Many of the Licaris immigrated (emigrated?) from Sicily. They all settled in NY. My ancestors also were from Sicily and settled in the NY boroughs. There are soooooo many of them with the same names. My mother is also Mary Ann Licari but born more than 20 years earlier. She was NOT adopted. Your friend Kathie will have to do some research in the birth records or adoption records. I haven't heard of any Licaris yet that gave up a baby for adoption. Will post if I do. Blessings to Kathie on her research. She is blessed with a great name (Licari) with a great heritage. They are strong people.