SHOWING THEIR ITALIAN SIDE

We asked some well- known Italian Montrealers: What’s the most Italian thing about you?

Frank Cavallaro, CBC weather presenter:

“The most I talian thing about me i s me. I ’ ve been speaking Italian since I was a kid. I’ve visited Italy at least 20 times. I try to always buy Italian clothes, shoes and accessories. My favourite sport is soccer, Italian soccer. When you see or talk to me, you know right away how much I enjoy being Italian. I have green, white and red everywhere at home and at work. Being Canadian and I talian — I was born here, but I have my Italian citizenship — allows me to say I’m a proud Canadian/Italian.”

Marco Calliari, singersongwriter and Italian Week spokesperson:

“The funny answer: my nose. The serious answer: I live my life through Italian music, so my Italian music.”

Antonia Maioni, professor at McGill University:

“The most Italian thing about me is that I identify with — and maintain robust links with — a region, hometown and family in Italy, rather than as an “Italian” or an “Italian Montrealer” per se.”

Marianna Simeone, broadcaster and public speaker:

“My temperament, my taste and my talk. I speak Italian everyday, anywhere I possibly can. I adore the language and use it any opportunity I have.”

Terry DiMonte, radio host:

“I would say the most Italian thing about me is my passion, for my work, for my family, for a good bottle of wine, a great painting and, of course, great food. It’s what makes me talk with my hands and helps drive me. The first time I was in Italy more than 15 years ago, I think that came to light.”