Yoopers of Italian ancestry celebrated their heritage July 29 at the 21st annual Italian Fest at Al Quaal Recreation Area. The day-long picnic is put on by the Italian American Mutual Aid Society of St. Rocco and St. Anthony, which has been around since 1899.

Visitors could enjoy a greased pole contest and free pony rides, a bouncy slide, and kids' activities. "This picnic is one way that we show the community our Italian heritage.," said picnic organizer Anthony Bertucci. "We're proud to be Italian and it's one way we can also give back to the community."