RO on the GO! : Mayoral Events Prove Vaughan is World Class

Vaughan is forever evolving and this year’s Mayor’s Gala -"The Next Chapter" recognized and celebrated the incredible changes that are happening within the city. A vital component to this overall transformation was the 2014 Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua Annual Charity Golf Classic, which raised funds for countless humanitarian causes.

It's all about the spirit of generosity!

Mayor's Gala - The Next Chapter

Rolling out the red carpet to celebrate the evolution of a thriving city was Vaughan’s annual Mayor’s Gala held on June 24^th at the Paramount Conference & Event Venue. Driven by a spirit of optimism, gratitude and generosity, Maurizio Bevilacqua’s four-year term as mayor is being recognized as the catalyst of a new movement etched deep in social responsibility.

“Since 2011, we have worked hard to create a caring and compassionate city with a strong sense of community spirit. In that time, more than 100 community groups and organizations have benefitted from the generosity of the people of this city who understand that collectively, we have a responsibility to support those who need our help”, explains Bevilacqua adding that the annual gala is a vital component to this commitment. Beneficiaries of the $300,000 donated at this year’s event include Giuliano’s Journey Foundation which aids children dealing with Leukemia, Safehaven - a respite home for youth with cognitive and physical disabilities and Hospice Vaughan, an organization providing support to those coping with life threatening illness or dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Although the 800 guests enjoyed a stellar performance by Juno-winning artist Serena Ryder, everyone was on the edge of their seats during the exciting live auction. The big ticket item was dinner with Mayor Bevilacqua which raised a record-breaking $310, OOO for Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital. The evening raised over $600,000, resulting in $2 million over the last four years.

As presenting sponsor Solmar Development Corp. paid tribute to the inspirational mayor and in a touching speech befitting the gala theme, The Next Chapter, Director of Land Development Maurizio Rogato stated, “Now we move forward to the next chapter. A chapter with many unknowns but with one thing being certain –Vaughan is stronger today than it has ever been and we will continue to prosper with the commitment of a leader who won’t rest until our city is providing something for everybody by everyone”.

Mayor and Members of Council

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua

Regional Councillor Michael Di Biase

My girlies!

Congratulations to newly-appointed Transportation Minister, Steven Del Duca

Mario and Ginesia Cortellucci

Minister Julian Fantino

Serena Ryder

Charity Golf Classic

Even the slightest bit of rain couldn't prevent golfers from enjoying the green at the Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua Annual Golf Classic. Following a fun-filled day participants enjoyed a fabulous gourmet dinner afterward prepared by the amazing chefs of Copper Creek Golf Club. Some of you may not be aware but this tournament impacts many lives. In conjunction with the Mayor’s annual gala, it’s raised more than $2.7 million since 2011! These two vital fundraising events support over 100 not-for-profit and community groups providing essential services for Vaughan citizens. Some of the beneficiaries include Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital, Giuliano’s Journey, Safehaven,Hospice Vaughan, Moving Forward Foundation, Kleinburg Leo Club, Friends of Simon Wiesenthal and my latest project of the heart - The Vaughan Film Festival. For a full list of charities visit:http://www.vaughan.ca/news/General%20Documents/June%202014%20-%20Recipient%20list.pdf