State Senator John Fonfara
October 8, 2009
State Legislators Welcome Italian Delegation to the State Capitol Italian Dignitaries Celebrate Italian-American Ties
Senators John Fonfara and Paul Doyle, along with Representatives Antonio Guerrera and Joseph Mioli greet a delegation of politicians and theatrical artists from Siracusa, Sicily during their visit to Connecticut to participate in the 54th Annual Italian American Celebration Honoring Cristopher Columbus in Hartford. (October 7, 2009)
State Senators Paul R. Doyle (D-Wethersfield) and John W. Fonfara (D-Hartford) were joined by state Representative Joe Mioli (D-Westport) and former state Senator Billy Ciotto yesterday as they welcomed a delegation from the Province of Siracusa, Italy and the city of Canicattini Bagni to the Capitol in a celebration of Italian-American heritage and culture.
The Connecticut legislators conducted the Italian delegation on a tour of the Capitol building and grounds yesterday morning, with a special stop in the Senate Chamber for the presentation of a proclamation from the governor’s office and a Connecticut state flag.
"It was a pleasure to meet with the delegation and learn more about their culture and governmental structure. I'm thrilled that they're here to help us celebrate Columbus Day. The parade is a great tradition and I look forward to participating," said Senator Doyle.
Yesterday’s tour continues a long tradition of visits to Connecticut by delegates from the Province of Siracusa, a region that has contributed many immigrants to the Greater Hartford area. This year’s visit precedes this weekend’s 54th Annual Italian-American Celebration Honoring Christopher Columbus in Hartford, including the Columbus Day Parade down Franklin Avenue.
"The Italian American festival and Columbus Day Parade is a great event every year," said Senator Fonfara. "It is an honor to welcome the delegation from Canicattini Bagni to help us celebrate this long tradition, and preserve the close ties between our communities."
"Connecticut has strong Italian-American roots and we were more than glad to welcome this visiting group as it helps us to strengthen the bonds between our two communities and to celebrate our shared Italian heritage and culture," said Representative Mioli.
The delegation of more than 35 individuals included the Mayor of Canicattini Bagni, the Deputy Mayor, the President of the City Council, Council members, and a member of the Siracusa Provincial Council, along with many more family and friends.
The 54th Annual Italian-American Celebration Honoring Christopher Columbus will be held from October 9-11, at Columbus Park on Franklin Avenue in Hartford.
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