Nov. 7 to 9, With National Entertainment, Delicious Food, Rides, Games, Cooking Demonstrations, Wine Seminars, And More!
Admission Is Free And Little Smiles Is The Festival Charity
The Galbani Feast of Little Italy returns to Abacoa in Jupiter on Nov. 7 to 9, now in its 24th year in Palm Beach County.
The cultural festival, known for its Italian ambiance, national Italian American entertainers and authentic food, will offer free admission. We proudly celebrate Italian American heritage and culture all weekend.
With every step in Abacoa, visitors will find food vendors serving authentic Italian dishes—fresh pasta, sausage, peppers, arancini, braciole and many more classic dishes. Then, enjoy a not-to-be-missed Italian dessert with homemade zeppole with powdered sugar, sfogliatella and cannoli. The Sicilian Oven Pizza Eating Contest will take place
Inspiring The Next Generation: STEM, History, And Living Legends
At The 2025 Stuart Air Show
Nov. 7 To 9, Witham Field
The 2025 Stuart Air Show is more than breathtaking aerobatics and roaring jet engines—it’s also about education, inspiration and giving families a chance to experience history up close. This year, the show is expanding its community reach with a focus on STEM learning opportunities for students, interactive activities for families and a
on Saturday, on stage. The public is invited to participate. This year, the La Cucina Galbani ® Cooking stage will feature nationally known chefs, including Galbani Celebrity Chef Marco Sciortino from the hit TV show Come Dine with Me , local favorites Anthony Acampa from Fat’s Where the Flavor’s At, Nina Tomasik
Carlin Park Welcomed Athletes For The 39th Annual Tampa General Hospital Loggerhead Triathlon
The Tampa General Hospital Loggerhead Triathlon once again delivered an unforgettable day of athleticism and community spirit at Carlin Park in Jupiter. Despite rough ocean conditions that led to the cancellation of the swim portion, athletes demonstrated remarkable resilience, powering through a thrilling bike and run course along Florida’s scenic coastline. Friends, family, and volunteers lined the route, filling the morning with cheers, encouragement, and nonstop energy. From seasoned competitors to first-time participants,
Singer Profile from page 1
of Nina’s Fresh Bakery, Chef Thomas, Chef Francesca Difede of La Forchetta, and many others. Don’t miss the free Voga Wine seminars led by wine connoisseurs throughout the weekend.
The Feast is pleased to announce the return of its fabulous Master of Ceremonies—Virginia Sinicki, an on-air personality from the KVJ show on 97.9 WRMF. All weekend entertainers will perform the best of Italian ballads, classics, and all the favorites.
Cheers! Salute! Toast to your Italian American heritage with a Moretti beer, prosecco, spritz or cocktail. The Bar Italia, Aperol Spritz Piazza or Voga Prosecco Lounge will be the places to be seen. Relax and enjoy the entertainment and festival in the Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivy & Fronfrath family picnic area.
New this year is the Uno Vino wine garden presented by Alan B. Miller Medical Center. Enjoy delicious Italian wine in a beautiful garden setting.
Please be sure to spoil yourself and bring the entire family to your own private VIP villa located near the stage. Your villa includes a large table, eight seats and waiter/waitress service. Or enjoy reserved stage pod seating with four chairs and a table, and waiter/waitress service. Reservations are available at Eventbrite.com.
For the entire family, there will be festival rides and carnival games for all ages. Little Smiles will be on site with fun kids’ activities.
The Feast is committed each year to supporting two local charities, RISE FC (Youth soccer in Jupiter) and Little Smiles, which kick off their annual holiday toy drive at the festival. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped gift.
Festival hours are 4 to 10 p.m. on Friday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday. Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Parking and admission are both free. To learn more and for a complete schedule, visit www.feastoflittleitaly.com.
Singer SPotlight from page 1
once-in-a-lifetime chance to fly in one of the rarest aircraft in the world.
Friday STEM Event
On Friday morning, Nov. 7, before gates open to the public, the Stuart Air Show will welcome nearly 300 local school-aged children for a closed STEM education event. Students will explore aviation and engineering concepts through hands-on activities and presentations led by local aviation businesses, STEM organizations and the pilots and crews of the aircraft on site. This unique opportunity sparks curiosity and highlights career paths in science, technology, engineering and math, ensuring the next generation is as inspired by aviation as the generations before them.
Editorial copy appearing herewith is not necessarily the viewpoint of Seabreeze Communications, Inc. Most editorial copy is created by the homeowners and is edited by their appointed editor.
About Little Smiles – The Feast Of Little Italy’s Official Charity
The Feast is committed each year to supporting Little Smiles and the Little Smiles toy drive, kicking off at the festival. The nonprofit organization works tirelessly to bring smiles to the faces of children by giving kids the chance to be kids during difficult times. The nonprofit provides gifts and fun activities to children impacted by serious illness, homelessness or tragedy. To learn more, visit www. littlesmilesfl.org.
About The Feast Of Little Italy
It began 25 years ago with a dream and a vision to create an experience rich in Italian culture to share. With family tradition and values at the core of its mission, the Feast continues to serve as the signature event that brings together generations in a celebration of marked contributions by great Italians. Through food, music, art, and history, the threeday festival encourages the community to come together, emphasizing the importance of family. We remain dedicated to staying mindful about the hardships that our ancestors endured in migration to this great country and proud of our Italian American heritage.
About Galbani
Cheese
First crafted in Italy by Egidio Galbani in 1882, Galbani ® cheeses have long been the No. 1 cheese brand in Italy. For over 130 years, Galbani cheese has been delighting families all over Italy. Today, the Galbani brand brings its timeless tradition from Italy to the American
STEM Scavenger Hunt For Families
STEM learning continues all weekend long with a STEM Scavenger Hunt, sponsored by Dave & Buster’s, on Saturday and Sunday. Families attending the show can pick up a scavenger hunt card at the gate and collect stamps from STEM exhibitors throughout the venue. Once completed, kids can turn in their cards to receive a $10 Dave & Buster’s Power Card—a fun way to combine learning with play while encouraging exploration of all the exciting educational exhibits at the show.
The Legendary B-29 Superfortress “Doc”
History comes alive with the arrival of the B-29 Superfortress “Doc”, one of only two B-29s still flying in the entire world. This legendary World War II aircraft will land at Witham Field on Thursday afternoon, giving the public a chance to witness a rare piece of aviation history taxi in before the weekend festivities.
Even more thrilling, “Doc” will be offering rides out of the Vero Beach airport during its Treasure Coast visit. Passengers will have the extraordinary opportunity to fly inside a piece of history, experiencing what airmen of the Greatest Generation once did. Seats are limited, so aviation enthusiasts should keep an eye on stuartairshow.com for ride announcements and ticket availability.
Community, Family And Fun
While STEM and history shine brightly this year, the Stuart Air Show remains a full family event from start to finish. The weekend kicks off with the Friday Night Air Show and Dirty Flight Suit Party presented by TD Bank, featuring illuminated aerobatics, a fireworks finale and a choreographed drone show.
On Saturday and Sunday, gates open at 9 a.m. with world-class flying from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., plus interactive exhibits, food vendors and community displays.
The show also honors service by offering discounted tickets for veterans, seniors, and youth, ensuring the event is accessible for families across the Treasure Coast.
Director of Operations Chrissy Valvano shared, “The Stuart Air Show is about more than entertainment—it’s about celebrating our history, inspiring our community and sparking passion in the next generation. From the B-29 to STEM programming for kids, we are proud to connect past, present and future through aviation.”
Event Details Nov. 7 to 9
1895 Flying Fortress Ln., Stuart, FL 34996
Tickets on sale now at stuartairshow.com
From STEM education to living history, the 2025 Stuart Air Show is where history takes flight and the future soars. Join us this November—Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future.
www.seabreezecommunications.com
table
mozzarella, ricotta, fresh mozzarella
Photos by Kevin Sinicki
“’Cause every girl crazy ’bout a sharp dressed man”
Special Edition Hot Tips By: Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
As October begins, witness wardrobe changes and cooler weather, signaling the best time of the year has arrived (and so have you). Sweaters, boots, and extra cuddles resurface as requirements of Fall, while summer trends and flings fade away. In fashion, as in love, certain things never go out of style—they evolve, adapt, or return new and improved Today, we will draw a relatable comparison between the pursuit of romantic happiness and the ideal wardrobe that will create your best date night look. You want a good “fit”–right? The Rules.
As always, if you are TAKEN, do share these words of hope with your single, divorced, and widowed family and friends. We are sure you would be thrilled to see your favorite single people smile brighter this holiday season. No one wants to be the fifth or seventh wheel at the dinner party this season. The last quarter of the year can and will be epic. Believe it and own your role in it. This is not a one-man job. Acquire a connector in the know.
Just The Facts.
With the holidays being the biggest trigger for singles, you may catch yourself reminiscing about past loves and daydreaming about what it was like to be a “dynamic duo” during the most wonderful time of the year. You are likely to be yearning for traditional courtship of days gone by. This does still exist–and we enjoy reminding people of this long-
forgotten dating norm. We believe in it. Some singles may feel uncomfortable in our modern tech era (like a fish out of water). This means It’s time to ask for help…privately…and not online. It’s time to get set up by a trusted friend (i.e. your matchmakers). If you are already working with a matchmaker, it’s time to ask and accept their advice. Be open to change and adventure or you will go nowhere. Everything will stay the same and you will feel the same way on December 31st. Open your heart.
The Hunt.
The pursuit of love is much like the hunt for the perfect date night wardrobe. This can take time, experimentation, and timing. You are in luck because we, as matchmakers, are much like the stylists at a fabulous custom boutique, ready to take on the challenge with and for you. Dating is similar to browsing the fashion racks, and both require patience, a little adventure, and the confidence to know when something fits just right. You may be struggling to find your Plus One but that is normal when you know you are in the right place. Bar none, matchmaking is a solid ticket to a happy ending in 2025. The pond is continually restocked, just like any popular boutique.
Try It On.
Have you ever walked into a store and tried on an outfit, but nothing seemed to feel right? Or maybe you’ve found yourself in a fitting room with something that looked perfect on the hanger, but once you put it on, you realize it’s not for you. Dating can feel the same. You may meet someone who checks all the right boxes on paper but doesn’t feel quite right when you’re together. Next, please.
Don’t get stuck on one look. Every date won’t lead to the perfect match–but you must elevate the odds and let someone else do the vetting and setting up for you. You can adjust your
expectations on your search and learn more about yourself. Also, don’t forget to work on yourself–this is a bonus for you and your future partner. If you find yourself striking out again and again–ask for help. Don’t be closed minded and blame the date or anyone else. It takes two and consider each encounter as a learning experience to help you become the best version of yourself. Regardless of your age, we should all be able to grow and learn and adapt. That is attractive. The Perfect Fit.
Patience is a virtue. We recently had a success story of two CEOs in the club. It took the gentleman four months to find his “perfect” fit, and the woman was one and done in her first month! Finding someone you connect with will not always happen overnight. However, the wait will be worth it.
Love can appear unexpectedly (love at first sight). Just don’t settle for a relationship that doesn’t fit your needs and values long-term. A perfect fit is more than just superficial–it also requires the possibility of longevity. Will it stand the test of time? Look for someone emotionally, financially, and physically aligned with you and your dreams for your future. Trust Your Stylist (aka Matchmaker).
You may feel like you can do it alone, but you can’t. You have a job, and you are not The Pro. You would not do your own doctoring or lawyering, right? Bonding with your matchmaker, being honest, and trusting the constructive advice they may give you will exponentially increase your chances of finding your perfect match that fits like a glove. Hire the best in the business. Be a smart person and connect to the right people at the right time with the right mindset (looking for a true match).
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the Loggerhead Triathlon embodied determination, camaraderie and the spirit of Palm Beach North.
“This year’s race is a true testament to the strength of our athletes and the heart of our community,” said Brian Elkins, vice president of Events and Community Engagement at the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. “Even when Mother Nature had other plans, the passion, grit and support on display was inspiring. The Loggerhead Triathlon is a meaningful tradition for our community and a celebration of what makes our community so special.”
Adding to the excitement, Bronco Wild Fund and the South Florida Ford Dealers, this year’s Clean Coast Collective Sponsor, activated all weekend long with their Bronco at the Beach experience. Athletes and spectators
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On that note, thank you to our new applicants who have PRE-BOOKED their First Interview in advance. Clients who get started in October have a higher chance of meeting an ideal dating partner before the holidays and the turn of the New Year 2026 for the most important kiss of the year. Make the last three months of this year count. Your future self will thank you later.
We can’t wait to meet you in our gorgeous office on PGA Boulevard–where we have been for ten successful years and counting! Make the last quarter of the year the best part of the year and end with a powerful and lifechanging win!
enjoyed Bronco test drives on Friday and Saturday, a lively meet-up and triathlon watch party, and the chance to enter to win a Bronco. Their partnership also extended to meaningful environmental impact. With the help of 110 participants, the Bronco Wild Fund-led beach cleanup at Loggerhead Marinelife Center successfully removed 13.7 pounds of debris from the marine environment, reinforcing the triathlon’s commitment to preserving the coastline that makes the race so unique. Our second beach cleanup with Friends of Jupiter Beach was Sept. 20. All are welcome to join.
Since its inception in 1985, the Tampa General Hospital Loggerhead Triathlon has built a legacy, attracting athletes from across the country who are drawn to its stunning ocean-side course, welcoming atmosphere, and high level of competition. It has become a staple on the southeast race circuit, fostering the growth of some of the top triathletes in the United States.
For more details on the race or to stay connected with future events, visit loggerheadtriathlon.com or follow them on social media.
This event is produced by the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce and presented by Tampa General Hospital.
memberships, Kelly and Miranda also provide feedback from dates when appropriate. Mock Dates are available by request. Single Coaching Sessions and Evaluations are also available by request for non-members or as an add-on to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the Northeast Area. Do call the central hotline at 561630-9696 (XOXO) to hold your place in the club. Why wait? Just date!
Fall Into Romance
Upscale single, divorced, and widowed clientele are ready to live and love offline and the demand for quality matchmakers is soaring. It’s cuffing season, so do tell your friends and family who are still single. Revolution Dating specializes in screening and representing clients from the Northeast to Palm Beach for decades. Take a look at the love overflowing out of the Revolution Dating Corporate Headquarters of Love in PGA Commons where they have been established for eleven successful years and counting. He who hesitates is lost, so get “unstuck” and book your first interview today. October is the perfect time to REVup your love life. #TellYourFriends #FallInLove
New Logo in Office. Designed by Kelly’s Son Matthew #UpgradeYourLovelife
Revolutionary Couples Having Some Fun! #Bruce&Brenda
Fall in Love! #MatchmakerApproved
Brian Elkins, Katie Velotta, Cressa Bronson, Stewart Auville, Brittany Cartwright, Noel Martinez, Jill Mondo, Sean Reed, Cara Sentelik, Chloe Grffin
Swim start
Bri Bock, Marybeth Klein, Cara Sentelik
Traci Rollins, Noel Martinez, Jill Zerkowski, Mary Aguiar, Jennifer Roe
The Heat Is On: 14th Annual Tequesta Chili Cook-Off
Aims To Hit $1 Million For Local Veterans
The countdown is on for one of Tequesta’s most anticipated annual events! The 14th Annual Tequesta Chili Cook-Off & Beer Tasting Event returns this fall, and it’s packing more heat, more flavor, and more purpose than ever before. This year’s goal? To raise enough funds to reach a milestone $1 million in total donations to support local veterans’ charities.
Over the past 13 years, this high-energy patriotic festival has raised over $760,000 for organizations that directly support veterans in South Florida. From housing assistance and mental health services to job training and emergency relief, these funds make a tangible impact in the lives of those who served.
“This event is about more than chili and beer. It’s about coming together as a community to give back to the heroes in our own backyard,” said Captain David McGovern, director. “We’re proud of what we’ve built, and this year, we’re turning it up a notch.” Saturday, Nov. 8
One Main Street – Paradise Park, Tequesta, FL
2 to 6 p.m.
Tickets are on sale at https://tequestachilicookoff.com/ ticket-sales.
•
General Admission: $30 (includes entry and access to chili tastings). Tickets online and in person at Tequesta Brewing Company, McCarthy’s Irish Pub and Tequesta Fire Rescue. Ticket prices go up to $35 on the day of the event.
• Mug/T-Shirt/Ticket: $60 includes General Admission items plus a 16-ounce glass beer mug and event T-shirt. Tickets are only available online.
• VIP Experience: $100 includes Mug/T-Shirt/Ticket items plus entry to the VIP tent with upgraded food, drinks, and exclusive event swag.
• VIP Table of 10: $1,500 includes a private table for 10 people in the VIP tent, a bottle of prosecco, exclusive event swag including collectors’ mugs and T-shirts, and upgraded food and drinks.
This is a 21 and over event.
No pets allowed (service animals permitted).
Clear bag policy enforced – all bags must be transparent for entry.
What To Expect
• 32-plus First Responder, military and private sector chili teams competing for glory
• Craft beer and wine tasting
• Pipes and drums
• Military flyovers
• Celebrity guests and judges
• An award ceremony honoring our veterans and Gold Star families
• Live music all day long
• A packed silent auction and high-energy live raffle Want To Support Beyond Tickets?
We’re currently accepting donations for our silent and live raffles. From gift cards and baskets to experiences, services, and exclusive items your contribution will directly support our fundraising goal. It’s a great way
for individuals and businesses to get involved and be recognized.
To donate an item, please email: info@ tequestachilicookoff.com.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Get your brand in front of thousands of passionate attendees while supporting a great cause. Custom sponsorship packages are available, from main stage, wine and beer sponsors to VIP and community-level supporters. Visit www.tequestachilicookoff.com or email info@ tequestachilicookoff.com to learn more.
Why It Matters
Funds raised benefit five local organizations: SE Florida Honor Flight, Operation 300, Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, Warriors Renewal Coalition and Tequesta Friends of Public Safety, Inc. Your participation helps ensure no veteran is left behind.
Let’s make this year historic! $1 million for our veterans is within reach.
The chili is hot. The cause is hotter. Don’t miss it.
Community Foundation For Palm Beach And Martin Counties
Honors Marshall Field V With 2026 McIntosh
Field Will Be Recognized At Community Foundation’s 13th Annual Founders Luncheon In February 2026.
The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, a not-for-profit organization that leads partnerships with donors, nonprofits and community members to address the region’s chronic and emerging issues, has announced that longtime volunteer Marshall Field V of Hobe Sound will receive the 2026 McIntosh Award.
Named in honor of Community Foundation founders Winsome and Michael McIntosh, the prestigious award is presented annually to an individual or organization who has made significant contributions to the community. Field will be recognized at the 13th Annual Founders Luncheon, taking place on February 11, 2026, at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. This year’s event, themed “Hope for Hunger,” will spotlight local donors and nonprofit partners who are working to ensure reliable access to healthy, affordable food across Palm Beach and Martin counties.
Field is a leading philanthropist and passionate advocate for Martin County, known for his enduring commitment to the region through his dedicated volunteer service with the Community Foundation. A fifth-generation member of a family celebrated for its civic leadership, Field has channeled his time, talent and resources into causes that reflect his lifelong passions—environmental conservation, education, healthcare and the arts.
“Marshall leads with quiet strength, deep integrity and an unwavering commitment to making a difference,” said Danita R. DeHaney, president and CEO for the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. “We are proud to celebrate Marshall with the 2026 McIntosh Award in recognition of the indelible
philanthropic impact he has made across our region.”
A graduate of Harvard College and former publisher of the Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Daily News , Field has held leadership roles with several of the nation’s most respected institutions, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Rush University Medical Center and the Field Museum. His conservation work includes serving as chair of The Everglades Foundation and holding board positions with the World Wildlife Fund, The Nature Conservancy and Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment. Today, Field focuses his philanthropic efforts in both Illinois and Florida.
Award
Through the Marshall and Jamee Field Family Fund, a donor-advised endowment at The Chicago Community Trust, and his active involvement with the Community Foundation, he also supports initiatives that strengthen communities and safeguard natural resources for future generations.
In retirement, Field has fully dedicated himself to meaningful, values-driven philanthropy. He currently serves on the Philanthropy Committee of the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, where his guidance has helped strengthen donor relationships and expand the foundation’s presence in Martin County. “I love helping the foundation,” he added.
For additional information, tickets and sponsorship information, please visit https://founders. yourcommunityfoundation.org.
Learn more about the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties at https:// yourcommunityfoundation.org.
THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION
$135
$45
• Salad Station
• Chef Carving Stations (Roasted Turkey and Herb Crusted Bistecca Steak)
• Seafood Station
• Array of Seasonal Side Items
• Dessert Station
The Legendary Connie Francis
I was blessed to have Connie Francis as a dear friend and sister of my heart. She passed into heaven on July 16, 2025. The following is an excerpt from the words I spoke at the Celebration of Life for Connie on July 27, 2025, at The Gardens of Boca Raton Memorial Park.
Inspiring, enthralling, stunning, charismatic, incredible, magical, showstopper, iconic, legendary. These are some of the words used to describe Connie Francis in reviews of her performances throughout her career. Another review reminded us that Connie is the No. 1 female recording artist of all time. This is the public view of Connie by the hundreds of millions of people around the world who bought Connie’s records and saw Connie in movies, television and live shows. Connie sang in more than 13 languages and traveled around the globe entertaining audiences. She actually learned translations and often was interviewed in other countries on television shows speaking their language. Her voice, filled with emotion, was a gift that she shared with billions thanks to the recent viral TikTok hit, Pretty Little Baby
What set Connie apart and sent her to the stratosphere of the entertainment industry? It was the emotion that she conveyed and made us feel, deep emotion. When Connie sang the theme from the movie Exodus, you internalized the plight of a displaced people who proclaim, “This land is mine, God gave this land to me until I die.” When Connie sang Mama, tears flowed among the listeners. Connie touched souls.
We all know that Connie appeared on stage as a young child and began her recording career in her teens. When she failed to have a hit record, Connie decided to change her path and study medicine – to be a healer of her patients as a doctor. But the Lord had other plans for her, and with the hit, Who’s Sorry Now? and her resulting career, Connie became a healer of millions.
Connie realized, with all the stardom, she had a deeper purpose in life. When Connie was the subject of a brutal attack that threatened her life, she took time to process the effect it had on her.
Then she felt compelled to use her public platform to emphasize the need to reform the process of examining and questioning the victims of crimes. Connie traveled the country and worked for years with government at all levels – including posting a Victim’s Bill of Rights in 50,000 police stations across the country.
When Connie entertained our troops in Vietnam and other locations around the world, she went to the hospitals to see the wounded warriors and interacted with them. When she returned to the United States, Connie would contact the loved ones of the injured with a message from them.
Connie became an advocate for our veterans culminating with the song she wrote and recorded entitled A Soldier Died Today
When Connie experienced the health care system for psychiatric care in our country, she looked outside of herself and realized the system needed reforms.
Connie became a spokesperson for improvement in the mental well-being of our citizens. Connie touched souls.
I am James Cioffi.
By James A. Cioffi
I, along with each of you here today, have experienced the private Connie – out of the limelight. Most of you called her Connie. I called her Bellissima because I wanted her to know I saw and experienced her inner beauty as well as the physical attractiveness. She reciprocated by calling me Bellissimo.
I met her 38 years ago. In 1983 I was in my office in West Palm Beach, Fla., and I read that Connie Francis was hospitalized against her will in the E.G. Holley Psychiatric Hospital in Lake Worth, a hospital far from where she lived in Hallandale with a poor reputation for care. All I could picture was Connie restrained, alone and afraid in a sterile environment. I was moved to write a letter to Connie to let her know she was not alone, and I was available if she needed a voice to speak for her.
Days, months and years passed without any response to my letter. In 1987 (four years later) I was in a different law office in Palm Beach, and my receptionist advised me Connie Francis was on the phone. I surely thought my sister Angela was playing a prank. But when I was connected to the call, it was Connie. She called to thank me for the letter I wrote four years earlier and advised me she was never given the letter when she was hospitalized. In fact, she was examining the contents of a box and came across my letter. She thanked me for taking the time to send the letter to her.
We met for dinner and that was the beginning of a relationship of mutual love and respect all these many years. Connie touched my soul.
I will always remember Connie for her sense of humor.
Everywhere Connie traveled and performed, some fans (female and male) appeared dressed like her – wigs, dresses, makeup, etc. Connie often joked that some of them looked more like Connie Francis than she did.
In the 1950s and ’60s teen magazines were all the rage. Connie was the subject of an article in every edition. Connie quipped that
she would buy each one to see which Hollywood heartthrob was her latest romantic interest.
Connie’s notoriety evolved from those magazines to the tabloids and later to social media. The sensationalism has reached new heights. In the past 11 days I have counted 15 fictitious funeral services for Connie with artists appearing from all the music genres in photographs at those services honoring Connie in song including Paul McCartney, Tom Jones, Andrea Bocelli, Celine Dion (who sang Where the Boys Are), Amy Grant and Vince Gill, Michael Buble, Josh Groban, Ed Sheeran, Patti Labelle, and the surviving members of the band, Queen.
The social media post said Andrea Bocelli received the call at 2 a.m. and was on a plane that morning to the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, N.J. I can see Connie laughing in heaven knowing that she has the distinction of being the celebrity with the most funeral celebrations of her life.
One of my favorite recordings by Connie is the Italian song, Al Di La. I told Connie numerous times that her recording of the song is the most meaningful of all the artists who have recorded it. She would smile and say thank you, Bellissimo.
On December 12, 2021, Connie gave me the greatest gift I could ever ask for. She invited me to her birthday party where I met my beloved fiancée, Ann Anello. It has been three years, seven months and 15 days of love, joy, laughter, creativity and fulfillment. Connie touched our souls.
The song Al Di La translates to “Beyond” in English. In the past 10 days, this song has new significance. The Italian lyrics speak of a love that transcends physical boundaries. It’s a love that exists “al di la” (beyond) everything else.
Some of the lyrics are:
“Al di la del bene piu prezioso, ci sei tu.” – “Beyond the most precious thing, there is you.”
“Al di la del sogno piu ambizioso, ci sei tu.” – “Beyond the most ambitious dream, there is you.”
“Al di la del mare piu profondo, ci sei tu.” – “Beyond the deepest sea, there is you.”
“Al di la dei limiti del mondo, ci sei tu.” – “Beyond the limits of the world, there is you.”
“Al di la della volta infinita, al di la della vita. Ci sei tu, al di la, ci sei tu per me.” – “Beyond the infinite time, beyond life. There is you, beyond, there is you for me.”
Connie, you are our al di la You may view the Celebration of Life on the website www. thegardens.com.
She will forever be The Legendary Connie Francis. If you would like to share how Connie Francis influenced your life through her music or her advocacy, please forward your reflections to me at james@jcclaw.com.
Trick-Or-Treat With The Turtles At Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s Annual HallowMarine Celebration
Mark your calendars for a free, spook-tacular Halloween celebration at Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC)! Join LMC for its fourth annual HallowMarine event on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring the whole family for a day of fun-filled activities, including sustainable trick-or-treating, animal enrichment and feeding talks, discovery shows and visits with the sea turtle patients! Guests are also invited to participate in LMC’s Unwrap the Waves monthlong candy wrapper recycling program.
Shell-ebrate at the center with multiple trick-ortreat locations and ecosystem habitats decorated with 100% recycled materials. This year, the center will have recycled Halloween crafts and veterinary-themed photo opportunities. The event will also feature a spooky, marine creature-themed discovery show. The 10-to-15-minute presentation will give guests the opportunity to see and learn about their favorite sea creatures up close – such as turtles and sharks!
Last year, a total of 104,151 candy wrappers were collected and recycled through LMC’s Unwrap the Waves initiative. The initiative aims to raise awareness of the
large-scale, single-use waste produced during the holiday season. HallowMarine will include an area where guests can recycle their collected candy wrappers to participate in the program.
LMC’s community partners help make this initiative available to as many people as possible. To do so, individuals can drop off used candy wrappers in boxes stationed at partnering organizations, businesses, and community
LMC will collect and send the wrappers out to be recycled. Candy wrappers can be dropped off at community partner locations from Oct. 11 to Nov. 15.
Under Contract $975,000 – Reaches #7D, Singer Island. Buyer secured in 36 days.
SOLD $980,000 – Martinique WT #1101, Singer Island.
Zillow Partners with preferred listing placement
Cinematic video + drone lifestyle storytelling
Custom websites spotlight your home
Global network exposure
Tailored strategy crafted to tell YOUR home’s story
1251 Sugar Sands Boulevard #221
Island a paradise on the Atlantic Ocean. Sugar Sands is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and fronts on Picturesque Lake Worth. Location is always a plus, you are just steps away from one of the area’s finest beaches. A well priced unit offering tile floors, open concept upgraded kitchen, newer bathrooms, with a garden view. Enjoy all the amenities that are just out your front door: clubhouse, olympic size pool, pavillions, tennis & pickleball courts, saunas, barbecue grills and shuffleboard courts. An exceptional lifestyle in the waiting.
