Slow Food New Orleans has established an internship agreement with the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenzo, Italy.   UNISG was founded in 2004 by Slow Food International and the regional government of Piedmont Italy. Ruben Novello, a 23 year old graduate of UNISG, will be the first intern to come to New Orleans.  This internship is the first in what we hope to be many exchange programs between UNISG and Slow Food NOLA.

Slow Food NOLA is seeking housing for Ruben from March 1, 2013 until the end of May, 2013.   Please contact Slow Food NOLA Chair Gary Granata (gary@performwell.net) if you would like to host Ruben and assist Slow Food NOLA in furthering our partnership with UNISG.

Ruben is a native of Torino Italy and will be working to develop the Snail of Approval program in New Orleans.   The Snail of Approval program was created by Slow Food NYC to recognize businesses that align with Slow Food’s mission of Good, Clean and Fair food.   Ruben has experience with the Snail of Approval program and will be a great asset to implementing this program in New Orleans.   Ruben will also assist with Slow Food NOLA’s food demonstration tent and programming at the Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo Festival.

Slow Food NOLA’s next chapter meeting is Monday, January 14, 7p at the Hollygrove Market & Farm, 8301 Olive Street.   We hope to be joined by a special guest Richard McCarthy, founding member of the New Orleans Market Umbrella and newly named Executive Director of Slow Food USA.  Please plan to attend and help plan the fabulous events we have planned for the Spring.