HOUSTON—September 13, 2012: It was Saturday night bases loaded, bottom of the ninth, full count, game tied, Kenneth Aspromonte steps up to the plate; grand slam home run, and the crowd goes wild! At least that's what it felt like to those attending the Italian Cultural & Community Center's 10th Annual Rekindle the Flame Gala held at the Houston Hilton on Post Oak September 8, 2012. The honoree Ken Aspromonte, former MLB player and field manager, and Regional Vice President of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Board of Directors, was presented with the "Rekindle the Flame Award" to honor his life-long achievements and commitment to the Italian-American community both locally and nationally. Mr. Aspromonte was honored for his continuous support, not only for the ICCC, but also for his support for the entire Italian-American community, the Italian community and the Houston community-at-large.

"This evening was a great opportunity to honor Mr. Aspromonte who exemplifies character, leadership and community service and most of all the Italian spirit," said ICCC President, Claudia Sims. "This is our 10th annual Gala and it is about making sure that the spirit, symbolized through the flame, is always rekindled so that every generation for years to come can share in its glow."

The Gala evening kicked off with cocktails and a silent auction, followed by dinner, the award presentation, a live auction and dancing to the music of Eclipse, Houston's ultimate band for variety dance music.

The ICCC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit entity whose mission is to advance, celebrate and preserve Italian culture and heritage. The Gala benefits multiple ICCC programs including college scholarships, La Scuola d'Italiano (the Italian language school), and many Italian cultural, educational and social programs. The fundraiser further supports the preservation of the ICCC home at the Milford House, a building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a designated City of Houston Landmark.

To learn more about the Italian Cultural & Community Center's multiple programs and offerings, please visit www.ICCCHouston.com or call 713-524-4222, extension 4.