Tuesday 26 August 2014

Hard Hats, Construction Boots, "Bling", Tailored Suits and how many Elvises?

July 25 Elvis Festival - Collingwood

Whoever thought I'd end up here! I've got to say it was an incredible experience. Years after his death, Elvis Presley is still an inspiration to many and his popularity crosses generations. It was a big surprise having Priscilla, his former wife, next to me at dinner. However the real highlight was Vaughan's very own Bruno Nesci who, out of 250 Elvises worldwide, was the best ever! 

July 24 AC Milan at BMO Field 
A JUVENTUS jersey at an AC MILAN game?! The fact that AC MILAN lost terribly 3 - 0 could have a lot to do with Deejay Danny D of Z103.5 FM wearing .....oooooops...THE WRONG SHIRT!!!! 


July 20 Rev it Up for Sick Kids 
Over $50,000 was raised for Sick Children's Hospital at the 3rd Annual Rev It Up For Sickkids. Congratulations to Salvatore & Loredana Oliveti, Alessandra Lombardi and the rest of the team. 100% of proceeds go to the purchase of NIRS machines and Camp Oki, a summer camp for Sick Kids cardiac patients 
Learn more at www.revitupforsickkids.com
Mike Wixson and Rosie Ferguson of 105.9 FM The Region 
Alex Lombardi, Loredana and Salvatore Oliveti 
Alex Lombardi and Patricia Curto


July 15 Universal EventSpace Ground Breaking Ceremony

Here we GROW again! I was happy to be invited to the groundbreaking of this 85,000 sq ft. venue - to be the largest in Vaughan!! Spearheaded by the byPeterandPauls.com Hospitality & Entertainment Group with completion set for August 2015, UNIVERSAL EventSpace will feature outdoor screens Las Vegas/Hollywood style and 6 ballrooms (the main room accommodating 1500 people). If you’re considering this venue you’d better call fast….they are already booking up for the fall of 2015. 
*For the last 33 years byPeterandPauls.com have mastered the art of hospitality. From gift baskets, catering, deejay services to event planning and exceptional venues. For more info visit: http://bypeterandpauls.com/ 

Owners of Peter & Paul's, Peter and Anna Eliopoulos digging it up with members of Vaughan City Council 
It is said, "Do what you love and you'll never work a day in your life". I guess Peter Eliopoulos has never WORKED a day in his life. He represents for me what it means to live passionately and with purpose. Watching him stand proudly at the groundbreaking of his latest passion project, UNIVERSAL EventSpace really affected me...especially after witnessing the growth and evolution of his company byPeterandPauls.com since my early 20's. Congratulations Peter, Anna and the entire Eliopoulos family on your newest and most exciting endeavour!!!
Peter Eliopolous with Mayor Bevilacqua 
Councillors Marilyn Iafrate, Deb Schulte, Rossana DeFrancesca and Sandra Yeung Racco with Anna Eliopolous
Seawead salad! YUM! 
Longtime colleagues Peter and Tony
Peter Eliopolous and Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua 


July 11  Men of the Cloth Screening @ Bloor Hot Docs Cinema 

Although Italian Heritage Month was officially over the Italian Contemporary Film Festival wasn't quite done presenting exceptional films! Featured at the Boor Hot Docs Cinema is the Canadian premiere of "MEN OF THE CLOTH", a portrait of 3 Italian master tailors confronting the challenges of a new era.  
John De Laurentiis of Bespokesmen and Director of "Men of the Cloth," Vicki Vasilopoulos 
Bruna Rottaghi (MICBA) and Fabio Gesufatto (NCIC) 
Laura Tonelli (Caritas) and Carmela Liparoti (MICBA) 
Melina Zeppieri (NCIC), Paolo and Feren Calderwood (ICFF)


 July 4  Vaughan's Future Downtown - Expo City!

On July 4th Mayor Bevilacqua and Members of Council officially recognized the first residential tower of “Expo City” as THE TALLEST BUILDING in Vaughan. It’s also the tallest in York Region!! 
Designed and developed by the Cortel Group, Expo City is an essential component of Vaughan’s future downtown core. Known as the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, this central urban area will feature 5 of these towers. And what an AMAZING view! Standing on its rooftop, I must have asked a hundred questions to the project management team who kindly explained important facets of city building. A heartfelt thank-you to Mario Cortellucci, the visionary behind this extraordinary initiative, and his wife Ginesia for giving me this amazing opportunity. 

Here are just a few facts about VMC and its Expo City: *With completion set for November 2014, the first Expo is also the tallest building in York Region - rising 37 stories and featuring 356 residential units. Other features include green rooftops, state-of-the-art rainwater management systems, urban square, pedestrian and bike-friendly boulevards, retail galleria, 20,000 sq ft of amenity space… just to name but a few! 
*the entire VMC, which will also house a convention centre, will take approximately 25 years to complete. 
*VMC central location at the new Toronto-York Spadina subway extension on Millway Ave./Highway 7 will reach as far as south as Hwy 407 and as far north as Rutherford Rd. – an area totaling 442 acres
For more info on this exciting project visit: 
http://www.expocity.ca/

33 stories high and remembering that old Carpenter's song, "I'm at the top of creation...." !! 
Thanks for the informative tour, Lou
Construction zone on main ground level 
Mario Cortellucci, Peter Cortellucci, David Braley, Maurizio Bevilacqua and Alan Tregebov
Visionary and creator of Vaughan's future downtown core, Mario Cortellucci
Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco and Mayor Bevilacqua 
Getting the tour
Tony Monaco and BC Lions and Toronto Argonauts owner, David Braley


July 2 Thank YouBisogno Jewellers
I have to thank Tony Bisogno of Bisogno Jewellers for introducing me to my new "Monaco Gold" Marc Coblen timepiece. "Ro on the Go" will never be late again! 
FB link: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bisogno-Jewellers-ltd/121209647907919


July 1 Honeymoon Suite comes to Vaughan

It was great meeting John DeGiuli, a.k.a Johnnie Dee, lead singer and guitarist of Honeymoon Suite at Vaughan's Canada Day celebrations. A band with groundbreaking hits such as New Girl Now, Feel It Again and Stay in the Light, there's no question that they're masters at pumping the crowd and rocking the stage! Not only have they entertained audiences with their timeless music for almost three decades, they've also collaborated with some of the greats of the music business - their single "Lethal Weapon", title to the Hollywood film, was co-written by Eric Clapton. My favourites? Love Changes Everything and Burning in Love. Hoping to hear some new tracks by this legendary Canadian band.  
John DeGiuli a.k.a Johnnie Dee of Honeymoon Suite

July 1 Canada Day Celebrations - Vaughan

The City of Vaughan really knows how to throw a party!! Over 6000 people came together at Mackenzie Glen District Park in Maple to celebrate Canada Day. Other than food, drink and activities for kids there were incredible performances by Canadian greats, Honeymoon Suite and Glass Tiger. As a child of the '80's it was oh so nice to "Feel it Again" and sing along to all the tunes I love. 
Honeymoon Suite
My best friend , Zoe Willis all the from Barbados! 
Glass Tiger
Nadia Cerelli (Savour York Region and Plan B Promotions) 
Jenny Arena (City of Vaughan), Nadia and Massimo Fiore (and munchkins), Tony 
Strangely enough this was Tony Monaco's first time meeting Alan Frew of Glass Tiger 
No question...kids love firetrucks! 
...but the Vaughan fans are loving Glass Tiger 




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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