Sept 2015 online by Italian Community Center

ITALIAN TIMES THE

Published 11 times annually by the Italian Community Center 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202 www.ICCMilwaukee.com SEPTEMBER 2015 • VOL. 37 NO. 3

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Cannoli for Festa’s competitive eating contests delivered in grand style

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PASTE ADDRESS LABEL HERE.

Slate finalized for ICC election

Through the efforts of the Nominating Committee and the members who attended the Aug. 20 general meeting, a slate of officers and directors has been chosen for the Italian Community Center election. The only race will be for director-at-large seats, where five candidates have been nominated for four positions. The candidates for officer positions are:

President: Giuseppe Vella Vice President: Dean Cannestra Treasurer: Sam Purpero Secretary: Rose Anne Ceraso Fritchie Sergeant-At-Arms: Joanne Sanfilippo Czubek The candidates for director-atlarge positions are: Pietro Tarantino, Susan Christiansen, Joe Emanuele, Mary Anne Ceraso Alioto and Karen Dickinson. Please turn to page 6

A fund-raising event that generated a lot of excitement last year is returning to the Italian Community Center on Friday, Sept. 11. It’s the second annual Casino Night, sponsored by the Membership Committee. If you’ve never been to a casino, the ICC is giving you a chance to get a taste of what it’s like to win big, while keeping the stakes small, and all in a casino-like environment. Alternately, if you’ve experienced gambling fever and played in casinos, this is an opportunity to

sharpen your skills with minimal risk. Attendees will use the raffle tickets they have won to play a variety of Vegas-style games including Blackjack, Craps, Roulette and Texas Hold’Em to win great prizes. Even non-gamblers, who just want to have fun, are assured of chances to win.

Feeling lucky? Come to ICC’s Casino Night

More than 100 cannoli, the whipped ricotta-filled, chocolate chip-laden rolled pastries, were delivered in grand fashion by Roman gladiators from a booth operated by Peter Sciortino Bakery to the Cucina Showcase in time for the 2015 Festa Italiana Cannoli Champions Contests on Saturday, July 18. Leading the way were Festa’s defending (and still) cannoli-eating champion Anthony Paulis (far left) and the Roman statesman (and ICC Vice President) Dean Cannestra (far right) in a stylish toga. The cannoli were prepared and donated by Sciortino Bakery, which sponsored the two contests. Look for more photos and information on the cannoli contests inside this issue. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Festa bocce brings inspiration to Carmelite Sisters

Putting aside their regular religious and orderly duties, these Carmelite Sisters still had a good deed in mind when they played in a bocce tournament at Festa on Saturday, July 18. The Carmelite Sisters were playing to raise funds for the Carmelite Home for Boys in Wauwatosa. In this photo, it appears that Sisters Faustina Marie and Rose Therese are talking strategy, while Sister Mary Brigit is aiming her green ball at the pallino. We were told that all participants had a great time playing in the tournament and enjoyed Festa. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Be one of 150 attendees Casino Night is open to the general public and ICC members, their Please turn to page 7

Mario Carini used his strong attributes to define the story of local Italians and to educate people of all races

By Thomas Hemman Times Editor Passion, intellect and drive were three of the strongest attributes of Mario Anthony Carini, a past president of the Italian Community Center and the organization’s longtime authoritative and revered historian. He died July 7, at the age of 78, after a lengthy battle with cancer. Carini demonstrated these attributes while spending insurmountable hours scouring historical records of all sorts to uncover, report and publish his findings on Milwaukee’s Italian community going back to the mid 1800s. As a primary researcher, Carini devoted himself to this task out of his love for his ancestry, a compelling desire to have vital information available to the descendants of the early Italians and to ensure a fair and accurate portrayal of Milwaukee’s Italians. While uncovering massive volumes of facts, Carini has provided a valuable tool to those who write the history of

The late Mario A. Carini

Milwaukee. Through his diligence, he was able to verify or dispute claims made by others regarding specific records or other data. His efforts earned him 21 copyrights from the United States Library of Congress. He authored Please turn to page 8

A message from Giuseppe Vella, Italian Community Center President

First of all, I want to thank all those who volunteered for Festa Italiana. We value and appreciate the time and effort you give each year to making Festa a success. I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors. Without your support, Festa could not continue to be the best Italian festival in America. As you may know, several of our sponsors have been with us for years. We hope that these relationships will grow and prosper. We hope our first-time sponsors saw the benefit of partnering with Festa and will join us again in 2016.

Thanks to everyone who participated in Festa, from the vendors to the professionals and everyone who had a hand in helping to make Festa a well-running and successful event.

I also want to acknowledge the members of the Italian Conference Center staff for their hard work and efforts on the grounds and in operating our building so smoothly during our busiest weekend of the year.

As a result of everyone’s effort and input, it appears that this Festa will turn out to be a success.

FC Palermo repeats as Festa futsal tournament champion

FC Palermo is proving it is one tough team to defeat at Festa Italiana. In 2013, the team won the Festa soccer tournament championship. Last year, it won the first-ever Festa futsal title. The team, coached by Salvatore Carini, repeated the futsal feat at Festa 2015. In a tournament shortened by the severe rainstorm on THE ITALIAN TIMES Saturday, July 18, FC Palermo won 631 E. Chicago St. the championship on penalty Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916 kicks. The champs are seen here with their trophy. Front row: (414) 223-2180 Dominic Zizzo, Choko Alvarado, Lorenzo Vicini, Tenzin Rampa, Published 11 times annually Tony Patterson and Matthew Publisher . . . Italian Community Center Eisold. Back row: Coach Carini, ICC President . . . . . . . . .Giuseppe Vella Mario Carini, Alex Rivera, Scott Newspaper Committee Raymonds, Elliot Dunn and Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . . Blaise DiPronio Andrew Wiedebach. (Times photo Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thomas Hemman by Tom Hemman) Advertising Sales

Here’s who won Festa raffle prizes

The winners in the 2015 Festa Italiana raffle were: 1st prize – $5,000: Dorren Kurkowski-Oaks of Watertown. 2nd prize - $1,000: Fredrik F. Broekhuizen of Whitefish Bay. 3rd prize – $500: Terri Diamond of South Milwaukee. The drawing was held on the Miller Lite Stage on Sunday, July 19. Each winner has been notified and was given a check for their winnings. Liz Ceraso, raffle chairperson, thanked all those who purchased tickets. The raffle served as a fund-raising activity for the Italian Community Center.

PAGE 2 – SEPTEMBER 2015

We anticipate having a more complete report in the near future. While the excitement of Festa 2015 is behind us, we must leave our sleeves rolled up because there is a lot of work to be done. We need your support of several upcoming events such as our Casino Night fundraiser on September 11th. This is a key fundraiser for the ICC. Get the word out, attend and support it in whatever way you can. I also ask for your support of these activities and classes: the children’s cooking classes, the adults’ mixology classes, the fall semester of Italian classes for kids

and adults, the remaining shows in the Courtyard Music Series, and the holiday craft fair in early November. This past Thursday, a slate of candidates for the upcoming ICC election was finalized. I ask that every member participate in the electoral process. Help our organization elect people who will be strong leaders now and in the future. Let’s work together to make the last few months of 2015 memorable and successful for the Italian Community Center. – Giuseppe Vella ICC President

ICC President/Festa General Chair Giuseppe Vella (at podium) made Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett feel like an Italian with presentations made at the opening day ceremony at the Cucina Showcase. Mayor Barrett proclaimed July 17 as “Festa Italiana Day in Milwaukee” and saluted the Italian Community Center for its efforts to present the traditions, culture and food of the city’s Italians for the 38th consecutive year. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Manager . . . . . . . . . . . .Thomas Hemman Advertising Sales Representative . . . . . . Faye Ann Kessler Editorial Contributors, Reporters and Columnists . . . . . . . Blaise DiPronio, Barbara Collignon, Susie Christiansen and the late Mario A. Carini Staff Photographers. . . . . . .Joe Spasiano, and Tom Hemman

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.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Despite the storm, flag throwers say they loved visit to Milwaukee

By Paul Salsini Members of the Sbandieratori dei Borghi e Sestieri Fiorentini (the Flag Throwers of Florence) have toured the world, thrilling crowds in dozens of cities with their spectacular performances, but in all their travels they had never experienced a tornado warning. Until July 18 in Milwaukee. When a tornado alert was sounded during Festa Italiana on that Saturday afternoon and everyone was warned to take cover, members of the group were more concerned about their flags and instruments than their own safety. “It would have been very bad if they got wet,” said Andrea Camiciottoli, a longtime member of the group who, as one of three instrumentalists, plays the chiarina. The group joined hundreds of others under the roof of the Cucina Showcase, where the cannoli eating

Times photo by Tim Townsend

contest was underway and the Sicilian Band of Chicago was playing. Fortunately, the pavement at the T.J. Bartolotta Sports Court was dry again for their evening performance. Besides giving four breath-taking performances before cheering crowds, the members were rather ubiquitous at Festa. They gave impromptu performances in various spaces on the grounds, took part in the Festa procession and chatted and posed for and with fans for photos after each performance. “We like to walk around and talk to people,” Camiciottoli said. Perhaps their most surprising appearances were late each night when they exchanged their hot medieval tunics and leggings for black shirts and pants and gathered at the Cinema Tent. There, with a cool breeze from the lake, they sang familiar and not-sofamiliar Italian songs. Sixteen powerful male voices joined in harmony and crowds soon gathered. But don’t expect a CD of “The Singing Sbandieratori” anytime soon. “We do this just for fun,” Camiciottoli explained. “We love to sing together. What’s different about our group is that we are friends. We are like brothers. And the flag is a symbol of our community. We are old, we are young, but we are a community.” The group got to know a little of the Milwaukee community during their brief stay here, including visits to downtown, Bayshore, HarleyDavidson, the Milwaukee Public Museum and the Miller Brewery. Camiciottoli said he and the others were impressed by seeing

Members of the Shandieratori dei Borghi e Sestieri Fiorentini gathered for a photo with Giuseppe Vella, president of the Italian Community Center and Festa general chair (standing with white T-shirt) and Joe

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Milwaukee from the top of the Milwaukee Athletic Club building. As they readied for the return trip to Italy, they could say many good things about Festa and Milwaukee. “This is a great Festa,” Camiciottoli said. “There are so many activities that speak of Italy. People who come here can understand so much about Italy, the music, the food, and traditions from our performances. The organizers have a great love for Italy. “And we really love Milwaukee. There is so much to do here and the people have been wonderful. This is our first time here, and it is difficult to leave.”

Lorenzo Vicini, who acted as a guide for the group, said, “They had never seen an Italian festival of this magnitude. They’d been in Colorado thirteen times, but that was only at a festival in a mall. They kept saying what a rewarding experience this was and how they felt so appreciated.” After the Sunday night performance, Camiciottoli presented a drawing of three flag throwers to Giuseppe Vella, president of the Italian Community Center and Festa general chair. Vella thanked the group for coming to Milwaukee and performing at Festa and said the drawing would be hung at the Italian Community Center. Times photo by Tim Townsend

Zambito (front row, far left), Lorenzo Vicini and Joel LaMalfa (front row, far right, who helped guide the group during their visit. (Photo provided to The Italian Times)

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 3

Tutti Italiani! The 38th annual

July 17, 18 & 19, 2015

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

GRAZIE TO THOSE WHO RAISED FUNDS FOR GOLF CARTS Mike Albano Laurie Bisesi Ralph Busalcchi Mario A. Carini Family Dean Cannestra Pauline Cannestra Elizabeth Ceraso

Christine Conley Dan Conley Rosemary DeRubertis Joseph T. Emanuele Rose Anne Fritchie Tom Hromadka Bill Jennaro

Tim Kezman Myron Koceja Marie Lieber Tony Machi Tony Piacentini Betty Puccio Sam Purpero

Gerry Accetta Purpero Joe Reina Giuseppe Vella Luigi Vella Jessica Vollrath Joe Zambito

GRAZIE TO ALL WHO SPONSORED OUR GOLF CARTS Angela Dentice, Attorney At Law Allied Electric Contractors, Inc. Associated Technical Services, Inc. Bartolotta Fireworks

Leader Towing & Transport, Inc.

St. Theresa Society

Michael Tarnoff, Attorney At Law

Sal’s On Oakland Barber & Stylist

Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO Milwaukee Sail Loft

Bell Ambulance Jim Lombardo

Mr. Joe Magestro

Calypso Lemonade Presenting Sponsoring

Order Sons of Italy in America Filippo Mazzei Lodge #2763

Club Garibaldi

National Recycling, Inc. Dave Doern

C.W. Purpero, Inc. De Angelis Construction Co. Divino Wine and Dine Cannestra and Conley Everbrite Food Marketing Services Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP Law Firm Italian Conference Center Joe Magestro In Honor of My Wife Virginia

PAGE 4 – SEPTEMBER 2015

Pellman Investments, LLC Phil & Gerry Accetta Purpero Rally Packaging Reina International Auto European Gelato Joe & Mary Reina Ron Wilky Agency Sciortino Bakery Small Animal Massage Therapy By Marie Staff Electric

Taylor Made Express The Bubbler, LLC The Mobile Repair Guys Russ Benser Specialist 262-501-3997 “The Original” Angelo’s Pizza Tony Machi Produce, Inc. Travelers Title, LLC Bob Mikush Uptown Ford-Lincoln Owned & Operated Since 1946 Valley Bakers Vollrath Associates, Inc. Jessica Vollrath Huebner William A, Jennaro, Attorney At Law WFA Staffing Group Ziino, Germanotta, Knoll & Christiansen Law Firm

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Corso di Cucina per Bambini

ICC children’s cooking classes now scheduled for Sept. 19 and Oct. 17

Does your child or grandchild have an inner chef just waiting to emerge? Do they watch you in the kitchen and express a longing to learn and to help you cook and bake? Then, the Italian Community Center has the perfect classes for children, ages 4 and older. On two Saturdays – Sept. 19 and Oct. 17 – the ICC will offer Corso di Cucina per Bambini, classes in Italian cooking for children. The classes will start at 10 a.m. Each lesson will be fun and easy and last approximately three hours. The kids will get their hands dusty with flour and sticky with dough as they learn how to make homemade pizza and pasta from scratch. The Sept. 19 class will focus on pizza making. The children will learn how to make their own pizza dough from scratch and top the

pizza with fresh ingredients that they prepare. We may even include pizza dough tossing just for fun! At each table, your kids will make the dough, safely chop fresh ingredients, grill vegetables on electric grills and roast garlic and red peppers in a classroom oven. The lesson for the Oct. 17 class will be making pasta from scratch. The kids will love kneading the dough. They will have an opportunity to use the pasta rolling and cutting machine. We anticipate having five or six pasta machines in the classroom. After all of the prep work is complete, the children will create a tasty sauce. The instructor will help them cook the fresh pasta. The classes will be hands-on learning experiences, using the freshest ingredients and led by talented instructors. There will be two chaperones at each table to assist and secure everyone’s safety.

The best part for the children, of course, is that they will be able to eat everything they prepare. When the class is finished, a parent or grandparent of each child will be invited to join each young chef to sit down together and eat the food. (One parent or grandparent per registered child.) Registration fees Here are the details on the costs for the classes. Parents and grand-

parents, you can register your children or grandchildren for just one of the classes or both. The cost of registering for just one class is $15 per child when the parent or grandparent is a member of the ICC or $20 per child when neither is a member. For the best deal, register your kids for both classes. The costs are: $25 for a child of a member and $35 for a child of a non-member. Please use the registration form accompanying this article. You can also call the ICC during regular business hours at 414-223-2180 and register your children for the classes by paying the fees with a credit card. Registration fees are due Thursday, Sept. 10. * * * Editor’s note: The first class was originally scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 22. That class has since been rescheduled to Saturday, Sept. 19. The second class is still on the same date as originally announced.

CORSO DI CUCINA BAMBINI 0 CHILDREN’S COOKING CLASS REGISTRATION FORM

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

_________________________________________________________________________________________

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

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

_________________________________________________________________________________________

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My child/children (or my grandchild/grandchildren) will attend both the Sept. 19 and Oct. 17 classes: Yes. If you checked the “yes” box, please complete the following information.

Number of children of ICC member attending both classes: ______________ x$ 25.00 Total amount of member fee for attending both classes:

______________

Number of children of non-member attending both classes: _____________ x$ 35.00

Total amount of non-member fee for attending both classes: _____________

My child/childre (or my grandchild/grandchildren) will attend the Sept. 19 class only: Yes. If you checked the “yes” box, please complete the following information. Number of children of ICC member attending Sept. 19 class: ______________ x 15.00 Total amount of member fee for attending Sept. 19 class:

______________

Number of children of non-member attending Sept. 19 class: _____________ x 20.00

Total amount of non-member fee for attending Sept. 19 class: _____________

Registration fees for attending both classes or just the Sept. 19 class are due Thursday, Sept. 9. My child/childre (or my grandchild/grandchildren) will attend the Oct. 17 class only: Yes. If you checked the “yes” box, please complete the following information. Number of children of ICC member attending Oct. 17 class: ______________ x 15.00 Total amount of member fee for attending Oct. 17 class:

______________

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

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

THE ITALIAN TIMES

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

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 5

Craft cocktails – Shaken or stirred?

Mixology classes for adults slated for Thursday nights, Sept. 24 and Oct. 29

By Susie Christiansen Instructors, who are true mixologists in the Milwaukee bar and restaurant scene, will lead two mixology classes at the Italian Community Center this fall. The classes are set for Thursday nights, Sept. 24 and Oct. 29 at 6 p.m. The instructors will enlighten students with the basic skills of the craft, such as mixing, shaking, muddling, pouring, and straining. Recipes for the cocktails will be provided. Students will learn the following, as they make classic and original cocktails:

• Taste and compare liquors. • Learn the origins of spirits. • Learn when to shake or stir. • Build cocktails the way they were intended to be created. • Study different bitters, and learn the taste and aroma of each. • Walk away with a basic understanding of craft cocktails. Each class will focus on two different liquors – for example, one class will focus on mixing cocktails from bourbon and gin – the next class will focus on mixing cocktails from vodka and dark rum. At the start of this hands-on experience, students will be taught

from page 1 All of the director-at-large candidates, except Dickinson, were nominated by the Nominating Committee. Dickinson’s nomination was put forth on the floor at the general meeting by Anthony Lupo. Look for full coverage, including statements from each director-atlarge candidate, in The Italian Times’ October 2015 issue which will be available Thursday, Sept. 24. Every qualified voter will receive an election ballot in the mail. According to Article III, Section 1 of the organization’s bylaws, a qualified voter is anyone who has been a member a minimum of 60 days prior to the election. For the upcoming election, a ballot will be mailed by members of the Nominating Committee to anyone who has been a member since Aug. 17. Before the mailing, the Nominating Committee is given the authority to conduct a drawing to arrange the order of placement of the candidates’ names on the ballot. (See Article V, Section 8.) Article V, Section 9 stipulates that the ballots must be sent to voters within eight days of the September general meeting. The date of that meeting is Thursday, Sept. 17 at 6:30 p.m. The envelope with the ballot (or ballots, in the cases of multiple family members) will also include a return envelope addressed to the ICC. Voters must use the return envelope to submit their ballots. The mailing of the ballots is the last duty of the Nominating

Committee. Only those ballots in the return envelope that are postmarked on or before Thursday, Oct. 8 will be eligible to be counted. Ballots received with envelopes postmarked after Oct. 8 will be saved but not counted. The timetable for returning ballots is also spelled out in Article V, Section 9. Section 10.a. of Article V states that the current ICC President must appoint tellers (a chairperson and members) who will meet prior to the October general meeting “to confirm the validity of all returned ballots.” Section 10.b. explains when the tellers will open and count the ballots. It states, “The tellers shall meet on the day of the October general membership meeting (which is Thursday, Oct. 15) and open all valid ballot envelopes received. The tellers shall tally all ballots and shall report the election results to the membership prior to the adjournment of the October general membership meeting.” The newly-elected officers and directors will officially begin the terms of office on Nov. 1. (See Article V, Section 13). The term of office for officers is one year while the term for directors is two years. The Nominating Committee included Rosemary DeRubertis and Salvatore Lo Coco as chairpersons and Bill Dickinson, Anthony Zingale and Gina Jorgensen as members. President Giuseppe Vella appointed the chairs and members who attended the May general meeting elected the others, as stipulated in Article V, Section 3.

Slate finalized for ICC election

Anthony Zingale appointed as director-at-large

Anthony Zingale has been appointed to the Italian Community Center Board as a director-at-large to complete an expired term lasting slightly more than one year. The appointment of Zingale, a past sergeant-at-arms and longtime ICC member, was made official at the ICC Board meeting on Aug. 13. His appointment was mandated by the ICC Bylaws (Article IV, Section 9.b.). That section reads: “In the event of the death, resignation or removal of a Director-At-

PAGE 6 – SEPTEMBER 2015

Large, the candidate for such office who received the next highest (to the winners) number of votes in the most recent election shall fill the vacant Director-At-Large position commencing with his/her formal appointment at the next meeting of the Board of Directors.” Zingale finished fifth in votes to the four candidates who won directors’ positions in the fall 2014 election. The most recent vacancy among directors occurred when Mario A. Carini died on July 7. He was among the four elected in 2014.

the skills using bottles of water that are colored and tinted to replicate the color of the liquor being used in the lesson. This allows each student to learn and practice without pouring out expensive alcohol and ingredients with each “less than successful” attempt. At the end of each lesson, when they feel they have practiced enough and are ready, students will be provided with the bottle of real alcohol, along with the accompanying ingredients, and will be encouraged to create, drink and enjoy their final exam! Students should come to class with the following bar tools: cocktail shaker, strainer, bar spoon, jigger, muddler and pour spouts. If they don’t have the tools, we suggest asking a friend if they can borrow them. We may have three or four sets available that night for purchase, just in case someone forgets the tools. State law dictates that students must be at least 21 years old to participate in these classes. Sign up for one or both classes. Registration fees are as follows: • One class fee: $30 per nonmember, $20 per ICC member. • Two class fee: $55 per non-

member, $35 per ICC member. Use the registration form accompanying this article or you may call 414223-2180 and pay with a credit card.

ICC Mixology Class Registrations Form

Name(s) _______________________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________________________

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

__________________________________________________________________________________________

I/we will attend both the Sept. 24 and Oct. 29 classes: Yes. If you checked the “yes” box, please complete the following information. Number of ICC members attending both classes:

Total amount of member fee for attending both classes: Number of non-members attending both classes:

______________ x$ 35.00

______________

_____________ x$ 55.00

Total amount of non-member fee for attending both classes: _____________

I/we will attend the Sept. 24 class only: Yes. If you checked the “yes” box, please complete the following information.

Number of ICC members attending Sept. 24 class:

Total amount of member fee for attending Sept. 24 class: Number of non-member attending Sept. 24 class:

______________ 20.00

_____________ 30.00

______________

Total amount of non-member fee for attending Sept. 24 class: ___________

Registration fees for attending both classes or just the Sept. 24 class are due Sept. 14. I/we will attend the Oct. 29 class only: Yes. If you checked the “yes” box, please complete the following information.

Number of children of ICC member attending Oct. 29 class: ______________ x 20.00 Total amount of member fee for attending Oct. 29 class:

______________

Number of children of non-member attending Oct. 29 class: _____________ x 30.00

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

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

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Register for ICC’s Las Vegas-style Casino Night on Friday, Sept. 11 Maximum of 150 entry tickets available for this fund-raiser; non-gamblers have chances to win, too!

from page 1 families and friends, however, Membership Committee Chairs Bill and Karen Dickinson want you know, “We are limiting attendance to the first 150 people to make reservations.” They said the reason for the attendance cap is “to allow players plenty of opportunities to play the games they like without having to wait in lines. Don’t be left out in the cold, get your reservations in early.”

Casino Night details These are the specifics for the evening: Casino Night will be held in the Festa Ballroom from 7 to 10 p.m. Entry tickets are $30 each member and $35 a non-member. Please use the reservation form accompanying this article and send it with your check or money order. You can make reservations by calling the ICC office at 414-223-2180 and paying with a credit card. Advance tickets are also available at the ICC reception desk.

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

The Italian Community Center Culture Committee is collaborating with the Pursuing Our Italian Names Together, Chapter 22, the Italian Community Center Italian Family History Club and the Milwaukee County Genealogical Society to give members and the community an opportunity to research their Italian (or other) heritage.

This event will take place Saturday, Nov. 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the ICC in Classrooms 1 and 2. This will be a chance to spend some time researching online resources that can help answer questions. Volunteers familiar with doing this type of research will be available to help.

A few of the main reasons as to why people search for their ancestors:

• Validate family stories. Are those family stories about their ancestors true? • Learn about how one’s family arrived. Did an ancestor come through a port other than New York? From what port did they sail? • Community history. What is the history that helps to understand the families that founded and influenced the community? • Find vital records information. When were specify people born? When did they die? Where did they live?

The cost to participate in this event will be $5 for a member ($8 for a non-member) plus printing fees* if you would like to take information with you. There will also be a fee if you would like them sent to an email address.** Some information that can be searched for includes: • Ship records • Census records • Newspaper clippings/stories • Military records. There will be cheese and crackers provided. A cash bar is available in Cafe La Scala. The restaurant will also be offering a lunch special for $10 for a large 16-inch one topping pizza for attendees.

*The fee for printing will be .50 per page. **The fee for emailing will be determined by the amount of information provided.

All attendees will be required to check in at the reservation desk on the night of the event. When checking in, each person will receive two raffle tickets worth $100 each for use at the gaming tables. When a player leaves a table or quits playing, the raffle tickets that are won can then be deposited into the raffle for chances to win prizes. The dealers will round up your winnings to the highest $100 value. The more raffle tickets you win, the more opportunities for winning prizes. Additional $100 tickets will be available for purchase throughout the night at seven for $5, 16 for $10 and for the high roller special of 24 for $15. Complete and easy instructions will be provided all evening. The gaming tables, professional dealers and a deejay, who will serve as the evening’s emcee, will be provided by Music on the Move. If you are unsure how to play a particular game, the dealers will be able to explain the rules. They are trained to be patient and friendly and they will make sure that it will be fun evening for all. Among the raffle prizes will be: • A 40-inch flat screen TV. • Hilton Hotel overnight package with a $50 gift certificate for the Chop House. • Four Club Level seats for a Milwaukee Brewers game during the 2016 season. • An ASUS laptop computer. • Free use of a Vespa scooter for one month, courtesy of Reina International Auto/Vespa Milwaukee. • A case of Chianti from Papa Luigi’s Pizza and Restaurant. • A variety of restaurant gift certificates. • And many more. Non-gamblers can win The committee members realize that not all people are interested in gambling, but everybody likes to have fun. Everyone attending – gambler or not – will receive two

raffle tickets. Non-gamblers are encouraged to buy more raffle tickets to increase their chances to win raffle prizes. “This is going to be a fun night for gamblers and non-gamblers, so we encourage everyone to come and help make this a huge, successful fund-raiser,” the Dickinsons said. Wait service at game tables New this year, the committee has arranged to have wait service at the gaming tables so attendees can keep playing while enjoying their favorite beverages.

Have dinner at La Scala “We encourage all guests to come to the ICC early and have dinner at Cafe La Scala prior to hitting the gaming tables,” Dickinsons said. La Scala will open for dinner service a half-hour early that night at 4 p.m.

Sponsors The Membership Committee also wants to stress and promote a great opportunity for both individual and corporate table sponsorships in making this event successful. Sponsors will be recognized on a large billboard at the entrance to the room. Lastly, consider this a call for any and all donations whether it is money to offset the cost of gaming tables or a raffle prize. Any questions? Please contact Karen or Bill Dickinson at diskartcg@sbcglobal.net or call 414744-0937.

ITALIAN COMMUNITY CENTER CASINO NIGHT ENTRY TICKETS ORDER FORM Name(s) _____________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _________________________________________________ Phone _______________________________________________________ Email address _________________________________________________ ICC Members: No. of entry tickets ______ x $30.00/person = $___________ Non-Members: No of entry tickets ______ x $35.00/person = $___________ Mail this form with your full payment to: Italian Community Center, c/o Casino Night, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202-5916.

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THE ITALIAN TIMES

414-223-2189. We appreciate your business. SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 7

Mario Carini, past president and longtime historian of the ICC, used his strong attributes to define the story of Milwaukee’s Italians and to educate people of all races

from page 1 the book, “Milwaukee’s Italians: The Early Years,” represented the ICC as a lecturer at cultural, educational, civic and social events across southeastern Wisconsin, and was the expert interviewed for the award-winning 2015 Milwaukee Public Television documentary “Storia Italiana: Milwaukee.” Throughout the years, he received numerous honors and recognitions for his research and contributions to the community. Before the demolition of the Italian immigrant-built Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church under an urban renewal project in the fall of 1967, Carini helped to secure many of the artifacts and relics from the “Little Pink Church,” knowing their importance to the parishioners who attended and to their part in the history of the city. The church, which was located at 419 N. Jackson St., opened in May 1905 and was replaced by the I-794 off-ramp. Carini’s grandparents were caretakers for the church. As many longtime ICC members know, Carini was driven to acquire photographs, documented records and assorted memorabilia from the families of Milwaukee’s Italians. His efforts resulted in the ICC having the largest known Italian American vintage photo collection. For years, Carini cared for and maintained these photos, oftentimes having enlargements and reproductions made with the donations he received from individuals and groups such as the Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO, the Pompeii Women’s Club and the Holy Crucifix Society. Carini made sure that members and visitors to the ICC had opportunities to see these vintage photos, which for years have hung in the main entrance and on the hallway walls and annually at Festa Italiana. Some 1,750 photographs have been put on display at Festa the last several years. These photos did exactly what Carini wanted them to do: connected relatives to their ancestors, stirred emotion and memories and raised curiosity, allowing Carini to impart his knowledge to educate the curious. As an accompaniment to the Festa photo display, Carini organized the beautiful and awe-inspiring Pompeii Church display, featuring the statues and artifacts that he and others acquired from the Little Pink Church and other local churches with Italian ties. Carini worked tirelessly to keep the statues and artifacts in pristine condition. He had served as manager of the exhibit since the early 1980s. In the fall of 2010, Carini donated a large body of his personal research materials and an extensive collection of vintage photographs and artifacts from Milwaukee’s early Italian community to the Milwaukee County Historical Society. His donation was the impetus for the MCHS yearlong showcase exhibit “Faith, Family, Festa: Milwaukee’s Italians” in 2011. Steve Daily, who, at the time, was the Curator of Research Collections at the MCHS, said that he knew of no other individual who

PAGE 8 – SEPTEMBER 2015

A memorial to the late Mario A. Carini graced the Pompeii Church exhibit at Festa Italiana. Mario died July 7 at the age of 78. Standing alongside the memorial are Mario’s sisters, Rosemary Strzelec (left), Margaret Carini and Annamarie Quaranta. Mario Carini was a past president of the Italian Community Center and the organization’s longtime historian. He was the manager of the Pompeii Church and Vintage Photo Exhibit since the early 1980s. The memorial was created by Joanne Czubek and Rosemary DeRubertis. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

had donated as much primary research to the Historical Society as Carini. He called Carini “the dean of Milwaukee’s Italian American community” and added “the time and effort that he has put into conducting his research demonstrates that it is a labor of love for him. By presenting this research to the Historical Society, Mario can be sure that it is in safe hands and will be available for the benefit of everyone.” Carini donated all of his publications as well as his original research notes. The collection provides insight into a number of Italian organizations in Milwaukee, including the Galileo Galilei Society, Holy Crucifix Society, Madonna del Lume Society and the Toscana Society. He included numerous historic records and publications about Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church and St. Rita of Cascia Catholic Church in Milwaukee as well as Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, a parish which once served the Italian community in West Allis. The photographs that Carini donated, on behalf of the members of the Italian Community Center, cover a wide variety of categories including wedding photos, business images, portraits, neighborhood/street scenes and more. These are copies of photos that many people have donated to the ICC over the years. Scores of Festa Italiana photos are also part of the donation to the Historical Society. In his book, “Milwaukee’s Italians: The Early Years,” Carini acknowledged, “I inherited my love of history from my parents. For over 60 years, my father, Stefano Carini, collected information on anything Italian he found in print. When he died in 1979, the Milwaukee County Historical Society accepted all the materials

my father had compiled on the Italian-American experience in the city, county, state and nation. He also amassed materials dealing with Italy. “I knew I had to continue what my father had begun. “I consider myself fortunate to be able to relate much of what social scientists have written regarding the Italian immigrant experience in the United States. I was born in Milwaukee’s Little Italy of immigrant parents. This happy, if not historical event, took place at 175 N. Jefferson Street, between Menomonee and Chicago Streets. “The purpose of my book is to present the history of Milwaukee’s early Italian immigrants by someone who was a part of their lives and who still identifies with them to this day. In general, social scientists present the Italian immigrant experience academically rather than in real life terms. Some leave the reader with the impression that the early immigrants possessed super-human qualities that helped them endure the hardships of starting life anew in the States. Nothing could be further from the truth! All my relatives who immigrated to America were of this world.” Carini had served as the ICC’s historian since the late 1970s and started conducting his research in the early 1980s. He received his first U.S. Library of Congress copyright in 1993 and his 21st and last in 2011. Other honors and awards Carini received include the following: • The Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National “Citizen of the Year Award” on May 17, 2011. • A recognition award from Milwaukee County Historical Society on May 3, 1991, for collecting, preserving and publishing materials on Milwaukee’s Italians

that “enrich the ethnic heritage of this community.” • A citation from the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors on May 16, 1991, “for researching the early Italian experience in Milwaukee County.” • A citation from the Milwaukee Common Council on Nov. 5, 1991, which reads in part, “Whereas Mario Carini in his capacity as Historian for the Italian Community Center has become a key link in the life of his community.” • Another citation from the Milwaukee Common Council on June 2, 1999, which read in part, “Mario Carini, the son of Sicilian immigrants, has served as the Italian Community Center Historian for nearly two decades and holds 12 copyrights (now 21) from the United States Library of Congress . . . the Common Council of the City of Milwaukee thanks him for his dedication to researching and sharing his cultural and ethnic heritage with his fellow citizens.” • The Milwaukee County Historical Society’s Courtland R. Conlee Community Service Award on Apr. 16, 2007. The description on the award reads, “To commend Mario Carini for his dedication to preserving the history of Milwaukee’s Italian community, The Milwaukee County Historical Society presents this award for noteworthy accomplishment.” Carini served on the ICC Board for 29 years. He was elected to the offices of president, vice president and director-at-large (a position he was holding at the time of his death). He served two terms as president of the ICC (2003-2004 and 2004-2005) and afterward in the non-elective office of immediate past president. Continued on page 9

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Carini has provided a trove of essential information for researchers

from page 8 Mario was the son of the late Stefano and Rose (Fricano) Carini. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Marquette University. Before delving into his historical research, Carini, a bachelor his entire life, displayed his passion for educating children, many of whom were terminally ill. As an exceptional education teacher for Milwaukee Public Schools, he instructed students who were hospitalized or homebound due to severe or life-threatening illnesses. He also worked as an instructor with the Milwaukee Area Technical College, Los Angeles City College, the University of WisconsinMadison, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and, for one year, at Gonzaga Jesuit College in Palermo (Sicily), Italy. For two years, he served the Italian Air Force as a translator in association with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Carini traveled to Italy on an annual basis. In a eulogy for Carini, Mike Palmisano, a past president of the ICC and a longtime close friend, said, “Mario A. Carini was an eminent historian, a public intellectual, a celebrated educator, devout Christian, past president of the Italian Community Center and many other achievements that have been listed in the media. But, Mario, the individual, was something special. Patient and attentive, he listened to the voices of various generations and represented them full well in a legion of writings, speeches and video. His latest was his appearance in the TV spe-

cial ‘Storia Italiana: Milwaukee.’ If you have not seen it, get it. Mario is at his best. “Indeed, Mother Italy has lost one of her best sons, while historians and educators have lost a leader, and the Italian community a confidant. Mario was no ordinary man, but a larger-than-life figure, full of sheer energy, passion and charisma. You never got a piece of Mario, you got all of him. He always gave his all. Like it or not, he didn’t hold back. Mario’s contributions to the discipline of education and history will form the core of various obituaries, no doubt, and as it should be expected as he was indeed in pillar of discipline in many of our lives. Talented and brilliant, Mario revealed the complexities of institutions, practices and beliefs that emerged in Italian history about which he was so passionate. His analysis, publications and writings spanned well over a 2,000-year period, the products of a rare intellectual figure with a unique command of a long sweep of time and the Italian language. “He was emphatic to share his gift to those who wanted to learn. “Mario was a Christian, and he and his family conducted the Pompeii Church and Vintage Photo exhibit at Festa Italiana. For the Carinis, it is like a religious communion, but its leadership required creativity, a moral center, uncommon talent and impeccable integrity to detail. It was these characteristics that led to the exhibit’s huge success. We all have met many who were influenced and humbled by it. “Mario’s energy and enthusiasm for everything life had to offer was

Sister of the late Mario Carini thanks Festa volunteers

Rosemary Carini Strzelec, sister of the late Mario A. Carini, offered her thanks to all of the Festa Italiana volunteers who helped her with this year’s Pompeii Church and the Vintage Italian American Photo Exhibit. In honor and in memory of her brother, who died July 7, Rosemary assumed the duties of manager of the exhibit. Her brother Mario, a past president of the Italian Community Center and the longtime historian of the organization, had been the manager of the highly acclaimed exhibit for more than 35 years. Rosemary had always assisted him. Rosemary’s letter is printed here. To Festa volunteers: On behalf of Mario A. Carini and my sisters Annamarie Carini Quaranta and Margaret Carini, I want to thank the many dedicated and hard working volunteers who helped us this year and throughout the years with the Pompeii exhibit. My heartfelt thanks to Frank D’Amato for his efforts in the set up and staging of the statues and Chris Conley for putting up all of the photos with her group of volunteers. To Angelo Carini, who headed the take down of the exhibit, and Amanda Balistreri for the dollies and for the help she gave us. To Cosmo Carini, who was like a guardian angel, helping me any way he could. To Rosemary DeRubertis, Joanne Czubek and Betty Puccio, for the beautiful memorial they created and put on display for my brother Mario. To Gina Manning, who took many of my calls and made my life easier. To Anthony Harris and all of the Italian Conference Center staff who set up and took down the panels and the stages. And to T.H. Stemper Company for the statues and artwork which provided for the exhibit. At the time I decided to manage the exhibit as a memorial to my brother, we had no volunteers signed up. But a lot of people stepped up. To them, I am forever grateful. Without the help of all of the dedicated volunteers, we would not have been able to do the exhibit. Thank you to all the volunteers from the bottom of my heart. – Rosemary Carini Strzelec

THE ITALIAN TIMES

The late Mario A. Carini, in his role as ICC Historian, played a vital role in providing crucial information on the local Italian community for the Milwaukee Public Television’s video documentary “Storia Italiana: Milwaukee.” The documentary was first broadcast in February 2015. Here, Carini is seen with the documentary’s writer/producer Maryann Lazarski in the ICC Courtyard in a picture taken in June 2014. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

infectious and inspiring. People who knew him would admire his strength, his passion, his resilience, his exuberance and his adorably audacious bold character. I happen to be one of those who will remember these gifts he bestowed upon all of us. I always knew him as someone who could do anything positive, creative and beautiful. He was one of the driving forces behind me getting my Italian citizenship. He was fiercely proud of his heritage and

he would tell vivid stories of his childhood and Italy in colorful, folkloric detail, I salute his immortal spirit and know that though he is with God now, his life force will be here on Earth with us forever.” Carini is survived by his sisters Margaret Carini, Annamarie Quaranta and Rosemary Strzelec as well as other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Betsy Hallett.

Having dinner for up to 300 guests?

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 Kim Marie at 414/ 223-2800 to reserve your party or meeting space at the ICC. Visit: www.ItalianConference.com

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 9

MPTV documentary ‘Storia Italiana Milwaukee’ wins Telly Award

The Milwaukee Public Television documentary “Storia Italiana Milwaukee” has received its first official TV award. The program, written and produced by Maryann Lazarski, recently received a Silver Telly Award, the highest honor in this competition, recognizing outstanding local, regional and cable TV productions from around the world. This year, the competition received over 12,000 entries from all 50 states and many foreign countries. “This award is for Milwaukee’s Italian community,” Lazarski said.

“It honors the courage and faith of all the immigrants and their families, and those who follow.” Lazarski thanked the Italian Community Center and all who helped to make the production such a success. “I’d especially like to remember the late Mario Carini whose knowledge of Italian/Sicilian history was unsurpassed. His intense passion for his own beloved Italian heritage will never be forgotten.” Lazarski was joined in the production of “Storia Italiana Milwaukee” by associate producer Jeff Janca, videographer, and edi-

A limited number of DVDs of the Milwaukee Public Television (MPTV) documentary “Storia Italiana Milwaukee” are available for purchase at the Italian Community Center. The cost is $15. The DVD must be purchased in person at the office reception desk. Since only a limited number are available, orders cannot be accept-

ed by phone or mail. The one-hour documentary “Storia Italiana Milwaukee” was broadcast in late February on Channel 10 as part of the national Public Broadcasting System’s series special “Italian Americans.” The premiere screening of “Storia Italiana Milwaukee” was shown at the ICC on Feb. 4 before a capacity audience.

tor Darin Malkowski. “Storia Italiana Milwaukee” had premiered at a special showing at the ICC on Feb. 4. It had its televi-

sion premiere on MPTV later that February as part of the national Public Television Service documentary “The Italian Americans.”

DVDs of MPTV documentary on Milwaukee’s Italians available at ICC

MaryAnn Lazarski, producer/director of the MPTV documentary “Storia Italiana Milwaukee”, is seen in the center holding the Silver Telly Award won recently for the project. Alongside her are Gina Manning and Anthony T. Machi, two of the individuals who were interviewed and appeared in the documentary. Manning spoke about her mother’s immigration experience and arrival in Milwaukee. Machi, who, with his brother, Leonard, explained what it was like to grow up in Milwaukee’s old Third Ward, where many of the city’s Italian immigrants first settled. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Calendar of Events August 25 – September 30, 2015

Tuesday, Aug. 25 • Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO Board meeting, 6 p.m. • Courtyard Music Series: Tuesday Bluesday featuring Jim Liban with Third Coast Blues Collective, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 26 • Courtyard Music Series featuring rock, pop, R&B, country Las Vegasstyle with the Tom Anthony Group, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 27 • Courtyard Music Series: Rock and Roll featuring Hat Trick, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 28 • Abruzzese Society Social, 6 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 31 • Courtyard Music Series: Hot Jazz featuring Janet Planet Group, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1 • Courtyard Music Series: Tuesday Bluesday featuring Greg Koch with Leroy Airmaster, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2 • Pompeii Women’s Club Board meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 3 • Courtyard Music Series: Rock and Roll featuring Doo-Wop Daddies, 6:30 p.m. Reservations are definitely recommended.

Tuesday, Sept. 8 • Fall semester of Italian II class begins, 6 p.m. Details in this issue. • Courtyard Music Series: Tuesday Bluesday featuring Rockin’ Johnny, 6:30 p.m. • Italian Community Center Finance Committee meeting, 6:30 p.m. • Abruzzese Society meeting and spuntino, 7 p.m. • Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National meeting, 7 p.m. • Fall semester of Italian I class begins, 7:30 p.m. Details in this issue.

Thursday, Sept. 10 • Courtyard Music Series: Rock and Roll featuring Bob Hirschi & Groove Therapy, 6:30 p.m. • Italian Community Center Board meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 11 • Italian Community Center’s 2nd annual Casino Night, 7 p.m. Details in this issue. Saturday, Sept. 12 • Fall semester of free Children’s Italian class begins, 2 p.m. Details in this issue. Tuesday, Sept. 15 • Italian Community Center Culture Committee meeting, 6 p.m.

PAGE 10 – SEPTEMBER 2015

• Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO general meeting, 6 p.m. • Courtyard Music Series: Tuesday Bluesday featuring Reverend Raven & The Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16 • Order Sons of Italy in America/Filippo Mazzei Lodge Board meeting, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 17 • Italian Community Center membership dinner, 5:30 p.m. • Courtyard Music Series: Rock and Roll featuring Valerie B. and Noyz Boyz & Gyrlz, 6:30 p.m. • Italian Community Center general meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 19 • Kids Cooking Class (rescheduled from Aug. 22), 10 a.m. Details in this issue. • Italian Family History Club meeting, 10 a.m. Details in this issue. Tuesday, Sept. 22 • Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO Board meeting, 6 p.m. • Courtyard Music Series: Tuesday Bluesday featuring Jim Liban with Third Coast Blues Collective, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 24 • Ladies of UNICO Craft Fair, 5 - 9 p.m. Details in this issue. • Courtyard Music Series: Rock and Roll featuring Larry Lynne Band, 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 29 • Italian Community Center Mixology class, 6 p.m. Details in this issue. • Courtyard Music Series: Tuesday Bluesday featuring Nick Moss and Friends, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30 • Pompeii Women’s Club scholarship dinner and meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Daily and weekly classes and activities • Bocce leagues. Fall leagues get underway the week of Sept. 14. Team registration forms are available at the ICC office and from league coordinators. • ICC’s free Children’s Italian class. Each Saturday, Sept, 12 through Nov. 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. Details in this issue

• ICC’s Italian classes for teens and adults. Each Tuesday night, Sept. 8 through Nov. 10. Italian II class at 6 p.m. Italian I class at 7:30 p.m. Details in this issue.

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

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Paulis continues his reign, defeating Carlson in cannoli-eating showdown

Photo on right: In an epic battle between of competitive cannoli eating masters, Anthony Paulis (far right) of Milwaukee defeated Tom Carlson of Minnesota in the first-ever Festa Italiana Cannoli-Eating Showdown on July 18. Paulis downed eight cannoli in the four minutes allotted and Carten ate seven. This victory makes Paulis a seven-time Festa cannolieating champion. He won his first title in 2009. In 2010, he and Carlson tied for the crown. Since 2011, Paulis has been unbeatable. Carlson has been his closest competitor. Paulis received the $100 first-place prize. Carlson was given $75. Both received a Festa cannoli-eating contest Tshirt. About the only thing the Paulis did not do this year was eclipse in his record. In 2011, he downed 10-1/4 cannoli! (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

McFarland, Wis. man wins Festa’s annual cannoli contest

Besides the cannoli-eating showdown between Anthony Paulis and Tom Carlson, Festa Italiana held its annual cannoli-eating contest. The champion was Dennis Schwedrsky of McFarland, Wis. He devoured five cannoli in four minutes. Marie Lieber, manager of the Cucina Showcase, presented Schwedrsky with his T-shirt. He also received $75 cash. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Bloomer, Wis. woman wins ‘Golden Spoon’ in Festa’s recipe contest

Festa crowns two kids’ pizza-making champs

A 5-year old from Sheboygan and a 13-year old from Milwaukee were selected as the 2015 Festa Italiana pizza-making champions on Sunday, July 19 in separate contests sponsored by Due Sorelli. The 5-year old winner was Madeline Schultz, who is seen here (on left) holding her pizza. She competed in the contest for 5-9 year old children. Steven Schilts (on right), 13, was the winner in the 10-17 year-old division. Each winner received a foodie-inspired gift bag and a Festa pizza-making competition T-shirt. Due Sorelli supplied ingredients for the competitions. Rossella Rago, Festa’s celebrity chef, served as one of the judges. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

THE ITALIAN TIMES

In June, Festa Italiana officials asked amateur cooks to submit their favorite recipe for an appetizer dish for a chance to win the “Golden Spoon” in the second annual “Chef’s Choice Recipe Contest”. From among all of the people who submitted recipes, five individuals were selected to participate in the contest on July 19 at the Cucina Showcase. The individuals made their appetizer recipe before a live audience. A panel of judges selected the contest champ based on taste, appearance and ease of preparation of his/her recipe. After all was said and done, a recipe for prosciutto tarts, made by Karen Barlow of Bloomer, Wis., was selected as the winner. Barlow (right) was awarded the “Golden Spoon” by Marie Lieber, Cucina Showcase Manager. Barlow also received food-related items from the sponsors of the Cucina Showcase. The runner-up in the contest were Mari Cucunato with a fig recipe. Both Barlow’s and Cucunato’s recipes can be found on Festa’s website: http://festaitaliana.com. The judging panel included Marilyn Mee, WKLH deejay, Lori Fredrich, an OnMilwaukee.com writer, Rossella Rago, Festa’s celebrity chef, and Sarah Shumaker of Red Gold, a Cucina Showcase sponsor. (Times photo by Tim Townsend)

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 11

Young Money regains Festa bocce championship

Giovanna Joy Greco wins Festa’s ‘Italian Idol’ contest

The 38th annual Festa Italiana bocce championship was won by Young Money, a Milwaukee team, which previously captured the title in 2012. Young Money defeated Da Stugots, 12-9, in this year’s title match. The players on Young Money (from the left) Justin Mudlaff, Zach Martens, Josh Martens and Jared Norgal received the first-place trophy and $500 cash to split. Da Stugots players were given the second place trophy and $300 cash. The third place trophy and $200 cash went to Liberto’s Stallions. The tournament was sponsored by C.W. Purpero, Inc., an excavating and general contracting company. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Festa Italiana’s 8th annual “Italian Idol” singing contest was won by Giovanna Joy Greco of Milwaukee, who performed Adele’s smash hit “Rolling in the Deep.” She received a $500 cash prize. Greco is flanked by the two other prize winners. On the far right, is second prize winner Thomas Mazza of Oak Creek, who won $300 cash. Anthony Thomas (left), third prize-winner, received $200 cash. Eight contestants competed in the Sunday finals. The winners were chosen by a panel that included Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Carl Ashby, Kathy Bach, Jackie Pinkus, Michele Green and Jeff Green. The presenting sponsor of Italian Idol is WFA Asset Management Corporation, Nick Enea, President. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Gondoliers kept busy during Festa weekend

Gondoliers Tony Emmitti, Patrick Longo and Sal Galioto took a welldeserved but short break on the steamy Saturday night of Festa Italiana. The goal of this photographer was to get all the gondoliers together in one photo, but that was impossible because of the brisk business. This year, Festa had five hard-working gondoliers on-duty to steer four gondolas. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Gondoliers and brothers – Jonathan and Anthony – flank Bill Jennaro, the Admiral of Festa’s gondola fleet. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

PAGE 12 – SEPTEMBER 2015

Julia, Lena and Josh Gimbel settled in for a relaxing gondola ride at Festa in the Summerfest lagoon. Their gondolier was Patrick Lonzo. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

The ICC’s 2015 Re and Regina (King and Queen) Joe and Ann Zambito waved to viewers watching the Festa Italiana parade from the comforts of a red Ferrari, provided by Reina International Auto of Brookfield. The Zambitos were crowned the King and Queen at Carnevale this past Valentine’s Day. The Italian Times learned that the Ferrari was sold by Reina after Festa to an individual who fell in love with it while watching the parade! (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Entertaining Festa’s guests

The Bronx Wanderers continue to be a huge draw at Festa Italiana, performing the biggest radio hits of the

last 60 years. Here, Yo Vinny and his son, Vinny The Kid, are performing. (Times photo by Tim Townsend)

Stayin’ Alive: The World’s No. 1 Tribute to the Bee Gees performed at Festa Italiana Miller Lite Stage on Sunday, July 19. Here’s Tony Mattina, who handles the vocals sung by Barry Gibbs in the original Bee Gees. The tribute band performed all the Bee Gees hits, from their pop singles of the 1960s to their disco smash hits of the ‘70s and other musical material. (Times photo by Tim Townsend)

Rossella Rago, host of the online cooking show, “Cooking with Nonna,” was the celebrity chef at Festa 2015. Here, she is preparing a no-bake mascarpone lemon tart. She also demonstrated her recipe for fettuccine with sausage and mascarpone. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

The Festa Regional Dancers performed with the replica of Michelangelo’s David in the background. (Times photo by Paul Inzeo)

THE ITALIAN TIMES

USO of Wisconsin, which serves active military and their families who reside or transit in Wisconsin, operated a booth at Festa for accepting donations. Active military members helped volunteers staff the booth. Seen here are U.S. Sergeant Sean McManus, volunteer Heidie Heise and Army Staff Sergeant John Meeks. Two ICC members Joe Campagna, Jr. (a past president) and Tom Balistreri serve on the USO of Wisconsin Board of Directors. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

He might be only 15 months old, but Dominic DeSanctis appeared ready to perform with the Children’s Italian Dance Group at Festa Italiana. His family has a long history of performing Italian dance. His parents are Mark and Ashley DeSanctis. Mark is the dance director of Tradizione Vivente, the Italian Dance Group of Milwaukee. Ashley and Dominic’s aunt, Susie Christiansen, oversee the Children’s Italian Dance Group. Dominic’s grandfather, the late Mario DeSanctis, served as Tradizione Vivente’s dance director for more than 25 years. Aunts Linda DeSanctis and Lisa DeSanctis Songstad also perform with Tradizione Vivente. (Photo provided by Mark DeSanctis)

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 13

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 T. Guardalabene – as well as all those who made donations for the religious celebration on Sunday, July 19. This year, a total of $3,520 in donations was received. “Everyone on our committee appreciates and values the tremendous support of our sponsors and our donors,” said Sister Marie Louise Balistreri and Sal LoCoco, committee co-chairs. “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 associated with the Mass. • Sam Purpero • Anthony and Barbara Lupo • Joseph and Anna Zambito • Joseph and Santa D’Amato • Fr. Domenic Roscioli • Thomas and Barbara Balistreri • Thomas J. Spera • Pompeii Men’s Club • Gordon and Bernice Boucher • Mary G. Winard • Frank and Maria Zingale • Patrick and Therese Ciofani • Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO • Ryan and Fran Blaubach • Rose Spang

• John and Jean DiMotto • St. Camillus • Società Maschile Maria S.S. Del Lume • St. Theresa Society These memorial donations were made in memory of the following individuals. • Robert Bartelt, in memory of Irvin and Mabel Bartelt and Hattie Kuether. • Joseph and Christina Ziino, in memory of Joseph Ziino, Sr. • Lucretia Lo Coco, in memory of Vincent Lo Coco. • Lucretia Lo Coco, in memory of Domenic and Marion Carini. • Sal and Antonette Lo Coco, in memory of Joseph and Maria Lo Coco. • John Tarantino, in memory of Angelina Tarantino. • Caputo Family in memory of Cono Caputo. • Raymond and Carol Martinez, in memory of Joseph and Sarah Martinez. • Robert and Rose Jennaro, in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Ted Maniaci. • Joseph and Jane Leto, in memory of Vincent and Josie Leto. • Vincenzo and Vivian Balistreri, in memory of Gaetano Vicini. Donations are welcome for the 2016 Festa Mass and can be sent to the ICC, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202. Please indicate that the donation is for the Mass on the memo line.

Fr. Domenic Roscioli of Kenosha delivered the homily at the 2015 Festa Italiana Mass. Fr. Dom, as he is known to many, spoke about the importance of each of the Rosary beads and the link between each bead. (Times photo by Tim Townsend)

On the right: Sr. Maria and Sr. Ann Catherine of the Sisters of Charity of St. Joan Antida served as gift bearers at the Festa Italiana Mass. The gifts were presented to Deacon John Mezydio (far left) of St. Bruno Parish, Dousman, and Fr. Domenic Roscioli. “Fr. Dom” of Kenosha served as the main celebrant of the Mass. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Festa Mass food drive aids Hunger Task Force

Anna Maria Vicini-Daney, a longtime member of the Festa Mass & Procession Committee, led the First Communicants to their seats at the start of the Mass. (Times photo by Tim Townsend)

PAGE 14 – SEPTEMBER 2015

A food drive, held in conjunction with the Festa Italiana Mass on July 19, yielded donations of 6,000 pounds of non-perishable items and $630 cash. The food drive benefited the Hunger Task Force, which works to prevent hunger and malnutrition in Milwaukee by providing food to people in need and promoting policies to achieve a hunger free community. In a letter to the Festa Mass Committee, Sherrie Tussler, executive director of the Hunger Task Force, said, “We were thrilled to partner with Festa Italiana again

this year to help put food on the tables of fellow Milwaukeeans in need. Large food drives like this are important – not only because of the enormous amount of food we collect – but because they spread the word about the issue of hunger in our community. This terrific event did both and will bring us closer to our Fests Feed Milwaukee goal of 160,000 pounds of food.” The “Fests Feed Milwaukee” campaign started in June and involves a partnership between Summerfest, the lakefront ethnic festivals and the Hunger Task Force.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Many thanks to all the religious participants from the Festa Mass and Procession Committee

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 19. We celebrated with Fr. Domenic Roscioli. Many of the religious have faithfully accepted the committee’s invita-

tion 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. Priests Our principal celebrant, Fr. Domenic Roscioli; The Very Reverend Timothy Kitzke; Fr. Mike

Hammer, Catholic AIDS Ministry; Rev. Alan Jurkus, retired; Rev. Edward Griesemer, Priests of the Sacred Heart, Franklin; Rev. Glen Powers, St. Francis Seminary; Fr. Richard O’Donnell, MI, St. Camillus; Fr. Fred Brenk, S.J. Arrupe House Jesuit Community; Rev. John Paczesny, retired; Fr. Ed Zemlik, SCJ Sacred Heart Monastary; Fr. Michael Maher, and Brother Mario Crivello, St. Camillus.

Deacons William Banach, Basilica of St. Josaphat; Mark Jansen, Holy Angels, West Bend; Borkowski, St. Jude Don Milwaukee; Mike Bowen; John Champagne, St. Benedict, Milwaukee; Tom Filipiak, St. Bruno, Dousman; Mike Finley, St. Anthony on the Lake, Pewaukee; Gary Nosecek, SS. Peter and Paul Milwaukee; Chuck Schneider; and Leon Zalewski, St. Stephen, Milwaukee. Servers Tony Crivello and Salvatore Vella.

Lucca, Italy holds ‘Luminara di Santa Croce’ on Sept. 13

Luminara di Santa Croce (Illuminations of the Holy Cross) is a beautiful procession in Lucca (Tuscany region), Italy, on Sept. 13. The city is illuminated with thousands of candles at night as the procession goes through Lucca’s historic center.

La Società di San Giuseppe participated in the Sunday procession with its marching band and with its members carrying the St. Joseph vada. A total of twenty-four societies and organizations participated in the procession. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

This famous Tuscan festival is a devotional procession in which the Volto Santo or Holy Face, a wooden crucifix, is carried along the streets of the old town center from the Churchof San Frediano to the Cathedral of San Martino, illuminated by thousands of small candles. Workmen spend all of the previous day putting the candles in place so that the entire centre of Lucca is beautifully illuminated on the evening of the feast.

For your Wedding R ecep ti on 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 Kim Marie for available dates and a tour.

The members of Società Maschile Maria S.S. Del Lume dutifully carried their vada in the Festa procession. (Times photo by Tom Hemman

THE ITALIAN TIMES

(414) 223-2800

www.italianconference.com SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 15

Sandy and Linda Gottwald looked at the posters, photos and movie memorabilia on the panels in the Cinema Exhibit. Linda, from Travers City, Mich., was visiting her sister during the weekend of Festa Italiana. (Times photo by Tom Hemman) Times photos by Tom Hemman

Cindy Bruno of Kankakee, Ill. viewed the photos displayed in the “Seven Wonders of Ancient Rome” in the Regional Exhibit at Festa Italiana. This year, Festa saluted Italy’s Lazio region where The Eternal City is located. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

While most of Festa’s volunteers live in the Milwaukee area, some come from great distances to offer their services. One such volunteer this year was Joe Sorrenti of Las Vegas, seen here, with his sister Fran Tollefson (left) and Christina Ziino. Fran and Christina served as co-managers of the exhibit. Joe helped out in various areas, including as a seller of calia and semenza. (Times photo by Tom Hemman) Valorie (Sanfilippo) Schleicher and Peter Gustin, Sr. were two of the artisans who participated in the Fine Art Exhibit. Schleicher, longtime exhibit manager, brought her award-winning Strong Woman sculptures and photographic series to Festa. Some of her photos are hanging behind her. Gustin brought to Festa the unique furniture and pieces of art he and his son crafted from recycled urban lumber. The floral basket between Schleicher and Gustin is one of those works. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Members of the Italian Family History Club were assisted by members of the Milwaukee County Historical Society in operating the genealogy information section of Festa’s regional exhibit. The volunteers seen here are (from the left): George Koleas, Diane Piedt, Giovanni Wright, Wilson Wright, Bonnie Dompke and Rose Boggs. All except for Dompke are members of the Milwaukee County Historical Society. Koleas is also in charge of the Italian Family History Club, which meets four times a year at the ICC. This year, Lazio was the featured region of Italy

PAGE 16 – SEPTEMBER 2015

Festa partners with Lombardi Cancer Foundation

Lisa Burich and Richard Parkhurst served as volunteers at the Vince Lombardi Sports Auction & Lounge at Festa Italiana and presented by Annex Wealth Management. Inside the lounge, guests were able to browse unique historic and authentic autographed memorabilia provided by Legends of the Field, enjoy Peroni beer and learn about legendary Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi, his Italian heritage, connection to the community and about the Lombardi Cancer Foundation. Limited edition Festa/Lombardi T-shirts were available to purchase benefiting the foundation. Auctions of sports memorabilia were held all three days of Festa.

THE ITALIAN TIMES

A replica of Rome’s famous Trevi Fountain was the first attraction visitors who entered from the mid gate saw when they came to Festa Italiana. The replica, a creation of Giovanni Bucci of Buccio Studios International, is just 15 feet smaller than the original. At Festa, this replica proved to be a

great place for people to take pictures, whether with a camera (like this one was) or a digital device. Here, our photographer caught Laurel Schneider and Jan Cascio at the fountain. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

Anne Wasileski of St. Louis, Mo. and her daughter, Sharon Wasileski of Appleton, Wis., viewed the Madonna del Lume statue grouping in the Pompeii Church exhibit. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Some 1,750 vintage Italian American photos from the Italian Community Center, acquired through the efforts of the late Mario A. Carini, the organization’s historian, were displayed in the Pompeii Church and Vintage Photo Exhibit. Gabe Ceci, Katrina Ceci and Kara Reyes are seen here viewing some of the photos. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

THE ITALIAN TIMES

A new attraction, a replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, was set up on the south end of Festa Italiana. ICC President/Festa General Chair Giuseppe Vella (left) and Tom Lupo wrapped the canvas around the structure before the opening of the festival.

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 17

Hand-crafted items of all sorts were available at a booth operated by members of the Francesco Militello family. Mark Militello was tending the booth when this picture was taken. Francesco, a volunteer on Festa’s setup crew, is well-known for wood creations, ranging from miniature Sicilian carts to a replicas of Milwaukee fabled Our Lady of Pompeii Church. The booth offered many other items including hand-sewn household items made by the family’s relatives who reside in Santo Stefano Quisquina (Sicily), Italy. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Four generations of the Ceraso family have been actively involved in Festa Italiana. Representatives of each generation are seen here. Front row (l to r): Liz Ceraso, Bea Ceraso and Jenna Alioto. Standing: Elise Fritchie, Rose Anne Fritchie, Mary Anne Alioto and Sam Alioto. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

This year, the Verdi Sport Club operated the Italian sausage booth on the south end of the grounds. Here are several of the Verdi Club volunteers grilling the sausage. From the left: Sal Lo Coco, Mario Carini, John Zizzo, Tony Lo Coco and Jose Rivera. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Joe Reina of Gelateria Italiana was interviewed by CBS 58 anchor/reporter Priscilla Luong on the opening day of Festa Italiana. With the hot weather, Reina’s gelato booth was one of the busiest on the grounds. Reina and his wife, Mary, have been in the gelato business for more than 15 years. (Times photo by Paul Inzeo)

Eight year-old Taylor Swenson seemed to enjoy her pasta during her visit to Festa. On the left is her friend Madison Lind, 11. (Times photo by Paul Inzeo)

PAGE 18 – SEPTEMBER 2015

Fall bocce leagues to begin week of Sept. 14

Competition in the Italian Community Center’s fall bocce leagues will get underway the week of Sept. 14. Teams in the senior citizens leagues play on either Tuesday or Thursday afternoon. Teams in mixed couples leagues compete on either Monday or Wednesday night. Teams in each league play once a week over an eight-week period. If you’re interested in registering a team to play in a fall league, here are a few things you need to know. There are two sets of registration fees – one for those who are not members of the ICC and one for those who are ICC members. The non-member registration fee is $40 per person per league season. A discounted registration fee of $30 per person per league season is offered to an ICC member. Each team must consist of least four players, with one player designated as team captain. Each league is interested in having eight teams, which allows every team to compete each week of the season. Team registration forms are available from the league coordinators: Dan Conley (Monday night), Anthony Gazzana (Tuesday afternoon), Tony Tarantino (Wednesday night) and Anna Pitzo (Thursday afternoon). The forms can also be

obtained by contacting the ICC office at 414/223-2180. The forms must be submitted with full payment for all players by Wednesday, Sept. 9. The fall championship playoffs will take place on Monday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.

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

Half Price on All Bottled Beers and Rail Drinks!!!

THE ITALIAN TIMES

UWM Libraries Archives launches ‘Italians in Milwaukee Oral History Project’ digital collection Includes interviews of local Italians conducted at ICC in 1991

In 1991, Lawrence Baldassaro, Professor Emeritus of Italian at the University of WisconsinMilwaukee, and Diane Vecchio, Professor of History at Furman University, conducted oral interviews with local Italian Americans addressing their lives in Milwaukee. These interviews, recorded on audiocassette, were conducted at the Italian Community Center. Today, interested individuals can hear these interviews in digital quality. Archives of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Libraries recently completed

the digitalization of the collection of these tapes and transcripts, which are now online at uwm.edu/italianmke. Excerpts from select interviews can be found on Soundcloud, at soundcloud.com/uwmarchives. The digitized collection contains 20 interviews with early Italian immigrants to Milwaukee and children of early Italian immigrants. These interviews paint a vivid picture of Italian life in Milwaukee from the 1900s to the 1950s. They address Italian traditions, the community and character of the

old Italian Third Ward in Milwaukee, Depression-era immigrant employment, and Italian American homemaking and lifestyles. “The interviews capture fascinating and unique memories, including narratives of growing up in Milwaukee, mouth-watering descriptions of food, harrowing accounts of trips to America, and heart-warming recollections of the Italian community’s businesses and characters,” said Charles Hosale, A/V Project Archivist, UWM Archives. The local Italian Americans

interviewed in 1991 for this project were: Anthony T. Machi (the first president of the ICC), Anthony Guardalabene, Antoinette Carini, Gaetanina Balistreri, Catherine M. Balistrieri, Giuseppe Balistrieri, Anthony DiCristio, Elise M. Falbo, Grace M. Falbo, Josephine Rampolla, LeRoy Bertoncini, Mary Ann SarsfiedKoerner, Osvaldo “Oswald Ozzie” Natarelli, Philip Firmano, Rose Carini, Rudy Bertolas, Sam Purpero, Thomas J. Busalacchi, Tony Seidita and Vincent Emanuele.

Free children’s Italian class to begin Sept. 12 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. 12, 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. 14. 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 the 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 enricaw@aol.com.

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

The 2016 meeting and social event schedules of all societies, clubs and organizations that regularly use the Italian Community Center for their activities are needed by the Italian Conference Center’s Sales and Catering Department and The Italian Times. David Stachowiak, Director of Sales, Catering & Special Events, and Kim Marie Fasciano, Sales & Catering Assistant, need these schedules to guarantee dates and hall/room availability.

Tom Hemman, Times editor, needs the information to provide an accurate reporting of events in the calendar published in each issue of this newspaper. All groups are asked to submit their schedules including the starting time of all events as soon as possible. The goal is to have the schedules from all societies, clubs and organizations by Nov. 30.

Please submit schedules by using any one of these methods: • Send an email to Tom Hemman at this address: themman@italiancc.org or to David Stachowiak at this address: dstachowiak@italianconference.com. • Fax the information to either The Italian Times or the Italian Conference Center Sales and Catering Department at 414/2232187. • Drop off the schedules in person at the ICC. Groups that don’t comply with

THE ITALIAN TIMES

this request may find it more difficult at a later time to get the accommodations they most desire. “We always try our best to accommodate all requests, but if we can reserve dates and rooms early, it’s to everyone’s advantage,” Stachowiak said. Added Hemman, “If we don’t have the schedule of events for your organization with the starting time of each event, it impossible to prepare an accurate calendar listing for the newspaper. We depend on the presidents or the designated representatives of the many organizations to supply this information.”

Deadline set for October issue of The Italian Times

All advertising copy, news stories and photos for publication in the September 2015 issue of The Italian Times must be submitted to the editor no later than Friday, Sept. 7.

All materials can be emailed to editor Tom Hemman at themman@italiancc.org, sent to The Italian Times, 631 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202. For further information, call 414223-2189.

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 classes being offered for adults and teens starting Sept. 8 at ICC

This fall, the Italian Community Center will offer an introductory class (Italian I) as well as an Italian II class, both starting Tuesday, Sept. 8. Both courses will be held on 10 consecutive Tuesday nights, with the final classes on Nov. 10. 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 7:30 to 9:15 p.m. The Italian II course will begin at 6 p.m. and end at 7:15 p.m. “Italian II is ideal for those who have completed our introductory course and are ready to learn more about the language and culture of

Italy,” 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. The Italian III 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. 8 classes if the enrollment limit has not been reached. People can also stop in at the ICC office, fill out the registration form and make their payment.

Registration form for Italian I course & Italian II course

Name(s) ___________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________________________

Phone No. ___________________Email _________________________________ I am (we are) enrolling in:

Italian I course Number of persons enrolling.

Italian II 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.

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 19

The beat goes on

ICC’s free Courtyard Music Series continues through September

By Thomas Hemman Times Editor You still have several chances to listen and dance to some of the Milwaukee area’s finest musical acts as the 15th season of the Italian Community Center’s Courtyard Music Series continues through September. The shows are offered without a cover charge and with no drink minimum. The only major change will come in September when the series are reduced from four nights a week to two, and, when chilly nighttime temperatures are forecasted, the shows are brought indoors to the Festa Ballroom. The series completes its Monday through Thursday night run, Aug. 24-27. The following week, shows will be presented Monday, Aug. 31, Tuesday, Sept. 1 and Thursday, Sept. 3. Afterward, they will be offered on Tuesday and Thursday nights only through Sept. 29. All shows start at 6:30 p.m. and end around 9 p.m. The staff of Cafe La Scala offers food and drink service from 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended for every show as many reach capacity crowds. Call 414-223-2185 to make reservations. Here is the schedule from Aug. 25 (when this issue came out) through the end of the season. • Tuesday, Aug. 25 – Jim Liban with Third Coast Blues Collective (Blues) • Wednesday, Aug. 26 – Tom Anthony Group. (Variety) • Thursday, Aug. 27 – Hat Trick. (Rock and Roll) • Monday, Aug. 31 – Janet Planet Group. (Jazz) • Tuesday, Sept. 1 – Greg Koch with Leroy Airmaster. (Blues) • Thursday, Sept. 3 – Doo-Wop Daddies. (Rock and Roll) • Tuesday, Sept. 8 – Rockin’ Johnny. (Blues) • Thursday, Sept. 10 – Bob Hirschi & Groove Therapy. (Rock and Roll) • Tuesday, Sept. 15 – Reverend Raven & The Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys. (Blues) • Thursday, Sept. 17 – Valerie B. and Noyz Boyz & Gyrlz. (Rock and Roll) • Tuesday, Sept. 22 – Jim Liban with Third Coast Blues Collective. (Blues) • Thursday, Sept. 24 – Larry Lynne Band. (Rock and Roll) • Tuesday, Sept. 29 – Nick Moss and Friends. (Blues)

Get to know the acts Chanel Le Meaux & Dapper Cads. Chanel LeMeaux’s repertoire spans from sultry standards to soulful, old school R&B and Motown, to contemporary wailers including Adele and Imelda May. Aside from being touted as “Milwaukee’s top torch singer,” Chanel has been dubbed “the white Aretha” in her salute to the Queen of Soul (Aretha Franklin). The Dapper Cads give a nod to old school style, sporting fedoras and other distinctive menswear. Jim Liban with Third Coast Blues Collective. This past October, Liban was recognized for his five decades as “Milwaukee’s blues harmonica master.” On Aug. 25, he teams up with Third Coast Blues Collective, led by bassist Kurt Koenig. The rest of the group

PAGE 20 – SEPTEMBER 2015

Tom Anthony

Janet Planet

Hat Trick

Doo-Wop Daddies

includes Matt Liban (drums) and Joel Patterson (guitar) and/or Roger Brotherhood (guitar). Tom Anthony Group. Tom Anthony presents a “Las Vegasstyle” show, featuring the best of good-time rock and roll, pop and country. The variety of songs sung by Tom Anthony, backed by the expert musicianship of Tom Sorce (guitar), Brian Ford (drums), Jim Sodke (keyboards), Mike Hetzel (piano) and Larry Tresp (bass) results in a stellar “best of” series of popular music from the 1950s to today. This reporter can testify that dancers love the Tom Anthony Group. The group remains one of the area’s busiest summertime acts, performing at numerous church festivals, Courtyard Music Series, and recently completed a 10 consecutive day stint at the Wisconsin State Fair. Hat Trick. Formed initially in 1990 from jam sessions at a small restaurant in Wauwatosa, Hat Trick emerged into a “Cajun” rock and zydeco band. After 25 years, the band has gone through different personnel but is still rocking and rolling. The current lineup includes two of the founders, Larry Kubyiak (bass) and Mark Cooper (lead guitar). They are joined by Steve Kohrs (keyboards) and Bruce Cole (drums). Enjoy some summer/beach music, which was added to the group’s eclectic collection of tunes in 2013. Janet Planet Group. The spirited and vivacious Janet Planet has been self-produced and managed for the majority of her career. A native of Wisconsin’s Fox Valley, Janet has been a productive recording artist, performer, teacher and clinician. Her concert schedule takes her to performance halls, universities, jazz festivals and clubs across the U.S.A. and internationally. In April 2014, she was inducted into the Wisconsin Area Music Industry Hall of Fame, becoming just the second female artist to receive this prestigious honor. Planet has performed with legends such as Jackie and Roy, George Benson, and her mentor Nancy King, and shared the stage with many other accomplished jazz artists including Ellis Marsalis, John Harmon, Gene Bertoncini, and Marian McPartland. Greg Koch with Leroy Airmaster. Guitar master Greg Koch joins the mighty Leroy Airmaster for an extra special night of blues. Koch has moved beyond mere local hero status in the upper Midwest and has become an internationally renowned guitarist, session ace, top-selling guitar instructional book and DVD star, magazine columnist, radio personality, comedian and indemand worldwide guitar clinician for Fender Musical Instruments and Hal Leonard Publishing. In the 1980s, Leroy Airmaster was the dominant blues band in a vibrant live blues music scene in southeastern Wisconsin. The group performed constantly, and released four well-received recordings and won numerous WAMI awards for best blues group. The members of the most popular version of the group reformed in 2010, and conContinued on page 21

THE ITALIAN TIMES

ICC’s free Courtyard Music Series continues through September

from page 12 tinue to perform their unique blend of blues, jazz and rock music. Not content to rehash classic blues licks, Steve Cohen (harmonica) and Bill Stone’s (guitar) solo styles rely heavily on a jazz approach, but never lose the gutsy blues framework that made the band so popular. Doo-Wop Daddies. One of Milwaukee’s longest running rock and roll show bands – the Doo-Wop Daddies – comes 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 doowop 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 theatrical show that remains faithful to the doo-wop style. Rockin’ Johnny. The Rockin’ Johnny Band has been one of Chicago’s most loved blues bands since 1995. Their music has been played on WXRT’s “Local Anesthetic” and “Blues Breakers” radio shows. The band has often been featured at The Chicago Blues Festival, and they regularly work in Chicagoland’s best blues clubs such as Buddy Guy’s Legends. Their CDs and live performances have drawn great reviews in Living Blues, The Chicago Sun Times, Pioneer Press, and National Public Radio’s “848”. Guitarist Johnny Burgin came to Chicago from South Carolina to attend the University of Chicago, and earned the name “Rockin’ Johnny” as a DJ at the college radio station WHPK. Rockin’ Johnny began playing in the ghetto clubs of Chicago’s West Side with blues singer Taildragger, and then began touring nationally as a sideman with former Howlin’ Wolf drummer Sam Lay and blues piano legend Pinetop Perkins. After learning from the masters, he put his own band together. Bob Hirschi & Groove Therapy. This band presents one of southeastern Wisconsin’s hottest horn shows. The band covers the best in rock, soul, R&B, pop and more in the style of the classic horn bands, from Chicago and Blood, Sweat & Tears to Sinatra, Billy Joel and Stevie Wonder. Hirschi was one of the original vocalists in the Oldies But Goodies Spectacular. Reverend Raven & The Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys. The group has been bringing crowds to their feet at the hardest to please and sophisticated night clubs in the Midwest for many years. The band plays traditional blues straight up with a big dose of passion. With smoking grooves, served up with hot harmonica and smooth stinging guitar, they play original songs peppered with nods to Slim Harpo, Little Walter, Jimmy Rogers, Billy Boy Arnold, Junior Wells and the three Kings of blues. The group has been touring throughout the Midwest this summer. Valerie B. and the Noyz Boyz & Gyrlz. This is a 10 piece horn

THE ITALIAN TIMES

band performing rockin’ rhythm & blues hits from the late 50’s to today’s top hits. Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen, Ray Charles, The Temptations, Pat Benatar, Joe Cocker, The Supremes, Amy Winehouse, “Chicago” and Santana are just some of the hit performers the band covers. They have 100’s of charts to choose from to fill your musical needs. This band is very versatile, and can even play the classic pop hits (Frank Sinatra, Count Basie etc.) and Latin/Salsa charts. The band’s motto is: “You like to dance.....We love to play.....Perfect!” Larry Lynne Band. Closing out the Thursday night portion of the Courtyard Music Series will be Milwaukee’s “Godfather of Rock and Roll,” Larry Lynne and his band. The band promises 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. The Larry Lynne Band has been together since 2009. In the 1960s Larry Lynne was the leader of The Skunks, a local band, that released the song “Elvira” in 1965, long before the Oak Ridge Boys made it a #1 hit. The Skunks followed up with the singles “I Recommend Her,” which made Billboard’s Hot 100, “Little Angels” and “Doin’ Nothing,” which were regional hits. For more information on the band, visit www.larrylynne.com. Nick Moss and Friends. Here’s a brief description of this band: “Distinct, honest, and intense – a blend of traditional blues and progressive, jam-oriented blues rock – that’s Nick Moss and his band. Moss delivers face-melting guitar solos that rise above the crowded field of pretenders, and a versatile band that brilliantly delivers unparalleled improvisational jams to packed houses night after night, city after city.” Nick Moss and his band have been featured performers at blues festivals across the globe but it’s at home in Chicago – the capital city of the blues – where he and his band get the ultimate stamp of approval

from one Hall of Famer and blues icon Buddy Guy. Music fans the world over come to his famous club where they’ll often find Moss playing that prestigious stage, booked by the icon himself because “Nick is a favorite at my club, Legends. He always works hard to please the audience.”

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.

In memory of Mary I. Stiglitz Tom and Rose Zingale Sal and Donna Agnello

Five-star season Joe Campagna, Jr., coordinator of the Courtyard Music Series, said he has numerous complimentary remarks about the acts that have performed this season. “One regular attendee told me that he would rate it five stars. It doesn’t get any better than that,” he said. Campagna expects the

September lineup to continue to attract good crowds. “We are already predicting a standingroom-only crowd for the Doo-Wop Daddies and Reverend Raven,” he said. “The Chicago blues bands should bring some first-time attendees to the ICC.” Campagna saluted Tom Sorce for “a tremendous job in booking the vast majority of the acts.” Sorce has been a producer of quality music for over 40 years and a versatile guitarist who performs solo and with several local bands including his own band. He also complimented the staff of Cafe La Scala for “doing a great job of keeping our attendees wellfed and their thirsts quenched.”

Nick Moss and Friends

Thanks for your donations to the Italian Community Center building fund

To obtain information on how to make a donation, please call 414223-2808. The following donations were received between June 9 and August 7, 2015.

In memory of Jeannette Luckey Gordon and Bernice Boucher In memory of Robert Schlotthauer Carmen Schlotthauer

In memory of Thomas Castrovinci Carmen Schlotthauer

Larry Lynne Band

In memory of Samuel “Sam” Cicerello Anthony T. Machi

In memory of Mario A. Carini Anthony T. Machi John Coffaro Ron and Joanne Czubek Rita and Bill Jennaro Mary Winard David and Jeannie Doern Ann Romano George and Judy Menos Salvatore Mussomeli and family Gordon and Bernice Boucher Joseph and Rose Purpero Spang Dan and Christine Conley Donna Bartolone

Frank and Nina Galioto Sal and Antonette Lo Coco Lorraine Zingara Jimmy and Linda Spataro Isidore and Mary Pecoraro Mary Castrovinci Nancy Castrovinci Oberleitner Mr. and Mrs. Sam Seidita Pauline A. Cannestra Rosemary DeRubertis Rosario and Josephine Spella Anna Pitzo

In memory of Mark Allen Vinci Robert and Michele Marak

In memory of Dick Jankowski Ann Romano A donation as a birthday acknowledgment To Kim S. from an anonymous donor.

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 21

UNICO Ladies to hold fund-raising craft fair, bake sale on Sept. 24

The members of the Milwaukee Ladies of UNICO will hold a craft fair and bake sale on Thursday, Sept. 24 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Italian Community Center. The event is a fund-raiser for the organization’s scholarship fund. They invite all ICC members and the general public to attend. The event will take place in the Board Room. Catherine Kelly, Ladies of UNICO President, said the organization hopes to benefit from the crowd that will be on hand that night for the ICC’s Courtyard

Music Series. In addition to numerous handmade crafts and home-baked goods, there will be a re-gifting shop and an auction for both a Packers and a Badgers double sweaters. Only cash purchases will be accepted. There is an ATM at the ICC. The Ladies of UNICO join the Milwaukee Chapter UNICO National in presenting scholarships to deserving students of Italian descent each May. All the proceeds from the craft fair will go to the scholarship fund.

Longtime ICC member Dominic Santacroce dies at age of 88

Dominic Santacroce, a World War II veteran and longtime member of the Italian Community Center, died unexpectedly on Aug. 12 at the age of 88. Santacroce, who was born in Milwaukee and raised in the Brady Street neighborhood, attended Lincoln High School and Boys’ Tech High School. He received a degree in finance from Marquette University.

During the Second World War, he served as an 82nd Division United States Army paratrooper. He worked as an auditor at A.C. Spark Plug, Delco Engineering and

General Motors, all in Oak Creek, and later at M&I Bank. He and his wife, Alice, was married for 65 years and would have celebrated their 66th anniversary on Aug. 20. The couple lived in the Milwaukee area for about 50 years. For more than 25 years, the couple has resided outside of Wautoma in central Wisconsin. His wife said Dominic was a stamp collector, coin collector and loved the outdoors. Dominic is survived by his wife, their children, Donna, Linda, Mary, Kathy and six grandchildren, one great-grandchild, other relatives and friends.

Welcome new ICC members!

Badgers double sweater

Packers double sweater.

The following people became members of the Italian Community Center between June 6 and Aug. 7, 2015. Benvenuti! (Welcome!) Anthony Bawiec of Menomonee Falls Joseph S. Spasiano of Milwaukee Eugene Orlandini of Milwaukee Stacy Zacher of Hartland Paul Kojis of Menomonee Falls John Di Sarro of Franklin Corinne Scarpace Johnston of Milwaukee Annette Marchionni of Milwaukee

Milwaukees Italians who served in the U.S. Military during World War II – Part 4

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

Name Caputa, Salvatore Caputa, Santo Carbonari, Guido Caravello, Antonino Caravello, Joe Caravello, Peter Carchesi, Roland Carini, Lawrence Carini, Peter Carini, Vince Carino, Domenic Carrao, Anthony Carrao, Biagio Carrao, Jim Carrao, Mike Carrao, Gust Caruso, John Caruso, Sam Casagrande, Frank Casagrande, Richard Casamento, Philip Cascio, Frank Cascio, Joe Cassata, Jack

Branch Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Navy Navy Army Marines Army Navy Army Army Navy Army Army Navy Army Army Army Army Army

PAGE 22 – SEPTEMBER 2015

Address 1006 E. Kewaunee 2007 S. 14th St. 2429 S. Wentworth 411 E. Chicago 207 N. 34th St. 207 N. 34th St. 4077 N. 11th St. 228 N. Jefferson 228 N. Jefferson 2524 N. Oakland 2034 N. 26th St. 1939 W. Garfield 426 N, Jefferson 343 N. Jefferson 3354 N. Cambridge 2937 N. Maryland 1428 N. Jefferson 1428 N. Jefferson 3907 S. Lake Drive 3907 S. Lake Drive 1517 N. Jefferson 3814B W. National 3814B W. National 2019 N. Booth

Castaldo, Enzo Castiglione, Anthony Castiglione, Vince Castrovinci, Tom Cataldo, Hugo Cataldo, Joe Catanese, Albert Catanese, John Caviale, Louis, Jr. Caccato, Elio Cefalu, Joe S. Cefalu, Sam Cefalu, Sal Cefalu, Vince Ceolla, John Ceolla, Roland Cera, Mike Cendreta, Nick Carini, Joe Carini, Mike Casanve, Herbert Castagna, John Cinese, Tony Conatty(i), Larry, Jr. Cherone, Arthur Cerniglia, Anthony Cherone, Arthur Cherone, Pat Cherone, Victor Cherubini, Hugo Cherubini, Ray Chiesa, Albert Chiesa, Vito Chigi, Guy Chiotino, Guy Chirafisi, Richard Chittero, Frank

Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Navy Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Army Navy Army Army Army

3634 N. 37th St. 315 N. Jefferson 315 N. Jefferson 925 E. Pleasant 1664 N. Marshall 1664 N. Marshall 204B N. Jefferson 2047 N. Booth 2409 N. Murray 2137 N. 1st St. 1606 N. Jackson 1606 N. Jackson 3367A N. 26th St. 514 N. Jackson 4705 W. Dakota 4705 W. Dakota 2244 N. Booth 3416 N. Booth 314 N. Jefferson 314 N. Jefferson 3919 N. Morris Blvd. 3416 N. 22nd St. 418 W. Chambers 2848 S. Logan 618 E. Pleasant 3230 W. Mount Vernon 1412 N. Holton 1112B. N. Hamilton 2412 N. Holton 118 E. Chambers 1620 S. 13th St. 1710 N. Cass 1710 N. Cass 1614 E. Beverly 2966 N. 27th St. 312 E. Orchard 2202 N. Hubbard

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

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Spotlight on Cultural Arts La Cenerentola

By Blaise DiPronio Who does not know the beloved tale of Cinderella (Cenerentola in Italian from cenere: ashes)? The original rags to riches story with the fairy tale ending. A story reinterpreted and retold many times: from the Disney cartoon to the Pretty Woman movie. All dream of their “prince” who can take them away. Even the opera world has told the tale.

Ours was written by Italy’s Gioachino Rossini. The opera premiered in Rome in 1817. It tells the story of Angelina, a young girl who works as a maid at the mansion of Don Magnifico which houses her “mean” stepsisters Clorinda and Tisbe.

(Cinderella) at the Lyric

One day, a beggar comes to the door, and Angelina offers him bread and coffee while the sisters are off trying on dresses and jewelry. Couriers arrive announcing an upcoming visit by Prince Ramiro, who is in the midst of a search in the land for the most beautiful woman whom he intends to make his wife.

When the prince shows up, he comes disguised as a courier so he can see for himself what the girls are really like. Of course, when he sees Angelina, it’s love at first sight for both. The faux courier, Ramiro, now announces the arrival of the fake prince who is really his valet, Dandini. All fall for the scam, and it’s off to the ball for all except

Angelina. But it now turns out that the beggar is the real prince’s tutor, and he asks Angelina to go to the ball where he’ll act as her protector. As you can imagine, at ball time, the situation has gotten very confusing with fake princes, valets, couriers and who knows what else. But, as you would expect, it all gets unraveled and resolved, and the opera sings its way to the expected

The 72nd Venice International Film Festival, organized by La Biennale di Venezia, will run at

Prepared by Barbara Collignon and Roberto Ciampi

I Pastori Settembre, andiamo! E tempo di migrare. Ora in terra d’Abruzzi i miei pastori lascian gli stazzi e vanno verso il mare: scendono all’Adriatico selvaggio che verde è come i pascoli dei monti. Han bevuto profondamente ai fonti alpestri, che sapor d’acqua natia rimanga ne’ cuori èsuli a conforto, che lungo illuda la lor sete in via. Rinnovato hanno verga d’avellano.

E vanno pel tratturo antico al piano, quasi per un erbàl fiume silente, su le vestigia degli antichi padri. O voce di colui che primamente conosce il tremolàr della marina!

Ora lungh’esso il litoral cammina, la greggia. Senza mutamento è l’aria. Il sole imbionda sí la viva lana che quasi dalla sabbia non divaria. Isciacquío, calpestío, dolci romori.

Ah, perché non son io co’ miei pastori? – By Gabriele D’Annunzio * * * The Shepherds

September, let’s go! It’s time to migrate. Now in the land of the Abruzzo my shepherds leave their folds and go towards the sea: they descend to the wild Adriatic as green as the mountain pastures.

They have drunk deeply from the Alpine springs; the taste of this native water lingers as solace in exiled hearts. May it quench their thirst along the way. They each take up a new hazelnut shepherd’s crook. And as they walk in the footsteps of the forefathers upon the ancient grassy path, they almost resemble a silent river. O shout of the one who is the first to recognize the trembling of the sea! Now the flock walks along the shoreline. The air is still. The sun turns the living wool so blond

THE ITALIAN TIMES

The opera is being performed at the Lyric Opera of Chicago on October 26 and 30.

The Lyric Opera can be reached at 312-827-5600 or lyricopera.org.

72nd Venice International Film Festival to start Sept. 2

L’Angolo del Poeta

September! What does that word bring to your mind? A change of season? A change in routine? Vacationers returning to work and children returning to school constitute a migration of sorts. In Abruzzo, birthplace of Gabriele D’Annunzio, September still means, even today, the beginning of a special migration, la transumanza or transhumance, the migration of shepherds and flocks from mountain pastures to pastures along the Adriatic Sea. This poem by Gabriele D’Annunzio recalls with nostalgia the traditional activity that even today is still so vital to the rural economy in Abruzzo.

happy ending. And how do they get to it? It is not like the Cinderella ending you are all familiar with so you will have to attend to find out. Fun and surprises are guaranteed. The Prince is waiting.

it is hard to tell it from the sand. Splashing, trampling, sweet noises.

Ah, why am I not with my shepherds?

– Translation by Barbara Collignon and Roberto Ciampi * * * Garbriele D’Annunzio (March 12, 1863 – March 1, 1938) was moved by his love for the land of his birth to write this poem evoking this faraway land so dear to his heart – Abruzzo. The opening lines evoke visions of quiet, migrating shepherds, pushing their flocks ever forward from the Apennines to the sea. The musical harmony of the beautiful verses is enchanting. The poet is not in his homeland this September so his poem is a long flashback wherein he recalls everything that happens on this occasion, expresses his feeling of nostalgia and recalls the shepherds who were forced to leave their land, exiled for one reason or another. Being a shepherd is a nomadic activity and has features that are absolutely primitive. The shepherd is typically tall and weather beaten. He walks and walks. For him there is no summer. He’s always dressed in wool or leather, spends his life walking through the plains in winter and over sheep tracks in spring. One sees him always leading his flock. It’s a lonely job. No one accompanies him as he walks alongside his charges, unless it’s another shepherd. He doesn’t talk, he doesn’t sing. His only companion may be his Maremmano, a breed of livestock guardian dog indigenous to central Italy, particular to Abruzzo and the Maremma region of Tuscany and Lazio. It has been used for centuries by Italian shepherds to guard sheep from wolves. D’Annuzio occupied a prominent place in Italian literature from 1889 to 1910 as poet, journalist and playwright. He was a soldier and national war hero to whom King Victor Emmanuel III gave, in 1924, the hereditary title of Principe di Montenevoso. He survived an assassination attempt. In 1937 he was made president of the Royal Academy of Italy. In 1938 he died of a stroke in his home in Gardone Riviera. Honored by Mussolini with a state funeral, he was interred in a magnificent tomb constructed of white marble at Il Vittoriale degli Italiani. He is often referred to under the epithets Il Vate (“the Poet”) or Il Profeta (“the Prophet”).

Venice Lido, Wednesday, Sept. 2 through Saturday, Sept. 12. A restored version of Federico Fellini’s film Amarcord, an Italian comedy/drama will be shown at the festival. The festival’s opening film will be Everest, the 2015 British/American 3D biographical disaster thriller adventure starring Jason Clarke, Josh Brolin, John Hawkes, Robin Wright, Michael Kelley, Sam Worthington and Keira Knightley. Guan Hu’s dram film Mr. Six will be the closing night film. Actress and director Elisa Sednaoui will host the opening and closing ceremonies. The aim of the festival is to raise awareness and promote the various aspects of international cinema in all its forms: as art, entertainment and as an industry, in a spirit of freedom and dialogue. The Festival also organizes retrospectives and tributes to major figures as a contribution towards a better understanding of the history of cinema.

Misterbianco, Sicily feast commemorates 1669 miracle

The Festival of the Madonna of the Sick (La Madonna degli Ammalati) is celebrated during the first weekend of September in the Sicilian town of Misterbianco. The festival commemorates the miracle of the sanctuary being saved from destructions during Mount Etna’s eruption in 1669. The festival starts on Thursday evening and runs for five days. That would make the 2015 starting date as Sept. 3.

Juliet’s birthday celebrated in Verona, Italy

The birthday of Juliet (of “Romeo and Juliet” fame) is celebrated Sept. 16 in Verona (Veneto region), Italy. The day is highlighted by parades, dances and street entertainment put on by the locals for i turisti (the tourists) who flock to the city where William Shakespeare set his most famous tragedy.

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 23

Italian Times Puzzle No. 4

Italian Times Puzzle No. 3 solved

PAGE 24 – SEPTEMBER 2015

Puzzle No. 3: Answers with explanations

Across: 2. Green Bay of Pigs, invasion blended with football. 3. Milk – The Dairy State’s famous product. 6. Marinara – The meatless sauce since meat spoiled on early sailing ships. 7. Driver – The leadoff golf club. 8. Foam – Beer head and steamed/frothed milk. 11. Bar – Too much to drink and you get stiff drunk. 12. Piazza – Italian for a public square where you go to cool off. 13. Tsar – Russian for supreme leader. Derived from Latin Caesar. 14. Summerfest – Festa’s American equivalent but times ten. 16. Sauce – Common cream based pasta sauce named after the originator. 18. Buffet – The all-you-can-eat fattening syndrome, 21. Pecorino – “Little Sheep’s” milk-based cheese. 22. Gondolier – He drives gondolas (type of boat) since no buses allowed. 23. Vatican – The colorfully garbed Swiss Guards versus tourists. 24. Nero – Emperor who played his instrument while Rome burned. 26. Cacciatore – “Hunter” style made with tomatoes, onions and herbs. 29. Cannoli – Pastry featured in who can eat it the most contest at Festa. 30. Putter – The finish off golf club. 32. Anti – Antipasto is the Italian meal starter tidbits. 33. Baseball – the multi-karat playing field. 35. Gina – Lollobrigida, ‘50s-‘60s Italian sexy actress’ name.

Down: 1. Deer – Wisconsin’s “gourmet” prey. 2. Glorioso – Italian as in the “Glorious Ascension”. 3. Meir – Golda. Prime Minister of Israel who grew up in Milwaukee. 4. Bratwurst – Actually, you can eat it smoked. 5. Loafer – And no exertion to tie it, you lazy bum. 7. Davidson – Vespa owners excused from answering correctly. 9. Marcus – Amphitheateror whatever is left after the Stones. 10. Loren – Sophia. Carlo Ponti was her producer-husband. 11. Butterfly – Puccini’s tragic Japanese (Cio-Cio means butterfly) heroine. 16. Florentine – Named after Italy’s Florence of course. 17. Como – Italy’s third largest lake and noted snobby resort area. 19. Horses – Cars with lots of them so as to outrun those nasty bears. 20. Pinocchio – The wooden marionette featured at Festa functions. 25. Volare – Means “to fly” and so it did. A.k.a. “Nel Blu Dipinto di Blu”. 26. Carnevale – Literally “meat fast”. Pre-Lenten final fling then abstinence. 27. Rooster – Actually he’s a polygamist who keeps crossing the road. 28. Shoes – I think his were bronzed afterwards. 30. Peroni – It did not make anyone famous though. 31. Pallino – It’s the “little ball’ toward which the big bocce balls are thrown. 34. Ave – Hail as the “Hail Mary” Marian prayer. Roman salutation.

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La Pagina Italiana

Ricordi, memorie e sorprese per i Sbandieratori Fiorentini

I Sbandieratori dei Borghi e Sestieri Fiorentini hanno girato il mondo, hanno visitato chissá quante cittá e i loro spettacoli sono stati apprezzati da molti ma solo a Milwaukee hanno trascosso un’esperienza unica: un allerta di tornado a Luglio 18. L’allerta ha suonato quel Sabato pomeriggio durante la Festa. Mentre la gente scappava in cerca di sicurezza, i sbandieratori erano preoccupati a salvare le loro bandiere e strumenti e per mantenerli asciutti per “evitare danno”, a secondo Andrea Camiciottoli, il loro esperto con la chiarina Il gruppo é andato a finire sotto il tetto della Cucina Showcase(Mostra) con i centinai che guardavano alla gara della Mangiata dei Cannoli ed ascoltavano alla Banda Siciliana di Chicago. Dopo un pó, tutto é ritornato a normale ma un pó di paura c’é rimasta. Ogni sera, dopo i loro spettacoli,

i sbandieratori sono apparsi a sorpresa nella Tenta del Cinema, ricambiati con vestiti neri, per cantare canzoni familiari. “Noi amiamo a cantare insieme” ha spiegato Camiciottoli. “Siamo come sedici fratelli. Siamo vecchi, siamo giovani, ma siamo una communitá.” Durante la fermata a Milwaukee, il gruppo ha visitato negozi (Bayshore), fabbriche (Harley-Davidson), birrerie (Miller) e musei. “Per davvero amiamo Milwaukee” ha spiegato Andrea. “C’é molto da fare e vedere e la gente é stata meravigliosa.” Dopo l’ultimo spettacolo di Domenica sera, il gruppo ha presentato un disegno, rappresentando tre sbandieratori, a Giusepp Vella, il presidente del Centro Italiano. Vella ha ringraziato il gruppo per la loro visita con una promessa di esporre il quadro nel nostro centro. Allora, speriamo che ci rivedremo l’anno prossimo.

UWM lancia la Storia orale degl’Italiani di Milwaukee

Nel 1991, Lawrence Baldassaro, Professore Emeritus d’Italiano a l’Universitá di Wisconsin a Milwaukee e Diane Vecchio, Professoressa di Storia a l’Universitá di Furman, hanno condotto interviste orale con Italo/Americani locali, parlando delle loro vite in Milwaukee. Le interviste, condotto nel Centro Italiano, furono registrate sul audiocassette. Gli interresati oggi possono sentire le interviste con qualitá digitale siccome il Dipartimento Archivio dell’universitá ha finito la digitalizione della collezione dei nastri e trascrizioni. Le potete trovare nel internet a

uwm.edu/italianmke. La collezione digitale contiene 20 interviste con i primi immigranti Italiani venuti a Milwaukee e i loro figli.

I nomi di loro intervisti si possono trovare nell’articolo Inglese in un altra pagina di questo giornale.

Di Blasie DiPronio So, let me ask you something. We’ve all heard of the mighty Roman Empire and all its conquests, territories and influences on the Western world. So why is Italy not called Rome something while the Eastern European country of Romania is? Well, Romania is called Romania since it was a part of the ancient Roman Empire (and the modern home of that great Count with the ever Italian-sounding name of Dracula). But let’s move on. If you’ve ever had an an Italian dish based on veal (e.g., piccata, marsala, et. al.), you were enjoying Italy’s namesake. Yes, Italy was named after your Veal Parmigiana! The name was originally spelled Vitalia from the Latin root vitulus (literally, a one-year old calf). The lower half of Italy was known early on as an area rich with bovine (cows, bulls and calves) animals. During its Greek colonization, the southern part of Italy was named

Italoi – the Greek word for vitulus. In addtion, further up the peninsula, the Osci tribe near Naples also raised cattle and calves in the fertile grasslands of today’s Campania and their land came to be called Viteliu or “calf land.” When the Romans came to power, the by now name Italia was extended from the southern areas to all of Italy. The first coins bearing the name Italia were mined in the first century BC. There is also a more mythological explanation for the name related to Hercules’ exploits. The legend said that when Hercules was bringing back to Eurystheus cattle stolen from the monster Geryon, a bull escaped into the sea and swam to Sicily and eventually made it to the mainland. The local word for bull was Italos and so the country came to be named after, no bull, a bull. So next time you’re biting into some veal specialty, think back to how close our beloved Italia came to being called Bovalia!

Questi racconti descrivano una pittura vivida della vita in questa cittá da i 1900 fino a i cinquanta. Loro parlano delle tradizione Italiane, la communitá e il carattere del Terzo Distretto Italiano di Milwaukee inoltre del loro lavoro, le attivitá casalinghe e lo stile di vita.

VIVA VEAL?

THE ITALIAN TIMES

Foto di Giuseppe Spasiano

Il regno di Paulis continua

In una battaglia epica fra i maestri e campioni mangiatori competitivi dei cannoli, il Signor Anthony Paulis di Milwaukee ha sconfitto Tom Carlson, dello stato di Minnesota, nel primo confronto finale della Mangiata di Cannoli condotta durante la Festa Italiana 2015. Paulis ha divorato otto cannoli nei quattro minuti assegnati e Carlson sette. Con questa vittoria, significa che Paulis ha vinto la competizione sette volte. Lui ha vinto la prima volta nel 2009. A

2010, i due hanno pareggiato ma da 2011, il grande Paulis é stato imbattibile. Il Carlson solo é stato il suo avversario piú vicino.

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

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

Quest’anno, Paulis ha vinto il primo premio di $100 e Carlson $75 per il secondo. Tutti due hanno ricevuto una maglietta alla T della Festa.

Nota bene che il record di 10 e 1/4 cannoli, stabilito da Paulis nella Festa di 2011, non é stato eclissato e allora bisogna aspettare a 2016 per un altra prova.

Stagione operistica inizia

Italian proverbs

Chi no mantiene i cani, mantiene i ladri. (Literally) Who does not keep dogs, keeps thieves. (Meaning) If you don’t have a watchdog, watch out, your house might get broken into. (Dialect) El ca’ che babaja nun mocciga. The dog who barks doesn’t bite. (Equivalent) His bark is worse than his bite.

Chi vai a letto con i cani, si leva con le pulci. (Literally) He who sleeps with dogs, wakes up with fleas. (Meaning) If you hang around with bad sorts, don’t be surprised if you end up doing bad things. Non si nascondono gli anni sotto vistosi panni. (Literally) One can’t hide one’s age under flashy clothes. (Meaning) No matter what you

wear, if you’re old, it’s going to show.

(Dialect) Pe’ fa cuntend lu’ marit la femmen a da ess gne lu vin, chiu’ pas lu temb e chiu’ devent bon. To make her husband happy, a woman must be like wine — the more time passes, the better she gets.

E saggio tener cari anche i ricordi amari. It is wise to hold dear even bitter memories. (Dialect) ‘Na mamm camb cend fij, cend fij ni camb ‘na mamm. A mother can take care of one hundred children, but one hundred children can’t take care of one mother. * * * Grazie a Mary Melfi and Italyrevisited.org

SETTEMBRE 2015 – PAGINA 25

Molte grazie ai nostri volontari! All photos this page shot by Tom Hemman

A Festa Italiana sportswear booth on the north end of the grounds was being operated by a grandmother and her granddaughters when this picture was taken. From the left: Isabella, Juliette and Elisabeth Bechtin. Since the first Pompeii Church Exhibit in the early 1980s, veteran volunteer Frank D’Amato had worked on the statue set-up operations, which were directed by the late-Mario A. Carini. After last year’s Festa, he informed Carini that he wouldn’t be returning this year. As many of you know Mario Carini died on July 7. His sister Rosemary Strzelec took his place as manager and called D’Amato, asking for his help. As you can see, D’Amato stepped forward. Here, he is unwrapping one of the statues delivered to the exhibit by the T.H. Stemper Company.

Here’s a Roman gladiator who never lets down his guard. Joe Noto has been putting on the Roman military garb each day of Festa for the last five years.

From the left: Volunteers Mark Yeoman, John Vella and Cosmo Carini made some repairs to the David statue that appears at Festa.

Sheeda D’Amato and Charlie Natoli helped to put up the vintage Italian American photos at the exhibit at Festa. Here, they are putting up some of the wedding pictures from the Italian Community Center’s large collection.

A crew of volunteers that does a lot of hard, behind the scenes, work at Festa Italiana before and after the festival is this one. From the left: Frank Militello, Sam Corrao, Graziano Guglielmi and Bruno Giacomantonio.

From the left: Volunteers Domenic Foti, Joe Palmisano and Rich Busalacchi posed for this picture at the sportswear booth operated by the Pompeii Men’s Club and other volunteers.

PAGE 26 – SEPTEMBER 2015

Emilia Verplancke, 5, helped her grandmother Lucretia put up memorabilia on Italian and Italian American movie and television stars in the Cinema Tent.

In a moment when phones weren’t ringing and people weren’t walking in seeking information, most of the Festa office crew was able to get together for this picture. Seated (l-r): Genevieve McNutt and Office Manager Gina Manning. Standing: Mary Winard, Lynn Sobye, Karen Roethle, George Manning and Ginina Camillo. Missing from the photo was Constance Jones, ICC/Festa Executive Administrative Assistant.

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Festa Italiana hosted a bocce tournament for local Special Olympics athletes on VIP Day, July 17. The annual tournament was coordinated by Joe Palmisano with the help of the Order Sons of Italy in America/Filippo Mazzei Greater Milwaukee Area Lodge, The event has long been part of Festa’s special day for people with disabilities. (Times photo by Tom Hemman) Photo on left: Mary and Ed Strascewski celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary while volunteering at the Catalano fruit booth during the VIP Day celebration at Festa. The couple joined volunteers Leonard Carini, Mary Demlow, Rosalie Boos and Bill Philleo in handing free fresh fruit to the VIPs. The Strascewskis have been volunteering at Festa for many years and enjoy working on VIP Day. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

From the first days of set-up of props, panels and displays through the final take down, Italian Conference Center employees such as (from the left) Anthony Harris, Andre Friend and Ruben Perez Oquendo work diligently at Festa Italiana. (Times photo by Tom Hemman)

Even when you are the general chairman of Festa Italiana and the president of the Italian Community Center, you have to volunteer. General Chair/ICC President Giuseppe Vella and his son, Salvatore, put in numerous hours volunteering during the event as well as before it opened and after it ended. (Times photo by Joe Spasiano)

The staff of Cafe La Scala invites you to stop and try our new menu.

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

Cafe La Scala, 631 E. Chicago St. 414-223-2185 • LaScalaMilwaukee.com Lunch, Mon.-Sat., 11am-2pm Dinner, Mon.-Thurs., 5-9pm, Fri., 4:30-10pm, Sat., 5-10pm

THE ITALIAN TIMES

SEPTEMBER 2015 – PAGE 27

East Side friends get together for 8th annual softball game

For the eighth straight year, a group of friends from Milwaukee’s East Side got together on the Sunday before Festa Italiana (July 12) for a softball game at Cass Street School. The game is organized by Felix Glorioso and the Sons of Sicily. Glorioso told The Italian Times that the group that shows up for the game ranges in age from their early 40s to their late 70s. “This year, 78 people showed up,” he said. “They are guys who attended St. Rita, St. Hedwig, Cass Street elementary schools and/or Lincoln, Messmer,

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Marquette or St. John’s Cathedral high schools.” The game lasts five innings. This year’s captains were Mike Sirna and John Torres. The team captained by Torres won the game. Glorioso said that, over the years, the game has served as a benefit for Catholic East Schools. After the game, the group goes for lunch at Pitch’s on Humboldt Avenue. A good time was had by all who participated, Glorioso said. (Photo provided to The Italian Times)

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

Big Macchina di S. Rosa’festival occurs in small Viterbo, Italy

Macchina di S. Rosa is a huge festival in the small town of Viterbo (Lazio region of Italy) held on Sept. 3. An historic procession occurs the day before with participants wearing costumes from the 13th to 18th centuries. Banquets, parades in historic costumes and other events enliven the city’s piazzas and neighborhoods including San Pellegrino, considered Europe’s best preserved medieval quarter. The festival high point is a spectacular nighttime procession that has been happening for the past 750 years in honor of the city’s patron, Santa Rosa. At 9 p.m. sharp, the city is shrouded in darkness as all the lights are switched off to better see the candle-lit macchina, a colossal 30-meter-high tower of approximately 10,000 pounds, topped by a statue of the saint. The 100 facchini di Santa Rosa (members of a special fraternity) lift and carry the tower on a mile-long walk through the darkened city. Dressed in white, with a red sash, facchini are Viterbo’s popular heroes who come from diverse social extractions but are united by the superhuman task of carrying the illuminated tower. More than 50,000 people crowd the city center to catch glimpses of the statue atop the “walking belltower” as it glides through the narrow streets, grazing buildings and balconies.

PAGE 28 – SEPTEMBER 2015

THE ITALIAN TIMES