Gianfranco Fini Official Visit
To Washington
"Il rapporto fra i nostri popoli e' antico."

02/03/2010 Gianfranco Fini, President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, was in Washington DC today on an official visit. In late afternoon, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi hosted a reception in Fini's honor at the Library of Congress. The location of the reception was fitting for the event: Fini presented a rare volume of Michelangelo: La Dotta Mano, as a gift to Congress. The book will be housed at the Library of Congress. Both Fini and Pelosi spoke cordially about each other -- Fini had accompanied Pelosi to the Abruzzo region after last year's earthquake -- and also about the solid relations between Italy and the United States.

Fini also met with Vice President Biden and they affirmed the strong friendship and cooperation between the United States and Italy. The Vice President and t Fini also discussed the need for strong international cooperation to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons capability and discussed ways to deepen cooperation in the NATO mission in Afghanistan.

Tonight Ambassador Giulio Terzi is hosting a dinner in honor of Fini at his residence. Among the special guests expected to attend are Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Justices Antonin Scalia and Samuel Alito, and number of congressmen and senators. Fini is scheduled to travel to New York City next, where a dinner in his honor has ben scheduled.

Passaporto Elettronico

02/02/2010 - Notice from Italian Embassy: A seguito dell’introduzione di nuove norme sulla sicurezza si avvisano i connazionali che dalla fine del mese di febbraio 2010 questa Ambasciata procederà all’emissione di passaporti elettronici nel cui microchip saranno memorizzate, oltre all’immagine del volto, anche le impronte digitali del titolare. Pertanto, a tutti coloro che, a partire da tale periodo, si recheranno presso gli uffici della Cancelleria Consolare di Washington, DC, per richiedere l’emissione di un nuovo passaporto, oltre le normali procedure già in atto (consegna documentazione, pagamento percezione consolare), verranno rilevate contestualmente le impronte digitali (il dito indice di ogni mano).

Italian Holocaust – Giornata della Memoria
Observed at Italian Embassy

The Italian Embassy observed Holocaust Remembrance Day (Giorno della Memoria) on January 27 by honoring the life of Lucia Servadio Bedarida, a Jewish Italian medical doctor who died four years ago in New York at the age of 106. Lucia was born in Vasto in 1900 and at age 22 became the youngest Italian woman doctor. She later moved to Morocco where she practiced gynocology. After a few years in Morocco the heartbreaking news arrived that her mother and grandmother were deported and killed at Auschwitz. She remained in Morocco for more than 40 years before emigrating to the United States.

In his remarks, Italian Ambassador Giulio Terzi said that although the Holocaust had destroyed her family, “Lucia’s life is living testimony to Eli Weisel’s words: she was able to go behind the night and recapture the light.” A short documentary on Lucia’s life "Mma Rida," produced by Olivia Fincato was shown to the standing-room only audience in the Embassy’ auditorium. The movie opens with footage of the then 104-year old Lucia hang-gliding over the Italian Alps. Lucia’s daughters, Paola e Mirella, and one of her granddaughters, Claudia Davidson Bedarida, recalled their time with Lucia, often with very moving descriptions. The letters that Lucia wrote to her mother and grandmother have been preserved at the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington. Author and photographer Renato D'Agostin presented his book of photos about Lucia, some of which were on display at the library of the Italian Cultural Institute.

Italian Government Allocates $500,000
To Support AP Italian Language Program

10/01/26 The Italian Ambassador, Giulio Terzi, has announced that the Government of Italy has authorized the allocation of $500,000 in support of maintaining the Advanced Placement Program in Italian Language and Culture. The decision, said Ambassador Terzi, confirms the priority assigned by the Government of Italy to the Advanced Placement program of the American College Board, which has been identified as indispensable to the diffusion of appropriate level Italian language courses in U.S. schools.

Franco Frattini, Italy's Foreign Minister
Meets with Secretary Hillary Clinton

10/01/25 "It was, as usual, very interesting and fruitful talks with a personal friend with a country which is, for Italy, the first ally in the world. We share points of view. We share common values." Remarks by Foreign Minister Frattini. READ MORE . . .>>

Italian American Researchers
Receive PECASA Award

10|01|13 Two Italian American researchers, Gianluigi Ciovati e Marisa Roberto, were among the 100 researchers who received today from President Barack Obama, the prestigious Presidential Early Career for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) Award, the highest honor bestowed by the United States government on early-career researchers. READ MORE . . .>>

Joe Bruno and Mario Andretti
To Be Honored By Lido Civic Club

Local entrepreneur and philanthropist, Joseph Bruno, and racing legend Mario Andretti will be honored by the Lido Civic Club of Washington D.C. at the group’s annual Past Presidents’ Night Gala to be held at Piazza Italia in the Italian Embassy on January 16, 2010.

Born in Sicily in 1948, Bruno came to America with his family in 1956. He attended St. John’s College High School in Washington and graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in accounting. He became a CPA and worked at Peat Marwick, where he was made a partner in 1981. He spent a few years working for the firm in Italy, trading in a Sicilian dialect for an Italian immersion course so that he could communicate with Italian clients, which included Selenia, MotelAgip, and Assitalia (the largest insurance company in Italy. Read more. . .>>

2010 Welcomed at Casa Italiana in Washington, DC

To all our Visitors, Buon Natale e Buon Anno

Italian Ambassador Giulio Terzi's Holiday Wishes
to the Italian-American Community

"E’ un Natale speciale per me e per la mia famiglia e desidero far pervenire a voi tutti e alle vostre famiglie gli auguri di un sereno Natale e di un felice 2010 . . . . L’America ha accolto milioni di italiani. Dai loro figli e dai loro nipoti – scienziati, politici, imprenditori – questo Paese e’ stato costruito cosi’ come oggi lo conosciamo." Click here for text of message. Ambassador Terzi's remarks were transmitted by Pino Cicala's Antenna Italia in Washington, DC.

Washington Transformed for Christmas

Italian Americans Robert De Niro and Bruce Springsteen
in Washington to Receive Kennedy Center Awards

Italian Americans Robert De Niro and Bruce Springsteen are among the five performers to be honored tonight at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The Kennedy Center will also be honoring Mel Brooks, Dave Brubeck, and Grace Bumbry.

Robert De Niro won an Academy Award for best actor for the 1980 movie "Raging Bull," but he is probably best known for his performance in ""Godfather II ," in which he played the young Vito Corleone.  De Niro has appeared in more than 70 films and has also produced and directed several movies, including "Everybody's Fine," released this year. De Niro was born in 1943 and grew up in the Little Italy section of New York City. He acquired the nickname "Bobby Milk" because he was so thin and as pale as milk.  De Niro was close to his Italian paternal grandfather, whom he visited frequently in Syracuse, N.Y.  The actor, who once stated that he identifies with his "Italian side," was inducted into the Italian-American Hall of Fame in 2002.

Bruce Springsteen’s songs tell stories of everyday American life and of growing up in New Jersey. Springsteen was born in Long Branch, N.J. in 1949. U2 lead singer Bono has said that Springsteen’s role as an interpreter of the American identity cannot be overemphasized. He is “the greatest ambassador for the idea that is America,” said Bono. Springsteen’s 1984 album "Born in the U.S.A." has sold more than 15 million copies in the U.S. alone and is considered among the greatest rock and roll albums of all time.  Known for his live performances, Springsteen and his E Street Band remain one of the top acts in the world. Springsteen’s Italian-American mother, Adele Zirilli, a former legal secretary, was born in Puerto Rico. Her parents were born in Italy. 09|12|06

Washington Community Mourns Cav. Antonio Verrone
1933-2009

Antonio "Tony" Verrone passed away in his native home, Dugenta, where he was enjoying the last days of a vacation before his plans to return to Washingotn this coming Dec 2. Destiny had willed that he'd end his days where he had come to life. In 1953 Tony joined the Italian Army and was soon assigned to the School for Non-Commissioned Officers in Rieti from where he graduated with the rank of Sergeant. He was then transferred to "Scuola della Motorizzazione" alla Cecchignola as Instructor at the Officer's Training School. From there he went of to the School of Foreign Languages of the Army for a six months immersion course in English. In 1972 he was transferred to the Italian Embassy in Washington D.C., as administrative assistant in the Office of the Military Attache'. In 1976, having achieved the highest rank as a non-commisioned officer, Maresciallo Maggiore, Tony left the service, electing to remain in Washington D.C., his adopted city, where he opened a travel service agency promoting Italy, its tourism, its traditions, its commerce. He was a founder on the International Club of Non-Commisioned Officers within the Nato Force; President of Italian Community Association of Holy Rosary Church; Executive of the Lido Civic Club: member of NIAF, National American Italian Foundation; member of ASTA, American Society of Travel Agents; member of CLIA, Cruise Lines International Association; and member of the Executive Committee del COMITES di Washington D.C., after being instrumental in its establishment. For his leadership in the Community, his efforts in the promotion of the Made in Italy and his unrelenting efforts to promote Italian Culture, Language and Heritage, the President of Italy bestowed on him the title of Cavaliere dell'Ordine della Solidarieta' Italian. (The Star of Solidariety) . A emmorial service will be held on Saturday December 12, 2009, at 11:00 am at the Holy Rosary Church in Washington, DC.

Italian Americans Seek Congressional Recognition
of Andrea Palladio and Galileo Galilei

Italian Americans are being asked to urge their Congressmen to co-sponsor and to support two resolutions honoring Galileo and 16th century architect Andrea Palladio. Washington, D.C. attorney Joe Grano noted that 2008 was the 500th anniversary of the birth of the influential Italian architect. “His influence can be seen in the architecture of Europe, England and the United States, including the White House and the U.S. Capitol.” This year is the 400th anniversary of the first use of the telescope for astronomical observation. “With that act, Galileo literally and figuratively changed the way we see the universe,” said Grano. This anniversary is so significant that the United Nations has declared 2009 the International Year of Astronomy.” In 2008, Bill Pascrell, Jr., Representative of New Jersey and co-chair of the Italian American Delegation to Congress, introduced a resolution to honor Palladio. But the Congressional term ended before it the resolution could be voted on. According to Grano, Mr. Pascrell would like to reintroduce the resolution, but this time with 50 co-sponsors to insure a quick vote in the House. And Representative Patrick J. Tiberi of Ohio, the other co-chair of the delegation, would like to introduce a resolution honoring Galileo’s historic scientific achievements, also with 50 co-sponsors. These two Italian American representatives are working together to get the same cosponsors for both resolutions.

Building Bridges to Italy
The Bruno Marolo Cultural and Educational Student Exchange

The late Bruno Marolo, a long-time and respected ANSA correspondent whose journalism took him around the globe, was honored last Thursday evening at the Italian Embassy. The Alba International Music Festival Concert and benefit was co-sponsored by St. Mary College of Maryland and the Italian Cultural Institute.

Marolo who lived in Washington from 1991 until his untimely death in 2007 at the age of 64, was born in Alba, a thriving city in the Piemonte region of northern Italy.  During his career in Washington he was the head of ANSA North America.  Although his career with ANSA spanned 25 years, he also wrote for L’Unita’ and Famiglia Cristiana.  He had a degree in Arabic languages from Turin  and spent much of his career covering the Middle East Together with Ennio Caretto, another Italian correspondent who settled in Washington, he co-authored Made In Italy, Le origini americane della repubblica italiana.

Welcoming the guests at the evening’s concert were Rita Venturelli, director of the Italian Cultural Institute; Larry Vote, acting president and provost of St. Mary College;  Fausto Perletto, president of Ente Turismo Alba Bra Langhe Roero; Robert Cerrato, president of the S. Giuseppe Cultural Foundations; and  Nancy McKeon, the event’s honorary chair . The evening’s master of ceremonies was Jeffrey Silberschlag, director of the St. Mary College of Maryland Alba Campus. He introduced the talented musicians, including a trio who traveled from Alba: Giusepe Nova, Rino Vernizzi, and Giorgio Costa.  Mariuccia Chiantaretto Marolo, widow of Bruno Marolo, expressed her sincere thanks to all the guests and sponsors.

The evening concluded with a dinner reception highlighting the typical foods from the Alba region and showcasing the area’s specialty—tartufo—white truffle, generally considered the best in Europe. Dinner was accompanied by the famous Barolo wines, also produced in that region.

The Bruno Marolo Cultural and Educational Student Exchange Scholarship Fund was established in 2008 by St. Mary College and the Italian Cultural Institute.  The benefit concert at the Italian Embassy raised funds to provide scholarships for American students at St. Mary College to travel to Alba, and for Italian students from Alba to study in the U.S

Italian American Jeanette Perno Fenty Honored
Mother of Washington Mayor Adrian Fenty

Jeanette Perno Fenty, mother of Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, was honored on Saturday by the Abruzzo and Molise Heritage Society at a Gala dinner held at the Casa Italiana Cultural Center.  Mrs. Fenty, who grew up in Buffalo, N.Y., moved with her husband Phil Fenty to Washington in the late 1960’s.  A graduate of Buffalo State College and with a masters’ degree from George Washington University, she taught for 15 years in Washington-area schools.  For 24 years, the Fenty’s owned and operated an athletic shoe store in the Adams Morgan neighborhood for 24 years.  

Now retired, Mrs. Fenty said she enjoys attending and participating in Italian- American events and has even taken Italian classes at the Casa Italian Language School in the past.  Last year she was the Grand Marshall of the “Festa Italiana” in Washington. 

In accepting the award from the Abruzzo and Molise Heritage Society, Mrs. Fenty recalled her days growing up in Buffalo with a hard-working Italian father who was employed in the construction industry.  She said it was his example that taught her the value of hard work, which she and her husband also instilled in their three sons, she said.

Sarah Balistreri and Erika Charleston
AMHS Scholarship Recipients

On the occasion of its 10th Annual Gala, the Abruzzo and Molise Heritage Society presented the 2009 Scholarship winners. Sarah Balistreri and Erika Charleston. Sarah is a student at Georgetown University, majoring in Italian and Spanish. She is from Mequon, Wisconsin, and is one of five children. Her family has its roots in the Abruzzo region. Erika is also a student at Georgetown University where she is studying Italian and English. She said that her mom was so excited when she learned about the scholarship that "she began dancing around the living room to Mambo Italiano." Erika is from Spring Lake, Michigan.

Italian Ambassador Giulio Maria Terzi di Sant'Agata
Presents Credentials to President Obama

Italy’s new ambassador to the United States, Giulio Maria Terzi di Sant’Agata, presented his credentials to President Barack Obama on November 5, 2009. In a story published in the Washington Post Style Section the following day, it was noted that Ambassador Terzi was accompanied by his longtime girlfriend Antonella Cinque, an attorney, and former head of Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco, the U.S. equivalent of the FDA. “That Cinque is not his wife would have caused a fuss just a few years ago,” said the Post. Terzi was quoted as saying, “I can tell you that I’m excited and pleased to have my family with me.” The Ambassador and Ms. Cinque have 19-month-old twins, Giulio and Nina. The back garden at Villa Firenze, the Italian Ambassador’s residence, is soon likely to gain a swing set, according to Cinque. (09/11/06)

Giovanni Falcone Legacy Honored at U.S. Supreme Court

The legacy and contributions of Italian Magistrate Giovanni Falcone, who built bridges across the Atlantic in his quest to destroy the Mafia, were recalled today at a seminar held at the U.S. Supreme Court. Judge Falcone was killed on May 23, 1992, together with his wife and three of his bodyguards, by a bomb that blew up a section of a highway near Palermo's airport just as his car was passing. He was 53 years old. His assassination and that of his colleague Paolo Borsellino two months later, became a turning point in Italy’s fight against the mafia. Judge Arthur J. Gajarsa of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit organized the event in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy. Judge Gajarsa recalled what Falcone had told him once that “a country ruled by law will last forever, a country ruled by men will crumble.” Gajarsa who was then an attorney in private practice, said that those words took on a special meaning when he became a judge. Judge Giannicola Sinisi, the Justice Attache at the Embassy of Italy, introduced the event’s speakers which included among others Chief Justice Roberts, Justice Antonin Scalia, Justice Samuel Alito, Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano,Deputy Attorney General David Ogden, former Director of the FBI, William Session, Italy's Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs Vincenzo Scotti, former Minister of Justice Claudio Martelli, and Italian Ambassador Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata.

Nancy Pelosi, Carla Gugino Highlight NIAF Gala

U.S. Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi delivered a powerful speech to more than 2,000 guests attending the National Italian American Foundation’s (NIAF) 34thAnniversary Awards Gala on Saturday October 24, 2009 at the Hilton Washington. Pelosi spoke about her pride in her Italian heritage, helping those from the earthquake devestated region of Abruzzo and the great work of NIAF in L’Aquila, Italy. READ MORE . . .>>

SEEKING DIRECTOR FOR CASA ITALIANA LANGUAGE SCHOOL
Washington, DC

Successful candidates must be highly professional, self-motivated, organized, detail oriented, able to manage multiple tasks and have a proven interest in Italian language and culture.

Qualifications Include:
At least a Masters degree in Italian studies, bilingual skills (English/Italian), experience in teaching Italian, administration, human resources, computer literate. Must be able to interact with students, parents and teachers, officers of the Italian Embassy in Washington, D.C. principals of schools offering Italian, other enti gestori, and Italian universities.

Responsibilities Include:
Budget and financial reports preparation and management, scheduling classes and providing teachers for cycles of classes offered throughout the year and summer camp, prepare brochures and schedule mailings, assist in the organization of special cultural events, coordinate school library, answer and follow up on inquiries.

Please mail or fax (202- 638-0793) resume, salary requirements (part-time,
5-9 p.m., Mon-Thru. and Sunday 8 a.m.-1 p.m.) and three references to:

President
Casa Italiana Language School
595 ½ Third Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20001-2703

Washington, DC Readies for NIAF Gala

Italian American Heritage month culminates in Washington, DC, with the Annual National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Gala. The who's who of the Italian American community will be joining thousands of guests at the 34th Annual NIAF Gala to be held this weekend at the Hilton Washington. Among the personalities who will be honored are Janet Napolitano, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Lidia Matticchio Bastianich, PBS cooking show host, restauranteur and philanthropist.

Secretary Napolitano, former governor of Arizona, will receive NIAF’s Public Service Award. During her tenure as governor, she became the first female chair of the National Governors Association and had previously served as the first female attorney-general in Arizona. Lidia Matticchio Bastianich, star of the popular PBS cooking series Lidia’s Italy, will receive NIAF’s Special Achievement Award in Humanitarian Service. Bastianich is an Italian war refugee who migrated to the United States. She is active in numerous charities and humanitarian causes, including fighting violence against women and raising awareness of the plight of female refugees.

Columbus Day Celebrated in Washington

Italian Ambassador Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata represented the Italian Government at the Columbus Day ceremony held in Washington, DC at the Columbus Memorial Statue at Union Station. In his remarks, Terzi said that "Columbus Day should be celebrated as the event which more than anything else honors the Italian community in America. Italians’ industrious contributions, together with their cultural and moral legacy, remain fundamental to the growth of this great nation that is the United States." Read Terzi's remarks.

Message to the Italian American Community by Ambassador Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata

WASHINGTON - Cari Connazionali, nell'assumere la guida dell'Ambasciata d'Italia negli Stati Uniti desidero rivolgere, come primo atto della missione che sto per intraprendere, a tutti Voi, ai rappresentanti eletti negli Stati Uniti, alla comunità di origine italiana, a quanti trovano nel mio Paese un riferimento ideale e culturale, il mio saluto unito a sentimenti di forte ammirazione per quanto la Vostra, da oggi la nostra, comunità ha saputo e continua a fare per consolidare lo straordinario rapporto di amicizia tra Italia e Stati Uniti. Il tricolore issato all’Ambasciata a Washington, insieme a quelli neiConsolati, negli Istituti di Cultura e in tutte le istituzioni e associazioni italiane sul territorio americano sono il segno dell’accoglienza e dell’invito rivolto a tutti i membri della grande famiglia italo-americana: siamo qui per far crescere questa famiglia e sappiamo di poter contare sul sostegno e la partecipazione attiva di ognuno dei suoi componenti, anche attraverso l’importante strumento della diffusione della lingua italiana in questo Paese. READ MORE . . . >>

.|08.10.2009|

Giulio Terzi Di Sant'Agata New Italian Ambassador to the United States

The new Italian Ambassador to the United States, Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata, has arrived in Washington and according to sources, will present his credentials to the White House next week. Before his appointment to Washington, Terzi was the Permanent Representative of Italy to the U.N. in N.Y., where he has served since August 29, 2008. Prior to his N.Y. assignment, Terzi was in the Foreign Ministry in Rome as Deputy Secretary General, Director General for Multilateral Political Affairs and Human Rights, and Political Director. READ MORE . . . >> .

Antonello Venditti Coming to Washington
We Are All Waiting for l'Alta Marea

The National Italian American Foundation will be welcoming Antonello Venditti as its featured Friday night entertainer, in conjunction with the Oct. 23-24, NIAF's 34th Annual Convention & Gala. Venditti will receive a NIAF Special Achievement Award in Entertainment at the Gala on October 24, 2009, He will perform at the International Ballroom, The Hilton Washington, on Friday, October 23, 2009. Contact NIAF for additional information.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi Receives Gold Medal Award
of the American Society of Italian Legions of Merit

On September 16, 2009, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi received the Gold Medal award from the American Society of Italian Legions of Merit (ASILM) at a ceremony held in the House Speaker's Office. The medal was presented by Cav. di Gran Croce, Justice Dominic R. Massaro, Justice of the Supreme Court of New York, and current President of ASILM.

The gold medal is presented to heads of state, heads of government, principalities of internationally-recognized entities. ASILM awarded the Gold Medal to President Giorgio Napolitano in September 2007 in Rome, President George W. Bush in 2006 at the White House, and President Carlo Ciampi in 2005. Among the dignitaries attending the ceremony were Congressman Bill Pascrell, Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta, NIAF Secretary John F. Calvelli, Holy Rosary Church Pastor Lydio Tomasi, NOIWA President Eileen Riotto Sirrey, DC Comites President Carmelo Cicala, AMICO Editor Pino Cicala, ASILM's Board Member and former Honorary Vice Consul of Connecticut Alfonso Panico, Honorary Vice Consul of Italy in St. Louis, Joseph Colagiovanni, and ASILM's Chief of Protocol Rosemary Gallina Santangelo.

(Pictured above House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Judge Dominic Massaro- Photo Isgro) |09.16.2009|

Remembering Prosecutor Ferdinand Pecora
A Sicilian American Who Took On Wall Street

"The last time Washington enacted sweeping financial reform, more than 75 years ago, the catalyst was a cigar-smoking, Sicilian-born immigrant named Ferdinand Pecora.

A former New York prosecutor, Pecora was the last in a series of investigators hired to examine the causes that led to the stock market crash of 1929 for the Senate Committee on Banking and Currency." READ WASHINGTON POST ARTICLE. . . .>>

"The riveting confrontation between Pecora and the Wall Street grandees was so theatrically apt it might have been concocted by Hollywood. The combative Pecora was the perfect foil to the posh bankers who paraded before the microphones. Born in Sicily, the son of an immigrant cobbler. . ."READ NEW YORK TIMES ARTICLE. . . .>>

Read Pecora's biography from Wikepedia.
|09.16.2009|

Sons of Italy Elects 2009-2011 National Officers

The Order Sons of Italy, meeting in San Diego on August 9-15, elected its new National Officers. Joseph J. DiTrapani from New York was elected the National President and Anthony J. Baratta from Illinois was elected the National 1st Vice-Presidents. The other four elected vice-presidents are: Kevin A. Caira (MA), Daniel J. Longo (MD), Anthony F.M. Spaziani (OH), and Vera Girolami (CA). READ MORE . . . >>

NIAF Announces 2009 Honorees

The National Italian American Foundation has announced the honorees for its 34th Anniversary Convention and Gala to be held at the Hilton Washington on October 23-24, 2009. Among them is Janet Napolitano, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. READ MORE . . . >>

Tornatore and Turturro To Show Their Sicilian Roots
at Venice Film Festival

Oscar winner Giuseppe Tornatore will open on September 2, the 66th Festival del Cinema in Venice, with "Baaria,” a partly autobiographical movie which examines three generations of life in Tornatore’s native Sicilian village of Bagheria. It is the first time in two decades that an Italian film headlines the festival. The 53-year-old Tornatore won an Oscar for best foreign film in 1990 with Cinema Paradiso. He was also nominated in 1996 for The Star Maker.

Brooklyn-born John Michael Turturro, actor writer, and director best known for his performances in Barton Fink (1991), Quiz Show (1994), The Big Lebowski (1998), and O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000), will be presenting, his documentary: 'Prove per una tragedia siciliana', the story of his trip to Sicily in search of his origin. Turturro’s grandparents on his mother’s side emigrated from Sicily and never returned to their ancestral home.

Italian American director, screenwriter and actor Sylvester Stallone will be the recipient of the “Jaeger-LeCoultre Glory to the Filmmaker Award”, the prize recently instituted by the Venice International Film Festival.

MORTA FERNANDA PIVANO

2009-08-18 - "E' morta questa sera Fernanda Pivano, in una clinica privata di Milano, dove era ricoverata da tempo. I funerali si svolgeranno probabilmente venerdì prossimo, a Genova, dove era nata il 18 luglio 1917.... La Pivano è stata una figura di rilievo nella scena culturale italiana, protagonista e testimone dei più interessanti fermenti letterari del secondo novecento, amica, ambasciatrice e complice di autori leggendari, a lei si deve la pubblicazione e la diffusione in Italia degli autori della cosiddetta Beat Generation." READ THE ANSA ARTICLE . . . >>

"Quando negli anni '50 Fernanda Pivano si reca per la prima volta negli Stati Uniti è una giovane studiosa innamorata dell'America di quegli anni e desiderosa di incontrare dal vivo, sul campo, i maestri di una narrativa che in Italia si era appena cominciato a conoscere, grazie a Cesare Pavese ed Elio Vittorini..." READ FROM PIVANO'S OFFICIAL WEB SITE . . . >>

July 3, 2006 - video interview of Fernanda Pivano by Giulia Santerini (12 minutes)

At a ceremony held on August 17, 2009, David H. Thorne was sworn in as Ambassador to Italy by Judge Arthur Gajarsa at the John Joseph Moakley U.S. Courthouse, Boston, MA. Also attending the ceremony were Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta, the Italian Consul General in Boston Liborio Stellino, and the Mayor of Boston Thomas Menino. READ AMBASSADOR THORNE'S REMARKS. . . >>
READ TESTIMONY BEFORE SENATE FOREIGN RELATIONS COMMITTEE.. . . >>

Giulio Terzi Di Sant'Agata New Ambassador to Washington

ANSA reports that Italy will name Ambassador Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata, currently the Permanent Representative of Italy to the U.N. in New York, as the new Ambassador of Italy to the United States. Ambassador Terzi was appointed Permanent Representative on August 20, 2008. Prior to his New York assignment, Terzi served in the Foreign Ministry in Rome as Deputy Secretary General, Director General for Multilateral Political Affairs and Human Rights, and Political Director. /09.07.31/ READ MORE . . . >>

Cavaliere Vito Catalano
“Il Fotografo della Comunità”

Vito Catalano, who for twenty-five years has photographed the who's who of the Italian American community in New York and at major national events, was honored with the Cavaliere dell'Ordine della Stella della Solidarietà Italiana by Francesco Maria Talo, the Consul General of Italy in New York at a ceremony held onboard a yatch with the Statue of Liberty in the background. Vito is a contributing photographer to Voce Italiana Online. Congratulations! READ MORE . . . >>

Miss Italia nel Mondo Pits Two Contestants from USA

Miss Italia USA, Christina Marraccini of Harrison, New York, whose roots are in Sicily and Lazio, and Miss Italia North America, Rosanna Capriati from Chicago, whose roots are in the La Puglia Region, will be among the 49 contestants vying for the title of Miss Italia nel Mondo currently underway at Jesolo, Italy. READ MORE... >>

(Pictured above, Rosanna Capriati and Christina Marraccini, and Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta with Christina and Rosanna, photographed at the Italian Embassy in Washington) (Photos Isgro)

Prime Minister Berlusconi at National Art Gallery

During his visit to Washington, and following his talks with President Obama and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Prime Minister Berlusconi stopped at the National Gallery of Art where he signed the guest book, and admired The Beffi Triptych, which will be on display in the West Building's Rotunda until September 7, 2009.

Prime Minister Berlusconi signing the National Gallery of Art guestbook.

(Photos Isgro) SEE MORE PICTURES FROM EVENT >

Conference on the Promotion of Italian Language
Held on June 13, at Italian Embassy in Washington

On June 13, 2009, a conference to promote the Italian language in United States. schools K-16 and continuing education, was held at the Italian Embassy in Washington, DC. Welcoming the participants were Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta, Hon. Valentina Aprea, Presidente della Commissione Permanente ed Istruzione della Camera dei Deputati, Hon. Vincenzo Maria Vita, Vice Presidente della Commissione Permanente Istruzione e Beni Culturali del Senato della Repubblica, and Joseph M. Della Ratta, Board of Directors of the National Italian American Foundation.

(Pictured above, Anthony J. Tamburri, Dean of the J.D. Calandra Italian American Institute (CUNY).

49th Annual Ceremony Commemorating Charles J. Bonaparte
46th Attorney General & Founder of the FBI

On June 11, 2009, at the United States Department of Justice the Italian American community honored Charles Joseph Bonaparte, the 46th Attorney General of the United States and the Founder of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This Annual Ceremony, now in its 49th year, was instituted by John LaCorte, Sr., founder of the Italian Historical Society of America, in 1961, with the collaboration of local Italian American organizations in the Washington area, including the Lido Civic Club. Since then, Charles Bonaparte has been commemorated at the Department of Justice in the month of June, the month of his birth.

This year's speakers included John Di Cicco, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Tax Division at the U.S. Department of Justice, Hon. John Facciola, Magistrate Judge in Washington, D.C., Dr. Giannicola Sinisi, Justice Attache' at the Embassy of Italy. Welcoming remarks were extended by John LaCorte, Jr., the President of the Italian Historical Society, and Francesco Isgro, Acting Director of Training for the Civil Division and Senior Litigation Counsel at the U.S. Department of Justice.

Among the special guests attending the ceremony were Arthur Gajarsa, Federal Judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, and Ron Cimino, Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Tax Division, U.S. Department of Justice.

(Pictured above, Dr. Giannicola Sinisi speaking at the 49th Annual Charles J. Bonaparte Ceremony; Francesco Isgro, John LaCorte, John Di Cicco, Hon. John Facciola)

Text of Remarks by John Di Cicco
Remarks by Giannicola Sinisi
Charles Bonaparte Page

FESTA DELLA REPUBBLICA - June 2, 2009

At Italian Embassy in Washington, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi Pays Tribute to Italian Americans

“In terms of who we are as people, 40 million bridges between Italy and America.  A country discovered by an Italian, named by an Italian, developed by Italian Americans, continuing to take pride in our Italian American heritage." READ MORE >

REMARKS BY AMBASSADOR GIOVANNI CASTELLANETA >>

La Festa della Repubblica was also celebrated in various cities in the United States, including Philadelphia and New York.

Vice President Joseph Biden, Federal Judge Arthur Gajarsa
Among Honorees at The Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF)
21st Annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala

Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Vice President of the United States, became the first non-Italian American recipient of the SIF’s Highest Honor: The 2009 National Education & Leadership Award. The gala was held on May 28, 2009, at the National Building Museum, in Washington, DC. Also honored were Arthur J. Gajarsa, Judge, U.S. Federal Court of Appeals, who received the 2009 SIF Lifetime Achievement Award in Jurisprudence and Italian American Leadership; Mary Ann Esposito, host and rreator of Public Television’s Ciao Italia, who received the 2009 SIF Lifetime Achievement Award in the Culinary and Cultural Arts of Italy; and, Robert A. Scardelletti, International President, Transportation-Communications Union International Association of Machinists, who received the 2009 SIF Humanitarian Award.

(Pictured above at the Gala dinner Vice President Biden, OSIA's Philip Piccigallo, and Franco Nuschese; pictured at right, Hon. Amato Berardi and Hon. Judge Arthur Gajarsa)

Jerry Colangelo New Chairman of NIAF

Jerry Colangelo, chair of the USA Basketball Board of Directors who was instrumental in assembling the 2008 U.S. Men’s Basketball Olympic team and chairman of the Phoenix Suns, has been selected as the National Italian American Foundation's new chairman. Colangelo is joined by four vice chairs: Paul J. Chiapparone, a former vice chairman of EDS; Hon. Louis J. Freeh, a former FBI director and senior managing partner of Freeh Group International; Patricia de Stacy Harrison, president and CEO of the Corporation of Public Broadcasting, and Vincent Viola, chairman and CEO of Virtu Financial LLC. READ MORE >

Memorial Mass For Judge Giovanni Falcone
(May 18, 1939 – May 23, 1992)

On Sunday May 24, 2009, at 10:30 am, a memorial mass for Judge Giovanni Falcone will be said at Holy Rosary Church in Washington DC. The Church is located at 595 3rd St. NW. Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta will be participating at the ceremony. Read Washington Post story on assassination.

Washington's Deputy Mayor Dan Tangherlini
Heads to Treasury Department

President Obama has nominated DC's Deputy Mayor Dan Tangherlini to be Assistant U.S. Secretary for management and chief financial officer. Early this year, Tangherlini was honored by the Lido Civic Club when he was selected for the Man of the Year Award. At Treasury, Tangherlini will be Secretary Timothy Geithner's right hand man. /09.05.17/

Pino Cicala’s Antenna Italia - 50 Years of Service
Celebration at Italian Embassy in Washington

More than one hundred of the who's who of the Nation's Capital area Italian American community turned out for a reception Friday evening, May 15, at the Italian Embassy in Washington to honor Pino Cicalas' 50 years of service to Antenna Italia. The reception held under the auspices of His Excellency Giovanni Castellaneta, Ambassador of Italy, attracted dignitaries from as far away as Calabria. Praising Pino's service to the Italian Community were Marco Mancini, the Embassy's First Counselor, Rita Venturelli, the Director of the Italian American Cultural Institute, Melo Cicala, the Director of the Washington, DC COMITES, Luis Scalfari, the President of the Lido Civic Club, Pino Parise, President of the Magna Grecia Association, and Father Lydio Tomasi of Holy Rosary Church who gave the benediction. The event was graced by the presence of Christina Marraccini Miss Italia USA 2009, and Rosanna Capriati, Miss Italia North America 2009, who are on their way to Jesole for the Miss Italia World 2009 pageant contest. Performing at the reception were a young and talented Adriana Madeleine la Feria, and Sicilian soprano star Liliana Bartolotta. The event was directed by Master of Ceremonies, Thomas A. Stallone. Sr. /09.05.15/

(Pictured above Marco Mancini, Rosanna Capriati, Pino Cicala, Christina Marraccini) (Click here for more photos from the event)

Franco Frattini Back in Washington as
Keynote speaker at AJC and on Capitol Hill

Hon. Franco Frattini, the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs will be back in Washington to address the American Jewish Committee at its Annual General Meeting in Washington on May 7. As reported in the Jerusalem Post " Frattini openly admits his commitment to Israel, the memory of the Holocaust and the fight against resurgent anti-Semitism, and proudly states that 'the Jewish community always receives me as the great friend I feel I am.'"

Minister Frattini will be also addressing the issue of “Italy in the Global Outlook” to Members of Congress, Government officials, business and community leaders, and other DC insiders on Capirol Hill on. Thursday, May 7th, 2009. This event is being held under the auspices of the Frank J. Guarini Public Policy Forum and is sponsored by. The National Italian American Foundation, in collaboration with the Italian American Congressional Delegation.

Stefania Prestigiacomo, Italy's Minister of Environment Participates in "Major Economies Forum" in Washington

Fresh from a three-day G-8 summit in her hometown in Siracusa, Sicily, Italy's Environment Minister Stefania Prestigiacomo is in Washington to participate in the "Major Economies Forum" (MEF). The G-8 meeting in Siracusa focused on climate change and biodiversity. The Major Economies Forum (MEF) on Energy and Climate meets in Washington, DC at the Department of State, on April 27-28 to work on creating a new international agreement to curb greenhouse gases which will replace the Kyoto Protocol when it expires in 2012. The meeting will be followed by a G8 summit in Italy in July. Minister Prestigiacomo gave a press conference at the Italian embassy on April 27, where she outlined Italy's position at the MEF meeting. SEE MORE PICTURES FROM EVENT >

(Pictured above Minister Stefania Prestigiacomo at Italian Embassy in Washington, Photo Isgro)

Artist Paolo Staccioli Exhibits at Italian Embassy

The Italian Embassy and the Italian Cultural Institute hosted a reception on April 22, 2009, for artist Paolo Staccioli whose ceramic works will be on display at the Embassy's Piazza Italia until May 13, 2009. Read more...

(Pictured on the left is Paolo Staccioli with one of his ceramic works"Traveler")

Thomas Friedman Winner of the 2009 Urbino Press Award
Click here to listen to Friedman's remark (3:45 minutes)

Thomas L. Friedman, New York Times columnist and best-selling author, is the winner of the "2009 Urbino Press Award." The announcement was made by Minister Luca Ferrari at a reception hosted by the Italian Embassy in Washington, on April 20, 2009. In his remarks, Friedman said, "I'm Jewish but I believe in reincarnation. . . I think in a previous life I lived in Urbino."

The Urbino Press Award in recognition of excellence in journalism is awarded to American reporters, who through their commitment and daily work, conscientiously to inform millions of people. Friedman follows Martha Raddatz who was awarded the prize in 2008. Among those attending the event were prior Urbino Prize winners, ABC News' Martha Raddatz and Time magazine reporter Michael Weisskopf. The official award ceremony will be held later this year in Urbino, Italy. Read more . . .

Washington Winemakers
Hold Annual Tasting Event at Casa Italiana

The Washington Winemakers held its annual home-made wine tasting event at Casa Italiana, Holy Rosary Church Washington DC, on March 15, 2009. Mike Colavita, supplier of the California grapes to the Washington Winemakers was the guest of honor. The Washington Winemakers is an informal group of amateur winemakers resident in the greater Washington DC area who occasionally get together to order grapes and supplies, to socialize and exchange ideas and information on winemaking, to organize wine tasting events, and to visit local wineries. Visit the winemakers website at: www.washingtonwinemakers.org. |/09.03.15/

(Pictured above, Michael Colavita, Carmine Amatucci,Willy Meaux )

Thomas J. Perrelli No. 3 at Justice

Italian American, Thomas J. Perrelli, a former partner at the law firm of Jenner & Block was sworn in as Associate Attorney General, the number 3 post at the U.S. Department of Justice, on March 13, 2009. The last Italian American to hold the post was Rudy Giuliani, who was appointed Associate Attroney General in 1981, by President Ronald Reagan. [09.03.14]

Assassination of Petrosino Commemorated in Washington NIAF Executive Director James De Santis
Criticizes MediaTreatment of Italian Americans

At a ceremony held on March 12, 2009, at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, to commemorate the assassination of Giuseppe "Joe" Petrosino, James De Santis, Executive Director of the National Italian American Foundation, said that it was important to recall the story of Lt. Petrosino because "too many journalists still feel comfortable in drawing associations between Italian Americans and organized crime. " Read more . . .

Click here to read remarks by NIAF's James De Santis.
Click here to read remarks by Hon. Francis Allegra.

(Pictured above Hon. Francis Allegra, Judge U.S. Court of Claims, Ronald A. Cimino, Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice, Francesco Isgro, Friends of Charles Bonaparte, and James De Santis, Nat'l Executive Director, NIAF- Photo by Erika Madrigal)

Giuseppe ("Joe") Petrosino's Assassination
To Be Commemorated at the
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

The 100th Anniversary of the assassination of NYC Lt. Giuseppe ("Joe") Petrosino in Sicily will be commemorated at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial on March 12, 2009, at 12:00 Noon. (Click here for program) The event is sponsored by the Friends of Charles Bonaparte, and by Italian AmericanOrganizations in the Washington Metropolitan area. Read Daily News article on Petrosino; Read article on Petrosino.

Washington Post Runs First Page Story
On Mafia Lending In Italy
Italian Ambassador sends Letter to Editor

On March 1, 2009, the Washington Post ran a front page story, under the headline "As Italy's Banks Tighten Lending, Desperate Firms Call on the Mafia." The story, which looked at the loan sharking business at a time of tightening credit, notes that "the Mafia is most famous in Sicily and southern Italy, but its tentacles spread throughout that country." This critical story prompted the Italian Ambassador to Washington, Giovanni Castellaneta to send a letter to the editor criticizing the "one-sided content of the article." Read Castellaneta's letter . . .

We note for the record that the Washington Post did not write one story on Italy's Foreign Minister Franco Frattini's official visit to Washington, and Italy's plans for the upcoming G-8 summit.

Here's what one student wrote in her blog: " I went to The Brookings Institution to hear what are the priorities for the Italian G8 Summit. Franco Frattini, Italy’s minister of foreign affairs, surprised me. He said the rich countries should share responsibilities and be accountable." /09.03.02/

Italy's Foreign Minister Franco Frattini Meets
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Outlines G-8 Priorities

"The most serious crisis since the time of the Great Depression requires a global response. Better rules and increased international coordination are required to increase growth prospect of the world’s economy and set it on more solid foundations for the future."

On February 26-27, the Foreign Minister of Italy, Franco Frattini, was in Washington on an official visit to the Department of State. In her welcoming statement, Secretary Clinton said she was "pleased to welcome the Italian foreign minister. It’s always good to see our friends from Italy – reliable partners and leaders on so many important issues." Minister Frattini gave the full commitment of the Italian Government, "to work completely and very closely with the United States on international issues that are of common interest, ranging from Afghanistan and Pakistan, to Middle East, nonproliferation, and of course, strengthening Euro-Atlantic ties." See video . . .

Italy, which took over the presidency of G-8 earlier this year, is preparing to host 35th Summit on the Sardinian island of La Maddalena from July 8-10. Frattini readily acknowledged, that, "as President of the G8, Italy has inherited a difficult and demanding challenge," giving the worsening of the global economic scenario..

During his visit in Washington, Mr. Frattini also had talks with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other senior official in the Obama Administration.

Most importantly, on Friday, Feb. 27, Mr. Frattini spoke at the Brookings Institution about the priorities that Italy is setting for the next G-8 Summit and of its proposal for a new global governance. One proposal is to include Brazil, China, India, Mexico, and South Africa in a more structured and stable association with the countries of the G8. Italy is of the view that a moderate, Arab, Muslim, and African country like Egypt would also be a useful addition to this exercise.

Mr. Frattini also outlined the five priorities that Italy would like the G-8 to be focus upon, namely: (1) the financial and economic crisis; (2) climate change and energy security; (3) non-proliferation and terrorism; (4) development and Africa; (5) the regional crises, with particular reference to Afghanistan. Read prepared remarks. . .

On Friday, following his meeting at the State Department, Mr. Frattinin gave a press conference at the Italian Embassy.

Visit the G-8 official web site
Read story from Frattini's talk at Brookings last September 2008.

Prof. Pietro Frassica on Marinetti's La Cucina Futuristica
“Spaghetti is not good for Italians”

Princeton's University Professor, Pietro Frassica, presented La Cucina Futurista, his anastatic reprint of Marinetti and Fillìa volume, to a capacity crowd at the auditorium of the Italian Embassy in Washington, DC. The Italian Cultural Institute sponsored the event on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Italian Futurismo. Read more ....

Christina Pirello at the Washington D.C.
International Wine & Food Festival.

Christina Pirello, host of the Emmy Award-winning television series “Christina Cooks,” who has been described as the woman “who put the fun back into healthy cooking,” was in Washington, D.C. on February 15, 2009, sharing her healthy Mediterranean cooking at the Washington D.C. International Wine & Food Festival. Also present at the Festival were Villa Banfi, Domenico Winery, and the Vignaioli selection. Click to see pics.

Hon. Michele Iorio, President of Molise Region
at Casa Italiana

On February 3, 2009, The Abbruzzo and Molise Society of the Washington, D.C. Area, welcomed Hon. Michele Iorio, President of the Molise Region at Casa Italiana. at a special dinner in his honor.

Iorio was welcomed by Omero Sabatini, the current President of the Society. Among the honored guests were Ambassador Connie Morella and her husband, Mrs. Jan Fenty, First Counselor to the Italian Embassy Marco Mancini, Father Lydio Tomasi, Pastor of Holy Rosary Church, Hon. Salvatore Ferrigno, Carmelo Cicala, and Lucio D'Andrea frounder of the Abbruzzo and Molise Society. Read more. . . . <click here for pics from event page 1 page 2>

Lido Civic Club Past Presidents' Night Gala
General Peter Pace Among Honorees

On January 24, the Lido Civic Club of Washington, D.C., honored Retired Gen. Peter Pace, 16th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Dan Tangherlini, City Administrator and Deputy Mayor of Washington, D.C., and Paul Magliocchetti, President and Chairman of the PMA Group at its Annual Past Presidents' Night. General Pace received the Special Achievement Award for Public Service, Deputy Mayor Tangherlini was honored ar the Man of the Year, and Magliocchetti received the Special Achievement Award in Business.

The Lido Civic Club is one of the oldest Italian American association in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Founded in 1929. Pictures from the event are available at http://celebpix.instaproofs.com (Pictured above General Peter Pace and Outgoing President of the Lido Civic Club Tom Stallone. Picture courtesy of Bill Guptill) <09-01-27>

Parallel Empires: Vatican & U.S.A.

On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the United States and the Holy See, and on eve of the passing of Cardinal Pio Laghi, first Papal Nuncio to Washington until he was called back to Rome in 1990, a timely new book by Massimo Franco has just been released in the United States: Parallel Empires, The Vatican and the United States. Two centuries of Alliance and Conflict. On January 21, the author, joined by a distinguished panel of diplomats and experts, presented his book at the Italian Cultural Institute, Italian Embassy in Washington, D.C. <read more> (Pictured above, Archbishop Pietro Sambi, Papal Nuncio to the United States and author Massimo Franco at Italian Embassy)

Advanced Placement Italian Exam Terminated

The College Placement Board has decided to suspend the AP Italian test at the end of the current academic year. This is a huge disappointment for the Italian American community which sought to raise sufficient funds to keep the AP program alive for one more year pending other fundraising efforts.

The Italian Language Foundation which was set up early last year to raise the needed funds raised $650,000 in commitments but apparently was unable to obtain any additional funds from the Italian Government. Louis Tallarini, Chairman of the Foundation, expressed disappointment "that the Republic of Italy declined the opportunity to invest in an international program that is an asset for the Republic of Italy and its bilateral relations with the United States in education, culture, tourism and trade." <09-01-10>

Read press release issued by the Italian Language Foundation.

Holy Rosary Church Celebrates 95th Anniversary

. Click here to read story. Click here for pictures from the luncheon!

November 30, 2008 - Andrea Palladio Day
D.C. Mayor Issues Proclamation
Click here to read Proclamation

On November 30, 2008, at Casa Italiana in Washington, D.C., Jane Fenty, the mother of DC Mayor Adrian Fenty, presented to Father Lydio Tomasi of Holy Rosary Church, a Proclamation issued by DC Mayor Mayor Adrian Fenty declaring November 30 as the Andrea Palladio Day. In her remarks, Mrs. Fenty, an Italian American whogrew up in Buffalo, New York, spoke lovingly of her Italian roots and of the importance of informing the public about the great contributions made by Italians, such as Palladio. Andrea Palladio was born 500 years ago on Nov. 30, 1508. He is considered the most influential person in the history of architecture. The Palladian style is reflected in the Capitol region in such famous building as the White House and the John A. Wilson D.C. Building. Click here to read Angela Puglisi's article about Palladio. Click here for Roger Lewis' article in the Washington Post on Nov 22, 2008. To read an article in Italian written by Generoso D'Agnese, click here. Biografia di Palladio.

(Pictured above Pino Cicala, Marco Mancini, First Counselor at Italian Embassy, Joe Grano who coordinated the event, Jan Fenty, and Father Lydio Tomasi.)

Search Begins for Miss Italia nel Mondo USA 2009

Italian Culture Week - April 1- 6, 2008
NIAF reception on Capitol Hill launches Italian Culture Week in Washington, DC

Ambassador Castellaneta launched Italian Culture Week on April 1, 2008, at a reception in the U.S. Capitol Building. The event was hosted by the National Italian American Foundation and the Italian Embassy.

In connection with the celebration of Italian Culture Week, Voce Italiana dedicated its April issue to the Italian legacy in the Nation's Capital.

(Pictured above is Francesco Isgro, Executive Editor of Voce Italiana and Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta)
Italian Culture Week
Click here for Voce Italiana, April 2008 - Italian Culture Week

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