Tag Archives: HALIBA

The pulse of Chicago’s vibrant Italian-American community was palpable at the Mazzini Verdi Club in Franklin Park on July 18, when the Harlem Avenue Little Italy Business Association hosted its first annual business awards banquet. The evening’s primary honors went to two steadfast advocates for the neighborhood, Elmwood Park Mayor Angelo “Skip” Saviano and Chicago Alderman Nick Sposato. Both men were recognized for their tireless public service and their commitment to preserving the cultural and economic vitality of the Harlem Avenue enclave. Perhaps the most emotional moment of the night came during a surprise presentation. The room erupted in applause …

The Harlem Avenue Little Italy Business Association hosted Sagra della Castagne on Nov. 18 at BarTucci’s in Chicago. Coals were stoked, chestnuts were roasted and homemade wine was served, along with biscotti for dipping, all thanks to the Sicilian Bakery. The event was organized by HALIBA members Teresa Gianni and Jason Quaglia, whose parents grew up in the neighboring towns of Rocchetta and Castel San Vincenzo in the Molise and Abruzzo regions of Italy. Quaglia introduced attendees to cacciocavallo impaccato, an Abruzzese tradition featuring coal-roasted cheese scraped onto toasted bread, a treat provided by Il Mulino Bakery. To learn more …