May 31, 2023
Since opening in 1989, Dr. Barrie Strafford was a frequent and loyal customer of Osteria De Medici. Over the years, this relationship grew into a deep respect and mutual admiration. Until his passing in 2016, Osteria was Dr. Strafford's favourite luncheon spot. And now, a selection of bottles included in this Wine Auction will honour Dr. Strafford's memory and legacy with a portion of the proceeds going to The Brenda Stafford Foundation (BSF).
“Barrie was a no-fuss guy. He recognized a need for change, wanted to get things done, and he’d take the initiative to do things a lot of times himself. He was driven, and it kind of inspired me at a young age to say, ‘Hey, listen. If Barrie was able to do it, why can’t we all do it?’” said Maurizio Terrigno, former owner of Osteria De Medici, speaking about how the entrepreneurial and philanthropic spirit Dr. Strafford inspired him to give back to the community. “It’s about how you can benefit the community, and Barrie always instilled that, not just even locally, but abroad overseas as well.”
“A part of the reason I’m working with The Brenda Strafford Foundation is that Barrie was a unique fixture within our business and was very community driven. He was a neighbour of ours, and a lot of what Barrie did throughout his career happened at our restaurant. So, when I realized there was an opportunity to give back, this is the way I wanted to do it.”
BSF was established in 1975 by Dr. Strafford in memory of his late wife, Brenda. Since then, it has grown to operate and support many local and international programs and services including a focus on research and innovation to support the populations they serve.
Locally in Alberta, BSF owns and operates five continuing care communities for seniors in Calgary and Okotoks. The foundation also provides local community programs including BSF's 'Hear Home Network' - a second stage shelter providing a safe environment and services for women and children who are fleeing domestic violence.
Internationally, BSF owns a variety of medical clinics and provides various healthcare services in Haiti, Jamaica, and Dominica to enhance the health, wellness, and quality of life of underserved regions in the Caribbean.
All BSF's diverse activities are guided by a common philosophy: The preservation of dignity and the pursuit of happiness.
The online auction features fine vintage wines & collectible spirits, including old & rare vintages from the cellar of Osteria De Medici. Bidding is open until June 6, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. To learn more about the online auction and to place a bid, visit: https://hallsauction.com/fine-wine-spirits-spring-2023/
You can also support BSF by donating directly through this link: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E345127QE&id=46
