The newly elected Pope is being highly celebrated in Argentina -- Pope Francis -- is the first Latin American Pope. WBFO'S Eileen Buckley says that celebration extended right here in Buffalo inside the ballet studio of Neglia Ballet Arts.
Spanish-speaking ballerina Silvina Vaccarelli is from Argentina. She sat in Neglia's studio wearing a black leotard and white practice tutu.
Vaccarelli often travels between Argentina and Buffalo to dance here with Sergio Neglia.
Neglia translated Vaccarelli's reaction to the new Pope.
"She's extremely happy because, I mean, just because he is also from Argentina. It's great things for us," said Neglia.
But as a young catholic, woman Vaccarelli has liberal views. She considers the 76-year-old Pope too conservative for her views on social issues, including homosexuality.
"She thinks there are two ways, two sides, because some people are extremely happy, and other people are not that happy," said Neglia, interpreting for Vaccarelli. "Because they don't agree with the Pope, because she is very liberal in many ways. She has friends, and you know. Homosexuality...for 2013, I mean we have to be really open."
Neglia is excited about the new pope. Although he no longer follows the Catholic faith, Neglia says for his country, the Church's new leadership is meaningful.
"I'm happy for Argentina, and for those who believe in what they believe," said Neglia. "I'm very happy, my mom, my sister, for my family, for people I do not know. He (Pope Francis) has done some great stuff in our country," said Neglia.
Mario Galizzi is also visiting from Argentina where he lives and works. Like the Pope -- he is too is the son of Italian parents.
Galizzi said Pope Francis is a straight, conservative man who cares for the poor.
"A little bit conservative, probably, which that is the part I don't like that much. We have to be more little bit more open today, but on the other hand he is a person, I know he take the bus or subway to go to the palace to work," said Galizzi.
Galizzi, Neglia and Vaccarelli are pleased to boost that the new pontiff is from a country that has dealt with many struggles.