Bensonhursters came out in force — despite the stormy weather — to celebrate Italian-American heritage on in the 35th annual Columbus Day Parade on Oct. 8.
Locals and members of community groups marched along 24 blocks of 18th Avenue — co-named Cristoforo Colombo Boulevard for the voyager — waving Italian flags in tricked-out floats from vintage cars.
The Federation of Italian-American Organizations — which provides community programming for the nabe — sponsored the event. Federation members picked state Sen. Diane Savino (D–Staten Island), Assemblywoman Pamela Harris (D–Coney Island), attorney Nicholas Caiazzo, and accountant Thomas Correntino to served as grand marshals.
Braving the elements: Caren Sgarlato braved the bad weather to celebrate her Italian roots and wave a flag.
Photo by Georgine Benvenuto
Tre i politici: Democratic county leader Frank Seddio, Councilman Vincent Gentile, and Assemblyman Peter Abbate came out to salute Christopher Columbus and Italian heritage.
Photo by Georgine Benvenuto
Bust a move: Teresa Rose Scissura broke out her best dance moves at the parade.
Photo by Georgine Benvenuto
Flag bearers: Parade-goers carried the Italian flag along 18th Avenue in the 35th annual Columbus Day Parade in Bensonhurst.
Photo by Georgine Benvenuto
