Garibaldi is Larger Than Life at the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum, 1/9

Today, when every movie and sports star has an action figure and you can purchase replicas of everything from the Batmobile to Star Wars light sabers to the sword of Gryffindor, celebrity merchandise has become pretty mundane. But Garibaldi macaroni? Who'd a thunk?

In conjunction with the celebration of the 150th anniversary of Italy's unification, on Sunday, January 9 from 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum is opening an exhibit, "Garibaldi: Larger Than Life." Curated by Bonnie Heather McCourt, the exhibit explores the legacy of Italy's most famous and beloved general, the man who, more than any other, was responsible for the Italy we know today. Included in the show are paintings, sculpture and lithographs, images of statues from around the world-and a mountain in Canada!-tributes to him in music and poetry, political cartoons, stamps and postcards, magazine covers, knick-knacks, wine, cigars and yes, even Garibaldi macaroni.

Prior to the opening of the show, at 1 p.m., Professor Louis Leonini will present "Italy 150." He will take us on a journey through Italian history, showing us how, through Garibaldi's efforts, Italy was finally united after centuries of division, war, occupation and strife. He will tell dramatic, thrilling tales of political intrigue, high-level diplomacy, outstanding heroism and the spiritual regeneration of the Italian people.

Seating for "Italy 150" is limited, and admission is $10 for non-members and $5 for members. Those attending Professor Leonini's presentation will have early admittance to the opening of "Garibaldi: Larger Than Life." The doors will then be opened to the public at 3:30 p.m. for those who only want to view the exhibition and attend the free opening reception. Parking will be available behind St. Joseph School at the corner of Tompkins Avenue and St. Mary's Avenue in Rosebank. The driveway to the parking lot is between 463 Tompkins Avenue and St. Mary's Avenue.

For more information call 718-442-1608. After the opening "Garibaldi: Larger Than Life" will run through April 5, and can be seen during regular museum hours.

The Garibaldi-Meucci Museum is owned and operated by the Order Sons of Italy in America.

The Garibaldi-Meucci Museum was the home of Antonio Meucci, the true inventor of the telephone, and a refuge to Giuseppe Garibaldi, the legendary hero who championed the unification of Italy. For over 50 years the museum has fulfilled its mission to preserve the legacies of these great men, and to promote understanding of the Italian-American heritage through cultural, artistic and educational programs and classes.

Regular museum hours are 1 p.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $5 per person, members and children under 10 are free. Call ahead for groups of 10 or more. The first floor of the museum is wheelchair accessible, however the restroom is on the second floor. At press time, program funding has been provided through the Order Sons of Italy in America; by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council; Richmond County Savings Foundation; Northfield Bank Foundation; Coccia Foundation; JP Morgan Chase Regrant in partnership with the Council on the Arts & Humanities for Staten Island (COAHSI) and by grants allocated by New York City Council members Vincent Ignizio and James Oddo. The Garibaldi-Meucci Museum is owned and operated by the Order Sons of Italy in America.