Flavours of Vaughan a Huge Success

One of my favourite parts of my job is going out into the community and meeting people. As a community television host, I frequently have this opportunity and love every second of it.

When the Vaughan Citizen approached me to guest host their inaugural Flavours of Vaughan event at the Hilton Garden Inn, I was incredibly honoured and flattered, really.

I’m a huge fan of our local paper and look forward to “flyer” nights, when I sit on the floor and sift through the pile of flyers and plan the weekend based on where the deals are. It’s sad, I know, but I love it.

So imagine my surprise a few weeks back when I caught my own face and bio in this bi-weekly paper. I’ve saved every copy with my “mug” plastered over it. Call me crazy but I still get excited about stuff like that.

And so, on October 31 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Vaughan, I guest hosted their 1^st annual event. I was thrilled by the support of community members; hundreds came out and sampled their way through various vendors and local restaurants. Situated at the main demo stage, I had the privilege to, once again, work alongside local chefs.

One of the highlights of the day: making pumpkin risotto with Executive Chef of the Hilton Garden Inn, Saverio Coppola. I’m a risotto lover and Saverio’s risotto was no exception. I can’t wait to try it at home.

Pumpkin Risotto courtesy of the Executive Chef at the Hilton Garden Inn

Of course, I’d be remiss without mentioning the amazing local talent that graced the stage mid-day. 18-year-old local singing sensation, Christopher Dallo, had the entire crowd glowing when his voice filled the room. Dallo is a past recipient of the YRMG’s Celebration of the Arts Bursary, a past multiple winner of the CNE’s Rising Star Competition and recently worked with David Foster in New Jersey. What a voice he has! I'm happy to have known him for about 5 years. He's a sweetheart and literally fills every room with his outstanding voice. He is a true budding star and it was amazing to have him in our midst.

 

Christopher Dallo performs "Knights in White Satin"

All in all, it was an honour to work with the folks from the Vaughan Citizen. Congrats to them for executing a wonderful and tasty event! They truly treated me like “one of the family” from the moment I stepped into the room and I hope we can collaborate again in the future.

There aren’t enough words to describe all the Flavours of Vaughan; we are blessed to have a city full of wonderful tastes and cultures. I’m glad so many were able to experience just a slice of these flavours and hope our local community is able to start visiting the sensational and savoury spots just around the corner.

And once again, special thanks to the Vaughan Citizen for plastering my face all over their paper! *blush*

J