The 2011 Venetian Ball – Songs of Hope This Past Year Marked Performance by the 40 Years of Villa Canadian Tenors

Fall / Winter NEW THISFriends ISSUE of Villa Charities 2011-12

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The 2011 Venetian Ball – Songs of Hope This past year marked performance by the 40 years of Villa Canadian Tenors. To Charities providing end the show, the co- Villa Colombo 4 culturally sensitive chairs, lead sponsors care and services to and musical guests the community. The led the audience in a year was full of rousing rendition of special events and Giuseppe Verdi’s “Va activities to celebrate Pensiero”. “The this milestone, so it annual Venetian Ball Villa Colombo Vaughan Di Poce Centre 6 was only fitting that is an extraordinary the organization’s evening celebrating signature event – The the passion of Italian Venetian Ball – was culture and The 2011 Venetian Ball Co-Chairs Tony Gagliano and Rudolph P. Bratty with Lina Gagliano, also a part of the Catherine Bratty and the Canadian Tenors. community,” says celebration in Bratty. “This year’s addition to commemorating the 150th anniversary of gala, from the outstanding performances, new venue the unification of Italy. and culinary originality, sets the bar for the future of this Carrier Gallery 8 event. I am thankful for the support of our sponsors and While it may seem like a daunting task to try to top an guests for making the 2011 Venetian Ball a smashing event that BizBash magazine ranked 6th for the second success.” year in a row for benefits in its listing for Toronto’s Top 100 Events in 2010, this year’s co-chairs of The Venetian Post performance, guests were free to explore the Ball were more than up to the job. Both Rudolph P. centre and partake in the wide array of food stations Bratty and Tony Gagliano ensured that the gala, held on from some of the city’s top restaurants and suppliers, October 29, was unlike any other. For the first time ever, including 10tation Catering, Lago, Niagara Food Centro Scuola 10 the event was held at Specialties, Phipps the Four Seasons Desserts, Ristorante Centre for the Boccaccio, Sotto Sotto Performing Arts, and Ristorante, The included an Country Kitchen, The unforgettable Culinary Studio, showcase of Italian and The Terrace, We Bake Report to Donors 11 Canadian music. in Heels, Alfa Cappuccino Imports, As soon as guests Caliber Fine Wines and entered the Four Spirits Inc. and Noble Seasons Centre, they Estates Wines and were surrounded by Spirits Inc. the spirit and feel of Venice’s Carnevale. Lucas Sorbara, musical guest Martina Sorbara and Dan Kurtz After the reception, VITA/Mens Sana 17 Gourmet hors the Four Seasons stage d’oeuvres and drinks was transformed for were passed around as the distinguished crowd mingled more than 600 people into a deluxe dining experience – in the main foyer. Shortly after, the nearly 1,500 guests with the gourmet meal provided by Chef Mark were ushered into the theatre and treated to a McEwan’s North 44 Caterers – followed by an evening of spectacular 75-minute performance. The concert dancing and celebration. During the meal, the Canadian featured memorable performances by musical talents Tenors treated the diners to an encore performance. such as Rufus Wainwright, Measha Brueggergosman and For more coverage of the Venetian Ball please see Columbus Centre 18 Dragonette’s Martina Sorbara, as well as a surprise Report to Donors. Villa Charities

VILLA CHARITIES INC. BOARD OF GOVERNORS It Happened in Italy… IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR From November 1 to 9, the 31st Annual Holocaust Salerno, in the heart of southern Italy, which was home Nick Torchetti Education Week was held throughout the GTA. This to an internment camp for Jews during WWII. In order CHAIR year’s event focused on the theme of to gain a better perspective of what truly Nina Perfetto accountability, and commemorated the occurred during the war, Bettina travelled VICE-CHAIR 50th anniversary of the trial of Adolf to Italy five different times with internees, Aldo Cundari Eichmann and the 65th anniversary of the bringing them back to the villages in which TREASURER Nuremberg trials. The week’s offerings they had been interned. By doing so, she Mark Di Vito included exhibits, lectures, performances, was able to reconnect the survivors with

SECRETARY film screenings and book readings. One the individuals who assisted in saving their Nick Sgro such reading, of “It Happened in Italy: lives. Bettina’s book shares stories of Untold Stories of How the People of Italy survival and faith in the midst of sadness GOVERNORS Nick Ametrano Defied the Horrors of the Holocaust”, was and terror. It is an inspirational work that Lorraine Bortolussi conducted by Italian American author Elizabeth Bettina brings readers back to a period of horror and uncertainty Paul Bottos at Villa Colombo on November 3. During the event, and illustrates the discovery and journey of the untold John Bozzo Bettina discussed with her audience of over 150 people stories of what happened in Italy during the Second Rudolph P. Bratty her discovery of her grandparents’ village in Campagna, World War. Frank Chiarotto Lisa Damiani Frank De Luca Cambridge Food & Wine Society Mario Giampietri On Friday, October 21, the Karen Manarin Cambridge Food & Wine Society Edward Mancinelli held its “2011 Cambridge Awards of Nick Manocchio Excellence Series” at the Columbus Brian Naraine Centre. At the event, Senator Stephen Shulman Pamela Wallin received a Lifetime Joseph Tanzola Rina Tiberini Achievement Award for outstanding Santo Veltri contribution to multiculturalism in Canada. In 1992, Senator Wallin PRESIDENT & CEO Pal Di Iulio was the first Canadian woman to co-anchor Prime Time News, the DIRECTOR OF FINANCE nightly CBC national newscast. She Ugo Di Federico was appointed to the Senate of Canada in 2009. Last year’s Lifetime The Cambridge Food & Wine activities. The Society has a library Achievement Award recipient, Ted Society was co-founded in 1988 by of books and periodicals on Kotcheff, the producer of Law & Professor Chef Leo Chan and J.P. hospitality and conducts beer and Order: Special Victims Unit, was on Michelini of the George Brown wine tours. It also provides annual hand to present the award to College Hospitality Centre. The scholarship funds to accomplished Senator Wallin. At the same event, members meet regularly for high school, university and Pal Di Iulio received the Remy gourmet food and wine tasting and community college students. Martin Award. other educational and philanthropic

On October 13, the chefs and staff members at On September 23, Toni Ciccarelli celebrated her 96th Ristorante Boccaccio had the welcome surprise of birthday with family and friends at the Columbus serving dinner for Prime Minister Stephen Harper Centre. Toni has been a volunteer with Villa Charities and his guests. While at Boccaccio, the PM remarked for 35 years and a great supporter to many causes. on how much he enjoyed his visit and meal – no Grazie, Toni! Happy birthday and all the best for reservation needed! many more years to come! 2 x Villa Charities Newsletter Villa Charities

Villa Charities Toronto Arts Foundation Awards Newsletter is a Congratulations to Roberto Martella, who was nominated as one of fifteen publication of finalists for the 2011 Toronto Arts Foundation Awards, which celebrate those Villa Charities Inc. individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to © 2011 All rights reserved Toronto’s vibrant artistic and cultural life. Martella is a longtime supporter of EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Villa Charities and a current governor on the Columbus Centre Board. He has Karen Manarin owned and operated grano restaurant for the past 25 years with his wife Nick Manocchio Lucia, and welcomes all manner of socio-cultural organizations to use the Brian Naraine location to stage events and fundraisers. Martella was nominated for the Nina Perfetto Toronto Arts and Business Award along with The Drake Hotel and TD Bank Rina Tiberini

Group. The award celebrates a local business that has made an important VILLA CHARITIES INC. contribution to the arts in Toronto through innovative, transformative and PRESIDENT & CEO entrepreneurial partnerships. Auguri, Roberto! Palmacchio (Pal) Di Iulio

COMMUNICATIONS & Terroni! Theatre.IV.Mimmo: The MARKETING COORDINATOR On November 13, “Operazione Terronica! Stefanie Polsinelli Conference on the 1861 ‘Unification’ of Italy: Beginning of a Dream DESIGN AND PRODUCTION The Untold Story” took place at Villa This past September, Rose Napoli was able to see the COORDINATION Colombo. The event was held in response to beginnings of a dream realized. A young actress new to Giancarlo Piccin a discussion which began in June during the city, Napoli had a very specific goal in mind: to start celebrations of the 150th anniversary of the a theatre company in the name of her late father. LAYOUT unification of Italy. When Napoli was in her first years of university, Brian Boyd Nearly 100 people attended the daylong Domenico “Mimmo” Napoli was tragically killed in an event to hear the guest speakers share their automobile accident at the age of forty-five. Now, eight VILLA CHARITIES revisionist views on the subject. Those on the years later, she honours the memory of Mimmo, the FOUNDATION man who first inspired her to dream the unimaginable. panel were: Pino Aprile, Italian journalist and EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR author of Terroni and Giu’ On September 14 and 15, in the Rotonda of the Joseph Anne Simone Al Sud; Antonio Ciano, D. Carrier Art Gallery at the Columbus Centre, Italian author of Il Theatre.IV.Mimmo presented a workshop production of EVENT COORDINATOR Massacro del Sud; and the classic Arthur Miller play, “A View from the Bridge”. AND SUPPORT Rocco Galati, Canadian The production starred Napoli, Anita LaSelva, Adrian Cinzia Del Zotto constitutional lawyer. Griffin, Stefano DiMatteo, Ryan Tilley, Marc Bondy, www.villacharities.com (Lorenzo Del Boca, Italian David Gingerich and Frank Ruffo. Set on the docks of journalist and author of the Brooklyn Bridge in 1955, the play is a story about Maledetti Savoia and Eddie Carbone, his wife Beatrice and adopted niece Polentoni: Come e Perché Catherine. When Marco and Rodolpho, two il Nord é Stato Tradito, was originally “greenhorns” from Sicily, come to live with the Carbone scheduled to attend but was unable to make family, tragedy ensues. it.) The discussion was moderated by Antonio The audience enjoyed the play immensely, and gave Nicaso, a Canadian journalist and the author the theatre company a standing ovation for its of Bloodlines and Io e la Mafia. production. The event discussed the counter-story to the Napoli plans to officially launch Theatre.IV.Mimmo in Risorgimento – the belief that the unification January 2012. For more details on this initiative, visit of Italy actually resulted in the invasion and www.theatreivmimmo.com. massacre of southern Italy and mass emigration by millions to North and South America. It allowed the guest speakers and audience members to engage in a lively debate and an informative Q&A session on the subject. Rocco Galati and writers/thespians Tony Nardi and Nick Mancuso organized the conference. For more information, visit the Facebook page at http://goo.gl/FOT7O. Villa Charities Newsletter x 3 Villa Colombo Services for Seniors

VILLA COLOMBO I do… I do… I do! SERVICES FOR SENIORS BOARD OF GOVERNORS

On July 26, 12 couples in residence PAST CHAIR at Villa Colombo took part in a Enzo Cuttini wedding vow renewal ceremony. CHAIR (Originally, 15 couples were slated Nick Manocchio to participate, but three had to 1ST VICE CHAIR bow out due to health matters.) Santo Veltri The couples range in age from 79 2ND VICE CHAIR to 101 years – and collectively, Grace Palumbo-Eremita have been married for over 800 3RD VICE CHAIR Gabriella Tino years! The touching ceremony, TREASURER organized by Father Celestino, Robert Galati began with the couples parading SECRETARY together into Sala Caboto. Each Marie Parker couple then received a special GOVERNORS blessing as well as a certificate Rosanna Arduini commemorating this remarkable milestone in their lives. The hall was full to standing room only, as Lucy Brun relatives and friends of the couples joined in the celebration, watching in awe at the incredible display of Anna Carino love and commitment. Luigi d’Ambrosio Lisa Damiani Songs from Home Ron Di Francesco Joseph J. Fusco Early this fall, the residents at Villa Colombo had Frances Gratta the pleasure of enjoying the musical talents of two Ernie Greco choirs from Italy. On September 19, Coro di Fr. Massey Lombardi Sulmona performed at the centre, and on Nina Perfetto September 27, Gruppo Agogica (from Veneto) did Piero Suppa the same. The two groups – each from a different Joseph Tanzola region in Italy – brought their own unique flavour Dr. Marisa Zorzitto to original and well-known classics, providing EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR wonderful entertainment for the residents. Having Toni Dell’Aquila groups such as these travel from Italy to perform in (INTERIM) Canada is an incredibly powerful way to help bring the spirit of Italy – and the sense of “home” – to the residents here. The seniors always look forward to such performances, as well as the interaction with the choir members.

A Happy Halloween On October 31, staff, volunteers and residents at Villa Colombo gathered together – in costume! – to celebrate Halloween. Residents enjoyed music and dancing and a special Halloween treat – orange sherbet with black sprinkles. Each year, everyone at Villa Colombo eagerly anticipates this event. Now that this year’s festivities have passed, it’s time to start thinking of costume ideas for the 2012 celebration!

4 x Villa Charities Newsletter Villa Colombo Services for Seniors

VILLA COLOMBO LADIES’ AUXILIARY The VCLA promotes Family, Food, Fun, Faith and Fundraising for the ultimate benefit BOARD OF DIRECTORS of the residents of Villa Colombo. EXECUTIVE VCLA PRESIDENT Sunday Mass & Frances Gratta 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Luisa Dobilas Family Brunch 2ND VICE PRESIDENT On October 30, the VCLA and guests Marisa Celenza enjoyed the group’s first event of TREASURER the season – the Sunday Mass & Rita Rotundo Family Brunch. Father James Wells GENERAL SECRETARY celebrated a beautiful mass in the Rose Greco Villa Colombo chapel. His homily, MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY “Practise What You Preach“, was Connie Vella-MacKay inspiring. Father James suggested DIRECTORS that leading by example is the most Mara Busca effective way to motivate family Josie Cuda Caboto for a delicious luncheon. Melina members, volunteers and employees. He Olivia De Miglio Zeppieri, chair of the Sunday Mass & Family touched on the importance of auxiliaries and Jan Grossi Brunch committee, started the meal with a volunteerism in organizations, which hit home Maria LaMarca beautiful prayer of thanks for our many to a lot of the people in attendance. He said Ornella Malatesta blessings. As VCLA President Frances Gratta many organizations, such as hospitals and Denise Padovani said, “We always follow our celebrations with even Villa Colombo, could not function Carmela Rotolo food.” Thus the VCLA mandate of Faith, without the work of the auxiliaries. This Maria José Silva Family, Food and Fundraising was achieved. message of acknowledgement certainly made Mary Venditti Although the focus of this event is Faith and all of the board members and volunteers Lucy Zampiero Family, attendees were able to participate in a Melina Zeppieri present feel valued and appreciated. What the small fundraiser to win the beautiful calla lily VCLA accomplishes with the work it does PAST PRESIDENT centrepieces. Mr. Anthony Fusco entertained Gabriella Tino makes the efforts worthwhile, and Father the crowd with numerous humorous stories. James confirmed that the community served HONORARY BOARD MEMBER Congratulations and thank you once again to by the VCLA notices these efforts. The gift of Antoinette Ciccarelli Melina and her committee members Luisa prayer that Father James presented was very HONORARY CHAIRS Dobilas, Rita Rotundo, Connie Vella and Rose special to many of us. Mary Bartolini † Greco for creating a beautiful ambiance and a Barbara Colangelo Following the Mass, we gathered in Sala wonderful celebration. Roseann Fiorze Colly Cavalluzzo † Tea Calamia VCLA Board Completes Alfreda Riverso Sonia Ricciutelli Three-Year Project Camille Mainelli Under the leadership of past president Gabriella Tino, the VCLA board took on the project of buying new electric beds for residents in the Fusco Wing of Villa Colombo. The project continued with current president, Frances Gratta. We are very pleased to report that halfway through the current board’s term we have completed the project. At our Annual General Meeting in June the final instalment of $100,000 was presented to the Villa Colombo Board of Governors. (The VCLA presented a total of $225,000 to the Board over three years.) Each resident in the Fusco Wing now has a new electric bed. These beds have provided more comfort and safety for both the residents and their caregivers. Thank you to everyone who supported us in our fundraising efforts; we look forward to your ongoing support of our new projects.

Join the Villa Colombo Ladies’ Auxiliary and be part of a dynamic group of dedicated volunteers who share their time and love, fundraising for Villa Colombo. Please call our office at (416) 789-2113 ext. 2260, or visit us at www.villacharities.com.

Villa Charities Newsletter x 5 Villa Colombo Vaughan

Emergency Response Services Recognition BBQ

Villa Colombo Vaughan hosted its 5th annual Emergency This year, the residents and guests were honoured to have the Response Week. Hon. Maurizio Bevilacqua, Mayor of Vaughan, join them during the recognition week. The mayor had the opportunity to meet The event gives the Board, staff and residents of the centre an some of the residents and reminisce about the past. opportunity to thank the men and women from the EMS, police and fire departments for their work and support in providing This celebration and recognition was supported by Villa emergency services to the home and the community at large. Colombo’s volunteers and dietary staff. A new chapter at Villa Colombo Vaughan Early this summer, the Board of Villa Colombo Vaughan, along Gulizia is joined by Karen Reid, Director of Financial Services, with other members of Villa Charities, initiated a competitive Maria Cherbel, Director of Clinical Services, and Linda Long, bidding process for the management of the long term care Director of Redevelopment and Environmental Services. centre in Kleinburg, Ontario. UniversalCare has proven to have the experience and Following rigorous procurement procedures, the contract specialized expertise to manage the home. They will no was awarded to UniversalCare Canada Inc. While doubt maintain the compassion and high quality the name of the company may be unfamiliar, you cultural sensitive care standards everyone has will recognize and know the name of its come to expect from the residence. president – Joseph Gulizia. After a five year arrangement with Extendicare, the Board of Gulizia and his team have had a positive and longstanding Villa Colombo Vaughan extends its gratitude to the company for association with Villa Colombo Vaughan. Over the past several its leadership and professional management approach provided years, they have been instrumental in ensuring that the centre’s to the centre’s residents. residents live in a warm, safe and comfortable home.

Joseph Gulizia, President Karen Reid, Director of Financial Services Maria Cherbel, Director of Clinical Linda Long, Director of Redevelopment Services and Environmental Services

6 x Villa Charities Newsletter Di Poce Centre

VILLA COLOMBO VAUGHAN Giornata dei Nonni BOARD OF GOVERNORS On September 11, hundreds of family members HONOURARY CHAIR joined the staff and volunteers at Villa Colombo Fred DeGasperis Vaughan in celebration of Grandparents Day. IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Nipoti of all ages had an opportunity to be with Sam Ciccolini their nonni, giving them the greatest gift of all – their time and their hugs. As the grandparents at CHAIR the centre took pleasure in the company of their Rina Tiberini loved ones, the younger grandchildren enjoyed the 1ST VICE CHAIR magician, crafts and treats on offer to them. Edward Mancinelli

This special day fits well with the centre’s Italian 2ND VICE CHAIR heritage, as it encourages us all to enjoy la famiglia Lorraine Bortolussi – binding individuals of all generations in a pleasurable, cheerful and compassionate place that TREASURER 160 people call home. Stephen Shulman SECRETARY Quinto Annibale

GOVERNORS Anthony Baldassarra Help – With Heart! Angelo Contardi Michelina Di Carlo Enzo Di Iorio Nina Perfetto Ben Soave Dr. Fabio Varlese

ADMINISTRATOR Valeria DeSimone

At Villa Colombo Vaughan, volunteers are the heart Special thanks to Josie Sanguedolce, volunteer and soul of the home. These helpful people do it all coordinator, for all of her planning and hard work. – whether it’s assisting residents with their meals, She helped make this tribute dinner for our praying with them or baking traditional cookies. It is volunteers extremely special. for this reason that on September 19, the Rina Tiberini, Chair of Villa Colombo Vaughan, management team and the dietary staff prepared addressed the attendees to thank them for their and served a five-course meal for the amazing commitment and service to our seniors. “Without volunteers. your dedication and sacrifice, Villa Colombo To commemorate the passion and compassion that Vaughan would not be as special as it is,” she said. the volunteers have for the centre’s seniors, each “You play an important and vital role and the individual received a limited-edition framed print of community and our residents are better for it.” Villa Colombo Vaughan painted by Teresa For volunteer opportunities please contact Josie DeGasperis, a long time volunteer and supporter of Sanguedolce at (289) 202-2222 ext. 333. Villa Charities. Villa Charities Newsletter x 7 Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery

“From Toronto to Tuscany, From Tybee to Twillingate” by Andrew Donato In this unique show, Andrew (Andy) Donato expressed his newest style of art, entitled “bent realism”. The show, which ran from October 5 to November 1, included paintings of neighborhoods in Toronto and other locations the artist has visited, including various towns in Italy. This was Donato’s third exhibit at the Carrier Gallery. Donato was born in 1937 in Scarborough, Ontario. He has worked at the Toronto Sun since 1974, acting as the paper’s editorial cartoonist and art director until he was named Corporate Art Director in 1993. He currently works as a freelance cartoonist for the paper. Donato has received many awards for his work, including the National Newspaper Award in 1976; he was the President of the Association of Canadian Cartoonists from 2000 to 2001. “Mission Accomplished, Heading Home”, one of the paintings featured in the exhibit at the Carrier Gallery, will be reproduced on Canadian stamps, with the funds going towards a camp for children who have lost a parent in the war in Afghanistan. Former Premier William Davis and Justice Roy McMurtry were on hand at the exhibit’s opening reception to congratu- late Donato. “Into the Abyss” by Eunah Cho and “Preservation” by Brett Davis This one-of-a-kind exhibit was a joint effort by Cho and Davis. “Into the Abyss” alludes to human nature while striving for ‘absolute value’, through observing a deep, delicate, and fundamental being; unlike mankind, which foresees shallow and material needs. Cho’s artwork uses a dry mixed media method, which she places on “Hanji”, a traditional, Korean handmade-paper. Davis’ “Preservation” was a collection of works which evoke a modernistic approach to classical sculpture. His work encompasses archaeology, conservation, bronze casting techniques and the replication of the patinas found on actual bronze artifacts recovered from areas of the Mediterranean. The Cho and Davis exhibit was held “Still Lifes” by at the Carrier Gallery from October 5 to November 1, 2011. Bruno Capolongo This exhibit, which ran from October 3 to November 1, marked Capolongo’s third time showcasing his work in the Carrier Gallery. The artist chose to display pieces that achieve a fine balance between historic and contemporary works of art. Capolongo, a Hamilton, Ontario native of Italian decent, currently lives in the Niagara region, where he spends time in his studio creating encaustic and realistic works. (“Encaustic” refers to a paint mixed with beeswax that is fixed with heat after its application.) “Still Lifes” displayed this medium, and along with Capolongo’s realistic approach to his works, resulted in paintings that appeared to be photographs. 8 x Villa Charities Newsletter Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery

“The Discovery Series” by Tom Miller Upcoming Exhibits Miller was born in Detroit in December 2011 to January 2012 1943 but is now a Canadian citizen and resides in Oakville, “Inspired by Spoleto” Ontario. “The Discovery Series” December 5, 2011 to January 23, 2012 Lower Gallery demonstrated one of the ways in which Miller expres ses his “Pompeii” by Jeff Jackson December 5, 2011 to January 23, 2012 delight when he encounters a Atrium B painting by one of his favorite artists. For this collection, he Teo Dragonieri December 5, 2011 to January 23, 2012 chose objects, books and Upper Gallery ceramics as his subjects; they “Icons” by Giancarlo Piccin have special meaning for him December 5, 2011 to January 23, 2012 because they represent history Atrium A and culture, two of his interests. Miller takes these For more information on upcoming or past inspirations and repaints them in a unique way – he shows his subjects being exhibits or to purchase any works, please unwrapped (like gifts) to encompass the idea of “discovery.” The exhibit offered a contact Rosa Graci, Carrier Gallery, (416) 789-7011 ext. 300 or different approach to viewing art, making the experience that much more intriguing [email protected]. to guests at the show. The exhibit ran from November 3 to December 1, 2011. “Ma Shiu-Yu: A Retrospective of Her Watercolours” During the month of November the Carrier Gallery was home to this exhibit, which commemorated the life and works of artist Ma Shiu-Yu. Shiu-Yu was born in 1921 in Guangdong, China. Her career in art began in the 1940s, when she was tutored in Chinese painting by Masters Zhao Xiao-ang and Li Fung-gong. Her artwork displays nature, beauty and gracefulness through the use of watercolors and calligraphy, compelling the viewer to enter a state of tranquility and splendor. Shortly after Shiu-Yu and her family immigrated to Canada in 1966 she began her teaching career, leading art classes as well as acting as an “Inner City Angel” supply teacher in the Toronto school system. Shiu-Yu has shown her watercolours in numerous art galleries, museums and educational institutions, and has sold many of her paintings to international art collectors, such as the former Governor of Hong Kong and the famed actor Vincent Price.

“Blurred Visions” by Michael Semak The photography exhibit “Blurred Visions” will be displayed at the Carrier Art Gallery from November 9 to December 28, 2011. Semak has been a professional photographer for over four decades and was the first photographer to receive the Canada Council Grant. He is currently a professor in Visual Arts at York University and does freelance work for companies and newspapers such as the Globe and Mail and the Toronto Star. His upcoming show at the Carrier Gallery displays his unique way of depicting an object and leaving its interpretation and understanding up to the viewer. According to Semak, a blurred picture cannot be duplicated, no matter how many additional pictures a photographer takes or makes. When you look at Semak’s works of art you have to understand and accept that each blurred picture you see is totally and forever unique. Villa Charities Newsletter x 9 Centro Scuola e Cultura Italiana

A Journey of Discovery Together

Toronto Catholic District School Board students in front of the Duomo in Florence

From October 21 to October 30, 2011, a group of parents from the parents around Atri, the town they have made their home for the Toronto area joined their sons and daughters in Italy for a week of Fall Semester. touring in Rome, Assisi, Florence, Verona and Abruzzo. The That Friday, Alberto Di Giovanni, Director of Centro Scuola, parents were new to the Italian landscape; their children were brought the entourage up the steep road to Roccamorice, his already familiar with their beautiful surroundings and the routines hometown in Maiella. It is an example of a typical mountain town of life in the Italian culture. This role-reversal, as well as the family that once had a population of 4,000 but now has less than 1,000 reunions after two months apart, made for a real journey of year-round inhabitants. Here, with the help of the municipal discovery together. council and Don Gilberto, the local pastor, Alberto has created a “What a life-changing experience this is for the students!” gem of a small museum – Il Centro d’Arte e Cultura: Alberto Di exclaimed one of the parents who took the Giovanni. Inside a renovated chapel originally opportunity to spend the week with the Fall built in 1706, visitors can view paintings with Semester Program organized by Centro Scuola religious themes plus a number of exquisite and the Toronto Catholic District School Board. facsimiles of rare books such as the Leicester This secondary school program is located in Atri, Codex of Leonardo Da Vinci. Some Canadian Abruzzo, at the Hotel Du Parc. There is an pieces of art are on display as well, given to the identical arrangement with the York Catholic museum by artists who toured Italy last year District School Board taking place in Spoleto, with Centro Scuola. The day trip included a Umbria. Both programs involve 20 girls and boys sumptuous meal in the local osteria, who must complete four credit courses towards remarkable for the fresh ricotta, pasta, and, their Ontario graduation diploma while they are especially, roast lamb. abroad. The school boards supply the teachers Paige, a student, and her mother Michelle Smith The Atri group had time for a bit more shopping and administrative personnel, while Centro with Alberto and Caroline Di Giovanni at the in the Adriatic coastal city of Pescara before Scuola is responsible for the accommodations, Centro d’Arte e Cultura in Roccamorice one final lunch together, followed by tearful transportation and excursions during their stay. goodbyes. The students have another two months of classes, Under the capable guidance of Annamaria Di Giovanni from assignments and exams before heading home in time for Centro Scuola, the Atri group toured the Villa d’Este in Tivoli on Christmas. The parents had to return to work as usual on Monday the day they arrived in Italy, followed the next day by a tour of morning, with memories of their trip as well as closer Rome. The third day was spent in Assisi, the city of St. Francis. On acquaintance with their children’s friends, teachers and Tuesday, the visit to Florence included viewing High Renaissance surroundings. While the Atri group settles back into its routine, the masterpieces and the Duomo as well as some fine shopping in the students and parents from Spoleto are spending their week stores and the Porcellino market. Wednesday the rain and high together on a similar itinerary. The Di Giovanni team from Centro water in Venice meant a rapid change of plans; instead of rides in Scuola have built a good reputation for these sorts of trips; it is a gondola, the students and parents explored the Arena in Verona, likely due to its shared passion for Italian history and culture, and the Piazza delle Erbe, and of course, Juliet’s house (from “Romeo its satisfaction in sharing this passion with its Canadian partners. and Juliet”). By Thursday, the students were happy to show their 10 x Villa Charities Newsletter A NEWSLETTER FOR Friends of Villa Charities Volume 1 / Number 1 Winter 2011

Welcome! In this Issue We are delighted to send you the first issue of our Friends of Villa Things to ll Charities newsletter. We have designed it to be both helpful to you remember and as a way to say grazie to our friends and supporters. We hope that we will continue to build our relationships with the members Giving out of ll of our community that use and benefit from Villa Charities. your lifetime savings One of the great strengths of our charity is the wonderful community that is part of everything we do. It is because of the Why a Bequest? lll support and generosity of you and our community that we are able to provide services and programs. Without that help we Tax Benefits lll could not be the important and vibrant organization that many people count on each and every day. Why you need a lV will Grazie, Anne Simone Executive Director LeavingTony Del Ciello a Gift ofThanks Tony Del Ciello loved the dances he would attend at Villa It was this generosity that lead Del Ciello to create a Colombo when he first moved to Canada o ver 30 years bequest gift in his will to support Villa Charities. This type ago from the Abruzzo region of Italy. For a single man of gift is easy to make and provides the estate of the making his way in a new country, it was a way to meet donor with a charitable receipt which will lower the others who had also moved from Italy. It was amount of taxes owed to the government. these dances that led to a lifelong Anyone can make a bequest gift of this kind. involvement with Villa Charities. And each gift, no matter the size, helps Villa For years, Del Ciello volunteered at Villa Charities as it provides programs and services Colombo. It was his way to give back to a to meet the needs of the Italian community place that had provided him so much during in Toronto. his life. Although he was too busy with his This type of gift is also a way to leave a lasting family and in his job as a tool and die maker legacy by creating a gift many people feel to spend a lot of time at Villa Colombo, once they cannot make while they are living. Del Ciello retired, he again became involved “Tony wanted to leave something of himself as a volunteer. in the community after he passed away,” says “Tony was always involved but especially after Mr. Titti. “This was a way for him to say he retired,” says Otello Titti, who was a close ‘thank you’ for the things he received from friend of Del Ciello. Mr. Titti used to join Del Ciello at the the Villa Charities family over the years.” dances all those years ago. Del Ciello’s gift is recognized on the Villa Charities Their friendship continued and they both became Tree of Life wall. His name is inscribed on a rock as part of volunteers at Villa Colombo. “He would volunteer to drive the display. It was his wish to be part of this giving older people to appointments. He would even buy them program. As with many others in the community, Del things that they needed if they didn’t have the money Ciello wanted to give back to a place that meant so much themselves. Tony was a very generous man.” to him during his lifetime. A NEWSLETTER FOR Friends of Villa Charities II Giving out of your lifetime savings . . . when creating your People have many different ideas ones are otherwise left. when it comes to how they want Estate Plan: A will divides your lifetime savings. to spend their money and the Everything from your car, furniture subject of planning a will is no include a completed will and real estate, to your stocks, different. RRSPs and life insurance policy, designate power of attorney There are individuals who believe are given a dollar figure and added in careful spending. They like to together with your income in the include life and watch their money grow for a year of death to calculate the disability insurance rainy day, to ensure the security of value of your estate. Your will is a their loved ones or simply because statement of who or what is attempt to minimize they like to see success, even in important to you. Through it, you "probate" fees their investments. If this group can provide for your loved ones applies these principles to creating and invest in organizations that and updating their will it is likely you want to see supported in the attempt to minimize that they will be the ones that lose future. or defer taxes the least amount of money to Often people shy away from probate fees. . . . when creating leaving a gift to an organization Another group feels they should like Villa Charities that has been a your will: enjoy using their money while meaningful part of their life they can. People who enjoy because they fear that their family make sure you use your spending to such a degree often will not be adequately provided will to pass your assets to don’t save as much as they could, for or that such a gift would your family and other but also sometimes buy into the reduce the amount t heir family heirs in the easiest way myth that they don’t have to make receives. This does not have to that tries to reduce or a will because they don’t have happen. Naming a charity in your avoid taxes “enough to make it worthwhile”. will can entitle you to income tax Unfortunately, if individuals fail to savings that may in fact increase consider all of those who make a will, those they would the amount you will be able to you care about and are want to be their beneficiaries may leave your heirs. end up receiving nothing or much impor tant to you so that Many people also believe that only less then was intended. you can use your will to individuals who can create large leave a legacy to those Those who try to achieve a gifts through their estate should who have meant balance between saving and consider a planned gift. This is far something to you spending usually are much faster from the truth. As with the vast to recognize the benefits of majority of charitable gifts, it is the take the steps to protect leaving money to a charity through sentim ent behind the act of giving your family and other heirs their will. The reason being that and not the amount that matters. their minds are open to the idea When a person leaves a gift to that this arrangement has tax Villa Charities, he or she is create a will that gives advantages which can reduce the ensuring that the services you peace of mind probate fees charged to their provided through our organization estate and in so doing, help to to the community will continue to reduce a burden with which loved thrive well into the future. A NEWSLETTER FOR III Friends of Villa Charities Why a Bequest? Each year, thousands of people give a portion of their assets through a bequest to Tax support charitable organizations. Gifts by will are becoming an increasingly important part of the Canadian philanthropic tradition. It is also an important way for organizations such as Villa Charities to help secure their financial future. Benefits A bequest to Villa Charities can be a tangible expression of appreciation for the services and programs that the organization has provided to you, a loved one or ifts made by will are the community. This type of gift might be deemed to have financially impossible during your working or been made in the retirement years. G year of death. Therefore A bequest in your will may be the most the charitable tax credit is feasible way for you to make a significant received by the estate and gift. After providing for your loved ones, can offset any tax owing you may choose to include Villa from deemed dispositions Charities as a beneficiary of your will. which are also realized in It is easy to make a bequest gift. Here the year of death, i.e. are some examples of bequests: capital gains and/or recapture of depreciation. General Bequest, in which Villa Charities would receive a specific amount of a The limit of gifts including certain kind of asset, usually a sum of bequests or legacies is cash. 100 per cent of the Specific Bequest, in which Villa Charities individual’s net income in would receive a specific piece of property, the year of death. This such as artwork or shares in a company . means that gifts made in the year of death can Residual Bequest, in which Villa Charities would offset up to 100 per cent receive all or a percentage of the remainder of your estate of that year’s income. after other special provisions have been fulfilled. Because you are deemed Contingent Bequest, in which Villa Charities would receive all or a share of your to have disposed of all of estate only in the event of the prior death of certain other beneficiaries. your assets in the year of Unless directed otherwise by the donor, Villa Charities places the entire amount death, the reportable of the planned gift into our general endowment and spends only the earnings. income for that year can This ensures that the bequest becomes a true legacy for Villa Charities be high. By giving a Foundation. bequest, you are entitled to sizeable tax savings. If If you have made – or are considering – a bequest in your will, we encourage there are any tax savings you to inform us so that your generosity may be recognized through our Tree of left over from your Life. The Tree of Life honours the commitment of donors who have made a bequest, it can be carried planned gift of support to Villa Charities through deferred gifts of bequests, back to offset up to 100 insurance and trust arrangements. per cent of income for the We would be pleased to speak confidentially with you and your legal or financial year immediately advisor. We can help to establish and confirm the purpose for which your preceding. bequest is to be used, to explain tax benefits for your estate, and to arrange for an appropriate memorial name for your bequest, if you wish. A NEWSLETTER FOR Friends of Villa Charities IV

For more information contact: Jean Jarvis Why you Fund Development Officer need a Villa Charities Foundation 901 Lawrence Avenue West Toronto, Ontario M6A 1C3 Tel.: (416) 789-7011 ext. 321 Fax: (416) 789-9387 Reasons to create this important document E-mail: [email protected]

For many people, estate planning instructions for the distribution to is not an exciting issue. That be carried out so as to keep taxes being the case, most of us may at a minimum. have neglected this vital In addition, your estate will be component of our financial plan. settled more quickly and Therefore, the wealth you have efficiently, with minimal burden worked so hard to build may be in to your family. For example, jeopardy. In short, no matter arrangements can be made to what your age, it is vitally have money available to pay important that you have a solid taxes, debts, and other expenses. estate plan that includes a You can include in your will the properly drafted will. name(s) of an individual(s) to care An estate plan is simply any plan for your children in case of a for disposition of your estate common disaster befalling you assets with a bias to minimize and your spouse. The guardian expenses and taxes. The core of selected is your choice, not the any estate plan is the will. An government’s. important legal document, it You can also name an executor or primarily provides for a smooth estate trustee (depending on the distribution of your assets to jurisdiction) of your estate, rather selected beneficiaries after your than having the court appoint an demise. It allows you to organize administrator in the absence of a your affairs so your will. Your executor acts as your responsibilities are taken care of “personal representative”, after your death. resolving all financial aspects of The information and opinions contained in Should you pass away without a your estate. this newsletter are obtained from various will, the courts decide, according sources believed to be reliable, but their You should have your will accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Villa to provincial legislation, how your Charities Foundation and its employees prepared by a lawyer or through assets will be distributed. In most and agents assume no responsibility for a trust company with a lawyer’s errors or omissions or for damages arising cases, your wishes and intentions from the use of published information or assistance. To ensure its will be met. With a will, however, opinions. effectiveness review your will. you decide what and how your Readers are advised to consult their own The costs are minimal, and the assets will be distributed to professional advisors to determine the benefits great. applicability of the information and opinions beneficiaries of your choice. A in this newsletter in any particular well-planned will gives circumstances. This newsletter is provided with the understanding that it does not render legal, accounting, or other professional advice. Fall/Winter 2011-12

I Am a Machine! Congratulations to the members of Team mentoring Team Villa members Villa for their success at the Maratona throughout the year. Congratulations to d’Italia Memorial Enzo Ferrari on October them both! Also, special thanks to the 9, 2011. Team members, along with loved wives, husbands and boyfriends who ones, travelled to Italy to participate in the accompanied the team and provided half (21 km) or full (42 km) marathon. support! As their families and friends were at home The Team Villa participants who ran the in Canada celebrating Thanksgiving, all of race on October 9 did so to raise funds for the runners were gathered at the Villa Charities Foundation. The marathon marathon start line focused on the task at is a grueling event which takes months of hand after months of training and preparation; we are extremely grateful to fundraising. It was truly inspiring to see the Team Villa members for all of their first time marathon runners compete in hard work, commitment and passion for the half marathon ending in Modena, the cause. Special thanks also go out to while seasoned competitors crossed the the team’s co-chairs Tony Gentilucci and finish line in Carpi. Tom Clark and to our sponsors Athlete’s Care Sports Medicine Centres, Masters As a member of Team Villa, individuals Financial, Alice Fazooli’s Vaughan, TLN, make a huge commitment with their time where balsamic vinegar is produced, and a G&L Group, Capo Sgro LLP, Rosanna to train and fundraise over a span of months; tour of the Ferrari museum. Caldarone - Dominion Lending Centres, at times, the preparation is a challenging Every team member brought something M.A.M. Group Inc, Roy Foss and all those experience. It was all worth it, though, as the special to the group – experience, motivation, who made pledges to our runners! sense of accomplishment felt by the runners coaching, mentoring, inspiration and as they crossed the finish line – with huge Planning is underway for 2012. For more friendship. It was a truly amazing team! At smiles on their faces and proudly waving the information on Team Villa and to become a the Celebration Dinner following the Canadian flag – was palpable! participant or sponsor, please contact Cinzia marathon, Bill Arvanitis was named Team Del Zotto at [email protected] or It was not all hard work and training, though. Captain for his leadership, dedication and 416-789-7011 ext 306. While in Italy, the team enjoyed delicious commitment to Team Villa year after local cuisine, as well as trips to Florence, a year. Paolo Fiorino was named Team Villa For a complete listing of sponsors please see Parmiggiano Reggiano factory, an acetaia MVP for his time spent training and next page. Venetian Ball Hits a High Note Thanks to the generosity of all the sponsors, of culturally sensitive care without this the 18th annual Venetian Ball raised $1.25 commitment. Special mention must be made million (net) for Villa Charities – ensuring that for the Honorary Chairs and Leading Sponsors the organization can continue to provide its for the 2011 Venetian Ball: Rudolph P. Bratty & superior level of care to seniors and individuals Family; Mario Cortellucci, Nick Cortellucci & with intellectual disabilities and mental health Family; Alfredo De Gasperis, Angelo De issues and can increase its cultural Gasperis and Antonio De Gasperis; Senator programming that enriches the lives of Linda Frum, Howard Sokolowski & Metropia; thousands annually. “The Venetian Ball is one Greenpark Group of Companies; IBEW 353; of the city’s foremost social events and the Alex & Marc Muzzo; Orlando Corporation; OZZ success of this year’s ball is an example of Electric Inc.; St. Joseph Communications; and that,” says Gagliano. “Rudy and I are thrilled The Sorbara Family, as well as CIBC, the with the unprecedented support from the Entertainment Sponsor. On behalf of Co-Chairs community for Villa Charities.” Rudolph P. Bratty and Tony Gagliano, thank you! Grazie! Heartfelt thanks are extended to all of our Elisabeth and Sandy Bartzis at the pre-performance reception. corporate sponsors and guests; Villa Charities For a complete list of sponsors please see pg. 13 could not continue to provide its special brand Villa Charities Newsletter x 11 Villa Charities VILLA CHARITIES Grazie to our Team Villa Sponsors! Lead Sponsor Training Sponsor Farewell Cocktail Sponsor FOUNDATION

BOARD OF GOVERNORS 2011

PAST CHAIR Joseph A. Chiappetta, Team Jacket Sponsor Celebration Dinner Sponsor Amici Sponsors Founder

CHAIR Rudolph P. Bratty, Founder Team Villa Sponsors Official Travel Agency VICE CHAIR Zafferano Alfredo De Gasperis, e Sapore Founder Ristorantes TREASURER Edward Sorbara, Life Member Cugini d’Italia They say it’s a small world, and this point was running. Villa has relatives in Canada and the United SECRETARY proven last year when the 2010 Team Villa crew States; his cousin Walter, aunt Giulia and uncle Livio Mauro Baldassarra travelled to Italy to take part in the 25th Venice all reside in Toronto – and are very familiar with Villa Marathon. After the race, a gentleman by the name Colombo and the services provided by Villa Charities. GOVERNORS of Antonio Villa approached Giulia has been a weekly Domenic Alfieri, Life Member the team simply to point out volunteer at the long term Sam Ciccolini that Villa Charities care centre for over 10 years, Foundation shared his participating in the yearly Mark Di Vito surname. Villa, who is 56 trips to Cuba and Punta Cana. Anthony Fusco, Founder years old and a marathon At the same time, Livio has Tony Gagliano runner himself, lives just been an active member of south of Rome in a quaint the Villa Colombo day Nina Perfetto town called Isola del Liri. He programs. Both Giulia and Mario Romano, Life Member began running at the age of Livio enjoy the freedom and Nick Sgro 18 and participated in the sense of accomplishment Prague Marathon in 2011 and the Venice Marathon they get from volunteering at Villa Colombo. Earlier Nick Torchetti in 2010. Upon the team’s return to Canada, and this summer, Villa travelled to Canada and visited Toni Varone, Life Member after numerous conversations between Villa and Villa Colombo with his relatives. Seeing the great Tracie Napoli in the Villa Charities Foundation office, services provided by Villa Charities made Villa even FOUNDERS it came to be known that both the team and Villa prouder to share his name! Joseph D. Carrier † share more than just a name and a passion for Angelo Del Zotto Sen. Con Di Nino Orey Fidani † Marco Muzzo †

LIFE MEMBERS Carlo Baldassarra Eugene Boccia † Dino Chiesa John Di Poce Carlo Fidani John A. Gennaro Elio Rosati † Joseph Zentil

12 x Villa Charities Newsletter From L-R: Musical guest Rufus Wainwright; guests mingling during the post-performance reception; Klodia Spahiu gets into the spirit of Venice’s Carnevale; dinner on stage against a replica Caravaggio backdrop.

Honorary Chairs and Leading Sponsors

Entertainment Sponsor Culinary Sponsor Venetian Sponsors Onofrio Adriano Tauro Italian Home Bakery Pannunzio Aimia Anna & John Rossetti Altus Group KPMG Bondfield Construction Liberty Development Diamante Sponsors Company Ltd. Lions Group Inc. Brampton Brick Limited LiUNA - Local 183 Canadian Health LiUNA - Local 837 and Lifestyle Magazine LiUNA Tri Fund Castlepoint Investments Mackenzie Investments CDM Information Inc. Mathews, Dinsdale & Clark LLP Chrysler Merit Marketing David Schaeffer Engineering Ltd. Montana Steele DiSalvo Wealth Management Nancy Pencer Brain Trust Discount Car & Truck Rentals Na tional Homes Downtown Porsche Odgers Berndtson Group and Uptown Audi PMA Brethour Realty Group ECMI LP PriceWaterhouseCoopers EllisDon Residential Carpentry Empire Communities Contractors Association Extendicare Inc. Rotundo Di Iorio Quaglietta LLP Fogler, Rubinoff LLP Scotiabank Forum Equity Partners Inc. Senator Consiglio Di Nino Greg Sorbara M.P.P. - Vaughan Sussex Strategy Guglietti Brothers Investments Villa Colombo Vaughan – Highland Farms UniversalCare Holcim Zebra International Union of Zentil Property Management Operating Engineers - Local 793 International Union of Painters & Allied Trades Food and Beverage Sponsors 10tation Catering Niagara Food Specialties Alfa Cappuccino Imports Noble Estates Wines & Spirits Inc. Baci Perugina North 44 Caterers Bottega Phipps Desserts Caliber Fine Wines & Spirits Inc. Ristorante Boccaccio Cocomira Rocca delle Macie Culinary Studio Sotto Sotto Fragoli The Country Kitchen Italpasta/Galvanina The Terrace Lago We Bake in Heels Décor Courtesy Of Basset Events Emblem De Luca Fine Art Gallery Villa Charities Newsletter x 13 Community Partners Lady York Foods – More Than a Grocery Store Walking into Lady York Foods, you are like the family feeling,” she says. “You come struck by the friendly and familiar in and you know the neighborhood, you atmosphere and instantly feel at home. You know the people. It’s like you’re at home are surrounded by young families and nonni with your family.” Rosso, who is 23 years old with their grandkids doing their weekly and has been working for Lady York for seven shopping, and happy employees going years, says that no matter your age or how about their work, ready to assist anyone in many years you’ve worked with the need. Lady York is everything that a company, you’re always made to feel like you community grocery store should be. play a critical role. “It’s not like a big In the fall of 2010, Gabriele Torchetti company where you come in and you’re just approached Villa Charities Foundation with another employee,” he says. “You’re the idea of doing an ongoing fundraiser. The important and involved here.” Rosso also grocery promotion, which launched in appreciates the work that Lady York does for January 2011, offers a select number of his neighbourhood. “They’re not just making products each month at a discounted price, with 10 per cent of the money for themselves,” he says. “They’re also providing money to a proceeds being donated to Villa Charities Foundation. To date, the charity, which is great because it shows leadership within the store has raised over $20,000 for the organization. community.” It is obvious that Lady York is much more than your average grocery It’s true – between Lady York’s remarkable fundraising initiatives and store. When speaking with staff members, it is evident how the family its warm atmosphere and great service, what more could you ask for? atmosphere fostered by the senior staffers lends itself to a happy and devoted worker and patron contingent. Maria Grasso and Mark To get your company or organization as a Community Partner Rosso, longtime employees of Lady York, have nothing but praise for involved in raising funds for Villa Charities, please contact Cinzia Del the company. Grasso, who has worked with Lady York for 18 years, Zotto, Event Coordinator and Support, at (416) 789-7011 ext. 306. says nothing beats the sense of community you get from the store. “I

14 x Villa Charities Newsletter Villa Charities Your input matters to us!

Villa Charities Foundation is updating our records to serve you better in the future. Please take a few minutes to complete this form and answer four short questions. Your responses will be held in strict confidence. Thank you! Grazie!

PERSONAL INFORMATION (Please Print)

______(Mr./Mrs./Ms.) First Name Middle Name or Initial Last Name

______Street Address Suite or Apartment Number

______City Province Postal Code

______Home Phone Number Work Phone Number Email (for future communications)

1. Which of the following would you like to receive to be kept informed about our work and activities? (Please check all that apply) £ Annual Report £ Email ONLY £ Villa Charities Newsletter (three times a year) £ Mail OR £ Email

2. Which area of our work is the most important to you? (Please check one) £ Senior Care £ Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and/or £ Culture, Education, Arts and Recreation Mental Health Issues

3. Everyone can leave a gift in their Will to Villa Charities Foundation. Would you like to learn how?

£ Yes, please mail me some information OR £ Yes, please contact me at ______£ Days £ Evenings £ I have already included Villa Charities Foundation in my Will

4. Would you like information about the different ways you can make an estate gift to Villa Charities Foundation? £ Yes £ No

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU Villa Charities Foundation, a member of the Villa Charities family of organizations, respects your privacy. The information you provide will only be used to keep you informed of the activities of Villa Charities. If you’d like to be removed from our mailing list, please:

Check this box £ and mail this form OR Call our Privacy Officer at 416-789-7011 ext. 321 OR Email us at [email protected] May we have your permission to publish your name in our Annual Report to recognize your donation to Villa Charities Foundation? £ Yes £ No

SHARE YOUR STORY We’d love to hear how Villa Charities has touched your life or the life of a loved one. Share your story by including it on the back of this survey OR email us at [email protected] OR return it in the pre-addressed, postage paid envelope provided.

Thank you! Grazie! for taking the time to complete this survey. If you have any questions, please contact Jean Jarvis, Fund Development Officer, Corporate Giving, at (416) 789-7011 ext. 321 or [email protected].

Villa Charities Newsletter x 15 YOUR STORY

(please print)

Thank you! Grazie!

Since 1971, Villa Charities has provided culturally sensitive care and services for an elderly Italian Canadian population in our community. Today, our work includes support for individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental illness and/or mental health issues. Building on its rich Italian Canadian heritage, and by living life with Italian passion, our family of organizations has grown to include:

Villa Charities (1971) Villa Colombo Services for Seniors (1976) Villa Colombo Ladies’ Auxiliary (1976) Columbus Centre (1980) Caboto Terrace (1984) VITA Community Living Services (1986) Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery (1987) Villa Charities Foundation (1990) Casa DelZotto (1991) Casa Abruzzo (2004) Mens Sana (2005) Villa Colombo Vaughan Di Poce Centre (2006)

901 Lawrence Avenue West | Toronto ON M6A 1C3 | T 416.789.7011 | villacharities.com VITA Community Living Services / Mens Sana Families for Mental Health

VITA COMMUNITY LIVING Three Pathways to Partnership SERVICES BOARD OF GOVERNORS Creativity. Activity. Productivity. These words work population that can be difficult to serve. One CHAIR best when used in partnership with each other. conference attendee said, “I came because I’m Brian Naraine Likewise, VITA/Mens Sana has increasingly been working with someone who has such difficulty with TREASURER working in partnership with others – locally, nationally anger and aggression, we’d almost lost hope. By noon, Larry Andrade and internationally – towards the creation of new and I had several ideas and I’m going back understanding SECRETARY Paul Bottos exciting resources. The following four stories are more about what we can do to help.” The idea behind illustrative of the myriad opportunities that can exist such training is to better the lives of people with GOVERNORS when people work together towards a common goal. disabilities by increasing the skill level and confidence Dr. Neal Belluzzo of the staff serving them. Dr. Lindsay refused payment Lou Cairo Creativity - A phone call several months ago to VITA Ken Cancellara for his services, giving the fee back to VITA and YSBMS requesting information on abuse and abuse Morris Cariola to be used in their work with people with disabilities. prevention in French led to a realization that there are Robert Caruso no easily accessible resources in that language tailored Productivity - VITA is becoming recognized as a Wilma Cesario either to staff or to individuals with disabilities. In fact, worldwide leading expert in the area of abuse Rosanna D’Ambrosi there was no template for this information to be prevention in human services agencies. Policies Frank De Cesare Fausto Gaudio translated into any other language. The conversation developed at VITA have been requested by agencies in Lorne Glass switched from “How do we find resources?” to “How various provinces in Canada and by several countries Nancy Salerno can we create resources?” Manuela Dalla Nora, VITA’s around the globe. A recent report in the New York SELF ADVOCATE late Executive Director, along with Dave Hingsburger, Times regarding abuse in agencies in that state has led David White VITA’s Director of Clinical and Educational Supports, to a request for VITA to partner with YAI in New York EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR worked with members of the Hamilton Developmental City in the creation of a training procedure for the Dunja Monaghan Service Agencies to produce two pamphlets (one for entire state on best practice approaches to abuse (INTERIM) staff and one for people with disabilities) on abuse, prevention. This exciting opportunity will mean the abuse reporting and abuse prevention. The goal was creation of a video training series accompanied by to have a resource that reflected the new legislation in written materials which would introduce changes – Ontario and provided clear guidelines, ideas and piloted at VITA and which became legislation in solutions. Further, the goal was to have the material Ontario – to the state of New York. The idea is to presented in a manner that made the information make safety the foremost mission of all agencies that instantly understandable and usable; the idea being serve those with disabilities. The process is just now that this pamphlet, written in English, would be beginning and the new cross-border partnership is appropriate to translate into any language, beginning exciting to all involved, as it will lead to entire system with a French version for the Hamilton agencies. The changes. pamphlet was written and is currently being Mens Sana: Patterns of Partnership translated. VITA will be reaching out to other linguistic minorities in Ontario to make the template available Mens Sana, both a part of VITA and in partnership with for translation into as many languages as needed. All VITA, is also working to develop partnerships in the this was done in a spirit of friendly cooperation; both creation of new resources. Activity, creativity and VITA and the Hamilton Developmental Service productivity are certainly evident as Mens Sana Agencies were enriched by the opportunity. partners with CAMH to open a new home to serve those with serious mental health needs. Housing for Activity - Recently, a unique opportunity presented those with mental health issues is a vital and life-saving itself to VITA and York Simcoe Behaviour Management need. Keeping people safe by giving supportive shelter Services (YSBMS). Dr. Bill Lindsay, a world-renowned is meeting the most basic and primary of needs. This psychologist from Dundee, Scotland, was visiting new home will provide that essential shelter. Mens Ontario to provide a course for Brock University. Dr. Sana has been working for years to create warm and Lindsay has previous connections with both VITA and welcoming places in which people can learn to manage YSBMS and had one day available on which he could symptoms of mental illness and learn new ways of offer training on the difficult issue of serving people coping. By working in close partnership with CAMH, with disabilities who engage in criminal behaviour. The Mens Sana continues to learn and grow. Resources two agencies jumped at the chance to put together a shared between such agencies become approaches daylong training session at the Columbus Center. that promote understanding and health. Working as a team, they planned the seminar, advertised it – and then promptly sold out of tickets. VITA/Mens Sana, together as partners, will continue to People flew in specifically to hear Dr. Lindsay speak. reach out to other agencies of like mind and purpose His presentation provided new insight and gave to actively and productively create what’s needed in participants new tools to use when working with a the fields of mental health and intellectual disability. Villa Charities Newsletter x 17 Columbus Centre

COLUMBUS CENTRE OF TORONTO BOARD OF GOVERNORS Update – Italian Canadians as Enemy Aliens: IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Nick Sgro Memories of World War II CHAIR Karen Manarin We continue our work to commemorate 1ST VICE CHAIR the Italian Canadian World War II John Bozzo experience and educate the community TREASURER about the internments, the “Enemy Stephen Pasquale Alien” designations and their SECRETARY repercussions. We have completed 74 Nick Ametrano video interviews from Montreal, Thunder GOVERNORS Bay, Ottawa, Vancouver, Sudbury, Anthony Barbosa Timmins, Toronto, the Prairies and Nova Ester Bucci Scotia. These personal stories, along with Marianne Corigliano-Franco letters, documents, photographs and Armando Cristinziano objects, will be available for viewing Liana Flabiano through a permanent exhibit and a user- Anna Iafrate friendly website. Robert Martella Teresa Santoro The permanent exhibit will combine Contact Information: historica l facts and firsthand accounts using video PRESIDENT & CEO To share any materials related to the experience Pal Di Iulio monitors, interactive kiosks, display cases, of Italian Canadians during WWII, please contact ADMINISTRATOR banners and interpretive panels. A memorial wall Ugo Di Federico will also commemorate the approximately 650 Stefanie Petrilli at (416) 789-7011 ext. 333 or Italian Canadian men and four women who were [email protected]. The Columbus Centre Board is also responsible for the interned between 1940 and 1945 at Camp To receive information regarding the official Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery Petawawa (ON), Camp Kananaskis (AB), Camp opening of the exhibit, plea se contact Louanne Ripples (NB) and Kingston Penitentiary (ON). Aspillaga at [email protected]. Want to know more? Join our Facebook group This project is funded by the Community and fan page “Italian Canadians as Enemy Aliens: Historical Recognition Program (CHRP), Memories of WWII”; follow us on Twitter Citizenship and Immigration Canada. @ItCanWWII; and view our YouTube Channel “ItalianCanadiansWWII”. Ernest Hemingway Comes to Life... in T.O. On September 16, the Villa Charities community Aaltonen, Monica Cruz, Nerea Camacho, Delphine was invited to the Columbus Centre for a sneak Chaneac, Yuriria Del Valle, Margot Abascal and peek of “The World of Ernest Hemingway” – one Marcus Harris. of the movies being shown The movie touches upon the at the Toronto most important moments in International Film Festival – Hemingway’s life, and and a Q&A session with its includes personalities from writer/director, Giuseppe the worlds of cinema, Recchia. literature and show The docu-film incorporates a business; from Marlene cast of over 40 actors from Dietrich to Luis Miguel 12 different nations (Italy, Dominguin, and from Fidel France, Spain, Poland, Cuba, Writer/Director Guiseppe Recchia Castro to Ava Gardner, the Germany, Finland, Denmark, film takes the audience Brazil, Argentina, Mexico and Canada), with Italy, through the intricacies of the CIA and the KGB. It France, Spain and Poland providing the movie’s also reveals some of Hemingway’s personal secrets spectacular settings. The two principal personas, and closes with the mystery surrounding his Ernest Hemingway and his wife, Mary Welsh, are infamous suicide. played by six actors. (Each role is played by three Recchia is also the author of the novel different actors.) Some of the actors featured in the “Hemingway for Cuba”. film are: Kenneth Branagh, Katrine Bach, Minna 18 x Villa Charities Newsletter Columbus Centre

Columbus Centre Concert Band On October 18, the Columbus Centre Concert Band, under the direction of Maestro Livio Leonardelli, performed its inaugural concert at the Columbus Centre. Approximately 300 people attended the event, which was hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Fusco Sr. It was a dream come true for Mr. Fusco, who for a long time envisioned the Columbus Centre having a concert band that would perform at various community events. Maestro Leonardelli and the thirty band members were extremely proud of their inaugural performance, having worked very hard for almost one year rehearsing and building a brand new wind ensemble. The Columbus Centre Concert Band is an ensemble of accomplished amateur and non-professional musicians of all ages. If you are interested in learning more about the Columbus The band rehearses every Tuesday from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Centre Concert Band, please contact Daniela Agostino-Cugini at the Columbus Centre. The ensemble is inviting all interested brass, [email protected] or (416) 789-7011 ext. 250, or Fred woodwind and percussion musicians to join; no auditions or Cassano, the band’s coordinator and manager, at membership fees are required. [email protected] or (416) 828-3733. Fit for Life Exciting new programs at the Columbus Centre Athletic Centre! For Lorraine Simpson, living a healthy lifestyle, being an active member of the Girls Only Columbus Centre gym and taking part in Public health officials are concerned by research showing that girls become much classes like trainer Gabriella Lalli’s spinning less physically active during their teen years; many don't exercise at all by the time session on Tuesday mornings, are all top they reach 18 or 19 years of age. Columbus Centre has a fantastic new fitness and priorities. Simpson, 74 years young, has nutrition program aimed at young women who want to lose weight and get fit in a been a member at the centre for over nine healthy, safe and effective way. years now, and a part of the spinning class for five months. Not only does she take part Called Girls Only, this 90-minute class consists of one hour of combined in the weekly spinning session, but Simpson cardiovascular activity, muscle conditioning and flexibility, followed by 30 minutes also attends the muscle conditioning class of nutrition and group discussion. With the help of the instructor, Jennie each week, as well. “I have always been Atzmueller, the girls in this class will assist each other to reach their goals through active,” she says. “I love all the high-energy teamwork and moral support. This is unlike any other fitness program you may classes.” Combining her enthusiasm for have been in; it is almost like getting together with your best friends for some fun. staying fit with her love for the Columbus Centre and its welcoming atmosphere, these classes have become that much more enjoyable for her. As long as there is great music, an amazing group of people and a skilled trainer involved, there is nothing Lorraine Simpson won’t attempt to take on at the gym. As she believes, all it takes is a little determination and heart and you’re able to do anything you set your mind to. Yogalates This class combines the practice of yoga with Pilates, applying the principles of core stability from the latter to common Yoga postures. Yoga is an Eastern Indian discipline that focuses on strength, flexibility and spirituality. Pilates focuses on building strength in the deep muscles of the abdominal region – the body's core. Both practices involve attaining specific postures, and emphasize correct breathing and meditative mindfulness. The class, instructed by Ioana Cruceanu, is designed to tone and strengthen the entire body, as well as to reduce stress while improving mental focus. Due to the nature of the exercise, circulation in the body and energy is increased – among other benefits. The result is an increase in calories burned and a decrease in body fat.

Villa Charities Newsletter x 19

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SICILIA

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S T 2011 EENIGHT HEME

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B OCCACCIO

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May 27, 2012 GIRO 2012 27, May R ISTORANTE