Fine arts professors, students and a local restaurant have once again joined forces for a good cause – fine arts student scholarships.

The 9th annual Abbondànza, an evening of gourmet food, fine arts and fun fills CoCo Pazzo Italian Café on Sunday, Feb. 28, beginning at 6 p.m.

"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 the city."

The festivities include a unique menu that highlights the cuisine of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy's most northeastern region. Prepared by CoCo's expert chef, the food combines with tasty music, works of art, and humour provided by the Faculty of Fine Arts.

Guests vote in a most unusual way for their favorite 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.

"All the funds raised go into an endowment for student scholarships in art, music drama and music," says Doug MacArthur, Abbondànza committee chairperson. "Abbondànza is Italian for abundance and we have received an abundance of support from the community, for which we are grateful."

Tickets are priced at $125 (include $60 income tax receipt) apiece with only a very few remaining available. To purchase tickets, contact Katherine at 403-329-2227.