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Night Held in Honor of Mike Rossi By Michelle Feldman Editor On Saturday, November 14, 2009, family, friends and fellow members of the Italian Catholic Federation and Central Council gathered at Three Flames Restaurant in San Jose, California, to pay tribute - and roast - Past Grand President Mike Rossi. The food was excellent and the floral table centerpieces with Mickey and Minnie ears were beautiful. As the evening began, Mike's son, Mike Jr., was also in a celebrating mood, as he celebrated his birthday at the dinner. His grandmother, Donna Rossi, led everyone in singing, "Happy Birthday," as a cake and candle were presented to Mike, Jr. Mistress of Ceremonies, Grand 1st Vice President Jane Dianda introduced the numerous Central Council members and District presidents and deputies in attendance. The night belonged to Mike Rossi though. In an evening that felt like a family dinner vs. a formal banquet, invited guests gave glowing tributes to Mike's leadership abilities, and also entertained the 150 guests in attendance with a number of humorous stories from Mike's past. Stephen Lencioni, branch president of Branch 391, where Mike is a member and got his start said that Mike was always on the fast track through the ICF. "Thank God Mike was young and gullible or we wouldn't be here honoring him this evening," Lencioni said. Monsignor Daniel Cardelli continued the tributes by presenting Mike with a framed Papal Blessing. Grand President Jim Jones spoke of his friend and travelling companion with high praise. "I've learned so much from you," said Jones. "I thank you for your leadership. You have been a positive influence on all of us." "He has lived up to that call to holiness, " said District Chaplain of the Santa Clara Valley District, Reverend George Arana, who continued by singing a song for Mike: "Good luck Good health, God bless you that's all my heart can say. And guide you on your way No matter where you wander No matter where you roam Good luck Good health And keep you safe in His arms for evermore." When Mike's wife, Marcie took to the podium to roast her husband, it was more a tribute than barrage of embarrassing moments. Marcie said that during their two years as Grand President and First Lady of the ICF, their relationship became closer as they spent more time together going to various ICF events. She also said that they know that if they break down or need help in any part of California, they now know lots of people. Nettie Descalso-Del Nero spoke of Mike's strong, yet attentive leadership skills. She mentioned how impressed she was with him that he took the needs of the office staff so seriously, and he worked hard to improve their working condition, which included a move to a new location. Once Mike took the podium he seemed overjoyed in the night's tributes. He thanked everyone for attending this special evening and most especially thanked Marcie for going through the journey with him. Mike also gave a special thanks to Jim and Janice Jones for being their travel companions and becoming such close personal friends. At the end of the evening, Mike and Marcie's daughter, Kristy made it to the restaurant from work. This put three generations of Rossi's in attendance and completed the end of a beautiful evening. Italian Catholic Federation, 8393 Capwell Drive, Suite 110, Oakland CA 94621 tel: 888/ICF-1924; 510/633-9058; fax: 510/633-9758; Email: info@icf.org Website designed by HYPERSPHERE