by Kiawana Rich

Staten Island Arts hosted its annual gala Thursday at the Grand Plaza in Great Kills and honored three Islanders for their contributions to the arts. Among the honorees were Gina Biancardi, founder and president of Casa Belvedere, The Italian Cultural Foundation, Grymes Hill. She received the Service to Staten Island Arts and the Arts Community Award.

The award for Achievement in the Arts and Humanities was given to Vito Picone, who formed the doo-wop group, Vito Picone and The Elegants, back in 1956. And the Emerging Young Artist Award was given to hip hop recording and performance artist William (Starda) Perry.

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Source: http://www.silive.com/