Italian Roots, Modern Experiences

When I fundraised to get to my art residency in Florence, I promised that I would offer free public talks upon my return, to share what I learned. This Wednesday, I'll give the first one at the Buffalo Central Library downtown at noon. It is National Library Week, and I am an ardent believer in the power and enduring relevance of public libraries. This talk will focus on the family history aspects of my travels; whereas future talks, at the Roycroft (Wednesday, May 11th 7pm) and the Buffalo History Museum (Wednesday June 15th, 6pm) will focus on the art, history and food experienced on my trip.

Here's the blurb: "Surprising personal connections combined with genealogical research gave Dana the opportunity to travel to Norma, a small hill town south of Rome, where her cousins speak an ancient dialect and tend to the family olive groves, while some own newer homes and work in modern ways. She will offer suggestions on family history research methods, as well as travel tips for the frugal."

I hope you will join me, or share this post with others who might be interested. My talk is being co-sponsored by the WNY Genealogical Society and the Buffalo and Western New York Italian Genealogical Society. Immediately following, you can take a free tour of the library's Grosvenor Room with its many historical resource materials. Plan to grab lunch at Fables Cafe, or check out the recently-opened Launch Pad, a center of technology with a sound/film studio, computers for graphic design, podcasts, and video editing - all available for use FREE at your public library!