Public Employee Press

Celebrating Italian heritage

By JOE LOPEZ

As the old Italian proverb says, "Chi si volta, e chi si gira, sempre a casa va finire" - No matter where you go or turn, you will always end up at home.

The union family returned to Russo's On the Bay in Howard Beach, Queens, on Oct. 17 for DC 37's annual dinner dance in celebration of the rich Italian American history that is intertwined with New York City and the labor movement.

"Our strength and idealism have contributed to this country's greatness," said DC 37's Italian Heritage Committee Chair and New York City Traffic Employees Local 1455 President Michael DeMarco.

Stressing the important family traditions that highlight the Italian culture, DeMarco spoke of growing up with Sunday dinners every week, when his parents and grandparents would make sure the entire family came together to break bread and enjoy each other's company.

"Today we keep that tradition alive and have our union family together for Sunday dinner," DeMarco said.

DC 37 Executive Director Henry Garrido recalled his own family's experiences immigrating to America and becoming proud members of the workforce. Like any family member, Garrido spoke of upholding the history that has come before us, while still moving the union forward into the next generation.

Another Italian proverb says, "A tavola non si invecchia" – At the table with good friends and family you do not become old. Wine flowed, delicious food was had, and the union family and friends once again showed why we are all truly a little Italian at heart.