State Officials to be Honored at Italian National Day CelebrationCLEARWATER – Three distinguished Italian Americans, FL House of Representative Maria Lorts Sachs (Delray Beach), FL Senator Paula Bono Dockery (Lakeland), and Edward Mottola, Jr., will be honored for their dedication and commitment in furthering the teaching of Italian in Florida’s public schools at the 4th annual Festa della Repubblica Italiana (Italian National Day) on Sunday, May 31st from Noon – 4 p.m. The event will be held at the Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore Hotel (2225 Lois Avenue, Tampa,) and is co-hosted by the Daughters of Italy Lodge #2825 (Clearwater) and Loggia Mona Lisa #2699 (Tampa), both local chapters of the Order Sons of Italy in America. This occasion will celebrate the 63rd anniversary when Italy became a republic on June 2, 1946; it will also commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Giro D’Italia, Italy’s famous bicycle race. During cocktail hour, guests can view the cultural display featuring famous Pinarello Italian bicycles and racing items from Flatland Cyclery (Tampa). Also featured in the ballroom on display will be a red Ferrari from Ferrari of Tampa Bay, Inc (Palm Harbor). Entertainment during the luncheon will highlight the youth with Italian folkdances performed by the Frank Rey Showdancers, a local group of youngsters ranging in age from 8 to 14 years of age. In addition, a vocal presentation will be by OSIA/NIAF scholarship winner Francesca Granell. Among the honored invited guests are the Consul General of Italy; the Italian Sr. Military Representative of CENTCOM and other Italian military officials (MacDill AFB); and state and local officials. Cocktail hour (cash bar) begins at Noon followed by a sit-down luncheon. The public is invited to attend. Tickets are $35 each. Reservations are required; please contact Vincenza DiLiberti at (727) 447-6890 no later than May 24.
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