Peter Cancro started his meteoric rise to becoming one of the most profitable CEOs in the country at the age of 14. He has become a beacon of success as CEO and Founder of Jersey Mike’s Subs. His hard working and focused journey began at Mikle’s Submarines in Point Pleasant New Jersey when working after school and the summer at Mike’s which was clo...
New Jersey Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., a 14-term incumbent and a fixture in his hometown of Paterson for more than 40 years, passed away Wednesday at the age of 87. "Bill, a devoted grandfather, father and husband, embodied the kind of collaborative leadership that is sorely missing in Washington today," said COPOMIAO President Basil Russo. "His elevat...
The Washington National Opera’s “Turandot” was sold out at the Kennedy Center in the spring. This Saturday, you can see it free on the Nationals Park jumbotron during the 19th annual “Opera in the Outfield.” “It’s an annual tradition for us,” General Director Timothy O’Leary told WTOP. “It’s one of our favorite days of the year because it’s a gift...
This weekend I had a moment of simultaneous panic and joy. My book, The Italians of Newark: A History, is now available for pre-order. I’ll be honest, when I saw it online, I felt the blood drain from my face. It has been 16 months since I signed the contract with The History Press, and another eight to twelve months of research before I made my pi...
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) mourns the passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr., a proud Italian American and tireless advocate for the Italian American community. Pascrell, who represented New Jersey's 9th Congressional District for nearly three decades, died on Wednesday at the age of 87. "Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. w...
It's been almost three years since lightning from a sudden thunderstorm struck and killed 19-year-old Keith Pinto, who was working as a lifeguard in South Seaside Park. The tragic death left a permanent mark on Berkeley Township, and now Pinto's name will continue to live on as 22nd Avenue has been renamed to "Keith Pinto Way." Mayor John Bacchione...
The Belmar (NJ) San Gennaro Festival is scheduled to return on September 7, 2024, with an exciting lineup of events celebrating Italian heritage. Among the festival’s highlights is the annual Sweet! Cannoli Eating Contest, a community favorite that promises both fun and philanthropy. The festival, running from 11 AM to 6 PM, will feature the contes...
The City of Bayonne will play host once again to a Columbus Day Parade this year, just under a different name. “We decided not to call it a Columbus Day Parade in order to avoid controversy,” Councilman Neil Carroll said. Instead, Bayonne's Italian Heritage Parade will take place on Sunday Oct. 20, leading marchers along Avenue C from 56th Street t...
On the north end of Long Beach Island, some have said they would like to see more restaurant options. Azzurri Italian Cucina, newly open in Harvey Cedars, NJ, looks to meet the demand in a unique way. A soft opening was held the first week of August. Before they bought the location, Mike Jacobellis and Dan DiDonte tried to buy Neptune Market when...
September 27 – 29, 2024. The Italian Cultural Institute of Washington is glad to announce the participation of Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino to the 20th edition of the Richmond Folk Festival this fall in Richmond, VA. For more information please visit the event’s web page here. Formed by writer Rina Durante in 1975, Canzoniere Grecanico Salentin...
Louis DeSimone was born Feb. 21, 1922, in Philadelphia; His parents Anthony and Nicolina DeSimone were Italian immigrants. He was raised in Bridgeport, Pa., and graduated from what was then named Villanova College. His family was devoutly Catholic, and both he and his two brothers joined the priesthood. His father was a barber and would often give...
The 5th Annual Galbani Maryland Italian Festival will be headlined by Frank Stallone. Frank Stallone is renowned in his own right for his dynamic voice and versatile talent. He has charmed audiences worldwide performing rock, blues, big band, and more. He has three Platinum Albums, 10 Gold Albums, five Gold Singles, and appeared in the films “Tombs...