Just about every month on the calendar emphasizes some special event and some months celebrate more than one.  October has been proclaimed as Italian American Heritage and Culture Month. On October 12, 1989, President George H. W. Bush proclaimed the first Italian American Heritage and Culture Month in the United States.

 

As we prepare to celebrate the 34th anniversary of this proclamation we remember what we have overcome to create a better life for Italian Americans.  Even here in West Virginia Italian Americans were discriminated against and our ancestors could share stories with us about such action.

 

The National Italian American Foundation is devoted to the promotion and preservation of Italian American Heritage.  It promotes publicly honoring the achievements of Italian Americans.

 

Every October the Progressive Women's Association sponsors a luncheon honoring 10 women of Italian descent from Harrison County.  The women are honored by a keynote speaker and presented with a plaque signifying them a Woman of Distinction.  Although the women have achieved much through their professional career, emphasis is made on the volunteer status they have acquired in our community.

 

In the turn of the 20th century, most women remained home to care for their children.  But as time progressed women found themselves going to college and becoming an integral part of the community. The contributions these women made were unbelievable.

 

It is with this in mind that the PWA honors these individuals.

 

This year the luncheon will be held on Friday, Oct. 28 at noon at the Uptown Event Center.  It is open to the public and tickets can be purchased by calling 304-624-6881.  Due to limited seating, it is suggested that reservations be made early.

 

Officers of the PWA are Betty Waddy, president; Laura Davis, Vice President; Sharon Twentier, Secretary; and Rosalyn Queen, Treasurer.  One of the main projects of the PWA is a Food Pantry and a Pet Pantry.  Organizations wishing to donate to either of these projects should contact the Center at 304-624-6881.

 

It looks like we are going to have a beautiful fall with the leaves turning beautiful colors.  Take care, stay healthy and until next week “Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine.”