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Brooklyn Honors Italian Heritage & Culture with a Celebration of Legacy, Leadership, and Unity at Il Centro
By Jennifer Adriana LaDelfa
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Brooklyn celebrated Italian Heritage & Culture on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at FIAO Il Centro Cultural Community Center in Bensonhurst—Brooklyn’s own Little Italy. Hosted by the Office of the Honorable Antonio Reynoso, Brooklyn Borough President, and held in participation with the organization responsible for initiating Italian Heritage Month in New York 49 years ago, the Italian Heritage & Culture Committee of New York (IHCC-NY, Inc.), the evening paid tribute to the enduring beauty and spirit of Italian culture in the city.
Maria Marinello, Vice President of IHCC-NY, presented this year’s commemorative poster honoring Michelangelo: An Italian Genius, marking the 550th anniversary of his birth in the Tuscan hills of Caprese, Italy. Guests were welcomed with traditional music, dance, and culinary delights, as students from I.S. 201 Dyker Heights Intermediate School performed the Italian and American National Anthems symbolizing harmony and shared heritage.
Master of Ceremonies Carlo A. Scissura, President & CEO of the New York Building Congress and Vice Chair of FIAO’s Board, guided the evening with warmth and humor. Deputy Borough President Kim Council, accompanied by Communications Associate Darshanie Somwaru, attended on behalf of Borough President Reynoso to issue the official Proclamations of Italian Heritage & Culture Month that honor the ongoing contributions of Italian Americans in Brooklyn’s civic and cultural life. Her remarks underscored the importance of community rooted in pride, purpose, and shared values.
Four distinguished individuals were honored for their excellence and leadership. Justice Lara J. Genovesi, Associate Justice of the NYS Supreme Court Appellate Division, Second Department, has built a life of service grounded in mentorship and advocacy. Pasqualino “Pat” Russo, Esq., Partner at Windels Marx, embodies dedication, justice, and generosity. Nick Pesce, General Manager of FPL Foods and La Bella Marketplace, represents the entrepreneurial spirit shaping both business and community. Peter Ciaccia, Partner of Broadway Construction Group & APICII, Founder of Resolute Properties Global, and President of the Brooklyn Italians Soccer Club, bridges heritage and opportunity through real estate, hospitality, and sports.
One of the evening’s most moving moments reflected the celebration’s core message: “Our greater goal is to foster future leaders—people who embody character, discipline, courage, and community spirit. It’s not material possessions that are most impactful, but instilling faith, values, and mindset into our children—that is the greatest gift.”
The evening concluded with a joyful performance of the Tarantella by students from P.S. 112 Lefferts Park Italian Dual Language Program filling the halls with the rhythms of ancient Italian tradition.
The proclamation ceremony closed with gratitude and unity for the Il Centro team: Nancy Sottile, Executive Director; Jack Spatola, Chairman; and Board Members John Mazzola and Joe Rizzi, whose dedication continues to strengthen Brooklyn’s Italian American community. Guests then gathered for a reception showcasing the culinary mastery of Brooklyn’s finest Italian American chefs.
Contributions came from Il Colosseo Restaurant, Gargiulo’s, La Bella Marketplace, A & S Fine Foods, MP Brooklyn, Fiasconaro, Lioni Italian Heroes, Sirico’s Caterers, Ruan’s Restaurant, Pizza Wagon, and D. Coluccio & Sons. Each dish reflected craftsmanship, mem
ory, and devotion, celebrating the richness of Italian heritage.
The evening wove artistry, pride, and community spirit into a tapestry of excellence and interconnection among cultures. Chinese American leaders demonstrated how Brooklyn thrives through the mutual respect shared with the Italian community, reflecting the borough’s living mosaic of heritage. All cultures came together in unity to honor the legacy of Italian culture—the very foundation upon which much of Brooklyn was built.
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John Mazzola, Castelbuono Representative in NY & IL Centro Boardmember pictured with Master Pastry Chef Nicola Fiasconaro “ Il Maeatro” Niccola Fiasconaro and celebrate Brooklyn Columbus Day Pre- Parade Mass Celebrated at St. Anthanatius Church.
Photo courtesy, John Mazzola
Celebrating Heritage, Craftsmanship, and Community in Conversation With IL Centro’s Board Member John Mazzola at Brooklyn’s 43rd Annual Columbus Day Parade
By Jennifer Adriana LaDelfa
Bensonhurst, Brooklyn’s own Little Italy came alive with the 43rd annual Columbus Day Parade on October 11, 2025, organized by the Federation of Italian American Organizations of Brooklyn, IL Centro Community Center. The streets were filled with music, flags, and the vibrant energy of a community honoring its roots and traditions. Among the celebrants, La Media New York spoke with John Mazzola, Member of the Board of Directors of IL Centro and Consulate Referente for Castelbuono, Sicily.
“Happy Columbus Day, John! It’s great to celebrate with you.” John, accompanied by his daughter Gianna, shared in the excitement of the day, both clearly enthusiastic to honor this special celebration of heritage and community.
In his role as Consulate Referente, Mazzola serves as a bridge between Castelbuono and Italians living abroad, connecting them to the traditions and flavors of his Sicilian hometown. “We bring a taste of Castelbuono to New York and New Jersey,” he shared. One of those treasures is Fiasconaro, the renowned pistachio panettone and other artisanal delicacies made in his town. “They even make panettone for Dolce & Gabbana, along with torrone and other Sicilian delights.”
Beyond his cultural role, John Mazzola has built a distinguished career in New York City. As Senior VP at BNY Building Maintenance, he oversees services for major clients such as Ralph Lauren and Movado, all while carrying forward the tireless work ethic instilled by his father. “My father started as a tailor at six in Castelbuono, then came to New York in 1956 and worked for Brooks Brothers before opening his own women’s wear shop,” he recounted. “I try to follow his example every day—hard work, dedication, and pride in what you do.”
Mazzola’s dedication extends to IL Centro, where he has served as secretary on the board of directors for seven years. He describes the experience as a multicultural hub. “We welcome people from all walks of life—Asians, Muslims, Russians, Spanish speakers. We offer Italian and English classes, Mandarin classes, and even senior programs.” The building at 8711 18th Avenue features a gym, a pool with panoramic views of the Verrazzano Bridge, and soon, a teaching kitchen and roof garden. “It’s really been a labor of love,” Mazzola said.
The parade, held along 18th Avenue—also known as Cristoforo Colombo Boulevard—is more than a celebration; it’s a vibrant tapestry of history, community, and dedication. As it reached its final stretch, Mazzola invited visitors to explore IL Centro’s programs. “Come down, see the building, participate in our programs, and experience what we’ve created as a community.”
Live from the heart of Little Italy, Brooklyn, at a celebration that honors family and culture, La Media New York wishes everyone a joyful Columbus Day and Italian Heritage Month. As Mr. Mazzola notes, “It is a true pleasure to witness the enduring pride of a community that keeps its heritage alive—a community I proudly call home.”
