Il Circolo, The Italian Cultural Society of the Palm Beaches, recently hosted the themed dinner dance “Paparazzi Italiani” honoring Buddy Fortunato, Publisher of the Italian Tribune and opera singer Franc D’Ambrosio.
The 43rd Anniversary gala welcomed guests to the magnificent courtyard of the Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida, with a Tuscan buffet of appetizers and the stage was set for an evening of splendor and celebration. Live music shared the sounds of joyous greetings and happy laughter.
Entering the Circle Room to the music of Gino De Marco and his Band, the attendees were greeted by spectacular centerpieces giving tribute to the honorees. For Buddy Fortunato, there were tall vases lined with pages of the Italian Tribune and for opera singer Franc D’Ambrosio, roses dangled over a half Phantom of the Opera mask. The evening began with greetings by Chairmen Paul Finizio and Chris Salamone, followed by the American and Italian national anthems and a blessing from Bishop Gerald Barbarito read by Sally Valenti.
As the lavish dinner and camaraderie continued, Franc D’Ambosio took to the stage and performed an amazing rendition of the theme from Phantom of the Opera. Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Famer, Dion Dimucci, a close friend of Buddy Fortunato, introduced the honoree, whose speech of gratitude to Il Circolo reinforced his dedication to preserving and promoting Italian culture through the Italian Tribune.
