Meet an Italian/American Family

Come learn more about the rich culture and many contributions that Italians have brought to the U.S.

About this event

"Meet an Italian American Family:” Nelson Palmer is a second generation Italian American; Cay Palmer is an American who has embraced her husband’s Italian American culture. They are both Servas Hosts & Travelers.

Are you an Italian American? Are you someone who wants to know more about the rich culture and contributions that Italians brought to the U.S.? What aspects of Italian American life might you want to incorporate in your life?

You are invited to hear Nelson and Cay share the pleasures and challenges of being Italian Americans.

What did Nelson’s parents have to overcome in proudly becoming Americans?

What are some of the shared gifts passed down from countless generations of Italians? 

What are some of the inventions, art, science, music, sports contributions made by Italian Americans? Did you know that Bank of America was called the Bank of Italy until WWII? What other surprises are there?

What treasures are found in their close-knit Italian families? What loyalty has Nelson experienced due to the family bonds? Have there been negative aspects to this closeness from Nelson’s or Cay’s point of view?

What are the gifts of Italian traditions? What, for instance, is St. Joseph’s Day? What other Italian traditions or adaptations of American holidays do Italian/Americans enjoy?

What are some Italian legends? What stories does Nelson remember for life's big events and lessons? 

Most of all, Nelson remembers being there in the kitchen at Grandma's (Nonna's) apron...everything came from the garden: homemade bread, cakes and pies - the treasure trove of the traditional festive cookies...after three generations - the passing on of the cookies (one for every holiday: Sicilian Easter Cookies with Eggs (cuddura siciliani), Chocolate-Biscotti, and one of Nelson’s favorites - Cuccidati (Fig cookies), a Sicilian delight! Cay is an excellent Italian cook. If you are interested, she will share a recipe or two.

We are sure to have time for Q & A and discussion too.