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Washington Evening Journal
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Washington, IA 52353
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IowaWINS Holds ‘Italian Night’
Delayed to the 31st by cold weather, the dinner was still well-attended
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
MT. PLEASANT - On Saturday, Jan. 31, IowaWINs, a commission of the 1st Presbyterian Church, held its first Tapestry Fest of the year at the Belle Center, the former Chadwick Library at Iowa Wesleyan University.
This was a dinner, honoring the culture of Italian-American immigrants, and their contributions to the culture of Iowa, and America as a whole. The event was free, with a suggested donation to further their cause, reflected in their name: Welcoming Immigrant Neighbors.
Volunteers cooked massive quantities of spaghetti, ravioli, and bread, accompanied by a mixed salad and a charcuterie board.
Ming Vierra, First Presbyterian’s Music Director and a classically-trained opera singer, delighted guests with renditions of two arias, self-contained pieces for single vocalists, to much applause. Vierra is also the Vice President of the Governing Board of the Southeast Iowa Symphony, whose concerts are often held in the Chapel Auditorium, right across the street.
At the end of the evening, Angela Wilson, director of IowaWINs, thanked all for their support.
“Everything we do here will go to the support of local families,” Wilson said. “Thank you for making this happen, and making this a supportive place for immigrants, like me.”
Wilson hopes to hold another Tapestry Fest soon, with a Japanese theme. The group also holds several language clubs, studying, among other things, German and Spanish.
Those seeking more information can contact IowaWINS via Iowawinsmp@gmail.com.
Call Marilyn Higgins at 319-368-8895 or email her at marilyn.higgins@southeastiowaunion.com
