A Century of Courage: Honoring Rhode Island’s WWII Veterans Still Making History
At VA Providence, we are honored to recognize three remarkable Rhode Island Veterans who exemplify the strength, sacrifice, and spirit of the Greatest Generation. Happy 110th Birthday to Henry Polichetti Born July 3, 1915, and now the oldest living man in the United States, Navy Veteran Henry Polichetti served as an instructor at several top-secret...
Former Rhode Island Gov. Edward DiPrete dies at 91
Former Rhode Island Gov. Edward DiPrete, who served as the state’s chief executive for six years and was later jailed for corruption, has died. He was 91. Robert Murray, DiPrete’s former chief of staff, co nfirmed that the Republican died Tuesday after celebrating his 91st birthday with family. DiPrete, a Republican, served as the state’s 70th gove...
A New Film Captures the Unconventional Ascent of Italian Artist Isabella Ducrot
Two upcoming screenings in the United States — July 10 at Manhattan’s Roxy Cinema and July 30 at the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center — will spotlight one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary Italian art. Hold Tight Missy! Isabella Ducrot Unlimited, the international title of Tenga duro signorina!, directed by Monica Stambrini, is not just...
Grease pole competition returns to Springfield (MA) after over two decades
The grease pole competition will return to the city of Springfield for the first time in more than 20 years. It used to be an Italian tradition in the south end of the city, and this event is one of a kind. In fact, Mayor Domenic Sarno has even taken part in the competition. If you’re looking for a good time, you’re encouraged to stop by. This grea...
Closing of St. Francis Church a bittersweet time
“I’ll be there to help you over,If you lose your way, if you lose your faithWhen your time is through my final wish for youIs to count your blessings not your regrets.” – “I Will Pray for You” When Music Director Kara McEachern finished a soaring solo of “I Will Pray for You” at the last Sunday Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Parish on June 22, the n...
126-year-old barrel piano returning to Boston after half-decade absence
It's not every day you encounter a piece of history that still sings. But for those fortunate enough to witness it, a remarkable 1899 barrel piano, once a familiar fixture of Boston's bustling streets, is making a grand return. This past Saturday, the instrument made its first appearance on the streets of Boston in 51 years at the Friends of Christ...
Your Best Summer Experience Isn’t By Car, It’s on a Gondola in Rhode Island
Summer in the Ocean State is the best time of the year. While we can certainly take a road trip to one of our incredible beaches, that's not the only summer experience we can have. Growing up in Rhode Island, I often loved spending time at Waterplace Park, where I could take a walk along the Woonasquatucket River while taking in the water and city...
Here’s how students earned IACO scholarships for cultural spirit
The Italian American Cultural Organization of the South Shore has announced the winners of the 2025 IACO “Spirit of Italian Culture” Scholarship. According to a community announcement, six students have each received a $3,000 scholarship after a competitive selection process. The recipients are: - Natalie J. Pechilis from Whitman-Hanson Regional Hi...
Springfield’s Mount Carmel Society to reopen with new leadership, new name
After a yearslong battle over control of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society Club, a long-standing social group has purchased the building and is hoping to give the 128-year-old organization a new life. “We want to take this into the direction as more of a cultural center,” said Salvatore S. Circosta, who is listed as president of the club.
'Like hitting the lottery': Sopranos star shares stories with fans at Brockton Rox game
Actor Steve Schirripa was living in Las Vegas and had a full-time job at a hotel when he auditioned for “The Sopranos,” he said. Schirripa said he first auditioned for a role as the FBI agent on "The Sopranos," but was told, "No, we don’t see you as that guy, we see you as 'Bacala,'" he said. A week later, he auditioned again for creator David Chas...
Italian community reacts after crews removed green, white, and red center lines in Newton, MA
For a community whose identity is tied to its Italian roots, many Newton residents are unhappy with a change they say wasn’t needed — city crews worked overnight to remove the green, white, and red center lines along Adams Street. The colors were meant to recognize the deep Italian roots in Nonatum, one of Newton’s 13 villages. “That’s no good what...
UNICO Waterbury Pledges $500 to Rochambeau Memorial Project
Dr. Joanne D’Angelo and Marie A. Vitarelli of UNICO Waterbury presented a $500 check to the Middlebury Historical Society in support of the Rochambeau Monument Project last week. Dr. D’Angelo serves as Local Charity Chair, and Ms. Vitarelli is a member of UNICO’s Board of Directors. Dr. Robert L. Rafford, president of the Middlebury Historical Soci...