“If it wasn’t for our final speaker,” Mayor Joseph Polisena began, “we would not be here tonight for this historic occasion.”
That speaker, Dr. Giulio Diamante, owns and operates OPTX Rhode Island at 1277 Hartford Ave., adjacent to the Johnston Senior Center. As he took the podium, he embraced Polisena and was greeted by appreciative applause from upwards of 350 attendees.
“And a well-deserved applause,” said state Sen. Frank Lombardo. “Dr. Diamante is one of a kind, class personified, and we all thank him for his generous sponsorship.”
Diamante sponsored Monday evening’s Sister City partnership ceremony that brought the towns of Johnston and Panni, Italy, together.
“Thank you for joining us tonight to celebrate this important day with us … and yes, this day is very important,” Diamante said. “We live in an ever-changing, fast-paced society where long-held traditions and cultural foundations are unfortunately quickly eroding.”
Diamante continued: “The town of Johnston aligning with Panni … is a landmark moment in our local history, where we are taking the time to recognize our roots and our humble beginnings.”
With his proud father sitting in the standing-room-only crowd, Diamante continued: “As you all know, many Italians emigrated to America, especially here in Rhode Island, from the 1900s through the 1950s. They came here only with a dream and no money. They had an incredible work ethic to succeed … They became productive citizens and worked hard to provide a better future for their children – and they did it, may I add, they did it well! They were proud, ethical people, respected their elders, and lived their lives as an example to their children.
“So today, we are not only celebrating our rich Italian history, but also honoring every one from every country who emigrated to the U.S. and accomplished their dream – including my parents, your grandparents and your great relatives.”
Following his remarks, Diamante joined both mayors for the presentation of a special plaque in honor of his sponsorship from the event’s founder, the Pannese Society led by the native Johnstonian father-and-son team of Joseph and Louis Spremulli.
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