Italian pride has erupted again this week in the wake of a comment made by a journalist in a Philadelphia news website. Here is what Helen Ubinas wrote in her column regarding Philadelphia's Italian Market ...

"It's time to rename the not-so-Italian 'Italian Market.' The name of the market just doesn't reflect the reality of the street. I mean, have you been on South 9th Street lately? Bachata music spilling out of Paco Records. Kids playing outside one of the street's numerous taquerias, switching from English to Spanish to Spanglish. Signs in all kinds of Asian languages on the window of Hai Tao Hair salon. (Though one of their signs says "Se Habla Español," too.) Big props to the Italian immigrants who built such a lasting legacy. But times have changed. Shouldn't the name?"

The question needs to be asked, Why is there all of a sudden a huge urgency to have Little Italy's demolished and Italian markets renamed? And what are these so-called Italian orgaizations doing about it? Absolutely nothing. Instead of trying to preserve our historic neighbourhoods, these silly Italian groups are still crying about the negative stereotypes that were seen on the Sopranos.

These hipsters who want Little Italy's demolished and Italian markets renamed are becoming more vocal. With their social networking skills, they are able to communicate their ideas and feelings at a higher speed with greater influence. What can you do? Instead of relying on these Italian groups, why not get online yourself and have your opinion heard on websites and discussion boards because council members read what the public have to say before making a final decision.

By George Battaglia