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Entrepreneurs
and Trades


Allan Cozzubbo Academy of Dancing (AAD) 1963 to 2003
Allan, born in 1939, was the youngest of five children of Agatino and Betha Cozzubbo. He began his dance career as a youngster and pupil of his cousin, Lillian Cozzubbo Coulson, and further studied with Dr. Ruth Carse of the Alberta Ballet. His advanced training took place in New York with well‑known teachers such as Luigi, Robert Joffre, Matt Mattox, Al Gilbert, and Leon Danielion. Allan Cozzubbo These studies enabled him to enter pupils for examinations in various syllabi a


The Gallelli legacy
From humble beginnings in 1907 to a respected name in Western Canadian construction, the Gallelli story is built on hard work, innovation, and family values. The name GALLELLI first appeared in the Western Canadian construction industry in 1907. A pick, a shovel, a wheelbarrow, a cart, and two horses were the humble beginnings of a company that would eventually rank among the leaders in the industry. Together with his partner, Harry Cicconi — later to become his brother-in-la


Italian entrepreneurs
Italian entrepreneurs helped shape Calgary through hard work, craftsmanship, music, food, and community leadership. Roma Grocery Domenico Gasbarri arrived in Calgary around 1903 and opened Roma Grocery in 1917. Located at 207 4 Street NE, the store became a gathering place within the Italian community. Domenico, his wife Antonia, and daughter Flavia lived upstairs, while behind the store he operated a shoe repair and shoemaking shop. Known for his generosity, Domenico often a


Lillian Cozzubbo School of The Dance (1942–1975)
For more than three decades, Lillian Cozzubbo inspired generations of Calgarians through dance, music, and creativity. Lillian is the one waving Tootsie on the horse in front of Lillian looking back Lillian Cozzubbo was born on June 19, 1924, in Calgary to Marino and Emily Cozzubbo. She began dancing at the age of four and quickly developed a passion for performance and music that would shape her entire life. As a teenager, instead of taking breaks during school summers,


Hillhurst Ice Cream and Confectionery (1921–late 1930s)
Hillhurst Ice Cream and Confectionery became a beloved gathering place in Kensington, serving Calgary families for generations. Located at 1122 Kensington Road NW, Hillhurst Ice Cream and Confectionery was opened in 1921 after Salvatore Cozzubbo purchased the building. The store quickly became a popular neighborhood destination, known for its ice cream counter lined with glass jars filled with candies. Rose Dipalo inside her grandparents Ice Cream parlor Alongside sweets and
Built by Italian hands
From grocery stores and coffee companies to music schools and family-run shops, Italian entrepreneurs helped shape Calgary’s neighborhoods and community life. Built through hard work, creativity, and perseverance, these businesses became gathering places that preserved culture, created opportunity, and left a lasting mark on the city’s history.
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