It’s finally MAY! Beginning this month feels bizarre – we can’t believe we are almost halfway through the year. Here is a look at what we have been reading this week:

The Milan Expo 2015 kicks off this week!  The theme is “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life,” which we love.  ABC gives a good general outline on the logistics and focus of this particular Expo. The mission statement, from the website, says that “more than 140 participating countries will show the best of their technology that offers a concrete answer to a vital need: being able to guarantee healthy, safe and sufficient food for everyone, while respecting the Planet and its equilibrium.” Watch this space for the most delightful, innovative, and wacky products and ideas in the coming weeks!

The Economist chronicles divorce in Italy (legal since 1970) and the changing laws that are paving the way for an easier divorce today, in their article Arrivederci, darling.

The Huffington Post has compiled a list of the 5 cheapest Italian airports to fly into from the USA. Why not make this summer the one you experience all Italy has to offer…

The EU calls for olive trees infected by bacteria in Lecce to be cut down. Obviously this has elicited a tumultuous reaction, because destroying the trees has a huge economic (and historical) impact, but hesitation in doing so could result in an even greater blight. So far none of the bacteria has been detected in Umbria.

However, the swarm of flies caused by rising temperatures could return to our olive oil producers again this upcoming year. We are stoking up on oil for now. But if you are feeling a bit more proactive, why not adopt an olive tree for Mother’s Day? 

And we will leave you with some news from our home turf. Our monthly book club will meet on Tuesday at 7PM, for the classic The Name of the Rose. Please join us!

And later next week, we are delighted to host Liu Pambufetti for a free tasting of four Scacciadiavoli wines, and small bites of Umbrian cuisine, on Thursday, May 7 from 6:00 – 7:30pm. Learn more on our Facebook, and RSVP to elsa@viaumbria.com.

Ci Vediamo!

– Via Umbria