Biography

Growing Up Italian American

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.

Podcast

Reviving Italian Folk Music: A Journey with Allaboara

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Anthony Taddeo from the Italian musical group Allaboara. They discuss Anthony’s Italian heritage, family roots, and the traditions that shaped his identity. The conversation delves into the discovery of Italian folk music, the formation of Allaboara, and the cultural impact of their performances. They explore regional variations in Italian folk music, the instruments used, and the evolution of the genre. The discussion highlights the importance of preserving cultural practices

March 21, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

The Journey Home — Day 6 — Torre del Greco and Boscotrecase

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

March 18, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

Wine By The Class – What are the types of wine?

In this conversation, Anthony Verdoni introduces the world of Italian wines, sharing his extensive experience in the wine business since 1971. He discusses the significance of Italian wines, the various types, and provides insights into wine production statistics. The conversation transitions into a detailed exploration of fortified and aromatized wines, focusing on Marsala and vermouth. Anthony shares insights into the history, production, and types of Marsala, a fortified wine from Sicily, and explores the characteristics

March 16, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

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

March 12, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

Tuscany Tresures

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

March 7, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

Uncovering Italian Roots in Calabria and Campania

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Lisa Gagliardo about her Italian roots and family history. Lisa shares her family’s immigration story, cultural traditions, and the challenges faced by her ancestors. The discussion highlights the importance of ancestry research and the connection to Italian heritage, as well as the experiences of growing up Italian American. Lisa reflects on her discoveries and aspirations to visit her family’s hometown in Italy, emphasizing the significance of maintaining cultural identity

February 27, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

Growing Up Italian: Food, Family, and Tradition

In this conversation, chef, author, and filmmaker Margie Raimondo shares her journey from a successful career in high tech to embracing her Italian roots through cooking. After a life-changing experience during 9/11, Margie reevaluated her life and moved to Arkansas, where she discovered a vibrant Italian community. She reflects on her childhood in an immigrant neighborhood, the importance of family traditions, and her culinary journey that took her to Italy, where she learned the art

February 22, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

The Northern Italian Experience in America

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Ernesto Milani, who shares his family’s migration story from Italy to the United States, particularly focusing on the early Italian immigrants in America. They discuss the correspondence between family members across the ocean, the establishment of Italian settlements in the Southern United States, and the significant role of mutual aid societies in supporting Italian immigrants. Ernesto also shares the poignant story of Rosa, an Italian immigrant who became a

February 9, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

Sicilian Citizenship Adventure

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Kristen Hertzog about her journey of relocating from the United States to Italy, exploring her family heritage, the challenges of obtaining dual citizenship, and the cultural differences she has encountered. Kristen shares her experiences of living in a small Italian village, the bureaucratic hurdles she faced, and the importance of language in building relationships. They also discuss the romanticized view of Italian life versus the reality, and how both

February 6, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

Italian Genealogy Extreme Records

In this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino and Daniel Niemiec delve into the intricate world of genealogy, exploring Daniel’s extensive research into his family history, which includes over 90,000 ancestors. They discuss migration patterns, the significance of family connections, and the emotional weight of discovering both extraordinary and tragic family stories. Daniel shares insights from his research, including the challenges of tracing lineage, the impact of historical events on family dynamics, and the fascinating tales of

January 31, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

Genealogy Tips – Katy Bodenhorn

In this conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Katy Bodenhorn, a professional genealogist, discussing her journey into genealogy, the importance of historical societies, and tips for aspiring genealogists. They explore the challenges and rewards of genealogy research, the significance of family stories, and the evolving landscape of genealogy with technology and DNA testing. Katy shares insights on her business, the services she offers, and the fascinating stories that emerge from genealogical research. Find Katy on Facebook Takeaways

January 23, 2025 No Comments

Podcast

Researching Porticello Sicily

In this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino and Carlo Treviso delve into the rich history and culture of Sicily, exploring Carlo’s personal journey of discovering his Sicilian roots and the inspiration behind his novel, Siciliana. They discuss the process of writing historical fiction, the significance of female protagonists, and the importance of preserving Italian culture and traditions in America. Takeaways • Carlo’s journey to Sicily sparked his interest in writing. • Sicilian culture was not fully

January 17, 2025 No Comments