by Sandra Tornberg

On March 8 the FADM held its 15th Anniversary Gala at the Palazzo Grande. Three hundred fifty members and friends were on hand to pay tribute to the founding members who signed the club's charter in 1999: the late Natale Bucciarelli. Mr. Tonino Corsetti, Mr. Gino Di Carlo, Mr. Leonardo Fabiilli, Mrs. Daniela Allega Fuciarelli, the late Rinaldo Rotellini, the late Hon. Anthony Sanfemio, and Ms. Maria Stante.

Many of the beautiful young ladies who have held the title of Miss Federazione Abruzzese were on hand to help celebrate the anniversary. They were introduced by the emcee for the evening Mr. Marty Bufalini. Marty is an actor and director who has appeared on stage and in numerous films. In addition to doing television commercials and voiceovers, Marty is an on-air personality on WWJ Radio. Marty spoke about the importance of his Italian heritage, and was made an honorary member of the FADM. His mother was from Pacentro, in the province of L'Aquila.

One of the highlights of the annual gala is the announcement of the Member of the Year Award recipient. The award is based on nominations by the membership, voted on by the Board of Directors. Mrs. Nellina Serraiocco was named FADM Member of the Year for 2013, a well-deserved honor. Nellina is an active member of the FADM, along with her husband Gino and their children and grandchildren.

President Enzo Paglia read congratulatory messages from Dr. Maria Luisa Lapresa, Consul of Italy in Detroit, Mr. Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat Chrysler, Mr. Mauro Febbo, President of Consiglio Regionale degli Abruzzesi nel Mondo, and Mr. Pasquale Casale, coordinator of the Wayne in Abruzzo Program in Gagliano Aterno in the province of L'Aquila. Enzo and Robert Chiaravalli, President of the Gagliano Aterno Club, announced the formation of a scholarship fund in support of the Wayne in Abruzzo Program.

Ms. Noelle Morabito and Mr. Aaron Caruso entertained during the cocktail hour, and music for dancing was provided by Eclipse. Frank and Gina Serraiocco, assisted by their Gala committee, did an outstanding job in order to create a memorable evening for all in attendance.