It was a celebration of the wonderful people who embrace the spirit of support in our community

It was just over a scant year ago when M. T. Bellies was closed down because of an E. coli outbreak.

Some bad romaine lettuce made its way to our back door. An unfortunate incident and bit of a black period for all involved.

However, in our time of need, the community rallied around my family and business operation. The outpouring of support we received had a profound effect.

I was truly humbled and genuinely appreciated all the kind words of encouragement and help. The groundswell of community assistance inspired the need to do something to give back and a Wonderful Life was born. I was playing the lead role of George Bailey.

On Tuesday, Nov. 24, a group of 140 people gathered at M. T. Bellies to again celebrate It's a Wonderful Life. Quite simply it was a celebration of the wonderful people who embrace the spirit of support in our community. And oh, what a night it was.

The guests who attended were treated to an amazing five-course gourmet meal with all the whistles and bells. Once again "the ask" went out and a few favours were cashed in to produce an absolutely amazing evening.

I am blessed to have many friends and business associates who were kind enough to give as well. So in no uncertain order I acknowledge my gratitude to the small army who assisted in this event.

An enormous thank you to the talented and inspiring chefs Anna and Michael Olson, Bruce Worden and Werner Hauer for playing the leadership roles in the MTB kitchen. These folks are true professionals and a credit to the hospitality industry.

They gave up their time to come into our kitchen to do their magic with food and flavours.

MTB chef Sean Wright and his well oiled kitchen crew showed extreme teamwork to flawless execution of the delicious meals.

Thanks to the volunteer Niagara College culinary students. They loved the experience, learned some new tricks and had fun. The MTB kitchen was quite a sight.

Over 20 sets of loving caring hands danced together and created. All the guests raved about the food. Well done.

Thanks to the MTB servers and bartenders for an outstanding and attentive job. MTB's Jill Yeo showed off her industry savvy by co-co-ordinating all the service elements. You did us proud.

Thank you to Sandra Nuccitelli from Gotcha Covered and Karin from Vermeer's Garden Center and Flower Shop who transformed the feel of our little joint. The place looked great. Thanks to Don Wininger of Spritz Creative for all the artwork.

Thank you to the many people and businesses who donated goodies for our party; The ever and always generous Rick Lowes from the Country Corner Market, Mike Speth from Rycott Foodservice, Joe Roberto from Diamond Estates Wines, Dan from Dan's Produce, Dave Zezella from Molson Breweries and Peter Aiello from the Peter Mielzynski Agencies.

Music filled the air all night long. Thanks to Dave Rapelje from TNR Productions in providing great talent. The welcoming Jazz sounds of Dan Kozar and Doug Mundy created a cool vibe. The booming voice of Elton Lammie was a treat as he strolled tableside with his operatic songs. Sam and Adam took the night home with their toe tapping party tunes. Smiles were everywhere.

Thank-you to the donors of the prize table. These people are our go to guys and are always there to say yes. Thanks to Rick Groom from Jiffy Lube, Tom Deciccio from Niagara Restaurant Supply, Doug Watson from Online Electronics, Karen Arthur from Arbonne, Ron Kore from Sobey's, our friends from Shoppers Drug Mart, Aggie Giovannini from Northtown Medical, Jim Briggs from Briggsy Sportswear and Promotions, Cindy Obdeyn from Mabo Construction and Avril Norton. Your gifts added another $1,300 to the night.

Thank you to all of you who forked out $125 to eat, drink, be merry and help raise money for the Welland Hospital Foundation. Early numbers are saying we had all this fun and raised about $9,000.

I hope you enjoyed yourself and will continue to support this event again next year.

Last and certainly not the least, big thanks to my wife Rebecca who often flies under the radar for her efforts. Her attention to detail and work behind the scenes complete the whole process. She somehow always makes me look good in spite of myself. Finally, my three loving children Ethan, Liam and Teagan. They are an integral part of this family business. They understand work ethic, teamwork and the meaning of community. The relationship with all these people is truly what makes my life a wonderful life. Thanks for sharing with me.