Toronto Blue Jays Opening Game Day Whereas, the Toronto Blue Jays played their first game at then Grant Field in 1977, beating the New York Mets 3-1, and Dunedin has proudly been their Spring Training and Minor League home ever since; and Whereas, Toronto is the only Major League franchise to have only one spring training home and this 42 year partnership and friendship has contributed to the economic well-being of Dunedin, the entertainment of our residents, the athletic development of our children, and the overall quality of life in our City; and Whereas, generations of Canadians have made Dunedin their home away from home, and many visitors have embraced Spring Training; and Whereas, the annual spring training event has greatly contributed to Dunedin’s economy with fans visiting our shops and restaurants; and Whereas, under owner Rogers Communications; Mark Shapiro, President; and Director of Florida Operations and General Manager Shelby Nelson, we hope this trend will continue as major league baseball is very important to Florida, Pinellas County and Dunedin. Now, Therefore, I, Julie Ward Bujalski, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Dunedin, Florida, and on behalf of the entire City Commission, do hereby proclaim Saturday, February 23, 2019 as Toronto Blue Jays Opening Game Day in Dunedin and encourage all citizens of Dunedin to attend spring training games and support the Blue Jays as they begin their journey toward another championship season. .