December 2024
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Buon Natale! As we look forward to the upcoming Christmas holiday, enjoying the celebration of the season, we invariably look back on the past year. When I reflect on 2024, I recall the successes, the changes, and the losses the Dante Alighieri Society has experienced. Our successes were many, including growing our membership, another Italian Heritage Month of note, enlightening cultural programs, expanded language classes, tasty culinary experiences, and fun social gatherings. As for changes, with the help of people who understand our unique market, we have embarked on a journey to increasingly spread the word about our Italian organization. Finally, with much sadness we mourn the loss of one of the founding members of the Society. Gianfranco Marcantonio was, and always will be, a cornerstone of the Dante Alighieri Society of Denver.
I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to all our members who support our efforts to stay true to our mission statement: “….to share and celebrate the richness of the Italian culture and language with the community”. I want to say a very special “Thank You” to my Board members who have supported not only my efforts as president but, more importantly, your interests as members of the Dante Alighieri Society. With this kind of support, I look forward to an even greater 2025.
Finally, I want to wish all of you a most Blessed Christmas! May you experience the love and joy of family and friends that is so precious at this time of year. Che Dio benedica
Grazie, John Giardino
ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES
WINTER SESSION OF ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES BEGINS JANUARY 6, 2025
The Society’s ten-week summer session of in-person Italian language classes is currently underway. The schedule for winter classes are now online. The registration deadline for the winter session is January 3, 2025. Classes are taught by experienced and talented bi-lingual teachers, and include beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes. Evening 10-week classes meet once a week for 90 minutes at 3549 Navajo Street, Denver, in the parish office of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.
We are excited to offer a variety of class options to fit your schedule, including evening, morning, and online sessions via Zoom. Tuition is $130 for members and $160 for non-members. New students are welcome to join the Dante Alighieri Society when registering for classes. As our winter classes tend to fill up quickly, we encourage you to register early to secure your spot!
“Love insists the loved loves back”
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TIPS ON ITALY by Tonya Clement
Panadoro – The Gold Star Desert in Italy
As my vacation Italy was coming to an end on November 14th, the grocery stores were stocking up with two very popular deserts. The displays were piled high with boxes of Panettone and Pandoro. For people that do not like candied fruits, raisins and nuts in their baked goods, the Panadoro is just the cake. Made up of flour, eggs, butter and sugar, the Panadoro cake is quite popular and projects a very gold color thus explaining the origins of the name; pane d’oro which means the golden bread. The golden color stems from the fresh eggs.
Pandoro became very popular in the late 1800’s in northern Italy in the city of Verona. Its’ star shape was a festive choice to be served in homes during the Christmas holidays. It is heavily debated by Italian families as to which desert is the best. Some prefer the Panettone while others prefer the Pandoro. Yet all Italians will say it is not Christmas in Italy until one or both appear on the table.
The confectioner Domenico Melegatti was the first to patent this cake and its’ 8 point star shape in 1894. The specific origin is not certain but it does resemble the Nadalin, a star shaped cake that was popular in Vienna in the 13th century.
As shown in this photo, the Pandoro is often served with a light dusting of powdered sugar and sometimes slightly warmed to cause the sugar to melt slightly into the cake. Surprise your friends and family with a Pandoro this Christmas. It makes a perfect center piece.
GETTING TO KNOW CALABRIA, ITALY
Located in the southernmost part of Italy, Calabria is a stunning region known for its dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and Mediterranean charm. Often overlooked by tourists in favor of more famous Italian destinations, Calabria offers a unique and authentic experience that captures the essence of the Italian South.
Here are some interesting aspects of Lazio:
Geography and Natural Beauty: Calabria is blessed with an extraordinary landscape, with rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The region is bordered by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Ionian Sea to the east, offering some of the most breathtaking coastlines in Italy. Calabria is home to the Aspromonte Mountains, which are perfect for hiking and outdoor activities, while the Sila Mountains are known for their dense forests and lakes. The coastline is dotted with charming seaside villages, each offering a peaceful retreat and panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Rich History and Ancient Ruins: Calabria has a rich historical heritage that dates back to ancient times. The region was home to several ancient Greek colonies, and their influence can still be seen in the archaeological sites scattered across Calabria. One of the most famous historical sites is the ancient Greek city of Locri, where visitors can explore ruins of temples, theaters, and the remains of the once-thriving settlement. The town of Crotone is also notable for its ancient ruins and its role as a prominent center of learning in the Greek world, home to the famous philosopher Pythagoras.
TRAVEL REFLECTIONS BLOG
Travel Reflections, our community blog that celebrates your captivating travel stories! This is your chance to transport readers to the enchanting corners of Italy through your experiences. Whether you've uncovered a hidden gem in Sicily or wandered the scenic vineyards of Tuscany, we want to hear your unique tales.
Ready to contribute? It’s easy! Just fill out our simple online form and let your unique stories weave a vibrant tapestry of Italy’s culture. Don’t miss the chance to spark curiosity and inspire others—submit your story today and celebrate the magic of travel with our community!
ITALIAN COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Use this link to view community-wide events by Italian organizations in the Denver metro area
OFFICIAL NOTICE
According to the Bylaws of the Dante Alighieri Society of Denver, the elections of new officers for the 2025--2026 term will be held at the general meeting before our Holiday Celebration on Dec 7th. The nominating committee announced that the following Board members will run again: President John Giardino, Vice President Veronica Goodrich, Secretary Idamae Casagranda and Treasurer Nick D’Adamio.
PLEASE NOTE: Nominations for all four elected positions may be made from the floor the night of the election. All other Board positions are appointed by the elected President.
The Dante Alighieri Society of Denver exists to share and celebrate
the richness of the Italian culture and language with the entire community.
