Benvenuti! Come join in for an evening of Italian culture and language with author, Dr. Kathryn Occhipinti, at Parlin-Ingersoll Public Library Monday, May 8, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Dr. Occhipinti will introduce the culture and fundamentals of the Italian language in a friendly and humorous way, with current audiovisuals to really make the Italian language come alive. Her language and travel tips will come in handy if you are planning a trip to Italy, or if you just want to learn more about Italian culture. All will leave reading and speaking basic Italian. No prior experience necessary!

Dr. Kathryn Occhipinti is a radiologist of Italian-American descent who has been leading Italian language groups in the Peoria and Chicago areas for about 10 years. She observed despite the fact the Italian-American baby boomer generation was raised with Italian food and celebrating Italian holidays, the Italian language remains a mystery to many. As author Kathryn Occhipinti discovered during her own upbringing in an Italian-American household in the 1970′s, Italian was used as a “secret language;” spoken only between parents and grandparents. First and second generation Italian-Americans were proud of their adopted country and wanted their children to be as “American” as possible!