Professor Philip J. DiNovo is the Founder and
President of the esteemed American Italian Heritage
Association and the American Italian Heritage Museum
in Albany, New York. He has also been knighted by
the Italian Government and is a respected figure in
America’s Italian community
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
February 2026
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
"Winter brings the cold of February but remember it is only temporary" quoted from a winter-related poem written by Catherine Pulsifer. Thank goodness, the spring season follows all that cold and dreary weather, so let's put it all in context by focusing on that one particular fact. Some people become snowbirds because they hate winter; others leave it completely; and then, there are those who just make the best of their circumstances by staying put.
Activity at the museum slows down considerably during the winter months. It is a very expensive time for us with our increasing heating bills for two buildings along with the ever-rising cost of plowing & sanding our large parking lot. Obviously, fundraising as a source of revenue takes a downturn. Please keep in mind that any events we do have on the schedule are dependent upon the weather. Personally speaking, I welcome the winter respite by occupying my time planning future events and programs, reading and enjoying a less hectic lifestyle.
Did you know that members may borrow books from our museum library? We have over two thousand books on Italian Americans and Italy that are catalogued and shelved in the Italian Cultural Center on the second floor of our building. Winter is a great time to catch• up on your reading. Of course, call ahead before heading over to the museum to verify that our doors are open.
To be human is to experience loneliness and for many today that feeling is a reality which has acutely grown. The U.S. Surgeon General in a report called Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation details the threat that social disconnection poses to the health of individuals and society. Almost all organizations say it is difficult to get their members to be active. There is an antidote to isolation: make a serious commitment to becoming an active A.I.H.A.&M. member. It is very beneficial for your health! In regard to generating participation in museum activities, start thinking about what
events, classes, bus trips, etc. that you would like us to offer. Be prepared because I will soon be asking for your thoughts along those lines. Also, keep in mind that we have a wonderful space on the second floor for programs, classes and events. Let us know if you would like to offer a class or event.
If you have not paid your 2026 dues, pay them soon, or even today. Please add $2 for late payment. We will put you in our system and you will receive our bi-monthly newsletter.
When you are on-line please stay informed on real-time museum information by putting in a request to become a Friend of the American Italian Heritage Museum/Facebook. It will keep you posted on updates and interesting information about our Italian heritage and culture.
We have some members who would appreciate a telephone call from a friendly, safe voice. They may be home-bound, un-well, or possibly going through a difficult time. Would you be willing to call them once or twice a month? By doing so, you would be carrying out truly good deeds from the comfort of your own home. Contact me if you are willing to help us with this much-needed service.
I acknowledge and am well aware that I repeat myself. I do it because as an educator I appreciate the value of repetition. Despite my best efforts, some people still don't get it. We have an all-volunteer staff, only 25% of our income comes from dues, we have a very limited budget, and we are running short of volunteers. These are actual facts and accurately explain our limitations.
In closing, we sincerely thank all the members in thirty-three states who support us. All of you have been so loyal and supportive over many years. We started with nothing and now we are the owners of three buildings in mid-town Albany. We take pride that we have accomplished so much throughout the past 46 years. Thank you again for the cherished legacy you are leaving to future generations.
Prof./Cav. Philip J. DiNovo
In honor of the Italian immigrants who came to the United States of America, we are committed to record and preserve the contributions of our Italian Heritage and culture to our society through our newsletter, cultural programs, activities, exhibits, and outreach programs.