Ciao tutti,

As we are now moving into Autunno, a look back at the year so far has been nothing less than exceptionally impressive. The events this year have been without question a success with the membership wanting more.

Our IHSI Lecture Series presentation, “Renaissance Architecture” by Dr. James Glass on August 7^th was a great one which has been recorded and will soon be available for Society members on the website. This is one of the new benefits of membership that has been well received and will continue.

Along with the lecture series was the private wine dinner tour of Apulia at Nicole-Taylor’s Pasta and Market on August 31^st. This not only sold out in a matter of hours, but more than lived up to expectations at its backroom eatery thanks to restauranteurs Tony and Rosa Hanslits. Tony and Rosa (a native of Apulia) not only created an inviting environment for the Society but outdid themselves with an incredible menu. The sumptuous dinner from the focaccia Barese, the Orecchiette con Cime dio Rape, polpette Pugliesi and sporcamuss alla crema was a dining experience to be remembered. Along with this were the choice wines from Apulia and prosecco for a pre-dinner toast. This superb event all planned and coordinated by the IHSI cultural committee co-chairs, Susan Santore Lew and Carol Faenzi was a master stroke.

On the nation’s day of remembrance, September 11^th was also the day for our annual celebration of Our Lady’s Chapel in the Meadow which was built at Camp Atterbury during World War II by Italian POWs. The small chapel built with scrap materials complete with a fresco was not only an impressive feat but a clear expression of cultural and faith. There were 50 plus in attendance which on a weather challenged day was an amazing testament to the commitment to observe this event.  The Camp Chaplain and celebrant, Father Cesar who addressed attendees both in Italian and English was very warm and responsive to all those present. The K of C color guard did their usual great job with the music and choir making the event so very special. Certainly, the assistance of the National Guard’s was second to none. We couldn’t have done it without them. Our own Matt Iaria wowed everyone with the pasta dishes provided at the lunch which followed with all of this pulled together and coordinated by Chapel Committee Chair Mario Vian. Go to the IHSI FB Discussion page on Facebook to view photos of the celebration.

As the Society approaches its 30th year, I ask that each IHSI member not only to become more involved in activities or a committee, but to do what they can to bring in new members to our family. Doing so will allow us to further share our heritage, experiences, and appreciation of all things Italian for years to come. One does not have to be Italian or of Italian heritage to be part of this, but only to appreciate all things Italian. It can’t happen without you.

The Society has also sent out, made available on its website and FB page a survey. The object is to gather feedback on what has been done and what members would like to see in the future. If you haven’t taken it, do it today. Again, it can’t be done without you.

As October is Italian Heritage Month along with the holidays approaching, stay in touch with the newsletter, website and email announcements for more that is yet to come. There continue to be activities for all in celebrating heritage and appreciating all things Italian.

Grazie,

Ralph Tambasco,
President
Italian Heritage Society of Indiana
[email protected]