[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 146 (Thursday, September 19, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H5460]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               OLD FORGE AND FELITTO NAMED SISTER CITIES

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Pennsylvania (Mr. Cartwright) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize a remarkable 
and historic milestone that unites two communities across the Atlantic 
Ocean.
  It is with great pride and joy that I announce the official 
designation of Old Forge, Pennsylvania, and Felitto, Italy, as sister 
cities.
  This designation not only honors our shared heritage but also 
strengthens the bond of friendship and cultural exchange between our 
two communities.
  Old Forge, situated in the heart of northeastern Pennsylvania, has 
long been a beacon of Italian-American culture. Known affectionately as 
the pizza capital of the world, Old Forge boasts a rich history that is 
deeply intertwined with the Italian immigrant experience.
  In the late 1800s and early 1900s, waves of immigrants from Felitto, 
a picturesque town in the Campania region of southern Italy, made their 
way to Old Forge, then known as Mudtown. Their arrival marked the 
beginning of a new chapter in the community's history, bringing with 
them their traditions, values, and of course, their beloved culinary 
heritage.
  Felitto, located in the province of Salerno, is renowned for its 
artisanal fusilli pasta and its vibrant annual celebration, the Fusillo 
Festival. This festival is a testament to Felitto's commitment to 
family, community, and the joy of food.
  The town's dedication to preserving its cultural traditions and 
fostering a strong sense of community is mirrored in the town of Old 
Forge.
  The Felittese Association of Old Forge, now in its 35th year, hosts 
the city's annual Felittese Italian Festival on the second weekend in 
September in commemoration of Our Lady of Constantinople, who has been 
venerated in the town of Felitto since 1790.
  Much like Felitto's Fusillo Festival, this annual celebration stands 
as a proud homage to Old Forge's Italian roots by celebrating the rich 
tapestry of Italian culture through home-cooked food and music with 
family, friends, and neighbors. It is a cherished tradition that 
underscores the deep connections that bind our two communities.
  The sister city designation between Old Forge and Felitto represents 
more than just a symbolic gesture. It is a recognition of the shared 
heritage and enduring ties that unite the two places. It honors the 
legacy of the Italian immigrants who contributed so profoundly to Old 
Forge, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the United States of 
America, and acknowledges the vibrant culture that continues to thrive 
today.
  This partnership will strengthen economic ties and enhance the mutual 
understanding between our two communities. It is a celebration of our 
shared history and a commitment to continuing the traditions that have 
enriched our lives and nations.
  As we commemorate this new chapter in the relationship between Old 
Forge and Felitto, let us honor the contributions of the Italian 
immigrants who helped shape our communities. Their legacy lives on in 
the vibrant celebrations, the delectable cuisine, and the strong sense 
of community that defines both Old Forge and Felitto.
  As a Member of the U.S. House representing northeastern Pennsylvania, 
I extend my heartfelt congratulations on this historic announcement and 
achievement. May this sister city relationship continue to flourish and 
bring us ever closer.

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