Several years ago I began digging for genealogy clues about my Italian great grandparents. They, like millions of others who emigrated from Southern Italy in the late 1800's and early 1900's, left their homeland with few possessions. Birth records, photographic details...

The official Italian stamp you see here is the seal of finality I've been waiting for.  I am now Italian, recognized as such since the time of my birth.  What's even more special is knowing my birth is registered in Forio, the same town where my great grandparents, Fra...

One year ago Philadelphia was making final preparations for Pope Francis' visit to the United States.  As I take a look back over the last year, and the social campaign I co-created to help announce his historic visit, I can't help but feel nostalgic about #PopeInPhill...

From Scalies to Scalise 

I was born Christa Ann Scalies but as of August 8, 2016 I am now Christa Ann Scalise. I am thrilled! 

Even though the correction from "es" to "se" is subtle, it's incredibly significant.  Why? Because now Italians and Americans of Italian descent...