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.
Joe Tangaro was one of the original founders of the Italian Open. He was a former Board President and helped the IO become one of St. Louis’ premier charity events. Joe lived with the daily pain and suffering of A.L.S., and was a true inspiration to the Italian Open.
To honor Joe’s memory, the Italian Open awards a $5,000 scholarship check to a local high school senior for outstanding scholastic and athletic skills, and community service.
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