| The Scene In and Around Boston . . . By Hilda M. Morrill May 29, 2009  Ron Della Chiesa, left, and John Henning at the "16th Annual Media Gang Luncheon." (Photo by Hilda M. Morrill)On May 20 more than 160 members and guests enjoyed the "16th Annual Media Gang Luncheon" at Lombardo's in Randolph. Accepting congratulations and thanks was Leonard "Len" Zola of Framingham, the longtime chairman of the group of retired and veteran Boston/New England media and PR practitioners. Len had announced that he was stepping down from his position and wanted the luncheon to honor the memory of the person he referred to as the "real founder" of the group, the late Steve "Buddy" Allen. Representatives from Mr. Allen's family were honored guests, and his granddaughter Lisa spoke on their behalf. We would find out that the Allen family will be taking over the reigns from Len in regard to "The Gang" and run the popular gatherings from now on. Art Singer, Chairman of the Radio Hall of Fame, made an announcement that Zola will be awarded Induction to the Hall at ceremonies scheduled for Wednesday, September 16; and everyone gave Len a standing ovation. Hubby and I were seated at a fun table with Ron Della Chiesa, John Henning, Phil Paleologos, and first-time attendee Doug Brown of ESPN Radio in Connecticut, formerly of Boston. The funny jokes and reminiscences were coming fast and furious in between bites of the yummy food. Who knew that Della Chiesa can do perfect dialects, from Irish to Greek to, of course, Italian? The personable Jordan Rich of WBZ-AM Radio did his popular and now traditional "Walk Around," going from table to table (microphone in hand) interviewing many of the attendees. Among them were: Sister Bridget, who gave an invocation; Tom Evans, who was also celebrating his birthday; Bruce Schwoegler, 33-year veteran of WBZ-TV; Massasoit College's Alan Chapman; Estelle Adler, formerly with WORL and longtime member of the Publicity Club; Bob Copeland; and Dave McNeil, who has been with WCRB for 65 years (!), having started when he was only ten years old helping out with odd jobs such as sweeping. Also: PR maven par excellence Betty Levin; the musically talented Barbara Brilliant; Rex Trailer, who greeted everyone with a hearty "Howdy Kids!"; and Frank Avruch, who chimed in with "Keep on laughing!" Someone would comment how the ever-dapper Avruch "looks great even when not in a tux." Jordan Rich would give a special introduction to Dr. Waldo Fielding, who just happens to be the obstetrician who delivered him. Fielding declared that Rich is "the best I've seen working a crowd." Dr. Fielding is involved in the North Quincy Black Box Theatre, and he told us that they are presently in rehearsals for the upcoming production "Angel Street," June 12-20. For information, call 617-769-0232 or visit www.nqct.org. Ron Della Chiesa mentioned his upcoming Friday Dance Parties at Raffael's in the Clarion Resort Hotel on Nantasket Beach: June 19 - Dance to Frank, Dean & Sammy's biggest hits with Michael Dutra, Manny Barros and Steve Palumbo; July 10 - Dance to the Three Swingin' Tenors, Jack Alessi, Steve Marvin and Jim Porcella; and August 14 - Dance to Rico Barr and the Jump 'n Jive Review. For more information, visit www.MusicNotNoise.com. Also, Ron and Joyce Della Chiesa invite us all to join them on a fabulous 7-night Eastern Caribbean Cruise aboard Costa's beautiful, elegant Italian vessel "Atlantica" sailing from Ft. Lauderdale, February 27 - March 6, 2010, presented by Dan and June Weiner of Galaxsea Travel. "The 4th Annual Tribute to Frank Sinatra Cruise" will feature an extra-added attraction: a Dean Martin Tribute. Call 508-881-8242 or visit www.galacruise.com for more information. Before we knew it, several hours had passed and it was time to leave. Raffle winners showed off their goodies. Many were overheard making plans to get together during the summer. Someone mentioned that Estelle Adler would be celebrating her 90th birthday in July. Estelle Katz mentioned that she has a new CD. John Henning noted that he is enjoying media consulting. And, although she was not able to attend, Marjorie Clapprood had sent her regards to the group. Phil Paleologos reiterated his invitation to Len Zola to visit his Shawmut Diner in New Bedford, where Len can enjoy a free lifetime pass! A good time was enjoyed by all! And, thanks to the Allen family, they are sure to continue.
Change of date for Rose Garden Party Jon Seamans of the Boston Parks and Recreation Department tells us that the date for Boston's annual "Rose Garden Party" has been changed from June 18 to Wednesday, June 24 because of possible traffic problems with a scheduled Red Sox game. Boston's "First Lady" Mrs. Angela Menino and Boston Parks and Recreation Department Commissioner Antonia Pollak will host the elegant soiree in the Kelleher Rose Garden, located in the Back Bay Fens (not far from the Museum of Fine Arts), from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The party features the fun-and-festive "Hats Galore!" Contest. For tickets, sponsorship, and more information, call 617-961-3039. Enjoy! |
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