AUBURN - When Columbus sailed to the New World, it was an awe-inspiring experience of finding new land that lay so far across the seas.

His experience could be related to many in attendance for Sunday night's Christopher Columbus Recognition Dinner at the Holiday Inn.

The dinner, hosted by the Italian Heritage Society, pays tribute to individuals that embody the Italian-American experience, which for many began with the long journey from Italy to the New World.

Joseph Camardo, chairman of the recognition committee, said the Italian Heritage Society has gave out recognition awards for six years and honored a diverse group of people.

“We started out with the six Catholic priests in the county,” Camardo said. “We've honored a lot of different people. Military, educators, law enforcement. A lot of different people and groups.”

The honorees are chosen by a committee of 15 people, who offer names and discuss, looking for people who represent many key characteristics, along with a connection to their heritage. The committee also looks for individuals strong in character, faith and determination.

“It is not just about being Italian,” said Matt Cheche, the evening's master of ceremonies. “It is about the Italian experience and being Italian-American. Like the people that left home to look for freedom. This is about the Italian-American version of that and we have a lot of people that have done a lot of great things.”

The Rev. Frank E. Lioi, was no exception. Lioi, who presently serves at St. Mary's, was recognized for his religious services to the community.

Lioi, who has masters degrees from Saint Bernard's and the Catholic University in America, has served across the area, from Greece to Groton and Dryden, before coming to St. Mary's in 2004.

Concetta “Connie” Fantasia was recognized as outstanding humanitarian. Fantasia stands as a symbol of strength and determination. After losing her husband in 1961, Fantasia began working for the Matthew Cheche Insurance Agency and retired in 1990 from the Lattimore Insurance Agency, raising seven children on her own.

In 2001, Fantasia was diagnosed with cancer, but persevered through operations and treatments and in 2007 was injured as a pedestrian in an auto accident, but still carried on.

“No matter what, she has always bounced back,” Cheche said. “Her strength, her perseverance, they are unbreakable.”

Anthony De Tomaso proudly served his country during World War II, with the 299th Combat Engineers, who were among the first at Normandy, for this he was honored for outstanding military service.

De Tomaso continues to work tirelessly on behalf of veterans, establishing the annual D-Day celebrations as well as a monument to the men from Auburn who gave their lives at Normandy.

Salvator “Sam” Indelicato, is one of the best known names in Auburn. For more than 50 years, Indelicato has owned and run the family business he took over from his father, Indelicato's Market.

For this determination and commitment, Indelicato was recognized as distinguished businessman.

Michele “Mike” Vitale is known as a man that can't sit still for too long. After serving in the Air Force, Vitale moved back to Auburn where he worked as a police officer at night and in the day with brother Paul F. Vitale in the excavating business.

Vitale would go on to help establish Vitale/Robinson Concrete, where he currently works with his sons, Michael, Jr. and Paul. For his hard work, Vitale was honored with the community business development award.

There was a special award as state Sen. Michael Nozzolio presented Camardo, for all his hard work on behalf of the Italian-American community in Auburn, with the New York State Liberty Award.

Camardo was also presented with a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol on Columbus Day last year.

“I'm overwhelmed,” Camardo said. “This is unbelievable. Without my wife and children and the support of all the people in the community I couldn't do this, they have all been so supportive.”