Italian Heritage Award

Advance columnist, Carol Ann Benanti, is always working to promote the "unsung heroes" of Staten Island in her Inside Out column. On October 14th, though, Ms. Benanti was the one being recognized and honored with an Italian Heritage Award.

The Miss Staten Island Organization titleholders were invited to join in the celebration at the Grand Oaks Country Club. Ms. Benanti has been instrumental in sharing my volunteering endeavors with the Staten Island community. With her help, I have been able to truly be a figurehead for this borough. It was my honor to join her on her special day.

The ceremony included special performances by Italian organizations from the island, including a singing trio, child violinists, and a dance troop. Brunch was served and everyone seemed to be enjoying the beautiful tribute to the Italian culture.

Carol Ann Benanti accepted a plaque, which was presented to her by our Borough President, James Molinaro. I could tell how grateful she was, not only for the award, but for the presence of her friends and family. For such a wonderful woman, though, how could she not have all of our support?

Thank you, Ms. Benanti, for thinking of us on this day. All of us at the Miss Staten Island Organization are lucky to have your support and we are glad to give it to you in return. You are an amazing woman and perfect representation of the strong Italian Heritage on Staten Island.