Growing Up Italian American is a super book by Dr. Ferdinand Visco. Dr. V. gives us an inside look into the Baratta and Visco families that came to America to make a better life, and live the American dream. They had a goal for their children and grandchildren, many of whom became pharmacists and doctor’s. What is especially amazing, is that Dr. V. and I came from the same small town College Point, in Queens NYC! We lived only about a mile away, and never met, until we found each other on Facebook.
Dr. V gives the stories of his grandparents and parents and the values they instilled on their children. How they started businesses and became well known in their communities. While they never lost sight of their roots, they believed in America and it’s values.
Like most Italian American kids that grew up in the 40’s and 50’s, we share many of the same experiences, especially the food. Although Dr. V is a bit older than me, we can relate to so much. For example, we went to the same school, same church, knew the same teachers and priests. I must have walked past his home 1000 times, by Chisolm’s Park. And I know I went into his dad’s Pharmacy. Three things that hit home was his going to 42nd St with his mom and eating at the Automat. My dad worked for the NY Daily News and he would take me there too. Also, going to Corona to buy Italian food. They were shopping around the corner from my grandmother’s home.
Dr. V also talks about his experience in Med School in Italy ( I recently found a distant cousin that related similar stories ). He also worked at Flushing, St. John’s, St. Vincent’s Bronx Lebanon to name but a few. Some of his doctor stories are quite amusing.
Whether you grew up in NYC, Philly, Boston or any other immigrant Italian neighborhood in the world, this book is for you.
Buona Pasqua From Italian Genealogy
Buona Pasqua from Italian Genealogy. Hard to believe that we are in our seventh year. This year has been great. Pick up a copy of “Farmers and Nobles” Available here or on Amazon. Thank you and have a Happy Easter! Click here to Join Italian Genealogy on Facebook
From Stromboli to America: A Journey of Heritage
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In this engaging conversation, jazz singer Vanessa Racci shares her journey of exploring her Italian heritage and how it intertwines with her passion for jazz music. From her family’s roots in Puglia to her experiences growing up in New York, Vanessa reflects on the rich history of Italian Americans in jazz and the importance of preserving this cultural legacy. She discusses her musical projects that aim to revive Italian classics through jazz arrangements and highlights
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In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino engages with Dr. Gilda Rorro and Dr. Mary Rorro, a mother-daughter duo, to explore their Italian heritage and the significance of family roots. They share personal stories of immigration, the importance of reconnecting with their Italian roots, and the generational differences in experiencing Italian identity. The discussion also highlights the role of food in Italian culture, the challenges of preserving heritage for future generations, and the contributions of Italians to
Italian Wine Classes – FAST
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Click here to join out Facebook group The original plan for today was to make a quick late morning stop to the cemetery in Cercola to see where my great-grandfather, Nicola Piromallo was buried. However, at the lunch on June 4th my Zio Nicola (more about that later) told me that he wanted us to visit family in Torre del Greco. So we were able to work that into the schedule. Cercola is about 30
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The American Italian Heritage Museum
In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Phil DiNovo, the founder and executive director of the American Italian Heritage Museum. They discuss Phil’s Italian background, the journey of Italian immigrants, the values and traditions that have been passed down through generations, and the importance of preserving Italian heritage. Phil shares insights about the establishment of the museum, community engagement, and the significance of collecting and preserving artifacts that represent Italian culture. The conversation highlights the contributions
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In this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino speaks with Ilene and Gary Modica, authors of ‘Tuscany Treasures.’ They share their journey of obtaining dual citizenship through Gary’s grandfather, their experiences living in Lucca, and the process of selecting the perfect Italian town. The Modicas discuss their unique approach to writing a guidebook focused on local festivals and traditions, as well as the importance of experiencing the authentic Italian culture found in smaller towns. They also provide
