"It's a fantastic opening night, possibly a record breaking turnout, certainly the biggest in memory", said Italian-American Festival Chairman, Bill DellaVecchia. Co-chair, Bob Triano echoed the sentiments enthusiastically and said, "With the uncertainty of the cool and rainy morning, the weather shifted to very comfortable temperatures and a clear sky. That was certainly a factor in the huge turnout tonight".
The downtown area of the festival just rocked with great musical entertainment by the dynamic foursome of Sound Alternatives. Crowds were held in their seats with many tapping, clapping, joining the vocalists in singing and dancing to music of the 50's and 60's as well as old and not so old Italian music.
Most of the food vendors had people lining up for Italian favorites such as fried dough, veal and peppers and sausage and peppers sandwiches along with pasta fasulo and soffritto along with gelato and other great tastes.
Watching the scene and listening to the greeting and meeting of friends, family and neighbors and the schmoozing in the street, Chamber of Commerce President, Art Secondo commented, "Festivals like this are what make Southington such a great town".
Town Attorney, Mark Sciota of Unico, taking a break from serving food, said "wait til tomorrow and Sunday for so much more".
Check out the accompanying photos which tell the story.
