Newsmaker
Monday, September 29, 1997
Name: Frederick R. Troncone
Age: 40
Education: Penn State; University of Toledo, Ohio
Occupation: Attorney with Case Bigelow & Lombardi
Hobbies: Golf
Frederick Troncone knows about immigration. Believing in immigration
He considers himself a "one-and-a-half" first-generation American. His mother was born in Italy and immigrated to the United States in 1955. His father was born of Italian parents who immigrated to the mainland.
His wife immigrated from Iran.
And Troncone practices immigration law -- mainly foreign investment and immigration of professionals into the United States.
"Free immigration with periodic tightening is what has made our country great," said Troncone, who has been in Hawaii since 1988. "To generate ingenuity and creativity in our country, we need to foster immigration and shape it in such a way that it continues to serve our interests."
He became chairman of the American Immigration Lawyers Association in July during a tough time for immigrants. Troncone finds recent "xenophobic initiatives" that cut benefits to immigrants disturbing.
On the other hand, there are positive developments in immigration: visa waiver programs for some countries and easier visa requirements to attract foreign investors to Hawaii.
Troncone speaks Italian and has tried to pass cultural traditions down to his son.
"It's unfortunate to lose your culture. A tighter connection to your homeland makes you feel somewhat special."
Susan Kreifels, Star-Bulletin
