Tag Archives: 2012 Awards Gala

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), the premier national organization for Italian Americans, celebrated the rich culture and heritage of Italian Americans during the Foundation’s 37th Anniversary. Dinner Chairman, John Scarpa welcomed thousands of guests from across the United States and Italy to the annual black-tie dinner at the Washington Hilton on October 13, 2012. As the evening’s emcee, Mike Piazza, 12-time MLB All-Star, opened the gala awards ceremony in Italian “Buona Serata” and introduced NIAF President Joseph V. Del Raso, Esq., and the Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer John M. Viola. Together at the podium, they reinforced NIAF’s mission to …

by Kelly O’Mara On Saturday, April 21, the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame celebrated its 2012 Awards Gala honoring Jim Corno, president of Comcast SportsNet, as the Sportsman of the Year and Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds first baseman, as the Athlete of the Year. The Sportsman of the Year Award is presented to a business leader who is continually giving back to the community in never-ending support of charities and humanitarian causes. With more than 30 years in the regional sports television business in Chicago, Corno has undoubtedly made his mark in the industry. More important to him …