Most progress reports focus on key accomplishments. We have many accomplishments, but just enumerating these doesn't tell the whole story. It doesn't give you a sense of the process that attained these accomplishments. This is what I hope to get across to you in this report - the process that is a very alive thing and which constitutes the burgeoning we are now experiencing.
The Universarium Process
To help you grasp this process, I have chosen a metaphor. I see Universarium right now like a flower garden with many different kinds of flowers. Each flower represents an initiative toward developing Universarium. A few of the flowers, key accomplishments attained, have already blossomed. Others have just been planted and are starting to sprout. Others are at in-between stages on their way to becoming healthy plants. When all the flowers have blossomed into a full garden, it will be the day when the Universarium Travelling Fair is launched for the first time. I want you to know from what follows that this garden is well and truly on its way. And that's because each of you has given of yourself.
Toronto Planning & Development Committee
The first flower to be mentioned has to be the Toronto Planning & Development Committee. This group has worked for a year and accomplished many objectives. On the evening of September 19, it meets to carve its course from now to June, 2006. I emphasize the importance of this group and its commitment. Amongst its other important roles, it is the precursor of a network that will reach into every corner of the Toronto Region, a network that will undergird preparation for, and drive participation in the fair when it is launched. It is this network that will make Universarium a truly local event. Everyone is invited to join the Planning & Development Committee. We work in small teams that focus on tangible six-week tasks. So, even a six-week involvement is helpful.
A Big Toronto "YES"
During the past year, meetings have taken place with 150 people representing all sectors of Toronto's life. The Universarium CD was shown to each person. The project received a huge vote of approval by these people. Virtually every one of them has already helped in some way. These 150 people represent a flower in our garden for sure. But this is a flower that is seeding many other flowers. Let me describe some of these new flowers.