Panoram Italia Toronto Apr/May 2015 by Panoram Italia Magazine

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

LIVING ITALIAN STYLE

ITALIANCANADIAN

FASHION

INTERVIEW WITH

SEBASTIAN

GIOVINCO VIAGGIO IN

MOLISE

COVER: TOSCA DELFINO ONE OF US • UNA DI NOI

APRIL / MAY 2015 • VOL.5 • NO.2 PM40981004

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

APRIL / MAY 2015 Vol. 5 NO. 2 PUBLISHER’S NOTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER & EDITOR Tony Zara

LIFE & PEOPLE Elisa De Santis-Ruffolo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

EDITORIAL

Jackie Rosati . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Adam Zara MONTREAL TORONTO MANAGING EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR & WEB MANAGER Rita Simonetta Gabriel Riel-Salvatore ITALIAN PROOFREADER TRANSLATOR Claudia Buscemi Prestigiacomo Aurelie Ptito

The Order Sons of Italy of Canada marks 100 years . . . . 14 The Shroud of Turin Unveiled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Paul Cavalluzzo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Salvatore Cristello . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Future Leader: Stephanie Maragna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

ART DEPARTMENT ITALIAN-CANADIAN FASHION

Trending in Toronto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Knockoff fashion in Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

ART DIRECTION & GRAPHIC DESIGN David Ferreira MAKEUP Desi Varano

Italian Style with Attitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 The Imperfectly Perfect Bello . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

VILLA CHARITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 LIVING ITALIAN STYLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 MOLISE A Journey Off the Beaten Path into Molise . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 The Sacred Bull Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Anthony Zara

When Canada Came to Campobasso . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Molisan in the GTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

CONTRIBUTORS Maria Assaf • Erica Cupido • Dante Di Iulio • Loretta N. Di Vita Alessia Sara Domanico • Amanda Fulginiti • Sara Germanotta Stephanie Grella • David Mastracci • Sarah Mastroianni Romina Monaco • Emanuela Orsini Claudia Buscemi Prestigiacomo • Francesca Spizzirri 26 Duncan Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5V 2B9 Tel.: 1.844.ITALIA.1 or by e-mail at: info@panoramitalia.com

Marvelous Molise Meals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Legal deposit - Bibliothèque nationale du Québec / National Library of Canada - ISSN: 1916-6389

EVENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

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SPORTS Sebastian Giovinco Interview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Gianpietro Nagliati-Bravi

Molise on Your Plate! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Transumanza e Tratturi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

PHOTOGRAPHY Gregory Varano Giulio Muratori

ONE MORE DAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Printed by: 514.337.7870 www.accentimpression.com Montreal, Québec, Canada

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Molise on

My Mind ! Dear readers,

ne of this issue’s focuses is the region of Molise. I was born there in the 1950s – another era and another world. Like all immigrant children, I experienced the shock of leaving my then reality without even realizing what was happening. In the blink of an eye, I found myself in a strange country not understanding a word of the language while trying to belong amongst other children. The first three months were the longest and most challenging. Once I started understanding the language, things got easier. I remember the nostalgia and the loss I experienced as if it were yesterday. That feeling, I could honestly say, has stayed with me to this very day, albeit to a lesser degree. You could say that my place of birth, wonderful, simple Molise has always had my heart. Certainly, as I would later discover, I was not the only one to experience these sentiments. Over 100,000 Molisans would make their way to Canada after the Second World War. They settled mostly in Montreal and Toronto, most had children and the community grew. Today, Montreal, with more than 80,000 Italian-Canadians hailing wholly or in part from Molise, is considered the largest Molisan city in the world, since Molise’s largest city Campobasso only has a population of 52,000. Toronto also has a significant population that claim Molisan roots.

“

I remember the nostalgia and the loss I experienced as if it were yesterday. That feeling, I could honestly say, has stayed with me to this very day, albeit to a lesser degree. You could say that my place of birth, wonderful, simple Molise has always had my heart.

“

Later, I rediscovered the land of my birth and made the decision to buy property and visit often. Over time I made it my mission to get to know not only my native village and its people but also the rest of the region and the many villages my friends and acquaintances hail from. They all have their own individuality with distinct dialects, traditions, culture and food, even though most are only a few kilometres apart. I encourage all to discover the richness of our rural, peasant culture and the beauty and diversity of its geography. There is something for every taste and budget. From the Apennine Mountains in the interior to the sandy beaches of our Adriatic coast, one can experience climbing a rugged, green, mountainside as well as bathing in the turquoise, clean waters of the over 30-kilometre coastline. Not to mention the amazing gastronomical delights. Molise boasts many artisanal establishments producing excellent cheeses, salumi and olive oils. You may also be surprised to discover our many wineries that produce world-class wines. I could go on and on! Since our staff is headed by myself and two other passionate Molisans (and one proud Calabrese), it is a matter of pride to present you with many articles about Molise, which will not only familiarize you with the second smallest region of Italy but, hopefully, will also entice you to visit the next time you decide to fly to il bel paese. It will heal your heart and be very respectful of your pocket book. Wishing you all a very happy and blessed Easter, and may you enjoy the holiday with family and friends in peace and prosperity – and with great food. Tony Zara Publisher

Mr. Joseph Rizzotto

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Elisa De Santis-Ruffolo Life on and off the catwalk By Erica Cupido ometimes there’s no one path to your dream job. Just ask Elisa De SantisRuffolo, 30. Armed with her Master of Science degree, she teaches in Humber College’s Fitness and Health Promotion program. But what some of her students might not know is that she’s equally at home behind-thescenes at fashion shows as she is in the gym. “Other than my family, my passions are fashion and fitness,” she says. Between teaching science classes and founding Runway Productions, she balances both. Together with her sister and business partner, Cassandra De Santis, De Santis-Ruffolo produces fashion shows for charities, groups like the Canadian Italian Business Professional Association and industry events including Canada’s Bridal Show (and Toronto’s Bridal Show in April). “Everyone sees a different side of me. It’s very hectic and fast-paced [backstage at a show]. I have to switch modes,” she says. “I’m very calm-natured, but if people who know me see me backstage they’ll wonder, ‘Who is that person I just saw?’” Before seeing models strut down the runway, De Santis-Ruffolo coordinates every detail of the production, from casting models to selecting music. She also choreographs scenes and recruits backstage volunteers. With her keen eye for detail, she is always on the lookout for inspiration. That includes noting songs she thinks might be a perfect fit and watching established designers’ shows online. “From a production perspective I focus on the kind of show that they’re putting on,” she says, referring to the overall look of the production, as well as the models’ hair and makeup. It’s a world that she’s always been familiar with. De Santis-Ruffolo began modeling at age two, when her mother entered her in a photo contest and she won. From there, she was featured in photo shoots and local fashion shows. By age 14, she says many of her modeling jobs were for bridal companies. In high school, she and her friends worked together to put on fashion shows at the annual Woodbridge Italian Festival. “It’s something that I knew I wanted to pursue,” she says. “I just waited for the right time.” That time came years later

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when she became pregnant with her daughter, who is now four. She modeled up until she was five months along, and then in 2012, teamed up with her sister to launch the business. Seeking out opportunities to grow helped De Santis-Ruffolo gain the skills and experience necessary to start Runway Productions. “Everything I’ve learned in the fashion field has been through my own personal experience,” she says. Today, the ambitious producer treats each event with the same attitude. “We grow with every show we do. We learn something new, and we learn how to do something better for next time.” Today she gives students the chance to do the same by having them help out backstage and complete internship hours with her. She’s even hired a few to join the Runway Productions team. Working with students is something De Santis-Ruffolo takes pride in. “I think the most important thing is hands-on experience,” she says. “It’s a really fun environment backstage. Students who have never seen it have said they didn’t realize how much work goes into keeping it organized.” Backstage is also where you might find De Santis-Ruffolo’s family. While she is passionate about putting on the best show possible, her sister Cassandra – with her business background and outgoing nature – is her perfect complement and ideal professional partner. Their parents are also backstage at every show, where they offer to help however they can. “We’re a very tight-knit family,” says De Santis-Ruffolo, whose ancestors hail from Lazio on both sides. “My daughter often models. My husband comes, dresses my daughter and if I need a male model last minute, I’ll throw him onstage!” Since she started her business, she’s become a go-to producer who is equally delighted to collaborate with charities as she is to dress models in the latest bridal gowns from designers like Say Yes to the Dress favourite Pnina Tornai. The most rewarding part of her work is seeing all of the details she’s coordinated come together. She’s excited to work with covetable clothes and newly-discovered designers, but her job isn’t complete until the crowd is treated to a seamless show.

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Jackie Rosati The woman behind the Ladies’ Auxiliary of the CIBPA By Stephanie Grella Photo by Giulio Muratori

ackie Rosati holds a simple belief: get to know each other, help each other, and do good work. This principle, to which she has devoted her life, continues to be the mission statement of the 64-year-old Ladies’ Auxiliary of the Canadian-Italian Business and Professional Association (CIBPA). Rosati helped found the Auxiliary, and she, along with generations of women, has helped many Italian immigrants establish themselves in Canada – all while making lifelong friends. Born in Abruzzo, Rosati immigrated to Welland, Ontario, with her parents and three siblings in 1932. Years later, when her father fell ill, she developed a strong passion for helping others in need. “One day, I just said to my father, ‘I want to be a nurse,’” Rosati recalls. “Then I sent in my application, moved to Toronto, and have been here ever since.” Rosati was the first person to win a scholarship in the operating room at St. Michael’s Hospital, which first propelled her healthcare career. For 15 years, Rosati was a nurse practitioner in industry steel factories, worked in family counselling with Children’s Aid, spent time with the Red Cross, and, now at the age of 91, continues in her role as a diabetic instructor, teaching in both English and Italian. Upon meeting her husband in Toronto, Rosati began organizing meetings with fellow Italian-Canadian women in hopes of forming solidarity among Italians living in the city. “The Italians had such a bad image at the time,” Rosati says. “They were only seen as ditch diggers, and we were all trying to show people that we were more than that.” While her husband organized the Italian men’s meetings that mainly discussed politics, Rosati found a common ground among the Italian wives – cooking. “These women were not allowed out at night and they didn’t drive,” Rosati explains. “But I knew one thing about them – they all knew how to make pasta.” It turns out you can never have too many (Italian) cooks in the kitchen, because Rosati’s newly formed group of ladies did more than feed the neighbourhood. Nightly meals from the ladies allowed immigrants to bond with each other and appreciate the food and culture of Italy, which is something many native Torontonians at the time did not yet do. The more people there were to feed, the more money the ladies earned from cooking homemade, nostalgic dishes. “We made the pasta from scratch, we made the meatballs, and we made the sauce,” Rosati says. “We also made money and were able to feed these people and help them find good areas to live in.” After years of cooking together, the women began organizing functions for the Italians of Toronto, hoping to bring community members together

and raise money for charities around the city. Holding charity events at popular community centres like Villa Colombo and the Columbus Centre, the Ladies’ Auxiliary raised thousands of dollars for medical research, including the Thalassemia Foundation of Canada, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the ALS Association, among others. The funds raised for Villa Colombo’s Home for Seniors are especially important to Rosati, who helped found the home that began admitting seniors in 1976. “It was a tough go, but I did it,” Rosati recalls. “And of course I spoke the language, so that helped a lot.” She wasn’t only the brains behind the project, but also part of the brawn. Rosati remembers being on a scaffold to paint two of the home’s murals. “I still go back thinking, ‘I must have been crazy,’” Rosati laughs. Still an active member of the Auxiliary, Rosati continues to work with members by organizing events and carrying out traditions. Although many of the founding Auxiliary women have passed away, she now has the opportunity to work with their daughters and women of the second and third Italian generations of Toronto. “Have you ever seen 100 ladies get along with each other? It’s strange in itself,” Rosati laughs. “Every year, we get new members and they have new ideas, so that’s what keeps us together. And I’m like a sore thumb; I’m always there.” To solidify Rosati’s achievements over the decades, the Ladies’ Auxiliary of the CIBPA now honours seven women who have played a significant role in the profile of Italian-Canadian women around the world, awarding them the Jackie Rosati Awards of Excellence. Although Rosati has been the anchor of the Auxiliary for more than half her life, she believes that these women, who range from their 30s all the way to their 90s, have a strong grasp of the Italian-Canadian community in Toronto and know how to make it last another 60 years. “We care about each other, and we don’t give up on anyone,” Rosati says proudly. “We don’t go out doing what we do publicly. It’s not about that. When you truly help people, you feel good about it.” PANORAMITALIA.COM

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LIFE & PEOPLE

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A Landmark Occasion for Italian Fraternal Organization

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The Order Sons of Italy of Canada to celebrate 100 years By Rita Simonetta

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he bonds of Italian fraternity and the values of community spirit mark a high point this spring as the Order Sons of Italy of Canada celebrates its 100th anniversary on May 30. “I feel very gratified,” says Josie Cumbo, the national president of the Order Sons of Italy of Canada, which is based in Cambridge, Ontario. “It’s a milestone and speaks volumes for who we are. It’s a proud moment for all the members.” Cumbo has an additional reason to toast the milestone – she is the first woman president at the national level in 94 years. Preparations are already underway for the 100th anniversary party; the invitation list includes Anthony Baratta, the president of the Order Sons of Italy in America. This brings the century landmark event full-circle since the organization was born in the United States. In 1905, with the intent of helping Italian immigrants navigate through their new life in America, Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro and a group of like-minded individuals founded the Order Sons of Italy in America in New York City. The Canadian counterpart was launched in 1915 when the first lodge opened in Sault Ste. Marie to help Italian immigrants in Ontario. This deep commitment to Italian heritage and philanthropic initiatives is still alive and well in the present-day Canadian organization. Among its many mandates, the national council supports cultural projects and charities. It has raised more than $200,000 to date for the Thalassemia Foundation of Canada, which raises awareness and supports scientific research for the genetic blood disease. Additionally, each year the national branch gives $1,000 to a winning student as part of the Josephine Lavey Memorial Scholarship Award. This spirit of benevolence extends to the local lodges throughout Canada, which donate thousands of dollars to worthwhile projects and services each year.

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Montreal, 28 ottobre 1961 – dopo la cerimonia della commemorazione del centenario d’unità d’Italia avvenuto nella Casa d’Italia a cura dell’Ordine Figli d’Italia, venivano ripresi da sinistra il Gr. Venerabile del Quebec dell’Ordine, consigliere Comunale Alfredo Gagliardi, il Supremo Venerabile del nord America, John Ottaviani, Segretario di Finanza dell’Ordine, Amarico De Martinis e il Gr. Venerabilie dell’Ontario, Nicholas J. Zaffiro.

“It’s very fulfilling to help people in your own community,” says Lou Filice, the president of the Hamilton lodge, who explains that his chapter’s $10,000 charity budget for 2014 was divided between various causes in Hamilton. Beneficiaries included Camp Trillium, which provides recreational experiences for children with cancer, as well as St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation – the hospital is a leader in robotic surgery. City Kidz, a foundation that mentors and empowers inner city youth, also received a helping hand from the lodge. For the past five years, the Hamilton chapter has been opening its doors to host the annual City Kidz graduation class parties, giving the graduates a welcoming place to enjoy their success. This feeling of being welcomed is one that Filice knows well. “Being part of the Order Sons of Italy is like having an extended family,” says the 40-year-old who became president in 2014. He has fond memories of attending the Hamilton lodge when he was a child. Perhaps the organization feels like an extended family because it runs in the family – Filice has already begun bringing his two young daughters to the lodge to participate in cultural events; his father was a longtime member and Filice’s brother was a past president. “It has always felt like a big family,” Cumbo says, echoing Filice’s sentiments. “There is an incredible warmth.” Cumbo was introduced to the Aurora lodge by her father, who was a member. She became a member of the lodge in 1981, and in 1986 she joined the national branch. The not-for-profit Order Sons of Italy of Canada has 15 lodges throughout the country, and it counts on the dedication and efforts of its more than 1,600 members. This dedication and effort has resulted in a renewed interest and enthusiasm. “The order prospers and is still growing,” says Cumbo, pointing out that a new chapter was established in Kelowna, British Columbia, in 2012. The most recent addition was in 2014 with the relaunch of the Fiorente-Patronato lodge in Toronto. Beyond the growth of new chapters in Canada, another equally important goal is increasing participation from youth. The Hamilton chapter has made a concerted effort to bolster new membership and welcome the younger generation, says Filice. About four years ago the chapter forged a strong relationship with McMaster University’s Italian Association. Two recent graduates and one student are now active members of the Hamilton lodge. And in an effort to keep the chapter current and relevant, Filice says there’s an unwritten rule of a two-year tenure for presidents. “This way we keep things moving along,” he explains. Filice is excited about the upcoming 100th anniversary celebration and is looking forward to the organization’s many possibilities in 2015. “It’s an amazing time,” he says. “The future looks very bright.” PANORAMITALIA.COM

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LIFE & PEOPLE

The Shroud of Turin Unveiled Christian relic continues to stir discussion By Sarah Mastroianni just a few weeks’ time, the Shroud of Turin – the cloth said to have been used to wrap Jesus’ body after his crucifixion – will once again be on display in the Duomo di Torino. From April 19 until June 24 visitors are welcome to visit the Italian cathedral and contemplate the Shroud, which is only exhibited briefly every few years. And with so much doubt, faith, and mystery surrounding the true origins of the Holy Shroud, there will certainly be lots to contemplate. According to Father Nicola Di Narzo of Montreal, “There has been much controversy around the veil that covered the body of Christ in the tomb […] There were those who said it was fake, and others who said it was real.” Some call it a hoax. How could anything from the life of Jesus have survived until today? Some call it an authentic relic of Christian faith and claim that the image of the man visible on the cloth is Jesus before his resurrection. Others refer to it simply as a religious

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icon – a picture, a painting, a piece of art – created sometime during the Middle Ages to strengthen the claims of the church. Father Nicola explains that, years ago, “Some scientists wanted, in fact, to prove that the shroud is fake – so many tests were done,” adding that a recent study proved that the material of the Shroud dated back to between the 1st and 4th century A.D. The result? More questions still. But what Father Nicola is certain about is the relic’s significance to millions of believers around the world. “The Holy Shroud is undoubtedly of great importance to the Catholic Church,” he maintains. And it’s not just faithful Catholics and doubting scientists who deem the Shroud important, or interesting. Phillip Wiebe, a Protestant professor of philosophy at Trinity Western University, dedicated 15 years to the study of the Shroud. “I was initially skeptical,” he says. “I’m a philosopher interested in supporting

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LIFE & PEOPLE

evidence and the Shroud is a particularly neat object in that way.” In talks he gives on the subject, Wiebe presents more than 50 pieces of evidence that speak to the authenticity of the Shroud. Some such evidence supports the theory that the Shroud image could not have been man-made: “When you actually go see the Shroud, you have to stand 10, 12, 15 feet away to see the image of the man on it,” Wiebe explains. “If you stand too close you can’t see it at all. If it were man-made you’d have to stand too far away to be able to actually do it.” Additionally, he cites other compelling evidence: the bloodstains on the cloth are chemically consistent with the blood of someone who had been tortured, within the cloth there are pollens from Israel which became extinct centuries ago, and the size and proportions of the image on the Shroud are anatomically perfect. But does this mean that the Shroud is the holy relic some people claim it to be? “Together all the evidence makes a pretty compelling argument,” Wiebe says. “No one piece is decisive, but together they’re pretty impressive.”

Similarly to Wiebe, Walter Pezzo, a researcher from Turin, has dedicated 24 years to researching the Shroud. “It’s the most studied relic in the world,” he says. His own studies have taken him far and wide – Italy, France, Israel – and recently, Canada. “My goal […] is to create a perennial exposition of the Shroud in Toronto,” Pezzo notes. And he might be well on his way. Together with Father Claudio Piccinini of Società Unita, this past winter Pezzo organized a series of presentations of the Shroud in various parishes across the GTA and beyond. “We were able to get a copy of the original [Shroud] on cloth,” he explains. “It’s not a photograph, like you see in many other exhibitions.” Pezzo also had replicas made of various other objects related to Jesus’ crucifixion, which he displays and explains during his 75-minute presentations. Afterwards, he leaves time for questions and contemplation. “The beautiful thing about these meetings is that people get to ask questions,” Pezzo says. “There’s a lot of emotion in these presentations. I enter into the subject of the passion and passion enters into us.”

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Fighting for the underdog By Maria Assaf

ince the beginning of his practice, Paul Cavalluzzo, a Toronto lawyer who was appointed to the Order of Canada last September, knew why he got into the profession and who he wanted to represent. “I wanted to be a labour lawyer because I felt that workers needed more protection than employers,” he says. He is currently representing the Canadian Union of Postal Workers against Canada Post’s decision to end door-to-door delivery. He will argue that it negatively impacts seniors and the disabled. Cavalluzzo’s first job at a small Toronto labour firm was the start of a long and fruitful career of more than 40 years, which led him to participate in some of the most emblematic cases of constitutional law in the country. He helped determine the cause of the water contamination supply in the Walkerton Tragedy and argued to extend state funding to include Roman Catholic Separate Schools. He also defeated the provincial government in a 1997 dispute to force striking teachers back to work. His work led to invitations to speak as an expert on labour-management relations in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico. He has also represented clients before the International Labour Organization. But Cavalluzzo says one of his most fascinating cases is one that concluded on January 30, 2015, when he represented the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour. “I argued on behalf of the postal workers at Canada Post Corporation and the International Association of Machinists at Air Canada,” he says. He couldn’t be happier with the outcome. “For the first time the court held the right to strike of workers as a constitutional right guaranteed by Freedom of Association. That was a very significant constitutional case for workers and it certainly was very satisfying for me as a labour and constitutional lawyer.” His work has also involved the international sphere. Cavalluzzo gained worldwide attention after acting as lead commission counsel in the Maher Arar torture case. He had to cross-examine the RCMP, CSIS and represent the foreign affairs ministry. One of the hardest parts of this trial, he says, was dealing 18

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with uncooperative American authorities. “All evidence was given to us by Canadian officials,” he says. Since this case, the lawyer has been invited to speak before American, British and European legislative committees. Cavalluzzo’s passion for constitutional law was born when he was studying political science at McMaster University. “I was always reading and was very interested in government and politics. So after two years in my undergrad, I knew I wanted to deal in public law.” He got accepted to Osgoode Hall Law School and then attended Harvard’s Master of Laws program, where he trained in American constitutional law. Cavalluzzo, who was born in Toronto, says one of his regrets is not being able to speak Italian. “I’m very embarrassed about that. I wish I could speak Italian. It’s certainly a defect, let’s put it that way, that I experience,” he says. But he points out that being a second generation Italian-Canadian proved useful in his early days representing unions in Toronto. “I represented unions such as the clothing workers or construction unions and at that time there were a lot of Italian workers. This was in the 1970s and early 1980s, so obviously they were very happy that they had an Italian-Canadian labour lawyer representing them,” he says. In those days, Canada wasn’t the multicultural mosaic it is today. Cavalluzzo says there were about three Italian families in his elementary school. “It was a very Protestant city when I was growing up. There was a great deal of discrimination at that time against Catholics, and indeed against Italians,” he says. Since 2008, Cavalluzzo has been working as a Special Advocate in two security certificate cases. Here, he represents the interests of Canadians alleged to be threats to national security. “The most challenging part is that much of the hearing deals with top secret evidence.” Although he has received job offers from different parts of the world, Cavalluzzo says he wouldn’t change Canada for anywhere. “I’m a proud Canadian,” he says.

Photo by Giulio Muratori

Paul Cavalluzzo

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LIFE & PEOPLE

Photo by Giulio Muratori

Salvatore Cristello The man who helped print the first copy of the Maple Leaf flag By Davide Mastracci

September 1964, Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson appointed a committee to find a new flag for Canada, which was unofficially using the Canadian Red Ensign as the state’s emblem. After months of deliberation and fierce debate, Pearson’s committee selected the Maple Leaf design Canada now uses. On February 15, 1965, the Maple Leaf was inaugurated during a ceremony on Parliament Hill. On the same day, an Italian man working in a textile factory in Toronto printed the first copy of Canada’s new national symbol. Salvatore Cristello was born in Cardinale, Calabria, in 1933. In 1962, he left Italy with his wife and three children in search of the “better living” he says he hoped he would find in Canada. He settled in Toronto, where he has lived since, and immediately started to work in construction. A few months later, Cristello took a new job at the textile factory, Canadiana Print Works. By 1965, Cristello was well aware of the Great Flag Debate, as it is now known, that had been raging across the country. Since the factory routinely printed flags, Cristello sensed something was just around the corner. “We [the workers] heard something from the owner, and we prepared because the flag could come any time.” On the historic day in February when the flag was inaugurated, government officials and reporters from a local newspaper came into the factory to witness the production of the Maple Leaf ’s first copy. At the time, Cristello was not convinced that his role in printing the new Canadian flag was very important, so when his boss brought in a news article featuring a photo of him printing the flag, Cristello says, “I put it in a drawer and I forgot about it.” Cristello’s six children were aware of his accomplishment while they were growing up, but didn’t fully comprehend how significant it was until they found the article in a drawer nearly 30 years later. His daughter, Isabella, said, “We were looking for something and we came across it, and I said, ‘Wow, this is really history!’” The children decided to have 20

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the article framed, and gave it to their father as a Christmas gift that year. Cristello eventually decided to take a trip to City Hall, with the article, in order to share his story. He says that in February 2012, just before “the 47th anniversary [of the flag’s inauguration] I went there and said, ‘I’m the guy!’” His effort in printing the flag was acknowledged in a May 2012 meeting with Toronto’s mayor at the time, Rob Ford, and current Toronto city councillor Cesar Palacio. Cristello received a framed letter from Ford and Palacio, which now hangs proudly in the kitchen of his Toronto home, congratulating him on being “a part of our flag’s history.” Although this accomplishment is one of Cristello’s fondest, he is also quite proud that as an immigrant to Canada with little formal education, he succeeded in providing for his wife and children. This was thanks to his work ethic and constant drive. Cristello left the textile company shortly after printing the Canadian flag, and he went on to work a number of jobs including stints as a handyman, a truck driver and cement and baseboard work, which gives him the most pride. He eventually retired on May 1, 1994, but he says, “I didn’t take retirement to stay in the house, or go in the backyard to drink and smoke. I got more jobs!” But Cristello, who is now 81, decided to cut back so he could spend his days taking care of his wife Stella who has Alzheimer’s, and enjoying the time he gets with his nine grandkids, who are fascinated by his role in ushering in Canada’s flag. As the nation at large celebrates the 50th anniversary of the flag’s inauguration, the Cristello family hopes their father will be remembered as part of the Maple Leaf ’s history. One of Cristello’s sons, Robert, says “it’s fitting” that his father printed the first Canadian flag. “It’s always said that immigrants built this country, so for him to have that type of involvement is a huge accomplishment.”

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FUTURE LEADER

Grace Under Fire Stephanie Maragna on giving back By Erica Cupido

Photo by Gregory Varano

sking Stephanie Maragna what she does is more than a common conversation starter. Fuelled by a sense of adventure and desire to help others, her work in the emergency management field easily gets her talking about her research, travel and the people she’s had the pleasure of meeting along the way. Toronto-born Maragna, 29, is a senior program advisor for Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation. In her role within the Emergency Management and Planning office, she works with a small team dedicated to liaising between the government, municipalities and entities like Transport Canada in the event of potential danger. These include roadway closures or other unexpected incidents that may cut communities off from resources. Maragna also looks toward the future to help anticipate smart solutions before unsafe circumstances arise. “I research best practices and come up with strategies and ways to implement them,” she says, referring to programs that encourage preparedness. “The goal is to move into a recovery phase a lot faster, and reduce impact as quickly as possible.” She says that people living in Southern Ontario are largely unaffected by the conditions that she and her team regularly respond to. That’s why her time spent working in different parts of Canada has been an invaluable experience. She has lived in British Columbia, Alberta, Nova Scotia and Nunavut, as well as different parts of Northern Ontario. Her stops along the way are more often small towns than tourist destinations. “I get to see places that no one ever really gets to see,” she says. “It’s an amazing perk of the job. I recognize that it’s something I’ve been very lucky to do.” Today, she’s based in St. Catharines and visits family in Toronto when she’s not on call. Prior to landing her current position, Maragna fought forest fires in Northern Ontario for five years. Her experience ignited her passion for helping people to safety. “It just opened up a whole new world for me,” she says. “It’s a very surreal experience because you’re trained to put out the fire, but the social impact is something that you don’t necessarily get to see.” Watching people band together to bounce back from the devastating effects of forest fires is what continues to motivate her in her career. She still counts meeting people and hearing their stories as one of the most rewarding parts of her work. “Getting to connect with people and talk about my experiences in emergency management is a really awesome part of my job,” she says. “When you drive through a community and people thank you for helping evacuations or protecting people’s homes – that’s also a big part of it. It’s an amazing feeling.” Maragna’s affinity for storytelling began at home, where she says she grew up loving sitting around the kitchen table with her family. “I think that the social aspect of it is what resonates the most in my family.” With a father from Abruzzo and a mother whose family hails from Abruzzo and Basilicata, delicious dishes were always on offer. “If there’s any part of the Italian culture

that still resides with me it’s definitely the food,” she says. These days, Maragna says she keeps her family on her toes. “I surprise them on a daily basis,” she says. “[In the past, they’ve asked,] why I didn’t just work and live in Toronto, but this line of work spoke to me. They’ve certainly been supportive.” After completing her undergraduate studies in Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Guelph, Maragna earned her Master’s degree in Public Administration from Dalhousie University in Halifax. Later, while working for the Department of Education in Nunavut, she finished an online certificate program in Disaster and Emergency Management through Ryerson University online. Though community outreach is a large part of her work, Maragna says she’d still like to devote time to volunteering at a local firestation. She has always prioritized giving back through a variety of initiatives, including helping the FireSmart Canada program while she lived in Nova Scotia. Providing assistance where she can is both personally fulfilling and helpful in her line of work. “I like hearing what people have to say and putting that into research,” she says. After rising through the ranks to land her dream job, Maragna admits that it’s time to set new goals. “Hopefully, down the line the government will implement something that I’ve done,” she suggests. It isn’t a typical job, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. PANORAMITALIA.COM

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FASHION

Italian-Canadian Fashion File

Dennis Merotto

Leah Antoinette

Tosca Delfino

The hustle and bustle of the Canadian fashion industry La frenesia dell’industria della moda canadese By Sara Germanotta

oey Franco says he took his first steps on the factory room floor. The 28-year-old basically grew up amidst the hustle and bustle of Montreal’s clothing manufacturing industry. His father, Francesco, was the plant manager at Golden Brand Clothing – one of the largest menswear manufacturers in Canada. “It was all fun and games when I was a child; I was amazed by the sheer size of the plant, the cutting edge machinery, the technology. Over a thousand people were involved in the start to finish operations,” explains Franco. At the age of 16, Franco got his first summer job at the factory and returned every summer thereafter. He held many posts at the factory over the years – from the initial stages of the cutting room to the final steps in the examining and shipping departments. But in 2009, the owners of Golden Brand Clothing decided to shut down their plant in Montreal and move their operations overseas. Hundreds of people were let go in an effort to downsize the company and reduce production costs. This has become a trend in Canada’s once-vibrant clothing and apparel industries. “We sort of saw it coming as it was inevitable. There were gradual layoffs every few months until the closing,” says Franco. Recently, well-known Canadian retailers Parasuco, Jacob and Bikini Village have all filed for bankruptcy and announced massive shut-downs and lay-offs (Parasuco merchandise remains available online). International brands such as Target, Mexx and Sony are also disappearing from the Canadian retail landscape, and many consumers are wondering why. Julia Cyboran, 34, is Editor-in-chief & Associate Publisher of LOULOU magazine. She says the retail fashion scene in Canada is in a sort of limbo stage. “Many of the traditional retailers that made up the landscape for the last 30 or 40 years are folding or retreating from the market. That is in major part due to the influx of international fast fashion brands like Zara, H&M, and Forever 21, with new players coming into the market in 2016 like Uniqlo. These retailers have the ability to offer on-trend pieces for a fraction of the price,” explains Cyboran. The online shopping market is also hurting Canadian brands. Young people don’t shop the way previous generations did and retailers are struggling to keep up. Robert Soroka is a marketing professor at McGill University’s Desautels Faculty of Management. Soroka has been studying the changes in the industry and he’s noticed a clear paradigm shift in consumers’ buying habits. “Talk to young people, who are much more informed shoppers than their predecessors of a generation ago: They shop online, frequent discounters like Winners, and respond favourably to global retail brands like H&M and Zara,” says Soroka. “The fortunes and failures of fashion retail are 22

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oey Franco dice di aver mosso i suoi primi passi nel piano dello stabilimento. Il ventottenne è cresciuto praticamente in mezzo alla frenesia dell’industria manifatturiera d’abbigliamento di Montreal. Suo padre, Francesco, era responsabile dell’impianto alla Golden Brand Clothing, uno dei maggiori produttori d’abbigliamento maschile in Canada. “Era tutto divertimento e giochi da piccolo; ero stupefatto dalle grandi dimensioni dell’impianto, dai macchinari all’avanguardia, dalla tecnologia. Più di mille persone erano coinvolte dall’inizio alla fine delle operazioni,” spiega Franco. All’età di 16 anni, Franco ottenne il suo primo lavoro estivo in fabbrica, dove ritornò ogni anno d’allora in avanti. Ricoprì avuto vari incarichi nel corso degli anni – dalle fasi iniziali nel reparto taglio alle fasi finali nei reparti ispezione e spedizione. Ma nel 2009, i proprietari della Golden Brand Clothing decisero di chiudere il loro impianto a Montreal e trasferire le operazioni oltremare. Centinaia di persone furono licenziate nel tentativo di ridurre le dimensioni della fabbrica e i costi di produzione. Questa è diventata una tendenza nell’industria dell’abbigliamento e della moda canadese, un tempo vivace. “In qualche modo l’abbiamo visto arrivare come qualcosa di inevitabile. Di mese in mese, gradualmente, vi furono licenziamenti fino alla chiusura,” afferma Franco. Di recente, noti rivenditori canadesi come Parasuco, Jacob e Bikini Village hanno inoltrato richiesta di fallimento ed annunciato chiusure e licenziamenti massicci. Anche marchi internazionali come Target, Mexx e Sony stanno scomparendo dal panorama dei rivenditori canadesi e molti consumatori si domandano perché. Julia Cyboran, 34 anni, è caporedattore ed editore associato della rivista LOULOU. Dice che il panorama della vendita al dettaglio nel mondo della moda in Canada si trova in una sorta di limbo: “Molti rivenditori tradizionali che hanno rappresentato il settore negli ultimi 30-40 anni stanno chiudendo i battenti o si stanno ritirando dal mercato. Ciò è in gran parte dovuto all’influsso di marchi internazionali di “fast fashion” come Zara, H&M, Forever 21 ed a nuovi concorrenti che s’immetteranno nel mercato nel 2016 con Uniqlo. Questi rivenditori hanno la capacità di offrire pezzi di tendenza a una frazione del prezzo,” spiega Cyboran. Anche il mercato degli acquisti on-line sta colpendo i marchi canadesi. I giovani non acquistano allo stesso modo delle generazioni precedenti e i rivenditori faticano a stargli dietro. Robert Soroka è professore di Marketing alla Desautels Faculty of Management dell’Università McGill. Soroka studia i mutamenti nel settore ed evidenzia un cambiamento sostanziale nelle abitudini d’acquisto dei consumatori: “Parlate con i giovani, acquirenti molto più informati dei loro predecessori di una generazione fa. Acquistano in rete, da venditori outlet come Winners, e rispondono favorevolmente a marchi di rivenditori mondiali come H&M e Zara,” sostiene Soroka. “Le fortune e i fallimenti della vendita al dettaglio dei prodotti di moda non sono vincolati a specifici mercati geografici. Per riuscire bisogna tenere il passo. I

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FASHION not tied to specific geographic markets. To succeed you have to keep pace. Tired brick and mortar retailers with outdated promotions, bloated prices and brands that no longer speak to the markets they seek to satisfy will be displaced.” Although Cyboran and Soroka both agree that Canadians’ buying habits are clearly shifting, there are some parts of the country that are faring better than others. Montreal was once considered the centre of the rag trade in Canada, and Chabanel street was its heart. Like Joey and Francesco Franco, countless Italian-Montrealers were employed in the industry. But that is no longer the case. “Chabanel was a legendary place where clothing was manufactured and distributed. That is changing,” admits Cyboran. “Many of the brands that were on Chabanel have either folded or moved to Toronto, which is now becoming more of a hub.” Retailers seem to be following the money and fanfare down the 401 to the detriment of Montreal’s fashion industry. In 2013, the producers of Montreal’s Fashion Week pulled the plug on the event, leaving a noticeable void in the landscape. Montreal fashion designers, Marisa Minicucci says Hogtown is definitely the pinnacle of the industry in Canada these days: “Right now Toronto is so much more vibrant than Montreal. You feel it. The demographic is also younger. It’s full of professionals, full of life. The consumers in Toronto are not as fashionable as in Montreal, but they are more hip and happening. There’s a lot more action in Toronto.” Olivia Colacci is a Toronto-based professional hair and makeup artist. The 24-year-old has worked everywhere from Montreal to Milan, and she just jetted back from Paris fashion week where she worked on the Chanel and Louis Vuitton shows. Colacci agrees there are definitely more clients and money in Toronto, although she admits Montreal is more of a high-fashion city. “There is way more work in Toronto and I do definitely think that the whole language issue in Montreal plays a part in it. Toronto is Englishspeaking and it’s a little easier to get things done,” explains Colacci. “Montreal is very cool and European and I love it as a city – it’s so inspiring. Toronto is more of a mish mash, but with greater opportunities.” Although the fashion scene in Montreal has downsized, Cyboran says it is in no way terminal: “There is still life on Chabanel with many wholesalers and distributors still set up here. As with the industry in general things are changing. A lot has to do with money and support of fashion. Here in Montreal our designers struggle. I know a few personally and know that they fight to make their business profitable. The consumer is just not there and not ready to spend the money. In Toronto, the challenge is different. There are more consumers willing to spend, but they might be more tempted by something from an international designer. They might opt for a piece from McQueen rather than Mikhael Kale.” Adaptability seems to be the name of the game in an industry that is unforgiving to retailers that do not meet the demands of consumers. For many in the fashion business, this means giving up the more traditional brickand-mortar storefronts and showcasing their creations online and at retail shows. That’s exactly what Marisa Minicucci is doing with the launch of her latest venture, As You Were Yoga. It’s a line of high-end yoga mat bags and homeware sold exclusively online. Outsourcing production to places such as China is another avenue retailers and designers are opting for. But, not everyone is so eager to move their operations elsewhere, despite the much cheaper costs. Fashion designer and Montreal native Nadya Toto is fiercely proud of her Made in Canada creations. “Everything is made here in Montreal; I still keep the control and the quality. Someone once asked me why I don’t produce in China, it’s so much cheaper. I said no way. First of all, I would lose all my stores. I built my brand for quality and for who I am and I would rather produce smaller quantities than sacrifice quality. I’m very happy with that.” Another spoke in the wheel of many Canadian designers and retailers is the lack of support from the government for the Made in Canada brand. Unlike places such as Italy where manufacturers have to meet strict standards to be able to carry the Made in Italy label, in Canada no such regulations exist. Travis Taddeo is a young designer who has struggled for recognition and marketability in an international industry where Canada is not a big player. “The reason Canadian designers can’t compete is the fault of Canada. They’ve done nothing to protect or help our own brands. We’ve let every country and company come in while we’re struggling with our own identity,” says Taddeo. “When you can run over to H&M and buy a T-shirt for five dollars, why would you spend $125 on a Made in Canada T-shirt?” Cyboran agrees that Canadian talent needs more support. “Designers need their designs to get noticed. Social media can be a very powerful tool for that, working with celebs and magazines as well. We do have some tremendous talent, here they just need to be able to play on the international stage.”

rivenditori stanchi con punti vendita, promozioni antiquate, prezzi gonfiati e marchi che non considerano il mercato che vogliono soddisfare verranno rimpiazzati.” Sebbene Cyboran e Soroka concordino entrambi sul fatto che le abitudini d’acquisto dei canadesi stiano chiaramente cambiando, vi sono delle parti del paese che se la passano meglio di altre. Montreal era una volta considerata il centro del settore dell’abbigliamento in Canada e Chabanel street ne era il cuore. Come Joey Franco e suo padre, innumerevoli italo-montrealesi erano impiegati nell’industria. Ma questo non è più così. “Chabanel street era un posto leggendario dove i vestiti venivano creati e distribuiti. Ciò sta cambiando,” ammette Cyboran. “Molti dei marchi che si trovavano su Chabanel street hanno chiuso i battenti o si sono spostati a Toronto, che ora sta diventando il fulcro.” I rivenditori sembrano inseguire denaro e successo a sud della 401 a discapito dell’industria della moda di Montreal. Nel 2013, gli imprenditori della settimana della moda di Montreal hanno staccato la spina all’evento lasciando un notevole vuoto nel settore. La stilista montrealese, Marisa Minicucci dice che Hogtown è decisamente il vertice dell’industria in Canada oggigiorno: “In questo momento Toronto è molto più vivace di Montreal. Lo percepisci. La popolazione è anche più giovane. È piena di professionisti, piena di vita. I consumatori a Toronto non sono eleganti quanto quelli di Montreal, ma sono all’ultima moda e amano i capi di tendenza. C’è molto più movimento a Toronto.” Olivia Colacci è una parrucchiera e truccatrice professionista con sede a Toronto. La ventiquattrenne lavora ovunque da Montreal a Milano ed è appena rientrata dalla settimana della moda di Parigi dove è stata impegnata per le sfilate di Chanel e Louis Vuitton. Colacci concorda sul fatto che ci siano decisamente più clienti e soldi a Toronto, sebbene ammetta che Montreal sia una città più d’alta moda: “C’è molto più lavoro a Toronto e credo che l’intera questione della lingua a Montreal giochi la sua parte. Toronto è anglofona ed è un po’ più semplice che le cose vengano fatte,” spiega Colacci. “Montreal è più vivace ed europea ed io l’adoro come città – è davvero d’ispirazione. Toronto è più un guazzabuglio, ma con maggiori opportunità.” Sebbene il panorama della moda a Montreal si sia ridotto, Cyboran dice che non è per niente allo stadio terminale: “Vi è ancora vita su Chabanel street con molti commercianti all’ingrosso e distributori ancora lì. Come per l’industria in generale, le cose stanno cambiando. Molto ha a che fare con il denaro e il supporto dato alla moda. Qui a Montreal i nostri stilisti faticano. Ne conosco alcuni personalmente e so che lottano per rendere la propria attività produttiva. È solo che manca il consumatore o questi non è pronto a spendere soldi. A Toronto, la sfida è diversa. Vi sono più acquirenti disposti a spendere, ma potrebbero essere più tentati da qualcosa di uno stilista internazionale. Potrebbero optare per un pezzo di McQueen piuttosto che per uno di Mikhael Kale.” “Adattabilità” sembra essere la parola d’ordine del gioco in un settore che non perdona i rivenditori che non incontrano la domanda dei consumatori. Per molti nell’industria della moda, ciò implica l’abbandono dei negozi più tradizionali e il mettere in mostra le proprie creazioni on line o in fiere campionarie per rivenditori. Questo è esattamente ciò che sta facendo Maria Minicucci con il lancio della sua ultimissima impresa, AsYou Were Yoga. Si tratta di una linea di lusso di borse per tappetini da yoga e prodotti per la casa venduti esclusivamente on-line. La produzione outsourcing in luoghi come la Cina è un’altra impresa per la quale stanno optando rivenditori e stilisti. Ma non tutti sono così propensi a spostare le proprie operazioni altrove, nonostante i costi ridotti. La stilista originaria di Montreal, Nadya Toto, è fortemente orgogliosa delle proprie creazioni “made in Canada.” “Tutto è fatto qui a Montreal; ho ancora sia controllo che qualità. Qualcuno una volta mi ha chiesto perché non producessi in Cina dato che è molto più economico. Ho risposto neanche per sogno. Prima di tutto, perderei i miei negozi. Ho basato il mio marchio sulla qualità e su chi sono e produrrei quantità inferiori piuttosto che sacrificare la qualità. Ne sono molto felice.” Un altro elemento negativo per molti rivenditori e stilisti canadesi è la mancanza di sostegno da parte del governo riguardo al marchio “made in Canada.” A differenza di luoghi come l’Italia dove i produttori devono adempiere a regole rigorose per poter riportare l’etichetta “made in Italy”, in Canada non esiste una simile legislazione. Travis Taddeo è un giovane stilista che si batte per il riconoscimento e la commerciabilità all’interno di un’industria internazionale nella quale il Canada non rappresenta un grande concorrente. “Il fatto che gli stilisti canadesi non possano competere è colpa del Canada. Non hanno fatto nulla per proteggerci o supportare i nostri marchi. Abbiamo consentito ad ogni paese e compagnia di entrare mentre noi lottiamo per la nostra stessa identità,” afferma Taddeo. “Se puoi andare da H&M a comprare una maglietta a 5 dollari, per quale motivo ne spenderesti 125 per una fatta in Canada?” Cyboran è d’accordo sul fatto che il talento canadese debba avere un maggiore supporto: “Gli stilisti necessitano che i propri pezzi vengano notati. I social media possono essere uno strumento molto potente in merito; anche collaborare con celebrità e riviste. Abbiamo dei talenti eccezionali qui che hanno bisogno solo di poter mettersi in gioco su un palcoscenico internazionale.” PANORAMITALIA.COM

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FASHION

Dennis Merotto Spring / Summer 2015 collection

Trending in Toronto These talented Torontonians tell Panoram Italia their style stories and share their take on Canada’s fashion industry. By Alessia Sara Domanico

Dennis Merotto Home-Grown Success Hailing from Sudbury, Ontario, Dennis Merotto came to Toronto at the age of 19 to study fashion design at Sheridan College. Born into a family from Treviso, Italy, Merotto’s first encounter with design came at an early age: “My grandfather had a tailoring and alterations shop, my uncle worked there and so did my mother as a seamstress. I really enjoyed illustration and became interested in fashion through that. I like sketching clothes. My mother used to bring home Italian magazines like Grazia and I found inspiration and tried to sketch what I saw.” Unlike other designers who started their careers elsewhere, Merotto began – and continues – his career here in Canada. His collection is sold to independent retailers in Canada and the United States in addition to several Holt Renfrew locations (Bloor St. and Yorkdale). And while proudly Canadian, there is an undeniable stimulus coming from his native Italy, which he visits often to source materials. “Ninety-five to ninety-eight percent of the fabrics I use are from Italy,” he points out. “There is truly nothing like Italian fabric and Italian mills.” An admirer not just of the materials in Italy, but of the folks themselves, Merotto’s collections are infused with Italian flair: “I find that the Italian woman is so comfortable with herself and her looks. As she gets older she looks better and dresses better. And Italian men take such pride in getting dressed up. And as you’ll see there is always a bit of masculinity to what I do.” This masculine edge can be detected in the hints of sportswear in Merotto’s collections, another important area of design in high-end fashion. While Merotto has managed to secure himself a place in the market, he agrees that Canada could do more to support fashion. One major issue he identified is the growing scarcity of skilled workers such as sample makers, cutters and pattern drafters upon which the industry is dependent on. 24

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Tosca Delfino Little Miss Lifestyle

Photo by Gregory Varano

In what has already been a whirlwind ride, Tosca Delfino is showing no signs of slowing down. With the launch of a lifestyle brand on the horizon (a collaboration with longtime friend and stylist Rita Fiorucci), Delfino is branching out from her signature swimwear into clothing and accessories for activities such as fitness and yoga: “The collection will be fashion forward using new innovative textiles for workout clothing, making them wearable and functional. It’s exciting.” Delfino, who first got interested in fashion by watching her mother sew, attended George Brown College and followed that up with a stint in Milan where she studied at the Istituto di Moda Burgo and interned at Missoni. “While living in Italy, I was inspired by the Italian architecture, the colours from old art pieces and churches, like the blush and earthy tones from da Vinci’s The Last Supper.” Looking for a new adventure, Delfino followed a friend who had moved to Australia and got inspired to start her own swimwear line. She has shown her collections at the Miami Swim show and Toronto Fashion week and her swimwear can currently be found at the Ritz Carlton’s beauty bar in downtown Toronto. Before deciding to embark on her new lifestyle brand, Delfino most recently worked at Canadian label Joe Fresh where she was responsible for swimwear, soft accessories design and product development. It’s clear that she understands that a Made in Canada identity is of the utmost importance to her work. “My designs are all about quality and the longevity of the piece,” she points out. And what about her thoughts on Toronto’s fashion industry compared to the likes of Milan? “There’s a lot of talent in Canada; we don’t have as much support as other big places do. They’re trying to expand this industry and hopefully there will be a positive change. Slowly, but surely, it’s kicking in.”

Tosca Delfino Spring / Summer 2015 collection

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Photo by Ted Belton

Leah Antoinette The Next Generation Proud of her Italian sartorial heritage and an ardent advocate for Canada’s fashion industry, Leah Antoinette, creative director and founder of brand Elan+Castor, gave us her perspective on where we’re at on the global fashion scene: “The Canadian fashion industry is very interesting; there is so much diversity. It allows for a lot of freedom of aesthetic and inspiration.” From Canada to California, Antoinette carried out her formal studies at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco where she specialized in knitwear design and textile design. “What I loved most about the school was that every teacher I had was European instructed and it made a huge difference,” she recalls. She credits her initial interest in textiles to her family’s ties to the Veneto region and cites Italian design as a major source of inspiration in her own work. “Italian designers are never afraid to use colour or sheer fabrics. They really celebrate the woman’s body as it is and build off of the sex appeal it provides. They aren’t afraid to break certain rules and make statements and that’s very important in our industry. I try to follow that as much as possible, although it can be daunting as a new designer.” And as a new designer, Antoinette understands that there is a need for better support for her trade. “Because the Canadian fashion industry was quiet for a long time, American designers were put ahead of us, but now there is a new generation of designers coming up. If we get a bit more support from the government and Canadian buyers, this new era of designers will really achieve success.” With this in mind we asked what advice she has for those aspiring to go into this business. “It’s important to persevere and keep trying,” she says. “Know the history of the industry and use it to your advantage.” 26

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Elan+Castor Spring / Summer 2015 collection

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Dan and Dean Caten The Dynamic Duo Second-generation Italians (their parents are originally from Naples) and identical twins Dean and Dan Caten (shortened from Catenacci) are the youngest of nine children. They studied fashion design at the prestigious Parsons School in New York City and formed their first label DEanDAN upon their return to Toronto. The twins then went on to become creative directors to established Canadian brand Ports 1961. Though they achieved success in Canada, ultimately the allure of Italy beckoned the brothers to make the move to Milan where they first worked at Versace. By the late ’90s, the duo had moved over to creative posts at Italian street wear brand Diesel, who would ultimately become the official backer for the brothers when they launched DSquared2 in 1994.

DSquared2 Spring / Summer 2015 collection

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Franco Mirabelli The Veteran What started as a part-time job selling menswear at a shop in Toronto’s Little Italy (Dufferin and St. Clair) propelled Franco Mirabelli to try his hand in the big leagues: New York City – the North American home of high fashion. He arrived in the ’80s at the height of excess glamour and studied at the famed Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), alma mater to the likes of Calvin Klein and Michael Kors. He went on to work in the design studio at Anne Klein where Donna Karan was one of the lead designers at the time. “It was exciting to work for such a prestigious label; it was my dream job.” And while he may have been living a professional dream, he was missing home and so after several years in New York, Mirabelli made the move back to Toronto to open a boutique and do his own thing. Soon one boutique wasn’t enough to contain his collections and so the designer started to wholesale across Canada. Today he operates his studio in the Dufferin and Lawrence area and he also has three boutiques bearing his name (Bayview Village, Rosedale and Forest Hill). His collection is distributed throughout Canada and the United States. When asked about his creative relationship with Italy, Mirabelli praised the professionalism and high quality produced by the Italian market: “The people are very hard working and industrious. Everything they do, from cooking to making cars to fabrics, they do it well.” He makes several trips a year to Italy to visit mills and source fabrics for his collections. “I love luxurious fabrics that feel great to the touch and are very sensuous,” he explains. “This is something that is highly appreciated by customers.” Mirabelli has been in the game a long time, so what’s the secret to his staying power? “I’m passionate about what I do, so it never feels like work.” Franco Mirabelli Spring / Summer 2015 collection

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Faked in Italy Knockoff fashion is big business in a country once known for quality wares By Alessia Sara Domanico

he very place where the finest things are made has a dual identity as a Italian men and women with scarce academic credentials and migrants (many hotbed for counterfeit products. What does “Made in Italy” really mean undocumented) are tasked with carrying out simple and repetitive jobs for up anymore? Whether it’s outright forgery or creative assembly, we take a to 17 hours a day. Many of them aren’t in possession of an actual contract and look at the hot button issues surrounding the question. typically make a standard rate of €2-3 an hour. In some cases, individuals only Anyone who has taken a trip to Italy in the past 10 years has seen that earn for however many pieces they are able to complete each day. familiar sight, no not the Colosseum or Ponte Vecchio, but the string of African Chinese immigrants (one of the largest classes to be subjected to this line immigrants lined up side by side along the perimeter of these must-see areas. of work) are often forced into these jobs by stronger and more powerful figures Before their feet is their shop in the Chinese community, who window – a flat canvas sack have ties to organized crime. littered with knockoff designer They are exposed to poor condigoods like leather handbags, tions and wages for a number of wallets, belts, sunglasses, clothing, reasons such as: a lack of skills, art prints, pirated DVDs, CDs illegal residency, language barriand much more. As soon as the ers or the inability to integrate local police or carabinieri (Italy’s into Italian communities. Most of national military police) are in these workers are made to live in view, these men swiftly wrap up the very warehouses where they their sacks and make a run for it work. In 2013, a fire killed seven to avoid being hit with a fine or workers in the suburbs of Prato, taken in for questioning. Tuscany. They were living in plasWhile these men are the terboard homes with bars on “face of fake” in places such as their windows and few emerItaly, France, Spain and Turkey, gency exits. Their employer, they only represent the last step Teresa Moda, a Chinese wholein a much larger and intricate saler of “Made in Italy” fashions, process instigated by more powbuilt these homes for the workerful forces. The financial daily Il ers. “There are more and more Common street scene of counterfeit merchandise Sole 24 Ore estimates that Italy’s secret workshops, working counterfeit fashion industry is worth seven billion euros, accounts for 130,000 around the clock to produce fake goods,” says Confartigianato Imprese Firenze jobs and has caused a tax deficit of five million euros. Italy is by no means the (the Confederation of Florentine Artisan Businesses) chief Antonio Catanese only place where counterfeiting takes place, but it is a major player in the grand in an article published in the International Herald Tribune. “They tend to global scheme of things. specialize in leather goods because that is what is produced in the area.” Clothing sewn in Prato, leather goods from Florence, shoes from the An ocean away on New York’s Canal Street, another Chinese community Riviera di Brenta in Venice and a booming fashion black market in Naples – all is peddling fake wares such as the ones made at Teresa Moda in the backrooms of it imitation. This underground sector is harmful to tax-paying businesses and basements of their street front businesses. “You would never know the and world markets as well as to its most vulnerable stakeholders: its workforce. difference,” says a 28-year-old American housewife buying a knockoff Prada 30

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“

There are more and more secret workshops, working around the clock to produce fake goods.

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shoulder bag for $15 to New York Times reporter Denny Lee. “If you could buy six for the price of one, why wouldn't you?” But the injustice doesn’t begin and end with knockoffs; plenty of legitimate fashion houses are outsourcing their production and supplies. The price they pay to have items made for them in these western European sweatshops are a far cry from the mark-up they add on once they are retailed. High fashion tenders are a sad reality in areas like Campania where reputed fashion houses often send out commissions to execute their new collections. The tender goes out to several local manufacturers, but only one is rewarded, the others having lost time and valuable income trying to prove that they could handle the task at hand. So while your gown may have been dreamed up in some glamorous Roman studio, nine times out of ten it’s come to fruition in a steamy workshop in an impoverished seaside or hilly town. However, now there are exceptions to the rule. Brunello Cucinelli, aka the king of cashmere and laidback elegance, owns the entire town of Solomeo in Umbria, where 100% of his wares are lovingly made for the select few who can afford this rare luxury. Unlike the logo hungry fake seekers, Cucinelli is a brand that is known for quality, rather than a monogram. Its success after being taken public shows that the war on inauthenticity can be won. But what about components? Just because something is assembled in Italy, does that mean it’s 100% Italian? France has the Origine France Garantie that assures consumers that a certain percentage of what they are buying is produced directly in the country. Italians have the mighty DOCG label for wine, olive oil and cheese, but not for jeans and handbags. While the Institute for the Protection of Manufacturers (ITPI) has introduced the 100% Made in Italy label, the topic is still wide open for interpretation. A notable luxury automobile brand has received this distinction, but Japanese spark plugs are used in its Formula One fleet, so as superb and Italian as the brand is, technically it can’t claim a 100% DNA across the board.

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Italian Style with Attitude The secret behind Italian gals’ flair for fashion By Loretta N. Di Vita

isten to Italophiles speak of the raptures of Italy and, invariably, they will list alluring women among other notable delights. Yes, there is the Colosseum, the Amalfi coast, pizza, and Renaissance art. And there are the ladies – glamorous, stylish, and mesmerizing all at the same time. When Italian girls are attractive, they are uber attractive. But what exactly makes them so appealing? Could it be the Mediterranean sun? Could be. After all, the right ambient light certainly emphasizes good looks. Could it be the copious amounts of Omega-3-laden olive oil lubricating just about everything in their diet, and, consequently, gifting them with glowing skin? Checkmark on that one too. And then there are the clothes. A little Prada, Fendi, Miu Miu, and Dolce and Gabbana never hurt a girl. But there’s something else. It’s difficult to say exactly what that something is – as it’s one of those intangible qualities that transcend definition – but we’ll be darned if we don’t figure it out. Italians actually have a term for describing that something. Obviously, they’re just as baffled as the rest of us because they call it non so che (literally meaning, ‘I don’t know what’). Take a non-Italian beauty, dress her in the latest covetable clothes, line her up beside an Italian girl of equal good looks in the same clothes and the Italiana will stand out. Why? It should be like comparing apples and apples, oranges and oranges, right? But she has something. I can hear you screaming: What is it? Let’s dissect the style of some current Italian It Girls, and maybe, just maybe,

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Fashion editor Giovanna Battaglia and Fashion blogger Anna Dello Russo

this exercise in observation and admiration (and yes, a touch of envy) will lead us to the answer. There are Giorgia Tordini, Giovanna Battaglia, Chiara Ferragni, Frida Giannini, Gaia Repossi, Anna Dello Russo, to name a few. Ranging from classic to extreme, each one has a recognizable trademark style. Still, they all share a winning combination of moxie, an eye for novelty, and an aesthetic sensibility derived from the creativity-fuelled culture they were lucky enough to be born into. Like most Italian women, they love feminine touches: cascading hair, high heels, jewelry, arched brows, eyeliner, and peeks of bare skin. However, they’re well aware that the over-accumulation of girlie flourish can end up looking cartoonish at best, or vulgar at worst (picture Kim Kardashian sketched by a street caricaturist). So they will add an element, subtract an element, add one, remove one, until the sum is just right. To keep things interesting, they’ll play down one attribute to emphasize another. It’s almost mathematical: Striking a tasteful balance requires careful consideration of proportion, the studied distribution of key elements, and measured restraint. The modern It Girls would never wear one designer from head to foot, and, in an ironic counter-move against ‘fashion,’ they rebuke anything with an obvious designer logo. And though they all have their own individualistic style, consensus is that an outfit must appear to be curated rather than matchy-matchy. Too much of the same thing is too easy – a veritable style cop-out. Examine the details and you’ll see that the It Girls are a wonderful mess of studied (yet never so-admitted) contradiction: A feminine item juxtaposed against a boyfriend-borrowed piece; a tailored article jiving with a more laid-back one; a bohemian accessory breaking the monotony of a more classic ensemble. Are you getting the picture? Take, for example, Frida Giannini, former creative director of fashion powerhouse, Gucci. She can rock a cutout evening gown (Gucci, perhaps?) like nobody’s business, but she knows when to stop to avoid her glam look from going prom fussy. If her dress is formal, the rest of her is laid back, with centre-parted carefree hair, nude lips, and an intriguing piece of modern jewelry. Giorgia Tordini, a fashion blogger favourite, is the epitome of understatement, favouring menswear-inspired minimalist pieces, but, in that Italian sort of way, she knocks the drab out of them by adding contrastingly feminine accessories like handheld purses and lace-up booties. Fashion-eccentric extraordinaire, Anna Dello Russo, always shows up on the fashion radar flaunting eclectic ensembles in kaleidoscopic colour combos. Pushing the fashion envelope comes easy to her, and, somehow, her kooky numbers, teetering on tacky, end up looking cool and uncontrived (how does she do it?). Obviously comfortable in her own skin (never mind in knee-high gladiator sandals), she’s able to pull off looks few can get away with. She wears her clothes with self-confidence and a heavy dose of long-hair-don’t-care attitude. Aha! Did someone say attitude? By Giorgio, I think we may have unlocked the secret. Attitude could very well be the defining factor that has landed the Italian It Girl a centre-stage spot in the worldwide street-fashion arena. It’s the ability to ‘carry’ clothes instead of simply wearing them. And it all boils down to a strong sense of self (notice the author’s restraint in not saying narcissism), which commands not only a once-over, but a full-body head-to-toe eye scan. Certainly, élan is not the exclusive birthright of the Italian woman.“Non!”, “nein!”, “nee!” citizens of other nations will shout. It’s true that all nations boast plenty of divinely attractive women. It’s just that many of them look to the Italian ideal as their style template.

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The Imperfectly Perfect Bello Finding out what gives Italian guys a fashion edge By Loretta N. Di Vita

talian men have a reputation. For dressing, that is. Anyone who follows fashion will agree that Italian masculine style is special. And not in the negative connotation of “Oh, yeah, that’s spesh alright!”, but in the more positive sense. Before further discussion, it should be noted that not all Italian men are stylish. But when they are, boy are they ever. It’s hard to say what makes many Italian men so chic. Granted, it doesn’t hurt that they live in an environment where fashionable clothes have long been designed and crafted. But there’s got to be more to it than easy access to Madein-Italy duds. Their sense of style transcends the obvious. It’s as though it’s hardwired – the result of a green, white and red genetic code. There’s surely some collective cultural sensibility at play. Italians have always loved il bello [beautiful things] and...themselves. Anyone who’s ever watched an Italian man fastidiously choose the day’s attire knows that effortless style requires... well... a lot of effort and a startling degree of selfabsorption. Clearly, all that primping and preening is driven by vanity and a sort of personal responsibility to adhere to the social expectations of a culture long enamoured with beauty. But heck who’s complaining? It makes for more pleasant scenery for the rest of us. So how exactly does the non-Italian (or one of the watered-down variety) succeed at emulating his Italian bro’s fashion know-how? The trick, it would seem, is in looking like you’re not trying too hard. It’s all about striking the right balance, achieving unstudied elegance, or, as the Italians themselves call it, sprezzatura. It’s a certain je ne sais quoi, which can only be attained by ignoring the conventions of formula dressing. In an exercise of sartorial wizardry, the attractive Italiano takes commonly-accepted fashion rules, bends them into a pretzel, and snaps them in half. No one knows better how to mess up the details in just the right manner, thereby turning a mediocre look into one worthy of a fingertip kiss. Contrary to an old-school take on fashion, it’s not absolute perfection that guys in the know and their admirers are after, but rather an imperfect sort of perfection. Let’s zoom in on some of the Pinteresque touches that elicit style envy and inspire endless copy-cat attempts. Take, for instance, the button-down collar left unharnessed out of fashionable intent rather than oversight; trouser cuffs rising inches above sock-bare ankles in brogues; the rebellious belt tip that refuses to be pinned down by a belt loop; or, perhaps, the brash contradiction of a tuxedo jacket combined with cargo pants. It’s the sum of such unorthodox choices that adds up to the nonchalance that has street-fashion bloggers and their followers bowing to Italian flair worldwide. Style is a complex circuitry of elements that need to work in harmony, not against each other, but with each other, producing dazzling displays of good taste and fashion forwardness. However, on closer analysis, there’s more to it than just clothes. There’s body language (particularly important to the gesticulating Italian), carriage, and the weightiest factor of all – self-confidence. Many of the most successful outfits take confidence to wear. Self-assurance is to fashion what peeled tomatoes are to ragù – essential. A dude has to be comfortable in his own skin before he can rock those threads. It’s true that all this hyper mirror-gazing turns out some strikingly alluring Italian men, just as capable of commanding a once-over as a Testarossa at a downtown intersection. But the question begs to be asked: Do these chaps have the horsepower their appealing exteriors would promise? Perhaps. But it doesn’t really matter because it’s the illusion that counts. Turning wishful thinking into truth – if he looks hot, he must be hot. And this belief is reinforced by popular media, which often chooses to characterize Italian men as gorgeous, libidinous creatures. Conjure up a seductive Raoul Bova in Under the Tuscan Sun, or the Mediterranean hunks in Gucci ads. But at the same time that media glorifies Italian men, they are also stereotyped as mammoni, or mamma’s boys. Still, leave it to the dashing Italian to shrug off the slightest suggestion of a flaw, maximize it to his advantage (like an ugly-attractive scar), and come out of it all the more intriguing. And that just might be the secret behind Italian masculine style: not caring. Or, at least, looking like you don’t care.

The sprezzatura look

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A Tribute to Fr. Nick Bishop Nicola De Angelis, the retiring Bishop of Peterborough, was honoured recently at a Tribute Dinner held at Columbus Centre. Fr. Nick., as Bishop De Angelis is affectionately called, has been a leader in establishing Catholic and Heritage Language education in the southern Ontario area for over 40 years. He was co-founder of Centro Scuola and past Chair of Toronto Catholic District School Board. His humble message has been and continues to be “Invest in youth.” Instead of retiring, Fr. Nick has accepted a special Papal mission to work with those who suffer from leprosy in West Africa. The Feb. 28 Tribute Dinner, organized by “Friends of Fr. Nick,” was attended by many well-wishers who were inspired by Bishop De Angelis (seated at centre in photo above). Also seated: Bishop William McGratton and Alberto Di Giovanni. Standing, from L: Caroline Di Giovanni, Angela Gauthier, Domenico Servello, Anthony Barone, Giuseppe Pastorelli, Consul

General of Italy, Angelo Sangiorgio, Gary Poole and Steve Corvese of TCDSB and Centro Scuola. Hon. Julian Fantino, Associate Minister of National Defense, Peterborough Mayor Daryl Bennett, Hon. Con Di Nino, Mario Cortellucci, Pal Di Iulio and many clergy members were also present to wish Fr. Nick well and good health in his future endeavours.

A Grocery Store with Heart, a Generous Villa Charities Supporter Lady York Foods, one of Villa Charities’ most generous and steadfast supporters, has rolled out a year-long, in-store fundraiser for Villa Charities Foundation. Each month, the store donates 10% of sales generated by select products to the Foundation. The products are offered at discount prices – a deal made possible with help from Lady York suppliers. “We want customers to save on products as well as feel that they are contributing their money to a great cause,” says Lady York co-owner Gabriele Torchetti. Lady York is also lead sponsor of Villa Charities’ signature fundraisers – Giro 2015 and the 39th Annual Villa Charities Golf Classic. Torchetti remarks, “I have grown to appreciate the work of Villa Charities and very much enjoy the relationships I have built with the staff. The thing that impresses me most about Villa Charities’ work is that it spans all age ranges, from children to the elderly. There is nothing like it in our immediate community.” Since 1959, Lady York Foods has been a family run business providing the community with unique items, quality food and old world service. Continuing the legacy his father built, Torchetti believes in giving back to his clients and the community where they live. 34

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From left: Lady York Foods’ Gabriele Torchetti, Lucia Torchetti, Maria DeRose and Frank DeRose For a listing of monthly products supporting Villa Charities Foundation, check the local Lady York Foods flyer or visit www.ladyyorkfoods.com.

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Ristorante Boccaccio Recipe Secrets Revealed: Chef Tom’s Gnocchi con Guanciale Recipe • Gnocchi – boil potatoes and mix with flour and water to create a consistency that can be rolled into 1 inch tubes about 1 foot long. The proportions are based on “Nonna’s formula”: add the ingredients as needed to get the right consistency. Cut into 3/4 inch nibs. • Boil cubes of squash. • Cut the guanciale (available at Italian specialty stores) into small cubes. • Thinly slice your favourite mushrooms. • Demi-glace – a rich sauce made from reduced meat stock, flour and butter – can be purchased at your gourmet grocer, or look up a recipe. • Drop the gnocchi into a large pot of salted, boiling water – about 70 grams per person. • Sauté the guanciale, mushrooms and squash in a teaspoon of butter. Ristorante Boccaccio presents Capo di Cucina Tom Quan’s recipe for Gnocchi con Guanciale, a delicious combination of gnocchi, mushroom sauce, squash and cured pork jowl.

For more than 40 years across the GTA, Villa Charities has developed and provided care for seniors, educational and cultural programs including music, dance, visual arts and culinary arts, athletic programs, and much more. The Villa Charities family includes Villa Colombo Services for Seniors in Toronto; Villa Colombo Vaughan/Di Poce Centre; Caboto Terrace, Casa DelZotto and Casa Abruzzo apartments for independent seniors; the Columbus Centre; and J.D. Carrier Art Gallery. For more information, visit www.villacharities.com

You can enjoy this tasty recipe at home. Or have it prepared by our chefs at Ristorante Boccaccio, in the Columbus Centre. For reservations, call 416-789-5555.

S P E C I A L

This special section is published by Villa Charities.

• Serve with or without cheese.

S E C T I O N

Chef Tom’s Gnocchi con Guanciale was inspired during his stay in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. The dish’s combination of demi-glace, butter and mushrooms is unique to the northern areas of Italy. Chef Tom’s version adds guanciale – cured pork jowl – adding richness and depth. In the Italian tradition, Boccaccio’s chefs roll their own gnocchi by hand.

• Add just enough demi-glace to cover the sauté mixture. When the gnocchi are floating, strain and toss into the sauce pan.

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Centenarian Nerina Savinetti Celebrates at Villa Colombo Nerina Savinetti joined with family, friends and staff at Villa Colombo recently to celebrate her 100th birthday. Among the celebrants was her son, Emilio Savinetti, who describes Nerina as “a wonderful mother and a beautiful woman who loves beautiful things.” He says she loved to travel to Italy, Venezuela and beyond with her husband, Carlo, who passed away in 1997. As a housewife, she was a skilled cook whose gnocchi alla caprese “is like nothing I’ve ever tasted,” Emilio remarks. Nerina was born on March 1, 1915 in Taglio di Po, in Italy’s Veneto region, during the First World War. At age 20, she married Carlo, and together they had three children – Emilio, Alfonso and Franco. She came to Canada in 1963. Blessed with three daughters-in-law, today Nerina has six grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Living independently until she came to Villa Colombo four years ago, Nerina is “well looked after” by Villa Colombo staff, Emilio says.

Nerina Savinetti with sons Franco (L) and Emilio (R), and daughter-in-law Carmen.

Masters Swimming Returns to Columbus Centre

Masters swimming returns to Columbus Centre Fitness Club this spring after a more than 20 year absence from the pool. The Club has put together a 10-week program focusing on speed, endurance and technique. Participants will receive individual feedback and coaching from Columbus Centre Aquatics Assistant Supervisor Masha Reshetnikova, an experienced trainer and former competitive swimmer. It’s a perfect way to stay fit, prepare for triathlons, or simply enjoy swimming in a fun and social atmosphere. Participants should be able to swim at least 200 metres. Possible next steps for the program include forming a swim team and getting involved in competitive Masters Swimming events. The Masters Swimming program runs April 18 to June 27 on Saturdays, from 8-9 p.m. The fee is $125 for members and $145 for non-members. Additional details are available on this and other Aquatics programs in the Columbus Centre’s Spring/Summer Program Guide. For more information, contact the Aquatics Department at 416-789-7011 ext. 215. 36

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Dr. Fred Gentili

Fred De Gasperis

De Gasperis Family

PIONEERS IN EXCELLENCE TRIBUTE EVENT: On April 30th, Villa Charities Foundation and UHN/Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation will host a tribute event honouring two “Pioneers in Excellence”: Dr. Fred Gentili, one of Canada’s pioneers in skull base surgery; and the late Fred De Gasperis and the De Gasperis family, who together built a small concrete and drain company, ConDrain Construction Ltd., into a multi-million dollar enterprise developing communities and employing thousands. The event brings together leaders and philanthropists from Toronto’s Italian and Jewish communities to salute the honourees and raise funds for projects of the hosting Foundations.

Sam Paonessa: Sharing His Love for Creating Art

Ristorante Boccaccio Campania Themed Dinner (April 24) Festa della Mamma (May 10) Reservations: 416-789-5555

Sam Paonessa enjoys sharing his artistic talent at the Columbus Centre, not only as an exhibiting painter, but also as the instructor of the Centre’s art program. Regular visitors to Carrier Gallery are familiar with Paonessa’s “plein air” landscapes, which have appeared in several shows at the gallery over six years. Columbus Centre art class participants have also gotten to know the man behind the art.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Columbus Event Centre Easter Brunch (April 5) Mothers Day Brunch (May 10) Reservations: 416-789-2113 x 6000

Sam Paonessa instructs Rose Zappone on painting technique.

Carrier Gallery Jonathan Bolyki Gallery (April 9-May 4) Greg Varano (May 1-June 1) Ron Clavier (May 7-June 1) Joan Holben (May 7-June 1) Alejandro Robazo (May 7-June 1) Information: 416-789-7011 ext. 300

“Taking Sam's class has been an amazing experience,” says one of his students. “His skill as an artist and teacher, combined with his sense of humour, enables his students to relax and enjoy the process of discovering their inner artist.”

Culinary Arts International Night Cooking Class (April 27) Registration: 416-789-7011 ext. 244

The good feelings are reciprocal. “It’s rewarding for me to see my Columbus Centre students improve as artists and develop friendships,” Paonessa remarks. “The same people keep coming back and bringing in their family and friends. They encourage each other and have a lot of fun.”

Columbus Centre Summer Camps Early bird registration (April 6-17) 416-789-7011 ext. 248/250

From one class five years ago, Paonessa now leads three weekly workshops at Columbus Centre on oil and acrylic painting, and drawing as well as occasional one-day workshops. His classes offer an intimate, small group setting that allows for one-on-one instruction.

Columbus Centre Athletics Spring program registration now open Information: 416-789-7011 ext. 229

Paonessa has worked as a professional artist since graduating from the Ontario College of Art. His works have appeared in numerous galleries and corporate and private collections. Currently, his paintings are being exhibited in a solo show at Toronto’s Westmount Gallery, to April 25.

Columbus Centre Aquatics Spring program registration Members & family: April 7 Non-members: April 9, 6 p.m. (in person) Information: 416-789-7011 ext. 215

Paonessa’s spring workshops at the Columbus Centre run on Monday evenings and Tuesday afternoons and evenings, until May 4. He will also lead one-day summer workshops on July 18 and August 15. To register for his classes, call 416-789-7011 ext. 248 or email cultural@villacharities.com.

Music and Art Programs Limited spots available Registration now open: 416-789-7011 ext. 248/250 PANORAMITALIA.COM

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LIVING ITALIAN STYLE

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

Giuseppe Grossi

Adina Isaacs

Nickname: Juice Occupation: Engineering Bio-Medical Student at Ryerson University Age: 20 Generation: Second Dad from: Frosinone, Lazio Mom from: Foggia, Puglia Speaks: English & Italian Raised in: Woodbridge

Nickname: Adí, Ads, Deenz Occupation: Student at the University of Toronto, Arts Facilitator Age: 20 Generation: Third Dad’s side from: Georgetown, Guyana Mom’s side from: Bari, Puglia Speaks: English, Italian & German Raised in: Nonna’s house (Toronto)

Clothes: American Eagle top and jeans, Steve Madden shoes. Favourite boutique: American Eagle Fashion idol: My dad Passion: Fitness and good health Goal in life: To invent something revolutionary in the medical field. Thing about you that would surprise most people: I bake the best chocolate cake and I practice Kung Fu. Favourite dish: Pasta carbonara Your best dish: Ribs Best pizza in Toronto: Pizza Nova Favourite aperitivo: Frangelico Favourite Italian saying: My nonna Rocchina’s saying, “Poco basta, assai guasta.” You know you are ItalianCanadian if: You live in Woodbridge. Last time you went to Italy: 2012 38

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Favourite Italian city: Venice Musical preference: Classical Favourite Italian song: Cammenanno by Federico Salvatore Italian soccer team: AC Milan Sexiest Italian: Paula Mariani Best way to feel Italian in Toronto: Going to the Terelle Social Club Annual Events How long have you been reading Panoram? Since it came out. What you like most about Panoram: The layout in both Italian and English as well as its in-depth exploration of the different regions and lifestyles of Italy. Most common name in your family: Giuseppe (5) Best memory growing up ItalianCanadian: Attending Leonardo Da Vinci Academy’s Scuola Materna at Columbus Centre.

Clothes: Aritzia camisole, YaYa & Co skirt, Forever 21 blazer, Nine West shoes. Fashion idol: Raffaella Carrà (in her prime) Goal in life: To become a Human Rights Lawyer and sit on the European Commission. Thing about you that would surprise most people: Based on looks alone, the fact that I speak Italian! Favourite restaurant: Trattoria Nervosa Favourite dish: Brodo con cicoria e polpettine Your best dish: My rigatoni alla carbonara Best pizza in Toronto: Pizzeria Libretto Best caffè in Toronto: Faema caffè Favourite aperitivo: Aperol Spritz

Last time you went to Italy: 2007, but I’ll be there this summer. Favourite Italian city or town: Sorrento Musical preference: House Music (Classic, Deep, Euro) Favourite Italian song: Albachiara by Vasco Rossi Italian soccer team: AC Milan Sexiest Italian: Mariano Di Vaio What you like most about Panoram: Reading stories and drawing parallels between your own family and other families in the Italian-Canadian community. Most common name in your family: Maria-Giuseppa (7) Best way to feel Italian in Toronto: Attending Italian feste throughout the community and speaking Italian with all the little Nonni you meet.

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Photography by Gregory Varano

Makeup by Desi Varano

Natalia Bonafin

Joey Martino Occupation: Firefighting student at Humber College Age: 23 Generation: Third Dad’s side from: Vibo Valentia, Calabria Mom’s side from: Catanzaro, Calabria Speaks: English Raised in: Mississauga Clothes: Zara T-shirt, Zara Man zip hoodie, Chuck Taylor converse sneakers, Jack & Jones Stan Osaka jeans, Nixon platform watch. Favourite boutique: Jack & Jones Fashion idol: Leonardo DiCaprio Goal in life: To become a firefighter and inspire others. Thing about you that would surprise most people: I enjoy eating Asian food more than Italian food. Favourite dish: Mom’s pasta bolognese Your best dish: My pasta carbonara Best panino: San Francesco Foods Favourite vino: Dad’s vino from the cantina You know you are ItalianCanadian if: Something bad happens and nonna tells you it’s

LIVING ITALIAN STYLE

Location: Sorrento North Ristorante

a result of “il malocchio.” Last time you went to Italy: July 2007 Favourite Italian town: Tropea Musical preference: House/EDM and Rap/Hip-Hop Favourite Italian song: Con te Partirò by Andrea Bocelli Italian soccer team: F.C. Internazionale Sexiest Italian: Federica Ridolfi Best way to feel Italian in Toronto: Eating spaghetti and meatballs with the family every Sunday. What you like most about Panoram: How it keeps you connected with Italian culture, local Italians, sports, and more. Best memory growing up ItalianCanadian: Meeting and living with my dad’s entire family in Italy for the first time (in 2003).

Nickname: Naty, Tals Occupation: Professional dancer and co-owner of Emma’s Alfajores Age: 29 Generation: Second Dad from: Rosario, Argentina Mom from: Treviso, Veneto Speaks: English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, French, some Hindi and some German Raised in: Vaughan Clothes: Desigual dress Fashion idol: Zuhair Murad Goal in life: To live the ultimate mobile lifestyle: try every food on earth, dance in every major city and be fluent in at least eight languages. Thing about you that would surprise most people: I can learn a new language in about three months, and I can rap Jay-Z songs word for word. Pet peeve: When people are picky about food. Favourite restaurant: Desserts Plus Your best dish: My alfajores – dulce de leche or nutella Favourite aperitivo: Cake-flavoured vodka Preferred drinking establishment: Any patio in Europe in the summer

Favourite Italian saying: “Tutto a posto” You know you are ItalianCanadian if: The first thing your Nonna tells you when she sees you is to put on slippers and follows that up by serving you a feast. Last time you went to Italy: Summer 2013 Favourite Italian city: Lido di Venezia Musical preference: Pop and anything from the ’90s. Favourite Italian song: Prisencolinensinainciusol by Adriano Celentano Best way to feel Italian in Toronto: Having an espresso at the bar at Emily’s Bakery while the ever-present Italian men sitting at their table speak to each other in dialect. PANORAMITALIA.COM

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MOLISE

Molise

Pier and Old Termoli, Basso Molise

A journey off the beaten path into Italy’s back-country Viaggio fuori mano in un’ Italia remota By Francesca Spizzirri

Amid the Apennine ridge and the Adriatic Sea lies a land of immense natural beauty, history, art and age-old traditions that will take you on a journey off the beaten path to experience another kind of Italy – one untainted by the hands of time.

Fra la catena degli Appennini e il mare Adriatico giace una terra d’immensa bellezza naturale, di storia, d’arte e tradizioni antiche che vi condurranno in un viaggio fuori mano per vivere un altro tipo d’Italia – non intaccata dallo scorrere del tempo.

ncastonato tra l’Abruzzo e la Puglia lungo la costa adriatica dell’Italia centro-meridionale vi è il Molise, punto di transizione tra nord e sud Italia. Questa meravigliosa regione rocciosa con la sua ricchezza di colori e profumi, di campagne incontaminate, rovine emozionanti, foreste verdi e profonde acque blu, offre uno scorcio d’Italia autentica. Costellata da paesini pittoreschi, uliveti, vigneti, abbazie stupende, innumerevoli chiese e castelli, ci si meraviglia di come quest’oasi naturale rimanga prevalentemente ignota. La storia del Molise rispecchia quella dell’Abruzzo avendo ottenuto l’ indipendenza di recente, nel 1963. Occupato inizialmente dalle tribù dei Sanniti, il Molise fu successivamente conquistato dai Romani e poi dominato dai Longobardi, dai Goti e dai Normanni, i quali diedero il nome alla regione. La loro influenza collettiva è evidente ovunque. Questa regione montagnosa comprende la provincia di Isernia ad ovest e quella di Campobasso (capoluogo del Molise nonché capoluogo di provincia) ad est. Sebbene le città non vantino del lustro delle aree più rinomate d’Italia, possiedono un’ autenticità semplice ed un fascino che offrono una finestra sulla vita e sulla cultura italiane.

ucked between Abruzzo and Puglia along the Adriatic seashore in south-central Italy is Molise, the place where Italy transitions from north to south. This majestic mountain region with its wealth of colours and scents, unspoiled countryside, impressive ruins, green forests and deep blue sea, provides a glimpse of an authentic Italy. Dotted with picturesque villages, olive groves, vineyards, beautiful abbeys, countless churches and castles, it is a wonder how this natural oasis remains largely undiscovered. Molise’s history mirrors that of Abruzzo, having recently gained independence in 1963. Initially occupied by the Samnite tribes, Molise was then taken over by the Romans and later dominated by the Lombards, the Goths and the Normans, who gave the region its name. Their collective influence is evidenced throughout. This mountainous region is comprised of the provinces of Isernia to the west and Campobasso (the capital of Molise and of the province of Campobasso) to the east. Though the cities lack the luster of Italy’s more renowned areas, they possess a humble authenticity and charm that provide a window into Italian life and culture. 40

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MOLISE Rising between the Carpino and the Sordo rivers is the ancient town of Isernia with its quaint lanes and narrow alleyways. Its close proximity to Rome and Naples makes it a wonderful starting point for exploring the region. Isernia was once the capital of the Samnite people. A recent excavation in the nearby site of Pineta unearthed a 700,000-year-old settlement whose ancient relics are now displayed in the National Museum of Paleontology and Archaeology. Though most of Isernia’s historic centre was destroyed by earthquakes and wars, its beauty remains. The city’s most famous sites are the 14th century Fontana della Fraterna and the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Apostle with its famed dome and arch. When it comes to art, the ninth-century frescoes in the crypt of San Lorenzo in San Vincenzo al Volturno are a must see. In nearby Pastena, travellers can admire the spectacular Sanctuary of the Addolorata, on the steep mountains of Castelpetroso. Campobasso sits along the Biferno River surrounded by the Sannio and Matese mountains. The city’s historic streets are teeming with monuments and churches, the imposing fifteenth-century Manforte castle stealing the spotlight. Sites worth visiting are the Romanesque churches of San Bartolomeo and San Giorgio, the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate with its collection of carvings and wooden sculptures of sixteenth-century masters of Molise, and the Church of San Leonardo. History lovers will appreciate the Provincial Samnite Museum with its treasured exhibits from past civilizations and the Fair of the Mysteries. About fifteen kilometers from the city, rising from the mountain, is the Romanesque Santa Maria della Strada with the fifteenth-century Gothic sepulchre. At the foothills of the Matese mountains, near Sepino, you will find one of Molise’s hidden treasures – the ancient Roman city of Saepinum – where the fascinating remains of a basilica and theatre are surrounded by medieval houses and intensely green fields and forests. Sepino is also renowned for its thermal baths, perfect for unwinding and relaxing. In Molise, old-world customs and traditions thrive and perhaps it is this “old-fashioned world” that visitors seek. Ancient traditions, such as the transumanza, the seasonal migration of herds along ancient sheep-droving routes (tratturi), have remained intact for over 3000 years. Today, these scenic

Tra i fiumi Carpino e Sordo sorge l’antica città di Isernia con i suoi viottoli pittoreschi e i suoi vicoli stretti. La sua vicinanza a Roma e Napoli la rende un ottimo punto di partenza per esplorare la regione. Isernia fu un tempo capitale del popolo dei Sanniti. Recenti scavi presso la vicina località di Pineta hanno portato alla luce un insediamento di 700.000 anni fa, i cui resti antichi sono oggi esposti al Museo Nazionale del Paleolitico. Sebbene la maggior parte del centro storico d’Isernia sia stata distrutta da terremoti e guerre, la sua bellezza rimane. I luoghi più rinomati della città sono la Fontana della Fraterna e la Cattedrale di San Pietro Apostolo con i suoi famosi arco e cupola, risalenti al XIV secolo. Per quel che riguarda l’arte, gli affreschi del nono secolo nella cripta di San Lorenzo a San Vincenzo al Volturno vanno visti. Nella vicina Pastena, i viaggiatori possono ammirare lo spettacolare Santuario dell’Addolorata, sulle montagne scoscese di Castelpetroso. Campobasso sorge lungo il fiume Biferno ed è circondata dai monti del Sannio e del Matese. Le strade storiche della città sono ricche di monumenti e chiese, con l’imponente castello Manforte del 15esimo secolo a rubare la scena. Siti degni di una visita sono le chiese romaniche di San Bartolomeo e San Giorgio, la Chiesa di Sant’Antonio Abate con la sua collezione di intagli e sculture lignee dei maestri molisani del sedicesimo secolo e la Chiesa di San Leonardo. Gli appassionati di storia apprezzeranno il Museo Provinciale Sannitico con le sue preziose esposizioni di civiltà antiche e la Sagra dei Misteri. A circa quindici chilometri dalla città, si staglia dalla montagna la romanica Santa Maria della Strada con il sepolcro gotico del quindicesimo secolo. Alle falde delle montagne del Matese, vicino a Sepino, troverete uno dei tesori molisani nascosti – l’antica città romana di Saepium – dove i resti affascinanti della basilica e del teatro sono circondati da edifici medievali e campi e foreste di un verde intenso. Sepino è inoltre rinomata per i suoi bagni termali, perfetti per distendersi e rilassarsi. In Molise, abbondano antichi costumi e tradizioni ed è forse questo “mondo dal fascino antico” ciò che cercano i visitatori. La transumanza ad esempio, ovvero la migrazione stagionale del bestiame lungo arcaici percorsi per pascoli (tratturi), rimane invariata da oltre 3000 anni. Oggi, questi

La ‘Ndocciata, a Christmas torch-lit procession in Agnone PANORAMITALIA.COM

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MOLISE

Landscape, Alto Molise

trails are also used as mountain-bike and horseback-riding trails. Molise, with its hidden emerald lakes and succession of gently sloping or steeply inclined hills creates a dreamy landscape. It is the perfect haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Walk, hike, raft, camp or zip line through the unspoiled beauty of WWF Nature Reserve in Guardaregia-Campochiaro. Adventure seekers can revel in the thrilling ski slopes of Campitello Maltese and the renowned cross-country ski trails of Capracotta. It is fun for the whole family! On the east coast is Costa dei Trabocchi, Molise’s Riviera, where beach lovers can partake in a variety of watersports or sunbathe on a succession of dazzling white sand beaches that stretch along the region’s 35 km of striking coastline. Termoli, the main beach resort and the region’s only major port, is a modern city filled with pastel-coloured homes. Its enchanting borgo antico (old town) is situated on a coastal promontory and preserves traces of its glorious past. From the port, visitors can set sail to explore the Tremiti Islands; a beautiful archipelago renowned for its crystalline shallow waters, jagged coastline, abundant grottoes and coves, as well as archaeological ruins. South of Termoli are several centuries-old Albanian towns that pay homage to the language and traditions of their Albanian ancestors. In the villages of Ururi, San Martino in Pensilis and Portocannone, locals still celebrate the annual Corsa dei Carri, a chariot race held each summer. The region is host to many yearly festivals and events that keep local traditions alive such as the Fuochi di San Antonio, an ancient folklore festival in Jelsi; the International Bagpipe Festival in Scapoli; the Feast of Corpus Christi in Campobasso; the White Truffle Fair in San Pietro Avellana; La ‘Ndocciata, a Christmas torch-lit procession in Agnone; Pezzata, the Lamb Festival in Capracotta, and many more. 42

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sentieri pittoreschi sono anche utilizzati come percorsi per le mountain-bike o per andare a cavallo. Il Molise, con i suoi laghi nascosti di color verde smeraldo e il susseguirsi di colline ora leggermente inclinate, ora a picco, presenta un paesaggio da sogno. Costituisce un rifugio perfetto per gli appassionati della vita all’aperto. Passeggiate, fate escursioni, rafting, campeggio o zip-line (teleferica) in una delle riserve naturali e incontaminate del WWF a Guardaregia-Campochiaro. Gli amanti dell’avventura possono deliziarsi sulle piste da sci elettrizzanti di Campitello Maltese e i percorsi rinomati di sci di fondo di Capracotta. Il divertimento è per tutta la famiglia! Sulla costa orientale vi è la costa dei Trabocchi, il lungomare molisano, dove gli amanti della spiaggia possono praticare una varietà di sport acquatici o possono abbronzarsi in un susseguirsi di spiagge dalla sabbia bianco lucente che si estendono lungo 35 chilomentri di costa spettacolare. Termoli, principale località balneare e unico porto maggiore della regione, è una città moderna piena di case dai colori pastello. Il suo affascinante borgo antico si trova su un promontorio costiero e conserva tracce del suo passato glorioso. Dal porto, i visitatori possono salpare per andare a visitare le isole Tremiti: un bell’arcipelago rinomato per le sue acque basse e cristalline, le sue coste frastagliate, le numerose grotte e caverne, così come per i suoi resti archeologici. A sud di Termoli sorgono diverse cittadine albanesi centenarie che rendono omaggio alla lingua ed alle tradizioni dei loro antenati albanesi. Nei paesini di Ururi, San Martino in Pensilis e Portocannone, gli abitanti celebrano l’annuale Corsa dei Carri, una competizione che si tiene ogni estate. La regione, ogni anno, organizza numerosi festival ed eventi che mantengono vive le tradizioni locali, ad esempio: i “Fuochi di Sant’Antonio”, un’antica festa

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MOLISE One of the oldest wine regions in Italy, Molise’s combination of sun and hilly terrain creates the ideal conditions for producing excellent wines such as the Biferno and Pentro. From rolling hills to seascape, Molise’s culinary delights are a bountiful fusion of local, northern and southern cooking traditions. Locally-grown ingredients such as sheep, sheep’s milk and lamb are abundant in regional dishes. The Pecorino, Scamorza, Caciocavallo and Provolone cheeses are delicious, in particular when accompanied by local wines and cured meats. The secondlargest producer of truffles in Italy, Molise is known for its white truffles and scorzone truffles. The traditional cavatelli pasta is renowned, as is the extra-virgin olive oil. Seafood recipes include anchovies, swordfish, mussels and clams. This combination of mari e monti is exquisite! The next time you are visiting the Bel Paese, take a journey off the beaten path to Molise, an enchanted land of natural beauty, to experience a genuine Italian holiday.

folcloristica a Jelsi; il Festival Internazionale della Zampogna di Scapoli; la festa del Corpus Christi a Campobasso; la Sagra del Tartufo Bianco a San Pietro Avellana; “La ‘Ndocciata”, una sfilata natalizia di fiaccole, ad Agnone; la Pezzata, sagra dell’agnello a Capracotta, e molti altri. Tra le regioni più antiche per la produzione del vino, la combinazione tra sole e terreni collinari del Molise crea le condizioni ideali per la produzione di vini eccellenti quali il Biferno e il Pentro. Dalle colline ondulate al paesaggio marino, le delizie della cucina molisana nascono da un’ottima fusione delle tradizioni locali, del nord e del sud. Ingredienti locali quali pecora, latte di pecora e agnello abbondano nei piatti regionali. Il pecorino, la scamorza, il caciocavallo e il provolone sono deliziosi, in particolare se accompagnati da vini e insaccati locali. Secondo produttore d’Italia di tartufi, il Molise è noto per i suoi tartufi bianchi e per il tartufo “scorzone.” Sono anche rinomati i cavatelli, Ancient Roman city of Sepino, Alto Molise un tipo di pasta, e l’olio extravergine d’oliva. Le ricette a base di pesce includono acciughe, pescespada, cozze e vongole. La combinazione mari e monti è squisita! La prossima volta che visitate il Bel Paese, spostatevi fuori mano in Molise, terra incantata della bellezza incontaminata, per assaporare una vacanza italiana genuina.

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MOLISE

Giovani team from San Martino in Pensilis

La Carrese The sacred bull race By Gabriel Riel-Salvatore

ach year in late April and early May, the villages of Ururi, San Martino in Pensilis, Portocannone and Chieuti honour their local patron saints in a most original way by hosting “La Carrese,” one of Molise’s most famous and authentic traditions. La Carrese, also called carriera or corsa dei carri, is a race where chariots drawn by specially trained oxen speed along a tortuous 9 km stretch of partially paved country road. Over the course of the frantic event, the animals gallop like thoroughbreds at breakneck pace towards the finish line, reaching top speeds of 40-45 km per hour, compelled by a team of skilled drivers. The course starts in the countryside and ends in the village’s central piazza. The first team to reach the city gates wins, whereupon a festive, chaotic and emotional scene ensues. During the celebrations, the winning team earns the

right to display the effigy of their patron saint aboard their chariot in a holy procession, while the whole village gathers for the festive atmosphere. All those attending La Carrese for the first time retain unforgettable memories of the emotionally charged event. The heavily decorated processions and colourful costumes worn by villagers for the occasion add to the euphoria and encourage all those in attendance to support a team. For centuries, the area’s inhabitants have honoured the relics of Santo Legno della Croce in the town of Ururi on May 2, those of San Leo in the town of San Martino in Pensilis on May 3, those of Madonna di Costantinopoli in the town of Portocannone on Pentecost Sunday, and those of San Giorgio in the town of Chieuti on April 22. The blessing of the procession during the Holy Mass marks the start of the three-day festival.

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These parades are attended by entire villages, with floats copiously covered in flowers, bay leaves, olive branches, and coloured banners that ignite partisan fervour among supporters. The evening’s festivities are enlivened by concerts followed by fireworks. Typically, two to four teams compete each year, though more are not unheard of. Each side has its own traditional colours, which fans proudly display on race day. In the town of Ururi, the historic rivalry that exists between the Giovani and Giovanotti clans makes for a colourful spectacle in which the supporters of the former don blue and white, while the latter wear red and yellow. For the most part, teams are made up of around 20 riders and two jockeys, mostly hailing from the village. To avoid cheating, teams are regulated by a series of rules, which are enshrined in the town’s constitution, and which teams agree to respect. Moreover, these teams do in fact represent clans and bloodlines, as they are mostly composed of family members and close friends. Just like rivalries between the contrade (neighbourhoods) in Siena, allegiances have deep roots, which do at times exacerbate divisions within the villages. Moreover, clans have their own bars and meeting places to ensure that team secrets and strategies are protected from spies and leaks. The race requires careful preparation throughout the year. Oxen (of the Podolica breed) are selected for their physical attributes and racing abilities, and they are treated like true athletes. The stables, which house the animals, resemble small temples, with team members performing daily maintenance rituals to ensure the up-keep of the premises. In this part of Molise, where many families are of Albanian descent and still speak Arbëresh (an old Albanian dialect), the devotion of locals towards the animals competing in La Carese resembles idolatry. Even Kobe cattle would envy the treatment these oxen receive.

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MOLISE

allegiances have deep roots, which do at times exacerbate divisions within the villages. Moreover, clans have their own bars and meeting places to ensure that team secrets and strategies are protected from spies and leaks.

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The members of each faction are supported by their tifosi who underwrite most of the significant financial burden associated with maintaining the animals. The cost of caring for a pair of bulls can easily top 20,000 euros per year, a price tag as high as that for thoroughbred horses. This explains why, in the past, only noble families who were rich enough to afford stables had the opportunity of winning the good graces of their patron saints. If you plan to visit Molise during the summer, the villages of Ururi and San Martino in Pensilis also have their own carrese on August 9 and 13, respectively. Although primarily organized for tourists, these events remain true to tradition. To see first-hand the passion that impels the oxen drivers, as well as their doting devotion to their animals, many stables offer guided tours. It is preferable, however, to call ahead, as few stables allow drop-ins. Some stable operators organize horse riding treks along the tratturo – an old transhumance path that crisscrosses the rolling hills of Basso Molise – during which one comes across some of the region’s most charming inns serving local specialties like Tintilia wine, Gentile di Larino olive oil, and sotto oli, not to mention some of the world’s best pampanella (spicy porchetta) and torcinelli (lamb sausage casings) straight off the charcoal grill.

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Molise on your plate! Il Molise nel vostro piatto! Recipes prepared by Chef Vittorio Veri of Chez Enzo restaurant in Varennes (Qc). He hails from Larino (Campobasso), Molise. Ricette preparate dallo Chef Vittorio Veri del ristorante Chez Enzo, di Varennes (Qc). Nativo di Larino (Campobasso), Molise.

Baccalà arracanate

Instructions / Istruzioni

Ingredients / Ingredienti

Pat dry baccalà with a towel and cut into medium size pieces. Brown fish in a pan then transfer to a baking pan. Sauté onions and garlic and layer on baccalà. Add a layer of potatoes with a bit of parsley and oregano. Bake in oven for about an hour at 350° F. Serve. *Variation: you can also add tomatoes and raisins

• 1 kg pat dried soaked baccalà (salt cod) / 1 kg baccalà spugnato • 4 - 5 onions, sliced / 4 - 5 cipolle tagliate a fette • 5 - 7 large potatoes, sliced / 5 - 7 patate grandi, tagliate a fette • 2 garlic cloves, chopped / 2 spicchi d’aglio sminuzzato • A handful of parsley / 1 pugnetto di prezzemolo • A bit of oregano / 1 pizzico di origano

Tamponare il baccalà con uno strofinaccio e tagliarlo a pezzi di media grandezza. Rosolare il pesce in una pentola e poi disporlo su una teglia con olio d’oliva. Soffriggere l’aglio e le cipolle. Coprire il baccalà con uno strato di cipolle. Aggiungere poi le patate con un pizzico di prezzemolo e di origano. Lasciar cuocere nel forno per circa un’ora a 350° F. Servire. *Variante: è possibile aggiungere pomodori e uvetta

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Photography by Fahri Yavuz

MOLISE

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Tagliolini alla molisana Ingredients / Ingredienti • ½ kg egg tagliolini / ½ kg di tagliolini all’uovo • 150 g prosciutto, cut into cubes / 150 g di prosciutto tagliato a cubetti • 1 onion, finely chopped / 1 cipolla, finemente tritata • 1 hot red pepper / 1 peperoncino piccante • 1 garlic clove (chopped in half) / 1 spicchio d’aglio (tagliato a metà) • 1-2 tbsp. chopped parsley / 1-2 cucchiai di prezzemolo tritato • 1-3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil / 1-3 cucchiai d’olio extravergine d’oliva • Salt & pepper to taste / Sale e pepe a piacere

Instructions / Istruzioni In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add in the tagliolini. In the meantime, heat oil in a pan and sauté garlic and onion. Cook slowly, adding in the hot pepper and the prosciutto. Once the tagliolini are boiled, transfer to pan with a bit of cooking water. Add parsley and stir. Serve topped with grated parmigiano cheese to taste. In una grande pentola, portare ad ebollizione dell’acqua salata ed aggiungere i tagliolini. Nel frattempo, riscaldare l’olio d’oliva in una padella e far rosolare l’aglio e la cipolla. Lasciar cuocere lentamente, aggiungendo il prosciutto tagliato a cubetti e il peperoncino. Una volta cotti i tagliolini, trasferirli in padella insieme al condimento con un po’ d’acqua di cottura. Aggiungere del prezzemolo tritato e mescolare bene. Servire con parmigiano grattugiato a piacere.

Pollo ciffe e ciaffe Ingredients / Ingredienti • A chicken weighing about 1 kg / 1 pollo di circa 1 kg • 250-500 g ripe tomatoes, diced (you can also use canned tomatoes) / 250-500 g pomodori maturi a dadini (è possibile anche usare pomodori pelati) • 2 garlic cloves (sliced or squashed) / 2 spicchi d’aglio (tagliato a fette o schiacciato) • 1 hot red pepper / 1 peperoncino piccante • A sprig of rosemary / 1 rametto di rosmarino • 1-3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil / 1-3 cucchiai d’olio extravergine d’oliva • Salt to taste / Sale a piacere

Instructions / Istruzioni Wash chicken and cut into 8 to 10 pieces. Heat olive oil in a pan and add chicken. Brown meat at medium heat and add garlic, rosemary and hot pepper. Season with salt. Add tomatoes and cook for about an hour, adding hot water if necessary. Serve. Lavare il pollo e tagliarlo in 8-10 pezzi. Riscaldare l’olio d’oliva in una padella e aggiungere il pollo. Rosolarlo a fuoco moderato ed aggiungere l’aglio, il rosmarino e il peperoncino. Condire con sale. Aggiungere i pomodori e far cuocere per circa un'ora, unendo acqua calda, se necessario. Servire. PANORAMITALIA.COM

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“

Four Canadian soldiers look up at a billboard titled “Canada Town,” in old Campobasso (1943)

I spent so much time in Italy and saw so much that I feel that I belong there. Sometimes it’s like I’m going home.

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When Canada Came to Campobasso Remembering the courage of Second World War Canadian soldiers By Rita Simonetta

Photo by Lieutenant Jack H. Smith, Library and Archives Canada PA: 213690.

ctober 1943. Four soldiers – all Canadian – stand on a street corner and look up at a billboard titled “Canada Town.” Arrows point to various destinations including one called “Beaver Club.” The photograph, which is now a part of Library and Archives Canada, tells a story that many Canadians might not know: the enduring Canadian connection to the Italian province of Campobasso in Molise, and its enduring connection to thousands of Second World War Canadian soldiers and their families. The picture was taken the same month that Canadian soldiers liberated Campobasso from the Nazi German army. It was an important victory of the Italian Campaign when more than 93,000 Canadian soldiers fought alongside allied forces from 1943 to 1945 to help liberate Italy from fascist forces. Capturing Campobasso was a morale boost for the Canadians. “It had all these different roads going in all these different directions, so whoever controlled the roads would have access to all the compass points,” explains Ian McCowan, a tour guide from Connection Tours, which visits sites in Italy where Canadian troops fought in the Second World War. Although towns surrounding Campobasso were badly damaged, the capital itself did not see prolonged fighting, so it was spared the devastation witnessed in other parts of Italy such as Ortona. But Campobasso – and its inhabitants – still suffered the brunt of being caught in a war. “Food delivery systems had collapsed; we see that throughout southern Italy at that point,” says Mark Zuehlke, a military historian who has published several books about the Italian Campaign. And there was the overflow of refugees, a carefully crafted strategy by the German army. Jeff Noakes, a Second World War historian at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, explains that the “refugee problem made it much harder for the allies because they not only had to deal with the Germans but with refugees as well.” Although the issues they faced were overwhelming, the Canadians offered support in the form of food supplies and medical help for the local population and coordinated a system to return refugees to their homes. While some Italians greeted the Canadians as liberators, this reaction was not unanimous. The Canadians received both gratitude and derision from the Italian locals, says Eric McGeer, the author of a series of three books entitled The Canadian Battlefields in Italy “It was a mixed reaction and it

changed from village to village,” he points out, adding that some locals still sympathized with Italian fascist dictator Benito Mussolini, who had led Italy into war alongside Nazi Germany and Japan. Once they had driven out the Germans, the Canadians established an administrative and military base in Campobasso. Makeshift hospitals were set up to care for the wounded, the Salvation Army rushed in medical supplies, and additional material was transported in. The Canadians also established recreation centres such as the Maple Leaf Club and transformed the town Fascist youth centre into the Beaver Club. The clubs provided a home away from home and a much-needed chance for the soldiers to take a break from the battle lines. They went there to write letters home, read newspapers, or play a game of darts. Travelling musical bands and comedy acts entertained the troops, and Hollywood films were brought over, giving the soldiers an opportunity to catch up on the glamour and make-believe that was a universe away from their harsh realities. Campobasso became such an integral part of their lives that the Canadian soldiers dubbed it “Canada Town.” And for a time it was. But after spending the fall there, it was time to move north. Maurice White, a Second World War veteran, spent a few days in Campobasso on his way to Ortona, where he lost countless comrades. This past February, White received the Congressional Gold Medal from Washington for his role in the Devil’s Brigade, a joint American-Canadian elite military unit. White, who is 90 years of age, was just 17 when he enlisted. “The old Italian ladies called me ‘bambino,’” he recalls fondly. Nowadays, the native of Edmonton, Alberta, gives talks to students about his experiences in an effort to educate future generations about the toll of war. Since the War, he has travelled to Italy nine times. “A lot of my friends are buried there,” he explains. But there is another reason White has returned so often to a country where he saw so much pain and was forced to grow up so fast. “I think that I belong there to a certain extent,” he says. “I spent so much time in Italy and saw so much that I feel that I belong there. Sometimes it’s like I’m going home.”

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Transumanza e Viaggio alla scoperta delle di Claudia Buscemi Prestigiacomo gli ultimi resti di quel “tratturo antico” cantato da D’Annunzio continuano ad esistere oggi, lo dobbiamo anche a una donna, ultima “cowgirl” d’Italia, Carmelina Colantuono. Quella della transumanza è pratica antichissima, fatta di riti e sacrifici, di sudore e dedizione. Ogni anno i gesti si ripetono identici, cadenzati dai ritmi della natura, compiuti dall’opera dei pochi che non vogliono perdere quel legame ancestrale con la propria storia. Nell’attesa di una luna piena che agevoli il viaggio dalla pianura pugliese alle alture molisane, dove i pascoli estivi saranno più verdi, si portano prodotti lattiero-caseari al santuario di San Matteo e San Marco in Lamis; si benedicono animali e mandriani e, infine, si procede con “l’accampanamento, che consiste nel mettere i campanacci di dimensioni più grandi alle vacche più vecchie che guidano la mandria.” – spiega Carmelina. Francesco Carmelo Moselli, nato a Montreal da genitori molisani, descrive così il momento della partenza della transumanza: “Erano circa le 15:00 e all’improvviso le mucche erano ansiose di muoversi. Tutte e 250!! Si poteva avvertire la loro tensione. Volevano avanzare e dirigersi verso le montagne. Onestamente, tutti sentivamo lo stesso desiderio!!! Tutti volevamo spostarci!!” Quella della transumanza è una storia che rischierebbe di perdersi nell’oblio, fagocitata dal cemento e dalle lungaggini burocratiche, se non fosse per

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un gruppo determinato ed audace, capeggiato per l’appunto dalla famiglia Colantuono e da chi come loro non ci sta a vederla scomparire. Sebbene la maggioranza degli allevatori, dinnanzi a guadagni più proficui, abbia preferito passare a razze di mucche non autoctone e non abituate a spostarsi, i Colantuono hanno preferito “fare qualità e non quantità”. Vivendo allo stato brado, le loro mucche per sopravvivere hanno bisogno di spostarsi assecondando il ciclo delle stagioni. Il bisogno di proteggere questa tradizione nasce anche “dalla voglia di far conoscere a tutti, in particolare alle nuove generazioni, una pratica agropastorale che ha interessato il Molise e tutta l'Italia Meridionale per secoli. Essa rappresenta l'identità delle genti meridionali, su di essa è ruotata tutta l' economia dei piccoli borghi, nati ai bordi dei Tratturi” – afferma la stessa Carmelina. Inoltre, a proposito di questi ultimi aggiunge: “hanno visto il passaggio della transumanza ma anche degli eserciti, dei pellegrini, dei commercianti ... Sono dei veri monumenti nazionali formatisi nell'arco di milioni di anni.” Oltre a portare avanti “un allevamento che rispetti i tempi della natura e il benessere degli animali” senza puntare alle produzioni di massa, l’obiettivo dei sostenitori della transumanza è anche quello di proteggere un patrimonio storico-culturale fatto di architettura, archeologia, enogastronomia. Quest’obiettivo comune li porta a condividere un progetto ambizioso, condotto da un’agenzia di

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MOLISE

E vanno pel tratturo antico al piano, quasi per un erbal fiume silente, su le vestigia degli antichi padri.

“

Tratturi

Transumanza, Villaggio di Frosolone (Isernia, Molise)

proprie radici sviluppo (Moli.Gal), per ottenere il riconoscimento dei “Tratturi e della Civiltà della Transumanza” da parte dell’UNESCO. Seppur non esista ancora un vero e proprio pacchetto turistico, ogni anno gente proveniente da tutt’Italia e da varie parti del mondo decide di vivere quest’esperienza di tre-quattro giorni, seguendo a piedi o a cavallo la mandria, nel suo spostamento dal Gargano, Puglia, a Frosolone, provincia di Isernia. Tra questi, nel maggio 2011, vi era per l’appunto Maselli, partito da Montreal in compagnia di un amico, pur senza sapere cosa aspettarsi da quell’avventura. “Le parole non possono descrivere l’esperienza. Bisogna viverla, provarla per comprenderla... Ha cambiato la mia vita... of old CampobassoHo ritrovato le mie radici!!” Al giorno d’oggi la tecnologia aiuta soprattutto durante le fasi di preparazione, ovvero “facilita nello spostamento, per segnalare qualsiasi problema in tempo reale tra i mandriani, le forze dell’ordine che ci scortano sulle strade e comunicare con i giornalisti o amatori, che vengono per vedere e partecipare alla transumanza” – spiega Carmelina. Tuttavia, come già accennato, è una di quelle esperienze in cui non conta solo la meta. Maselli la descrive così: “Camminare lungo i campi non suscitava solo stupore, era qualcosa di cui impossessarsi, da immortalare. Mentre le mucche proseguivano, l’odore della lavanda, il rosmarino ed altri profumi che ancor oggi non riesco a identificare erano incredibili. Il suono dei campanacci era, senza ombra di dubbio, spirituale e illuminante nel contempo!!”

Carmelina Colantuono della fattoria Colantuono

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Sagra dei Misteri Campobasso

The past and present of the Molisan community in the GTA La comunità molisana del passato e del presente nella GTA Emanuela Orsini

oday the province of Molise has a population of over 300,000 people, with over 600,000 living as expats outside of the area. The Molisan are travellers, as they started immigrating abroad in the late 1800s, and many left after the Second World War, settling on Canada as a major destination during the 1950s and 1960s. “My grandfather came to Canada towards the end of the 19th century with his two younger brothers,” says Paolo Farrace, president of FCAM (Federazione Canadese Associazioni Molisane). “Then my grandfather went back to Italy, built a house and bought a large piece of land. And he never came back to Canada. This was the first wave of Molisan in the world to come to Canada, but it’s impossible to say how many there are here now.” Farrace, 70, is from the small town of San Massimo, in the province of Campobasso, and moved to Toronto to join his parents and siblings in 1965, after receiving his engineering degree. He created many social clubs for the Molisan community in Toronto over the years, as they were a very-tight knit community. “Because all the Molisan community was new to Canada, they wanted to be together,” says Farrace. Renato Discenza, a successful Toronto businessman and the current VP of Enterprise and Innovation at Hamilton Health Sciences, agrees. The community shared the same culture and traditions as most came from neighbouring towns in the small region. Discenza, who moved to Toronto at the young age of three from Baranello, in the province of Campobasso, has fond memories of socializing with other paesani on weekends. “Life was simpler,” he says. “Everybody knew who they came over to Canada with.” He recalls his childhood summers playing bocce and cards with others within the community. Most of the Molisan that moved during and after the Second World War to Toronto lived around the College Street and Dufferin Street area, with some dispersed along the Danforth. Gradually, the community started 52

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regione del Molise ha oggi una popolazione di oltre 300.000 persone, e oltre più di 600.000 espatriati che vivono altrove. I molisani sono viaggiatori, dato che cominciarono ad emigrare alla fine del 1800 e molti partirono dopo la Seconda guerra mondiale, trasferendosi in Canada, meta principale durante gli anni ’50 e ’60. “Mio nonno giunse in Canada verso la fine del XIX secolo con i suoi due fratelli minori” – dice Paolo Farrace, presidente della FCAM (Federazione Canadese Associazioni Molisane) - “Dopo, mio nonno tornò in Italia, costruì una casa e comprò un grande appezzamento di terreno. Non tornò mai più in Canada. Quella fu la prima ondata di molisani al mondo a venire in Canada, ma è impossibile dire quanti ce ne siano qui adesso.” Farrace, 70 anni, è del paesino di San Massimo, nella provincia di Campobasso, e si è trasferito a Toronto per raggiungere i suoi genitori e fratelli nel 1965, dopo aver conseguito la laurea in ingegneria. Negli anni, ha creato molti circoli sociali per la comunità molisana di Toronto, in quanto gruppo particolarmente coeso. “Dato che tutta la comunità molisana era nuova in Canada, voleva stare assieme,” afferma Farrace. Renato Discenza, uomo d’affari di successo di Toronto ed attuale vice presidente dell’ Enterprise and Innovation all’ Hamilton Health Sciences, concorda. La comunità condivideva la stessa cultura e le medesime tradizioni, dato che molti venivano dalle città vicine di una regione piccola. Discenza, trasferitosi in Canada alla tenera età di tre anni da Baranello, provincia di Campobasso, ricorda con affetto il suo socializzare con altri compaesani durante i fine settimana. “La vita era più semplice,” sostiene. “Tutti conoscevano quelli con cui erano venuti in Canada.” Ricorda le estati della sua infanzia quando giocava a bocce e a carte con altri della comunità. La maggior parte dei molisani trasferitisi durante e dopo la Seconda guerra mondiale a Toronto viveva nell’area di College Street e Dufferin, con pochi casi

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MOLISE moving north to St. Clair and then further into the suburbs, towards Vaughan and Mississauga. The Molisan community that arrived to Toronto worked hard and wanted the best for their families and children. Many of them, like other Italian communities in Canada, worked in the construction industry as well as labourintensive jobs. Nowadays, Farrace says the community is getting smaller and smaller and that most of the Molisan clubs have now closed. Farrace created FCAM in 2004 as a way to promote and preserve the traditions of the Molisan culture for the newer generations born in Canada. “Because of my history and my experience, I wanted to pass on some of my knowledge to the young generation.” He isn’t the only Molisano trying to preserve the culture and traditions for young Italian-Canadians. Mirella Colalillo is a young Molisana that was born in Canada but returned to live in Molise at the young age of 10. After having lived in the town of Bojano, near Campobasso, with her family throughout high school, she studied engineering in Tuscany. In 2009, she decided to return to Toronto on her own. She found the Canada she came back to was a different one than she remembered and that her parents had talked about. “When my parents came, it was for reasons of extreme poverty,” she says. “In my case, I could speak the language, I was educated, whereas my parents didn’t have all of this.” Upon her return to Canada, Colalillo noticed how many Italian-Canadians are very proud of their roots; however, many of them have disconnected from the Italian customs of today, as most are fully integrated into the mainstream Canadian culture. This sparked an idea for Colalillo to create her own website, “Parlatè,” where she gives Italian language classes online as well as lessons about culture and lifestyle. “I’d like to share how Italy has evolved,” she says. “I want to encourage people to learn about their roots and to come to Italy and to keep traditions going forward.” With globalization and the facility to travel nowadays, many Italian-Canadians are curious about their heritage and have decided to go back to see where their families come from. For Discenza, this is the ultimate accomplishment, and he feels the community will continue to grow and prosper. “It’s all paying off,” he says of globalization and the renewal of links between Canada and Italy. “My parents’ dream was to see their kids in the mainstream, now we have a whole generation that can do whatever they want. There’s no barrier.”

isolati a Danforth. Gradualmente, la comunità cominciò a spostarsi a nord di St. Clair e, dopo, ancor più lontano nelle periferie, verso Vaughan e Mississauga. I molisani giunti a Toronto lavoravano duro e volevano il meglio per le proprie famiglie e i propri figli. Molti di loro, come altre comunità italiane in Canada, venivano impegnati nelle costruzioni, così come nei lavori pesanti. Farrace sostiene che, oggigiorno, il gruppo sta diventando sempre più piccolo e che la maggior parte dei circoli molisani è adesso chiusa. Farrace ha creato la FCAM nel 2004 per poter promuovere e proteggere le tradizioni della cultura molisana per le nuove generazioni nate in Canada. “Considerate la mia storia e la mia esperienza, volevo trasmettere parte della mia conoscenza alla nuova generazione.” Non è il solo molisano a cercare di proteggere la cultura e le tradizioni per i giovani italo-canadesi. Mirella Colalillo è una giovane molisana nata in Canada ma tornata a vivere in Molise alla tenera età di 10 anni. Dopo aver vissuto nella cittadina di Bojano, vicino Campobasso, con la sua famiglia per tutto il periodo delle scuole superiori, ha studiato ingegneria in Toscana. Nel 2009, ha deciso di tornare a Toronto da sola. Ha scoperto che il Canada nel quale era tornata era diverso da quello che ricordava e di cui le parlavano i suoi genitori. “Quando i miei genitori arrivarono, fu per motivi di povertà estrema,” dice. “Nel mio caso, io parlavo la lingua e avevo studiato, mentre i miei genitori non avevano avuto nulla di tutto ciò.” Rientrando in Canada, Colalillo ha notato come molti italo-canadesi siano orgogliosi delle proprie radici, seppur molti di loro, si siano distaccati dalle usanze italiane di oggi, poiché totalmente integrati nella cultura prevalente canadese. Ciò ha fatto nascere in Colalillo l’idea di creare un proprio sito web, Parlatè, nel quale offre lezioni d’italiano online, così come lezioni di cultura e stile di vita. “Mi piacerebbe condividere come l’Italia si è evoluta,” sostiene. “Voglio incoraggiare la gente a conoscere le proprie radici, a venire in Italia e a mantenere vive le tradizioni d’ora in avanti.” Con la globalizzazione e la facilità degli spostamenti oggigiorno, molti italo-canadesi sono incuriositi dal proprio retaggio e decidono di viaggiare per vedere da dove sono giunte le proprie famiglie. Per Discenza, questo è l’obiettivo principale e sente che la comunità continuerà a crescere e prosperare. “È tutto ripagato,” dice della globalizzazione e del rinnovamento dei legami tra Canada e Italia. “Il sogno dei miei genitori era quello di vedere il successo dei propri figli. Adesso abbiamo una generazione intera che può fare tutto ciò che vuole. Non vi sono barriere.”

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Marvelous Molise Meals By Amanda Fulginiti

olise hides in Italy’s tourism shadows making it a key destination for those looking for authentic culinary adventures. Bordered on the east by the Adriatic Sea, it is one of the smallest regions of the country and shares its borders with the regions of Campania, Lazio, Puglia and Abruzzo. Living off the land is a vital aspect of Molisani tradition and thus cuisine is simplistic in nature. Most people live in rural areas where farming is both traditional and necessary to keep families alive and healthy. Livestock like sheep, goats, pigs and cattle stock have been cultivated for centuries, but have historically been raised as a form of currency rather than food. The tradition of travelling with one’s livestock to Abruzzo or Puglia for sale at the markets means that Molisani recipes are often vegetarian or use very small amounts of meat, just for flavouring. Beans, potatoes, grapes and olives are their primary crops, and in true Italian fashion, liberal use is made of olive oil, chilies and garlic. Durum wheat is also important to the region, so pastas are both hearty and abundant. Like most of Italy, cuisine is an affair to remember with many dishes to try and savour as you make your way across its breathtaking mountainous landscape. Scamorza: A firm textured, pear-shaped cheese similar to mozzarella, made from cow’s milk. Brodetto termolese (di Tornola): A fish stew hailing from Termoli, a town on the Adriatic coast devoted to fishing. The broth uses whatever is not sold from the fresh catches of the day and is categorized by a wide range of fish. It can include everything from mussels, calamari, red mullet to shrimp (Cicale, seppioline, merluzzetti, triglie, scorfani, lucerne, zanchette, razze, pannocchie, etc.).

Le Virtù: A soup of pork, seven types of dried and fresh beans, seven types of mixed pasta shapes, spring vegetables, and seven types of herbs. It is eaten on May 1 to signify the end of winter and the beginning of spring.

Drinks Centerbe: A liqueur made from 100 herbs containing 70% alcohol content.

P’lenta d’iragn: A comfort food found throughout Molise. This polenta variation is made from potatoes and wheat and topped with a tomato sauce.

Ratafia: A liqueur of fortified red wine, sugar, sour cherries, vanilla, and cinnamon.

Torcinelli involtini: Baked lamb intestines filled with chopped liver, sweetbreads, and in some variations hardboiled eggs. Cavatelli molisani fatti a mano: Short homemade pasta using flour and water, twirled with the tip of one’s finger, similar in appearance to gnocchi. Often pork liver sausage (fegatazzo), a typical product of the region, is used in tandem with this pasta to accentuate the flavour of the dish.

Take & bake items available daily Hot table available Weekdays Mon. - Fri. from 12 pm - 2 pm

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MOLISE Scapece: Fried fish (ray), palombo (smooth-hound), octopus or squid, covered with flour and then marinated in vinegar, oil, salt and saffron.

Pampanella: Pork pancetta dried with peperoncino, soaked in wine and cut into small pieces. Pampanella is used to flavour sauces, in particular the sauce for dressing the tacconi (rustic pasta made with flour and water). Baccalà alla cantalupese: A salt cured cod with olives, grapes and peppers seasoned with capers and garlic.

Fiadoni: An Easter treat that has both savoury and sweet versions. The former is baked and filled with Pecorino, Parmigiano, eggs and black pepper. The latter is filled with sweetened ricotta.

Signora di Conca Casale: This pork sausage is a staple of Conca Casale, a town located above Venafro. This centuries-old tradition is prepared by a group of old ladies in the winter to be enjoyed in the summer. Unlike other salumi, the Lady is not part of the cucina povera tradition, but it is considered a valuable product and traditionally intended to be given to gentlemen (doctors, notaries, etc.) as a way to repay a kindness or favour. The cuts used are the loin and shoulder for the lean part, and most of the bacon fat and back. As such, only one Lady can be drawn from each pig. Molise Wine The four DOCs of the region are Biferno (named after the largest river in Molise), Molise (a.k.a. Del Molise), Pentro di Isernia and Tintilia del Molise. Biferno wines can be red, white or rosé. The whites are predominantly made from the Trebbiano grape along with Bombino and Falanghina in smaller proportions. The reds are a blend of mostly Montepulciano with some of the Aglianico grape and Sangiovese. Recently, the rediscovery of the Tintilia grape, the area’s only native varietal, has been attracting considerable interest among Italian wine aficionados.

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EVENTS

Caritas Harmony Ball destructive patterns so that they may live self-sufficiently and responsibly. By viewing addiction as the symptom and not the cause it encourages the recovery process by working through behaviours, fears and pain. Photography by Luca Viorel

Addiction and mental illness affect people from all walks of life regardless of age, gender, background and socioeconomic status. Raising awareness and funds to support those suffering from dependency is the Caritas Foundation and its annual Harmony Ball. The gala, which was held on February 27 in By Romina Monaco Vaughan, supports the renowned rehabilitation facility, Caritas School of Life. An evening of dinner, dancing and entertainment, it was also a time to reflect upon and celebrate the successes of its beneficiaries. “Caritas has provided me with opportunities to live a healthy and productive life,” said event emcee Vinny Cappuccitti. “I don’t know where I would be today if I didn’t walk through their doors. It helped repair my family relationships and has brought us closer together now more than ever.” Currently in the third and final phase of the program, he is now focusing on integration and reentry into society. “I’ve met many great life-long friends and learned great tools and skills during my journey. I get why it’s called the School of Life. You get an education here that you can never get anywhere else.” The centre offers a safe environment for Cappuccitti and countless others who find themselves in similar predicaments. Founded 25 years ago by Father Gianni Carparelli, the purpose of Caritas is to promote awareness through education and to provide rehabilitation through its 24-month therapeutic community model. This innovative approach helps individuals break free from

From left to right: Ali Abidabadi CHIN TV/Radio, Tonino Giallonardo Presidente Associazione Nazionale Carabinieri Sezione di Toronto, Cynthia Cosentino, Fabio Gesufatto - Past President National Congress of Italian Canadians, and Luciano Galiano - Vice President Associazione Nazionale Carabinieri Sezione Di Toronto.

A Cure in the Future Retro Gala

Photography by Luca Viorel

Dina Pugliese, Joseph Bianchi (Co-Founder of A Cure in the Future Retro Gala) and Kevin Frankish

The fragrant scent of Valentine roses filled the air at the 9th Annual A Cure in the Future Retro Gala in Vaughan. Held February 14 in support of the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (PMCC) and presented by Platinum Entertainment Solutions, this event has raised over half a million dollars for cancer research in the last eight years. Proceeds specifically benefit the hospital’s Billion Dollar Challenge and its five-year initiative to secure 1 billion for revolutionary cancer care. “When asked how the Retro Gala came to be I am reminded of my battle, which the PMCC fought for me nine years ago and won,” said gala committee member, Maria Luisa Bianchi, while addressing the guests at the sold-out venue. “As a survivor, this is a way to raise awareness and give back to the hospital. With your continued support we are able to assist PMCC in achieving its vision to conquer cancer in our lifetime.” Maria Luisa’s husband Joseph Bianchi founded the gala along with his business partner, Ralph Ciampaglia – also a cancer survivor. Although grassroots in origin, today it has become one of the most noted fundraising events in Vaughan. Presiding over the evening were Dina Pugliese and Kevin Frankish, hosts of Breakfast Television. Another well-known figure at the event was famed hockey player, Paul Coffee, who proved to be a good sport while being auctioned off as a dinner companion to a group of lucky attendees.

Ninth Annual Staying Alive Disco Ball Gala Photography by Luca Viorel

Leo Veri (Veriation Music), J.P. McMillian (SickKids Foundation) and Mario Bartelli (Veriation Music).

DNA Project (band)

Close to 1,000 footloose guests danced to electrifying hits of the ’70s and ’80s at the 9th Annual Staying Alive Disco Ball Gala. The disco-themed event, which was held on February 28, was presented by Veriation Music to benefit the SickKids Foundation. Reflecting on the gala’s extraordinary growth was bell-bottomed and ruffle-collared Mario Bartelli, co-owner of Veriation Music. “There are people who have attended and been with us for all nine years,” he said. “They’ve contributed to our success and we are like a family now. They grow with us – which is magical.”

The festivities included the participation of J.P. McMillan, Associate Director of Corporate Partnerships of the SickKids Foundation. McMillan is responsible for the allocation of funds raised at the gala, which currently totals $150,000. From nostalgic videos of artists long-gone to vintage film and television montages, guests were also able to bring home the gift of music – a CD compilation mixed and produced by Veriation Music, which included legendary disco, rock, freestyle and dance tracks.

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EVENTS

Villa Colombo Ladies’ Auxiliary Valentine’s Gala Jewellers diamond ring, valued at $4,000, which was then in turn auctioned for nearly $2,000. Emceeing the stellar evening were television broadcaster Christine Bentley and attorney John Cirillo, whose late father and mother were both intricately involved in the development of the seniors’ home as well as the adjoining Columbus Centre. Photography by Laura Lettieri

An unforgettable Valentine’s Day was celebrated right in the heart of Toronto’s Italian community – and all to the sound of music. Held February 14 at the elegant Sala Caboto located within Villa Colombo Homes for the Aged, the gala raised funds to enhance the quality of life for seniors in residence including those living in long-term care. Assisting in the development of various programs and services as well as the provision of new beds, the sold-out event was presented by the Ladies’ Auxiliary of Villa Colombo (VCLA) along with the Columbus Performing Arts Council (CPAC) who generously offered their support by providing astounding musical talent for the evening festivities. “CPAC was proud to sponsor the Villa Colombo Ladies’ Auxiliary Valentine’s Gala by showcasing fantastic Canadian and Italian talent in a charitable setting. The VCLA is dedicated to providing exemplary care to our elders through Villa Colombo,” says CPAC Development Manager, Catriona Busato. Moving audiences with their soulful melodies were mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo and tenor Charles Di Raimondo, while performing until the late hours were The Emperor Quartet and the Greater Toronto Philharmonic Orchestra accompanied by conductor William Rowson. Also lending his talents was soloist Paolo Busato alongside his band, A Black Tie Affair. Guests Elio and Josephine Garofalo showed their philanthropic spirit by generously donating their prize of a Finch Centre

Charles Di Raimondo and Emily D’Angelo performing

Friulians in Canada It was a further strengthening of ties between Canada and Italy’s northern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia during the premiere of Friulians in Canada. Launched February 25 at the Columbus Event Centre, this publication written by Sarah Rolfe Prodan pays tribute to the thousands of Friulians, originating mostly from rural villages set in this pre-Alpine plain, who made their way to Canadian shores in search of new opportunities. “I consider myself the luckiest villager among us tonight because I’ve had the most stimulating of tasks; researching, reflecting upon and reaching out to you and your communities to hear your individual and collective histories,” said Rolfe Prodan, who interviewed individuals of Friulian descent in various Friulian organizations across the country. “I wanted to do right by you and your community and I thank you for having shared your stories,” she told the crowd. “This project is also a study of success and how to achieve it.” She added, “I was struck by the common elements that underlie the remarkable achievements documented in this book.” According to the author, who refers to herself as an Italian-Canadian by marriage, specific traits and factors define this generation of pre- and post-war migrants. These include hard work, resilience, commitment and meeting challenges head-on. Highlighted are the pioneers who contributed to the fabric of the Canadian landscape socially, economically and politically and paved the way for a new generation. This initiative would not have been possible without

the collaborative efforts of Giovanni Da Pozzo, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Udine, Primo Di Luca, Honorary Consul of Canada in Udine, as well as President of the Regional Government of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Debora Serracchiani.

From left to right: Giuseppe Pastorelli (Consul General of Italy), Giovanni Da Pozzo (President of the Chamber of Commerce of Udine), Sarah Rolfe Prodan (author of Friulians in Canada), Primo Di Luca (Honorary Consul of Canada in Udine), Pal Di Iulio (Villa Charities) and Matthew Melchior (President of Famee Furlane of Toronto).

Fourth Annual Heart to Heart Gala Photography by BiancoNero.ca

From left to right: Dr. Robert Hamilton (Hospital for Sick Children), Caledon Regional Councillor Annette Groves, Stefania Tersigni Pizzi (Founder of the Heart to Heart Foundation) and Gabriele Pizzi.

Generous supporters with giving hearts gathered at the 4th Annual Heart to Heart Valentine’s Dinner & Dance Gala. Hosted by the Heart to Heart Foundation and held in Vaughan on February 14, the event benefits the Hospital for Sick Children’s Cardiology Department by promoting early detection and raising awareness of children suffering from congenital heart disease. “The gala began as a coping mechanism and over time it’s evolved into so much more,” explained founder Stefania Tersigni Pizzi. After tragically losing her sister-in-law at the age of 13 as well as her 15-year-old brother-in-law from what specialists referred to as “natural causes brought on by an unconfirmed electrical heart malfunction,” Tersigni Pizzi set forth to find answers. With her own daughter recently diagnosed with arrhythmia she is determined to use her own resources to propose new legislation. “Early detection is so important. I want to create a movement that will allow parents the opportunity to have their children screened without any prior criteria. As of right now children must have some family history of heart disease in order to be tested. Although there might not be any existing heart disease in your family, your child could still be affected. It’s about being proactive,” she said. Lending their talents to the cause was a diverse array of musical artists. Also on hand to show support were Dr. Robert Hamilton, cardiologist at the Hospital for Sick Children, as well as Caledon Regional Councillor, Annette Groves. PANORAMITALIA.COM

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EVENTS

Diploma D’Onore Photography by Tony Pavia

On February 14, Italy honoured its international compatriots at the Comitato Tricolore per gli Italiani nel Mondo’s (CTIM) prestigious Diploma D’Onore. Five distinct individuals from Toronto’s Italian community were acknowledged for their contributions to business and philanthropy as well as their efforts to preserve Italian culture in Canada. Arriving from Rome to present these awards was CTIM Secretary General, Roberto Menia, who also had the opportunity to introduce Quanno Tramonta O Sole, a novella written by the organization’s former Toronto District President, Carlo Consiglio. However, Consiglio was not the only author present. Domenic Meffe, honoured by CTIM for his achievement as founder of the Monte Carlo Inns chain, was also recognized for his advocacy of Italian culture and traditions. Noted is his personal narrative The Family of the Priest, a compelling chronology of historical events passed down orally through his family, as well as his self-funded documentary – Timelesss Italy: Molise, The Ancient Land. “Although I am very honoured, I really owe this award to my mother and father,” expressed a grateful Meffe. “They had so little to give us 50 years ago but they taught us a good work ethic and to have respect for people, most especially our elders. We were told to hold our head high, treat people as you

From left to right: Giuseppe Pastorelli (Consul General of Italy), Enzo Anania, Clara Astolfo, Angelo Conti, Domenic Meffe, Diego Serrao, Roberto Menia (CTIM Secretary General), Franco Misuraca (organizer) Carlo Consiglio (author, organizer).

want to be treated and always mean well,” he added. The Diploma D’Onore was also given to Clara Astolfo, Vice President of IC Savings, Diego Serrao of Ariston Marble & Granite Inc, Enzo Anania and Angelo Conti.

Wings of Hope Winter Gala

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Photography by Vanessa Galle

Legendary author F. Scott Fitzgerald would have proudly raised his glass and given his seal of approval to the 1st Annual Wings of Hope Winter Gala. Hosted by the AllStar Foundation on February 7, the Gatsby-themed soiree benefited the Horizon Initiative in its mission to assist orphaned children in Africa and beyond. Tom Anastopoulos, chair and founder of the AllStar Foundation, says it’s imperative to help these victims of disease, abandonment and extreme poverty by creating micro-communities. “This type of community is a place with an orphanage, school, a life skills workshop and an on site agricultural facility with livestock and crops. Whatever is not used by the community is then sold to nearby villages. The beauty of this model is that it paves the way for sustainability,” he explained. After years of being a benefactor to other organizations involving destitute children, Anastopoulos chose a more proactive approach and eventually aligned himself with Horizon Initiative. “I was struck by the transparency of the organization and was able to see the development through the photos I saw. I believed in Horizon Initiative and in 2010 registered the charity,” he explained. The project not only provides basic needs but aids in establishing a solid foundation for children. The charity’s three previous golf tournaments raised $110,000 with proceeds allocated to the completion of Kitale, a Kenyan micro-community. Currently raising funds for the development of Bondo, also located in Kenya, the inaugural Winter Gala was a throwback to the roaring ’20s with swing dance lessons offered to the rhythm of the Galaxy Orchestra. Adding to the festivities guests had the opportunity to win a trip for two to the romantic city of Paris.

Tom Anastopoulos (Founder AllStar Foundation) and Jim Pesce (Co-Founder Horizon Initiative)

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SPORTS

What Was Black & White and Is Now Red All Over? Sebastian Giovinco joins Toronto FC By Dante DiIulio ithin one week in January, Sebastian Giovinco went from an out-of-favour substitute with league leaders Juventus to the highest-paid Italian soccer player in the world and the highest earning player in the history of Major League Soccer. Not bad for a 5 foot 4 striker whose only two goals this season came in a 6-1 Coppa Italia rout of Verona in January. How could such a thing occur? After seven challenging seasons at BMO Field, Toronto FC felt the need for another reboot. They were able to transfer the ‘Bloody Big Deal’ Jermain Defoe to Sunderland in exchange for the hulking American Jozy Altidore and needed a lynchpin to unite the midfield led by former Roma man, Michael Bradley. La Formica Atomica Giovinco fit the bill perfectly. So how do you lure a highly-skilled player wanted by several competitive Italian and English teams? Money. Giovinco is an interesting spark plug of a player and he’s shown that during his latest two call-ups to the Nazionale. Quick and agile, he possesses an incredible vision and is adept at set pieces. Is he worth $7 million a season? Probably not, but this isn’t Europe. To the outside world, Major League Soccer is widely, if mostly unfairly, regarded as a development league and a retirement ground for aging superstars looking for one last pay cheque. Attracting a skilled player in the prime of his career who was being courted by Arsenal and Fiorentina is a major coup. While his steps and stature may be small, his transfer is one giant leap for Major League Soccer.

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Panoram Italia: How have the fans in Toronto treated you so far? Sebastian Giovinco: Really well. I didn't expect it. An incredible fan base and I’m so happy that they’ve given me this huge reception here. I already knew that there were a lot of Italians all over the world but this was truly shocking. I feel at home. Italians, no matter where in the world, are very warm people and good people. I don't have any relatives here but many paesani from Calabria and Sicily, as my mother is from Catanzaro Lido and my father is from Palermo. PI: What was your biggest motivation for making the switch to TFC and the MLS? SG: In Italy, I had many problems. They were all talking about me as a player who couldn’t play at a high level, but I always demonstrated on the field that this was not correct. I wanted to find a city and a team that welcomed me from the beginning. I think I found it here in Toronto. PI: Did you ask Deputy Director General of Juventus, Roberto Bettega (formerly of the Toronto Blizzard) for advice before selecting Toronto? SG: I didn't have the chance to speak to him about it. It was a quick decision for me but I didn’t know that he played here. It’s a great reference point for me though and I hope I can bring nothing but joy to the city of Toronto.

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SPORTS

PI: You once said that sometimes you wish you were Brazilian or Argentinian in Serie A because you would play more. Do you feel that there is still a temptation in Italy to play foreigners rather than homegrown players? SG: I said that when I was younger because I felt that young Italians didn’t really have as much of an opportunity as younger Brazilians or Argentinians in the league, but once you reach a certain age, that doesn’t matter as much. If you’re good, you’ll play but when you’re younger, there’s a temptation in Italy to focus on foreign talent. I hope that changes because you can see in Germany, France and Spain, how well their leagues and national teams have grown because of their focus on their young stars. PI: Besides money, what other problems do you think have affected Serie A’s decline in relation to the other top leagues in Europe? SG: For me the biggest problem is the media. The newspapers create tons of problems that don’t exist because their biggest concern is selling newspapers. They analyze and stress on every detail just to create controversy. Money is definitely a big cause of Serie A’s decline amongst the best leagues but we’re just in a bad cycle at the moment, which I hope will change in the near future. PI: What do you feel is the biggest difference in terms of mentality and quality between Serie A and MLS? SG: In Italy, it’s always about the result. Italy is definitely a tactical league; you can see in our preparation as well as the coaches, they change formations and game plans during the game. The MLS is a young, growing league. It’s more physical and less technical than Serie A but quality has improved over the past three years. With more money and better, younger players being developed and transferring in, it has all of the elements to become one of the best in the world. PI: Do you think your transfer to the MLS will negatively impact your chances of playing for the National team? SG: I think it will be difficult. Historically, the National team has focused on Serie A players and doesn’t look outside of the country but that is changing now especially with great players like Verratti (PSG) and Pellè (Southampton). I have a good relationship with Conte but ultimately it’s his decision. If he thinks I can give them a hand then he’ll call me up, if not then he won’t. It would be an honour to be the first MLS player ever to be called up to the Nazionale. PI: With the addition of Altidore, Cheyrou, and the leadership of Bradley, where do you think TFC will finish this season? SG: Well, first I’d like to make the playoffs. I know that TFC have never done it in their seven-year history, so I hope that I can be the lucky charm to break that deadlock. With Altidore, Bradley, Cheyrou and Perkis, we have a lot of depth and experience all over the field, so if we play together as a unit, I think we have the talent and technique to go far even as a newly formed team.

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ONE MORE DAY

One More Day with a loved one Nonna Antonietta Muccillo If I could have one more day with a loved one I’ve lost it would be with my Nonna “Dunietta,” Antonietta. I would visit her at her townhouse, which always felt so warm and inviting to me. She could just sit and tell me her stories of how it was back in the day in the old village. Then I know she would insist that she make me her pasta, which was so good because she wasn’t afraid to use all kinds of rich meat and oil in the sauce. Yum! Nonna had the kindest heart of anyone I’ve ever known. She made me feel so loved. Nonna could also make me laugh. She would sometimes yell at Nonno using funny slang. “Stai zitto,” she would tell him jokingly. She really loved him, though. When Nonno was sick, she cared for him like an angel. I’m happy to say that Nonna got to meet my son Luca. She was so afraid that she would never get the chance to see my children because I got married later in life. She was so happy about Luca and even though she was so frail she wanted to hold him whenever she could. Nonna passed in September of 2012, just before my son’s first birthday. I miss her and I think about her a lot, but I’m grateful for the memories I have of her. Frank Muccillo

Domenico Di Giacomo

Michele and Nunzia Gaito

This is my favourite picture of my Dad, Domenico, who passed away April 26, 2011. If I could spend one more day with my Dad, we would spend it surfing the computer because he was so intrigued by it. I’d show him the websites of his hometown Monteodorisio, Chieti in Abruzzo, so he could learn about the latest news and talk about it when he called his family back home. One of his favourite websites featured old pictures of his hometown and its people. He saw pictures of himself he didn’t know existed. Anna Di Giacomo

Pietro Minna My father, Pietro Minna, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, on Friday, May 11, 1990. Even though this year will mark 25 years since his passing it still seems like only yesterday. Being the only girl with three brothers, I was definitely “papa’s little girl.” I only needed his nod or grin to know he approved and was proud. He loved all of his children and especially his wife of 25 years. He was a hard-working family man who instilled strong work ethics and family values in all of us. He was very proud of his Italian heritage and instilled that pride in my three brothers and me. Today he would have been a proud nonno of 10 grandchildren – six boys and four girls. If only I could have one more day to tell you how much I love you, care for you, and how much you mean to me! One more day to hug you and kiss you and tell you how proud I am to be your daughter! One more day to introduce you to my husband and both my beautiful boys! One more day to say goodbye, because I never had a chance to do so. You were my father, my hero, and my best friend. Life has never been the same since you left and a part of my heart and soul departed with you that sad day in May. Ti voligo bene per sempre Papa and non ti dimenticherò mai. Tua figlia Rosanna 62

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One more day with my parents Michele and Nunzia Gaito would allow me to watch their hands and feel their love and strength. Oh! those mani d’oro – cooking, baking, canning, stoking and smothering fires, gardening, planting, tilling, harvesting, clearing, building, grafting, engineering, phoning, repairing, crafting, sewing, crocheting, washing, drying, cleaning, photographing, writing, dancing, protecting, guiding, lovingly stroking, praying, greeting, blowing kisses, sometimes disciplining, never tiring, never stopping, and always communicating. What a beautiful shelter and legacy of love those hands created, with total devotion to their family. Teresa Gaito

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