Event to honor former Miss RI Italia’s memory, benefit Make-A-Wish

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“This is a lesson of just how precious life is,” Gina Sabitoni-Arakelian said. “Isabella was much, much too young.”

Sabitoni-Arakelian, a Johnston resident who doubles as the administrative assistant for the Rhode Island Laborers’ District Council, was speaking about what may be among the most unique and important fundraisers she’s ever helped organize.

“We’re reaching out to the Italian American community to become a star and join us in honoring the memory of Isabella Corcelli, who passed away at the tender age of 21 after her battle with cancer,” she said.

Next Wednesday evening, April 6, Sabitoni-Arakelian, who is the reigning Mrs. Rhode Island Italia, and Stephanie Paolissi, Miss Rhode Island Italia, will co-host a night entitled “Become a Star.”

Sabitoni-Arakelian issued an open invitation for the community to join in remembering and honoring the memory of a beautiful young woman who was named Miss Italia 2014 before she succumbed to cancer.

The event will be held at famed DaVinci Restaurant, located at 146 Acorn St. on Providence’s Federal Hill, and will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Tickets are only $20 per, and Sabitoni-Arakelian – who is also the treasurer of the Johnston Police Department’s award-wining Explorer Post 405 – said there will be food, music, and multiple raffles.

All proceeds will benefit Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island – located at 20 Hemingway Drive, East Providence, RI 02918 – and presented in Corcelli’s name and memory.

“Isabella was such a vibrant and beautiful young woman,” Sabitoni-Arakelian said. “She was talented and full of life. We are all shocked by her tragic passing and hope that people will come forward and purchase a ticket or two, or even make a donation to the raffle table that will also benefit Make-A-Wish.”

Those interested in donating to the raffle table may call Sabitoni-Arakelian at 401-499-1317 or email Stephanie Paolissi at smp72082@gmail-com.

People who’d like to make a donation to Make-A-Wish may do so by sending a check to the non-profit’s address listed above. Tickets are still available for next Wednesday night’s fundraiser and may be purchased at the door.

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