MAYOR SUSAN FENNELL GALA - 'STEPPING OUT FOR THE ARTS & COMMUNITY'

BACKGROUND

• Established in 2005, the Mayor Susan Fennell Gala, 'Stepping Out for the Arts and Community' included an Award for Lifetime Achievement. The Award recognizes individuals who have served Bramptonians with excellence and distinction, and who have contributed significantly to the reputation, social, economic and cultural life in the City and its people.
• The Award is in the form of a rose - a flower of notable significance in Brampton's history.
•  For over 100 years, Brampton was the largest producer of flowers in the British Empire, and at the height of production, greenhouses in Brampton produced over 6 million roses yearly.
• The Award is presented annually at the Mayor's Gala. 
•  In 2005 the Gala raised just enough funds to purchase a 9’ Steinway grand piano for the Rose Theatre.
• Since 2006 the Gala has had net revenue of $150,000 to $250,000 annually and proceeds are directed to numerous groups in the community who self identify and request assistance.