The last time the UFT Italian-American Heritage Committee hosted a dinner, UFT founder George Altomare and longtime Bronx district representative Patricia Filomena — both former committee chairs — were in attendance. And while both died this year, they were on the minds of all 35 members in attendance at Mario’s Restaurant in the Bronx on Oct. 26 as they were honored at the committee’s first in-person event since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“What an honor it is to follow these two legends,” said new committee chair Dana Falciglia, the UFT District 11 representative. “Our dinner makes everyone feel like you are having Sunday dinner at nonna’s.” In full agreement was Marla Smith, a teacher and the chapter leader at PS 106 in the Bronx. “What I love the most is that you don’t have to be Italian to attend,” Smith said.