"Viva La Cultura Italiana!" was the theme for Il Circolo's 38th anniversary gala held at the Breakers in Palm Beach on March 2, 2014. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception in the Magnolia Room while mandolinist, Joe Spadaro, played popular Italian favorites. Once in the Circle Room, where dinner was to be served, music by Gino De Marco filled the air and a festive mood spread throughout. After a greeting by President, Paul Finizio, the American and Italian national anthems, sung by Lou Galterio, honored our country and Italy, the country of heritage.

A video of the life of Man-of-the-Year, Joseph Del Raso, and glorifying speeches about him and Honorary Chairman, Art Furia, were followed by Chairpersons Dolly and Albert Maggio presenting them beautiful plaques commemorating the evening's celebration and recognizing their contributions to heralding Italian Culture.

Preceding the dinner service, an invocation from Most Reverend Bishop Barbarito, was read by Il Circolo Vice President, Sally Valenti. He stated, "As waves of Italian immigrants began their new lives in the United States of America, they brought with them a rich and beautiful heritage, their Italian culture. Generations of Italian families have preserved this culture, most especially through their gathering around the table as you do tonight. In a simple, yet profound way, Italians have passed on their culture, their heritage and their faith to succeeding generations. For thousands of years this rich and vibrant culture has influenced the world, most especially in faith, music, art, architecture and food. Each of you is a living testament to the preservation of this Italian culture..."

A beautifully-presented, sumptuous three-course dinner with wines was served, interspersed with entertainment by opera star, Roberto Iarussi. Auction items and winning ticket gifts brought in funds to support Il Circolo's Scholarship Fund.

Students who have been recipients of these awards were on hand to help with the project. Former FAU student and now teacher, Jonathan O'Neil, thanked Il Circolo on behalf of all those who have benefited by the Italian Cultural Society's dedication and generosity.

Italian Consul, Adolfo Barattolo, and his wife Federica, joined the celebrating guests who filled the dance floor and after a totally memorable enjoyable evening, guests left with a gift of a generously-filled bag of Baci chocolates donated by Colavita U.S.A.

This fund-raising event provides financial assistance to all local institutions which support Il Circolo's mission, preserving and promoting Italian Culture. For more information about the organization, please visit www.ilcircolopalmbeach.org.