In 1930, immigrant families banded together to create the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), now one of the most prominent and financially successful Italian American organizations in the nation. In the last decade, we built a 730,000-strong social media community, grew our not-for-profit fraternal association, ISDA Financial Life, to nearly a half billion dollars in member assets, co-founded the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF), and launched the fastest-growing Italian American publication (La Nostra Voce). 

The post All-Electric Ferrari: Progress or Heresy? appeared first on Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

A sun-drenched view of the Umbertino Bridge (Ponte Umbertino), the historic bridge connecting Ortigia to mainland Syracuse.

By Francesca Montillo, ISDA Food + Travel Writer

I have always felt a deep connection to Eastern Sicily — and to Sicily as a whole. Of all Italy’s regions, Sicily feels the most genuine to me. I know the word authentic has become somewhat overused in travel writing, but there is simply no better way to describe this island. Perhaps it’s because I’m Southern myself, born in neighboring Calabria, or because my grandmother, Rosina, was Sicilian. Whatever the reason, Sicily has always felt deeply familiar to me.

I often tell people that Sicily has an attitude — a kind of “take us as we are, or don’t come at all” spirit. While some of Italy’s northern regions polish and perfect themselves for visitors, Sicily doesn’t perform. It welcomes you warmly, generously, and wholeheartedly, but never at the expense of its identity. It is raw, vibrant, chaotic (in the best possible way), and alive with energy around every corner. What Northern Italy may offer in refinement and elegance, Sicily offers in soul, realism, and intensity. And that is exactly why I love bringing travelers here.

Sicily is the Italy you discover after you think you already know the country. It’s for travelers ready to experience a different side of this extraordinary country — one that is layered, emotional, deeply historic, and unforgettable.

Syracuse

Syracuse — or Siracusa in Italian — is a city that effortlessly satisfies every kind of traveler. As Sicily’s fourth-largest city and one of its most beloved destinations, Syracuse offers a captivating blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and unforgettable cuisine. Its shimmering sea enchants visitors, its layered history fascinates scholars, and the food alone is reason enough to make the journey.

It is lively and sophisticated enough to offer endless experiences, yet approachable and easy to navigate — even for travelers visiting Italy or Sicily for the very first time. Guests quickly feel comfortable wandering its streets, independently, soaking in the atmosphere at their own pace.

The city stretches partly across the mainland and partly onto the enchanting island of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, which is connected by bridge to the rest of the city. Because of this unique geography, Syracuse is often called “the island within the island.”

Its streets are a beautiful collision of medieval charm and Baroque grandeur. Sunlit piazzas, narrow winding lanes, elegant palaces, and ancient facades make the city feel suspended in time. From its stunning coastline and archaeological treasures to its vibrant open-air cafés and restaurants serving extraordinary Sicilian cuisine, Syracuse captures everything that has made Sicily one of the world’s most magnetic destinations.

Ortigia

Ortigia is the historic heart and soul of Syracuse. Stretching just over half a mile, this small island represents the oldest part of the city and captivates visitors with its timeless beauty, layered history, and undeniable charm. Connected to the mainland by the Ponte Umbertino and Ponte Santa Lucia, Ortigia feels wonderfully removed from the bustle of modern traffic while remaining effortlessly accessible.

To wander through Ortigia is to step into a living, open-air museum. Its maze of ancient streets and small historic quarters reveal centuries of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, and Baroque influence woven together into one extraordinary place. Among its most iconic landmarks is the magnificent Cathedral of Syracuse, built directly upon the remains of an ancient Greek temple. The cathedral beautifully reflects the island’s complex past, blending multiple architectural styles into one breathtaking structure.

Other remarkable sites include Castello Maniace, the imposing Swabian-Norman fortress overlooking the sea; the elegant Church of Santa Lucia alla Badia; the ancient Temple of Apollo; and the remnants of the Temple of Athena, still embedded within the cathedral itself. Yet the true social heart of Ortigia is Piazza Archimede, where the stunning Fountain of Diana — created in 1907 by sculptor Giulio Moschetti — anchors the lively square with dramatic beauty and mythological symbolism.

Noto

Noto is one of Eastern Sicily’s most dazzling treasures and an absolute must-visit while exploring this part of the island. Often referred to as the capital of Sicilian Baroque, Noto is celebrated for its extraordinary beauty, elegance, and architectural harmony. Its historic center was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, and the moment you arrive, it is easy to understand why.

Although Noto’s origins are ancient, the city visitors see today is largely the result of an extraordinary reconstruction effort following the devastating earthquake of 1693, which destroyed much of southeastern Sicily. What emerged from that tragedy was a masterpiece of Baroque urban design, a city built in warm golden stone that seems to glow in the Sicilian sunlight.

At the heart of Noto stands the magnificent Noto Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of San Nicolò. It is the unmistakable symbol of the city and one of my favorite places to revisit whenever I am in the area. The cathedral’s grand sandstone façade, framed by twin bell towers and approached by a sweeping staircase, creates one of the most breathtaking scenes in all of Sicily. Inside are important works of art, some rescued from Noto Antica, the original medieval city destroyed in the earthquake. Flanking the cathedral are the elegant Palazzo Vescovile and Palazzo Landolina, which add even more grandeur to the piazza.

Another gem not to be missed is the beautiful Church of Santa Chiara, one of the finest examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture. Completed in 1758 and once connected to the convent of the Benedictine Sisters, the church is filled with graceful decorative details and quiet elegance. Today, the adjoining convent houses the Civic Museum of Noto. But perhaps the greatest reward is climbing to the church’s terrace, where sweeping panoramic views over Noto’s honey-colored rooftops unfold before you. At sunset, when the entire city is bathed in golden light, the view is nothing short of unforgettable.

Modica

Modica is another extraordinary jewel tucked into the hills of the Val di Noto and one of southeastern Sicily’s most captivating destinations. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its remarkable Baroquearchitecture, Modica enchants visitors with its dramatic beauty, rich history, exceptional cuisine, and timeless atmosphere. Like nearby Noto, the city was largely rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, yet despite its reconstruction, wandering through Modica still feels like stepping into another era.

The best way to experience the city is simply to walk it. Lose yourself among its narrow alleyways, stone staircases, hidden courtyards, and sun-kissed piazzas, where daily life unfolds much as it has for centuries. Built across steep hillsides, Modica rises in layers of golden stone, creating one of the most striking landscapes in all of Sicily. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the breathtaking Cathedral of San Giorgio, perhaps the most recognizable image of Modica itself. Perched majestically at the top of an imposing 260-step staircase, the cathedral watches over the city like a crown. Its dramatic façade and commanding position make it one of the masterpieces of Sicilian Baroque architecture and one of the most unforgettable sights in the region.

And then, of course, there is the city’s most famous treasure: Modica chocolate. Known around the world, Modica’s chocolate is unlike any other. Made using an ancient cold-processing technique introduced centuries ago, the sugar crystals remain intact rather than fully dissolving, giving the chocolate its signature grainy, almost crunchy texture. Flavors such as cinnamon, carob, jasmine, citrus, and even chili pepper add depth and complexity to every bite. I always bring home several bars whenever I visit, and without fail, my family says the same thing: it tastes unlike any chocolate they have ever had before.

Ragusa

Ragusa is another extraordinary Sicilian gem that quietly waits to be discovered. Ironically, despite its remarkable beauty and rich history, Ragusa remains less visited than many of Sicily’s more famous destinations — and that is precisely part of its charm. Its relative lack of mass tourism allows visitors to experience a more authentic, unhurried side of Sicily, making it one of the island’s most rewarding places to explore.

Like many cities in southeastern Sicily, Ragusa was devastated by the catastrophic earthquake of 1693. In the years that followed, local architects and noble families rebuilt the city in spectacular Baroque style. What makes Ragusa especially unique, however, is that it was reconstructed in two distinct sections, creating a fascinating dual identity that still defines the city today.

The original historic center, known as Ragusa Ibla, was rebuilt on the ancient site where the Ragusan nobility chose to return after the earthquake. This is the soul of Ragusa — a maze of winding lanes, stone staircases, elegant Baroque palaces, hidden churches, and breathtaking viewpoints. At its heart stands the magnificent Cathedral of San Giorgio, one of the finest masterpieces of Sicilian Baroque architecture and the unmistakable symbol of the city. Wandering through Ragusa Ibla feels almost cinematic, as though time has paused somewhere between past and present.

Above it lies Ragusa Superiore, the newer and more modern part of the city. Here, broad avenues, elegant buildings, and a more contemporary atmosphere contrast beautifully with the ancient charm of Ibla below. Together, these two worlds create one of Sicily’s most fascinating urban landscapes — a city suspended between old and new, tradition and reinvention.

Taormina

Taormina has long been considered one of Sicily’s most glamorous and beloved destinations, and it is easy to understand why. Perched dramatically above the Ionian Sea, with breathtaking coastal views, lush landscapes, and an extraordinary mix of historical, cultural, and archaeological treasures, Taormina possesses a beauty that is almost otherworldly. In recent years, its international allure has only grown thanks to the popularity of the television series The White Lotus, which introduced a new generation of travelers to its timeless charm.

For centuries, Taormina has captivated poets, writers, artists, and travelers from around the world. Its elegant atmosphere and spectacular scenery have also made it a favorite retreat for internationally renowned celebrities, all drawn by the city’s unique combination of sophistication and old-world Sicilian beauty.

At the center of daily life is Corso Umberto I, the town’s lively main street. Stretching between Porta Messina to the north and Porta Catania to the south, this historic pedestrian avenue cuts through the heart of Taormina and serves as its social and cultural backbone. Lined with boutiques, artisan shops, cafés, restaurants, and elegant storefronts, the Corso hums with energy from morning until late into the evening. Named after King Umberto I of Savoy, it has become one of Sicily’s most iconic promenades, where visitors from every corner of the world gather to stroll, shop, dine, and simply absorb the atmosphere.

Yet beyond its fashionable façade, the Corso also reveals the city’s layered history. Architectural details and artistic remnants from different eras appear around nearly every corner, while narrow side streets branch off unexpectedly into quiet hidden alleys. These smaller lanes offer a welcome escape from the crowds and reward curious wanderers with panoramic terraces, medieval churches, flower-filled courtyards, and glimpses of ancient ruins that seem suspended in time.

What to Eat in Sicily 

Sicily offers a rich culinary tradition that combines Mediterranean, Arab, and Spanish influences. Many gastronomic specialties of Sicily are worth enjoying. Below are a few of my favorites:

Seafood: As an island, it’s no surprise that Sicily is famous for its fresh fish dishes. Among the specialties, there is pasta with sardines (pasta with anchovies, pine nuts and raisins), and swordfish alla ghiotta (swordfish with tomatoes, olives, capers, and oregano). Try also the grilled fresh tuna.

Arancini: Arancini are balls, or pyramids, of rice stuffed and fried. Common variants include:

• Arancini al ragù (stuffed with meat).
• Arancini al burro (stuffed with butter or béchamel, mozzarella, and diced cooked ham).
• Arancini with pistachio (stuffed with pistachio pesto and cheese).

Fried cauliflower: This specialty of Syracuse is also known as “poached cauliflower.” The cauliflower is first boiled and then dipped in a light batter, then fried until golden brown. It is often served with lemon sauce.

Anelletti Al Forno: Anelletti are typical Sicilian ring-shaped pasta cooked in the oven. Anelletti are usually prepared with meat sauce, eggplants, peas, and cheese. It is a delicious and hearty dish that will delight the palate.

Sweets and other Goodies:

Sweets: Sicily is a mecca for sweets. If you have a sweet tooth like I do, this alone is a valid reason to visit the island! Try the Sicilian cassata (ricotta cake, candied fruit, and almond paste) or ricotta cannoli. The marzipansweets made with almond paste are also delicious.

Citrus fruits: Sicily is renowned for its citrus fruits, especially oranges. Tarot and blood oranges are typical varieties of Sicily. They are juicy and aromatic, perfect to be enjoyed fresh or used in preparing drinks and desserts. A spremuta is freshly squeezed orange juice famous in Sicily and ideal at breakfast.

Wine: Italy, of course, is known for its quality wines, and Sicily is no exception. Here, in particular, you’ll find the famous Moscato wine of Syracuse, a sweet and aromatic wine. Other local wines, such as Nero d’Avola or Inzolia, are worth tasting!

An ISDA member and longtime contributor, Francesca is a native Italian living in Boston. An avid cook and baker, she is a culinary instructor who loves teaching others how to prepare simple, approachable Italian dishes. She is also the proud owner of Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures that features week-long culinary trips throughout Italy. Learn more at thelazyitalian.com.

 

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The effort will extend from national teams to flag football for youth, women and girls. And, the initiative aims to spread recognition of the Browns brand through FIDAF-led activities, including camps, clinics, tournaments and emerging programming.

The announcement comes as the Browns hire new head coach Todd Monken and break ground on a new $2.6 billion enclosed stadium set to open in the summer of 2029 — all in a bid to literally rebuild the once-dominant, yet still beloved, team from the ground up.

The news comes as another American football league in Italy, the ILF (Italian Football League), continues to elevate the sport with several branded teams, playoffs and an “Italian Bowl,” which was hosted in Ohio the past two years and will be held at Paolo Mazza Stadium in Ferrara, Italy, on July 4, 2026.

The ILF, which is affiliated with FIDAF, has been around for almost 50 years, and was even the subject of a John Grisham novel, Playing for Pizza, and was featured in The New York Times last fall.

Despite still being in the shadow of European football, the American version’s popularity is emerging and the gridiron’s footprint in Italy traces back to WWII when American soldiers would hold pickup games — like the famed Spaghetti Bowl.

Get a history of the game in Italy here: 

In 1930, immigrant families banded together to create the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), now one of the most prominent and financially successful Italian American organizations in the nation. In the last decade, we built a 730,000-strong social media community, grew our not-for-profit fraternal association, ISDA Financial Life, to nearly a half billion dollars in member assets, co-founded the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF), and launched the fastest-growing Italian American publication (La Nostra Voce). 

The post American Football in Italy? Cleveland Browns Ink Partnership to Spread Game Throughout the Boot appeared first on Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

For generations, Italian citizenship by descent (“jure sanguinis” or “right of blood”) was widely understood as a birthright, extending across multiple generations of the diaspora and dating back to Italy’s formation in 1861. For millions of Italian Americans, that principle formed the basis of a deeply personal connection to their ancestral homeland.

This article first appeared in the May 2026 edition of La Nostra Voce, ISDA’s monthly newspaper that chronicles Italian and Italian American news, history, culture and recipes. Subscribe today!

However, the overhaul of this longstanding legal principle is the result of a series of developments that have unfolded over the past two years.

In late 2024, Italy’s Ministry of the Interior introduced a controversial administrative interpretation often referred to as the “minor issue.” Under this view, if the parent of an Italian child born abroad naturalized while the child was a minor, with them becoming, for example, U.S. citizens, then that act would sever the line of descent. The sudden implementation of the issue cut off those whose applications for Italian citizenship were already in progress. The court is now weighing the legality of the introduction of the minor issue through a handful of cases, two of which include Italian American families, according to Newsweek.

A second, more sweeping change followed on March 28, 2025, when Italy enacted reforms to citizenship law commonly known as the Tajani Decree, named after Italian Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani. The measure narrowed eligibility by limiting recognition to those with an Italian parent or grandparent, while cutting off many claims through more distant ancestors that had long been accepted.

Taken together, these developments marked a significant departure from a system that had historically treated citizenship as something inherited, rather than constrained by generational limits or shifting legislative policies.

Now, courts are weighing not only whether these new limits are lawful, but whether they can be applied to individuals whose claims were previously considered valid, including citizenship applications that were already in process, according to the Associated Press.

In the coming months, Italy’s highest court for civil matters, the Corte Suprema di Cassazione (Italy’s Supreme Court), will hear challenges over the minor issue. These applicants will argue that citizenship by descent is not something granted upon application, but something possessed at birth and merely recognized through a legal process. From that perspective, they contend, the state cannot strip individuals of a status they previously held, and that those affected should only include people born after the new restrictions took effect last year.

The government, by contrast, maintains that it has the authority to define and limit the recognition of citizenship claims, particularly in response to administrative strain and evolving national priorities.

On June 9, the Italian Constitutional Court is scheduled to hear a significant case addressing the broader validity of the Tajani Decree and its introduction of generational limits on jure sanguinis citizenship.

If the courts determine that the new restrictions cannot be applied retroactively, the decision could preserve eligibility not only for pending applicants, but for hundreds of thousands, if not millions of people across the Italian diaspora who would have qualified under prior interpretations (even if they had not yet begun the citizenship application process).

Conversely, if the court sides with the government’s interpretation, the new limits will likely stand as a firm boundary, closing the door on dual citizenship for many Italian Americans.

More Than a Legal Question

“For Italian Americans, the issue extends beyond legal technicalities. Applicants often spend years assembling documentation, tracing lineage through generations and navigating a complex bureaucratic process. For many, recognition of citizenship represents not only a legal status, but a reaffirmation of identity: a tangible link to family history, culture and tradition,” said ISDA National President Basil M. Russo, who is working with U.S. Congressmen Tom Suozzi (D-NY) and Mike Rulli (R-OH), from the Italian American Congressional Delegation, and meeting with leaders of the Italian government, to petition for a rollback of the restrictions.

Either way, the outcome will carry significant consequences, not only for those currently seeking recognition, but for how Italian citizenship itself is understood in the 21st century.

For the Italian American community, the moment is pivotal.

What has long been viewed as an inheritance, passed from one generation to the next, now stands at the crossroads of law and policy; its future to be decided in the courts over the next several months, or perhaps even sooner.

In 1930, immigrant families banded together to create the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), now one of the most prominent and financially successful Italian American organizations in the nation. In the last decade, we built a 730,000-strong social media community, grew our not-for-profit fraternal association, ISDA Financial Life, to nearly a half billion dollars in member assets, co-founded the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF), and launched the fastest-growing Italian American publication (La Nostra Voce). 

The post Italy’s Dual Citizenship Debate Enters a Defining Moment appeared first on Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

I’m 54 and I still play soccer once or twice a week without fail. Not because I think I’m a star, but because that ball (made of hard leather back then) has never left my side since I was a young kid in Rome, in Monteverde, when we used to play in the street until dark.

No coaches, no set plays, no one yelling at you what to do every second, except for my mom. At 8 o’clock sharp, from the balcony of my apartment, she would scream, “Marco, stop playing, it’s dinner time!” Great times. That was free, instinctive, sometimes chaotic soccer, but it built character like nothing else. That’s where you truly learned: you’d try a dribble 10 times and fail eight, but those two successful ones made you feel alive.

This article first appeared in the May 2026 edition of La Nostra Voce, ISDA’s monthly newspaper that chronicles Italian and Italian American news, history, culture and recipes. Subscribe today!

But it wasn’t just that. You’d try a chip shot for no reason, a backheel just to make your friends laugh and blow them away, or a no-look pass like Francesco Totti: those slightly crazy moves that didn’t always work out. It was soccer made of imagination, instinct, and freedom.

Today I look at Italian soccer, our Serie A, and I struggle to recognize that spirit. And you don’t need to be a player, a coach, or an analyst to notice it. I’m certainly no expert. I don’t have coaching licenses, and I haven’t written books on tactics. I’m simply a passionate fan, a lifelong supporter of my team, AS Roma, someone, like many, who lives and breathes soccer. And maybe it’s precisely from this genuine and simple perspective that the issues stand out even more clearly.

A while ago, I saw a report on Sky Sport that got me thinking. Among all the major leagues in the world, including the European ones, Serie A is near the bottom for both attempted and successful dribbles. Less than the Premier League, less than La Liga, and even less than Major League Soccer.

And so, you ask yourself: how is this even possible?

Because dribbling isn’t just a statistic. It is an important indicator, but it’s also a powerful language. It’s the courage to try something. But along with dribbling, other things are disappearing too: the chip shot when no one expects it, the backheel that opens up the game, the Totti-style no-look pass made up on the spot, the kind of play that makes you jump off the couch. In Spain, you still see players constantly risking the one-on-one. In the Premier League, it’s normal to see wingers take on their man 10 times a game. Even in Major League Soccer, which used to be considered inferior and suffers from many of the same issues as Italian soccer, today you find a bit more rhythm, courage, and individual initiative. In Italy, too often, you see the opposite: control it, lay it off, drop it back. Safety first. Long diagonal balls from one side to the other. But very little creativity.

And this doesn’t start in Serie A. It starts much earlier. It starts on the street and on the youth soccer fields.

Today in Italy, kids play to win at 10 years old. At 11. At 12. And to win, coaches pick the biggest, most developed, and most physically ready kids. The safe and large players. The smaller kid, who might be more technically gifted, gets left behind. Not because he isn’t good, but because at that moment he is less dominant. This is where a globally known phenomenon comes into play, the “relative age effect”: those born in the first months of the year have an advantage because they are bigger than their peers born at the end of the year. And coaches, often without even realizing it, pick them. They play them, help them grow, and let them gain experience. The others, often smaller or younger, stay on the bench. All that matters is winning the local or neighborhood tournament. That way, the parents and the coaches are happy.

So it makes you wonder: if guys like Francesco Totti or Alessandro Del Piero, who were both born toward the end of the year, were growing up in this system today, would they have had the same chances? Or would they have been considered too small, too fragile, and pushed aside? It’s an uncomfortable question, but a necessary one.

On top of all this, there is another element that, in my opinion, is doing massive damage: the obsession with defense and tactics. In Italy, we’ve always been good at defending and tactics; it’s part of our soccer identity. But today, we’ve gone overboard. Tactics have become an obsession that starts as early as 7 or 8 years old. Children who are supposed to be having fun are filled with set plays, positioning, and chores. “Play simple,” “don’t take risks,” “don’t lose the ball.” But also: “no backheels,” “no chip shots,” “no weird moves.” Basically: zero imagination.

This creates a player who is organized and disciplined, but predictable. And when you get to the international level, predictability kills you. Because in the meantime, everyone else has kept nurturing unpredictability too.

Then there’s the system, namely the FIGC (Italian Football Federation). An outdated structure that is still too tied to old ways of thinking. It’s not enough to just change a president or a couple of directors. If you truly want change, you must step in at the key points, with the people who actually make the decisions. It’s not about destroying everything, but about having the courage to profoundly overhaul ideas, methodologies, and priorities.

Another aspect people rarely talk about, but that carries massive weight, is the steady disappearance of Italian players from top teams. Today in Serie A, around 70% of the minutes are played by foreigners, which is among the highest percentages in Europe. In some matches, less than a third of the starters are Italian. This isn’t just a feeling; it’s a fact. And this inevitably shrinks the pool the National Team can draw from.

The reasons are varied. On one hand, there is the global market, which makes it easier and often more cost-effective to buy players from abroad. On the other hand, there’s a system that prefers immediate results over the long term: it’s easier to buy a ready-made player than to wait for an Italian kid and help him grow. And yes, economic interests, commissions, and dynamics between clubs and agents play a role in this mechanism too. But the point isn’t to look for one single scapegoat. The point is that the result is right in front of us: fewer Italians playing at a high level means fewer Italians becoming champions. And in the end, when it is time to step up for the National Team, that is where you pay the price.

Years ago, after Italy was knocked out in the 2010 group stage, Roberto Baggio worked on a massive project to reform Italian youth soccer. A document of a solid 900 pages, full of ideas, concrete proposals, and common sense. The core idea was simple: we need a national plan, a shared vision, that puts talent and player development at the center, not immediate results. That work, however, was largely ignored. Baggio essentially stepped down from his role as an advisor. And that says a lot. The paradox is that talent has never been lacking in Italy. You just must look at our history. We’ve had Andrea Pirlo, Roberto Baggio himself, Francesco Totti, Alessandro Del Piero. Players capable of inventing soccer out of nowhere. An impossible through ball, a backheel that puts a teammate clean through on goal, a no-look assist, or a chip shot that humbles the goalkeeper. Today, you see these plays less and less. Not because they have disappeared, but because fewer and fewer players are encouraged to try them.

And sure enough, the results are there for everyone to see. The struggles of the national team, the disappointments, the eliminations that hurt so much. These aren’t accidents. They are consequences.

But heed my word: it’s not all doom and gloom! Far from it. And this is where I want to talk to those who, like me, have Italian roots but might live in America and to anyone who feels part of this culture even from a distance. Because it is easy to forget where we come from when times get tough.

We come from an incredible history. Italy has won four World Cups: in 1934, 1938, 1982, and 2006. We have won two European Championships, in 1968 and 2021. We are one of the most successful and respected national teams in the history of soccer. That isn’t just a minor detail; it is our identity. It is pure italian pride.

And that Euro 2021 title wasn’t a miracle. It was the result of a group that, for a moment, rediscovered its enthusiasm, quality, and courage. They played without fear. They took risks. At times, they even played with simple imagination.

This means that we can make a comeback. It’s not a genetic problem, and it’s not that “we don’t have it anymore.” It is simply a matter of choices.

We need to bring soccer back to its essence, especially for the youth. Let the kids be free to make mistakes, to try things, and to have fun. Allow them not just to take on defenders, but to attempt a chip shot, a backheel, an imaginative no-look pass, or a move born entirely out of instinct. We need to train coaches who understand this. We need a federation that has the courage to truly change and get more Italians playing in Serie A.

I still play in my friendly matches. And every now and then, I still try to do something different: a dribble, a chip shot, or an imaginative pass that maybe doesn’t work out as well as it used to. But when it does happen, for a split second, I am that young kid from Monteverde again whose mom was yelling from the balcony. And I think that soccer, deep down, should still be exactly that. If we can manage to remember this, and if we have the humility and intelligence to change a few things, then maybe this isn’t an inevitable decline, but just a phase.

Because talent in Italy has never run out. It just needs to be set free to express itself. And maybe, the next time a young kid tries to take a man on or make a risky pass, instead of yelling “stop that and pass the ball!”, the coach from the bench will have the audacity to scream: “Awesome move! Try it again!”

Italian translation: 

Ho 54 anni e continuo imperterrito a giocare a calcio una o due volte a settimana. Non perché pensi di essere un campione, ma perché quel pallone (all’epoca di cuoio duro) non mi ha mai lasciato da quando ero ragazzino a Roma, a Monteverde, quando si giocava per strada fino a sera. Senza allenatori, senza schemi, senza qualcuno che ti urlasse cosa fare ogni secondo, tranne mia mamma. Alle 8 in punto, dal balcone del mio appartamento, urlava “Marco, basta giocare, e’ ora di cena !” Bei tempi. Quello era un calcio libero, istintivo, a volte caotico, ma tremendamente formativo. È lì che imparavi davvero: provavi il dribbling dieci volte, ne riuscivano due, ma quelle due ti facevano sentire vivo. Ma non era solo quello. Provavi il pallonetto senza motivo, il colpo di tacco per far ridere e stupire gli amici, il passaggio no-look alla Francesco Totti, quelle giocate un po’ folli che magari non sempre riuscivano. Era un calcio fatto di fantasia, di istinto, di libertà.

Oggi guardo il calcio italiano, la nostra Serie A, e faccio fatica a riconoscere quello spirito. E non serve essere un calciatore, un allenatore o uno studioso per accorgersene. Io non sono certo un esperto. Non ho patentini, non ho scritto libri di tattica. Sono semplicemente un appassionato, tifoso romanista della mia squadra AS Roma da sempre, uno che il calcio lo vive. E forse proprio da questa posizione genuina e semplice i problemi si vedono ancora più chiaramente.

Qualche tempo fa ho visto un servizio su Sky Sport che mi ha fatto riflettere. Tra tutti i principali campionati del mondo, inclusi quelli europei, la Serie A è tra quelli con meno dribbling tentati e riusciti. Meno della Premier League, meno della La Liga, meno perfino della Major League Soccer. E allora ti chiedi: com’è possibile?

Perché il dribbling non è solo una statistica. È un indice importante ma anche un linguaggio. È il coraggio di provare qualcosa. Ma insieme al dribbling spariscono anche altre cose: il pallonetto quando nessuno se lo aspetta, il colpo di tacco che apre il gioco, il passaggio alla Totti inventato senza guardare, quello che ti fa alzare dal divano. In Spagna vedi ancora giocatori che rischiano costantemente l’uno contro uno. In Premier League è normale vedere esterni che puntano l’uomo dieci volte a partita. Anche nella Major League Soccer, che una volta veniva considerata inferiore, e che soffre di problematiche simili a quelle italiane, oggi trovi un po’ più di ritmo, coraggio, iniziativa individuale. In Italia, troppo spesso, vedi il contrario: controllo, appoggio, scarico. Sicurezza. Passaggi lunghi da una sponda all’altra. Ma poca invenzione.

E questo non nasce in Serie A. Nasce molto prima. Nasce per strada e nei campi dei ragazzini.

Oggi in Italia si gioca per vincere a dieci anni. A undici. A dodici. E per vincere si scelgono i ragazzi più grandi, più sviluppati, più pronti fisicamente. I cosiddetti “cristoni”. Il ragazzino più piccolo, magari tecnicamente più dotato, viene lasciato indietro. Non perché non sia bravo, ma perché in quel momento è meno dominante. Qui entra in gioco un fenomeno conosciuto in tutto il mondo, il “relative age effect”: chi nasce nei primi mesi dell’anno è avvantaggiato, perché è più grande rispetto ai coetanei nati a fine anno. E gli allenatori, spesso senza rendersene conto, scelgono lui. Lo fanno giocare, lo fanno crescere e acquista esperienza. Gli altri, spesso più piccoli o più giovani, restano in panchina. Conta solo vincere il torneo provinciale o di quartiere. Cosi sono contenti i genitori e gli allenatori.

E allora viene da chiedersi: se oggigiorno crescessero in questo sistema ragazzi come Francesco Totti o Alessandro Del Piero, entrambi nati verso la fine dell’anno, avrebbero avuto le stesse possibilità? O sarebbero stati considerati troppo piccoli, troppo fragili, e quindi messi da parte? È una domanda scomoda, ma necessaria.

A tutto questo si aggiunge un altro elemento che, secondo me, sta facendo danni enormi: l’ossessione per la tattica. In Italia siamo sempre stati bravi tatticamente, è parte della nostra identità calcistica. Ma oggi si è andati oltre. La tattica è diventata un’ossessione che parte già dai sette, otto anni. Bambini che dovrebbero divertirsi vengono riempiti di schemi, posizioni, compiti. “Gioca semplice”, “non rischiare”, “non perdere palla”. Ma anche: “niente colpi di tacco”, “niente pallonetti”, “niente giocate strane”. In pratica: niente fantasia.

Così si forma un giocatore ordinato, disciplinato, ma prevedibile. E quando arrivi a livello internazionale, la prevedibilità ti uccide. Perché gli altri, nel frattempo, hanno continuato a coltivare anche l’imprevedibilità.

Poi c’è il sistema, cioè la FIGC Federazione Italiana Gioco Calcio. Una struttura anacronistica e ancora troppo legata a logiche vecchie. Non basta cambiare un presidente o due dirigenti. Se vuoi davvero cambiare, devi intervenire nei punti chiave, nelle persone che prendono decisioni. Non si tratta di distruggere tutto, ma di avere il coraggio di rinnovare profondamente le idee, le metodologie, le priorità. Un altro aspetto di cui si parla poco, ma che pesa tantissimo, è la progressiva scomparsa dei giocatori italiani dalle squadre di vertice. Oggi nella Serie A circa il 70% dei minuti viene giocato da stranieri, una percentuale tra le più alte d’Europa. In alcune partite, meno di un terzo dei titolari è italiano. Non è solo una sensazione: è un dato di fatto.

E questo inevitabilmente riduce il bacino da cui la Nazionale può pescare. Le ragioni sono diverse. Da una parte c’è il mercato globale, che rende più facile e spesso più conveniente comprare giocatori dall’estero. Dall’altra c’è un sistema che preferisce l’immediato al lungo termine: è più semplice prendere un giocatore già pronto che aspettare un ragazzo italiano e farlo crescere. E sì, in questo meccanismo entrano anche interessi economici, commissioni, dinamiche tra club e procuratori. Ma il punto non è cercare un colpevole unico. Il punto è che il risultato finale è sotto gli occhi di tutti: meno italiani giocano ad alto livello, meno italiani diventano campioni. E alla fine, quando arriva il momento della Nazionale, il conto lo paghi.

Anni fa, dopo che l’Italia e’ stata eliminata nel 2010 nella fase a gironi, Roberto Baggio ha lavorato a un progetto enorme per riformare il calcio giovanile italiano. Un documento di ben 900 pagine pieno di idee, di proposte concrete, di buon senso. Il punto centrale era semplice: serve un piano nazionale, una visione condivisa, che metta al centro il talento e la crescita dei giocatori, non il risultato immediato. Quel lavoro, però, è rimasto in gran parte ignorato. Baggio si e’ praticamente dimesso dal ruolo di consigliere. E questo dice molto.

Il paradosso è che il talento in Italia non è mai mancato. Basta guardare la nostra storia. Abbiamo avuto Andrea Pirlo, lo stesso Roberto Baggio, Francesco Totti, Alessandro Del Piero. Giocatori capaci di inventare calcio dal nulla. Un passaggio filtrante impossibile, un colpo di tacco che manda in porta un compagno, un assist senza guardare, un pallonetto che umilia il portiere. Oggi queste giocate si vedono sempre meno. Non perché siano scomparse, ma perché sempre meno giocatori vengono incoraggiati a provarle.

E infatti i risultati si vedono. Le difficoltà della nazionale, le delusioni, le eliminazioni che fanno male. Non sono incidenti. Sono conseguenze.

Ma attenzione: non è tutto da buttare. Anzi. Ed è qui che voglio parlare a chi, come me, ha radici italiane ma vive magari in America, a chi si sente parte di questa cultura anche a distanza. Perché è facile dimenticare, nei momenti difficili, da dove veniamo.

Noi veniamo da una storia pazzesca. L’Italia ha vinto quattro Coppe del Mondo, nel 1934, 1938, 1982 e 2006. Ha vinto due Europei, nel 1968 e nel 2021. Siamo una delle nazionali più vincenti e rispettate della storia del calcio. Non è un dettaglio, è identità. È orgoglio nazionale.

E quell’Europeo del 2021 non è stato un miracolo. È stato il risultato di un gruppo che, per un momento, ha ritrovato entusiasmo, qualità, coraggio. Ha giocato senza paura. Ha rischiato. Ha anche, a tratti, inventato.

Questo vuol dire che si può tornare. Non è un problema genetico, non è che “non siamo più capaci”. È una questione di scelte.

Serve riportare il calcio alla sua essenza, soprattutto nei giovani. Lasciare i bambini liberi di sbagliare, di provare, di divertirsi. Permettere loro non solo di saltare l’uomo, ma di tentare un pallonetto, un colpo di tacco, un passaggio di fantasia senza guardare, una giocata che nasce dall’istinto. Serve formare allenatori che capiscano questo. Serve una federazione che abbia il coraggio di cambiare davvero e far giocare piu’ italiani in serie A.

Io continuo a giocare le mie partite amichevoli. E ogni tanto provo ancora a fare qualcosa di diverso: un dribbling, un pallonetto, un passaggio di fantasia che magari non mi riesce più come una volta. Ma quando succede, per un attimo torno a essere quel ragazzino di Monteverde sgridato dalla mamma. E penso che il calcio, in fondo, dovrebbe essere ancora quello. Se riusciremo a ricordarcelo, se avremo l’umiltà e l’intelligenza di cambiare alcune cose, allora forse questo non è un declino inevitabile, ma solo una fase.

Perché il talento in Italia non è mai finito. Deve solo essere lasciato libero di esprimersi. E magari, la prossima volta che un ragazzino prova a saltare l’uomo o fare un passaggio azzardato… invece di urlargli “smettila o passa!”, l’allenatore dalla panchina invece avrà il coraggio di gridare: ”Bravissimo. Riprovaci!”

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 Ingredients

For the lobster/shrimp stock:

• one lobster about 1-1/2 pounds; save the shell, including the head and claws, after you have pulled off the meat and cut it into cubes of approximately 1 inch each in size.
• one pound of shrimp shelled, and keep the shells for the stock
• ½ lb. of fresh or frozen calamari cut into rings
• 3 tablespoons extra light olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, cut thick
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 pieces fresh thyme, 3 inch long
• 1/2 cup chopped bacon
• 1 teaspoon of Nick’s Magic Rub (see notes)
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 3 cups chicken stock.
• 2 cups tomato sauce.
• 1 pound of Mezzi Rigatoni or Rigatoni

For the pasta with lobster sauce:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thickly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons of Nick’s Magic Rub
• 1-1/2 cups lobster stock

Directions

1. After you have removed the lobster meat, cut the shells and claws into 2” pieces.
2. Add the oil and garlic to a nonstick pot. Stir while cooking over medium-high heat for 1 minute.
3. Add the red pepper flakes, stir, and cook for approximately 1 minute until the garlic starts to brown.
4. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes.
6. Add the thyme, stir, and cook for 1 minute.
7. Add the bacon, stir, and cook for 1 minute
8. Add Nick’s magic rub, stir, and cook for 1 minute.
9. Add the lobster and shrimp shells, stir, and cook for 3 more minutes.
10. Press down on the shells with the cooking spoon to extract the juice.
11. Stir in the brandy and cook for 2 minutes.
12. Pour in the chicken stock and tomato sauce, stir, and cook for 4 minutes.
13. Bring to a boil before reducing the heat. Simmer for 30 minutes.

Congratulations! You’ve made lobster stock!

1. Strain the stock and discard the shells. Keep warm while making the sauce.
2. Bring a pot of water to boil and prepare the pasta, Cook for 2 minutes less than designated on the package.(i.e.; if the instructions recommend 10 minutes, cook for 8).
3. While the pasta cooks, make the lobster sauce.
4. Add the oil and garlic to a large nonstick skillet and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes.
5. Add the shrimp, the lobster meat and the calamari rings and cook over medium heat for 3 minutes stirring well, add the tomatoes sauce and add the lobster stock and cook for 3 more minutes over medium heat.
6. Add the pasta stir well and cook for 3 minutes.
7. Serve in individual pasta bowls and top each with extra lobster sauce.

Notes

INGREDIENTS FOR MAGIC RUB:

• 1 tablespoon C&H Golden Brown Sugar
• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder

DIRECTIONS FOR MAGIC RUB:

1. Use this spice rub to flavor your favorite grilled chicken, beef, fish, and pork dishes.
2. Add the ingredients to a bowl and mix thoroughly.
3. Store in an airtight container for later use. The rub will stay fresh for about one week.

In 1930, immigrant families banded together to create the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), now one of the most prominent and financially successful Italian American organizations in the nation. In the last decade, we built a 730,000-strong social media community, grew our not-for-profit fraternal association, ISDA Financial Life, to nearly a half billion dollars in member assets, co-founded the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF), and launched the fastest-growing Italian American publication (La Nostra Voce). 

The post Italian Recipe: Pasta with Lobster and Shrimp Sauce appeared first on Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

During a visit to Reggio Emilia, she warmly greeted local leaders, introduced herself to children as “Caterina,” gleaned firsthand insights from educators, and sat down to make tortelli (a traditional pasta dish popular to the region).

The princess, now 44, spent a year off before college in Florence, studying art history and learning Italian, prior to attending the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, where she met Prince William.

Regarding her trip, the royal was on a fact-finding mission, examining Reggio Emilia’s early childhood curricula.

The approach, used in public daycare centers and preschools in the northern Italian city, emphasizes a child’s natural curiosity and potential, with teachers serving as facilitators rather than traditional instructors, while parents and the broader community remain actively involved in the learning process.

 

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The approach partially emerged from the Montessori philosophy, which stands in contrast to models in places like the U.S. and Britain that emphasize standardized testing to gauge a child’s academic development.

An innovative educational thinker, Loris Malaguzzi, built upon Montessori and other progressive reform movements to help shape Reggio Emilia’s child-centered philosophy for youngsters ages 0–6.

According to the princess, she’s focused on “protecting human connection” in a world increasingly dominated by digital distractions.

As the Italy trip wound down, the princess had two inspiring words for her staff:

“Where next?”

Buckingham Palace has not publicly revealed the royal’s type of cancer, but officials confirmed she’s completed treatment and is now in remission.

In 1930, immigrant families banded together to create the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), now one of the most prominent and financially successful Italian American organizations in the nation. In the last decade, we built a 730,000-strong social media community, grew our not-for-profit fraternal association, ISDA Financial Life, to nearly a half billion dollars in member assets, co-founded the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF), and launched the fastest-growing Italian American publication (La Nostra Voce). 

The post Italy Welcomes Kate Middleton as Princess Pursues Education Agenda appeared first on Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

Established in 2022 by ISDA / COPOMIAO President Basil Russo, the award recognizes women of Italian descent whose achievements have left a meaningful impact on culture, industry, philanthropy, and advocacy. Alice Salvo’s life and career exemplify each of these ideals, making her a fitting and inspiring recipient.

Salvo’s story begins with humble roots on Long Island, where she was raised in a working-class Italian American family. Her upbringing was shaped by her mother, the matriarch of the family. From her, Salvo learned the values of resilience, responsibility, and unwavering dedication to others—principles that would guide her both personally and professionally. Growing up with dozens of cousins, Salvo witnessed a wide range of life paths, but higher education was a rarity. Few of those cousins attended college, and Salvo distinguished herself as the only one to go on to earn two professional degrees. Her journey was not paved with privilege or expectation, but rather with determination and a deep commitment to building something greater.

See past Donna Distinta honorees here.

That determination carried her into a legal career defined by leadership and service. With over 40 years of experience, Salvo has earned the prestigious designation from the State Bar as a certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law. She is AV rated—the highest possible rating—by the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory. She has also been recognized as a Super Lawyer for estate planning, published in Los Angeles Magazine, and named one of the top attorneys in the San Fernando Valley by the San Fernando Valley Business Journal. Salvo earned her Juris Doctor from Southwestern University School of Law and an LL.M. in Estate Planning from the University of Miami School of Law.

Salvo’s influence extends well beyond her practice. She currently serves as President of the National Italian American Bar Association, where she advocates for the interests of Italian American attorneys nationwide while promoting cultural heritage and professional advancement. She has also held the presidency of multiple respected legal organizations, including the Italian American Lawyers Association of Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley Bar Association, the Southern California Council of Elder Law Attorneys, the San Fernando Valley Estate Planning Council, and the LAPD Gray Squad Advisory Board. In each of these roles, she has demonstrated a consistent ability to unite professionals, foster collaboration, and elevate standards within the legal field.

She has also contributed to the legal system and the community through serving for two years as Chair of the State Bar of California’s Judicial Nominees Evaluation Commission reflecting her commitment to the legal profession.

Alice A. Salvo has earned many distinctions for her work, including being named Metropolitan Newspaper Company Person of the Year for 2018, further underscoring her impact both within and beyond the legal community.

Salvo’s passion for the law was equally evident in her role as an Adjunct Law Professor at Southwestern University School of Law. In the classroom, she shares her knowledge and experience with future attorneys, mentoring students and instilling in them the same values that guided her own path. Her ability to connect practical experience with academic instruction makes her a respected and influential educator.

Through her work with NIABA, Salvo has also deepened her connection to her Italian roots. This September, she will travel to Italy, where she will be recognized by the town of Laurino, the birthplace of her mother’s family. She will also visit Sicily, where her father’s family originated. This journey represents a meaningful full-circle moment, connecting her present accomplishments with the heritage that has long inspired her.

In honoring Alice A. Salvo, COPOMIAO and ISDA are recognizing not only an accomplished attorney and leader but also a woman whose story resonates with the very essence of the Italian American experience. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to future generations, proving that with determination, strong values, and a commitment to service, it is possible to rise above circumstance and make a lasting impact.

Throughout her career, Salvo has remained deeply connected to her Italian heritage. Her leadership within Italian American organizations reflects a commitment not only to professional excellence but also to preserving and celebrating cultural identity. She understands the importance of representation and works tirelessly to ensure that the contributions of Italian Americans—particularly women—are recognized and valued.

The Donna Distinta Award celebrates women who have made significant contributions across multiple spheres, and Salvo’s achievements embody that mission. Her journey from a working-class upbringing on Long Island to a position of national leadership is a testament to perseverance, intellect, and dedication. More importantly, it reflects a life spent lifting others—whether through mentorship, advocacy, or community service.

-NIABA and ISDA are proud member organizations of COPOMIAO.

In 1930, immigrant families banded together to create the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), now one of the most prominent and financially successful Italian American organizations in the nation. In the last decade, we built a 730,000-strong social media community, grew our not-for-profit fraternal association, ISDA Financial Life, to nearly a half billion dollars in member assets, co-founded the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF), and launched the fastest-growing Italian American publication (La Nostra Voce). 

The post Grounded in Service, Guided by Excellence: Alice Salvo Honored with ‘Donna Distinta Award’ appeared first on Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

On behalf of the Italian American community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our Vice President John Viola, and his parents, Vincent and Teresa, on winning this year’s Kentucky Derby.

The Viola family’s horse, “Golden Tempo,” a 23-to-1 long shot, stunned the racing world by winning the Derby on Saturday afternoon.

This victory, coupled with the family’s two recent Stanley Cup Finals championships with the Florida Panthers, cements their place among America’s most successful forces in sports.

Watch the incredible photo finish below:

It’s especially meaningful to see the Viola family achieve such success, given their generosity and leadership within the Italian American community.

John has truly become one of the most prominent and influential Italian American figures in the nation. He serves as National Vice President of the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations (COPOMIAO), NYC District Vice President of ISDA, founder and host of the Italian American Podcast, and co-founder and Chair of the Italian American Future Leaders (IAFL) program.

Working with John has given me a firsthand appreciation of his passion for our heritage, and of all he does to preserve and promote it.

John’s parents, Vincent and Teresa, have been instrumental in the rise of the Italian American Future Leaders program, generously opening the Amerant Bank Arena in South Florida for IAFL events and providing VIP hospitality and thoughtfully curated event programming for participants.

The Viola family stands as a pillar of excellence in the Italian American community. They set an outstanding example for all of us to follow. We take pride in their accomplishments, and wish them continued success.

Sincerely,

In 1930, immigrant families banded together to create the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), now one of the most prominent and financially successful Italian American organizations in the nation. In the last decade, we built a 730,000-strong social media community, grew our not-for-profit fraternal association, ISDA Financial Life, to nearly a half billion dollars in member assets, co-founded the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF), and launched the fastest-growing Italian American publication (La Nostra Voce). 

The post Viola Family Captures Kentucky Derby in Stunning Long Shot Victory appeared first on Italian Sons and Daughters of America.

LOS ANGELES, CA – APRIL 23, 2026: AGBO and the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA) are proud to announce the 2026 grant recipients for the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF). Five filmmakers were each awarded a $10,000 production grant to produce a short film based on an original concept that explores the Italian American experience.

Applicants from across the country submitted 3-minute sizzle reels, which were then reviewed by a committee composed of AGBO executives and ISDA leadership. The five chosen grant recipients will now have several months to complete their short films. Once the films are finished, one filmmaker will be chosen to receive an additional $10,000 grant and invited to join the AGBO Storytellers Collective, an alumni network of emerging filmmakers who have won AGBO fellowships or competitions.

The Storytellers Collective offers ongoing mentorship and industry guidance from AGBO executives. In addition to providing mentorship, the collective fosters a collaborative community where filmmakers can connect, exchange ideas, and support one another’s artistic development. To date, AGBO and the ISDA have awarded over $500,000 in RBIAFF grants, aiding over 50 passionate filmmakers to realize their creative visions.

Chief Creative Officer of AGBO and RBIAFF co-founder and judge Angela Russo-Otstot shares,

“Each year, the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum introduces filmmakers with distinct voices and perspectives. This year’s recipients have created stories that are deeply personal yet universally resonant, exploring themes of identity, connection, and belonging with honesty and nuance. At AGBO, we’re committed to championing emerging storytellers and creating space for bold, original voices to thrive, and we’re proud to support these artists as they bring their visions to life.”

The 2026 grant recipients and the concepts of their films are:

ALL ABOUT CLAIRE directed by Davide Fiore (California)

Logline: Among forgotten boxes in a dead neighbor’s basement, a filmmaker unearths the buried legacy of Claire Giannini Hoffman, an Italian-American woman so trusted by U.S. Presidents she represented American banking abroad, yet so thoroughly erased that history never whispered her name. Some silences are not accidents.

DUE VENTI (TWO WINDS) directed by Veronica Maccari (California)

Logline: When a former Italian champion sailor returns to Lake Como after becoming a U.S. citizen, she enters a local regatta to prove she still belongs – but the race forces her to confront what it means to live between two worlds.

IL FUNERALE directed by Jeremy Tyler Owens (California)

Logline: Amidst the chaotic, heartfelt drama of an Italian-American funeral, 13-year-old Jimmy is tasked with cooking a legacy family dish after his uncle’s death. When he discovers his late uncle’s secret daughter, Jimmy must decide if honoring his memory means keeping the truth buried or risking his family’s peace.

LEATHER FLOWERS directed by Lucie Reese (New York)

Logline: When a traditional Italian grandmother agrees to attend her granddaughter’s rock gig, memories of the life she dreamt of and abandoned resurface, forcing her to confront the woman she left behind to become the perfect Nonna.

THE SEMOLINA SCORE directed by Roman Molino Dunn (California)

Logline: Growing up with his Italian grandmother in rural Pennsylvania, a teenager begins to have synesthetic experiences. He soon realizes that the “inner melody” heard at the family table is the cumulative love of the generations who cooked before him.

ABOUT AGBO 

Founded in 2017 by Anthony and Joe Russo, AGBO is an artist-led independent studio shaping the future of film and television. The Russo Brothers and AGBO have generated more than $7 billion at the global box office, including Avengers: Endgame. The studio’s projects include Academy Award–winning Everything Everywhere All at Once, Netflix hits The Gray Man and Extraction, and Prime Video’s global Citadel franchise. Citadel Season 2 premieres in May 2026, while The Bluff debuts on Prime Video February 25, 2026. AGBO is currently in production with Netflix on Tygo and Mercenary, both part of the Extraction universe, as well as with Lionsgate on John Rambo, a prequel to the iconic franchise. The studio is in post-production on The Whisper Man, starring Robert De Niro, and Avengers: Doomsday, which will be released December 18, 2026. AGBO will begin shooting Avengers: Secret Wars later this year. Both upcoming Avengers films are directed by Anthony and Joe Russo and co-produced by AGBO and Marvel Studios.

CONTACT:

Marian Koltai-Levine, mkoltai@agbo.com

Sarah Caruso, scaruso@agbo.com

In 1930, immigrant families banded together to create the Italian Sons and Daughters of America (ISDA), now one of the most prominent and financially successful Italian American organizations in the nation. In the last decade, we built a 730,000-strong social media community, grew our not-for-profit fraternal association, ISDA Financial Life, to nearly a half billion dollars in member assets, co-founded the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum (RBIAFF), and launched the fastest-growing Italian American publication (La Nostra Voce). 

Make a Pledge and join Italian Sons and Daughters of America today. 

The post AGBO ANNOUNCES 2026 GRANT RECIPIENTS OF ‘RUSSO BROTHERS ITALIAN AMERICAN FILMMAKER FORUM’ appeared first on Italian Sons and Daughters of America.