A Night of Celebration and Tradition
The 2025 Undo’s Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival kicked off with a memorable dinner at Undo’s West in St. Clairsville. The event, held on Wednesday night, marked the unofficial start of the festival, which will run from Friday, July 25 to Sunday, July 27 at Wheeling’s Heritage Port. This annual gathering celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Italian community and brings together locals and visitors alike for a weekend of food, music, and tradition.
Bill Phillips, a familiar face from News9, served as the emcee for the evening. His engaging presence set the tone for the festivities, ensuring that guests felt welcomed and excited about what was to come. One of the highlights of the evening was a speech delivered by Beau Catalano, who was honored as the 2025 Italian American of the Year.
Catalano, originally from Brooklyn, New York, has made a significant impact in the Ohio Valley. He played a key role in establishing the Undo family of restaurants, where he worked as a chef. Reflecting on his honor, Catalano expressed his gratitude and emphasized the values instilled in him by his parents. “I’m humbled about it,” he said. “We’ve worked hard to get where we are today. My parents worked hard, and they instilled that value in me, and I’m just excited to be honored.”
In addition to his contributions to the restaurant industry, Catalano was instrumental in the revitalization of the Alpha Tavern in Wheeling in 2022. His work as a chef helped shape the menu items that continue to be featured at Undo’s today. Among these is the beloved Undo’s Pizza bread and the Italian salad, both of which have become favorites among customers.
Michelle Fabbro, President of the Undo’s Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival, highlighted the significance of these menu items. “One of the things he started that is my absolute favorite is the Undo’s Pizza bread and the Italian salad,” she said. “I mean that could just in itself could be a meal for someone.”
As the festival approaches, organizers are excited to introduce new events and activities alongside the traditional favorites. This year’s lineup includes a children’s area, a Veterans ceremony on Saturday at 11 a.m., and the return of the Catholic mass on Sunday. The mass will also feature a group Rosery at 9:40 a.m., adding a spiritual dimension to the celebration.
For those interested in following the festival, there will be extensive coverage throughout the weekend. Whether attending in person or tuning in from home, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From live music and cultural performances to delicious Italian cuisine, the 2025 Undo’s Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival promises to be a vibrant and unforgettable experience.
Mike3742
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