On Thursday, October 12, 2017, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. hosted his annual celebration of Italian-American Heritage & Culture Month, “Mese della Cultura Italiana,” at the Schiff Family Great Hall on the grounds of the Bronx Zoo.

This year’s honorees included City Council Member James Vacca, Hon. Frank Seddio, Esq., Chairman of the Brooklyn Democratic Party and an attorney with the law firm of Seddio & Associates; Maria Caruso, Director of Tourism at the City Island Chamber of Commerce and William Mayer, owner of Maestro’s Caterers in Morris Park.

“The Italian-American community has had an incredible impact on our borough, our city and our nation. I was proud to once again join so many of my colleagues and my constituents at this wonderful event to both recognize these four individuals for their outstanding achievements and pay tribute to our Italian-American population and its storied heritage and culture,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Gianna Gelosi of News 12 The Bronx served as the event’s emcee.