The late Tony Alati named 2020 Ward 2 Civic Hero
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Vaughan resident recognized with posthumous award for commitment to sports, education and community-building
During today's Committee of the Whole (Public Meeting), Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, Ward 2 Councillor Tony Carella and Members of Council named the late Tony Alati as the 2020 Ward 2 Civic Hero. The award was presented virtually to Tony's family and friends during a special presentation in his honour.
Tony was a passionate sports fan who played baseball for the Vaughan World Series Slo-Pitch Baseball League with the Hornets and Orioles. He later served as vice-president of the league and helped co-ordinate and support more than 46 teams. In addition, for many years, Tony volunteered as a soccer coach for the Woodbridge Soccer Club, where he guided his daughter Arianna's team to several championship games.
Tony's commitment to community-building continues to have a positive impact in Vaughan and beyond. He was a founding member and president of the Carrying Place Ratepayers Association and an active member of the Catholic School Council for St. Gabriel Catholic Elementary School and Father Bressani Catholic High School. Tony also served as a board member for St. Gabriel's Child Care Centre.
On April 3, 2020, Tony lost his battle with the COVID-19 virus. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, son, brother and coach to many young athletes.
QUOTES
"I am honoured to recognize Tony Alati posthumously as the 2020 Ward 2 Civic Hero. Although Tony is no longer with us physically, his presence is certainly felt. Tony's memory and spirit remain a powerful force for positive change in Vaughan and beyond. He will be forever remembered for his passion and commitment to helping others. Tony was a true community champion and leader who made an immeasurable impact on countless lives. As a coach, mentor, neighbour and friend, Tony went above and beyond, every day in every way, to improve the standard of life and quality of living in our city. His passion for sports lives on in his daughter Arianna and the many players who were privileged to have Tony as their coach. As we mourn the loss of Tony, we will continue to cherish his vibrant and adventurous spirit. I hope that through this award, Tony's legacy will continue to be felt for years to come."
"On behalf of the residents of Ward 2, it is my privilege to present the 2020 Ward 2 Civic Hero Award to Tony Alati's family. The annual Civic Hero Awards were created to honour exceptional individuals who portray strong civic values and have made a meaningful difference in their community. I can think of no one more deserving of this important recognition than the late Tony Alati, an early victim of the COVID-19 pandemic who was a model citizen through and through. Tony's passion for life, love of sports and spirit of adventure is what we will all remember of him. He remains a shining example of active community leadership and how the actions of one person can leave a lasting impact."
- Councillor Tony Carella, Ward 2
QUICK FACTS
- Mayor and Members of Council named the late Tony Alati as the 2020 Ward 2 Civic Hero during a special virtual ceremonial presentation at the Tuesday, April 5 Committee of the Whole (Public Meeting).
- Vaughan’s Civic Hero Awards are presented annually to one resident from each of the City’s five wards.
- Recipients are nominated by their local Ward Councillor and acknowledged by Vaughan Council.
- The awards began in 2005 to recognize outstanding achievement and individual contributions in the community.
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