Eight visitors from Pisa, Italy sat at a long table at Riggio's Restaurant, Niles, with Niles officials Monday night at a dinner to welcome the delegation from one of the village's sister cities.
Aurora Cantini, a high school English teacher, and three of her students, Guido Schirone, Francesca Cremonesi and Giulia DiTerlizzi ,were among the group.
"We're looking forward to seeing downtown Chicago. There are lots of beautiful things," said Cantini, who has visited the Chicago area once before.
Joe Annunzio, Niles' village attorney, said the Sister Cities Committee might take the visitors to hear live jazz, and a trip to see the musical "Billy Elliott" was also a possibility.
Mayor Robert Callero rose and made a toast, saying "I'd like to welcome you all to your Sister City."
He introduced the two trustees and top village staff who were on hand to show hospitality.
"We hope you have a good time," Callero said.
