Story by Ebru Pekari, JFC Naples International Club
LAGO PATRIA, Italy - The Joint Forces Command community gathered at Pelino's Cafe to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season with a breakfast with Santa organized by the International Club.
the French community prepared crepes by and U.S. culinary specialists CS1 Caroleeta Smith and CPO Manuel Davila, flipped stacks of pancakes, many of the countries brought traditional sweets to share.
““I’m so happy the event went well for all the children and families that came,” said Maria Rosa Rago, the event coordinator for the club. “My thanks go out to those involved in helping to organise this event.”
The highlight was the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus from the North Pole who greeted the children and posed for photos with them.
"The best part of the day was seeing the huge smiles on the children's faces,” said JFC Naples Commander, American Navy Admiral James Foggo.
An accordionist and piano players played, the children made crafts, volunteers read stories and people watched holiday movies in the MWA Theatre.
Children from local charity Centro Laila's were the Club's special guests.
"This event gave the children hope to dream that they too can experience beautiful things in their lives," said Gisele Luciano, the center director. “Their smiles made it especially worthwhile for the volunteers who participated.”
LAGO PATRIA, Italy - The Joint Forces Command community gathered at Pelino's Cafe to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season with a breakfast with Santa organized by the International Club. (Photo courtesy Ebru Pekari, JFC Naples International Club)