Culture: italian center opening called spectacular event

The opening of the Italian Cultural Institute was truly a spectacular event, as described by B. J. Palermo in your March 30 issue (“Italian Institute Makes a Glittery Debut.”) Each

participant--Italians and non-Italians alike--was warmly welcomed by Director Enzo Conigio and his cordial staff. Not only did I feel completely at home, having lived in Westwood for many

years, but it was a sort of going home again experience, which was uplifting. The center should be commended for having set an example for other ethnic groups to emulate. That is to say, to

set up an educational and artistic corner making their special contributions better known to Los Angelenos and visitors alike. We are, after all, as President John F. Kennedy pointed out, a

nation of immigrants, each of us contributing to the greatness of America, each in its own way. SHERRY TERZIAN _ Los Angeles_ MORE TO READ