Italian-American Heritage Celebration Draws Full House at North Shore Historical Museum

Long Island, NY — The North Shore Historical Museum welcomed a full house on Tuesday evening, October 20, for Celebrating Italian-American Heritage, the second event in its newly introduced Community Connections Series. The celebration brought together residents, community leaders, and guests for an evening of history, culture, and shared heritage.

Presented in collaboration with the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, Loggia Glen Cove #1016, the program explored the experiences of Italian immigrants, their contributions to American life, and the important role Italian-American families have played in shaping Glen Cove and the surrounding communities.

The evening featured three presenters: Loggia Glen Cove President Raphael "Ralph" Ciano, Immediate Past President Marisa Gambino, and New York State Deputy Alfonso Squillante, author of The Bread We Carried.

Ciano welcomed guests and spoke about the many contributions Italians and Italian-Americans have made to American society. He also highlighted the work of Loggia Glen Cove #1016 and its commitment to celebrating Italian heritage, preserving cultural traditions, and serving the local community.

"Italian-Americans have contributed so much to this country, and through Loggia Glen Cove, we are proud to celebrate that heritage and keep our traditions alive," said Ciano.

Gambino offered a personal and moving perspective on the Italian immigrant experience, drawing upon her own journey to America as a young girl. Through her family's story and reflections on the challenges and opportunities of building a new life in a new country, she brought a deeply personal dimension to the evening's celebration of Italian-American history.

"For so many of us who came to America, our family's journey is part of who we are. Sharing those experiences helps keep our history and heritage alive," said Gambino.

Squillante shared stories of the Italian immigrant experience, drawing upon themes explored in his book, The Bread We Carried. His presentation reflected on the determination, sacrifices, and traditions of generations who came to America seeking a better life. The evening also included a book signing.

"Every immigrant family has a story, and those stories deserve to be remembered and passed along," said Squillante.The program concluded with guests gathering on the steps of the Museum for the raising of the Italian flag and the Italian national anthem, beautifully sung by Olivia Duffy, a member of Cellini Lodge #2206.

The evening marked another successful gathering in the Museum's newly established Community Connections Series, an initiative designed to bring people together through programs celebrating the history, heritage, and cultural traditions of the diverse communities that make up Glen Cove and Long Island's North Shore.

The series began earlier in October with a celebration of Hispanic-American Heritage and will continue with additional programs highlighting the people, cultures, and traditions that have helped shape the region.

To learn more about the North Shore Historical Museum, including its current exhibition, special events, and upcoming programs in the Community Connections Series, visit nshmgc.org.