International Women's Day (March 2)
REACHING ANOTHER MOUNTAIN PEAK!! The City of Vaughan invited me to be keynote speaker at their International Women's Day event and was I ever nervous! I thought, 'How am I going to speak for 25 minutes and keep my audience engaged?' I'd never participated in anything like this and knew I had to give it my all. So, I had materials and a visual presentation I spent time preparing LOL. :) Addressing business owners, political figures and community leaders - people I frequent because of my work but who had no knowledge of my journey - I spoke of my fears, inhibitions and how I found the courage to change the course of my life and follow my dreams. My goal was to tell this story in hopes of inspiring those still searching for a purpose and meaning to their lives. It was a nail-biter (revealing your inner self IS scary) but I did it! What moved me most were all the people who approached me afterwards to say thanks....they told me they felt I was speaking directly to them and sharing my experience gave them hope. WOW. Remember, It's NEVER too late to go after what you truly want #BeStrong.
*Thank you to the City of Vaughan and most especially to Mirella Tersigni and Sunder Singh for this incredible opportunity.
Mayor's Luncheon (Feb 22)
The annual VCC Mayor's Luncheon has grown leaps and bounds over the last several years with last week's event reaching a record-breaking 800 people. With community leaders, entrepreneurs and businesses from across Vaughan gathering to hear Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua speak of the exciting changes taking place in our city, all left feeling a sense of unity. No man is an island and prosperity can't be achieved without collaboration and in the words of the Mayor it's imperative to "create a community where no one is left behind". Congratulations to Mayor Bevilacqua who has shown true dedication to this city since entering office in 2010 and to the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce for organizing another successful event! Happy 40th Anniversary, Vaughan Chamber!!!
Vaughan Business Expo (Feb 1)
EXPLORE. BUILD. GENERATE. :) Presented by the City of Vaughan, last week's 'Vaughan Business2Business Expo' was a great opportunity for members of the business community to meet and interact with like-minded individuals. Nice to have been invited by the City (although precise verbiage was, "you'd better be there!!' lol ;)) and always great to spend time with friends from City Hall, Council and the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce.
Celebrating Chinese New Year (January 21)
HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR! :) This year marks the 'Year of the Rooster' and great to celebrate the occasion at Vaughan City Hall. I had such fun asking the masses if they knew their Chinese zodiac sign (the animal celebrated the year you were born). Andre Clafton, my absolute favourite Vaughan Fire Inspector, is a TIGER (not surprising considering his tenacity), MPP Steven Del Duca is an OX (strong and enduring...and 100% accurate), Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua is a RAT (heheheee....we all had a great laugh about that one), and Mirella Tersigni from the City's Economic and Culture Dept is a DRAGON (yikes). When I told them I was a DOG they all said they could "see that"...but don't know what they meant by this LOL. #loyal #defend #protect #bite . A special Happy New Year to Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco who has taught me so much about this ancient culture! Chinese New Year officially kicks-off January 27 and predictions show it is going to be an excellent year for Dragons, Snakes, Rats, Tigers, Roosters and the Ox while Sheep, Pigs and Monkeys will have a mix of good and bad. Rabbits, Horses and Dogs might face a few more challenges ..but not if I have anything to do with it...grrrrr!! as a DOG I don't take anything lying down.
Vaughan City Hall Tree Lighting Ceremony (Dec 1)
Oh Christmas Tree..Oh Christmas Tree! A perfect evening kicking-off the Christmas season at the City of Vaughan's annual 'Tree Lighting Ceremony'. Families from across the city came to drink hot chocolate and watch as 15,000 twinkling lights brightened the courtyard of Vaughan City Hall... a magical sight.
SantaFest Media Launch (Nov 16)
"See the joy in the children's eyes.." and all because Santa Claus is coming to town! :) So many announcements last week at Vaughan City Hall in anticipation of the upcoming Vaughan SantaFest celebration taking place November 27. Kudos to Elvira Caria, Enza Barbieri and the entire SantaFest committee who work so hard to make this event possible each year. And congrats for to all on receiving a generous $5000 donation from Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua "Spirit of Generosity" initiative - important funds that inspire community spirit and encourage inclusivity.
Remembrance Day (Nov 11)
Honouring heroes and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice at the Remembrance Day service - Woodbridge Cenotaph. Lest We Forget.
Transportation & Housing Panel Discussion (Nov 8)
Not surprising I was stuck in early morning gridlock while on route to a forum discussing challenges with transportation (and affordable housing) ... grrrrrr!!! LOL. Panelists were Steven Del Duca - Minister of Transportation, Wayne Emmerson - York Region Chairman/CEO and Maurizio Bevilacqua - Mayor of Vaughan who explained projects currently in place to help improve access to and within the city such as the Toronto York-Spadina Subway extension as well as that of Hwy 427 and expansion of many arterial roads. According to the panel this inclusive approach, which is committed to providing functional transportation and housing for all, sets the very foundation of city building. Thx to Minister Del Duca who took the time to explain to me the "ins and outs" of "driverless vehicles"..YIKES!!!
VCC "Women to Women" Symposium (Nov 1)
Congrats to the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce on organizing another exciting and successful "Women to Women Symposium"!! :) I was honoured to be Master of Ceremonies and was especially excited to participate in the discussion panel alongside two SUPERB business women who overcame incredible obstacles to achieve their goals. This day-long event featured guest speakers, Zahra Al-Harazi (President & CEO of Foundry Communications) and Carrie Kirkman, (former President, Chief Merchant/Non-Independent Director of Sears Canada as well as President of Jones Group Canada). Thank you to Jennifer Coletta Rashty, Brian Shifman, Isabella Bertani and the ENTIRE Chamber team for the incredible support they provided throughout the day. And great to see so many friends and colleagues enjoying the day!
VCC "Dress For Success"
Strutting the catwalk! :) Fun time modelling in the "Dress for Success" fashion show at the City of Vaughan - Small Business Week. The last time I modelled in a show was over 20 years ago. Not professionally of course, but always as the local shopkeeper's friend's DAUGHTER who could be used to save on $$$ and could somewhat fit into the clothes....hahahaa!!! Collaborating with the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce this annual event showcases designs from Holt Renfrew 2 and offers tips on dressing for success in the workplace. Thanks to stylist, Sarah Francis (left) of Real Life Runway who knew what best suited my figure and personality. I was in good hands with Sarah who has been featured in Chatelaine and on Breakfast Television Toronto and CityLine. Big hug to talented make-up artist, Fiorella Henry (right) at Carol Baker Visage who had my skin glowing
Vaughan Celebrates 25 Years
Wooohoooo!!! Signing my first autograph as a WRITER!! LOL :) Huge hugs to Marshall for making me feel so special by asking me to sign his copy of "Celebrate Vaughan - Our City. Our Story" and my article, "Spirit of Generosity". Issued by fredi Magazine and commissioned by the City of Vaughan, this inaugural edition commemorates the city's 25 year anniversary and covers a wide range of topics. Writing about the "Spirit of Generosity", a charitable initiative created by Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, was incredibly special to me as I've personally witnessed its evolution and the positive impact it's had on the community over the last 6 years. The "Celebrate Vaughan" project also had me hitting the books, spending almost 3 weeks in July (7 days a week - early morn to late night) studying local and regional governance as well as functions of City Hall. Although this crash course literally had me on the floor I'm now a walking Vaughan encyclopedia.. or Wiki page!!! Congrats to all who collaborated and thanks to Filomena Rosati (my amazing Fredi editor), Mayor Bevilacqua and Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco for their assistance...and Maria Galipo of Sicilian Ice Cream Co. for capturing this fun moment
The Order of Vaughan (Oct 25)
Congratulations to all those who received the prestigious Order of Vaughan! Most especially to personal friends and recipients, Domenic Mancuso and John Amendola including David Rocco. This award recognizes individuals who have made a significant and enduring contribution to the City of Vaughan through their endeavors.
Celebrating "Culture Days"
De Zen Family's Spirit of Generosity (Sept 27)
Celebrating the De Zen Family's Spirit of Generosity :)
Vaughan thanks Vic De Zen of ZZEN Group who yesterday, on behalf himself and his family, pledged $10 million to help build and equip the future Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital. This is the largest donation given by any individual to the Mackenzie Health Foundation for the development of the much-anticipated hospital and in recognition of this extraordinary contribution the main lobby will be named the "Vic De Zen Family Welcome Centre" -with expected completion date 2020. Mr. De Zen's main contribution within our city has been to the local economy where in the last 35 years his numerous businesses have employed thousands. In addition to the manufacturing of "building products", he has been responsible for development of much of the city's commercial and industrial space. A truly remarkable citizen who has been instrumental in Vaughan's economic growth and success.
Vaughan Chamber Golf Tournament (Sept 20)
MY VERY FIRST GOLF LESSON!!! Thanks to Jason Harvey of Harkel Office Furniture for the instruction. I saw him trying not to laugh when I asked him what a "driver" was LOL! :) Best part was everyone's shock that I ACTUALLY did a good job.....RUUUUDE!!!!! Great day on the green at the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament.
Mayor's Golf Tournament (Sept 15)
Back from holiday and on the go again - this time at the Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua Annual Charity Golf Classic! With a greater purpose in mind, this tournament and the annual Mayor's Gala were both established by Maurizio Bevilacqua in 2011 to ensure all citizens have equal opportunities and the possibility to thrive. As Vaughan continues to evolve, transforming itself from a suburban community of the GTA to a budding metropolis, the need for such a charity is necessary. I've attended these two events for the last 4 years and have witnessed the impact they've had on the city. Now coined "The Spirit of Generosity", the gala and tournament have raised over $5 million benefiting over 100 charities, non-profit organizations and community groups. The Spirit of Generosity assists youth, seniors, those with special needs, women's centres, special education and health institutions. In addition to cultural groups, sports teams and the arts it goes one step further lending its support beyond the borders of Vaughan and into the GTA - even as far as Tanzania where funds were donated for the building of a school :)
Vaughan Chamber Member Summer BBQ (August)
Celebrating the business community at the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce "Member Appreciation BBQ" :) Thank you to Brian Shifman, Jennifer Coletta-Rashty, Fiorina Riga and all other staff, including Mary Patrick of Dave & Busters, for organizing a day where we could all come together. Great to be amongst so many friends and colleagues who, like myself, are members of this important community organization.
Canada Day (July 1)
As if a little rain was going to keep Canadians from celebrating their 149th birthday!!!! Congrats to the City of Vaughan who hosted another fantastic Canada Day celebration at Mackenzie Glen Park. Incredible performances by Juno-winning artist Shawn Desman including Tyler Shaw, Dia D and many more.
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| Shawn Desman |
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| Shawn Desman |
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| Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua |
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| York Regional Officer Toni Passarelli |
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| Mike Soragnese and Render Media |
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| Nadia and Alex Nascimben |
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| DIA, Councillors Sandra Yeung Racco and Michael Di Biase |
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| The Mitsubatas |
Vaughan Art Hero (May 30)
No shortage of heroes in this city! Recently Hero Certified Burgers partnered with the City of Vaughan to present "Vaughan Art Hero" - an initiative supporting up-and-coming artists. For the entire month of May works from young local artists were showcased at the franchise's 5 Vaughan locations. Congrats to this year's art heroes Luca Campacci, Amanda Frasca, Tyler-James Skakun, Samantha Pasut and Isabella Scarcella.
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| John Lettieri (Hero Certified Burgers), Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, Councillor Marilyn Iafrate, Mirella Tersigni and Art Hero participants |
Mayor's Gala
After an electrifying performance by Juno award-winning R&B artist, Jully Black at last week's Mayor's Gala as well as raising a staggering $400,000 just from the live auction alone it's no wonder Vaughan is BUZZING with excitement!! By far the best I've attended, this year's "Making Modern History" gala raised a record-breaking 2 million which will benefit over 100 non-profit organizations serving Vaughan and beyond. In combination with the Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua Annual Charity Golf Classic, 5 million plus has been raised since 2011. The evening hit an all-time high when Jully Black (who was rocking it to the max!) brought Mayor Bevilacqua on stage to join her. Who knew the Mayor was such a great dancer?!!! Other highlights included soulful performances by Dia D and Robert David Di Bartolomeo, who sang a lively rendition of "Vaughan Is The Place To Be", as well as the Dominic Mancuso Group. I can't forget my friend John Amendola publisher of Snapd, who did a stellar job presenting the live auction.
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| July Black and Mayor Bevilacqua |
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| John Amendola (Snapd), Elvira Caria, Tony Monaco (Z103.5), Nadia Cerelli (Plan B) |
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| Domenic Primucci (Pizza Nova), John Lettieri (Hero Certified Burgers), Tony Monaco (Z103.5), Nadia Cerelli (Plan B) |
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| Mayor B |
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| Debby Rossi (Greenpark Group), Anthony Pullano |
Racco's Forum on Rogers TV
Phew!! Made it just in the nick of time to tape a segment of Racco"s Forum at Rogers TV. Today we discussed arts, culture and business including their influence in our changing cityscape Thank you to Mirella Tersigni, Jennifer Ledouceur and the City of Vaughan for inviting me to participate.
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| Panel: Myself, David DeBenedetto, Michael Launslager, Mirella Tersigni, Samantha Rodin,Mario Racco, Vanessa Abrenica , |
VICC Soft Opening (April 19)
The fun never ends! Returned from Cuba late in the eve and the next morning was already colouring walls at the new Vaughan International Commercialization Centre (VICC) headquarters. Members of the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce, City of Vaughan and others from the community attended the launch of The Bridge@Lebovic which promotes business collaboration and economic development in our city as well as beyond its borders. Congratulations to Jennifer Ledouceur, Director of the City's Economic & Cultural Services Dept. including all those involved. An incredible achievement for our growing city!
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| Painting Pictures with Mirella Tersigni form City of Vaughan |
Vaughan Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement Awards (April 7)
It was a sold-out evening as the community gathered to celebrate business excellence in the city of Vaughan! Held April 7 by the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce (VCC), the "Business Achievement Awards" recognizes businesses, groups and individuals who demonstrate strong leadership, community involvement as well as economic contributions to the city. This year I was honoured to be on the VCC committee involved in the interviewing process...a valuable experience and one I hope to do again next year. Congratulations to all winners and nominees and most especially to Mario Cortellucci, recipient of the "Philanthropic Business Person of the Year"...well deserved and thrilled for him and his family.
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| John Lettieri (Hero Certified Burgers), Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, MP Francesco Sorbara |
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| The Big Cannoli |
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| Vaughan Council, Dolores Rotundo, Jennifer Ledouceur |
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| Mario and Ginesia Cortellucci |
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| Laura Tonelli and the Meta Centre |
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| Snapd! |
Vaughan Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement Award Hospitality Finalists
What an incredible honour to be asked to sit on the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce "Business Achievement Awards" Committee (thank you, Mario Cutone)!!! An enormous learning experience, I travelled across the city alongside fellow committee members, Phil Iorio (Deloitte) and Justin Field (RBC) interviewing nominees in the Hospitality category. Congrats to Hospitality finalists, Hero Certified Burgers. SpringHill Suites Toronto Vaughan and Sky Zone Vaughan! You are fantastic and very deserving. Other categories include: Accessibility, Construction Services & Products, Consumer Business/Retail, Environmental Leadership, Innovation, Manufacturing, Non-Profit Charity, Professional Service, Small Business and Young Entrepreneur Under 40.
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| John Lettieri Presiident Hero Certified Burgers |
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| SpringHill Suites by Marriott |
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| SkyZone Vaughan |
International Women's Day
What a heartfelt International Women's Day celebrating the trials and tribulations of women past and present. Held at the City of Vaughan in conjunction with the Elspeth Heyworth Centre for Women (EHCW) I was super inspired by motivational speaker Emmanuel Lopez and his blog featuring films that helped him get through the most difficult moments of his life. During his presentation he mentioned strong female characters such as one of personal favourites, Erin Brockovich (watched so many times I think I know all lines by memory heheeee..) The event also included speaker Vicki Saunders of the groundbreaking SheEO Inc. and was emceed by the ever lovely Sunder Singh, Executive Director of EHCW.
Celebrating Earth Hour (March 19)
Brrrrr......Keeping the home fires burning during Earth Hour. These days I look at my nieces and nephews and think, "What kind of a world are we leaving them?!!" My niece, who recently graduated to become an environmental lawyer, has given the family quite a bit of insight into climate change. The threats are real and very serious. My hat goes off to the fearless founders of Greenpeace who stood up against big corporations abusing the environment. Without their efforts there would be no Earth Hour, Earth Day or the awareness we have today. Educate yourself. Be aware and be proactive. Every action counts!!!
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| Bassam, Security Guard at Vaughan City Hall |
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| Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua |
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| Francesco Sorbara, Rose Greco, Little Sorbaras and Patirizia Nigro |
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| David Di Benedetto |
Mayor's Luncheon (Feb 27)
This was my fourth Mayor's Luncheon and I have to say this event keeps getting bigger and better every year. Presented by the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce (VCC), the occasion gives the mayor an opportunity to address the business community and highlight current city projects as well as announce new initiatives. As usual Mayor Maurizio Bevilcqua gave an excellent speech focusing on the Toronto-York Spadina Subway and Highway 427 extensions, the much-anticipated Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital including the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre - the city's future 442 acre downtown core. Also announced was the recipient of the VCC Philanthropic Award. Congratulations to Mario Cortellucci (Cortel Group) who was recognized at the VCC Business Achievement Awards on April 7.
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| Cortellucci Family, Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco, Councillor Rosanna DeFrancesca |
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| Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, Phil Iorio (Deloitte, Vaughan Chamber) |
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| Joe Ercolao, Councillor Rosanna DeFrancesca, Mario Cuttone, Jason Polsinella - Scotiabank and Scotia McLeod Team |
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| Councillor Racco and Vaughan Mills Mall Team |
Chinese New Year (Jan 31)
My very first Chinese New Year celebration! Congratulations to the City of Vaughan and most especially to Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco for hosting this event honouring the Year of the Red Monkey! The Chinese New Year officially kicked-off February 8 with festivities held worldwide. Ending January 27, 2017 this is just one of the twelve animals appearing in the Chinese zodiac (I am a dog! LOL).
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| Mario Racco |
Vaughan Celebrates 25 Years as a City
While it's true Rome wasn't built in a day it hasn't taken Vaughan long to develop into the prosperous city it is today. Celebrating its 25th anniversary just last week, the city of Vaughan has grown leaps and bounds in a relatively short period. When I was a wee girl living on Finch and Islington I remember traveling up to Hwy 7, then a one-lane dirt road, to the town of Woodbridge where my grandfather would buy vegetables from local farmers. Little did we anticipate the transformation that was to come! Dating back to the 16th century Skandatut Huron village which was home to 2000 people to its first township created in 1792, Vaughan officially became incorporated in 1991 to include the communities of Woodbridge, Concord, Thornhill, Maple and Kleinburg. Between 1996 - 2006 it was the fasted growing city in Canada with the current population reaching 320,000. In recognition of its entrepreneurial spirit it's important to note the local economy is fueled by small businesses employing 20 people or less. The cityscape continues to evolve with the development of a new and exciting downtown core - the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, including the much-anticipated Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital and the Hwy 427 and Toronto York-Spadina Subway extensions. And with all the events I cover for my Panoram Italia Magazine feature and "Ro On The Go" I can personally attest to the incredible philanthropic spirit exhibited throughout the community. Congratulations to the awesome events team at the City of Vaughan as well as Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and Members of Council on organizing such a fantastic and fun filled afternoon.
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| Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua |
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| Elvira Caria, Nadia Cerelli |
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| Mayor Bevilacqua and City of Vaughan Events Team |
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| DIA |
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| John Amendola , Fred Vallozzi |
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