SALUDA – Saluda will experience a taste of Italy this March as a delegation from its Sister City, Carunchio, Italy, visits the town. Carunchio Mayor Gianfranco D’Isabella and his wife, Paola, and Christiana Criscio, an owner of the Palazzo Tour D’Eau’s cooking school will visit Saluda the week of March 19th.

Along with visits to Saluda shops, restaurants and the historic Depot, the delegation will enjoy outdoor and cultural venues in Polk and Henderson Counties. Saluda residents are invited to a covered dish supper featuring typical southern foods and an “ole timey music” concert at the historic Lola’s Celebration Venue above Thompson’s Store.

The Purple Onion, Saluda Grade Cafe, Wildfour Bakery and Green River Barbeque will donate food and meals. The Oaks B&B and Orchard Inn will provide complementary accommodations. The City of Saluda is purchasing banners and flags to show the town’s support of the sister city and to welcome the visitors.

Since 2014, Saludians have traveled to Carunchio, to learn about Italian cooking, eat great food, drink local red wine and explore the Province of Abruzzo. In 2015, former City Commissioner Lynn Cass visited Carunchio along with a delegation from Saluda. The delegation signed formal documents in the Carunchio City Hall to pronounce the two towns, official sister cities.

According to a press release in “Saluda Lifestyles,” Saluda and Carunchio share the same altitude, the same latitude and the same population numbers. Both towns have a similar agricultural base, host vineyards and share a love of music. 

The City of Saluda is seeking donations to help with the costs of banners, flags and other expenses related to the visit. Citizens who wish to donate, volunteer or otherwise be involved in the Sister City visit should contact Judy Thompson at 828-489-6578 or jdt@jdthompsonlaw.com.