Categories: Podcast

Scotto and Cessa New York Dynasty

In this engaging conversation, Graham Wingate shares his journey of exploring his Italian roots and family history, delving into the stories of his ancestors, particularly the Scotto and Sessa families. He discusses the challenges and discoveries in genealogy research, the impact of immigration on family identities, and the significance of cultural heritage. The conversation also touches on the use of modern technology and social media in uncovering family histories, as well as the personal connections that arise from understanding one’s lineage.

takeaways

Discovering your roots helps you find yourself.
Genealogy research can uncover fascinating family stories.
Names can change as families adapt to new cultures.
The journey of immigration shapes family identities.
Researching family history can reveal unexpected connections.
Modern technology aids in genealogy research.
Social media can be a valuable resource for family history.
Understanding family history can provide insights into personal identity.
Cultural heritage plays a significant role in family narratives.
The search for truth in genealogy can be challenging but rewarding.

Video

Biography

Blood Type Ragu – A Sicilian Family Story

In this engaging conversation, Bob Sorrentino interviews Frank Ingrasciotta, the creator of ‘Blood Type Ragu,’ exploring themes of Italian heritage, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience. Frank shares his family’s journey from Sicily to America, the challenges they faced, and the cultural nuances that shaped his identity. The discussion delves into the importance of storytelling in preserving family history, the differences in food traditions, and the emotional impact of reconnecting with family in Sicily. Frank’s

June 28, 2025 No Comments

Little Italy

Little Italy – New York

Click here to join Italian Genealogy Group on Facebook Wikipedia lists not one, but six “Little Italy’s” in New York City. Manhattan Italian Harlem Arthur Avenue Morris Park Bensonhurst Rosebank So NYC tops the list with the most. In addition, there were dozens of Italian neighborhoods in the five boroughs from the 1920’s to the 1970’s. Pockets still remain, but most of these areas are no longer populated by just Italians. For example, Little Italy

February 1, 2023 1 Comment

Podcast

Italians Swindled To New York

The unification of Italy in 1861 launched a new European nation promising to fulfill the dreams of Italians, yet millions of poor peasants still found themselves in economic desperation. By 1872, an army of speculators had invaded the countryside, hawking steamship tickets and promising fabulous riches in America. Thousands of immigrants fled to the New World, only to be abandoned upon arrival and forced to find work in hard labor. New York placed victims of

April 21, 2022 No Comments

Podcast

Growing Up Italian In New York City – Corona

Bob talks to Bob Puglisi about growing up in Corona Queens and how he came to write “Railway Avenue” and “Midnight Auto Supply.” Both are great reads and certainly a must for those from Corona. Bob Puglisi’s Story I’m just a kid from Queens (N.Y.) that’s where my story begins. I’ve had a varied background, including IT professional, actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and librarian. I was on stage in plays produced in Los Angeles and

October 29, 2021 No Comments

Biography

Growing Up In Corona Queens

Visit Our Shop Frank Marotta talks about growing up in Corona Queens and his book “Alterations To A Life Jacket” Seasoned New Yorker shares story of survival and self-discovery Born in Corona, Queens, Frank Marotta grew up in a four-room apartment with his family of eight. “I was born and raised on the mean streets of New York City in the 1950’s,” Marotta said. “Humble beginnings would be an understatement.” Marotta’s home life was rocky

August 30, 2021 No Comments

Biography

New York City Italian Families

Those of us that are baby boomers, and grew up to Italian families in the US, probably had some of the best times. I was blessed by having two great New York City Italian families. I always wanted to write a book about growing up, but now the blogging is so much better and you get instant feedback that you would not get in a book. My plan is to post more and more, especially

March 8, 2019 No Comments