Italian American Heritage Month dinner
Italian cuisine and culture were on the menu when the UFT Italian American Heritage Committee hosted its annual fall dinner on Oct. 22 at Mario’s Restaurant, a staple for Italian Americans for more than a century on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. More than 50 UFT members from all five boroughs attended. Even the restaurant’s singer of Italian classics happened to be a UFT member: paraprofessional Joe Tribuzio of New World HS in the Bronx. “We’re doing our best to keep the tradition alive,” committee chair Dana Falciglia said, noting the work done in years past by former chairs George Altomare, a union founder, and Patricia Filomena. Everyone who attended left with an Italian heritage T-shirt, a committee pin and a committee sticker — not to mention a memorable night of fellowship. “I love getting together with the UFT and celebrating different occasions,” retired school secretary Maryanne Cuttita said. “The evening was wonderful — food, entertainment and friends. I’m looking forward to future adventures.”
