Tuesday 5 September 2017

CHARITY EVENTS & GALAS SPRING/SUMMER 2017

CIBPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CLIMBING ANOTHER MOUNTAIN TOP! (with Nonno Carlo watching over!!) 👍 🇨🇦🇮🇹 On May 24 I was appointed to the Board of Directors of the CIBPA of Toronto by the association's Ladies' Auxiliary. To say I'm honoured is a COMPLETE UNDERSTATEMENT.. LOL. Not only am I proud to represent the Auxiliary of which I've been a member for 5 years, but I'm also humbled to be an official board member of such an esteemed and enduring organization which has worked tirelessly for the last 65 years to assist and mentor Italian Canadian professionals while strengthening the image of the Italian community across our nation. And taking into consideration the extraordinary contributions made by Italian Canadians, there's no question the C.I.B.P. A has done an outstanding job!! This photo taken with Ladies' Auxiliary founder, Jackie Rosati at the 63rd annual President's Ball may have been a foreshadow of things to come 😉 Thank you Jackie, Cettina Consales Anna Scavuzzo and Marisa De Luca... I hope to serve you, the entire C.I.B.P.A and our communuty well. Congratulations to all the newly-elected board members.. I look forward to working with you all ! 


CHIN TV APPEARANCE FOR MAC HEALTH
COMMUNITY 'GREATS' LIVE ON CHIN TV!! 📺🎥 A humbling experience yesterday as I appeared live on CHIN Television alongside some of the greatest pillars of the Italian Canadian community such as Carlo Baldassarra (Greenpark Group of Companies), Sam Ciccolini (Masters Insurance) and others. It was incredibly fun when my friend, comedian Sandra Carusi, walked through the doors unexpectedly for a segment.. what a laugh!! (Thx for slow dance to Tozzi's 'Ti Amo'... only you, Cruzzzzer😆) Thank you to Grace and Lenny Lombardi of CHIN for giving me the opportunity to promote the Mackenzie Health Foundation's 'Ride for Health' charity cycle. A huge hug to my brother-from-another-mamma, Fabio Gesufatto for accompanying me to the show.. you rock, Fab!!!! 




INSPIRING WOMEN GARDEN PARTY
GARDEN PARTY FOR INSPIRING WOMEN 🌺🌻🌹 No better way to spend an evening than with some of the hardest working women of our community. Thank you to Mackenzie Health Foundation for organizing a garden party for all of us to enjoy while supporting the 250-million "Exceptional Care Belongs Here" Campaign. Special thanks to our gracious hostess, Milena Calabro and to Luci Anderson, Debora Kelly, Elisa Minaudo Decarolis, Daniel Salvatore and the rest of the team at Mac Health who go above and beyond to ensure first-rate healthcare in York Region. And thank you for the amazing basket I won!! It took three people to carry to the car.












CIBPA 'HIGH TEA' AT THE OLD MILL
Always great to see these outstanding ladies, especially when it involves the age-old tradition of 'high tea' at the breathtaking and historic, Old Mill Toronto !!!  Held by the C.I.B.P.A Ladies' Auxiliary, this year marks a milestone as the organization celebrates 65 years of community service. Founded by 93 year-old Jackie Rosati (sitting, centre) in order to assist post-WWII Italians migrating to Toronto, today the auxiliary prides itself on raising funds for various charities and community groups. Jackie, who is one of my heroes, including these exceptional ladies have taught me the importance of giving back...with the understanding that no one individual can be left behind. Now entering my fifth year I am incredibly proud to be a member of this organization.






CIBPA 'ESPRESSO CUP' GOLF TOURNAMENT
PRACTICING MY SWING AT THE 'ESPRESSO CUP' 🏌An action-packed and super fun day as I got on the course at the annual CIBPA Espresso Cup Golf Tournament. Although I was butt of many a joke (swing in need of improvement...blonde jokes not appreciated..thx) I managed to get through unscathed. Day consisted of oysters from San Antonio Fish Market, hats courtesy of sponsor He ro Certified Burgers, wine in celebration of Piera Segreto's 29th birthday, holding onto my seat while fellow board member John Amendola drove cart...and gold naturally! 








'HEROES IN BLACK' WALK AT THE 
OLD MILL 
HEROES IN RED! ❤️❤️❤️ Big hand to the C.I,B.P.A. Ladies' Auxiliary who held the "STEP IT UP" 5km walk benefiting Heroes In Black. Kicking off at the historic Old Mill Toronto, Heroes in Black assists homeless and at-risk youth across Canada by helping them recognize their dreams ultimately rebuild their lives. It was a pleasure to meet founder, Matte Black who has dedicated his life to this cause. Special thank you to "Nurse Jackie" Rosati who was on standby in case we needed medical assistance 😀 And a huge congrats to organizers and my fellow "Ladies", Licia Lettieri and Linda De Genova who did such an incredible job executing this day..it is no easy task. CIBPA of Toronto #ItalianCanadians 





MACKENZIE HEALTH FOUNDATION'S 'RIDE FOR HEALTH'
OVER $200,000 RAISED FOR MACKENZIE HEALTH!!! 🚴👏 As a member of the SpinKicks Team, I thank all those who donated to my charity ride supporting the Mackenzie Health Foundation. This has been an experience I'll NEVER forget!! Congrats to event co-chairs, Mark Roccatani and Domenic Gurreri as well as top fundraisers Mike Primucci and Team Pizza Nova. Bravo to all!! 👏😊 Great to see so many familiar faces and amazing to meet new people (yes, Mrs. Tank, we definitely need to create our own 'Team Revettes' LOL �) Looking forward to next year. 







McHAPPY DAY FOR RONALD McDONALD HOUSE
SUPPORTING RONALD McDONALD HOUSE! 🍟🍔 What an incredible McHappy Day spent at Hwy 7 & 27. This is my fifth year and couldn't imagine not being here on this day. One dollar from every Big Mac, Happy Meal and McCafe beverage went to Ronald McDonald House Charities Toronto which assists families and children dealing with medical adversities . Families living outside of the GTA are not only given accommodations while their kids are cared by at nearby hospitals, but they're also given emotional support and counselling by trained professionals. Thank goodness for this incredible charity!! Big props to McDonald's franchisee, Larry Garber, including Donna, Gwen and the entire staff for showing myself, Tony Monaco all the other Z103.5 jocks and our City of Vaughan councillors the ropes!! It's not as easy at it looks!!! 






STRIDES FOR STROKES
JUMPING PUDDLES FOR 'STRIDES FOR STROKE' 🌨! An incredible day participating in the12th Annual 5km walk/run supporting Richview Manor and Mackenzie Health. 1200 wet participants managed to to exceed the collective goal raising over $230,000!!!!! Thank you to sponsors Little Morello Vettese Segreto Llp who asked me to join their team...an honour to participate alongside this group which raised $13,000 - the third largest amount after the ScotiaBank and RBC Royal Bank Teams. Congrats to Mario Masellis who raised the most funds by an individual and big props of course to event co-chairs, John Vettese and Patrick Ciccolini. 







META FOUNDATION MARTINI NIGHT
RAISING FUNDS FOR META CENTRE 🍸🍷❤️ Thank you to the Meta Foundation for the special invitation to their 6th Annual "Ladies Martini Night" supporting the new Meta Centre and those with special needs. Honouring its late and most loyal patron, all proceeds raised at this sold-out event will go toward the 12000 square-foot development of the Jimmy DeSzen Centre of Abilities which will be located on the grounds of the Veneto Centre in Vaughan. Congratulations to Meta Chair, Rita Ristucci and Co-Chair, Lee Simone on a super successful evening...and great to see so many familiar faces and to meet new ladies too!! 







JOEY CONTE FOUNDATION GALA
AN EVE HONOURING THE LIFE OF JOEY CONTE  A great night for the Joey Conte Foundation which raises funds benefitting the Burns & Plastics Unit of As Master of Ceremonies for the last 3 years I've seen this gala grow leaps and bounds with this year's attendance exceeding 800 at Vaughan's Universal EventSpace - byPeterandPauls.com. Passing away unexpectedly at age 24, Joey was a firefighter in-training so it was incredibly special having Vaughan Fire Rescue Service and Chief Larry Bentley in the house...thank you to Deputy Fire Chief Deryn Rizzi who made this happen!! Always an honour having the head of SickKids burns unit department, Dr. Joel Fish and many congratulations to the JCF committee on another incredibly and successful event!!!!



ISABELLA'S ANGELS
Congrats to 12 year old, Isabella Nudo who hosted her very first fundraising dinner  Now that's what I call a future leader and role model ...and I'm thrilled to have been her first emcee!! 👏👏 Isabella has Type 1 Diabetes and four years ago founded Isabella's Angels alongside her parents, Vicki and Sandro. In addition, she's become an ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and participates in the annual Telus Walk to Cure Diabetes. Keep up the great work, kiddo! You are an inspiration. So great to meet WWE superstar Santino Marella and to see outstanding violinist, Grenville Pinto perform once again. Special thank you to Ray Bernardo for asking me to participate. 





RETRO BOOGIE NIGHT
BOOGIE WONDERLAND!! ♬🎹🎸🎶 So much fun to dress up in retro garb and dance the night away at the 8th Annual Retro Boogie Night benefiting Neurofibromatosis research at SickKids and Toronto General hospitals. It was an electrifying eve emceed by Tony Monaco with a stellar performance by one of my favourite artists, Joey De Simone. Congratulations to event founders and hosts Ivana Di Norcia-Virgilio and husband Angelo for raising funds and awareness to this disorder 




DECEMBER 2013

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Million Dollar Smiles Project

Million Dollar Smiles Project
“See the joy in the children’s eyes….makes you wish it was Christmas every day!...” I couldn’t believe all the generous people and the businesses who contacted me through "The Italianista" in order to donate to “Million Dollar Smiles” in support of Hospice Vaughan. There’s nothing more rewarding than a child’s happiness.

Million Dollar Smiles

Million Dollar Smiles
Teddy puts a smile on my face too!

"Snapd" Christmas Party

"Snapd" Christmas Party
For the last year my culinary feature “Get the Dish”, in collaboration with Savour York Region, has been featured in Snapd Woodbridge, Snapd Vaughan East and Snapd Caledon. I’ve had the great pleasure of working with this incredible team and was pleased to celebrate the holidays together. Photo – Rob Lorusso (Snapd Managing Editor), John Amendola (owner Snapd Woodbridge, Vaughan East, Caledon, Brampton and The Beaches), Cathy Amendola, Michelle DeBuono (City of Vaughan) and Valeria Mitsubata (Snapd photographer)

Celebrating the Holidays with the Evanov Radio Group

Celebrating the Holidays with the Evanov Radio Group
The last remaining independent on the dial, Z103.5FM in Toronto is owned and operated by the Evanov Radio Group. It’s no surprise that with its Italian roots 500 staff members were treated to an incredible Italian Christmas feast at the Paramount Event Venue in Vaughan. Panettone, crepes and specialty coffees were served on masse! Photo – heir to the throne, Paul Evanov

Festival of Light @ Vaughan City Hall

Festival of Light @ Vaughan City Hall
This is a time for all members of the community to come together and celebrate the usage and symbolism of “light” in various cultures and religions. Represented were the Native community, Jewish, Roman Catholic, Sikh Dharma, Hindu, the African diaspora and many more. Photo – Pat Russo and family

Ice Cream Patio's "Joy for Toy" Drive

Ice Cream Patio's "Joy for Toy" Drive
Props to Nick Lucchese of the Ice Cream Patio! After 13 years the “Joy for Toy” Drive is still running strong. A role model for all businesses in Vaughan, the Ice Cream Patio knows that it’s not all about conducting business but also about giving back to the community. Photo _ Nadia Cerelli (Savour York Region –SYR), Rob Lorusso (Snapd), Tony Monaco (Z103.5 FM), Elvira Caria (SYR)

CIBPA Christmas Dinner at St. George's Golf & Country Club

CIBPA Christmas Dinner at St. George's Golf & Country Club
Over the last six decades the Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association has become the chosen voice for the Italian community. I was happy to celebrate the holiday season with its Ladies’ Auxiliary and most especially its founder, the legendary Jackie Rosati. Arriving in Canada via Ellis Island in 1932, this Italian Canadian has devoted her life to service. Photo - Jackie Rosati and Laura Tonelli.

NOVEMBER 2013

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The Vaughan Chamber of Commerce "Women to Women" Symposium

The Vaughan Chamber of Commerce "Women to Women" Symposium
A real pleasure meeting Arlene Dickenson (Dragon's Den), guest speaker of this inspirational event. Here she is signing my book with my gal pal Felicia Pirone.

Vaughan Film Festival Media Launch

Vaughan Film Festival Media Launch
Setting the stage for the upcoming 2nd Annual Vaughan Film Festival! From April 2nd to April 4th 2014 renowned Canadian and International films will be showcased in the city of Vaughan. Aspiring, young film directors/producers will also have the opportunity to enter the VFF Student Competition. Photo Rob Lorusso (Snapd Newspapers), Rick Campanelli (ET Canada) and Tony Monaco (Z103.5 FM)

Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day
Attendees braved the elements during the Remembrance Day Service at the Woodbridge Cenotaph. Photo – Vaughan MPP, Steven Del Duca

OCTOBER 2013

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Freedom Day @Yonge-Dundas Square

Freedom Day @Yonge-Dundas Square
How lucky can a girl get? Not only did I get to spend an afternoon with my hero, Max Eisen during Freedom Day in Toronto, I also met another hero, Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield! Held annually at Yonge-Dundas Square, Freedom Day celebrates our human rights and spreads awareness regarding racial discrimination and intolerance. Max, a Holocaust survivor that I had the honour of interviewing invited me to this eye-opening event. Chris even played the tune he sang with the Barenaked Ladies while out in the cosmos! Great day for the kids and I encourage all parents to bring their children to next year's event. Spread the word of peace….Photo – Commander Chris Hadfield

"Light the Night" Gala @Le Parc Vaughan

"Light the Night" Gala @Le Parc Vaughan
I did it!!!! My entire adult life I’ve had a fear of public speaking. I avoided it at all costs and missed so many great opportunities because of it. Well, no more. I emceed the “Light the Night Gala” in Vaughan (proceeds benefitting the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and Sunnybrook Hospital) and I have to say that I loved EVERY minute of it…I didn’t want to get off that podium!!! For those of you who live in fear of trying something new, be brave. Believe me when I tell you it’s only an illusion. If I can do something that terrified me as much as this did, so can you. Props to Joseph Montagnese of the Vaughan Citizen for this photo.

Hospice Vaughan "Giving Thanks" Gala

Hospice Vaughan "Giving Thanks" Gala
Photo - Anthony Pullano, Vaughan City Councillor Rosanna De Francesca, Eva Pullano and Ontario PC Candidate for Vaughan, Peter Meffe

Hospice Vaughan "Giving Thanks" Gala

Hospice Vaughan "Giving Thanks" Gala
In the last few years I have become friends with some incredible and extremely selfless people who are doing amazing things in our community. Believe me when I tell you that the energetic, fuzzy vibes they give off are infectious!!! Congrats to my friends Alessandra Piccolo, John Amendola, all the other board and committee members as well as the volunteers of Hospice Vaughan for putting together such a wonderful event. The role of Hospice is vital not just in our community but in all communities. Photo – Fabio Gesufatto, Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and Alessandra Piccolo of Hospice Vaughan

Savour York Region Restaurant Week

Savour York Region Restaurant Week
Enjoying the culinary delights of Vaughan! The Savour York Region Restaurant Week launch party was a great opportunity to sample dishes from local restaurateurs and spend an evening among friends. A job well done, Elvira Cariaand Nadia Cerelli. How about a heaping tray of raw oysters next year? Photo – Nadia Cerelli (Savour York Region), Vaughan City Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco, Alessandra Piccolo (Hospice Vaughan), Tony Monaco (Z103.5FM) and Elvira Caria (Savour York Region)

SEPTEMBER 2013

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MICBA "Let's Get Together" Event

MICBA "Let's Get Together" Event
The Mississauga Italian Canadian Benevolent Association hosted an evening of great food and entertainment at the 2nd Annual “Let’s Get Together Event” (Roma’s Hospitality Centre). All proceeds to this organization benefit their Long Term Care Facility in Mississauga. Photo – Laura Tonelli, Carmela Liporati (MICBA), Tony Monaco (Z103.5FM), Darlene and Victoria Fragomeni

Snap'd Re-Launch Party @ Richview Manor (Vaughan)

Snap'd Re-Launch Party @ Richview Manor (Vaughan)
Snap launches a new name and a new look. Now known as Snap’d here’s a photo of John Amendola and Rob Lorusso of Snapd Vaughan East, Woodbridge, Caledon, Brampton and The Beaches. Great party and great cake, guys!!

Al Pacino at Massey Hall

Al Pacino at Massey Hall
This is one experience I will never forget! Shaking Al Pacino's hand and bantering with him in Italian. I was absolutely thrilled to meet this living legend and to sit in the audience and here his life story of trials and tribulations. He is a true inspiration! Photo- the Z103 FM gang and Al Pacino

TIFF "Our Man in Tehran" After-Party at the National Club of Toronto

TIFF "Our Man in Tehran" After-Party at the National Club of Toronto
I had the great pleasure having a friendly conversation with The Right Honourable Joe Clark at the “Our Man in Tehran” TIFF after-party. I also had the privilege of meeting former ambassador to Iran, Ken Taylor including documentary director, Drew Taylor. Photo – Alessandra Piccolo and PM Joe Clark

Prime Minister's Gala

Prime Minister's Gala
Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Italy's Prime Minister, Enrico Letta were honoured by the Italian community at Paramount Event Venue (Vaughan). Great speeches, delicious food courtesy of byPeterandPauls.com and incredible entertainment provided by Christopher Dallo, Belinda Naccarato, Brian Roman, Daniele Monticelli and Enrico Galante.

Prime Minister's Gala

Prime Minister's Gala
Belinda Naccarato, Christopher Dallo and Carmela Liporati

AUGUST 2013 Julian Fantino Picnic (Vaughan)

AUGUST 2013 Julian Fantino Picnic (Vaughan)
Sarah Salituro, Bruno Falvo and accordion sensation, Claudio Santaluce

JULY 2013

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4th Annual Viva Italia Reunion

4th Annual Viva Italia Reunion
The Evanov Radio "Viva Italia Cuba" Reunion Luncheon was such a blast that we all stayed at Posticino Ristorante until evening. The artists gave family and friends a special treat with some beautiful in –house performances. Purely spontaneous, it was truly magical! Photo – Juno Winner, Robert Michaels

Italian Contemporary Film Festival Closing Party

Italian Contemporary Film Festival Closing Party
Enjoying the night with some Italian celebs at Andrew Richards Designs, Downtown. Photo - Fabio Gesufatto and cousin Emma De Francesca

JUNE 2013

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MICBA Street Festival - Forum Drive, Mississauga

MICBA Street Festival - Forum Drive, Mississauga
MICBA Board - Bruna Ronaghi, Cav. Carmela Liporati and Cav. Frank Trevisan

MICBA Street Festival

MICBA Street Festival
A wonderful performance by vocalists Carlo Coppola, Victoria Fragomeni and Vincenzo Benenati!

Italian Flag Raising at Vaughan City Hall

Italian Flag Raising at Vaughan City Hall
The 2nd Annual Italian Flag Raising at Vaughan City Hall kicked off the month-long Italian Heritage Month of Ontario. This momentous occasion celebrates Italian culture as well as the contributions made by Italian Canadians. Photo – Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and OMNI News anchor, Vincenzo Somma.

Flag Raising at Vaughan City Hall

Flag Raising at Vaughan City Hall
Donata Morandi and Mayor Bevilacqua

1st Annual Piazza Italia Festival

1st Annual Piazza Italia Festival
People of all ages and backgrounds gathered at the 1st Annual Piazza Italia festivities held at the Liberty Grand in Downtown Toronto. Showcasing Italian culture, cuisine, fashion and entertainment Piazza Italia is a one-of-a-kind celebration in honour of the Italian Heritage Month of Ontario. The recreation of an Italian Piazza, the music of Daniel Panetta, Victoria Fragomeni and Belinda Naccarato as well as the fleet of Ferraris were just some of the highlights. Great food…great friends…I am looking forward to next year!

Piazza Italia

Piazza Italia
Luxury Italian cars lining the street outside the Liberty Grand

23rd Annual MICBA Golf Tournament

23rd Annual MICBA Golf Tournament
Striking a pose with the Toronto Argonauts Cheerleaders (Mississauga Italian Canadian Benevolent Association golf tournament) at Lionhead Golf & Country Club. Do I know how to play golf? Nope…that’s my goal for 2014!

"Ora" - Culture Canada - Italy

"Ora" - Culture Canada - Italy
This is unique event at the Bata Shoe Museum downtown was a celebration of heritage and culture. A speaker's circle discussed culture within the city of Toronto. The evening ended with a jazzy repertoire performed by Daniela Nardi's Espresso Manifesto.

Inspire 2013

Inspire 2013
This purpose of this bi-annual event is to motivate and inspire students from universities throughout Toronto. Founder and professor at York University, Luciano Volpe invites speakers from all walks of life to give their wisdom and lend their expertise to a younger generation. Photo – Luciano Volpe and ET Canada’s Rick Campanelli, host of the Inspire summer event.

Inspire

Inspire
Journalist Rosanna Bonura and Rick Campanelli

MAY 2013

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Hospice Vaughan Fashion Show

Hospice Vaughan Fashion Show
The first annual, this event featured the incredible designs of Domenic Serio.

CIBPA Ladies' Auxilliary "Moda In Motion" Fashion Show

CIBPA Ladies' Auxilliary "Moda In Motion" Fashion Show
Ladies Auxiliary of the CIBPA presented their signature fashion show MODA IN MOTION. Hosted by Tony Monaco all proceeds benefitted the Caritas School of Life and Baycrest Hospital.

"Snapd" at the Chocolate Ball

"Snapd" at the Chocolate Ball
Enjoying delectable and mouth-watering chocolate with my friend, Alessandra Piccolo

"Choc n' Roll" Chocolate Ball

"Choc n' Roll" Chocolate Ball
Held at Le Jardin Event Centre in Vaughan this event was a chocolate lover's paradise! Present were a slew of chocolatiers offering samples of their gourmet chocolate. Can't wait for next year! Photo - The gals of Call Me Cupcakes in Vaughan

APRIL 2013

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4th Annual Viva Italia Cuba Event

4th Annual Viva Italia Cuba Event
This month-long Evanov Radio event in Varadero, Cuba is a celebration of Italian Canadian music. Emceeing the event were radio personalities Tony Monaco (Z103.5 FM Toronto) and Franco Valli (CHIN Radio Toronto). An incredible line-up of artists entertained a global audience. Participants include Juno winner Robert Micheals, Claudio Santaluce, Carlo Coppola, Brian Roman, Victoria Fragomeni, Vincenzo Benenati and many more. Lending his culinary expertise at the Super Club Breezes and Bella Costa Resorts was Posticino Ristorante’s very own Antonio Pirone. Photo – Antonio Pirone and Franco Valli

Viva Italia Cuba

Viva Italia Cuba
In photo - performers Carlo Coppola, Vincenzo Benenati and Tony Monaco

MARCH 2013

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CHIN Radio

CHIN Radio
I had the great opportunity to “wake up Italian style” and co-host the CHIN Radio morning show with personality, Edoardo Monasterolo. The best thing about this experience was that I selected the entire musical line-up! Love you, Battisti…

FEBRUARY 2013

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Mayor's Luncheon

Mayor's Luncheon
Hosted by the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce, this event is a perfect opportunity for local business and community leaders to come together. In photo - Alessandra (Hospice Vaughan), Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and Fabio Gesufatto

Caritas Ball

Caritas Ball
Former resident of Caritas, Vincenzo Benenati and president Michael Tibollo (as well as Vince's Ma!)

Caritas Ball

Caritas Ball
The Caritas School of Life (Vaughan) supports individuals suffering from addiction. The Caritas Ball raises funds and awareness for this important organization.

JANUARY 2013


Saluting Italian Heroes

Saluting Italian Heroes
The Italian Heritage Foundation in collaboration with the City of Vaughan presented the 1st Annual Saluting Italian Heroes. This event commemorates the efforts of the Italian people who courageously risked their lives to save Jews during WWII. Remembered were Giorgio Perlasca and Gino Bartali, now inducted in the Yad Vashem Memorial in Isreal. In photo - Fabio Gesufatto and Melina Zeppieri