On a memorable evening in West Michigan, the scent of garlic and basil filled the air, wine flowed freely, and voices echoed in a harmony of laughter, storytelling, and shared heritage. Taste with a Purpose wasn’t just a dinner — it was the official announcement that Festa Italiana is back. But this time, it’s not just a festival. It’s a movement.
Hosted at the beloved Russo Ristorante & Mercato in Grand Rapids, this landmark event marked the launch of the West Michigan Italian Cultural Center, a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by John Russo, Skip Micele, and Stephanie Scott. Their vision? To preserve, promote, and celebrate Italian-American heritage across West Michigan — now and for generations to come. Through events, bringing people together, supporting clubs and businesses.
Taste with a Purpose brought together Italian families, local businesses, and cultural organizations from Lansing to Kalamazoo, Holland to Grand Rapids — all under one roof. What unfolded was nothing short of magical.
The event united pillars of the Italian-American community:
Together, they honored the rich legacy of Italian immigrants who helped shape Michigan’s cultural and culinary landscape, while casting a bold vision for the future.
With Russo Ristorante as the backdrop — a restaurant rooted in generations of Sicilian family tradition — guests enjoyed handcrafted Italian dishes, artisan wines, a John Russo tasting experience, generational memory sharing and presentation, a raffle, fun and celebration that transported everyone straight to a piazza in the heart of Rome.
But the real centerpiece wasn’t just the food. It was the purpose. The event served as a rallying cry for unity, cultural preservation, and the reawakening of Festa Italiana — a celebration that had been dearly missed and is now poised for a powerful return.
The newly formed West Michigan Italian Cultural Center will serve as the driving force behind the future of Festa Italiana and year-round support. Founded by Russo, Micele, and Scott, the nonprofit aims to:
This organization is built not just to remember the past — but to ensure Italian culture thrives well into the future.
With Taste with a Purpose as its grand opening act, the newly energized cultural movement is already gaining momentum. Plans are underway for the full-scale return of Festa Italiana in 2025, and the West Michigan Italian Cultural Center is actively building its base of supporters, members, and partners.
Whether you grew up with Nonna’s lasagna or you’ve only recently fallen in love with Italian wine and song — this is your invitation to be part of something special.
🔗 Get Involved
Want to support the mission or get involved in the festival’s return?
🇮🇹 Viva l’Italia — Viva la Comunità!
Taste with a Purpose wasn’t just a dinner. It was a declaration. Italian culture in Michigan is alive, well, and growing. And this time, we’re building something that lasts — together.
Festa Italiana is back. The future is flavorful. And this is only the beginning.
