The Town of Fountain Hills’ iconic Fountain was transformed into a tribute to Italian heritage Thursday, Oct. 24, when it was illuminated in the green, white and red of the Italian flag.

The display was in honor of a significant proclamation made by the Fountain Hills Town Council, declaring October as Italian American Heritage Month.

This recognition serves as a testament to the rich cultural contributions and enduring presence of Italian Americans in Fountain Hills, according to vice president of the Fountain Hills Italian Interest Group Billy Ristuccia.

To commemorate this occasion, over 40 members of the Italian Interest Group gathered at Euro Pizza Café where they shared in excitement and camaraderie of the event.

Ristuccia says a tremendous debt of gratitude goes to Steve Baggio, president of the Fountain Hills Italian Interest Group.

“His leadership and passion for preserving and celebrating Italian culture have been instrumental in bringing this recognition to fruition,” Ristuccia said.

Ristuccia also thanks Mayor Ginny Russo Dickey and the entire town council for their support and for issuing the proclamation.

“Their recognition of the significant role played by the Italian American community in shaping the cultural fabric of Fountain Hills is deeply appreciated,” Ristuccia said. “This proclamation not only honors those of Italian descent who have made Fountain Hills their home but also celebrates the diversity and inclusivity that makes our town such a special place to live.”

Ristuccia also thanks Merita Kraya Idrizaj and her staff at Euro Pizza Cafe for their hospitality, cuisine, attentive service and lively music.

For more information about the club, request to join the group online at Facebook.com/groups/fhitalians or send an email to SFBaggio@yahoo.com.