A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear members and friends:
I hope that I can be forgiven for defining the Big Bang Theory as an explanation for the stellar beginning of our 2020 series of programs. The New Year’s first general meeting, held on January 26th at Casa Italiana, drew about 100 members and guests who enjoyed delicious food prepared by Osteria da Nino as well as a very interesting presentation by guest speaker Paul Paolicelli. Mr. Paolicelli talked about the many ways in which Italian immigrants have changed America for the better. The changes have become so ingrained in the American fabric that we are often unaware of how they came about and to whom we owe their existence. We thank Mr. Paolicelli for reminding us, and informing us, of so many fascinating facts. The meeting attracted more than the usual number of guests, which of course was quite gratifying. Included among them was one of our scholarship winners for the 2019-2020 academic year, Thomas Ronan, and his parents John and Cristina Ronan.
Thomas, a freshman at Georgetown University, addressed those in attendance (please see the related article on page ). It was clear that he is an outstanding young Italian-American student whose background and studies ensure a continuing connection to the Italian language and culture. Members of the Scholarship Committee, Officers and Board members of our Society, and members and guests in general were delighted to meet him as well as his parents. We also took care of several organizational matters. Immediate Past President Maria D’Andrea-Yothers administered the oath of office to me to inaugurate my second term as AMHS President. I did the same for our Officers, Nancy DeSanti (1st Vice President-Programs), Lynn Sorbara (2nd Vice President-Membership), Carmine James Spellane (Secretary) and Peter Bell (Treasurer), who began successive terms in their respective positions. I then swore in our incoming Board members John Dunkle, Chris Renneker and Joseph “Sonny” Scafetta, Jr. and recognized outgoing members Jeff Clark, Helen Free and Albert Paolantonio for their service and significant contributions.
I am pleased to report that our Scholarship Committee has decided to continue awarding two scholarships each academic year to deserving Italian American students, notwithstanding the loss of matching funds from the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF). The Committee’s decision underscores the importance with which the Society views our commitment to foster and strengthen the ties of young Italian American students to Italy, its culture and language. Of course, the Committee’s decision also entails the need for increased fund raising to support the effort. If you share this goal, please consider making a donation to the scholarship fundraising campaign — it is never too late to contribute. Please also see to it that your families and friends are aware of our scholarship opportunities, so that those close to home may also take advantage of them.
Our next general meeting will take place on March 22 at Casa Italiana, featuring guest speaker Carla Gambescia. As noted in the article on page 3, Carla is an accomplished and energetic woman and a dynamic speaker. So please note the date and give yourself an early spring treat. Kudos are in order for our Immediate Past President Maria D’Andrea-Yothers, who was honored for her professional achievements in January by the Washington D.C. Chapter of the National Organization of Italian American Women (NOIAW). Maria was selected as one of this year’s Three Wise Women for the greater D.C. area. Congratulations, Maria. Finally, stay tuned for plans regarding our 20th anniversary celebration in June. Thank you for reading. I look forward to seeing you in the spring — on March 22.
Best regards,
Ray LaVerghetta.