What a year it was for the Herald – and what a year it will be!

Dear readers of the Delaware Valley Italian-American Herald,

As we embrace the New Year, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the milestones we achieved together in 2024. I am profoundly grateful for the unwavering support from our readership community, which has significantly contributed to the growth of this newspaper. The December 2024 issue marked a remarkable achievement of 40 pages, an impressive feat in an era when many newspapers face decline. This year, we look forward to growing the digital and online growth to spread the news to younger readers while reaching beyond the physical borders of Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

I also extend my heartfelt thanks to our advertisers, whose ongoing support allows us to fulfill our mission of sharing and educating all generations about our rich Italian traditions, culture, and accomplishments. Most of our readers and subscribers share their copies with family, neighbors and friends.

I encourage all Italian-American groups and organizations to complete the Italian- American Herald’s online survey to receive a complimentary listing that will premiere on our website in the spring of 2025. Find the survey with the QR code on page 26. Additionally, our free Calendar of Events listing is available year-round, allowing non-profits, schools, and organizations to post their events, complete with supporting materials and photos. The form can be found under the “Events” tab at www.italianamericanherald.com

It is crucial to emphasize the importance of engaging younger generations in taking pride in their ancestry, particularly in relation to our shared cultural traditions. In today’s society, many young people may be unaware of the significance of figures such as La Befana. To illustrate this point, I would like to draw your attention to a poignant story written by 14-year-old Angelina Cappelli titled, “In the Still of the Night, La Befana Decides Who’s Naughty and Nice,” which is archived on the IAH website in the December 2022 issue. This narrative serves as a valuable reminder for both the younger and older generations of the cultural significance of Jan. 6, still recognized in Italy, but slowly disappearing in the United States, as “Little Christmas.”

It is vital for individuals of all ages to actively connect with and appreciate our heritage, especially Columbus Day, a Federal Holiday celebrated every October. We have a unique opportunity on this day to celebrate our heritage while fostering a sense of unity among the diverse cultures that contribute to the rich fabric of our nation. The recent pro-bono efforts of George Bochetto, Esq., have successfully accomplished the ‘unboxing’ of the Christopher Columbus monument in South Philadelphia’s Marconi Plaza, showcasing the ability of our community to effect positive peaceful change. Such initiatives encourage us to educate our youth about the significance of Columbus Day and the history behind it. So many have forgotten the tragic event that led to the establishment of this day, the 1891 lynching of 11 Italian immigrants.

In recent discussions, it has come to our attention that numerous towns, schools, communities and cities have stopped recognizing Columbus Day, a significant federal holiday that represents the contributions of Italian Americans and acknowledges their historical experiences. We urge you to consider reinstating this holiday in your community and actively participate in honoring our shared heritage. The Italian-American Herald is committed to assisting in these regional efforts. We invite you to share your thoughts so we can work collaboratively towards securing the recognition of Columbus
Day for future generations in your area.

Some exciting news to share about regional Italian festivals: IAH will soon publish a 2025 festival schedule, and we invite you to share your event dates with us. Your participation is crucial in highlighting the vibrant Italian culture and community we cherish. And I would like to take this opportunity to announce that IAH is actively seeking freelance writers and sales representatives to expand our talented team. Those interested in working as a sales representative should email advertising@italianamericanherald.com. Prospective freelance writers should contact us at italianamericanherald@todaymediainc.com.

As always, do not hesitate to contact me personally at ciaobellalivingitalianstyle@gmail.com.

As we welcome the next 12 months, we at IAH wish you all a year of joy, prosperity and good health. Thank you for your continued support and engagement with the Italian-American Herald.

Buon Anno!