Ever long to have the feeling of being part of something inclusive and special? Membership Spotlight is a new series that will introduce you to some Members that are part of our “Big Italian Family”. Hopefully you will see how diverse our group of Members are, and how passionate they are about the WICC!
Current Residence: Pearl River, NY
Occupation: Retired
Born in Brooklyn, NY
Family Heritage: Naples
Member Since: 2015
How did you come to know of the WICC?
“I have experienced many blessings in my life. One of them was finding a postcard advertisement of the WICC in a random brochure rack in Garrison, NY which led me to becoming a Member of the WICC. The lectures at the WICC afforded me the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of all things Italian (which started with my proud Italian parents), especially the Italian Renaissance (which started with an excellent college professor). And at one of these lectures I met a fellow member, Frank, whose passion for all things Italian has led to our sharing many trips to our beloved Italy!”
Why do you like coming to WICC?
“One of the highlights for me are the Center’s events where I have met people who have now become treasured friends. It is so wonderful to be amongst people who share similar memories like, as a child, waking up on a Sunday morning to the aroma of meatballs frying in the kitchen while Italian music played on the radio and my mom singing along while cooking. To this day, the sound of Neapolitan classic songs of the 1950s & 60s, can, in a split second, bring my mind, heart, & soul to my happy place!”
What programs do you look forward to at WICC?
“I am looking forward to more lectures, trips, and social events.”
Can you tell us a little about the heritage of your family?
“I am 100% Napolitano. My father was born in 1895 in Naples, Italy and immigrated to the United States in 1923. My mother was born in the United States, but her father and grandmother were both from Naples.”
What are your hobbies?
“I like to play Mahjong and read and research all things Italian, especially the Renaissance period. I also enjoy travel and visit Italy each year.”
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