As both the Mayor and a long-time resident of Pickering, I have had the opportunity to meet so many different, yet wonderful people.  From these interactions, I am often inspired by their individual hopes and dreams as well as their desires for the community we live in.
While our origins may differ, and our journeys take different paths, we are all united by our dreams.   I sincerely believe that this commonality is one of the ties that binds us and brings us closer together.
  
I am pleased to announce that the theme of the 2008 Mayor’s Gala is Diamonds and Dreams.   Diamonds represent timeless beauty and elegance, while Dreams represent our shared hopes and aspirations.  Together, they are an unparalleled combination.

Since its inception three years ago, the Mayor’s Gala has become Pickering and area’s signature black-tie fundraising affair.  In this span, nearly $350,000 has been raised for the Ajax-Pickering hospital, our Veterans, the Durham West Arts Centre, and local youth initiatives.
This year, our gift beneficiaries embody the essence of dreams and all they entail.  As such, I am pleased to announce that the majority of the proceeds will be going to support Maternal and Newborn Services at the hospital; $20,000 will be allocated to Special Olympics Ontario, which in 2008 was held for the very first time in Durham Region; and $10,000 will be going to Community Care Durham.

I would like to thank Scotiabank, the Presenting Sponsor of the Mayor’s Gala, and lead sponsors OPG and Tribute-Runnymede, as well as all of our corporate partners who have generously supported this initiative from the onset.  Together, we are making a real and meaningful difference in the lives of many in our community.

Thank you.  I look forward to seeing you on November 15th!

Dave Ryan
Mayor, City of Pickering