On December 13, 2011, the Arcolian Dental Arts Society celebrated their 80th anniversary during their Annual Christmas Dinner at the Park Ridge Country Club. Honored as the Arcolian of the Year was Italian-American scholar, author and historian Dr. Dominic Candeloro. The curator of the Roselli Library at the Italian Cultural Center, Dr. Candeloro has authored and edited several books, his latest effort being “Reconstructing Italians in Chicago.”
In addition to the award presented to Dr. Candeloro, two Arcolian Dental Arts Society Scholarships in the amount $1000 were given to fourth-year dental students Anthony LaPorte of the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Dentistry and Danielle Musso of Marquette University School of Dentistry.
The Arcolians also honored the work of Casa Italia and the Italian Cultural Center by donating $2,500 to both their Library and Children’s Language Program. Accepting the award on behalf of Casa Italia was Culture and Education Chair Josette Mentesana Weber and Dr. Dominic Candeloro. The Arcolian Dental Society also donated $1,000 to the Chicago Dental Society Foundation.
Other Italian Americans of note who attend our Christmas party were Senatore Renato Turano, who very eloquently introduced Dr. Candeloro and spoke of his many achievements, and the Rev. August Feccia, who serves as chaplain at Casa Italia.
Many thanks to Arcolian President Dr. Victoria Ursitti and President-Elect Dr. Benjamin LoGiudice, who were instrumental in the success of the event, as well as the choice of this year’s beneficiaries.