2012 Leonardo da Vinci Gala

The Grand Lodge of IL & WI, Order Sons of Italy in America, hosted their 11th Annual Leonardo da Vinci Award of Excellence Gala on May 6, 2012, at BeauJolie by Victoria in Schiller Park.

Chairperson for the event, Anna DeLuca, welcomed the honorees and guests and introduced Richard Della Croce, who sang the American National Anthem and the Italian National Anthem. Mr. Della Croce, Grand Lodge Immediate Past President and National Historian, served as emcee for the day.

In presenting the awards to 14 distinguished Italian Americans, Grand Lodge President Marie Marsalli stated, “Our recipients walk among giants in the chosen profession. They lead by example and truly embrace their Italian heritage. We wish them continued success in their endeavors.”

Receiving this prestigious da Vinci Award of Excellence were: Charles J. Pivoney (Administrative Leadership); John Amico Hair Products, Inc. (Business of Distinction); JS Printing (Business of Distinction); Hon. Judge Regina A. Cannich (Community Leadership); Frank J. Schiro (Community Leadership); Professor Richard G. Fiscella, Pharm. D, M.P.H. (Education); Arthur J. Mantoan (Entrepreneur); Hon. Thomas C. Giarrante (Government); Palermo’s Pizza (Industry Legend Award); Louis Cairo (Law); Lawrence A. Baldassaro (Literature); Dr. Antonio Mancini, M.D. (Medicine); Dr. Anthony J. Maoloni, D.D.D. (Medicine); and Theorore R. Lega, Jr. (Performing Arts).