Booth 2307 N. Booth 1615 N. Jackson 1615 N. Jackson 333 E. Lyon 1686 N. Marshall 616 N. Cass 2428 N. 12th St. 2547 N. 2nd St. 1686 N. Marshall 1686 N. Marshall

Source: Wright’s Milwaukee City Directory, 1941, Wright Directory Co., Milwaukee. Continued in the next issue

OCTOBER 2015 – PAGE 19

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Chocolate lovers festival takes place in Perugia, Italy in October

Eurochocolate is a chocolate lovers paradise. This well-attended event takes place in Perugia (Umbria), Italy, from Friday, Oct. 16 through Sunday, Oct. 25, in the Riva del Garda. Since its beginning in 1993, Perugia’s Eurochocolate festival has been steadily growing in popularity. Today, it is one of the most important chocolate festivals in Europe and features everything from theater and music performances to cooking demonstrations and chocolate art exhibits. “This year, Eurochocolate will combine the timeless passion for chocolate with the allure of the mustache, a funny wordplay claim that reminds people of chocolate’s sweet taste,” said Eugenio Guarducci, Eurochocolate President. “The fashionable chocolate look is going to be the protagonist of the event with many initiatives, ranging from exhibitions to competitions, and inspire fun gadgets and chocolate products.

ICC volunteers seeking donations for annual Thanksgiving dinner for less fortunate

Tony Lupo, chairman of the annual Thanksgiving dinner for the less fortunate that is organized and staffed by Italian Community Center volunteers, announced that donations are being collected for the 2015 meal. The dinner will once again be held at the Open Door Cafe, a meal site at St. John’s Cathedral Catholic Church in downtown Milwaukee on Sunday, Nov. 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Anyone wishing to make a donation for the food purchased for this complete Thanksgiving-style feast is asked to submit a check, payable to the ICC. Donations can be mailed to the ICC, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202. Please list on the memo line of your check that this donation is for the “Thanksgiving Meal.” This will ensure that your donation is properly credited for the dinner. Envelopes should be directed to the attention of the ICC Receptionist. The receptionist will also be accepting donations at her desk during regular business hours. Lupo and fellow volunteers also will be on hand to collect contributions at the ICC’s general membership meetings on Oct. 15 and Nov. 19, both Thursday nights. Vice chairman Tony Zingale told members attending the September general meeting that many people imagine that those fed by this dinner are primarily homeless or job-

PAGE 20 – OCTOBER 2015

less men, but that would be wrong. Many of the dinner attendees in recent years are women and children. “We’re seeing many more families each year that are homeless and desperately in need of everything many of us take for granted,” he said. Persons interested in volunteering to help out at the Nov. 15 event are asked to talk to Lupo or

Zingale. This annual Thanksgiving dinner for the less fortunate has been going on since the late 1970s. It was started by a group called the Ragione Club. The Italian Conference Center culinary staff prepares the turkey dinner that is served at this dinner and also donates food and labor to this event.

Eurochocolate wants to broaden the concept of sweetness that has always characterized the event by bringing chocolate experts to the festival and allowing the visitors to interact directly with them and chocolate.” People are invited to see the biggest chocolate mustache sculpture ever created. The Guinness World Records will be there to certify the record. One of the highlights for visitors is the collection of outdoor chocolate sculptures. Guarducci says that, between all the chocolate used in the sculptures and all the chocolate being sold by vendors outdoors, people cannot walk through the town without breathing the chocolate-scented air especially during times of warm weather. Perugia, the European capital of chocolate, is famous for its Perugina Baci chocolates.

Feast of Santa Reparata celebrated in Florence

The date of October 8th commemorates Santa Reparata in Firenze (Florence, Italy). The city’s first cathedral was named after this saint who remains a co-patron of Florence. In ancient times, the festivities on this day included two races: one on horseback and one on foot, both running across the city. Nowadays, in remembrance of these races, a modern-day foot race is held which starts and ends in Piazza San Giovanni, in front of the Duomo. Runners in the race are picked among the local footballers, and the competition is kicked off by a marching procession of the Florentine Republic dressed in period costume. The procession leaves from Piazza di Parte Guelfa (near Piazza Repubblica) and marches on towards the Duomo at 4 pm. This is a real opportunity to take part in one of the more traditional things to do in Florence in October.

Barcolana Regatta in Trieste, Italy is one of the world’s largest sailing races

On behalf of the Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO, Ann Romano presented a $200 check to Tony Lupo for the ICC’s annual Thanksgiving dinner for the less fortunate. This is the first large donation received for this year’s dinner. Lupo said he hopes this donation inspires other organizations and individuals to make contributions for the dinner on Sunday, Nov. 15. The UNICO Ladies have long supported this charitable event. Romano is the Ladies of UNICO Community Projects Chairperson. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

First held in 1969, the Barcolana Regatta in the Gulf of Trieste is the largest gathering of boats in the Mediterranean Sea and, with about 2,000 participants, is one of the largest sailing races in the world. The 47th annual Barcolana Regatta will take place on Sunday, Oct. 11. All manner of boats race and there are illuminated night races. The festivities leading up to the finale start Saturday, Oct. 3 and continue over the next eight days. Visitors can enjoy regional cuisine and wine and plenty of live music in addition to the races. For the past five years, the championship has been won by Esimit Europa 2, an entry from the Yacht Club of Monaco.

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