The first Rome Through Richmond Town festival last October served as the replacement for the annual Columbus Day Parade, which had recently seen a drop in attendance. "I think it was an absolutely phenomenal time," Oddo said of last year's event. "It was so much broader in its scope, so much richer and fuller. The people who were there absolutely loved it."

Even so, Oddo's office is exploring how to incorporate a parade back into the festivities. "Maybe down Richmond Road onto the campus," Oddo said, adding that the procession would likely be "miniature." The Susan E. Wagner High School band marched through Historic Richmond Town during last year's festival, which featured other performances, exhibits and lots of Italian food.

"You want an experience that is one that truly explores the Italian-American experience, Italian culture but also is more likely to draw non-Italians to a great community event," Oddo said.

Source: http://www.silive.com/