Community Profiles

One of the most thrilling and glamorous events in the Chicago-area Italian American community is the contest to determine who will reign as La Bella Regina of the Columbus Day Parade. “Few events in the community can match the pageantry of the annual Columbus Day Queen pageant,” says Ron Onesti, president of the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans. “The queen will be the star of the Italian community for a year’s reign.” Sponsored by the JCCIA, this year’s pageant will be held at 1 p.m. on July 26 at the Des Plaines Theatre. The event will be chaired by …

  Roselle Sister Cities Italian Committee will host a tour of the region of Puglia from Sept. 7-16. “Puglia is known for its history-rich cities, vibrant culture, dramatic seaside cliffs, crystal-clear waters and rustic cuisine,” tour creator Pat Capriati notes. “We’ve put together a trip that will showcase all those qualities.” The itinerary will include Bari, Mola di Bari, Alberobello, Martina Franca, Lecce, Otranto, Martina Franca, Torre dell’Orso, Santa Maria di Leuca, Polignano a Mare, San Vito, Rutigliano and Manduria. Along the way, participants will witness the pageantry of the Feast of Maria SS Addolorata; explore the ancient trulli of …

The Chicagoland Italian American Charitable Organization will host its fourth annual Festa della Famiglia e Amici from 1-5 p.m. on July 13 in the Festival Center at Casa Italia in Stone Park. The event features a family feast and performances by Tony Ocean, Daniela Croco and The Jersey Girls. Scholarships and grants to families of veterans in need will be bestowed. Tickets are $100 and include entry in a raffle with a $5,000 grand prize. Children under 18 may attend for $20. Sponsorship packets are available. (630-440-9908)