From spaghetti-eating contests to a world-class bocce tournament, this Amador County Gold Rush town showcased its rich Italian heritage for the 136th year in a row over the weekend.

Founded in 1881 by hotelier Bartolomeo Bianchetti, the 125-member Italian Benevolent Society of Amador County has celebrated Italian independence day ever since with the Italian Picnic and parade on the first weekend in June. Bianchetti's contemporary, Italian immigrant Angelo Noce, attended school nearby and campaigned successfully to have Columbus Day declared a national holiday.

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Source: http://www.sacbee.com/