Karen Merk Photography’s Portraits of Giving - celebrating Mary and George Vasilache - 2026 Richmond Hill Honourees

Another wonderful event celebrating RBTT members and their contribution to our community!

We were proud to be part of Karen Merk Photography’s Portraits of Giving, celebrating Mary and George Vasilache as the 2026 Richmond Hill Honourees.

For 10 years, Mary and George have supported Karen Merk’s vision of “giving back to those who give back.” This year, they stepped in front of the camera and chose Arts4People Movement, founded by Gabriela Covaci and celebrating its 20th anniversary, as the organization they wanted to support.

Many thanks to Arthur Leung and Lexus of Richmond Hill for hosting this beautiful evening, and to Jack Eigenmach – Eigenmacht Crackower CPA Professional Corporation for supporting Portraits of Giving.

It was wonderful to see so many friends and community leaders, including Mayor David West, Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan, Councillors Karen Cilevitz, Scott Thompson and Castro Liu, Minister Michael Parsa, and Consul General of Romania in Toronto Oana Raluca Gherghe, who presented letters of recognition. MP Vincent Ho also sent a letter of recognition.

We were delighted to have friends from both the Richmond Hill Board of Trade and Romanian Board of Trade in Toronto joining us. The event was full of friends and supporters: Karen Merk, Cristina Podariu, Michelle Herscu, Raluca Neagu, Felicia & Peter Sandica, Lucy, Florin & Bogdan Rus, Diana& Alex Nord, Ramona & Alexandru Covriga, Mary & George Vasilache, Anas Saltaji & Moutaz Refaii.

And having Mary and George’s son Alex Vasilache and his girlfriend Aurora Cotop, former competitive figure skater and Canadian medalist, made the evening even more special.

A beautiful celebration of generosity, family and community ❤️

📸 Photo by Sitab Jackie

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