Amongst the screams of children running between the tables and older members eager to share memories, there wasn’t a free seat in the house. At the Puglia Social Club’s monthly lunch last Sunday August 14, the community spirit was positively explosive.
The sold-out event was attended by 250 people, and many special guests, from the president of the Roma Social Club, Annamaria Hamamen, to the treasurer of the Montemurro Social Club, Leonardo Angerosa.
On the microphone, Francesco Di Masi welcomed the many guests, immediately commemorating a beloved member of the local community who passed away recently- Enzo Palma, founder of the Apulian association and president of the pensioners’ club.
“About three weeks ago, an exceptional person left us, who did so much for the club and so much for his fellow citizens. Respected by everyone, appreciated for his kindness and his constant helpfulness", said Di Masi.
A minute’s silence was dedicated to Palma, as well as the song ‘My Way’, made popular by Frank Sinatra, and performed by the musical group No Limits.
“Dear Enzo, these were your peers and your friends. We are sure you will watch us from up there and guide us just as you did when you were here with us. Thank you, for everything you did”, Di Masi added.
President of the Puglia Social Club, Frank Iacobellis, then took to the microphone to greet the many guests in the room and to remember his dear friend Enzo Palma, also announcing the new president who has been chosen for the pensioner's club, Giuseppe Lucciantonio: “He has always been an dedicated member of our association, never absent from any celebration or social-recreational meeting.”
Secretary Maria Dimattia was also honoured for her tireless commitment and unconditional love for the club. “It is an honour to present her with this award, which represents the immense gratitude we all feel for her tireless work,” the president continued.
Emotional, Dimattia wanted to emphasise that everything she does “is done solely and exclusively from the heart”.
The day continued with a rich Italian lunch, the musical accompaniment of singer Tonia, who entertained the guests with an exclusive floor show, and the traditional raffle.
The club’s many members and admirers now look forward to the celebration of ‘Father’s Day’, scheduled for September 4, for another afternoon against the backdrop of singers Carmelo and Tania’s talents.
