Chevalier Dr. Richard Beck and Dame de la Chaine Peggy Beck opened their spacious home in Jacksonville for an Italian holiday feast. Members gathered around the pool and were greeted by Bailli, Ned Skinner, who manned the bar. Dame Peggy supervised the staff from Sorrento Italian Restaurant in the kitchen and Chevalier Beck directed parking and the golf cart shuttle to the front door.
Everyone was in a festive mood and some even chose to wear their “ugly” sweaters. The lights twinkled and the decorations were colorful and jolly.
Prior to dinner Bailli Skinner, presented Chevalier Robert Sussan and Dame Marilyn Sussan who were unable to attend the formal induction in November. Sussan originally joined the Chaine many years ago while living in the Philippines. His induction was at the Manila Hotel.
The Beck’s have been long-time fans of Sorrento Italian Restaurant on the south-side of Jacksonville. Founder Luciano Russo was born in southern Italy and came to Florida in the 1980’s. Russo and his family worked tirelessly to bring authentic Italian cuisine to Jacksonville. They made bread daily by hand, simmered sauces for hours and treated guests like family. Russo has now retired but spent many hours passing down family recipes to the new owners and chef. Chaine members enjoyed heirloom tomato gazpacho, antipasto, duck confit en croute, lamb and mushroom risotto with marsala cream and the fabulous Profiterole Croquembouche Tree for dessert.
Many blessings for a prosperous 2022!
Submitted by Sandra Cutter, Vice Chargee de Presse