Assembly Resolution No. 2005

BY: M. of A. Buttenschon

COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of the World
Series of Bocce on July 18, 2024

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to commemorate
those sporting events of historical significance which add strength,
vigor and inspiration to the quality of life in the communities of the
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the World Series of Bocce, to be
celebrated during its renowned annual competition on Thursday, July 18
to Sunday, July 21, 2024 at the Toccolana Club in Rome, New York; and

WHEREAS, Growing from humble beginnings, the World Series of Bocce
is held every third week in July in Rome, New York and is the premier
event in the bocce community, with teams travelling from all over the
Nation to compete for the prestigious title; and

WHEREAS, A harmonious blend of culture, youth and experience,
delicious food, lively music, intense yet friendly competition, and
fellowship, the World Series of Bocce attracts tens of thousands of
spectators to the Rome area and has generated significant revenue from
tourism for the local community; and

WHEREAS, Historically played among Roman soldiers during the Roman
Empire's wars with Carthage, Bocce has been enjoyed by a myriad of
cultures throughout the centuries; the sport was named by an Italian
man, Luigi Boccharini, who designed the first authentic balls made from
the wood of willow trees; and

WHEREAS, Brought to the United States by Italian immigrants in the
early 20th century, the World Series of Bocce was first held in Rome,
New York when former Mayor, Carl Eilenberg, teamed with bocce
enthusiast, Cosimino Costello, to create and host a tournament to
attract the best players in the world; with the support of the Facciolo
brothers, Nick (Fox), Greg (D.A.), Joe (Scud), Tony (Cappie), and Frank
(Frankie) Facciolo, as well as Joe Taverna, Romeo Cecelia, and a host of
other volunteers, the inaugural World Series of Bocce was held in July
1974 at the John F. Kennedy Arena in Rome, NY with 44 teams
participating; and

WHEREAS, On December 23, 1974, the first World Series of Bocce was
featured in a Sports Illustrated article written by Jeannette Bruce;
this article brought national attention to the event and the Rome
community; and

WHEREAS, Reaching tremendous success, the World Series of Bocce now
welcomes over 168 teams, 128 in the Open Division and another 40 in the
Women's Division; it is broadcasted nationwide on the Bocce Broadcast
Network and is the subject of a documentary to be released this year
produced by local filmmakers, called "The World Series of Bocce: A
Celebration of Sport, Family and Community"; and


WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those
sporting events which enhance the well-being and vitality of its
community and have shown a long and sustained commitment to excellence
certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all the citizens
of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the World Series of Bocce on July
18, 2024 to July 21, 2024; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the World Series of Bocce Organizing Committee.