Young Pannese makes donation to veterans

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Last month, Peter A. Goneconte, president of the Young Pannese Social Club, an Italian-American organization founded in 1912, joined Administrator Gerry Coulliard and Johnston residents Elly and Vinny Palumbo to present Donna Russillo, Chief of Voluntary Services at the Veterans Administration Medal Center in Providence and an alumnae of Johnston High School, an envelope that contained a donation of $500.

“It is because of people like Mr. Goneconte that we are able to provide that little something extra for those who have sacrificed so much to secure the freedom we all enjoy,” Russillo said, accepting the check.

The donation will provide gift cards to veterans who couldn’t afford a nice holiday dinner. Russillo said, “Some have families of two and others have families of eight. This was a huge donation that is yet another example of Mr. Goneconte’s generosity along with the people of his great Italian-American group.” She said they are very grateful for the support of the Young Pannese Social Club year after year.

Goneconte said, “We’ve made many donations through the years, and it’s all because we have generous members who participate in fund-raiser after fund-raiser.”

One of their popular fundraisers is the “Proud to be an American” event that is held annually and scheduled for May 16. It’s an event originated by Starzz Entertainment, which is owned and operated by Steve Quirini and Lisa D’Ambra as well as the Palumbos, who serve on the Board of Directors.

“Last year’s event took in $14,000,” Vin Palumbo proudly noted. “We’re hoping to be back here [at the VA Medical Center] this year with a check for $20,000.”

Russillo smiled and Goneconte quickly quipped, “I’m not sure how much they’ll raise this year, but I do know I’ll be at the event and so will a lot of members of the Young Pannese Society Club.”

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