The Old Neighborhood Italian American Club takes Memorial Day very seriously. On the last Monday in May, for 12 years running, members have faithfully gathered around the veterans’ fountain and monument in front of the Near South Side club for services that include a color guard, taps, and a wreath-laying and flag-raising ceremony.
Unable to do so this year because of the lockdown, the club decided to pay its respects by providing the staff and residents at Hines VA Hospital with 100 free meals on the Friday before Memorial Day. Capri Ristorante in Burr Ridge was commissioned to prepare and deliver 100 individual chicken Parmigiana and spaghetti dinners, with owner Gigi Rovito donating cannoli for dessert.