Sept.-Oct. 2013 issue

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THE

ITALIAN TIMES Published by the Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202 www.ICCMilwaukee.com VOL. 35, NO. 3 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

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President Gina Spang reports on a successful Festa and what lays ahead for the ICC Hello members of the ICC. I am happy to report that we had a successful Festa Italiana 2013! We received very positive feedback on our new logo, the mobile app, the layout of the grounds as well as the switch from a four-day to a threeday festival. We are in the process of evaluating all aspects of the festival so if you have any comments on this year’s Festa or ideas that you would like us to consider for next year, please submit your comments via the website or at the office of the Italian Community Center. We are working on two very exciting activities this fall. One is a design charette with the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the City of Milwaukee Department of City Development.

We plan to bring together a group of stakeholders to discuss the development of our land as part of the larger development of the Historic Third Ward and the improved access to the Third Ward that will result from the reconfiguration of the freeway ramps. The second item is the creation of a strategic plan for the ICC. The details of the strategic plan are still being finalized. We will keep you posted on both of these initiatives. You may notice that the candidate information that is provided in this edition of The Italian Times is a little different than what you have seen in the past. This is a change that I requested of the Election Committee. While it is important to know what individuals have done, I felt it was more

important to understand what they will do if they are elected to the ICC Board, therefore the candidates were asked to describe in 50 words or less what they will do if they are elected to the board. As you know, our organization has a lot of work to do and I think it is important for you to understand what they will do if elected. As your president, I have three primary goals for this upcoming year: improve our financial position, complete a strategic plan, and increase community outreach. I encourage you to attend the general membership meetings which are held on the first Thursday of the month (see the events calendar for specific dates and times). These meetings are a nice way to visit with other members of the organi-

zation as well as receive an update on issues that the board and committees are working on. It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your president. Thank you for your continued support. – Gina M. Spang ICC President

ICC election features races for directors’ seats; incumbent officers are unopposed By Thomas Hemman Times Editor The slate of officers and directors-at-large that was finalized at the Aug. 1 general meeting for the 35th annual Italian Community Center election results in races for directors’ seats. Seven candidates are vying for four open positions. The Election Committee presented these nominees for officer positions: Gina Spang for President; Giuseppe “Joe” Vella for Vice President; Sam Purpero for Treasurer; Rose Anne CerasoFritchie for Secretary and Joanne

(Sanfilippo) Czubek for SergeantAt-Arms. Although they are permitted to do so, members offered no additional nominees for any of the offices. The committee then nominated the following individuals for directors-at-large: incumbents Tony Piacentini and Elizabeth Ceraso along with Susan (DeSanctis) Christiansen and Joseph Jannazzo. Members added the nominations of Paul Iannelli, Pietro Tarantino and Bruno Giacomantonio. The Election Committee has confirmed that all the individuals

Drum troupe from Aspra (Sicily), Italy performs at Festa

The Sicilian Tamburinari of Aspra, Sicily performed throughout the weekend of Festa Italiana. Here the drum troupe is seen in the parade late Saturday afternoon. The appearance of the drummers was sponsored by the Santa Rosalia Society. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

nominated meet the eligibility requirements set forth in Article V, Section 1 of the organization’s bylaws. This section spells out all the requirements and conditions for candidates and the holding of the annual election.

Voting procedures Under the procedures in Article V, ballots must be mailed to all members in good standing within eight days following the September general meeting. (That meeting Please turn to page 10

Festival di Danza e Cultura coming to ICC on Oct. 15 By Gina Jorgensen ICC Culture Committee Member Italian Heritage Month is fast approaching and we have exciting news! What a unique and exciting way to celebrate with an infusion of culture! The Italian Community Center’s Culture Committee is hosting a multi-cultural evening where several local dance groups will perform in collaboration with a visiting group from Japan on Tuesday, Oct. 15. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with dinner available starting at 6 p.m. and the program beginning 6:30 p.m. The ICC will offer a pasta and meatball dinner in addition to the performances for an admission fee of $15 for adults and $9 for children under 12. The meal will include pasta, meatballs, bread, salad, simple beverages and dessert. Guests can attend for a $ a $5 admission fee without pur-

chasing a meal. Please make your reservations by calling the ICC office at 414/223-2180 (have your credit card handy) or use the form accompanying this article. The evening performances will include: • Guests from Japan-Yabanakai from Narita, Chiba Japan, • Nefertari Dancers -Africans who will also include a gospel song, • Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt’s- Pomeranians, • Iberian Spanish Dancers, • Keba Diabate-Drummer from Senegal in West Africa, • Tradizione Vivente – The Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee. Members of Tradizione Vivente have been invited to visit and perform in Japan in 2014. This fall our Japanese sister state host group will be visiting Milwaukee for a week. We will be hosting the Please turn to page 12


Rock stars Matt Nathanson and the Plain White T’s draw huge crowds for shows at the Spiked Island Adult Lemonade Stage

Huge crowds gathered at the Spiked Island Adult Lemonade Stage on the Saturday night of Festa Italiana (July 20) for concerts by rock artists Matt Nathanson and the Plain White T’s. Nathanson (in photo on left) came

to Festa four days after the release of his 10th studio album, titled “Last of the Great Pretenders.” Tom Higgenson, lead vocalist of the Plain White T’s, is seen on the photo on the right. In spring, the group released a new single and

album bearing the same name, “Should’ve Gone to Bed.” The Plain White T’s played many of their platinum-selling hits including the #1 Billboard’s Hot 100 single “Hey There Delilah.” The Spiked Island Stage headliner on Friday, July 19

was country/rap artist “hick-hopper” Colt Ford. On Sunday, July 21, country superstar Phil Vassar performed. (Times photos by Tim Townsend)

Chinese student enjoys Festa

Lucy Chen, who hails from the world’s largest city, Shanghai, China, enjoyed a bowl of toasted ravioli from Pietro’s Pizza during her visit to Milwaukee’s Festa Italiana on July 19. Chen is attending the University of Wisconsin in Madison. This summer, she is participating in a finance internship in Milwaukee. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

THE ITALIAN TIMES 631 E. Chicago St. Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916 (414) 223-2180 Published 11 times annually Publisher . . . Italian Community Center ICC President . . . . . . . . . . . Gina Spang Newspaper Committee Chairman . . . . . . . Rosemary DeRubertis Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thomas Hemman Italian Page Editor . . . . . . . Enrica Tarantino-Woytal Advertising Sales Manager . . . . . . . . . . . .Thomas Hemman Advertising Sales Representative . . . . . . Faye Ann Kessler Editorial Contributors and Staff Writers/Reporters . . . . , .Mario A. Carini Angelo Castronovo, Barbara Collignon and Susan Christiansen Staff Photographers. . . . . . .Joe Spasiano, Tim Townsend and Tom Hemman For advertising information, please call (414) 223-2180 or send an e-mail to: themman@italiancc.org. Copyright 2013 The Italian Community Center, Inc. All Rights Reserved 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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THE ITALIAN TIMES


Miller Lights win Festa bocce championship

Tony Paulis wins Festa’s cannoli-eating contest for fifth time

Having to play its last two matches in a steady downpour did not stop the Miller Lights from rolling to the championship in the 36th annual Festa Italiana bocce tournaments. In the title match, Miller Lights defeated Bowl Brigade, 12-8. The Miller Light players with their trophies are seen here (l to r): Mark Catalano, Anthony Catalano, Mike Koczmorowski and Mike Lange. Twenty-eight teams participated in the tournament. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Due Sorelli Pizza-Making Contest at Festa produces two young winners Seen below are the two winners of the 2013 Due Sorelli Pizza-Making Contest that was held on the Cucina Showcase Stage at Festa Italiana on Sunday, July 21. On the top is Luke Pfeleffners, 5, of Lindenhurst, Ill, who won the competition among youngsters

between the ages of 4 and 9. Below is Jack Borgschulte, 15, of St. Petes, Mo., who won in the 10 to 15 year-old division. The Oak Creek based Due Sorelli, a manufacturer of Italian spices and pizza dough, has sponsored this contest for several years. Due Sorelli was also one of the vendors displaying and providing samples to visitors who came to the Cucina Showcase. (Times photos by Tim Townsend)

Anthony Paulis of Milwaukee retained his title as champion of Festa Italiana’s Cannoli-Eating Contest for the fifth consecutive year as he downed seven regular-size cannoli in four minutes, two more than anyone else in the July 20 competition held at Cucina Showcase. He received a $75 cash prize and a first place T-shirt. Paulis has won the title outright in 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2013. He tied for first place with Minnesotan Tony Carlson in 2010. For Festa 2014, Cucina Showcase Manager Marie Lieber (who is seen partially alongside Paulis in this photo) said she plans on doing a “Cannoli-Eating Contest of Champions” next year, bringing back all of the past winners. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Harder Funeral Home JAMES T. GUARDALABENE ASSOCIATE 18700 W. Capitol Drive “Three generations of my family serving yours.” www.Guardalabene.com Phone: (262) 781-8350 Cell: (414) 588-0836 “As dictated by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, all pre-paid funeral trusts are allowed to be transferred to another funeral home at any time. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss transferring your trust to me from Schmidt & Bartelt or any other funeral home. I would, of course, honor all the terms and wishes as originally agreed upon. It is a very simple process that only requires your signature on a transfer form which I would provide. In addition, there likely could be a savings to you because of Harder’s more reasonable charges.”

THE ITALIAN TIMES

• NO LONGER ASSOCIATED WITH SCHMIDT & BARTELT/ GUARDALABENE & AMATO. • Personally providing the services you have come to expect at your church, chapel or at the Harder Funeral Home. • Funeral planning & pre-planning at your residence or at the funeral home. • Pre-planning and Title 19 expertise. • Longtime member of the Italian Community Center. • Proud sponsor of the Festa Italiana Mass since 2002. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 3


Palermo Soccer Club wins Festa tournament Times photos by Tom Hemman

Choko Alvarado of USA Palermo Soccer Club was awarded the medallion for top scorer in the Festa Italiana soccer tournament. Alvarado led his team to the tourney championship.

Shown above are the champions of the Festa Italiana soccer tournament – USA Palermo Soccer Club – with their coach Sal Carini and Sal Purpora, owner of Papa Luigi’s Pizza. Papa Luigi’s is the team sponsor. The “Coppa Festa Italiana,” a traveling trophy sits on the ground in front of the team. Palermo defeated Verdi Sport Club in the championship match, 4-0. Eight local teams from the Wisconsin Soccer Association participated in the tournament. Front row (l – r): Tony Romero, Salvatore Delvalle, Lorenzo Vicini, Tenzin Rampa, Gaetano Vicini and Salvatore Balistreri. Back row: Coach Carini, Sal Purpora of Papa Luigi’s Pizza, Mike Kroeger, Andre Francois, Jo Anderson, Choko Alvarado, Dustin Keegan, Will Spurvery and Jimmy Jones.

Jo Anderson of USA Palermo Soccer Club advanced the ball upfield as players from Verdi Sport Club began to surround him. Palermo, which won each of the three games it played in the tournament, defeated Verdi Sport Club for the championship, 4-0.

Serving as referees for the tournament were Domenic Zizzo (left) and Don Dorschner. Zizzo has been a soccer referee for 48 years. Dorschner has been officiating for the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association for 30 years.

Seen here are the players and coaches on Verdi Sport Club, a runner-up in the Festa Italiana soccer tournament on Saturday, July 20. Front row (l to r): Mike Lo Duca, Bill Haga, Nick Hernandez (with his daughter Isabella), Dominic D’Amato, John Rossetto and Mike D’Amato. Back row: Tighe Dombrowski, Al Pacino, Sam D’Amato, Gio Frijia, Doug Rodriguez, coach Mario Carini, Brent Haga, Jordan Martone and Mark Pawlyshyn.

The medallion for “Top Goaltender” was given to John Stewart (center), the goalie for the Jalisco Soccer Club. On the left is Stewart’s coach, Joey Dorschel. On the right is Mike Palmisano, a past president of the Italian Community Center and chief organizer of the Festa Italiana soccer tournament.

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THE ITALIAN TIMES


Replica of traditional Puglia dry stone dwelling built for Festa’s Cultural Exhibit Visitors to Festa Italiana’s Cultural Exhibit were able to see a replica of a trullo, a traditional dry stone dwelling with a conical roof that is specific to the Itria Valley in the Italian region of Puglia. The trullo was designed by built by Italian Community Center Culture Committee chair Christina Ziino with the able assistance of her nephew’s wife, Samantha Maretti, Sandy Mazza and Fran Tollefson. Trullo were generally constructed as field shelters and storehouses or as permanent dwellings by small proprietors or agricultural laborers. These structures date back to the Middle Ages. Their golden age was the 19th century. Ziino explains how a concept of building a replica of this dwelling unique to the Puglia region became a reality. “From the beginning, I knew if we recognized the Puglia region at Festa, a model trullo had to be a part of the exhibit. It is such a unique structure with a long history. I knew it would generate interest and conversation. “First, I had to find a way to make the round base structure to support the round roof. For some reason, sheet metal came to mind. So I stopped to see my favorite heating man at Gross Heating. I asked for a donation of a piece of sheet metal and explained what I was doing. Oscar was kind enough to actually form the sheet metal to the size I needed. Now, I had to figure out the roof. After weeks of brainstorming, I called upon my

nephew’s wife, Samantha Maretti, who is an architect. “She was on board with enthusiasm. She came equipped with the tools of her trade and whatever material scraps she had that would work. Of course, her vision was much more sophisticated and professional than what I had in mind. I was amazed at how little I knew about structure and support. So Samantha set out creating depth by building a second layer of material built out from my sheet metal core. She created a gable support system for the roof. Using duct tape and paper machè, the building started to take shape. Help from ICC members Fran Tollefson and Sandy Mazza made this a fun group project. “After two layers of paper machè and three days of work, the shell was complete. Now, the question was: How do we replicate the flat stone appearance of the roof? “After several tries with various materials, Sandy came up with the idea of using corrugated cardboard. This was not easy to find or cheap. So we took cardboard boxes and ripped off the paper covering to expose the ribbed board, and quickly found out that wasn’t so easy to do either. But we did it. We cut slits to mimic the individual stones. Once again, Samantha had the knowledge how to take these pieces of cardboard and shape them into a round roof. It was frustrating at times to say the least, but she got it done. “Finally, after two weeks includ-

Italian Community Center Culture Committee Chair Christina Ziino (left) and Fran Tollefson stand along side a replica of trullo, a traditional dwelling unique to the Puglia region of Italy. The two were part of the volunteer crew that built the trullo for display at Festa Italiana. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

ing two full weekends, we had our trullo with a lovely door front and a window. Sandy Mazza created a flower box for the window and did all the “landscaping.” Fran and I did the painting. It was a labor of love and was I think, the center-

piece of the exhibit. “This project could not have been done with the quality it was without Samantha’s expertise, Sandy’s creativity and the labor of Fran Tollefson. It truly was a team effort.”

Festa Italiana raffle winners announced Late Sunday, July 21 on the Miller Lite Stage, Festa Italiana officials, with the assistance of members of The Bronx Wanderers, drew the winning tickets in the 2013 Festa raffle. The winners and their prizes are listed here. • 1st prize: $5,000 cash to Kathleen Morawski of New Berlin, Wis.

• 2nd prize: an Oriental rug to Bill Greco of Punta Gorda, Fla. • 3rd prize: a 60-inch LED HD television to Karen Schoenung of Glendale, Wis. • 4th prize: a 42-inch LED HD television to Lucille Ott of Roanoke, Va. • 5th prize: an Apple iPad to Lynn Suareo of West Chicago, Ill.

Check presented to top prize-winner in Festa raffle

Samantha Maretti, an architect, put her professional skills to work to assist in building the trullo at Christina and Joe Ziino’s home. (Photo provided by Christina Ziino)

From the left: Fran Tollefson, Sandy Mazza and Samantha Maretti helped Christina Ziino to design and build a replica of a trullo, a dry stone dwelling with a conical roof. (Photo provided by Christina Ziino)

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Kathleen Morawski of New Berlin was presented with a $5,000 check on Thursday, July 25, five days after her ticket was drawn for the first prize in the 2013 Festa Italiana raffle. Morawski told The Italian Times that she purchased $20 in raffle tickets from her attorney, Henry Piano, during a visit to his Milwaukee office prior to Festa. Piano (right), a past president of the Italian Community Center, made the presentation to Morawski. On the left is her husband, Jerry. Kathleen said she won cash prizes in raffles before but nothing ever as large as the $5,000 prize. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 5


Festa Mass & Procession Committee thanks religious participants The Festa Italiana Mass and Procession Committee wishes to express its gratitude to the priests and deacons who participated in the Festa Mass and Procession celebrated on Sunday, July 21. Many of them have faithfully accepted the committee’s invitation year after year to assist at the Festa Mass, the annual liturgical celebration described by the late Dominic Frinzi, past president of the Italian Community Center, as the “crown jewel of Festa Italiana.” In appreciation for their presence and assistance, we are publishing their names. Please pray for

them that they may continue to dedicate themselves to the People of God they have been called to serve. We extend a special thank you to Most Reverend Donald J. Hying for agreeing to be our principal celebrant. Priests Our Principal Celebrant, Most Reverend Donald J. Hying , Rev. Robert Anello, M.S. A., Ph D., Franciscan University of Steubenville; Fr. Mike Hammer, Catholic AIDS Ministry; Fr. Jim Deshotels, S.J., St. Louis, Mo; Rev. Gerald Reagan, the Jesuit

The Most Reverend Donald J. Hying, Principal Celebrant of the Festa Mass, delivered the homily with the replica of the beloved Pompeii Catholic Church altar as the backdrop. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Community at St. Camillus; Fr. Balista, Fr. Pedro Tramontin from the Formation House of San Camillus; Fr. Philip Schumacker; Fr. Luke Strand of St. Francis Seminary; Rev. Edward Griesemer, Milwaukee; Rev. Glen Powers of St. Francis Seminary; Rev. Dick Mirsberger retired; Fr. Fred Brenk S.J. Arrupe House Jesuit Commuity; Fr. Domenic Roscioli; and Rev. Thomas F. Wittliff, retired, and Brother Mario Crivello.

Deacons Mark Jansen Milwaukee, Don Borkowski, Milwaukee; John Champagne, Milwaukee, Tom Filipiak, St. Bruno, Dousman; Michael Finley, St. Anthony on the Lake, Pewaukee; Peter Patrick Kimini, Milwaukee; Eric Sewell, Milwaukee; and Leon Zalewski, Milwaukee. Servers Tony Crivello and Salvatore Vella.

With commitment and devotion, members of Società Maschile Maria S.S. Del Lume carried over their shoulders their very heavy vada in the Festa Italiana procession on Sunday, July 21. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Festa Mass & Procession Committee thanks sponsors and donors The Festa Italiana Mass & Procession Committee wishes to thank this year’s sponsors – Catholic Financial Life and Harder Funeral Home, James Guardalabene, Associate – as well as all those who made donations for the religious celebration on Sunday, July 21, in the Marcus Amphitheater. This year, $2,600 in donations were received. “Everyone on our committee appreciates and values the tremendous support of our sponsors and our donors,” said Vivian Balistreri and Sal Lo Coco, committee cochairs. “Their involvement helps Festa Italiana carry on the essence of the Mass.” The committee chairs also expressed their gratitude to the following for their donations that helped defray the costs of the Mass: Sal and Antonette Lo Coco, Joseph and Anna Zambito, Peter and Francis Dundon, Thomas and Marcia Nardelli, Joseph and Santa D’Amato, Frank and Maria Zingale, Ryan and Fran Blailbach, Joseph Lo Coco, Sam and Lucille Purpero, Pompeii Men’s Club, James Albanese, Three Holy Women, C.J. Cecconi, Thomas and Barbara Balistreri, Order Sons of Italy in America – Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Area Lodge, St. Theresa Society and Thomas Spera. “To all of our ICC members and friends who remembered our Festa

Mass and Procession with a donation in loving memory of a loved one, we say thank you all,” LoCoco and Balistreri said. These memorial donations were made in memory of the following individuals: Sal and Antonette Lo Coco, in memory of Joseph and Maria Lo Coco; Joseph, Jr. and Christina Ziino, in memory of Joseph Ziino; Sal, Antonette and Lucretia Lo Coco, in memory of Domenic and Marion Carini; Lucretia Lo Coco, in memory of Vincent Lo Coco; Robert Bartelt, in memory of Irvin and Mabel Bartelt and Hattie Kuether; Caputo Family, in memory of Cono Caputo; Sal and Antonette Lo Coco, in memory of Salvatore Orlando; Joseph and Jane Leto, in memory of Joseph and Vincent Leto; John Tarantino, in memory of Angelina Tarantino; Ray and Carol Martinez, in memory of Joseph and Sarah Martinez; Deacon Tom and Anna Marie Filipiak, in memory of Joseph M. Filipiak; Sal and Antonette Lo Coco, in memory of Raymond Bilicki; Sal and Antonette Lo Coco, in memory of John Zizzo; Tom and Barbara Balistreri, in memory of Tony and Mary Balistreri; Shannon Drezek, in memory of Edward Stoecker, Angeline Ceraso-Stoecker and Sam Ceraso; Vince and Vivian Balistreri, in memory of Gaetano Vicini; and the Fallucca Family, in memory of Jack Fallucca.

PAGE 6 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

A United States Coast Guard unit marched in the procession at Festa Italiana on Sunday, July 21. The services of the Coast Guard unit were secured through the Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Area Lodge of Order Sons of Italy in America. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

THE ITALIAN TIMES


Cosmo Carini: Keeping Festa’s Italian structures, gondolas in tip-top shape By Thomas Hemman Times Editor You might have read previously in The Italian Times articles about how talented local craftsman Cosmo Cosmo designed and built Festa Italiana’s spectacular 43-foot tall replica of the St. Mark’s Bell Tower of Venice, Italy, the festival’s acclaimed Pinocchio mobile and Pinocchio on a tricycle as well as its beautiful arched entryway that’s reminiscent of the St. Rocco Festival held in Milwaukee years ago. Today, Carini is not only responsible for the maintenance of these structures, but also for repairing, maintaining and, in some instances, nearly remodeling Festa’s fleet of gondolas, which numbered three this year. While he is compensated for his work, Carini said, it is a “labor of love. I love my Italian heritage and I love Festa.” This year, he said his biggest chore was getting “Gondola No. 3” ready for use. Festa acquired the third gondola from the Vella family of Sciortino’s Bakery fame. Carini said, “I had to replace almost everything – from the seats and the lights to the decorative sheet metal pieces in the front and back and the carpeting – plus I had to redo the trim, repaint it and embellish it.” He also had to repair some damage that was done to Gondola No. 2. With the help of his “right-hand man” Ron Benigni-Henck, the work on both gondolas was completed in about three weeks time. Another pre-Festa project was repainting the archway. While this year’s Festa was a three-day event, Carini, BenigniHenck and a crew of volunteers they have assembled spend up to 10 days setting up and taking down the structures (which is no easy task; see the photo of the bell tower set up) and getting the gondolas ready to go in the water. This summer hasn’t been the warmest on record, but the hottest days of the year so far were when Carini and his crew were setting up the structures before the opening of Festa. Carini said he and his crew drank a lot of water and sweated it all out. He added that he is thankful that he had some younger volunteers who offered to do the work inside the bell tower, fastening down each section after it was hoisted up by a crane. The volunteers who worked with Carini include Benigni-Henck, Craig Lieber, Logan Pillsbury, Vince Lupo and Tom Lupo, who operated the crane. Carini and his crew also set up and took down the panels and props that were designed and built for the Cucina Showcase Stage. Over the course of the festival setup and takedown, Carini said, he and his crew received valuable assistance from Anthony Harris and other members of the Italian Conference Center staff.

Cosmo Carini is seen here standing alongside Gondola No. 3, which he repaired and refurbished from front to back. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Festa’s gondoliers are seen here with Bill Jennaro (center) the manager of gondola operations. From the left: Sal Galioto, Anthony Frigo, Jennaro, Tony Emmiti and Patrick Longo. This year, Festa had three gondolas available for rides in the Summerfest lagoon.

Jennaro, a past president of the Italian Community Center, has been the manager of gondola operations since the Italianized boat rides returned to Festa three years ago. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Festa guests were able to enjoy Italian-style gondola rides most of the festival weekend. In some instances, inclement weather shut down operations. With a full

load of passengers here, Anthony Frigo (far left) was helping Sal Galioto (standing) row the gondola when this picture was taken. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Find out how inexpensive and effective newspaper advertising can be. Contact The Italian

Times for details. Phone: (414) 223-2180 Email: themman@italiancc.org

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 7


Works of Maddy Sherman and Ken Lenz to be featured artists as ICC participates in Gallery Night & Day, Oct. 18 and 19 The Italian Community Center welcomes Maddy Sherman and Ken Lenz as its featured artists for the fall presentation of Gallery Night & Day, a quarterly program coordinated by the Historic Third Ward Association and the East Towne Association. Sherman and Lenz will show their works at the ICC on Friday, Oct. 18 from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission, as always, is free.

Wine and cheese will be served during the Friday night showing. (Editor’s note: At the time this newspaper went to press, it was uncertain which room at the ICC would be used for the showing. The Garibaldi Board Room, which is normally used, was already booked for another event.

style and attention to detail pull viewers in and makes them feel like they are part of the scene. Lenz is a jeweler who specializes in punk jewelry, using old watch parts and even rocks! Both Sherman and Lenz will have their works available for display and purchase.

About the artists Sherman is an award-winning local acrylic artist. Her specialty is landscapes of Italy. Her realistic

ICC one of 60 venues The ICC will be one of around 60 venues throughout the East Towne and Historic Third Ward areas par-

ticipating in the fall Gallery Night & Day program, which is being presented for the 25th year. A special flag will be posted outside Cafe La Scala to call attention to the ICC as one of the participating venues. On tap The winter Gallery Night & Day will be Jan. 17 and 18. For more information on the Gallery Night & Day program, visit: www.historic thirdward.org

Calendar of Events September 5 – October 30, 2013 Thursday, Sept. 5 • Italian Community Center membership dinner, 5:30 p.m. • Italian Community Center general membership meeting, 6:30 p.m. • Courtyard Music Series: Rock & Roll with the Doo-Wop Daddies, 6:30 p.m. Details on all the remaining Courtyard Music Series shows in this issue.

Tuesday, Oct. 8 • Abruzzese Society meeting, 7 p.m. • Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National meeting, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9 • Italian Community Center Avanti Committee’s free DVD series: “Wines of Italy,” 6 p.m.

The week of Sept. 9 – 12 • Italian Community Center’s fall bocce season begins with mixed couples leagues on Monday and Wednesday nights and seniors leagues on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.

Monday, Oct. 14 • Italian Community Center Finance Committee meeting, 6 p.m. • Pompeii Women’s Club general meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 9 • Italian Community Center Culture Committee meeting, 6:30 p.m. • Pompeii Women’s Club Board meeting, 7 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 14 through Monday, Oct. 21 • Columbus Museum display in Board Room. Open to the public during regular busines hours. Details in this issue.

Tuesday, Sept. 10 • Fall semester of Italian I class begins, 5:30 p.m. Details in this issue. • Pompeii Men’s Club membership meeting, 6 p.m. • Courtyard Music Series: Latin Jazz with Como No, 6:30 p.m. • Abruzzese Society meeting and spuntino, 7 p.m. • Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National meeting, 7 p.m. • Fall semester of Italian III class begins, 7:30 p.m. Details in this issue.

Tuesday, Oct. 15 • Italian Community Center Culture Committee presents “Festiva di Danza and Cultura,” 5:30 p.m. Details in this issue. • Abruzzese Society singers rehearsal, 6:30 p.m. • Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO membership meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 12 • Courtyard Music Series: Rock & Roll with the Oldies But Goodies Spectacular, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 • Fall semester of free Children’s Italian class begins, 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17 • Courtyard Music Series: Tuesday Bluesday with The Jimmys, 6:30 p.m. • Abruzzese Society singers rehearsal, 6:30 p.m. • Società Maschile Maria S.S. Del Lume meeting, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18 • Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Area Lodge/Order Sons of Italy in American Council meeting, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19 • Italian Community Center Board meeting, 6 p.m. • Courtyard Music Series: Rock & Roll with the Tom Anthony Group, 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20 • Abruzzese Society social, 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21 • Italian Family History Club meeting, 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24 • Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO Board meeting, 6 p.m. • Courtyard Music Series: Latin Jazz with La Chazz, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25 • Italian Community Center Avanti Committee’s free DVD series: “Wines of Italy,” 6 p.m. Details in this issue. • Pompeii Women’s Club membership meeting, 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26 • Courtyard Music Series finale: Rock & Roll with the Larry Lynne Band, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 30 • Italian Community Center Culture Committee meeting, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1 • Pompeii Men’s Club Board meeting, 6 p.m. • Abruzzese Society singers rehearsal, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2 • Italian Community Center Avanti Committee’s free DVD series: “Wines of Italy,” 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4 • Italian Community Center membership dinner, 5:30 p.m. • Italian Community Center general membership meeting, 6:30 p.m. Election results announced.

PAGE 8 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

Wednesday, Oct. 16 • Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Area Lodge of the Order Sons of Italy in America membership meeting, 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17 • Italian Community Center Board meeting, 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 • Abruzzese Society social, 6 p.m. • Italian Community Center participates in Gallery Night, 6 p.m. Details in this issue. Saturday, Oct. 19 • Italian Community Center participates in Gallery Day, 11 a.m. Details in this issue. Sunday, Oct. 20 • Società Maschile M.S.S. Del Lume dinner, 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21 • Italian Community Center’s Student Culture Day, 9 a.m. Details in this issue. Tuesday, Oct. 22 • Società Maschile M.S.S. Del Lume meeting, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29 • Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO Board meeting, 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25 • Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National bocce fund-raiser, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30 • Pompeii Women’s Club membership dinner meeting, 6 p.m. Daily and weekly classes and activities • Fall bocce leagues. The fall season begins the week of Sept. 9. • Free Children’s Italian class. The eight-week fall semester of a free children’s Italian class begins on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. Look for details in this issue. • Italian I for teens and adults. The 10-week fall semester of Italian I (introductory course) for teens and adults begins on Tuesday, Sept. 10 from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. Look for details in this issue. • Italian III for teens and adults. The 10-week fall semester of Italian II (who those who have completed Italian I and II or have knowledge of Italian language) begins on Tuesday, Sept. 10 from 7:30 to 9:15 p.m. Look for details in this issue. • Tradizione Vivente, The Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee. This folk dance group practices weekly on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the ICC. Visit www.tradizionevivente.com for details. Ballate con noi! Dance with us! • Members Room. Open to Italian Community Center members and their guests, 8 a.m. - 9 p.m., Monday - Thursday and 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

THE ITALIAN TIMES


Make your Thanksgiving Day dining plans at the ICC Pre-paid reservations required for this feast There’s no need to spend most of your Thanksgiving Day in the kitchen preparing your family feast. Let the Italian Conference Center staff do the cooking on Thursday, Nov. 28. For the second consecutive year, the ICC is offering a Thanksgiving Day buffet. Pre-paid reservations are necessary for this bountiful feast, which will begin with the first seatings at 11 a.m. Reservations will be taken on the half-hour from that time on, with the last seating scheduled for 4 p.m. Business Manager Patrick Morgan has kept the prices at $24.95 for adults, $15.95 for children, ages 5-12, and free for children, 4 and younger. Make your prepaid reservations in person at the reception desk at the Italian Community Center on weekdays, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by calling 414/223-2180 and pay with a credit card. The Thanksgiving menu The following array of sumptu-

ous buffet choices awaits those who come to the ICC for their Thanksgiving dinner. • Salads: Garden salad with assorted dressings; Caesar salad; Caprese salad; seafood tortellini salad; and Waldorf salad. • Appetizers: Fresh fruit; assorted cheese and crackers; antipasto, vegetables and dill dip; and cranberry relish. • Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes; sweet potato casserole; roasted yams; sweet corn; fresh green beans almondine; and penne pasta marinara. • Meats: Oven-roasted turkey and gravy; honey glazed ham; carved prime rib au jus; Italian sausage sauté; baked cod with lemon dill butter; and meatballs in sauce. • Desserts: Tiramisu; cannoli; pumpkin pie; apple pie; wild berry pie; and many other assorted tortes. • Add-ons: Italian bread; butter; coffee; tea; and milk. Free parking will be available in the lot south of the building.

Avanti Committee planning scary ‘ghost tour’ The Italian Community Center’s Avanti Committee is planning what is dubbed as a “ghost tour” at Shaker’s Cigar Bar at 422 S. 2nd St., Milwaukee, on Saturday, Oct. 12. According to Avanti Committee chair Liz Ceraso, “This is about a one-hour long tour of an old brothel in Walker’s Point that is now Shakers Cigar Bar. It is a classic Victorian bar and restaurant that is believed to be haunted. We will tour all four levels of the building and hear about (and maybe see) the

ghost of the building. There are also drink specials that are offered for those attending.” The cost to participate is $15 per person. There is a limit of 13 people per tour. If more than 13 people register, the Avanti Committee will attempt to set another group tour. Those who are interested can email Liz Ceraso at liz.ceraso@gmail.com or call the ICC at 414/223-2189 and leave a message for her. The event is tentatively planned to begin at 8 p.m.

Advertising deadline set for November issue of The Italian Times All advertising copy for publication in the November 2013 issue of The Italian Times must be submitted to the editor no later than Thursday, Oct. 10. This will be an online-only issue.

Advertising can be emailed to editor Tom Hemman at themman@italiancc.org, sent to The Italian Times, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202. For more details,, please call 414-223-2801.

Enjoy free film series on ‘Wines of Italy’ at ICC The Italian Community Center’s Avanti Committee is hosting a free DVD film series on the “Wines of Italy.” The films will be shown on Wednesday nights, Sept. 25, Oct. 2 and Oct. 9 starting at 6 p.m. in

Conference Room #1. Attendees can order dinner from the staff of Cafe La Scala, the ICC’s public restaurant. Meals will be brought in to the room.

New DVD Series on the Wines of Italy 6 lectures – 2 per evening Cost: gratuitamente /free Hosted by: Avanti Committee Wednesday Evenings – September 25, October 2 & October 9, 2013 – 7:00 p.m. Ghost Tour at Shakers Cigar Bar Cost $15 – Limited to 13 People Hosted by: Avanti Committee Saturday, October 12, 2013 Festival di Danza e Cultura Multi-cultural evening – see full article in this issue of The Italian Times. Cost: Adults – $15.00, Children 12 & Under – $9.00, Performance Only – $5.00 Hosted by: ICC Culture Committee & Tradizione Vivente Tuesday, October 15, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. Installation Dinner As part of the November General Membership Meeting. Hosted by: Italian Community Center Thursday, November 7, 2013 ICC Membership Christmas Party Hosted by: Italian Community Center Thursday, December 12, 2013 – 6:00 p.m.

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Children’s La Befana Christmas Party Hosted by: Avanti Committee Saturday, January 4, 2014 – Noon

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THE ITALIAN TIMES

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 9


Seven candidates running the four, open director-at-large seats in ICC election from page 1 took place on Sept. 5, the date this issue was published.) The bylaws define a member in good standing as anyone who became a member 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. 5, 2013, you are eligible to vote and will receive a ballot in the mail. The Election Committee is in charge of mailing out the ballots to eligible voters. Regarding the submission of ballots, the bylaws state: “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. 3. Therefore, ballot envelopes must be postmarked no later than Sept. 26, 2013 to be opened and counted. Instructions for voting and returning ballots will be included in the mailing sent by the Election Committee. Election results will be announced as part of the proceedings at the Oct. 3 general meeting. The newly elected officers will serve for one year while the new directors-at-large will fill two-year terms. All terms begin officially on Nov. 1. An installation ceremony will take place at the general meeting on Thursday, Nov. 7. A dinner will precede this meeting. About the uncontested officers Spang is the second woman in the 35-year history of the organization to serve as president and will become the first female to serve two consecutive terms. Betty Puccio served the ICC as its president during the 1989-90 term. Spang had previously held the vice presidency on two different occasions and served as a directorat-large. A longtime, third generation member of the ICC, Spang has served on numerous ICC and Festa Italiana committees over the years. She was the general chairperson of the 2013 Festa Italiana and will continue in that capacity for the 2014 celebration next July. She is employed as the Director of Facilities and Maintenance for Milwaukee Public Schools. She is a civil engineer with emphasis on facilities and construction management. Vella, who is completing his first term as vice president, previously served as a director-at-large. The 17-year owner of Peter Sciortino’s Bakery, Vella is a longtime member of the ICC and a past president of the Madonna Del Lume Society. He has been active in Festa Italiana the last several years, serving on the Management Committee, the Advisory Committee and Food Committee. He and his wife, Rhiana, were honored as Re and Regina (King and Queen) of the ICC’s Il Grande Carnevale in 2010. Carnevale is the organization’s pre-Lenten costume and mask ball. Since the inception of the ICC in 1978, Purpero has served on the Board for all but two years, holding the positions of president (1982-83), president-elect, first vice president, treasurer and director-at-large. This election marks his fifth con-

secutive term as treasurer. He has been heavily involved in each of the 36 Festa Italiana celebrations organized by the ICC. Ceraso-Fritchie, a longtime member of the organization, has held the office of secretary for the last nine years. She has long been an active volunteer in Festa Italiana. In the most recent years, she has served as manager of golf carts. She is currently the president of the Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National. She is chairperson of the ICC’s Avanti Committee and has been on the committee that is responsible for orchestrating Carnevale. Czubek first won the sergeantat-arms post in the 2010 election, making her the first woman to hold the position in the history of the ICC. She previously served on the Board as a director-at-large (19972002). She has a long history of volunteer involvement in the ICC and with Festa. She has been co-chairperson of Carnevale the last six years and has chaired the Membership Committee and the Election Committee. She has volunteered for many events and has been co-manager of Festa Signage the last several years. For the last 18 years, she served as Festa’s volunteer coordinator. She is currently a member of the Newspaper Committee. Others who are continuing their service Dave Spano will continue to serve on the Board in the non-elective position as immediate past president. Also continuing their service are directors Dean Cannestra, Henry Piano, Anna Pitzo and Anthony Zingale, who are in the middle of their two-year terms. Departures from the current Board will be Ralph Busalacchi and Peter Gustin. Busalacchi was ineligible to run because of the organization’s term limit stipulation, which allows a director to be elected to no more than two consecutive two-year terms without taking a hiatus from the Board. Gustin, who is completing his first, two-year term as director, opted not to seek re-election. Director nominees seek your vote As an informational service to the ICC membership, The Italian Times asked the seven nominees for the four open director-at-large seats to complete a questionnaire. Their comments are presented here in the same order as their names appear on the official ballot. The only question that the candidates were asked to answer was: If you are elected to the Board, please describe in 50 words or less what you are going to do to help the organization? A drawing for ballot positions was held on Tuesday, Aug. 13. It was conducted by Election Committee chair Rosemary DeRubertis in the assistance of Business Manager Patrick Morgan and ICC staff members Constance Palmer and Gina Manning and witnessed by the writer of this article. The names were drawn in this order: Pietro Tarantino, Elizabeth Ceraso, Susan DeSanctis Christiansen, Joseph Jannazzo, Jr., Bruno Giacomantonio, Paul Iannelli and Tony Piacentini. Other members of the Election Committee are Frank D’Amato, Bill

PAGE 10 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

Dickinson, Sal Lo Coco and Mary Ann Maglio. * * * Pietro Tarantino, self employed. “Reestablish relationships with Italian regions to provide cultural exhibits and entertainment for Festa and the Center AT LOW COST. “Will provide fiscal and fiduciary responsibility to establish budgets for Festa and the Center, to comply within our financial and economic environment. “Dismal finances require accountability and transparency.”

Susie (DeSanctis) Christiansen, Legal Secretary/Back-up Trainer, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C. “I will preserve the Italian culture at the ICC and Festa in the most authentic form possible – the language, dance, music, art, food, history and traditions. I am devoted and will work tirelessly to ensure that our members feel valued and will contribute to the longterm strength of the ICC.”

Susan (DeSanctis) Christiansen Pietro Tarantino

Elizabeth (Liz) Ceraso, Adminstration Assistant/Reservations for Carey Limousine. “I’ll continue my efforts to bring in new members through activities that embody our commitment to our Italian heritage. “I’ll do my best to keep the ICC moving forward while maintaining the vision of our founders. I want to make this a place that families and younger members can be proud of and call ‘home’.”

Joe Jannazzo, Jr., Agency Manager for Southeastern Wisconsin, Country Financial. “My entire focus will be on engaging younger individuals and families with the ICC. “The long term success of the organization is dependent on how we get the next generation to take an active role in the ICC. I want to help drive that change.”

Joe Jannazzo, Jr.

Elizabeth Ceraso

The statements of Bruno Giacomantonio, Paul Iannelli and Tony Piacentini appear on page 11.

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THE ITALIAN TIMES


Statements of the director-at-large candidates continued here from page 10 Bruno Giacomantonio, Top Quality Builders, President (retired). “As an ICC board member, I’d create a third income. Why? Our financial situation is unclear. Our organization should focus on income rather than borrowing money. Labor force has taken cuts. Conference Center and parking lot income is insufficient. We definitely need new resources. “Thank you for your vote.”

Tony Piacentini, Senior Estimator for InPro Corporation, Muskego, Wis. “Conference Center: Develop profitable business models for the restaurant and banquets. “Community Center: Redesign to include a members-only wing where we can hold events and staff ourselves. “Land Development: Determine the most beneficial decision, longterm and short-term. “Festa Italiana: Hold our traditions and our budget while attracting a diverse crowd.”

Thanks for your donations to the Italian Community Center 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 or visit www.ICCMilwaukee.com. The following donations were received between June 8 and Aug. 15, 2013. In memory of Mrs. Sam (Adie) Cooper Tony Machi Frank & Dorothy Orlando In memory of Lydia Oszuscik Family Sam & Lucille Purpero In memory of Roseann Tomasini Paul & Rose Iannelli Tony Machi Mario A. Carini Margaret M. Carini George & Judy Menos William & Rita Jennaro George & Gina Manning Jimmy & Linda Spataro Mario Jennaro Sonny & Melody Gensler

Bruno Giacomantonio

Paul Iannelli, retired. “My record: “• Founder of Festa Italiana and VIP disabled day. “• ICC President, four years. “• Grounds set-up, 32 years with 911 crew. “• Produced first food and price menu. “• Board member, 20 years. “• Board member emeritus, Summerfest, 30 years. “I look forward to your vote and thank you for it.”

Paul Iannelli

Tony Piacentini

ICC Historian Carini wants your high school yearbooks, other memorabilia Don’t throw away your old high school yearbooks or other memorabilia. If you attended a high school in Milwaukee County or surrounding counties, Italian Community Center Historian Mario A. Carini is interested in using the yearbooks and other high school memorabilia for furthering his research on local Italian Americans. Carini will deposit the yearbooks and memorabilia at the Milwaukee County Historical Society after he completes his research. “These can be yearbooks and memorabilia from public, Catholic or private high schools,” Carini said. Yearbooks and memorabilia can be dropped off at the reception desk in the main office of the ICC. Please include a note with your name and phone number so Carini knows who made the donation.

Copies of vintage photos displayed at ICC or Festa available through Milwaukee County Historical Society Persons interested in acquiring a copy of any of the vintage Italian American photographs that are displayed throughout the year at the Italian Community Center or during the four days of Festa Italiana must contact the Milwaukee County Historical Society (MCHS) to obtain the photo, ICC Historian Mario A. Carini announced. “The Historical Society is the

THE ITALIAN TIMES

keeper of all of the negatives,” Carini said, who donated a massive collection of artifacts, photos and other memorabilia to the society on behalf of the ICC and the early Italian immigrants in 2010. Please contact either Steve Daily or Amanda Koehler at the Historical Society. They can be reached at 414/273-7487 or 414/273-8288.

Tony Machi In memory of Thoi Tran Tony Machi In memory of Virginia Quarto William & Rita Jennaro In memory of Tony Ebert Eddie & Joanne Glorioso In memory of Mary Listwan Sandra Mandella In memory of Salvatore Schiera Sandra Mandella In memory of Jean Rose Palmisano William & Rita Jennaro Tony Machi Paul & Rose Iannelli George & Judy Menos George & Gina Manning In memory of Mary Ann Kitzke George & Judy Menos Tony Machi Mary Ann Maglio Francis Firle Sonny & Melody Gensler In memory of Tony Aveni Paul & Rose Iannelli

In memory of Marietta Ann Cianciolo Schield N. Kirk Schield John Dean Schield Corey Allen Schield Craig Michael Schield Summer Lee Schield Giselle Marie Schield Paige Noel Schield

In memory of Rocco Cineotta William & Rita Jennaro Sal Mussomeli & Sally Mullins In memory of Joseph Dean Balistreri Tony Machi Birthday donation in honor of Carmen Schlotthauer annonymous

ICC volunteers seeking donations for 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 2013 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. 17. 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 assure that your donation is properly credited for the dinner. Envelopes should be directed to the attention of Salina Castro. Salina will also be taking donations at the ICC reception desk. This annual dinner for the less fortunate has been going on since the late 1970s.

Apply conventional wisdom when planning your next business convention. Hold it at the

Italian Conference Center The Italian Conference Center offers . . . • More than 22,000 sq. ft. of convention space. • Professional planning & catering services • Handicap access. • Ample, free parking. • 7 day a week availability. • Easy access to freeway and downtown. To coordinate your convention plans, call David or Michelle at (414) 223-2800 or visit www.ItalianConference.com

Italian Conference Center at the Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee A block west of Summerfest

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 11


Festival di Danza e Cultura coming to ICC on Tuesday, Oct. 15 from page 1 Japanese group Oct. 15 and 16. They will spend their arrival and departure nights in a hotel, a couple of days with the Pomeranian dance group, who were the Wisconsin delegation to Japan last year, and with us for the two days before they return to Japan. What does hosting mean? Welcoming a stranger into your family and home and parting with a new friend. We will open our homes to the group members, drop them off for their daily activities, pick them up, prepare two breakfasts and one dinner for them, and other Milwaukee/American things such as shopping and visiting some of Milwaukee’s fascinating places of interest. As a participating host, you will be invited to their farewell dinner evening. We have hosts for many of the Japanese but we still need a few more homes. If you are interested in hosting one or two people on Oct. 15 and 16, please contact me, Gina Jorgensen, at 414/380-0808 or gina.jorgensen@ yahoo.com for specific details. You can also call Christina Ziino at 262/783-4024 or email at cziino2000@yahoo.com. You can also find us on Facebook for updates on this event: https://www.facebook.com/events/2 13602718799722/. The group members have pro-

gram activities for their special interests during the day for which we are not responsible. Several adult members are here to exchange information about such things as health care and nutrition, aquaponics and the growing of food, urban farming, food security and Community Food Systems. They will convene at an international meeting in Milwaukee with experts from Wisconsin, the U.S. and Japan. They will visit the Kikkoman Soy Sauce Plant and meet Governor Scott Walker and Mayor Tom Barrett. A few things they will be doing while they are here are: attending Oktoberfest with the Pomeranian group, visiting and performing for two schools in Milwaukee and playing bocce before our performance on Oct. 15. They will visit local places like Growing Power, the HarleyDavidson Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Discovery World and the Milwauiee County Zoo. Here’s what we know about the group: Guests from Japan are the Yabana-Kai, a traditional dance group from Narita, Chiba Japan and from Chiba University and businesses. There are 21 members coming to visit. Of the 21 members, 12 of them are performers seven performers are children

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: ____________________________________________________________ I/we wish to attend both the dinner and program at a cost of $15/person. No. of people attending _____ x $15.00 per person = $_______________ I/we wish to attend the program only at a cost of $5 per person. No. of people attending _____ x $5.00 per person = $_________________ Please make your check payable to: Italian Community Center, and mail with this form to: ICC, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202.

ICC to display items about Christopher Columbus from Columbus Museum By Christina Ziino ICC Culture Committee Chair How better to celebrate Columbus Day and Italian culture than with an exhibit of items from the Columbus Antiques Mall & Museum, commemorating the life and explorations of this extraordinary explorer. The Italian Community Center is fortunate to have such an exhibit the week of Oct. 14-21 in the Boardroom. Included will be scale models of Christopher Columbus’s three ships built by Duane B. Anderson of Columbus, Wis. Ship models include 1/24 scale model of Santa Maria from the Smithsonian, Nina from the National Geographic and Pinta from Spain 1992. There will also

be a replica of Queen Isabella’s knighting sword, maps, books, porcelain and other Columbus related memorabilia. The exhibit will be open to the public during normal ICC hours. We encourage members and the public to stop in and view the exhibit. Dan Amato, the owner of the Columbus Antiques Mall & Museum, 239 Whitney St., Columbus, Wis., is working with Culture Committee member Sophia Michalovitz to bring this wonderful display and tribute to the ICC. The committee wishes to thank Dan for bringing the ICC this opportunity to display these works.

PAGE 12 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

between the ages of 9 and 12. Most of the other members are in their 50s and 60s. The adults are networking with their counterparts here in Wisconsin. We are looking forward to a wonderful evening of music and

dance. This is a sneak preview to Holiday Folk Fair in November. It is a great opportunity for you, your family and friends to enjoy a mini experience of meeting other people and other cultures. Everyone is welcome.

Yabana-kai – Yabana group from Japan Yabana-kai performs Japanese traditional (classical) dances wearing kimonas. Japanese dance uses a variety of objects as props, such as folding fans, swords and umbrellas. The folding fan, which was invented in Japan in the Heian period, is indispensable. Fans are tossed, spun and used in countless other ways during dances. The children are performing the umbrella or parasol dance. The older dancing use a fan. The movements are graceful and precise, whether manipulating the parasol itself or even setting it precisely on the floor to counterpoint a dance segment. It is a classical court dance technique that developed in the 18th and 19th centuries. The principle function of these dances was to honor and entertain. It was a dance meant to evoke the summer season and the happy carefree feeling of a maiden playing in the fields. The group consists of six girls ages 9 to 12, one boy. age 12, and five adults – three generations will be performing. They come from our sister state, the Prefecture of Chiba, Japan. Twenty-three years ago, the State of Wisconsin of United States of America and the

Prefecture of Chiba of Japan agreed to establish a formal Sister State relationship in order to further enhance their friendship and goodwill through deeper understanding and respect among their citizens and for the mutual benefit of their communities. One way we the people and governments of the State of Wisconsin and the Prefecture of Chiba continue to expand this Sister State relationship is through such exchanges as these.

Tradizione Vivente, the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee By Susan DeSanctis Christiansen 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 leave behind a treasured legacy – Italian folk dancing. The current 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, Tradizione Vivente is proud to participate in local events, such as International Holiday Folk Fair and, of course, Festa Italiana, where they have performed since its inception over 36 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. The atmosphere at “A Taste of Italy” is a lively, joyful one – it is absolutely a brilliant way to bring people together. In October, the members of Tradizione Vivente look forward to attending and performing at the annual Italian Folk Art Federation of America (IFAFA) conference in Boston, Mass. 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. See you on Tuesday, Oct. 15 at the Festival di Danza e Cultura.

THE ITALIAN TIMES


Nefertari African Dance Company

Tradizione Vivente, the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee

Iberian Spanish Dancers The Iberian Spanish Dancers, Inc. was founded in 1958 by Virginia Topitzes to showcase the folk dances of Spain and Portugal, including flamenco, the dances of the gypsies of Spain. The purpose of the group is to highlight the cultural heritage of these countries. Since 1958, the company’s repertoire has expanded to include dances from other Spanish-speaking countries including Mexico, Puerto Rico and South America. During the past 55 years, the company has performed on a local,

national and international level to wide acclaim, They have received numerous awards for their excellence in performance and have been praised for their varied repertoire and beautiful authentic costumes. Highlights of their performance history are appearances at major folk festivals throughout the Midwest including the Holiday Folk Fair in Milwaukee, state fairs, a cultural olympics program in Mexico City in 1968 and many performance arts programs.

The Nefertari African Dance Company was founded as a performing group in 1968. It would provide for young people of African descent an avenue of expression and pride in the culture of their ancestors. From the beginning the group has received acclaim for their vivacious dexterity in presenting the various forms of African Dance. The group was comprised of female students and alumni of North Division High School in Milwaukee. They were accompanied by male musicians who are masters of the intricate drum rhythms of West Africa. The Nefertari African Dance Company is affiliated with the International Institute of Wisconsin, Inc. and was founded by Sarah Lee Grant. Marilyn Douglas, who danced with Nefertari while a student at North Division, is now the director. The dancers have performed throughout the state of Wisconsin and most states in the American Midwest. School and church tours have taken the company across the United States. The company has danced before audiences at the 1976 Bicentennial White House celebration in Washington, D.C., the World Famous Apollo Theatre in New York (Harlem USA), the Festival of Nations in St. Paul, Minn., Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., Disneyworld and the Epcot Center in Orlando, Fla. and have been featured artists on cruise ships to the Bahamas. The group was invited to Salt Lake City, Utah in February 1992, where they presented a series of workshops, lecture demonstrations and performances at 20 public schools. Nefertari has performed locally at such events as the Annual

Holiday Folk Fair, Summerfest, African World Festival, State Fair, the Inner City Arts Council Art Festival and the Lakefront Festival of the Arts. In April 1993, Nefertari went on a performance and study tour in Senegal and the Gambia in West Africa. The group visited West Africa again in the spring of 1995 for a performance and study tour in the Ivory Coast and Ghana. Nefertari performed at the first five-star hotel in Ghana, the Labadi Beach Hotel, Accra, Ghana, and West Africa. They were invited to Taiwan to perform and teach at the 1997 International Children’s Dance and Folktale Festival and received invitations to perform in several European countries. The Next Generation is an addition to the Nefertari tradition. It is made up of girls and boys of elementary through high school age. They have performed for schools, churches and local festivals. In the spring of 1998, they made their inter-state debut at the National Conference of the National Council on Educating Black Children in Indianapolis, Ind. They have also been to Washington, D.C. for dance/conferences with the Kankouran African Dance Company. They attended dance classes held by the dance company in 2001, 2002 and 2003 during Labor Day weekend. The young dancers have been invited to help teach dance classes at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater and Marquette University. The current performing group is comprised of both males and females, from children through adults.

Iberian Spanish Dancers

Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt was organized in 1977 to preserve the folk culture of their forefathers by performing songs and dances from the Pomeranian regions. How does a performing group get started? In this case, the story goes back to the American Bicentennial celebration in 1976 when the families in Freistadt hosted a Pomeranian dance group from Erlangen, Germany, Tanz- und Speeldeel Ihna (today known as Tanz- und Folkloreensemble Ihna). The Erlangen group, under the direction of Eike Haenel, performed for a number of festivals in southeastern Wisconsin, before they returned to Germany The group’s dancers invited the people from Freistadt to visit them in Erlangen. One year later, 40 young people from the Freistadt area went to Germany, where they stayed in the dancers’ homes and learned Pomeranian folk dances from Eike’s parents, Karl and Hildegard Haenel.

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The group of young people from Freistadt asked their instructors to come to Wisconsin the next year. The Haenels came and stayed for a month and a half. They taught the enthusiastic Pomeranian-American kids even more folk dances. The Wisconsin kids rehearsed every night for the next six weeks. And the rest, as they say, is history. In the years since our origin, we’ve grown to a polished performing troupe of dancers and musicians. Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt consists of three age groups. In the Lütten group, children ages 6 through 8 participate in story-telling and games that teach about our ethnic heritage, and learn simple dances and songs in German. The Backfische, ages 9 through 13, learn more complicated dances and choreography, as well as developing poise, stamina and discipline. Our main performing group conPlease turn to page 14

Nefertari African Dance Company

Keba Diabate Keba Diabate, master drummer and player of the kora or 21-string African harp, is from Senegal, West Africa. He was born into a griot family of African artists, the traditional musicians, dancers and storytellers of West Africa. He grew up learning the griot traditions but began his formal training at age 13 as a percussionist and kora player. While West African drum music is largely shared with others, the hand-made kora is still mostly played by traditional West African artists. Keba performed on his drums and kora throughout West Africa for many years and was last employed with Ballet Banaya before coming to the U.S. in early 2008 to teach and perform drum and dance to students of all ages. Keba founded Jali Kunda Drum

and Dance and the Jali Kunda band in 2009. Since then, Keba has taught drum and dance and performed at over 30 schools, community centers, universities, the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, nursing homes, and churches. He performs with his band for weddings, baby naming ceremonies, parties, picnics, schools, community centers and various social and cultural events. Keba teaches students of drum and dance an exciting and healthful way to express themselves and at the same time get an aerobic workout. In addition to classes at schools and community centers, Keba has an ongoing drum class at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, 5101 W. Center St. every Saturday Please turn to page 14

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 13


Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt from page 13 sists of the Jugend (ages 14 through 20) and Erwachsenen (21 and over) and performs in a variety of venues around southeastern Wisconsin and the Midwest.

Our talented musicians and singers, known as Pommersche Späldeel, also perform on their own at numerous events throughout the year.

Keba Diabate from page 13 from 10 to11 a.m. He provides drums for students who don’t have one. To participate in drum class or hire his band, Keba can be reached at 414/326-5880. You can also email him at babalaye22@gmail.com.

Keba Diabate

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Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt

Italian Community Center Membership Join us today! What’s not to love? • ALL ARE WELCOME. Membership is open to any person of Italian heritage or other public-spirited individuals supporting the purposes and objectives of the Italian Community Center. • A MEMBERSHIP IN THE ITALIAN COMMUNITY CENTER IS A PERFECT GIFT for friends and relatives, holidays, anniversaries, birthdays, weddings and other special occasions.

BENEFITS OF INDIVIDUAL OR SENIOR MEMBERSHIP • Home delivery of The Italian Times* • Complimentary ticket to Festa Italiana • Voting privileges** • Free international television in Members Room for sports and cultural programs • Special events discounts • Social, recreational, cultural and educational opportunities • Discount on advertising in The Italian Times. *Online edition of The Italian Times available for everyone. Visit www.ICCMilwaukee.com. **Persons, 18-25, who purchase individual membership, will have voting privileges.

TYPES OF MEMBERSHIP Individual Membership (64 or younger) @ $35.00/year. Senior Membership (65 or older) @ $30.00/year. FREE Junior Membership, available for children, teens and adults under the age of 25 with a paid individual membership. Please complete the following information and mail this application form with your payment to: Italian Community Center, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916. If you have any questions or want further information, please call (414) 223-2180. If there are more than two persons in each category, please list the additional persons on a separate sheet of paper. All memberships are valid for one full year. Names and birthdates of persons applying for or renewing an individual membership: First individual New Membership Mr./Mrs./Ms.: ___________________________________ Birthdate: _______________ Renewing Membership Second individual New Membership Mr./Mrs./Ms.: ___________________________________ Birthdate: _______________ Renewing Membership

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Address: _____________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________________________ Phone: __________________ Cell: ______________________ Email: ___________________________________________ Number of persons applying for or renewing an individual membership ____ @ $35/person = $_______________________ Names and birthdates of persons applying for or renewing a senior membership: First individual Mr./Mrs./Ms.: ___________________________________ Birthdate: _______________ Second individual Mr./Mrs./Ms.: ___________________________________ Birthdate: _______________

New Membership Renewing Membership New Membership Renewing Membership

Address: _____________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________________________ Phone: __________________ Cell: ______________________ Email: ___________________________________________ Number of persons applying for or renewing a senior membership ____ @ $30/person = $____________________________ Names and birthdates of persons applying for or renewing a free junior membership: First individual New Membership Mr./Mrs./Ms.: ___________________________________ Birthdate: _______________ Renewing Membership Second individual New Membership Mr./Mrs./Ms.: ___________________________________ Birthdate: _______________ Renewing Membership Address: _____________________________ City, State, Zip __________________________________________________ Phone: __________________ Cell: ______________________ Email: ___________________________________________ Number of persons applying for or renewing a junior membership ___________ at no cost. Date of application

TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED: $

PAGE 14 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

_

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414/223-2185 Visit: LaScalaMilwaukee.com

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Chef Rossella Rago featured in Festa’s Cucina Showcase

Rossella Rago, star of the online Italian cooking show, “Cooking with Nonna,” brought her program to Festa Italiana on July 20 and 21. In the top left photo, Rago (right) is seen cooking with nonna (grandmother) Maria Catalanotto of Rockford, Ill. Among the dishes they prepared were

cavatelli with cauliflower and breadcrumbs and fried zucchini flowers. In the other photo, Rago is seen at the oven frying both sides of the zucchini flowers. Nonna Catalanotto’s family patiently waits to taste the food. (Times photos by Tom Hemman)

Maria Liberati, the Italian ‘Martha Stewart’ returns to Festa’s Cucina

When we went inside his booth at Festa Italiana, “Papa Luigi” Sal Purpora asked us to take a picture of “Mama Maria.” So, here’s “Mama Maria,” Sal’s wife, Maria, who was helping to prepare the food for Festa guests. Papa Luigi’s Pizza, with locations in Cudahy and South Milwaukee, has been a participant in Festa Italiana the last three years. Among the items on their Festa menu were skewered shrimp scampi, skewered spiedini, buttery garlic bread, cheesy bosco sticks and lasagna rolls. (Times photo by Tom Hemman) Chef and author Maria Liberati returned to Festa Italiana’s Cucina Showcase to display her culinary skills each day of the festival. Liberati, who has been described as the “Italian Martha Stewart” by Celebrity Chef Magazine, announced that she will soon be going a culinary series for the Public Broadcasting System’s Create TV. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Holiday Folk Fair tickets to go on sale at ICC in mid October Both the Italian Community Center and Tradizione Vivente will be participating in the 2013 Holiday Folk Fair International, which is set for Friday, Nov. 22 through Sunday, Nov. 24 at the Wisconsin Exposition Center at State Fair Park in West Allis. Advance tickets for the event, priced at $10, will go on sale at the ICC in mid October. The tickets will be available at the ICC reception desk and at all of the organization’s events. The Folk Fair’s theme is “Celebrating the Culture of Community,” commemorating a community of people who are bound together by common ties, such as language, customs and beliefs. They are also connected by what they think, how they behave, what they value and what they

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pass on to the next generation. The community gives them an identity and a sense of belonging. The “Culture of Community,” sometimes called “folklore” or “folklife,” is the living expression of culture woven into everyday life - anyone’s culture - learned and passed on informally from person to person. It must be alive and current to be folklife, even though it may have existed over long stretches of time. This intangible cultural heritage refers to traditions or living expressions inherited from our ancestors and passed on to our descendants, those oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe, and the knowledge and skills to produce traditional crafts.

Adult guests who came to the Roman Terrace Cocktail Lounge were escorted up to the loft by an entertaining crew adorned in costumes of the Roman Era. These characters included (l to r): Matt Croft, Alisa Chojnacla, Mike Sabljak, Joe Noto and Joseph Cannestra as Caesar Augustus. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 15


Festa officials recognize Vollrath Associates

Tre Bella – Lorraine Ferro, JoAnn Robertozzi and Rosie De Sanctis – made a highly successful debut at the 36th annual Festa Italiana. They were performing on the Spiked Island Adult Lemonade Stage when our photographer took this picture. The trio also sang on the Miller Lite Stage and was featured at the opening day ceremony. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Vollrath Associates, the Milwaukee-based public relations firm that has partnered with Festa Italiana the last three years, was recognized by festival officials during the opening ceremony. Gina Spang, Italian Community Center President and Festa General Chair, presented the firm with its “In Partnership Award.” Spang (far right) is seen here with four members of the Vollrath team. From the left: Phil Vollrath, Partner and Co-Founder, Marilyn Vollrath, President and CEO, Julie Caan, Associate Account Executive, and Jessica Vollrath Huebner, Vice President. One of the new marketing tools that Vollrath Associates engineered for Festa 2013 was the festival’s mobile app for Apple iPhones and iPads and Android devices. Festa was the first lakefront ethnic festival to offer a mobile app. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Left: Sal Strehlow and Rachel Anderson, co-managers of Festa’s Cinema Exhibit, displayed some of the alcoholic beverages that were available for purchase. Strehlow and Anderson assumed responsible of managing the exhibit this year from Strhelow aunt, Ann Zambito. The cinema offers Festa visitors a chance to watch Italian film and travelogues, view posters, photos, biographies and other interesting information regarding the innumerous contributions that Italians and Italian Americans have made to the film industry, enter the “Guess Who’s Italian?” contest and enjoy a refreshing beverage. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Erecting replica of Venice’s St. Mark’s bell tower no easy task

These two photos provide examples of what it takes to put up Festa Italiana’s 43-foot replica of the famous “Campanile di San Marco” (St. Mark’s Bell Tower). In 2008, the Italian Community Center member and skilled craftsman Cosmo Carini was commissioned by the festival to build the replica. He designed and built it in four sections. A Giuffre Bros. Crane is used to hoist each section to its proper location. A volunteer stationed inside the tower securely fastens down each section to another section.

PAGE 16 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

Craig Lieber and Vince Azzolina volunteered to fasten down the lower sections of the tower. Tony Piacentini volunteered to climb up and secure the top sections. A professional electrician is called upon to place the replica of the archangel Gabriel on top on the bell tower and get the electricity running. Each year before Festa, Carini makes all necessary repairs to ensure that the tower remains one of the centerpieces of Festa. (Times photos by Tom Hemman)

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Tutti Italiani! The 36th annual

July 19, 20 & 21, 2013

GRAZIE MILLE A TUTTI TO ALL WHO MADE THE FESTA GOLF CART PROGRAM A SUCCESS!

GRAZIE TO OUR MEMBERS & VOLUNTEERS WHO PARTICIPATED Mike Albano

Joanne Czubek

Myron Koceja

Betty Puccio

Ralph Busalacchi

Rosemary DeRubertis

Marie Lieber

Gerry Purpero

Dean Cannestra

Kathy Emery

Jim LoDuca

Phil Purpero

Mario A. Carini

Rose Anne Fritchie

Tony Machi

Sam Purpero

Liz Ceraso

Tom Hromadka

Patrick Morgan

Gina Spang

Christine Conley

Paul Iannelli

Tony Piacentini

Joe Vella

Dan Conley

Tim Kezman

Henry Piano

Joe Zambito

GRAZIE TO ALL WHO SPONSORED OUR GOLF CARTS AND COLLISEUM FLAG PROGRAM “THE ORIGINAL” ANGELO’S PIZZA

MICHAEL GUERIN - ATTORNEY AT LAW

SAIL LOFT

ARRAND REAL ESTATE

HENRY PIANO LAW OFFICE

SAL’S ON OAKLAND – BARBER & STYLIST

ASSOCIATED TECHNICAL SERVICES

ITALIAN CONFERENCE CENTER

SCIORTINO’S BAKERY

ANGELA DENTICE – ATTORNEY AT LAW

KING JUICE

SENDIK’S FOOD MARKETS – BALISTRERI OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1926

BAKE MARK

LEADER TOWING & TRANSPORTATION, INC.

BARTOLOTTA FIREWORKS

LE MAY AUTO GROUP, INC.

SMALL ANIMAL MASSAGE THERAPY BY MARIE

BELL AMBULANCE, JIM LOMBARDO

LO DUCA BROTHERS WINES

SPIKED ISLAND – AN ADULT LEMONADE

TONY MACHI PRODUCE

SPONSOR PLACEMENT GROUP

MILLE’S ITALIAN SAUSAGE

STAFF ELECTRIC COMPANY

MIMMA’S CAF`E

MICHAEL TARNOFF - ATTORNEY AT LAW

MR. JOE MAGESTRO

THE BUBBLER, LLC

NATIONAL RECYCLING, INC. – DAVE DOERN

TRATTORIA DI CARLO

CATCH 22 BAR C.W. PURPERO, INC. CATALANO PRODUCE CLUB GARIBALDI DEANGELIS CONSTRUCTION CO.

USA ELECTRIC DIVINO WINE & DINE CANNESTRA-CONLEY

NESSUN DORMA USA HEATING & COOLING PAPA LUIGI’S PIZZA

DUBIN & BALISTRERI LAW OFFICES

USA PLUMBING PELLMAN INVESTMENTS, LLC

EVERBRITE, LLC

VINCHI’S PIZZA POMPEII EXHIBIT & VINTAGE PHOTOS

GIUFFRE BROS. CRANES

WFA INDUSTRIAL RALLY PACKING CORPORATION

GLORIOSO’S GOLD IMPORTS & DIAMOND CENTER, TED GLORIOSO GLORIOSO’S ITALIAN MARKET

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RON WILKE AGENCY REINA INTERNATIONAL AUTO/ VESPA MILWAUKEE

ZIINO, GERMANOTTA, KNOLL & CHRISTIANSEN LAW FIRM

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 17


Festa crowns its 7th Italian Idol champion

Guests enjoy wine tastings at Festa

James Rosso of Cudahy (left) was selected the first-prize winner in the seventh annual “Italian Idol” competition at Festa Italiana. He sang “If I Ever Wanted You,” the Shai hit, and the Hunter Hayes single “Wanted.” Rosso received a $500 cash prize. Second prize went to Steven Mattox of Kenosha (center), who was awarded $300. Garnering third prize ($200) was Judy Smolen of Brookfield (right). The Italian Idol competition was sponsored by WFA Asset Management Corporation and R&R Insurance. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Festa Italiana offers its guests a chance to taste some of the finest wines of Italy and Napa Valley thanks to LoDuca Bros. Wine. Here, wine representative John Birdsall provides details on some red Italian wines to Robert Campbell and Kari Kraenzler in the Uncorked Wine Tent. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Fans of swing were kept on their feet during the nightly shows of Louie Prima, Jr. (on trumpet) and his

band, which performed nighly on the Miller Lite Stage. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Carrying on an “Italian Idol” competition tradition, Anthony T. Machi opened the program with some crowd-pleasing Frank Sinatra tunes. Machi is a past president of the Italian Community Center and a founding father of Festa Italiana. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Above: The young participants in I Bei Bambini, the Children’s Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee, took a bow after completing their final performance on Saturday, July 20. The group is directed by Susie DeSanctis Christiansen and Marie Mattia. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Photo on left: Adam Torres, 7, and his sister, Adamaria, 2, spent time during their visit to Festa building things with LEGOs®. The LEGOs exhibit was sponsored by HNTB Corporation, an employee-owned infrastructure solutions firm, American Design, Inc. Architectural Services, and the Milwaukee Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC Builds). (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

PAGE 18 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

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Festa manager reports on La Grande Parata of Festa 2013 By Susie (DeSanctis) Christiansen Festa Parade Manager Our goal was to have the Festa Parade wind its ways through the festival parade on both Saturday and Sunday, July 20-21, because those are such family-oriented days with typically the highest attendance. Our parade celebrates famiglia (family), cultura (culture) and all things Italian. On Saturday, we had massive crowds watching the parade, and then on Sunday, the sky fell. We were forced to cancel the parade because of the rain, which is always

somewhat devastating, but we look forward to the future. Leading the parade on Saturday with the reverberating echo of their drums, we were thrilled to have I Gruppo Tamburinari Siciliani di Aspra (The Sicilian Tamburinari of Aspra, Sicily). The parade also featured the beautiful car from Reina International Autos, Chicago’s Sicilian Band, which always adds so much to the parade (they really are outstanding), Pinocchio, the Blue Fairy and Topo Gigio and our gorgeous Pinocchio mobile, Italian folk

Left photo: A new addition to “La Grande Parata della Festa Italiana” was a horse-drawn carriage provided by Milwaukee Coach & Carriage. Members of the Italian Community Center’s Carnevale Royalty rode on the carriage. Seen here are Re (King) John Alioto in front with the carriage driver and Nonno Ray Besasie, seated inside the carriage. The appearance of the horse-drawn carriage was made possible through the sponsorship of Anita’s Dance Center, Annex Wealth Management, Jaznari Auto Repair, Armitage Research, Milwaukeehome, The Bronx Wanderers, Filippo Voltaggio and John Ciotta. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

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dance groups such as Tradizione Vivente, I Bei Bambini and the Regional & Renaissance Dancers throwing candy, superballs and beach balls to the crowd, and the Sicilian carretto (cart). We celebrated Carnevale with a gorgeous horse and carriage and were joined by members of the Madison Area Jugglers, the premier juggling club of Madison, Wis. The parade was colorful, entertaining and filled the air with Italian music. Thanks to the help of Anna Pitzo, Liz Ceraso and Dave Spano,

we were able to raise approximately $700 in sponsorships for the parade. A tremendous amount of appreciation to Mark and Ashley DeSanctis, who worked side by side with me to address every detail and position every volunteer, launching the parade on schedule on Saturday. They were invaluable. I will continue to think of new floats, new entertainment and new ways of enhancing and adding to the parade each year. It truly is a moving celebration of our Italian culture and everything that we are proud of here.

Sicilian town celebrates Madonna of the Sea The festival of Madonna a Mare (Madonna of the Sea) is celebrated on the second Sunday in September in the Sicilian town of Patti (Messina province). A golden Madonna statue is carried to the

sea in a procession. It is put on an illuminated boat to lead a procession of vessels. The procession is followed by music concerts, dancing and plenty of opportunities to enjoy food and wine.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 19


Maria White, an Italian Community Center member from Monticello, Iowa, returned to Festa Italiana’s Fine Arts exhibit to sell her handmade ornaments and pottery. Maria’s Art has long been a vendor in the exhibit. When our photographer arrived, she was painting a Christmas ornament. To check out, Maria’s ornaments and pottery, visit www.gifts4u.com. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Our photographer caught the Sicilian Band of Chicago performing inside the Pompeii Church and Vintage Photo Exhibit tent on Saturday, July 20. The band has

Young opera apprentice Mary-Kate Bock and her teacher, dramatic soprano Kay Sparling are seen here performing in the Dominic H. Frinzi Memorial Opera tent. Sparling was the talent coordinator for Festa’s opera exhibit. Bock and other young apprentices who performed at Festa attend the Sparling Conservatory in Jefferson, Wis. for professional training in opera. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

been a participant in Italian festivals in Chicago and Milwaukee since the early 1900s. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Tamburinari thanks sponsor and donors Joe Zambito and the Tamburinari from Aspra wish to thank the Italian Community Center for inviting the Sicilian drummers to participate in this year’s Festa Italiana. We also extend our thanks to the sponsor, Palermo’s Pizza, as well as to the other donors who helped make the group’s visit to Milwaukee a beautiful and enjoyable experience. We hope all of the group who saw us perform liked it. We wanted to bring a little bit of tradi-

tion and cultural authenticity to Festa. Hopefully we succeeded in doing this. Thank you so much ICC, Palermo’s, St. Rosalia Society, Madonna Del Lume Society, Abruzzese Society, Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Lodge 2763 (Sons of Italy in America), Peter Sciortino’s Bakery, Glorioso’s Italian Market, Carini’s Conca D’Oro and Reina International Auto/Vespa Milwaukee. Mille Grazie.

This group of volunteers – member of Pursuing Our Italian Heritage Together. Chapter 22 – was on hand to help Festa visitors interested in researching their family history. Seated (l to r): Barbara Bombaci and Lynn Thrasher. Standing: George Koleas and Janan Stefanski. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

PAGE 20 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

Volunteer Rosalia Ferrante stands alongside a statue of St. Rosalie, one of the many religious artifacts displayed in the Pompeii Church Exhibit during the festival weekend. Ferrante has long been a volunteer for Italian Community Center Historian Mario A. Carini, who is in charge of the exhibit. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Laura Rollin of Green Bay looked at the wedding photos that were part of the vintage Italian American exhibit at Festa Italiana. The photos displayed are part of the Italian Community Center’s extensive collection, estimated to be one of the largest of its kind in the United States. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

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Free children’s Italian class to Sept. 14 at ICC The fall semester of a free weekly series of Italian classes for children between the ages of 6 and 12 will begin Saturday, Sept. 14, at the Italian Community Center. The class, which runs from 2 to 4 p.m., will continue for eight weeks, with the final session on Nov. 2. The course is intended to provide children with an introduction to the Italian language and the culture of Italy. Besides learning some basic words and the Italian alphabet, the children also make drawings for holiday and special occasions and receive a snack during each Saturday session. The instructor is Enrica Tarantino Woytal, who also leads the ICC’s Italian classes for teens and adults. She was honored by

WisItalia as Wisconsin’s 2009 “Italian Teacher of the Year.” Tarantino Woytal has been leading the children’s class at ICC since the early 1980s. Over the years, several hundred youngsters have participated in the free class. To register for the spring semester, please complete the form accompanying this article and mail it to: Children’s Italian Course, c/o ICC, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916. Since there is no enrollment fee, parents can also register their children in person any time during the semester. For further information, contact the ICC office at 414/223-2180, or Enrica Tarantino Woytal or Pietro Tarantino at 414/481-0170, or via email at enrica@aol.com.

ICC Historian Mario Carini presents lecture to McPhearson College students

Free Children's Italian Course Registration Form (For children ages 6-12) at the Italian Community Center, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee Parent(s) Name ________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________ City ________________________ State _______ Zip __________ Phone No.: ______________ Email_________________________ Children's Names & Ages: _______________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Send this form to: Children's Italian Course, c/o ICC, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916.

Italian I and III courses for adults and teens to start Sept. 10 at ICC The Italian Community Center will offer an introductory class (Italian I) and an advanced class (Italian III) this fall starting Tuesday, Sept. 10. Both courses will be held on 10 consecutive Tuesday nights, with the final classes on Nov. 12. Instructor Enrica Tarantino Woytal described Italian I as being for those who want an introduction to the language and the culture of Italy. The introductory course will run from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. The Italian III course will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, and end at 9:15 p.m. “Italian III is for students who have completed our Italian I and II classes or have

knowledge of the Italian language,” Tarantino Woytal said. Enrollment is open to ICC members and the general public. There is a limit of 25 students per class. The fee for each course is $100 for an ICC member and $110 for a non-member. The fee does not include the course textbook. An Italian II course is not being offered this semester. To register, complete the form accompanying this article. Checks or money orders are payable to the Italian Community Center. Registration will be accepted up to the start of the Sept. 10 classes if the enrollment limit has not been reached.

Italian Community Center Historian Mario A. Carini presented a lecture on Italian immigration, including those who settled in Milwaukee, to students and staff from McPhearson College’s Milwaukee Campus on June 26. As part of the lecture, Carini led the group on a tour of center’s corridor where several hundred vintage photos of Milwaukee’s early Italian immigrants and their families are displayed. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Pietro Tarantino offers help to Italian citizens Pietro Tarantino, a longtime member and past board member of the Italian Community Center, is offering free assistance to members of Wisconsin’s Italian community on matters involving the Italian government. Tarantino will be at the ICC on the first Saturday of the month from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Tarantino is a member of Comites (Comitato degli Italiani

all’estero) and a liaison to the Italian General Consulate of Chicago. Among the matters for which Tarantino can provide assistance are visas and passports, power of attorney, verification of signatures, documents relating to death certificates and declarations dealing with citizenship, civil status and pensions.

ICC staff operates outdoor bar during Summerfest

Registration form for Italian I course & Italian III course Name(s) ___________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________________________ Phone No. ___________________Email _________________________________ I am (we are) enrolling in:

Italian I course Number of persons enrolling.

Italian III course Number of persons enrolling.

Course fee: ICC Member - $100.00; Non-Member - $110.00 Make payment to: Italian Community Center, and send to: ICC, c/o Italian Class, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916. Enrollment in each class is limited to the first 25 students who send in this registration form with full payment.

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For the second straight year, the Italian Conference Center operated an outdoor bar and patio during the 11-day run of Summerfest. Jim Schultz (left), restaurant/banquet manager, was in charge of the bar and patio. Seen with him here are Reuben Oquendo-Perez and Dale Hensel. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Having a fall sale? Let our readers know about it by purchasing an ad in our next issue. For information on advertising costs and ad sizes, contact The Italian Times at 414-223-2801 or send an email to Editor Tom Hemman at themman@italiancc.org. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 21


Courtyard Music Series heading into home stretch with shows on two nights By Thomas Hemman Times Editor The 13th season of the Italian Community Center’s free-admission Courtyard Music Series has generated much enthusiasm, according to Joe Campagna, Jr. and Sal Quarino, coordinators of the summer concerts. They are betting that the extension of the series into September on two of the four nights will produce much of the same excitement. In September, music lovers can enjoy the jazz and blues series, which are being combined into one night each week – Tuesday night –and rock and roll shows which are continuing on Thursday nights. The Wednesday opera, classical and show tunes series concludes Aug. 28 as most of the performers are returning to their full-time musical or teaching professions. On behalf on the ICC, Campagna expressed thanks to International Auto Groups for sponsoring this year’s series. “We’re very excited to have International aboard. Their support has allowed us to continue this series with no cover charge and no drink minimum,” he said. International Autos Groups, operator of 11 auto dealerships in the Milwaukee and Chicagoland area, was also a sponsor of Festa Italiana. Campagna and Quarino praised the extraordinary talents of Tom Sorce and Kay Sparling in putting together a line-up of great entertainment that includes the best musicians and vocalists in the Midwest and around the country. Sorce was responsible for securing the acts on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights. Sparling was the talent coordinator for the Wednesday night performances. Both Campagna and Quarino praised Patrick Morgan, Italian Community Center business manager, who they said deserves much of the credit for helping to make each show a great entertainment and dining experience for audiences. The great food, the excellent entertainment and beautiful outdoor setting make the ICC the place to be on summer nights, they said. Food and bar service is available throughout each show. The Cafe La Scala menu offers appetizers, sandwiches, dinner entrees, desserts, an extensive wine list and an array of popular drinks until 10 p.m. All programs in the series are from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and are open to the public and go on rain or shine. If the weather is inclement, the acts move indoors to the Festa Ballroom. Ample free parking is available in the lot south of the building. Here’s the lineup for the last week of August. There will be no rock and roll show on Thursday, Aug. 29 in deference to the HarleyDavidson’s 110th anniversary celebration, which opens that day at nearby Maier Festival Park. Here’s the September schedule. • Tuesday, Sept. 3 – Pete Sorce, Jeff Lebarge & Swing Explosion. Featuring the smooth vocals of Pete Sorce and the classic arrangements of Jeff Labarge with the finest musicians from southeast Wisconsin, the 18-piece ensemble of Swing Explosion brings excitement, prestige and sophistication to any

stage – and they don’t just do big band music. Their unique and eclectic style is guaranteed to have you tapping your toes. This group plays a variety of styles from a variety of composers and arrangers: Stan Kenton, Woody Herman, Buddy Rich, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Brian Setzer, Barry Manilow, Lionel Ritchie, Big Bad VooDoo Daddy and lots more. • Thursday, Sept. 5 – DooWop Daddies. One of Milwaukee’s longest running rock and roll show bands – the Doo-Wop Daddies – come back to the ICC for a first and only performance in this summer’s Courtyard Music Series. The Doo-Wop Daddies capture the demanding styles of doo-wop music with unsurpassed excellence. That’s only the beginning. The Daddies don’t merely recreate the classic genre but have redefined it and made it their own 21st century doo-wop. The group’s live shows attain that ideal unity of masterful performance and entertainment. Combining elements of vintage and cutting edge musical technologies, the Daddies produce an exciting threatrical show that remains faithful to the doo-wop style. The Doo-Wop Daddies lineup includes Mike Sturino, Mike Welch, Ryan Clark, Mark Lansing, Tom Riepenhoff, Lee Stephens, Lee Wanek and Terry Casey. • Tuesday, Sept. 10 – Como No. Making their first and only appearance in the 2013 Courtyard Music Series is Como No, which plays Latin jazz with some funk and plenty of drums. The ensemble includes John Ricco (congas), John Seydewitz (drums and percussion), Jeno Somlai (piano), John Simons (bass and trombone) and Joel Freisinger (organ). • Thursday, Sept. 12 – Oldies But Goodies Spectacular. This will be the final performance in the 2013 series for the Oldies But Goodies Spectacular, a longtime fan favorite. This multi-talented band was formed by vocalist Kim Marie over 20 years ago after she completed seven years in Las Vegas and a gig for Chevrolet at New York City’s Lincoln Center and in various cities around the country. Kim Marie said her goal in forming the band was to gather the most talented Milwaukee area musicians from bands popular in the 1960s and regenerate the nostalgic feel of the ‘60s rock and roll era in Milwaukee. Joining Kim Marie today are vocalists Tony Clementi and Chuck Travis, keyboardist, Bob Sanders, drummer Bruce Cole, lead guitarist Tom Sorce, bass guitarist Jeff Burkhardt, saxophonist Mike Miller, trombonist Jay Allison and trumpeter Mike Betts. • Tuesday, Sept. 17 – The

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Doo-Wop Daddies

Jimmys. Named the “2012 Best Swing/Big Band Ensemble“ by the Wisconsin Area Music Industry, the band continued wracking up honors in 2013, winning five Madison Area Music Awards including 2013 Artist of the Year and Blues Performer of the Year. The group consists of Jimmy Voegeli (keyboardist), Darren Sterud (brass intrumentalist) and Peterson Ross (woodwind intrumentalist) who have been honored individually. The band’s 2012 studio album “Gimme The Jimmys” also earned recognition last year garnering five Madison Area Music Awards and ranking high on blues charts. The album features all original tunes performed by the band with help from world renown guests including Dan Baird of The Georgia Satellites, Bun E. Carlos of Cheap Trick, Warner Hodges of Jason & The Scorchers, Kyle Henderson of The Producers, Richard Wiegel of The Midwesterners and 2010 Grammy-winning guitarist Billy Flynn. • Thursday, Sept. 19 – Tom Anthony Group. Whether it’s the summer Courtyard Music Series or the winter Cabin Fever Series, the Tom Anthony Group (www.tomanthony.com) performs before a packed house. Vocalist Tom Anthony has long been a fixture on the Milwaukee area music scene. Teaming with Tom Sorce (guitar), Joel Freisinger (keyboards) and Brian Ford (drums), Anthony presents the best of the rock, pop and rhythm and blues era with a bit of today’s country. Anthony is famous for his Las Vegas-style show, singing the hits of Elvis, Buddy Holly, Bobby Darin, Everly Brothers, Frankie Valli, Roy Orbison and even some of today’s biggest hit-makers such as Marc Anthony, Brooks & Dunn and Dwight Yoakam. The latest CD by the Tom Anthony Group is “Just For You.” The group had a busy July and August, including a 10day gig at the Wisconsin State Fair. • Tuesday, Sept. 24 – La Chazz. Formed in 1978 by guitarist Toty Ramos, La Chazz (lachazz.com) began as an 11-piece salsa band that featured original compositions and renditions of famous Latin bands of the time. Later, Ramos decided to concentrate on original instrumental

Latin jazz works to showcase the band members’ improvisational skills and to differentiate La Chazz from traditional salsa bands. The group, which now consists of nine members, performs regularly throughout the Milwaukee area. Joining Ramos are Allen Johnson and Michael Betta (trumpet), Michael Franceschi (trombone), Jim Paolo (bass guitar), Tony Ayala and Hector Rodriguez (percussions) and Jeno Somlai (drums). • Thursday, Sept. 26 – Larry Lynne Band. Milwaukee’s “Godfather of Rock and Roll,” Larry Lynne and his band return to close out the 2013 Courtyard Music Series. The band presents a unique variety show that consists of rock, country-rock, blues and classic favorites from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s to today’s hits and novelty music with a touch of comedy. Lynne, a vocalist/guitarist, was a member of The Skunks, a Milwaukee-based band, which landed a Top 40 hit, “I Recommend Her,” in 1964. He performed in the “Salute to 35 Years of Festa Italiana Entertainment” show at the ICC last November. Joining Lynne is his current band are James Aubrey (keyboards, violin and guitar), Jon Dymond (bass) and Pat Michaels (drums). For more information on the band, visit www.larrylynne.com.

Tom Anthony

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Ladies of UNICO to celebrate 50th anniversary with fashion show, raffle, auction and luncheon By Sophia Michalovitz Ladies of UNICO President The Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO will celebrate its 50th anniversary this year. The organization, whose motto is “Service Above Self,” is committed to supporting community projects and offering scholarships to women of Italian ancestry. This commitment has led to donations to many groups in the community: the USO Room at General Mitchell International Airport, Ronald McDonald House, the Milwaukee County Historical Society, St. John’s Thanksgiving Dinner, care packages to military personnel, Repairers of the Breach, Milwaukee’s Victory School Italian Immersion Program and the list goes on. The anniversary celebration will include the Charitable Fashion Show, “La Bella Moda,” which helps support the organization’s charitable projects, and will take place on Saturday, Sept. 21 at the Italian Community Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Included in the event will be raffle tables and fantastic silent auction items. The fashion show will take place at noon followed by a luncheon at 1 p.m. Fashions and make-up The fashion show will feature Terry Michael Designs, who has done many shows in the Milwaukee area as well as Los Angeles, and fabulous furs from

The Fur Gallery at Boston Store. Erik of Norway-Downtown will do the models’ hair styling. Make-up will be done by the team of Gina Barrington and Maggie Kerr of their newly launched mobile beauty team called The Beauty Department. Cost and reservations info The cost of the event is $50 and includes a cookbook by the renowned author, Linda Mustchler. For reservations, please call Sophia Michalovitz at 414/731 7693 or Ann Romano at 414/4641536. You may also email Michalovitz at sophianyckid38@aol.com for more information. About Linda Mustchler In 2005, after retiring from Wall Street, Mustchler set out to write Fast Track to Fine Dining. For each menu, she developed a detailed timeline so that any reader can plan and prepare fabulous meals. She has always been interested in setting goals and pursuing new and varied interests. Muatchler trained for 1998 Olympics trials in long track speed skating, placing fourth in the 5000 meters. During her stay in London, she trained for and ran the London marathon. Currently living in Milwaukee with her husband and two children, Mustchler continues to cook and test recipes. When not in the kitchen, she and her husband spend their time volunteering, focusing their efforts on education and the environment.

Pompeii Women honor ‘Angels of the Year’ Rose Mary Joecks and Anna Marie Galioto were honored at the Pompeii Women’s Club 2013 “Angels of the Year” at the organization’s May Crowning dinner ceremony on May 29. Both are longtime

active members of the club. In their role as the “Angels,” Joecks and Galioto were asked to place the crown on the statue of the Blessed Mother during the May Crowning ceremony.

UNICO Ladies make donation for Ronald McDonald House addition

Pompeii Women’s Club installs officers and board members for new term Pat Consolazione serving as president Longtime member Pat Consolazione has been installed as president of the Pompeii Women’s Club for the next two years. She succeeds Carla San Felippo. The installation of new officers took place on June 19 at the organization’s general membership dinner meeting at the Italian Community Center. Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Mary Triggiano officiated at the swearing-in ceremony. Other officers are: Mary Pecoraro as vice president; Marie Schwindt as treasurer; Janet Corona as recording secretary; and Christina MacCudden as corresponding secretary. The board of directors includes Colleen Berry, Agnes Bova-

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Ulezelski, Dolores Buttitta, Anna Rose San Felippo, Carla San Felippo, Phyllis Travia, Mary Winard and Suzanne Wypijewski. Consolazione announced the following chairmanships and nonelective positions: Anna Marie Galioto as historian; Patti Bennetts as hospitality chair; Aggie Collura as membership chair; Mary Winard as public relations chair; Suzanne Wypijewski as sergeant-at-arms; Carla San Felippo and Lucille Sorce as scholarship chairs; Phyllis Travia as spiritual director; and Agnes Bova-Ulezelski as warming hearts chair. Consolazione has yet to announce a chair for the club’s Palm Sunday Breakfast Buffet fund-raiser.

The Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO made a $500 donation to the fund-raising effort for a proposed addition to the Ronald McDonald House on Watertown Plank Road in Wauwatosa. The donation was presented to Steve Brynd, a Ronald McDonald House Charities volunteer, by Ann Romano, chair of the UNICO Ladies’ Community Projects Committee at the organization’s June 18 membership meeting. The Ronald McDonald House provides a “home away from home” for families whose lives have been disrupted as a result of their child’s illness or injury.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 23


Justinian Society to honor Schiro, D’Angelo and Jaskolski at Oct. 11 Columbus Day Dinner The Wisconsin Justinian Society of Lawyers announced that it will honor attorneys Frank Schiro and Ronald Jaskolski and dentist Daniel D’Amato at itsl annual Columbus Day Dinner on Friday, Oct. 11 at the Wisconsin Club. Schiro will receive the organization’s “Jurist of the Year” award. D’Angelo will be honored as the “Italian of the Year.” Jaskolski will be recognized as “Citizen of the Year.” Those interested in attending the dinner are asked to contact Attorney Christine Davies D’Angelo at 262/523-4321. Frank Schiro Frank Schiro, J.S., has been a trial attorney and litigator, having tried innumerable criminal and civil jury and court trials in federal and state courts, primarily in most counties in and around Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin, including felony, misdemeanor, personal injury, worker’s compensation and large claim civil, as well as federal age discrimination and family law cases. Schiro has used his extensive trial experience to assist individuals with complex criminal and civil matters before state and federal agencies and courts at all levels. He is a past president of the Wisconsin Justinian Society of Lawyers, the current president of the National Italian American Bar Association and first vice president of the Illinois-Wisconsin Grand Lodge of the Order Sons of Italy in America. He is a member of the Italian Community Center, La

Frank Schiro, JD

Daniel D’Angelo, DDS

Ronald Jaskolski, JD

Società di San Giuseppe, founder and past president of the Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Lodges No. 2763 of the Order Sons of Italy in America and parish member of Holy Family Congregation, St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and Eastbrook Church.

quette University School of Dentistry in 1971, D’Angelo went on to become a captain in the U.S. Air Force (1971-1974). Following his military service, Dan served as a fellow in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Medicine in Rochester, Minn. In 1977, he moved his family to Waukesha and entered private practice with Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates. In 2003, Dan enhanced his education by obtaining a degree in Biomedical Ethics from the Medical College of Wisconsin.

his doctorate of law in 1967 from Marquette University Law School. Upon graduation, he entered private practice. Since 2000, he has been pantners with his son, James, in Jaskolski & Jaskolski, S.C., currently located in Greenfield at 3573 S. 108th St.

After earning his jurist doctor’s degree from Marquette University Law School in 1969, Schiro served as a public defender for the Milwaukee County Federal Defender Project (1969-1970) and was an assistant district attorney for Milwaukee County (1970-1976). He has been in private practice ever since. Daniel D’Angelo After graduating from Mar-

Pompeii Men award two scholarships The Pompeii Men’s Club awarded scholarships to two students at a dinner ceremony at the Italian Community Center on Tuesday, Aug. 13. The scholarships went to Austin Markiewicz and Jamie Piatt. Markiewicz, who attended St. Charles Borromeo School, will be attending Thomas More High School this fall. Piatt attended

Catholic East School and will be attending Dominican High School. Award recipients were selected by a panel of judges who followed the criteria: grades, community service, family, financial need and circumstances. One stipulation was that each student be a Catholic grade school graduate who will be attending a Catholic high school in the fall.

From the left: Scholarship Committee members Dave Doern and Domenic Foti, recipients Jamie Piatt and Austin Markiewicz, committee chair Joe Palmisano and Pompeii Men’s Club President Chuck Lazzaro. (Photo provided by the Pompeii Men’s Club)

PAGE 24 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

Throughout his career he has been a member of or sat on the board of more than 25 professional organizations including the American Dental Association, the Wisconsin Dental Association serving on the Board of Directors and Speaker of the House and President of the Waukesha County Dental Society. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and a Fellow of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology and the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. From 1994-2006, D’Angelo served as an adjunct associate and assistant professor and course director of “Bioethics and Dental Professionalism” at Marquette University School of Dentistry. D’Angelo is the secretary on the board of directors for ProHealth Care, Inc. and the vice chairman for the board of trustees for Waukesha Memorial Hospital. He is a member of the Ethics Committee for both Waukesha Memorial Hospital and Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital. He is currently the chairman of the board of directors for the Waukesha County Community Dental Clinic, which opened its doors in May 2008 to provide full time dental care to low income Waukesha County residents. In 2011, the clinic provided $1.3 million in dental care at 6,117 appointments. His wife, Patricia D’Angelo, a Waukesha county attorney. Ron Jaskolski Jaskolski earned his first professional degree in law in 1965 and

Jaskolski has been a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin since 1965 and past board member of the Family Law Section of that organization. Among his other memberships are the Milwaukee Bar Association and American Bar Association, of which he was a member of the Custody Committee of the Family Law Section. He was initially appointed circuit court commissioner by Milwaukee County Judge Michael Skierawski and reappointed by Judge Victor Manian, Jeskolski is a former fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a past president of the Wisconsin Chapter. He has given numerous lectures on legal topics, including custody issues and other family law matters. He has been a guardian-adlitem for children in numerous family law cases. Jeskolski is active in the Milwaukee and Polish communities. He is a past president of the Milwaukee Society of the Polish National Alliance, a longstanding member of the Southside Business Club, a charter member of the Inter-national Mushroom Pickers Society, director of St. Joseph’s Foundation, past preident and cofounder of South Community Organization and a former board member of Thomas More High School. He also represented the Spanish Center in Milwaukee on a pro bono basis for more than 10 years, Jeskolski has always professed that “kids come first” and in that capacity for years he was the secretary of Clinicare Corporation, which treated emotionally disturbed children. He is also involved in coaching children, sponsoring Little League teams and was cochairman of the annual St. Jude’s Hospital Golf Outing, which raised over $600.000 for the treatment of children with cancer during his years of service (2000-2008).

THE ITALIAN TIMES


Reconnect with your Sicilian family By George Koleas Researching your family history continues to grow in popularity. The popular show, “Who Do You Think You Are,” returned to television recently on the TLC network on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. On this show, you watch celebrities start with what they know about some part of their family and how they expand this information. Past episodes are available at www.tlc.com/tv-shows/who-do-you-thinkyou-are/videos/who-do-you-think-you-are.htm. PBS will be airing “Genealogy Roadshow” September 23 to October 14. For more information, go to: www.pbs.org/about/news/archive/2013/genealogy-roadshow-natl/. Many visitors to our Festa Italiana display in the culture tent expressed an interest in starting to research their family histories. Some of these visitors were surprised to learn that research on their family may already be available. Members of Pursuing Our Italian Names Together, Chapter 22, also known as the Italian Family History Club at the Italian Community Center, have members researching their families from all over Italy. A significant number of Milwaukee Italians are from Sicily. A significant amount of our members also share this heritage. Of those members, a large number are related to families from in and around the Province of Palermo with surnames that include: Affatigato, Aiello, Aliota, Alioto, Amato, Arena, Arioto, Asciutto, Balesteri, Balestreire, Balestrere, Balestreri, Balestrieri, Balisteri, Balistreri, Balistrieri, Basile, Battaglia, Bellante, Bellanti, Billante, Busalacchi, Busalachi, Buttita, Buttitt, Buttone, Cefalu, Colla, Contorno, Corona, Corrao, Crisci, Crivello, D’Aquisto, D’Amato, D’Amico, Damato, Dentice, Dentici, Desalvo, Frittata, Frittitta, Galioto, Guardalabene, Gumina, Lalicata, Lamonica, Latona, Lococo, Lupo, Machi, Marino, Martarano, Martorana, Martorano, Mercurio, Messina, Pizzo, Purpura, Sanfilippo, Scardina, Scola, Sorce, Sparacino, Squatrito, Storniolo, Tagliavia, Taormina, Taormino, Tarantino, Vetrano, Villa, Vitrano, Zanca and many, many others with various spellings. You can be just like the celebrities on “Who Do You Think You Are.” You can bring what you know and connect it to research that has been done

WisItalia honors Green Bay teacher, husband and wife and club WisItalia presented its 2013 “Teacher of the Year Award” to Lisa Joy Mell, an Italian instructor at Green Bay Preble and East High Schools, its “President’s Award” to Peter and Marlene Feira, and special award to Club ItaloAmericano for dedication to preserving the heritage of Italian Americans and promoting positive relationships with educational and cultural groups in the Green Bay area. Club ItaloAmericano of Green Bay hosted the 10th annual WisItalia Awards Banquet at the Black & Tan Grille in the historic Bellin Building in downtown Green Bay. Club members and guests gathered before dinner at the Nicolet

Bank parking lot for a “passeggiata” (leisurely stroll) along the Fox River. Attendees included Roberto Pennazzato, Director of Education for the Consulate General of Italy in Chicago, local dignitaries and representatives of Green Bay School District.

over many years. To access this information, you will need to provide us with information about your family; starting with you and extending as far back as you can, but at least to your immigrant ancestor. The more information you provide, the greater the opportunity for us to connect you to existing research. There is no cost, except for the time you take to compile what you know about your family. When you provide that information, we will verify the connection and provide you with information that our members and other researchers have collected over many years of research. If you are not related to one of these other families, but your family is from Sicily, another way to reconnect is to attend a reunion for all families from Sicily. Michael Aliota, with the help of Antonina “Nina” Crivello Gusho and Virginia Alioto Bonini, is planning a Sicilian family reunion for Sept. 27 at the ICC, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee. There will be a cash bar at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m.. The cost is $43 per person. There will also be a sweet table and prizes. Please make checks payable to “Sicilian Family Reunion” Please list each full name on your reservation. The deadline is Sept. 13. Sorry, but there will be no walk-in registration. This reunion is open to anyone with a Sicilian heritage. Send your check and list of names attending to Virginia Alioto Bonini, 10917 N. San Marino Dr., Mequon, WI 53092. If you have a question, please call 262/241-9126. You are welcome to join us at our next meeting on Saturday, Sept. 21 at the ICC starting at 10:30 a.m. and concluding at noon. We welcome anyone with an interest in Italian family history. If you have any questions or need additional information about researching your Italian family history, please feel free to contact me, George Koleas, by e-mail at GeorgeJK676@wi.rr.com or by calling 262/2517216 after 7 p.m.

Welcome new Italian Community Center members! The following people became members of the Italian Community Center between June 8 and August 15, 2013. Benvenuti! (Welcome!) Jerry & Linda Federighe of Brookfield Tindaro & Linda Caputo of Milwaukee Patrick Anelli of Des Plaines, IL Anthony J. Brau of Scottsdale, AZ Jenny Benjamin and children Sophia, Maggie and Ally Smith of Milwaukee

Rose Spang hosts luncheon for Joyce Cupertino who retires after 51 years of teaching

Letters from members and friends

To the Italian Community Center: On behalf of the Palmisano Family, I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Italian Community Center Board of Directors for the beautiful flowers and sympathies to the family for my mother’s funeral. Thank you also to the many people who donated to the ICC in my mother’s name. Patrick Morgan and David Stachowiak did a great job with the luncheon at the ICC following the funeral. Truly a celebration for my mother. Molte grazie. Mike Palmisano

Find out how inexpensive and effective newspaper advertising can be. Contact The Italian Times for details. Phone: (414) 223-2180 Email: themman@italiancc.org

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Italian Community Center member Rose Spang hosted a luncheon for Joyce Cupertino at the ICC on July 15 to recognize her 51 years of teaching students in Wisconsin and other states. Cupertino recently announced her retirement as a teacher at Brookfield Academy, where she had taught all levels of Latin at the middle school level for 20 years. She came to Brookfield Academy after several years as an instructor at St. Mary’s Academy in St. Francis. Cupertino

and Spang were classmates at Alverno College years ago. Spang’s daughters and some of her grandchildren went on to have Cupertino as one of their teachers. Among the luncheon attendees was Sister Joel Read, OFC, who was Cupertino’s history instructor at Alverno. Reade is the only person seated in this photo. Cupertino is in the dark blouse with jacket behind Reade. Spang is in a dress close to the table with the white tablecloth. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 25


Spotlight on Cultural Arts Opera Topics by Angelo Castronovo Decades and even centuries are the pathway down which opera marks its passage. It can be traced to the pen of Claudio Monteverdi, who composed L’Orfeo in 1607, which is regarded as the first operatic masterwork. He is noted for The Return of Ulysses in 1640 and The Coronation of Poppea in 1642. This marked the beginning of a long succession of operatic works by the likes of Francesco Cavalli, who wrote Ormindo (1644) and Giasone (1649), a work that first separated aria and recitative. This work was regarded as the most popular opera of the 17th century. The list of composers and opera titles is impressive by any standard. Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aereas and The Fairy Queen are there, as well as George Frederic Handel’s many masterpieces among which are The Beggar’s Opera, Bodolina and Giulio Cesare and, let’s not forget, Orlando, which has been described as “remarkable” and among Handel’s “best works.” The unique Serse and Semele in 1738 and 1744 respectively are among his finest. Serse

contains the memorable opening aria Ombra Mai Fu. Other notable names run through the 1700’s including Battista Pergolesi (La Serva Padrona), a model for opera buffas and many of Mozart’s classic works were still to come. Jean-Philippe Rameau’s Castor and Pollox, only moderately successful at first, came to be regarded as among the composer’s “finest achievements.” Between the years 1750-1799, there was Niccolo Piccinini, Christoph Gluc and, of course, the estimable Wolfgang A. Mozart, who made their marks, as did Joseph Haydn and Giovanni Paisello with his early version of Barber of Seville. During these years, Mozart composed his famous works including The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, Così Fan Tutte, Idomeneo and The Abduction From the Seraglio. Mozart was 21 in 1777. We must not neglect to mention his Magic Flute and La Clemenza di Tito, the last opera he wrote before his untimely death in 1791.

Ludwig von Beethoven wrote his only opera Fidelio in 1805 and Gioachino Rossini came onto the scene in the early 1800’s with his La Scala di Seta in 1812. This was followed in rapid succession by L’Italiani in Algeri, Trancredi, The Turk in Italia, The Barber of Seville, Otello, Cinderella and Moses in Egypt. Rossini’s other works include The Lady of the Lake, Seminramide, The Siege of Corinth and The Thieving Magpie, which contains one of the most familiar overtures in all of opera. Carl Maria Von Weber, Vincenzo Bellini and Gaetano Donizetti, Giuseppe Verdi, Richard Wagner, Peter Tchaikovsky, Pietro Mascagni, Ruggiero Leoncavallo, Jules Massenet, Umberto Giordano, Giacomo Puccini and Antonin Dvorak are among the famous names that are part of the period leading up to 1900. There is some overlap, but I’ll deal with this in a future column. Digressing for a few moments, the thought occurred to me to ask if opera could stand on its own with-

out the presence of singers. Is there enough in most operas that would allow them to stand alone? I think in some works this might be true with some of the wonderful overtures, intermezzi and exquisite introductions to the vocal lines. An intriguing question to be sure, also to be dealt with in the future. Quotable quote: In life beauty perishes, but not in art. – Leonardo Da Vinci

L’Angolo del Poeta Prepared by Barbara Collignon and Roberto Ciampi Poetry by women was rarely included in anthologies of poetry published before the 20th century. In an effort to bring awareness to the fact that women all over the world do write poetry and in order to honor them and their work, this column will attempt to feature, from time to time, contemporary poetesse. Poetry can be defined in myriad ways. One friend writes, “Poetry is an oral and written way of describing anything and everything in the world and out of it: from people, animals, plants and things to feelings and philosophies. It differs from prose in that while it doesn’t have to rhyme, it often uses rhythmic Miriam Bruni flow, melodic and or heightened language and careful attention to the individual sounds, meanings and nuances of words to pull a reader or listener into the experience of a poem.” (Jean Ross) Miriam Bruni, 34 years old, lives in the periphery of Bolonga. Here’s her definition of poetry and description of how she likes to write: “La poesia è un Dono di Visione e di Alchimia...per dire ciò che non si può dire, ma nemmeno non dire. Io chiedo alle mie poesie di assomigliare al sole: emettere cioè luce e calore senza tregua...(ambiziosa, lo so.)” Translated: “Poetry is a Gift of Vision and Alchemy…to say what cannot be said, and even what cannot be unsaid. I’d like my poetry to resemble the sun: to emit light and heat unceasingly…(ambitious, I know.)” She continues, “Amo da sempre la parola scritta, le relazioni interpersonali sincere…” (“I’ve always loved the written word, sincere interpersonal relationships…”) Bruni also enjoys photography and at the end of 2011 published her first anthology of her poetry entitled “Cristalli”, published by Booksprint. “La mia predilezione poetica va alla concisione e alla intellegibilità. Con la parola cerco di raccogliere, ordinare ed esprimere l’emozione (piacevole o spiacevole) che mi preme dentro, l’intuizione, l’immagine, lo slancio che vengono

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ad abitarmi o anche solo attraversami facendomi sentire me stessa e viva…Ogni poesia la lavoro a lungo, ed è figlia di scelte consapevoli quanto a musicalità, metrica eccetera.” “I’m partial to concision and intelligibility. I try through words to collect, order and express the emotion (pleasant or not) that matters to me, the intuition, the images, the impulses that come to live in me or through me making me feel aware and alive…I work on every poem for a long time, and it’s the fruit of conscious choice in terms of musicality, rhythm, etc.” In the following poem by Bruni, the calabrone or hornet can be interpreted literally or figuratively. Insonnia Ho un calabrone gigante nella mente che mi fa correre, sbattere e inciampare da una stanza all’altra, senza nulla vedere. Ansimante e come presa da un delirio in cui non riconosco più le mie dimore cerco una sedia o anche solo un lume. Ma più mi lo scaccio, più mi volto per capire più lui sbatte le ali, calabrone crudele, accelera e mi segue per non consentirmi di dormire. – By Miriam Bruni Insomnia There’s a giant hornet in my mind that makes me run, bump and stumble from one room to another, blindly. Panting and as if wrapped up in a delirium where I no longer recognize my dwelling, I look for a chair or even just a lamp. But the more I shoo it away, the more I come to understand that the more it flutters its wings, that cruel hornet, the more it speeds up and chases me

where I’ve dreamed strange dreams of dread, where from anxious fears I’ve fled. Myself and I, this bed we share with voices from the past knows where, with souvenirs and memories rare, with future, past and present care. All through the night I hear the sighs of wakeful souls whom sleep defies, of lovers whispering their replies, of spirits called upon to rise, of endings I dare not surmise, I’ve regrets for dreams that did not fly, for friendships lost, for love denied, for children flown and gulfs too wide. Sad echoes from past years flow by. – By Barbara Collignon Insonnia Nella mia camera si trova un letto, dove ho dormito, ho pianto e ho letto, dove ho fatto quell’incubo strano e maledetto, dove sono scappata, per le paure e l’ansia in petto. Sola con me stessa, in questo letto voglio stare con le voci dal passato che, chissà da dove, odo vagare con i ricordi e i ricordini, cose rare con le preoccupazioni di oggi, di ieri e di domani. Per tutta la notte sento i lamenti delle anime sveglie, al sonno resistenti, di amanti, che sussurrano dolci complimenti, degli spiriti chiamati ai firmamenti dei finali, su cui non oso far commenti, Rimpiango i sogni sotterrati, le amicizie perdute, gli amori non ricambiati, i bambini volati via e gli abissi sconfinati, suoni tristi riecheggiano dei giorni passati. – Translated by Roberto Ciampi

to keep me from sleeping. – Translated by Roberto Ciampi * * * Here’s another take on insomnia…one that recalls Wordsworth’s definition of poetry as “emotion recollected in tranquility.” Insomnia In my chamber stands a bed where I’ve slept and wept and read,

Barbara Collignon

Roberto Ciampi

THE ITALIAN TIMES


Italians married in Milwaukee: 1897-1925 Part VI Compiled by Mario A. Carini, Italian Community Center Historian Introductory Notes The Milwaukee Marriage Index: 1897-1925 includes the name of the individual married and the month and year the marriage took place. Information contained in the Milwaukee Marriage Index:1926-1940 was compiled by this researcher in January of 1993 and will be featured in The Italian Times at future dates. The Milwaukee Marriage Index: 1941-1955 was previously published in The Italian Times. Reporting of the volume Milwaukee Marriage Index was obtained from the Milwaukee County Historical Society and copies at the City of Milwaukee Legislative Reference Bureau. These works are all copyrighted and an original copy is at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. for all time. Please keep in mind that these marriages were actualized only in the City of Milwaukee. Accordingly, if you were married outside the city limits (e.g., Shorewood, West Allis, Cudahy), your name won’t appear in this listing. Names appearing here are listed and spelled exactly as found in the marriage volumes. If you know of a relative who was married in Milwaukee during the time period 1897-1925 and that relative’s name does not appear in these listings, please contact the Milwaukee County Historical Society. Surname of bridegrooms appears in parenthesis after bride’s name. Note: This series appears in all issues of The Italian Times. Since the newspaper is not available in print every month, please check out the online edition, found at www.ICCMilwaukee.com, to see this column on a continuous basis. In addition, please watch for an addendum to this series. These are the names of Italians married between 1897 and 1925 who were not part of athe original records for reasons unbeknown to this researcher. Name Married Terlizzi, Antonio Jan-1921 Tognatti, Mary (Brenna)) Nov-1897 Tognatti, Giuseppi Oct-1914 Tognatti, Laura (Hendricks) Jul-1911 Tomaselli, Giuseppina (Pane) Apr-1913 Tomasello, Christina (Salamone) Dec-1916 Tomasello, Matteo Apr-1905 Tomasetti, Antonio Feb-1916 Tomasino, Giuseppa (Caravella) Apr-1904 Tomasino, Giuseppa (Avaleri) Aug-1910 Tomasino, Joachim Oct-1905 Tomassini, Angelo Oct-1915 Tomassini, Augustina (Magnarini)Oct-1920 Tomassino, Joseph Apr-1917 Tomasso, George Dec-1920 Torcivia, Providenza (Catanese) Jun-1914 Torre, Vincetia (Di Gioia) Jan-1910 Torretta, Carmelo Dec-1922 Torretta, Giacomo Jan-1900 Torti, Mary (Bernacchi) Nov-1923 Totto, Concetta (Russo) Dec-1923 Tripiciano, Anthony Nov-1907 Tripoli, John Nov-1915 Troia, Mamie (Amato) Sep-1924 Troiano, Elizabeth (Pizzoferrato) Feb-I921 Troiano, Phillip Sep-1917 Turosi, George Dec-1921 Tales, Vincenzo Sep-1914 Tantillo, Joe Jan-1919 Taromina, Camelia (Schiro) Mar-1920 Taraborri, Jennie (Antonelli) Feb-1924 Temburini, Selumena (Eufemy) Mar-1917

Traina, Frank Tralango, Jack Triscari, Joseph Troccola, Joseph Trupiano, Phillipa (Leto) Trupiano, Sebastian Truppo, Christina (Barletta) Tulibana, Guiseppo Tufo, Silvio Umina, Rose (Sansone) Vaccaro, Eugene Ventio, Joseph Vento, Domenico Vento, Giovanna (Maiorana) Vento, Rosalia (DiSalvo) Vento, Steve Ventura, Francesca (Morella) Venturi, Ersilia (Falcinelli) Venturi, Mary (Restaino) Venturi, Mary (Giovanelli) Vercello, Jiacomo Vintilla, Michael Vitrano, Giusto Vitrano, Rose (Tarantino) Vittucia, Dominic Vitucci, Frank Vitucci, Philomena (Capriolo) Vollone, Joseph Vollone, Rosie (Puccio) Vono, Mary (Conti) Vono, Peter Valdini, Gieranna (Raghianti) Valente, Tony

May-1920 Mar-1920 Feb-1922 Nov-1925 Aug-1924 Dec-1919 Dec-1910 Nov-1919 Sep-1924 Sep-1914 Jun-1915 Jun-1906 Jun-1902 Jun-1917 Nov-1923 Nov-1923 Sep-1904 Jun-1909 Apr-1911 Dec-1920 May-1910 Jul-1912 Dec-1919 May-1925 Dec-1905 Apr-1920 Apr-1921 Jul-1912 Nov-1921 Jan-1923 Nov-1914 Jun-1902 May-1917

Valenti, John Valenti, Maria (Mollica) Valenti, Mike Valentini, Steven Valentino, Caroline (Manfre) Valesano, Joseph Vallero, Victoria (Guerra) Valverde, Josephine (Laurie) Vardanega, Giovanni Viglione, Antonio Vinci, Joseph Zaldamo, Petrina (Famularo) Zanchetti, Philomena (Santi) Zancaria, Gracia (Manchia) Zanotelli, Victor Zaffiro, Biagio Zaffiro, Josephine (Geraci) Zaffiro, Liboria (Franco) Zaffiro, Michael Zacconi, Mary (Scaffidi) Zanella, George Zarcone, Frances (Saulig) Zarcone, Frank Zarcone, Ignazio Zarcone, Providenza (Casamento) Zarconi, Anthony Zappala, Theresa (Amato) Zappaterreno, Joseph Zeperelli, Joseph Zingasi, Razia (Corse)

Ju1-1913 Dec-1908 Oct-1922 Jul-1911 Jun-1911 Jun-1919 Apr-1923 Jan-1914 Jan-1920 Jan-1915 Jun-1919 Aug-1920 Jun-1921 Sep-1899 Dec-1924 Sep-1924 Oct-1913 Oct-1916 Dec-1916 Jan-1924 Jun-1924 Jan-1922 Jun-1919 May-1912 Feb-1908 Oct-1919 Apr-1909 Jul-1924 Jun-1919 Sep-1907

Look for an addendum to this listing in the next issue.

Festa Regional & Renaissance Dancers seeking young Italian women to join the group The Festa Regional & Renaissance Dancers are looking for young Italian women to participate in the group. Group leaders Alyssa LaBarbera and Ali Ciatti stated: “We are a group of local, young Italian women who dance each year at Festa Italiana. The group members range in age from 14 to 22 years old and we’re all of Italian descent. It is free to join our group because it is entirely volunteer based. We are always looking for new dancers or opportunities to perform in the Milwaukee area. We perform traditional Italian folk dances, such as the

Letters from members and friends Dear Festa Italiana officials: Thank you for another super Italian fest. We charter a bus each year from DeAmici’s Italian Club in Mishawaka, Indiana, We were excited to see the Russo Brothers after initially thinking they would not be performing. We all feel the Russo Brothers and Louie Prima, Jr. are the hits of the show. Thank you for all you do. Chuck Parrott Mishwaka, Ind. Dear ICC President Gina Spang and Vice President Joe Vella: On behalf of the Whitefish Bay Band Program and the Whitefish Bay School District, we want to extend our gratitude for your generous donation and hospitality on May 31. This large venue afforded us professional performance experience in front of a large crowd of family and friends, many of whom were unaffiliated with WFB High School. These opportunities for high school bands are rare but extremely impactful. It allows students a glimpse into the professional world of music-making that many of them would otherwise not experience. Thank you so much for affording us this great experience! The staff was extremely friendly and timely with orders. Henry Piano’s words of inspiration deeply impacted our students and administrators who attended. We look forward to future venues at the ICC as you allow us to continue to highlight the talents of these very talented high school students. Nicholas Castonguay Director of Bands Whitefish Bay High School

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Tarantella and wear traditional costumes representing each region of Italy.” Both LaBarbera and Ciatti have danced with the group for 8-plus years. To view photos and to get more information on the group, visit: mkeitaliandancers.weebly.com/index.html or the group’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/Italian-Regional-Renaissance-Dancers/150122611857777. You may also contact LaBarbera at 414/339-7409.

Italian immigrants established Genoa, Wisconsin in 1854 Genoa, Wisconsin, was founded by northern Italian immigrants in 1854, who were first drawn to the United States by lead mining opportunities near Galena, Illinois. When the mining business stalled, the immigrants headed to the farmlands of Vernon County in southwestern Wisconsin along the Mississippi River, where they established the town of Genoa. Until the 1920s, Genoa, which was named after Christopher Columbus’ birthplace in Italy, remained an Italian American ethnic enclave. Genoa was settled by six Italian families, whose male members became aware of work as woodcutters in Vernon County after busi-

ness in the Galena lead mines slowed. According to a story that appeared in the July 20, 1930 edition of the LaCrosse Tribune, the immigrants found the hilly community “good for farming and open for homestead.” The area reminded the immigrants of the foothills of the Alps in northern Italy. For more than 70 years, the Italian immigrants and the families they raised in Genoa were virtually the only permanent residents of the town. A few German families began to settle there in the later 1920s, the Tribune article stated. By 1930, Genoa was still about 90% Italian. Please turn to page 29

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 27


LA PAGINA ITALIANA a cura di Enrica Tarantino-Woytal

Sicilia Mondo celebra la tragedia di Marcinelle, simbolo della Giornata Nazionale del sacrificio e del lavoro Italiano nel mondo Nella sede di Sicilia Mondo, anche quest’anno è stata celebrata la Giornata Nazionale del Sacrificio e del Lavoro Italiano nel Mondo ricordando la tragedia di Marcinelle dove morirono 262 minatori, di cui 136 italiani. Presente il Direttivo della Associazione ed un folto gruppo di amici e sostenitori. Dopo l’introduzione del Direttore Carmelo Sergi sulle attività ed i programmi della Associazione, Azzia ha ricordato che la tragedia di Marcinelle è stata dichiarata, nel 2001, Giornata Nazionale del Sacrificio e del Lavoro

Italiano nel Mondo ed inserita nelle celebrazioni nazionali. Una giornata – ha ribadito Azzia per ricordare e non dimenticare i milioni di caduti sul lavoro in Italia e nelle varie parti del mondo, ma anche un momento di riflessione, riaggregazione ed unità di tutti gli italiani, da trasmettere alle nuove generazioni affinché capiscano cosa significa e cosa è stata l’emigrazione italiana per milioni di connazionali. Una giornata di grande attualità che ci fa vedere, con occhi diversi, i disperati che approdano alle nostre

Sicilia Mondo esprime condivisione e sostegno al Convegno di Claudio Micheloni, Presidente del Comitato per le questioni degli Italiani all’estero Con riferimento al Convegno organizzato a Roma il 19 luglio corr. dal Comitato per le Questioni degli Italiani all’Estero sul tema “Europei in Movimento. La rappresentanza delle comunità nelle Istituzioni: una risorsa per i Paesi d’origine”, Sicilia Mondo ha inviato al Presidente Claudio Micheloni la seguente nota di condivisione e di sostegno alla iniziativa . “Caro Claudio, purtroppo non mi è possibile partecipare al Convegno “Europei in Movimento” del 19 luglio corr., per precedenti impegni alla stessa data. Ti ringrazio del graditissimo invito e Ti auguro pieno successo della manifestazione. Ma Ti rimetto, comunque, alcune riflessioni. Il Convegno, in realtà, è una intuizione di alto profilo politico e lungimiranza perché coinvolge, in maniera reale, la risorsa delle rappresentanze dei cittadini europei residenti all’estero. Sensibilizzare e valorizzare le rappresentanze degli europei che vivono fuori, apre nuovi orizzonti per l’Europa del futuro. Rappresenta, infatti, un ritorno culturale ed economico per i singoli Stati ed accelera i processi di integrazione tra i Paesi membri, valorizzando, in definitiva, l’immagine e la presenza del vecchio Continente in tutte le parti del mondo, in una nuova edizione macroculturale, economica e politica.

E’ una sfida tutta in salita. Non è facile raggiungere una politica comune in questa direzione. Ma occorre non demordere perché l’iniziativa degli “Europei in Movimento” è la vera politica del nuovo e del futuro dell’Europa. Nello scenario di un mondo che allarga sempre più e senza limiti la palestra della partecipazione, antistorici e riduttivi appaiono i rigurgiti di quei gruppi politici che in Italia vorrebbero l’abolizione delle Circoscrizioni Estero nel dibattito sulla nuova legge elettorale. Sicilia Mondo, espressione di quell’associazionismo di emigrazione che ha tenuto vivo per decenni il rapporto identitario, preservandolo dall’assimilazione culturale locale, esprime la sua totale condivisione e sostegno al progetto degli “Europei in Movimento”.

spiagge, in cerca di sopravvivenza. Sono uomini anche loro, come noi. Con lo stesso diritto alla vita ed alla pari dignità. Una Giornata che, nel ricordo di Marcinelle, assume tutto un significato etico per le sue motivazioni profondamente umane. Abbiamo sempre stimolato - ha detto Azzia - le Associazioni aderenti, i collaboratori ed i corrispondenti in tutte le parti del mondo a celebrare le Giornate simbolo istituzionalizzate da Sicilia Mondo nel calendario di ogni anno. Sono giornate che riportano alla nostra memoria il patrimonio di valori della nostra identità e della nostra storia, alimentando così i sentimenti della appartenenza. Sembra strano ma registriamo che in tutte le ripetizioni annuali delle giornate istituzionalizzate, più che segnali di logoramento dei temi ripetuti, riscopriamo sempre nuove motivazioni di riflessioni e di novità attualizzate dalla corsa di un mondo sempre più veloce, confermando così la ricchezza straordinaria che ci viene dalla rilettura di eventi del nostro patrimonio identitario. Ovviamente ha giovato la più assoluta autonomia e la capacità di proposta e di scelta sui temi valoriali. L’essere spesso usciti fuori dalle strettoie dell’associazionismo tradizionale, partecipando ai temi emergenti della società nazionale ed europea, ci ha fatto sentire, piuttosto, espressione di un associazionismo che è, nello stesso tempo, prevalentemente società.

Sono scelte che sono sempre state condivise dalle nostre comunità, specie quelle più lontane, perché soddisfano la loro sete di partecipazione. Siamo convinti che in questa varietà di aggiornamenti riportati sempre con tensione, impegno ed amore, sta il segreto della longevità e della attrazione di Sicilia Mondo. La Vostra presenza – ha detto Azzia in questa giornata di grande calura estiva, ne è la migliore conferma. L’Assemblea, infine, ha approvato alla unanimità, il seguente messaggio proposto da Azzia, inviato al Sindaco di Charleroi Paul Magnette, al Console italiano Iva Palmieri, al Direttore del Bois du Cazier Jean-Louis Delaet ed al rappresentante di Sicilia Mondo Angelo Lavore, Presidente della Associazione Trinacria Charleroi, rammaricandosi di non poter essere presente, come altre volte nel passato, alla cerimonia di deposizione della Corona di fiori alla memoria dei caduti. Ecco il testo: “At nome Sicilia Mondo tutta et Assemblea presenti celebrazione 8 Agosto 2013 - Giornata Nazionale del Sacrificio e del Lavoro Italiano nel Mondo, esprimiamo sentimenti di stretta vicinanza e calorosa solidarietà alle Istituzioni belghe, italiane ed associative ricordando, con Marcinelle, il sacrificio che riporta alla nostra memoria quello dei milioni di caduti sul lavoro in Italia e nel mondo. Domenico Azzia – Presidente Sicilia Mondo Componente Consiglio Generale degli Italiani all’Estero

In fondo, è un progetto che dà senso e completezza all’impegno tenacemente condotto, da sempre, da parte di Sicilia Mondo. Il coinvolgimento nelle Istituzioni delle rappresentanze degli europei che vivono fuori, se realizzato, può essere determinante nella competizione mondiale tra i Continenti emergenti. RinnovandoTi gli auguri di un meritato successo, Ti prego gradire le più vive cordialità”.

Sicilia Mondo ha spedito al Ministro per l’Integrazione On. Cécile Kyenge la seguente lettera di solidarietà, simpatia e auguri per il suo impegno “Gentile Ministro, il Consiglio Direttivo di Sicilia Mondo, nell’ultima seduta del 19 luglio corr., ha deliberato, alla unanimità, aderendo così alle numerose sollecitazioni pervenute dalle associazioni aderenti anche da fuori, di esprimere nei Suoi confronti una nota di solidarietà ma anche di simpatia per gli infami attacchi subiti dall’irresponsabile On. Roberto Calderoli, Vicepresidente in carica al Senato della Repubblica. Il pesante insulto ha fatto il giro del mondo suscitando corale indignazione, incredulità e sdegno nelle democrazie di tutti gli Stati. Perfino l’Alto Commissario Onu per i diritti umani ha definito “scioccanti “ ed “inaccettabili” le parole di Calderoli. Se la frase pronunziata in un pubblico comizio è offensiva per la dignità della persona cui è diretta, ancora più grave è l’offesa quando parte da chi è stato un Ministro nei precedenti governi e ricopre attualmente la carica di Vicepresidente del Senato della Repubblica. Alla generale richiesta di dimissioni, l’On. Calderoli è rimasto saldato alla sua poltrona, confermando una insensibilità politica ed umana che scandalizza le democrazie di tutto il mondo. Sicilia Mondo ritiene di non dovere aggiungere altro a quanto detto dal mondo politico e dalla stampa mondiale. L’unica consolazione è quella di constatare la reazione sentita di tutti gli

italiani, a conferma che il nostro Paese mantiene vivi i tradizionali sentimenti di civiltà umana e di democrazia solidale. La reazione delle associazioni e dei corregionali sparsi nelle varie parti del mondo, è stata totale e senza sconti. Sicilia Mondo, pertanto, esprime condanna e sdegno nei confronti dell’On. Calderoli al quale attribuisce la responsabilità di esasperare, nel difficile momento del Paese, sfiducia alle Istituzioni, alla politica ed alla stessa convivenza democratica dell’Italia. Dà atto al Presidente Letta di avere elevato il profilo politico del suo Governo con l’istituzione di un Ministero per l’Integrazione affidandolo alla Sua sensibile professionalità. Una scelta di civiltà che ricrea l’immagine dell’Italia a livello internazionale. Esprime nei Suoi confronti, On. Cécile Kyenge, piena e assoluta solidarietà in questa incredibile circostanza, compiacimento per l’intelligenza e l’umanità con cui Lei gestisce il Suo Dicastero ed espressione di viva simpatia ed auguri per la svolta lungimirante da Lei data al fenomeno migratorio. La prego, pertanto, di volere accettare sentimenti di apprezzamento, unitamente agli auguri più cordiali di successo per il Suo delicato impegno. – Il Presidente Avv. Domenico Azzia Componente Consiglio Generale degli Italiani all’Estero”

PAGINA 28 – SETTEMBRE/OTTOBRE 2013

THE ITALIAN TIMES


Special Olympics bocce tournament held at Festa

Festa Italiana hosted a bocce tournament for athletes representing eight Special Olympics teams on Friday, July 19. Seen here are all the athletes who participated in the tournament. All of them are active in Special Olympics of Southeastern Wisconsin. The teams were picked to play at Festa after another tournament in

June, according to Joe Palmisano, who coordinated the Festa tourney. The Italian Community Center provided a picnic-style lunch for the athletes, coaches and sponsors. The tournament was part of Festa’s VIP Day program for people with disabilities. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Here are the volunteer coordinators for the Special Olympics bocce tournament at Festa Italiana. From the left: Tony Bruno, Tony Tarantino, Linda Brother, Joe Palmisano, Joe’s wife, Jane, and Joe Liberto. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Having up to 300 dinner guests?

Italians founded Wisconsin town in 1854 from page 27 The six original families immigrated from Campo Dolcius near Lake Como, Italy. Family names included Tressori, Ghelfi, Gilardi, Zaboldi, Penchi and Starlochi. The first public school (early 1900s) was in the building that is now used as the American Legion Club. In 1909, the first school building of brick went up and was used until 1952. In 1925, a convent was built for two Franciscan Sisters, who took over the teaching at St. Charles Catholic Church. The church was organized in 1862 by the Italian immigrants, and a church edifice was erected two years later. Before the first church was built in 1864, mass was offered in the Bartholomew Starlochi home. On Aug. 15, 1901, the cornerstone was laid for the new church. In 1919, a chapel was built at the top of the cemetery, in memory of local men from World War I.

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous Milwaukee area produce whole seller, Festa Italiana was to able to give away pieces of fresh fruit to the festival’s VIP Day guests with disabilities on opening day, July 19. These volunteers set up the booth and dispensed the fruit to the guests when they arrived. From the left: Caroline Jennaro, Michelina Jennaro, Rosemary Jennaro, Bill Philleo, Nardo Carini and Rose Mary Jennaro. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

From Florence, Italy to Festa

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

THE ITALIAN TIMES

The Guercini family of Florence, Italy decided to play a game of bocce during their visit to Festa Italiana on Sunday, July 21. That’s Elliott, 8, throwing the pallino. His sister is Mila, 4. Mom and Dad are Annie and Roberto. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

SETTEMBRE/OTTOBRE 2013 – PAGINA 29


Italian Conference Center and Cafe La Scala staffs contribute to Festa in many ways

Clarence Thurmond, Byron Brumfield and Earl Williams worked in behind the scenes area of Festa, including distribution.

On one of the hottest days before the start of Festa, (l - r:) Ruben OquendoPerez Roberto Oquendo and Anthony Harris had the unenviable task of setting up and mounting large, heavy panels in the Pompeii Church Exhibit.

Jenny Shelby, Amy Schafer and Dana Kummer were ready to serve fresh, hot pizza in the Cafe La Scala’s booth on the north end of the grounds. Schafer was in charge of the booth.

Samantha Montalvo (left) and Susana Becerra-Hernandez worked long hours behind the scenes preparing some of the food served in the volunteer food tent.

Above: Robert Schafer and Samuel Kirk pulled pizzas out of the oven as they got done.

Photso to the right: Sonya Lusk and Tonya Gaud served lunch to the volunteers who helped to set up the festival grounds before the opening of Festa. The lunch was prepared by Executive Chef Jack McNeir and his staff.

Times photos by Tom Hemman

Here’s Michael Montalvo making a pepperoni pizza in one of the Cafe La Scala pizza booths at Festa.

PAGE 30 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

THE ITALIAN TIMES


Grazie ai volontari della Festa Italiana! Thanks to the volunteers of Festa Italiana! Since the very first festival in 1978, volunteers have planned and orchestrated the annual Festa Italiana in Milwaukee. This year, some 2,000 volunteers participated. Festa officials wish to thank everyone who volunteered and to let

them know that their efforts – no matter how big or small – are greatly appreciated. Presented here are some of the volunteers who helped out at this year’s Festa.

Times photos by Tom Hemman

From the left: Volunteers Jim Vitucci, Pete Dundon, Rosemary Strzelec and Gary Chan were busy unwrapping statues to be set up in the Pompeii Church Exhibit when this picture was taken.

Among the youngest volunteers to help with the set up and take down of equipment, tables, chairs and decorations at Festa Italiana were the group shown here. From the left: Manager Roz Radke, Amy Yarcho, Sarabeth Pankow, Lorenzo Ramirez and Danny Pankow.

Making sure that was enough fresh water available at booths and various other locations across the Festa grounds were volunteers Gerard Littleton (left) and Vince Bisesi.

Serving the entrée items along the buffet line in the volunteer food tent when this picture was taken were (from the left): Anthony Zingale, John Sanfilippo, Ray Martinez and John L. Sanfilippo. John Sanfilippo has been the manager of the volunteer food tent the several years.

Tom Hromadka and John De Angelis are among the volunteers who are in charge of keeping tabs of all the cash requirements and transactions of vendors associated with the Italian Community Center. The Bank volunteers also make change for all vendors on the Festa grounds.

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This crew was among the volunteers who helped to set up and take down the makeshift structures, put up decorations and lighting and handle many other chores that make Festa special. On the top of the ladder is Bruno Giacomantonio. On the grounds are Peter Lentini (left) and Frank Militello.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 – PAGE 31


Bravo, Festa volunteers!

Casey Schaak (left) and Julie Caan were among the volunteers who worked in a booth where Festa visitors made their purchase for gondola rides.

The primary gate for people to enter the Festa grounds is the Mid Gate. Dan Patterson (left) and Carlo Besasie (right) have long been the Mid Gate managers. They are seen here with Bob Dames of Summerfest.

The marketplace in Heritage Square was staffed by volunteers such as (l to r) Elena Spisa, Chickie Balistreri, Lucretia Lo Coco and Antonette Lo Coco.

Among the volunteers who staffed at Mid Gate information booth were (l to r) Vincy Zarcone, Jim and Marie Schwindt and Ann Romano. Marie Schwindt served as manager of the information booths.

Times photos by Tom Hemman

For your Wedding Reception and Rehearsal Dinner

The Italian Conference Center located at the Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee You'll welcome our attention to detail and the way our staff goes out of its way to meet your every need. Your guests will love the setting, the food, and easy access and parking. Our wedding specialists will work closely with you to make certain that your day is everything you dreamed it would be. They'll even assist with floral arrangements, music, photography, ordering the wedding cake and other extras. Call David or Michelle now for available dates and a tour.

(414) 223-2800 Volunteers representing the Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Area Lodge of the Order Sons of Italy in America staffed this wine booth throughout the Festa weekend. Last on the right is Jim LoDuca of LoDuca Bros. Wines.

PAGE 32 – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

www.italianconference.com

THE ITALIAN TIMES


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