Awards
The LoRusso Hospitality Award
Joe Tangaro Sports Award
The St. Louis Italian Open Charity for Children, Inc. (IO), in conjunction with the ACF Chefs de Cuisine Association of St. Louis Inc. and the Greater St. Louis Chapter of the Missouri Restaurant Association, is seeking qualified applicants for The LoRusso Hospitality Award and the chosen applicant will receive up to $5000 towards tuition and /or other approved financial needs.
Rich LoRusso was a warm, affable, and gregarious personality. LoRusso’s Cucina provided guests with an excellent culinary experience for over 35 years. More importantly, Rich generously helped fund countless charities in the St. Louis area during his entire professional life. From proud Italian roots originating on the Hill, he was a true pillar of the community. Rich loved to celebrate life, food, wine, and his Italian culture. An Italian Open honoree and board member, we are very moved to create an award in his memory to honor his generous contributions to the community. This award will be given annually to a candidate who has serious career interests in the culinary and hospitality industry or is currently in the industry and has a financial need, deemed acceptable to the Italian Open, for a minor child.
Throughout the entire history of the St. Louis Italian Open there has been one common thread, one constant, one pillar of strength to pass the baton from one generation to the next. That was a man named Joe Tangaro. Joe was an original founder of the Italian Open. He was past president and Chairman of the Board. Joe Tangaro was what the IO was all about.
Joe’s memory is now etched forever and ever in the foundation and roots of the organization he began, nurtured, and helped grow into what it is today.
Joe was a living reminder of why the IO and organizations like it need to exist. With ALS, he lived the pain and suffering daily of what the IO tries to eliminate.
Honoring Past Recipients
The LoRusso Hospitality Award
Joe Tangaro Sports Award
Gianna Fogarty
Sophia Frisella Gagnepain
Caeli Millett
Sarah Kirk
Roman Thomas
Thomas Collora
Dominic Perotta
Natalie Leininger
Catherine Cassani
Grace Frisella
Jimmy Lahrman
Alexis Cassani
Andrew Grassi
Alex Severino