Ciao tutti,

I will begin by thanking all that attended the Italian Society of Indiana’s 30^th Anniversary, Italian Heritage Month & Columbus Day Celebration on October 15th. As many of you know, it was held at the Capri Ristorante here in Indianapolis. This venue provided such a warm and inviting ambience which all of the attending 115 guests enjoyed. The staff was overwhelmingly attentive, the food delicious and management accommodating.

The event featured entertainment by the renowned Chad Brown whose Sinatra styled performance was so very well received setting such a comfortable and engaging atmosphere. Chad was also gracious with the flexibility of his time and in helping to make announcements during the evening. The entertainment for the event was topped off with a performance by the Indianapolis Opera. Featured were Tenor David Silvano, Soprano Victoria Korovljev and Pianist Morgan Hunkle under the direction of Maestro Alred Savia. The selections performed from Italian opera were exceptional and so captivating. There was no question how much all appreciated this outstanding presentation as they did with a with  a standing ovation. You can view some great photos and videos on the IHSI FB Discussion page.
 
The Central Indiana Italian Car Association-Fiat Club America was also on hand with a display of some impressive works of Italian engineering. The vehicles displayed were impressive and provided an exciting welcome to those who entered the Capri for the event. A special thanks to Shawn Miller, president of the club in arranging this.
 
As this event was about the appreciation of the membership and those who’ve contributed so much of their time in organizing and planning events over the years, along with IHSI board members past and present, each guest received a commemorative stemless wine glass with the logo of the Society designating its 30^th anniversary. It serves as a wonderful memory of a fantastic event and a milestone reached by the Society.
 
The 30^th anniversary event committee did an extraordinary job. IHSI VP Kevin Pastore, Treasurer Joanna Milto-Bergin, board members Susan Santore Lew, Carol Faenzi, Sharon Smith and Membership Chair Chuck Werckenthien – grazie mille!
 
Following the 30th Anniversary event, IHSI had a wine tasting event at the Vine & Table in Carmel this month. Benton Givens of Vine & Table, a real wine expert gave a tremendous presentation on choice Italian wines. All enjoyed not only the presentation. but having the opportunity of tasting those fantastic wines and purchasing them if desired at a discounted rate for only those attending. Due to the great response to this event, more of these are planned in the future thanks to IHSI member Chuck Werkenthien.
 
December 3^rd at 6:00 pm at Iaria’s Restaurant will be the date and time for our Festa di Natale 2023 (Christmas party). It will not only celebrate the holidays with food, drink, fun and music but recognize our Society scholarship winners and install the IHSI 2024 board of directors and officers. It is always a cheer-filled and festive event. Don’t miss it. Details are included in this newsletter.

A very warm welcome to our new board members: Vincent DeFabis. MaryAnne Hoffman, Joseph Mulinaro, John Pecchia, Troy Reed, Elisa Lucchi Riester and Chuck Werckenthien.
Their involvement with the contribution of their time, talent, ideas and energy is greatly welcomed. Complimenti a tutti.
 
I also wanted to take this opportunity to recognize and thank the outgoing extraordinary board members who have contributed so much over the years and continue to do so. Those incredible people are: Mimi Sturiale Collins, Matthew Iaria, Ray Brown, Ginny Koss, Maria “Mimi” DeMore, and Kevin Pastore. Grazie mille – your contributions are greatly appreciated.
 
Lastly, I wanted to mention that while my original intent was to step away for the board and Society presidency after this year, I gave in to those members that argued otherwise and strongly urged my return. I’m very humbled by the confidence and trust shown in asking for my return. So, as I’m back to serve for 2024, in good humor and affection I quote from a famous movie line: “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in”.
 
By the way, if it’s time to renew your membership, or your business as a corporate sponsor you can do so by going online to: https://italianheritage.org/about/membership/  It’s convenient and instant. It also makes for a terrific Christmas gift. Need assistance with it? Reach out today to membership at [email protected]
           

Tanti  Grazie!

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