Queens councilman honors Astoria resident for
contributions to Italian-American community
BY JENNA BAGCAL
A Queens councilman recognized
a longtime Astoria
resident for his significant contributions
to the Italian-American
community.
On Oct. 10, City Hall played
host to “A Celebration of Italian
Heritage” in observance
of National Italian American
Heritage Month, sponsored by
Councilman Paul Vallone.
The councilman issued a
New York City Council proclamation
to Joseph DiPietro,
president of the Federation of
Italian American Organizations
of Queens (FIAO), for his
“outstanding character and
service to the community.”
The celebration included
remarks from the Honorable
Francesco Genuardi, Consul
General of Italy in New York.
LaGuardia Arts High School
student Victoria Pinto performed
the American and Italian
National Anthems while
students from the Landrum
City Council members Paul Vallone (r.) and Justin Brannan (l.) present Joe DiPietro (c.) with a New
York City Proclamation at the City Council Chambers. Photo by McCarten/New York City Council
School of Performing Arts prepared
a dance performance.
“For centuries, Italian
Americans have helped shape
the course of our nation’s history,”
said Vallone. “I’m proud
to sponsor the Italian Heritage
Celebration at City Hall and
recognize outstanding Italian
Americans like Joe DiPietro
for their immeasurable contributions
to the borough of
Queens and the city of New
York! For decades, Joe has been
an extremely active member of
the Astoria and Queens community
and he’s one of the best
people to ever be recognized by
the Council.”
DiPietro came to Astoria
from Sicily in 1966 and became
involved with the FIAO in 1992.
During his tenure as president,
he worked to help the organization
meet the needs of
Italian-Americans in matters
including immigration, foreign
pensions, health and social issues
and cultural events.
From 2004 to 2005, DiPietro
served as the chair of the
Queens Columbus Day Parade
and is currently on the board of
directors of the Central Astoria
Local Development Coalition.
The Astoria resident is also the
co-founder, former president
and current vice president of
the Astoria Italian Soccer Club,
which he has coached since
1995.
Reach reporter Jenna Bagcal
by e-mail at jbagcal@qns.com or
by phone at (718) 260-2583.
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