Charity Events and Galas

LMVS "Cooking for a Cause" (March 2)

How much fun to make fresh pasta with friends and fellow community members! Presented by Little Morello Vettese Segreto LLP, Cooking For A Cause raised funds for the Mackenzie Health Foundation and its annual Stride for Strokes. We were given our own personalized aprons and given careful instructions....and  I am VERY PROUD to say I rolled the longest pasta!!!   So amazing to have been invited to participate with great friends....Thank you LMVS, Frank Mazzucca, Carla of the Kitchen Academy..Jenny Arena..great people giving back to the community J

Retro Boogie Night 
BOOGIE WONDERLAND!! So much fun to dress up in retro garb and dance the night away at the 8th Annual Retro Boogie Night benefiting Neurofibromatosis research at SickKids and Toronto General hospitals. It was an electrifying eve emceed by Tony Monaco with a stellar performance by one of my favourite artists, Joee De Simone. Congratulations to event founders and hosts Ivana virgilio and husband Angelo for raising funds and awareness to this disorder J Bravi ! 

Isabella's Angels (Feb 25)
Congrats to 12 year old Isabella Nudo who hosted her very first fundraising dinner. Now that's what I call a future leader and role model! Isabella has Type 1 Diabetes and four years ago founded Isabella's Angels alongside her parents, Vicki and Sandro. In addition, she's become an ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and participates in the annual Telus Walk to Cure Diabetes. Keep up the great work, kiddo! You are an inspiration. Great to meet WWE superstar, Santino Marella and see sensational violinist, Grenville Pinto once again :) Special thank you to Ray Bernardo for asking me to participate! 

For Love & Humanity - SOSHJ Knights of Malta (Feb 10)
PHILANTHROPY AT ITS VERY BEST! Congrats to Mario and Ginesia Cortellucci who organized "For Love & Humanity" raising $250,000 for devastated areas of Central Italy. Although many months have passed since the 6.2 magnitude quake devastated this area killing almost 300 people, survivors are still very much in need of assistance. Donations raised via the Sovereign Order to the Saint John of Jerusalem Knights of Malta, of which Dr. Cortellucci is Grand Prior of Canada, will go toward the purchase of medical equipment for local hospitals. The incredible part of this newly-formed O.S.J. Charity is that 100% of donations go directly to the cause....Therefore no administration fees. Mario and Ginesia, you are two of the most giving people I know - true and real. Happy to cover this for Panoram Italia Magazine. Special props to stellar emcees Tony Monaco and Andrea Trentadue including comedian, Sandra Carusi who had us all in stitches. Of course the evening would not be complete without an electrifying performance by Canadian music legend Andy Kim!!
Special thank you to Valeria Mitsubata Photography who provided several of these photos :)
Anyone wishing to donate may do so at 2800 Hwy & West Suite 301 Concord. L4K 1W8

A Cure in the Future Retro Gala (Feb 11)
Working together CONQUER CANCER in our lifetime! It was another successful A Cure In The Future Retro Gala' raising funds for the The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. Presented Platinum Entertainment and Joe and Maria Luisa Bianchi, the eleventh annual event also provided exciting updates regarding revolutionary cancer treatments. This is my second year covering this gala for Panoram Italia Magazine and it always moves me as Maria Luisa is a cancer survivor and the inspiration behind this charity. Keep up the great work Maria Luisa and Joe...your love for each other, your family, friends and community is what makes this fundraiser a massive success each year 

Shining Through Centre for Children With Autism (Jan 15)
SPINNING FOR AUTISM :) Last Sunday spinning enthusiasts raised $50,000 plus for children with Autism...and in just a few short hours!! Held in Vaughan, the 9th Annual "Spinning for Autism" benefits the The Shining Through Centre for Children with Autism - a facility spearheaded by local residents with its first location opening its doors in Woodbridge in 2001. With a current second location in North York as well as school-based program in Mississauga, Shining Through is now a recognized leader in its field boasting a team of highly trained professionals who utilize cutting-edge therapy crucial to development and promoting a child's independence. Bravo to all! :)

Million Dollar Smiles (Dec 10)
Time to be Santa!! ;) Million Dollar Smiles is one of my all-time favourite organizations and I think it's because of the sheer simplicity of its message - TO PUT A SMILE ON A CHILD'S FACE. Founded by Vaughan resident Anna Mangiafridda Lopes, the non-profit MDS delivers teddy bears with $100 Toys''R''Us gift cards at Christmastime to kids with life-threatening illness, who are terminally ill or have special needs. Not only that, they also build residential playgrounds for these kids which are sponsored local businesses. This is my third year participating and this time delivered bears to 2 year-old Rowan and his older sister, Sophie...how adorable are they!!!!!! I think I fell in love LOL. Although it's not easy to see the adversities these families face, one thing is guaranteed - the love you feel when you're with the kids is tremendous. Big props to Anna and the entire team at MDS including Monte Carlo Inn - Vaughan Suites President, Domenic Meffe, who donated the space as a meeting ground for participants :)
For more info visit: www.milliondollarsmiles.ca 

WAVES OF CHANGES FOR AUTISM (Dec 7)
Congrats to Waves of Changes for Autism on an outstanding inaugural fundraiser!!! :) I was thrilled to emcee this event which provides financial support, education and resources to Vaughan families dealing with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Inspired by the family of Maria Cuntrera de Mongiovi and created only this year, this non-for-profit organization is already making an impact in our community. Bravo to Ellen Contardi of Grande Cheese and the entire Board on doubling the expected attendance numbers and raising over $100,000 just this evening alone. An extra congrats on receiving a $5000 donation from Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and his "Spirit of Generosity" charitable initiative. Big thanks to Carmela and Maria Teresa of UptownCouture (Vaughan)for my sweet French Maid style dress as well as photographer Valeria Mitsubata for providing some of these pics.. 

VAUGHAN FOOD BANK (Nov 29)
HUNGER KNOWS NO HOLIDAY. What better way to support the Vaughan Food Bank than to help package non-perishable food items for needy families this Christmas. Considering the food bank employs no staff and depends solely on volunteers we were MORE than happy to lend a hand, stocking 100 boxes just this eve alone..amazing!!! As an essential service to Vaughan residents, stats show that more and more are depending on their support. Anyone wishing to donate food may do so directly at the food bank (please call first), Fortinos or the Vaughan Fire Dept. Monetary donations are also greatly appreciated and volunteering at VFB is an excellent way for high school kids to obtain community hours. HUGE hug to Director Peter Wixon who has DONATED over 20 years of his life running and operating the VFB - averaging 40 hours a week - at NO PAY. Completely selfless. Thank you Nadia Nascimben who organized this night for us including Andy and Maria of MDF Contracting who kept the busy troops fed :) 

Gilda's Club @ Sony Centre (Nov 19)
A beautiful eve with amazing friends at the 15th Annual "It's Always Something!" Variety Show. This event, hosted by Russell Peters and showcasing the amazing talents of Andy Kim, Johnny Reid and Jann Arden and others, raised funds for Gilda's Club Greater Toronto. Love Andy Kim and Johnny Reid's performance was so beautiful, I cried! LOL 

Pentola D'Oro Awards (Nov 18)
Congrats to leaders in the food and beverage industry honoured at the Pentola D'Oro awards gala. Held at The Carlu in downtown Toronto and presented by the Italian Chamber of Commerce, the evening recognized contributions made by Domenic Primucci ( Pizza Nova), Rob Gentile (Bucca Osteria & Enoteca) and Carmine Fortino (Metro Ontario). Great to see my friends Mike D'Alessandro and Antonio Pirone of Posticino Ristorante who were also honoured in Marchio Ospitalita catagory along with several renowned restaurants including Cibo Ristorante. Awesome spend time with gal pals, Felicia Pirone. Dia D (AMAZING performance with her brother Rob) and Nadia Cerellii who played role of Uber that night heheeee.. (NADIA I APOLOGIZE FOR THE PARKING TICKET) Of course it was work night for me covering event for Panoram Italia Mag with my sidekick, Valeria Mitsubata :) 

SMILES OF INNOCENCE (Nov 12)
Thanks to all these beautiful people for an amazing evening at the 19th Annual "Smiles of Innocence" Gala . I can't believe what a great time I had with you all...one for the history books ;) This event, which attracted well over 1400 guests, raised funds for various departments and initiatives at The Hospital for Sick Children. Established in loving memory of Daniel Povegliano who passed away at age 4, this charity has raised over $3 million to date. Special thanks to John Vettese and the whole crew at Little Morello Vettese Segreto for being such amazing hosts and to John Amendola who picked out my dress at Danny de la Venta's shop hahaa!! (so who's my fashion guru now?) 

Mackenzie Health Gala - A Night in Tuscany (Nov 5)

An AMAZING time at this evening benefitting exceptional healthcare in York Region. :With 1000 plus guests in attendance and over $1 million raised, the 29th Annual Mackenzie Health Foundation Gala supports enhanced patient care at Mackenzie Health Richmond Hill Hospital as well as the development of Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital. Recognized were Vic De Zen, Enbridge, Magna and many other individuals, groups and companies for their contributions to the new hospital which is scheduled for completion in 2020. Not only was I hanging out with great friends but I was also running around covering this important event for Panoram Italia Magazine, I have to give a big hug and thank you to Debora Kelly, Elisa Decarolis and Luci Anderson for the assistance they provided throughout the eve. Congrats to the Gala Committee who did such an incredible job and a very special thank you fashion stylist, Danny de la Venta for his suggestion of this gorgeous gown!! Final thank you to John Amendola for seating the troops...our table was a hoot. 

HATSQUERADE GALA (Oct 21)
WOW!! What an incredible night for our community! The sold-out 8th Annual Hatsquerade not only raised awareness to the stigmas associated with mental illness and addiction but it also proved to be one of the most electrifying events of the year. I've never been to gala where guests ran on the floor to take selfies with performers...what a frenzy LOL. . Headlining and entertaining all with their chart-topping hits were renowned Canadian artists, Kardinal Offishall and Alx Veliz - both down-to-earth individuals who stayed the entire night taking the time to talk to fans. Lovely. Congrats to the entire Hats On For Awareness team who have worked incredibly hard over the last eight years to bring the issue of mental illness to the forefront of discussion. Many thanks to Benny Caringi and Enza Tiberi-Checchia who included Tony Monaco and I as emcee and myself as roving reporter :)
*Hatsqeurade benefits Jack.Org. CAMH and Humber River Regional Hospital

HOSPICE VAUGHAN GALA (Oct 14)
By far the most beautiful Hospice Vaughan Gala yet! Over 1100 people gathered at the "Giving Thanks' Gala to support of end-of-life care. Congrats to Board Members and the Gala Committee on organizing such a fun-filled night...and huge props to Rick Campanelli (Co-host ET Canada) who was emcee for the eve. Although Hospice provides assistance to community members in their darkest hour, this year's event was cause for celebration. In addition to the over $400, 000 raised at the gala, the provincial government has pledged 1.05 million annually to the operations of the upcoming 10-bed residential hospice. Currently a visiting hospice the construction of the new and much-anticipated facility is said to be completed in the spring of 2019 and will have a full medical team, counselling for family members and education on patient care.
 For more info visit www.hospicevaughan.com

MODA IN MOTION FASHION SHOW (Oct 13)
Sensational night at the CIBPA Ladies' Auxiliary Fashion "Moda in Motion" Fashion Show. 900 women in one room (including a few poor fellows in addition to the male models...hahaaa!!!) Presented annually by the Auxiliary, the evening showcased beautiful models strutting stunning attire from some of the city's best clothiers and boutiques. On hand, was Dr. Marcus Bernardini, researcher at the prevent Ovarian Cancer Program. All proceeds raised at this charity event benefit his program at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Congrats to my fellow Auxiliary members and my dear friend Laura Tonelli who did a stellar job as emcee :) 
Thank you to Luca Viorel for photos. 

Comedy Night for Italy (Oct 12)
Big hand to Frank Spadone, Sandra Carusi (Inside Jokes AM640), Sandra Battaglini, The Doo Wops and Andrea Trentadue (CHIN TV) who participated in the sold-out "Earthquake Relief" Comedy Show which raised funds for the devastation that hit central Italy this past August. Again, members of the Italian Canadian community joining forces to help our friends and family in the old country. These comedians had the audience in absolute HYSTERICS at Vaughan Yuk Yuk's while emcee Andrea kept them all in line ...well as best as can she could under the circumstances hhahaa!! My abs still sore from the laughs and have to say that I'm incredibly fortunate to have funny friends. Beautiful people coming together for such an important cause. ..YOU GUYS ROCK!!! :)

Savour York Region Food Drive (Oct 1)
And what were all my friends talking about at the SYR Food Drive? The Eros Ramazzotti concert LOL!! Meanwhile I was hauling pumpkins with Vaughan Fire Inspector, Andre Clafton (whom I refer to as the #realdeal), Mayor Bevilacqua and Councillor Tony Carella LOL . Very happy for Mr. Peter Wixson, Executive Director of the Vaughan Food Bank who received a $5000 donation from the Mayor's "Spirit of Generosity" charity initiative - an incredibly philanthropic man who retired young and dedicated 25 plus years to volunteerism at the Food Bank. As for Eros, please stop texting me pics..hahahaa!! :) 

Pink Diamond Gala (Sept 25)
I have so much admiration for Alicia Vianga who is founder of the After Breast Cancer (ABC) charity which provides women with support following mastectomy. As a certified bra-fitter who once advised a major GTA hospital, her downtown shop Premier Jour Fine Lingerie donates undergarments and breast prosthetics to those who have no insurance and limited financial resources. Many don't realize just how expensive a breast cancer diagnosis can be as many costs are not covered by OHIP and Alicia raises awareness and funds through her annual Pink Diamond Gala, which attracts hundreds of people from all over. A big hug to my friend, comedian Sandra Carusi, who is one of this year's ABC Ambassadors. Someone who can stand in front of an audience while going through cancer and have everyone in stitches is a hero in my eyes (although she did tone it down at this fundraiser since so many clergy were present ..brava :) ) Props to Juno-winning artist Simone Denny for her great performance (I am big fan of her music). Lastly, I have to give Alicia a big hug for always including a pair of sexy, lacy undies in the swag bag hahaaaa!!!! XOXO
For more info on this incredible charity and its upcoming events please visit:
www.afterbreastcancer.ca

64th Annual President's Ball (Sept 24)
"What happens at the President's Ball STAYS at the President's Ball." (Don't worry those pics aren't posted....but you all know who you are…Hahahahaa!!!!!! ) What an incredibly fun eve at the 64th Annual President's Ball celebrating the community's very best ":) Presented by the Canadian Italian Business & Professional Association (CIBPA) and held at the beautiful Liberty Grand in downtown Toronto, the evening commemorates Italian Canadians who have made outstanding contributions socially, politically and in the world of business. In the old days of early immigration this organization was instrumental in uniting and inspiring the Italian business community. It's incredible how far we've come since then and how much we've contributed to the fabric of this country! Congrats to this year's award recipients who have made their mark and are so very deserving. Props to emcee, Andrea Trentadue (CHIN Radio/TV) for doing her usual great job and special thank you to my Snapd publisher John Amendola for all that he does :)
*Dress by the wonderful La Danny de la Venta
1. President's Award: Policaro Automotive Family
2. Community Leader Award: Fred Santini (General Counsel Crombie REIT) for Shining Through Centre for Children With Autism)
3. Next Generation Award: chart-topping musical artist, Alessia Cara
4. Professional Excellence Award - Nick Torchetti - Aird & Berlis Barristers and Solicitors
5. Business Excellence Award - Giampaolo Family - Giampoalo Group of Companies

HATS N' HEELS (August) 
Thank you to longtime family friend, Ellen Contardi of Grande Cheese, who asked me to this fun evening benefitting Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Crystal Ladder Learning Centre. So many beautiful ladies!! All funds raised at the "Hats & Heels" event go to students and a revolutionary Dolphin Therapy in Florida - a proven and innovative technique. 
For more info : www.crystalladderlc.ca 

Royal LePage Golf Tournament (June 28)

There's nothing better than seeing the community come together for the greater good. Congrats to Vivian, Michelle and Justin Risi as well as the entire team of Royal LePage Your Community Realty on hosting another successful golf tournament. Now in its 9th year proceeds benefit Yellow Brick House, Mackenzie Health Foundation and United Way York Regions. It was great to see so many friends (and family lol) at the Eagles Nest Golf Club which made the event even more special. Props to Tony Monaco who did his usual stellar job as emcee! 

Vivian Risi 

Michelle Risi and emcee Tony  Monaco 

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, Vivian Risi, Michelle Risi 

selfie, Claudio Coppola, Vivian and Michelle Risi, Tony Monaco 

GRILL4U...where are you!? LOL 

Daryl King

Barbara and Ernestina 

Mackenzie Health Foundation - Ride for Health (June 23)

Great to see over 200 cyclists brave the heat and head out in the York Region countryside to participate in the "2016 Ride For Health" benefiting the Mackenzie Health Foundation. Congrats to Mike Primucci who raised the largest number of proceeds totalling close to $8000 including Pizza Nova who came in as top team. I made a pledge to this crew that I would participate in next year's 100km cycle! YIKES!! Also great to have television personality, DAVID ROCCO in Vaughan again to lend his support as event emcee .Funds raised on this day total $150,000. 

Mike Primucci and Team Pizza Nova

David Rocco and MP Francesco Sorbara 

Hats on for Awareness 

Thanks to the "Benenza" team - Enza Tiberi Cecchia and Benny Caringi, co-founders of Hats On For Awareness, for the special invite to their appreciation night party.  This important campaign helps eradicate the stigma associated with mental illness and addiction. I was honoured to emcee last year's "Hatsquerade Gala" which had a record-breaking attendance. Also special because I know so many who are suffering from depression and other related illnesses. Mark your calendars..next Hatsquerade is coming up October 21, 2016 at Universal EventSpace in Vaughan. 

Hats & Heels (June 17)

Thank you to longtime family friend, Ellen Contardi of Grande Cheese, who asked me to this fun evening benefitting Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Crystal Ladder Learning Centre. So many beautiful ladies!! All funds raised at the "Hats & Heels" event go to students and a revolutionary Dolphin Therapy in Florida - a proven and innovative technique.

For more info : www.crystalladderlc.ca 

Lorraine Galluzzo

Jay Mantella, Ellen Contardi, Sondra Manchisi, Sonia Contardi

Million Dollar Challenge (June 15)
 I have no problem taking on a last minute assignment...especially when it involves a delicious byPeterandPauls.com extravaganza LOL!! Last year Peter Eliopoulos, President of byPeterandPauls.com, created the "Million Dollar Challenge" Campaign to support the new Humber River Regional Hospital. Thanks to Peter, who has donated the use of the Paramount EventSpace including all food and beverages, close to 1.5 million has been raised to date! He is most definitely the "King of Hospitality" with a generous spirit. 

Peter Eliopoulos, Founder and President of ByPeterandPauls.com

Doug Ford

Rita Borges and Tony Monaco 

Rev it Up for Sick Kids (July 14)
WOW!!!...This is probably one of the most exhilarating charity events ever. A record-breaking 60 motorcycles and 50 classic cars roared their engines and hit the road for the 5th Annual Rev It Up For Sickkids....making their way from Vaughan to SickKids Hospital in downtown TO and to their final destination on the Burlington lakeshore. An important fundraising initiative, the $120,000 plus funds raised will go to the purchase of medical equipment crucial to care at the Hospital for Sick Children. This is all necessary equipment not subsidized by the government. Proceeds donated by REV IT UP have already saved and extended the lives of many children so let's keep giving. To donate or to learn more about the ride visit: www.revitupforsickkids.com
*Congrats to Loredana and Salvatore Oliveti, Nadia Cerelli, Elio Gatto, Mike Soragnese and all other board and committee members on organizing and executing this incredible event..and so amazing to see Giacomo Gianniotti of Grey's Anatomy participate in the ride! .Looking forward to next year!

Giaccomo Gianniotti of Grey's Anatomy 

Arriving at Sick Kids 

Nadia Cerelli (Plan B Promtions, Jade of Sick Kids Hosspital, Loreda and Salvatore  Oliveti

Founder of Rev It Up, Salvatore Oliveti 

Giacomo with Vaughan Fire crew

Nadia Cerelli (Plan B) and Ellen Contardi (Grande Cheese)

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Luca's Will to Live (June 11)
Supporting organizations and charities is crucial to sustaining healthy communities but I believe it's equally as important to assist individuals who have nowhere to turn. The "Luca's Will To Live" campaign was established to help little Luca Gennuso who suffered severe brain damage due to lack of oxygen following a near-drowning accident just last year. Through this fundraiser his parents have been able to explore different therapies and cover out-of-pocket expenses totalling $1000 a week!! Diagnosed as blind, deaf and a quadriplegic, today this grim prognosis has improved thanks to stem cell therapy in Mexico. Now Luca is watching movies, eating by mouth and gaining head control. Thank you to Deputy Mayor Michael Di Biase and Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco for the special invitation and congratulations to Mary Mauti and the rest of the committee on organizing such a great evening. All funds will go toward a second stem cell transplant in April.

Little Luca and his mamma with the DI Biases, Raccos and Monacos 

TV Personality David Rocco

Little Alesandro 

Benny Caringi from Hats on For Awareness

Gino Cucchi, Alicia Vianga (After Breast Cancer), Tony Monaco, Fabio Gessufatto 

Councillor Rosanna De Francesca 

Artist and Author Massimo Lippi 

McHappy Day (May 4)
What an incredible day seeing people in our community come out to participate in McHappy Day! While Z103 was broadcasting live from McDonald's (Pine Valley Dr/Hwy 7) many community leaders, businesses and local organizations come to show their support...and have a Big Mac...or two LOL. Today only $1 from every Big Mac , McHappy Meal or hot beverage from the McCafe will be donated to Ronald McDonald Houses across Canada and local Children's Charities. Ronald McDonald House provides lodgings and support to families while their children deal with medical adversities at nearby hospitals. A vital organization that doesn't take much to support. 

Scott Fox and Kat Callaghan of Z103.5 Morning Show

Fun with Vaughan Fire and Rescue

Regional Councillor Mario Ferr,  Owner Larry Garber,  MecDonald's General Counsel, Wayne McCracken, Alessandra Piccolo 

Sandra Piccolo, Minty Millie, Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco. Tony Monaco,  Deputy Mayor Michael Di Biase and Amanda Logan (Z103.5) 

Knights of Malta Gala (June 3) 
It was a historic and spiritual evening as the SHOSJ Knights of Malta celebrated their annual Spring of Hope Gala, raising $200,000 for the Archdiocese of Toronto. On a personal note it was an incredible moment and honour to meet His Eminence Thomas Cardinal Collins. The ancient Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John dates back to 11th century and a hospice founded in Jerusalem. Where it once assisted travellers to the Holy Land today it is represented worldwide and does extensive humanitarian work. Thank you to gracious hosts, Grand Prior of Canada Mario Cortellucci and his lovely wife Ginesia. Great job emceeing the event, Andrea Trentadue! And finally, a special congratulations to all new Knights and Dames honoured at the investiture earlier in the day. 

Tom Cardinal Collins

Knights of Malta, Grand Prior of Canada - Mario Cortellucci

Ali Bidabadi (CHIN Television Radio_

Romina and Ginesia Cortellucci

Andrea Trentadue (CHIN Radio / TV) Peter Cortellucci (Cortel Group)

Mr. and Mrs. Julian Fantino

"Inspiring Women" Garden Party (May 31)
The development of a new hospital requires the efforts of an entire community. Thank you to the Mackenzie Health Foundation for inviting me to the "Inspiring Women" Garden Party last week. Nothing beats spending time with these exceptional ladies and learning how we can make a difference! My hat goes off to hosts Rina Pillitteri, Lee Zanetti including Elisa Decarolis for organizing such an enchanting evening in support of the new Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital. Wonderful speeches by keynote speakers, Dianne Carmichael (Managing Director, Health Innovation & Ventures at MaRS) and breast cancer survivor, Bev Morra. For information on how you can assist the Foundation visit:www.mackenziehealth.ca/foundation
*Thank you Debora Kelly ...as as well as Bill Giannos Photography for providing so many great images!

Lee Zanetti and Rina Pillitteri

Mary Grace Tatangelo (Hospice Vaughan), Cathy Palmer Amendola (Snapd) and Rosanna Bancheri

Cathy Palmer Amendola,,Corinne Carbone, Nadia Nascbimben, Rose Greco

Rose Greco,, Laura Tonelli, Corinne Carbone 

Elvira Caria, Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco, Maria Pattara, Counciillor Rosanna DeFrancesca

Debora Kelly 

Joey Conte Gala
I love my work! Thank you, Sandra Senatore of Brando's who invited me once again to emcee the Joey Conte Foundation Gala at the beautiful Universal EventSpace. Completely sold-out, the gala/charity was created in loving memory of her cousin Joey who passed away 5 years ago at only age 25. As an aspiring fire fighter Joey would be happy to know that all proceeds raised will benefit the Burns & Plastics Unit at Sick Kids Hospital - Toronto, On. Congrats to Sandra, her entire family and all of Joey's friends on another successful event!
*Thank you to designer Danny de la Venta for dressing me once again!! 

Ellen Contardi of Grande Cheese and Sandra Senatore of Brando's

Dr. Joel Fish and his amazing medical team at Sick Kids Hospital 

Peacock Ball (March 3)
Raising awareness to domestic violence at the 4th Annual Peacock Ball. Held by the Elspeth Heyworth Centre for Women (EHCW), it's shocking to know that 40 000 crimes reported each year in Canada are of this nature. To our sisters who find themselves in these circumstances please know that you are not alone. The help you need is out there. Find the strength and believe! A big hand to Sunder Singh, EHCW Executive Director, for her incredible acknowledgement of members, supporters , supporters as well as EACH and EVERY volunteer - a truly magnificent woman with so much gratitude. Thank you to Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco for inviting me to this important and heartfelt event. 

Coucnillor Sandra Yeung Racco, Jennifer Ledouceur 

Elspeth Women Centre President, Sunder Singh

Councillor Marilyn Iafrate, Michael, Silvana and Frances Tibollo

After Breast Cancer Cocktail Reception (March 2)
Many of us don't realize how expensive a breast cancer diagnosis can be as so many costs are not covered by our health care system. Renowned bra-fitter, Alicia Vianga, created the After Breast Cancer (ABC) charity in order to provide survivors support following mastectomy. Her downtown Toronto shop donates undergarments and breast prosthetics to those with no insurance or limited financial resources. Thank you to Alicia for inviting me to this special cocktail reception which raises awareness to the cause. Huge hugs to Juno winner, Simone Denny who got all the ladies up and dancing her smash hit single, "Superstar"... one of my favourite tunes! Great evening with great ladies and all for an excellent cause!
For more information on After Breast Cancer visit:http://afterbreastcancer.ca/

Nadia Cerelli, Simone Denny, Alicia Vianga, Pat Russo

SIMONE DENNY!!! I'm a huuuuuuuufe fan! LOL

Staying Alive Disco Ball Gala (Feb 27)
It's definitely okay to wear polyester pants, disco ball necklaces and mood rings for a great cause!! Still recovering from the MASSIVE Staying Alive Disco Ball Gala - with over 1000 people under one roof dancing to tunes of the seventies and eighties, it's one the best parties I've ever been to. Thanks to organizers, Mario Bartelli and Leo Veri of Veriation Music for having me ....keep up the incredible great work raising awareness and proceeds for Sick Children's Hospital! 

Josie and Stefania

Mario Bartelli of Veriation Music 

Mario Bartelli (Veruation Music)< Lisa Ventura (Scuderia Ferrari Club), Pat Dal Ferro, JP McMillan (Sick Kids Foundation)

A Cure in the Future Retro Gala (Feb 13)
It's often said that you should always use your talents and gifts for something that is greater than yourself. Joe Bianchi and Ralph Ciampaglia, co-owners of Platinum Entertainment have done just that! Congratulations on another hugely successful Cure in the Future Retro Gala. Created and organized by Joe and Ralph the gala benefits the Princess Margaret Centre and to date has raised over half a million dollars for cancer care. Funds are allocated to the latest cancer treatments initiatives such early detection, precision with diagnosis, specific target treatment designed for each patient and supporting patients and their loved ones throughout their journey. Thank you Maria Luisa and Iolanda for being so accommodating and answering the millions of questions I had throughout the eve!

Sound Sensation Live Music

Joe Bianchi of Platinuim Entertainment

Joe Bianchi and Ralph Ciampaglia - Platinum Entertainment 

Breakfast Televisions Jennifer Valentyne and Frankie Ferrugine 

Nick from Ice Cream Patio