Town residents, led by local Italian heritage organizations, gathered at the Christopher Columbus statue at the Municipal Center Monday in celebration of Columbus Day. More than two-dozen residents gathered around the statue to celebrate Columbus’ voyage of discovery in 1492. Mums were placed at the base of the statue and later in planters on Columbus Boulevard in honor of the holiday.

The celebration began with the Pledge of Allegiance, after which several speakers addressed the significance of Columbus. Speakers included Sons of Italy President Tony Cusano, Clementina Mennone, president of Sorelle D'Italia in America, Bill Lombardi, president of UNICO, Paul Rescsanski, past financial secretary with the Knights of Columbus and Victoria Triano, chair of the Southington Town Council. Town Council member Mike Del Santo was also in attendance.