Where I found the time to do this, I really don’t know!! But then you make time for the things you really enjoy. Toward the end of the summer I volunteered for the City of Vaughan's “Dazzle Me! Program”. Designed to instill pride in home ownership and beautifying the city, all I had to do nominate 21 homes that displayed exceptional curb appeal. That wasn’t too difficult considering I was given the lovely area of Kleinburg. I had a blast driving about and mulling over beautiful landscapes - one of the more serene jobs I’ve had. Over 600 residents in Vaughan are nominated but only 5 will win. Good luck to all those who were graced with a Curb Appeal sign on their lawn…may the best flower-bed win!
For more info regarding the Dazzle Me! Program visit:https://www.vaughan.ca/services/residential/parks_forestry_operations/dazzle_me/Pages/default.aspx
September 5th - Million Dollar Smiles
Sometimes you meet people that are doing so much to make a difference. It makes you wonder “am I doing ENOUGH????!!” This recently happened to me after meeting Anna Mangiafridda Lopes - founder of Million Dollar Smiles. As a non-profit organization geared to children dealing with life threatening illness, Anna's mission is to bring happiness to those who feel helpless.
On Sept. 5th I popped by the home of Ilan and Vanessa whose little guy Arye was recently diagnosed with Leukemia. Sponsored by TACC Construction LTD., MDS built a beautiful playground for Arye to enjoy. The organization’s volunteers, as well as those by TACC, selflessly worked all day to build the playground just in time for his 3rd birthday coming up this week. Just watching the joy in his eyes made my heart sing!!! Anna, YOU are one in a million
For more on MDS and sponsorship information visit:http://www.milliondollarsmiles.ca/
Arye and his Dad |
It was a full house at Michael Di Biase's re-election campaign launch on September 7th. As a Regional Councillor for the City Of Vaughan, he looks forward to re-election and serving the community once again. My hats off to Michael’s wife, Eliana, who I must say is an a absolute sensation on the microphone...maybe one day she’ll decide to run for office!
For info on the Vaughan Municipal Elections visit:https://www.vaughan.ca/elections/Pages/default.aspx
Regional Councillor Michael Di Biase |
Eliana and Michael Di Biase with their grandchildren |
Mary Barone, Tony Di Battista |
Candidate Frank Miele and Deputy Mayor Gino Rosati |
Daniel Salvatore |
The Di Biases, Alessandra Piccolo |
Michael Di Biase, Eliana Di Biase, Mayor Bevilacqua and Sandra Yeung Racco |
My very first Mayoral Debate!!! Pretty exciting for a lover of politics (I'm on the learning curve lol). Other than racoons there were several hot topics on the agenda. Candidate John Tory stressed reliability and competence in new leadership as well as a united Toronto - from the burbs all the way to the lakefront. Ford's closing statement focused on infrastructure, servicing the taxpayer and public transit while Olivia Chow zeroed in on the importance of education, jobs and affordable housing in low-income areas. Best part of the night? Ford wrapping the microphone cord around Tory's neck (all in good fun...I hope!)
Mayor Rob Ford |
Candidates Rob Ford, John Tory and Olivia Chow |
Cathy Amendola, John Amendola, Fabio Gesufatto, Tony Monaco |
CHIN Radio/Television's Lenny Lombardi |
September 26 Imagine Fundraising Event
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/
Introducing Pablo and founders of Give Kids a Chance Foundation |
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Juan Pablo and Give Kids a Chance Founders |
My teacher, Tony Monaco! |
Wishing my friend Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco all the best in this year's municipal elections. After 11 years with the City of Vaughan she is seeking re-election as Ward 4 Councillor. An extremely skilled politician, I had the chance to witness another one of Sandra's great talents...flipping burgers at her BBQ Campaign Launch! For info on Sandra's campaign visit: voteyeungracco.ca
Sandra Yeung Racco |
Racco Campaign Team |
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