Ready to uncover the rich tapestry of Italian and American genealogy? Join us as we embark on a fascinating journey with Jack and Mary Ciaccia, tracing Jack’s roots back to the regions of Taranto and Messina in Sicily, and Mary’s lineage to the early American settlers of Jamestown in 1608. Discover connections to notable figures like Daniel Boone and President Polk shape their family stories. We promise you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of our ancestries and the vibrant tales they tell.
But our exploration doesn’t stop with genealogy. We dive into the personal anecdotes that bring our diverse heritages to life, with the creation of their unique cookbook, “Paisanos and Pioneers.” Learn how growing up in ethnic neighborhoods and understanding Jack’s ancestors’ labor in textile mills have enriched his appreciation for our heritage. Blending multi-cultural backgrounds, they share how these rich cultures have influenced their lives and culinary traditions.
Finally, we celebrate the joy of family cooking, with a special focus on Italian and American recipes handed down through generations. Hear heartwarming stories of preparing meals like a venison roast on a hot plate and perfecting Italian desserts such as pastiera. Discover the collaborative spirit in our kitchen, where family recipes are preserved and cherished. Whether it’s homemade macaroni, meatballs, or legendary pizza from Leonard’s in Corona, this episode emphasizes the warmth and togetherness that family cooking brings to our lives. Don’t miss out on the secrets to creating these treasured dishes, now immortalized in their family cookbook available on Amazon!
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For over twenty-five years, Dawn has helped people create a dolce vita by connecting to their purpose and by continuing their legacy.
Ancestral Bonds and Literary Pursuits – Partinico Sicily
Imagine being born to the wail of tornado sirens on a North Dakota nuclear missile base—that’s the dramatic start to author Ryan Byrnes’ incredible journey which he shares with us. His life, shaped by the wanderlust of a military family and rooted in a rich Italian heritage, unfolds in a narrative as compelling as his fiction. Ryan’s quest for connection leads him from the vast American plains to the vibrant streets of Brooklyn. The heart
The Journey Home 2023 – Taranto
Click here to join out Facebook group Nico Piromallo, Matt Sorrentino, Bob Sorrentino, Roberto Piromallo, Francesco Piromallo Cousin Francesco’s shop in the piazza You may be asking yourself where is Taranto? It’s a port city and home to a large Italian navy base located in the instep of the boot. So why go there may be your next question. The reason for me was that my great uncle Enrico Piromallo, who was an admiral in
The Journey Home — Day 11 — Sciacca Sicily
Click here to join out Facebook group The trip to Sciacca got off to a rocky start as the van that was to take us failed to start. After about a 45 minute wait a new vehicle arrived and off we went for the roughly one hour drive. During the trip from Palermo, we were treated to excellent views of the coast, mountains and hills and valleys. As it was a Sunday, it’s hard to
Researching Nicolosi Sicily
Randall Di Stefano talks about his family from Nicolosi and how they settled in East Hampton Conn with some taking up the interesting trade of bell making. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video
Researching Limina Sicily
Visit Our Shop Actor/Write/Director Michael Cavalieri talks about finding his roots in Limina Sicily and the production of his award winning film “Ritornato The Movie“. Michael Cavalieri is an Actor and first time Writer/Director originally from New York. His Directorial Debut “Ritornato” which he also stars in was awarded a special grant by the Russo Brothers, the Directors of Avengers: Endgame (the highest grossing film of all time), the National Italian American Foundation and the
Researching Sicily and Campania
Visit Our Shop Bob talks to Paula Zichinchi-Manning about her research in Italy and the US and finding roots in Sicily and Campania. With some very interesting US stories about US citizens losing their citizenship when marrying immigrants and a pirate ancestor. Podcast Click here to join our group on Facebook Video Montouri Churchmen Paula and GG Great Grandfather Baker Books Paula sign Antonio Montuori, Emilia and Elisa (2)
