The Italian Cultural Foundation at Casa Belvedere’s inaugural “Taste of Italy” BocceFest Sunday saw hundreds participate in a professional bocce tournament, kids activities, award presentations and prizes, raffles, live entertainment, dinner — and indulge in authentic Italian specialties at all day food stations. These days the age-old sport of bocce seems to be taking the nation by storm.

The quintessential Italian sport dating back to the Roman Empire,  is today the third most participated sport in the world —  next to soccer and golf, that is! Chairpersons for the event were Roy and Linda Raineri, owners of Raineri Jewelers in Manhattan and proud founding charter members and supporters of Casa Belvedere, who share an unparalleled enthusiasm and pride in their Italian culture and customs.