Category Archives: Informational Meetings

March-April 2026 Newsletter

The March-April 2026 Newsletter includes information about activities and events. Click here to review the current newsletter.

The following is a list of updates and upcoming activities.

  • Welcome to the newly elected Board officers!
    President – Susan Macaluso
    Vice-President – René Berardi
    Treasurer – Diane Bourassa.
  • We are continually working to keep members connected and informed and are thus very excited that we can now offer an online membership platform which will facilitate member communication, manage memberships, and create new membership drives. With getcommunal, members have their own profile and can renew membership, make reservations, pay for events, and explore volunteer opportunities. Notices via email (and hard copy to those without email) have gone out.
  • NBICF Dinner – Thursday, March 26, 2026 at the Veterans Building Dining Room.
    The dinner catered by Cibo Rustico Pizzeria includes:
    Antipasti • Penne Pasta, choice of pesto or marinara • Mamma Rosa’s Meatballs • Classico Caesar Salad and breadsticks • Dessert, please bring your favorite cookies to share • Wine at the table.
    Reservations required by March 20th.
    To make a reservation and pay online, visit the Reservation page     OR, pay by mail by clicking here for a mail-form.
  • Included in the Newsletter is a complete list of our 2025 Business Members. For contact information on the business members, click here.
  • Sundays at the Center w/Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
    March 29 – Roman Holiday (1953) 1h 58m Comedy/Romance (G)
    April 26 – La mia casa è piena di specchi (My House is Full of Mirrors), (2010) TV Movie
  • SAVE THE DATE! – Thursday, April 23, 2026.
    Appreciation Dinner to honor George Golfieri and to also recognize Don Raimondi, Les Villanyi, and Virginia Wilburn for their contributions.
    More information to follow on Communal, Facebook and the NBICF website.

January-February 2026 Newletter

The January-February 2026 Newsletter includes information about activities and events. Click here to review the current newsletter. The following is a summary of articles and activities described in the newsletter.

  • President George Golfieri reviewed the recent Board activities focused on the long term direction of the Foundation. The membership elected Board  members for 2026. Joining the 2026 Board are Steve Albini and Diane Bourassa who serve as Treasurer. George will be leaving the Board after 11 years as President along with long time Board members Les Villanyi & Don Raimondi. 
  • NBICF Dinner – Thursday, January 22, 2026 at the Veterans Building Dining Room.  The dinner catered by Pasta King includes:
    Antipasti • Lasagna with marinara or meat sauce, salad , garlic bread and dessert with wine at the table. Reservations required by January 20. 
    To make a reservation and pay online, visit the Reservation page. 
    For a mail-in reservation form, click here. 
  • Included in the Newsletter is a complete list of our 2025 Business Members. For contact information on the business members, click here. 
  • Sundays at the Center w/Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
    January 25 – Green Book (2018) 2h 10m Comedy (PG-13)
    February 22 – Sunflower (I girasoli), 1970 1h 47m War/Drama

November-December 2025 Newsletter

The November-December 2025 Newsletter includes information about activities and events. Click here to review the current newsletter. The following is a summary of articles and activities described in the newsletter.

  • President George Golfieri reviewed the recent Board activities focused on the long term direction of the Foundation. The membership will be electing Board  members for 2026.
  • George thanked the committee of board members who organized the August Pizza, Birra & Vino party which was very successful and featured in a September Press Democrat article with photos. 
  • NBICF Dinner – Friday, December 12, 2025 at the Veterans Building Dining Room
    Dinner prepared by Carnevari’s Deli – Menu includes: Antipasti, Salad,  Cheese Ravioli with marinara sauce Meatballs or Tri-Tip, & Dessert with Wine at the table The full menu is included on the Reservation Page.  To make a reservation, visit the Reservation page for a mail-in flyer or to pay online by clicking here. 
  • On Saturday November 1, 2025  NBICF participated in Sonoma County Finding History Day presented by the Sonoma County Historical Society at the Veterans Memorial Center. 
  • NBICF Website Support – The Board is seeking an NBICF member to assist in maintaining the NBICF Website. The website is built on the WordPress platform and interfaces with PayPal payments. Members interested in this opportunity can send an email to NBICF2member@gmail.com.
  • Included in the Newsletter is a complete list of our 2025 Business Members. For contact information on the business members, click here. 
  • Sundays at the Center w/Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
    Sunday, November 30, 2025, 1:30pm:  Film: My Brilliant Friend
  • Sunday, December 28, 2025 , 1:30pm: Film: Luca

September-October 2025 Newsletter

The September-October 2025 Newsletter includes information about activities and events. Click here to review the current newsletter. The following is a summary of articles and activities described in the newsletter.

  • President George Golfieri reviewed the recent Board activities focused on the long term direction of the Foundation. The Board is seeking new Board  members for 2025. 
  • George described the 1989 establishment of Italian-American Heritage Month to honor the achievements of Italian immigrants and their descendants and their
    contributions in business, arts, science, and culture.  
  • NBICF Dinner – Thursday, September 25, 2025 at the Veterans Building Dining Room
    Dinner prepared by Eric Malvestiti – Menu includes: Antipasti, Salad,  Pasta and Herb-roasted pork loin, dessert and wine. The full menu is included on the Reservation Page.  To make a reservation, visit the Reservation page for a mail-in flyer or to pay online by clicking here. 
  • On Saturday November 1, 2025 from 10 am-2 pm, NBICF will once again participate in Sonoma County Finding History Day presented by the Sonoma County Historical Society at the Veterans Memorial Center. 
  • NBICF Website Support – The Board is seeking an NBICF member to assist in maintaining the NBICF Website. The website is built on the WordPress platform and interfaces with PayPal payments. Members interested in this opportunity can send an email to NBICF2member@gmail.com.
  • Included in the Newsletter is a complete list of our 2025 Business Members. For contact information on the business members, click here. 
  • Sundays at the Center w/Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
    Sunday, September 28 2025 – Only You (1994) 1h 44m Comedy/Romance (PG)
    Sunday, October 19, 2025 – La Vita è Bella (Life is Beautiful) (1997) 1h 58 Comedy/War
  • SAVE THE DATE – FESTA ITALIANA 2025 will be held October 26, 2025 12–4pm.
    Click here for a link to information about Festa Italiana 2025. 

July-August 2025 Newsletter

The July-August 2025 Newsletter includes information about activities and events. Click here to review the current newsletter. The following is a summary of articles and activities described in the newsletter.

  • President George Golfieri announces the appointment of Diane Bourassa to the Board of Directors and to the position of  Board Treasurer.
  • George announces the recipients of the Marianne Pedroncelli Scholarship and the Bill Mitchell and Jeanette Mancini-Mitchell Scholarship for the 2025 spring semester.
    Since 1986, the Foundation has awarded 402 scholarships totaling $142,935.
  • Article on the writing of the Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson and the influence of Filippo Mazzei, a good friend of  Jefferson.
  • Pizza, Birra, e Vino 11th Annual Fundraiser is Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at 5:30pm at the Center. For a mail-in reservation form, click here. To make reservations and pay online, click here.  Reservations are required by August 12. 
  • Included in the Newsletter is a complete list of our 2025 Business Members. For contact information on the business members, click here. 
  • Santa Rosa Junior College is now offering an in-person Italian Conversation Course for Beginners. This interactive language class will be held at D’Argenzio Winery, 1301 Cleveland Ave., Santa Rosa. Details and dates are listed in the Newsletter.  
  • For members interested in hosting an exchange student click here to view the  enclosed flyer regarding information on becoming a host exchange family.
  • Sundays at the Center w/Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
    Sunday, July 27, 2025 – City Island (2009) 1h 44m. Comedy/Drama (PG-13)
    Sunday, August 31, 2025 – Shun Li and the Poet (2011) 1h 38m. Drama (NR)
  • August 16 & 17, 2025 – Saturday and Sunday, Cotati Accordion Festival, La Plaza Park, Cotati. Click here for a link to the festival web site
  • August 17, 2025 – Sunday, 11am – 4pm: Festa Italia di Healdsburg at Orsi Family Vineyards

May-June 2025 Newsletter

The May-June 2025 Newsletter includes information about activities and events. Click here to review the current newsletter. The following is a summary of articles and activities described in the newsletter.

  • President George Golfieri described the establishment of the new government in Italy after World War II. Italians celebrate “La Festa della Repubblica” on June 2. On May 18,  Dr. Douglas Kenning will give a talk at the Center about the post war period in Italy. The lecture will be from 2:00–4:00pm (Doors open at 1:30pm). Seating is limited to 40 people. Prepaid Reservations must be made by May 14, 2025. A reservation form is included in the Newsletter. 

  • George announces the establishment of an Italian language School here in Santa Rosa. “La Piccola Scuola” will start August 13, 2025 to coincide with Santa Rosa schools schedule, The school objectives are to offer a comprehensive Italian school experience focused on language, culture, social skills, character-building activities, and fundamental learning in literacy, math, and creative arts. For NBICF members and the “Public at Large” to learn more about this school, an Open House is scheduled for Thursday, May 22, from 6-7pm, 1257 Cleveland Ave., Santa Rosa. Refreshments provided, children welcome. No need to RSVP.  Click here for a brief summary of the K-3 program, before & after school programs with per student costs. 
  • Article about Cherries in Italy (ciliegie in Italia). Cherry trees grow in several regions of Italy, and are harvested from late May to the end of July.
  • Sundays at the Center w/Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
    May 25, 2025 – The Girl by the Lake (2007) 1h 36m Thrill/Mystery
    June 29, 2025 – Conclave (2024) 2h Thriller/Mystery (PG)
  • Article about Fashion giant Prada purchasing Versace. 

March-April 2025 Newletter

The March-April 2025 Newsletter includes information about activities and events. Click here to review the current newsletter. The following is a summary of articles and activities described in the newsletter. 

  • President George Golfieri reviewed the 2024 Foundation Financial results for 2024 and discussed the need for members to renew their membership for2025. The majority of the income to support ongoing expenses comes from the January-March Annual Membership Drive. Visit the Membership page to renew your membership or become an NBICF member. Renewal is required by March 31.
  • George also announced the recipients of The Sharie Sbrazza NBICF Florence Study Abroad Scholarship for the 2025 spring semester. Each recipient receives a $1,500 scholarship. He also reviewed the Marianne Pedroncelli Scholarship and the Bill and Jeanette Mitchell Scholarship. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over $136,500 in scholarships for Italian studies at SRJC.
  • Article on International Women’s Day on March 8th when Italy celebrates La Festa della Donna, Italy first celebrated Women’s Day in 1922.
  • Article on La Festa di San Giuseppe – celebrated on March 19th in Italy. This holiday is celebrated with elaborate feasts and donations of food to the less fortunate. 
  • Sundays at the Center w/Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
    March 30, 2025 – Made in Italy (2020) 1h 34m. Comedy/Romance (R)
    April 27, 2025 –  Gladiator (2000) 2h 35m Action/Adventure (R
  • Article about Quaresima (Lent) corresponds to the 40 days of fasting. It is celebrated in special ways, especially with food. The article describes the traditional foods in the various regions on Italy. 
  • Italian cultural experience for children this spring break, including culinary arts, bocce ball, Italian story time, arts and crafts, music and dancing, and more. Includes a snack and gelato each day. April 7th-10th, 10am-2pm each day. Ages 5-11. Limited to 24 children. Details and Registration at  https://www.dargenziowinery.com/kids-spring-break-italian-camp
  • April Meeting and Dinner – Friday, April 11, 2025 – Sonoma County Veterans Memorial Hall  – Polenta Dinner – Detailed menu to be available in March. Reservation form included in Newsletter. 
  • Business Member D’Argenzio Winery is starting a Bocce League. They are inviting
    NBICF members and their family and friends to sign up to play. Detailed information and application is available at: www.dargenziowinery.com/bocce-league
  • May 18, 2025 – Save the date – Lecture by Dr. Douglas Kenning on the
    80th anniversary of World War II in Italy at the NBICF Center.
  • La Festa Italiana di Santa Rosa returns in 2025 at D’Argenzio Winery, Sunday, September 28, 2025.

January-February, 2025 Newsletter

The January-February 2025 Newsletter includes information about activities and events. Click here to review the current newsletter. 

Subsequent to the publishing of the Newsletter, the Board announced the following event. Carnevale 2025 – Wednesday, February 26, 2025  at the Sonoma County Veterans Memorial Dining Room – Doors open at 5:00pm, Dinner at 6:00pm. 1351 Maple Ave. Santa Rosa. Celebrate Carnevale with family and friends. Visit the home page for information about this event with links to online and mail-in reservation forms. Prepaid reservations must be made by Tuesday February 18, 2025. Click here for a flyer with more information. Visit the Reservation page to make a reservation and pay online.

The following is a summary of articles and activities described in the newsletter.  

  • President George Golfieri reviewed the 2024 Foundation events and activities and announced the results of the 2024 Board of Directors election welcoming the newest Board members: Breanna D’ArgenzioTamburin, Sofia LoRe’ and Don Malvestiti. 
  • George also described the participation of the Foundation in Sonoma County Finding History Day held on November 2 at the Veterans Memorial Center. 
  • Article about the arrival of La Befana on January 5 when the residents of Urbania host a celebration that attracts thousands of people.
  • Article on Carnevale di Venezia 2025 to be held February 22 – March 4 in Venice. 
  • Sundays at the Center w/Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
    January 26, 2025 –POMPEII (2014) 1h 45m Action/Adventure (PG-13)
    February 23, 2025 -The Orange Thief (2007) 1h 24m Comedy
  • Interesting article about Lidia Giuliana Matticchio Bastianich – An Italian-American celebrity chef, television host, author and restaurateur.

November-December 2024 Newsletter

The November-December 2024 Newsletter is now available.   Click here to review the current newsletter. The following is a summary of activities described in the newsletter.
To view past newsletter, visit the Newsletter page. 

Topics presented in Current Newsletter:

    • President George Golfieri thanked the family of longtime NBICF member and Board Member Sharie Sbrazza who made a generous gift to the Foundation. 
    • George also thanked members, guests and volunteers who contributed to the success of the Festa Italiana di Santa Rosa at D’Argenzio Winery on October 20.
    • November 2, 2024 – NBICF will participate in Sonoma County Finding History Day presented by the Sonoma County Historical Society.
    • November 14, 2024 – Thursday, (doors open at 5pm, meeting and
      dinner at 6pm): Meeting Dinner, Sonoma County Veterans Building
    • December 13, 2024 – Friday, (doors open at 5pm, meeting and dinner at 6pm): Dinner Meeting, “La Festa di Natale”, Sonoma County Veterans Building 
    • Sundays at the Center w/Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
      November 24, 2024 – Christ Stopped at Eboli (1979) 2h History/Drama (NR)
      December 29, 2024 –  Avenging Angelo (2002) 1h 38m. Action/Comedy (R)
    • Interesting articles – Christmas in Italy & Panettone  and Pandoro
    • The Foundation is looking to fill one Board  Member seat, the Mangiamo Chair and the Treasurer position for 2025. Contact: George Golfieri at 707-843-3176 for these positions or leave a message at the office at 707-591-9696. 

September-October Newsletter

The September-October Newsletter is now available.   Click here to review the current newsletter. The following is a summary of activities described in the newsletter.
To view past newsletter, visit the Newsletter page. 

Topics presented in Current Newsletter:

  • President George Golfieri announced the winners of the SRJC Pedroncelli, and Mancini-Mitchell Scholarships and thanked the members of the Scholarship Committee. He also thanked all the volunteers and those that made donations to the Pizza, Birra & Vino party on July 30. 
  • October 6, 2024 – Sunday, 2-4 pm (doors open at 1:30) – Lecture by Author Kathleen Ann González at the NBICF Center. For more information about this lecture and the Finding History day on November 2, click here. 
  • October 20, 2024 – 2-7pm – Festa Italiana to celebrate Italian Heritage Month, 40th anniversary of NBICF and the 10th anniversary of CIBO Rustica Pizzeria at D’Argenzio Winery. Let’s celebrate an afternoon of “dolce vita“. To make this FREE event happen, we are calling on members to join in and help on the day of the event. Some areas that are in need are: Set up, Greet visitors, General help, and Clean up.
    This festival is also a fundraiser for NBICF. If you have a service or item you would like to donate to the silent auction, please contact us at 707-591-9696 or send an email to nbicf@sonic.net.  For a flyer with details about the Festa, click here. 
  • November 2, 2024 – NBICF will participate in Sonoma County Finding History Day presented by the Sonoma County Historical Society.
  • Sundays at the Center with Diane McCurdy – Doors open 1:30pm, screening at 2:00pm.
    September 29, 2024 – The Italian Job (2003) 1h 51m Action/Crime (PG)
    October 27, 2024 –  Mafia! (1998) 1h 24m Comedy/Crime (PG)
  • Read an Interesting article about History of the Pasta Strainer or “scolapasta”
  • Mangiamo Chair and Treasurer needed for NBICF. Please contact George at 707-843-3176 or you can leave a message at 707-591-9696. Current Mangiamo Chair can be reached at 707-528-2710.