THE ANNUAL FERRAGOSTO PICNIC – THE ITALIAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY, IN UNITY, CELEBRATES SUMMER!

This year’s Ferragosto picnic was held on Sunday, August 13, at a new venue and at a new time – we transitioned from the grounds of the Villa Rosa Nursing Home in Maryland, from 12:30 – 5:00 p.m., to Fort Ward Park in Alexandria, Virginia, from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. We could not have asked for a more perfect day following the torrential rain that hit the area the previous night. The Society had reserved the largest space in the park (also the only pavilion spot), which afforded us 15 picnic tables and one substantial grill. This was an absolute perfect space due to the number of attendees – 60! The picnic was enjoyed not only by members of the Society but also friends from the Lucchesi nel Mondo-Tuscany Club, the Passatempo Meetup group, and members of the Holy Rosary Parish who learned about the picnic from Voce Italiana. There was an abundance of delectable dishes that were shared by all. Folks enjoyed the afternoon in friendship, playing Italian cards, tombola, and bocce (in spite of there not being a bocce court). We thank those of you who were able to come out and support our picnic this year. It’s always wonderful to spend time with our AMHS family, especially at happy and festive occasions such as Ferragosto. Several familiar faces and “regulars” - folks who support us throughout the year – could not make it this time due to travel or other commitments. You were greatly missed. Due to the resounding success of this year’s picnic, we expect that we may have found a permanent home for future Ferragosto picnics, at Fort Ward Park. Photos of the 2017 Ferragosto picnic can be viewed at https://goo.gl/photos/GDnVn2vhFUo5wDvz5