Tell us about yourself (name, education, work experience, hobbies, etc.)
My name is Judy LoMonte. I was born and raised in Manhattan and received all of my education there. I graduated from Mills College of Education with an Early Childhood degree. After marrying Frank (53 years together), I taught 2nd grade in NYC until we started our family. After moving to Bloomfield, I was involved in the Home & School Associations while raising 3 wonderful children. I continued my career as a Pre-K teacher at Union Congregational Nursery School in Montclair for 23 years. Teaching and my family have always been my passions, but since retirement I also keep busy with baking, chocolate making, scrapbooking, and of course our 6 beautiful grandchildren. Sunday dinners were always important while growing up and we continue that tradition with our family.
Tell us about your Italian Ancestry.
My Italian ancestry is from my father’s side of the family. My grandparents, Luigia and Carlo, were married in Italy in the church of San Giuseppe de Vesuviano, Napoli. They came to the USA on July 26, 1893 as they appear on the manifest of the ship Neustria. They had nine (9) children, my father being their youngest. An inspiring story has been handed down from family members. One of their sons was born with crippled legs and was unable to walk. His oldest sister used to carry him around. My Nonna Luigia, known to be fervently religious, made barefoot pilgrimage s from Spring St., Little Italy to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church on 116th St. over a period of 5 years in hopes of healing her son. To the doctors’ amazement he was eventually healed and could walk unaided. Their family and friends considered it a miracle attributed it to her deep faith and devotion. I treasure this account and know it will be handed down to future generations.
How did you hear about / get involved with UNICO, how long have you been a member?
I heard about UNICO so, when my friend Mary Lou Klenner mentioned joining, I thought it was a great opportunity. I have been a UNICO member since February 2017.
How do you participate in promoting Service above Self?
I have been especially happy to participate in Mark’s Closet, Senior Day of Service luncheons, Columbus Day pancake breakfast for the 4th grade essay contest winners and their parents, visits to Job Haines Nursing Home with BHS Glamour Gals, and our Annual Scholarship Dinner. All of which have given me an opportunity to promote “Service above Self.”
What do you like most about our chapter?
It’s been such a pleasure to meet the members, work on community projects, and enjoy good times together.
Tell us about your favorite memory since you’ve been a member of UNICO.
My most favorite memory was the surprise of having my granddaughter chosen as the 1st chapter intern and seeing her fulfill that position and become the role model for future interns.
