The Mahopac Columbus Day Parade celebrated its 34th annual event on Sunday, highlighting Italian American culture and their contributions to the United States. Organized by the Italian American Club of Mahopac since 1988, the parade initially honored the centennial of St. John the Evangelist Church and later commemorated the 500th anniversary of Columbus’s discovery of America. A statue of Columbus, commissioned by the club and sculpted by Anthony Padovano, now stands proudly next to the 9/11 Memorial at Carmel Town Hall.
Club President Giulio Cefaloni emphasized the organization’s commitment to celebrating Italian American heritage, urging attendees to maintain a spirit of discovery and hope, akin to Columbus’s legacy. This year’s parade featured notable figures, including Grand Marshal Frank Miele, Honorary Grand Marshals Urania and Carmine Cedrola, Jake D’Angelo, Special Honoree Paul Camarda, Miss Columbus Madeleine Zeolla, and Little Miss Columbus Anna Maria Amato.
