Italian American Digest Spring2020DigestFINAL | Seite 13

SPRING 2020
I talian A merican D igest
PAGE 13
On January 25th, the American Italian Renaissance Foundation hosted the organization’s annual
Louisiana American Italian Sports Hall of Fame Gala at the Harrah’s New Orleans Hotel & Casino. The
evening paid tribute to Italian Americans in the fields of sports, arts & culture, media, and civics. It also
honored local Italian Americans who have contributed substantially to the fabric of the city of New Orleans
through economic and military achievements.
The National Honoree of the ceremony was Major League Baseball second-baseman Johnny Giavotella.
The ceremony also inducted local honorees, Frank Scelfo, Paul Stanton Jr., and Ray Culotta. Eric Asher
received the Buddy “D” Media Award. Dr. Brett Cascio accepted the Dr. John Adriani Medical Award. The
Joseph Maselli Heritage Award was awarded to Louis Tallarini. Paul Arrigo received the Civic Award. And
Captain Vincent Liberto was honored posthumously with the American Veteran Award.
Stay tuned for information about the AIRF’s 36th LAISHF Gala in 2021!
Photos Courtesy of
American Italians & Sicilians
of the South & West