The ItalianAmerican community of Washington DC mourns the passing of Cavaliere Ida Arcorace Dunham, who as founder of Allegro Tours built hundreds of bridges across the Atlantic to her native Calabria, her beloved hometown of Roccella Jonica, and all over Italy through musical and cultural programs -- customized music, choral and orchestral tours for students of all ages, as well as art and culture tours and much more.
“Music, art and Italy have been the three great passions of my life,” she once said, a passion she demonstrated throughout her long career. Ida was a unique personality and a great judge of character, who shared her views freely. During her time here in Washington, DC., she often reminded us that those of us who promote Italy should place the interests of the community above our own interests and those of our friends and acquaintances. Ida not only talked the talk, she also walked the walk. We will miss her. Our sympathies to her beautiful family. –Francesco Isgro, President, Casa Italiana Sociocultural Center