In the summer of 2014, my friend Rosaria Gismondi called and asked if I'd like to join an Italian American charitable organization named Unico. I was reminded of my childhood in western Massachusetts. In the 70's, in the small town of East Longmeadow, Unico was thriving with Porchetta dinners at local churches along with golf outings and raffles. The East Longmeadow Unico chapter continues to give back to the community just as the Unico Founder, Dr. Vastola envisioned when he began the organization in 1922.

In my 10th year as a member of the Unico Highland Beach Chapter, I am honored and privileged to be of service as president. We have an exciting chapter active in fundraising with a Cigar Night in January, a Spring luncheon in March, and monthly meetings at Arturo's Restaurant in Boca Raton. Throughout the year, well attended events including raffles and games benefit the worthy causes the organization supports.

Very grateful to Lisa Marie Conte Browne for her service as our latest president. I pledge to follow in her footsteps as well as our past board and presidents to continue making Unico Highland Beach Chapter a top charitable organization of Unico National.