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GREGORIO DI PIETRO: The tale of a survivor who refused to surrender despite the challenges presented by the Canadian health-care system
12 DESIGN NEWS: A snapshot of all things design blossoming into the new year
18 ARMANDO SCARLATO JR.: How the Toronto native changed the trajectory of his life through his love of music
28 AIDA’S BAKERY: For 55 years, the Mastrandrea family of Aida’s Bakery have been making the finest baked goods and it has become a treasured Vaughan tradition
50 FOREVER BESTIES: There is nothing more sweet and savoury than a beautiful friendship!
EDITOR’S PICKS: Treat yourself this Spring!
45 UNDERSTANDING MODERN DATING RULES: Decoding the 6-6-6 dating rule and its e ect on dating culture
60 ASK FOR ANGELA: An in-depth look at the critical steps needed to address gender-based violence
64 PARENTING ON THE BRINK: Parental stress is increasing to critical levels in Canada More stories inside …
- Edward Hopper
Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Fernando Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director
“They say a person needs just three things to be truly happy in this world: someone to love, something to do, and something to hope for.”
— Tom Bodett
THE THING ABOUT HOPE IS …
Asyou leaf through this edition of City Life, you can’t help but notice the stories that inspire a sense of hope. However, hope is nothing without action. In the case of Gregorio Di Pietro, the subject of our cover story, hope was the one thing that kept him alive through all his pain and devastating nine surgeries … until he just could not rely on hope alone and decided to take matters into his own hands. In
the face of adversity, we can either succumb or face the challenge and continue to live. Di Pietro chose the latter, and even when he thought he only had three months to live, he chose to go out of the country to nd a doctor who would give him not just hope but a new chance of living. Check out the full story on page 54.
It is that desire to see a change and want to do something to make it happen that motivated Pascal Niccoli, a pharmacist and owner of a Shoppers Drug Mart in Waterloo, Ont., whose focus of concern was women’s health and intimate partner violence. He had heard about a program called “Ask for ANI” (Action Needed Immediately), a program created in the U.K. that was available in clubs or bars, where women might feel unsafe.
When Niccoli brought this idea to Loblaws head o ce, he found out that the company was already involved in the “Ask for Angela” initiative, which was launched on National Human Tra cking Awareness Day on February 22, 2023. anks to this initiative, women can walk into any Shoppers Drug Mart, Loblaws or any a liated store and say they need to “Ask for Angela” to get immediate help 24 hours a day. Any sta member will then take the person asking for Angela to the person in the store who has been tasked to take them to a safe room and make the call to the Women’s Crisis Centre.
In the past year, 400 survivors have also reached out via a QR code, which was printed on yers displayed at these stores. See the full story on page 60.
Another inspirational individual who through his daily work contributes to building a better community is Dino Ari, owner of Dino’s Wood Oven Pizza in Etobicoke, Ont. His mission is not just to make great-tasting pizza but also to get involved in making the neighbourhood a better place. He was honoured as “Hero of Etobicoke-Lakeshore” by the local Member of Parliament for preparing free pizzas for all frontline workers, doctors and nurses at hospitals. He and his sta were also kept busy on Saturday mornings making pizzas to be distributed to homeless shelters in the city. See the full story on page 32.
As we wrote our stories about each of these individuals and others, two things were apparent. One is that we should never lose hope when faced with a challenge, and the second is how fortunate we are to live in a city where there is more good than not, where love for our neighbour can win over evil or indi erence, for this we are grateful.
We hope you enjoy this edition of City Life Magazine
Continue to share your stories with us so that we may empower and inspire others and by doing so to share in the blessing that is nding hope or giving it!
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Angela Palmieri-Zerillo • angela@dolce.ca
CO-FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Fernando Zerillo • fernando@dolce.ca
ART DEPARTMENT
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EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT
FASHION & HOME DECOR EDITOR Michelle Zerillo-Sosa
BEAUTY & WELLNESS EDITOR Angela Palmieri-Zerillo
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kate Brynn, Marc Castaldo, Anastasiia Horbulova, Rick Muller, Bonnie Pop, Cece M. Scott, Isha Sharma
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Samantha Acker, Barbara Feldman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lismery Loyola, Emad Mohammadi, Geo Fitzgerald
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FRONT COVER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Geo Fitzgerald
CITY LIFE MAGAZINE • VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 1 • MAR/APR 2025
City Life Magazine is published by Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont., L4H 3H9 T: 905-264-6789 • info@mycitylife.ca • www.dolcemedia.ca
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DAX’S JOURNEY OF REFLECTION AND FAITH
The Nigerian-Canadian artist’s latest single, “Lonely Dirt Road,” explores faith and personal growth
WRITTEN BY ANASTASIIA HORBULOVA
Dax, the platinum-certified NigerianCanadian rapper, singer and songwriter, has released his latest single, “Lonely Dirt Road.” The song, characterized by its introspective style
and soulful vocals, is more than just another track; it’s a reflective journey and a window into the artist’s soul. Known for his topic-driven music, Dax has once again teamed up with frequent
collaborator and director Logan Meis to create a visually stunning music video that perfectly translates the song’s emotional depth onto the screen.
The production of “Lonely Dirt Road” is as evocative as its lyrics, blending soft piano melodies and echoing guitars with a hypnotic beat that draws listeners in. Co-written with Lexnour, “Lonely Dirt Road” showcases Dax’s lyrical prowess and his ability to connect deeply with his audience. With the heartfelt honesty that has consistently endeared him to fans, Dax reflects on the profound impact faith has had on his journey.
He sings I bring my hatred, I pack my pain, all the emotions I cannot explain. It’s where I found God and filled that hole. It’s He, myself and I on that lonely dirt road. Through these lyrics he reveals how faith has guided him through life’s challenges, creating a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universal.
Earlier this year, Dax released “A Real Man,” which accumulated millions of streams and received critical acclaim for its honest exploration of gender roles and societal expectations. This track, along with the ongoing success of “To Be a Man,” highlights Dax’s commitment to addressing meaningful and relevant topics through his music. His collaboration on that Billboard-charting country hit with three-time GrammyAward-winning diamond-selling icon Darius Rucker showcased his versatility and willingness to push boundaries, and they made history as the first black duo to achieve this feat on the Country Digital Songs Sales chart.
With more than 2.2 billion total streams, 30 million social-media followers and one billion YouTube views to date, Dax continues to expand his influence in the music industry. As he prepares for more releases and live shows in 2024, “Lonely Dirt Road” serves as a powerful reminder of his dedication to creating music that sparks conversation and resonates with listeners. Fans can look forward to more compelling work from this rising artist as he solidifies his place in the music world.
@thatsdax
Platinum-certified artist Dax shares his soulful journey and personal reflections in his latest single release
EMBRACE THE SONGS INSIDE YOUR HEART
How the Toronto-born recording artist and singer-songwriter Armando Scarlato Jr. propelled himself onto the international music scene
WRITTEN BY MARC CASTALDO
When I first met Armando Scarlato Jr. at Carolina Restaurant in Toronto, the first word that came to mind was “genuine.”
As he walked in the door sporting his custom Meshika hat and dark shades, his style is palpable. But there is also a deep sense of sincerity and authenticity in the way he carries himself and speaks.
“Marc, let me get you an espresso and pastry!” he says enthusiastically as we begin to bond over our similar southern-Italo-Canadian upbringing. “I have nothing but beautiful memories of growing up in North York,” he adds. “Even when times were tough, my parents raised us right.”
Scarlato Jr. was named after his father, Armando Sr., a hardworking carpenter who was eager to put his son on skates as soon as possible. Scarlato Jr. can recall taking to the ice at the age of 4. But his mother, Pina, the family storyteller, would always remind him how much he loved making music by playing with the pots and pans and that his first introduction to music was Jon Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer.”
Even though his passion for music developed at a young age, sparked by his fascination with the piano, guitar and his participation in the school choir, hockey always took precedence.
After playing hockey at Toronto’s Chaminade College School and eventually ascending to the Triple-A
league, he received a partial scholarship to Niagara University.
“From there, I was always doing music when I wasn’t playing hockey,” he says, laughing. “The guys would make fun of me, but they know some of my songs.”
Scarlato Jr. would eventually go on to play in the International Hockey League (IHL) for the Bloomington Prairie Thunder and Flint Generals. Soon after, he played in Belgium, Holland and France. Of course, life can throw you a curveball or set you on a path you never would have predicted, one filled with opportunities. It was during his time in France at 26 years old that he fell in love with the music scene.
Carolina Restaurant holds a special place in Armando’s heart – the self-taught singer, guitarist and piano player has performed live at several specially hosted brunch parties there while guests enjoyed its Italian-inspired brunch menu
“There was a big music scene, and these DJs were performing at these beautiful clubs. One had an instrumental and I wrote a top line, the words and the melody. It ended up going [to] No. 5 in Spain. That’s really when I caught the music bug,” Scarlato Jr. says.
At 29, he decided to pursue music full time because the butterflies of excitement he’d once felt on the ice had begun to fade; now he only felt them on stage and in the studio.
“It’s 15 years in the making what people are seeing today with me. It didn’t happen overnight,” Scarlato Jr. says emphatically.
Since then, he has opened for such acts as Offset (of Migos), Loud Luxury and DJ Pauly D (from Jersey Shore). He has also performed at Nikki Beach Monte Carlo in Monaco during the F1 as well as at New York Fashion Week. His music has been featured on labels including Sony Music, Armada Music and Kontor Records, reflecting his growing popularity. In 2018, Scarlato Jr. co-wrote and was featured on DJ Antoine’s El Paradiso. He was flown to the St. Moritz in the Swiss Alps to shoot the music video, which was sponsored by Hublot. The track has garnered over 5.3 million views on YouTube and more than 8.9 million streams on Spotify, becoming an instant hit in Italy.
Soon after, he co-wrote the official FIFA World Cup song for the Swiss national soccer team, “Ole Ole” by DJ Antoine, featuring Karl Wolf and Fito Blanko. The song was selected as one of the top 20 official World Cup anthems at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. He later co-wrote and provided vocals for DJ Antoine’s “Symphony,” which reached #3 on MTV Italia and was ranked #32 on radio station Z103.5’s top songs of
2019. His recent singles have earned both local and international recognition, positioning this Canadian rising star to become a major force in the dance/pop/ electronic dance music scene, not only in Canada but worldwide.
Then in June of 2023 everything changed for Scarlato Jr. While walking his large Cane Corso Doberman dog, Athena, in the park, she ran into him accidentally and collided with his knee at full speed, which caused his ankle to break in three places and become dislocated.
Three weeks after major surgery that entailed inserting 15 bolts into the joint, he found out that he had developed a life-threatening gut infection that
required life-saving surgery, and the doctors gave him only a 50/50 chance of survival. Months into his recovery, the family was heartbroken by yet another blow when Scarlato Jr.’s mother, Pina, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.
Scarlato Jr. credits his mother for not only giving him the gift of life but also his passion for music. His singles “Love Again” and “Away from Me” honour his love for her and her memory: Pina passed away in June 2024 after succumbing to her disease. Each day, he lives by the inspiring message she left with him, “The world needs to hear your songs.”
www.armandomusic.com
@armandoscarlatojr
As an artist, Scarlato Jr. strives to create music that channels happiness and hope
Woodbridge’s Quinton Jacobs’ local running program, Escape, has grown into a passionate global initiative that gives back for the
Inthe world of athletics, it would be difficult to find more passionate and dedicated participants than runners. Through rain, wind, sleet or snow, over hilly or mountainous terrain, in searing heat or freezing temperatures, runners revel in the personal challenge whether it’s around the block, or, in the case of Quinton Jacobs, experiencing the adventure of running from Point A in one country to Point B in another.
“Funny enough, I hated running when I was growing up,” says Jacobs, cofounder of Escape, in a recent interview with City Life. “I didn’t take to it until I became a dad about 20 years ago. I was always into fitness, but I discovered running was so flexible. I could get it in at 4 a.m., or I could fit running around my kids’ schedules, being a dad and a husband. I could always squeeze running in.”
Like so many other runners, Jacobs started small until the bug took hold.
“Running is a funny thing and a slippery slope,” he observes. “You start with a run around the block and then it’s a 5K. The next thing you know, it’s ‘Can I do a 10K?’ And the 10K leads to a half-marathon and then a full marathon to try, and it just sort of snowballs like that.”
Jacobs’ Escape running initiative has become a non-stop ultra-relay. Set in destinations around the globe and leading into some of the world’s most epic running races, Escape itself is not a race. Instead, it has become a global journey of connection and adventure built around community and giving back. There was no master plan back in 2019 instead, Escape grew organically because of the shared passions and crazy ideas Jacobs and others had, and was fuelled by its strong and active presence on social media.
You start with a run around the block and then it’s a 5K. The next thing you know, it’s ‘Can I do a 10K?’ And the 10K leads to a half-marathon and then a full marathon to try, and it just sort of snowballs like that
Escape has hosted inspirational runners from all over the world who have run non-stop ultra-relays from Toronto to New York City, Toronto to Chicago and Toronto to Boston
“I had met a lot of running friends and our aspirations to just try something crazy sort of took over, which was, ‘Can we get a bunch of friends and run from Toronto to New York City non-stop?’” says Jacobs, recalling Escape’s modest beginnings. “We had no real intention of turning it into anything. The key for us and what made it special was that we had friends in New York City, so we wanted to use this run to bridge these communities and celebrate our diversity. So when we left Toronto, they got to see all our Toronto friends and family send us off, and in New York, they then had their entire network of friends waiting for us. That sparked something in us that, instead of just racing, ‘Is there something bigger we can do with this Escape idea and use it to celebrate communities and how running brings people together globally?’”
In the six years since its inception, Escape has hosted inspirational runners from all over the world who have also run non-stop relays from Toronto to Chicago and Toronto to Boston. In 2024, Escape was licensed by lululemon to create and execute an Escape event to coincide with Team Canada and the Summer Olympics with “Escape to Paris.”
This April 2025 is Escape’s biggest endeavour to date: “Escape to Cape Town,
Can we leave something behind?
Can we raise enough money to build a running track that will inspire many after we’re gone?
South Africa,” which has special meaning for Jacobs as his mother was born in that country. The Escape team will be running in relay for 950 kilometres nonstop from Gqeberha to Cape Town. Then just two days later, the team will run the treacherous 56-kilometre Two Oceans Ultra Marathon. At the end, Escape will be hosting a kids’ 5-kilometre run in the township of Mitchells Plain to raise awareness and funds to build a running track together with the Run4Schools organization.
“The truth is this is the largest
philanthropic undertaking that we’ve strived for and a very big moment for us,” says Jacobs, looking ahead to the challenge of “Escape to Cape Town.” “The idea is, ‘Can we as runners from all around the world, instead of just going to this country and taking a medal, can we leave something behind? Can we raise enough money to build a running track that will inspire many after we’re gone?’”
Every runner has his or her own reason for embarking on their personal journey. Physical fitness is obviously an impetus, but over time something deeper may take over that nourishes that runner’s personal quest — something that they may not have anticipated. Running may help alleviate stress or anxiety. Running may free a runner’s mind from day-today routine and give that person precious time to think. And running outdoors may give the runner a chance to encounter, connect with and appreciate nature.
For Quinton Jacobs, running gave him all of these benefits and then more, since the life-changing difference it made in his own life has led to it meaning so much to so many by creating a global community of care and compassion where every stride forward means fewer will be left behind.
@quinton_jacobs @escape_to___
Escape not to be confused with a race is a global journey of connection and an adventure built around community and giving back
JOE FORMUSA: A TRUSTED ADVOCATE FOR A SAFER COMMUNITY
Joe Formusa of @notonjoeswatch relentlessly puts the safety of communities at the highest priority
WRITTEN BY MARC CASTALDO
Joe Formusa, or, as he’s more commonly known on Instagram, as @notonjoeswatch for his dedicated work in community safety, has been the go-to source for crime prevention, awareness and safety tips at a time when the rate of criminal activity continues to increase in communities across Ontario.
Formusa, who has lived in Vaughan since 1997, who prefers to remain humbly behind the scenes and out of any spotlight of attention, took the time to sit down with City Life for an exclusive interview about his beginnings. He explained that the inspiration for his Instagram account @notonjoeswatch was sparked when he got a second chance at life.
“In the fall of 2015, doctors found a mass in my left shoulder. That mass turned out to be sarcoma. I had major surgery in May 2016 to remove the tumour. I’m nine years cancer-free! I’m grateful to my medical team,” says Formusa.
Eager to not just stand by but to stand up for his community, he started a neighbourhood watch group through WhatsApp in 2019 that grew to hundreds
of members and eventually evolved into @notonjoeswatch. Today, his account reaches close to a million views monthly.
In February of 2020, the York Regional Police, (YRP) and Formusa held a safety meeting at Vellore Community Centre with YRP Crime Prevention that resulted in the largest turnout in YRP history for a Crime Prevention community meeting.
Crime has always been present there’s no disputing that. Ontarians know that the surge in brazen crimes, including storefront smash-and-grabs motor vehicle theft, night prowling, and armed breakingand-entering incidents have left citizens of York Region and the Greater Toronto Area in a state of fear.
Formusa dedicates his life to transforming fear into proactiveness and preparation. He shows us the best ways to protect ourselves, our homes, our vehicles, and our loved ones. He is a pillar in the Vaughan community and neighbouring communities all over.
“Helping people has become the most rewarding experience of my life,” he says.
In April of 2021 the City of Vaughan presented Formusa with a Volunteer
Recognition award. Soon after, he was congratulated by the Government of Ontario and awarded for his service to the York Regional Police Department.
For his ongoing e orts he received the Vaughan Civic Hero Award in 2023. Most recently, in 2024, Member of Parliament Anna Roberts o cially recognized his years of impactful community service.
Formusa extends his heartfelt gratitude to Sergeant Garisto, Sta Sergeant Sangha, and Superintendent Beverly for their unwavering support since day one. He also acknowledges the dedication of Sergeant McKenzie, Sergeant Smith, Chief MacSween, Deputy Chief Almeida, Deputy Chief Da Silva, Deputy Chief Hammond, and Deputy Chief McCloskey. Additionally, he sincerely appreciates MP Roberts, MPP Lecce, MPP Tibollo, Premier Ford, Mayor Del Duca, and Councillor DeFrancesca for recognizing his e orts.
“If I can help just one person, it makes it all worthwhile," he adds. “So I will continue to be a community safety advocate for my community and beyond.”
@notonjoeswatch
A LESSON IN PASTA BY ORETTA
Toronto’s beloved Oretta proudly hosts its first pasta-making class for lovers of Italian cuisine
WRITTEN BY MARC CASTALDO
Inthe heart of Toronto’s Fashion District sits an chic and authentic urban Italian restaurant, Oretta. Attracting guests from the city and beyond, it is highly esteemed and praised for its exclusive Italian menu that features
classic dishes from various regions of Italy, all prepared with modern flair and using only the finest ingredients.
All good restaurants have a defining feature, a unique quality that truly distinguishes them from all other restaurants. For Oretta, that quality is
www.mycitylife.ca
SCAN THIS QR CODE FOR THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES FOOTAGE OF CHEF RAFFAELE VENTRONE'S PASTAMAKING CLASS
its unwavering commitment to provide its guests with the best environment for dining, one that makes them feel at home! That means welcoming everyone into the kitchen.
Oretta proudly hosted its first pastamaking class under the instruction of
This is a special event,” he began. “It’s nice to actually teach people how to cook rather than just working behind the scenes
1beloved chef de cuisine Ra aele “Raf” Ventrone so that everyone can bring the taste of Italy into their own kitchen, and City Life was graciously invited to participate.
“This is a special event,” he began. “It’s nice to actually teach people how to cook rather than just working behind the scenes.”
Chef Raf informed us that we would be making a version of his grandmother’s ricotta gnocchi from his childhood, a lighter, silkier alternative to the traditional potato-based version. “Sugo Sundays,” he recalled fondly. “Gnocchi with braised pork shoulder, ribs, sausage, all slow-cooked in the tomato sauce.”
Chef Raf began the class by recounting a history of gnocchi, how di erent variations such as potato and sweet potato evolved, and detailed by recounting its versatility with regards to sauce pairings and cooking times, which can change its texture.
With aprons on, hands washed, and flour dusted across several wooden surfaces, attendees dove into making their dough. Chef Raf guided them step by step, stressing the importance of balancing moisture and flour. Class attendees marvelled at Chef Raf’s passion and guidance as he led them through a demonstration of how to make the dough and the di erent methods of structuring the pasta shape.
INGREDIENTS
• 250G RICOTTA CHEESE
• 1 EGG YOLK
• 2.5 KOSHER SALT
• 30G FINEARPOSE FLOUR
(THIS WILL YIELD APPROXIMATELY 4 PORTIONS, 400G)
DIRECTIONS
PREPARING THE DOUGH
• STRAIN EXCESS WATER FROM RICOTTA
• MIX THE RICOTTA, PECORINO, EGG, AND SALT IN A BOWL UNTIL IT IS A SMOOTH CONSISTENCY
• GRADUALLY ADD FLOUR AND MIX BY HAND UNTIL A SOFT DOUGH FORMS
SHAPING THE GNOCCHI
• ROLL DOUGH INTO 1/2-INCH THICK TUBES
• CUT INTO 1/2-INCH PIECES AND ROLL ON A GNOCCHI BOARD OR FORK FOR TEXTURE
• PLACE ON A FLOURED TRAY COOKING THE GNOCCHI
• BRING SALTED WATER TO A BOIL
• DROP IN GNOCCHI AND STIR GENTLY
• ONCE THEY BEGIN TO FLOAT (2-3 MIN), REMOVE WITH A SLOTTED SPOON AND DRAIN
SERVE!
• TOSS THE GNOCCHI WITH YOUR FAVOURITE SAUCE OR SAUCE IN BUTTER FOR CRISPNESS
As the class wrapped up, participants
As the class wrapped up, participants packed their freshly made gnocchi along
with a container of Oretta’s signature tomato sauce and a recipe card. But the experience didn’t end there; attendees were treated to a warm dish of housemade gnocchi that let them savour the flavours they had just learned to create. Oretta’s first pasta class was more than just a cooking lesson; it was an evening of storytelling, tradition and community.
www.oretta.to
@orettatoronto
THE LOVE OF ITALIAN BAKING
For 55 years, Aida’s Bakery in Woodbridge has been making the finest baked goods and become a
WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER
Woodbridge is, thankfully, still a pretty quiet place at four in the morning. Of course, lights are burning at essential services such as hospitals, police and fire stations as front-line workers continue to do heroes’ work. But for the most part, aside from the odd family of raccoons in search of food, one of the country’s most thriving communities is still and calm in those dark early hours.
The exception is Aida’s Pine Valley Bakery at 830 Roundtree Dairy Rd., where the lights are bright at this hour
and it is a beehive of activity six days a week. There is a reason why early risers pick up a freshly made croissant, muffin or cookies on their way to the office at 7 a.m. Owner Nick Mastrandrea and the team at his family-owned and-operated bakery, Aida’s, including his 84-year-old aunt, have been hard at work.
City Life saw this middle-of-the-night magic firsthand, as our interview and photoshoot at Aida’s Pine Valley Bakery was scheduled for you guessed it 4 a.m., so we didn’t impede in any way the real work Mastrandrea and his team were doing for their faithful customers.
“She is busy working; no time to waste for her,” says Mastrandrea in the midst of a verbal back-and-forth with his aunt in what can only be described as controlled chaos. “She does the early shift, and she gets upset when I send her home at nine or ten o’clock as she wants to work until
twelve. And my mom she’s turning 75 this year she usually starts at ten or eleven, and when I try to give her a day off she also gets upset, and she’s here until we close.”
It has been this way at Aida’s Bakery since Nick’s father, family patriarch Giuseppe Mastrandrea first opened Aida’s Pine Valley Bakery in his late teens in 1970. A talented Italian baker, innovator and leader, he created a familycentric business that promotes the love of original Italian savoury sweets and treats, the comfort of family and the company of good friends. Fifty-five years later, fresh ingredients, artistic food creations and soulful family pride remain the foundations of the business, along with tremendous attention to detail.
“I did architecture in school and graphic design, and so did my brother,” says Nick Mastrandrea. “My dad was
The idea of Aida’s Bakery was conceived 1970 by Nick’s father, Giuseppe Mastrandrea
The aromas that waft throughout the bakery and the warm family welcome are what have driven business through their front doors for 55 years
very meticulous, so every little detail here counts. Even how you serve the customer, how you greet the customer, saying hello or remembering their name, that’s so important. You build relationships, so it’s more like a family. So now, even having our own products is nice to do. Four or five years ago, we switched to our own brand of specially-made coffees to support local suppliers and supply fresher products for everybody.”
Besides the incredible smells that greet you, the sense of family is palpable throughout Aida’s, with framed family photos and even some handwritten recipes from Giuseppe on the walls. Giuseppe passed away 18 years ago and his son took over the reins with a strong sense of history. “We renovated a few years ago, but since we have been here so long, we wanted to preserve the history, so it’s sort of like a family
EVERY LITTLE DETAIL HERE COUNTS. EVEN HOW YOU SERVE THE CUSTOMER, HOW YOU GREET THE CUSTOMER, SAYING HELLO OR REMEMBERING THEIR NAME, THAT’S SO IMPORTANT
collage of that history and the bakery,” says Mastrandrea, proudly giving the City Life team a tour of the premises.
There is not much staff turnover at Aida’s as most employees have been with the business for many years, even many decades. “Honesty and responsibility and a strong work ethic — my mom and dad were like that,” says Mastrandrea, and that’s what he first looks for in an employee. “People don’t see the behind-the-scenes. Bakery work is early mornings. It’s dedication, and frankly, it’s hard work. But with our open concept our customers see how many people work here, that we’re joking and laughing in the back and that we’re a team who enjoy our jobs.”
Being part of the greater Vaughan community has always played a central and important role at Aida’s Bakery. “It’s very important because your community supports you,” says
Come and enjoy traditional and original Italian sweets and savouries
Mastrandrea. “Without them, you don’t grow, you don’t establish yourself, and our community has always been behind us. Schools have fundraisers or events, and we do food for them or gift certificates. We also donate to the charity Creating Alternatives, and profits from the sales of our T-shirts, hats and bags we give to them. Everybody knows us, and they are not afraid to ask us for help in doing an event or something like an Italian social club. That’s very important, and we’re always available to them, and it has always been that way.”
CANADIAN TIRE YOUR ONE STOP FOR EVERYTHING SPRING
Canadian Tire Woodbridge would like to extend our warmest congratulations to Nick Mastrandrea, owner of Aida's Bakery, on your outstanding contributions to our community. Your dedication and commitment to making a positive impact are truly admirable. Your good work has not gone unnoticed, and we are grateful for the positive influence you've had on our community. Please keep up the fantastic work! Once again, congratulations!
There are probably many of us who, at one point, tried our hand (or oven mitt) at baking. It is one of the first skills we can experiment with in the kitchen as children. It might be a passing phase or the beginning of a lifelong passion. We watch shows, online clips or in-person masters such as those at Aida’s Bakery and imagine how tasty our creations will be how fluffy, delicate, buttery and soft our pastries will taste, or how warm and perfectly chewy those cookies will turn out to be.
Inevitably, however, there will be few of us who can master the taste, texture and quality of the master bakers, and we finally realize what a skilled craft true baking is. Simply put, it is a delicate art in a kitchen filled with very heavy-duty ovens, tools and machinery. Baking is a balance of heavy and light — a dash of sugar here, more flour there — at all times working without a net. You get one shot when the actual baking begins, and the results never lie.
There is no “getting close” in baking it’s not horseshoes or hand grenades. There is no “that’s sorta good” when it comes to baking. Baking is thumbs-up or thumbs-down, it worked or it didn’t. Baking is hard, which makes the daily mastery at Aida’s Bakery that four-in-the-morning artistry even more remarkable. Stable, dependable and genuinely friendly, with the freshest quality delivered at every visit, Aida’s Pine Valley Bakery is a proud and valuable member of the greater Vaughan community, even when no one else is awake.
Pure and fresh ingredients, artisanal creations and lots of soulful family pride truly represent Aida’s past, present and future
Dino's Wood Burning Pizza has steadily given back to the community for over a decade, with owner Zeynel “Dino” Ari regularly donating free food to shelters, hospitals, and newcomers
Etobicoke’s Dino’s Wood Burning Pizza has been providing the finest traditional Italian pizza and giving back to the community for 15 years
WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER | INTERVIEW BY MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA
Itused to be that to feel at the centre of any community, you would go to the city hall, the main community centre or perhaps a centrally located park. But times have changed, and if you want to feel like you’re at the centre of Etobicoke, Dino’s Wood Burning Pizza at either The Queensway in south Etobicoke or at 871 Kipling Avenue would be the perfect place to be.
And that’s not just for the food, made fresh daily by owner Dino Ari. It’s the palpable spirit of community and giving back that emanates from the warm and welcoming personality of this good-natured and kind-hearted man. You cannot help but feel enthusiastic, excited and engaged by what is possible in community-building when spending time with Ari, who makes it his mission by working every day to make his community a better place.
Even before the pandemic, seeing the growing problem of homelessness downtown, Ari and his sta had made pizzas and distributed them every Saturday to homeless shelters. He had also noticed how stressed Toronto’s international students who were living far away from family and in a strange city were, and had invited them to his shop for free food.
During the pandemic, Dino’s Wood Burning Pizza would prepare pies for frontline workers, giving slices to doctors and nurses at hospitals. For this, Ari was honoured as a “Hero of Etobicoke-Lakeshore” by the local Member of Parliament. He has also been recognized by the local MPP for his contributions to the community and by the Province of Ontario for
Dino is well-known for handing out dozens of slices
exceptional service to Etobicoke and has been awarded a Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee pin by the Canadian government.
But Ari does not give back for honour or recognition; he does it because he cares. He has had this philosophy since he immigrated from Turkey in 2000 and fi rst opened Dino’s Wood Burning Pizza in 2007.
“It makes me happy, and I feel good because I know people are going through di cult times,” says Ari in a recent interview with City Life “Kindness is good, so you know, if you are kind, you can put a smile on people’s faces, the people who are really in need. When we came to Canada, we brought our culture with us and our heart with us because our parents taught us how to help others. This is in our heart: to give help, and we’re not expecting to get back anything in return. If you are in need we
see you, and that’s how we feel, to give whatever we have. Big cities are always di cult to live in, whether it’s Italy or Turkey or Canada, but people can still be kind. I think it has to do with the family, the culture, the heart and how people were brought up.”
The care, commitment and passion for his community that Ari demonstrates daily is what he also brings to his craft — making some of the best pizza pies in the GTA. He starts the fi re in the oven that was handmade by a craftsman in Napoli, Italy, early in the morning. His renowned thin-crust wood-fi red pies emerge from this oven. Every day. His homemade sauces and dough are also made fresh daily, part of a menu that also features excellent wings and Turkish flatbreads.
Ari demonstrates his skill at both cooking and kindness every day, as he gives away free pizza to people
who may not have any money. “We must be kind to people and invest in our people and our community,” he says. “To put a smile upon the face of people that is the biggest reward for us.”
While there has always been comfort in homemade Italian food, it is the character of those who create that food who give to others, provide care for families and show concern for their communities, and the spirit that infuses their surroundings that can make a business feel truly special. Dino Ari embodies all these qualities and is making a di erence in every way he can. By paying it forward, he is providing a lesson for us all. He is a citizen of the people and for the people and one who Etobicoke should be very proud to call its own.
dinos-pizza.ca @dinospizzatoronto
to people outside a homeless shelter near Sherbourne and Queen Streets, especially during the cold winter season
Discover how community business leaders transform our communities through innovation, resilience, and passion as their vision propels local growth, fosters unity and sparks positive change
LEADERS IN BUSI NE SS
JUSTIN PIERSANTI NADIA NASCIMBEN
JULIA TAMBURRINI
LAURA DAMIANI COSTA PAUL COMMISSO
BEKIR OZDEMIR
BUILDING
Miral Cladding may be relatively new in the building industry but owner Bekir Ozdemir brought 25 years of success in construction to its formation
Besides its size, architectural design and perhaps height, nothing says more about a building or a home than the exterior cladding that surrounds it. The materials that have been selected, quality of its manufacturing and colouring of the exterior are what actually defines the structure and its appearance. Cladding can make any building sparkle, stand out and add to the esthetics of its surroundings, and experts in the field know this better than most.
Experts such as Bekir Ozdemir, who is
the owner of Miral Cladding Inc. on Cawthra Road in Mississauga. Ozdemir is a veteran of the construction industry with more than 25 years’ experience as owner of High Class Restorations, but when he saw the low standards of cladding some manufacturers were putting out into the marketplace, he saw an opportunity — an opportunity where he could deliver better-quality cladding for his many clients. The old adage “If you want something done right, do it yourself” comes to mind.
“Being 25 years in the contracting business, I know what customers are looking for, and I wasn’t happy with what I was seeing,” says Ozdemir. “So we did what we had been doing with High Class Restorations. We hired the best employees and the best suppliers when we started Miral Cladding two years ago. Our machines are very up-todate and up to standards. Every project we take on is very special for us, whether it’s a small, mid-size or big project. We emphasize quality, reliability and completing the project without any hassle, and to be on time and on budget. When our clients are happy at the end of a project, that is very satisfying for us.”
Miral Cladding is based on the business philosophy of the finest in quality craftmanship, providing innovative solutions with a customer-focused approach and the best in customer service while working with owners, architects, designers and contractors. Based in Toronto, Miral Cladding provides good advice and the best cladding
EVERY PROJECT WE TAKE ON IS VERY SPECIAL FOR US, WHETHER IT’S A SMALL PROJECT, MIDSIZE OR BIG PROJECT
solutions to clients across Canada. Miral supplies aluminum composite panels, custom metal flashing and trims, sub-girts, AC unit covers, louvers and vent covers to meet customers’ specific project requirements, and its metal siding solutions are both robust o ering important protection against all elements and also stylish, adding to the building’s esthetic appeal.
All of this is accomplished with the utmost focus on environmental sustainability and responsibility, as well as contributing to the betterment of Mississauga as a whole by supporting many community many charities. “Any leftover materials we have after a project, we donate to companies who are building a ordable homes for the less fortunate,” says Ozdemir.
The highest business ethics drive Miral Cladding and its sta of 10, who are more family than employees. “As an individual, I love challenges,” says Ozdemir. “And when I started this company I did so with passion, and now we are very successful. I am excited about the next five years because we have some very big projects in mind.”
2446 Cawthra Rd., Mississauga, ON 416-347-0404
LAURA DAMIANI COSTA Vice President of Operations
Established in 1957, Damiani Jewellers has been a pillar of the Vaughan community for almost seven decades. The family-run business has evolved through seven di erent locations, consistently adapting to the ever-changing jewellery industry while remaining true to its roots. It o ers fine jewellery and luxury timepieces with an unwavering commitment to quality and service.
“After almost 70 years in the business, we’ve mastered the art of selling fine jewellery and luxury goods,” says Damiani Jewellers President Frank Damiani. “Not only have we developed and maintained lasting relationships within the jewellery industry but also with our clients, some of whom have become like family.
DAMIANI JEWELLERS: SEVEN DECADES OF EXCELLENCE IN VAUGHAN
A family legacy of fine jewellery, luxury timepieces and unmatched customer service
It takes a lifetime to build up trust and a second to lose it. At the end of the day, we do what’s best for our customers.”
As a third-generation business, Damiani Jewellers has maintained its legacy while embracing modern trends. Vice President of Operations Laura Damiani Costa explains how the company has evolved over the years.
“The store has adapted to changing customer tastes, o ering both timeless pieces and more contemporary designs,” she says. “We have a broad selection of fine timepieces, custom-designed pieces and engagement rings, positioning Damiani Jewellers as a onestop shop for all luxury needs.”
Technology has played a key role in keeping the business relevant. The introduction of
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computer-aided design (CAD) technology allows customers to create one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces. “This level of customization enhances the customer experience by o ering something truly unique that may not be available from mass-market retailers,” notes Damiani Costa. Additionally, the store o ers personalized laser engraving on rings, watches, and other jewellery.
Custom design is a store specialty, allowing customers to bring their unique visions to life. “It’s a three-step process,” explains Damiani. “You sit with Andrea, the After-Sales Service Manager, discuss your ideas and envision your creation. A CAD is created for approval and, once finalized, the piece goes into production, taking four to six weeks to complete.”
At Damiani Jewellers, repairs are more than just a service — they are a labour of love. They believe that every piece of jewellery that is brought to them represents a memorable moment in the client’s life. Their sole priority is preserving any piece’s integrity while making it look its best.
Precision and expertise define Damiani Jewellers’ watch-servicing department. Watchmaker Csongor Gyarfas has more than 51 years of experience in the industry.
“Some watches need to be completely disassembled and reassembled again, which takes a lot of time and attention,” he says. “Whether it’s a simple battery replacement or a complete movement overhaul, I treat every watch with the care it deserves.”
Jewellery appraisals conducted by Gemologist Mitali Kapoor provide customers with essential documentation for insurance, resale or estate planning. “An appraisal isn’t
Damiani Jewellers o ers Swiss-made timepieces and gifts for all budgets as well as the largest selection of fine gold and diamond jewellery in the GTA. Additional services including onsite jewellery repair, watch servicing, engraving and goldbuying provide a seamless shopping experience
just about assigning a number; it’s about telling a story,” she explains. “Every piece holds sentimental and financial worth, and my job is to ensure [that] customers understand exactly what they own.”
Customer service is at the heart of Damiani Jewellers. “The goal is to make every client feel valued, understood and appreciated,” says Damiani Costa. “We take the time to educate clients about the materials, craftsmanship and design of each piece so they feel confident in their purchase.”
Looking ahead, Damiani Jewellers remains committed to growth while preserving its core values. “Our goals are focused on strengthening our online presence, expanding our product o erings and continuing to di erentiate ourselves through a full-service experience,” says Damiani Costa.
For many customers, Damiani Jewellers is more than a store — it’s a destination where
treasured moments are celebrated. They don’t sell necessities, they sell happiness.
“For some, an engagement ring purchase is just the beginning of their relationship with us. We look forward to seeing these clients return as they continue to celebrate special milestones over the years,” says Damiani.
With 68 years of trust, craftsmanship and dedication, Damiani Jewellers stands as a beacon of excellence in the jewellery industry, ensuring that every customer leaves with not just a purchase but a memory to cherish for generations.
15 Jevlan Dr., Woodbridge, ON 905-850-4653 www.damianijewellers.com @damianijewellers
THE MASTERGRAIN STANDARD: CANADA’S DOOR, BUILT FOR STRENGTH, BEAUTY AND PERFORMANCE
Whether you’re looking for a high-end custom design or a reliable, secure entryway, MASTERGRAIN’s doors promise a premium product built to last
When you think of doors, you might envision a simple, functional feature of a home.
But, for MASTERGRAIN™ Vice President of Marketing Paul Commisso, a front door is more than just an entryway. It sets the tone for a home, delivering a first impression of the homeowner’s style while reflecting the value they place on security and quality. MASTERGRAIN, a division of Weber
MASTERGRAIN Vice President of Marketing, PAUL COMMISSO, shares the vision for the Canadian based company to design, engineer and manufacture the best fibreglass doors on earth
a dedication to quality that homeowners can trust.”
At MASTERGRAIN, doors are an obsession — each one delivers unparalleled aesthetics, performance and reliability.
A TRUE CANADIAN INNOVATOR
Unlike many door manufacturers that source components from multiple suppliers, MASTERGRAIN controls every step of the process. Based in Midland, Ont., with a door gallery in Vaughan, Ont., MASTERGRAIN is Canada’s only fully integrated manufacturer of premium fibreglass door systems. Unlike others, they design and produce their own tooling to craft every component with unmatched precision.
Manufacturing Technologies Inc., has been in the door-manufacturing business for over two decades but only recently began building its own branded product that combines superior materials and craftsmanship. Their goal? To redefine the future of doors.
“MASTERGRAIN isn’t just a name; it’s a commitment to excellence,” Commisso says. “Every door we craft is a fusion of cuttingedge design, precision engineering and
“We design, build and manufacture every part of our doors — from the tooling to the skins, panels and components. Then, we finish and assemble each door,” explains Commisso. “From start to finish, we own the process. That gives us complete control over quality, performance and customization options that other manufacturers simply can’t o er.”
Since 2008, MASTERGRAIN has been at the forefront of fibreglass door innovation,
PHOTO BY LISMERY LOYOLA
delivering products that withstand the toughest climates while maintaining their beauty for years to come. With a 10-year finish warranty — the best in the industry — the company fully stands behind its products. Every MASTERGRAIN door is designed with Canadian homeowners in mind, crafted to endure extreme weather conditions while enhancing curb appeal.
THE LOOK OF WOOD, THE STRENGTH OF FIBREGLASS
For homeowners seeking a refined, high-end look without the maintenance issues of wood or the limitations of steel, MASTERGRAIN o ers the perfect solution. Their doors replicate the warmth and texture of natural woodgrain while delivering the resilience and durability of fibreglass. Unlike steel doors, which limit design flexibility, or wood doors, which are susceptible to warping and wear, MASTERGRAIN doors o er longlasting beauty with superior performance.
A key innovation behind MASTERGRAIN’s industry-leading woodgrain replication is its Nickel Vapour Deposition (NVD) technology. This proprietary process captures the exact details of real wood doors, creating a trueto-life woodgrain that features natural subtexture and variation. Unlike competitors that use repetitive patterns that lack depth and authenticity, MASTERGRAIN doors provide the closest alternative to a genuine wood door, with the added benefits of durability and minimal maintenance.
“If you love the elegance of a wood door but want something more durable and energy-e icient, our fibreglass doors are the answer,” says Commisso. “Thanks to our proprietary NVD technology, our woodgrain is more authentic than anything else on the market, making each door unique and full of character.”
SECURITY AND PERFORMANCE YOU CAN TRUST
Beyond design, MASTERGRAIN doors are engineered to meet the highest standards in security and weather resistance. Each door undergoes rigorous High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) testing, simulating extreme wind and rain conditions to ensure superior protection. MASTERGRAIN also offers fortified door options with mull posts that are reinforced with aluminum, laminated door glass options, multipoint locks, thicker door skins and engineered stile and rail systems — all of which deliver enhanced security.
WHEN YOU CHOOSE A MASTERGRAIN DOOR, YOU’RE CHOOSING A LEGACY OF CRAFTSMANSHIP
AND CANADIAN INGENUITY
These features make MASTERGRAIN doors ideal for homeowners in high-crime areas such as North York and Vaughan.
“A front door should o er peace of mind,” Commisso emphasizes. “Our doors aren’t just beautiful; they’re built to protect. We o er products that no other fibreglass door company does, like our two-and-a-quarterinch-thick doors, which provide even more strength and security.”
THE FUTURE OF ENTRYWAYS STARTS HERE
MASTERGRAIN has a simple mission: to build the best fibreglass doors on Earth. The company’s dedication to innovation, quality and customer satisfaction has positioned it as the premium choice for homeowners who refuse to settle for anything less than exceptional.
“When you choose a MASTERGRAIN door, you’re choosing a legacy of craftsmanship and Canadian ingenuity,” says Commisso. “We’re not just building doors; we’re shaping the future of entryways for homeowners who expect more.”
Discover the MASTERGRAIN di erence today. Visit mastergrain.com or follow @mastergraindoors to explore the next generation of premium fibreglass entry doors.
6260-13 Hwy 7, Woodbridge, ON +1 (800) 782-0559 | mastergrain.com
MASTERGRAIN designs, engineers and manufactures entire door systems in Midland, Ont., making them the only fibreglass door manufacturer in Canada to control the full production process.
MASTERGRAIN 2-Panel Classic Cherry Fibreglass Entry Door | Black Stain | Aurora, Ont.
JULIA TAMBURRINI immersed herself in the sport, built a top-tier program and cultivated a thriving community of athletes and coaches out of a desire to seek the best fit for her own daughters’ athletic pursuits
HIGH FLYERS GYMNASTICS: WHERE DREAMS TAKE FLIGHT
athletes and coaches, fostering mentorship and a positive training environment. “Our Head Coach and Technical Director Jamila Goodfellow plays a pivotal role in inspiring both our athletes and our coaches,” Tamburrini shares.
With over 1,000 enrolled athletes, High Flyers is a place where children grow, develop discipline, and refine their skills — many continuing well into their teenage years. From beginner programs for toddlers to advanced training, the club ensures that every athlete benefits from both physical and mental development.
Tamburrini adds, “We inspire a lifelong love for movement and athleticism. Gymnastics makes very well-rounded individuals because of the discipline of the sport. So, yes, we work on the physical, but also on their minds.”
As young gymnasts mature with a strong foundation and a clear vision, High Flyers Gymnastics is well on its way to a prosperous future and to solidifying its place as a leader in Canadian gymnastics.
Julia Tamburrini, Owner & CEO of High Flyers Gymnastics in Vaughan, is steamrolling into the new year stronger than ever!
Just after celebrating 10 years of serving the Vaughan community and recently being awarded the title of Vaughan Top Choice Gymnastics School of 2025, High Flyers is
poised to produce Olympic-level athletes for the foreseeable future. As young gymnasts mature, the club aims to secure scholarships and prepare them for elite-level competition with the help of their more than 60 passionate coaches and sta in their stateof-the-art facility.
The team is structured to support both
NADIA NASCIMBEN has built a reputation for excellence by working with high-profile clients and leading corporations across various industries. Her strategic approach and dedication to personalized service have helped individuals, families and businesses navigate complex immigration processes with confidence and success
CAREOPOLY: CANADA’S TOP IMMIGRATION FIRM, THERE FOR YOU 24/7
paperwork — it’s about restoring hope and creating opportunities.
Careopoly is known for its personalized, client-first approach. Unlike many firms, it provides an in-house team of experts that includes lawyers, paralegals, and licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs). “At Careopoly, we believe immigration is not a one-size-fits-all process. It requires strategic planning, legal expertise and a hands-on approach tailored to each client’s needs,” Nadia explains.
Proudly serving both individual and corporate clients, o ering tailored immigration solutions to meet your unique needs
Asthe founder of Careopoly Immigration Services, Nadia Nascimben brings a wealth of experience from both government and the private sector to transform immigration strategies for individuals and businesses alike.
Whether you need family sponsorship, skilled-worker placement, or corporate immigration solutions, Careopoly provides tailored support every step of the way. Her passion stems from her background as the daughter and granddaughter of Italian immigrants. Witnessing their struggles and
triumphs inspired her to create Careopoly, a firm dedicated to “building futures, reuniting families and supporting the industries that drive Canada’s economy.”
One of the most impactful cases Nascimben recalls involved a family separated for over five years due to bureaucratic hurdles. “After multiple failed attempts with other consultants, they turned to us. We immediately acted, built a comprehensive case and navigated the complexities with precision and dedication.”
The family’s emotional reunion reinforced her belief that immigration is about more than
Beyond individual cases, Nadia highlights immigration’s critical role in addressing Canada’s labour shortages. “Immigration is not just a benefit to Canada’s economy — it is a necessity,” she asserts.
Careopoly has facilitated thousands of skilled professionals’ placements across industries from health care to construction, strengthening the nation’s workforce. Nadia adds, “Canada’s future depends on a strong immigration system, and Careopoly will continue to be a leader in ensuring that individuals, families and businesses can navigate the process successfully.”
Struggling with immigration challenges or caught o guard by recent Canadian policy changes? Don’t face it alone. Call Nadia and the Careopoly team — available 24/7 — for fast, reliable solutions and expert guidance tailored to your needs. The team speaks over 20 languages to serve you better. Contact CAREOPOLY today and take control of your immigration journey with confidence and peace of mind.
JUSTIN PIERSANTI
and Nadia Nascimben have established a symbiotic partnership, combining her expertise in immigration law with his real estate and corporate law expertise to foster mutual growth and deliver a comprehensive range of legal services to their clients
JUSTIN PIERSANTI:
THE CLOSER YOU NEED, THE ADVOCATE YOU DESERVE
Specializing in real estate and commercial law, Justin Piersanti isn’t just another lawyer
Known for his client-centred approach, Justin Piersanti prioritizes relationships over volume, delivering not just legal solutions but strategic victories. Piersanti is not merely practicing law; he is committed to winning for his clients. This results-driven mentality is the cornerstone of his career as a modern legal expert. As the founder of Mister Lawyer and Piersanti Law, he is redefining the legal profession with a blend of style and substance.
Legal Excellence with Swagger Piersanti doesn’t just manage cases; he problem-solves them. His strategic mindset ensures every move is meticulously calculated for success. His confidence and precision in the business and legal arenas make him an invaluable ally.
Specializing in real estate law, corporate and commercial real estate, private mortgages, construction and municipal law, Piersanti is more than just a lawyer; he is a powerhouse advocate who closes deals and resolves problems with unparalleled precision and flair.
While many legal professionals concentrate on billable hours, Piersanti remains focused on achieving victories for his clients. His reasonable and fixed fees complement the sharp, tailored service he provides, which has proven and predictable success. Clients receive more than legal advice — they gain a dedicated partner invested in their success.
A Legal Maverick Across Multiple Fields
With broad expertise in real estate law, Justin brings knowledge across a broad area of legal knowledge, including trademarks, video game law, matrimonial agreements, non-profit governance, wills, trust and estate planning, landlord and tenant board issues, franchise law and employment agreements. Piersanti brings a sharp, versatile edge to every case. His ability to navigate complex legal landscapes with innovative solutions makes him the go-to legal professional for clients expecting nothing short of excellence.
A lifelong learner and natural strategist, Piersanti thrives on staying ahead of the curve. His philosophy is simple: “Change is good. If
you’re not evolving, you’re falling behind.” His mission? Results, not excuses. “When my client wins or closes the deal, that’s my success — and I don’t settle for anything less.”
Proven Results That Speak Volumes
The results speak for themselves. Year after year, clients return to Piersanti to handle their files with strict confidence and privacy. His reputation for closing complex cases and delivering strategic solutions is unmatched.
One client shared, “I was facing a complex corporate legal issue that no one could crack. Justin not only solved it — he transformed it into a valuable opportunity.” This testimonial reflects the essence of Piersanti’s approach: when results matter, he is the legal strategist who consistently delivers.
Impact Beyond the Boardroom
For Piersanti, the law isn’t merely about contracts and negotiations — it’s about making strategic moves that transform the game for his clients. Whether securing highstakes real estate deals, navigating corporate complexities, or crafting bulletproof estate plans, his impact resonates far beyond the boardroom.
The Ultimate Legal Powerhouse Engaging with Piersanti means aligning with a legal professional dedicated to his client’s success. His comprehensive legal expertise ensures that each client receives personalized, strategic advice leading to tangible success.
Why Choose Justin Piersanti?
Fast-tracked results, strategic advice tailored to individual needs, a ordable and transparent fees, and a history of proven success stories. Piersanti’s client list is selective — ensure your place before opportunities fill up.
Your Power Move Starts Now
For real estate, business, or personal legal matters, you need more than just a lawyer — you need a closer. Someone committed to securing the deal, achieving the result, and delivering the win.
Don’t settle for standard legal advice — gain the strategic edge that guarantees results. Get the honest legal advice you need because your future deserves nothing less. Schedule your free consultation today
UNDERSTANDING MODERN DATING RULES THROUGH THE LENS OF SHANNON TEBB
Boutique matchmaker Shannon Tebb decodes the “6-6-6 dating rule” and highlights the important elements of a long-lasting relationship
WRITTEN BY ISHA SHARMA | INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO
Doyou remember how the “Man in Finance” song took over social media in 2024? While hundreds of thousands of people posted reels based on the song, it closely resembled a phenomenon that has made its presence known all over dating profiles: the 6-6-6 dating rule.
As the name suggests, the 6-6-6 dating-rule phenomenon refers to men who are six feet tall, have six-pack abs and make six figures. Surprisingly, these days this “rule” has become a guide for many women making serious dating choices.
With more than 20 years of experience, boutique matchmaker and dating expert Shannon Tebb has thoughts about how this rule works against the spirit of finding true love for both women and men.
Tebb says that she often finds women stressing over the 6-6-6 rule while looking for their ideal partner. In her opinion, focusing on the 6-6-6 rule’s superficial traits could instead decrease a person’s chances of finding a fulfilling relationship. There is also the possibility that if a woman uses this rule alone to find true love she will not find it, since true love is usually not based on such shallow traits, and she might miss out on some amazing men — just because they don’t quite fit the rule’s superficial criteria.
She wants women to ask themselves if a certain height, paycheck and body type are the primary things they need in a life partner. Instead, they should understand that kindness and aligned values are more important considerations in the long run.
She explains how certain psychological factors govern such beliefs among women and men. For women, who often compare themselves with their married friends and feel that they are running out of time, age is a big worry.
Men primarily struggle with rejection. This leads them to succumb to pressure to establish the perfect career and lifestyle. She explains how old-school norms such as “the man is the provider of the family” and masculine stereotypes often contribute to men and women adhering
to certain conventions that go against the spirit of successful relationships.
Amidst the chaos of such triggers, women often use less recent photos to appear younger while men lie about their height on dating apps. However, raising such unrealistic expectations isn’t healthy because they only contribute to people sabotaging themselves.
Tebb notes how important it is to have
realistic standards. A person looking for a long-term relationship should be open to people of different heights and ethnicities.
Since people don’t know with whom they could end up falling in love, they shouldn’t restrict their chances of knowing and understanding another person. They should also navigate a relationship at their own speed without comparing themselves to others. Love can happen anytime, whether a person is in their twenties or their fifties.
Tebb says, “There is a right person for everyone in the world, but it doesn’t have to be based on a specific set of things.”
When asked about one big shift she has seen in dating culture over the years, she notes that people are now walking around with checklists for finding soulmates. “Dating apps have destroyed dating,” she says, adding that when people sit in bars but are only looking at their phones, they are losing out on any chance of meeting other single people there.
Because of this lack of real-time conversation, people spend time focusing on superficial traits. In Tebb’s opinion,
men should see value within themselves and women must not fear showing their vulnerable side to men.
Most of her clients today are men and women in their thirties and fifties. Earlier it used to be people in their forties, but now people in their forties are still building their lives.
When asked what advice she would give men who feel disheartened with women paying too much attention to the 6-6-6 rule, she says that men must focus on personal growth, finding their purpose and building their values.
She also says that women should “be less in their head and more in their heart” when it comes to not subscribing to the 6-6-6 rule. They must think about their relationships deeply and give people a fair chance to be themselves.
In the end, it’s all about how your partner makes you feel. Ask yourself if you feel a connection and are willing to learn more. Focus on being nurturing and loving. The golden rule is, therefore, to lead from the heart.
www.shannyinthecity.com @shannyinthecity
PHOTO COURTESY OF SHANNON TEBB
Shannon Tebb Boutique matchmaker and dating expert
LEARNING THE ART OF BEING KIND
Professor Lara
Aknin
on
the
numerous physical health and emotional rewards of giving and gratitude
WRITTEN BY ISHA SHARMA | INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO
The famous philosopher Seneca once remarked, “Wherever there is a human being there is an opportunity for kindness.” While generosity and kind deeds are fundamental for becoming good people, did you know that these attributes also yield emotional and physical health benefits?
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health conducted a seminar called “Be kind, live longer? The surprising health benefits of giving back,” with speakers Laura Kubzansky, Ashley Whillans,
and moderator Patrick Skerrett. Many research studies highlight how lending a helpful hand to others and being grateful in our own lives can lead to numerous emotional and physical health advantages, ranging from elevating mood to lowering blood pressure.
Lara Beth Aknin, a Canadian professor of social psychology at Simon Fraser University, also emphasizes the emotional rewards of acts of kindness. Her own research began with conducting student samples while studying at the University of
British Columbia.
The research demonstrated that whether it was spending money on others or any other act of kindness, helping others resulted in bringing happiness to the person performing the kind deed. At the same time, it raised important questions about how generalizable these rewards of generosity can be.
Professor Aknin and her research partners in India, South Africa and Uganda wanted to see if the emotional rewards of giving were felt across all
cultures. The work was tested on toddlers under two years old who don’t care about giving money but do care about sharing food. It was observed that kids smile more when they give.
Interestingly, a similar response was observed in ex-offenders. The study was further validated when it was found that even people who one might expect to have had fewer chances to experience such emotions felt emotionally rewarded. A giving outlook doesn't just offer the emotional benefit of happiness, it also has physical health benefits. Professor Aknin cited the “Broaden and Build” model by Barbara Fredrickson and spoke about how positive emotional experiences help to expand people’s “Thought-action repertoires,” the limited range of actions that a person who is experiencing negative emotions can imagine and choose to take. Such experiences help them develop long-term personal resources, which include social, psychological, intellectual and physical resources. The emotional rewards of giving also affect the body's cortisol levels. Research has revealed that generous people have higher
cortisol-recovery rates.
She also mentioned how many people have an intuitive sense of sharing and do not always recognize the emotional benefits that they would get from helping others. Many perform philanthropic acts just for their own material gains. The hope, therefore, is to encourage people to give back and show they care without being driven by résumé-padding or selfish motives.
Professor Aknin mentioned that many epidemiological approaches have been used to study the relationship between prosocial behaviour and long-term health, and observational data that consider various cohorts have been tracked for a long time. Additionally, groups of healthy individuals have been asked what kinds of activities they participate in or what their goals are.
Studies have examined how much a person donates to charities, volunteers for organizations or helps others. Researchers have monitored subjects for from five to 20 years, depending on the study, to see if those who have practiced more of these altruistic habits are less likely to
experience various health consequences.
Numerous markers, including mortality and cardiovascular disease and, more recently, cognitive aging, have been examined, and the results are compelling: people who volunteer more and donate to charities over an extended period are less likely to suffer from heart disease, are more likely to live longer and have better cognitive health in the long run.
Commenting on the threads that link community and generosity, Professor Aknin added that in tight-knit communities, people are more inclined to give locally. There is a general human desire to want to see the positive impact of our own contributions, and that helps to build a strong social fabric and a more caring community. When asked about the most effective way to encourage people to donate, Aknin observed that people are more likely to support or give to causes that are personally relevant to them. Therefore, if people are to give voluntarily and in meaningful ways to the needy in their community or to causes that resonate with them, they first have to become aware of what those might be.
STHE LOST LOVE OF READING WITH OUR CHILDREN
In recent years, the love of reading, particularly among younger generations, seems to be fading
WRITTEN BY KATE BRYNN | INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO
ince 1999, when January 27 was designated as Family Literacy Day in Canada, it has been a day dedicated to promoting the importance of families reading together to foster literacy. But experts in education and literacy note that the habit of family reading time is declining. They point to a variety of factors contributing to this decline, including busy schedules, the rise of technology and parents who lack the confidence to establish reading routines at home.
One major issue is the growing time constraints that families face in today’s busy world. Parents are juggling work, household chores and other responsibilities, which often leaves little room for such activities as reading with their children. In many households, it has become all too easy to turn to screens as a quick and quiet way to engage a child and give parents some space and time to complete other tasks. While this may seem like a practical solution, the consequences of substituting screen time for reading time are significant.
Experts such as Frederick Hess, the director of education policy studies at the American Enterprise Institute, argue that this over-reliance on technology combined with the pressures of modern life are contributing to a decline in the habit of reading in children. Hess, who is also a father, acknowledges that the distractions of technology are a ecting not only children but their parents as well. The
ubiquity of digital devices has reshaped how families spend time together, and the convenience of technology often makes it an easier choice than activities like reading, which needs a bit of preplanning. Hess wants to imagine a world where parents delay giving their children smartphones perhaps not until the age of 14 and to establish clear boundaries around technology use in the home. For example, parents could lock devices away at night and use them only in ways that enhance their children’s learning rather than as entertaining distractions.
Hess also emphasizes the importance of reading aloud with children no matter how old they are. When parents read to their children, it not only exposes them to language and literature but also fosters meaningful conversations. Children are able to ask questions and engage in discussions that might not occur if they were reading alone or interacting with a device. Moreover, these conversations can strengthen the bond between parent and child, providing a space for shared experiences and growth.
But reading aloud is not a practice that comes naturally to all parents, especially those who may not have had the experience of being read to as children themselves. This lack of confidence can exacerbate the decline in family reading time. Many parents simply do not know where to start or how to engage their children with books in a way that feels meaningful. This is where educators and
literacy experts can play a crucial role.
literacy experts can play a crucial role. Educators are in a unique position to model the love of reading for parents and families. By demonstrating the types of materials that are engaging, how long to read and where to find accessible resources, educators can help families cultivate a reading culture at home. For example, teachers provide recommendations for ageappropriate books, share strategies for making reading interactive or even host family literacy events that encourage parents to participate in reading activities with their children. These e orts not only support parents in their reading journeys but also provide opportunities for the wider community to become involved in fostering a love of reading.
Educators can also help parents understand the importance of making time for reading even amid the demands of busy schedules. By making reading a consistent part of daily routines, such as before bed or during quiet afternoons, families can create a habit of reading that becomes ingrained in their lives. The key is not necessarily to read for hours at a time but to prioritize reading in small, manageable chunks that fit into the family’s lifestyle. By addressing the challenges that families face and providing the tools and resources necessary to foster reading habits, we can ensure that the joy of reading is not lost but rather passed on to future generations.
FOREVER BESTIES
The beautiful bond between Nikita and Deesha remind us of the true meaning of friendship
INTERVIEW BY ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO
Q: How long have you been besties?
A: Deesha and I have been best friends since the moment we met. It was one of those rare instant connections you read about in novels. The day was hot — a sweltering July afternoon in 2015. She was 18, fresh out of high school, wearing a white crocheted dress with a hair tie wrapped around her ankle. I was 23, juggling full-time work and evening university classes. Sounds like the start of a rom-com, doesn’t it? Well, I love that girl.
We owe our friendship to our mothers, who worked together and decided we should meet. And from the first moment, we just clicked. I know it’s a cliché, but there’s no other way to describe it. We laughed at the same jokes, rolled our eyes at the same annoyances, shared the same vices, and even spoke in the same cadence. To this day, people mistake us for sisters. Our voices are so
alike that we’ve lost count of the phone pranks we’ve pulled off.
But we’re not the same person — far from it. Deesha is the social butterfly, while I’m the introvert. I’m the bookworm, and she’s got the kind of street smarts that could put anyone to shame. Yet, somehow it all balances out. She always knows what I’m thinking with just one look, and I can do the same for her. We understand the darkest parts of each other’s souls, and we don’t judge. Ever.
In the 10 years that we have been besties, we have watched each other grow from clueless young’uns to (semi)mature adults. We watched pivotal moments in each other’s lives, from breakups to almost-car crashes, reckless nights (that we will deny, deny, deny) and career changes. From weddings to buying our first homes, we have been through it all together. She
www.mycitylife.ca
has hundreds of friends, but I’m the one that truly gets her. As for me? I have very few friends, by choice. And she always made the cut. She’s my rideor-die. And I’m hers. (Don’t tell my husband I said that!)
Q: Why is your friendship so special?
A: Our friendship is special because it has stood the test of time, rumours, betrayal and illness. We were young when we met, and as our personalities evolved our values and morals matured simultaneously. Sometimes, it feels like we’re like two different colours that when mixed, create a shade no one has ever seen before. We can tell each other anything and have no secrets. I don’t generally like people, but for some reason, I always really liked her and always will. Our friendship is truly special because we fundamentally get each other, and we understand the entirety of each other’s personalities.
and Deesha know that the best way to enjoy quality time together is over a true HERO Certified Burger — because great moments deserve great burgers!
Q: If you could have a burger named after your friendship, what would it be called?
A: Ride or Fry — it’s a perfect fit! We also considered Grill Gang (like Girl Gang, but for burgers).
Q: If you were an item from the menu, which would you be?
A: The Spicy Jalapeño Crispy Chicken Burger — because it’s bold, fiery, and “too hot to handle.” - Nikita
A: A Blue Moon Burger — because it’s rare, unique, and an acquired taste. - Deesha
Q: What moment or trait makes you see your friend as a hero?
A: We take turns being each other’s heroes. When one of us struggles to speak up or stand our ground, the other steps in with strength and confidence. It’s like that spicy burger energy — bold and fearless. We complement each other, always showing up when needed.
Nikita
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DIAGNOSED TO DIE, SAVED BY A U.S. DOCTOR:
GREGORIO DI PIETRO’S
DIAGNOSED TO DIE, SAVED BY A U.S. DOCTOR: GREGORIO DI PIETRO’S INCREDIBLE STORY
STORY
After
multiple surgeries, Gregorio Di Pietro received the help he needed at Ohio’s Cleveland Clinic
is smile, all-encompassing and kind, is infectious. It is the kind of smile that leaves you with only one choice, which is to return his greeting with a smile of your own, happy to share his gratitude for the positive things in life.
However, things have not always been this good for Gregorio Di Pietro, a 78-year-old Maple, ON., man who suffered nine invasive surgeries in four years.
To share his journey, one that has been
fraught with frustration, despair and outsized pain, there is no one better to narrate it than Di Pietro himself.
“I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 1985,” Di Pietro says. “Still, everything was going along OK until Christmas of 2019, when I experienced a blockage.”
And that is when everything went off the rails for Di Pietro, his wife Carmela and their two sons, Lawrence and Gerardo. By the time he was triaged and processed at a major Ontario hospital, Di Pietro was told that he needed surgery — immediately.
“I relied on the doctors, so I agreed to go ahead with surgery and was given a temporary ostomy,” a surgery that created an opening (stoma) to allow stool to drain out of his body and into a pouch known as an ostomy bag. “But right afterwards, my medical team mentioned that the procedure might not have been necessary,” Di Pietro says, shaking his head in disbelief at the memory.
Di Pietro says he lived with the ostomy until the spring of 2020, at which point he had surgery to cut out the intestinal blockage and reattach the intestines,
WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT | INTERVIEW BY MARC CASTALDO
reverse the ostomy procedure and remove the bag.
Months later, however, Di Pietro was feeling unwell. Upon investigation, a leak in the reattached connection was discovered that required another series of operations and increased the amount of scar tissue in his gut.
“I was waking up in pain every day,” Di Pietro says. “I’d have surgery and then six months later I’d have another surgery. And then six months later I’d have another one. It was hard on me and it was hard on the family.” And disturbingly,
after these multiple surgeries, Di Pietro says that his abdomen was essentially left open with his intestines hanging out.
The next four years can only be described as a living nightmare, so severely traumatic that near the end of this period Di Pietro wanted to end his life.
Because of his Crohn’s disease, Di Pietro suffered damage to his intestinal tract, which compromised the amount of nutrition his body could extract from his food, ultimately causing him to suffer from malnutrition. Because
of this, he had to go on total parenteral nutrition (TPN), a intravenous treatment that provided him with the calories, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals he needed while giving his inflamed intestines a chance to recover.
“The doctors told me that I was going to have to live on TPN for the rest of my life. But it was damaging my liver and kidneys, which wasn’t good. I went off TPN and then I couldn’t eat anything. By that point I only had a few months left to live,” he says.
The intimate details of what Di Pietro
Gregorio Di Pietro feeling happy and purpose-filled as he shares his story at his Maple home
went through for all those weeks and months before, between and after the multiple surgeries are shared by his son Lawrence, who in the telling reveals the depth of the family’s suffering and how badly his father’s situation had deteriorated.
“Different nurses would come in and tape a bag around my dad’s open wound where his intestines were exposed, and every time he ate, liquid poo would come out of his belly and into the bag,” Lawrence says. Around the edge where it was fastened to his body, “the bag would almost always leak, which irritated and compromised his skin. Dad would lie in bed in that state, waiting for the nurse to come back and clean him up before applying a new wrap around the wound.”
This situation went on for a couple of years, and after the ninth surgery Di Pietro’s medical teams at two Torontoarea hospitals told him that they couldn’t do anything more to help him.
The Di Pietro family was devastated.
support as she contributes details here and there to the conversation, ones that she feels are important to understand the family’s journey. Gregorio smiles at her warmly, his appreciation evident in the way he listens intently to what she is saying.
“My parents have been through an awful lot — they lost a child, my older sister, who was ten years old when she died,” Lawrence says. “They almost lost their house when the mortgage rates
intestinal surgeries, one that was in Los Angeles and the other in Cleveland, Ohio. “This was our last chance, so I reached out to the Cleveland Clinic, because it was closer to home,” he says.
During this time Di Pietro had been communicating with the Ontario Ministry of Health, who in a letter informed him that his medical treatment did not meet the “regulatory criteria” for what the province deemed an emergency.
“How could it not be an emergency? I was told that I only had a few months to live!” Di Pietro says, his tone a mix of disgust and disbelief.
“It was bad, really bad — I was looking for ways to end my life,” Di Pietro says, a statement that is hard to believe coming from the man dressed in a crisp blue and white polka-dot shirt, whose grey square-framed glasses don’t conceal the determination in his eyes. In fact, when he walked into the kitchen of his classic Italian-Canadian home — all-white cupboards, an espresso machine on the counter and a glass cake dome covering a bowl of delectable cioccolatini e pasticcini on the kitchen island — it is uplifting to see how far he has come.
The Di Pietro family, close and loving, advocated for Gregorio every step of the way. Indeed, throughout our conversation, his wife Carmela hovers quietly in the background, a pillar of
jumped from five per cent to close to 20 per cent overnight, and yet my dad stayed strong. For my dad to say that he wanted to take his life was devastating.”
And so, when the family was informed that Di Pietro’s situation was grave — that he had a projected three months to live — Lawrence Di Pietro sprang into action, taking it upon himself to search the Internet for any and all possible solutions that might help his dad.
“My son told me not to give up hope, that we were going to get a second opinion,” Di Pietro says. “Carmela told me to hang in, that she would help me. I was so tired, but I kept going for the family.”
During his research Lawrence kept coming across the names of two clinics in the United States that specialized in
And so, with his health failing, the only way forward that the family could see was to take out a $600,000 line of credit against their family business. “We had no time to pursue other financial arrangements,” Lawrence says. “We got the loan and are currently dealing with the taxes relative to that.”
Di Pietro’s records and medical history were sent to the Cleveland Clinic and discussions ensued.
“The clinic’s medical team told us that they thought they could help my dad — with ‘thought’ being the operative word,” Lawrence says.
Enter Dr. Kareem Abu-Elmagd, a highly skilled surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic who has an international reputation for clinical and technical contributions in the field of transplantation and specializes in abdominal organ transplantation and digestive-system surgery.
“It was a risk going to the States, but nobody could do anything up here for me, so we took the chance,” Di Pietro says. “I told Dr. Kareem that I couldn’t have any more surgeries, that I had too much scar tissue. He told me that he had heard that before. He also told me that what I was going through was not living. ‘I can make
Central to Cleveland Clinic’s mission is its emphasis on patient experience, and for Di Pietro it was life-saving
“I WAS HIS LAST HOPE TO GET HIS LIFE BACK ON TRACK ”
– Dr. Kareem Abu-Elmagd
“ONE OPERATION IN THE UNITED STATES FIXED A PROBLEM THAT NINE OPERATIONS IN CANADA COULDN’T ”
– Gregorio Di Pietro
Carmela and Gregorio Di Pietro with Dr. Kareem Abu-Elmagd and his medical team at the Cleveland Clinic
“ WE WANT THE PUBLIC TO BE AWARE OF WHAT IS GOING ON IN OUR HEALTH CARE SYSTEM. CHANGES NEED TO BE MADE ”
you better,’ he told me. ‘I don’t know how much better, but I can help you.’”
After a couple of interviews between Dr. Abu-Elmagd and the family over Zoom, Di Pietro, Carmela, and their son Gerardo travelled to Cleveland, where Di Pietro spent a pre-surgery week having tests done that would inform the plan for the eleven-hour surgery that Dr. Abu-Elmagd would perform.
“Di Pietro was desperate when he first came to see me. He was crying,” Dr. AbuElmagd says. “And when I see a man cry, it breaks my heart. Di Pietro had severe chronic Crohn’s disease and short bowel syndrome, which means he didn’t have enough bowel to absorb the daily caloric
and nutritional needs necessary, which is why he needed TPN. He also had an obstruction in his bowel as well as fistula, an abnormal connection that develops between the intestinal tract or stomach and the skin, which affects the healing process. Reconstruction was tough and requires the kind of technical skills that not every surgeon is able to acquire. I was his last hope to get his life back on track.”
In January of 2024, Dr. Abu-Elmagd performed a major reconstruction of Di Pietro’s gastrointestinal tract.
“Di Pietro required lengthening of the small bowel along with a serial transverse enteroplasty (STEP),” Dr. Abu-Elmagd explains.
While Di Pietro was recovering, Carmela stayed at a long-term rental that was affiliated with the clinic. Lawrence and Gerardo took turns travelling to Cleveland to see their dad and support their mom.
“The whole process, from the time my dad went to Cleveland until he was able to come home, took six to seven weeks,” Lawrence says. “By that point, his wound was closed and he no longer needed an ostomy bag.”
Says Dr. Abu-Elmagd, “Di Pietro is currently living a normal life with the reconstruction work and is a fully functioning, productive citizen.”
During the past six to eight months,
– Lawrence Di Pietro
Di Pietro has been trying unsuccessfully to get the Ministry of Health to reimburse the family for their outof-pocket $600,000 in expenses. His thoughts and emotions regarding what he and his family went through, the fi nancial burdens it caused and the fact that the Ontario health care system did not come to his aid during one of the most challenging times of his life are all part of why he has decided to share his story publicly.
“Why can’t we get the same kind of health care here that I got in the States? Our health care system is out of control; we can’t keep going on like this,” Di Pietro says, shaking his head in
dismay. “We lost so many of our doctors years ago because of the crackdown on extra billing. These doctors go to school for many years — they should have the right to charge extra, to bill for what they are worth. I have paid health care taxes all my life. I feel that I should at least get some of my expenses covered. I think we need to do what a lot of countries are doing and that is to have a private sector of health care in addition to the system of public care we have now. If we work together and speak with our politicians, if we are motivated, we can find solutions. If no one gets involved, nothing gets done.”
Lawrence Di Pietro also is upset with the state of Ontario’s medical system, which he says is underfunded and understaffed.
“I cannot emphasize strongly enough how bad my dad’s situation was,” he says. “I don’t know how he did it, to be honest, because it killed us. We lived it, we saw it and we want the public to be aware of what is going on in our health care system. Changes need to be made.”
When asked if the family would do it all over again, including taking on such a major financial burden, Lawrence’s answer is both simple and anticipated by anyone who has ever walked the path with a loved one who is gravely ill.
“Of course,” Lawrence says, without a sliver of doubt in his voice. “My dad is back to being his happy self. He comes into work a few hours most days, and over Christmas last year he was able to take a vacation to Florida. He is just happy to be alive.”
Dr. Abu-Elmagd, who consulted preand post-surgery with Di Pietro’s Toronto doctors to ensure that he continues the medications that help manage his disease, is dedicated to sharing his expertise with doctors around the world, including those in Canada. He
is currently teaching colleagues his innovative gut reconstructive surgery and how to perform what is known as “Kareem’s Procedure.”
“‘Kareem’s Procedure’ is a surgical correction of the gut malrotation, which is a congenital anomaly whereby the intestine was not placed in its normal position. It is a condition that carries the prohibitive life-threatening risk of volvulus, a twisting and cutting off of the blood supply of the intestine. With the new ‘Kareem’s Procedure,’ the misplaced intestine is fi xed into its normal position, thus preventing the twisting of the bowel. The procedure has been 100 per cent successful in both my adult and children patients,” Dr. Abu-Elmagd says.
“Canada has many wonderful surgeons, but when someone is experiencing challenges with Crohn’s disease and their case is complicated, it is necessary to seek outside advice from a surgeon who specializes in the disease. With universal access to social media, patients should make sure to source additional help if they are not happy with their care,” and once they receive the proper treatment, they must be compliant with the prescribed course of treatment, says Dr. Abu-Elmagd.
Today, Di Pietro’s appreciation for Dr. Abu-Elmagd continues to be immeasurable. “It is amazing what Dr. Kareem did for me. I am normal now and I’m happy. I can eat whatever I want. I can go to work. I couldn’t be any better,” Di Pietro says, and in his megawatt smile you can capture a glimpse of what he was like as a young man. The warmth of that smile floods the room with positivity, delight, and a genuine gratitude for getting a second chance at life.
Indeed, it is the kind of smile that stays with you long after you’ve said goodbye to this extraordinarily courageous family.
Gregorio Di Pietro’s physical and emotional state was so dire that he considered taking his own life
ASK FOR ANGELA: CREATING AN ALTERNATIVE WAY TO GET HELP
The numbers are both alarming and tragic. She was someone’s mother, daughter, sister, aunt, or best friend. Or maybe she was the neighbour you used to wave to on warm summer afternoons.
The Ontario Association of Interval & Transition Houses website reports that “over the last three years Ontario has seen on average one or more femicides per week. In 2021–2022, 52 femicides were confirmed in the province. This number rose to 62 the following
year, a statistic that was repeated in 2023 –2024.”
And so “Ask for Angela” was created, giving gender-based violence survivors a lifeline to safety, hope and freedom when they ask the simplest of questions: “Is Angela here?” The phrase has become a safe code for women who are experiencing gender-based violence and are reaching out for help.
The original idea, which began in 2016, was created in the U.K. by District Commander for Bassetlaw, Inspector
Hayley Crawford, who named the initiative after Angela Crompton, a good friend who was killed by her husband in 2012.
Pascal Niccoli, pharmacist and owner of the Shoppers Drug Mart in the Conestoga Mall in Waterloo, Ontario, first heard about the “Ask for Angela” initiative at a conference he attended.
The idea resonated with him because in his work with community organizations where the focus was on women’s
Information tools and action-based steps are critical as we address the shame and fear attached to gender-based violence
health and intimate partner violence, he observed a noticeable increase in intimate-partner violence and worsening of women’s health, particularly during the pandemic.
“I heard about pharmacists getting involved in a U.K. initiative called ‘Ask for ANI,’ [Action Needed Immediately],” Niccoli says. “The program was rolled out in bars and clubs where women might feel unsafe. Asking sta for Annie became code for ‘I need help.’ I felt this idea could be of assistance in my community and fairly easy to implement, so I brought the idea to Jennifer Hutton and her team at Waterloo Region’s Women Crisis Services to get their buy-in before taking it to Loblaws head o ce.”
When he did, Niccoli discovered that Loblaws was already involved in the Toronto “Ask for Angela” initiative, which was launched on National Human Tra cking Awareness Day on February 22, 2023.
Loblaws and its a liates, which include Shoppers Drug Mart stores, Real Canadian Superstore, No Frills, ValuMart, and Your Independent Grocers, are perfect options for this program because of their sheer numbers and accessible locations. These are stores where women go to get everyday necessities including food, diapers and prescriptions. In the Toronto area alone, there are 238 Loblaws, Shoppers Drug Marts and a liated stores that support the “Ask for Angela” initiative.
“Women in abusive relationships often have their actions controlled and monitored, but going to a grocery store or pharmacy, places where she routinely goes, doesn’t ring a whole lot of alarms with her partner,” says Jennifer Hutton, CEO at Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region.
Along with a multi-unit transitional home and two domestic violence shelters
WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT
WOMEN IN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIPS OFTEN HAVE THEIR ACTIONS CONTROLLED AND
MONITORED
— Jennifer Hutton
(Haven House in Cambridge and Anselma House in Kitchener), Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region is one of the largest Violence Against Women (VAW) shelters in Canada. Each location is approximately 17,000 sq. ft. and contains forty-five beds, with one bed at each location specifically reserved for a human tra cking survivor.
“Half of our residents are often young children whose average age is eight and under,” Hutton says. “And so we work with the two school boards in our region to set up transportation to take the children to their home schools, whether that is by bus or taxi. If a woman comes
to us from out of town because it is not safe to stay where she and her family are from, we register her kids at the school that is closest to the shelter. We have a dedicated child-and-youth team that facilitates this.”
Hutton says that there is a full range of wraparound services available at the shelters, including children and youth programming and a medical practitioner, dental hygienist and music therapist. Sta are on-site 24/7, and there is a chat line that provides crisis support.
“One of the many success stories that I love from our music therapy program is how it helped a child build confidence and manage his stuttering. We also had a child who was selectively mute and did not speak due to his trauma who was able to eventually express his feelings through music,” Hutton says. “We have a consulting psychologist which is unique to our shelter who has been instrumental in helping women who have been involved in domestic violence and have su ered traumatic brain injury, which research shows is becoming more prevalent. This type of injury can a ect overall executive functioning and how information is being processed.”
Carly Kalish, Executive Director of Victim Services Toronto, states that of the 18,000 clients her organization looks after annually, 70 per cent of them in Toronto alone are survivors of genderbased violence. “The majority of genderbased clients we support are survivors of intimate partner violence, human tra cking, and sexual assault,” Kalish says. “Along with an increase in the stats around gender-based violence, we are seeing an escalation in the violence against the clients we are supporting, including more strangulations and more damage to bodies in terms of physicality.”
The reasons as to why women do not report abuse vary. Along with the
Jennifer Hutton CEO at Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region
Carly Kalish Executive Director Victims Services Toronto
stigma and shame there are the dayto-day challenges, which include the inherent changes and upheaval, reliance on a partner for financial support, food insecurity, child care and the fear of what their partner might do to them or their kids if they report the abuse or flee the home.
“The most important thing for people to know is that we operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Kalish says. “Simply pick up the phone and call us. We will meet you in the community and help you navigate any system or barrier that is there relative to your leaving. We have access to funding if the criteria are met. If you are in a place where you are not ready to leave, we will support you regardless. We walk alongside survivors until services are in place to rebuild their lives.”
As a part of that support system, Kalish says they also have a trauma dog, Penny, a Labrador retriever who often goes to court to comfort children and women who are survivors of gender-based violence.
In partnership with the Toronto District School Board, Victims Services Toronto runs Teens Ending Abusive Relationships (TEAR) programs, which begin in elementary school and go right through high school.
“Parents can help educate their kids by connecting them with programs such as our Youth Symposium, a virtual event that takes place on Feb. 22, which is the Day to End Human Tra cking. Last year, we had 22,000 attendees,” Kalish says.
“Ask for Angela” information flyers are posted in Shoppers Drug Mart and Loblaws stores and their a liates, as well as in bathrooms and sta rooms.
Numbers show that the message is resonating with women who need help.
“In the past year, we have had more than 400 survivors reach out to us after accessing our contact information through the QR code on our posters,” Kalish says.
Hutton states that at least two women have accessed the service in the Waterloo Region, with one woman using the region’s crisis services shelters.
Standardization and training are integral components of the “Ask for Angela” campaign, which includes a comprehensive online tool and a corresponding video and manual. There are also brief huddles at the beginning of store shifts to remind sta about the program.
Kalish states that when a woman accesses Victim Services Toronto a safety plan is tailored to her specific needs, including an alternative place to live if she is ready to leave the shelter.
“We do a needs assessment to make sure that she has access to finances that aren’t connected to the partner,” Kalish says. “In the case of human tra cking survivors, we often replace their phone, which is frequently tracked or cloned. Mostly, it is about assessing the safety of these survivors and putting the necessary things into place.”
What is of overriding importance is for a woman to know that she is not alone and that help is available 24 hours a day.
“Even if it is the middle of the night, we will accommodate you,” Kalish says. “Police do not have to be involved in order to access help.”
Niccoli states that sta are assured that there are no expectations for them to become crisis responders or social workers. “The only expectation for a sta member is for them to bring the person asking for Angela to the appointed person in the store, who will then take them to a safe place and make the call to the Women’s Crisis Centre,” he says.
Another program that supports and highlights positive outcomes for survivors of gender-based and intimate partner violence is the She Is Your Neighbour podcast, which is hosted by Jenna Mayne and produced by Lillie Proksch, both from the Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region. Launched in 2020, the She Is Your Neighbour podcast currently
garners about 4,000 trackable downloads per season.
“For some of our guests it is the first time that they’ve shared their story, and it often gives them a sense of empowerment to move forward, to close this chapter of their life, and quite possibly become an advocate for others experiencing the same circumstances,” says Proksch. “The images of the guests in the podcast are changing the narrative on what genderbased violence survivors look like. Instead of the traditional dark and violent images, our guests are captured in powerful poses as they look directly into the camera.”
One of the women highlighted in the “She Is Your Neighbour” documentary is Colette Martin, whose ex-boyfriend broke
her door down one night, then slashed her throat and stabbed her 37 times.
“After dating him for seven months I allowed him to move in with me,” Martin says. “It didn’t take long for me to realize that the person I thought he was was all a façade. He would go into rages over simple things and he tried to isolate me. I guess he just couldn’t fight who he was anymore. He tried to control the people I saw, the food I ate, the places I went. I had never heard of narcissism or coercive control until I met him. And I had never had any experience around any kind of domestic violence.”
After one incident, when her ex kicked her violently in the stomach, Martin retreated to the shower, where she cried for hours. She knew then that their relationship was over.
Jenna Mayne & Lillie Proksch Host and Producer of ‘She Is Your Neighbour’ podcast
Although her ex moved back to Montreal and was in a new relationship, he continued to call and harass Martin. He eventually moved back to New Brunswick and contacted Martin, demanding that she return the rest of his things — items that he had originally told her to keep.
Whether it was foreboding or instinct, on May 1, 1997, an evening that will forever be imprinted in her psyche, Martin invited her cousin to spend the night.
“We were all in bed, including my sixyear-old son,” Martin says. “My ex, who had been a no-show earlier in the evening, arrived at my house and kicked the door down. ‘Tonight is the night you are going to die,’ he told me.”
After her ex slit her throat, Martin was able to get away but he dragged her back. She escaped again, this time fleeing to her parents’ house, where her ex caught up to her in their driveway.
“I begged him for my life,” Martin says. “I was worried that he would kill my parents.”
Telling her that they were going to die together, her ex then proceeded to cut his own wrists and slash his throat.
As the police arrived, Martin grabbed the knife from her ex, who then told o cers that Martin had attacked him. This was quickly contradicted by witnesses.
Alarmingly, a plastic surgeon Martin saw after the incident asked her what she had done to deserve the attack. “He said to me ‘Things like this don’t happen to good girls,’” Martin says.
“We don’t need blame when we are going through something like this. What we need is support and compassion. And that is not what I got. We already blame ourselves.”
At the court case, which took place with astonishing speed on June 27, 1997, the surgeon who’d looked after Martin at the hospital testified that if the cut on her throat had been half an inch closer to her jugular, the vein would have been severed. “It’s a miracle I’m still alive,” she says.
While she doesn’t remember much about the trial, Martin says that it was an extremely traumatic experience when she
had to identify her ex in the courtroom. Sentenced on August 15, 1997, to nine years for attempted murder and two concurrent years for break and enter, Martin’s ex-boyfriend was out of prison in six years.
While in prison, Martin’s ex tried to commit suicide. He had listed her name
I WANT TO SHOW OTHERS THAT THEY CAN GO THROUGH WHAT I WENT THROUGH AND STILL COME OUT THE OTHER SIDE, BUT IT IS NOT EASY
— Colette Martin
and phone number as next of kin but thankfully the call from the hospital was intercepted by Martin’s parents.
“I felt that I was the one who got the life sentence,” Martin says.
Lawyers for her ex-boyfriend appealed his sentence on the grounds that the trial judge put too much weight on premeditation as an aggravating factor.
The New Brunswick Court of Appeal in denying the appeal found that “the trial judge did not put undue emphasis on this factor.” Martin’s case is now
being studied by the students in New Brunswick Community College’s Police Foundations course.
“Over one hundred Ontario municipalities, including our region, have declared gender-based partner violence an epidemic,” Hutton says. “The realization that gender-based violence is a social issue is crucial, as is education and being familiar with the steps you can take to help someone you think is experiencing domestic violence. It is important to break the cycle of domestic abuse and violence, and that’s why we go into schools and talk to young people about the importance of healthy relationships.”
While Martin says she is in a good place now, jagged shards of pain still resonate in her voice. Nonetheless, it has been and continues to be important to her to share her story so that other women can recognize the red flags in abusive relationships, find a safe person to share their dilemma with and make the allimportant safety plan to leave.
“I want to show others that they can go through what I went through and still come out the other side, but it is not easy. We need to get the message out there so that other women will want to share their stories, too,” says Martin, who received the Hall of Fame Award by the Crime Prevention Association of New Brunswick, in December of 2024, in recognition of her advocacy for safety, justice, and support for New Brunswick survivors.
“If I would have had someone like me to relate to it would have really helped me to heal. We can’t stay silent anymore. Silence is harbouring our perpetrators. Your voice matters; your life matters. We hear you; we believe you; we see you. Don’t give up.”
Kalish encourages any corporations who want to join the “Ask for Angela” initiative and provide additional resources should contact Victims Services Toronto.
Women’s Crisis Services Toronto 24/7 hotline number is 416-808-7066
Anyone looking for help or more information: can go to www.victimservicestoronto.com www.wcswr.org
A gender-based violence survivor and domestic violence advocate
Parenting on the Brink: The Rising Toll of Stress on Modern Families
Parenting in Canada has reached a critical crossroads
WRITTEN
BY
BONNIE POP
INTERVIEW BY MARC
PDr. Krista Schultz, Yorkville University's Associate Vice-President of Strategic Partnerships and Alumni
growing network of professionals is now also available to provide much-needed support.
CASTALDO
arenting in Canada has reached a critical crossroads. A new study by Toronto’s Yorkville University and Abacus Data reveals that the pressures of modern parenthood — from financial strain to navigating a digital world — are pushing parents to their limits. Of the more than 1,900 Yorkville University mental-health professionals polled, 90 per cent expressed deep concern for the mental well-being of parents, with nearly half calling the situation “extremely concerning.”
These findings highlight the profound stress that parents face as they not only navigate raising children in today’s fastpaced, digitally-driven world, but also struggle to meet the rising cost of living. Yet amid these challenges there is hope: not only are more parents willing to speak openly about their struggles, but a
“Parenting today is stressful,” emphasized Yorkville University’s Associate Vice-President of Strategic Partnerships and Alumni, Dr. Krista Schultz. “We find ourselves in a comparison culture, with social media constantly showing us other parents and families and all the activities they’re doing.” The result? According to Dr. Schultz, parents may end up feeling like they’re never doing enough. Many end up enrolling their children in way too many activities in an effort to keep up, and those come at a cost.
“Taking our kids to activities and paying registration fees, whether it’s hockey or dance or we’re on the road paying for hotels for a tournament … these things add up,” Schultz explains. “And again, we only have so many hours in the day. We do know that parents today spend more time with their children, but then how are they taking care of themselves and recognizing their own self-care needs?”
Beyond comparison culture, the rapid rise of technology and screen time has
introduced additional challenges. More than 70 per cent of those polled reported seeing more parents concerned about the effects of social media and screen time in general on their children’s emotional well-being.
Dr. Schultz elaborated on this dynamic: “Parents are grappling with questions like ‘Is this quality time, allowing them to be on a screen while I’m on my phone?’ That question, ‘What is quality time?,’ in a world where so much time is spent on screens, is constantly going through parents’ heads, and it’s exhausting.” She explains how this constant pressure to balance work, family and self-care while monitoring and moderating their children’s exposure to technology can feel overwhelming.
Interestingly, the data also pointed to a growing uncertainty about parenthood among adults who have not yet started families. Nearly 75 per cent of mental health professionals observed more clients expressing hesitation about having children, often citing financial concerns and personal, mental or physical health challenges. This shift reflects a broader societal reckoning with the realities of modern parenting and the significant
Parenting inherently involves stress. However, when parents struggle to meet overwhelming demands, the family's wellbeing can be at risk
resources it demands.
While the challenges are undeniable, the findings also offer a glimmer of hope. More than 95 per cent of Yorkville’s survey respondents expressed confidence in their ability to help clients manage parenting stressors through fostering resilience and strengthening such skills as emotional self-regulation, stress management and problem-solving.
Dr. Schultz sees this as a positive shift: “We’re seeing a reduction in stigma surrounding mental health support,” she observes, citing how today adults in their twenties and thirties are more open to discussing their mental-health journeys with one another, often recommending therapists and other services.
“We’re also seeing different ways to provide support, including an increase in virtual services. We saw that in the pandemic, but we’re actually seeing it continue and benefit more remote and rural areas,” says Dr. Schultz, who emphasizes the importance of these evolving resources. “Parents are not alone, and they need to know that there’s a big pool of professionals ready to help.
From school counsellors to social workers to private therapists, there are many pathways to finding support.”
Yorkville University itself plays a key role in addressing this demand. As one of Canada’s leading institutions for training mental health professionals, the university is actively preparing the next generation of counsellors and psychotherapists to address the nuanced needs of today’s families. This effort ensures that parents and prospective parents alike have access to informed and empathetic support networks.
While individual efforts and community support are critical, the role of policymakers cannot be overstated. Dr. Schultz highlights the need for systemic changes to alleviate the pressures on parents: “Being able to access psychology services, whether that is publicly funded or private, is very important now,” she says, and that if public services have wait lists and private services aren’t financially feasible, Canadians should ensure their workplaces offer mental health-care benefits to their employees. “We want to encourage people to use their benefits
if they have them, and if they don’t, to ask, ‘Why not?’” Though the challenges highlighted by Yorkville University and Abacus Data are significant, the willingness of parents to speak openly about their struggles signals a cultural shift toward destigmatizing mental health needs. This openness, coupled with the expanding network of mental health professionals and supportive policies, lays a foundation for meaningful change.
Dr. Schultz remains optimistic about the future. While she understands that parenting stress has always existed and will continue to exist, she sees hope in how more and more families are equipping themselves with the tools and support to navigate their challenges effectively. This shift ensures that future generations will grow up understanding the value of mental health and the importance of seeking help when it is needed. By acknowledging the unique challenges that today’s parents face and investing in the resources needed to support them, societies can ensure that families not only survive but also thrive in the years to come.
