Maggio 2026 by Il Pensiero "The Thought"

IL PENSIERO “THE THOUGHT”

Member of FUSIE (Federazione Italiana Stampa Unitaria all’Estero)

Office: 10001 Stonell Drive St. Louis, Missouri 63123

Anthonino’s Taverna Brings Iconic St. Louis Toasted Ravioli to Doorsteps

Nationwide via Goldbelly

Anthonino’s Taverna, a celebrated staple of St. Louis dining, is proud to announce that its legendary toasted ravioli is now available for nationwide shipping through Goldbelly. For the first time, food lovers across the United States can experience an authentic taste of St. Louis’ most beloved appetizer—delivered straight to their homes.

A cornerstone of St. Louis culinary tradition, toasted ravioli has long been a local favorite. At Anthonino’s Taverna, this classic dish is elevated through a commitment to premium ingredients and meticulous preparation. Each ravioli is crafted using Certified Angus Beef, Grande Cheese Company ricotta, imported Pecorino Romano, farm-fresh eggs, and non-enriched semolina sourced from Italgrani USA.

“At Anthonino’s, we don’t claim to have invented toasted ravioli—we’ve perfected it,” said [ Anthony and Rosario Scarato], [Owners] of Anthonino’s Taverna. “Our focus has always been on quality, authenticity, and delivering a product that represents the very best of St. Louis

Maggio 2026

An Italian American Publication

cuisine.”

Anthonino’s toasted ravioli has earned national recognition, with features on Food Network, A&E, and other major media outlets highlighting its standout flavor and craftsmanship. Now, through Goldbelly’s platform, customers can enjoy this iconic dish regardless of location. Each shipment is carefully packaged to preserve freshness and flavor, making it easy for customers to recreate the Anthonino’s experience in their own kitchens.

To order Anthonino’s famous toasted ravioli, visit goldbelly.com.

About Anthonino’s Taverna

Located in the heart of St. Louis on The Hill, Anthonino’s Taverna is renowned for its unique blend of Italian and Greek cuisine. Known for its warm hospitality and dedication to high-quality ingredients, the restaurant has become a destination for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic and memorable dining experience.

Misericordia Society Presents Shroud of Turin Display at the

April Meeting

Submitted by Rebecca Tower

On April 12, Divine Mercy Sunday, the Misericordia Society hosted The Shroud of Turin, The Face of Jesus Seminars, by Dan Vogel. The presentation was held

in Polizzi Hall at St. Ambrose Church. Mr. Vogel began his presentation with a demonstration using his brother, Tim Vogel, as the “corpse” that was covered with a 14foot cloth, simulating Jewish burial customs of the first century. This gave the viewers a clear understanding of the dimensions of the Shroud and how it was placed over Jesus as He was laid in the tomb. From here, Mr. Vogel explained the Shroud’s history, the image on it, and the science increasingly authenticating it.

The Shroud’s whereabouts are unclear for the first 500 years, but it was likely kept in Turkey. It was later brought to Constantinople, then to France, and finally to Turin, Italy, where it is currently stored and sometimes displayed.

Mr. Vogel showed how all the markings on the Shroud exactly match all the Gospel accounts of the crucifixion. The Shroud shows the extent of the horrors that Our Lord suffered for our salvation. There were several photos displayed on easels, showing the whole Shroud and details of the face, plus various artists’ renditions of Jesus that used the Shroud image as a model. Many more images were displayed as slides on the drop-down screen in the Polizzi Hall.

In 1978, a research project in Turin brought together an incredible array of scientists of every specialty who spent hours studying the image of the crucified man that is clearly seen on the Shroud. The

June: May 15

July: June 12

August: July 17

September: August 14

October: September 11

November: October 16

December: November 13

Degli articoli firmati che appaiono sul giomale sono responsabili i singoli autori, i quali non rappresentano necessariamente il punto di vista generale, ne’ esprimono la politica de “Il Pensiero.” Operando conforme alle nostre vedute democratiche, si accetta la collaborazione di persone esprimenti il piu’ largo arco di opinioni, senza pregiudiziale di sorta.

The signed articles appearing in Il Pensiero “The Thought” are the opinions of the individual authors, who do not represent the general point of view, nor do they express the views of Il Pensiero. We accept the collaboration of people expressing the most wide range of opinions. Opinions expressed in Il Pensiero “The Thought” are not necessarily those of Il Pensiero and Il Pensiero does not accept responsibility for advertising content. Any images supplied are at the owner’s risk.

PENSIERO

Staff Photographer

The Baptism of Josephine Louise

The Daly family with Josephine Louise

Michele Woodling Fagnani and Josephine Louise

Gus Torregrossa with the Woodling and Daly families

Fagnani family

scientists concluded that the image was not made by human hands. It is definitely not a painting, and the top layer of the cloth fibers only shows the image.

In 1988, the carbon dating fiasco occurred, which, for a time, actually stopped the Shroud from being studied or discussed, as it was considered to be a fake. In a very poorly constructed experiment, those involved in the carbon dating process sampled the Shroud that was known to be rewoven during the Middle Ages after it had been damaged in a fire. Of course, the carbon dating showed that the fibers came from the Middle Ages, and the sample even contained some cotton. The Shroud is pure flax. The cotton is from the patch that was sewn during the Middle Ages to repair it.

Fortunately, over time, the carbon dating was debunked, and the Shroud was once again the subject of intense scrutiny by scientists, historians, and theologians alike. It is now believed that the image on the Shroud was formed by an intense burst of light that occurred during the Resurrection, when Jesus’ body became pure light and

probably passed through the cloth without disturbing the original placement of it.

For more information on the Shroud, Mr. Vogel suggests visiting the website shroud.com.

To reach Mr. Vogel to schedule a presentation, email him at danvogel777@gmail.com.

Read With Alexandra (RWA)

By Alexandra Marino-Durmišević

Continued on page 6

“Daughters of Naples” By Diana Giovinazzo

un annuncio

BIRTHDAYS

Joe Gandolfo

Rocco Naeger

Marisa Nicastro

ANNIVERSARIES

May 6

Joe and Lisa Gandolfo

May 27

Leo and Rosanna Leone

Submit content to info@ilpensiero.net before May 15, 2026 to be featured in the June issue. We look forward to receiving your announcements! Thank you A Special Note:

Continued from page 5

This month I received an Advance Reader’s Edition of Diana Giovinazzo’s latest novel. It will be published in July, so pick up your copy for your summer vacation. It is historical fiction, and if you are a fan of Kristen Hannah’s “The Nightingale,” you will love this read. I’ve read a few books about Italy during WWII, but each brings a different light and story to that time period. You know I love a strong family bond and female point of view in my reads.

The three Cozzolino sisters are all each other has in wartime Naples. Leta, the oldest, is the maternal figure in her parents’ absence. Marcella is training to be a midwife amidst Mussolini’s effort to medicalize childbirth. The youngest sister, Bianca, takes a stand to join the resistance despite her older sisters’ warnings. As the war goes on, all three sisters must do anything it takes to survive—including reevaluating what it means to be family.

See you in June!

Bologna Court Recognizes Italian Citizenship by Descent for 4thGeneration FamilyEven Without a PreReform Consular Appointment

Ruling No. 3335/26 — Tribunale Ordinario di Bologna — April 17, 2026

In a significant development for Italian Americans pursuing citizenship by

Continued on page 8

My Mom Linda’s Artichoke Dip

Ingredients:

2 cans of artichokes

1 cup of mayonnaise

1 cup of Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Chop up artichokes and add the ingredients and mix together. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until bubbly.

Serve with your choice of cracker.

Perfect for a Mother’s Day brunch!

Continued from page 7

descent after the Tajani Decree reform, an Italian court has granted citizenship recognition to a family of 11 applicants spanning two, three, and four generations of descent—despite the family not having secured a consular appointment before the March 27, 2025, reform deadline.

On April 17, 2026, Judge Dott.ssa Natascia Gardini of the Tribunale Ordinario di Bologna issued Ruling No. 3335/26, recognizing Italian citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) in a case brought by Aprigliano International Law Firm on behalf of the family. The case was filed on May 17, 2025, after the so-called Tajani Decree had already entered into force.

“The Court accepted the argument that citizenship recognition remained warranted where applicants had clearly manifested their intention to proceed with their claim but had been unable to secure a consular appointment through no fault of their own.”

WHY THIS RULING MATTERS

Since the passage of Law 74/2025, one of the most pressing questions for Italian American families has been whether those who never obtained a consular appointment before the March 27, 2025 deadline could still pursue recognition through the Italian courts. This ruling offers one of the first post-reform answers from the bench: yes, under the right circumstances.

The Bologna ruling is also notable for its direct reference to Decree-Law 36/25 and the Constitutional Court’s press release of March 12, 2026, signaling that judges are actively integrating the evolving constitutional landscape into their postreform decisions.

ABOUT THE CASE

The case was developed and argued by Attorney Salvatore Aprigliano of Aprigliano International Law Firm, a Milanbased practice that specializes exclusively in Italian citizenship by descent for American clients. The family of 11 included second-, third-, and fourth-generation descendants, making this one of the broader multigeneration post-reform grants documented to date.

KEY LEGAL FINDING

Central to the ruling is the Court’s finding on the standard of intent required under the post-reform framework. In the words of Judge Gardini:

“Si ritiene pertanto che detta domanda, formalizzata nei modi di cui sopra, permetta sicuramente di individuare una chiara ed inequivoca volontà di chiedere la cittadinanza italiana e integra perfettamente la fattispecie prevista nella normativa di riferimento.”

[“It is therefore considered that this application, formalized in the manner described above, clearly and unequivocally establishes the intention to obtain Italian citizenship and perfectly satisfies the requirements set forth in the applicable legal framework.”]

LOOKING AHEAD

The Italian Constitutional Court is expected to hold hearings on further pending referrals regarding Law 74/2025, including those originating from the courts of Mantova and Campobasso. Those decisions are widely anticipated as further

defining moments for the post-reform jure sanguinis landscape.

For Italian American families who have wondered whether the door to citizenship recognition has closed after the Tajani Decree reform, this ruling is a reminder that the courts continue to evaluate each case on its individual merits.

While noting that this ruling is not binding for other ongoing cases and does not change the risk profile of anyone filing now, we hope this decision brings some real encouragement to the many families who filed after the Tajani Decree reform and are still waiting to see how the post-reform citizenship landscape will develop.

Simple Ways to Make Mom Feel Special This Mother’s Day

By Courtney Finn

Mother’s Day is coming up on Sunday, May 10, and it’s a great opportunity to slow down, spend time together, and celebrate the moms, grandmas, and mother figures who mean so much to us.

For many families, the day starts with food, of course! Whether you’re heading out to brunch on The Hill (10 a.m.-2 p.m. Carnivore STL) or putting something together at home, you really can’t go wrong. Think homemade frittata, fresh pastries, and a strong cup of coffee or espresso. (See page 10 for our favorite brunch recipe.)

If the weather cooperates, getting outside is always a good idea. A walk through Berra Park on The Hill or the Missouri Botanical Garden is a great way to spend time together without overcomplicating things. Bring along a picnic, find a sunny spot, and just enjoy the moment!

When it comes to gifts, it doesn’t have to be anything extravagant. Sometimes the best thing you can give is your time. A cooking class, a relaxing spa day (Sunset Skin on The Hill; see page 11), or even just an afternoon spent catching up can mean more than anything wrapped in a box.

At the end of the day, Mother’s Day is really about showing appreciation in whatever way feels right to you. Big or small, it all matters!

The Hill

Takes Wheel of Fortune

By Courtney Finn

Mark your calendars and get your remotes ready, because two residents of The Hill are heading to the big screen! Lynn and Luke Brassel, born and raised on The Hill, are going to be on Wheel of Fortune on Monday, May 4. The brother-sister duo recently shared the news with friends and

neighbors, inviting the community to tune in and cheer them on as they take on the iconic game show. “It was such an amazing experience,” they said, adding that they can’t wait for everyone to watch along.

So clear your Monday night plans and get ready to root for a couple of “Hill kids” as they represent St. Louis on Wheel of Fortune!

Italian Wines for Spring: What to Sip This Season

By Courtney Finn

As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it’s only natural to start reaching for something a little lighter in your glass. Spring is the perfect time to explore Italian wines that are crisp, refreshing, and easy to enjoy!

A classic place to start is Pinot Grigio, and a great option is Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio (Alto Adige). This is one of the most popular Italian Pinot Grigios for a reason — it’s crisp, clean, and super refreshing without being overly acidic. You’ll get light citrus, green apple, and a slightly dry finish that pairs perfectly with salads, seafood, or a simple pasta. It’s widely available at most grocery stores and wine shops in St. Louis, usually in the $18–$25 range, making it a solid choice whether you’re hosting or just bringing a bottle to share.

Another great option is Vermentino, a coastal Italian white with a bit more character and a subtle citrusy finish. Our recommendation is Argiolas “Costamolino” Vermentino (Sardinia). It’s light, slightly citrusy, and a little more interesting than your average white. Great with seafood or anything fresh.

If you’re in the mood for something sparkling, you can’t go wrong with Prosecco. It’s light, slightly bubbly, and perfect for brunches, celebrations, or even just a sunny afternoon on the patio. For Continued on page 10

Continued from page 8

something a little different, a lightly chilled Lambrusco offers a fun, slightly fizzy red that pairs surprisingly well with everything from charcuterie to pizza. If you can find Cleto Chiarli Lambrusco di Sorbara, it’s absolutely delicious.

The best part? These wines don’t require much fuss. Open a bottle; set out a few simple snacks—olives (DiGregorio’s Italian Market on The Hill), cheese, and fresh bread (Marconi Bakery on The Hill)—and you’ve got yourself an easy, Italian-inspired moment. Saluti!

Italian-Inspired Mother’s Day Quiche

By Courtney Finn

If you’re celebrating Mother’s Day at home this year, this Italian-inspired quiche is an easy way to make the day feel a little extra special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s light and flavorful and pairs perfectly with a simple salad and a glass of something bubbly. Buona Festa della Mamma!

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if you prefer)

• 6 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Urzi’s Italian Market on The Hill)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1/3 cup diced shallot or small onion

• 1–2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Place your pie crust into a pie dish and set aside.

2. Sauté the veggies: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Toss in the spinach and sundried tomatoes, cooking just until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat.

3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble: Spread the sautéed veggies evenly into the crust, then pour the egg mixture over the top.

5. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

6. Serve & enjoy: Top with fresh basil if you have it, and serve warm. Enjoy!

“Carina, You have been so accommodating! Thank You!” FROM OUR ADVERTISERS

The New Frontier of Organic Olive Oil: Redoro Clinches Prestigious “Sol D’Oro” Gold

Redoro S.r.l. has won the 2026 Sol D’Oro for “Big Producers Organic.” Producing over 1 million liters, this 1895-founded company beat 315 international samples. For the first time in 20 years, climate change is shifting excellence northward. Higher latitudes are now yielding superior aromas. This win marks a new geography of quality, as Northern Italy’s hills redefine the global olive oil standard.

There is a new map for olive oil excellence, and it’s pointing North. Redoro, the historic Italian miller, has just been awarded the coveted Sol D’Oro 2026 for its exceptional organic extra virgin olive oil. This isn’t just a win for the brand—it’s a signal that the future of high-quality, healthfocused olive oil is evolving along with our planet.

A Landmark Victory for Northern Italy

For the first time in two decades, the shifting climate has favored the cooler hills of Northern Italy over the traditionally scorching Mediterranean south. At the 24th International Sol d’Oro competition, Redoro S.r.l. Frantoi Veneti took home the gold in the “Big Producers Organic” category. What does “Big Producer” mean for you? It means Redoro manages to maintain world-class organic standards even while producing over 1 million liters of oil. It’s a rare blend of massive scale and artisanal precision.

Why This Matters for Your Health and Palate

If you’re looking for the cleanest, most flavorful oil for your family, the “Northern shift” is great news. According to agricultural experts (CREA), as olive groves move toward higher altitudes and more northern latitudes:

Enhanced Aromas: The cooler nights and unique mountain air create a more vibrant, “green” flavor profile.

Superior Quality: The natural stress of a cooler climate can actually boost the beneficial properties and sensory characteristics of the oil.

Uncompromising Standards: This award was decided by a panel of 15 master tasters who evaluated 315 samples from 9 countries in strict blind tastings.

Tradition Meets the Future

Founded in 1895, Redoro has spent over a century perfecting the art of the Italian “frantoio” (oil mill). By combining their deep Venetian roots with cutting-edge sustainable technology, they are proving that the best “Made in Italy” products are those that can adapt to a changing world. Winning the Sol D’Oro is proof that Redoro isn’t just keeping up with the times—they are leading the way, using Italy’s unique landscape to produce an organic oil that is as good for the planet as it is for your health.

St. Louis Is About To Host Something It Has Never Seen Before

On June 13, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Hill Cigar Co. will debut the city’s first large-scale cigar festival—an event designed not just around cigars, but around community, culture, and place. Set in the heart of The Hill, one of the most historic and recognizable neighborhoods in St. Louis, the festival will take on a true block party atmosphere, with Southwest Ave. closed between Maclind Ave. and Brannon Ave. The event aims to bring together premium cigars, local businesses, and the surrounding neighborhood in a way that few cigar events attempt.

While cigar festivals have become more common across the country, they often remain self-contained experiences. Hill Cigar Co. is taking a different approach. Rather than isolating the event, the festival is being built in partnership with local businesses and neighborhood associations, creating an environment where attendees can experience not only premium cigars but also the character and hospitality that define The Hill.

Known for its deep Italian heritage, The Hill offers a unique backdrop—lined with renowned restaurants, local shops, and a strong sense of community identity. By placing the festival directly within this setting, the goal is to create something more immersive: a cigar experience that extends beyond the lounge and into the neighborhood itself.

At its core, the event will feature a strong lineup of premium cigars, curated for both seasoned smokers and newcomers alike. Attendees can expect a range of offerings from established brands alongside opportunities to engage directly with industry representatives.

Beyond the cigars, the festival will include a series of elevated experiences designed to enhance the day. VIP guests will have access to a private historic home on The Hill, offering a more intimate setting to relax and enjoy the event. Additionally, a curated wine and spirits tasting will be held, with proceeds directly supporting a local church—further tying the festival into the neighborhood it calls home.

For Hill Cigar Co., the vision is simple: create an event that feels authentic to both cigar culture and St. Louis itself. By combining premium cigars, local partnerships, and one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods, the inaugural festival isn’t just another event—it’s the beginning of what could become a defining tradition for the region.

CONSOLATO GENERALE

D’ITALIA

Mario Alberto Bartoli CONSOLE GENERALE

500 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1850 Chicago, IL 60611 phone: 312-467-1550

certified email (PEC): con.chicago@cert.esteri.it italcons.chicago@esteri.it Hours: (open to public) Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Onorario D’Italia/Honorary Vice Consul Joseph Colagiovanni

Honorary Vice Consul of Italy ITALIANCONSULSTL@GMAIL.COM 314-705-2413

VISTI/VISAS visti.chicago@esteri.it 312-995-5487

PASSAPORTI/DOCUMENTI VIAGGIO/ NAVIGAZIONE/ PASSPORTS/ EMERGENCY TRAVEL DOCUMENTS passaporti.chicago@esteri.it 312-995-5485

AIRE anagrafe.chicago@esteri.it 312-995-5485

ELETTORALE/ ELECTORAL elettorale.chicago@esteri.it 312-995-5485

STATO CIVILE/VITAL RECORDS chicago.statciv@esteri.it (312) 995 5485

CITTADINANZA/CITIZENSHIP cittadinanza.chicago@esteri.it (312) 995 5484

UFFICIO STUDENTI/CODICI FISCALI/ EQUIPOLLENZA TITOLI DI STUDIO/ COMMERCIALE/ STUDENT OFFICE/ FISCAL I.D./EQUIVALENCY OF DEGREES AND PROFESSIONAL TITLES/ COMMERCIAL commerciale.chicago@esteri.it 312-995-5486

NOTARILE/NOTARY legale.chicago@esteri.it 312-995-5483

UFFICIO SCUOLA/ EDUCATION OFFICE scuola.chicago@esteri.it 312-995-5489

Italian Trade Agency

401 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1720 Chicago, Illinois 60611 chicago@ice.it 312-670-4360 website:ice.it/it

Agenzia Nazionale del Turismo/ Italian Government Tourist Office

500 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 2240, Chicago, IL 60611 312-644-0990 italiantourism.com

ONLY FOR ITALIAN CITIZENS WITH TRUE EMERGENCIES (accidents, arrests, etc.):

Available from 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. and from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. CST Monday –Friday, and from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, and holidays – Call +1(312) 909-0304

Emergencies between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. CT, contact the MAECI at 011 39 06 36912666

Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Chicago Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago 500 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1450 Chicago, IL 60611 phone: 312-822-9545 fax: 312-822-9622 email:iicchicago@esteri.it website:iicchicago.esteri.it

From May to June