Great Christmas Party of the Abruzzesi and Molisani of California

On December 10, 2010 the Abruzzesi and Molisani Club had a wonderful reunion at the Villa Scalabrini in Sun Valley, California. Father Luigi, director and administrator of the facility allowed the club to use a large hall of the building for the event.

Promoted by president Saverio Ficocelli, the Christmas party was organized in an exceptional manner. Several officers of the club like Adelio Di Gregorio, Steve and Mercede Inglese, Guy and Pasquale Masciotra, Sam Petrilli, Joe and Mary Lou Montagna, Clarita Gustafson and others have worked very hard for several days so that the Christmas celebration would be the great success that everybody expected. All present enjoyed the particularly good food prepared by Nick D’Egidio at Portofino Restaurant in La Habra.

Almost one hundred members, family and friends participated to the joyful evening. The former president of the club, Noema Corradi, accompanied by her son Fred and by his charming daughters Elizabeth and Jennifer drove from their home in Palm Springs to enjoy the party and the company of old friends.The highlight of the evening was the awarding of the “Distintivo d’oro” to Noema Corradi for her dedication and her hard work during the several years that she performed as president of the Abruzzesi and Molisani di California.

This unique ‘Gold Pin’ made of 18 karat solid gold, is the highest award ever presented by the FAA-USA (Federazione delle Associazioni Abruzzesi) to one of its members for his/her contribution. Noema Corradi, who truly deserves such a prestigious recognition, was visibly moved for the great honor bestowed on her. Noema humbly accepted the Gold Pin and its certificate and had very significant expressions of affection and love for all the members who for years have worked with her in the best harmony and sincere cooperation.

There were a few new faces in the hall, they were relatives and friends of the members. Certainly everybody enjoyed the pleasant atmosphere and the elated congeniality of the party. The entertainment was provided by Daniel Olivo, a well known baritone, who had a large repertoire of Italian tones and melodies. Daniel is the son of Rocco and Maria Olivo, both original founders of the association. Additional entertainment was offered by soprano Trisha Dunn who sang very professionally Christmas melodies and songs.

Then Trisha charmingly invited everybody to join her in singing the most traditional carols and that sparked in the hall the true Christmas spirit.

Fr. Piran graciously accepted a $1,000 donation to benefit Villa Scalabrini on behalf of the Abruzzesi and Molisani who truly appreciated the use of the facility. Fr. Luigi was moved by the generosity of the members of the club and wished everybody a Joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year in good health and love.

Tony Ghezzo