A Traditional Italian Street Festival Celebrating the Feast of the Assumption in Historic Downtown Peekskill Brown Street - Home of the Paramount Details for 2012 Coming Soon!
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TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS
The current economic climate has hit Assumption School hard. Your help is needed to ensure academic excellence and sound spiritual guidance for over 200 of Peekskills children. Help bridge the gap between tuition and the actual cost of educating a child. Be a part of strengthening the foundation upon which a strong community, like ours, is built! We ask for your tax deductable donation to support the Assumption School by sending us a check made payable to the Assumption School. In gratitude, donations made to Assumption School, we are offering a $5.00 coupon off the purchase of a FESTA ITALIANA tee-shirt. Minimum donation: $10.00 and cancelled check is proof of your contribution. We are so grateful for your generous support. Please make your check payable to Assumption School, and mail to: Downtown Festivals, Inc.c/o Homequest Realty937 South StreetPeekskill, New York 10566Attn: Assumption Donation.Thanking you in advance for your kind and generous support.The Festa Italiana Committee
CHARITIES THAT HAVE BENEFITED FROM THE FESTA...
Downtown Festivals, Inc is a not-for-profit organization that produces the Festa Italiana Peekskill that Celebrates the Feast of the Assumption. We donate funds to non profit organizations including the Assumption Church and many of Peekskills charities. Last year, our first year, we donated close to $5,000 to this effort. See our list below. It takes many hours of dedicated work by our staff and volunteers to produce the Festa Italiana 3 day event which offers over 22 hours of free entertainment, over 30 food vendors, games, rides and a host of cultural and not for profit exhibitors. Last year we had over 15,000 people attend our festival. This year we hope attendance will increase. Our mission is to preserve Italian heritage and culture while entertaining and including all races, religious and civic groups, etc., including children of all ages.As part of our commitment to the City of Peekskill, and in some cases for their assistance during our FESTIVAL, we have provided charitable donations to the following not for profit organizations:Assumption School: for discretionary use for educational needs.Peekskill Youth Bureau: for material and/or supplies needed for their solar education and / or boating/carpentry skills projects.Peekskill Education Foundation: For a middle school student with average academic or athletic standing who has not received or is ineligible from any other program for 2011 summer camp.Caring for the Homeless (CHOP): for discretionary use.Knights of Columbus: for discretionary useParamount Center for the Arts: to partially fund the production of ANNIE produced by Antonio Arts.Peekskill Volunteer Ambulance Core: for discretionary use.Cub Scouts Pack 127: for discretionary use.Peekskill be the first Boxing Organization: for equipment purchaseThe Pinwheel Project: for discretionary use in helping hospitalized children.The Peekskill Rotary Foundation: for their assistance with the Hope for Youth Foundation.
Tomato Sauce War
Outdoor
Mary Mancini and Mario Tacca
Mary Mancini & Mario Tacca
On the web: gioiaproductions.comMary Mancini has achieved national and international acclaim for her vocal versatility and command of all styles of music. Her repertoire includes eight languages.Whether performing our National Anthem for the NY Yankees and the Milwaukee Brewers or captivating audiences in concert halls and theaters across the US, Canada, Europe and China, Mary Mancini consistently brings audiences to their feet with her musical interpretations of: international favorites, Broadway tunes, opera, the classics, and pop. In addition, her inspiring renditions from the Sacred music repertoire have touched the hearts of people around the world.She has been called "the woman with the golden voice." Her growing list of achievements, honors and awards include recognition from: The International Festival of the Arts (Canada), The Chinese Government, The American Song Festival, The American Cancer Society, Guardia Lombardi Society, Circolo da Vinci Society, Westchester Community College - Il Club Italiano, and recently the Lifetime Award for Achievement in the Arts presented by the Order of Sons of Italy in America, NYS Grand Lodge Foundation.Mario Tacca was born in Italy. During his childhood, his family moved to the Alsace Lorraine region of France where he began his musical studies. This is where his love and intense desire to play the accordion began. He loved the sound! He would pick up the accordion and imitate some of the songs his mother used to sing. The desire and love never diminished, despite having to walk three miles weekly to his teacher with his instrument strapped to his back! While in France, he was the winner of many regional and national accordion competitions. He went on to become a world champion, winning the World Cup of Italy, the Grand Prix of Paris, the US National Competition and the International Accordion competition held at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Mario Tacca dazzles audiences across the US and around the world with his unmatched virtuosity on the accordion and his exciting interpretations of international music, the classics and pop.
Doug Ferony
Doug Ferony
On the web: dougferony.com"When Doug Ferony sings, his warm voice, high musicianship, enthusiasm, and sincerity make the music he performs infectious and joyful, even when he is interpreting a touching ballad. It is always obvious that he loves timeless standards and has the voice and phrasing to make them sound fresh and relevant. While he makes no secret of his love for the singing of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dean Martin and Bobby Darin, he does not feel compelled to merely copy his predecessors and instead displays a sound of his own within the tradition of first-class singing. His career has included a variety of accomplishments. When I was very young,, remembers Doug, my parents played Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, Tony Bennett and Dean Martin records around the house in addition to Rosemary Clooney and Ella Fitzgerald. I remember being very impressed by Frank Sinatra at an early age. While growing up, he played drums for a time, inspired by Buddy Rich. However by the time Doug was in high school, he knew that he wanted to pursue a career in singing. In 1985, Doug Ferony moved to Los Angeles where he studied voice with Howard Austin and started gigging. He also went to acting school and began working in films. Through the years he has appeared in many major motion pictures including Back To School, GoodFellas, Spiderman II, and The Brave One in addition to such television series as Law & Order and The Sopranos. But singing before audiences has been his main love. Doug spent much of the 1990s in New York and fondly remembers performing three nights a week with a trio at the World Trade Center during 1995-96, singing regularly at the Supper Club with his big band, and with a piano duo at Tavern On The Green. Doug currently performs all over the country including at supper clubs, casinos, racetracks, cruises and concerts, and he recently worked a show at the Paramount Center for the Arts with veteran singer Al Martino. Some of Doug's performances include the Westchester Country Club, Empire City/Yonkers Raceway, the C-Note Jazz Club, The Arthur Ashe US Open, and on the Las Vegas Strip at the Monte Carlo Hotel and Casino. (More venues and appearances) Doug has many popular recordings such as I'm In Love With A Girl (title track featured in the film, "Mr. Vincent), This One's For You, Time After Time, It's Christmas, I Ain't Got You, and America's Greatest Songs. Lovers is intimate and thoughtful, says Doug. I wanted this to be a nice easy-listening candle-lit romantic CD. I've recorded a lot of uptempo swing in the past so this is a change of pace." "What I enjoy most about standards and swing is that I can understand and relate to the lyrics. I pride myself in doing justice to lyrics and I try to bring a lot of passion and fun to the music". Doug Ferony succeeds on all levels throughout Lovers, making the classic songs and vintage lyrics sound as if they were written specifically for him to communicate to today's listeners. ~ Scott YanowAuthor of ten jazz books including The Jazz Singers, Swing, Trumpet Kings, Jazz On Film, and Jazz On Record 1917-76
Micheal Castaldo
Michael Castaldo
On the web: michealcastaldo.comCrooner/Composer/ConnoisseurItalian Cultural Ambassador & Entrepreneur Award-winning songwriter/producer and recording artist has added the New York City Olive Oil Coop, Aged Balsamic Vinegar, Tuscan Event Planning, the rebuilding of his family villa in Calabria, and La Dolce Vita Foundation to his growing list of entrepreneurial accomplishments.Do you need an Italian music fix? The taste of exquisite olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar? A week in Calabria? Michéal Castaldo an Italian-born Canadian, now New York City resident offers up all these things and more. As he says, Life is not a cup to be drained, but a measure to be filled.Castaldo's cup has filled several times over, each time bringing him closer to his roots in southern Italy. All roads lead back to Calabria for me, Castaldo says. Thats where I was born and where I spent the first three years of my life. And its where I learned everything I love.Everything Michéal Castaldo loves includes sharing the very best Italian music, the freshest olive oil from his familys groves, a stay at his familys enchanting villa, Villetta Mimma Vittoria, named for Michéal's mother. To spend time with Michéal is to drink in all the things that go with La Dolce Vita, the sweetest life imaginable.Michéal began filling his cup at an early age by studying voice with Maestro Pisapia a protégé of the great Italian operatic tenor, Enrico Caruso. A graduate of prestigious schools, the arts-oriented Oakwood Collegiate Institute in Toronto (where he returned during spring 2008 to perform at the schools 100th anniversary reunion) and Berklee College of Music in Boston, Michéal has also been a producer/remixer (José Feliciano, Teo Macero, Martha Wash, Wendy Moten); recording artist (Lives of a Cell, Michéal Castaldo); songwriter (José Feliciano, Aaron Schroeder, Jim Papoulis); session musician (Herbal Essence Shampoo, E-File, Burlington Coat Factory); record label founder (MJM Records); and label executive (Vital Records).When the Academy of Calabria Rome-Toronto honored michéal in 1996 for his contributions to the Calabrian community in Canada, and when he received the Calabria America 2000 for his achievements as a composer/producer, michéal was inspired to rebuild Villetta Mimma Vittoria, the home where he was born, making it available to his family and friends as well as opening it up as a rental to anyone ready for a Calabrian adventure. www.VillettaMimmaVittoria.comIn 2004 he founded the first ever Olive Oil Cooperative in New York City, providing high-quality organic olive oil from his familys estate-grown extra-virgin olive oil to connoisseurs in North America. The Private Reserve Estate EVOO was founded in 1907 by his great grandfather Giuseppe Frisina, who had just returned from New York City as a bird of passage helping to build the subway system. With savings in hand he purchased a parcel of land that had centuries-old olive groves. By the 1920s his grandparents, Michelangelo Pellegrino and Maria Antonia Frisina took the olive grove to the next level and now Michéals uncles have over 20,000 orchards along the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria in the foothills of Aspromonte. In short, The New York City Olive Oil Coop seed was planted a century earlier as a gift from a great grandfather to a great grandson www.NewYorkCityOliveOilCoop.com To give back a bit of lifes sweetness, Castaldo now runs La Dolce Vita Foundation, whose mission is to take people suffering from the blues or illness on scenic joy rides in the country in his exotic convertible roadster, a customized Mazda Miata. His story and his car were featured as Miata of the Month in November 2007. www.LaDolceVitaFoundation.orgwww.miata.net/motm/2007/castaldo.htmlIn 2009 Michéal Castaldo launched yet another venture with high-end Italian flair called Tuscan Weddings & Events. He calls it a reverse destination event, where he brings the best of Tuscany to your party or event. www.TuscanWeddingsAndEvents.com Nowadays Michéal Castaldo may be found on any given week performing light Italian opera; hosting an olive oil tasting complete with Neapolitan song or classic Italian pop standards; onstage at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, the Rainbow Room at Rockefeller Center, the JVC Jazz Festival, the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival or hosting a house concert event at the home of a high-profile Italian-American family" in Italian, of course. With his current Italian CDs 'Aceto", Villa and La Dolce Vita America Castaldo slows the tempo, reaches deeper into the soul and passionately takes you back to his Calabrian roots.
Big Kahuna
Big Kahuna
On the web: weddingwire.comDonna Murphy - Lead VocalsDonna came to Big Kahuna in 2004.She has performed with a handful of local bands that includes "The Young & Old", "Turning Point", "Mot's Garage", "The Cover Up Band" and the "Miggles". Although she enjoys and is completely at ease singing all styles of music, Donna is especially drawn to soul and R&B.Bob Riedel - Lead Vocals and GuitarBob comes to Big Kahuna with over 40 years experience as a professional singer/musician, actor and dancer. He has studied music and voice at both Alfred University and the Jordan School of Music in Manhattan. He sang with the Lew Anderson Big Band as well as heading his own band, "Blue Persuasion" for almost 30 years. Other bands have included "Loose Wheel", "Crossroads" and "4 Of A Kind". As a guitarist (including pedal steel) and vocalist, Bob is a sought after musician whose work has enhanced many recordings.Bill Fitchard - Keyboard, Guitar, VocalsBill brings an interesting mix of both music and art to Big Kahuna. He's a graduate of The School Of Visual Arts and currently a working portrait artist. His father Maurice was a big-band leader and studio musician who brought him up immersed in the sounds of Jazz and Pop standards. He and Casey's musical paths have crossed many times in the past. Also having been in the music business for over 30 years, Bill has been involved in many other musical projects too numerous to mention, both electric and acoustic. Casey O'Brien - BassHaving been one of the founding members of "The Spectrum" in 1965, "The Solidified World" in 1967 and then in 1969 "Heaven & Earth" (which went on to play the club circuit in Manhattan, Westchester and Rockland Counties), Casey brings a wealth of experience to the band. Mike Antonelli - SaxaphoneTenor saxophonist/leader Michael Antonelli has been performing throughout the Hudson Valley since 1978.He was a performer/ arranger and eventual leader of the popular dance band "Silk-n-Sounds" which he performed in between 1982-2005. He currently performs with the seventeen piece New York Swing Exchange, the Big Kahuna dance band, the Big Bang Jazz Gang, and his own jazz quartet. Michael earned his bachelor's degree in professional music from Berklee College in Boston, his masters in music education from Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, and is currently working towards his Doctor of Musical Arts degree through Boston University. He has studied with saxophonists Louis Soloway, Joe Viola, Frank Tiberi, and Joe Lovano. He is currently the high school band director at Valley Central High School in Montgomery, NY.Drummer/Percussionist George Ruiz started his musical career with his high school marching band. Keeping the groove solid on the parade route, football field or musical theater stage set the foundation for every musical endeavor since. Enjoying a varied performance career, George has been involved in community theater productions, Catholic Youth Music Ministry as well as original rock 'n roll projects for over 39 years. During that time George has helped to provide the soundtrack to the happiest of days for over 5,000 wedding couples. As a performer working for many of the top entertainment agencies, George has performed all around the New York City, Tri-State Area. Whatever musical style is called for, big band, Motown, disco, funk and rock music, George is comfortable laying down a big, solid dance groove that will keep the dance floor full. Along with a solid beat, George is also an accomplished vocalist adding background vocals whenever needed. When he's not sitting behind the drum kit, George can also be found adding color to the bandstand as a Latin percussionist. With an arsenal of equipment that includes acoustic and electronic percussion and sound system, George is always ready when the call comes in for a performance or to fill in for one of his colleagues.More recently as an MC and DJ, George has set the pace and the driving beat to many special events ranging from weddings,church events and kids parties.George's musical soul is fueled by his loving and supportive family. Living in Yonkers, NY with his wife, Lisa and children (Jacob, Gina, Lucy and Mia), there is always some sort of excitement to draw inspiration from.Clay Beard - Trumpet, VocalsClay earned his B.A. in music education at Sheppard University at West Virginia, subsequently playing in bands in the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. Clay has studied with Rob Roy McGregor of the L.A. Philharmonic, Bob McCoy of the "Tonight Show" and "Doc" Reinhart. Local bands that Clay has performed with include Silk N' Sounds, Pizzazz Otro Colour and the Sharp Nine Band.
Melillo Brothers
Melillo Brothers
On the web: http://www.myspace.com/melillobrothersTHE MELILLO BROTHERS...are Singer-Songwriters and Recording Artists, performing Acoustic, Pop & Soft Rock music. You may have enjoyed seeing young Anthony around Yorktown and Ossining playing his guitar for friends and fans at open mics and battle of the bands or at the pavilion in town. You may have seen him and his older brother, Nick, acting and dancing in shows at Yorktown Stage, the Westchester Broadway Theatre, Tarrytown Music Hall or singing with The Westchester Dreamcoats at Giant Stadium. Both were active in Yorktown Highs Drama Club, Choir and Dance Company, where they wowed audiences with stellar performances. Anthony in his senior year was nominated for the popular high school equivalent of the Tonys, the Helen Hayes/Metro Awards, for Best Supporting Actor and Outstanding Duet as Bobby Randall in Good News. He won for "Outstanding Duet" at The Paramount Center for the Arts in Peekskill on June 8, 2009. See www.lohud.com/inthewingslive for a streaming video of the event. And now, The Melillo Brothers are making news in the local and national music scene, as well!Anthony is an 18-year-old acoustic artist, singer/songwriter and composer. He is often compared to an early John Mayer, Chris Carrabba of Dashboard Confessional and recently, to Jason Mraz. Some of his other influences include Ray Charles, Cat Stevens, Eric Clapton, Jack Johnson, Kenny Vasoli and Mike Rowe. His passion for words come in beautifully vocalized love parables that take you on a musical journey with heartfelt rhythm and grace. Mixing it up with some fun, jazzy and upbeat songs, he continues to take you on a lyrical ride. Each of his transitions is quite unique and keep you listening for the next change. Both to the trained and untrained ear, he is a listening delight and a joy to the heart. Although new to the music scene, this charismatic teenager should rise fast as a family favorite, developing fans of multiple age ranges and genres of music. Now, teaming up with his older brothers, they are making strides and gaining much attention. Wayne Warnecke, President of Segue Records says, "It is so rare now-a-days to find such young artists with an enormous amounts of talent and ability. They're bound to go far." Marcus Cheong, Producer of Angels-The Musical says, This music has a refreshing honesty and real emotion. Anthony writes from the heart and sings with great passion." Says Anton Evangelista, President of Comprehensive Films, "Every once in a while, a talent comes along and everything clicks - voice, lyrics, music, performed by a young man who makes it all look so easy. Be on the lookout for Anthony Melillo - a singer/songwriter who brings together all the elements of great original music, beyond his young years!"He was originally influenced by his older brother, Joe (23), who is also a singer/songwriter, to begin playing guitar in the first place. "Joe was 14 when he picked up a guitar and started playing and composing. My other brother Nick was 12 and jumped on a drum set my parents gave him one Christmas, so I just wanted to be part of the band." says Anthony, "I was only 9 and to keep me quiet, the parentals bought me a bass and the rest is history!" His brother Joe is a recent graduate of Pace University Honor's College, and was managing a restaurant before giving up his career to help his brothers go for the big prize. He wows audiences with his soulful vocals and jazzy style originals. Nick is a new graduate of SUNY New Paltz with his BA in Theatre Arts, which he acquired in only 3 years. He energizes this team of brothers with precision percussion and switches seemlessly from drums to keyboards and back again. Whether playing an instrument or not, he adds another dimension to their 3-part harmony. They are both talented and gifted in their own right and are committed to supporting their younger brother's dream. Together, there's a "magic" that happens when they hit the stage, an energy and honesty rarely seen, and with beautiful harmonies that leave an audience awestruck and wanting more. It's just plain good music that keeps all ages singing & dancing along. Their interaction with audiences is professional and mature, not typical of such young talents. More recently, not only Joe but also Nick has chosen to forego his career to help his younger brother fulfill his dream. During this transition, they are fast becoming known up and down the east coast as "The Melillo Brothers." As a recent featured musician on the local cable television show "Alive with Clive - Turning Your Passion Into Profit," Anthony has made quite a stir with his appearance along with his brothers, especially with one of his songs, "That's My Son," which can be viewed on YouTube or heard above with full orchestration. Clive Swersky, host of the show taped weekly live out of White Plains Cablevision, has recently inaugurated the Alive with Clive Top 20 Music Chart featuring local musicians who are competing for the top slot on a compilation cd designed to raise over a million dollars for AIDS victims in South Africa. The Melillo Brothers (TMB) have enjoyed a formidable lead for over a year on the Chart through the voting of fans at www.alivewithclive.tv and is hoping to have one of their songs make it to the Top 5 on the album. In a recent press release Clive says, "I believe every son wants his parents to hear That's My Son, and I also believe it is destined to be a # 1 hit all over the world. Now, the question remains: Was Bon Jovi, Paul McCartney or Bruce Springsteen this good at seventeen?
Dennis Dell
Dennis Dell
On the web: dennisdell.comItalian American born named after his grandfather (Dionigi in Italian, and Dion in American),His parents decided to name him Dennis on his birth certificate with the suggestions of their close friends because of the popularity of the character "DENNIS THE MENACE". Dennis Dell began singing at the age of 6 years old where he started in the music industry since the early 60's. Originally from the Fordham section of the Bronx, relocated to Pelham Bay in the 80's and presently resides in Westchester NY. He has shared the stage with some of the top acts in the business such as The Temptations, Four Tops, The Miracles, The Five Satins, Drifters, Dion and the Belmonts, The Tokens, Natalie Cole, Earl Lewis & The Channels, Brooklyn Bridge, Kenny Vance& The Planotones, Barbara Harris of the Toys, and many more.At the age of 11, he was the original lead singer of the acapella group "The Destinaires", with the acapella hit records, CHAPEL BELLS, DIAMONDS AND PEARLS, TEARDROPS, THE CLOSER YOU ARE, plus several more in the 60's(who later changed the name to "DESTINY" in the 70's performing at various night clubs in the tri-state. In the early 80's, he put together an orchestra behind him adding a female vocalist and featured the backup singing group (Destinaires) to perform a show. Destiny then became one of the most requested orchestra's to perform at banquets, weddings, etc. in the Tri-State area till 1994.Presently as a one man show, Dennis Dell has been impressing the media throughout the tri-state area, with his special talent of his many voices and styles and a wide range of popular music, from the 40's to the current pop.Dennis Dell has been a guest on CBS 101 FM a number of times as well as Wlux 's Mickey B's Show on Long Island and has done several commercials for various companies including Honda. He sounds very close to the original artist and has all his professional backup music on CD's and Mini Disks, in which some of the backup singing is himself as well. He is prepared to cover at least three one hour shows with a wide variety of songs as well with his many voices and styles. He also showcases at restaurants in the tristate area.
Antonia Arts
Antonia Arts
On the web: antoniaarts.comAntonias Academy for the Performing ArtsThe Academy offers a training ground for expression in theater and dance.Build a strong foundation for all dance forms with Classical Ballet technique.Featured Workshops with Professional Guest Artistsoffering acting for film and stage, audition coaching, modern dance and musical theaterWatch for special workshop offerings with "TIPS From the PROS" featuring guest artistsActing for Film and Stage-Audition Coaching-Modern Dance-Musical Theater-JazzThe Academy will continue to accept registration. Antonias Academy for the Performing Arts, located in Peekskill, NY is a professional training academy. The classes are small and the audition process allows for limited registration to the dedicated student, who wants to be apart of the Performing Arts. Dance classes are offered in Classical Ballet and Jazz as well as classes in Drama, Classic Musical Theater and Creative Theatre Arts.
Carozza Brothers
The Carozza Brothers
On the web: jimmydee.comThe Carozza Brothers have been providing a veriety of musical entertainment for the past 25 years across the Tri-State area. They bring a wide variety of music from the Big Band Era, 50's & 60's, Motown, Italian, Salsa and Merengue to today's hottest hits!! Not only to their venues include local catering facilities in the Tri-Sate area, the band has been seen in Canada, Boston, Pennsylvania and annually sailing the Costa and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines.The Carozza Brothers are a high energy band not only dedicated to the variety of music that they play, but also strongly committed to each other. They provide the finest performance regardless of the occasion. The Carozza Brothers customize each event to fit your needs and will provide you with any music of your choice. They are "A Family That Guarentees a Night To Remember."
Over The Top
Over The Top Band
On The Web: overthetopband.comWhat started as something for fun in between touring and television specials for a family of local musicians has become somewhat of a small phenomenon."Over The Top" has during the past year, continued to set the standard for what a great band should sound like. The group has amassed a large, loyal following of fans and friends with their diverse repertoire of material which covers the best Party/Dance music from the past five decades.Setting Over The Top, or "OTT" apart from the rest of the pack are the unique talents and experience of its six members; Jessica, Victoria, Peter, Steve, Dave and Derrek. All are internationally known and respected musicians with impressive credentials.Bassist Peter, or "Cal" as he is known to music lovers around the world is an accomplished and recognized composer. He can currently be seen nationwide in his full length PBS television special, "Cal...Forever and Beyond." This summer the show was the #2 New Age television program in America only behind Yanni's new "Voices." The show ranked at #4 in all of concert broadcasting.Victoria, already a regular on the local Jazz scene due to her beautiful and silky 4 octave vocal range is also an accomplished actress having appeared in numerous television shows such as Law and Order, CSI New York, Forensic Files and Damages. Victoria has also appeared in several major motion pictures such as Hitch, The Producers, Sex and the City, The Stepford Wives, Nanny Diaries, Fighting and several others.Singer/Guitarist Jessica is the heart and soul of the popular Pop/Rock band, "A Few 2 Many." Jessica's music has been heard on radio and television stations around the globe and most recently, AF2M's single "I'll Wait," was featured in the major motion picture "Rough Winds."Dave on Vocals/Guitar is a powerhouse of talent. Fluent on Guitar, Bass and drums, Dave's vocals span the range from Barry White to Michael Jackson. No stranger to the stage, dave spent many years fronting and touring with Funk/Metal band, Kidd Kaos in the 80's.Derrek on Lead Guitar is an accomplished Songwriter/Producer who among his many credits has toured and performed internationally for several years with Kiss' own, Ace Frehley.Drummer Stevie "D" or as the ladies call him "Deeeelicious," is a true veteran of the music business. During a spectacular career that spans four decades, Steve has performed and recorded From New York to LA and everywhere in between. Steve's perpetual energy and drive keep the Over The Top Machine groovin' all night long.Over the Top has just finished filming the pilot episode for two network TV reality shows. One titled, "Wedding Band," is being produced by Michael Hirschorn the former Vice President of VH1 and creator of "Behind The Music." The trailer is viewable on the Videos page.With actual family members Pete, Victoria, and Jessica, along with Steve, Derrek and Dave, an Over The Top appearance always feels like a great big family get together where every face is familiar and a terrific time is had by all.
Tony Barresi
Tony Barresi
Rarely does a performer come along that has it all; the voice, the looks, charisma and charm to captivate an audience both heart and soul. Tony Barresi is that entertainer. Covering a songbook that spans Sinatra, Dean Martin, Perry Como, and Tom Jones to Hootie and Barry Manilow, Tony delivers beloved hit after hit with a style and elegance that is just pure "Tony." Recently Tony was a featured vocalist in the Idol at the Paramount concert where he headlined an evening of twenty of the areas top singers on the famed Paramount stage. Tony will also be performing locally atvarious restaurants and venues throughout Westchester and Putnam in the coming year and, will be releasing his first full length CD, of songs from the great American songbook.
Andy Polay
Andy Polay
On the web: andypolaymusic.comI am proud to play with very talanted, professional musicians. We are based in New York and play many types of jazz and form many different ensembles depending on the venue. From solo's to duo's, trio's, quartet's, quintet's and beyond, whether we are playing a festival, concert, restaurant, benefit, party, or club, we always play real jazz. Flexibility and professionalism is our trademark. Our many credits include The Rainbow Room in NYC, The City of Peekskill Jazz Festival, Irvington Jazz Festival, "Friday Night Live" in Hastings, "The Ferry Go 'Round" event in Westchester, NY, The Paramount Center annual red carpet gala event, all major NYC clubs, and abroad. Only the best players are part of this ensemble. Let me brag a little ...Rahn Burton- keybaords: a jazz icon, Rahn has shared the stage and album credits with Stanley Turrentine, Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Philly Jo Jones, Max Roach, Buddy Guy, Jack Bruce and many more.John Castleman- trumpet, flugelhorn, saxaphone: a smoking hot horn player, John has played with the Sam Rivers Orchestra, Tito Puente' Jr., The Dorsey and Goodman Orchestra's, Greg Karoukas, Clarence Clemmons, and many more. A true pro, John has toured the U.S. and over seas.Christopher Brellochs- saxaphones: a master at his instrument, Chris plays both jazz and classical- as evidenced in his 2 solo albums. He has played abroad and extensively in NYC venues, including Carnegie Hall.Mark Tonelli- guitar: Mark has enjoyed a great career playing with such artisits as Clay Aiken, Jon Faddis, Greg Bissonette, Ed Soph, Andrea Mcardle, The Coasters, The Platters, Benny Golson, Billy Cobham, Randy Brecker, Rufus Reid, Bob Mintzer, and many more. He also heads up his own group and has played many NYC clubs as well as toured the country and abroad. Doug Drewes- bass: Doug is a fantastic, ecclectic bassist and co-leader of his "Drewes Brothers" band. He plays NYC employing the stand up as well as the electric. His talents take him from jazz to hip hop to rock, funk and back again.Yours Truly, Andy Polay- drums: I have been truly lucky to play with these great people above, and also with bassist Bill Davis, Bill Crow, singer Nora McCarthy, saxaphoneist Jorge Sylvester, guitarist Margaret Slovak, singer Cece Hankins, singer Stephanie Purcell, bassist Lester Harper, pianist Lonnie Leibowitz, saxaphonist Rick Kriska, and many more. Whether playing heavy or light, I love the dynamics this music allows me. Most of all though, I love the fact that I have the best seat in the house to not only enjoy the music, but to bond with the audience- it's a great feeling to see people swaying, smiling, sometimes melting with their eyes closed. One of the best feelings I can have on a stage!
Magical Memories Entertainment
Magical Memories Entertainment
On the web: MagicalMemoriesEntertainment.comMagical Memories Entertainment is a full service event company booking any and all events, large or small, in all venues from back yards to large stadiums. You can choose from the wide selection of local, regional and national acts, including a variety of specialty entertainment. Founded in 2005 by Steven Burchard, Magical Memories Entertainment is dedicated to providing quality professionals for your special event.In the past few years Magical Memories Entertainment has grown to become your one stop for all entertainment and party needs that will make your event unique and memorable! With the slogan "Making Memories That Will Last A Lifetime" not only being words but the Magical Memories Entertainment Lifestyle. All the Magical Memories Entertainment staff are taught to embrace this ideal and provide their best performance for every show.Steven invites you to contact him. He is dedicated to making sure his clients get the best service possible. So when youre planning your next event please make Magical Memories Entertainment your first call and get the quality party professionals and top notch customer service that you want at the value you need.
Harry Rios and Word of Mouth
Harry Rios and Word of Mouth
On the web: MySpace PageHARRY RIOS AND WORD OF MOUTH IS A MULTI FACETED, MULTI-CONFIGURATION OF LOCAL MUSICIANS FROM WESCHESTERCOUNTY NY. HARRY RIOS IS A SINGER SONGWRITER AND MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST WHO PERFORMS LIVE MUSIC WITH PARTNER DAVID CARTATEGUI ON GUITAR OR BASS AS AN ACOUSTIC DUO OR IN A TRIOPLAYIING FUNK AND SOUL, OR AS A LARGER UNIT WITH A RHYTHM SECTION REPLETE WITH HORNS PLAYING EVERY THING FROM JAZZ TO POP, OLDIES, LATIN JAZZ, FUNK, R&B, BLUES, AND ORIGINAL POP,NEO SOUL. THEY HAVE COLLECTIVELY BEEN ON THE MUSIC SCENE SINCE THE EARLY 1990'S. HAVING RELEASED ALBUMS WITH DIFFERENT GROUPS, PLAYING ON MAJOR LABEL RECORDS AS STUDIO MUSICIANS,AND EVEN CONTRIBUTED TO MOVIE SOUNDTRACKS. CURRENTLY,HARRY RIOS IS THE MUSIC DIRECTOR, ORCHESTRA CONDUCTORAND PLAY DIRECTOR OF A HIGH SCHOOL IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY. CURRENTLY, WORD OF MOUTH IS PERFORMING AT SELECT FESTIVALSAND VENUES.
Robert Rogers Puppet Company
Robert Rogers Puppet Company
On the web: robertrogerspuppets.comThe Robert Rogers Puppet Company, based in Castle Creek, New York, is a premiere touring repertory puppet theater that was established in 1980. Since then, it has presented a wide-ranging array of plays throughout the United States and internationally to countries including the Czech Republic, Tunisia, Colombia, Taiwan and the Peoples Republic of China. Specializing in plays for young people, the troupe has created and utilized hundreds of beautifully crafted string, hand and rod puppets for performances in theaters, concert halls, museums, festivals and schools. Its mission has always been to inspire creativity in children, to maintain their innate sense of wonder, to foster positive thinking and help them develop a better understanding of the world around them. Its repertoire of three decades worth of productions has included well known musical pieces such as Erroneous Encores for performances with symphony orchestras; adaptations of Just So Stories, The Nightingale and Stone Soup, and original productions such as Hobnobbin' Goblins, and The Bugtown Follies. From the workshop - located in Castle Creek, New York, about three hours outside of New York City - have sprung a vast array of characters and stories which have delighted audiences far and wide, from the Indianapolis Children's Museum to the Beijing Children's Palace.
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Why a Festa?
WHAT DO A GLASS TOMATO & A $12,000 CHECK HAVE IN COMMON?
Peekskill, New York They are both prizes won at Festa Italiana Peekskill that will be presented to the winners on Monday, September 26th at 7:15 in the Peekskill Common Council Chambers. The coveted Glass Tomato trophy will be presented to Maria Perenti of Harrison who was the 2011 winner of the Tomato Sauce Wars, and a check for $12,300 will be presented to Christa Cothren the winner of the Car Raffle turned 50/50 raffle.Although Festa Italiana Peekskill took place the second weekend in August, the award presentations had to wait until the winners were back in town. The Tomato Sauce Wars winner was on vacation in the Hamptons with her family and the winner of the raffle had just returned to Utica College to begin her senior year.When Maria Perenti was informed that she had won the Tomato Sauce Wars she was just ecstatic. She had been the owner of Marias restaurant in Yorktown for many years, where her husband was the chef. She has been retired from that business since her husbands death. We think she was so excited because she felt that her husband, now in heaven, would be proud of her, said Frank Cimino, Promoter of Festa Italiana Peekskill. When a representative from Festa Italiana Peekskill called the Cothren home to inform Christa that she had won the raffle, her grandmother answered the phone. Upon learning that her granddaughter had won over $12,000 dollars, she got all choked up and said you wont believe what this will mean to Christa. In a recent communication with Christa it was learned that this should have been her last semester but she actually had to take off three semesters due to money problems, so winning this raffle will go a long way to helping her finally graduate and get her degree in Criminal Justice-Economic Crime Investigation. Christa hopes to become an auditor for a major financial institution or the government. Festa Italiana Peekskill brought over 15,000 people to Peekskill which was good for the city and many of its businesses, but it brought two very lucky people a great deal of happiness.
Yorktown Patchby Liz GiegerichThis will probably be the only war where the only thing that will get hurt is your ego, said Leslie Masson, the creator of Peekskill Italian Festival's Tomato Sauce Wars.Growing up in an Italian family Masson became accustomed to arguments over whose sauce was the best and learned that a good tomato sauce was an important source of deep cultural pride. Decades later, Frank Cimino -Yorktown resident, Peekskill business man and Director of the Peekskill Italian Festival - asked Masson to come up with something original for his festival. Thinking back to her Italian heritage and the pride that her Italian family took in its sauce, the Tomato Sauce War idea came easily.And by last years 82 submissions from around the tri-state area, Masson and Cimino learned that tomato sauce pride is certainly not unique to just Massons family. Last year Peekskill resident and city employee Lisa Hintze won the coveted Glass Tomato trophy. Organizers are expecting twice as many submissions for this years war, which will be held on Sunday, August 14 (the last day of the festival) around 4 p.m.Festival organizers will be holding a preliminary judging a few days prior to the festival at Ciros on South restaurant in Peekskill. The public is invited to the event, for which date and time is yet to be determined, depending on the number of submissions. This year, Michael Amante, referred to by Luciano Pavarotti as the 4th tenor, who will be performing a kick-off concert at the Paramount on August 11, will be a judge of the war. Amante himself is a successful cook and claims the best tomato sauce in the world.We didnt think it would be fair to have someone who once had their own cooking show (which Amante did) compete in our Tomato Sauce Wars, so instead we asked him if he would be one of our celebrity judges, Cimino said of Amante, who accepted.Kacey Morabito of WHUD and Lisa LaRocca of News12 will join Amante as Tomato Sauce War judges.Cimino explained that each year the festival also honors an Italian American celebrity that he and the festival committee have yet to select. The celebrity must have some connection to Italian-American heritage and must have done something in Peekskill within his or her lifetime. Have someone in mind? Tell us your suggestion in the comments.Many of those with Italian heritage (or an appreciation for cooking rich Italian food) have probably already spent many Sundays simmering their perfected sauces. Now is the time to dress it up for battle and send it to war.For rules and entry forms visit peekskillfestival.com or visit festival headquarters at HomeQuest Realty, 937 South St., Peekskill for a copy. Submissions will be accepted at Ciros on South, 911 South St., Peekskill, on Sunday, 8/7/11 between Noon and 5 p.m. and on Monday, 8/8/11 from 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.Festa Italiana Peekskill will be held on Brown Street, home of the Paramount Center for the Arts from Friday, August 12 through Sunday August 14, and will feature 22 hours of free non-stop entertainment on their outdoor stage. The traditional Italian Street Festival will, of course, also offer all the those wonderful food delicacies that only the Italians can make, plus carnival rides and games, street artists, an authentic Italian Marionette theatre, a Kids Zone and more. The festival benefits the Assumption School in Peekskill and other local charities.For complete festival details, and Michael Amante concert details, visit the festival website at: www.peekskillfestival.com.
I not only say "why not?," I say, "why wasn't this started years ago?" My name is Frank Cimino, and I own the building at 911 South Street which houses Peekskill's newest fine dining establishment, Ciro's on South. As you can probably tell from the name, the restaurant specializes in Italian Food. The folks who own and run Ciro's on South, like myself, are second generation Italian. One night while I was being treated to a tasting of the exquisite offerings at Ciro's, the conversation turned, as most do when it is a group of Italians talking, to "the good old days." A savored memory shared by many Italians is of returning home from church on Sunday mornings to the smell of garlic that has been sautéed in olive oil simmering in tomato sauce wafting through the air. There is probably no other smell that can conjure up fond memories of one's youth like that. The trip down memory lane is always followed by the argument about whose mother made the best sauce or whose made the best meatballs. And whenever Italians, especially those who migrated north from Manhattan or the Bronx, start talking about food, the conversation usually ends up about their ultimate gastronomic experience at "The Feast of San Gennaro." I dare say that everyone with an ounce of Italian blood in their veins who lives within 100 miles of New York City's Little Italy has experienced San Gennaro at least once in their life. And those who haven't experienced San Gennaro have most likely attended one of the many other Italian Festivals held throughout the summer in Westchester, like the one hosted by our neighbors in Verplank. So, after our trip down memory lane, I was asked if Peekskill has an Italian Festival. I didn't know the answer, but I found out, and much to my chagrin the answer was no, they do not and never did have one. I investigated further to find that almost 20% of Peekskill's population is made up of Italian/Americans, and that was when I decided it was time. I am now proud to say that my vision of hosting a traditional Italian Festival during the Feast of the Assumption, featuring genuine native cuisine and bona fide Italian entertainers is coming to fruition. I look forward to seeing everyone at "Festa Italiana Peekskill," August 13-15, 2010.Frank Cimino
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(Aug 5-7, 2011)
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FESTA ITALIANA PEEKSKILL - 2011Presented by: Downtown Festivals, Inc. DIRECTORSFrank Cimino, PresidentEugene Tumolo, Vice PresidentJoe Schuder, Vice President ADVISORY STAFFFather Higgins: Assumption ChurchPatricia Riley: City CoordinatorJoe Lippolis: Sponsor Sales EVENT STAFFLeslie Masson: Public Relations, Tomato Sauce WarMarina Ciotti: Vendor Applications, EntertainmentLisa Palmaffy: Vendor Applications, Sponsors SalesSusan McDonald: Volunteers, Sponsor Sales, Church coordinatorPam McCluskey: Website, Social Networking, Mobile Web, New Media Distribution
CONTACT: Corporate : 1992 Commerce Street Suite 155 Yorktown Heights, New York 10598 Vendors: 937 South Street, Peekskill, New York 10566 EMAIL:
Frank_downtownfestivals.com
Wars
Peekskill's "TOMATO SAUCE WARS" have begun!(Read the Journal News Article about the War) An age-old question is going to be answered on August 14th at Festa Italiana Peekskill, when a panel of experts will determine "who makes the best tomato sauce?" Some people say that the secret to good tomato sauce is in the tomatoes, while others credit their secret blend of herbs. Some even believe it is more mystical than that. August is when local tomatoes are in season, and it is also when many Italians preserve those delicious ripened tomatoes for the long winter. It should be the perfect scenario for some award winning entries in the inaugural Peekskill "Tomato Sauce Wars." So, if you think your sauce, or the sauce of your parents, your grandparents, a relative or a friend is better than any sauce you've ever tasted, then you, or they, must enter the Peekskill "Tomato Sauce Wars. " It is time to end the argument and crown a winner, so don your aprons and head over to downtown Peekskill (Brown Street between Division and Broad) to the first annual Festa Italiana Peekskill, August 13th through the 15th, where the war will end.Unlike those make believe Facebook wars, this war is for real, and will come to a dramatic conclusion on center stage, at Festa Italiana Peekskill on August 14th. A jury of top local chefs, some celebrities, and some of Peekskill's well respected, seasoned seniors will determine the victor. The competition is open to everybody and anybody, Italian or not. The top three finalists will receive prizes, but only the winner will receive the beautiful and coveted "Glass Tomato" trophy (a fine art glass sculpture, produced by the artist Bruce Sillars and mounted on a stand, with an engraved plaque to be supplied later).All you need to enter is a clear glass jar filled with sauce, and labeled with your name, address and phone number. The label must also identify the submission as SAUCE or GRAVY, for that is the other war being waged here. The jars must be dropped off at the Festival office, 937 South Street, Peekskill, NY 10566 by Noon on August 14th. If anyone has a favorite "sauce or gravy" story they would like to share, it can be attached to their entry as well.And another reason folks should head up to Peekskill during the Wars is because they say a real authentic Italian Street Festival will be breaking out. From August 13th through the 15th, the streets of downtown Peekskill will come alive with the sights, sounds and aromas of Italy as they host their first annual Festa Italiana. Folks will be able to fill their bellies with Italian delicacies and sing and dance to Italian melodies. They can watch as artists with chalk turn the streets into amazing works of art. There will be kiddie rides, stilt walkers, balloon makers, clowns, magicians, carnival games and games of chance. The stage will be jumping with music headlined by Peekskill's own, internationally renowned Italian musicians, Mary Mancini and Mario Tacca, along with another Peekskill son, Doug Ferony and his orchestra. There will be special appearances by The Sugarush Band and the Peekskill Middle School band, with dance exhibitions by Antonia Arts and laughs courtesy of Tom Daddario.Festa Italiana Peekskill is being produced in conjunction with the Feast of the Assumption and will include the traditional "Assumption of Mary" procession led by Peekskill's Assumption Church clergy and parishioners. The festival is run by the not for profit group, Downtown Festivals, Inc. and proceeds from the weekend will benefit the Assumption Church and Peekskill Youth Bureau as well as other Peekskill Charities. The Paramount Center for the Arts is joining in the festivities and will be showing Italian film classics during the three days of the festival.Peekskill celebrates its diversity and wants to see the rich ethnic traditions of all its citizens preserved. Event promoters are hoping to be able to collect from Peekskill's Italian elder's their fondest tomato sauce stories, and possibly some recipes, and then share them with festival goers. Festival hours: 8/13 5PM-11PM, 8/14 Noon-11PM, 8/15 Noon-6PM. For additional Festival information and photos go to www.peekskillfestival.com, or call the festival office at (914) 734-4130
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