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Leonardo da Vinci Award of Excellence the Annual Reception
Italian American professionals received the Leonardo da Vinci Award of Excellence at the 20th annual ceremony in July 2021 at White Eagle Banquets in Niles, Illinois, hosted by the Grand Lounge of IL/WI, Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America.
Paul Loparco, Past President of the Grand Lodge, welcomed honorees and guests, thanked them, and invited them to join the Order. He introduced event Chair Marie Marsalli.
Event Chair Marie Marsalli, Past President of the Grand Lodge and President of IL Sons of Italy Foundation, welcomed honorees and guests to a day of friendship, love, pride, and celebration of our Italian heritage.
Event Chair welcomed and introduced Nino Folino who gave a wonderful performance as he sang the American and Italian National Anthems.
Mr. Dan Welter, deacon and chancellor with the Archdioceses of Chicago, have the benediction. Rev. Richard Fragomeni, Rector of the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii and Chaplain for the Order gave his blessing. He spoke of the works of da Vinci and of his humility and greatness.
In the spirit of da Vinci, the Order honored eight individuals for their exceptional achievements. Master of Ceremonies Richard R. Della Croce introduced Grand Lodge President Paul Loparco, who welcomed attendees and praised the honorees as professionals excelling in their fields. Proud of their Italian heritage, the recipients include Richard O. Biondi, Joseph Anthony Farina, Dan O’Donnell (all Communications); Gene R. Montalbano, Sr. (Community Services); Ronald Centanni, Cav. Uff. Linda Scolaro (both Education); Anthony Arena (Entrepreneur); and David Spano (Finance), all recipients of the prestigious da Vinci Award of Excellence.
Nino Folino provided entertainment. Photos by Tim Townsend.
Leonardo da Vinci Award of Excellence Gala History
the Grand Lodge instituted this event in 2002 to acknowledge and award Italian and Italian Americans, in our communities, who have distinguished themselves in their respective fields of Artistry, Communications, Community Leadership, Education, Business,Law, Medicine, etc.The reception is similar to the Oscar and Golden Globes, and combines great Italian food and wine together with live entertainment and heartfelt acceptance speeches.
This event takes place the first Sunday in May.
