But it goes beyond the event. After all, why do you frequent the same restaurant or even the same cafe? It's the atmosphere, people and energy in the room. Mr. Azemopoulos is one of those people that create and inspire the atmosphere. People accept his invitations because they enjoy being swept up in the energy, because they are guaranteed an evening they won't soon forget.
So when I got an invite to attend a Thursday night symposium about, of all things, olive oil and the historical influence its had throughout the Mediterranean, I cleared my schedule and went. It's not everyday I hear about the olive in a formal setting.
Held at the Royal Ontario Museum in downtown Toronto, this event was the result of four men consulting, organizing, uniting and sharing. Not surprisingly, it was the aforementioned Mr. Azemopoulos, Honorable Consul General of Greece in Toronto, who led the charge. Together with his Israeli, Italian and French counterparts, each spoke about their passion for the olive and the impact its played in their respective histories. A product that has played an important role within all Mediterranean cultures for several thousand years.
Yes it may sound a bit on the boring side to most. But after the speeches, lecture and performances, came the sampling. Greek, Israeli, French and Italian cuisine, wines and olive oils. A spread. A mean spread.
Hands were too greasy to handle a camera. Did I say greasy? I meant busy. I kept eating and drinking as usual. That's why there was only this picture I could muster from the event itself. And it was someone else who luckily took it.
Thanks for the invitation Mr. Azemopoulos. Let's do it again next year!
