For Immediate Release
October 23, 2009
Phoenix Ball 2009 Celebrates
|
| MISSISSAUGA, Ont.: With over 700 in attendance, the Mississauga Board of Chinese Professionals & Businesses (CPB) held its 11th annual Phoenix Ball on Sunday, October 18, 2009 at the International Centre in Mississauga to fundraise for The Credit Valley Hospital, the Trillium Health Centre, and the Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation. |
| The theme for this year's gala, "From Mississauga to Shanghai Expo 2010," was selected in recognition of CPB’s pivotal role in fostering economic and cultural ties between the professional and business communities in Mississauga and China. The gala not only built on CPB’s previous success at bridging East and West, it also set the stage for promoting Canadian participation at the upcoming World Exposition in Shanghai. The presence of Mark Rowswell, more commonly known as Dashan and also the Commissioner General for Canada at the Shanghai Expo 2010, created much enthusiasm among the guests for Expo 2010 with his keynote address. His overview of the impressive Canadian pavilion and scale of the Exposition in Shanghai emphasized the infinite possibilities of community building through thoughtful urban planning. Laughter and delight greeted 'Haibao' – official mascot of Shanghai Expo 2010 – as he put in a special appearance, greeting guests and posing for photos |
|
Continuing Phoenix Ball’s tradition of providing excellent entertainment, the glamour of Shanghai was re-created by the powerful performances of Ma-Anne Dionisio and Michael Ciufo who serenaded guests with soulful renditions of musical classics. MCAF singing talent winner, Billy Duong, also impressed with his skillful cover of Chinese favourites. This year, silent auction sales reached a record high and excitement for the live auction was built up by the antic-filled auctioneering of Ron Lenyk and Jake Dheer. The lead items, a weeklong luxury getaway for two to Shanghai, and a Chef's table for 25 guests to dine with Mayor McCallion at the International Centre, garnered raucous bidding – adding to the proceeds for this year's recipients. |
| Based on preliminary calculations, the Ball raised over $185,000 with The Credit Valley Hospital, Trillium Health Centre and the Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation each receiving $10,000 from the proceeds of Phoenix Ball 2009. Judy Yeung, Co-Chair of the Ball, reflected on the evening’s success: "One of the highlights of the evening was definitely hearing 'See you next year!' echoed by so many of our guests and sponsors on Sunday. This is not only a tremendous validation of the success of Phoenix Ball 2009; it is also a strong endorsement of our guests' belief in CPB's community building efforts." |
| Audrey Chiang, CPB’s Chair, echoed these sentiments and added, "Considering the economy during the past year and the Ball’s new venue, we are absolutely thrilled with the generous support of our sponsors, as well as the commitment from our loyal volunteers. I look forward to welcoming everyone back next year." |
|
The winners of the Phoenix Ball Raffle Draw are: 1st Prize: 3-Night Las Vegas Package: Sophia Liao (Ticket No. 02001) 2nd Prize: HDTV Home Entertainment Package: James Ing (Ticket No. 01231) 3rd Prize: Sony Bravia 19” Flat Panel LCD HDTV: Rita Choi (Ticket No. 02628) |
| CPB is a non-profit organization dedicated to linking Chinese Professionals and businesses to advance socio-economic well-being of all residents in Mississauga and the GTA. Launched in May 1998, CPB has become one of the most dynamic and pre-eminent voices for the Chinese professional and business community. |
| For further information, please contact Ida Koh at 905-828-6800. |
| Chinese Press Release |
| Gala Press Release |
