At the January 2010 meeting of the Wickliffe Italian-American Club, awards were given to five members. The first was given to Gino Latessa at the completion of his sixteenth year as club president. As president, Gino lead the club through many improvements including a major remodeling of our large hall, a remodeling of our club room, the expansion and covering of the bocce courts, the installing of our piazza, the growth of the Bocce tournament into the largest in the Midwest, and steady leadership during difficult economic times to keep us on sound financial ground. His passion and devotion to the club may be unparalleled in club history. And so we say to President emeritus Gino Latessa, grazie.

Also receiving an award was Peter Vitantonio, who retired from treasurer after eighteen years. Peter was responsible for all the financial business of the club, which is a great amount of work in itself, yet still found the time to run the Thursday Night Men's Bocce League. He also handled a great amount of work at the Bocce tournament and still found time to help at many of our social functions. We look forward to Pete's continued involvement in the club for many years to come.

Another award went to Clarke Brassell, who retired as recording secretary after serving from 1998 to 2009. His position encompassed many aspects and I am sure if you asked President Latessa he would tell you he would not have been able to accomplish all that he did without his help. No matter what was asked of him and how short of notice, he would always find a way to finish the task. Clarke will not be retiring totally as he has agreed to maintain some of his current duties to help out his successor.

On this evening an award was also presented to the family of Richard DiCicco, in recognition of his twenty-two years of service on the parliamentary committee. Richard's untimely death in 2007 has left a vacancy in the club that may never be filled. He was instrumental to writing the by-laws of the club, advising on all legal matters, assisting in contract and lease agreements, and participating in many other ways. Procedures he developed are used to this day to help guide the club. He is greatly missed by all.

The last officer receiving an award was Ralph Randle, who stepped down as financial secretary. This was Ralph's second time in this position, as he took over for John DiMatteo for health reasons. There is a great deal of responsibility in this position,
which requires keeping track of members, their dues, and other financial transactions. Ralph has done a great job for the club
and we are sure he would answer our call should the need arise in the future as he is always willing to help our club.

While each of these individuals contributed in their own unique way, the common factor for all was their devotion to the club.
It takes a great amount of work just to maintain the club, but these men were not happy to just maintain but lead the club to grow
and thrive. To say thank you is just not enough to express our gratitude for your devotion. It will never be forgotten.

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