Public Employee Press

10th Anniversary at DC 37
Italian Heritage

DC 37 celebrated the rich contributions of Italian Americans to the country’s cultural melting pot during October, Italian Heritage Month.

This year’s celebration was particularly special as the union marked the 10th anniversary of its recognition of Italian heritage.

“Benvenuto and good evening everyone,” said Traffic Employees Local 1455 President, Michael DeMarco, chair of the DC 37 Italian Heritage Committee, welcoming the enthusiastic members and guests who attended the Oct. 5 ribbon-cutting gathering.

DeMarco praised members of the committee for organizing the festive event whose setting was modeled after the traditional sidewalk cafes in Italy. The gathering featured a photography exhibit by Anita Sanseverino, sculpture by Local 1931 retiree Giavito Bottalico and airplane and bridge models by Domenic Gaudiaso. Participants enjoyed tasty antipasto, wine, cappuccino and pastries.

“The Italian American community is a proud community for good reason,” said DC 37 Executive Director Lillian Roberts. “They have a rich history of public service and a strong work ethic that has contributed to the growth of our great city.”

Noting that the union also celebrates the heritage of other ethnic groups, Roberts said, “We may be ethnically diverse, but we stand together. Solidarity is our greatest strength.”

At its annual dinner-dance at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, Queens, the committee honored its former co-chair, state Sen. Diane Savino. Before she was elected in Nov. 2004, Savino served as a vice president of Social Service Employees Union Local 371.

“I want to thank you for your support,” said Savino, who relied heavily on union activists to win her Albany seat. “I will always support you.”

About 400 members and guests at the gala heard welcoming remarks from Roberts and enjoyed a great variety of appetizers, tasty dishes and time on the dance floor.

“Italian Americans have made, and continue to make, their mark in this great union and in this great city. Our accomplishments span centuries and have enriched this country and the world,” said DeMarco. “For the past 10 years, the DC 37 family has come together to celebrate and honor this heritage. It is a tradition we are very proud of and look forward to carrying on for many years to come.”