Hello All: If you are aware of the ongoing issues with Law 74 Tajani Decree I wanted to get thoughts on my comments below. From what I am seeing based on my research, the reason for this was solely due to abuse leading to overloading the consulates, noting that the majority of abuse were people getting the citizenship and not living in Italy thus not intending a connection, rather, using the privledge for the benefits it provdes. While I do agree with reasoning to correct abuse, my thought on the resolution are as follows: If this is so, then wouldn't it have been much more straight forward and simple to just add mandatory criteria, such as, 1) Mandatory living in Italy requirements with scheduled check in's; 2) Mandatory language test. This would stop the vast majority of the abuse, as people would now have to live in Italy and have knowledge of language, thus, stopping the abuse of getting the citizenship just for the benefits. However, it appears that Antonio Tajani's decree that was passed looks more like a convaluted, complicated legal issue that the courts in Italy are still dealing with, over a year later. On April 14, 2026 the Italian Supreme Court will be hearing Law 74 relating to retroactivity and, the minor issue (I think). It actually now limits to two generations (parent and grandparent), so, at 11:55 pm on May 22, 2025 a person was an Italian Citizen via birthright; then 6 minutes later on May 23, 2025, they were not. I keep trying to research to find out more information on why it was done this way. Thoughts? Comments? Thank you.

These dedicated Sbandieratori (flag-thowers) and Tamburini (drummers) have been practicing every evening for the last two weeks for the upcoming Palio dei Somari here in Torrita di Siena. Tonight they had the band backing them up.

Lots of activity today in Torrita di Siena for a historical film in progress. Today they set up a late-'50s to early-'60s market.

We had a productive morning shooting some scenes for Chasing La Bella Vita! Here, Chris playing Nancy arrives at her short-term-rental to meet her host Paolo (played by Mirko).

Experience the thrill of the 69th Palio dei Somari 2026 in the beautiful hill town of Torrita di Siena - one of Tuscany’s most unique and entertaining historic festivals! 🇮🇹 This traditional donkey race brings together the 8 contrade (districts) of the town in an electrifying competition filled with passion, rivalry, and unforgettable atmosphere. Watch as jockeys race through the track on donkeys, cheered on by vibrant crowds waving flags, chanting, and celebrating their contrada pride. 🎉 What you’ll see in this video: • High-energy donkey races featuring all 8 contradas • The intense competition for Palio victory • Colorful parades, costumes, and medieval traditions • Authentic Tuscan festival atmosphere • Crowd reactions, cheering, and local spirit The Palio dei Somari is more than a race - it’s a deep-rooted cultural tradition that showcases the heart and identity of Tuscany.