October is Italian Heritage Month – Celebration Dinner

Dinner to be Held to Honor Local Italian Americans

The month of October has been designated by multiple organizations in the United States for the recognition of Italian heritage. Locally, The Italian Heritage Club of the Mohawk Valley will hold its annual banquet and celebration on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 5 to 9 PM at Harts Hill Inn, 135 Clinton St., Whitesboro, NY.

The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Dr. John B. Marchisi Pioneer Awards and Volunteer of the Year Award. Marchisi is regarded as the first Italian immigrant to the Mohawk Valley. Arriving in 1815, he found work in the office of Dr. Amos G. Hull for 10 years. There, he compounded many prescriptions, including an ointment developed back in Italy. He was also the inventor of ”Catholicon,” widely used as a medicine for female uterine disturbances. He sold the formula in 1878 for $10,000 (over $210,000 today) to the firm of Howarth & Ballard.  He is remembered today as a pioneer, inventor, sergeant, druggist, fireman, & poet.  Marchisi is the first of many notable Italian Americans in the Mohawk Valley.  IHCMV carries on his name through the recognition of modern Italian Americans in our community for their outstanding contributions. This year, there are three individuals to be so honored:

Henry Despirito (posthumous) – nationally known painter and sculptor whose works are exhibited in collections at Utica University, The Fenimore Art Museum (Cooperstown), and the New York State Museum (Albany,) and has exhibited his work at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, the Whitney Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art. His work graces many private collections as well.

Joann Longo – A longtime presence in the Valley’s Italian American community, Ms Longo has distinguished herself for community work, philanthropy and support of such organizations as the Italian American Museum in Utica, the former Utica Lodge of the Sons of Italy, the Italian Heritage Club of the Mohawk Valley and, in particular, The Daughters of Columbus, of which she was President.  She has also been active in local politics.

Ercole Ventura – well known as a coach and referee on the local soccer scene- founded two local teams and refereed scholastic and college games. Also known for his musical acumen, he has accompanied the Coro Italiano on his accordion at festivals, parties, and nursing homes all over the state.

The 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award will go to Harmony Tardugno for her unselfish sharing of her time and efforts.  She has helped in the distribution of the IHCMV Newsletter and in innumerable initiatives which have contributed to the success of the organization. 

 Advance Registration for the event is due by October 6, 2025.  Call:315 733-6106. Tickets for the dinner are $40.00 for members and $50.00 for the general public.