Three not Six Nations

Gathering of the Clans!

On the day of the Six Nation I'm writing about three, close to my heart, who came together yesterday in friendship and generosity!

I’ve been involved in the Scottish - Italian community in Glasgow for over 40 years now and the camaraderie and hospitality is both inspiring and refreshing. This week I brought together Glasgow, Falkirk, Italy and New York for my love of sincerity, generosity, good food, fashion and Tartan. 

An article in The Scotsman, about my friend Giovanna Eusebi’s Tartan Pasta, created for Burns Night, was picked up and shared on social media by NYC Tartan Week.  I then contacted  Giovanna and The President of the National Tartan Day New York Committee, Kyle Dawson suggesting she make this authentic and creative dish for him and before you could say “Venison Ragu” there we were, sitting around a table with a veritable feast for both the eyes and palate.

Kyle is also the treasurer for the The New York Caledonian Club which is ‘open to the world’!  I love this and desire the same for Scotland in these confusing, political times.  Established in 1856 the club provides Scottish and Americans countless opportunities for camaraderie and traditional representation in a multi-cultural and fabulously diverse city. 

The NYC Tartan Parade, which has now developed into a full week, celebrates its 20^th Anniversary this year.  This event in the New York calendar recognises and celebrates contributions made by Scots and Americans as they march through the street of Manhattan.  I was there last year and will be there again for the ‘Party’ on April 7th.  To be part of this event, with hundreds of piper and thousands of marchers enjoying this spectacle, as crowds cheer from the side-lines, is something every Scot should experience at least once!

Another spectacular which everyone should delight in, at least once a week, is the food on offer by Giovanni Eusebi and her team at Eusebi Deli on Park Road in the West End of Glasgow.  I’ve know the family for over thirty years and could never fault the service, food and kindness of this well-known and respected Italian family.  Having started the business with a deli in the East End of Glasgow over 40 years ago the business has gone from strength to authority in the Italian Hospitality trade in Glasgow!

The head of Clan Italia, Michael Lemetti popped over to say hello.  He is a relentless self-promotor  and the brainchild of this brand.  The pride was pouring out of his mouth and phone, showing us the photos of famous people wearing his tartan.  Along with his son Gianni they designed and developed The Italian National Tartan which was the first, ethnic tartan to be approved by the Scottish Tartan Authority in 2004.  Many famous people revere his work including Jim Kerr from Simple Minds, Paolo Nutini, Andrea Bocelli and many, many others.  

I’m actually trying to ‘cadge’ a frock for the up-and-coming Tartan Day Parade and The Food Awards Scotland!

So if you’re reading this Michael get on it! 
I know you can talk the talk so walk the walk!

The moral of this story is when we connect and support each other in all walks of life, business and industry, life is better and more fulfilling for everyone…everywhere. 

Take note world leaders. 

Life is healthier and more rewarding when we extend our invitation bringing everyone to the table because we all have something to share!

See you the next time!
Glasgow Girl

Credit to Terry Boyd for some of the photos!