Art Gems charity art auction Archives

Dressing The Abbey 2026

Built in 1914, Casa Loma is the perfect historical venue to present a new exhibit titled “Dressing The Abbey”.

While enjoying the opportunity to view up close so many of the award-winning costumes of the popular Downton Abbey television series, this grand castle really captures the feeling of aristocracy, elaborate fashion and history of the 1920’s.

From Crawley family hunting suits to butler uniforms, evening gowns to dressing robes, a helpful map will guide you to find where all these fashions are to be discovered within rooms and hallways over 3 floors in the castle. I enjoyed reading the stories posted beside each costume as to who wore it, along with what year and scene it was featured.

If you have never been to Casa Loma, this is an excellent family outing for sure running till August 30th this summer.

#DressingtheAbbey #DowntonAbbey @casaloma #LibertyEntertainmentGroup @duetpublicrelations

Spring for Peace 2026

Preacebuilders Canada has been supporting positive changes in the justice and educational system for over 20 years by removing barriers that hold back Black, Indigenous and radicalized youths and reducing the number of reoffenders.

The annual fundraising event, Spring for Peace returned May 7th, this time at a larger space being the Atrium at Richarda’s.

Mayor Olivia Chow opened the evening by explaining the importance of Peacebuilders Canada in their mission of restoring the lives of young people drawn into crime at an early age with programs and justice system professionals that help build futures of young offenders by clearing records after a conviction when they choose education and practical job skills.

This is massive challenge for a staff of just 11 and we met them all at this gala known for wine tastings, amazing food stations and live entertainment while supporting a worthy cause.

If you missed the Spring for Peace Gala and want to lend a helping hand with a donation, visit; www.peacebuildrs.ca

Thanks to Tina Malaty for our invitation.

ICCO Unico Primo Pentola d’Oro Awards for 2025

A very well attended reception was held at Bellvue Manor on November 19th, just before the 13th Annual ICCO Unico Primo Pentola d’Oro Awards were handed out for 2025.

This was an evening to have industry leaders of the community gather to experience and celebrate authentic Italian cuisine along with exceptional wine pairings being presented. The Awards recognized chefs, entrepreneurs and innovators in the food and beverage industry. Nothing tops the Italian culinary experience and hospitality represented this night.

The Italian Chamber of Commerce of Ontario (ICCO Canada) proudly saluted the Italian Canadians who help support the growth of Italian products in Canada.

My thanks to ICCO Canada for this invitation.

Read more at; www.italchambers.ca/events
#ICCOCanada #Unico #Primo #Lavazza #Unico #Primo #PentoladOroAwards2025 #buonissimo #ItalianWines

18th anniversary for the Art Gems charity art auction

It was the 18th anniversary for the Art Gems charity art auction this year held April 3rd, at The Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex.

Proceeds from this well attended event will go to supporting Good Shepherd’s Creative Works Studio, it’s members and programs. In fact, on this evening we heard from several Studio members about how programs have helped reshape their lives by learning important life skills and building a healing self-esteem.