Jake is a well known and much liked member of the Mississauga community. He is a sterling example who works hard for the welfare of others first.

I first got to meet him when he interviewed me for the position of Director for the Carassauga Festival. Jake was one of the founding members of this festival and his hard work paid off in large measure. We have just concluded our 20th annual Festival and it was, by all measures, the best ever. Jake can take a lot of credit for its success.

In the picture is also Lewis Lawrence. He was the 1995 recipient of the same award. Both Dheer and Lawrence worked for the Mississauga Central Lions Club and both of them have done excellent work for our community. Lawrence (ex Mumbai and Margao, Goa) is well known in Mississauga for the success of the Square One Farmer’s Market and work he has done with the Mississauga seniors.

A reception to honour Dheer was held at the Living Arts Centre on May 26. The event was well attended. A special appearance was made by our indefatigable Hazel McCallion, Mayor of Mississauga, and a legend in her own right. She was the 2004 World Mayor finalist for the Americas – an honour which was bestowed on her at the age of 83 years. Also attending were many staff from Rogers, including Dheer’s boss who paid him an excellent tribute. Dheer, a man not known to be lost for words responded with excellent humour.