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Join us for a coffee and chat with Teresa Spinelli, President of the Italian Centre.

Teresa Spinelli, a proud Edmontonian, has transformed her family's small grocery centre into a beloved institution that celebrates Italian culture and community. What started as a simple endeavor to reconnect with their heritage soon blossomed into a thriving enterprise that brings people together through food and shared experiences.

Although Teresa initially aspired to be a social worker, life had different plans for her. When her father and brother fell ill, she stepped up to take over the Italian Centre, ensuring that their legacy would endure. Through her dedication and vision, she expanded the business, opening additional stores in Edmonton's West End and venturing into Calgary and Sherwood Park.

What sets the Italian Centre apart is its unwavering commitment to people. Teresa firmly believes in the power of collaboration and inclusivity. Every decision is made with the input and feedback of the entire team, ensuring that everyone's voice is heard. They also value their customers' opinions, actively seeking suggestions to better cater to their needs and desires.

It is this genuine focus on people that has fostered a loyal customer base and created a vibrant culture within the Italian Centre. Beyond just providing delicious food and quality products, Teresa and her team have cultivated a sense of belonging and community. The Italian Centre has become a gathering place, a hub where friends and families come together to celebrate, share stories, and forge lasting connections.

So, join us for a coffee and chat with Teresa Spinelli. Discover the inspiring journey of a woman who grew her family's business into a cultural icon, where passion, inclusivity, and a love for food converge to create an extraordinary experience for all.

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Join us for a coffee and chat with Karen Principe, Ward Councilor for the City of Edmonton.

Karen's journey from dental assistant to community advocate is one filled with passion and dedication. Born and raised in Winnipeg, she found her calling in the dental field while also working as a DJ for fun on the weekends. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Gene, and later relocated to Toronto.

As fate would have it, Gene's broadcasting job led them to Edmonton, where Karen seized the opportunity to continue her career as a dental hygienist. As her children were growing up, Karen was very active in their community; volunteering with her children's schools, sports teams and local Food Banks. Once her children had reached the teenage years, the volunteering with school and sports teams came to a stop. Karen missed the sense of connection to her local community.

This led Karen to City Council, where she was elected as a Councillor in 2021. With her genuine desire to reignite a sense of community, Karen has been able to channel her passion for volunteering into tangible initiatives. From dedicating a week to providing dental care in Peru to participating in Free Dental Days in Edmonton, Karen has always been at the forefront of making a difference. Her commitment to giving back is truly inspiring.

So, join us for a coffee and chat with Karen Principe, a Ward Councilor who not only brings her professional expertise but also a genuine desire to create a strong and united community. Discover how her journey has shaped her into the compassionate and dedicated advocate she is today.

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Join us for a coffee and chat with Chad Zender the President of Zender Ford.

Having been raised in Parkland County, Chad Zender has always had a deep connection to his community. His family's longstanding ownership of the Zender Ford dealership in Spruce Grove is a testament to their commitment to serving their customers with integrity and dedication. After completing his education at the University of Victoria, Chad eagerly joined the Zender Ford team, ready to bring a fresh perspective to the business.

As the second generation of Zender's running the dealership, Chad is excited to continue the family legacy of excellence. With a blend of tradition and innovation, Zender Ford remains committed to providing exceptional service, and supporting the community they call home.

Beyond their business endeavors, Zender Ford has always recognized the importance of giving back to the community that has supported them for four decades. From partnering with the Parkland Food Bank to sponsoring local sports teams, they actively contribute to the betterment of their surroundings. For the Zender family, philanthropy is not just a duty, but a true passion that drives them to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them.