Mayor’s Lunar Gala celebrates the Harvest Moon
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Every year
the Asian community comes together to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, also
known as the Moon Festival. A tradition that dates back more than 1,000 years, it
brings family and friends together to enjoy the moonlight and give thanks for the
year’s harvest. To honour this important custom, the City of Vaughan hosted the
inaugural Mayor's Lunar Gala on Oct. 6 where more than 400 people joined
together for an evening of entertainment and specialty foods.
To support
Vaughan’s mission of bringing healthcare close to home, proceeds from the event
benefitted the Mackenzie Health Foundation. A total of $25,000 was raised –
funds that will go directly to the Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital. Mayor Maurizio
Bevilacqua, co-chair of the hospital’s $250-million Exceptional Care Belongs
Here campaign, is matching the money raised at this year’s event through the
Spirit of Generosity fund for a total donation of $50,000.
QUOTE
“Among the many things I have learned after almost thirty years of public
service, is that diversity is one of our city’s greatest strengths. This
year’s Mayor’s Lunar Gala celebrated the contribution and exceptional spirit of
our growing Asian community. As an important part of our civic life, we are
proud to honour such meaningful Asian customs and traditions. It is especially
rewarding to be able to raise funds for a noble cause – access to world-class healthcare
in our community. Through our combined efforts, the Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital is
a reality.
I would like to express my gratitude to the Mayor’s Lunar Gala co-chairs, Irwin
Li, Justin Poy and Andy Chan, as well as chair Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco,
for their hard work in organizing this event. I look forward to another year of
happiness and prosperity.”
-Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua
QUICK FACTS
- The event was held on Oct. 6 at the Toscana Conference Centre at the Hilton Garden Inn.
- The event was generously supported by corporate and media sponsors.
Mayor’s Lunar Gala chair Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco and co-chairs, Irwin Li, Justin Poy and Andy Chan.
A highlight of the Mayor's Lunar Gala was the outstanding entertainment.