Title
To recognize the Columbus Italian Festival held on October 7th-9th at Saint John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church.
Body
WHEREAS, the Columbus Italian Festival began in 1980 under the direction of Father Casto Marrapese of Saint John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church to raise awareness of Italian culture, sponsor college scholarships for area high school students, and to raise funds for the Italian Cultural Center; and
WHEREAS, Saint John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church has been in existence since 1898 and has fostered the celebration of the city's Italian-American community through its sponsorship of the Columbus Italian Festival, as well as many other neighborhood activities; and
WHEREAS, the festival celebrates Columbus's vibrant Italian heritage beginning with the Columbus Day Italian Parade and continuing with live entertainment, including Italian dancing and musical acts, and activities, such as a bocce ball tournament, as well as open-air markets that offer arts, crafts, and a wealth of Italian food; and
WHEREAS, the Columbus Italian Festival will again celebrate the rich traditions and heritage of the Italian community this October 7th-9th at and around St. John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church in historic Italian Village; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council hereby recognizes the Columbus Italian Festival for its contribution to the culture and economy of Columbus, and encourages all city residents to attend and enjoy the myriad of food, entertainment, and activities offered by its participants.