Franklin Square honors Italian-Americans

The Franklin Square Historical Society last week honored Italian-Americans for contributions to the community in the past century.

During its 32nd annual dinner, the Historical Society dedicated the Franklin Square Citizen of the Year award to the entire Italian-American community of Franklin Square in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the first Italian immigrants settling in the area. America Lodge Sons of Italy 2245 accepted the award on behalf of the Italian-American community.

Paul van Wie, president of the society founded in 1979, delivered the annual message in both English and Italian.

More than 220 people attended the dinner at the Plattdeutsche Park Restaurant in Franklin Square. Among those attending  were Hempstead Town Councilman Edward A. Ambrosino, Assemb. Edward P. Ra, Nassau Legis. Vincent T. Muscarella, a representative of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, and Joseph Pianese of the Franklin Square Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society.

Proceeds from the dinner will go to the new Franklin Square Museum, currently under construction, van Wie said. The museum will house the village’s historical records and will host visits from local schools.