A beautifully sunny, Southern California Saturday provided a post-card perfect backdrop for what was sure to be the social event of the year. All the excitement centered around the iconic St. Vincent DePaul's Roman Catholic Church near Beverley Hills; the site of the much-anticipated wedding of Los Angeles Godfather Chairman Joe Ligambi to his Right Hand, Amira Dayan. Blocks of West Adams Boulevard and Figueora Street were closed to traffic in expectation of the arrival of a number of VIP guests and curious onlookers hoping to catch a glimpse of the glamorous and fabled figures of the L.A. underworld. 

With it's spires stretching high over the Downtown skyline, the Churrigueresque-style architecture of St. Vincent DePaul's made an appropriately grand backdrop for the event. Around an hour before the service was to begin, a steady line of luxury cars and limos began to arrive in front of the church. Suited security guards from Azra were waiting to open doors and keep the line moving smoothly as guests moved into the church. Other guards, dressed similarly to guests, milled around to keep an eye on things and watch for unwelcomed visitors, keep the press from getting too close, or other would-be troublemakers without their presence causing alarm. 

Among the first guests to arrive were personal friends of Uncle Joe's, Dean Martin and his wife Jeanne. Next were Hollywood beauties Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, followed by Conrad Hilton and the stunning Elizabeth Taylor. The crowd of onlookers broke into a rash of cheers when Marlon Brando stepped out of his car and began making his way up the steps. A few cars later, the cameras started clicking and flashing again as a high-profile trio emerged from a limo; Eddie Fisher, Sophia Loren, and Gina Lollobrigida. At some point, a few women in the crowd squealed, and everyone looked in that direction as another car came rolling to a stop- and out stepped Mr. Frank Sinatra. The security personnel and L.A. Police assigned to the area had to do quite a bit of work to keep the crowds from pressing forward at that point, and much to their relief, Frank hurried inside to take a seat.

The sanctuary of the church, already a magnificent sight in itself, had been tastefully decorated with glowing candelabras and arrangements of white roses, coral colored tulips, and pale yellow dahlias. As guests are taking their seats, a lovely piece is being played by a string quartet.

As Uncle Joe finished getting ready to make his way to the arbors he couldn't help but reflect on his life and how he was about to marry such an amazing loving woman. Uncle Joe never thought he would be in this position again after the loss of his sweet Margaret. Joe never expected to develop this kind of bond with another woman, yet here he was, madly in love with Amira Dayan. The two had grown close after the death of Ligambis former wife. Amira knew Joe's pain was great and was there for him in his time of need. As time went on the two grew inseparable. Not only was Amira Joe's right hand in business she became his confidant in all things. Uncle Joe loved the young Amira with a passion so deep the bottom of the ocean couldn't compare. He was ready to marry her and share everything with her.

Uncle Joe made his way from the dressing room with his oldest friend and best man Kenny Russo, brother in law through his previous marriage to Margaret. As the two walked down the aisle to join the priest at the arbors Joe shook hands and greeted a whose who of guests along the way. There were famous celebrities, judges, politicians and infamous men and women of honor from all over the country gathered in attendance for Joe's big day. He thought about what an honor it was to have so many friends in attendance.

As Joe reached the the preist and exchanged words the music began to play. It was now or never, hear comes the bride. Nervous as he was Uncle Joe couldn't take his eyes off of Amira as she entered the church with Dr Garrett Mitchell, her closest friend leading her up the aisle. Uncle Joe's heart was pounding with each step closer. It was surreal to him. 

As Amira reached the arbors Dr Garrett gave her a peck on cheek and handed her off with a nod to Uncle Joe. The priest started speaking. 

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today in the sight of God to join together this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony. Marriage is a sacred and joyous covenant, which should be entered into reverently. Husband and wife should give to each other companionship, comfort, and support in times of prosperity as well as in times of adversity. Marriage has been guarded and esteemed through the ages for the stability and happiness it brings to the individual, the family, and the community. Therefore, the uniting of two individuals, from two separate families and backgrounds, to establish a new family, is an important and memorable event. For us, attached as we are to Joe and Amira by special bonds and affections, the uniting of these two people in heart, body, and mind is an occasion of great significance, which we can all celebrate. The two have written their own vows. Joe you may begin."

Looking at his beautiful bride to be Uncle Joe was almost at a loss for words. He could barely begin to get them out.

"You are the kindest, most, sincere, loveliest woman I know and I am lucky to hold your hand, be in your arms and in your heart. If you will have me, I will make my arms your shelter, and my heart our home."

Looking to Amira with a tear in her eye and a smile as sharp as any knife the preist addressed her.

"And now for yours."

Standing there mesmerized in the moment Uncle Joe waited for his lovely bride to be's vows.

The opening notes of "Canon In D" came echoing from the strings, and the doors at the back of the church slowly opened. With her arm looped into Garrett's, Amira took a slow, deep breath and looked up. The scene was like something out of all the lavish movies filmed in these Hollywood hills. There must have been over two hundred people packed into the pews. Some faces she knew, some perhaps not so well; but they were all looking at her. Garrett gave her a reassuring smile and nodded. It was a wordless moment between the two of them that spoke volumes. It was time for Amira to step out of the shadows of her life before and begin anew- and at the end of a walk down the aisle of this stunning and historic Los Angeles church was a man that had helped her find the reason she needed to do so.

At first, Amira felt as if her heart was going drum its way right out of her chest, but when she caught sight of Joe waiting for her at the altar, the nerves melted away. What a strange way fate had of bringing two people together. Both Amira and Joe had lost someone- but in comforting one another had found a wholeness that neither could have expected. In a matter of a few months, a working relationship became a partnership; and then became love. With this memory held in her heart, Amira's smile grew more confident, and her eyes shined with a bit of excitement as she took the final steps toward him. The day Amira Dayan thought would never come had arrived. She moved up the aisle wearing a white satin gown with a white lace bodice and lace 3/4 sleeves. Her dark brown hair was swept up away from her face, and a delicate veil made of the same lace as her gown draped elegantly over her head.

Garrett leaned in and partially lifted the veil, kissed her on the cheek, squeezed her hand, and then placed it into that of the Godfather of L.A. with a respectful nod. Amira gave him a grateful smile, then turned to let her dark brown eyes meet the gaze of her soon-to-be husband. The priest began speaking, and they stood before one another, hands joined between them. Joe's vows were some of the sweetest, most heartfelt words she'd ever heard him say- and that he did so in front of so many people- it truly brought a tear to her eye. When it was her turn, Amira softly cleared her throat and began speaking the words she'd spent so long working to perfect.

"I used to think that my life had taken too much from me. Taken me away from my home and to places I didn't know; taken away everyone I ever cared about- or that cared about me. But, in the time I thought was my darkest, life gave me something that I was not expecting. Life gave me love, in you. You are the greatest gift my life could have brought to me; and as long as I am with you, I am home. My love for you is steadfast, and for all my days I will be proud to be your wife."

The priest motioned for Kenny to hand him the rings. Once they were blessed, Joe placed a ring on Amira's finger, and then Amira did the same for Joe. The priest lifted both hands, palms to the sky, and proclaimed:

"By the exchange of their vows before God and this congregation, I pronounce Joseph and Amira to be man and wife together. What the Lord has brought together this day, let no man put asunder."

With a little bit of a grin, the priest looked to Joe.

"You may now kiss your bride."

The congregation erupted into cheers as Joe pulled Amira into his arms, moved the veil over her head, and then the two of them melted into a long, sweet kiss. A few seconds in, Joe dipped Amira down and then back up, causing the crowd to cheer even more. Amira laughed happily and took Joe's hand as they turned to fully face the gathering of family and friends. The priest made a final announcement.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Ligambi!"

The string quartet started up again, this time accompanied by the grand piano on the other side of the room, and Joe and Amira took off hand-in-hand together back up the aisle as those in attendance clapped, cheered, and whistled. 

I was extremely excited about attending the wedding.  Allan the doorman came over the intercom to let me know the limousine that Don @Jimmy_Ligambi had arranged for me was waiting out front. I took one last look in the mirror and was pleased with the emerald green satin pleated strapless dress I chose to wear and made my way down to the limousine.

As I arrive at St. Vincent DePaul's Roman Catholic Church and am guided out of the limousine feeling like royalty, I see familiar faces, all slightly dressed up compared to the usual headquarters attire. There’s a sense of sophistication in the air, but it’s not overwhelming, just enough to remind me that this wedding, like the couple themselves, is extraordinary.

The ceremony itself is brief but beautiful. GFC Joseph_Ligambi and Amira showing confidence and style, exchanged vows that were both heartfelt and displayed their shared success. They are partners in love and business alike. There’s a sense of power between them and you can’t help but admire them. The moment was also touching, allowing me to witness a softer, more emotional side of the Boss that I don’t often see in the headquarters.

Madness was amazed by the crowds of people outside the church as he arrived. Anybody who was a somebody was there, infamous in the streets and famous on the big movie screen, everyone was gathered together on this day.

In typical Uncle Joe style this wedding would go down for the ages, with a seemingly endless amount of money that was put in to orchestrate this day.

As an esteemed guest and man of honor Madness was extremely grateful to be part of this wonderful day.

Congratulating both Joe and Amira he handed his bodygaurd a large envelope of cash to pass on to the wedded couple.

Kenny waited in silence next to Joseph_Ligambi and Amira while they received their congratulations. This event was full of people, and Kenny never did well with crowds so he kept to himself until there was an opening to interact with the couple. He approached Joe with a smile on his face and hugged him tight. He did not care about mafia etiquette, in this moment Kenny was hugging his father figure and best friend. With a kiss on his cheek, Kenny let go of the hug.

He extended his hand to Amira and she placed her palm on his, he gave a respectful kiss on her hand and then hugged her too. Kenny and Amira didn't knew each other very well, but he knew what she had done for Joe after Margaret's death and he was very grateful that she pulled him out of his grief and brought him into happiness.

"I'm very happy for you, brother." Kenny said to Joe while breaking the hug with Amira. "I, uh.." Kenny looked back and saw a queue forming behind him. "I should go, but I'll find you later when things calm down. Enjoy your day."

Kenny made his way to the table where his wife ElenaCataraga was and pulled up a chair. She presented him a bottle of the strongest whiskey she could find, Kenny uncorked it and took a long sip out of it.

"I fucking hate crowds."

Nuccio and his right-hand man, Jimmy Thompson, set off early this morning. They arrived at St. Vincent DePaul's Roman Catholic Church in a red Duesenberg before the hustle and bustle. Naturally, they were most excited to see the glamorous bride and groom, but not only. Nuccio's pulse was already racing at the thought of catching a glimpse of Sofia Loren.

In the church, they greeted the guests already present and then took in the atmosphere. It's unbelievable how many famous personalities from politics, the entertainment industry and America's underworld have found their way here today.

During Amira and Joe's wedding vows, Nuccio - normally the cool and reserved type - became emotional. Kenny, the best man, did a good job. Nuccio, now positioned near Sofia and enchanted by her perfume, is looking forward to the rest of the festivities in the best of company and to congratulating the newlyweds in person.

Jimmy sat on opposite of Sophia next to Nuccio watching the beautiful elegant ceremony. After Jimmy positioned himself to the couple waiting patiently to give his congratulations. When the new couple had a free moment he approached. 

"Congratulations GF Joseph_Ligambi" as he shook his hand proudly smiling ear to ear. "And Amira you looked amazing up there darlin" giving her a small hug and a kiss softly on her cheek. "I hope one day to have such a companion as you two...but until then" he grins looking around at the unattended women of the room.

After the past few weeks of turmoil and chaos, Furio needed some good news. When the exquisitely designed invitation arrived at his office, he was overjoyed. It wasn't often that Furio made it to the West Coast but he loved the weather, it reminded him of the old country.

Uncle Joe was arguably the most successful business man that the City of Angels had ever seen and it showed. The beautiful St. Vincent de Paul was the perfect venue for two of the countries foremost mobsters. The guest list was a who's who of the United States' premier celebrities and organised crime figures. America was strange like that, the rich and famous, on both sides of the line, intermingled into one class. Each fascinated by the other.

After watching the Godfather Chairman Ligambi and Don Amira deliver their nuptial vows and unashamedly fighting back a tear, Furio queued up to greet the happy couple and pay tribute.

As he reached the front of the queue he embraced them both warmly by the hand.

"Godfather Ligambi, Don Amira. A beautiful ceremony! Thank you so much for this honour, to attend on your special day. May God bless you with a masculine child."

Furio passed over an envelope containing a wedding gift, a mark of respect for two giants of La Cosa Nostra.

He moved aside so that the long line of well wishers could continue to pay their respects. He saw JimmyThompson off to one side and decided to treat his old friend to a drink.

Today will be spoken about through generations. Business was flourishing and hard work was paying off. That all was beside the point. Today my brother was getting married. He made sure you fucking knew to. Everything within several blocks was shut down. The streets filled with friends and family showering the Godfather with celebration.

Making my way through the crowed that seemed to only get bigger. I finally reached Joseph_Ligambi. 

I opened my arms and embraced the Godfather, my brother.

"Congratulations brother, the two of you have something we all can pray we can find ourselves. I cant think of anyone more deserving of that blessing."

i caught KennyRusso out of the corner of my eye making his infamous silent exit. The crowd was far to big for liking too. I'd meet up with the Godfather after he glew in the spotlight and with that Gianni followed the route Kenny had took.

As he watched the lines of people waiting to congratulate the new couple, StripheCorelli took a deep breath and looked around the event slowly. He noticed there was no expense missed and this was going to be one of the weddings to remember. He noticed a lot of his old friends were here and had made the trip to see his two friends Joseph_Ligambi and Amira. 

When he noticed it was finally his turn he walked up and embraced the both of them. He noticed his friend Joe was extra happy today and Amira was looking extra beautiful. Her dress was shining and she lite up like a lightbulb as she stood there next to him waiting to talk to all of the people who had attended the wedding 

I have nothing but the best to say about the both of you and I wish you both the best. The invite to the wedding and seeing the both of you has been nothing but great and I will be in town for the next few days for sure so we can meet up again. The weather is beautiful this time of year and it has been a long time since I had some of that good west coast food as well. 

He once again hugged the both of them before stepping out of the way of the wave of a crowd as they all wanted a piece of the new couple

Not much for crowds himself, Kenshina watched for awhile taking in the amazing gathering that was unfolding. Names from all across the states had gathered and it was impressive to see that level of respect. There were very few men or woman that he knew could garnish such respect. He needed nothing but his own experience to have great respect for the both of them. Today was their day and he wanted nothing more than for them to be happy and enjoy the moment.

Kenshina waited till the crowd of those lined up to give gifts to lessen before he approach Uncle Joe and Amira. First he gave a slight bow of respect and in a low soft voice said to Uncle Joe  “I see in your eyes a peace that was long overdue. May it remain with you for a long time along with the strength that you have always had” He then turned to Amira and said "You are a light in this world that even the darkness can not dim. Take care of him even when it will not always be easy, but i know you have the strength to do it."

Kenshina then took out a small intricately carved wooden box from out a small bag he was carrying and placed it in Amira's hands. Inside the box was a finely crafted hairpin. "Please take this as a symbol of protection from my homeland and a reminder that you are never alone" He then gave Uncle Joe a nod and faded back into the background of the event. The celebration continued around him but he made sure to remain aware, and always on protection. 

Being new to these shores, the city and Hollywood, YerDaSellsAvon was content with how things had been going since being taken in by Jimmy_Ligambi in the recent months. Having settled in to his new neighbourhood, he had toured the country representing the Ligambi family, and was delighted to have been offered a seat at the wedding of Joe and Amira. Two names he was familiar with and had heard so much about during stops at the notorious Dive Bars throughout LA, following meetings and dealings with the others in the crew, though never having met them in person.

He took a moment during the ceremony to take it all in; smiling faces, a stunning backdrop and an atmosphere and welcome that defined respect, loyalty and most of all, the embrace of family. He felt very much at home, and this was the contributing factor to his new-found outlook on his new life.

He didn't want to overdo and outstay his welcome still being a new face, so his plan was to make his appearance, keep a distance and greet the couple - then check-in with his associates afterwards and be there to represent himself and the Hollywood crew from the sideline. When he saw Joe and Amira peel off from conversation with Kenshina, he took his chance. He embraced the couple, paid them the compliment of their appearance, the setting and the ceremony. Both smiled and thanked him for his presence; Joe commenting on his suit and his Cologne (An Avon special marketed by his father) before standing back and allowing others to do the same. He was pleased he had met them, they had seen him, and when they disappeared in to the crowd, headed to get himself a drink and see who he could spot to chew their ear about a recent heist.

I checked my watch one last time as I ran from my car in the parking lot to the doors of the church. The new job responsibilities had been taking up most of my time and at some point, it slipped away from me. Not exactly the best look. Especially for someone who was still trying to figure out the waters.

Pulling up short just before the door, I straighten my tie before smoothing out my shirt and jacket with my palms. Walking in looking like I just left the pub wouldn’t be the best of looks. Even if it was true.

I wasn’t surprised when I pushed the doors open as quietly as I could that the place was completely packed. Luckily, I slipped into the standing-room-only crowd, keeping myself slightly hidden. Blending in with the crowd was the smart choice at the moment. Everyone’s attention was squarely on the beautiful couple, Joseph_Ligambi and Amira.

Things like this were rare enough around these parts that they should be celebrated. Happy endings weren’t a thing here, when they did happen, they needed to be celebrated. From the looks of it, at least for today, love won out.

GordonGopher barged in, drunk. Walking in looking like he just left the pub wouldn't be the best of looks, but it was THE DAMNED TRUTH. GordonGopher had drank a few too many appletinis and did not know where he was walking anymore. Somehow, he found himself at some fancy schmancy event. There was people in suits everywhere, more than four men in suits, crowding the church doors. He did not know what the fuck this was. He did not care.

All he wanted was more drink. He walked into the church and headed straight for the church bar. He asked the church barman "can I have an appletini please", the church barman told him they only served mead and to beat it. GordonGopher asked "is it a question of money?", the barman said "no".

GordonGopher was furious and took one of the church bar's bar chairs and flung it over the counter, he then grabbed another church bar chair and began smashing it on the ground until it came apart. Several members of the crowd watching the ceremony began to look his way.

GordonGopher raised his arms and loudly proclaimed "ARE YOU NOT EDUTAINED?"

Jimmy had been at the end of the bar talking up the ladies from the wedding party when he heard a ruckus and turned to see who or what was stupid enough to cause issues at an event such as the wedding of two huge names in this world of ours. As the unknown person was speaking to the barkeep loudly Jimmy had excused himself from the two females and slowly approached the man. "Excuse me but I'm going to have to ask you..." Jimmy couldn't even finish his sentence before the man launched the barstool over the bar. Jimmy quickly grabbed the back of the mans shirt at the neck slamming his face into the bar smashing several glasses between his head and the counter. After two more quick slams of his face on the bar Jimmy lifts the man turning him around and begins to drag him along the wall to the back entrance of the church.

Once outside Jimmy drops the man to the ground. "Wrong place wrong time pal" Jimmy says as he pulls back launching his foot to the mans gut. The man cringes groans and rolls, flipping two or three times before landing on his back. Jimmy marches over kneeling over the man grabbing a hand full of hair. Jimmy swings down his hand repeatedly bashing the mans face as blood pours from his nose and mouth. Jimmy stands up sighing a deep breath before picking the man up by his hair and continuing the assault. The man, almost dead weight at this point, flips and flops around as Jimmy drags him up and throws him head first into the trash dumpster against the church wall. "You come into our city--" Jimmy grabs him and throws him into the dumpster again. "interrupt OUR celebration--" Jimmy grabs him again holding him up deadweight by the collar. "and cause a ruckus?" Jimmy headbutts the man as blood splatters across Jimmy's face now from the man. "No, no, no, no....that just ain't gonna happen" the man drops to the ground limp. "And for that...you have a penance to pay..." Jimmy walks around to the side of the man looking down at him as he reaches under his jacket retrieving his .38. Jimmy's eye's go dead inside as he stares down at the man's bloody beaten body. "And that penance....is death." Jimmy places his finger on the trigger slowly pulling back.

BANG POW BANG POW BANG BANG KACHOW

Fireworks blast in the sky in celebration of the wedding of Don Amira and GFC Joseph_Ligambi.

Jimmy returns his gun to his holster under his jacket and retrieves a cigarette from his half crumpled pack. Striking a match and lighting the cigarette taking a long deep drag savoring the taste. 

When the first bit of wooden shrapnel goes flying, the jovial noise of the crowd hushes a bit- but only by half. Namely, the half that is comprised of civilians. They all suddenly get blanched, astonished looks on their faces at the drunken outburst. Amira, with a glass of champagne in her hand, casually looks over with a slight look of annoyance. Several suited members of the Azra security team start to move in- but they aren't as quick as Jimmy Thompson, and that puts a grin back on Amira's face. She waves the team back to their posts and watches as Jimmy drags the poor sap outside, then slips off to find Joe as it's nearly time to cut the cake. Besides, the mess would be taken care of, if Amira knew the Ligambi boys like she certainly did.

By the time the fireworks begin, the whole ugliness is forgotten, and the crowd was back to enjoying the festivities. 

Jimmy wasn’t really paying attention to the drunk at the bar, but when he saw him being dragged outside, he knew we had to follow to prevent potential problems. As he walks across the room, he bumped into Amira, He was still looking absolutely gorgeous, practically glowing on her big day. 
 

“I’m not sure what’s going on” He said, As he hugged her and gave her a kiss, “I’ll make sure it doesn’t get out of hand, don’t worry about anything”. 

As Jimmy move through the crowd his uncle Joe caught his eye, ‘Sort that’ he mouthed, while pointing towards the door the drunk man had just been dragged out of. 
 

Was it fireworks or was it a gunshot? Jimmy hoped it was the former. As he reached the door, JimmyThompson walked back in, cigarette in hand, smiled, and said “Don’t worry, I’ve sorted it, he won’t be bothering the party anymore” and winked as he headed back towards the bar. 
Oh shit, Jimmy knew this wasn’t good. 

When he reached the parking lot, Jimmy saw two of Thompsons bodyguards loading something into the trunk of a car. Jesus Christ, Jimmy thought to himself, he fucking shot him. “You two, back inside, I’ll sort this” He said, taking the keys off one of them and getting into the car. 
 

It was about an hour later when Jimmy returned to the wedding, Hoping no one would’ve really have noticed he was missing. KennyRusso made his way over to him, asking where he’d been. It had taken Jimmy the best part of 30 minutes to get over to the construction site where the new Ligambi studios was being built, find the foreman and drop this deadbeats corpse into the foundations that were being poured on one of the sound stages. He couldn’t tell Kenny that though he knew he’d throw him off his speech. 
 

“There was a problem at the Studios construction I needed to attend to, something about a missing ingredient in the concrete” Jimmy jokingly said as he put his arm around Kenny, walking back into the great dining room together, “Come on, let’s get these speeches over, then we can get extra friendly with the bridesmaids.”