More than 120 members and guests attended the Dante Alighieri Society's celebration of the "100th Anniversary of Giro d’Italia (Tour of Italy)" professional cycling race, at the Italian American Banquet Center in Livonia. Along with the Tour de France, "the Giro" is the world's second most important stage race, and with the "Vuelta a Espana", it makes up the "Triple Crown of Cycling'.
Mitch Henderson opened the program by discussing the history of the "Giro", which was first held in Milan in 1909. Through still images and video clips, Mitch led the captive audience to a better understanding of the significance of particular events; the meaning and valor of specific jerseys, such as the "Maglia Rosa"; and the colorful individuals who dominated the competition throughout the "Giro's" history. The second half of the 100th Anniversary included special guest, Christian Vande Velde, who wore the "Maglia Rosa" (pink leader's jersey) in the 2008 Giro d'Italia, and had placed 4th overall in the 2008 Tour de France. Among his many accomplishments in cycling events, Vande Velde was a key contributor to the victories of Lance Armstrong in 1999 and 2001 as his teammate in the Tour de France competitions.

The audience was treated to many inside stories, personal feelings and opinions of the challenges that Christian has experienced and overcome throughout his years of cycling. Many of the most interesting questions came from members of local cycling clubs which turned out in large numbers for the event.
In a relaxed and comfortable manner, Christian imparted tales of the road that only an insider could know.
By the end of the presentation, the room was filled with admires; it would have been difficult not to be impressed after sharing an evening with a true champion.
By Richard Haskin

For the Award Presentation, D.A.S.  President Daniela Henderson presented D.A.S. member, Dr. Antonio Capone Jr., of Beaumont Hospital, to recognize his team's incredible efforts in helping Italian newborns to regain their sight. Dr. Capone is an ophthalmologist specialized in the surgical treatment of prematurely born babies affected by retinopathy. He and his colleague Dr. Michael Trese work in partnership with the ANFE Foundation to provide medical rescue to Italian families whose babies cannot be treated in Italy. 
After dinner members had the pleasure of listening and dancing to live music performed by Sarina. It was a wonderful evening, and many of our guests commented on how much they enjoyed themselves.

100 people attended the Festa Italiana organized by the Dante Alighieri in cooperation with the NOI Foundation.
It was a wonderfull fall day! Adults and children enjoyed playing games in this afternoon of Italian traditions. Many thanks to Prof. Mauro Perani and his wife, Prof.ssa Piera Bezzi, for organizing a musical show traveling to Italy through Italian authors, and to the Italian "piazze". Special thanks to Silvio's Organic Pizza for donating, as usual, pizza for everybody.
Don't miss next year event!!
By Silvia Giorgini

Photo Gallery

"IMAGES THAT SPEAK
STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART"
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Baldwin Public Library

Festa di Carnevale
Le Maschere italiane

February 2, 2008

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