Trained to fight in the deserts of North Africa during World War II, he earned the coveted Air Medal while organizing and overseeing a mission to bring desperately needed supplies to embattled troops in the jungles of the South Pacific. Editor’s Note: The following profile was assembled from the diaries of Vincent Allegrini, interviews with his son Robert, and the official history of the 33rd Infantry Division. Allegrini’s uniform and decorations can be found at the Italian American War Veterans Museum at Casa Italia. In late December of 1944, units of the Army’s fabled 33rd Golden Cross Division, comprised primarily …

Southwest suburban businessman Frank Mungo Jr. has been battling blood cancer in his own heartfelt way for a quarter of a century. His Valentine’s Day Dance benefitting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society celebrated its 25th anniversary on Feb. 10 at the Drake Hotel in Oak Brook. When Mungo launched the event, blood cancer treatments were just beginning to see positive advancement. “Since the first year of the Valentine’s Day Dance, we have witnessed life-saving advances in blood cancer research while survival rates have soared,” Mungo says. “Over the last 25 years, we’ve seen the five-year survival rate for Chronic Myeloid …

Sergio Giangrande sure knows how to run a parade … AND throw a party. Thanks to the enthusiastic leadership of the 2017 chairman, float, sponsorship and TV ad sales were through the roof. When all was said and done, five major sponsors had signed on in support of the festivities, and another dozen benefactors purchased 30-second introductory “vignettes,” making it possible to broadcast the entire parade commercial free on ABC. “And we did so well on float sales that the company we work with ran out!” says Domenico Gambino, who recommended Giangrande for the chairmanship. “I’m close friends with Sergio’s …

On Dec. 1, the D’Addario Foundation partnered with Hungry for Music, Todd Rundgren’s Spirit of Harmony, Instruments in the Cloud, and the Chicago Federation of Musicians to hold an instrument collection event at the Ace Hotel Chicago. Sixty-five instruments were gathered at the event. Among the donors were representatives from local music retailers and music schools, as well as a young boy who donated instruments he collected for a community service project. Afterward, the instruments were loaded onto Hungry for Music’s RV for refurbishing and distribution to students in need. The D’Addario Foundation is a nonprofit that supports quality music …

The Cook County Board marked the 25th anniversary of the Columbian Club Charitable Foundation with a special resolution on Dec. 12. Present were Columbian Club members (from left) Robert DiSilvestro Jr.; Carmen Forte Jr.; Leonard J. Maniscalco and Gabe Caporale; Commissioner Peter Silvestri; and Chairman Toni Preckwinkle. Maniscalco and fellow founding CCCF members Phillip C. Corrado, Anthony B. Corrado, Sen. Renato G. Turano, Sam Sciambatterra, Robert Novelle Sr., Ronald J. Giordano, Robert DiSilvestro Sr. and Fred Mazzei were honored at the club’s installation on Jan. 13.

The Italian Social Club of Chicago started with a conversation over dinner. The concept was simple: find a way to foster all things Italian — including food and wine — with others who have an affinity for the culture. Along the way, members can create new and lasting memories and friendships. The group enjoys monthly dinners at Chicago-area Italian restaurants with special events planned for most Italian holidays, and each evening spotlighting art, music and other aspects of Italian culture. Last September’s event included a visit to the studio of Ginny Sykes, an artist who exhibits regularly in galleries in …

Each year, the best pizzaiuoli from around the world compete for the coveted Caputo Cup, preparing and serving their signature pizze for judges who assess them based on taste, bake, crust and appearance. This year, Chicago’s own Gianni Gallucci of Forno Rosso Pizzeria and Zero Ottantuno Mobile Pizzeria took home the cup, wowing the judges with his “Margherita Extra” pizza topped with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, piennolo tomatoes, basil and extra virgin olive oil.

Tireless community leader Jo Ann Serpico joined the ranks of the Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia at a special ceremony at the Italian Consulate in Chicago on Dec. 11. The honor was bestowed by Consul General Giuseppe Finocchiaro on behalf of Italian President Sergio Mattarella. “My parents [Joseph R. and Ella (Cataldo) Salerno] were born in America yet instilled a love of our Italian heritage in their daughters,” Jo Ann explains. “I am honored that Senatore Renato Turano and Commendatore Dominic Di Frisco support my position in the community, and I’m extremely honored that the president of Italy deems me …

Accountant Lisa Perkins has stepped up to the presidency of the Calabresi in America Organization. A member for 18 years, she joined to re-establish ties to her Italian roots. “My Calabrese grandparents passed away several years ago, and the Italian experience was no longer a part of my life,” she explains. “Joining a group whose members share the same heritage filled that void in my life.” Perkins likens CIAO to an extended family of unique individuals with shared interests. “I like how so many varied personalities come together to accomplish great things,” she says. “Just like a family, we are …

Financial planner Jack P. Cannata has ascended to the presidency of the Columbian Club of Chicago. Cannata joined the club in 1995. “I found out about the organization through longtime members Peter Fazio and Anthony Morizzo, and I was impressed with the caliber of the membership and the depth of the charitable work that they do,” he recalls. “The lasting friendships we’ve all made and the belief that we can truly make a difference in the community are the best attributes of the club.” Cannata has worked his way up through the ranks of the officers to the presidency, and …