IL CIRCOLO PRESENTS: 39TH Anniversary Gala

Every year since its origination, Il Circolo, the Italian Cultural Society of the Palm Beaches, has chosen a notable man or woman of the year to honor at their anniversary gala along with a complementary honorary chair. This year’s Woman of the Year is officially designated as Senator Maria Lorts Sachs for her exemplary efforts in promoting and preserving Italian Culture in America. Her Honorary Chair was Immediate Past State President of the Grand Lodge of Florida – Sons of Italy in America, Edward Mottola, Jr., who assisted in these endeavors.
Il Circolo’s 39th Annual Anniversary Gala entitled, “Festa Della Vecchia Italia” (Feast of Old Italy) took place on March 8, 2015 at 6:30 pm at the Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach, and celebrated all that is classic Italian and Italian-American Culture.

Upon entering the Mediterranean Courtyard of the Breakers, guests were swept into a traditional “piazza” with food, music, and showcase of the Silent Auction with Jewels by Judith Ripka, the display of the Benelli “Classica” Electric Bike for live auction, and a brand new red Vespa from Vespa of West Palm Beach set to be raffled off later that evening.

Upon entry to the spectacular Circle Ballroom, the gorgeous arrangements according to the Royal colors of the theme burst out of the tables with red & roses, olive greenery, and were surrounded by candle light.

Introductions were given by Il Circolo’s President, Paul Finizio and Gala Co-Chairs Kristen DiNonno Noffsinger and Debi Rodi thanked guests for their support and attendance.
Special gifts of appreciation were given to Gregg Beletsky, president of the Worth Avenue Association and Marianna Dubois, owner of Fashion Doctors Media for their exemplary efforts to promote and preserve Italian culture through the events of Italian Week on Worth Avenue.

Edward Mottola, Jr. accepted his Honorary Chair award by saying “never in my life did I think I would be sitting at a table with not one, but TWO Italian dignitaries!” Sitting with him were Consul General Adolfo Barattolo and former Consul General Marco Rocca.

Senator Maria Sachs accepted her 2015 Woman of the Year award with grace and honor and shared with guests that Il Circolo’s mission is a worthy one that should go on through generations to come.

The evening’s entertainment was one of the most sought after Italian bands in the country, Ray Massa’s EuroRhythms who were later joined by Gino DeMarco for a few songs. Together they led guests into dancing the Tarantella and singing the night away!

Overall the event raised over $30,000 to go towards their annual scholarship fund.