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This year's Associazione Amici di Totò’s "New York Hall of Fame"
Photos by New York Scugnizzo |
As an unabashed Napoliphile, it was a tremendous honor to be counted among the Associazione Amici di Totò’s “New York Hall of Fame,” a tribute recognizing individuals who promote Neapolitan culture in New York City. In complete accord with fellow recipient Dr. Joseph Scelsa, our endeavors are a labor of love undertaken out of a sense of duty, not for any reward or glory. However, while we don’t do it for the accolades it is still nice to know members of our community appreciate our efforts.
Held on Monday, October 23rd, at the Italian American Museum in New York City’s historic Little Italy, the first edition of this terrific initiative—organized in conjunction with the Comitati Due Sicilie USA—kicked off with the screening of three movie trailers and five short films by some very talented Neapolitan writers and directors. Among these was Michelangelo Basso’s fascinating Capuzzelle, a short story based on Antonio De Curtis’ (Totò’s) poem ‘A Livella and shot in Naples’ famous Fontanelle Cemetery.
After a short intermission, guests mingled, discussed the films, and enjoyed some lite fare and vino, courtesy of the museum. The festivities resumed with the awards ceremony and brief thank-you speeches. As an added bonus, the Comitati honored Dr. Joseph Scelsa, Vincenzo de Sio and yours truly with certificates for our commitment and passion for southern Italy.
Congratulations to my fellow honorees: Dr. Joseph Scelsa; Sonia Palmieri; Claudia Romano; Luigi and Antonietta Peluso; Dennis Loiacono; Era Makoci; Michele Pilla; Mngucc Del Core; Luigi Liberti; Michelangelo Basso; my dear friend Marcantonio Pezzano; and my Constantinian brethren, Cav. Charles Sant’Elia. I am humbled to be among such wonderful company.
Thank you President Alberto De Marco, Vincenzo De Sio and all the members of the Associazione Amici di Totò for you hard work and dedication to Neapolitan culture, film, and the memory and legacy of the great Totò. We look forward to the Association’s exciting new projects showcasing the vast talent and imagination of Neapolitan cinema.
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| The awards table |
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| Vincenzo De Sio awards IAM President Dr. Joseph Scelsa |
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| Vincenzo awards Dennis Loiacono and Sonia Palmieri |
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| Vincenzo awards Claudia Romano and Luigi Liberti |
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| Vincenzo awards Luigi and Antonietta Peluso |
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| Vincenzo awards Domenico Del Core and Michele Pilla |
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| Vincenzo awards Marcantonio Pezzano |
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| Vincenzo awards Cav. Charles Sant'Elia |
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Cav. Sant'Elia presents Dr. Scelsa with the
Comitati's coveted certificate of appreciation |
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In the presence of Vincenzo De Sio, Cav. Sant'Elia presents
Cav. John Napoli with the Comitati's certificate of appreciation |
