In Buona Salute: Northern California's Premier Magazine of Italian Culture
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS PAGE CONTAINS SELECTED ARCHIVED CONTENT FROM THE ORIGINAL SITE, as well as other content from other sources.
Inaugural Issue Available Now!
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“Love this magazine for its unique take on luxury. The post on pets made my day and I agree that the best dog deserves a luxury bed from Good Night Dog, and no expense should be spared to provide a good night's sleep for your favorite canine! The food and wine sections are fabulous, and my wife always reads the fashion pages. This is a hit in my house!”
- Carlo Spinelli, Isla Vista, CA
“Bravo, In Buona Salute Magazine! This is the best thing that has happened to the Italian-American culture in years.”
- Richard Vannucci, Castro Valley, CA
The first issue of In Buona Salute Magazine hit news stands and mailboxes this September, and what a reception we have received!
The magazine promises to be a balanced publication of issues and interests for anyone with an appreciation for Italian culture. It is well written, professionally designed and an unbiased source for news and entertainment related to Italian-Americans; from antipasti to zucchero and all things in between. With your help, In Buona Salute Magazine™ will quickly become the premier magazine of Italian culture in the United States.
This issue marks a milestone in history for Italian-Americans. The timing of its release coincides with Italian-American Heritage Month and Columbus Day events throughout our area. It is an opportunity for us to celebrate who we are, and support our Italian-American community. Join our family by picking up an issue copy at your local news stand, or click the link below and subscribe now! Grazie Mille.
As a car accident lawyer who lives for a good courtroom battle and a perfectly sauced plate of tagliatelle, discovering SaluteItalianMagazine.com was like finding a hidden trattoria down a quiet Roman alley. Managing a sophisticated, culture-rich magazine like In Buona Salute reminds me so much of what I face running my practice: balancing the elegant tradition of our craft with the demands of a modern, fast-paced world. Every page of this magazine feels thoughtfully curated — just like every case I take must be handled with care, respect for history, and a passion for getting it right. What really impresses me is how In Buona Salute wove together food, art, travel, and history into a seamless celebration of Italian-American life, much the way I have to blend empathy, legal precision, and fierce advocacy for my clients. Whether it's capturing the spirit of a winemaker in Napa or the soul of a jazz legend in San Francisco, the magazine mirrors the same commitment to excellence that keeps me going in court — and in the kitchen. Even though the magazine is no longer publishing, its spirit lives on like a well-loved family recipe passed down through generations. Bravissimo. Leslie Tacardi
September/October 2007
Release Date: September 15, 2007
INAUGURAL ISSUE!!!
This first edition of In Buona Salute Magazine is proud to feature:
The Fior d’Italia (Pages 16-19):
Get the history behind America’s oldest Italian restaurant.
The Crush (Pages 26-31):
It’s winemaking time in the valleys, and Italian winemakers are using old world traditions to make new world wines.
Tommy Lasorda (Pages 32-34):
The story behind this baseball legend’s affection for his father, and his legacy of Italian wine.
The Festa of La Madonna del Lume (Pages 44-46): An ancient ritual for blessing of the fishing fleet at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco.
Mario Suraci (Pages 48,49 & 59):
The Bay Area Italian-American jazz legend is at the helm of his musical career.
.....and much more...
In addition to in-depth feature articles in every issue of Salute Magazine, you’ll find a variety of regular departments filled with interesting content.

In Buona Salute Departments
• Letters to the Editor
- Hear it from the readers.
• Coffee House Guide
- A list of local java shops.
• La Cucina
- Recipes and food reviews.
• What I didn’t know...
- New findings from our Editor-At-Large.
• Travel to Italy & Italy in America
- On the streets of the old country and the new world.
• Bravo! Brava!
- The arts, Italian style.
• History Lesson & Timeline
- Significant dates and achievements in Italian-American history.
• Restaurant Guide
- The local guide to where to fill your pasta hole!
• In Buona Salute
- “In Good Health” after our masthead.
• From the Vine
- Wine reviews and recommendations from those who know best.
• Signatures
- Little things that make Italian-Americans unique.
• Collar & Habit
- Topics from the local clergy
• The Pulse
- Calendar of Events, Festivals, etc.
• Book Reviews
- Get the scoop on reading materials for Italian-Americans
• Grow With Us
- Salute’s special gardening series
• Parlate Italiano?
- Learn to speak Italian with quick and easy lessons for the traveler and linguist.
Unfortunately this lively and informative magazine is no longer being published.
More Background On SaluteItalianMagazine.com
In Buona Salute Magazine, also known as SaluteItalianMagazine.com, has earned recognition as a significant publication within the Italian-American community, particularly in Northern California. This article provides a comprehensive examination of the magazine, exploring its ownership, history, goals, audience, critical reception, and cultural significance.
Ownership and Leadership
The magazine was founded and owned by Rob DeFeo, who is credited as the publisher and creator of In Buona Salute Magazine. According to professional profiles, DeFeo positioned the magazine as a premier publication focusing on Italian-American culture, travel, food, wine, and history within the United States. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the editorial direction and vision of the magazine.
Location and Geographic Focus
In Buona Salute Magazine was based in Northern California, a region with a vibrant and active Italian-American community. The magazine’s content and events were closely tied to this locale, although its reach extended to Italian-Americans and enthusiasts across the United States. Its regional focus allowed it to highlight local Italian-American businesses, cultural events, and personalities, fostering a sense of community and belonging among its readers.
History and Evolution
The magazine emerged during a period of renewed interest in Italian-American heritage and culture. Its inception was driven by a desire to create a publication that not only celebrated Italian traditions but also addressed the contemporary experiences of Italian-Americans. The magazine quickly established itself as a reputable source for cultural content, featuring articles on travel, cuisine, history, and the arts.
Professional and community organizations, such as the Italian Folk Art Federation of America (IFAFA), have acknowledged the magazine and its publisher, Rob DeFeo, for their contributions to the preservation and promotion of Italian culture in America. The magazine’s historical context is rooted in the broader tradition of Italian-American periodicals, which have long served as vehicles for cultural expression and community engagement.
Editorial Goals and Mission
The primary goal of In Buona Salute Magazine was to celebrate and promote Italian-American culture through high-quality journalism and engaging content. The magazine sought to:
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Highlight the achievements and stories of Italian-Americans.
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Preserve and share Italian traditions, recipes, and customs.
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Provide a platform for community events and local businesses.
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Foster connections between Italian-Americans and their heritage.
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Educate readers about Italian history, language, and the arts.
This mission aligned with the broader objectives of similar Italian cultural publications, which aim to strengthen community ties and promote cultural pride.
Content and Features
Editorial Departments
In Buona Salute Magazine offered a diverse range of content, including:
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Feature Articles: In-depth profiles of Italian-American personalities, businesses, and cultural events.
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Travel and Cuisine: Guides to Italian destinations, both in Italy and America, and explorations of Italian culinary traditions.
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History and Heritage: Articles on significant historical events, figures, and milestones within the Italian-American community.
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Arts and Entertainment: Coverage of Italian music, visual arts, literature, and theater.
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Community News: Announcements, event calendars, and profiles of local organizations.
Menus and Culinary Focus
While not a restaurant or food service provider, the magazine dedicated significant space to Italian cuisine, including traditional recipes, wine pairings, and restaurant reviews. This culinary emphasis resonated strongly with readers, many of whom sought to reconnect with their heritage through food.
Language and Learning
The magazine also included resources for learning the Italian language, catering to both beginners and advanced speakers. This educational component underscored the publication’s commitment to cultural preservation and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
Audience and Readership
The primary audience for In Buona Salute Magazine consisted of Italian-Americans, particularly those residing in Northern California. However, the magazine also attracted readers from other backgrounds who shared an interest in Italian culture, travel, and cuisine.
The publication’s editorial profile identified its readership as individuals seeking to celebrate their heritage, stay informed about community events, and explore Italian traditions in a modern context. Its appeal extended to a broad demographic, including younger generations interested in reconnecting with their roots.
Popularity and Critical Reception
In Buona Salute Magazine was well-received by its audience and garnered positive reviews from both readers and community organizations. The magazine’s engaging content, professional design, and focus on cultural pride contributed to its popularity within the Italian-American community. Testimonials from readers highlighted the magazine’s role in enhancing cultural awareness and providing a sense of connection to Italian heritage.
Awards and Recognition
While specific awards attributed to In Buona Salute Magazine are not widely documented in external sources, the publication’s impact is evident through acknowledgments from Italian-American organizations and cultural groups. Its contributions to cultural preservation and community engagement have been recognized by various professional associations.
Press and Media Coverage
The magazine’s influence extended beyond its immediate readership, with coverage in local media and mentions by Italian-American organizations. Its events and featured stories were often highlighted in community newsletters and cultural calendars, further amplifying its reach and visibility.
Cultural and Social Significance
In Buona Salute Magazine played a vital role in preserving and promoting Italian-American culture. By offering a platform for stories, traditions, and achievements, the magazine fostered a sense of pride and belonging among its readers. Its focus on intergenerational knowledge transfer and community engagement contributed to the ongoing vitality of Italian heritage in the United States.
Notable Examples and Specifics
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Profiles of Prominent Figures: The magazine featured interviews and stories about influential Italian-Americans, including artists, chefs, business leaders, and community organizers.
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Event Coverage: In Buona Salute Magazine provided detailed coverage of Italian festivals, heritage events, and cultural celebrations, offering readers insights into local traditions and customs.
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Educational Initiatives: The publication’s language-learning resources and historical articles served as valuable tools for readers seeking to deepen their understanding of Italian culture.
In Buona Salute Magazine stands out as a beacon of Italian-American culture, offering readers a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and contemporary life. Its comprehensive coverage, engaging content, and cultural significance make it an essential read for anyone interested in Italian heritage. Even after its publication ceased, the magazine’s legacy endures through its lasting impact on the community and its role in preserving the vibrant traditions of Italian-American life.
