By Ron Grossman

As the nation celebrates Columbus Day and the contributions of Italian-Americans on Monday, many may be surprised to learn how Highwood, a suburb about 20 miles north of Chicago, fits into that story.

Little Italy is an urban phenomenon, popping up in cities throughout the United States. It conjures images of three-story walk-ups sitting cheek by jowl on streets where nary a blade of grass is seen. Families sit on front stoops. Pushcart vendors pour fruit syrups over shaved-ice confections.

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Source: http://www.chicagotribune.com/