“An Afternoon in Tuscany” by the Italian Businessmen’s Club raises $1,000 to keep Italian language and culture alive for kids

Portland, OR - Though there was rain all around northern Oregon, not a drop fell on Alloro Vineyard on Sunday, September 19. That helped to make it a perfect day for “An Afternoon in Tuscany”, a fund raising event sponsored by two of Portland’s Italian-American organizations, the Italian Businessmen’s Club and Tuscan Association. The food, wine and entertainment benefit was held at Alloro Vineyard, Sherwood in northern Willamette Valley.

The event was successful in reaching its goal of a $1,000 contribution to the Italian School of Portland (Scuola Italiana di Portland). The school supports the study of Italian language and culture, primarily for children, and also offers classes for adults who wish to learn the Italian language. More than 75 participants attended the event which provided an array of wonderful Italian specialties by Chef Emilio Barbero. Included were peperonata, vitello tonnato, several Italian salads and cheeses, and a Florentine specialty, gelato di riso (rice).

Throughout the afternoon the wonderful guitars of Mariano de Orbegoso’s duo played Italian and Latin music. After dinner, a discussion of “crush” time in the vineyard was given by Alloro Vineyard owner, Dave Nemarnik. Founder and President of the Scuola Italiana, Grazia Solazzi, spoke of the school’s history and plans, which are important to Portland’s vibrant Italian-American community.

A large part of the school’s budget is covered by public contributions. The name of the event “An Afternoon in Tuscany” aptly describes Alloro Vineyard, set amid the rolling hills of northern Willamette Valley. The vineyard, its buildings and Italian Cypress trees are very reminiscent of the Chianti region of Tuscany, although their wonderful Pinot Noir is more attuned to Oregon. Dave Nemarnik was very gracious in allowing a rare outside event to be held on the grounds of Alloro Vineyard.

About the Scuola Italiana di Portland

La Scuola Italiana di Portland is an Italian language and cultural enrichment program that expands students' language abilities and cultural perspectives in a fun, creative environment. La Scuola, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization, began in 2006 and has grown from a small group of dedicated families to a thriving children's language program with over 30 students.

The school offers beginner, intermediate and advanced classes for adults, children ages 3 through 12 and a Reggio Emilia inspired preschool for 3 to 5 years old, a cultural immersion program taught entirely in Italian. Classes are held at the International School in SW Portland and the New Song Church on MLK in NE Portland.

For more information go to www.scuola.us or email: administration@scuola.us. For information on the Italian Businessmen’s Club visit www.ibcpdx.org