We're incredibly fortunate to have a phenomenal team that ensures our dances are truly unforgettable.
We’d like to take a moment to shine the spotlight on two very special people who help make our DWOP and Friends dances run so smoothly—Will and Judy Landolfi, our beloved 50/50 raffle royalty!
Will and Judy have been married for 47 years and have called The Villages home for the past 16. Together, they co-founded a lifestyle club called DooWop South, where Will served as treasurer. It was there that their journey with the 50/50 raffle began—and it’s safe to say they’ve perfected the process ever since!
They thoughtfully experimented with jars and ticket styles to find what worked best for our guests, ultimately selecting larger-numbered tickets for easier reading and a tried-and-true system for fairness and fun. Their attention to detail, dedication, and welcoming energy have made them legends in our community—so much so that they are known across The Villages as the king and queen of the 50/50 raffle.
Their love for supporting local talent is unmatched. They’re out nearly every night, attending shows and cheering on our performers. At home, they’ve even dedicated a room as their Wall of Fame, filled with photos of the entertainers they admire and support. And if there’s one group that holds a special place in their hearts, it’s the beloved DooWop legends The Duprees—a musical favorite they never tire of.
Earlier this year, Will suffered a serious golf cart accident, and the Landolfis had to step away from their duties for several months. While we missed them dearly, we are deeply grateful to Jackie and Junior Nisivoccia, who stepped in and kept our raffle going strong during that time. Thank you both for your generosity and willingness to help!
Now, we’re happy to say Will and Judy are back behind the raffle table where they belong—bringing joy, enthusiasm, and their signature style to every event.
Please join us in thanking Will and Judy for all they do. We are truly lucky to have them as part of our dance family!
Tom and Barbara Ciesla
Meet Tom and Barbara Ciesla—the talented duo behind the incredible photos that capture our favorite moments. 📸 This amazing couple has been together for nearly 60 years, having met just out of college. Both dedicated their careers to teaching and counseling, making a lasting impact on countless students.
Tom’s passion for photography started as a hobby, taking school portraits before expanding to weddings and special events. Lucky for us, he now shares that gift by preserving the best memories of our dances and performances. You’ve likely seen him at every event, camera in hand, capturing the magic of Blast from the Past , Forever Young. and DWOP and Friends Dances.
But they don’t stop there—Tom and Barbara are always among the first to arrive, helping us set up, and the last to leave, staying to tear down after every event. Beyond their love for photography, they are also avid travelers. This April, they’ll miss our event because they’ll be off on another adventure—this time exploring Asia! 🌏
We are so grateful for your generosity, dedication, and endless support. Thank you, Tom and Barbara, and safe travels! ❤️✈️
Leading the charge is Carol Johnson, our exceptional financial manager. With a distinguished career as the former owner of her own title insurance company, Carol has expertly closed thousands of real estate transactions, handling millions of dollars with precision. Her decades of experience shine through in her efficient time-saving strategies. From safeguarding your information to meticulously managing ticket sales and deposits, Carol ensures everything runs seamlessly. Rest assured, she's got your back if you misplace your ticket.
We are thrilled to introduce Pat Mannino, the creative genius behind all the stunning decorations for our themed dances. Her talent for designing and crafting beautiful decor, particularly her fantastic photo booths, sets the perfect ambiance for our events.
Pat has an extraordinary knack for finding great bargains on craft supplies and materials, ensuring our decorations are always top-notch without exceeding our budget. Her resourcefulness and creativity truly shine in every project she undertakes.
Not only is she a master of design, but Pat is also one of the hardest workers we know. She’s always the first to arrive and the last to leave, making sure every detail is perfect. Her dedication and commitment are truly inspiring, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our team.
Join us in celebrating the incredible work she does to make our themed dances unforgettable. When you see her at the dance, tell her what a great job she does!
And if you'd like to join her team, just drop us a line and say you wanna help.
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