Articles by: Romina Monaco
Romina Monaco Feature Articles

Philip Bailey: Earth Wind & Fire

With a powerhouse endorsement by Quincy Jones who proclaimed himself as their number one fan to being commonly referred to as “The Black Beatles” by critics, there’s no question why Earth Wind & Fire is hailed one of the most influential musical forces of the 20th century. Boasting over 90 million recording sales, multiple Grammy and American Music Awards, an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, they are considered one of the greatest and most commercially popular bands in contemporary music history.

“I think of everything we’ve been really fortunate and blessed to do. It’s all been so fantastic.  Who would have thought forty-five years later we would still be doing all this – and on such a level,”says the band’s celebrated lead vocalist, Philip Bailey as he sits atop Toronto’s Molson Amphitheatre pointing to the fleet of EWF tour buses lining the parking lot below. Co-headlining alongside the equally-acclaimed group, Chicago, EWF makes a stop in the Big Smoke for a sold-out show on their North American “Heart and Soul” Tour. “It’s a fabulous tour, very high powered and well-accepted all over. We’re having a great time and between the two bands we have over forty top-ten records with songs, that after all these years have become a part of the DNA of a lot of people,” he tells Fredi Magazine.

Less than an hour later the magnetic, highly-charged sixty-four year-old, who has entertained everyone from American presidents and royalty to audiences worldwide, hits the stage with fellow EWF members Verdine White and Ralph Johnson and others, to pump out chart-topping smash hits as That’s the of Way of the World, Septemberand Shining Star.  Bailey’s signature falsetto combined with an array of instrumentals, electrifying costumes, funky dance moves and stage theatrics depicting mystical pyramids and the cosmos, thrills fans who sing along to their all-time favourites from the 70s and 80s.  Also on the repertoire are songs from their recent 2013 album, Now, Then & Forever.

“We try to give audiences the best shows we possibly can and continue to work on our craft.  They may not be aware of this but they feel the sincerity and effort we give every night,” explains Bailey who admits performing onstage still gives him the greatest satisfaction as an artist. “I’ve always been conscious of how to stay true to the vision that Maurice started with,” he adds.Founded in 1969 by musical genius Maurice White, who now takes a behind-the-scenes role due to a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, EWF’s artistic brilliance is evident in their characteristic, spiritual compositions. “Writing a song is putting things in form and saying to people what they just can’t say for themselves.” From captivating lyrical hooks to the innovative melding of soul, blues, funk, rock, dance, jazz, African and Latin American the band’s astounding success lies in its ability to cross-over and appeal to a wide range of music lovers. They have inspired renowned artists as Prince, Beyonce and Bruno Mars and the vast sampling and remixing of EWF tracks by today’s young artists and deejays has sparked interest in a new generation.

Another component to EWF’s longevity has been their capacity to collaborate with a great number of industry professionals. “Collaboration brings a whole other element to the art. Working with people you really respect is an enriching experience and enlarges you as a person and as an artist. It’s a win-win for all parties”, explains Bailey, adding “It would be cool to do something with Sting. I’ve always had such respect for him.” He has partnered with the finest in the business such as Stevie Wonder, Little Richard and Dionne Warwick and has explored independent projects outside the group. Solo achievements include the 1984 certified-gold Chinese Wallalbum featuring itsglobal hit duet single with Phil Collins – Easy Lover, four gospel records, as well as the Grammy-winning Triumphalbum released in 1986.

According to the man dubbed by his peers as “The Voice”, a rich and fulfilling career isn’t enough.”More important things take precedence. It’s not just what you do and how you’re remembered but also the contributions you make to society. We should be conscious of the fact that we contribute every day by just making positive choices and treating people right.  And as an artist you have to find a reason to do your art that’s broader than just your own self interest,” he explains. With a compelling need to give back he created the Music is Unity Foundation in support of displaced and at-risk youth exiting foster-care. Raising awareness as well as funds to assist those working with young individuals, he also gives encouragement by inviting beneficiaries to meet and experience EWF while on tour. Other than sending messages of love and consciousness through music and charitable endeavours it is by far his personal life that takes centre-stage. As a father of seven, two of whom work with him as vocalist and managing assistant, and grandfather Bailey feels the greatest legacy he will leave behind will be the one to his family. “I’d like them to know that I did the best that I can do. That I was the best father, friend and husband that I could possibly be…who just happened to be a great musician.” What about the future of EWF and what can the millions of fans expect? “We’re always moving ahead and looking forward,” he says and then with a twinkle in his eye the legendary performer smiles, “I do believe the best is yet to come.”

 

 
Romina Monaco Feature Articles

Freedom Had a Price

It’s Freedom Day in Toronto and speaking in front of thousands of students at Yonge-Dundas Square is eighty-four year-old Max Eisen, a survivor of the Holocaust. Young people from all over southern Ontario have come to hear his tragic yet powerful account of inconceivable loss and adversity. However, this proud advocate does not want tears of sympathy. In his post retirement vocation as a lecturer, Eisen’s mission is not only educating a new generation on the barbaric anti-Semitism that plagued recent history, but to caution all Canadians of rigid ideologies and racism still existing today. “Any kind of ideology whether it’s Nazism or Fascism where they say they are the master race and everyone else is nobody, it’s a big, big warning that something is wrong. This type of submission and democracy don’t mix,” explains Eisen, who has spent the last twenty-two years speaking publically to police forces, the military, politicians and students from high schools and universities across the country.

Organized and sponsored by the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Centre for Holocaust Studies, the inspirational Freedom Daycelebration of September 25th comes as a prelude to the annual International Holocaust Remembrance Day.  This important tribute raises awareness on human right issues, empowers youth to take action against all types of discrimination and commemorates the estimated six million Jews killed by the Nazi Regime during World War II. However, with a new study conducted by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum the number of victims could hit staggering new heights. In the last thirteen years researchers have painstakingly catalogued 42,500 Nazi concentration camps and ghettos, coming across evidence of previously unknown sites.  Other groups viciously murdered within the barbed wire were Polish POWs, communists, Slavs, political activists, Jehova’s Witnesses, gypsies and homosexuals.

In this modern era racial slander can be accelerated at an alarming speed via the internet. “The wheel of hatred is rolling so fast today. I am very concerned that people are repeating the same mistakes,” says Eisen stating that racial intolerance and prejudice is alive and well in our country, and those raising the red flag are having their freedom of speech compromised. Author and political activist, Pamela Geller, who Eisen also refers to as the Joan of Arc of the global Jewish community, has campaigned against anti-Semitism helmed by radical and political Islam.  Her controversial public speaking engagements have even caused a stir right here at home. According to Jewish activists, Geller’s scheduled May 2013 appearance at Thornhill’s Chabad Flamingo Synagogue was cancelled after continuous pressure by authorities. However, York Regional Police have denied these allegations. In 2011 regular pickets were held outside a modest Montreal shoe store importing merchandise from Israel.  Anti-Zionists rallying for a Palestine free of Israeli occupation, called for a complete boycott of the establishment. This year alone swastikas were chillingly scrawled on a Toronto rabbi’s garage door while another was carved onto the greens of a Richmond Hill golf course.  In the city of Vaughan, four homes were defaced with similar anti-Semitic graffiti. Geller believes we can all do our share to raise awareness. “During the course of the day you may see or hear things that you know are wrong. Say something,” she tells an audience at the Zionist Centre of Toronto.  “You have a sphere of influence and there’s no need for a national platform.” If a common voice of reason fearlessly rose and reverberated across Nazi Germany could the course of history have been altered? In hindsight the victims of the Holocaust know all too well the relevance of free speech and the fact that any have survived to tell their grizzly and heart wrenching story is a sheer miracle.

“I think back and wonder how did I survive this? How did anyone survive this?” says Eisen, who at the age of fifteen was sent into slave labour at the most notorious of all camps, Auschwitz-Birkenau where the average life expectancy of a Jewish prisoner was merely a few months. Whether it was the assistance of compassionate soul, willful determination or just sheer luck, he feels he probably could not have survived the cruel conditions and dehumanization within the camp had it not been for the crucial life skills he learned from his family.

Raised in rural Moldava in the former Czechoslovakia, Eisen’s once-happy childhood came to an abrupt end in the spring of 1944. After celebrating the first night of Passover he, his family and extended relatives were visited by Hungarian armed officers and forcibly removed from their homes and sentenced to Auschwitz, where Eisen’s mother, two younger brothers, baby sister and paternal grandparents were led immediately and unknowingly to the gas chamber while his father and uncle were later selected for medical experiments and never seen again. Eisen himself was forced into slave labour.  Out of sixty family members only he and two cousins survived.

“My father had only seconds to say good-bye to me. He gave me a blessing and I knew in that moment that my family was gone,” recalls Eisen, solemnly. “It was a devastating moment but I knew I couldn’t give up. He told me that I needed to tell the world what was happening here.”

Nearing the end of the war, attempts were made to destroy all evidence of mass genocide. Death camps were evacuated and surviving, emaciating Jews were brutally marched to alternative camps. Many died in these Death Marches, either by dehydration, exhaustion or a gunshot. Eisen barely survived his journey to Ebensee Camp in Austria.  Sick with typhoid, he was freed May 6, 1945 by the American 761st Black Panther tank battalion.  In a twist of fate, he has participated in twelve March of the Living trips to Poland and Israel. This symbolic educational program available to Jewish students worldwide ensures that no one forget the past.

Another survivor who has made it her mission to educate the public is Chava Kwinta.  Now a retired nurse, she also spent years making rounds in the local public speaking circuit even narrating her story in a self-published autobiography, I’m Still Living. The daughter of Polish Jewish shopkeepers, Kwinta and her family were sent to live in the ghetto after their home and business were confiscated. With their father missing and mother dying while trying to avoid selections and subsequent arrest, she and her sister were left alone with no protection. “Thankfully we were saved from the Auschwitz deportation by an aunt who was in good favour with a female German officer,” says Kwinta, who after the war spoke in the woman’s defence at a tribunal.  Following an excruciating death march to Bergen-Belsen Concentration Camp the sisters were eventually liberated April 15, 1945.

Also liberated that day at Bergen-Belsen was Romanian-born, Edith Kirshen. At the age of thirteen, she and seven members of her immediate family were taken from their home and herded onto a cattle car headed to Auschwitz. Only Kirshen and her two older survived the camp.  After liberation she continued to live in fear of persecution and chose to bury the story of her past, even hiding the truth from her own children. Today she has courageously found her voice, choosing to speak to Whatever Vaughanabout the incomprehensible hatred that destroyed her innocence. “For me a person is a person.  We all bleed the same way and we were all born the same way. I don’t understand all this hatred. There is so much opportunity for everyone,” Kirshen says, with shaking her head.

Her words echo the very foundation on which this country is built on.  As an international role model for diversity as well as immigration and human rights policies, the survivors feel that it is imperative that we protect this great Canadian legacy. They remind us that if we do not keep our eyes open and watch for the signs, history has an ominous way of repeating itself. “When the lies become the truth, society goes upside down,” warns Eisen, who says he will continue to educate the masses and spread his wisdom for as long he can. He, along with Kwinta, Kirshen and countless other survivors are not only the collective voice of the loved ones they have lost but are also a tangible reminder of just how fragile freedom can be.
Romina Monaco Feature Articles

Fostering Dreams Through Dance

“I believe dance helps express the inner voice and deepest emotions when words are not there,” explains lithe and attractive Melanie Buttarazzi as she sits comfortably by the kitchen table at her parents’ residence overlooking one of Vaughan’s many picturesque valleys. As the eldest daughter of Robert Michaels, celebrated Juno-winning and platinum-recording guitarist, it seems the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Beginning dance at age four and eventually graduating with a BFA degree from York University, the twenty-eight year old professional dancer is quite accomplished with appearances in the television series, “So You Think You Can Dance” and a Jennifer Lopez music video including on-stage performances alongside Pitbull and Ne-Yo.  However, reaching for the stars hasn’t been her only resolve. With an inherent philanthropic spirit and a desire to utilize her artistic talents for the greater good, Buttarazzi has embarked on a new journey, establishing Fostering Dreams Through Dance (FDTD), a non-profit program teaching life skills via dance expression to foster children, homeless and other at-risk youth.

“In 2010 I joined my dad on his month-long tour through California doing flamenco,” says Buttarazzi. “Aside from the concerts, we participated in shows that were outreach programs teaching kids music and dance in elementary schools. The kids would tell me they couldn’t learn how to dance because their parents didn’t have any money. It broke my heart. ” Touched by the incredible response as well as the children’s inaccessibility to dance study she felt compelled to make a difference. Then a year ago, while on soujourn in Los Angeles, she decided to take a leap of faith. “I don’t know what happened but I said to myself, ‘Mel, you have to create a program for children in need and you have to help them through dance because dance is what you know.’ So I did research, spoke to people and everyone I met led me to where I am now,” she explains.

It was sheer determination and resourcefulness that led her to acclaimed film producer, Peter Samuelson – founder of First Star Academy, a charity dedicated to abused and neglected children.  Samuelson, who also established the Starlight Children’s Foundation with Steven Spielberg, was impressed by Buttarazzi’s vision and connected her to the Teen Project. With the objective to support and empower vagrant Los Angeles youth exiting the foster care system, Teen Project leader, Lauri Burns went on to implement the novel FDTD program at her free rehabilitation centre. “When I walked into my first class the girls were gangstered-out, crossing their arms and had a lot of attitude. They seemed to be thinking ‘Who’s this little white girl and why is shehere?’ Although I knew they were coming from the streets this wasn’t going to fly with me,” she laughs. “By the end of class they were hugging me.”  Understanding the participants of this all-female class were homeless and existing in a world where it was basically every person for themself, Buttarazzi found validation once she recognized that through dance they had been transformed. Following just one session the girls had bonded and were much more patient and calm. To ensure the program’s continued success she reached out to colleagues hoping they too would volunteer their time and expertise. The response was instantaneous and soon young women, who could never in their wildest dreams afford to study dance, were being instructed by crème de la crème choreographers once employed by Lady Gaga, Madonna and Michael Jackson.

While flipping through countless photos taken at FDTD classes she tells Fredi Magazine about 24 year-old Francis. “If there was anyone in the class who was rebellious and wanted to leave it, was Francis. She was always so frustrated,” she points out. “Then one day she told me it was easier to be on the streets, finding her next high and running from the cops, than it was to be my dance class. She thanked me and said I taught her discipline which was something that she had never had before. Francis is now planning on going to college.”  Images on Buttarazzi’s laptop show girls clad in funky urban-wear moving to hip hop, freestyle and contemporary dance at a flash mob in Venice Beach. “A flash mob is when you have a choreographed dance and go to a public place and just start doing it. The purpose is to attract people to join in. Some of the girls from Lauri’s shelter were incarcerated and wearing ankle bracelets so she had to get special permission from the local police to set them free for a day in order to participate.”  According to the dancer, this event which was presented by the Teen Project, FDTD, First Star Academy and UCLA in July 2014 fascinated onlookers and was a massive success.

Driven by heart and soul, Buttarazzi continues to work alongside these organizations and is currently collaborating with First Star Academy in a united effort to expand to Toronto.  She says that although there are periodic weekend programs there is nothing full-time or anything truly of its kind available in Canada.  By elevating the spirit through the body-mind connection FDTD is a clear testament to the power of dance. Through this type of mentorship troubled youth find the courage to forge on and alter their course, building self confidence and a sense of community amongst themselves. “I created this from nothing except an idea. I knew this was really important and that it had to be done – giving to kids who don’t have love and the support system that I had.”

Website: www.fosteringdreamsproject.org
Romina Monaco Community Features

Art & Soul

Enrico Rennella, Victoria Brocca and Joanna Katchutaseach hope to nd success by putting all of their emotions and efforts into their artistic talents.

The secret to great comedy is the timing as well as the delivery of a punch line. As irony would have it, stand-up comedian, Enrico Rennella first hit centre stage when he was delivered into this world on April Fools’ Day, 1982.

“The family called my father to go to the hospital but he actually didn’t believe my mother was in labour. He thought it was a joke and didn’t show up until the next day”, laughs Rennella.

Although the signs from above could not have been any clearer, it wasn’t until recently that this young man from Naples chose to follow his spiritual path and venture into the world of stand-up comedy. After arriving on Canadian soil in 2011 from his native Italy, Rennella has – in a relatively short period of time – managed to fill the theatre halls of the Greater Toronto Area, Hamilton, Windsor and Montreal. Modern and whimsical tales of a young Italian immigrant’s adventures in Canada bridges the gap between generations of Italian Canadians – where audiences relate to the mutual trials and tribulations of life as well as a collective immigrant story. These personal experiences along with his undeniable wit and boyish charm have made him one of the hottest tickets in town.

“I remember the first time I met a fellow Neapolitan here in Toronto”, Rennella tells a lively audience at the City Playhouse Theatre in Vaughan. “The first thing I did was check my watch to make sure it was still on my wrist!”

Poking fun at his culture is just one element of his comedy act. His flamboyant Neapolitan mannerisms reflect ethnic diversity while his fiery, satirical monologue inoffensively addresses social, religious and political issues. Rennella refers to himself as a one-man show, singing and dancing on stage while interacting with members of his audience. Having embarked on his journey as a professional comedian only two years ago, he has made remarkable strides.

“I’ve faced many obstacles and hardships in my life but once I chose to pursue this dream everything became effortless and doors just starting opening for me”, he explains. “I haven’t reached the pinnacle yet but I have grown a lot in two years. Things are going very well and the community has been very receptive.”

However, life hasn’t always been easy for Rennella, who had to learn about perseverance and self-reliance at too young an age. Born of Italian expatriates living in France, he left home at the age of fourteen, living homeless for a time on the streets of Paris. One year later, after working at various odd jobs mopping floors and washing dishes in local restaurants, he saved enough money to procure his first apartment. In his later teens he found more stable employment in retail and nightclub management.

“I basically grew up by myself.
I had to learn to survive and be self-sufficient. I didn’t have any guidance so I learned about life through trial and error” he explains.

Comedy became somewhat of an escape for Rennella. During his twenties his reputation for making people laugh landed him modest gigs in both Italy and France. However, a full-time career in the volatile entertainment industry only seemed like a distant, unattainable dream. Not until he came to visit relatives in Toronto did he realize that there was a large Italian community proud of its cultural identity and just waiting to embrace his particular style of comedy. Having now permanently laid his hat in the city of Vaughan, Rennella dedicates all of his time to this passion.

“I love what I do because I create my world – my own reality. Even as a small kid, I would entertain everyone around me. I’d stand on a chair and start telling a joke”, he says while reflecting back on his childhood. “Just before I go on stage I become very emotional because I can’t believe I have actually made this happen. I still feel like that little kid.”

His first show, Nu’Scugnizz’ A Toronto, which from the Neapolitan dialect translates to “An Urchin in Toronto”, was performed in Italian. Rennella has recently challenged his artistic ability by doing his first English- speaking engagement this past summer. We can expect more Neapolitan pageantry in his upcoming second show, L’Amore all’Italiana on November 15th and February 14th at Vaughan’s City Playhouse Theatre. This performance focuses on family, friendship and falling in love.

Rennella intends to perform across Canada and the United States adding that he would also like to bring comic relief to the masses by appearing in a television series.

JOANNA KATCHUTAS

Meanwhile, stirring the subconscious with her thought-provoking images is award-winning photographer, Joanna Katchutas, whose photographs echo the complexity existing within the realms of human emotion. While surrealistic, these works are a reflection of Katchutas’ own life experiences and personal evolution.

“Things change throughout the course of someone’s life. Whatever I am going through in that particular moment of my life is mirrored in what I create. Because I am always changing and evolving so does my work”, she explains.

Her collections were being shown at various exhibitions across the GTA long before graduating from the Ontario College of Art and Design in 2011. Recognized and celebrated for her numerous themed collections, she was given her first solo exhibit at the 2012 Vaughan In Focus Exhibition. Katchutas was awarded the Reserve Best in Show Award for her farcical “The Trapeze Artist: The Circus of Everyday Life Series” at a separate exhibit presented by Vaughan In Focus in collaboration with Vaughan City Hall.

When asked why she feels her work has made such a profound impact, she replied, “I like to build my set from the ground up and enjoy using various mediums such as metal, wood and sculpture in my photographs. For example, I created metal wings for the Element Faerys Series”.

The Multiple Clues Series, which sprang from her love of the board game Clue demonstrates how thought processes and emotions lead to choices, actions, consequences and ultimately – destiny. The collection’s “Miss Scarlet” piece won the People’s Choice and Reserve Best in Show awards at the 2009 Vaughan Juried Art Exhibition.

Katchutas’ freelance work includes photojournalism as well as private and commercial photography. She is also Curator of Exhibitions, Multi- Arts and Photography Projects for The Beaches International Jazz Festival, is co-founder of the Bang! Vaughan Arts Collective and participates annually in the Sunnyside Art Fair at Sunnyside Pavillion. As the official photographer for many provincial festivals, concerts and cultural events, Katchutas says that her schedule is quite full these days.

VICTORIA BROCCA

Fashion legend Coco Chanel once said that in order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different. Nothing rings more true for aspiring eighteen year-old fashion designer, Victoria Brocca. Having only just begun her first year at Ryerson University, where she is enrolled in Fashion Communication, this young woman’s one-of-a-kind creations are already a hot commodity. Edgy and bold, her modern designs parallel those of any seasoned couturier.

“I started making my own dresses and would wear them when I would go out. People were so amazed and started asking me to make customized clothing for them too”, explains Brocca who can already boast an extensive roster of loyal clients.

A recipient of numerous scholarship awards from Vaughan’s Façade Academy of the Arts, she was taken under the wing of the school’s director and founder Mina Spremulli. With Spremulli’s careful tutelage and mentorship she learned the art of sewing, fashion sketching and pattern design.

“I have the skills that I acquired at the Academy. Now I want to learn the business aspect of the industry”, she states confidently.

Regardless of her inexperience, she demonstrates a natural flair for business. She recently negotiated her first deal after being selected from a panel of candidates as the of cial designer of the Kermaxx Sweater, which will be launched within the next year by Kermaxx International – manufacturer of extreme sports products and sponsor of Motocross racing events. According to Brocca, this is only the beginning. She believes that top models will one day strut her trendy designs on the international fashion runways. Along with coordinating her own shows, she also plans on collaborating with distinguished and renowned designers.

Not surprisingly, Brocca has a knack for other art genres including painting, photography and make-up artistry skills. She is an ideal package, making her an outstanding asset to the fashion industry.

Uncommonly focused and disciplined for someone so young, Brocca is very clear about where she is headed.
Romina Monaco Community Features

Get The Dish: Heavenly Honey

Commonly referred to as the sweet nectar of life, man has been sourcing and utilizing honey for over 8000 years. Not only has it been a traditional culinary ingredient and important dietary staple, its velvety sweetness has extended itself to beauty regimes and religious practices. Made from bees and the nectar they extract from flowers, the art of beekeeping and honey production has also become paramount in the preservation of our environment. The symbiotic relationship between this species and the ecosystem, relative to cross-pollination and the reproduction of plants, is currently threatened by mass agriculture and pesticides. All is necessary to human survival and thankfully beekeepers have been able to somewhat domesticate the honey bee through artificial beehives consisting of one queen and large number of drone and female worker bees. lt’s fascinating to know that bees will travel up to 55,000 miles and visit more than 2 million flowers just to make one pound of honey!

Creating honey by digesting nectar and depositing remains in the honeycomb, bees were just as important in ancient times as they are today. As the world’s top produc-
er, beekeeping in China is so entrenched in history that its origins cannot be dated.

Although ancient Egyptians used honey for embalming the dead, the wealthy wives of pharaohs found more esthetic uses via hair depilatories and skin moisturizers. The Greeks of long ago created legislation in accordance to safety measures and commercialization of their honey while Romans, with a penchant for sweets, used the golden nectar for its sugary component. Evidence found in both Veda and Ayurvedic texts proves the people of India used honey in both spiritual and therapeutic practices. This is also evident in Christian, Hebrew and Buddhist art as well as in Mayan depictions.

lt’s also not surprising that ancient healers prescribed it medicinally as an ointment for rashes and burns and orally for coughs and ulcers.

Today honey is just as widespread, used in skin and hair care products, baking, cooking and in beverages. For the health conscious it has become a sugar substitute and regardless of its natural fructose content it has many benefits such as boosting energy and reducing allergy symptoms. Although it comes in many forms such as raw, pasteurized, crystallized and filtered, not all honey is made equal so you need to do your homework. There are also varying grades which can be measured by taste, fragrance and consistency and high quality honey should flow from a spoon in a steady stream without faltering. Your best bet is to purchase honey from a farmer’s market, a natural food store offering organic varieties or right from the beekeeper. Be sure to choose a brand that is raw, unfiltered and 100% pure and most importantly remember that too much of a good thing can be a detriment. Moderate your honey consumption!
Romina Monaco Community Features

Get The Dish: Summer Wines

The cool northern winds have passed and dog days of summer are finally here! While lounging al fresco and feasting on that sizzling barbeque, nothing can be more tantalizing to the palate than a refreshing summer wine.

Whether you’re entertaining or selecting a bottle for your host, knowing which wine best serves the occasion can be a challenge. Wines are categorized by their country of origin along with the vintage (the year the wine was produced). However many labels don’t specify the grape varietal. instead they list bewildering wine-making techniques, quality classifications and obscure production regions. Adding to this confusion are the age-old rules of food pairing. All you need to keep in mind is that harmony and the counterbalance of flavours is what’s most important. Generally, whites and rosés are chilled while reds are best served at slightly below-average room temperature. Light-bodied wines are always your best bet during the hot, summer months. Taking into consideration price-point and quality, the following are some recommendations for your next brave adventure into the wine aisles.

WHITES White wines are the most popular choice for summer. Avoid full-bodied and wood-aged and instead try sharp, lighter varieties produced in cool climates or higher altitudes. ltaly’s citrusy, crisp and sparkling Prosecco, including the off~dry and lively Gewurztraminer and Riesling from Germany are great starter wines and best served with appetizers and smoky foods. Invest in a Chilean Chardonnay with hints of apricot, melon and banana instead of intensely oaked American brands. The minerally Pinot Gris (or Grigio) and the floral Sauvignon Blanc are a wonderful accompaniment to fish, poultry, pasta dishes, spicy and oil-based foods. Muscat-based wines, which are generally sweet, pair nicely with dessert.
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio (italy/$i8.95), Santa Carolina Chardonnay (Chile/$9.951 Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand/$18.95) Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand/$19.95), Pelee Island Traminer Muscat (Ontario /$13.95) Kung Fu Girl Riesling (Washington/$17) Ironstone Chardonnay (California/$1Z75) Flat Rock Twisted (Ontario/$16.95)

REDS Young, light-bodied reds are ideal for summer. Unlike the heavy textured Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, which hint of stewed dried fruit, cooler climates produce fruit-forward wines such as Beaujolals, Pinot Noir and Valpo-
licella. These varieties are well known for their pepper-spice and red berry notes, Red Zinfandels from California compliment grilled meat and fish dishes.
Seven Deadly Zins Old Vine Zinfandel (California/$24.95) McManis Cabernet Sauvignon (California 51995)

ROSÉS Rosés are a great alternative to white or red wine. Depending on the black grape varieties used, as well as the winemaking technique, this wine comes in a number of hues and aromas. Don’t store this one too long – roses have a much shorter shelf life than other wines. Extremely light-bodied with tropical aromas and red berry notes, this wine is great for sipping on a hot, sultry summer eve.

The Real Sangria (59), Malivore Ladybug (Ontario/$15.95), Fuchsia Rose (Ontario/$15.95), Jacobs Creek Moscato Rose (A ustralia/$11.95)

*For the health conscious. light-bodied organic and vegan wines are an alternative.
Romina Monaco Community Features

Chuvalo takes up the fight for Caritas

Battle against addiction can be won, says former boxing champ

THE greatest of all time, former world boxing champion Muhammad Ali, once said George Chuvalo was the toughest guy he had ever fought in the ring. It’s no won- der that Caritas, the acclaimed drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility, called on the legendary Chuvalo to inspire guests during the 24th Annual Together Event. The non- alcoholic luncheon, held in October at the Presidente Banquet Hall in Vaughan, also gave those in recovery the opportunity to share their experiences, reunite with fam- ily and celebrate their sobriety.

Chuvalo, an advocate for drug awareness, is no stranger to Caritas and has been an avid supporter of the foundation for over
20 years. His reasons for encouraging substance abusers to enroll in the program and remain committed are personal. The Canadian heavyweight champion’s numer- able accolades were marred by tragedy from 1985 to 1996, when he lost three sons to heroin addiction. Unable to cope with the senseless deaths of their children, his wife eventually succumbed to suicide.

“You never really heal after something like this,” said an emotional Chuvalo, referring to the loss of his loved ones. Finding purpose by sharing his life experiences, he helps addicts understand the repercussions of drug abuse as well as mentoring those in treatment.

“The three ingredients needed in the hope for recovery is to have faith, respect your family and always tell them ‘I love you’,” he says.

Apart from Chuvalo’s message of hope, there were also gripping open micro- phone testimonials from the residents and their families.

“I don’t know how I will ever be able to repay my sister. She put her life on hold, helped me get out of jail and then got me into the program,” stated one man, trying to hold back his tears. “I’ve been clean for ve months now,” he added to loud applause.

Heart-wrenching, powerful stories were in abundant supply and each individual’s journey was unique. A common denomi- nator between all was the courage each person possessed along with their pro- found desire to persevere.

Bittersweet though it was, the event had its share of entertainment, with a fun- lled afternoon of raf e draws, vendors and a silent auction. Selling like hot cakes was the new book, I Believe, written by Caritas founder, Father Gianni Carparelli. All proceeds of this book sale were allot- ted to the foundation. The Together Event also celebrated the launch of the Caritas Therapeutic Community – Hot Pepper Oil, with 100% of pro ts going to the program. The main ingredient, hot peppers, are grown and harvested by the residents at the King City Farm.

The 80-acre farm is only one example of the organization’s holistic approach to addiction recovery and mental wellness. Caritas is a drug-free environment allow- ing people with addictive problems to cohabitate in a structured community in order to promote change.

The event also featured a stellar perfor- mance from former Caritas resident andCanadian Idol contender, Vince Benenati. Although it has been 22 years since he completed the program, Benenati still uses the skills he acquired in order to deal with his latest adversity—a battle with cancer. “Without the necessary tools and support I received at Caritas, I wouldn’t be able to cope with the challenges I face today,” he said.

For more information on Caritas, visit www.caritas.ca
Romina Monaco Community Features

SCOTIABANK Branches Out

“Scotiabank has been very active across the country and is getting involved with environmental initiatives. We believe that within the City of Vaughan we’ve helped create a unique program which deals with these issues.”

– JASON POLSINELLO

In the last several years there has been a visible and significant change to Vaughan’s urban canopy. Problems resulting from the emerald ash borer beetle infestation which destroyed millions of ash trees across North America, as well as the devastation of 2013 ice storm have left some areas stark and barren. Concerned and ready to fight back, local Scotiabank associates are rolling up their sleeves, slipping on their gardening gloves and with shovel in hand are replenishing and further enhancing the city’s original landscape.  “Scotiabank has been very active across the country and is getting involved with environmental initiatives. We believe that within the city of Vaughan we’ve helped create a unique program which deals with these issues,” explains Jason Polsinelli, Senior Wealth Advisor at ScotiaMcLeod and the visionary behind the development of the Scotiabank Branching Out Program in Vaughan. This newfound legacy rooted in beautifying the cityscape and preserving the environment was celebrated this past autumn as a devout team of individuals exercised their green thumbs on the grounds of Concord/Thornhill Regional Park.  Partnering with the City of Vaughan and the Living City Foundation, volunteers from Scotiabank Commercial Banking, Scotia Wealth Management as well as Universal Care planted $30,000 worth of trees along the park’s pathways and boulevard.  “This second annual event was a real success. Our 30 volunteers along with our landscaper – Geoscape Exterior Designs – and City of Vaughan staff planted 280 trees and shrubs. I would sincerely like to thank all our sponsors and volunteers for their contributions in helping beautify Vaughan,” said Scotiabank Branching Out Committee Chair, Mario Cutone. Also expressing his gratitude was Mayor Bevilacqua who, in light of the notorious ice storm and the limited replanting resources allotted to city parks and boulevards, has been a strong advocate for sustainability and environmentally-based initiatives. “This event showcases the great volunteer spirit of our business community and speaks to the commitment both businesses and citizens have to the prosperity of this great city.”

 
Romina Monaco Community Features

Guitar Hero

Toronto recording artist and Juno winner Robert Michaels has earned a cult following for creating a cross-genre sound that simply defies description.

Expert, agile fingers lightly strum the strings of the classical guitar and sultry music permeates the room.  The dark-haired virtuoso moves rhythmically to the melody. No one present can characterize this magic. Is it Jazz, Flamenco, Cuban, or Neapolitan? It is none in particular, yet it encompasses all. It is a genre of music born only from this man.  It is the music of Robert Michaels.

In an industry inundated with cookie-cutter pop stars, where talent fits a common prototype and creativity is controlled by record labels, Robert Michaels is the antithesis of the status quo. A Juno winner and a three-time Juno nominee, this artist prefers to march to the beat of his own guitar.  His unquestionable skill, combined with his ability to blend diverse musical styles, is the very foundation of his unique sound.

“Whatever this gift is and wherever it’s coming from, I am only the messenger”, he implies.

For two decades this Toronto recording artist, guitarist and vocalist has achieved cult status, entertaining his fans with this original, signature style. Influenced by his Italian heritage, his travels throughout Cuba and love of Latin American music, Michaels’ repertoire offers a kaleidoscope of musical arrangements.  His noted instrumental guitar compositions are a fusion of Latin-Jazz, Flamenco-Cuban as well as Neapolitan-Spanish.  Besides being a Juno recipient he is also a platinum-selling artist (almost unheard of in the instrumental genre) who has also joined forces with several other celebrated musicians, songwriters and vocalists.  Through it all, he continues remain true to his art and cater to his loyal audience.

“I would rather play to a live audience than record an album.  The immediate interaction and the spontaneous energy that it creates are very exciting.” says Michaels.

Born in Toronto to Italian immigrants, some might say Roberto Michele Buttarazzi’s love of music stems from his pedigree.  His mother had a flair for the piano and his father the accordion. As a young boy in the early Sixties he returned to his parents’ native country, living for a time in the outskirts of Naples.  As a young bystander at weddings in his grandfather’s restaurant, he would listen in wonderment to famous Neapolitan songs.

“I think music is in the blood of the Neapolitan. Most Italian music known world-wide originates mainly from this region” explains Michaels.

After returning to Toronto he discovered his passion for the guitar. He played the instrument every moment he could, subsequently mastering his craft at Humber College. The young man continued to be inspired by individual artists and bands such as Led Zeppelin, Carlos Santana and Eric Clapton as well as the Jazz and Classical genres taught by his instructors.

Michaels’ signature sound came shortly after graduating college – born organically in the wine bars and restaurants of Toronto.  During his live performances in these locales, he began to instinctively meld together all his favourite musical styles. Unpremeditated and spontaneous, this new sound created a buzz and to Michaels’ surprise his music became a hot commodity.

“People were coming up to me after my show inquiring where they could purchase my music.” he says. “I asked them, “What do you mean? Just come back next week and I’ll be here!’” he laughs.

This unprecedented demand gave rise to his debut album, Paradisoin 1994. Without the endorsement of a major record label, Michaels achieved platinum status selling over 100,000 units nation-wide. In 1997 his second independent album, Arizona, earned him his first Juno nomination for Instrumental Artist of the Year. The publicity surrounding Michaels attracted the attention of Warner Music Canada who signed him on to create his third album, Utopia. During this period Michaels added another accolade to his list of accomplishments. His next release, Allegrowon a Juno in 2003 for Best Instrumental Album.

All this success raised the eyebrows of several acclaimed artists who now wanted to work with him. Collaborating in his self-titled album was Grammy Award winning Jennifer Warnes, as well as Luba, jazz singer-songwriter Coral Egan and many others. The compilations that followed, such as the noted Cubamenco album showcasing his particular blend of Cuban and Flamenco music, continued to be consistent with his trademark.  In respects to his heritage, Michaels has now come full circle and is promoting his latest album entitled Via Italiawhere Spanish guitar renditions of Caruso and Turna a Surrientoflow magically from his fingertips.

He continues to remain connected to his audience. Recently, his performances in Ottawa, the Markham Theatre as well as the Mississauga Living Arts Centre have received stellar reviews.  His extraordinary talent has even taken him south of the border.

“I’ve been travelling to the United States, writing my own symphony arrangements and scores.  It’s exciting to hear a 100-piece orchestra play the music you’ve created” he says.

Notwithstanding his roster of impressive accomplishments, what truly matters to Robert Michaels is the effect his music has on others.

“What really blows my mind is when I hear someone tell me how one of my songs or albums has impacted their life. Just hearing that means more to me than anything else.”

 

 
Romina Monaco Community Features

The Spirit of Generosity

From the moment he first took office on December 6, 2010 Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua not only swore an oath to serve the citizens of Vaughan by way of strong, local governance founded on principles of respect, accountability and transparency, he also made a personal commitment to transcend these core values into a new and unparalleled initiative etched deep in philanthropy and the spirit of generosity.  Mayor Bevilacqua’s vision and his Spirit of Generosity campaign began to unfold in 2011 when he established the annual Mayor’s Gala and the Charity Golf Classic.  Both events were founded with the aim of raising money for special causes and with a mandate to have all members of the community enjoy the quality of life they justly deserve.  Now in his second term, he is witnessing the fruits of his labour with a net total of $5 million raised which currently benefit over 100 charities, non-profit organizations and community groups.  Averaging $1 million annually, these proceeds have made a considerable difference to the lives of many and with its inclusive approach of serving people from all walks of life, the Mayor’s undertaking has managed to make a significant and positive difference.

“Philanthropy is very important because it recognizes that ultimately in life’s journey we are all in it together and by this I mean we’re one event away from finding ourselves in a vulnerable position.  When you’re in a position of strength it’s extremely important to help those, who no fault of their own, may have fallen through the cracks or are facing challenges which require a community response,” explains Mayor Bevilacqua, stating that this initiative sends a simple but powerful message. “The Mayor’s Gala and Charity Golf Classic tells those in need that there are people out there willing to help them. No one should ever feel excluded, forgotten or made to feel that they are not alone. These two events have inspired generosity because they are value-driven and people feel that they’re part of something bigger,” he adds further mentioning that he opened these two celebrations, now coined The Spirit of Generosity, to everyone in the community so all can participate and contribute to its mission.

As Vaughan undergoes its transformation from suburban municipality into a world-class city, economic growth and infrastructure development are not the only changes evident. With the goal to ensure prosperity for all its citizens it is meeting the needs of thousands, many who can now breathe easier while relying on essential services.

All encompassing, The Spirit of Generosityassists youth, seniors, those with special needs, women’s centres, special education and health institutions. In addition to art initiatives, cultural groups and sports teams, it goes one step further lending support beyond the borders of Vaughan and into the Greater Toronto Area – even as far as Tanzania where funds were donated for the building of a school. “I’ve broken away from past traditions of giving money to a single organization and implemented a program and an attitude that aims to bring as many people into the fold as possible,” explains the Mayor who also says the great advantage of his inclusive and active style of public service is that he is able to understand his community exceptionally well and recognize organizations that are most in need.  While he personally assesses all potential beneficiaries, Vaughan Council is consulted and in the spirit of transparency and accountability they receive a full report every six months. This careful consideration is a continuous process and active residents are fully engaged in identifying those in need, making it quintessentially a united effort. Lastly, none is possible without contributions made by local businesses and individuals – the generous donors who make up the backbone of The Spirit of Generosity.

One of the many to benefit is the Shining Through Centre for Children with Autism and like all charities it was created to meet unfulfilled needs. Spearheaded by local residents with its first location opening its doors in Woodbridge in 2001, the centre is now a recognized leader in its field boasting a team of highly trained professionals utilizing cutting-edge therapy crucial to developing and promoting a child’s independence.  “This has made a significant impact on our success and has helped us to subsidize families having difficulty paying the substantial fees required to improve their child’s quality of life,” says Shining Through president and co-founder, Fred Santini of the funds donated by The Spirit of Generositywhich, since 2012, total $50,000. “We’ve also been able to create new programs to better suit specific needs such as the Learning to Live program for teenagers. Equally, the gala has helped create much-needed awareness to Autism, the challenges faced by families as well as to the existence of Shining Through and what we do for these families and most importantly, their children,” explains Santini, expressing gratitude to the Mayor for recognizing the value his organization brings.

This appreciation as well as the essence of The Spirit of Generosityare exemplified and most strongly felt at the Mayor’s Gala. Considered Vaughan’s premiere and most anticipated event, it not only attracts sponsors and recipients but all community members.  In just a short period of time its popularity has soared and so much so that the Mayor has come to refer to it fondly as, “The People’s Gala”. Staggering attendance numbers and inspiring themes such as “The Next Chapter”, “Sen5e in the City” and this year’s “Making Modern History” which commemorated the city’s 25th anniversary, have accelerated the movement even enticing the likes of Jully Black and Serena Ryder, renowned Juno-winning artists who have elevated the gala to new heights with their electrifying performances. Adding to its appeal is the exciting live auction which in 2016 catapulted into a bidding frenzy.  Dinner with Mayor Bevilacqua, including an opportunity to name a street in the new Vaughan Healthcare Centre Precinct, was settled by Fred Darvish from Liberty Development at a record-breaking $400,000 to be donated to the Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital as was the $1.2 million pledged by Carlo Baldassarra of Greenpark Group.  This charitable one-night extravaganza resulted in a net sum of over $2 million raised.

Although special projects, such as the development of the new hospital, are top priority so is raising awareness to current issues. “Pride received $10,000. Given what happened in Orlando and what continues to happen throughout the world, it is our responsibility to generate greater awareness.  We must stand with people when they are in need,” says Mayor Bevilacqua who, by acknowledging the 2016 attacks made on the LGBTQ community, has proven that The Spirit of Generosityisn’t just a beacon of hope  but that it is also a force for social change.

Dealing with injustice is nothing new for this man who has been in public office for twenty-eight years and his innate ability to meld altruism in the political realm may turn out to be his greatest legacy yet. However, Mayor Bevilacqua does not see himself as a traditional politician but instead as a servant leader answering to a higher calling. And although his actions have sparked a sense of belonging and loyalty between community members, he will not take credit for The Spirit of Generositysaying the true inspiration lies within the compassion displayed throughout his unique city.  “I cannot manifest that which does not exist in people’s hearts and spirits. Perhaps I’ve been able to extract that from people, bringing it forward and making it more visible,” he says unassumingly. With this humble approach to leadership Vaughan has indeed become a noble city – one that lends a helping hand and bridges the gap so that no one is left behind.