As I’ve been saying all week—and now I want to share with all of you—I firmly believe that a city thrives when its people come together to support restaurants, the arts, hotels, tourism, and local businesses. This week, with the Democratic National Convention in town, it’s a powerful reminder of how important it is for us to actively contribute to our city’s success. And while the convention may not immediately pack restaurants citywide, much like the Republican National Convention did in Milwaukee, the ripple effects of these events are long-lasting. They offer a stage for cities like ours to shine, and the ROI on that spotlight is far greater than just a few packed restaurants during the event.
Throughout the week, I’ve been doing my small part to contribute to challenging the all-too-common narrative about Chicago. I find that narrative exhausting—and, frankly, it’s not a true reflection of the vibrant, resilient city that I know. If we don’t lead by example and actively embody the change we want to see, then what are we really doing as people who proudly call ourselves Chicagoans? This is about more than just these four days of the convention, and it’s certainly about more than politics. For me, it’s a moment when Chicago gets to shine on a global stage. The weather has been perfect and Capital Police, Chicago Police and contributing partners have done a wonderful job keeping the city safe + clean and protests orderly (despite what some may have expected).
What we’ve seen this week is a postcard version of Chicago: a beautiful, thriving city that is working hard to change the conversation about who we are and what we represent. This convention offers us a chance to rebuild trust with visitors and to encourage tourism long after the event is over. And it’s not just about attracting outsiders—it’s also about reminding people within Illinois, especially those in the suburbs, that Chicago is special. It’s a city worth visiting, supporting, and helping to flourish because when Chicago wins, we all win.
On a personal level, I’m always cheering for Chicago to succeed—not just for my family, but for the 83 people I am responsible for at Gene & Georgetti, and for every entrepreneur and small business owner who makes their livelihood in this city. It’s no small feat to run a business here, and I know firsthand the dedication it requires. We are all part of this ecosystem, and we all play a role in helping Chicago continue to rise.
It was a true honor this week to attend so many wonderful events celebrating the convention’s presence in Chicago. The Illinois Restaurant Association, the National Restaurant Association, and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association each hosted fantastic gatherings. It’s always a pleasure to see Senator Richard Durbin and his incredible team—special shoutout to Clarisol Duque, who is doing such incredible work. I also had the chance to attend the Women’s Leadership Initiative with the Italian American Democratic Leadership Council (IADLC), where I was able to catch up with the Consulate General of Italy in Chicago, Thomas Botzios, and his lovely wife. Their service to our city has been exceptional, and they will truly be missed.
And of course, supporting the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) and the IADLC at the reception honoring Italian American convention delegates was a highlight of the week. It’s always a joy to reconnect with familiar faces and to meet new people who are passionate about our shared Italian American heritage. Meeting Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro was a special moment, and I felt such pride in seeing how our community comes together to celebrate both our roots and the future of our city.
On top of all that, I had the incredible opportunity to contribute my insights to Eater Chicago and the Chicago Sun-Times. Being featured in these publications allowed me to share my perspective on Chicago’s narrative—a narrative that we see far too often portrayed inaccurately or unfairly. It’s my hope that by participating in these conversations, I can help shift the focus back to what makes this city so great. Chicago is a place of resilience, grit, and beauty, and I’ll continue to do everything I can to ensure that the world sees that side of our city.
As this convention comes to a close, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride in Chicago. We needed this week to go well, and I believe it did. We needed this kind of light to be shined on our city, and I’m hopeful that it will continue to illuminate the best of Chicago long after the convention wraps up. I don’t know about you, but I want and need to see this city rise and shine in all its glory. I love Chicago deeply, and I’m always going to be in its corner, rooting for its success.
So, let’s keep supporting our local businesses, our artists, our restaurants, and our tourism. Let’s keep showing up for our city in every way we can. Because when Chicago wins, we all win—and that’s a future I want to see.
#ChicagoStrong #SupportLocal #ItalianPride #DNC2024
