Book cover of "Papa and the Leprechaun King" by Arthur Cola

This is a tale of a grandfather who retells an enchanted adventure story to his grandchildren years later. It begins with Arthur Colonna being drafted by his wife and their friends to act as a guide on their self guided tour of Ireland. No sooner than they arrive in Ireland, Arthur meets a shepherd alongside a pasture near the Cranberry Cottage which they have rented.
A bond of trust is formed between them despite Arthur having no Irish blood. The shepherd shares with the teacher from Wisconsin a secret known to but a few over the centuries. And so the adventure begins as Arthur is sent to meet a mystic in the ruins of Clonmacnoise where St. Patrick himself taught with Shamrock in hand. There the Drapery Lady of Shannonbridge reveals to him the actual existence of the legendary people called the Wee Folk. From a trip back in time to witness how St. Patrick first came to Ireland and then used the Shamrock to teach the Message of faith, hope and love to the revelation that the Wee Folk still exist, the Yankee from America overcomes his sketicism. He accepts her invitation to seek out the Leprechaun King at Blarney Castle and join forces with im to solve a 1500 year old mystery. That is, who stole a gold coin from the ancient King’s legendary Pot of Gold? And if it still exists where might it be hidden?

Thus does the adventure begin as Arthur and Finbar X, King of the Wee Folk, seek out that coin. From the Gap of Dunloe in County Kerry to the pre-historic fortress of Dun Aengus on the Aran Islands to an ancient monastic city called Glendalough the teacher and the Wee Folk King seek that which was stolen and because of its absence has restricted the magic of the King and his people for centuries.

Combating an unlikely duo of jaunty cart drivers led by a beautiful young women posing as a bar maid, Arthur must now tell his wife and friends the truth. Dubbed the “Thorn and Roses” they continue the quest to the medival city of Kilkenny. In the ruins of Kells Priory the tourists turned slueths discover the Shamrock Crown within a tower of the walled city. This most prized possession of the Wee Folk King reveals a clue which leads them to Killarney where the climatic confrontation between Arthur and the kidnappers of the King takes place.

You’ll become a believer as you travel throughout present day Ireland and the enchanted realm seeking the legendary Pot fo Gold of the Wee Folk King.

The legendary tale awaits you on Kindle. Share the news with your friends that you may also check out the tale on Kindle Select for free for a limited time.

(Arthur Cola is a veteran educator and author of three novels: The Stone Cutter Genius, The Shamrock Crown (Legend of Excalibur) and Papa and the Leprechaun King as well as three screenplays based on his books. His Christmas themed book for children is titled: Papa and the Gingerbread Man. Make him your friend on Facebook. Contact him at arthurcola@yahoo.com.
His web site: www.arthurcolalegendarytales.com.
Blog site:www.arthurcolalegendarytales.wordpress.com Order his books at: www.amazon.com/arthurocla). Become part of a Tour of Ireland, Britain or Italy which are based on his books. Contact: kari@bonvoyagecruisevacations.com . Watch his CAN-TV Chicago interview by going to: http://blip.tv/avila-media-nfp/avila-irish-craic-authors-sandra-mccone-and-arthur-cola-5738822. To view the Book Trailer for his novel: The Stone Cutter Genius, go to the following link online:http://www.americanbookpublishingblog.com/promote-your-book-at-ethnic-festivals)

View of Finbar's Tower from Blarney Castle

Author Arthur Cola and his wife, Donna at Kate Kearney's Cottage, Killarney

His Majesty, Finbar X, King of the Leprechauns will soon enter the life of Arthur and Donna Colonna once again. Only this time it won’t be on the pages of my novel, “Papa and the Leprechaun King.” The adventure of tourists in Ireland who get caught up in a 1500 year old mystery is coming to Kindle.

If you’re looking for a light read but with a message suitable for the whole family then this tale will entertain you.

If you’ve read my other novels; “The Shamrock Crown” and “The Stone Cutter Genius” you may want to find out how the Colonna family first came into contact with the Enchanted Realm. If so, this 2nd Edition of the tale will delight you.

If you’re into Irish folklore and culture then the antics of the Wee Folk and humans from Wisconsin and Chicago will charm you.

If you’ve ever wanted to visit Ireland, have been to the Emerald Isle or are planning a trip there then this story will give you a sense of being there and experiencing its people, historical sites, faith traditions and folklore.

Let yourself be absorbed into a world of fantasy, adventure and magic. Use your Kindle to exclusively order your copy. We’ll let you know when it is published on Amazon’s Kindle. And it should be ready just in time to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with this Celtic tale taking American tourists on a quest to find the stolen Gold Coin from the Leprechaun King’s Pot of Gold. Until that miraculous coin is returned to the kettle, the magic of the Wee Folk is in danger. There’s just one twist, the King doesn’t know where the Pot of Gold is hidden.

Come on, we all love the Wee Folk. Meet a few of them on Kindle and join in the adventure. Kiss that Blarney Stone. Climb the Cliff of Dun Aengus. Ride the Jaunty Cart into the Gap of Dunloe. Fight off would be thieves of the King’s Pot of Gold at Torc Falls. Walk in the footsteps of St. Patrick back in the 5th Century. Uncover ancient clues from a rock in Glendalough and a crumbling wall at Clonmacnoise. Then after walking into a mystical fog, saving the King’s Crown, entering a Sorceress’s Cottage, you too may enter the Realm of the Wee Folk and discover the most precious treasure of them all.

It’s all waiting for you on the magical screen of Kindle. You may order your Kindle version of “Papa and the Leprechaun King (The Secret Legend of the Shamrock)” for only $4.99.

Free scrapbooking design customized with Smilebox

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Arthur Cola and Frank Avila at CAN-TV Chicago

iBAM-Chicago 2011
by
Arthur Cola

The lilt of Irish laughter has faded and yet the melodious sounds of harps and flutes seem to linger in the halls of the Irish Heritage Center of Chicago. This even though the artists and authors representing a wide range of literary works and creative and culinary delights have made their way back to Wisconsin and California, Ireland and Boston, Ohio and even the environs around Chicago. iBAM 2011 is now a memory.

iBAM! What’s that, you may be asking yourself. Well let me present to you the toddler of ethnic festivals. Irish Books, Art and Music or iBAM has just celebrated its third anniversary with the theme of “Handing Down the Tradition.” And what a celebration it was from its Black Tie formal dinner followed by two days of Literary exhibits, author presentations and book signings, Musical performances, pints of Guinness flowing and Irish treats and foods being enjoyed as one views artistic renderings such as Celtic Calendars by Dolores Whelan to Jamison Michael Flynn’s original pieces depicting one’s Coat of Arms. The best of Irish culture was indeed on display from Nov. 12-13, 2011.

And amidst all of this festive activity there was I, a Taylor St. guy from the west side of Chicago who now lives in Wisconsin. I was setting up my display of books which consisted of a children’s Christmas themed book to three novels for older folks and teens too. The magic of the rainbow sparkled over me as the sun’s vibrant rays filtered through the crystal chandeliers of the Erin Room where 33 authors were in the process of presenting their books covering such wide ranged topics as The Procrastinator’s Handbook, A Donkey’s View of Ireland, A Unified Ireland and For the Love of Ireland from A to Z, to mention but a few. Then of course there were my legendary tales. For me the tradition of Legend, Folklore and Faith being handed down in stories of days gone by and bringing the tales into the 21st Century became the core of my books “Papa and the Leprechaun King” and “The Shamrock Crown (Legend of Excalibur)” both focusing on Celtic legends. Then there is my historical fiction novel, The Stone Cutter Genius which has at its heart the Italian legend of the Magi Ring. Still there is a wee bit of Ireland in that tale as well so I felt okay with having it displayed at iBAM.

I was early, as is my practice not having learned being fashionably late as is typical in Europe. So there I was setting up my books, the leaflets of the Tours of Ireland, Britain and Italy based on my books and of course placing Finbar, King of the Leprechauns, and  an important character in my tales, on his seat of honor ( a stack of cd’s covered with Irish linen and lace embroidered with Shamrocks). And who should be setting up across from me but Frank Delaney author of the New York Times Best Seller, “Ireland, Simple Courage,” as well as a series of books each covering an important decade of 20th Century Ireland. His wit and charm would soon have his many fans enthralled, thus living up to NPR’s description of him as the world’s most eloquent man. Truly he is blessed by the charm of the Blarney Stone. I became a bit self conscious being in the shadow of such a prolific writer and speaker. But Conor Cunneen soon had me smiling as he introduced himself and his beautifully illustrated and very funny book on Ireland from A to Z.
As we chatted a young man came to the empty table to my left. He diligently began setting up and I noticed that the banner he took out read, Cork Literary Review. I pointed out to him that his place was to my right for that’s where the event coordinators had hung a balloon with the name of his group on it, just as had been done for each of the authors. We welcomed him as it was evident that he was not from the United States and soon learned that he was from County Cork where that Blarney Stone is nestled in the castle of the same name. I joked that he might not like how I twisted the legend of Blarney castle and its charmed stone in my tale. He thought it was “brilliant” that I would use such a revered legend and give it another life as it were. I began to regain my confidence having a real Irishman offering such support and none too soon because I was second up on the agenda in the Literary Salon to conduct a presentation on the Blending of History, Folklore and Faith Tradition into an adventure fiction tale.

Maureen Smith of my Alma Mater, Loyola University/Chicago, had invited me to be a presenter. She heads up the Chicago chapter of Celtic Women International which sponsored the author presentations in the Literary Salon. Upon arriving almost every seat was filled and by the time Maureen introduced me there was standing room only. She graciously operated the power point projector thus allowing me to concentrate on my presentation and not the technological aspect of it, much to my delight. Thus as images of the thousand year old Trinity Church in Dublin, the Book of Kells in Trinity College, the ancient monastic ruins of Clonmacnoise and Glendalough and the bed of Shamrocks serving as the background to the book’s cover appeared I spoke of St. Patrick and his use of the Shamrock, creating a connection between the Apostle of Ireland with Wales and its King Arthur. Then taking the audience into the enchanted realm of the Wee Folk I explained how the connecting piece between Britain and Ireland would be the armband of King Arthur being secreted to the Rock of Cashel to hide it from the evil son of Arthur, Mordred. By the looks on the faces of those in attendance I was bolstered and when I concluded to their applause I felt affirmed in my work. During the question/answer period which followed I soon realized that the audience really listened as one questioned me about my use or lack thereof of The Lady in the Lake who in legend was to receive the Sword Excalibur after Arthur’s death by the hand of his son, Mordred. I, the former history teacher, had to present how I gave history a tweak to make my story work. But I’ll let you read about that twist for yourself should you pick up a copy of The Shamrock Crown.

As I prepared to leave, several women came with me to my booth area and I learned that there was a contingency of Celtic Women International, Milwaukee Chapter in attendance. We chatted about my now being a Wisconsinite and my years in education there. As they departed I noticed that Sandra McCone the writer of stories with Celtic fairies in them had arrived. We were to serve on a panel later focused on children’s stories. For me that would be my non-Irish Christmas fantasy of Papa and the Gingerbread Man. We had also been interviewed by Avila Producers on CAN-TV, the Chicago Access Network the previous afternoon, so we wanted to share our thoughts on that experience since neither of us had ever been on a talk show previously.

Sherry and Frank Avila are Chicago based producers whose experience in interviewing writers, artists, politicians and Chicago celebrities is vast. Once again on that Friday afternoon before iBAM opened I arrived at the studio early. For me it was like old home week as the CAN-TV studio is located in the area near the U of I, Chicago and therefore Greek town and the old Italian neighborhood around Taylor St. where my family once lived. Across Green St. off Van Buren was Primo’s Pizza where I enjoyed a wonderful slice of Tomato-Basil pizza and a cup of homemade Rosamarina soup with my usual Diet-Coke. Should you ever be in the area and want to experience a real Mom and Pop operated Pizza Parlor, do drop in Primo’s. Having just driven down from Burlington, WI the respite provided some energy for what was to follow.

The interview segment was to be a half hour in length Frank told me as I entered the heart of the studio with its monitors showing several views of the studio which was being prepared for the show. Sherry was busily working on another screen arranging the images which were covers of my books and Sandra’s Fairy Tea Party events. Frank had me sit in the chair on the stage which would be mine and walked to one of the four TV Cameras encircling the stage area. He stood next to one of them, the one opposite me and pointed to a red light on top of it. “When this is lighted,” he began. “That means the camera is on you. Remember, you should talk into the camera not to Sherry.” Right I said but didn’t quite sound convincing. I placed my books on the little coffee table around which the chairs were arranged and waited. The bright lights made one feel as if they were in Florida on a sunny day. That is hot and brilliant. I couldn’t imagine how people actually made their living doing this type of thing every day. Now I’m a city guy now living in small town America but man did I feel that small town stereotypical image growing in me on that stage as the crew made all ready for the taping of the show. Sandra’s arrival made all of those twinges of nervousness settle as we chatted about our travels and events since last year. I shared my experiences at the American Italian Historical Association Conference in Tampa, Festa Italiana in Milwaukee and Washington, D.C. and so forth as she excitedly told me about her upcoming Tea Party in Utica, IL and the fourth book of her Fairy Series. Just as we got the five minute warning, it was decided that Sandra should wear the Celtic Fairy Costume as she does when hosting her Fairy Tea parties. Off she went to quickly change, wings and all had to be made ready for the camera.

In the nick, she returned as we were escorted to the stage area. Sherry began her introductions of us and I watched for that red light to shine on the camera facing me. Will I be able to focus and talk to the people out there in TV land all two million who watch their show. Sherry asked her first question of me. I was to present the first book I wrote, Papa and the Gingerbread Man. The Red light flashed on, I looked into Sherry’s eyes and quickly turned my head toward the red light. I explained how two of my grandsons, Arthur V and Connor called me while I was visiting friends in St. Augustine, Florida. Their teacher wanted them to find the famous cookie man who was on the run once again. I was familiar with the Kindergarten Christmas unit, which taught geography, as I was the principal of a K-8 school. I sent the postcard sharing my seeing him running down Historic St. George St. in the oldest city on the mainland of the United States. By the time I came home, I also had written a story and then my second youngest son, John, illustrated the pages and created the Gingerbread Man character to be placed in the setting of the most famous sites in the historic city founded in 1565.

I had survived the first question and Sandra was up next. I could breathe once again. Soon I was asked about the novels and the message within the plots. Sherry smiled and seemed so at ease guiding us through each succeeding question. The half hour interview seemed to take longer than I had anticipated as Sherry continued with questioning my character development of Michelangelo and the demons with which he struggled and how he was treated in his own time as one who liked “il ignudo bella” (the beautiful nude) of the male. This created the Fig Leaf campaign which became a central conflict within my novel. “Whoa, that was tough.” Just addressing such a topic seemed a bit over the top for TV to me. But I was on a roll. “Whether Michelangelo was gay or not shouldn’t be the question. For however it is answered, it doesn’t affect the level of his genius nor the greatness of his masterpieces such as the David, Pieta and ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.” The red light went out.

“It’s a wrap.” Sandra and I turned to Sherry as Frank walked up onto the stage. “I never thought a half hour could seem so long,” I was saying as Frank chimed in with “The interview was going so well that we decided to make it an hour long.” We were elated as the photo shoot began. As they left for the iBAM Gala Dinner, Frank turned to me. “You should have been a politician.” I laughed and walked outside and made my way to Halsted St. I was quite pleased that such professionals thought Sandra and I had performed well. We would be given the CAN-TV schedule for the telecast in a week or so we had been told as we bade farewell to Sherry and Frank Avila.

This little reflection into that TV experience came to an end as John Barry, the Manager of Paddy’s on the Square in Long Grove, IL and several other shops came to me with a marketing suggestion. I love visiting his shop and signing books there. Paddy is a real person and is a delight to talk with as he shares his experiences of growing up in Ireland.
As we talked, more and more people began to fill the Erin Room. I had the opportunity to speak with a variety of people, many who had attended my presentation. It would be those conversations which shall stick with me as times of sharing one’s dream to bring important messages to historical fiction and fantasy adventures.

I thanked Cliff Carlson of the Irish American News and the co-creator of iBAM for his efforts to bring this cultural event to new heights. I hope to be a part of iBAM 2012.

(Arthur Cola is the author of the Historical Fiction novel of The Stone Cutter Genius, the magical adventures of The Shamrock Crown and Papa and the Leprechaun King as well as screenplay adaptations of the books. His newest screenplay adaptation based on The Stone Cutter Genius is under development. Visit his web site: www.arthurcolalegendarytales.com, e-mail: arthurcola@yahoo.com, Blog site: www.arthurcolalegendarytales.wordpress.com. The Stone Cutter Genius Book Trailer may be viewed at: www.americanbookpublishingblog.com/promote-your-book-at-ethnic-festivals. His books are available at www.amazon.com/Arthur-Cola, Travel with the author on a Tour of Ireland, Italy or Britain which are based on his books. Details: kari@bonvoyagecruisevacations.com ).

authors Sandra McCone and Arthur Cola with CAN-TV producers Frank and Sherry AvilaArthur Cola explains his screenplay version of his novel: The Stone Cutter GeniusAuthors Kevin O'Hara and Arthur Cola first met at Boston Irish FestiBAM-Chicago 2011 Program

Michelangelo's Head of David

The East Coast Book Tour: Part Three:

A stroll down Mulberry St.

By

Arthur Cola

It was a wonderful ride up through New Jersey to Penn Station in New York City. My sister and I embarked on the adventure like we were kids again in downtown Chicago riding the EL to visit Marshall Field’s. Of course Field’s is now a Macy’s but that’s okay. I’m not a purist. Anyway when we got off the train and what should be within our view but the MACY’S of all of them. We walked over to 34^th Street, yes the very one where the self proclaimed Largest Store of the World stands and was featured in the classic film: The Miracle on 34^th St.  After our nostalgic visit we were off down Broadway to EATALY, the fairly new Italian food wonderland of which I wrote in an earlier article. Then our sights were set on “Little Italy.” Of the many times I have visited New York, this would be only my second time in this historic district in which remnants of the Italian immigrants stand witness to the waves of immigrants which flooded America’s shores seeking a new life filled with hope. It was like being at “Festa Italiana” on Milwaukee’s lake shore in July but we were in New York and it was October.

We left Broadway and turned left onto Prince St. looking for Mulberry  St. which serves as the heart of “Little Italy.” Throngs of people followed us or perhaps the other way around as all headed for that beating heart reminiscent of a time long past. Mulberry St. is lined with Italian Restaurants one after the other, most with outdoor seating as well, right on the sidewalk. All had charming interiors reflecting a theme or region of Italy. We walked past “La Nonna” and Novella Restaurants where on our first visit we enjoyed wonderful meals. But we wanted to try something new. Across the way red banners with gold letters spelling out S.P.Q.R. (Latin for Senate and People of Rome) waved over the restaurant of that name. In their lobby was a huge stone head of Michelangelo’s David. “That’s the place,” I announced. After all, my book revolves around the life and times of Michelangelo who created the David. So we simply had to eat there. As with each of the food establishments a host stood out front encouraging you to view their menu specials and come in to feast on their delights. Some even invited you in Italian. It’s was fun just listening to these gentlemen excitedly announcing the menu of their particular restaurant. Trust me; you will be hard pressed to make a decision, for each of them wonderfully presents a delightful environment and tempting menu, with wine to boot, at a special price. We were not to be disappointed. My sister ordered clams with Linguini which she proclaimed superb, made as it should be and delicious. For me, it was the Gnoochi in tribute to my Mother who is the queen of gnocchi makers. These are Italian potato dumplings of sorts in a Pomodoro sauce in my case. And when they brought out the Olive Oil and Balsamic vinegar to mix with the freshly grated Romano cheese to dip our bread into, I thought I was back in Rome itself.

 I struck up a conversation with our waiter and his assistant who was being trained as a wait staff person. I learned that each of the restaurants on Mulberry St. is still owned by an Italian family and that their Chef in each was also Italian. However, 90% of the wait staff was from Albania, as was he and his assistant. He pointed out quickly  that Albania and Italy were neighbors and shared similar characteristics as well. His tall lean frame, thick black hair, gracious manners and what my sister called a face for Michelangelo to paint bore witness to that observation. To me, this change served as a reminder of how as each wave of immigrants became assimilated into the culture of theUnited States, they left the neighborhoods to enter the mainstream of American life. Now these Albanian immigrants serve where the Italians once served. Later in our walk to the Financial District, another example of my view could be seen in Columbus Park south of where we had eaten. It was filled not with children of Italians but of the new Americans, Asian Americans, whose children play in the park and whose elderly citizens play chess on the stone tables.

 Before we headed for the southern part of Manhattan however, I had to get a little shopping done. There were Christmas stockings which would need filling and I as we walked past numerous little shops which also line Mulberry St. spilling onto Canal St., where throngs of people gravitated to purchase leather purses, sun glasses, watches and jewelry, hats and scarves, fun wear and leisure wear, those special New York tee shirts made their way into my hands. The pulsating diversity of the Big Apple is no where more evident than in this Historic District and for me it was a delightful experience just to walk up and down Mulberry peering into the restaurants and visiting the shops.

At the intersection of Grand St. and Mulberry St., I noticed a Marquee of sorts extending out over the sidewalk. Above it a movie cinema type lighted sign announced the name of “Ferrara.” My sister and I reeled back for a moment and were taken back to each of our wedding days, which happened to be only six weeks apart back in Chicago. We looked at each other in wonder. “Could they be related to the family who operated The Ferrara Manor?” Our wedding receptions were held in what was once a grand old movie house typical of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Huge marble staircases, ornate trim with classical statues adorning the alcoves took one’s breath away. It had been restored during the 60’s into a Banquet facility and thus it’s grand Ballroom with the gilded Dome and box seats used by the bands which played at weddings and civic parties were preserved. Of course time has a way of changing things and the Ferrara Manor is no more but right in front of us was this Marquee with two giant Ice Cream Cones accenting its corners. Of course it was Gelato (Italian Ice Cream) and this was no old movie theater but the Ferrara Bakery and Café in “Little Italy” of New York City.

 We had to have our dessert there, no question about it. We entered with a sense of wonder and awe as to our left where cases containing luscious looking pastries which extended down the length of the Café. On the right and in the rear were seating areas as typically rendered in a classic film, not stark as in “West Side Story” more like those seen in a Hollywood musical. In fact, I half expected to hear Frank Sinatra and Gene Kelly singing “New York,New York, what a wonderful town” as we entered.

 A blond woman dressed entirely in black greeted us with a friendly smile and escorted us to a table in the back facing out so that we could see the entire Café’ and out onto Grand St. She in turn took a seat across from us in a booth where a young man, an older woman and later a middle aged man joined her. My sister and I busily perused the menu with all its scrumptious delights and decided to try the trio of mini pastries (We selected the Éclair, Cream Puff and raspberry tart). Janice ordered a Cappuccino, which she proclaimed to be the greatest. Its huge frothy top was heavenly. I of course stuck to my Diet-Coke with a slice of lemon. Needless to say, the pastries melted in your mouth.

While enjoying our dessert the blond woman was kissing the older lady as she left for the preparation area of the Café. Here was my chance to ask the burning question. Was the Ferrara family related to the family of the same name in Chicago? And so I did present the inquiry. What resulted was a sharing of family roots, our kid’s colleges and the cost of education today, and the history of the Ferrara Café’. First, their son who sat with them represented the fifth generation of the family run business, which as it turns out also ships their delicious treats (www.ferraracafe.com). Secondly, they knew of the Chicago Ferrara family who still runs the Ferrara Pan Candy Co. but they were not related. Then when we mentioned that I was from Wisconsin and my sister from Philadelphia the conversation switched to Anthony, their son. He was a graduate of St.  Joseph College in Philadelphia with a major in Marketing, which as it turned out was also my youngest son’s major.

Our focus changed when they asked what brought us toNew York. I told them about my Book Tour from Washington, D.C. to Florida, to Philadelphia. They immediately suggested that with a book like “The Stone Cutter Genius” which takes its characters from the United States to Italy, what better place is there than to have a book signing in “Little Italy.” So they offered to host such an event the next time I came to New York. We exchanged cards and off we went toward the World Trade Center Ground Zero site and the 9/11 Memorial for which I had gotten tickets for a 5:15 p.m. visitation.

S.P.Q.R. Restaurant on Mulberry St. in New York's "Little Italy"

Ferrara Bakery and Cafe, New York City

Author Arthur Cola and his mother in PA

The East Coast Book tour, Part Two:

Quaint villages for your Holiday Shopping  in Pennsylvania

By

Arthur Cola

Now let’s get back to my reflection on that final week of my tour when I drove up to Philadelphia and New York City. The ride up was breathtakingly wonderful as the fall colors were at their peak yet the temperatures still allowed one to keep the window rolled down a bit so that the smells of the season, fresh and cool, could be enjoyed.

I picked up my mother in a little town north of  off we went to my sister’s home near the town of Ambler. Halloween was a week away and the little Colonial like towns surrounding this historic area of our nation were decked out in fall finery. The trees were aglow from brilliant sunlight which radiated off the reds, yellows, gold, and greens of their leaves. In the short distance between North  Wales and Ambler I must have passed at least four Nurseries with tons of pumpkins, colorful robust outdoor Mum plants (4 for $10.00, quite a deal I thought), corn stalks, trees ready for planting and so forth. Ambler town itself has a revitalized downtown area with the restored 1928 Ambler Theater, two Irish pubs and a variety of other restaurants and boutiques all withinAmericanalike buildings going back a century or more. We decided to have lunch at Finn McCool’s. My mother loved their Fish and Chips. Later we went to see George Clooney’s new movie: “The Ides of March.” He is a favorite of my mother. After being disappointed in his last several films, I was delighted with this portrayal of a politician and his campaign staffers maneuvering their way to getting their man into the White House. It was intense, suspenseful, merciless, and riveting in its rendition of a political campaign right off the front pages of recent and current history. His casting of Ryan Gosling, Paul Giamatti, Marisa Tomei, and Philip Seymour Hoffman was a stroke of luck and genius as well.

In the evening we drove out to another quaint town named Skippack. We were to have a dinner meeting at the home my niece and her husband. There is a trip to Italy in 2012 to be discussed. The tour in October of 2012 will take participants to many of the sites which are used in my novel: The Stone Cutter Genius. (Contact: kari@bonvoyagecruisevacations.com)

 Now Skippack is not your typical Colonial Village scene like the neighborhoods off 2^nd St. in Center City Philadelphia near Penn’s landing. It’s more of a rustic village setting with 19^th century buildings and a vintage hotel. It is also worth a visit to delight in everything from the Basta Pasta Restaurant to Bella Rosa at the Hotel Fiesole, or Olce’ Pizza Grille to Parc Bistro. Its buildings are outlined in white lights adding a festive holiday flavor all year round. Thus, The Irish Shop, Bella’s Boutique, Grand Fromage, Italian Market, Countess of Creativity and so many more appear as mystical places for one’s shopping pleasure. I can only advise you to visit the Skippack, PA website to learn more about this treasure of a village.

As we wind through the country roads, the news is being announced. The weather forecast is calling for rain the next day. I became agitated because that’s when we were to go up to New York City. I had gotten tickets to visit the new 9/11 Memorial at the World trade Center site at ground zero. Well rain or no rain, we would be on a mission to the Big Apple and part of that adventure was to take the train there. Ah, you’re getting the point. The train would be the first spark to ignite that Christmas memory of my youth.

 I invite you to check out part three of my East Coast Book Tour articles for a Stroll Down Mulberry St.

The 2011 East Coast Book Tour Part One:
Christmas past, a Disney Adventure and The Columbia of St. Augustine
By Arthur Cola

I’m remembering my youth these days particularly that of Christmas morning when my Lionel train chugged round and round the tree, and the village built of those little cardboard houses shimmering with glitter snow. Today, larger versions of them are becoming popular again. Mine were bought on State Street at Woolworth’s in Chicago. They had a hole in the back in which you placed one of those chubby 120 volt bulbs from the string of lights giving off their green, red, blue, gold and white hues to the village and Nativity scene which was nestled within the circle of train track. Then those plastic like windows let through the light. Above all of this was a real fir tree, for our family it was of the short needle variety like a spruce or Douglas Fir. Its branches spread out to create a triangle like shape, which was perfectly reviewed before my father, sister and I purchased it. I, of course, was the expert on Christmas tree shapes. Near the tip of those branches, until those little Italian lights were invented, glowed those plump bulbs mentioned earlier and among those were those glass tube bulbs which bubbled up liquid in a rainbow of colors. Dangling from those branches were all kinds of glass ornaments not the kind which depicts a character as commonly seen today. Rather they were of a solid color like gold, silver, red, blue, green and so forth. Some were round and others elongated like an icicle, and of course tons of tinsel cascading down. On top was our Angel, still used to this day in my home.

“Good grief Charlie Brown, we just got into November,” you might be thinking. But I have good cause to be thinking of these holiday images so dear to me. You see I just returned to my home in Wisconsin after an extended promotion tour for my book: “The Stone Cutter Genius” in the east. From our nation’s Capital to Monticello in Virginia where the vibrant fall colors were at their peak to the still summery like feel of St. Augustine, Tampa, and Orlando Florida I traveled. Naturally I had to visit that famous Mouse. Thus my two youngest sons who live near Disney World took me there.

I must digress from my point here to tell you about the great plans for an addition to Fantasyland in the Magic Kingdom area of Disney World. One can see the construction going on behind those walls on which the entire plan and story of what is being created is pictured. There’s going to be a Seven Dwarf ride which will take you through their diamond mine and Snow White’s cottage. You will be able to ride under the sea and view the treasures of the Little Mermaid. Above ground will be the castle of the Beast and Belle’s village with a variety of shops. All of this and more (i.e. Goofy’s Roller Coaster) is spread across a mountain range which forms a scenic backdrop for the Magic Kingdom. Another event taking place in fall was the EPCOT Food and Wine tasting event. I had never experienced it before. It’s quite fun for the older folks in particular as they give you a passport which you have stamped at each Food/Wine Station of the nations of the world scattered throughout the theme park. I loved the Brown Bread and cheese sample at Ireland and of course the Ravioli in Italy. Just as much fun and tasty were the Belgian Waffle, beef of Argentina, Burrito of Mexico, pastries of France, and of course their wines to compliment that particular country’s food sample. I have only highlighted a few of the nations represented. All of them offered great treats to our little group. So plan your fall Disney World trip and join in the fun next year.

With hugs to my sons John, Rich and Elena (John’s girlfriend) I was on my way up I-4 towards Daytona Beach. But my destination was north of their in our nation’s oldest city founded in 1565. St. Augustine is unlike any town in the east. Its historic district is like walking in the villages of Spain while on pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago (The Way of St. James). I suppose that it was natural to think of Spanish towns especially since I had recently seen the new movie called “The Way.” The film starring Martin Sheen and directed by his son, Emilio Estevez takes you along the famous route from France to the shrine of St. James in Spain with Martin Sheen’s character, which is that of a father trying to fulfill his son’s dream. The transition of a grief stricken lone man on a mission to one of compassion and faith as he meets other pilgrims is remarkably rendered. If it doesn’t get a nod from Oscar, I would be greatly disappointed.

I felt that I was on a pilgrimage of sorts as well in that I was once again returning to the City which served as the setting for my very first book, Papa and the Gingerbread Man. I had written the story while visiting the ancient city several years ago. My grandsons had called me for help with a school project which just happened to be that of finding the elusive Gingerbread cookie man and then sending a post card telling their teacher where the famous cookie man was seen. It was a way to teach young children their geography and as a teacher myself, I couldn’t be more excited about the project. I sent the card but I also wrote a story about a Papa’s adventure through the streets of St. Augustine as he tries to invite the Gingerbread Man to his grandchildren’s school for a visit. Since I was in town at the beginning of the Nights of Lights Holiday Festival the story is Christmas themed. Thus as I drove past the beautiful Cathedral of St. Augustine I began to envision those scenes illustrated by my son John of the cookie man swinging out of the Bell Tower, running down St. George St. past Café Hildalgo, through the gates into the Castillo San Marcos and hiding in my favorite restaurant, The Columbia. In fact it was to this Spanish influenced restaurant that I headed as it was there where the book signing event was to take place. As usual the staff was most welcoming and gracious and the lunch scrumptious. The event was successful. Patrons dining at the Columbia picked up copies for their children’s Christmas stockings. You can too by going to Amazon.

“See you next year,” I said while presenting a copy of the book to those who served my lunch as is my custom. And soon I was on I-95 heading through Georgia and the Carolinas toward Philadelphia. The route would take me right through Washington, D.C. You may read about my adventure there in my article, “Festa Italiana, Michelangelo and Washington, D.C.”

John and Rich, sons of Arthur Cola

By Arthur Cola

On a brilliantly sunny day about an hour away from a very famous Mouse, Writers and Professors representing such varied fields as history, sociology, political science, film, technology, and the arts converged on Tampa Bay in Florida. From Universities and colleges they came, from places like the University of Venice, University of Illinois/Chicago, Buffalo State College, University of Central Florida, University of Texas, New York City College, University of Padua and the University of Miami, to name a few of the institutions of higher learning, these accomplished educators and writers came to share their research and present their findings and theories with their colleagues in the beautifully appointed Marriott Waterside Hotel on the Ybor Channel near the Hillsborough River on the Gulf of Mexico side of Florida.

As the excited conversations flowed, many with a touch of Italian, this voice from the Midwest strolled along the Tampa Riverwalk admiring the docked ships and private boats and turned into the lobby entrance. The voice of Milwaukee was to be heard in this illustrious gathering and I was the lucky guy who would give it that Midwest twang flavor. I was to be a presenter in the category of Creative Writing. Roughly translated that means that my work was not that of academic research. Rather it was a literary piece in the form of a novel titled: The Stone Cutter Genius. It’s true that my book is based on authentic historical evidence based on the life of the Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo Buonarroti, whose great contributions to world culture includes The Giant David statue in Florence, Italy, the painted story of Genesis on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican and the Pieta sculpture of Mary holding the lifeless body of her son, Jesus, now in St. Peter’s in Rome. But it is a work of fiction and thus uses literary license to bring a legend widely believed by Michelangelo and the people of his day into the 21^st Century.

I pressed the number “3” on the elevator’s panel and ascended to the meeting room level where I was to conduct my presentation. I was introduced as the representative from the Italian Community Center of Milwaukee whose latest novel depicts the research and findings held in common, by all the presenters. That thread which united me to the others was that of “How Italian Culture contributed to World Civilization.” In particular, how the Italians who immigrated to America shared their history, faith and culture and eventually were affected by world wide events and of those taking place in the United States as they became involved in American politics, the arts, education, business and industry, ethnic identification or lack thereof, and of course literary works.

Soon laughter could be heard as George Guida of New York City College of Technology addressed a reading from author Louisa Calio’s book revolving around Humorous Happenings while Traveling in Italy. In another room,  music from the film “Saturday Night Fever” filtered through the walls as the topic of “Masculinity, Sexuality and Ethnicity” was addressed by Alan Gravano of Marshall University and Stelios Christodoulou of the University of Kent who used the elements from the Hollywood movie featuring John Travolta.

On a more serious note, presentations were conducted by Tommaso Caiazza of the University of Venice on the effects of World War II on Italian Americans in San Francisco who along with the Japanese Americans were sent to camps away from coastal areas until the conclusion of the war. Then there was the topic of Italians in Politics and the role of ethnicity in voting among Italian Americans presented by Judith Pistacchio Bessette of the Order of the Sons of Italy/Boston Chapter and Laurie Buonanno of Buffalo State College and Michael Buonanno of State College of Florida. And another voice from the Midwest, Dominic Candeloro of Chicago as he along with Fred Gardaphe’ of Queens College,  actor Chickie Farella, scholarly contributors Vincent Romano and Ernesto Milani and Gary Mormino of the University of South Florida Reconstructed Italians in Chicago.

In between these presentations many of us boarded the Trolley at the Greco Station across from the hotel and rolled along the channel area to YBOR City, a Historic Landmark District within Tampa which was once the heart of Immigrant populations and still houses The Italian Club of Tampa which we got to tour. As we made our way down its picturesque streets lined with clubs, restaurants, boutiques and shops reflecting the Spanish and Italian Latin Quarter of the city, I began to think of Milwaukee’s Italian Community Center nestled in the Historic Third Ward. Wouldn’t it be plausible to bring these fine minds and cordial professionals to the Midwest where the largest national celebration of Italian Culture in the United States is celebrated each July at Festa Italiana? Before I answered my own question, we had arrived at a brick building with the huge white columns. On the window was inscribed: L’UNIONE ITALIANA (Italian Club). I was amused to find it decked out with Halloween décor in the Sicilian Donkey Cart in the Lobby and spider webbing down the railing around the statue of the Holy Family leading into the banquet area. “Now that’s a true blend of American and Italian Culture,” I mused. After a tasty lunch at Carmine’s which bustled with locals and we Out of Towners, off to the Trolley stop next to a wonderfully updated area containing movie theaters, shops, and restaurants opening onto a piazza like area. Arrivederci YBOR until we meet again.

Teri Ann Bengiveno (Las Positas College) was soon introducing the topic of “Italians Across America.” JoAnne Ruvoi of the University of California/Los Angeles introduced a group of poets who read from their body of poems and Michael Eula of El Camino College was doing the same with his presenters on the topic of “Post-War Italian Americans.” They addressed issues ranging from parenting to “Becoming American” to the 1950’s Italians and the media. And there I was, a former History teacher and now a writer of Historical Fiction soaking in the research and findings of this stellar gathering and toying with the idea that once my screenplay adaptation of my book was concluded and the sequel to “The Stone Cutter Genius” finished that perhaps it’s time to get a little political, that is Italian style and research a topic which I lightly touched upon in my book. That is how the House of Savoy who provided Italy with its Kings after the Unification in 1861 was exiled after a 1946 election which resulted in the abolishing of the Monarchy after Italy, as an ally of Nazi Germany under the leadership of Mussolini, was defeated in World War II. Exactly how legal was that election and did the House of Savoy get a fair shake, to use an American political expression. But that is another topic for another day.

Now it’s time to say Molte Grazie to George Guida, President of the American Italian Historical Association, who invited me to participate in their conference. Ciao Tampa, you provided us with more than sunshine. You gave us living History, beautiful surroundings, placid waters on the Bay and memories to bring back to Milwaukee and the Midwest.

(Arthur Cola is a veteran educator of 35 years and the author of three novels:Papa and the Leprechaun King, The Shamrock Crown (Legend of Excalibur) and The Stone Cutter Genius as well as three screenplays based on his books. His Christmas themed book for children is titled: Papa and the Gingerbread Man.Make him your Friend on Facebook. Visit his Blog site: www.arthurcolalegendarytales.wordpress.com. Web site: www.arthurcolalegendarytales.com and email him at: arthurcola@yahoo.com. Order his books at www.amazon.com/arthurcola and get details on Tours of Ireland, Britain or Italy based on his books by contacting: kari@bonvoyagecruisevacations.com ).

The Italain Club in YBOR Historic District

Marriott Waterside Hotel, Tampa, Florida

Tampa Trolley to YBOR Latin QuarterPlaza in YBOR Historic District

By

Arthur Cola

It was a windy but otherwise beautiful fall day as we left Penn Station to enjoy a couple of days in New York City. The Empire State Building loomed over us as we walked past the largest store in the world. It was of course the Macy’s made famous by the Movie named Miracle on 34^th Street or was that the other way around. In any case, we were like two school boys on a field trip without chaperones and were hell bent on seeing as much as we could. By the time we reached Times Square to get in line for those discounted Broadway Show tickets behind the Father Duffy Statue and under the bleachers where tourists rest and stare out across Broadway with its flashing lights and huge ICON advertising displays (i.e. The Simpsons enjoying a bottle of Coke). The line moved rather quickly and excitement was building as we tourists got closer to those glass enclosures where ticket s sellers punched in availability searches for the myriad Plays and Musicals on and off Broadway. I had been waiting to see for myself if Harry Potter could actually sing and dance as well as perform magic in movies. Okay, I know, my youngest son once again had informed me before I left for the Big Apple that I wasn’t going to see Harry Potter but the actor named Daniel Radcliffe. Nevertheless, when one has used the book series and films to teach literature and film appreciation to his classes, it’s difficult to let go of the characters of J.K. Rowling’s masterpieces of imagination. It was my turn.

“Two tickets for How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying please,” I joyfully intoned shamelessly while smiling at my buddy, Curt, who patiently stood behind me.

Then the world collapsed around me. “Sorry all sold out,” the ticket seller said with professional aloofness. Well, I was not about to have that “sold out” comment spoil my New York City adventure, so I grabbed my wallet lying on the ledge of the ticket window, turned to Curt and announced. “We’re going to the Hirschfeld Theater.” At a pace which the much taller Curt could hardly keep pace with, I virtually ran down 45^th Street toward 8^th Ave. I could now see the Marquee with the grinning Daniel as the early 60’s character of J. Pierrepont Finch dominating the scene. A line spilled out onto 45^th Street from the Box Office. “Not a good sign,” Curt casually said. I shot him a glance of disbelief. In response he went to the street vendor and got himself a Hot Dog. By the time he returned I was at the Box Office window and asking about available seats. None were to be had. Curt munched on his hot dog, not daring to say another word. “Thank you,” I said with a tone of sorrow as if just leaving a funeral service. “But we do have two tickets in the side box,” the compassionate lady behind the window offered. With a neck jerk I turned and said, “Sold.” “That will be sixty dollars,” she said. I counted out my $60.00 and shoved the bills through the opening at the bottom of the grate. Curt was digging out his money as well. In a quick exchange she placed two tickets in an envelope and gave them to me. “Enjoy the show,” she smiled. Suddenly reality set in. “What’s wrong with these seats?” I asked. “Nothing just off to the side in the box.” My face illuminated like that of a child on Christmas morning. I accepted the envelope with the two tickets and opened it to make sure they were there.

We entered the prestigious and elegantly appointed theater going up the stairs which were bathed in golden light. Escorted to our seats Curt and I were more than pleased with the great seats. The skyline of New York City formed the panel covering the stage, the lights dimmed and the orchestra began the overture. I sat on my red velvet chair soaking in every detail. The voice of Anderson Cooper served as the Narrator and set the scene of the story. Then Daniel Radcliffe entered the scene and the audience went wild and he hadn’t even spoken a word as yet. Their enthusiasm was not to be diminished when he did speak and when the cast performed the spectacularly rendered dance routines which saw Daniel being lifted, turned upside down and twisted to and fro as that energy built to a crescendo of applause for he, John Larrouquette and the entire cast who had flawlessly brought this revival to life in a humorous, energetic and entertaining manner. Harry Potter proved that he could indeed sing and dance and also deliver witty lines and no magic was involved. By the end of the show the audience was wildly showing their appreciation once again.

As we rose to depart I pulled out an envelope from my briefcase. Curt eyed it curiously.

“It’s an invitation for Daniel Radcliffe to consider playing a role in my new movie,” I nonchalantly said. “What movie?” Curt asked. I pulled him toward the stage door and got buzzed in. In short order I explained that I was the author of a novel titled “The Stone Cutter Genius” and that I was working on a screenplay version of it. Though I couldn’t present the letter in person, I did receive a promise that Daniel would get it.

Thus, I left with a hopeful heart and set our course for Curt’s destination, EATALY at 25^th ST. and 5^th Ave. Thousands of people suddenly formed wave after wve of humanity trying to cross Broadway. The movement was closed the chaotic scene indicated why the mounted police had been called out to patrol. The Wall St. protesters had formed a huge march into Times Square and all the way down Broadway for several blocks. Though they were to keep behind the barricades set up they did not. Rather many stood directly in the path of pedestrians coming out of the theaters. They held up signs indicating their particular issue. Curt and I mangaed to squeeze through and took a detour toward 5thAve. I was reminded of the 1968 Democratic convention protests in Chicago. Only then I was playing both sides of the fence. I worked for the Convention and I was a student as well reporting on the scene of massive protests and candlelight processions. But their was little time to share my thoughts. We were on a mission.

Twenty Blocks latter Curt was as joyous as I had been to see a Broadway Show. It seems that he has followed Mario Batali’s cooking career and that he was the creative founder of what can only be described as everything Italian and then some. From what I call Nectar for the Gods, Gelato, to Pannini sandwiches, to fresh vegetables, cheeses and breads one is immersed in an Italian Market atmosphere where one can drink wine and eat varieties of cheese at marble tables or enjoy a lunch or dinner at a sit down restaurant. Then after tasting the best of Italy, one may choose the pasta, Olive Oil, Wine or sauces which would have been a part of that meal from shelves devoted to displaying each product in a variety of styles. Curt was in his glory as he chose cheeses for his daughter, an EATALY tee shirt and a bottle of wine. In the mean time I was loading up with Olive Oil, freshly baked Tuscan loaves of bread, and even an eggplant for my mother in Philadelphia. As we shopped the eyes of Sophia Loren and Frank Sinatra looked down on us. It wasn’t a spiritual event rather they gazed out over the scene with the likes of Marilyn Monroe and others from large photo banners hanging from the ornate ceiling over each shopping or eating area.

By the time we walked out onto 25^th Street our shopping bags were filled with delicious goodies. But that didn’t hinder our trek to “Little Italy” near the Bowery of New York City. There we enjoyed a wonderful meal at Grotta Azzura Restaurant. Sitting outside on Mulberry Street we soaked in the culture of days gone by as we feasted on Rigatoni and Pork and Beef Braciole. The sun had set quite a while ago as we walked toward Prince St. and the subway entrance which would return us to the Theater District. And that was just day one. The magic of theater, Little Italy and Eataly had cast their spell on two guys from Chicago.

(Arthur Cola is the second generation son of great-grandparents who came to the United States from Abruzzo and Tuscany in Italy. He is a veteran educator and author of three novels: The Stone Cutter Genius, The Shamrock Crown (Legend of Excalibur) and Papa and the Leprechaun King as well as three screenplays based on his books. His Christmas themed book for children is titled: Papa and the Gingerbread Man.

Dining on Mulberry St. at Grotta Azzura in LIttle Italy

Make him your friend on Facebook. Contact him at arthurcola@yahoo.com.

His web site: www.arthurcolalegendarytales.com.

Blog site:www.arthurcolalegendarytales.wordpress.com Order his books at: www.amazon.com/arthurocla).

Empire State Builidn

By Arthur Cola

The colors of Autumn were at peak as I left the Chicago area on my journey to Washington,D.C. I was to be one of the guest authors at Festa Italiana. Okay, here’s where your eyes should widen with a questioning look which asks “What, a Festa in D.C.?” And I would be right there with you were it not for the invitation to participate in the celebration of Italian Culture on Columbus Day weekend in Washington. Joseph Onofrietti, President of the Festa Italiana Foundation had extended the invitation thus I knew such a festival took place. I also had visited their Web site which presented the highlights of what one would experience at Festa Italiana, D.C. style. The music, art, cultural exhibits, films, and of course authors like me, who would be presenting their books. Those author presentations were to take place at Casa Italiana, the Cultural Centerof the American Italian Community in the District. What I hadn’t expected was how the center, along with Holy Rosary Church on whose grounds the Festa was to take place, were located in the heart of our nation’s capital. In fact they were literally within the shadow of the Capitol’s Dome.

Thus, you may imagine how awed I was to find these symbols of Italian Culture nestled at 3^rd and F Streets. Wanting to get a feel for what was to take place I drove down 3^rd St. and arrived at Holy Rosary Church. A banner hung on the administrative building’s wall announcing Festa. Richard DiBuono (President of the Abruzzo-Molise Heritage Society) happened to be working with other volunteers coordinating last minute details but took the time to give me a tour.

As I stepped into the Church it was like entering a historic time warp in which I was transported to Italy itself. The vaulted ceiling reminiscent of Renaissance Churches drew my attention to the sanctuary with its gleaming white marble altar behind which was a fresco painting depicting Our Lady of the Rosary. To each side where shrines, I lighted a candle at the shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and offered three prayers with three wishes in honor of my Grandmother who taught me to do so on a first visit to any Church and for my Mother to whom I dedicated my book. These elements of our faith tradition blended together so as to spirit me away to the days of my youth in Chicago where such ethnic street festivals were common. But this was D.C. where one doesn’t usually think of such events and yet here it was. Dick led me into the Casa Italiana, where I was to conduct my presentation. That notion was immediately dispelled as Italian art formed the murals within the ballroom area. Here the delicious pasta meal would be served and cultural exhibits would be on display.

Then it happened, that is the significance of Italian influence on our democracy as a young, vibrant and fiercely independent nation. Along the façade of the center were erected four statues of notable Italians, one of whom was none other than Michelangelo. “The Stone Cutter Genius” is what I called him in my novel of the same name. I felt that it was standing in the courtyard of the Uffizi Galleries in Florence where a similar statue of the ingenius artist who painted the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling of creation, the sculptor of St. Peter’s Pieta and the Giant David of Florence, to mention but a few of his masterpieces.

I patted the statue’s foot as did the character in my novel to the statue of David in the Academy of Fine Art in Florence. Perhaps, as in my tale, a spirit will come forth to enlighten me and point me in the direction of tolerance, acceptance, beauty and freedom as was the desire of Michelangelo.

I then looked out onto the streets now blocked off. Joe and Dick were busily setting up the stage area of Festa. I stood for a moment next to the statue of Christopher Columbus. We both cast our gaze with wonder as 3^rd and F Streets were transformed into those of Naples, Sicily or Abruzzo where such festivals are still commonly held. Having received my assigned area, I too began to bring what I hoped to be a sense of Italian Renaissance thought, art, legend and intrigue to the visitors of Festa through the pages of my book.

The Gelato stand was being set up next to mine. Ever since my experience of tasting Gelato in Rome it has been called the nectar of the gods whenever I refer to it. Balloons floated over the vendor areas adding a splash of color to welcome the hundreds of visitors now streaming down F Street toward Holy Rosary Church. A Latin Mass would be celebrated to kick off the festival. At the end of the service the procession began.

Altar servers in red cassocks and brilliantly white surplices led the solemn procession with the flags of the United States and of Italy flanking the sacred golden Crucifix as the student marching band played while their drums kept beat to the pace of the scores of people participating. The Knights of Columbus with flowing capes, plumed hats and swords at their side escorted the sacred Painting of the Madonna with her child, Jesus while uniformed police officers carried a floral Wreath which was to be placed at the Memorial for law enforcement members who had fallen in line of duty. Father Lydio Tomasi intoned the responses to the prayers of the Rosary as they made their way to the Memorial site.

The solemnities having concluded the joyous sounds of Italian music soon filled the air as the Duke Ellington High School singers belted out opera songs and tenor Elio Scaccio and Amanda Beagle’s Ciao Bella medley soon had the traditional music of Italy such as “O Sole Mio” and contemporary songs such as “The Prayer” echoing through the canyons of our nation’s Federal Government buildings. And all of this musicality blended with the smells of sausage cooking and pizza baking.

I had the delight to meet many of the Festa visitors. Many were young people dressed in Fratelli (brothers and sisters) Italia (of Italy) tee shirts which commemorated the 150 years of the unification of Italy in this year of 2011. Others chatted with me at length about my books and some purchased them. Three of them were ladies from Church Falls,VA who were the first to buy my novel: The Stone Cutter Genius and my Christmas children’s book: Papa and the Gingerbread Man. Two young men at my presentation were intrigued with the background of Michelangelo’s life which forms the foundation of the story in which a teacher and his two teen sons in present day America learn of the Legend of the Magi Ring. This legend was widely believed in Renaissance Italy and by Michelangelo as well. One was a student from Ball State University in Indiana and the other was an American who was raised in Naples and now lives in the District.

After the raffle drawing for the trip to Italy it was time to say Arrivederci to Festa. My farewell was a walk to the Capitol building which houses the United States Congress. Once again, as I took photos, I was struck by the relevance of Festa Italiana in D.C. The stunning white Dome contrasted brilliantly with the azure blue sky. Here was yet another reminder of the genius of Michelangelo, for the design for the Dome of the Capitol is based on his rendition for the dome of St. Peter’s in Rome.

 From the days of exploration by Christopher Columbus and his successors, to the contributions of artisans on the design of our nation’s Capitol to the thousands upon thousands who immigrated here yearning to be free; the people came to this land now symbolized by Washington, D.C. Together we descendants of those generations celebrate the heritage which they brought to these shores as we sing “God Bless America.”

(Arthur Cola is the second generation son of great-grandparents who came to the United Statesfrom Abruzzo and Tuscanyin Italy. He is a veteran educator and author of three novels: The Stone Cutter Genius, The Shamrock Crown (Legend of Excalibur) and Papa and the Leprechaun King as well as three screenplays based on his books. His Christmas themed book for children is titled: Papa and the Gingerbread Man.Make him your friend on Facebook. Contact him at arthurcola@yahoo.com.

His web site: www.arthurcolalegendarytales.com.

Blog site:www.arthurcolalegendarytales.wordpress.com Order his books at: www.amazon.com/arthurocla).

Statue of Michelangelo at Casa Italiana in Washington, D.C.

Holy Rosary Church in Washington, D.C.

Procession at beginning of Festa Italiana in Washington, D.C.