Panoram Italia Toronto Aug-Sept 2013

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THE ITALIAN-CANADIAN MAGAZINE MAILED TO HOMES & BUSINESSES IN THE GREATER TORONTO AREA

THE NEW EMERGING ITALIANS

PANORAM ITALIA

LAUNCHES

WEB TV SECTION

ALL ABOUT

FIRENZE A GUIDE TO HOMEMADE

PASTA AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 • VOL.3 • NO.4

PM40981004

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2013 Volume 3 Number 4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 EDITORIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 LIFE & PEOPLE

40 33

Cover: Action! Panoram Italia Web TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Patricia Curto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Enza Tiberi-Checchia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Giancarlo Schirripa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Melissa Vassallo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Italian-Canadians 2.0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Dott. Briano Di Rezze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Racalmuto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Future Leader: Serena Genova . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Maria Montessori’s Legacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

PUBLISHER AND EDITOR Tony Zara

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Filippo Salvatore

EDITORIAL DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Adam Zara MONTREAL WEB MANAGERS MANAGING EDITOR Gabriel Riel-Salvatore Gabriel Riel-Salvatore Claudio Ortu TORONTO MANAGING EDITORS Rita Simonetta Viviana Laperchia

PROOFREADERS Claudio Ortu Aurelie Ptito

ART DEPARTMENT

FOOD Chef Danny Smiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 A Guide to Homemade Pasta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

ART DIRECTION David Ferreira

LIVING ITALIAN STYLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

GRAPHIC DESIGN David Ferreira

FASHION A Modern Renaissance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

FIRENZE

62

EXECUTIVE

Firenze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Storica Firenze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Florence & the Chianti Countryside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 From One Side of Ponte Vecchio to the Other . . . . . . . . . 44 Tasting Florence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Firenze, la culla del Rinascimento . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 A Toast to Boticelli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

GRADUATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 EVENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 SPORTS T-Minus One Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

PHOTOGRAPHY Gregory Varano Michel Ostaszewski Vincenzo D’Alto MAKEUP Desi Varano

ADVERTISING VICE PRESIDENT – MARKETING & SALES TORONTO Earl Weiner

ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE David De Marco

CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Grella Letizia Tesi Laura Nesci Alessia Sara Domanico Vanessa Santilli Fabio Forlano Francesca Spizzirri Giuseppe Continiello Valérie Vézina Julie Aubé Joey Franco Laura D’Amelio Giacoma Adamo Rosanna Bonura Franca Mazza Teresa Casale Daniela Di Stefano 26 Duncan Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5V 2B9 Tel.: 1.800.775.9428 I Fax: 416.438.3188 or by e-mail at: info@panoramitalia.com Legal deposit - Bibliothèque nationale du Québec / National Library of Canada - ISSN: 1916-6389 Distribution par / by

ON THE COVER Panoram Italia Web TV Photography by Gregory Varano Special thanks to Antonia and Domenic Garisto and Laura Nesci

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Thank You for Two Years of Support!

Dear Reader, With this latest August/September issue of the magazine, Panoram Italia’s Toronto edition embarks on its third year of publication. It’s also our “lucky 13” issue, produced for your enjoyment and for the purpose of not only helping to strengthen and perpetuate our wonderful Italian-Canadian culture but to also showcase the amazing people and accomplishments of our community at large.

The primary reason that we have succeeded thus far is due to your overwhelming enthusiasm towards our magazine. You have received it in your homes with open arms. An incredible number of you promote it to all your acquaintances and colleagues. You pass it along to family and friends, and you collect every issue with “pride.”

This enthusiasm is getting the attention of our sponsors, advertisers and potential advertisers and we feel much greater acceptance with every passing issue.

Initially, many were wondering how long we could continue publishing in such great numbers, largely through Canada Post, and with high quality paper and print. After 12 consecutive issues, delivered on time, with quality content and print, I believe we have earned your trust and credibility. We are here to stay and have the passion for serving our community and culture. It is now up to readers to support us by purchasing a subscription, which only helps to pay Canada Post delivery.

Speaking of subscribing, my congratulations go out to Mr. and Mrs. Iacampo who recently won two seats aboard our Treasures of Italy Tour by subscribing to the magazine. You too can win an all-inclusive tour of Italy by filling out the enclosed form.

I am also happy to report that our first Treasures of Italy Tour was a resounding success. Please enjoy the pictures and testimonials within our pages and be sure to look for an announcement of next year’s trip in our October/November issue. You won’t find a better tour of the Bel Paese anywhere!

Again, thank you and God bless.

Tony Zara, Publisher

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Treasures of Italy Tour winner Maria Iacampo with Publisher Tony Zara, left, and president of Expertours Domenico Calabretta, right. Be sure to look for an announcement of next year’s trip in our October/November issue.

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Lo scandalo Kyenge/Calderoli e l’Italia multietnica di domani governo di Enrico Letta sta traballando, malgrado le sue dichiarazioni rassicuranti fatte a Londra ai rappresentanti della business community nel luglio scorso. Tre sono le ragioni che rischiano di far cadere il governo Letta: lo scandalo Kyenge/Calderoli, lo sclandalo Mediaset e lo scandalo Alma Shalabayeva, che vede coinvolto il ministro dell’Interno e vice primo ministro Angelino Alfano di cui si stanno chiedendo le dimissioni. Lo scandalo Shalabayeva si impernia sull'operazione fallita per la cattura di Mukhtar Ablyazov, ricercato con mandato di cattura internazionale e principale dissidente del governo del Kazakistan, e soprattutto per il rimpatrio a tempo di record della moglie, Alma Filippo Salvatore Shalabayeva, e di sua figlia, Alua, di sei anni, da parte dei servizi segreti italiani, a sua insaputa, cosi ha affermato in Parlamento Angelino Alfano.

Difficile immaginare che il governo Letta possa sopravvivere se Alfano dovrà dare le dimissioni. Ancora più difficile sarà la sua sopravvivenza se Silvio Berlusconi sarà condannato in modo definitivo dalla Cassazione a quattro anni di carcere e a cinque anni di ineleggibilità alle cariche pubbliche per lo scandalo Mediaset. In questo scritto mi occuperò solo dello scandalo Kyenge/Calderoli.

Lo scandalo riguarda la dichiarazione fatta dal senatore delle Lega Nord Roberto Calderoli, che è anche vice presidente del Senato, nei confronti del ministro per l’Integrazione Cécile Kyenge, congolese di origine e prima donna nera a ricoprire una carica tanto importante in Italia. In un discorso tenuto il 14 luglio alla festa della Lega Nord, Calderoli aveva dichiarato dal palco: «Quando vedo le immagini della Kyenge non posso non pensare, anche se non dico che lo sia, alle sembianze di un orango».

Questa frase offensiva ha sollevato un caso politico ed ha aperto anche un caso giudiziario. L'ipotesi di reato è di diffamazione aggravata all'odio razziale.

Calderoli si è scusato con la Kyenge, ma ha rifiutato di rassegnare le dimissioni, malgrado il polverone che le sue parole hanno sollevato e la condanna sia del primo ministro Letta che del presidente della Repubblica Giorgio Napolitano. Il premier Letta, che ad aprile aveva scelto il ministro Kyenge, ha dichiarato che le parole di Calderoli sono inaccettabili, dando pieno appoggio e solidarietà alla Kyenge. La Lega Nord non è al potere, ma è l’alleato più vicino al partito di Berlusconi, con il quale Letta sta governando.

Le dichiarazioni di Calderoli hanno fatto emergere un dibattito di fondo ancora irrisolto nella società italiana: la differenza etnica sempre più numerosa e multirazziale. Data la crisi economica tanti sono gli Italiani disoccupati, anche nelle regioni settentrionali. Il tasso ufficiale di disoccupazione si aggira intorno al 12% e quello tra

Il

EDITORIAL

i giovani, anche tra i laureati, raggiunge oltre il 40%.

E le prospettive per il ritorno alla crescita ed alla prosperità a breve termine si allontanano sempre di più. Tutti i mali e le disfunzioni accumulati negli ultimi decenni sono esplosi con la crisi economica e stanno causando l’impoverimento generale della popolazione.

La presenza di extracomunitari, soprattutto quella di migranti che sbarcano illegalmente dal Nord Africa, sta creando un forte risentimento nei loro confronti.

Tradizionalmente, per oltre un secolo, paese di emigrazione, l’Italia di oggi, multietnica e multirazziale, si sta trasformando in una realtà dove la differenza etnica viene vista come una minaccia all’identità ed al benessere collettivo. I nuovi arrivati, specialmente se di colore, vengono presentati come ladri di lavoro, delinquenti e prostitute, parassiti che ottengono diritti, come quello alla casa popolare, che vengono negati agli Italiani di nascita e di sangue.

I conflitti etnici si stanno trasformando in una guerra tra poveri. E, malgrado il viaggio di Papa Francesco all’isola di Lampedusa e la simbolica corona di fiori gettata in mare alla memoria dei migranti morti durante la traversata dal Nord Africa, larghe fascie della società italiana si mostrano sempre di più intolleranti verso i nuovi arrivati. L’offesa di Roberto Calderoli verso il ministro Kyenge sono la punta dell’iceberg di un’Italia che si scopre xenofoba e razzista. In un Paese dove il 7/8% della popolazione è nata al di fuori dei confini nazionali e dove la natalità è sotto il livello di sostituzione di generazioni, il conflitto, già avvenuto in altri paesi come il Canada e gli USA, diventerà sempre più acceso. Ecco perché la questione dello jus soli (diritto di nascita) e dello jus sanguinis (diritto di sangue) è tanto significativa.

L’Italia si scopre un paese impreparato a convivere pacificamente su uno stesso territorio con la differenza. Ad onor del vero l’Italia possiede già una legge che regola il flusso migratorio sul suo territorio, la cosiddetta legge Bossi-Fini. Essa prevede l'espulsione, emessa dal Prefetto della Provincia, se viene rintracciato uno straniero clandestino. La legge prevede il rilascio del permesso di soggiorno alle persone che dimostrino di avere un lavoro per il loro mantenimento economico. A questa regola generale si aggiungono i permessi di soggiorno speciali e quelli in applicazione del diritto di asilo. La norma ammette i respingimenti al paese di origine in acque extraterritoriali, in base ad accordi bilaterali fra Italia e Paesi limitrofi. Legalmente, quindi, l’Italia possiede già una legge che distingue tra immigrazione legale e clandestina. Tante sono però le difficoltà che si incontrano nell’applicare queste norme. Per la sua posizione geografica, al centro del Mediterraneo, l’italia è la porta d’entrata naturale in Europa per milioni di diseredati e perseguitati politici africani. Il fenomeno dell’immigrazione clandestina è destinato a continuare e ad aumentare. Questa è la sfida per l’avvenire dell'Italia, dell’Europa e dei bianchi nel 21° secolo.

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Act i

Panoram Italia launches its Web TV section online

By Claudio Ortu

“I left Italy because I needed new challenges. I like to work on many bold and interesting projects and to tell different stories in an original way. Those are the challenges that always captivated me,” explains Roman film director Roberto Zorfini, 38, who immigrated to Canada two and a half years ago. made my first short film at the age of 14 as I had just started film school at the Istituto di Stato per la Cinematografia e Televisione Roberto Rossellini,” says Zorfini. “Then, at age 16, I walked on to my first movie set. From 1999 to 2001, I worked as a camera assistant in the film industry and in advertising. One of the best known ads I worked on is certainly the one directed by Luc Besson for Chanel No. 5 perfume.”

Zorfini goes on to explain how he started working at the prestigious RAI: “I moved from film to television working as an assistant operator in TV series such as Sei forte maestro and Una donna per amico. Then, for the Festa della Repubblica parade, RAI was looking for operators. I sent my résumé, they hired me and I stayed for 11 years.”

In Montreal, after working many advertising jobs and some films, Zorfini is now collaborating with Panoram Italia on its website’s Web TV section. “I see in Panoram Italia what production companies were doing years ago in Italy — always coming up with new, quality products.”

About Web TV, he says: “I like to think of it as a channel of short stories that arise almost spontaneously and that are told like a movie, conceived precisely for the web audience. It is a new way of communicating.”

It seems that he found what he was looking for at Panoram Italia: “I am happy with the creative freedom that I am given; the artist delivers his vision and this is what I do. When I am free to create, I give it my best.”

All that’s left is to take a seat in front of the computer screen and enjoy Roberto Zorfini’s latest works.

“I

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t ion!

Panoram Italia presenta la sua nuova Web TV

Arrivato in Canada due anni e mezzo fa, Roberto Zorfini, regista romano di 38 anni, ci ha spiegato così la sua scelta di vita: “Mi sono allontanato dall’Italia perché avevo bisogno di nuovi stimoli.

Mi piace realizzare progetti coraggiosi e interessanti e raccontare storie diverse in modo originale: sono sfide che mi hanno sempre affascinato”. o diretto il primo cortometraggio all’età di 14 anni – dice Zorfini, mentre racconta gli inizi della sua carriera -, ero appena entrato alla scuola di cinema dell’Istituto di Stato per la Cinematografia e Televisione Roberto Rossellini. Poi, a 16 anni, ho messo piede nei primi set. Dal 1999 fino al 2001 ho lavorato nel cinema e nella pubblicità come assistente operatore: una delle reclame più conosciute è certamente quella del profumo Chanel N. 5 di Luc Besson”.

Zorfini continua spiegando come è arrivato alla prestigiosa RAI: “Sono passato dal cinema alla televisione facendo l’assistente operatore in fiction come Sei forte maestro e Una donna per amico. Successivamente, la RAI cercava degli operatori per la Festa della Repubblica, ho mandato il curriculum, mi hanno preso e sono rimasto lì per undici anni”.

A Montréal, dopo tantissimi lavori pubblicitari e qualcuno cinematografico, è arrivata la collaborazione con Panoram Italia, che ha già ottimi risultati - visibili nella sezione Web TV del sito internet (www.panoramitalia.com). “Vedo in Panoram quello che in Italia erano un tempo le case di produzione che realizzavano prodotti sempre nuovi e di qualità”.

Commentando la web TV, ci dice: “Mi piace pensarla come un canale di piccole storie che nascono quasi spontaneamente e che vengono raccontate in modo cinematografico, pensate proprio per il pubblico del web. E’ un nuovo modo di comunicare”.

Pare che a Panoram Italia abbia trovato quello che cercava: “Sono felice della libertà creativa che mi stanno dando; l’artista consegna la sua visione e questo è quello che faccio, e quando sono libero di creare, do il mio meglio”.

Non resta quindi che aspettare, accomodarci davanti allo schermo e goderci le opere di un talentuoso regista italiano: Roberto Zorfini.

“H

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COVER STORY The Garden They meet in Lavaltrie, 55 km outside of Montreal, for their “Sunday tradition,” as Dominic calls it. Tending to a vegetable garden began naturally with friends Paolo and Pasquale. The three grew up watching their parents and grandparents, learning little by little, until one day they did the same. Pasquale asks rhetorically: “To keep the tradition, maybe...?”

Tradition is part of their childhood, of their identity, and to watch them take care of that garden on a rainy day, we are viewing the essence of italianita. The precision with which they organize the tool shed, the care with which they preserve the seeds and the perseverance with which they carry out their “duty” can be seen in every gesture: nothing is left to chance but nothing is taken too seriously.

Director Roberto Zorfini’s first video is less about the actual vegetable garden and more about watching three second-generation Italian-Canadians reap enjoyment from getting their hands and feet dirty, together on a Sunday. As it was once done in Italy, but less and less today, and as it is still done here, in Canada, with family, friends and loved ones. “If I had to sum it up in two words, I would use sweat and pleasure,” says Zorfini.

“We take a break, guys?” They have fun, chat over a few beers, work and play. More friends usually stop by; they eat together; they wait for nature to take its course; they kill time by enjoying foosball games, preparing homemade pizza and taking rides around the house on the lawnmower. The sowing has already been done, but plants need care.

Eggplants, zucchini, tomatoes, peppers, and many more are what you can look forward to in “The Garden – Part 2,” coming soon.

Si ritrovano a Lavaltrie, 55 chilometri fuori Montréal per la loro “Sunday Tradition”, come la chiama Dominic. Paolo, Pasquale e lo stesso Dominic hanno iniziato a curare l’orto come fosse una cosa normale, naturale. Sono cresciuti osservando i loro nonni e i loro genitori, e pian piano hanno imparato, finché un giorno hanno iniziato anche loro. “To keep the tradition, maybe...?”, chiede retoricamente Pasquale. La precisione con cui organizzano il capanno degli attrezzi, la cura con cui conservano i semi e la costanza con cui portano avanti questo “lavoro”, le potete notare in ogni loro gesto: niente è lasciato al caso e niente è preso troppo sul serio.

Nel primo video realizzato dal regista Roberto Zorfini non c’è molto spazio per raccontare l’orto, ma ce n’è tanto per vedere questi tre italo-canadesi di seconda generazione con le mani e piedi nel fango per fare quello che li piace, che li fa stare insieme la domenica. Come si faceva un tempo in Italia, oggi sempre meno, e come si continua a fare qui, in Canada, con la famiglia, gli amici e le persone care. Lo stesso Zorfini dice: “Se dovessi riassumerlo in due parole, direi: sudore e piacere”.

“We take a break, guys?”. Si divertono, chiacchierano tra una birra e l’altra, giocano e lavorano. Poi, di solito, arrivano altri amici, si mangia tutti insieme e i tempi lunghi della natura vengono riempiti dal biliardino, calcio-balilla, dalla pizza fatta in casa e dai giri sul tagliaerba intorno alla casa. La semina è già stata fatta, ma bisogna curare le piante: melanzane, zucchine, pomodori, peperoni, e tante altre che potrete vedere, prestissimo, nel “The Garden – Part 2”, in cui i ragazzi scopriranno i “frutti” di tanto lavoro: la raccolta.

Marcella Appena abbiamo conosciuto Marcella siamo rimasti meravigliati; non potevamo credere che oltre a quel viso splendente ci fosse una nonna con tutta quella energia, allegria e spensieratezza. Nel video la vedrete elegantissima mentre esercita l’arte più diffusa tra le donne italiane: la cucina. Una ricetta antica come gli Spaghetti alla Chitarra vi farà scoprire le tradizioni di Penne, paesino in provincia di Pescara, nel cuore dell’Abruzzo.

Ma non solo, scoprirete anche come fare i Ravioli alla Ricotta, che vi regaleranno una domenica di successi in famiglia.

Marcella ci ha accompagnato in un viaggio nel tempo, quando la pasta fresca si faceva la mattina presto, con pazienza, fatica e amore: “Per mio marito non era domenica senza pasta fresca”. Oggi, con i nipoti intorno è più divertente ma la “professionalità” è intatta. Il risultato finale è incredibile.

L’aspetto più interessante dell’incontro con Marcella non riguarda soltanto le ricette. Durante la preparazione di quelle specialità che vengono da lontano, nel tempo e nello spazio, questa donna meravigliosa ci ha raccontato la sua vita piena di orgoglio, carattere e difficoltà: vicissitudini che l’hanno portata dall’Italia al Belgio e da lì in Canada, a Toronto.

Forse una storia comune a tanti; probabilmente commenterete dicendo di averla già sentita, ma con quello sguardo intenso e quel tono di voce, Marcella, vi assicuriamo, vi emozionerà come la prima volta che ne avete sentito una.

To inspire, support and delight our customers when expressing life’s most important sentiments

Italo, Ester & Eligio Paris

As soon as we met Marcella, her energy, joy and light heartedness, charmed us right away. In this video you will see a beautiful grandmother who, first with her children and now with her grandchildren, practices the most prevalent art among Italian women: the art of cooking. Her old Spaghetti alla Chitarra recipe will make you discover the traditions of Penne, a small village in the province of Pescara, in the heart of Abruzzo. You will also learn how to make ravioli with ricotta cheese, which will surely make for a successful Sunday with the family.

Marcella takes us on a journey through time, when fresh pasta was made early in the morning with patience, hard work and love. Today, with her grandchildren around, cooking is more for fun, but her professionalism is still intact.

The end result is amazing.

The most interesting aspect of our meeting with Marcella went beyond her recipes. While preparing her specialties that come from far away and long ago, she tells us the story of her hard-fought yet prideful life, of the shifts that brought her from Italy to Belgium and then to Toronto.

It is perhaps a story that many share; you’ve probably already heard it more than once. But with her intense stare and tone of voice, it will feel like the very first time.

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Toronto AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 17-32_Layout 1 13-07-29 10:12 AM Page 17

COVER STORY The Nonna Maria Show The most famous puppet among ItalianCanadians has been featured exclusively on panoramitalia.com with her very own talk show for the past three months. On the show, Nonna Maria and her ever-present nephew interview guests from the entertainment and music industries. Guests come from all cultural backgrounds, but one way or another – maybe because of Nonna’s charming dialect and congeniality – they all end up speaking a little Italian.

On The Nonna Maria Show’s first episode, through the hand and voice of the very talented Anthony Imperioli, Nonna interviews the handsome Davide Bazzali, a talented tenor and chef who combines good cooking with bel canto. But Nonna Maria is never alone. Her co-host David Iarusso, the cheeky “nephew” who teases her with affection and irony, frequently provokes a similar reaction: “State zitto tu mo’!” Nonna has an extraordinary ability to translate an otherwise difficult relationship to explain: the one between grandparents and grandchildren. Differences in language, experience, education and habits disappear as we embark onto her enormous couch.

In the second episode, The Nonna Maria Show is visited by an aptly named Beatles cover band: Replay The Beatles. After eating a bocconcino that expired three weeks prior, Nonna begins to hallucinate. She imagines herself as a cartoon in the middle of the ’60s, swaying to the music of “Strawberry Fields Forever,” which, at the end of her trip, becomes a little more Italian.

Il pupazzo più famoso tra gli Italo-canadesi potete trovarlo già da tre mesi, in esclusiva, sul sito di Panoram Italia Magazine (www.panoramitalia.com). Nel talk show, Nonna Maria, insieme all’immancabile nipote, intervista personaggi dello spettacolo e della musica. Italiani e no; e proprio gli artisti internazionali in un modo o nell’altro – sarà l’influenza del dialetto e della simpatia della Nonna? – finiranno per parlare un po’ in italiano.

Nel primo episodio, Nonna Maria, attraverso il braccio e soprattutto la voce del bravissimo Anthony Imperioli, intervista Davide Bazzali, talentuoso chef-tenore, che unisce la buona cucina al bel canto. Nonna Maria non è mai sola, con lei, in ogni intervista del talk show, c’è David Iarusso, “nipote” impertinente che con affetto e ironia la stuzzica generando quasi sempre una reazione del tipo: “State zitto tu mo’!”. Nonna Maria ha un pregio incredibile: tradurre in immagini e in comicità un rapporto altrimenti difficile da spiegare, quello tra nonni e nipoti. Differenze di linguaggio, di esperienze, di istruzione e di abitudini si annullano quando ci si accomoda su quel divano ormai famoso.

Nel secondo show, gli ospiti nel salotto di Nonna Maria sono una cover band dei Beatles, dal nome piuttosto eloquente: Replay The Beatles. Con un bocconcino “ancora bon, ià” ma scaduto da tre settimane, Nonna entra nel mondo delle allucinazioni. In pieni anni ’60, si ritrova cartoon sulle note di Strawberry Field Forever che, alla fine del viaggio allucinogeno, diventa qualcosa di un po’ più italiano.

Barber Shop Barber Shop tells the story of three generations of barbers, from Loris’ father to his son Giovanni, and the art of cutting hair. It is the setting for a complex and romantic story of a family that built a bridge between Italy and Canada, bringing with them one of the most captivating and typical crafts of Italy.

“Passione” is the word used by Zorfini to define the magic that imbues the work of true craftsmen, Loris and Giovanni. If you enjoy oldtime stories, these two barbers will tell you some amazing ones: General Rommel and the box that two German soldiers left on Loris’ father’s desk; a passion for opera and meeting with one of the greatest tenors of all time; the reason for the cylinder outside barber shops; and the secret to attracting customers, who will feel as such only the first time around – they then quickly feel at home.

“Passione”. E’ la parola con cui Zorfini definisce la magia che si respira dentro l’attività, di artigiani veri, di Loris e Giovanni. Se vi piacciono le storie, questi due ragazzi, sì perché anche se le età sono diverse lo spirito che li anima è lo stesso, ve ne racconteranno di incredibili: del generale Rommel e della scatola che due soldati tedeschi lasciarono sulla scrivania del padre di Loris; della passione per l’opera e l’incontro con uno dei più grandi tenori di sempre; del perché il cilindro fuori dalla porta dei barbieri, che anche Loris ha nel suo locale a Laval, Québec; e del segreto per conquistare i clienti, che sono tali solo la prima volta, poi si sentono a casa.

Il video racconta la storia di tre generazioni di barbieri, dal papà di Loris fino a suo figlio Giovanni, dalla macchinetta elettrica degli anni ’60 alle ultime acconciature delle star di oggi. Maestri del capello quanto dello charme.

L’arte del tagliare i capelli, che si trasmette di padre in figlio, fa da cornice ad una storia più complessa e romantica di una famiglia che ha costruito un ponte tra l’Italia e il Canada, portando con sé uno dei mestieri più affascinanti e caratteristici del Belpaese.

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Patricia Curto Helping moms make the connection

By Stephanie Grella As the owner of Vaughan Mompreneurs and the mother of three children, Patricia Curto unites the roles of mother and businesswoman. From trade shows and ladies’ nights to charity fundraisers and family festivals, Mompreneur groups organize monthly networking events for women to reach out to one another on a business and personal level. “I’ve seen true friendships form as well as countless referrals and an increase in sales for members’ businesses,” says 32-year-old Curto.

“It’s different than most networking groups because with Mompreneurs you can talk about business and your family without feeling awkward.”

After having her third child, Curto attended a Milton Mompreneur event in 2011; afterwards she immediately began networking with businesswomen in her community. “I thought to myself, ‘I need to bring this to Vaughan,’” says Curto. She is now the first licensee of Mompreneur Showcase Group Inc. with over 1,000 members in Vaughan alone.

Curto knows first-hand the difficulties of bridging the gap between motherhood and starting a new business, but she believes being a parent is actually an advantage to career success. “Having children strengthens you and gives you access to opportunities that you would never have without them,” says Curto. “I have met so many contacts through our networking and community events by establishing personal relationships with other mothers.”

Aside from Mompreneurs, Curto owns two other businesses: VaughanMoms.ca, which is a blog for mothers in the Vaughan area, and Social Eden, a social media consulting and management company. But her dedication to work is second to her

role as a mother. “With all the businesses, my family is always my first priority,” says Curto, “and spending time with my children is my passion.”

Mompreneurs launched nationally in October 2012; now there are an estimated one million Mompreneurs throughout Canada. And Curto is eager to continue embracing the organization and its mandate: “We will continue to grow, support, and empower women across the country.”

Enza Tiberi-Checchia

By Vanessa Santilli

Transforming a family struggle into hope

After the shock of losing her father to depression, Enza Tiberi-Checchia promised herself she'd take action to help others struggling with mental illness through raising awareness.

Making good on her promise, she co-founded Hats On For Awareness, a charity dedicated to overcoming the often debilitating stigma associated with mental illness so that those affected can openly get the help they need. “No one we love should go without the compassionate treatment they need to get well,” says Tiberi-Checchia, whose parents were both born in Abruzzo.

Founded in 2009, the charity holds a yearly “Hatsquerade” gala, which has raised more than $200,000 for the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in the last four years. This year's event is taking place Oct. 4. “Our (remaining) pledge to them is for $270,000 and we have this year and next year to meet our goal,” she says. Past guests have included big names such as Off the Record's Michael Landsberg. “You could hear a pin drop when he spoke about his personal struggles with depression.”

Tiberi-Checchia is hoping this year's special guest will be Mariel Hemingway – famous writer Ernest Hemingway's granddaughter – who is at the helm of a soonto-be released documentary telling the story of her family's history with mental illness in Running From Crazy.

Aside from her work with Hats On For Awareness, Tiberi-Checchia is a successful businesswoman as president of Decorenza, a freelance decor service provider for builders and developers, such as Empire and Chesnut Hill.

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Her Italian roots have been a huge part of her success in business, she says.

“Whenever I accomplish anything in my life: business, charity, personal – I call my best friend who is my mom and a very strong lady. And I always say to her, 'You didn't have money, you didn't have education, you came to this country with no language'…but she taught me to be respectful, to be grateful and to have a great deal of humility and humanity. I bring that into my work,” she says. “I bring that into every meeting.”

Italians came to Canada with those values. “We love to share what is ours,” she says, including the food. “Every time there's an event, I'm cooking pasta at two in the morning for everybody. That's a part of showing our love for those that we care about.”

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Giancarlo Schirripa Bringing school spirit back into classrooms

By Stephanie Grella From elementary and high-school teacher to winner of Canada’s Outstanding Principal award, Giancarlo Schirripa is no ordinary educator. As principal at Our Lady of Good Counsel, an elementary school in Sharon, Ont., Schirripa has become a leader in his field and an exceptional model for his students.

Since arriving at Our Lady of Good Counsel in 2009, Schirripa has made an enduring impact on students, staff, and parents. Under his direction, the school has increased its test scores for the EQAO (Education Quality and Accountability Office) test, and school spirit has been reenergized thanks to a school mascot, school logo and uniforms.

“I have an open door policy with my community,” says Schirripa. “With respect to the children, I treat them as I would treat my own. We praise and reward them for their accomplishments both inside and outside of school.”

Schirripa also spearheaded the integration of technology at the school. “The initial goals for Our Lady of Good Counsel were to make it a school for 21st century learning,” he says. “We are well on our way to achieving this major objective by challenging our students to be collaborative partners and strong self-regulators.” Tools including interactive whiteboards, laptops, and iPads allow teachers to broaden the scope of lessons, while offering students innovative ways to learn on their own accord.

All his efforts and achievements have garnered him praise; in the last four years Schirripa has received the Premier’s Award for Leadership, the York Region Educator of Character, and the Governor General’s Award. The most recent nod came in February 2012 when The Learning Partnership honoured him as one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals.

As for Our Lady of Good Counsel, the school has been recognized as the York Region School of Character in 2011 and has been nominated every year since Schirripa’s arrival in 2009. Regardless of all the accolades, Schirripa is humble and prefers to focus on maintaining the school’s success and reputation. “Nothing is perfect, and we have to work hard at making everything work.”

After all is said and done for Schirripa, success is not held within a distinguished award or annual nomination. Instead, his accomplishments can be found in each of his students and staff. “To be a principal takes balance, understanding, and passion,” says Schirripa. “This is a true calling, and I am a perpetual learner.”

Melissa Vassallo

By Vanessa Santilli

Turning challenges into opportunities

Melissa Vassallo is thriving, not just surviving.

More than 11 years after a devastating car crash claimed the lives of two of her friends – and more than a decade of recovery – 33-year-old Vassallo has become a disability advocate with the credentials to prove it: she'll be graduating this fall with a masters in Critical Disability Studies from York University. “In my life there have been some really terrible challenges thrown my way but also some really magical moments I wouldn't have been privy to if I didn't go through the others,” says Vassallo, who has been mentored by Lieutenant Governor of Ontario David Onley and met Princess Sophie, Rick Hansen and Oprah Winfrey.

In recognition of her advocacy, Vassallo was awarded the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal earlier this year.

Her many accomplishments include starting the first accessible sailing program in Oakville, Ont., establishing the Canadian Federation of University Women, Oakville's first disability scholarship for young women and co-chairing activist Rick Hansen's Wheels in Motion event. In 2010, she received the Access Award at the Oakville Community Spirit Awards.

Once Vassallo was out of the hospital, she enrolled in classes at Sheridan College, opting to go on exchange for a six-week art history course in Florence. “It brought my sense of self back,” says Vassallo, who holds dual citizenship and whose maternal nonni hail from Molise.

Vassallo says education was always very important to her and her family; she recalls the words of her nonno – a prisoner of war who fled to Canada, leaving everything behind while gaining a fresh start and a better quality of life for his family. He told her, “The only thing in life people can't take away from you is your education.”

Looking forward, Vassallo's next goal is to start writing a book this fall. “I want to share the ins and outs of what it's like living in a hospital and then having such intense rehabilitation and such a long recovery,” she says.

But through all her challenges, Vassallo's upbringing has taught her to put family first. “Having recently purchased a family cottage, she says the more family and friends that come together, the better. She learned by example from her nonni's house, which she calls the “family hub.”

“That, to me, is what thriving is all about: sharing your life with those you love.”

Want more? Check out panoramitalia.com’s Web TV section for video interviews of all four

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Italian-Canadians 2.0 Building online communities

By Laura D’Amelio

Italian-Canadians are unified in their love for their food, language and large families, but the past few years have seen the community form a connection of a different kind. From YouTube to Twitter, Italian-Canadians are finding reasons for meeting, laughing and connecting online. Thanks to the Internet, viral success stories like the ever-popular Nonna Maria videos (“Davie, metta la giacca!”), and the squawking voice of Rosina Parmiggiano that is forwarded by friends to your email inbox, we have begun a new, unifying conversation. ne of Nonna Maria’s first videos, “Cantina Canadese,” posted online three years ago, generated more than 448,000 views, while last year’s triumph “Sh*t Nonnas Say” was viewed by over 1,150,000 YouTubers.

When asked about the success of the clips, Anthony Imperioli, one of Nonna Maria’s co-creators, says it was clear the character would strike a chord in many from the beginning. “Confirmation came after we released our third video,” says Imperioli. “I created the Facebook fan page at a Starbucks and announced Nonna had her own page. I left the Starbucks and it had 35 likes. I went across the street to meet with some friends at a restaurant and when I checked again it was up to 500 likes. At that point I knew we had something special on our hands.” Now, after four years, Nonna Maria and Friends has garnered more than 26,000 loyal followers on Facebook, with users regularly leaving messages, videos of their own nonni and discussing matters such as Italian food, family and traditions.

“There's a seriously deep support for what we're doing here,” says Imperioli. “[It’s] a strong connection with people all over the world. It's a wonderful thing and it's opened my eyes to the amazing possibilities behind creating something from the heart. Given our worldwide audience, we leave an ambiguity as to where Nonna Maria is from exactly in Italy. People ask but we want to feel like she belongs to everyone, and she does.”

Pasquale and Rosina Parmiggiano is another popular Italian-Canadian comedy act specializing in humoristic sketches about growing up with Calabrian parents. Their popular “On Star” video has more than 496,000 views and is still forwarded through email by fans.

On Facebook, Panoram Italia Magazine’s page now counts more than 13,000 likes, mostly made up of the magazine’s loyal readership in its two main markets, Montreal and Toronto. As for Twitter, Toronto Italians (@TDOT_Italians) has drawn in more than 9,600 followers – not to mention its sizable Instagram and Vine following. These social media outlets encourage members to share community events, jokes, recipes, observations and photos, linking Italian-Canadian communities across the country and abroad.

Blogs, which are like online journals, capture the stories and news of

O

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the community in a longer format. The blog An Italian-Canadian Life (anitaliancanadianlife.ca) presents stories and memories about the culture, food and history of the Italian-Canadian community. With more than 50,000 views in its first year, An Italian-Canadian Life also welcomes readers from as far away as Australia and the UK who write in to discuss their memories as Italian immigrants and to share stories, recipes and ideas for preserving our heritage. Similarly, Agata De Santis created the blog ItaloCanadese (italocanadese.com). “Traditional Italianlanguage publications, radio programs and community television shows – with little or no presence online – simply did not keep up with how the new generation gets its news and information,” says De Santis. ItaloCanadese has recently redesigned their site and welcomed multiple new contributors reporting on arts and culture in the community.

While popular Italian Festivals such as Toronto’s College Street and Corso Italia or Montreal’s Semaine Italienne are still attracting the masses, community groups and associations are slowly disappearing as the older generation starts diminishing. This may not be an abandoning of our roots, but a different way of building community. The popularity of websites and social media accounts like Nonna Maria and Panoram Italia are proof that building a new online community is possible, one where people can actually relate and stay connected. It appears that these new sites act as forums and are slowly becoming the new public squares of today’s Italian-Canadian community.

So what makes these online communities successful? “I think Nonna Maria allows us to collectively say, ‘Oh my God, that's my Nonna!’, while we also get emails expressing happiness at our attempt to make some sort of preservation of this generation that seems to be disappearing,” says Imperioli.

The great strength of these memes, articles and videos, stereotypical or not, is their capacity for making people relate to them and enjoy them no matter where they are from in Italy or even if they are not Italian. “There are no words to describe the community behind Nonna Maria; the common experiences of all of its members. That's the beauty,” says Imperioli. “And that, for me, is the essence of community. The fans are Nonna's family; they're our family.”

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Letizia Tesi

Dott.

Briano Di Rezze L’importanza di sentirsi parte di una comunità si riflette anche nell’urgenza di restituire quello che si è ricevuto. Ed essere “paesani” vuol dire anche crescere con la voglia di aiutare il prossimo perché qualcuno lo ha fatto con te o con la tua famiglia. È stato così per Briano Di Rezze, italiano di seconda generazione originario di Casalvieri in provincia di Frosinone, che ha scelto di essere il paesano che aiuta i bambini diversamente abili. Dopo un dottorato in Rehabilitation Science alla McMaster University, Di Rezze lavora come ricercatore con un post-doctoral fellowship con il dottor Peter Szatmari all’Offord Centre for Child Studies e con il dottor Peter Rosenbaum al CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research, sempre alla McMaster.

ella nostra comunità c’era sempre un paesano o qualcuno della famiglia con un’abilità particolare: chi sapeva lavorare con le mani poteva essere utile se c’era da costruire qualcosa, chi aveva la risposta pronta poteva servire per le faccende legali, chi era bravo coi numeri per la contabilità e così via – racconta Di Rezze – Io volevo essere il paesano che avrebbe aiutato i bambini diversamente abili, consapevole che sono la parte più vulnerabile di ogni comunità. Infatti, poco dopo aver iniziato il percorso di formazione come terapista, a due bambini della nostra estesa famiglia è stato diagnosticato l’ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder).

Lavorando come terapista, mi sono poi reso conto di non essere sempre in grado di rispondere alle domande dei genitori di bambini autistici e che l’esigenza di approfondire la ricerca nel campo delle terapie per i piccoli disabili, soprattutto quelli affetti da ASD, era molto forte”.

importante valorizzare l’ottimismo con cui affrontano il futuro le famiglie che convivono con l’autismo, consapevoli che ogni bambino ha delle potenzialità da sfruttare e che la diversità può anche essere un valore. Concentrarsi sulle risorse piuttosto che sulle mancanze dei bambini è un modo per trasmetterli forza e aiutarli a raggiungere maggiori traguardi.

Panoram Italia: Qual è il suo obiettivo?

Briano Di Rezze: Accrescere la comprensione del decorso dell’ASD, avere più risposte per le famiglie sul modo migliore di aiutare questi bambini in modo da sfruttare al massimo le loro abilità.

PI: Quali sono i luoghi comuni più diffusi sull’autismo?

BDR: L’ASD comprende un insieme di disturbi legati allo sviluppo cerebrale, che si riflettono sulla comunicazione, sul comportamento, sulle abilità sociali, sulle attività e sugli interessi dei bambini. L’autismo non può essere diagnosticato con un’analisi del sangue. Serve un team di esperti che valuti il livello di sviluppo del bambino. L’autismo si può riconoscere fra i 12 e i 18 mesi, ma in media l’età della diagnosi è fra i 3 e i 5 anni. I luoghi comuni più frequenti sono la credenza che sia una malattia genetica (solo nel 15-20% dei casi può essere ricollegato ad un fattore genetico), che i vaccini possano esserne la causa e che tutti i bambini che ne sono affetti siano uguali. Pensare a loro come a degli individui unici con talenti speciali e accoglierne la diversità li aiuta a sentirsi parte delle loro comunità.

“N

PI: Quali sono le difficoltà più grosse che devono affrontare le famiglie?

BDR: Per un bambino autistico può essere difficile creare rapporti interpersonali in modo tradizionale. La famiglia deve essere pronta ad affrontare difficoltà comportamentali e a seguire una routine giornaliera. Ma anche l’aspetto economico ha un grande impatto per le spese delle cure specialistiche, quelle che bisogna mettere in conto nel crescere un bambino autistico, e i giorni di lavoro persi. Credo, però, che sia

official juice of

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PI: Qual è l’impatto economico sulle famiglie?

BDR: L’anno scorso una ricerca che ha coinvolto la London School of Economics ha dimostrato che prendersi cura di una persona affetta da autismo per tutto l’arco della vita costa più che curare persone con disabilità mentali. Se poi si paragonano i costi delle cure per le persone che non hanno disabilità mentali (1.4 milioni di dollari americani) a quelli per una persona autistica il numero è quasi doppio (2.3 milioni).

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Racalmuto: un filo continuo tra Sicilia e Canada Giacoma Adamo

Un comune della provincia agrigentina, nel cuore ignoto a tanti della Sicilia, e una grande città canadese cosa possono avere in comune?

Quale potrebbe essere il legame tra due realtà tanto distanti?

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acalmuto ed Hamilton, eppure, un comune denominatore ce l’hanno e sono proprio i racalmutesi, oggi circa 25.000 nella città canadese, molti di più degli 8.000 abitanti del paese in Sicilia.

Ad Hamilton la più folta comunità di Racalmutesi all’estero ha espresso, in passato, non solo un vicesindaco di origine racalmutese, Vincent Agrò, ma anche un parlamentare, Gary Pillitteri.

Hamilton, come altre città nordamericane, fu una delle mete prescelte dai numerosi emigranti che lasciarono l’Italia nella prima metà del Novecento. La città, posta sulla riva occidentale del lago Ontario, rappresentò una fortunata opportunità di lavoro nell’industria siderurgica, che le valse il nome di “Steel city”, città dell’acciaio.

Nel frattempo, però, Racalmuto ha sempre fatto i conti con la propria storia e con le radici aspre e spesso difficili da gestire col resto del mondo. Nel tempo ha messo in moto iniziative per scrollarsi da dosso quella fama di territorio legato solo a fatti relativi alla mafia. Una reputazione pesante come una zavorra e liberarsene non è semplice né immediato.

La cittadina sorge in uno spazio fertile di risorse naturali: le miniere di zolfo e di sale, queste ultime sono state, e lo sono tuttora, il cardine dell’economia locale per la presenza di un giacimento prezioso che sembra sia addirittura il terzo nel mondo.

Ma è anche la città che nel 1921 diede i natali a Leonardo Sciascia, lo scrittore conosciuto sia per le sue pubblicazioni che per i suoi interventi di polemica politica e civile degli anni Ottanta, compresi quelli su mafia e antimafia.

Sciascia, portavoce dell’illusione e della disillusione di una terra troppe volte ferita e ingannata, oggi sarebbe testimone di progetti di rinnovamento culturale volti a intraprendere percorsi di ricostruzione della legalità.

Il Consiglio comunale di Racalmuto, nel marzo del 2012, è stato commissariato per mafia, dando adito ancora una volta a nuove ragioni per cui essere giudicato criticamente. L’ex ministro dell’Interno Annamaria Cancellieri, responsabile del provvedimento, si è recata di persona a Racalmuto appena insediati i commissari prefettizi in aprile. E a luglio è tornata dichiarandosi “innamorata” di questo piccolo centro che ha calamitato tanti personaggi illustri.

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Lo scioglimento del Comune, sebbene fosse un provvedimento negativo, ha però dato impulso a idee concrete con il supporto, ad esempio, di Confindustria.

Ecco allora la riapertura del Teatro comunale che diventa una scuola di mestieri, o i master per laureati ospitati dalla Fondazione Sciascia, o, ancora, lo stanziamento di fondi per i giovani.

Non è facile rinnovare in questa terra se non si eliminano vizi antichi, e chi resta lo sa. Quelli che sono rimasti ed hanno scommesso sull’enorme sforzo che comporta misurarsi con le vecchie logiche sanno bene quanta fatica comporti.

Chi è andato via ha trovato altre opportunità in terre nuove, ha messo in gioco energie in progetti basati sul lavoro sicuro e regolare e sul funzionamento dei servizi.

Tuttavia ciò non ha mai lasciato che si recidesse il cordone ombelicale con la terra natìa; ecco allora che dal 1986 Hamilton è gemellata con Racalmuto, iniziativa che ha dato il via a numerosi scambi sociali e culturali.

Uno di questi è la celebrazione della Madonna del Monte che si svolge ogni anno ad Hamilton, così come a Racalmuto, ripetendo e riproducendo in parte gli stessi riti e le stesse tradizioni della terra d’origine con tanto di Comitato e Fratellanza Racalmutese.

Una festa tanto carica di energia che Sciascia la paragonò alla “fiesta” di San Firmino a Pamplona. Le immagini dei tori che si scatenano in mezzo alla folla rievocano i cavalli infuriati di Racalmuto nel corso dei momenti clou, quali la salita dei devoti a cavallo lungo la scalinata che conduce al Santuario; o la lotta tra i proprietari terrieri, i cosiddetti ‘burgisi’, per impadronirsi della bandiera ricamata in oro raffigurante la Madonna, posta sulla sommità di un cero votivo gigante riccamente decorato.

Nella seconda settimana di luglio, il paese diventa il luogo dove portare a spasso l’amor sacro e l’amor profano, in cui ci si lascia andare anche ad ancestrali riti che attraggono non solo i Racalmutesi, ma tutti i visitatori che si riversano in paese per assistere a queste insolite manifestazioni religiose.

E così la Regalpetra di Sciascia, da un capo all’altro del mondo da secoli e di recente, asseconda la volontà di unione e condivisione della sua gente.

Toronto AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 17-32_Layout 1 13-07-29 10:12 AM Page 25

Joseph J. Rizzotto B.A.(Hons), M.A., LL.B., LL.M.

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Q: I was at the grocery store and slipped on spilled liquid that was not cleaned up. What are my rights?

The liquid obviously should not have been on the floor. The store has an obligation to keep its premises safe and avoid any situation of danger.

It should have cleaned the floor and posted some type of warning sign to its customers. It is therefore negligent or at fault. As your lawyers, we will help you prove that the store is at fault. As a result, the store or its insurance company is responsible to compensate you for what medical treatment you need, for your loss of enjoyment, your pain and suffering, your out of pocket expenses and loss of earnings.

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Q: As I reached for the lumber the entire stack fell on my head. Do I have any recourse?

The lumber was clearly improperly stacked and not secured. Therefore, the store created a dangerous situation. This resulted in you sustaining significant bodily injuries. The store will suggest that you caused or contributed to the lumber striking you by you moving the lumber. With our advice and assistance we will prove the store created this situation and was negligent. Once this is accomplished, we will obtain compensation for you from the store or its insurer for your losses and your pain and suffering.

Q: I was walking on the sidewalk and tripped on a crack in the cement. Can I pursue the City for compensation?

The crack in the sidewalk or the unevenness in the sidewalk has to be significant enough for you to seek relief from the City or its insurer. A very small crack or an uneven sidewalk barely visible to the naked eye will not result in any relief for you. Municipalities are traditionally tough adversaries. You have to prove everything to them to be successful in seeking compensation. As your lawyers we will guide you towards proving that the City was negligent and that you deserve compensation for your pain and suffering and losses.

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FUTURE LEADER

Serena Genova

By Rosanna Bonura

A strong sense of integrity and moral compass is what paved the way to Serena Genova’s aspirations of becoming a lawyer. Today, she hopes to inspire others to achieve their dreams. only 26 years old, Serena Genova is already well on her way to a promising and successful career in the demanding field of law. Her profession of choice, although not easy to attain, was something she always knew she wanted to pursue, knowing it would enable her to make a difference for those who need it most. “I want to help people who can’t help themselves and be that voice for people who are not able to access their rights,” she tells Panoram Italia. Today, Genova is a lawyer at Toronto firm Smockum Zarnett Percival LLP focusing on medical malpractice and insurance defense law. The stimulating and quick-on-your-feet nature of the job, she says, is the most gratifying.

Her ambitious and hard-working ethic is attributed to the way she was raised.

Surrounded by parents and grandparents who achieved success all on their own was a source of inspiration throughout her life. “Having grown up in a household where my mother always had a highly demanding career and managed to juggle her career with a husband and two children, I understand that while it may not be easy to strike a healthy work-life balance, it is certainly possible. I am a firm believer that when you want something enough, you will find a way to make it work.” And that she certainly has, having earned a Bachelor of Arts with merit in Sociology and Italian studies from York University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Windsor. The support of her family has been instrumental throughout her journey. “I wouldn’t have been able to get to where I am today if it wasn’t for their support and encouragement,” she says.

In June 2013, Genova was called to the Bar of The Law Society of Upper Canada.

She additionally earned a Certificate of Proficiency in Italian language from York University in 2009 and also completed the summer Modern and Contemporary Italian Politics and Unification program at the Universita La Sapienza di Roma in 2008. But academics wasn’t all she pursued. Genova was also involved in various school organizations, serving as President of the Windsor Italian Law Association at the University of Windsor and as Co-Editor of the university’s Windsor Law Review.

At York University, Genova was the Co-Founder and Media Relations Director of FCI (Federazione Canadese Italiana), an Italian-Canadian Student and Academic Association and York’s largest Italian club.

“I think in terms of the preservation of Italian culture, it’s incredibly important for our generation to remain involved in associations and social clubs that encourage Italian culture in Canada because as generations go on it’s going to become increasingly difficult.”

Managing all this while earning her degrees was worthwhile, she says, mainly because it aligned with the pride she has for her heritage. “For me, remaining involved in the Italian community is part of who I am and is important to me. It was out of enjoyment and an outlet for me during law school and university.” Genova also notes the importance of getting involved in extracurriculars in university: “I think in terms of the preservation of Italian culture, it’s incredibly important for our generation to remain involved in associations and social clubs that encourage Italian culture in Canada because as generations go on it’s going to become increasingly difficult,” she says. Having already accomplished a lot at such a young age, Genova’s advice to other young career-aspiring women is to know what their goal is, know what they want, and make a plan to achieve it. “Don’t be discouraged by statistics. I think if you set your goal and work towards it, anything is possible.”

A resident of Mississauga, Genova had a typical Italian-Canadian upbringing.

Her father is an Italian immigrant from Delia, Sicily, and her mother was born in Toronto to parents of Abruzzese origins. She was raised speaking Italian by her par26

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Photography by Gregory Varano

At

ents and grandparents and maintaining her Italian heritage over the years has been and continues to be important. Aside from studying Italian language and culture at the university level, Genova also traveled to Italy almost every year as a child. “Every time I go I learn something new. There’s a big difference between Italian-Canadian culture and Italian culture so it’s important for me to travel there. I think that’s how one becomes cultured,” she says.

“For me, leadership is synonymous with having the courage and the ambition to be forward thinking; that is, not being afraid to think and act outside of the norm.”

Her contributions to the Italian-Canadian community over the years also included working in the media sector as an assistant editor for Tandem/Corriere Canadese, and at CHIN where she worked as an on-site special events coordinator and co-hosted a bi-weekly radio segment about current events in Toronto. Aimed at ItalianCanadian youth, it was part informational, part satire. An active community member, Genova also taught Italian literature and grammar at Centro Scuola at the Columbus Centre. Grateful that she is fluent in the language, she says teaching it was both enjoyable and rewarding. “I felt I was doing my part in trying to preserve the language here,” she says. If there is one lesson Genova has learned from her involvement in the Italian-Canadian community, it’s having a greater sense of her cultural identity. “It helped me to understand how important it is not to forget your roots and where you come from,” she adds.

Her devoted involvement in the Italian community in Toronto was influenced and encouraged by her grandfather, Eugenio Di Carlo, who served as President of the Abruzzi Club of Toronto for nearly 20 years, and her father Gaetano Genova, a member of the Delia Social Club. While Genova acknowledges that there are several organizations in Toronto that preserve Italian values and traditions, she says more can always be done especially by the future generation. “What I believe is essential in continuing the preservation of Italian culture is for organizations to shift their focus to Italian-Canadian youths and youths who have a strong interest in Italian culture.

Panoram Italia and the Columbus Centre, to name a few, have been instrumental in this regard, and have initiated an important cultural shift.”

With her future bright and just at its beginning, Serena Genova is an example of a well-rounded young woman who demonstrates leadership at its best. She hopes she can be an inspiration for other young women pursuing their own careers. “For me, leadership is synonymous with having the courage and the ambition to be forward thinking; that is, not being afraid to think and act outside of the norm. It also means leading by example, which for me, entails having certain qualities and traits such as a strong work ethic, being transparent and accountable, having integrity, and assuming the important responsibility of mentoring others.”

Toronto AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 17-32_Layout 1 13-07-29 10:12 AM Page 27

I was proud to be the first Suzuki dealer in Canada.

As an auto manufacturer, they've built great cars over the years. As a business, they've always treated me and their customers well and I am sorry to see them go. Since 1959, I've always sought to run the kind of dealership I would want to buy a car from. The people of the Greater Toronto Area, in turn, have rewarded me with their business ever since and I would like to thank them. Even though Suzuki will no longer be selling their cars, Trento Motors will still be proudly servicing them for years to come to keep you safely on the road. When it comes to Suzuki's, our experience and our expertise are still very much at your service and we look forward to seeing you in our new service department.

All the best, Renzo Moser

OUR SALES PROMISE TO YOU - YOUR COMPLETE SATISFACTION IS OUR GOAL! NO HASSLE BUYING EXPERIENCE • OUR GOAL IS 100% CREDIT APPROVAL WE NEED YOUR TRADE • APPRAISERS ON SITE WARRANTY All Suzuki vehicles come with a 5-year, 100,000 kilometer powertrain limited warranty and 3-year unlimited kilometer roadside assistance.

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LIFE & PEOPLE

By Stephanie Grella

Maria Montessori’s Legacy Over 100 years ago, Maria Montessori opened her first school in Rome called Casa dei Bambini (The Children’s House). A century later, Montessori’s philosophy of education spans the globe with over 22,000 Montessori schools worldwide. The month of August marks Maria Montessori’s birthday anniversary, and in honour of the occasion, Canadian educators recognize the impact of her pursuit for educational excellence.

orn in Chiaravalle, Italy, Montessori was an avid academic throughout her life.

Despite the challenging gender conventions of her time, Montessori graduated as a doctor of medicine from the University of Rome. After almost a decade working with children both in classrooms and in research labs, Montessori opened her first school.

The Montessori method of teaching encourages students to make their own decisions in the classroom, encouraging freedom and independence in their choice of studies. Rosa Marcellino, who co-owns Montessori Start in Toronto with her sister Enza DiRuscio, explains the philosophy: “Maria Montessori saw that children learn best by doing and that happy, self-motivated learners form positive images of themselves as confident, successful people,” says Marcellino. “The interest of the children sets the stage for learning.”

Angela Gauthier, Associate Director of Education for the Toronto Catholic District School, expresses her admiration for Dr. Montessori’s contributions to early childhood education. “Maria Montessori’s methods were certainly cutting edge when they were first introduced and continue to be considered best practices in early learning education,” says Gauthier. “I am very proud of the fact that the TCDSB is following this strong tradition by fully implementing full-day kindergarten. We are living up to our vision and mission to challenge and prepare our students to transform the world through witness, faith, innovation, and action.”

Although the Montessori method focuses on children, Montessori schools thrive to ensure a healthy balance in the teacher’s role, which offers guidance to stu-

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dents while enforcing independence and confidence in the classroom. Daniel Jutras, Director of the Canadian Montessori Teacher Education Institute, emphasizes the importance of the “teacher-guide” in Montessori schools. “Maria Montessori herself had a motto: ‘Help me do it by myself,’” says Jutras. “We teachers are just the servants to show them how it works; we leave students to make their own mistakes and fix them.”

From sensorial activities that focus on thinking, comparing, and reasoning to language activities that awaken reading, writing, and verbal skills, Montessori teachers guide students through an array of subjects, but it is the child who dictates his/her own studies. “At no time of the day does the Montessori teacher have an idea of what the children will do,” adds Jutras. “This climate of uncertainty is quite a privilege to live.”

Paula Glasgow, Dean of Montessori Teachers College in Toronto, explains how the Teachers College curriculum prepares instructors for their unique role in the classroom. “The training of Montessori teachers involves a change of heart for most adult learners,” says Glasgow. “In other words, each adult will develop the ability to see the world through the eyes of children.”

Forging an unprecedented path for teachers and students, Montessori has had a large influence in the education sector and in Italian communities worldwide. “Many Italian-Canadians have embraced teaching as a vocation and a career, and they have made an invaluable contribution to the Canadian mosaic,” says Gauthier. “Maria Montessori would be proud.”

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ADVERTORIAL

The legacy of TMS School

By Rosanna Bonura

Enabling students to make their mark in an ever-changing world Investing in your child’s education is one of the most important factors in ensuring and securing a successful future for them. The decision to enrol in the private school system has several positive aspects and TMS School has been proof of that for the past 50 years. As one of North America’s largest Montessori and IB schools, it has played a substantial role in shaping the future of education and transforming students into leaders of tomorrow. An internationally renowned school, TMS was established in 1961 as Toronto Montessori Schools by Ms. Helma Trass with an initial enrolment of only 12 students.

Today, TMS School is home to two Richmond Hill campuses: Bayview and Elgin Mills.

uelling each child’s desire to learn, TMS has been instrumental in enabling students to achieve success on their own terms through a specific method of education which sets them above and apart in the private school sector. For children from 18 months to 3 years, TMS offers flagship Montessori Toddler and “Children’s House” Programs where students learn to be productive and engaged through a solid and substantial foundation, developing critical learning. These initial and important years transition into their combination of Montessori Elementary, grades 1 to 6.

TMS is also recognized for being an International Baccalaureate (IB) world school, which is supported by their International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme from grade 7 to 10, followed by the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in grades 11 and 12. These specifically catered programs make TMS the top choice for parents wishing to enrol their children in a private school. The unique combination of flagship Montessori and IB Programs make it a unique and highly effective approach allowing students to experience an enriched education.

“TMS’ seamless program prepares students for an ever-changing and uncertain world. Discerning parents recognize that the world has changed and schools need to advance as well. Simply ensuring the development of strong basic skills and the memorization of a body of information is no longer an effective strategy for preparing students to define their own successful path through university, career and life,” explains Dr. Glenn Zederayko, Head of TMS. With programs that encourage and inspire students to strive in academics, arts, athletics and citizenship, the TMS approach nurtures responsibility and resourcefulness at every age by matching learning and instruction to the development needs of each student as an individual. Moving forward to post-secondary education, TMS ensures that their graduating students are well prepared for the world of university and work. Close and expert guidance allows students to use their own foundation to build higher level thinking, communication, and advocacy skills, making TMS students amongst the most confident and capable around the globe.

“At TMS each student sees how every day’s learning is important and engages enthusiastically in a curriculum that develops broad-based critical and creative thinking skills.

Students are equipped with the knowledge and attitudes that promote their ability and construct lives that are engaging, rewarding and meaningful,” says Dr. Zederayko.

Graduates of TMS are a testament to the well-rounded foundation established over the course of their education, which helps them to become resourceful and well-adjusted young adults.

“TMS goes far beyond the ordinary to help prepare our students to define and achieve success on their terms in a complex, competitive and ever changing world. They are ready to realize their full potential as happy and fulfilled individuals,” Dr. Zederayko says.

In addition to their programs, TMS is also a lab school for the Toronto Montessori Institute (TMI), a teacher training facility. These are the same educators that make part of the highly qualified team at TMS that includes committed, expert Montessori, Specialist

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and International Baccalaureate (IB) educators with valuable expertise and experiences.

“Our record shows that we have been very successful in attracting an effective mix of excellent faculty and staff members at all levels. Toddler, Children’s House and Elementary teachers have earned Montessori, ECE and/or Ontario College of Teachers credentials. Many have training and experience teaching at different levels that assists to ensure seamless transitions across levels. College teachers have earned teaching degrees and often have experience teaching IB, Advanced Placement and other enriched programs from a variety of independent schools,” explains Dr. Zederayko.

Positive and successful learning is only enhanced by a well-appointed learning facility and TMS offers students an environment where they can excel comfortably with every resource available to them. The Bayview Campus is home to the TMS flagship Montessori programs: Toddlers (18 months to 3 years), Children’s House (3-5 years), and Elementary (grades 1-6). It is an impressive nine-acre campus that boasts an outdoor heated swimming pool, artificial skating rink, library, fully equipped science and computer laboratories, instrumental music and art rooms, a drama/dance studio, a stage, full gymnasium, basketball courts, playing field, volleyball court, specialized playgrounds and both indoor and outdoor climbing walls.

The TMS Elgin Mills Campus, home to grade 7 to 12 students, is a state-of-the-art facility offering a pleasant learning environment for students with well organized and generously sized classrooms. Each student is equipped with his/her own laptop, and facilities include science labs with attached preparation rooms to ensure that science is learned in a hands-on fashion. The library serves as a true learning centre supporting traditional and technological research and promotes a love of literature and reading. A dedicated music room with two attached practice rooms and a dedicated art room promote excellence in each student’s artistic endeavours. A full size double gym and new athletic playing field encourage the development of healthy bodies, athletic competition, and lifelong student recreational activities. As a campus dedicated to the education of adolescents, a large student commons area is also part of the facility, which further fosters students’ enthusiasm for learning and building healthy relationships. The area acts as the main gathering place for students to enjoy meals, events, and group work.

“The TMS spirit is encouraged by the facility in many ways and the student commons area continues to enhance the development of close bonds and ties that mean so much to each of us at the School,” says Ann Bianco-Harvey, TMS School Director of Communications.

Equip your child with the skills, knowledge and attitude that promotes their ability to engage in and achieve lives that are rewarding and meaningful. Experience the energy and purpose of the TMS community and the effectiveness of their unique programs.

Parents are highly encouraged and welcome to visit the campuses. To learn more about TMS and to arrange a tour, visit www.tmsschool.ca or call 905 889 6882 Ext. 230

Toronto AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 17-32_Layout 1 13-07-29 10:12 AM Page 31

ADVERTORIAL

Bingo!

Ultimate Bingo relocates to Vaughan and offers something for a new generation

By Vanessa Santilli

The family-owned Ultimate Bingo opened their new state-of-the-art facility in Vaughan at the end of May – and this isn't your mother's bingo hall. With 60” high definition TVs replacing the former display boards and a snack bar that sells Italian food and espresso in addition to the traditional hot dogs, it's not quite what you might expect. ather and owner Carlo Corvese founded Ultimate Bingo in 2006. Originally located in Toronto, the company has made the move to Vaughan following a Walmart expansion that affected their previous facility. “What we've established in our place is a family feel,” says son Michael. “It's four of us brothers that manage the hall,” he adds, referring to siblings Chris, Tony and P.J. “Plus we have a few of our extended family members that work here as well.” All the siblings have been working hard for the company since the mid-to-late 1980s. “Everybody has his and her own responsibility and, collectively, we make it work,” says Michael, with tasks ranging from managing and marketing to program changes and strategy to human resources and administration. “We all have our own character and style.” Their father started out in the bingo industry when his sons were just children, he says.

As Ultimate Bingo has opened their new location, patriarch Carlo brings with him a wealth of experience in the bingo industry. “I've been in the bingo business since 1975,” says Carlo, whose father was born in Foggia while his mother was born in Monte Sant'Angelo. “The old days and the new days are totally different,” he says, referring to the fact that in his early years bingo was run by asking a banquet hall to open up bingo sessions as opposed to having your own facility.

“Back then, we would just try to find any location we could.” “I've been all over the city,” says Carlo, referring to Luna Ballroom, Paradise Banquet Hall and Kennedy Banquet Hall – among many others – including some in the cities of Oshawa as well as Peterborough.

Prior to running Ultimate Bingo, the family owned Club Bingo and York City Bingo.

But he says that he hadn't planned on getting into the bingo business all those years ago. In fact, he “got into bingo by accident.” “I used to own a hockey organization called the Toronto Young Nationals and, in those days, it was very hard to get fundraising or sponsors to help support the boys playing hockey. Somebody approached me about running a bingo and I agreed to let him do it,” he says, referring to sessions being run in a bingo hall with partial proceeds going to support the young men. After getting involved himself, he has never looked back.

And since a portion of the proceeds from playing bingo goes towards charitable organizations, Ultimate Bingo gives 45 per cent of their profits to approximately 50 charities. They also assume all the expenses, he adds. “There's such a wide variety of charities and non-profit organizations that cover pretty much every walk of life whether it's kid's soccer programs, Ukrainian music programs or Jewish women's programs – it's such a wide list,” says Chris Corvese.

Years later, Carlo recalls his Vaughan memories with much fondness. “I actually had one of my teams in Vaughan called the Vaughan Nationals and our organization helped pave the way for alot of young players making the NHL.” he says.

At Ultimate Bingo, it's the social atmosphere that attracts clients, adds Michael, who says the age of the clientele ranges from 18 to 90 with the average age being women in their 50s. “If you go to a casino, you could end up spending $100 in five minutes if you go on a bad run playing blackjack. They like the bingo atmosphere because they can sit

F

down, they can play for two and a half to three hours, spend $30 to $40, have an enjoyable time and meet their friends there.”

And as part of their new look, customers can expect a theatre atmosphere at the entrance, adds Michael.”When you walk in, it feels like you've walked into a movie theatre. We've got pot lights and we've got a theatre rope at the front.”

The goal of their renovation was to take the old stereotype out of a bingo hall and improve it, he says.

“The stereotype is that you have clunky machines, you have people playing cards with chips and a broken down, decrepit building. We wanted to change that.” For the traditionalists out there, not to worry: it still looks like a traditional bingo hall, adds Michael. “It has a collective feel,” he says. “There are no sections or rooms – it's one big open hall. It still has that type of set-up to it but we've modernized it.”

The fresh feeling of the bingo hall is another big bonus for clients, adds Carlo. “The old bingo halls still have that smoke from previous years embedded in their walls and floors.” As well, Ultimate Bingo offers the option of playing the game using traditional bingo cards with dabbers or verifier packages, which are basically hand-held computers. The main difference is that players can load more cards onto their hand-held verifiers.

Currently, the highest jackpot clients can win in one shot stands at $15,000.

However, there are also smaller denominations to be won such as $10,000, $5,000 and $1,000 games. As for the cost, customers can pay anywhere between $5 and $100, depending on the games you're playing.

At the bingo hall, the “family atmosphere” is seen amongst the players, too, adds Michael. “The majority of our customers are here everyday…So our regular customers socialize with all the others customers, and it’s a very familiar environment for them.”

And while they come to play – and are focused on their cards once the game starts –they also come for the friendly atmosphere, adds Carlo. “You see a lot of people meeting others they've met before and playing cards during intermission. It’s very exciting for them.”

Come visit the Corvese family at Ultimate Bingo, and tell them Panoram Italia sent you! Bring in your personal addressed copy of this issue to receive a complimentary dabber and meal on Ultimate Bingo!

5601 Steeles Avenue West T: 416.242.2385 www.ultimatebingo.ca PA N O R A M I TA L I A . C O M

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FOOD

By Adam Zara Photography by Vincenzo D’Alto

Chef Danny Smiles Sous vide lamb loin with rapini, pickled lamb heart and red wine lamb glaze; maple and bacon dashi with lingcod and Manila clams; beef tartare with parmesan, bone marrow dressing and pork crackling – a sampling of the 5-course menu that Montreal’s Danny Smiles (né Francis), 28, dazzled the judges with in Top Chef Canada’s third season finale. “The final dinner was written on the plane on my way to the competition in Toronto,” says Smiles. “It’s really about cooking a meal that best represents you.

I’m really happy about every single dish that I made.”

s fate would have it, Smiles would come within an inch of claiming the coveted title and $100,000 prize. He’d have to accept second place after serving a world-class Quebec-inspired menu, one that a four-judge panel had a very difficult time finding fault in.

Back at home, it’s at celebrity Chef Chuck Hughes’ restaurant Le Bremner that Smiles plies his trade. The Old Montreal joint is a few steps below street level, doesn’t have a sign, and serves up a short menu of creatively tweaked fresh seafood fare with old school Hip Hop bumping in the background – and Smiles runs the show. “I came to eat here two days into the opening and I really loved what he (Hughes) was doing.

There was an opening in the kitchen, so I started as a line cook. Three months in I became the sous-chef, and then six months later I became chef de cuisine. They were taking a chance just throwing me a new restaurant still trying to find its groove,” says Smiles.

But pressure-filled environments are where the talented Italian/EgyptianCanadian seems to thrive. “I didn’t sleep for the first six months; I was terrified. But I knew this was what I wanted to do. I’m 27 (at the time). It’s my first real gig. People are ready to throw the axe down; ready to judge.” And much like his 13-episode TV competition, Smiles seized the opportunity and stepped up when it counted.

Leading up to Top Chef ’s season opener, Smiles had come off Le Bremner’s biggest catering events of the year, music festivals Osheaga and Heavy MTL. “I finished on a Sunday at 2 am, jumped on a plane at 6 am and started filming from there. It was a bit intimidating meeting all the chefs. Some had been preparing for one month and I hadn’t even slept the night before. So it was very stressful. You’re there for 6 weeks. They take away your phone. No contact with the outside world other than a few phone calls to your family and girlfriend here and there,” he reveals.

Like many other chefs, Smiles got his start washing dishes before earning the

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chance to handle food. After studying at the St. Pius X Culinary Institute, he pursued two residencies in Italian fine-dining establishments in Soverato, Calabria and Desenzano del Garda, Brescia. He credits his Italian/Egyptian background for opening him up to so many different flavours from a young age. His mom is from Montreal with parents hailing from Frosinone, Lazio and his dad comes from Alexandria, Egypt, but worked for airline company Alitalia his whole life and by Smiles’ admission, “speaks better Italian than most Italians.”

His first real stare-down with adversity came in 2010 while vacationing in Thailand with his girlfriend Jenny. “We wanted to backpack across Southeast Asia. It was always something I wanted to do. And I absolutely love Asian food even though I don’t cook it. Six days into our trip, we got onto an overnight double-decker bus to get to Chiang Mai, 12 hours north of where we were. All flights and trains were completely booked because it was Mother’s Day, which is the biggest holiday in Thailand. Two hours into the ride, our bus flipped. Five people died. My girlfriend Jenny went to the hospital and underwent surgery,” he recalls. “My life flashed before my eyes, and it was then that I really asked myself what it was that I wanted to do with my life. It’s when I realized nothing else matters besides doing what you love. I got a second chance. It was like a rebirth – just crazy.”

“I feel like in this business there needs to be a rebirth. We’re such fighters. You always hear about guys that were alcoholics, coming out of rehab and becoming great chefs. Like Anthony Bourdain who was a heroin addict and then became a great writer and TV personality,” he says. “I don’t know what it is, but it seems like this business brings people together that have gone through the wringer.”

From escaping death on a Thai bus, to running a hot restaurant and coming in a close second on Top Chef Canada, it’s safe to say the three years since Smiles’ re-awakening lend to his assertions rather nicely.

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FOOD

CORNBREAD WITH ROCK SHRIMP

FLUFFY PANCAKES

Ingredients (makes 4 servings) ¾ cup unsalted butter • 1 ½ cup sugar • 2 cups of milk • 2 cups of cornmeal • 4 eggs • ¾ tsp. baking soda • 1 dash of kosher salt • 10 oz of rock shrimp (or Laughing Bird shrimp) • 1 oz cooking brandy • 50 g celery • 50 g leeks • 25 g ginger • 50 g roasted garlic • 2 tbsp. butter

Ingredients (makes 3 servings of 4 to 5 pancakes) 1 cup of all-purpose flour • 1 cup of milk • 30 ml of vinegar • 3 tbsp. of sugar • 1 tsp. of baking soda • 2 tsp. of baking powder • 3 tbsp. of melted butter • 1 pinch of kosher salt • ½ of a vanilla bean

Cornbread instructions 1. In a saucepot, bring butter, sugar and milk to a boil.

Whipped vanilla butter ingredients ¼ cup of milk • 250 ml of softened butter

2. Once brought to a boil, bring down to a low simmer and add the cornmeal. Cook lightly until a thick consistency.

Pancake instructions 1. Combine milk with vinegar in a medium bowl and set aside for 5 minutes to sour.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and baking soda.

2. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk butter into soured milk. Pour the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and whisk until lumps are gone.

4. Once the cornmeal mixture is thick, add to the eggs and continue mixing.

5. Once fully incorporated, pour into hot molds and bake in oven at 375°F for approximately 20 minutes.

Rock Shrimp instructions 1. In a hot cast iron skillet, sauté rock shrimp with celery, leeks, ginger and roasted garlic for two minutes, then deglaze with cooking brandy.

2. Once deglazed, throw in butter until smooth sauce consistency.

3. Season with salt, pepper and a bit of Korean red chili flakes, and pour over cornbread and serve.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and coat with unsalted butter. Pour 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet, and cook until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip with a spatula, and cook until browned on the other side.

Whipped vanilla butter instructions 1. Let butter soften and beat in the ¼ cup of milk with vanilla bean until fluffy.

2. With a small ice cream scooper, scoop out one ball and place over the stack of pancakes.

3. Drizzle with good quality maple syrup and serve.

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FOOD aking homemade pasta is easier than it seems. All it takes is a bit of practice and the right tools and ingredients. With 15-20 minutes to make the dough, 30 minutes to let it rest, 10 minutes to extend and cut the pasta, it should take you approximately one hour to get the job done.

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Pasta dough ingredients • • • •

2 cups (500 ml) all-purpose flour 2 eggs 1/4 tsp (1 ml) table salt Water as needed

*The traditional Italian pasta dough recipe is 1 egg per etto (100g) of flour. This recipe does not necessarily require the use of water. Some even add a tablespoon of olive oil, which in turn will give more elasticity to the dough and make it less sticky. This general rule of thumb might vary depending on the size of the eggs and the flour used (durum wheat flour is considered the best).

Tools • Traditional pasta roller machine • Pasta rack or clean broom stick

Instructions Mound the flour on your work surface (marble or granite is best) and make a well in the centre. Add the eggs, salt and ½ cup of water into the well and beat the eggs using a fork or your fingers. Gradually incorporate the flour into the egg mixture from inside the inner edge of the rim, expanding the well and making sure it retains its shape until the dough starts to form.

A Guide to Homemade Pasta Recipes by Chef Franca Mazza

Photography by Michel Ostaszewski

Agnolotti, bucatini, cannelloni, cavatelli, farfalle, fettuccine, linguine, manicotti, pappardelle, rigatoni, spaghetti, tubetti, vermicelli, ziti, are only a fraction of the diverse pastas that characterize the Italian culinary genius. There are over 450 pasta shapes in Italy and practically as many types of sauce. Pasta is available in two forms: lunga (long) and corta (short). Pasta corta can also be divided into two subcategories: liscia (smooth) and rigata (furrowed), which is able to hold more sauce. Despite some variations, the dough just about always remains the same and it is cut depending on the desired effect of the finished product. But remember, pasta should always be eaten al dente, literally meaning “to the tooth,” which not only makes it tastier, but easier to digest.

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Once the dough starts coming together, start kneading for about 6 minutes, using the palms of your hands, until you obtain a soft, elastic texture. Roll into a ball, discarding any bits of dough left on the work surface.

Divide into three pieces to make handling easier. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature. Roll or shape as desired.

Shaping pasta On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the pieces of dough into a 5-inch (12 cm) long strip. Knead the dough through the pasta machine at the widest setting three to four times, or until edges form a smooth line, folding the dough in half and lightly flouring it after each pass through the machine (dough may crumble slightly at first but will hold together after two to three rollings).

Set machine to next narrowest setting; run dough through once without folding the strip. Continue running the dough through rollers until next-to-finest setting is reached, cutting the dough in half if it is too long. Lightly flour dough and run through the finest setting. Repeat with remaining dough. Let dough stand 5 to 10 minutes until slightly dry, using a pasta rack or a broomstick balanced between two chairs (if dough dries, remove from rack and pat with damp cloth).

Attach desired shape and size of pasta roller (fettuccine, linguine, etc.) to your pasta maker. Cut pasta into lengths of up to 10 inches (25 cm) and feed dough through, catching finished pasta with your free hand as it emerges. Repeat kneading and rolling with reserved dough pieces.

Lightly flour pasta strips to prevent them from clumping or sticking to each other and let rest 5 to 10 minutes until dry, using a pasta rack or a broomstick balanced between two chairs.

Boil pasta for about 5 to 10 minutes until al dente and serve with your preferred type of sauce.

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FOOD

Squid Ink Fettuccine with Cream and Shiitake Mushrooms Squid ink fettuccine Ingredients (makes 4 servings) • 2 cups flour • 1 cup water • 3 tsp (15 ml) squid ink

Instructions When dough is still a bit clumpy, add one teaspoon of squid ink to the mix. Add another two teaspoons during the kneading process, sprinkling the dough with flour if needed to help the ink combine thoroughly.

Make sure you knead it longer than usual to ensure the squid ink is uniformly incorporated into the dough and to prevent getting a two-coloured pasta.

Add dough to pasta roller machine and start rolling it into sheets. The end result should be uniformly black.

Then pass pasta through the roller’s fettuccine cutter.

Cream and Shiitake mushroom sauce Ingredients (makes 4 servings) • ½ diced onion • 12 oz. (350 g) rehydrated Shiitake mushrooms • 1/4 lb (115 g) salted butter • 500 ml 35% cooking cream • Salt & ground pepper to taste • 500 g black fettuccine

Instructions Start boiling pasta. In a pan, sauté diced onions at high heat. Incorporate mushrooms and butter to the mix. When butter is half melted, pour in the cream and add salt to taste. Cook at medium heat for another five minutes until mixture comes to a boil, giving colour and thickness to the cream. As soon as the fettuccine are ready, transfer them to the pan and coat pasta with the sauce.

Linguine Con le Vongole (clams) Ingredients (makes 4 servings) • 1 garlic clove • 1/2 diced onion • 1 pound clams, scrubbed • 3 tbs. olive oil • 1/2 cup dry white wine or water • 6 orange tomatoes, roughly chopped • Salt to taste • 1 tsp. fresh flat-leaf parsley or basil, coarsely chopped • Handful of breadcrumbs • 500 g fresh linguine

Instructions Start boiling pasta. In a pan, saute garlic glove and diced onions at high heat. Add water or white wine and reduce to 3/4. Add clams and cook at medium heat.

Add in tomatoes and let simmer for another five minutes until all clams open. As soon as the linguine are ready, transfer to the pan coating pasta with sauce.

Season to taste and cover with breadcrumbs. Finally, top with fresh flat-leaf parsley or basil.

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LIVING ITALIAN STYLE

Go to panoramitalia.com and click on “Living Italian Style” to submit your profile!

Mark Rocco Palmieri Nickname: Marcuccio Occupation: Sales & Leasing Consultant at Lexus Of Oakville Age: 25 Generation: Second Mom and dad from: Foggia, Puglia Speaks: English and some Italian Raised in: Mississauga Clothes: Banana Republic cardigan and jacket, Roots dress shirt, Parasuco jeans, Zara shoes, Gucci belt.

Designer: Lacoste Fashion idol: George Clooney Goal in life: To always do my best and do the right thing.

Thing about you that would surprise most people: I love salsa dancing . . . even though I’m not that good at it.

Pet peeve: When people eat with their mouths open.

Favourite dish: Nonna’s homemade orecchiette pasta Best pizza in Toronto: Pizza Rustica Best caffè in Toronto: La Paloma Best panino in Toronto: Di Savino’s Panini Bar Favourite aperitivo or vino: Campari 36

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Best nightclub in Toronto: Muzik You know you are Italian when or if: Your nonno has a fig tree and the biggest zucchini in his garden.

Last time you went to Italy: 2006 Musical preference: Swedish House Mafia Best Italian song: Ti Amo

by Umberto Tozzi Italian soccer team: Juventus Sexiest Italian: Monica Bellucci Best way to feel Italian in Toronto: Going to the Taste of little Italy street festival.

Most common name in your family: Gina (3) Best memory growing up Italian-Canadian: Helping nonna make taralli.

Stephanie Mancini Nickname: Mancini, Mancheesie Occupation: Art Director/Graphic Designer Age: 24 Generation: Second Dad from: Pescara, Abruzzo Mom from: Mexico City Speaks: English, Spanish and Italian Raised in: Toronto Clothes: Aritzia jacket, Club Monaco tank top, American Eagle skirt, Moschino belt, Brash shoes, Little Burgundy accessories.

Boutique: Aritzia, Zara and H&M Fashion idol: Stacy London Passion: Travelling, design, photography and fitness.

Goal in life: To live a fun and adventurous life. I want my memories to be great stories someday!

Thing about you that would surprise most people: There are no words to describe my hatred for soup.

Favourite dish: Papa’s lasagna Best pizza in Toronto: Marcello’s Best caffè in Toronto: Novecento Best panino in Toronto: Tre Mari Bakery

Favourite vino: Pinot Grigio Best nightclub in Toronto: UNIUN Nightclub Italian saying or quote: “Mangia bene, ridi spesso, ama molto.”

You know you are Italian when: You wake up on Sunday morning to the scent of sugo and to your dad yelling at the partita or Ferrari race.

Last time you went to Italy: 2011 Favourite Italian city: Florence Musical preference: House music primarily, but I can’t forget Frank Ocean, The Weekend and Beyonce.

How long have you been reading Panoram? About three years Most common name in your family: Salvatore (4) Best memory growing up Italian-Canadian: Making pizza with my Zia on Sunday nights.

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LIVING ITALIAN STYLE Photography by Gregory Varano Makeup by Desi Varano

Mark Anthony De Luca

Bianca Sofia Carelli

Nickname: De Lucz Occupation: Student at U of T - St. Michael’s College, Bachelor of Arts & Science, Honours in Political Science and History Age: 21 Generation: Third Nonni from: Frosinone, Lazio Speaks: English, some Italian and Spanish Raised in: Newmarket

Nickname: Serephina, Baby B Occupation: Student at Western University - Medical Sciences, Miss Teen Ontario World 2013 Age: 18 Generation: Third Dad’s side from: Cosenza, Calabria Mom’s side from: Pakistan and Finland Speaks: English, French and Italian Raised in: Mississauga and Toronto

Clothes: Forever 21 blazer, Ralph Lauren dress shirt, American Eagle belt, Banana Republic pants, Sperry Top Siders.

Fashion idol: Marcello Mastroianni, James Bond, Don Draper Goal in life: To complete my university education and ultimately fulfill a career in the public sector through municipal/provincial politics here in Toronto, or abroad as a Canadian ambassador in Italy.

Favourite dish: Spaghetti alla carbonara Best pizza in Toronto: Camarra Pizzeria and my dad’s Best panino in Toronto: Nino D’Aversa Bakery Italian saying or quote: “Cent’anni!”

You know you are Italian when or if: You skipped class to go

watch Italy play in the World Cup and always covered it up with some “fantastic” excuse (even though your teachers already knew what you were really up to).

Most common name in your family: Antonio (5+) Last time you went to Italy: August 2009 Best Italian song: Giulia by DJ Lhasa Sexiest Italian: Raffaella Fico Best Italian district in Toronto: St. Clair Avenue West What you like most about Panoram: The close connection with GTA residents in emphasizing the importance of retaining ItalianCanadian culture here in Toronto and abroad.

Clothes: Gina Tricot dress, Pegabo black vintage heels, H&M blazer.

Boutique: Tribal Rhythm Fashion idol: The Kardashians Passion: I live to perform, eat, and philosophize about the mysteries of the world.

Goal in life: To create my own fashion line and also become a brain surgeon.

Favourite restaurant: Vivoli Best pizza in Toronto: Pizza Libretto Best caffè in Toronto: The Sovereign Espresso Bar Best panino in Toronto: Made by my nonno using his homemade prosciutto!

Favourite aperitivo: Crodino You know you are Italian when or if: You’ve enjoyed your nonno’s sugo with peperoncino from a very young age.

Last time you went to Italy: 2010 Favourite Italian city: Rome Best Italian song: Per dirti ciao

by Tiziano Ferro Italian soccer team: Inter Milan Sexiest Italian: Riccardo Scamarcio Best way to feel Italian in Toronto: Going for a gelato on College Street with my family.

Most common name in your family: Antonio (3) Best memory growing up Italian-Canadian: Christmas Eve fish dinner!

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FASHION

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A Modern Renaissance

By Alessia Sara Domanico

In honour of this Florence-themed issue, we take a look at the fashion of the city’s most iconic era and the revival of these past trends.

Visitors who wander through the many twists and turns of Florence’s enchanting stone streets can’t help but get swept up in thoughts of the city’s past with its frescoed buildings, regal hilltop gardens, rustic and opulent churches and outdoor statues depicting the great men of the past and the women they adored.

he Renaissance was a glorious moment for Florence where it was an epicenter of art and culture in all its forms. The encouragement from patrons for the creation of abundant beauty led to the greatest masterpieces of our time and the garments of the day were among these.

Clothing said a lot about the social standing of a person in the Italian Renaissance.

It drew a fine line between aristocrats, bourgeoisie, merchants and working classes. The affluent wore expensive fabrics such as velvet, satin and cotton, which was a prized commodity at the time as it was imported from places as far as India. The lower classes wore materials that could easily be spun, such as flannel and wool Even tweed was considered a poor fabric, a far cry from the high price tag of a Chanel jacket today.

The rise of the intellectual and an emphasis on the study of Humanities saw an influence in more simple and airy cuts. Women started wearing gowns that were cut above their ankles, making it easier for them to walk around the city. For balls and social functions, women donned finely decorated and embroidered gowns. Men often braided their long hair, wore fine shirts tucked into trousers and topped it off with a vest and paired boots.

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Especially in the summer season, today’s designers will take cues from the luxe-with-less approach of the Renaissance, by shaping light and uncomplicated pieces with high quality materials typical of the Renaissance. At Givenchy, Italian designer Riccardo Tisci examined the act of First Communion in his men’s collection using the iconography of the Madonna and child on men’s shirts to give a sense of the period. Vivienne Westwood also added fine art graphic elements to her menswear line, placing laurels on their heads for the runway show. Ermenegildo Zegna proposed long silk jackets and leather bags that pay homage to the fine tradition of Italian leather craftsmanship, while Louis Vuitton embraced the many bags and looks of the travelling man.

Airy feminine gowns and embellished jewels are also Renaissance-inspired musts for the season. Raf Simons added floral and tulle decorations to the romantic gowns of his Haute Couture collection for Dior. Brands such as Giorgio Armani, Victoria Beckham and Escada used royal shades such as dark blue and sheer satin fabrics for tight bodices that fan out into wide skirts, evoking a fuss-free princess appeal.

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FASHION

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Legend

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1. Dior 2. Escada 3. Cruciani C 4. Escada 5. Ermenegildo Zegna 6. Dior 7. Louis Vuitton 8. Burberry 9. Vivienne Westwood 10. Vivienne Westwood 11. Vivienne Westwood 12. Salvatore Ferragamo 13. Dior 14. Givenchy 15. Givenchy 16. Ermenegildo Zegna 17. Vivienne Westwood 18. Piaget 19. Dior 20. Dior 21. Giorgio Armani

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FIRENZE

Piazza Santa Croce, Firenze

Giuseppe Continiello

Firenze Santa Maria Novella: Fior all’occhiello del Rinascimento Santa Maria Novella: Flagship City of the Renaissance

«Gente che va giurandoti un ritorno perché a Firenze, sulla mia parola, non vedi niente in una volta sola» canta il toscano Enzo Ghinazzi, in arte Pupo, per raccontare il suo amore per il capoluogo toscano. Firenze, la meravigliosa città che il mondo intero ci invidia, di ritorni ne merita, eccome! ungo le sue vie, nelle sue piazze, all'interno dei suoi palazzi, nel Quattrocento prese vita uno straordinario fenomeno destinato a imprimere una svolta decisiva nell'arte e nella cultura: il Rinascimento. Con esso, il senso del bello pervase l'intera città.

La storia di Firenze è la storia della famiglia de' Medici. Sotto il suo domino la città visse il suo miracolo economico, tanto da diventare una delle città più ricche e potenti del mondo. Lorenzo de' Medici, detto il Magnifico, eccellente banchiere, politico raffinatissimo e poeta lui stesso, fu generoso mecenate di tanti artisti e intellettuali che fecero di Firenze il fulcro della vita culturale del suo tempo.

A Firenze, «museo a cielo aperto», non si contano le meraviglie frutto dell'ingegno dell'uomo. Proviamo a raccontarne solo alcune: La cupola del Duomo, Santa Maria del Fiore, realizzata da Brunelleschi con l'intento di stupire il visitatore tanto da dargli l'impressione di essere giunto in una città straordinaria. La cupola, la più grande in muratura mai costruita, ottagonale, di 46 metri di diametro, alta 91 metri di altezza che diventano 114 se si calcola anche la lanterna, è doppia perchè autoportante, composta, com'è, da due calotte sovrapposte e separate da un'intercapedine; Il Ponte Vecchio, luogo di passaggio obbligato e, pertanto, di commerci.

I macellai vi costruirono le prime botteghe per poter sfruttare la vicinanza dell'acqua per pulire gli utensili e i banchi e per gettare nell'Arno le interiora degli animali. Solo in seguito si installarono gli orefici, che costruirono i tipici retrobottega all'esterno del ponte; La Galleria degli Uffizi dove sono allineate opere di inestimabile valore che rappresentano il momento più alto della pittura di tutti i tempi, quella italiana tra il Quattrocento e il Cinquecento, che annovera i nomi di: Masaccio, Leonardo da Vinci, Beato Angelico, Botticelli, Ghirlandaio e così via; La Biblioteca Laurenziana, progettata da Michelangelo, con la sua scalita che porta, non solo idealmente, dal buio alla luce della conoscenza. La sua sala principale è immensa, lunga 46 metri e larga 10, tanto da farne una cattedrale del sapere; Per concludere con Palazzo Vecchio, centro del potere della Signoria e, ancora oggi, cuore pulsante di una città museo.

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«Gente che va giurandoti un ritorno perché a Firenze, sulla mia parola, non vedi niente in una volta sola» (People leave you promising to return, because in Florence, take my word for it, you don’t see much in only one visit), sings the Tuscan singer Enzo Ghinazzi, aka Pupo, to tell about his love for the Tuscan capital. Florence, the wonderful city that is the envy of the world, deserves many returns, for sure! long Florence’s streets and squares and within its palaces, arose in the fifteenth century an extraordinary phenomenon, marking a turning point for arts and culture: the Renaissance. Thus, the sense of beauty permeated the entire city.

The history of Florence is also the history of the Medici family. Under their hegemony, the city lived an economic miracle, becoming one of the richest and most powerful cities in the world. Lorenzo de’ Medici, known as the Magnificent, was an outstanding banker, a sophisticated politician and a poet himself; he was a generous patron for many artists and intellectuals who made Florence the centre of the cultural life of his time.

In Florence, an “open air museum,” one can’t count all the wonders created by man’s mind. Let’s try to describe a few.

The cupola of the Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore was engineered by Brunelleschi with the intent to astonish visitors by giving the impression of having arrived in an amazing city. The octagonal cupola, the largest brick dome ever built with its 46 meters in diameter and 91 meters in height, which measures 114 meters if we also include the lantern, is a double self-sustaining structure made of two shells placed one on top of the other with a hollow space in between.

The Ponte Vecchio was an inevitable thoroughfare for merchants. Butchers built the first shops and took advantage of their proximity to water to clean utensils and tables and throw animal entrails in the Arno River. Later on, goldsmiths took their place and built the typical back shops on the outside of the bridge.

The Uffizi Gallery shows a collection of invaluable artworks that represent the peak moment in painting of all time, the Italian paintings between the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, by artists such as Masaccio, Leonardo da Vinci, Beato Angelico, Botticelli, and Ghirlandaio.

The Laurentian Library was designed by Michelangelo with a staircase leading up – not only figuratively but literally – from darkness to the light of knowledge. The main hall is huge, 46 meters long and 10 meters wide, so as to make it a cathedral of knowledge.

And finally, Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of power of the Signoria was, and still is today, the beating heart of a city museum.

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FIRENZE

Bernardo Bellotto The Piazza della Signoria in Florence C. 1742

Giuseppe Continiello

Storica Firenze

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Nei secoli, quella che fu una colonia romana di secondaria importanza è diventata libero Comune, sede del Granducato e capitale del Regno d'Italia. Nel 50 a.C., la Florentia dei Romani, l'attuale centro della città, fu pensata alla confluenza di due fiumi, l'Arno e il Mugnone, secondo lo schema a pianta quadrata del castrum, l'accampamento militare chiuso dalla cinta fortificata.

el XII secolo, la città si sviluppò come libero comune i cui traffici di lana e di tessuti, favoriti da un complesso e modernissimo sistema bancario, ne permisero una straordinaria crescita. I panni semilavorati provenienti dalle Fiandre e dalla Francia venivano tinti dai Fiorentini che li rendevano tanto preziosi e ricercati da essere rivenduti all'estero con notevoli guadagni.

Divenuta economicamente forte, come attesta nel 1252 l'immissione del fiorino d'oro nel mercato finanziario internazionale (l'antica moneta che portava impresso il giglio, emblema della città, e la figura di San Giovanni Battista), Firenze fu in costante crescita fino alla metà del Trecento. Il periodo comunale fu caratterizzato, anche, dalle durissime lotte civili tra le opposte fazioni dei guelfi, sostenitori della supremazia del papato contro gli interessi imperiali, e dei ghibellini, avversari della politica temporale della Chiesa.

I dissidi sul piano politico si riflettevano anche su quello sociale che vide lo scontro tra il gruppo delle arti maggiori, rappresentato da mercanti e banchieri, e quello delle arti minori, che faceva gli interessi dei piccoli artigiani. Le grandi famiglie di mercanti e di banchieri (i Medici, gli Strozzi, i Pazzi, i Rucellai e così via), fra le quali una si distinse per prestigio e mecenatismo, la potente famiglia de' Medici, fecero più grande Firenze.

A due Medici in particolare, Lorenzo il Magnifico (1449-'92) e Cosimo I il Grande (1519-'74), va il merito di aver fatto della città uno dei centri artistici e culturali più importanti d'Europa. Essi furono capaci di ripensare la città. Con loro, infatti, Firenze passò dall'età comunale a quella della signoria e si aprì, definitivamente, agli scambi e alle idee originali, i principali elementi di una ricchezza solida e duratura.

Lorenzo le assicurò la stabilità politica, in forza dell'alleanza con Milano e Napoli.

Grazie a Cosimo I, dal 1569 granduca di Toscana, Firenze, che nel frattempo aveva esteso le sue conquiste territoriali, divenne da città-stato a Stato regionale e assoluto, e la

sua storia cominciò a identificarsi con quella dell'intera Toscana.

Nel 1737 ai Medici si sostituirono gli Asburgo-Lorena. Lungimiranti e avveduti, a loro si deve un'intensa stagione di riforme economiche e amministrative fino al 1860 quando la Toscana fu annessa, con un plebiscito, al Regno d'Italia, del quale Firenze, dal 1865 al 1871, fu la capitale. Da Torino, la Corte e il Governo si trasferirono in alcuni dei palazzi più belli della città, come Palazzo Pitti e Palazzo Vecchio, rispettivamente dimora dei Savoia e sede del Parlamento.

Palazzo Pitti fu edificato nel 1458 da Filippo Brunelleschi, secondo quanto riferisce Giorgio Vasari (autore, nel 1550, delle Vite dei più eccellenti architetti pittori et scultori italiani da Cimabue insino a' tempi nostri; la prima opera moderna di storiografia artistica). Il suo committente, il banchiere Luca Pitti, volle che il palazzo di famiglia fosse il più bello di tutti e per questo chiamò l'architetto che dai suoi stessi contemporanei era riconosciuto come tra i fondatori del Rinascimento.

Nello splendido Salone dei Cinquecento di Palazzo Vecchio si riuniva, invece, la Camera dei deputati, mentre il Senato ebbe sede nel Teatro Mediceo edificato all'interno dei contigui Uffizi (celebre palazzo che ospita, con l'annesso Gabinetto dei disegni e delle stampe, la Galleria; tra le più importanti raccolte mondiali di opere d'arte).

Segnata dalle importanti trasformazioni politiche, sociali ed economiche del Novecento, la sorte della città, è sempre stata legata a quella del resto del Paese e no.

Degno di nota ciò che accadde il 4 novembre del 1966 quando l'inondazione dell'Arno provocò danni incalcolabili al patrimonio storico e artistico della città suscitando un vasto moto di solidarietà non solo nazionale ma anche internazionale, a dimostrazione del fatto che Firenze, luogo di tesori infinitamente preziosi, appartiene all'umanità.

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FIRENZE

Florence & the Chianti Countryside

By Francesca Spizzirri

The best vacation pairing!

Driving along ancient roads that wind among rolling hills, past sloping vineyards and twisted olive trees, you arrive at one of Italy’s most enchanting cities: Florence – a paradise of food and wine, art and fashion, set in the Tuscan hills.

T

here are many alluring reasons to visit Florence. For some it’s to shop and marvel at Renaissance treasures, while for others it’s to sip Chianti in the charming countryside. Lucky for travelers, in less than a half hour you can leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind for some quiet calm in the Tuscan countryside for a perfect holiday that incorporates the best of both worlds.

Florence is a poetic feast for the eyes, a romantic “outdoor museum” that magnificently showcases the most iconic architectural and artistic monuments of post-medieval times. It is the birthplace of Renaissance art, modern poetry, and home to Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Primavera. Strolling the streets of this città d’arte is an intoxicatingly pleasurable experience, but if time is of the essence, here’s a list of must-see attractions: the Duomo and its Baptistery; the Uffizi Gallery (don’t miss the Botticelli room); the Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti (be sure to venture into the mid-16th century Boboli Gardens behind the Pitti Palace. They are filled with lavish statuary, fountains and exquisite sceneries); the Piazzas della Signoria and della Repubblica; the glittering Arno River from the Ponte Vecchio; and panoramic views of the city and famed Duomo top from Piazzale Michelangelo. The Basilica di Santa Croce is also worth the visit (it is the burial place of some of the most illustrious Italians, such as Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, Foscolo, Gentile and Rossini). Travelers can check out various on-site tours of these sites to get the most out of the experience.

Florence is also home to world-class designers Gucci, Roberto Cavalli and Salvatore Ferragamo. Be sure to go shopping on Via Tornabuoni, Via Calimala and Via Calzaiuoli (also the setting for the city’s evening passeggiata); explore the leather stalls of the San Lorenzo market; and visit the city’s biggest open market – Mercato delle Cascine. In the Piazza della Signoria you can even visit the Gucci Museum.

After a few days of taking in the magical city views it’s time to head out into the Chianti countryside to unwind, indulge in superb Tuscan food, visit some of the region’s most prestigious wineries, and perhaps treat yourself to a pampering spa treatment.

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Many old farm houses and villas have been redesigned into beautiful hotels with infinity pools overlooking the enchanting Tuscan countryside. They provide the perfect setting to relax and they’re also a great place from where you can explore the surrounding villages and vineyards.

Eating in Tuscany is a delicious, earthy experience. Food is prepared simply using fresh ingredients. Specialities include crostini toscani (Tuscan chicken liver pâté), the bistecca alla fiorentina (Tuscan steak), pappa al pomodoro (tomato- based bread-and-olive-oil-bolstered soup), ribollita (hearty soup that combines a white bean puree with a blend of vegetables), and castagnaccio (chestnut cake). Of course no meal would be complete without tasting the region’s famed extra virgin olive oil, cheese and wine!

With hundreds of wines to taste in the Chianti region, the list of wines and vineyards is endless. Standout vini include Chianti, Vernaccia di San Gimignano and the Super Tuscans. Some prestigious wines are Tignanello and Sassicaia, Brunello di Montalcino and Nobile di Montepulciano. With few variations on the fermenting processes in this region you’re better off selecting two or three vineyards for a full tour. Some recommended wineries are Castello di Verrazzano, Casa Emma, Barone Ricasoli Brolio Castle, Castello di Vicchiomaggio, and Panzanello. For the remaining tasting, make your way to an Enoteca and partake in a degustazione of wine, cheese, salame, grappa, olive oil and other Tuscan specialties. (Tip: It’s always a good idea to contact the vineyard ahead of time to book an appointment or find out their hours of operation. After all, things operate differently in Italy.)

Tuscany is a region that ignites the senses and leaves you feeling inspired and renewed. A place where time produces things of value and perhaps it is in this same philosophy that visitors are able to immerse themselves in the Tuscan way of life and take time to enjoy life’s true pleasures: art, poetry, food, wine and glorious landscapes.

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Since 1953 we have delivered fresh baked Italian artisan bread. Our Commitment is quality, tradition, passion and the finest ingredients.

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Where to stay • Casa Howard Florence is an elegant mansion offering great service at affordable prices. Plus, it’s located close to Santa Maria Novella train station and Florence’s Renaissance glories.

• Owned by Florence’s first family of fashion, the Ferragamos, Hotel Lungarno offers unbeatable views over the Arno river and the magical city of Florence.

• Proudly nestled on the hillside of Fiesole, the 15th century luxurious Hotel il Salviatino offers inspirational views of Florence and the rolling Tuscan landscape.

• Castello del Nero Boutique Hotel and Spa is a luxurious sanctuary set in the heart of Chianti wine region. This wonderful setting is so enchanting you may never leave.

• Enjoy Chianti’s renowned wine, wonderful landscape and culture from the comfort of Villa le Barone, an ancient manor house in an oasis of serenity.

Where to eat In Florence • What could top dining alfresco with magnificent views of the city’s iconic Ponte Vecchio and Arno River? Nothing! So make sure to pre-book a table at Borgo San Jacopo where simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

• Osteria Del Caffè Italiano is located in a 13th century palazzo and serves up local classics. The restaurant has one of the most extensive and carefully composed wine lists in Florence, so make sure to try great wines not available at home.

• When the daily menu has been the same for a century and the trattoria walls proudly display its legendary guests, you know you’ve stumbled upon a gem: welcome to Sostanza! Note: Many locals still refer to it by its former name Troia.

• Cantinetta Antinori is located in the Antinori mansion in the historic center of the city. Food is prepared using many ingredients which come from the Antinoris’ estates. Enjoy a glass of the rarest, most expensive vintages from the Tuscan estates where the Antinoris have been making wine since the 14th century.

• Coco Lezzone (Florentine for "dirty apron") is a tiny trattoria serving up authentic Florentine food for over 60 years. So good, it’s a favourite spot for the city’s soccer team.

Surroundings The Chianti countryside is located in the rolling hills between Florence and Siena.

Important locations for wine production and tasting are Bagno a Ripoli, Castellina in Chianti, Greve in Chianti, Impruneta, Radda in Chianti and towards Siena: Colle Val d'Elsa, Monteroni d’Arbia, Murlo, Rapolano Terme and Sovicille.

Getting to Florence There are daily flights into Florence’s Vespucci airport from most Italian and European cities. Florence is also easily accessible by train and bus. If you are comfortable driving in Italy, why not rent a car and drive? The scenery here is breathtaking!

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FIRENZE

From One Side of Ponte Vecchio to the Other

By ValĂŠrie VĂŠzina

Florence, the Tuscan capital at the centre of the Renaissance, is home to one of the largest collections of treasures dating back to the Cinquecento. Here, replicas of the famous statue of David, where the original can be seen in the city's Bargello Museum, adorn various streets and squares, and dazzling sixteenth century Italian palaces decorate the skyline. Suffice it to say, if art or architecture fail to inspire you, Florence might not be the place for you.

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FIRENZE The Lungarno area Even the most insatiable art lover will feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of Madonna and Child depictions to admire in this city of museums! Where to start? A good place might be the city's largest museum, known as the Uffizi or Offices Gallery (reservations recommended). On its historic walls hang such works as Spring by Botticelli, Annunciation by Leonardo da Vinci, and the classic renderings of Saint John the Baptist and the infant Christ in Michelangelo's The Holy Family.

Lesser known is the History of Science Museum. With artifacts ranging from scalpels to astronomical instruments (some of which are still in use today), young and old are sure to be enchanted.

Need to clear your mind in between two museums stops? A walk through Piazza della Signoria might just do the trick. Located in the centre of Florence, this famous square is bordered by the Palazzo Vecchio whose fortified tower serves as a geographical landmark throughout the city.

The Duomo and the Battistero Any sampling of Florence's charms requires a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (known colloquially as the Duomo) and the adjacent Baptistery of Saint John.

A bar near the Baptistery offers visitors access to a balcony perched a mere stone's throw from the famous octagonal building. The view is most magical at dusk when warm sunlight glistens off the inlays of green marble from Prato and catches the complex's richly decorated bronze portals. Among the latter, the Gates of Paradise, so-named by Michelangelo, are a golden masterpiece weighing eight tons and depicting 10 scenes from the Old Testament. The originals, reputed to have taken artist Lorenzo Ghiberti nearly 30 years to complete, are kept in the museum of the Cathedral of Florence, where they have been undergoing restoration for decades.

The cathedral itself epitomizes the grandeur and genius of the Florentines, mostly notably because of its iconic dome. Truly a technical feat, it was conceived by the famous goldsmith and sculptor Filippo Brunelleschi who drew architectural inspiration for its design from ancient Roman monuments like the Pantheon. As for the cathedral's interior, it is nothing short of awe inspiring.

Fontana del Nettuno, Piazza della Signoria

Santa Croce district Michelangelo lived in Santa Croce, a charming neighbourhood much less crowded than the area around the Duomo. The remains of the famous artist and those of Galileo and Machiavelli still rest in the church of Santa Croce today. The abbey's main doors, made of large blocks of carved wood, are another sight to behold. And, don't be surprised if you see clusters of easels and students busily drafting in the church’s forecourt; a school of fine arts is located nearby!

For a unique dining experience head to Teatro del Sale. Its Ristorante, Caffe and Trattoria Cibreo all belong to the exuberant chef Fabio Picchi. Try to imagine a scene with Martin Picard of Au Pied de Cochon cooking for 70 guests gathered in a theatre not unlike Montreal's Rialto, and then, after dinner, being treated to a performance from a promising young artist. Not bad for $50, considering all-you-can-eat food and wine are included in the price.

Shopping and the lovely Oltrarno quarter Moving toward Oltrarno, one crosses the famous Ponte Vecchio where jewellers and goldsmiths have been doing business since the Renaissance. Inaccessible to motor vehicles, it is the oldest shopping mall in the city.

With its many masterpieces, the Palatine Gallery in Florence's Palazzo Pitti is a must. In the Iliad Room, one of the palace's most luxurious, the exhibition walls are almost entirely covered by sumptuous paintings.

The neighbouring Boboli Gardens stand out as a real oasis in the heart of Florence. Offering a remarkable view of the city and its surroundings, as well as a fine collection of Roman and Florentine sculptures from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, they are also worth seeing.

The Palazzo was originally home to the Medici before later becoming a seat of power for the Grand Dukes of Habsburg-Lorraine and Savoy. Its old royal apartments are open to visitors, as is a majestic throne room that seems straight out of a movie. For history lovers, several collections of costumes and antiques (silverware, carriages, porcelain) are also on display.

Within the Oltrarno, just steps from Palazzo Pitti, lies the Piazza San Spirito. The square is a bit quieter than the area around the Duomo and is bordered by the church of San Spirito whose facade, designed in 1440 by Brunelleschi, remains incomplete to this day. All in all, a charming spot to eat or to have a quick drink.

San Lorenzo market, located near the railway station, is perfect for a bit of shopping before leaving the city. Its numerous kiosks carry various items, including leather goods and beautiful belts. And, in the covered part of the market, one can easily sample a variety of fresh foods or grab a bite to go.

Duomo and Baptistery

Useful links www.uffizi.com www.firenzeturismo.it/en/ Visit panoramitalia.com/travel for more.

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FIRENZE

Tasting Florence 10 Florentine foods that you won't want to miss

By Julie AubĂŠ

Having grown out of humble origins, Florentine cuisine has always relied on fresh food from the surrounding countryside. Basic and rustic ingredients come together to make simple, tasty recipes. Here is a list of 10 dishes you'll want to try during your next visit to beautiful Florence, Tuscany.

1. Popular antipasti Florentine meals usually begin with antipasti, which may include bruschetta or crostini served with an assortment of toppings. A common Florentine antipasto is crostini di fegato, which consists of croutons covered in a liver spread (veal, chicken, goose, duck...) mixed with chopped anchovies, onions and capers for flavour.

2. Ubiquitous bread Bread is very important in the Florentine and Tuscan diet. Featured prominently in sandwiches and antipasti, it also appears in soups and salads. Tuscan bread (called pane sciocco, meaning bland bread) is traditionally cooked in a wood oven. It can be recognized by its distinctive thick crust and its absence of salt. The original recipe dates back to the Middle Ages when a feud between Florence and Pisa cut off the supply of salt to the city of the Medici. Another story, also dating back to medieval times, claims that salt once became so heavily taxed that it could no longer be afforded by common folk, who simply stopped using it to make bread.

3. Ribollita & pappa al pomodoro In Tuscany, even dry bread is appreciated. One finds it in many of the region's hearty soup recipes. One such Florentine specialty, ribollita (literally meaning reboiled), is made from a local variety of black cabbage, beans (often cannellini), tomatoes and/or other vegetables, as well as stale, reboiled (hence the name) bread. Another traditional Tuscan soup, called pappa al pomodoro, combines tomatoes, basil, garlic, as well as stale bread and olive oil to great effect.

4. Panzanella Feel more like salad than soup? Florentine cuisine has something nice to offer... again with bread! Panzanella, consisting of diced tomato, slightly stale bread cubes, onion, basil, olive oil and vinegar, is basically the "salad" version of pappa al pomodoro.

Simply delicious!

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5. Bistecca alla fiorentina For your secondi piatti (main course), treat yourself to the flagship of Florentine cuisine: bistecca alla fiorentina. Carnivores will be charmed by this thick porterhouse cut of beef. Weighing anywhere from two to eight pounds and made from the local Chianina cattle breed, it is served well-roasted on the outside, red and bloody on the inside. These T-bone steaks are cooked on the grill (traditionally, using chestnut embers), with salt, pepper, olive oil and a lemon wedge for taste.

Other Florentine specialties that appeal to carnivores include the stracotto (a kind of beef stew), the arista di maiale (pork roast with rosemary sauce and garlic), and the pollo alla fiorentina (chicken with ricotta, parmesan, spinach and lemon).

Panzanella

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6. Trippa alla fiorentina The Florentines adore tripe dishes, and trippa alla fiorentina is one of the city's classic dishes. It features tripe, sauteed in olive oil, onions, tomatoes and a generous serving of parmesan.

7. Lampredotto The lampredotto is another typical way of serving tripe in Florence. Thinly sliced tripe is cooked in broth and served on a plate or in a sandwich. Lampredotti are typical street food and can easily be purchased from street vendors or in the public markets of central Florence. One tops them off with a choice of sauce, typically red sauce (spicy) or green sauce (herbed), or orders them bagnato (with wet bread with a little gravy).

8. Pappardelle sulla lepre Meat is a staple of Florentine cuisine, but pasta is a mainstay too, which is the case everywhere in Italy. One example is pappardelle sulla lepre. A typical recipe for pappardelle (a long, wide and flat pasta) involves a sauce made from hare, but other meats such as goose or rabbit are regularly used too.

9. Cantuccini If you still have room for something sweet, you might like capping off your hearty meal with some cantuccini (almond biscuits), either dipping them in a glass of vin santo (one of the region's dessert wines) or enjoying them alongside a caffè ristretto.

10. Schiacciata alla fiorentina To satisfy your sweet tooth, you might also try schiacciata alla fiorentina. Best described as a kind of pastry-style sponge cake, covered with vanilla and lemonscented sugar, it is particularly popular during carnival.

Ribollita

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FIRENZE

Firenze, la culla del Rinascimento Fabio Forlano

Capitale dell’arte dal XV secolo, la città custodisce i tesori di grandi maestri come Botticelli, Michelangelo e Brunelleschi Se l’Italia è la patria del Rinascimento, Firenze è la città che più di tutte ne ha incarnato l’essenza. Un laboratorio a cielo aperto dove arte, scienza e letteratura sono rifiorite dopo gli anni bui del Medioevo. La Renaissance è stata un’esperienza di rottura, concretizzatasi nel ritorno alle origini e nella riscoperta del mondo classico, greco e romano.

Come tutto è iniziato Convenzionalmente, gli storici fanno coincidere la fine del Medioevo con la scoperta dell’America (1492) da parte di Cristoforo Colombo. In realtà il cambiamento nel mondo occidentale era in atto già da qualche decennio, tra la fine dell’Impero bizantino e il divampare della riforma protestante. In tutto questo, Firenze viveva un periodo di lenta crescita, governata dalle famiglie borghesi della città. Le uniche minacce alla pace dei fiorentini arrivavano dalle mire espansionistiche dei Visconti, signori di Milano. La svolta avvenne con la presa del potere da parte della famiglia de’ Medici. Prima Cosimo e poi Lorenzo, detto il Magnifico, garantirono un periodo di pace e prosperità, finanziando l’opera di artisti e pensatori tra i più grandi della storia.

L’uomo al centro del mondo Il Rinascimento affonda le proprie radici nel superamento dell’ideologia medievale. Al centro di ogni discorso venne posto l’uomo, soggetto capace di autodeterminarsi e dominare la natura con la propria volontà. La ricerca del piacere e della felicità non sembravano più essere un peccato. Così come il confronto e l’impegno sociale furono intesi quali percorsi obbligati verso il miglioramento della condizione umana.

Chiese e palazzi L’impronta che il periodo rinascimentale ha lasciato su Firenze si nota soprattutto in ambito architettonico. Una passeggiata tra le chiese e i palazzi più belli della città 48

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mostra chiari i segni dello stile quattrocentesco, quando la riscoperta dell’armonia e delle forme geometriche di stampo romano chiusero definitivamente l’esperienza gotica. Il primo grande architetto del nuovo corso fu Filippo Brunelleschi, che già nella Cupola del Duomo aveva anticipato alcuni elementi del cambiamento.

Tuttavia è con lo Spedale degli Innocenti, e poi con le basiliche di San Lorenzo e Santo Spirito, che il Brunelleschi raggiunse il momento più compiuto dell’architettura rinascimentale fiorentina. Altre testimonianze importanti dell’epoca sono le facciate di Palazzo Ruccellai e di Santa Maria Novella, di Leon Battista Alberti, e Palazzo Medici Riccardi, di Michelozzo.

I grandi mecenate Molta della produzione artistica del ‘400 fiorentino si deve alle commissioni dei grandi mecenate presenti in città: su tutti quelli della famiglia de’ Medici. Quando Cosimo tornò dall’esilio nel 1434 manifestò subito un gusto spiccato per il raffinato: per lui Donatello realizzò il David, sua opera più celebre che oggi è conservata nel Museo Nazionale del Bargello.

La stessa propensione ha accompagnato il governo di Piero e Lorenzo de’ Medici. Negli anni ‘70 del XV secolo in città si contavano decine di botteghe e laboratori. E Lorenzo, come a voler ripercorrere il mito di Atene, cercò di diffondere l’arte fiorentina in tutta Italia inviando i suoi migliori artisti nelle corti più ricche della Penisola. Il pittore simbolo del periodo laurenziano è Sandro Botticelli, capace di rendere gli ideali classici di armonia e bellezza in capolavori come la Primavera e la Nascita della Venere, entrambi custoditi presso la Galleria degli Uffizi.

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FIRENZE L’età dei geni Dopo la caduta dei Medici e la travagliata esperienza di Girolamo Savonarola, Firenze tornò alla calma sotto il gonfalonierato di Pier Soderini. In quegli anni ripresero le grandi committenze e in città lavorarono, seppur per un breve periodo, tre grandi maestri come Leonardo, Michelangelo e Raffaello.

Al periodo fiorentino di Leonardo da Vinci risale la realizzazione della Gioconda, ritratto di Lisa Gherardini moglie del mercante Francesco del Giocondo.

Sebbene sia l’emblema del Rinascimento italiano, la Monna Lisa non ha mai avuto una collocazione stabile in città, essendo stata portata in Francia dallo stesso Leonardo già nel 1516.

Michelangelo Buonarroti, invece, tornò a Firenze nel 1501, ritrovando il clima dei suoi primi anni toscani. Il segno più evidente del suo secondo periodo fiorentino è senza dubbio il David, l’enorme statua di marmo oggi esposta nella Galleria dell’Accademia. Dal 1910, per ricordare la collocazione originaria dell’opera, in piazza della Signoria campeggia una copia del David, che riproduce fedelmente i lineamenti perfetti scolpiti dal Buonarroti.

Ultimo e più giovane dei tre geni che hanno servito Firenze all’inizio del XVI secolo fu Raffaello Sanzio. Marchigiano d’origine, Raffaello ha lasciato alla città la magnifica serie delle Madonne tra cui spicca la Madonna del Baldacchino, visitabile presso la Galleria Palatina.

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FIRENZE

A Toast to Botticelli!

The rapture of a glass of Chianti

By Gabriel Riel-Salvatore

Many are keen to note that no visit to Florence is complete without a glass of Chianti.

Taken to go in a plastic cup with a lampredotto sandwich (the epitome of Florentine street food), or enjoyed in a crystal wine glass at the chic Michelin 3-star restaurant Enoteca Pinchiorri, Chianti and gastronomy have always made for a winning combination in the Tuscan capital. Ostensibly produced in Florence's backyard, this famous wine seems to have all but brought on another renaissance in the city's cultural reputation. If you are planning to stay a few days in the city of the Medici, be sure to visit the Chianti Classico region nearby (known for its famous “Gallo Nero� symbol).

Foray into the heart of an authentic Tuscan tradition.

A little history The Etruscan people were the first to occupy Chianti, followed by the Romans. After the decline of the Roman Empire, the area became besieged by constant warfare between the city states of Florence and Siena. The military campaigns that ensued helped shape the country into its current form. Indeed, many forget how the quiet

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splendour of the region's characteristic castles and fortresses actually bore witness to a particularly bellicose period. But today, their silhouettes add to the charm of these peaceful landscapes on which the Sangiovese grape is now king.

Here, surrounded by intertwining olive groves and cypress trees, the grapevines roll unceremoniously over the enchanting curves of this picturesque region, which

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FIRENZE erally cost around twenty Euros, with some costing twice that. A little warning to bargain hunters: it is certainly true that most wines are much cheaper in Italy, but the prices for signature labels tend not to differ substantially from prices found here, that is unless you buy them directly from the winery. Even then, if your designs have you avoiding paying extra duty, you'll only be bringing two bottles back to this side of the Atlantic.

Now for the good news. Wine is usually very affordable in restaurants in Italy.

No need to break the bank to order a fine bottle of wine to complement the Fiorentina steak you’ll be having in one of the region’s finest tables.

For the more fashionable among you, Florence is full of wine bars and Enetoca whose knowledgeable staff will gladly help you make sense of their various offerings.

Still, there's nothing like good company to go along with your glass of wine. For the most part, you can trust Florence to deliver that too. The people sitting next to you might even bear a striking resemblance to characters depicted in the paintings of Raphael or Botticelli. That alone should be reason enough to raise a glass!

Plan your visit in Chianti First, identify which producers you are particularly fond of. Then, focus on one particular area, preferably Chianti Classico. Limit yourself to three producers, or perhaps two.

You do not want to rush the experience of lush vineyards and great wine. Moreover, visiting too many wineries can become overwhelming and redundant after a while. The Consorzio del Vino Chianti Classico website contains a wealth of useful information, including maps and a list of vineyards that offer wine tastings: www.chianticlassico.com Recommended producers: Barone Ricasoli: For a view of Castello di Brolio, its cellars, wine bar and charming holiday accommodations. www.ricasoli.it Marchesi Mazzei: To be in the heart of the beautiful medieval village of Fonterutoli (owned almost entirely by the winery). For their Osteria and the family villa, with its amazing view of the city of Siena. www.mazzei.it many consider among the world's most beautiful. Its abundance of Renaissance towns and villas have surely helped inspire the gold-rush of sorts that has descended upon the region these past years. A nickname, “Chiantishire,” has even been bestowed upon the region, because of the many wealthy Britons and Russians who are taking second homes here.

The territory Halfway between Siena and Florence, the Chianti territory is divided into various wine appellations. As such, a distinction should be pointed out between Chianti Classico and the wines of the seven Colli (hills), which include the so-called ‘common Chianti.’ The Classico territory, being older, has a historical pedigree, owing to its occupation of the region's best lands.

It was here in the mid-nineteenth century that Baron Bettino Ricasoli developed the first version of what is now a world-renowned wine. As for the more humble Chianti Colli, the Montalbano and Rùfina labels stand out as its most worthy emissaries.

Castello di Ama: For its collection of contemporary art displayed within rustic and picturesque scenery, not to mention the beauty of its winery and the passion of its owners. www.castellodiama.com The Miccine: For the thrill of hearing a Quebecois accent. The owners, Jim and Rita Cook, hail from Saint-Bruno in La Belle Province. They made the leap a few years ago, purchasing this property for their retirement. Their daughter Paula Papini Cook is now the vineyard's main winemaker. www.lemiccine.com Places in Florence: Le Volpi e l’Uva Probably the best wine bar in Florence. Cleverly secluded in a small square in the Oltrarno, it is located a stone's throw from Ponte Vecchio. The selection is amazing and unique discoveries are commonplace.

Address: Piazza dei Rossi 1r, 50125 Firenze.

Contact: 00 39 055 2398 132, www.levolpieluva.com Price: Glasses from 5 Euros. Hours: Mon-Sat, 11 am-9 pm.

A wine for every budget We are well past that bygone era when Chianti was cut with white wine willy-nilly and poured from a fiasco (flask used traditionally for Chianti) nestled in a basket of straw. And, though quality surely varies from one area to another, even from one producer to the next, the abundance of offerings nearly guarantees wines for every taste.

While the price of a bottle of Chianti generally provides a faithful indication of the virtues of the wine it contains, the reputation of the producer provides an even greater one. Whereas the retail-friendly Chianti Classico will sell for a few Euros a bottle, the more praised Riservas gen-

Procacci A staple of the elegant Tornabuoni Street, this historic bar is now the property of the Antinori family. Only three small tables sit alongside the marble and mahogany decor, contributing to the unique experience of the house. No doubt that their famous panini Tartufati will make your glass of Chianti all the more enjoyable.

Address: Via Tornabuoni 64R, 50123 Firenze.

Contact: 00 39 055 211 656, www.antinori.it Price: Expect to pay about 14 Euros for a glass of wine and a panino.

Hours: Mon-Sat, 9 am-8 pm.

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ADVERTORIAL

Ristorante Boccaccio Columbus Centre’s fine dining restaurant offers the best of Italian fare Beyond the various services and programs offered by the Columbus Centre, the cultural hub of Toronto’s Italian community, the Centre also boasts a culinary treasure: Ristorante Boccaccio. This fine dining establishment, which is located at Dufferin Street and Lawrence Avenue, has enjoyed a loyal customer base for over 30 years. ood is such an important part of the Italian way of life, and Ristorante Boccaccio strives to remain faithful to traditional recipes. The restaurant’s already varied menu is enhanced with seasonal features, like an asparagus festival in May and a celebration of white truffles in November. Staying true to its Italian roots, the restaurant also offers an exclusively Italian wine list, with an emphasis on affordable wines that can easily be enjoyed with dinner. (According to Italian thought, wine is a natural part of enjoying a meal, and therefore, shouldn’t be intimidating – to choose or imbibe.)

Of course, the restaurant also offers a number of premium selection wines for special occasions.

The culinary leader of this fine dining establishment is Executive Chef Gino Marchetti, renowned for emphasizing fresh ingredients and authentic flavours. Marchetti is classically trained, having studied at the famed Villa Santa Maria in Italy. He brings to Ristorante Boccaccio a wealth of experience gained in Europe and North America, working at fine hotels and restaurants. Chef Marchetti works closely with Joseph Cosentino, Director of Food Services, who has overseen the entire operation of Columbus Event Centre (which manages the restaurant) since 2000. Cosentino has long worked in the food and beverage industry and maintains a fierce commitment to customer satisfaction.

F

Together, Marchetti and Cosentino have created a popular tradition at the restaurant with a series of themed dinners. These six events offer diners a four-hour passport to a specific region of Italy, highlighting the food and traditions of each select location. The theme nights include a set menu of authentic Italian fare, a briefing of the region, as well as live music and prize giveaways. Guests leave feeling as if they have just spent the evening in an Italian piazza: the food is home-cooked, and the mood is friendly and festive, with diners sharing stories and jokes over their food and wine.

Columbus Event Centre offers restaurant dining, banquets, and a café with a tavola calda. (It also provides hot meals to the several hundred children who attend the busy Columbus Centre daycare programs.) The café, replete with patio, offers a wide variety of foods for people looking for a quick but nutritious meal. Emphasizing the Italianitá of the café, an impromptu group of musicians play traditional tunes for appreciative customers on Friday mornings.

All profits of Columbus Event Centre go directly to Villa Charities, an ItalianCanadian non-profit organization that offers numerous culturally sensitive programs and services to the community.

901 Lawrence Ave W, Toronto, ON M6A 1C3 (416) 789-5555 www.boccaccioristorante.com

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GRADUATES

Congratulations to all our graduates!

Auguri ai nostri laureati e diplomati!

Iolanda Maria Sicilia-Robin York University History Major 2013

Jacqueline-Rose Gontier York University Bachelor of Arts 2013

Catia Rubino York University Bachelor of Education 2013

Angela Venosa York University Law and Society 2013

Josianne Rocca University of Toronto Honours Bachelor of Arts with High Distinction 2013

Tony Tarini Nipissing University North Bay BSc Honours Computer Science 2013

Giuliana Tarini OCADU Toronto BDes Graphic Design 2013

Natasha Sirianni York University Bachelor of Arts 2013

Dr. Crissa Leanne Guglietti York University Kinesiology and Health Science 2013

Dr. Giovanna Riolo Queen's University School of Medicine 2013

Alannah Azzoli York University Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies 2013

Joanna DiNunzio University of Toronto Honours Bachelor of Arts with High Distinction 2013

Samantha Roscetti Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School Business 2013

Diana Borrelli Iona Catholic Secondary School High School Honours 2013

Drake Drieberg TMS School 2013

Sam Accardi TMS School 2013

Mary-Catherine Mazzolin Holy Name of Mary College School 2013

Chiara Pellegrino Holy Name of Mary College School 2013

Andrea Giampuzzi Holy Name of Mary College School 2013

Amanda Marie Ferrari Notre Dame High School 2013

Garrett Morandi Queen’s University Environmental Toxicology 2013

Carlyn Morandi Queen’s University French Studies 2013

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EVENTS

Italy’s Flag Flies Proudly Photo courtesy of MPP Laura Albanese

Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne (middle in red) with MPP Mario Sergio (far left)

Celebrating the 200th Anniversary of Verdi’s Birth

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Dante Alighieri Academy Salutes Italian Heritage Month Photo by Alexandra Bolcic

He’s considered one of the greatest opera composers of all time, and on June 1 the Etobicoke Philharmonic Orchestra celebrated the 200th anniversary of Giuseppe Verdi’s birth with Viva Verdi at Oshawa’s Regent Theatre. Under musical director Sabatino Vacca, the Orchestra paid tribute to one of Italy’s most emblematic musical figures alongside special guest soloists Rachel Cleland (soprano), James Ciantar (tenor) and Andrew Tees (baritone).

Audiences enjoyed a stellar tribute to Verdi with selections from his most popular operas including The Triumphal March and “Ballet Music” from Aida as well as “Va Pensiero” from Nabucco. The special event was part of the Italian Heritage Month festivities presented by the Italia 150 Committee of the Oshawa Italian Recreation Club.

“The chorus was extremely captivating, and the audience gave an extended standing ovation at the end of the night,” says Frank Politano, special events coordinator of the Italia 150 Committee. “This was the first event of its kind in Oshawa, and we look forward to continue offering the community a taste of culture in different ways like this off of the success of this beautiful performance.”

Verdi (1813 to 1901) was made famous by Nabucco (1842), and he went on to create The Regent Theatre many other well-known works, including Otello, La Traviata, Falstaff, Aida and Rigoletto.

(Daniela DiStefano)

The kick-off for the 2013 edition of Italian Heritage Month in Ontario got the red carpet treatment at Queen’s Park. On May 30, political leaders, community leaders and proud citizens (both Italian and non-Italian) gathered together to raise the Italian flag at the home of the Ontario Legislature.

Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne took a cue from one of the colours of the Italian flag and decked herself out in a red dress. “Buon giorno everyone,” she said to appreciative applause, and then highlighted the many contributions of Italians to Ontario as well as the rest of Canada.

Rosario Marchese, one of the many MPPs on hand who are of Italian origin, talked about his personal connection to the day. “This is important for me because it makes me remember my roots,” he said.

The town crier rang his handbell loudly and announced the celebration of the 152nd anniversary of the unification of Italy to loud cheers. And when the flag was raised, some of those in the crowd became visibly emotional.

The day, as well as the month-long itinerary of events in June, are thanks to Michael Tibollo, the president of the National Congress of Italian Canadians, Toronto District, who spearheaded the creation of Italian Heritage Month three years ago.

Tibollo told Panoram Italia that Italian Heritage Month has grown substantially since the first year it was launched (from a dozen events in 2010 to more than 200 in 2013). “We always believed that if you build it, they will come,” he said. (Rita Simonetta)

Dante Alighieri Academy students salute Italian Heritage Month

Dante Alighieri Academy High School saluted Italian Heritage Month on June 4 with an event devoted to celebrating the many facets of Italian-Canadian culture.

As a testament to the event’s community spirit, the audience was filled with students from Regina Mundi Catholic School, St. Charles Catholic School and St. Bernard Catholic School.

The daylong program was evidence of how much influence Italians have had throughout the province of Ontario.

Marianna Gagliardi, a constituency assistant for MP Joe Oliver, and an alumna of Dante, told the audience how proud she was to take part in the initiative that honoured the contributions of Italians. “Italian-Canadians have played an important role in Canada’s development,” she said, reading a message on behalf of MP Oliver.

Angela Gauthier, Associate Director, Academic Affairs, for the Toronto Catholic District School Board, talked about the many strides made by the community. She highlighted the upcoming launch of a curriculum based on the contributions of Italian-Canadians. The project, which is developed by the Toronto District of the National Congress of Italian Canadians, is scheduled for completion by March 2014.

And Marino Toppan, an author and workers’ rights activist, discussed how much progress has been made in labour laws and safety since the first large wave of Italian immigration. He is currently spearheading a project to build a memorial for Italian-Canadian workers who have died due to work-related accidents or diseases.

In tribute to the progress achieved by Italian immigrants involved in the labour movement, Dante Drama students performed Tony’s Journey, a story about a young Italian newcomer who struggles to find work in an era of unjust labour practices.

Toppan told the audience of mostly children and teenagers, “If you could go back in time to 1955 in Canada, you wouldn’t think you were in a different country, you’d think you were on a different planet.”

But he acknowledged that things have changed for the better, and he has no regrets about his decision to leave Italy to come to Canada.

“Italy is the most beautiful country in the world,” Toppan said. “But Canada is the best country in the world.” (Rita Simonetta)

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EVENTS

Michael Tibollo Highlights Italian Influences in the Modern World

Viva Vitalità Art Exhibit

Sculptor Silvio Mastrodascio with Rosa Graci, curator of Joseph D. Carrier Gallery at Columbus Centre

Downsview Toronto Public Library joined in saluting Italian Heritage Month by hosting a lecture outlining “Italian Influences in the Modern World” on June 5. It was fitting that the discussion was led by Michael Tibollo, president of the National Congress of ItalianCanadians, who was responsible for spearheading the creation of Italian Heritage Month in 2010. Tibollo highlighted the dynamic contributions of Guglielmo Marconi, who pioneered radio communications, and Antonio Meucci, the inventor of the telephone, among a host of others. “Our influences are felt and seen everywhere,” Tibollo said, pointing out that this wide-ranging influence is due to the fact that “Italian culture is comfortable being outside its comfort zone.” As audience members joined in the discussion about various Italian achievements, Tibollo noted that the lecture aimed to provide a better understanding and respect among cultures. “This is a catalyst to give other countries an opportunity to share in what we do,” Tibollo said. (Rita Simonetta)

The Viva Vitalità Art Exhibit has become one of the marquee events of Italian Heritage Month and 2013 proved to be its best year yet. On Thursday, June 6, the exhibit opened at the Joseph D. Carrier Gallery at Columbus Centre under the leadership of curator Marcello Tarantino, who brought together a vibrant and varied collection of paintings and sculptures. All who attended were treated to a truly engaging and inspiring exhibit, as well as to delicious food and wine. The month-long presentation contained a noteworthy collection of works by both Italian and Italian-Canadian artists. The five renowned Italian artists who had their work showcased were Gianfranco Antoni, Giulio Da Vicchio, Rodolfo Marma, Guido Borgianni, and Gianfranco Frezzolini. These Tuscan masters distinguished themselves from the postwar period of the late 1940s up until the 1980s, and their paintings have been celebrated all over Italy and abroad. Not to be outdone, there was also a compilation of works by Italian-Canadian artists that complemented the exhibit. The six artists presented were Tony Bianco, Bruno Capolongo, Lorenzo Fracchetti, Silvio Mastrodascio, Sam Paonessa, and Giuseppe Pivetta. Their creations highlighted the nature and beauty of Canada’s multicultural society. By all accounts, the event was a great success and many are already looking forward to what next year will bring. (David De Marco)

Centro Scuola Cheers Youth Day Celebrations There were Italian songs, dances, and poetry readings – all performed with an enthusiastic flair. On June 12, crowds of excited elementary school students gathered at the Columbus Centre gardens as part of Italian Heritage Month.

The event, entitled Youth Day Celebrations, was organized by Centro Scuola, which holds Italian language classes at the Columbus Centre, in collaboration with the Toronto Catholic and the York Catholic District School Boards.

“I am happy to see so many draped in Italian colours,” Alberto Di Giovanni told the crowd of students and teachers. Di Giovanni, the founder of Centro Scoula, was accompanied by Domenico Servello, the school’s director, in addition to Michael Tibollo, president of the National Congress of Italian Canadians, Toronto District, Ambassador of Italy, Gian Lorenzo Cornado and the Consul General of Italy, Tullio Guma. (Rita Simonetta)

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EVENTS

The CIBPA 61st Annual President’s Ball Photography by Memory Photography

The Professional Excellence Award was presented to The Honourable Frank Iacobucci (centre), the former Supreme Court Judge of Canada.

On Friday, June 14, the Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association (CIBPA) celebrated their 61st President’s Ball at Le Parc Banquet & Conference Centre in Thornhill, Ontario. A silent auction, live auction, stellar entertainment, and a delicious meal complemented the entire evening’s proceedings, and made it a truly memorable event. The celebration was an opportunity to officially welcome Eddy Burello as CIBPA’s new president and to recognize five exceptional Italian-Canadians for their outstanding professional achievements and significant contribution to the community. A CIBPA Award of Excellence was presented to the recipients in the following categories: the President’s Award went to Joe Zanchin, who is the president of Zanchin Automotive Group; the Community Leader Award was given to the DiBattista Family of Clearway Construction; the Business Excellence

The DiBattista Family received the Community Leader Award

Award was awarded to Empire Communities (the Golini and Guizzetti Families), the Professional Excellence Award was presented to The Honourable Frank Iacobucci, the former Supreme Court Judge of Canada, while Rick Campanelli, the co-host of ET Canada, received the Next Generation Award. The Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association has been established in Toronto since 1952. Its mission is to promote and cultivate the business, professional, social, and cultural interests of its members, and the broader Italian-Canadian community.

CIBPA has become the premier organization of its kind, effectively representing the interests of the ItalianCanadian community, while offering countless avenues for business, professional and academic development. All funds raised from this event went towards the CIBPA Education Foundation. (David De Marco)

Pouring rain might not be the ideal weather for an outdoor party, but that didn’t keep the Mississauga Italian Canadian Benevolent Association (MICBA) from entertaining visitors with plenty to see, hear and taste.

On June 22, Forum Drive in Mississauga was the site of a street festival dedicated to all things Italian thanks to MICBA, which provides non-profit housing along with a seniors’ residence, a daycare centre and a long-term care facility. Although

MICBA was founded by Italians in 1986, its mandate is to welcome all those in the community.

And community spirit was apparent as residents and visitors alike enjoyed the ballads of Belinda Naccarato, tapped their toes to the familiar tunes from the Columbus Band (a 40-member orchestra), and cheered on competitors in a pasta-eating contest. And as if the weather finally decided to comply, the sun broke out through the clouds later on in the afternoon.

“We had a great time,” said Carmela Liparoti, one of the founding members of MIBCA, and the guiding force behind the second annual street festival.

“It was time that Mississauga did something in the community for our Italians,” she said. “We can’t forget our heritage and we need to maintain it.”

Liparoti’s work paid off because another street festival is already planned for next year’s Italian Heritage Month celebrations.

(Rita Simonetta)

Dr. Joseph Fava

Empire Communities (the Golini and Guizzetti Families) received the Business Excellence Award

ORA Opens an Important Dialogue Photo by Greg King

Mississauga Street Festival Showcases Italian Flair

Mr. Joe Zanchin received the President’s Award

Event organizers Daniela Nardi and Daniela Sanzone

“We don’t have answers now; we just have a lot of questions,” said Daniela Sanzone, the co-founder of a lively and engaging discussion known as ORA (meaning “now” in Italian) that was part of the Italian Heritage Month festivities in Ontario.

The event, which was held on Tuesday, June 25, at the Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto, was an opportunity to voice opinions and concerns about various pertinent issues in the Italian-Canadian

community such as identity, what it means to be Italian in Toronto nowadays, and how to foster dialogue between generations.

Daniela Nardi, a musician/producer and a co-founder of the initiative, spoke about how she had not visited Italy for 20 years and then when she finally returned, it became a significant moment for her: “When I got off the plane I felt like a piece of my puzzle had been put back into place.”

Also on hand for the round circle discussion was Professor Donato Santeramo, Antonio Nicaso, a noted writer and mafia expert, entrepreneur Luciano Volpe, and Peppe Voltarelli, a musical guest from Italy.

In keeping with the open format of the event, audience members were also encouraged to contribute to the discussion.

Afterwards, Daniela Nardi and Peppe Voltarelli took the stage and continued the dialogue through a lively and inspiring musical performance that wowed the audience. (Rita Simonetta)

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EVENTS

A Sampling From the Taste of Little Italy Photography by Gregory Varano

The 14th edition of the Taste of Little Italy had something to offer Italians as well as those who love all things from il Bel Paese. The event, which took place on College Street between Bathurst and Shaw Streets, is a nod to the historical roots of the area that was home to a vibrant Italian population during the ’50s to the early ’80s. Although the

district is now predominately Portuguese, the Taste of Little Italy still showcases the best of Italian food thanks to the more than 45 restaurants that line its streets.

Visitors streamed in to the three-day event from Friday, June 14 to Sunday, June 16, to enjoy grilled spiducci and Italian gelato. Families tried their luck at the carni-

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val games, while live bands serenaded passersby. A crowd of delighted onlookers gathered at the corner of College and Euclid Streets to listen as a tourist from Italy joined the Ray Montford Band for an impromptu performance of Italian medleys like “Luna Mezzo Mare.”

(Rita Simonetta)

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EVENTS

Opening of Lamborghini Uptown Toronto Lucas Scarfone

On June 20, history was made when Grand Touring Automobiles opened Lamborghini Uptown Toronto.

Located in Maple, the new facility marks a significant milestone for the brand in Canada, as well as a major development in Grand Touring’s expansion plans. The GTA represents the fourth-largest automobile market in North America and partnering with Grand Touring represents an exciting opportunity for Lamborghini.

“Lamborghini is celebrating 50 years this year. The story of how it started and where it is today is just incredible and you can’t deny that the product is a piece of art on wheels,” expressed Dealer Principal and CEO Paul Cummings in his official opening speech. He said that while Lamborghini has high expectations for its dealers, as a company “it is very family oriented and once you’re part of the team they will do everything to ensure your success.”

Likewise, Chief Operating Officer of Automobili Lamborghini America LLC, Michael Lock, emphasized that the move into the GTA and marriage with Grand Touring was the perfect strategy: “There is a really healthy luxury market in Toronto. The GTA’s sister store in downtown Toronto has one of the largest Bentley stores in North America and the largest Aston Martin dealership.

So not only is the market very focused on luxury but the partner we have knows how to do it.”

The launch was a spectacular event on all accounts. The food, service and entire atmosphere lived up to the grandness of the supercars on display, both in and outside of the sparkling new dealership. (David DeMarco)

The Rally for Vita On September 15, motorcycle enthusiasts will take to the open road with the Rally for Vita in order to help wheelchair users enjoy greater access wherever they go.

Money raised from the fundraiser will go toward the upkeep of the current MV-1 vehicle owned by Vita Community Living Services; the organization provides services for people with intellectual and physical disabilities throughout Toronto and York Region. The state-of-the-art vehicle, which was purchased in 2012 thanks to past fundraisers, is specifically built for the needs of wheelchair users.

Brian Naraine, president of the organizing committee, says that the MV-1 is used to transport members and even staff with mobility issues to and from various locations.

“Without question our members use the vehicle frequently, and they are very proud of it,” says Naraine. “It gives them a sense of dignity to be able to ride up front in a vehicle.”

It’s these positive experiences that make Naraine optimistic about the upcoming Rally for Vita this fall. He also hopes that down the road the organization can purchase additional MV-1s.

To date, past rallies have raised $40,000.

For further information about Vita Community Living Services call 416-749-6234. To register for the September 15 Rally for Vita visit: www.rallyforvita.com (Rita Simonetta)

Top left From left to right: John Angelucci, Brian Naraine (President of Vita CLS), Darcy Tucker (2012 Grand Marshall), and Frank DeCesare (Vice President of Vita CLS).

Top right The MV-1 in action.

Bottom Motorcyclists at a past Rally for Vita enjoy the ride.

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EVENTS

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua Annual Charity Golf Classic It was a hole-in-one for the Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua Annual Charity Golf Classic on July 9. The sold-out event at the Copper Creek Golf Club topped $130,000 for not-for-profit and community organizations.

“Once again this year the community came together to support the many organizations that are at the heart of what makes our city great,” said Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua.

Brian Bentz, President and CEO of PowerStream and Chair of the golf committee, expressed his gratitude for all those who helped make the event a success.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the committee members, volunteers and donors for their hard work and dedication in making this annual event a resounding success,” said Bentz.

The day featured a silent auction as well as closest to the pin and longest drive contests. (Rita Simonetta)

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1. Mayor Bevilacqua and Brian Bentz, President and CEO PowerStream, and Chair of this year’s tournament.

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2. The beautiful sounds of Vaughan songstress Dia and guitarist Robert Di Bartolomeo.

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3. From left to right: Mary Mauti, Tony Zara, Mark Di Vito, Adam Zara, Earl Weiner and Claudio Ortu.

4. Barb DiGiulio Midday Sports Anchor at Sportsnet 590, pictured here with Mayor Bevilacqua and Chair Bentz, emceed the event.

5. Closest to the pin golfers had a chance to score a hole in one at the Million Dollar Shootout competition.

6. Mayor Bevilacqua takes a swing in support of local charities and community organizations at his annual golf tournament.

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EVENTS

Panoram Italia’s Treasures of Italy Tour 2013 The 16-day all-inclusive trip to Italy included visits to Venice, Florence, Montecatini, Cinque Terre, Siena, San Gimignano, Assisi, Sorrento and Rome. Here are two testimonials:

Eat. Love. Eat.

By Teresa Casole I am the Canadian-born daughter of Italian immigrants. My Calabrian parents, who met and married in Toronto, realized the '60s Canadian dream of starting a family and buying a single family home in suburban Scarborough, the realm of a dominant Anglo culture. This dream came at the cost of years of night shifts for my father, who to this day laments the loss of time with his growing children. When he would come home from work, we would run to him and he would gently bite our plump arms and faces with a hunger that bespoke his missing of us. My mother, who kept Calabrian traditions alive through her dedication to her family, her unparalleled skills as a homemaker, and as the soother of childhood hurts, gave me and my younger brothers the warmth and refuge we needed when we were bullied at school for having a last name that ended in a vowel.

As time went on, our family evolved into that distinct incarnation of the ItalianCanadian hybrid. Living was based on Italian values while navigating Canadian notions of nationalism. Me and my contemporaries found ourselves shouldering the role of bicultural mediators both in and outside of our homes. What was acceptable within an Italian household was not necessarily compatible with Canadian culture and vice versa.

We were Italian first, and as much as we wished to fit into Canadian society, we each dealt with personal struggles to maintain a balance with our Italian identity.

By now it was the 70s, and many Italian parents like mine had decided that it was time to take their Canadian-born children to Italy to visit the motherland. I'll never forget being on a Boeing 747 on route to Italy when, four hours into the flight, the pilot announced that we would be landing at JFK Airport in New York for an unscheduled stop. We learned the next morning that the plane had lost power in one engine. To this day, I marvel at the wisdom of that pilot for not having mentioned that fact to a planeload of Italians encased in a cylinder 37,000 feet in the air.

Our family made the Italian pilgrimage in 1975. I was 15 years old, I was in Italy and all I saw were boys. Beautiful Italian boys. I saw no ruins, no Colosseum, no gardens or grandiose palaces. Only boys, boys, boys. And they saw me. Travelling from Rome to Calabria, I met parenti for the very first time. We shared stories, laughed and sometimes cried simultaneously as only Italians can do. The commonality, the shared blood lines and

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histories, were a mantle of comfort, familiar and safe. I was suddenly visible in a way that I had not experienced in Canada. Another 38 years would pass before I was to feel that way again.

John Lennon said, “Life happens when you're making other plans.” I concur. My life took some twists and turns in the last decade that allowed me the great privilege of starting from scratch. Assembling the parts that served me and discarding the parts that did not. What's more, I was able to take stock of the parts that were missing. And I was not surprised that those parts had everything to do with disconnection from my terra. I found myself ruminating more and more about what my life would have been like if I had been born and raised in Italy. The need to reconnect what had been disconnected so long ago.

Teresa in her natural environment became an obsessive notion that could no longer be dismissed due to timing, or lack of a travel companion, or any number of excuses that would prevent me from embarking on the greatest trek of my life. On my parents’ coffee table, a copy of a glossy magazine I had seen numerous times before. The first page I opened to was the full page ad for the Treasures of Italy Tour, two weeks of total immersion in my ancestral home. Without hesitation, I booked my tour.

The tour was made up of a Montreal and Toronto contingent of expats and/or Canadian offspring. Familiar strangers. We landed in Venice and had to pass customs, which is usually an exercise in tolerance for me. I approached the official and handed him my passport. “Are you travelling alone, Teresa?” I answered rather curtly in the affirmative. “Why?” he asked. Taken slightly aback, I answered, “Everyone was busy.” He handed me back my passport and said warmly, “You should have called me.” I felt my heart swell a bit. I was home.

Once we cleared customs we were greeted and embraced by a most capable and angelic voiced guide, appropriately named Angela, who was our “mother” for the duration of what for many of us became an odyssey of rediscovery and reconnection.

Venice at night; magical, enchanting. I sat on a powerboat hurtling along the Grand Canal. The sweet scent of the sea air, moist against my skin, the wind filled with the whispers of a thousand years of history. Tears of joy ran down my face as I took in the beauty

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EVENTS

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of this mystical place. Piazza San Marco, the “drawing room of the world” where tangos were being danced by young lovers as the stringed ensembles played on into the night. As if in a dream, I was kissed by a handsome stranger on a bridge overlooking the Bridge of Sighs. Just like everyone should be.

In Rome I walked the vias surrounding St. Peter’s. The one thing I will say about the Romans is that they do have an interesting way about them. The women do not give you a second look, while the men devour you with their eyes. I entered the square and sat at the base of a great pillar of the colonnade watching the people, the pious and the pilgrims line up for hours to enter the Basilica in the heat of the day. Mad dogs, Englishmen and everyone else in the world seemed to be undeterred by the mid-day sun. Suddenly, the sky opened and a torrential downpour fell upon the square. Our group clambered under the colonnade, laughing at our own nervousness as the winds picked up in rather biblical proportions. We were, by now, friends, and as our time together increased, we began to feel that we had become a family. We had been sharing personal insights and feelings about what this trip meant for us. The underlying theme for all of us was to reconnect to the land, the air and the sea. To smell the flowers, drink from the springs and to feel the heat of an Italian summer.

In Sorrento I savoured the Neapolitan rhythm. By now, I had seen more beauty than I could have imagined and I had fallen in love every day. It was a natural state of being for all of us in the tour. The food, the vistas, the food...ah the food. And what is Italian food if not love incarnate? I suppose that for the most part, we made love to every day.

So many of us, different histories and experiences. Different cities and circumstances. All Italian. All together in our ancestral home. All falling in love with each other because we recognized that we were being changed by this experience and we were bearing witness to the beautiful metamorphosis that was taking place in each other. The acceptance and validation that we felt was, in a word, amore.

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If you’re interested in booking Panoram Italia’s Treasures of Italy Tour 2014 – with two tentative departure dates in late June and early September – please email info@panoramitalia.com with your name and phone number, and you’ll be contacted with more information as it becomes available.

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This particular tour has had a special significance for me and my husband Peter. I had completed chemo and radiation just days prior to the trip, so we decided to take this opportunity not only to celebrate the completion of my journey with breast cancer but to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary.

Panoram Italia’s “Treasurers of Italy” was an invitation we could not resist. We felt doubly blessed with this amazing coincidence. What better way to celebrate both of life’s achievements? It has proven to be a “God sent” trip for us….a means of rediscovering our heritage, of meeting amazing new people and making what I truly believe will be lasting friendships. We all connected from the first day.

We learned so much from our expert guides Professor Filippo Salvatore from Montreal and Angela from Auratours in Italy. They were extremely professional, incredibly knowledgeable, exceptionally organized and genuinely loving and caring. Angela called us her “famiglia” from the first day, and that is what we truly became. We were virtually inseparable and honestly loved spending time with each other while discovering the beauty Italy has to offer.

I know we will all go home with our hearts filled with many unforgettable “treasures” and with the hopes of making this an annual event. Thank you Expertours (Canada), thank you Auratours (Italy) and a special thank you to Panoram Italia magazine.

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SPORTS

T-Minus One Year

By Joey Franco

Another international soccer tournament has come to an end and many Italian soccer fans around the world have been left disappointed. Though it is always upsetting when our team does not lift the trophy at the end of it all, especially in penalty shootouts at the hands of our greatest rivals in recent years, this year’s defeat is different from the others. he Azzurri’s third place finish at the 2013 Confederations Cup in Brazil should be seen as a satisfying loss. There are agonizing defeats that haunt us for the rest of our days like Korea/Japan 2002. There are disappointing ones like Euro 2000. Even defeats surrounded by conspiracy as was the case following Euro 2004. This year’s disappointment only lasted several hours after the nervewracking shootouts against Spain. The rest was uphill.

Anyone who followed the Italian national team’s journey knows that the only truly bad game that Prandelli’s men played was against Japan, and they ended up nabbing the victory. The Brazil game was decided by a bad call, and Giaccherini and company showed the Samba Kings why they are a force to be reckoned with year after year.

By the time they faced Spain, with Balotelli out of commission, it was a toss of the coin.

Spain has become to us what we are to Germany – the black sheep.

The most optimistic aspect of the current Italian squad is the block system that Prandelli has maintained. If we analyze many of the great national teams of the past, specifically the extraordinary Spanish side that won three successive tournaments, the composition of the squad becomes crucial. Soccer players are professionals, and just as many of us go in to work or the office every day, so do these athletes. Their office is a soccer pitch. Unfortunately, playing for the national squad is not their day-to-day “job” per se, it is more like a field trip or an excursion. The fact remains that it is very difficult to assemble a group of players who do not spend every day together at the same clubs and turn them into a synchronized, well-oiled machine in such a short period of time.

Enter the Barca-Real factor for the treble-conquistador-Spain. Most of the players, including their beating Barcelonian heart (Xavi/Iniesta), were in fact teammates. Their collaboration at the international level becomes an extension of the work they have done throughout the year. The teammates understand each other on and off the field. This becomes a mitigating factor in international competitions.

Regardless of which Serie A team we all root for, when the sky blue jerseys come on, we are all united. The current starting lineup has a solid Juventus/AC Milan contingent. Historically, this block system has always led to a strong

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ensemble and has plenty of World Cup trophies to show for it. From Italy’s triumph in 1934, to Spain’s victory in 2010, the teammates have made the difference.

Let us look back at 1934’s victory with the Juventus/Inter block, 1938’s Bologna/Inter/Roma ensemble, and 1982’s Juventus/Inter/Fiorentina group.

Again, regardless of our colours, this is a positive dynamic. Brazil’s current squad has their players dispersed over 16 clubs on two continents. They may have won this Confederations Cup, but it’s no secret that no Co federations Cup winner has ever gone on to win the World Cup the following year.

At the end of it all, we all know that despite any theories, superstitions and statistics, games are won on the pitch. Many times, they are won based on isolated incidents, and often, Lady Luck plays a crucial role in it all.

With four games to go, Italy leads their World Cup qualifying group ahead of Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Armenia, Denmark, and Malta. The upcoming year is looking pretty bright.

Remaining World Cup 2014 qualification matches: Italy vs. Bulgaria, September 6, Italy vs. Czech Rep., September 10, Italy vs. Denmark, October 11, Italy vs. Armenia, October 15,

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