Since October has been designated Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month, Casa Belvedere, the Italian Cultural Foundation, hosted a Columbus Day Dinner & Casa Cavalieri and Dame Designation Ceremony that saw some 125 revelers come out to support the Grymes Hill cultural. The evening, staged in the mansion that once served as home to the Roebling-Stirn family, not only celebrated Columbus Day, but a centuries-old culture steeped in rich tradition.

Honored as “Casa Cavalieri” and receiving “Dama Designation” during the evening’s ceremonial presentation for their outstanding service to community and for their unwavering support to Casa Belvedere were: Dr. Brian Mignola, Frank Naso, Frances Valenzo and yours truly, Carol Ann Benanti.