ADVANCE MEDIA NOTICE
Wednesday, August 31, 2005

On Thursday, September 29, 2005, Villa Charities presents its annual gala, The Venetian Ball. Celebrating its 12th successful year, the event embodies the spirit of a Venetian Carnevale and over the years has raised millions of dollars for Villa's family of organizations. This year, the Ball takes place at the Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex and combines the best of delicious food and live entertainment with a very Venetian flair.

The custom of Venetian Carnevale is a centuries-old ritual celebrated to announce the arrival of Spring and is marked by the donning of elaborate costumes and masks. A time of eating, drinking and general merry-making, the spectacle of Carnevale was also a time for people to hide or alter their appearance. Unhindered by identity, revellers of different social classes mingled without fear of repercussion.

"Costumes have always played an important role at the Venetian Ball and this year we're really excited about the Best Costumed Table Contest," said Rita Appugliesi, Co-Chair of this year's volunteer committee. She and husband, Co-Chair, John Appugliesi, have been hard at work to ensure the event continues in the true spirit of Venetian Carnival. Renowned interior designer, Brian Gluckstein will act Chair of the Best Costumed Table Contest and will select winners based on the creativity of one or more outstanding costumes at a table. When a table is finally selected, all guests seated at the winning table will reap the benefits of incredible prizes.

All proceeds from the event go to Villa Charities - a charitable organization that is the umbrella to: Villa Colombo Services for Seniors, Columbus Centre, VITA Community Living Services and Villa Colombo Vaughan.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available by calling (416) 789-7011 ext. 242.

Media Contacts:
Adriana Suppa
Communications Manager, Villa Charities
(416) 789-7011 ext. 302
suppa@villacharities.com

Daniella Carinci
Communications Assistant, Villa Charities
(416) 789-7011 ext. 304
communications@villacharities.com