The Federation of Italian American Organizations held its annual Columbus Parade Brunch on Sunday, October 5, in anticipation of the Columbus Day Parade it sponsors each year along 18th Avenue.
However, the FIAO wasn’t just seeking to fundraise; the federation honored four grand marshals for their “extraordinary leadership and contributions to the community.” The honorees included Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, Councilmember Vincent Gentile, Assemblymember William Colton and Regina Scire of Investor’s Bank.
In a statement, the FIAO explained that the grand marshals were “outstanding individuals whose achievements and contributions to society exemplify the traits” that the federation values; they also, said the FIAO, “serve as positive role models for our youth.”
The members of the FIAO celebrated their Italian heritage with their honored guests at the Dyker Beach Golf Course, while enjoying the beautiful autumn weather.
The Brooklyn Columbus Day Parade will be held on Sunday, October 11. A celebratory mass will kick off the day’s events at St. Athanasius R.C. Church, 61st Street and Bay Parkway, at 10:15 a.m. Following the mass will be a reception, hosted in the school auditorium. The parade will be on 18th Avenue, Cristoforo Colombo Boulevard, from 60th Street to 84th Street.
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