Joe Arrigo developed a dream of sharing Leonardo da Vinci's creations with Colorado residents after a trip to France that he took years ago. The Leonardo da Vinci Museum of North America, of which Arrigo is the president and founding director, is slated to open in Pueblo in late spring. Arrigo's efforts to make the museum come to fruition and dedication to his community earned him the honor of "Italian American of the Year" at the annual "Bravo! Awards" ceremony in Denver on March 7.
Arrigo told the Chieftain that receiving the award was a "surprise" and an honor "that wasn't expected." "It really is an honor because it honors the work we're doing here with the da Vinci Museum and it's interesting that that many business people out of Denver recognized what's happening in Pueblo," he said.
