A wave of solidarity swept through the Casciolino district of Catanzaro’s Lido quarter on Sunday, as residents and businesses rallied to support those impacted by January’s devastating cyclone Harry. The event, dubbed the “Ciclone di Solidarietà” (Cyclone of Solidarity), featured music, comedy, and community spirit, and served as a fundraising effort for businesses damaged by the storm.
Despite a postponement the previous week due to inclement weather, the initiative drew a large crowd, uniting local institutions, citizens, sports organizations, cultural groups, and businesses. Funds were raised entirely by local merchants and will be distributed to those affected by the January disaster.
The day began with family-friendly activities, musical performances, and sporting events. A motorcade, indoor cycling sessions, and a gathering of classic cars attracted enthusiasts from across the province. The main stage program commenced at 5:00 PM, hosted by Maurizio Infusino and Stefania De Marco, featuring local artists, civic leaders, and representatives from the sports community.
The highlight of the event was a performance by renowned singer-songwriter Cecè Barretta, who drew a large and enthusiastic audience. Infusino opened the show by recalling the extent of the damage, stating, “A month ago, there was a meter and a half of water covering this street; today, we have shown that Catanzaro has always known how to defend itself and get back on its feet in times of difficulty.”
Catanzaro’s City Councilor for Economic Activities, Giuliana Furrer, and Vice Mayor Giusy Iemma addressed the crowd, praising the community’s resilience. Furrer stated, “We have demonstrated a strong South that knows how to react. A compliment must be given to the local press, which provided an information service that perhaps was lacking at the national level.” Iemma added, “The Administration will continue to work to provide support; the strength of a community is measured by its ability to support each other.”
Musical performances included a tribute to Renato Zero by the band L’Ora Zero, led by Franco Stumpo. A video montage, created by Gino Celli, documented the aftermath of the cyclone and the city’s recovery efforts. Massimo Conforto, an inspector with the Fire Brigade, emphasized the importance of preventative measures to protect lives.
Pietro Falbo, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Catanzaro-Crotone-Vibo Valentia, announced that a proposal to suspend chamber of commerce fees for businesses affected by the storm would be presented on Thursday. Salvatore Rotundo, representing the Civil Protection agency, explained how businesses could access a relief fund through an online application process.
Comedic duo Rino&Giulio provided entertainment, whereas Januaria, Antonio Infusino, and Gino Celli performed a series of covers and original songs. A delegation of local merchants expressed their gratitude to the organizers, and a message from Wanda Ferro, Undersecretary of State for the Ministry of the Interior, was read aloud.
The Tammurriata Nera Orchestra performed traditional Neapolitan music, creating a festive atmosphere. City Councilor for Culture, Donatella Monteverdi, remarked, “We are the city with the biggest heart in Calabria,” expressing her pride in the community. Representatives from the US Catanzaro 1929 football club presented a banner to the affected businesses as a symbol of support, with Pier Vincenzo Gigliotti, responsible for special projects, stating, “We want to deliver this banner to the affected merchants to testify our closeness.”
Performances by emerging artists Jovo, Mikyta Tortora, Ruby Mayolz, Waskone, Keitha, Lobi, and Kira Kasper, who had participated in the Catanzaro Sound competition, preceded Barretta’s performance. A comedic appearance by Piero and Mattia Procopio rounded out the entertainment. The event was hailed as a success, demonstrating a collective commitment to transforming adversity into an opportunity for revitalization.
