Cultural Programs – The Italian Cultural Foundation

2024 • Writing Your Memories: Monthly Virtual Writing Workshops with author Maria Giura

$20.00 – $30.00

Writing Your Memories: Monthly Virtual Writing Workshops with author Maria Giura

No experience necessary: just notebook, pen, and a desire to record the past.

Are there memories you want to write or (family) stories you want to record but perhaps don’t know where to begin or pick up? Maybe you have a piece of writing you’ve already started, and you would like to receive help with constructive feedback? Join us for one, some, or all of these supportive monthly workshops, which will leave you with concrete suggestions to get you closer to the truth of your own stories.

During the generative workshops, you will read short, vibrant excerpts, many written by Italian-American authors, and then you’ll be given prompts to write your own original piece. All are welcome to register. The workshops are held virtually; registered participants will receive Zoom links.

Revision workshops are open to those who have attended at least one Casa Belvedere writing workshop. For these workshops, you will submit in advance a writing piece (maximum 700 words) for constructive feedback.

Saturday mornings 10 am to noon:

~~Jan. 6: Revision~~ ~~Feb. 10: Generative~~ ~~March 16: Generative~~ ~~April 20 Revision~~ May 18: Generative June 22: Generative July 20: Revision

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05/17 • Art Appreciation

$0.00 – $10.00

Art Appreciation Friday, May 17 • 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM $0 for members, $10 donation non-members

Join us for a captivating journey through the world of art at Art Appreciation event tailored especially for seniors. Immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of artistic expression as we explore renowned masterpieces and uncover hidden gems from various periods and cultures.

From classical to contemporary, let us guide you through insightful discussions, interactive presentations, and hands-on activities designed to enrich your understanding and appreciation of art. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or just beginning your artistic exploration, this event promises inspiration, discovery, and delightful moments shared among fellow seniors.

Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your connection with art and ignite your creative spirit in the company of like-minded individuals. Join us and let the colors, shapes, and stories of art awaken your senses and nourish your soul.

Presenter: William J. Castello teaches Communication Arts, Advertising and Public Relations at St. John’s University in New York City.

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05/31 • Introduction to Bocce

$0.00 – $10.00

Introduction to Bocce May 31st • 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Free for Members / $10 for Non Members

Join us for a delightful morning of bocce, a sport beloved by Italians and Italian Americans of all ages! Whether you're a seasoned player or completely new to the game, this instructional event is perfect for all skill levels. Bocce is a leisurely yet engaging game that promotes socialization, friendly competition, and light exercise—all in the beautiful outdoors.

During this event, our knowledgeable instructors will guide you through the rules, techniques, and strategies of bocce, ensuring you feel confident and ready to play. You'll learn how to roll your bocce balls with precision, aim for the target (known as the pallino), and score points like a pro. Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy the company of fellow seniors while discovering the joy of bocce! Light refreshments to be served. (Tea, Coffee, Biscotti)

Bio:

Lou Fraser is a retired special education teacher and former secretary of the Staten Island Chess Club who has taught children chess at Kingsborough College for Kids in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, and at these Staten Island Library locations: St. George, Great Kills, Huguenot, Port Richmond, and West New Brighton.

In addition to his chess expertise, Lou is also a seasoned bocce instructor. With his engaging teaching style and genuine enthusiasm for both games, Lou is committed to empowering learners of all ages to develop their strategic thinking and enjoy the thrill of friendly competition.

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05/21 • Cooking with Celebrity Joe Causi

$100.00 – $125.00

Cooking with Celebrity Joe Causi Tuesday, May 21 • 7 to 9 pm $100 members, $125 non-members. The legendary disc jockey will demonstrate how to cook one of his family’s traditional recipes! Guests will also enjoy a buffet dinner prepared by Casa Belvedere Chef Kim Leo featuring Joe's recipes, with wine. Buffet dinner prepared by Casa Belvedere Chef Kim Leo featuring Joe Causi's recipes. Includes wine.

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06/05 • La Dolce Lettura • Book Club at Casa Belvedere

$0.00 – $10.00

La Dolce Lettura Book Club at Casa Belvedere June 5th from 7 to 9 pm in The Galleria
Introducing Casa Belvedere’s new “Sweet Reading” book club! Our next book will be The Next Ship Home: A Novel of Ellis Island by Heather Webb. Read the book and gather on June 5 for a discussion led by AnnMarie Cicero. The novel can be found at the following retailers Amazon, Barnes & Nobles, and the New York Public Library.

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06/06 • Le Quattro Stagioni – Summer Garden Planting & Maintenance

$35.00 – $45.00

Le Quattro Stagioni - Summer Garden Planting & Maintenance June 6 • 7:00 PM Does this sound like you? I missed the Spring planting season- Is it too late to plant? The answer is No! I go to the garden center and I am overwhelmed! What are some tried and true plant combinations that will work for my garden? I want to enjoy my garden and not become a slave to watering & weeding! What can I do? My garden is STUFFED with plants but I want more color. How can I add color without breaking the bank every year? The deer are eating everything in my garden- what can I do to reduce their damage? In this presentation, professional Landscape Designer and Garden Coach Carmen De Vito of www.gardencult.com will share her best tips for planning, planting and maintaining your summer garden. She will cover the basics of plant spacing, feeding and pruning as well as tips for keeping your garden healthy and vibrant through the summer. She will share her water saving and disease prevention techniques as well as demonstrate how to properly dead head and care for common flowering plants to keep them blooming longer and more abundantly. After the presentation, you will have an opportunity to ask specific questions about your garden or plants as time permits and take home a perennial plant from a selection curated by Carmen!

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06/18 & 06/25 • La Canzone Napoletana – Celebrating the Neapolitan Song

$0.00 – $135.00

La Canzone Napoletana - Celebrating the Neapolitan Song A two-part event at Casa Belvedere
Naples was born of song which remains embedded in the heart and soul of all Neapolitans. If Naples stops singing, it will die! The Neapolitan Song is beloved throughout the world because of its melodies and strong and dramatic reflections of life. Emotional outbursts combined with heartfelt singing always move the listener. This presentation will highlight the history and cultural background of many familiar songs that showcase the attraction of “La Canzone Napoletana.” Part One on Tuesday, June 18 • 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM : Video presentation and discussion by Lou Barrella and Anita Sanseverino, moderated by Beatrice Alecci. Includes Neapolitan Sfogliatelle pastry and coffee. Part Two on Tuesday, June 25 •. 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM : “Musica Napoletana Sotto le Stelle” featuring Neapolitan singer Antonio Guarna with commentary by Beatrice Alecci, Lou Barrella and Anita Sanseverino. The dinner will feature Neapolitan cuisine.

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