Last Sunday, members gathered to vote on who would lead the club in the years to come.

Licata won the majority with 317 votes, beating the outgoing president, Vince Foti, who had 187 votes, and Livio Satoretto, with 71 votes.

Replacing Mario Soligo as vice president is director Robert Carniato.

The six directors with the most votes will remain on the board, supporting the president and vice president with their duties.

The directors include: Sam Noiosi, with 350 votes, Tony Paragalli, with 346 votes, Sam Vaccaro, with 326 votes, Fernando Pellegrino, with 323 votes, Frank Olivieri, with 272 votes, and Angelo Ruisi, with 240 votes.

Licata is the 12th president of Club Marconi.

An entrepreneur in the world of entertainment and hospitality, Licata is an Elvis Presley fan and occasionally does impressions of his idol for friends and acquaintances at private parties.

His friendliness, honesty and drive are only some of the reasons Licata was elected president.

“I was elected because I’ve been active in Club Marconi for over 20 years,” Licata said.

“I know all our members and have a great relationship with them.

“I have a lot of respect for people and I love spending time with them.

“I’m one of those people who get along well with everyone and can build relationships easily.

“This is why the support of the board of directors, the manager and the members of the club are integral to building a rosy future.”

Born in Switzerland to Sicilian parents, Licata plans to use his professional skills as much as his interpersonal ones in his presidency.

“I want to bring the club back to its glory days,” he said.

“We’ll do this by bringing the Italian community back here.

“There’ll be new initiatives, increased contact with members and, above all, the big names in the entertainment industry will return to perform at Club Marconi.”

Licata plans to start with Tina Arena, hoping that her performance will mark Italian Republic Day on June 2.

In the meantime, Licata is immensely grateful to everyone who voted for him, and even to those who did not.

“I love everyone,” he said.

“Now let’s work together for the good of Club Marconi.”