Fra Noi Embrace Your Inner Italian
The Italian American Executives of Transportation held their 2016 Dinner Dance at Alta Villa Banquets on Nov. 19. More than 500 were in attendance, making it was once again one of the largest dinner dances of the year.
The IAET honored Sam Cicinelli as Man of the Year. Sam is the leader of the largest mechanics’ union in the country. An IAET member, he is the Directing Business Representative of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Automobile Mechanics’ Union Local 701, representing more than 6,400 active members and more than 4,200 retired members. He is extremely proud of his heritage and has always displayed a passion to help those in need.
Al and Marlene Comella were this year’s Humanitarians. They are owners/operators of Violet Flower Shop and founders of the Flowers for Hope benefit for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. What started as an in-house event has blossomed into a street festival with live entertainment; raffles; food and beverages; and T-shirt, candy, and bakery sales. Al is a member of the Columbian Club of Chicago and Order Sons of Italy in America as well as an IAET board member.
Vince Gerasole of CBS News served as emcee and also received a Special Recognition Award for his contributions to broadcasting.
More than $37,000 in scholarships were awarded to 32 students. “We take great pride in knowing many talented and deserving students have received assistance from our Scholarship Program,” said IAET President Vito D’Ambrosio. “We give thanks to our honorees and our many sponsors and supporters for their efforts on behalf of this program.”
The band 4th Beat from Odyssey Cruises and the incomparable Jack Miuccio provided great entertainment. IAET is very grateful for a highly successful 2016 and thanks their members, supporters and friends.
