Tuesday 25 November 2014

CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP AND HONOURING THE FALLEN

The Municipal Elections and Remembrance Day were by far the most important events for me during the Fall of 2014.  For someone like myself who is extremely patriotic and has a newly discovered interest in local politics, it was a month full of emotional ups and downs (Rob Ford's diagnosis / the death Nathan Cirillo) and nail biting situations (who would make the cut on Oct 27th?).  I have to say that I am relieved it's over. 


October 27 Municipal Elections 
The elections are finally over! After working the Vaughan polls for 13 INTENSE and exhausting hours I managed to make my way over to Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua's victory party at the Riviera Parque. With 25+ years political experience, 4 of them as leader of this incredible city, Vaughan will continue to be in good hands Congratulations to all re-elected and elected Regional and Ward Councillors.... a great team once again. 
*Thanks Luca Viorel and YOUR AD ONLINE for some of these great candid shots!



Mayor Bevilacqua 

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS!

It's important to support small business as well as community initiatives showcasing new entrepreneurs.  I make it a point to shop locally and purchase homegrown product if possible. 


October 27 Glam Goes Green Grand Opening 
I know I cover a lot of events in Vaughan but it’s time I give a little TLC to my peeps in Bolton!!!! I want to congratulate Lisa Smith Morgan on the grand opening of her new business Glam Goes Green. Lisa’s new endeavour located in the town’s downtown core caters to the environmentally conscious and ethical consumer. So if you’re looking for toxic-free, naturally-derived beauty and health products this is it 
http://glamgoesgreen.com 


Owner Lisa Morgan
My hairstylist Amanda!! 

November 2nd Our Rugrats Expo
It's no wonder that a kid-at-heart like myself would love the OUR RUGRATS EXPO. Geared to kids and organized by Our Brands Media my favourite part of the expo included Medieval Times, Legoland play area and the FIRE SAFETY LESSON from the City of Vaughan Fire Rescue Team!! 
My old school chum, Ty Chidlow - Fierce Medieval Times Knight

Antonietta DeRoma
Diva Girlz
Emcee Elvira Caria (right) 
A tender moment with Vaughan Fire Inspector, Andre Clafton
November 13  2nd Annual Girls Night Out Shopaganza
Tony Monaco and I reached another milestone in our 18-year relationship when we recorded our first-ever radio commercial together  I was super-excited to be at the Z103.5 studios taping the Moving Forward Foundation's 2nd Annual Shopaganza Event. Of course Tony was worried I would MAX-OUT the credit card but I was too busy emceeing this shopping extravaganza) 
La Primavera Banquet Hall in Vaughan. www.movingforward2015.org
Interviewing Santa! What a hoot!
November 18  Vaughan Chamber of Commerce Women-to-Women Symposium
My Dad always said "If there were more women in politics the world would be a better place". Love my Dad and all his wisdom  Other than public service women can alter the world via ANY leadership role whether it's in business or as a mom. This is why I look forward to the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce "Women-to-Women Symposium" every year. It doesn't just fuel my spirit - it also inspires me to support those I surround myself with. This year's event which empowers and connects women in our community featured CBC News Host of "The Exchange" Amanda Lang. She discussed her new book "The Power of WHY" and how to reignite curiosity at any age to become more innovative and proactive. Afterwards the girls and visited the vendors and did a little shopping! 
Paramount Conference & Event Venue - byPeterandPauls.com
Mary from Woodbridge Country Club
Nadia Cerelli (Plan B Promotions) and Rita Borges (byPeter&Pauls.com) 
Cathy Amendola, Elvira Caria, Nadia Cerelli 

FALL 2014 - CELEBRATING ARTS, CULTURE & HERITAGE!

Although I had a great cultural experience while traveling through the Alps this fall, I also had equally appealing experiences after I returned home. The following are a few the interesting cultural and arts events I attended in the fall of 2014.  Many I covered for Panoram Italia Magazine. 

October 9 Celebrating Friulian Language 
If there’s one thing I’m proud of it’s my rich Friulian heritage.  And I must say we had so much fun with these signs last night at the launch of the Famee Furlane’s Language & Culture Course. Officially recognized by both Italy and the European Union as an OFFICIAL language, Friulian will now be taught at the Famee Furlane Club of Toronto starting October 16th. For those of you who have never heard of this Italian subculture, the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia lying in northeastern Italy embodies a myriad of wonderful customs. The best part? Vaughan UNOFFICIALLY speaks 100 languages now!
Famee Furlane Club of Toronto - Vaughan
Host Mattia Bello
Victoria, Mayor Bevilacqua, Matthew Melchior, Mattia and Tony Monaco

October 17  Renaissance Awards Gala  
It was here that the Italian Canadian community honoured its best. Held at the Riviera Parque and presented by the Amici Museum, Canadian Italian Heritage Foundation together with the National Congress of Italian Canadians – Toronto District the evening’s ceremony recognized the contributions made by outstanding individuals and organizations. 
Riviera Parque - Vaughan
NCIC President Fabio Gesufattto, Recipient Carmela Liparoti and Minister Julian Fantino


November 2  Festa d'Autunno
This has to be one of the best culinary events I've attended!! Over 700 famished foodies showed up at the 17th Annual Festa Gastronomica d’Autunno on Nov 2nd.. Hosted by the Association of Italian Chefs of Canada the extravaganza featured over 30 different restaurants, wine distributers, food importers and suppliers from across the GTA. Auguri to my friend and Furlan paesan Gianni Ceschia on a job well done 
RIviera Parque - Vaughan
Ralph Chiodo and Mirella Colaricci 

Chef Gianni Ceschia 
Organizer Alessandra Piccolo 

November 6  Vaughan Film Festival Media Launch
I still can't stop thinking about the 3rd Annual Vaughan Film Festival Media Launch. I am both amazed and moved by the amount of support we're receiving from the community  As Media Relations Director for the Festival I’d like to thank all of our generous sponsors, media and friends who came out to Vaughan City Hall that evening. With the assistance of our incredible emcee Suhanna Meherchand (CBC News) we announced the VFF Talking Film Campaign, year-round student initiatives including the date for the upcoming festival- MAY 25th – 28th, 2015. Congrats to those who won Festival Screening and Awards Show tickets. It was also great to be on-stage…my first time speaking at City Hall (apologies to City employees who heard me singing "Piano Man" during mike testing heheheee!!!!!) .
For more VFF info and how you can enter the Talking Film Campaign visit http://www.vaughanfilmfestival.com/
Suhanna Meherchand and our volunteers 
Nail biter! 
Mark Pagliaroli and Antonio Ienco (founders of VFF) with Suhanna Meherchand
Alessandra Piccolo, Nadia Cerelli, Councillor Marilyn Iafrate, Elvira Caria, Councillor Deb Schulte
Minister Steven Del Duca, Alessandra Piccolo, Councillor Tony Carella, Suhanna Meherchand and Fabio Gesufatto


November 15 62nd Annual President's Ball
Humility, in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful qualities any human can possess. Other than determination, vision and integrity, humility was the common denominator I found in all four honourees of the 62nd Annual CIBPA President’s Ball - Awards of Excellence. I can't tell you how touched I was by their sincere and heartfelt speeches!  
Honoured with the President’s Award was CEO of CHIN Radio/TV LENNY LOMBARDI who through his steadfast dedication continues the legacy left by his late father – multicultural patron, Johnny Lombardi. The Professional Excellence Award was presented to GREG SORBARA for his exemplary political career. The inspirational DIANE DUPUY, President and founder of Famous PEOPLE Players, was given the Community Leader Award. Finally, receiving the Business Excellence Award for their achievement in numerous construction and development enterprises was the CORTELLUCCI FAMILY who dedicated the award to all Italian families who contributed to the fabric of Canadian society.
*Thank you to Luca Viorel and YOUR AD ONLINE for some of these awesome shots! A sincere thanks to the CIBPA of Toronto.
Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex - Toronto
Pal Di Iulio (Villa Charities) and the new Consul General of Italy, Giuseppe Pastorelli 
Minister Steven Del Duca, Professional Excellence Award recipient Greg Sorbara, Business Excellence Award recipient Mario Cortellucci, Vaughan MayorMaurizio Bevilacqua, CIBPA President Eddy Burello, President's Award recipient Lenny Lombardi and Honourary Chair Ralph Chiodo 
Ginesia Cortellucci 
Award recipient Greg Sorbara with CIBPA President Eddy Burello, Lou Panacci and Frank Strippoli 
Ralph Chiodo (Active Green & Ross) and Rick Campanelli (host ET Canada) 
Award recipient Mario Cortellucci (Cortel Group) and his wife Ginesia Cortellucc
Award recipient Lenny Lombardi (CHIN Radio/TV) with his wife Grace 
Selfie with Antonio Ienco (Vaughan Film Festival) and Rick Campanelli (ET Canada) 

CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME

They say charity begins at home and I can attest to that! Through 'RO On The GO" or via my event column in Panoram Italia Magazine I'm witness to the incredible spirit of philanthropy that exists with the city of Vaughan. Here are few fundraisers I covered for the 2014 fall season (I also had the chance to emcee one!) 

September 26 Imagine  
Despite the nasty jet lag from my European holiday I couldn't wait to emcee the 1st Annual “Imagine” Event (Eagle's Nest). Benefiting the Give Kids a Chance Foundation, this fundraiser raised proceeds for the construction of Los Patohos – a youth centre in Guatamala. With the 5th highest crime rate worldwide and 80% of its citizens living in extreme poverty, this centre is like an oasis in the desert. It was a privilege to meet Juan Pablo Romero Fuentes, a young teacher and 2014 CNN hero who founded the original centre when he opened his parents’ home to help over 1500 children in the area. Even today Pablo and his parents still live in the top floor of their home while providing a safe haven to kids down below. The event raised close to $80, 000 and once completed Los Patohos will be recognized as a university!!!!
For more information visit:http://www.givekidsachancefoundation.com/ 

Juan Pablo Romero Fuentes with Foundation Founders 
Juan Pablo Romero Fuentes and Tony Monaco
Linda Granzotto 

October 3 Hospice Vaughan Gala 
When I mention Hospice Vaughan I sometimes have people ask me, “What EXACTLY is Hospice?” Hospices have been around for centuries. They were once a refuge for weary travelers as well as a place where the terminally ill and wounded could get much needed care. Although much has changed, modern hospices can be found in almost every community and give compassionate support to persons dealing with life-threatening illness or the loss of a loved one – something we sadly all have in common. As an organization I strongly support, Hospice Vaughan has been serving the community since 1995. It was incredible to see close to 1000 people show their support at the 5th Annual Hospice Vaughan “Giving Thanks” Gala!!! A record-breaking year. Congrats to John AmendolaCarmela Sisto and the rest of the team at Hospice Vaughan 
To donate or to volunteer at Hospice Vaughan please visit:http://www.hospicevaughan.com/

Transportation Minister among the ladies :) 
Massimo Fiore and Rob Lorusso
Hospice President, John Amendola and Mayor Bevilacqua 

October 7 Savour York Region Food Drive
A seriously emotional moment when a kind gentleman strolled out of Longo’s with an overflowing grocery cart and donated THE WHOLE THING to Savour York Region’s “8th Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive”!!!!! Please remember that even in an affluent city like Vaughan there are people in need. Most don't want others to know they’re having financial difficulty. Two people in my own life, educated single moms, have told me that in the distant past they’ve had to visit food banks...ashamed to let anyone know of their difficulties. I was stunned but learned that a fine line does exist and that it could happen to any one of us. you can drop-off non-perishable food items to all Vaughan Fire Halls or at the Vaughan Food Bank (71 Marycroft Ave). Monetary donation online are also being accepted at http://www.savouryorkregion.ca/food-drive/

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, SYR's Elvira Caria and Nadia Cerelli ..along with the Monacos! 
Anne Di Bello of Insurance Brokers of Toronto with Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and Vaughan Food Bank Director, Peter Wixson 
Vaughan Fire Inspector, Andre Clafton


October 10 Hats On For Awareness
Fancy hats and fascinators were all the rage at the 6th Annual Hatsquerade. Held at Riviera Parque in Vaughan the Hats On for Awareness Gala supports the CAMH Foundation (Centre of Addiction and Mental Health) and helps shatter the stigma associated with mental illness. Creating awareness were countless people telling their personal stories…people like you and I who have found the courage to share their experiences associated with depression and related issues - or of those of their loved-ones. Congratulations to Debby Rossi and her fellow gala committee members for not only inspiring us with a heartfelt evening but for also organizing a great party! 
To learn more about this amazing cause visithttp://www.hatsonforawareness.com/




Committee Member - Debby Rossi
Alex Settino Debby Rossi

October 21 Moda In Motion Fashion Show
As a member of the CIPBA Ladies’ Auxiliary I was proud to attend our annual fashion show, “HOLLYWOOD AT THE PARAMOUNT” last week. The goal of the evening was to raise funds for Behaviour Innovations of Toronto and raise awareness to children dealing with Autism. Founded over 6 decades ago with the objective to provide assistance to Italian immigrants, the Auxiliary’s current mandate is to give support to medical institutions and philanthropic organizations across the GTA. In addition to an amazing meal, prizes, musical entertainment and countless vendors the show featured exclusive European couture and designs by internationally-renowned fashion designers Domenic Serio and Brian Bailey.
Thanks Luca Viorel and YOUR AD ONLINE for the catwalk pics.

Designer Dominic Serio

November 1 Give To Pink 

What I love about my work is that I meet so many outstanding people doing charity work at the grassroots level. Steeles Paint and their “GIVE TO PINK” Fundraiser is a perfect example. Celebrated at Canada’s largest independent paint store on November 1st, the month-long charity event raised over $27, 000 for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation of Ontario. Sponsored by Benjamin Moore & Co. and Para Paints, the Vaughan retailer donated $1 from every gallon of paint sold throughout October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month). Well done, Claudio Grisolia of Steeles Paint!
Presenting a cheque to Anthony Miceli of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation of Ontario 
CHIN's Ali Bidabadi
Add caption
Steeles Paint Volunteers


November 1 Mackenzie Health Gala 
Ohhhhhh what a great time at the “Oh, What a Night” Gala Fundraiser! Hosted by Breakfast Television’s Kevin Frankish the evening featured a stellar musical tribute to Frankie Valli. Also had a fun time sitting at the SNAPD table..thank you John Amendola. Benefiting the Mackenzie Health Foundation all proceeds from this event support both Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital as well as the future Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital. 
Tony, Marlena, Rosie and Gus 
The usual suspects!!
Cathy Amendola and Fabio Gesufatto

November 14th Sheena's Place

This event held at Montecassino Place in Vaughan supports Sheena's Place, a support Centre for Eating Disorders. After some touching speeches guests got to enjoy a stellar performance by The British Invasion. Lead singer (Paul McCartney double) was my husband Tony Monaco's childhood friend Joe Culmone. 




November 23 Vitanova Celebration of Life Gala 
The annual Vitanova Foundation Gala & Celebration of Life raises awareness to individuals suffering from various forms of addiction.  From alcohol and drug abuse to gambling addiction this special event also celebrates sobriety.
Founded in 1987 by Franca Damiani Carella, Vitanova's 15,000 sq.ft. facility houses a domiciliary shelter and offers a variety of counselor-operated day programs, evening aftercare and therapy courses.
I was especially moved by Franca’s  powerful speech including vocal performances by Vitanova residents. Kudos to sensational choirmaster Carlo Coppola! 
Carlo Coppola and his choir 
Franca and Councillor Tony Carella 
Councillor Rosanna DeFrancesca, Letizia (ScotiaBank)  Jason Polsinelli (Scotia McLeod)
Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco 

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