Photo: David Mcshane/Dreamstime
Through the hustle and bustle of the preparation for the Holiday Season, JoAnn Waller and Mary Pizel found time to be quite busy planning the annual Christmas Party for Families of Italian Lineage.
 
It was held at the beautiful Mission Viejo Country Club on December 15, 2013, when their labor of detailed preparations came to fruition.
 
Upon entering the beautifully decorated Ballroom which enhanced the festive spirit, one could hear the quite loud chatter of guests mulling around the “antipasto table”. JoAnn Waller had ordered a variety of cheeses, crackers and fruit which were elegantly presented.
 
The women glowed in their festive gowns and dresses and the men displayed their formal attire.
The annual Gala this year was truly a super event. From the clever invitations to the excellent Filet Mignon dinner to the inviting music of Tony Ciaramitaro that guided the spirited pack, it was an evening of unequaled fun. It was a real pleasure to be part of this grand social affair. All the invited guests were so impressed with the congeniality and spirit of friendship that they requested applications to become members of this popular club.
 
During the evening, Mrs. Venus Franceschi, who founded FIL in 1991, presented the purpose of this club, which is: for Families of Italian Lineage  not only to have fun with the many events of this club BUT above all to send to all members a newsletter entitled Italian culture whereby they can understand and know the great contributions that Italians have made to the world.
 
Many of the members have “made booklets” of these contributions to give to their children and grandchildren so that they can be proud of their heritage. The dates of events for 2014 has not been established as of now, but by Jan. 4, 2014 the Board of Directors will have a full schedule. For information regarding membership, call (949) 363-5348.

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