SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The taste of Italy returned to Springfield’s South End.
“This… bringing our people together, that’s all that matters to me,” said Rosemarie Rueli Costa, former president of Taste of Italy for 32 years.
Every year, Baystaters from around the world gather for home-cooked Italian meals and pastries while raising money for Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish.
The Rueli family of Springfield has been part of the parish for years.
“The older generation and the younger generation are coming together and sharing all their stories. They just come together and eat,” said Larry Pietrucci, president of Taste of Italy.
For two twin sisters, it is the first time they have been part of this tradition that their family looks forward to every year.
“Eating the food, being with my family, being with my sister and eating the Italian ice cream,” Hannah Bowen told 22News.
This year, Rosemarie Rueli Costa, former president of Taste of Italy for 32 years, passed the torch to her cousin Larry Pietrucci. Rosemarie is still very involved with the event, serving on the committee, and those at the event shared with 22News that Taste of Italy is made possible every year through her efforts.
Saturday evening, Rosemarie was recognized by Mayor Sarno and Father White of Our Lady of Mt Parish. Carmel.
“It helps our church, and we have a very strong, healthy parish and this is one of the events that makes that so,” Rueli-Costa said.
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