Honoree: Italian-American Club of Kenosha

"Nobody leaves the Italian-American Club hungry."

Truer words were never spoken. Whether the hunger is for great Italian and American cuisine or for Italian culture, the Italian-American Club sends no one away hungry.

The I-A Club houses the Italian-American Society of Kenosha. Established in September 1923, the Society resulted from the merger of several established organizations such as the G. Giaribaldi Society, the S. Francesco Society, the S. Michele Society, the Maria SS Della Schiava, and others. Together, they built what was then called The Italian-American Home, a place where people with direct or ancestral roots in Italy could freely meet for fellowship, cultural exchange, education, and celebrations. Or for a great meal!

Since it was established nearly 90 years ago, the Italian-American Club has become no less than a landmark in the City of Kenosha. Located at 2217 57th Street, it is part of the fabric of southeastern Wisconsin.

Throughout its history, the Italian-American Club has been blessed with exceptional and visionary leadership. The Society's first president was an Italian pioneer of proven ability, the respected and inspiring leader Leonard Montemurro. His leadership earned him the love and respect of not only Italians in Kenosha, but also helped bring about a better understanding and respect for Italians among the city's other ethnic groups.

It was Mr. Montemurro who said: "Let us go on, let us build the home, the Italians will never permit it to be taken away." These words inspired an organization with a modest treasury to build a monument to Italian culture and determination; a monument that stands strong to this day.

The Italian-American Club's tradition of exceptional and visionary leadership continues with current President Steve Torcaso, First Vice President Joseph Torcaso, and Second Vice President Michael Principe. Other Italian-American Club board members are John Bonaretti (Recording Secretary), Frederick Storz (Treasurer), and Mary Storz (Financial Secretary). Its directors include William Brydges, Gabriel Cappozzo, David Filippello, Benjamin Gentile, Todd Hagen, Frank Marano, Brad Kemen, Samuel Martin, and Anthony Zarletti.

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ABOUT THIS STORY:

Story Status: Archived
Publish date: 5/16/2012

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