Page 2 - Final Columbia Newsletter -Spring 2022

From The Editor’s Desk
Detective Michael Mongelli
Saluti ai membri dell’associazione columbia,
As Covid restrictions are being lifted, I am happy to see members attending our monthly general meetings at Italian Charities. I am honored to assume the role of editor and report to you on behalf of the NYPD Columbia Association. I have had the honor and priviledge to serve as a member on the Columbia board for eleven years. Proud to be an Italian American, both my paternal grandparents came from Melphi, Italy, and my maternal grandparents immigrated from Palermo, Sicily. Growing up I heard “la famiglia and mangia più cibo!” I appreciate my Italian heritage.
In 1932, Patrolmen Maurice Sasso and Thomas Julia, along with Captain James Giattini, were our membership’s founders. Without them, we would not be here today. During this time period, there was much discrimination toward Italian American immigrants. Captain Giattini was a pioneer fighting discrimination and mistreatment of his fellow Italian-American officers.
We are the oldest and largest fraternal organization in the department, and we will continue to carry on our Italian traditions with pride and respect as law enforcement officers. At this time, I would like to congratulate our new president, Anthony Burgio and the entire Columbia Board on their new positions. I know, as a Board, we will make our members proud!
It is with deep regret that we mourn the recent passing of Christine Esposito, wife of Chief Of Department Joseph Esposito. They were great supporters of this association for over 50 years, attending many of our events. They positively impacted the Columbia Association, and the entire NYPD. On behalf of the board and membership, our condolences and prayers are with you Chief and your family! Our hearts are forever with you.
Hello Life Members:
Welcome, The Columbia Association is back with our events and general meetings (4th Tuesday of the month at Italian Charities on Queens Boulevard). We are all glad the Covid pandemic seems to be slowing down. It has been a terrible time
for all of us. At this stage of our lives, we are happy with a
little sunshine and of course, good health.
Being a life member, we have seen many changes within the N.Y.P.D and nothing surprises us. The one thing we always felt secure about was our health insurance. Our union representatives know our health insurance is a priority to all of us. Now our political leaders are trying to change all of this.
Presently there is a on going court case, trying to secure our best interest. We will just have to wait for the outcome and hope for the best.
That’s all for now, looking forward to a warm and healthy spring. Philip Repaci
Life Member Representative
Fraternamente tuo, Michael Mongelli
From The Desk Of Our Life Member Representative
Philip Repaci
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