Pasquale Meola, president of the Federation of Italian American Societies of New Jersey, announced that their 85th Anniversary Dinner Dance will be held on Saturday, April 21 at the Hanover Manor in East Hanover, New Jersey. The fun will begin with a cocktail hour at 6:30 pm, followed by dinner, open bar and a Venetian Table. DJ Louie will provide entertainment for everyone’s dancing pleasure.
Each year, the Federation honors distinguished Italian Americans of achievement to bring attention to the outstanding contributions. This year, the Italian American Heritage award will be presented to Barry and Joe Maurillo and Cav. Vito Cucci, owners of Nanina’s in the Park, Park Chateau Estates and Gardens and the Park Savoy Estate, who have been quiet champions for many years to so many in the surrounding communities.
The Federation will present the Lifetime Achievement award to Anthony J. Pope, a distinguished trial attorney who has been named a “Super Lawyer” by his peers, recognizing him as one of the State’s best attorneys every year from 2005 to present.
The Man of the Year award will be presented to Pasquale DiPalma, chef and owner of Aroma di Napoli, Queen Margherita in Nutley and Blue Eyes Restaurant in Hoboken. The Woman of the Year award will be presented to Dr. Kathleen T. Ruddy, breast cancer surgeon and president of the Health and Healing Foundation, affiliated with RWJ Barnabas Health. The Federation will also present the Merchant Award to Joseph Sugrim, general manager of Advanced Auto in Bloomfield.
In addition, the Faithful Service award will be presented to Lina and Guillermo Acosta, who have been actively involved with the Federation for many years. The Lisa’s Angel award will go to Romina Perri, presented annually to a child or grandchild of one of the members in memory of Lisabeth Meola, a young, energetic and dedicated member of the Federation who passed away.
Tickets are $90.00 per person and may be obtained in advance by calling Mr. Meola at 973-489-7002 or Susan LaMorte, ticket chairwoman at 201-618-2903. Chairpersons for this year’s event, Edie Peters Liguori and Peter Boreyko, request that all ticket purchases be returned to the Federation no later than Saturday, April 14th. There will be no refunds or tickets available at the door.
