This week, Convivio was thrilled to host a luncheon to welcome the consul general of Italy, Los Angeles, to America's Finest City (and to introduce her to our stellar Italian community, of course). In addition, it is my immense privilege to announce my appointment as the honorary vice consul of San Diego, an honor the consul general officially confirmed during our luncheon.

This position serves in many ways as an extension of Convivio’s mission: gathering with our community in unity and fellowship while providing cultural resources to our constituents. As the Convivio executive director, I look forward to serving our community in this additional role.

Many thanks go to our distinguished guests in attendance for our luncheon to welcome Consul General of Italy in Los Angeles, Silvia Chiave:

Bruce Abrams (Chair, International Affairs Board of San Diego); David Pasquini (Consul, UK Government Office in San Diego); Brittany Bailey (Policy Advisor, Office of Councilmember Chris Ward); Steve Galasso (President, Little Italy Association); Danny Moceri (Vice President, Little Italy Association); Lou Palestini (Treasurer, Little Italy Association); Dr. Kevin Petti (Founder, Anatomia Italiana; Professor, San Diego Miramar College); James Cardinale Hill (Cavaliere; Representative, Italian American Civic Association, Knights of Columbus, Sons of Italy); Giuseppe Annino and Mary Annino (Founders, Cinema Little Italy); Rich La Rocca (Founder, Cinema Little Italy; Representative, House of Italy); Andrea and Margaret Cesarini (Representatives, Convivio); Elidie Strouse (Program and Development Director, Convivio)

We are grateful to the team members led by Luca Allieri at Il Fornaio restaurant in Coronado for their hospitality and generosity--the venue and meal were nothing short of spectacular.

In the coming months we will be setting up our work and office space, and we will keep you posted on when we hang out the shingle!

By the way, our coffee bar is coming soon to Amici House. When it’s ready, come down and have a cup and join us in conversation on all things Italian in San Diego.

Thank you all for your continued efforts in promoting and supporting our strong Italian presence in San Diego, and I look forward to the many collaborative ventures ahead.

"There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about." – Margaret J. Wheatley

With gratitude