We celebrate today the creativity and artistry of Anthony Ficalora, a long-standing member of the Irvington community. Anthony was a photographer, television director, and a loving father and grandfather to his family. He was also honored by the Irvington Historical Society as a 2022 Legacy, reflecting his unique and important role in our Village.
Anthony Ficalora, TV Commercial Director, was acclaimed for his still photography and national TV commercials. Anthony enlisted in the US Navy during World War II from 1942 to 1946, where he served as Photographer’s Mate First Class on the USS Curtiss, AV 4, a Sea Plane Tender and Flagship in the Pacific’s Okinawan war zone.
After establishing a photography studio in 1948 focusing on commercial advertising, Anthony made the transition in 1968 to directing and producing TV commercials and formed Toni Ficalora Productions. Anthony directed commercials for Eastman Kodak, Kraft Foods, Procter & Gamble, General Foods, American Home Products, Anheuser Busch and many other clients around the country. His work has won many awards, including gold medals from the Atlanta International Film Festival, The International Film Festival of New York and the Tokyo Film Festival. Throughout his career he also collected many Clio Awards – the highest recognition given in the television commercial industry.
Anthony served as President in 1954 of the Hemophilia Association of New York, along with serving as Board Member, President (1967), and Life Member of the American Society of Media Photographers. He was also a longstanding member of the Directors Guild of America.
Locally, Anthony was a Member and former Board Member of the Ardsley Country Club, Board Member of the Foundation of the Dobbs Ferry Community Hospital, Advisory Board Member of the Immaculate Conception School in Irvington, NY, and – with his wife, Vanda – a Member of the Ardsley Curling Club.
Anthony also established several Ficalora Family Nature Preserves in Bridgewater, CT under the Weintinoge Heritage Land Trust.
Anthony is predeceased by his wife, Vanda, and oldest son, Michael. He is survived by his two sons, Paul (Gale) and John (Kathy); his four grandchildren, Anthony (Alana), Alicia, Christopher and Gianna; and a great-grandchild, Mikayla.