Fra Noi Embrace Your Inner Italian
Società San Giovanni Bosco SS. Crocifisso di Ciminna held its annual Man of the Year gala on March 6 at Alta Villa Banquets. The society was created in 1960 in honor of a patron saint who had dedicated his life to the betterment and education of children. San Giovanni Bosco, canonized in 1934, received the title “Father and Teacher of Youth.” The first president elected by the society was none other than its 2016 Man of the Year, President Emeritus Vito P. Cali.
Current President Tony Napoli welcomed more than 600 attendees to the gala. Among them were the leaders of many Italian-American organizations, plus special guests such as Secretary of State Jesse White and Judge Angela Petrone, who inducted numerous new young adult members into the society.
Phil Cali proudly introduced his father, who with a touch-of-class gesture provided a red rose to the ladies in attendance in honor of his mother. The song “Mamma” played as Vito and his wife, Leann, came to the stage!
Liliana Bartolotta gave a wonderful performance as she sang both the American and Italian national anthems, receiving a standing ovation from the guests in attendance. During dinner, everyone was treated to a surprise performance by two very talented young artists — Tony & Daniela — who sang beautiful Italian songs as they strolled among the tables. And, of course, Diamanti provided its special brand of music for dancing after dinner.
Special thanks goes to Domenico Gambino, Gala Committee Chairman Bartolo Maniscalco and the entire committee for its outstanding efforts in making the event a huge success!
— article by Maria Grazia Barghini, photos by Lilino
