Officer with entertainer: Anna Macchia, left, the vice president of the Italian Club is sown with Jim Marino, the entertainer for the evening’s Christmas Party of the Italian-American Social Club. Photo provided

The Italian-American Social Club of Lehigh Acres recently held its annual Christmas Party with 140 people attending.

The “Grinch” almost stole their Christmas party, but the evening was saved by Santa and Mrs. Claus, (Chuck and Rita Dewey), who came in from the North Pole to distribute the surprise gifts given on each table for a game.

Ken Follette led the Christmas carol sing-a-long with his tenor voice.

Al Lanozzi, also known as “Caruso,” sang Oh Marie, and then joined in with Barbara Fusco singing a duet, according to club officials.

Members said wonderful Christmas, Italian and a wide variety of dance music was enjoyed by the large crowd. It was presented by Lehigh’s own Jim Marino, the one-man band in Lehigh Acres.

With Santa: Dee Hotz, Jim Marino, the one-man band of Lehigh is shown with Rita Dewey, Mrs. Claus, and Chuck Dewey, Mr. Santa Claus. Photo provided.

If anyone would like information on joining the Italian-American Social Club, contact Anna Macchia at 239-369-1657. Photos provided