On January 19th, 2014, the Abruzzesi e Molisani di California celebrated their 24th Anniversary at the Castaway restaurant, beautifully located at the top of a hill in Burbank. Approximately 100 members, relatives and friends were delighted to participate to such a happy occasion entertained by the music of Tony Ciaramitaro and his Sicilian Band. Most of the participants took the opportunity to stretch their legs dancing or moving around the tables to socialize with friends or relatives whom they had not seen for some time.
The atmosphere was very pleasant and everybody enjoyed the celebration.
The highlight of the reunion was the awarding of “Il Distintivo D’oro” to Guy Masciotra, one of the most active members of the club. The “Golden Pin”, without doubt the most prestigious award, always given along with a certificate, is a solid 18 carat gold pin that comes from Italy and is assigned only to very meritorious members. It is assigned exclusively by recommendation of the president of an Abruzzese club or association directly to the FAA-USA (Federation of the Abruzzesi Associations in the USA) headquartered in Boston.
Saverio Ficocelli, president of the Abruzzesi e Molisani di California, after receiving the approval of the board of directors of the club, submitted the request for a Golden Pin to award Guy Masciotra. Rosetta Romagnoli, president of the FAA-USA immediately accepted it.
As Saverio Ficocelli announced at the microphone that Guy Masciotra was the “honoree”, the recipient of the award, everybody in the hall happily applauded showing their enthusiastic approval of the selection. They all appeared to be genuinely happy that Masciotra had been selected. The indefatigable Guy is truly an amazing man, always present at every Italian festivity, he never gets tired for working very hard and he never complains.
Gaetano Masciotra was born January 13, 1922 at Agnone, Italy. During his career he was elected 3 times “President of the ICF” (Italian Catholic Federation) and always discharged his duties very efficiently. For the last half a century Guy has been organizing tours and excursions for Italians living in the Southern California area and often special events, like “polenta night” to please people that enjoy a good Italian meal and healthy food.
Our sincere congratulations to the Abruzzesi e Molisani on the occasion of the 24th Anniversary of their Club and to Guy Masciotra for the well deserved award.
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