For the past 10 years, Faculty of Fine Arts professors, staff, students and a local restaurant have joined forces for a good cause – fine arts student scholarships.

The 10th Anniversary of Abbondànza, an evening of gourmet food, fine arts and fun fills CoCo Pazzo Italian Café on Saturday, Jan. 29.

"We are pleased to participate in this exciting event," says Tony Rose, CoCo Pazzo co-owner. "It is unlike anything else that goes on in this city."

The festivities include a unique menu highlighting the cuisine of various regions of Italy prepared by CoCo's expert chefs. Music, works of art and humour are all provided by the Faculty of Fine Arts.

Guests get to vote in a most unusual way for their favourite course and the evening ends with the presentation of the Abbondànza Culinary Trophy, which hangs prominently in the restaurant for the rest of the year.

"Abbondànza is Italian for abundance, and we have received an abundance of support from the community, for which we are grateful," says Doug MacArthur, Abbondànza Committee Chairperson.

To date, 29 students have received scholarship totaling $22,000.

"All the donations go directly to the Abbondànza Endowment fund that will continue to support students far into the future."

Tickets are $125 (include $60 income tax receipt). There are a very few tickets left for the event, and for more information, call Katherine Wasiak at 403-329-2227.