Two Things I'm Known For

Anyone who knows me realizes that 1) I love Christmas; and 2) I was raised with Italians up to the age of 9 in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. Once upon a time it was THE Quintessential Italian Neighborhood. Now it's mostly Russian and Chinese, but I like to think of the Pasta/Pizza/Tony/Bakery days.

What you might not know is that "The Godfather" was released in New York City on the same day I was born: March 15, 1972. It was a Wednesday, I was told. Maybe 5 or 6 theatres. No one realized the epic saga it would become. People thought Brando was just hamming it up with an orange tabby in his arms. Little did Scorcese realize he'd crafted one of the top 100 films of all time. Even made men--REAL MOBSTERS--revere Mario Puzo's tale of family, secrets and revenge.

Here's a spoof video to celebrate my two loves: the holiday and all my Italians. I was given (and boy, do I hate this word) Honorary Wop Status back in 1997 due to my pasta-making abilities and my full knowledge of opera in lyrics and the ability to sing some of those arias. Some of these lovable nutjobs even refer to me as "Kennedini" or "Kennedizzi", which never fails to make me collapse when I hear it. My mother rolled her eyes and my dad's spleen almost burst while laughing when I received that particular birthday card. I know it's in storage somewhere.

Enjoy!