San Diego CA— The Little Italy Association of San Diego (LIA) will announce the opening of a brand new 500 square foot public piazza, Piazza Giannini on Thursday, Sept. 20, at 10 a.m. at the corner of India and West Cedar Streets. The community is invited to attend and celebrate the opening of Little Italy’s newest piazza with leaders, sponsors and community members. Piazza Giannini honors Amadeo Giannini, a distinguished Italian-American and Californian, who founded the Bank of Italy, which later transformed into one of the largest banks in the world, Bank of America. The dedication will include commencement words from dignitaries, community leaders and sponsor, Bank of America, as well as a ribbon cutting ceremony with refreshments and hors d’oeuvres.
“It’s very gratifying for Bank of America to be part of the Piazza Giannini unveiling which honors our founder A.P. Giannini. The Piazza Giannini will be seen daily by people who work, live and vacation in this vibrant community,” said Rick Bregman, San Diego market president, Bank of America. “It’s important for Bank of America, which started here as the Bank of Italy to continue our legacy of advancing San Diego’s economy by helping our customers lead financially stable lives.”
The ceremony will start with opening remarks from LIA Chief Executive Administrator, Marco Li Mandri, followed by LIA President, Steven J. Galasso. Guests will hear commencement words from LIA Legacy Committee Chair, Charles Coradino; Councilmember Chris Ward; Bank of America San Diego Market President, Rick Bregman and Our Lady of the Rosary’s Father Joe Tabigue.
“It is a great honor to provide a place that commemorates the life of one of the greatest bankers in history. Amadeo Giannini was a true pioneer and an accomplished Italian-American who introduced the concept of modern consumer banking and made a notable impact to our society,” said Marco Li Mandri, Little Italy Association’s chief executive administrator. “Creating an environment that welcomes residents and visitors to sit down and take in the beautiful atmosphere is a key goal of the Little Italy Association.”
Known as “America’s Banker,” Amadeo Giannini invented branch banking in the U.S. and the concept of “social equity” – equal access to goods and services for all. The new piazza will celebrate the legendary banker’s life and his contributions to society. Piazza Giannini will include a bust and monument telling Giannini’s story—sponsored by Bank of America, concrete planters with notable quotes by Giannini, bollards and tables and chairs with umbrellas to serve as a public space for residents and visitors to gather.
Major contributors to the project include Bank of America, The Hamm Family and The Hopper. To learn more about Piazza Giannini, visit www.littleitalysd.com/explore/piazza-giannini.