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THE MEETING
Ross Pelligra and Sal Palella, A Handshake in New York: «Shared Roots, a Common Vision to Invest in Sicily»
Our publisher: «I am pleased to see people like Ross increasingly committed to enhancing the value of our land»
Ross Pelligra and Salvatore Palella
Leggi la versione in italiano: Ross Pelligra e Salvatore Palella, stretta di mano New York: «Le nostre radici comuni per investire in Sicilia»
The promise to meet somewhere in the world by the end of the year was made after the most recent match played by Catania Calcio at the Massimino Stadium — the victory against Atalanta Under 23 that further strengthened the club’s momentum.
That commitment materialized in New York, in a setting that perfectly reflects international excellence: Casa Cipriani, the iconic hotel and members’ club overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge. There, La Sicilia’s publisher Salvatore Palella and the president of the Rossazzurri club, Rosario “Ross” Pelligra, spent several hours together in what proved to be a highly constructive meeting — both on a personal level and in terms of future strategic planning.
While rooted in a shared entrepreneurial outlook, the discussion also focused on concrete initiatives aimed at Sicily, a territory in which both leaders have been actively investing for some time. Their relationship had already taken shape at the end of the summer, when La Sicilia became a commercial partner of Catania Calcio, currently leading the southern group of Serie C.
“And this relationship will be strengthened, because there is a clear and mutual willingness to do so,” Palella said with satisfaction at the conclusion of the day.
The publisher of La Sicilia also summarized the themes discussed during the working lunch, which extended well beyond schedule as multiple shared values and perspectives naturally emerged. “This was our first meeting, but I am certain it will not be the last. Rosario is a man of strong character — a true entrepreneur of the kind Sicily has needed. I am genuinely pleased to see people like Ross increasingly committed to investing in the Island.”
Beyond business, a strong human dimension clearly emerged — one that transcended formal roles and helped transform a professional meeting into the beginning of a genuine friendship. Palella emphasized this aspect as well: “I was deeply impressed by Pelligra’s family history and by the profound bond he maintains with his homeland.”
Pelligra, who was previously hosted by La Sicilia ahead of the current season, has often recalled how the newspaper has long been part of his family’s daily life, particularly among relatives living in the Syracuse area. “Serious journalism leaves its mark on what happens in a territory,” he said on that occasion. “La Sicilia was the newspaper my grandfather read every morning — and the one I continue to read myself.”
The Rossazzurri president has recently further strengthened his commitment to the club by acquiring the Torre del Grifo training facility, reinforcing a long-term vision that blends sporting ambition with infrastructural development.
Palella and Pelligra have now agreed to meet again in Catania to advance shared projects and launch initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and enhancing the island’s resources across tourism, social development and commercial activity.
Two entrepreneurs, united by a deep attachment to their roots, who after years abroad have chosen to reinvest not only capital but also vision, credibility and commitment in Sicily — reaffirming that sustainable development begins with a sense of belonging and responsibility toward one’s land.