A guest blog from our newest staff member

Katie Yigitoz with some of the items
she's received from across Canada in recent days.

Have you ever wondered why everyone loves Canada?

Nope! Why would you, it's obvious! Fun loving, peaceful, cowboys at the rodeo, face-offs over Tim Horton’s, the Great White North, Francophone, the best seafood you’ve ever tasted — just a few of the reasons why everyone loves Canada.

 No matter what part of the country you visit, the entire nation has the reputation of being interesting, diverse and unashamedly Canadian.

 And there is one event this year that is sure to celebrate that fact: Red, White & Rouge All Over: The 2012 Rouge Valley Health System Foundation's annual gala.

This year's gala celebrates being Canadian by highlighting the different provinces, territories and communities in a fun way. Each table at the event represents a particular part of Canada and will host packages of information for guests to discover.

I have spent some time getting better acquainted with the country's most popular cities as well as some lesser known regions and I think you will love what I have found! For instance, the City of Selkirk, Manitoba offers a wide range of interesting tourist spots, rich history and friendly people; however, as a guest you will truly understand these sentiments when you browse through their First 100 Years hard cover book, write with a Selkirk pen and watch the Selkirk "Making a Scene" DVD.

Fun facts, exciting attractions, and local wares will give guests an authentic taste of the region of Canada that they are visiting, represented at each of the tables. Be prepared for surprising and satisfying tidbits!

Hey, it’s not our fault we can sing, (the Biebs - Justin Bieber and Celine Dion for example) play sports, (Steve Nash or Leanne Pelosi anyone?) AND raise funds for a worthy cause!

The Gala is supporting the Rouge Valley Health System Foundation’s role in helping to provide the best patient experience and making patients’ time at the hospital as comfortable as possible.

No matter what table you sit at, enjoy the evening learning about new aspects of one unifying concept: We Are Canadian.