I had always tried to identify the differences that should distinguish the Emilians from the Romagnols. Since I had always been welcomed warmly and sympathetically by both, I stopped asking myself this pointless question. It was always extremely pleasant and rewarding to work in these areas! Walking through the streets of downtown Reggio Emilia, that day I was struck by the smell of fresh bread coming from a store. I approached the window and was able to admire the tempting display of an incredible assortment of pastries arranged perfectly on white ceramic plates. In Verona, where I am from, the stores were still strictly traditional; there were no “contaminations.” The dairy shop sold milk, and the bakery sold bread. The idea of having a coffee at the bakery was unthinkable!