2018 Dinner Dance

360 photo by Tony Seideman

114th Annual Dinner Dance: March 24, 2018
Keynote Speaker: Lou Del Bianco, Author,
"Out of Rushmore's Shadow"
Lou will discuss his grandfather's unique role as Chief Carver of all the president's faces on Mount Rushmore.

Sometimes history does not tell you the whole story. When 8-year-old Lou Del Bianco finds out that his Grandpa Luigi was the Chief Carver on Mount Rushmore, his young life is instantly changed. Follow Lou’s journey as he and his Uncle Caesar make the painful discovery that Luigi is not even mentioned in the most definitive book on Rushmore. Cheer them on as you read the historic documents they unearth from the Library of Congress that not only tell Luigi’s story but also prove his great importance. Finally, ride the roller-coaster of the 25 year journey to get Luigi the recognition he deserves. Out of Rushmore’s Shadow is the dramatic and touching story of Luigi’s legacy and the immigrant’s struggle.

photos below by Paul Martin

Photos below by Tony Seideman

From Singer-songwriter Tony Bennett:

“I loved discovering this immigrant story of Luigi Del Bianco, a master carver who brought Mount Rushmore to life with his artistry to make it one of the most recognizable man-made wonders of the world. There are so many immigrant stories of men and women who built this great country and it’s fitting that artisans such as Luigi Del Bianco are recognized for their contributions.”

Champion of History Award 2108
presented to:

Assemblywoman Sandy Galef