Sally Valenti

Having been born to Sicilian immigrant parents, I was privileged to learn first hand how to appreciate my Italian culture, but more importantly, to be thankful for the opportunities afforded my intelligent, uneducated parents in this country, America. With only their determination and hard work, I, along with my sister, and my 2 brothers achieved academic degrees beyond the college level all with scholarships. After my graduation from Columbia University, the teaching profession, which was always my goal, became my occupation. Marriage and 3 children in 4 years, kept me at home, interrupting my career, but enriching my life with my husband, Pat, and our children Tom, Nick and Mary Angela.

Once our children were all off to school, I returned to teach at Alpine Public School in New Jersey for 22 years. During this time, we, as a family, traveled extensively, appreciating and enjoying many cultures.
My assignments at the school included teaching French, all grades from 3 to 6, Reading Specialist, Gifted and Talented Director, Testing Coordinator, and ultimately Vice Principal from which I retired. Although Il Circolo activities occupy much of my time, I also play golf and bridge and enjoy several hobbies like beading, canning tomatoes and most of all watching our 8 grand children grow to be worthy, productive Americans with Italian hearts.

During the 27 years, while a member of Il Circolo. I have chaired several luncheons and events, obtaining goodie bags which members have enjoyed. The Olive Oil Tasting and Sicilian events were among the most memorable. When former president, Al Marzelli, appointed me as Public Relations Chairman, I had no idea how to proceed. With a few hints from our long time member, Tom Giuffreda, former Editor of the Palm Beach Post, I took on the task of informing the public of our events and publishing the calendar, inviting members of the community to attend.

Il Circolo belongs to the P.B. Chamber of Commerce. When he was well, my husband, Pat, and I attended the monthly 7:45 AM meetings as Il Circolo’s representatives. I do the same now and also meet with the PBC Cultural Council to which Il Circolo also belongs. Twice, I chaired the Nominating Committee and served on almost all gala committees.

My hope is that my energy does not run out. I know that my dedication and devotion to Il Circolo’s promise to preserve and promote our remarkable Italian culture WILL NOT!