Patriarch's promise is his legacy

Although the founder of a 35-year St. Joseph Feast Day tradition died last year, his annual luncheon lives on.

The family of Al Noto, who died at age 83 on June 13, will continue the traditional St. Joseph Day feast March 19 as a fundraiser for MacDonald Training Center, which provides help to adults with developmental disabilities.

The MacDonald Training Center staff appreciates the continued support, said the center's Sue Mesko, who has coordinated the luncheon with the family for about 20 years.

"They felt strong about carrying on what their father had started," Mesko said. "They are strong advocates who believe in our vision and mission."

This year's event will be at a new location: the La Nuova Sicilia Unit A Lodge 1251 Order Sons of Italy in America, known as Sons of Italy Hall, 3315 W. Lemon St.

Previously it was at the West Tampa Convention Center on Columbus Drive.

"There is such an influx of vehicles; we created sort of jammed-up traffic," Mesko said.

The luncheon will remain free to the public, with donations accepted. It features meatless spaghetti, a tradition in itself.

Political and community figures, including former Tampa Mayor Sandy Friedman, retired Judge E.J. Salcines and Tampa Fire Chief Dennis Jones plan to help serve the meal, which also includes vegetables and bread. Desserts will be available.

"We have various sponsorships, and anybody who comes can give what they feel they can give," Mesko said.

Mesko estimates about $420,000 has been raised through the years, with more than 52,000 meals served. Last year's event had more than 1,000 guests and raised more than $20,000.

The state has cut funding to people with disabilities, forcing some to cut back on needed therapies and programs, such as the number of days they can obtain day services at the center, Mesko said.

Mesko said it takes up to three months to plan the event, "and three days of hard, physical work" to stage it.

The tradition began when Al Noto, an Ybor City native, prayed to St. Joseph, the patron saint of workers. He asked for help and promised to serve St. Joseph.

"When he died, he never revealed the reason for the promise," Mesko said.

There will be a short tribute to Noto at the feast. Family members will receive a plaque in his honor. A replica of it will hang in the lobby of the center, which bears his name. MacDonald Training Center also will plant a tree in his memory on Arbor Day, April 29.

FEAST HONORS ST. JOSEPH

WHAT: Vegetarian spaghetti dinner and entertainment, benefiting MacDonald Training Center

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. March 19

WHERE: Sons of Italy Hall, 3315 W. Lemon St.

COST: Donations accepted

INFORMATION: (813) 870-1300, ext. 252