October 2024
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Now is the time for all good Italians, Italian wannabes, Italophiles, or anyone who appreciates and wants to experience a bit of Italian culture to attend the events being offered during Italian Heritage Month. Listed here in this issue is the list of activities to check out. There’s fun, food, film, and friends awaiting. For more detailed information check out our website. I look forward to seeing you there.
Grazie, John Giardino
October heralds Italian Heritage Month, a vibrant celebration that invites us to immerse ourselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Italy. This month is an homage to the timeless traditions, artistic achievements, and culinary marvels that define Italian culture. From the breathtaking art of the Renaissance to the enchanting beauty of Italy’s landscapes, Italian Heritage Month offers a chance to explore a culture that has left an indelible mark on the world.
At the heart of Italian culture is its rich culinary tradition, where food is celebrated not just as sustenance but as a cherished experience. Italian cuisine is a symphony of flavors, from the simple pleasure of a perfectly crafted pizza to the complex layers of a hearty risotto. The art of Italian cooking lies in its ability to bring people together, transforming every meal into a moment of joy and connection. This month, savor the culinary delights that epitomize the Italian way of life, and appreciate the deep connection between food and family that defines Italian culture.
Language, too, plays a pivotal role in the Italian experience. Italian is a language of passion and poetry, with a lyrical quality that reflects the beauty of its culture. It’s a language that conveys emotion and tradition, offering a window into the heart of Italy. As we celebrate Italian Heritage Month, take a moment to appreciate the richness of the Italian language, whether through classic literature, the music of Italy’s renowned composers, or the everyday conversations that embody the warmth and expressiveness of Italian life.
By honoring Italian Heritage Month, we connect with a culture that celebrates art, family, and the joy of living. It’s a time to immerse ourselves in the artistic brilliance, savor the exquisite flavors, and appreciate the melodic beauty of the Italian language. This celebration is an invitation to embrace the vibrant essence of Italian heritage, to savor its traditions, and to be inspired by a culture that continues to enrich and inspire the world.
Come celebrate Italian Heritage Month with us!!
We have a variety of events lined up for you in October.
October 4th - 2:00pm | the film CABRINI
Mother Cabrini, the first canonized American saint, was a very important figure in Colorado. She was sent to Colorado in 1902 to minister to the large number of Italian immigrants in the state. In Denver she established the Queen of Heaven Orphanage and the Shrine on Lookout Mountain. She had a special tie to Mount Carmel, where she established both a convent and grade school.
Arvada Harkin Theater: 5550 Olde Wadsworth Blvd, Arvada, CO 80002
FREE Event - Online Registration Required
VIEW TRAILER
October 7th - 6:00pm | Cabrini Day MASS
Mount Carmel Altar and Rosary Society will follow up the movie with a Mass in honor of the saint on Cabrini Day, at Mount Carmel Church.
October 11th - 7:00pm | An Evening Of Tombola
Experience the thrill and charm of Italian tradition. Join us for a lively and festive night where you can enjoy the classic Italian game of Tombola, a beloved lottery-style game similar to Bingo, but with its own unique flair.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish Hall: 3549 Navajo Street, Denver Co 80211
FREE Event - Online Registration Required
October 19th - 9:00am | In Cucina con Chef Adam Giardino
Celebrate Italian Heritage Month by diving into the rich flavors and traditions of Italy with our exclusive Italian culinary class! Join us for an immersive experience where you'll learn to cook authentic Italian. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this class will bring the essence of Italy to your kitchen.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish Hall: 3549 Navajo Street, Denver Co 80211
$50 per person - Online Registration Required
VIEW MENU
October 27th - 2:00 - 4:00pm | A Wine Tasting Experience!
Join us for an unforgettable evening of exquisite flavors! Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this event promises to delight your palate. Immerse yourself in the warmth of our community and celebrate the spirit of Italy with friends and fellow wine lovers. Come savor the moment, make new friends, and celebrate la dolce vita with us!
Water 2 Wine: 311 E County Line Rd A-20, Littleton, CO 80122
$40 per person - Online Registration Required
VIEW EVENT CALENDAR
“Remember tonight...
for it is the beginning of always.”
―
ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES
FALL SESSION OF ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES IS UNDERWAY
The winter session will begin in January 2025. The schedule will be posted online in early December.
Our classes, guided by expert bilingual instructors, cater to all levels—from beginners to advanced learners. Evening classes run for 10 weeks, meeting once a week for 90 minutes at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Denver.
TIPS ON ITALY by Tonya Clement
Se fai il caffe, usa la moka per favore!
Ask any Italian how they like their coffee prepared and they are likely to tell you they prefer it be made in the Moka: a stovetop coffee maker. In the US we have tried so many things from the fancy Nespresso machines with the colorful pods, to our snazzy coffee makers, to our simple drip coffee makers and ultimately our French presses. I even went so far to spend $1,000 on a classic Pavoni espresso maker only to realize that the Moka does the best job of all. It is easy, it is simple and it is Italy’s favorite way to make coffee. This cute little octagonal moka pot also know as a ceffettiera or a macchinetta is internationally renowned.
Moka is not an Italian word. It comes from the Yemen town of Mocha which was the epicenter of coffee commerce for hundreds of years. It was not until sometime in the 1930’s that Luigi di Ponti Alfonso Bialetti invented the little Moka pot that has stood the test of time. It is a variation of a machine that women used to wash clothes. The women would heat a vat of boiling water with that pipe inserted that sent the warm sudsy water up the pipe. He took the concept and applied it to making coffee.
I have asked numerous Italians to show me their method and it seems everyone has a twist. Some fill the lower chamber with cold water while others swear by hot water. Some pack the grounds into the coffee chamber and others insist leaving the grounds loosely situated. Some say leave the lid up and others insist on leaving it down and do not peek. While the sizes and some of the available colors change throughout the years, the original design has remained the same.
Alfonso Bialetti was the person who transformed this little pressure driven stove top coffee brewer into one of the most famous and most familiar pots in the world. Today all of the prestigious kitchen stores offer this brand or one similar. I will never know if it is the actual coffee produced, the history of the machine, or the passion held by the Italian people or just the fact that I feel like I have a little piece of Italy with me when I use mine… but I do love the espresso that bubbles out of the little spout.
GETTING TO KNOW LAZIO, ITALY
Lazio, a region in central Italy, is renowned for its rich historical heritage, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. Home to Italy’s capital, Rome, Lazio offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern allure.
Here are some interesting aspects of Lazio:
Economy: Lazio is a key economic driver in Italy, largely due to Rome’s role as the nation’s political and financial hub. The region’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from tourism, government, finance, and high-tech industries, all bolstered by the presence of numerous multinational companies and international institutions.
Architecture: Lazio is a treasure trove of architectural marvels, showcasing styles from various historical periods. Rome’s architectural highlights include the ancient Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica. The region also features Renaissance villas, Baroque churches, and medieval castles, reflecting its extensive historical evolution.
Cultural Heritage: Lazio's cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its history. Rome’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing iconic landmarks such as the Roman Forum and the Vatican City. Other notable sites include the ancient Etruscan cities of Tarquinia and Cerveteri, renowned for their well-preserved necropolises.
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 on Friday, November 8, 2024. 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.
