Tag Archives: Stone Park

The Italian Cultural Center Vocal Scholarship began quietly in 1976 when Josephine LiPuma, an opera singer, music teacher and volunteer at the Italian Cultural Center, approached the Rev. August Feccia about starting a vocal competition under the name of the center. Ms. LiPuma wanted to start the scholarship as an encouragement to young students of opera. Fr. Feccia was in agreement that this would be a perfect event for the ICC. Two opera scholarships were offered to students of Italian Heritage and each year the scholarship honored a different Italian singer or composer. In 1987, Ms. LiPuma was terminally Ill …

Beniamino Mazzulla has served as mayor of Stone Park since 2001. He was born in Calabria and came to America with his parents in 1976, settling in Stone Park. Since assuming office, Mazzulla has instituted a bilingual village newsletter and has established programs for seniors, homeowners and children. Family-oriented activities have resulted from a resident-member special events committee. He also has spruced up the town and improved landscaping throughout the village. Mazzulla was first introduced to public service in 1995 when he spent two years as a police officer for the Memorial Park District.

The Italian American Veterans Museum took a quantum leap forward on Sept. 28, celebrating its grand reopening with the dedication of a new exhibit celebrating Italian-American Medal of Honor recipients. State Senator Don Harmon and Melrose Park Mayor Ben Mazzulla were among the dignitaries who took part in the noon dedication ceremony, which was attended by nearly 200 well-wishers, including more than four dozen veterans. The United States Navy Band from the Great Lakes Naval Station and the Marine Color Guard from the 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment from Foster Avenue in Chicago graced the event with their presence. Joe …