The International Assembly of Cittaslow is moved to October

Message from the President Gian Luca Marconi

"Dear friends and fellow Mayors ofCittaslow International towns,

Everything was ready for our Assembly, enthusiasm, content, services, organisation, sponsors, over 200 already registered. But unfortunately our region is trembling, even though Emilia Romagna is considered at low seismic risk and no significant earthquakes have occurred for 500 years.

The damage caused by the earthquake 10 days ago was not great and was localised but yesterday (May 29, 2012) there were two further strong shocks that have put Emilia Romagna into a state of emergency. Fortunately, in Novellara, Scandiano, Castelnovo ne' Monti and the other Cittaslow towns in the region, there have been no great problems nor anyone injured. Nevertheless, from yesterday morning, our communities, the public safety and health services, voluntary associations and citizens are all working flat out to bring help to the neighbouring villages struck by the quake. 

In this spirit, and having spoken to Mayor Raul Daoli of Novellara, MayorAlessio Mammi of Scandiano and General Secretary Pier Giorgio Oliveti, as a mark of solidarity with the communities affected, we are going to move the date of our General Assembly to 20-21-22 October next. The Assembly will have the same location, the Province of Reggio Emilia, and the same programme in all its aspects that we have already sent out to you all. The new dates proposed have been chosen to coincide with the Salon of Taste / Terra Madre event inTurin (Italy) from 25 to 29 October 2012.

We apologise for the difficulties that this situation will cause you but force majeure has imposed this, the only responsible choice, on us. I thank everyone for their understanding and sympathy. The registration fees paid will be either reimbursed in full or retained if you choose to confirm your attendance on the new dates. Our Orvieto offices will be happy to provide you with any further information.

Kind regards to everyone,

 Gian Luca Marconi"