Silvio Mastrodascio from Cerqueto (Fano Adriano, Province of Teramo) is one of the most prominent Italian Canadian artists. He started as a painter, then moved to sculpture following his father's woodcarving art. His works are in many galleries and private collections in Canada. He thinks in Canada the italian way of life is becoming main stream, and associations should also look to the future, not only live on a nostalgic past. The first generation of Italian immigrants only aimed at economic well-being, and mostly forgot about the cultural heritage. The younger generation are showing instead a great interest in Italian culture.

Jane Barnabei, the elderly mother of Derek Rocco Barnabei, executed on 14 September in the USA, visited Fossacesia to meet a child who wrote a moving letter to Rocco, who replied a few days before his death. On 8 December there will be a Mass for Rocco, and the following day Mrs Barnabei will meet the students.

The latest book on the Volto Santo published by Edizioni Carsa will be oficially presented on 21 December in Manoppello. In seven chapters, the book follows the history and legends on the Veronica, and also deals with the monuments and history of Manoppello.