Pro Loco

One of the endearing aspects that came back with us is the idea of Pro Loco... We stumbled upon Pro Loco shirts as we strolled Ripatransone during one evening's wine tasting (pasatella). We asked one of Italian friends about the nature of the saying. In essence, Pro Loco is defined as "a volunteer, grass-roots organization... In some places though, a wider purpose has been taken on, that of promoting the town's products or tourism; and in some few cases, a very active and socially conscious Pro Loco will sponsor publications, scholarly research, or the restoration of local monuments." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pro_Loco

You see, we are a group grounded in using what we know (cooking, providing service) to further the growth of our students while, as we can, assist our community. The Pro Loco notion, (pro loco is a Latin phrase that may be roughly translated "in favor of the place") seems to work for us. While we are not sponsoring publications or research, we are, in essence, a grassroots organization trying to promote the betterment of our surroundings, our place if you will. So, Pro Loco works for us. It means local. It means supported by the group. It means for the betterment of our community.  It works for us. You may see Pro Loco stamped on some upcoming Cooks & Bakers and/or Culinary Arts happenings. Now you know.