The Plainfields Chapter of UNICO, together with other District X UNICO chapters, recently honored South Plainfield resident Joseph Vella as recipient of the organization’s prestigious Americanism Award. The honor, presented to individuals who have gone ‘above and beyond in their life to help others,’ was presented to Vella during an awards dinner held at the Somerville Elk on Jan. 21.

“Joe has done so many things in his life and has dedicated his whole life to service,” South Plainfield resident Robert Bengivenga, Sr., a member of the Plainfields UNICO and 2nd deputy district governor of District X, said, noting that the local chapter has not given out this particular award in a few years.