Tag Archives: John Conenna

After a 25-year hiatus, the Harlem Avenue Little Italy Business Association is returning with loads of enthusiasm, a new logo and plenty of gear. Funds to kick-start the organization are being generated through the sales of T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, and other branded items available on the organization’s website and at member businesses. “Gear is a great way to raise money as well as profile,” says recently elected President Gino Bartucci. “We want the world to know we’re back in business and ready to start promoting our culture and community again.” Some readers may be asking, “Which Gino Bartucci?” That’s a …

An abiding passion for hockey propelled John Conenna to the pinnacle of the sport in Illinois. From standout grade-school goalie to stellar high school coach to Illinois Hockey Hall of Fame inductee, John Conenna has excelled at every local level of the sport. The soon-to-be-60-year-old travel agency owner was bitten by the hockey bug when he was only 8. “I used to watch a group of boys in my neighborhood play street hockey outside my window,” Conenna says. “I figured I’d tag along and try it and I was hooked.” His choice of positions was influenced by the play of …

The Order Sons of Italy in America, Grand Lodge of Illinois/Wisconsin, honored a dozen outstanding individuals from all walks of life at the 18th annual Leonardo da Vinci Awards of Excellence Gala on May 5 at White Eagle Banquets in Niles. “Our recipients walk among giants in their chosen professions,” says Lodge President Marie Marsalli. “They lead by example and truly embrace their Italian heritage.” Fra Noi’s own Pat Capriati, author of the monthly Italian-language profile “L’eta d’oro” and co-host of the bilingual radio program “Domenica Insieme,” received an Award of Excellence in Communications at the event. Also receiving awards …

After 25 years of hosting an Italian radio show in Chicago, Pasquale “Pat” Capriati was ready to shake things up a little. Capriati, who also performs with the Chicago-area Italian band Diamanti, decided to double the length of his show, Domenica Insieme, from one hour to two, add John Conenna as co-host and sprinkle more English-language conversation into the mix. The show airs Sundays from 9 to 11 a.m. on WCKG 1530 AM radio. “John was a guest on the show, and I told him he had an open invitation to come back,” Capriati says. “He’s been coming every week for the …