One of the soggiest Stampede’s on record certainly didn’t dampen the enthusiasm- nor philanthropic spirit at many an event. Your faithful social scribe put the boots and jeans on for a few last hurrahs-the annual Hays Breakfast and Gibson Energy’s Annual Stampede soiree-both held at Heritage Park.

The former-as dubbed, I believe, by Mayor Naheed Nenshi-“The politicians petting zoo”, was attended by nearly 3,000 business leaders, community advocates-and a plethora of politicians. Over the years, political heavyweights the likes of former Primer Minister Stephen Harper, current Prime Minister Justin Trudeau,  former NDP leader Thoms Mulcair and nearly every MP, MLA and City of Calgary Councillor have attended. No surprise there as the Hays Breakfast is the perfect opportunity to grip and grin with myriad voters-many with sizeable bank accounts.

Spotted at this year’s bash were: hosts with the most, Ret. Sen. Dan Hays and his wife Kathy with Heritage Park’s Alida Visbach; U of C president Elizabeth Cannon with colleague U of C’s general counsel Karen Jackson; CHBA-UDI Calgary Region co-CEO Guy Huntingford and his wife Riina; Highwood Distillers’ Gerry Berkhold and his wife Bev; Calgary Stampede honorary life director Glenn Street; and MLA Richard Gotfried.

Inclement weather the next evening didn’t faze the fun- nor philanthropy at Gibson Energy’s annual fete. This year saw funds raised being directed to BD&P’s Put the Boots to Hunger campaign. Since 2008, the campaign has raised more than $3 million to support Calgarians in need. Gibson’s support came through the BD&P chuckwagon tarp which Gibson purchased for the chuck’s July 12 with driver Gary Gorst. Gibson Energy has been an invaluable member of the community for 63 years. Among those in attendance this night were: hosts with the most, Gibson president and CEO Stew Hanlon, chief commercial officer Doug Wilkins and event organizer and executive assistant Sheila Hellevang; Investor’s Group’s Wale Balogun; Joe Kajakajian; past Gibson Energy president Bob Laidlaw and his wife Esther; Rundle College’s Jessica Kim; Oxbow’s Rick Pineau; Aactive Coin’s Ted Basset; real cowboys and guests of honor, Tyler Harr, Ryan Dirteater, Brady Sims, Chase Outlaw, Cory Wiese and Jim Berry; Calgary Food Bank director Jim Bergeron; and the super Gibson gals Mary-Anne Good, Lillian Alli-Balogun, Launa Rauser, Chris Doncaster, Patti Dalk and Diane Bell.

So enjoy this one last look at Stampede 2016-with a few extra straggler pictures thrown in for good measure. Giddy up and out.

Legendary philanthropist W. Brett Wilson is pictured with his son Russel at the NutAle Fundraiser held at Bottlescrew Bill’s. Wilson joined forces with Bret Hart and yours truly to create unique beers using the surprise ingredient of bull testicles. Each pint of beer was sold for $100 with proceeds going to the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 Postmedia columnist Deborah Yedlin poses for the lens with Ranchmen’ s Club chef extraordinaire Kenneth Titcomb at the Field Law Stampede fete held at the venerable club.

 Cenera partner Glenn Tibbles and his wife Suzanne Devonshire Baker of the architecture firm bearing her name had a wonderful time at the US Consul Independence Day celebration.

 Quebec City deputy mayor Michelle Morin-Doyle (left) is pictured with Air Canada regional sales manager Helene Larway at the Field Law Stampede fete held at the Ranchmen’s Club.

 CIR Realty’s Colleen Standen and her husband, Vital Energy’s Jeff Standen were among the several hundred guests in attendance at the Scott Land Stomp. More than $25,000 was raised for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre at this year’s Stomp.

 Highwood Distillers Gerry Berkhold and his wife Bev were among the thousands of guests in attendance at the Hays Breakfast held July 10 at Heritage Park. The who is who in business and political circles consider the Hays Breakfast a must see and be seen event.

 U of C General Counsel Karen Jackson and U of C president Elizabeth Cannon pose for the lens at the Hays Breakfast held July 10 at Heritage Park. Who was not there would make a much shorter listing as it is estimated more than 3000 guests attended this year.

Guy Huntingford, co-CEO of CHBA-UDI, Calgary region and his wife Riina were among the thousands of guests in attendance at the Hays Breakfast held July 10 at Heritage Park.

 Calgary Stampede honorary life director Glenn Street (left) and MLA Richard Gottfried had a great time at the Hays Breakfast held July 10 at Heritage Park.

 Pictured, from left, at Gibson Energy’s annual BBQ held this year July 11 at Heritage Park, are the Gibson team of Mary-Anne Good, Lillian Alli-Balogun, Launa Rauser, Chris Doncaster, Pati Dalk and Diane Bell. The fab fewer raised funds for the Calgary Food Bank.

 Inclement weather didn’t dampen the attendance-nor dollars raised for Put the Boots to Hunger at Gibson Energy’s annual BBQ held this year July 11 at Heritage Park. Among the celebs in attendance were REAL cowboys- as opposed to we wanna be’s- from left, Tyler Harr, Ryan Dirteater and Brady Sims.

Inclement weather didn’t dampen the attendance-nor dollars raised for Put the Boots to Hunger at the Gibson Energy annual BBQ held this year July 11 at Heritage Park. Among the celebs in attendance were REAL cowboys- as opposed to we wanna be’s- from left, Chase Outlaw, Cory Wiese and Jim Berry.

 Gibson’s annual BBQ held this year July 11 at Heritage Park, was not only lots of fun but philanthropic as well with funds raised supporting the Calgary Food Bank. Pictured, from left are Gibson chief financial officer Doug Wilkins, event manager and executive assistant Sheila Hellevang and Gibson president and CEO Stew Hanlon.

 Gibson’s annual BBQ held this year July 11 at Heritage Park, was not only lots of fun but philanthropic as well with funds raised supporting the Calgary Food Bank. Pictured are Joe Kajakajian (left) and Wale Balogun with Investor’s Group. The pals jokingly referred to themselves as Kim and Kanye-as in Kardashian and West.

 All smiles at Gibson Energy’s annual BBQ held this year July 11 at Heritage Park, are past Gibson president Bob Laidlaw and his wife Esther. Gibson’s has been an invaluable member of the Calgary community for 63 years.

 Pictured, from left, at Gibson Energy’s annual BBQ held this year July 11 at Heritage Park, are Rundle College’s Jessica Kim, Oxbow’s Rick Pineau and Aactive Coin’s Ted Basset.

Man it’s tough to remain positive these days. An endless stream of bad news and the world seemingly gone mad make it increasingly challenging to find the sunny side of life. And yet there are all kinds of good news stories out there. One need only look at the outstanding success of the recent W. Brett Wilson annual Garden Party held on the grounds of  Wilson’s Mount Royal estate. That more than $500,00-and counting-was raised for myriad charities with a focus on mental health and well-being is great news that should brighten anyone’s day. Further, for every tweet from the party that included the hashtag #OMGP, Wilson and his family donated $10-to a maximum of $100,000 for the United Way, Fort McMurray in aid of those affected by the horrific wildfires this spring.

Each year, Wilson covers the entire cost of the fab fete with guests donating- rather than purchasing a ticket. It’s estimated that nearly 1,000 guests attended and funds raised will benefit: the Canadian Mental Health Association-Calgary; Juno Foundation; Calgary Counselling Centre; Wood’s Homes; Silver Linings Foundation Calgary; Dare to Care; EDSNA (Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta); and the Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Who was not there would make a much shorter listing as le tout Calgary attended including: Wood’s Homes’ Lindsay Bear; Calgary Counselling Centre’s Jenna MacDonald and Cathy Keough; Corkscrew Media and The Vintage Fund’s Scott Henuset and his wife Suzanne; Eye Health Centres’ head turner Diana Monea; artist and actor Chris Tutty with Terri-Lynn Heywood; Volker Stevin Canada’s Fred Desjarlais; John and Donna Ferrara-Kerr; Counc. Joe Magliocca; Melissa Best and her daughter Julia Best; Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre executive director Pam Heard; renowned country musician Jake Mathews; Calgary Herald deputy editor Monica Zurowski with her niece Mackenzie DePatie; Calgary Health Trust board member Cynthia Moore; philanthropist Gail O’Brien; renowned urologist Dr. Jay Lee; Calgary Prostate Cancer board member Dr. Shelley Spaner; Tamara Isbister; Super 8’s Marc Staniloff; Jayman BUILT’s Jay Westman; PGIB’s Craig Chandler; and Cawst’s Jim Campbell.

 One of the best parties there is is the annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party. This year’s fab fete raised more than$500,000 for myriad charities with a focus on mental health. Pictured is Lindsay Bear with Wood’s Homes, one of this year’s funding recipients.

Pictured at the annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party are Calgary Counselling Centre’s Jenna MacDonald (left) and Cathy Keough. This year’s fab fete raised more than$500,000 for myriad charities with a focus on mental health. Calgary Counselling Centre was one of the recipients.

 Corkscrew Media and Vintage Fund’s Scott Henuset and his wife Suzanne were among the nearly 1000 guests in attendance at the annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party held recently on the grounds of Wilson’s Mt. Royal estate.

 Eye Health Centres’ Diana Monea pulled out all the fashion stops to attend the annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party held recently on the grounds of Wilson’s Mt. Royal estate.

 Renowned artist and actor Chris Tutty is pictured with Terri-Linn Heywood at the annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party held recently on the grounds of Wilson’s Mt. Royal estate. More than $500,000 was raised for myriad charities with a focus on mental health.

The annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party is a must attend event and his year’s, held recently on the grounds of Wilson’s Mt. Royal estate, was no exception. Pictured, from left, are guests Volker Stevin Canada’s Fred Desjarlais, Donna and John Ferrara-Kerr and Counc. Joe Magliocca. More than $500,000 was raised for myriad charities with a focus on mental health.

 Melissa Best and her daughter Julia were among the nearly 1000 guests in attendance at the annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party held recently on the grounds of Wilson’s Mt. Royal estate.

 Pictured, from left, at the annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party held recently on the grounds of Wilson’s Mt. Royal estate are Calgary Herald deputy editor Monica Zurowski with her niece Mackenzie DePatie, Calgary Health Trust board member Cynthia Moore and philanthropist Gail O’Brien.

 Posing for the lens at the annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party held recently on the grounds of Wilson’s Mt. Royal estate are Tamara Isbister and Dr. Shelley Spaner, Calgary Prostate Cancer board member.

 All smiles at the annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party held recently on the grounds of Wilson’s Mt. Royal estate are Super 8’s Marc Staniloff (left) and Jayman BUILT’s Jay Westman.

Now that’s the way to end a season! Our beloved Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) wrapped its 60th season on a high note with its Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala held recently at the Fairmont Palliser. The flavours of Argentina were presented through a multi-course gourmet meal prepared by the Fairmont culinary wizards with accompanying wines selected courtesy of Willow Park Wines & Spirits’ Peggy Perry and her team. Musical performances from internationally renowned pianist Krzysztof Jablonski and CPO principal trumpet Adam Zinatelli plus amazing live and silent auction items ensured all in attendance had a marvelous evening.

That the event was sold out weeks prior and that there was a waiting list for tickets speaks volumes as to the support our beloved CPO so richly deserves. And it gets even better when one factors in that more than $100,000 was raised and an additional $100,000 in gifts in kind were donated.

Other highlights of the evening included a wine auction in which wine collectors donated parts of their collections. Peggy Perry described the wines as auctioneer extraordinaire Frank Hall of Hodgins Art Auctions fame ensured top dollars were bid. For many, the most coveted auction item this night was a trip for two to South America-donated by Willow Park Wines and Spirits and Pacific Wines and Spirits.

Other guests in attendance this night included: CPO president and CEO Paul Dornian; CPO board chair, DLA Piper managing partner Heather Treacy; Secure Energy’s Brien Perry; Cork & Canvas founders Tibor and Livia Fekete; Filter Boxx’s Janet Yuchem; Brussa Bravo! Legacy Program founder Andrea Brussa; CPO board member and DeBoni New Works Program founders Walt DeBoni and his wife Irene DeBoni; scene makers Patrick and Sharie Hunter; CH Financial’s Jeremy Clark and his wife Elaine; CPO associate conductor Adam Johnson and his wife Christina Bouthillier; avid CPO supporter Judy Kilbourne; CPO director of development Sally Mansour; CPO Foundation’s David Daly; arts supporter Fred Bradley; CPO 34-year veteran musician Michael Hope; Friends of the CPO co-chair Ron Barry and Alexandra Defreitas; CPO board member and terrific emcee this night James Morton; Patricia Hayes; and the delightful Catherine Evamy.

 Willow Park Wines & Spirits’ Peggy Perry and her husband, Secure Energy’s Brien Perry pose for the lens at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala held recently at the Fairmont Palliser. More than $100,000 was raised and an additional $100,000 in Gifts in Kind were donated – all in support of our beloved CPO.

 Pictured at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala in support of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) held recently at the Fairmont Palliser are Cork founders Tibor and Livia Fekete. The Fekete’s have been invaluable supporters of our beloved CPO for decades.

 Walt DeBoni and his wife Irene DeBoni were among the several hundred guests in attendance at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala in support of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) held recently at the Fairmont Palliser . The DeBoni’s founded the CPO’s DeBoni New Works Program.

 An event would not be the same were it not for the attendance of the fabulous Sharie Hunter and her husband Patrick Hunter pictured at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala in support of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) held recently at the Fairmont Palliser .

 Looking decidedly dapper at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala in support of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) held recently at the Fairmont Palliser are CPO board member and emcee this night James Morton (left) with pianist Krzysztof Jablonski.

Pictured, from left, at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala in support of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) held recently at the Fairmont Palliser are avid arts supporters Hodgins Art Auctions’ Frank Hall and his wife Patricia Hayes with Catherine Evamy.

 Pictured, from left, at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala in support of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) held recently at the Fairmont Palliser are CPO president and CEO Paul Dornian, CPO Foundation’s David Daly and avid arts supporter Fred Bradley.

 Among the several hundred guests in attendance at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala in support of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) held recently at the Fairmont Palliser were, from left, CH Financial’s Jeremy Clark and his wife Elaine Clark with Christina Bouthillier and her husband, CPO associate conductor Adam Johnson.

 Pictured, from left, at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala in support of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) held recently at the Fairmont Palliser are 34-year CPO veteran musician Michael Hope, Friends of the CPO’s Alexandra Defreitas and Friends of the CPO co-chair Ron Barry.

All smiles at the Amadeus Cork & Canvas Gala in support of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) held recently at the Fairmont Palliser are Philharmonic Kids founder Judy Kilbourne (left) and CPO director of development Sally Mansour.

It may seem rather odd to talk about water conservation given the monsoonal conditions we’ve experienced for much of July. The month was the wettest in 89 years and saw nearly 200 millimetres of precipitation.  The city is looking beautifully green. Lush lawns. Full rivers. Standing water in low-lying areas. Yellowing leaves on annuals is a telltale sign of  too much moisture. Aphids are prolific. So too slugs. And mushrooms are popping up in the lawn. Does this mean then that we should not be water-wise gardeners? In a word, no.

Water is the giver of life and should be preserved at all costs. One need look no further of the disastrous consequences of water wastage than what has happened in much of California. I’ve never quite understood the merits of vast swaths of luxurious green lawns and golf courses in places like Palm Springs, for example. Certainly it’s gorgeous to look at. But in the desert? And don’t even get me started on Vegas. Have you seen Lake Mead at the mouth of the Hoover Dam recently? Sure, only 20 per cent of California is now designated severe in terms of drought, but it only takes one winter with little snow pack and a dry spring for that number to soar. We experienced one of the driest winters on record-and an astoundingly early spring. Precipitation in the months of February, March and April was negligible. That July was a record-setter for moisture is — on balance — actually not a bad thing.

Consider these sobering facts: only one half of one per cent of the water on the planet is drinkable; more than one billion people do not have access to clean drinking water; it is estimated more than four thousand people die every day from water-borne diseases; the majority of the world’s lakes are polluted; more than 60 per cent of drinkable water consumption is used on lawns and gardens.

It is predicted fresh water, after oil, will be the next invaluable commodity. Countries could to go war over the giver of life.

Lawns are the worst offender when it comes to water usage/wastage.  An eight by 12 metre lawn requires 38,000 litres of water per summer to keep it green!  If a gorgeous, lush lawn is simply something you cannot live without, be mindful of the following: your lawn only needs 2.5 centimetres of water per week (this includes rainfall); water early in the morning and never in the heat of the day nor when it’s windy; water slowly as opposed to a fast dousing as slow is the way to go resulting in the water seeping down to the roots; mow often and mow high as scalping creates thirsty roots, thereby requiring more moisture. Leave grass clippings on the lawn as this will provide mulch and reduce evaporation.

Perhaps removing even just a portion of your lawn and replacing it with water-wise plants is the way to go. Shrubs not requiring a great deal of moisture include:  cotoneaster; potentilla; wild rose; lilac; and spirea, to name but a few. Perennials fitting the bill include: bellflower; cornflower; dianthus; gaillardia; globe thistle; day lily; poppy; yarrow; golden marguerite; coreopsis; cranesbill; and sedum. Grasses and ground covers to consider include: hens-and-chicks; speedwell; tufted hair grass; bottlebrush grass; dwarf common juniper; and Lamb’s ears.

Tips for August gardening

1. If lobelia in your containers is looking rather sad (which it no doubt is with all the rain), give it a severe haircut. With the proper conditions, you should get more bloom right through the first frost.
2. Cut delphinium down by about half to encourage another flush. The second flowering will not be anywhere near as robust as the first however.
3. Do not use fertilizers with nitrogen on trees and perennials from now until the end of the season as this will encourage new growth. Nitrogen is the first number on fertilizers.
4. Perennials and many annuals are a steal at garden centres these days. Heck, if you can pick up a hosta for less than 4 bucks, go for it.
5. Two products you cannot live without include Rage Plus and Pure Spray Green. The former is an organic fertilizer (0-0-6) and the latter is a horticultural mineral oil designed for use as an insecticide and fungicide.
6. Thanks to reader B. Gristwood for sharing the following. “I’ve had lily beetles for several years and was planning on removing them all however my mom made a spray from boiled and strained rhubarb leaves. It worked! Sprayed a few times and they’re gone. The lily I missed got eaten.”

Golf Tournament Raises More than $1 Million is not a headline your apt to have seen recently-nor will see anytime in the near future. Unless the tournament is the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament held at Priddis Greens. Now in its third year, the must-attend tournament has raised $2.4 million for medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital- more than $1 million this year alone. Given the economic challenges we are all facing, creating an event with such an outstanding outcome is incredible indeed. Yet, when you have captains of industry the likes of Plains Midstream Canada CEO Dave Duckett and Jayman BUILT chairman and CEO Jay Westman as the tournament co-chairs/presenting sponsors, one can understand how such a magnificent milestone would be achieved. Last year, Westman threw out a challenge to Duckett to determine which industry was tops. Real Estate or Energy. For the second year in a row, Real Estate took top honours and the coveted green jackets which were awarded this year to: Ian Anderson Team on the Raven Course; and Scotia Wealth Management Team on the Hawk Course.

Even the weather gods smiled on the tournament as one of the few days of glorious sunshine all summer ensured a marvelous day on the links for all. VIP’s gathered on a previous evening at Barcelona Tavern to bid on auction items, sup, sip, see, be seen and generally get into the philanthropic-and competitive spirit. For many, the highlight was the tournament itself which featured:  amazing hole-in-one prizes (think $500,000 towards your Jayman BUILT home or a trip for four to attend the Grand Prix in Sonoma, CA, to name but a few); one-of-a-kind tee gifts and prizes; fine scotch and dining both on and off the course; terrific entertainment including the surprise of go-go dancers; the Doctor Knows Best Trivia Challenge; and a heartfelt tribute to Plains Midstream vice-president and Rockyview committee member Mike Hallahan who passed away in January.

A small army of volunteers gave of their time and treasure making the Rockyview Invitational one of the most-if not the most-successful fundraising tournaments in the country. So take a well-deserved bow: Deb Baker; Careen Chrusch; Brad Deets; Bobby Libin; Lee Rogers; Dan Silvester; Marc Staniloff; Jenny Then; Megan Starke; Elizabeth Byrne; Calgary Health Trust staff; Plains Midstream Canada staff; Jayman BUILT staff;  and of course, Westman and Duckett.

Kudos as well to specialty sponsors: Crowfoot Wine and Spirits; GLJ Petroleum Consultants; Ryan ULC; Calgary Jewellery; Rogers Insurance; Dilawri Group of Companies; and Jeff Lawrence and his wife Lisa Mundell.

Proceeds from the tournament will purchase much-needed medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital including: an ultrasound; a retroflex colonoscope; a therapeutic gastroscope; and a trans-natal gastroscope.

So enjoy this two-page look at just a few of the terrific folks who supported the tournament. Can’t wait until next year to see if the coveted green jackets will be awarded to Team Energy or Team Real Estate.

 Pictured at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament VIP reception held at Barcelona Tavern recently are Kim and Centron Group of Companies’ Mark Corrigan. The Corrigans joined myriad supporters at Priddis Greens two days later to take part in the record-setting golf tournament that raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. Centron was one of the invaluable sponsors.

 Pictured, from left, at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament VIP reception held at Barcelona Tavern recently are Crowfoot Liquor’s Bob Richardson, Susanne Richardson, DJ Richardson and Perry Fleming. Scores of supporters gathered at Priddis Greens two days later to take part in the record-setting golf tournament that raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. Crowfoot was one of the invaluable tournament sponsors.

Pictured, from left, at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament VIP reception held at Barcelona Tavern recently are AECOM’s Jeremy Stasiuk, Shanlee Oldfield and Jamie Chomack. Scores of supporters gathered at Priddis Greens two days later to take part in the record-setting golf tournament that raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. Such phenomenal success would not be possible were it not for presenting sponsors Jayman BUILT and Plains Midstream Canada.

 Having a great time at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament VIP reception held at Barcelona Tavern are, from left, Ebony Lewis, Karen Westman, Kathy Richardson, Deb Staniloff and Kari Wooldridge. The record-setting golf tournament , held two days later at Priddis Greens, raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital.

Pictured, from left, at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament VIP reception held at Barcelona Tavern are, Karen and Dan Silvester with past Calgary-Glenmore MLA Linda Johnson and her husband Al Johnson. The record-setting golf tournament , held two days later at Priddis Greens, raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital.

 Scores of guests partied hearty at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament VIP reception held at Barcelona Tavern. The record-setting golf tournament , held two days later at Priddis Greens, raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. Pictured are entertainers Rob Hamilton and Candace Lacina.

 The Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens, was an enormous success and raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. Live auction items garnered top dollars -more than $260,000-thanks to the stellar work of auctioneers (from left), Dean Cockburn, Chuck Christensen and Rod Morison.

 Shane Homes’ vice-president Dave Rickett had a great day on the links at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens. The tournament was an enormous success and raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital.

The Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens was an enormous success and raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. Pictured with reason to smile is co-presenting sponsor Jay Westman, Jayman BUILT chairman and CEO (right) with Dr. Mani Kareemi, physician site lead, GI Clinic, Rockyview General Hospital.

 The Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens was an enormous success and raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. Pictured are Postmedia regional vice-president, advertising sales, B.C. and Calgary Paul Batchelor (left) and Ed Huculak, Calgary Herald/Calgary Sun director of sales. The Calgary Herald and Calgary Sun were the tournament print sponsors.

 Pictured, from left, at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens are Brookfield Residential’s Ryan Boyd, Cedarglen Homes president Scott Haggins, Brookfield Residential’s Jason Palacsko and Cedarglen Homes’ Howard Tse. The tournament raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital.

 The Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens was a phenomenal success and raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. Pictured, from left, are golf participants Jamie Kutz, Calgary Stampeders veteran Andre Arlain, Ted Cochrane and Stampeders veteran Scott Deibert.

The Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens was a phenomenal success and raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. Pictured, from left, are golf participants Alvin and Bobby Libin with golf pro Tim Watt, Tommy Forzani and Joe Dutton.

 Pictured, from left, at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens are Morrison Homes’ Al Morrison, golf pro Darryl James, Morrison’s Dave Gladney, Brookfield Residential president and CEO Alan Norris and Brookfield COO Trent Edwards.

 Team ClearStream had a great and winning day on the links at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens . Pictured, from left, are golf pro Jeremy Maher, ClearStream Energy Services CEO John Cooper, Gary Summach, Mark Fox and Paul Bourque.

 Jumping for joy at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens, is Calgary Health Trust Rockyview Development Council’s Feisal Keshavjee. The tournament raised more than $1 million for state-of-the-art equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital

Pictured, from left, at the million dollar plus Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens, are Dr. Mani Kareemi, Physician Site Lead, GI Clinic, Rockyview General Hospital, Deb Goulard, acting senior operating officer, Rockyview General Hospital, Calgary Health Trust board chair Ann McCaig, Nancy Guebert, Chief Program Officer, Cancer Control Alberta and Kathy Schultz executive director of Medicine at Rockyview General Hospital.

 Toasting the success of the million dollar plus Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens, are Crowfoot Liquor’s Don Richardson, Bob Richardson, golf pro Joel Hasselman, DJ Richardson and Perry Flemming. Crowfoot Liquor team placed second on the Hawk Course.

Pictured, from left, at the million dollar plus Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens, are team MasterBUILT comprised of Bob German, Samantha Charlesworth, Rhonda Holland and David Bengert. MasterBUILT team won second place donors on the Raven Course.

 Pictured with more than a million reasons to smile at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens, are, from left, Marc Staniloff, Ric Peterson and Rogers Insurance’s Lee Rogers.

 The recent Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament, held at Priddis Greens, was a phenomenal success raising more than $1 million for medical equipment at the Rockyview General Hospital. The terrific tournie was presented by Plains Midstream Canada and Jayman BUILT. Pictured are the invaluable Plains and Jayman volunteers.

There is something magical about the Banff Centre. The world-class facility is an essential destination for artists across Canada and around the world. Its breathtaking setting provides the optimal combination of environment, mentorship, networking and inspiration. And its success is unparalleled. That 90 per cent of the Centre’s alumni go on to work professionally and nearly 80 per cent earn their living from their art is inspiring indeed. That the Centre’s Artists’ Fund allows participants’ enrolment in myriad programs — because of their talent, not their ability to pay — benefits us all. 

The recent (July 22-24) 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend raised an impressive $1.073 million for the Centre’s Artists’ Fund. The 37th annual was attended by  more than 310 industry, government, arts and culture and community leaders from across Alberta, Canada, the United States and overseas. Not surprising given the Ball Weekend is the best event of the summer, if not the year.

The chock-a-bl0ck weekend kicked off with the Digital & Visual Arts Social followed by Friday Night LIVE’s Performance Showcase featuring fine wine, cuisine and a unique and diverse line-up of performances from top artists. For those who didn’t party-hearty until the wee hours at the Three Ravens Wine Bar, it was up and at it Saturday morning to attend the three Creative Spotlights and Guided Arts Tour. Primping, spa-ing or strolling were the afternoon’s options as guest readied for the fabulous Gala Ball. Highlights of the must-attend gala were numerous including:  performances by Banff Centre faculty including JUNO Award nominee and international trumpet virtuoso, Jens Lindemann who paid  tribute to the late Ken Taylor;  internationally acclaimed Canadian soprano, Adrianne Pieczonka; a four-course feast; fabulous auction and raffle items; dancing to the sounds of the Barry Shaw Band; and a late-night scotch lounge.  

The wondrous weekend concluded with a brunch hosted by Banff Centre president and CEO Janice Price and Ian Findlay followed by afternoon performances at the Shaw Amphitheatre featuring Banff Centre alumni Basia Bulat and Ron Sexsmith, the JUNO award-winning Canadian legend.

Enjoy this two-page look at just some of the guests and performers who made the 37th annual the memorable weekend it was.

 The 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 was a phenomenal success and raised $1.073 million. Pictured at the Friday Night LIVE performance showcase is Cree vocalist and rising star Mariame Hasni.

 Pictured at Friday Night LIVE performance showcase, the kickoff to the fabulous 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend is award-winning dancer Peter Chu who performed Banff Centre Alumnus Crystal Pite’s solo piece, A Picture of You Falling.

 Pictured, from left, at Friday Night LIVE performance showcase, the kickoff to the fabulous 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend are Banff Centre resident artist Shawn Evans, Shaw Communications President Jay Mehr, and his wife art gallerist Viviane Mehr with avid Banff Centre supporters Andrea Brussa and David Lyons.

 Pictured, from left, at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 are Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity President & CEO Janice Price, Brooks and Dodd Consulting’s Tom Dodd, McCarthy Tetrault’s Greg Turnbull, Q.C. with his wife Shirley and Herald scribe Bill Brooks.

 Among the hundreds of guests having a wonderful time at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 were, from left, Banff Centre Leadership Program director Mazi Raz, Banff Centre vice-president arts Carolyn Warren, artist Cris Cran, Denise Clarke, Banff Centre dance director Emily Molnar and Cornelius Verburg.

 Pictured, from left, at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 are Banff Centre Artists’ Fund supporters Brent McLean, Sheila Wappel-McLean, managing director J. Vair Anderson Jewellers Annette Toro-Huber, senior vice-president Kensington Capital Partners Harold Huber, and J. Vair Anderson Jewellers president Ken Anderson.

Among the hundreds of guests having a wonderful time at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 were, from left, Gord Ritchie, Banff Centre development event lead Lynette Markham, trumpet virtuoso Jens Lindemann, Robyn Ritchie, Banff mayor Karen Sorensen and Carsten Sorensen.

 Pictured at Friday Night LIVE Showcase, the perfect kick-off to the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 are RBC Alberta and the Territories regional president Jeff Boyd (left) and corporate director Andrew Wiswell.

 RBC Community Investment manager Jerilynn Daniels and Ghost Lake’s Mike Weinert had a great time at Friday Night LIVE Showcase, the perfect kick-off to the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24.

 Past Banff Centre board of governors chair Margot Kitchen and her husband David had a great time at Friday Night LIVE Showcase, the perfect kick-off to the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24.

 Looking fabulous at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 are, from left, Madam Justice Charlene Anderson and her husband , Banff Centre board chair David Weyant, Q.C. and Anna Weyant who is currently studying at the Rhode Island School of Design. The fab weekend raised more than $1 million for our beloved Banff Centre.

 Pictured, from left, at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 are, Governor General’s Performing Arts chair Douglas Knight, Walrus Foundation executive director Shelley Ambrose and renowned arts supporter D’Arcy Levesque.

 The 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 was an enormous success thanks to myriad supporters including, from left, Jan and Adam Waterous and Carol Bentley.

 The 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 was an enormous success thanks to myriad supporters including, Jo-Anne Caza and Robert Macneill. The wondrous weekend raised more than $1 million.

 The 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 was an enormous success and tons of fun. Myriad entertainment ensured all in attendance had a marvelous time. Pictured is Barry Shaw Band leader Barry Shaw.

 The 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 would not have been the success it was were it not for the support of myriad individuals including Stephen and Mary Lougheed.

 The 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 was fabulously philanthropic and full of incredible entertainment and performances. Pictured are pianist Jeanie Chung with internationally acclaimed Canadian soprano Adrianne Pieczonka.

 Looking fabulous at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 are FirstEnergy’s Jim Davidson with The River’s Anne Clarke.

 Posing for the lens at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend are Banff Centre’s Amy Roseler(left) and Hannah Ordway (right) with ski instructor James Ordway.

Lucky Larry Fichtner gets the beautiful lady sandwich from J. Vair Anderson’s Annette Toro-Huber (left) and his wife Jan Fichtner at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24.

 Contemporary Calgary director and CEO Pierre Arpin poses for the lens with Donna Rooney at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24.

 Having a great time at the 37th Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend held July 22-24 are Fairmont Banff Springs’ Stephen Tait (left) and Banff Centre’s Matt Matheson.

There is perhaps no better example of  the blending of Japanese and Canadian art and culture than the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge. Established in 1967 as part of our Centennial celebrations, the 1.6-hectare (4-acre) oasis of tranquillity was built to recognize contributions made by citizens of Japanese ancestry to the community of Lethbridge and as a symbol of international friendship. The name Nikka Yuko translates  to mean “Japan-Canada friendship.” The garden is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but historic and cultural as well, offering visitors unique experiences the likes of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony,  sensu (folding fans) decorating,  shuji (calligraphy), origami and ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement), to name but a few. The garden even boasts being a Pokeman Go site. 

The genesis for Nikka Yuko began with  Reverend Yutetsu Kawamura, a Canadian Buddhist priest, his wife Yoneko, and Cleo Mowers, publisher of the Lethbridge Herald. Authenticity and quality were Job 1 for  renowned Japanese garden designer and landscape architect Tadashi Kubo, of Osaka Prefecture University. Each element was meticulously chosen to bind the entire garden together in perfect harmony.  Water, trees,  shrubs, rocks, stone lanterns, and myriad structural components all blend together in a seamless, tranquil manner. The tea house, bell tower, azumaya shelter, gates and bridges were built in Kyoto of aromatic wood from yellow cypress. The structures were dismantled, shipped across the ocean to Canada and reassembled-without nails or screws- under the supervision of  five master tradesmen from Kyoto with assistance from Canadian tradesmen.  Each rock, the largest weighing 17 tonnes, was lifted into the garden with a crane, deliberately positioned, considered from all angles, and re-positioned again and again, until it was deemed to be just right.

“I have one of the most beautiful offices in Canada” says executive director Michelle Day, who worked in all aspects of seniors care for more than 15 years prior to joining the Nikka Yuko two years ago.

“I went from senior culture to Japanese culture, “observes Day. Her favourite parts of the garden include the pavilion and the rocks — but it is her staff Day gives the highest praise to. 

“We have had an incredible past two years thanks to my staff and volunteers and the number of visitors has increased by 53 per cent. We expect to see more than 20,000 visitors by the time we close for the season in October.”

And next year, the gardens’ 50th anniversary, should see those numbers handsomely increase as scores of events are being offered in honour of the golden celebration. The prefect precursor to the festivities is being offered Sept. 16 to 18 as the North American Japanese Garden Association and the City of Lethbridge co-host a three-day regional event showcasing presentations and demonstrations facilitated by specialists in the Japanese horticulture, gardening environment and history of the Canadian Midwest. Presentations/demonstrations offered include: Evolution and Maintenance of Nikka Yuko;  Touch & Smell: Lessons on Ikebana (Sogetsu); Nikka Yuko At Night: CNIB Night Steps Charity Walk & Taiko Drumming; The Arts of Stillness: A Unique Journey of the Garden; Objectives of Pruning: Aesthetics, Sustainability & Phenology; Stone Setting Workshop/Nodate & Bonsai Demonstration; and Japanese Horticulture and Stories. The conference wraps with a banquet and art display.

Day encourages all lovers of  beauty to experience the magical tranquillity of  Nikka Yuko.

“If you’ve visited before-even if it was 30 years ago, come back and see us again. The trees have grown.”

Conference information can be found at http://najga.org/Alberta-2016. Nikka Yuko information is available at http://www.nikkayuko.com.

 Sunrise over the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge is a sight to behold. The 1.6 hectare (4-acre) garden was constructed in 1967 as part of Canada’s Centennial celebrations.

 A drive to Lethbridge is a must-do this summer to explore the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden. The breathtaking garden was constructed in 1967 as part of Canada’s Centennial celebrations. Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the spectacularly tranquil piece of heaven on earth.

 This unique rock garden is but one of the many stunning features of the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge. The garden was created in 1967 as part of Canada’s Centennial celebrations.

 Golden sunset bathes the Pavilion at the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge. The Pavilion was constructed in Kyoto, Japan-disassembled and then re-assembled-without the use of nails or screws at the amazing garden in Lethbridge.

The Sobeys Inc. Better Food Fund has a simple message. Eat better. Feel better. Do better. Words to live by, to be sure. Launched in October 2014, the fund supports access to-and the advancement of-better food through donations and partnerships with Canadian charities. More than 900 communities have been supported through the fund. Its biggest initiative in our fair city was the recent Sobeys Better Food Fund Charity Golf Classic held at Priddis Greens.

Invaluable organizations the likes of Free the Children Home Cook Heroes and Special Olympics, to name but two, benefited from the success of the must-attend tournament.

Kudos to all who supported the event and good on you sentiments go out to: platinum sponsors Coca-Cola Refreshments, Kraft Heinz and Kruger Products; emerald sponsors Air Miles, Cyba Stevens, Unilever and Westrow Food Group; diamond sponsors Agropur Dairy Cooperative, Kellogg’s and Maple Leaf; media sponsor Postmedia; and myriad gold, silver and bronze sponsors.

Scores of suppliers, volunteers and golfers gathered in Gasoline Alley at Heritage Park for the registration reception. Those in attendance included: Sobeys Inc. senior vice-presidents Dale MacDonald and Andrew Walker; Special Olympics Alberta’s Shane Stewart; Sobeys Inc. Western Canada operations president Jason Potter; Special Olympics Canada’s Tess Trojan; Unilever’s Martin Payant; Cyba Stevens president and CEO Boyd Stevens; Safeway past president and COO Grant Hansen; Sobeys’ Kray Price and Madison Pinder; Air Miles’ Tracy Sherin, Tom Glover and Ana Hernandez; Kraft Heinz’s Doug Goodwin and Dan Lafrance; Sobeys interim president and CEO Francois Vimard; Renee Hopfner, Sobeys director, community investment; Coca-Cola Refreshments’ Bryan Reynolds and Todd McFarlane; Kruger Products’ Mario Gosselin and Michel Manseau; and volunteers/Sobeys staff extraordinaire Margaret DeGroot, Norm Jonasson, Sandra Dobrowolski and Judy Antigua.

 Pictured at the registration reception held in Gasoline Alley at Heritage Park for the Sobeys Better Food Fun Charity Golf Classic are Sobeys Inc. senior vice-president Dale MacDonald, Special Olympics Alberta’s Shane Stewart and Safeway vice-president Dave Rodych. Special Olympics is but one of the many charities the fund supports.

Pictured, from left, at the registration reception held in Gasoline Alley at Heritage Park for the Sobeys Better Food Fun Charity Golf Classic are Sobeys Inc. senior vice-president Andrew Walker, Special Olympics Canada’s Tess Trojan and Sobeys Western Canada operations president Jason Potter.

 Unilever’s Martin Payant (centre) is joined by Sobeys’ Kray Price (left) and Madison Pinder (right) at the registration reception held in Gasoline Alley at Heritage Park for the Sobeys Better Food Fun Charity Golf Classic. Unilever was one of the invaluable sponsors of the tournament which took place the following day at Priddis Greens.

 Cyba Stevens Management president and CEO Boyd Stevens (left) and past Safeway president and COO Grant Hansen attended the registration reception held in Gasoline Alley at Heritage Park for the Sobeys Better Food Fun Charity Golf Classic. Scores of golfers took to the links the next day at Priddis Greens to participate in the fabulous-and philanthropic- tournament.

 Coca-Cola Refreshments’ Bryan Reynolds (left) and Todd McFarlane pose for the lens at the registration reception held in Gasoline Alley at Heritage Park for the Sobeys Better Food Fun Charity Golf Classic. Coca-Cola was a platinum sponsor of the fabulous-and philanthropic- tournament.

 Kruger Products’ Mario Gosselin (left) and Michel Manseau pose for the lens at the registration reception held in Gasoline Alley at Heritage Park for the Sobeys Better Food Fun Charity Golf Classic. Kruger Products was a platinum sponsor of the fabulous-and philanthropic- tournament.

 The recent Sobeys Better Food Fun Charity Golf Classic was an great success. Such success would not be possible were it not for myriad sponsors and Safeway/Sobeys volunteers. Pictured, from left, are invaluable volunteers Margaret DeGroot, Norm Jonasson, Sandra Dobrowolski and Judy Antigua.

 Pictured, from left, at the recent Sobeys Better Food Fun Charity Golf Classic registration reception are Air Miles’ Tracy Sherin, Tom Glover and Ana Hernandez. Air Miles was one of the tournament emerald sponsors.

 Pictured, from left, at the recent Sobeys Better Food Fun Charity Golf Classic registration reception are Kraft Heinz Company’s Doug Goodwin and Dan Lafrance. Kraft Heinz was one of the tournament platinum sponsors.

Doom and gloom catch-phrases seem to permeate conversations these days. And there is no doubt it is challenging to remain upbeat and positive. Don’t forget though that we are a resilient lot and have weathered many, many economic storms over the years. Sure, the current hurricane may be one of the worst, but have faith. Dynamism and resilience will always win out.

And dynamic and resilient was the common thread for those honoured recently at the Business in Calgary Leaders Awards banquet held at the Metropolitan Centre. Hosts with the most, Business in Calgary brothers Tim and Pat Ottmann ensured all in attendance were well looked after. Jebb Fink did an admirable job as the evening’s emcee and West Canadian Graphics’ George Brookman delivered a stellar key note address.

Scores of individuals were nominated for the Leaders Awards with the challenging task of narrowing it down to just 20  being handled by judges:  MNP’s Trevor Winkler; ATB Financial’s Dan Allen; and David Allwright, Dean, Chiu School of Business. Heartfelt congratulations to the 2016 Business in Calgary Leaders Awards winners: Arlington Street Investments president and CEO Frank Lonardelli; Avi Urban president Charron Ungar; Tiffany Gordon, Cottonwood Golf & Country Club president and general manager; David Aplin Group president Jeff Aplin; Elevated HR Solutions’ Michelle Berg; Dr. Dale Macdonald, clinical director, Elite Sport Performance, The Knee Clinic; Eye Health Centres owner Dr. Diana Mae Monea; Imaginea Energy president and CEO Suzanne West; Ivrnet CEO David Snell; Joey’s Group of Companies CEO Joe Klassen; Kevin Kent, president/founder, Knifewear Inc., Kent of Inglewood; Lynn Donaldson, president, Lynne Donaldson & Associates; Bob Espey, Parkland Fuel president and CEO; Pronghorn Controls president and CEO Yves Tremblay; Studio Y Creations president David Nolan; Summit Kids’ Nancy Klensch; The Beach Advanced Audio Productions president Lanny Williamson;United Group president Danijel Slisko; Vets to Go president Greg Habstritt, and Women in Need Society executive director Laura Dickson.

 Pictured at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony held at the Metropolitan Centre are Business in Calgary’s Tim Ottmann and Kelsi Vescarelli. Those who are tops in their field were honoured this night.

Pictured at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony held at the Metropolitan Centre are Ivrnet Inc. CEO David Snell and his wife Marcia. Ivrnet boasts more than 1 million users of its unique interfaces.

 Pulling out all the fashion stops for the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony are honouree, Eye Health Centres’ Dr. Diana Mae Monea (right) and her daughter Kenda Swanson.

 Joe and Theresa Klassen, founders of the first Joey’s Only Seafood Restaurant, were among those honoured at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony. Joey’s has grown into myriad businesses under the banner Joey’s Group of Companies.

Pictured at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony are honouree Beach Advanced Audio Productions founder and president Lanny Williamson with colleague Kay Cardinal (left) and She Devil Productions’ Diana Liptak (right).

Pictured with emcee Jebb Fink at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony are Getty Images’ Karen Skirten (left) and honouree this night, Cottonwood Golf & Country Club president and general manager Tiffany Gordon.

Pictured at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony are honouree Vets to Go president Greg Habstritt with Air Canada’s Caroline Johnson (left) and Habstritt’s proud wife Raylene Habstritt (right).

All smiles at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony are MNP’s Tony Smith (left) and Trevor Winkler. MNP was the platinum sponsor of the prestigious event.

 All smiles at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony are ATB’s Dan Allen and his wife Gloria Allen. ATB was one of the gold sponsors of the prestigious event.

 Avi Urban president Charron Ungar was one of the honourees at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders dinner and awards ceremony. Joining Ungar is his proud father Avi Amir of Homes by Avi fame.

With one in seven men developing prostate cancer in their lifetime, it’s more important than ever that we all support the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre. The world-class facility relies solely on donor dollars and corporate events to keep its doors open. The centre receives no government funding. Thousands of men-and their families- have benefited from the centre’s extensive programs since it opened its doors in 2010. It’s tragic to think what would happen to these men were the centre not in existence.

So thank goodness then for events the likes of the Priddis Greens Charity Classic. The 2016 Gala Evening and two-day tournament following were held Aug 9-11 at Priddis Greens. Challenging economic times thankfully didn’t dampen support for the 2016 which raised an impressive $325,000. Live and silent auction items, raffle items, free onsite PSA testing in the Man Van, east coast music and food stations and great camaraderie on the links ensured all who participated had a wonderful time.

A big two-thumbs up to classic co-chairs Bas Wheeler and Ross Babcock. And good on you sentiments go out to gala co-chairs Elaine Schmitt and Diana Bon Bernard as well as auction chair Shelley Swirksi. Your gifts of time-and treasure-ensure the Prostate Cancer Centre will continue to provide invaluable services to men and their families for years to come.

Among those enjoying themselves at the 2016 were: past Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC) board members George Doherty and Gareth Morgan; volunteer Lorraine Lenyk; PCC board chair and Bennett Jones partner Jon Truswell; PCC executive director Pam Heard with colleagues Kathleen Langner, Shannon de Vall and Linda MacNaughton; renowned urologists Dr. Eric Hyndman and Dr. Bryan Donnelly; Agrium’s Linda Stevens and Rose Lecky; Royop chairman and CEO Harvey Thal with colleague Mel Foht, president and COO; Volker Stevin’s Kern Briscoe and Mike Festa; Hopewell president and COO Paul Taylor; Diamonds in the Rough team Shelly Norris, Winnie Bezemer, Carolina Oxtoby and Diane Beattie; and Lisanne Babcock.

 The 2016 Priddis Greens Charity Classic held Aug 9 and 10 at Priddis Greens was an enormous success and raised $325,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre. Pictured are the centre’s Kathleen Langner (left) and Shannon de Vall.

 All smiles at the 2016 Priddis Greens Charity Classic Gala Evening held Aug 9 at Priddis Greens are George Doherty (left) and Gareth Morgan. The tournament was an enormous success and raised $325,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre. Doherty and Morgan served on the board of the centre for many years.

 Showing off the incredible raffle times up for grabs at the 2016 Priddis Greens Charity Classic Gala Evening held Aug 9 at Priddis Greens is volunteer extraordinaire Lorraine Lenyk. The tournament raised $325,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 All smiles, from left, at the 2016 Priddis Greens Charity Classic Gala Evening held Aug 9 at Priddis Greens are, from left, Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC) executive director Pam Heard, PCC board chair Jon Truswell and PCC board member Dr. Shelley Spaner. The tournament was a great success and raised $325,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 Pictured, from left, at the 2016 Priddis Greens Charity Classic Gala Evening held Aug 9 at Priddis Greens are, gala co-chairs Diana Bon Bernard and Elaine Schmitt with auction chair Shelley Swirski. The gala and golf ournament raised an impressive $325,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 Pictured, from left, at the 2016 Priddis Greens Charity Classic Gala Evening held Aug 9 at Priddis Greens are, team Diamonds in the Rough Shelly Norris, Carolina Oxtoby, Winnie Bezemer and Diane Beattie. The gala and golf tournament raised an impressive $325,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 Renowned urologists Dr. Eric Hyndman (left) and Dr. Bryan Donnelly enjoyed the 2016 Priddis Greens Charity Classic Gala Evening and golf tournament held Aug 9 and 10 at Priddis Greens.The event raised an impressive $325,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 Pictured at the 2016 Priddis Greens Charity Classic Gala Evening Aug 9 at Priddis Greens are Agrium’s Linda Stevens (left) and Rose Lecky. The gala and golf tournament held the following day raised an impressive $325,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre. Agrium has been an invaluable supporter of the centre for many years.

 Pictured, from left, at the 2016 Priddis Greens Charity Classic Gala Evening Aug 9 at Priddis Greens are Royop’s Harvey Thal, Mel Foht, Volker Stevin’s Kern Briscoe and Mike Festa and Hopewell Residential’s Paul Taylor. The gala and golf tournament held the following day raised an impressive $325,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

The mornings are distinctly chilly. And it’s only a matter of time before the landscape is painted with Jack Frost’s black brush. Now before you reach for the gin, consider gardens can be almost as beautiful in the fall and winter as they are in spring and summer. Almost. Take a page from the studied tranquillity and harmony of a Japanese garden, which look amazing all year long. 

“There’s an emphasis on the calm that comes from a Japanese garden’s refined vision of nature. They invite us to slow down, open our perception and change our thinking” says author Kendall H. Brown, professor of Asian art history at California State University Long Beach.

Snow cupped by a pine tree.

If Environment Canada’s predictions are accurate, we’re in for a cold winter, lots of snow and a cool, wet spring. Rather than grumble about the lack of green and flora for the next number of months, shift your thinking to the beauty of  simplicity. The “consciousness of seasonality,” as Brown calls it, can bring myriad benefits to one’s health and mood.  “Hard science backs up that people feel and do better when connected with nature,” says Brown.  Even in the dead of winter. A birch tree or Amur maple set against the backdrop of a fresh snow fall is beautiful, to be sure. Or a meticulously pruned mugho pine as the focal point in a frozen landscape is inspiring indeed. Ornamental grasses, to my eye, look wonderful all year long.

“The definition of a garden is a bounded landscape,” observes Brown. “A Japanese garden borrows scenes. A mountain in the distance, for example. Simplicity and space between things create a sense of stillness and stillness is certainly a term synonymous with winter.

Winter is also the perfect time to study the architectural elements within the garden. Trees will have shed their leaves so the form and structure can be observed without ’embellishment’. Pruning can be undertaken almost anytime, except birch and maples that should be done in early fall rather than mid-winter. Coniferous trees are ideal to shape and prune in winter. And Brown’s bestselling book Quite Beauty. Japanese Gardens of North America (Tuttle) is certain to inspire the artist within us all.

Fall is an ideal time to plant trees, shrubs, perennials and of course, spring-flowering bulbs. Sooner rather than later is the mantra as plant material need to develop strong and healthy roots before the soil freezes. And in keeping with the Japanese garden vibe, err on the side of less is more. I choose to not cut back most perennials (delphinium and statice, for example) as they provide winter interest and will collect snow. Containers can look lovely with a simple ornamental kale or fall-flowering ‘mum’ being the single element. “Harvest” red twig dogwood branches, rose hips and cedar bows for winter container plantings.

This brings the gardening pages to a close for the season but we will be back next spring. And as always, I would like to close by sharing this inspiring poem:

The kiss of the sun for pardon

The song of the birds for mirth

One is nearer to God’s heart in the garden

Than anywhere else on earth

Dorothy Gurney

1858 – 1932

The statistics are sobering indeed. It is predicted one in seven men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime. And yet if caught early, prostate cancer is not a death sentence. That is why is so imperative that men-starting at age 40-certainly by 50-get their PSA checked. PSA is a simple blood test. The test could save your life. And thanks to the invaluable services offered at  the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre, thousands of men have achieved successful health outcomes. The centre relies solely on donor dollars and does not receive any government funding. That is why events such as the Remington Charity Golf Classic-now in its ninth year-are so vital to the centre and its clients.

More than $3 million has been raised since the tournament’s inception-$400,000 this year alone. A rather blustery and chilly day certainly didn’t dampen spirits at the 9th annual held Aug 17 at Stewart Creek. Terrific live and silent auction items, a raffle of a seven-night experience at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Resort with a Resort Gift Card and airfare for 2,  the Birchwood shoot-out and  fabulous food ensured all who participated had a wonderful day on the links. Kudos to auctioneer Danny Hooper on garnering top dollars for the live auction items.

And good on you sentiments go out to Remington Charity Golf Classic founders-the two Randy’s- Magnussen and Remington for your invaluable gifts of time and treasure. Two thumbs up as well to the tireless volunteer committee: Cody Clayton, Darwin Flathers, Carl Cheverie, David Routledge, Alex Wong and Garry Holbrook.

Others participating in the SRO tournament included: Prostate Cancer Centre executive director Pam Heard with colleague Linda MacNaughton and past board chair Mike Wilson; renowned urologist Dr. Eric Hyndman; Colliers International Calgary president Randy Fennessey; Birchwood president Jeff Cheverie (and here, I must salute Jeff’s father Carl who won the $5K Birchwood shoot-out and promptly donated his winnings to the centre); Oxford Properties’ Paige Magnussen and Christine White; Lafarge Canada vice-president/general manger Bob Spence; and Marmot Construction’s Todd Gardiner.

 Marmot Construction’s Todd Gardiner (left) and Lafarge Canada vice- president/general manager Bob Spence had a great day on the links at Stewart Creek Aug 17 participating in the Remington Charity Golf Classic. The SRO tournament raised an impressive $400,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

The Remington Charity Golf Classic held Aug 17 at Stewart Creek was an enormous success and raised $400,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre. Pictured with the Birchwood shoot out finalist listing is Stewart Creek’s Sarah Horne.

 The Remington Charity Golf Classic has been a god-send for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre and has raised more than $3 million since its inception 9 years ago. Pictured at the 9th annual held Aug 17 at Stewart Creek are tournament founders Randy Magnussen (left) and Remington’s Randy Remington.

 Among those taking part in the hugely successful 9th annual Remington Charity Classic held Aug 17 at Stewart Creek were renowned urologist Dr. Eric Hyndman (left) and Colliers International Calgary president Randy Fennessey. The tournament raised $400,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 The 9th annual Remington Charity Classic held Aug 17 at Stewart Creek was a great success and raised $400,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre thanks in part to Carl Cheverie (left) who donated his $5,000 Birchwood shoot-out winnings to the centre. Joining Cheverie are his son, Birchwood president Jeff Cheverie and tournament committee member Alex Wong. Birchwood put up the $5K prize.

All smiles at the 9th annual Remington Charity Classic held Aug 17 at Stewart Creek are Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre past board chair Mike Wilson and centre executive director Pam Heard. The tournament was a great success and raised $400,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 All smiles at the 9th annual Remington Charity Classic held Aug 17 at Stewart Creek are tournament co-founder Randy Magnussen with his daughter Paige Magnussen (left) and Oxford Properties’ Christine White.

Readers will recall your faithful social scribe has often opined if you want a successful event, best get the ladies behind same. And no where is this more evident than the Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS). These dedicated group of ladies have been opening doors for children since 1908. Events as varied as the CHAS Holiday Luncheon and Annual Bridge Luncheon to rummage sales, Easter teas, fashion shows and the hugely successful annual golf tournament-now in its 34th year, have raised countless funds for myriad organizations.

Since its inception, the tournament has raised more than $4.9 million for use at the Alberta Children’s Hospital and other community charities. CHAS has received sustained support for its golf tournament from the Borger family for 29 years and presently from Rob Laidlaw and Acumen Capital Partners through his annual Best Stampede Party. And this year’s tournament, held Aug 18 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club, was an SRO success with 144 golfers participating all the while raising more than $200,000 for the purchase of High Definition (HD) surgical cameras and other projects assisting youth in our community.

Tournament co-chairs Jennifer Foss and Sabina Bahan-and their amazing volunteer committee should be understandably proud of the success of this year’s tournament. Hats off to committee members: Jan Bellis; Evelyn Bowie; Jennifer Brookman; Patricia Brotherhood; Jer Cox; Susan Desbarats; Gail Damberger; Liette Desrochers; Dianne Ferguson; Mary Fong; Sandy Gibson; Linda Jennings; Bonnie Kucey; Heather Lancaster; Anna Maier; Megan Mayell; Linda Middlemiss; Geri Moon; Deborah Ruste; Toshimi Sembo; Marg Traboulsi; and Dorothy Woolstencroft.

Others supporting the tournament this day included: Jean Abt; Betty Stein; Jeanette King; Verna Pryce; Marlie Mair; Carole Brawn; Muriel Johnson; Patricia Rossiter; RBC Foundation’s Tom Foss and Cal Malhiot; CEDA International CEO Kevin Fleury and board chair Bill Sembo; Thomas Jeffery Men’s Wear’s Len Hamm and Tim Beggs; Brinkhaus Jewellers’ Norbert and Kim Brinkhaus; Stanley Security’s Ernie Harty; and Ed Williams Men’s Wear’s Ed Williams.

 The 34th annual CHAS Charity Classic held Aug 18 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club was a great success. Pictured, back row from left, are invaluable CHAS members/volunteers Dianne Ferguson, Jean Abt, Betty Stein and Muriel Johnson. Front row, from left, are Carole Brawn, Jeanette King, Verna Pryce and Marlie Mair. The SRO tournament raised $200,000.

 The 34th annual CHAS Charity Classic held Aug 18 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club was a great success thanks in large part to the invaluable support of Rob Laidlaw and his company Acumen Capital Partners who generously donated proceeds from its annual Stampede Party for the seventh consecutive year. Joining Laidlaw, from left, are CHAS volunteer coordinator Margaret Ann Traboulsi, CHAS president Toshimi Sembo and CHAS vice-president Patricia Rossiter.

 Pictured at the 34th annual CHAS Charity Classic held Aug 18 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club are RBC Foundation’s Tom Foss (left) and Cal Malhiot. RBC was an invaluable supporter of the tournament.

 Pictured at the 34th annual CHAS Charity Classic held Aug 18 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club are Ed Williams (left) of Ed Williams Men’s Wear fame and Stanley Security’s Ernie Harty. and Cal Malhiot.

 Pictured at the 34th annual CHAS Charity Classic held Aug 18 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club are CEDA International CEO Kevin Fleury (left) and board chair Bill Sembo.

 The 34th annual CHAS Charity Classic held Aug 18 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club was a great success raising $200,000. Pictured are invaluable supporters Norbert and Kim Brinkhaus. Brinkhaus Jewellers has provided the main raffle item of a Rolex watch for many, many years.

 Pictured at the 34th annual CHAS Charity Classic held Aug 18 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club are Thomas Jeffery Men’s Wear’s Len Hamm (left) and Tim Beggs.

I’ve always liked the adage “Keep calm and carry on”. But “Never give up”, to me, has more resonance. And the latter is the mantra of the Wood’s Homes Foundation. It’s 2016 Never Give Up Gala!, held Sept 10 at the Hyatt, was an SRO success (the gala was one of the rare sold-out events seen recently) and was attended by 450 guests. Wood’s Homes offers almost 40 programs for children and families-all with preventative strategies to offer tools, teach resilience and help manage all aspects of mental health.

Highlights of the gala were numerous -not the least of which was an heartfelt speech by Claire Parker, a mother of two boys- Jake and Drew Rempel- who came to Wood’s Homes Whole Family Treatment Program through the Community Resource Team, a 24/7 crisis counselling service. Her family’s story of struggle and courage drew a standing ovation. Whole Family Treatment is unique because the entire family participates in treatment over 3-5 days, or a series of weekends. The program, a one-of-a-kind in Canada, focuses on crisis intervention and prevention. Other highlights included: emcee James Cunningham-stand up comedian and host of Food Network Canada’s and Cooking Channel US’s Eat St.; cocktail and dinner music  provided by Pierce Clarke; Calgary singer Georgia’s performance; dancing until the wee hours to the Dino Martinis; and terrific live and silent auction items and raffles. And here I must salute WestJet on increasing it’s generous support by adding in two additional flights anywhere WestJet flies during the live auction. WestJet has been an invaluable supporter of Wood’s Homes for many years. Other salutations go out to: gala co-chairs Ellie Smith and Kata Acheson; Be Innovative sponsors Becker, Cheng and Charbonneau and RBC; Be Enriched sponsor TD; Be Determined sponsors Imperial and Peter the Plantman; Be Tenacious sponsors Birchcliff Energy and Surge Energy; and Be Persistent sponsor Sun Life Financial.

Others in attendance at the gala included: Robert Hayes, Wood’s Homes Foundation board chair; Dan Dunlop, Wood’s Homes Society board chair; Wood’s Homes CEO Dr. Jane Matheson; The Calgary Foundation’s Emily Nachtigall and Darlene Chrapko; RBC Wealth Management’s Kevin Zimmel, Gwen Becker, Al Block, Kent Parlee and Mike Macoun; Wood’s Homes Foundation executive director Peter Wittig; Oliver Capital Partners founder and president Margot Micallef; RGO’s John Sabotka; Walton International Group’s Kate Kaminski; legendary artist Jason Gogo; WestJet’s Richard Bartrem; Safeway/Sobeys Renee Hopfner; TD’s Glen Dawson, Tracey Schmitz and Jon Cornish; Wood’s Homes’ Sylvia MacIver and Karen Karpuk; Carrie Clarke and Finlay Brodylo; and  Rob and Wendy Voelk, winning bidders on “Up the East Coast” trip to PEI.

 The Wood’s Homes Foundation Never Give Up Galal held Sept 10 at the Hyatt was an SRO success and raised roughly $150,000 for the invaluable organization. Picture are foundation chairman Robert Hayes (left) and Society chairman Dan Dunlop.

 Among those in attendance at The Wood’s Homes Foundation Never Give Up Gala held Sept 10 at the Hyatt were Wood’s CEO Dr. Jane Matheson and legendary Calgary Stampeders alumni Jon Cornish who is now with TD.

 The Wood’s Homes Foundation Never Give Up Gala held Sept 10 at the Hyatt was an enormous success thanks in large part to sponsorship from TD. Pictured, from left, are gala emcee this night James Cunningham with TD’s Jon Cornish, Tracey Schmitz and Glen Dawson.

 The Calgary Foundation’s Emily Nachtigall (left) and Darlene Chrapko were among the 450 guests in attendance at the SRO Wood’s Homes Foundation Never Give Up Gala held Sept 10 at the Hyatt.

 The Wood’s Homes Foundation Never Give Up Gala held Sept 10 at the Hyatt was an enormous success thanks in part from RBC Wealth Management sponsorship. Pictured, from left are RBC’s Kevin Zimmel,Gwen Becker, Al Block and Mike Macoun.

 Pictured, from left, at The Wood’s Homes Foundation Never Give Up Gala held Sept 10 at the Hyatt are  Foundation executive director Peter Witting, Oliver Capital Partners founder and president Margot Micallef and RBC Wealth Management vice-president Kent Parlee.

 Pictured, from left, at The Wood’s Homes Foundation Never Give Up Gala held Sept 10 at the Hyatt are RGO’s John Sabotka, Walton International’s Kate Kaminsky and legendary artist Jason Gogo.

 All smiles at The Wood’s Homes Foundation Never Give Up Gala held Sept 10 at the Hyatt are Wood’s Homes’ Sylvia MacIver(left) and Karen Karpuk. The event was an SRO success and was attended by 450 guests.

WestJet’s Richard Bartrem and Safeway/Sobeys Renee Hopfner were among the 450 guests in attendance at The Wood’s Homes Foundation Never Give Up Gala held Sept 10 at the Hyatt.

More than four hundred philanthropic souls gathered Sept 10 in BMO Centre’s  Palomino Room to show they have heart. Big time. The  3^rd annual The Beat Goes On Gala, in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, an entity of Alberta Health Services and the University of Calgary, raised a staggering $800,000 for the institute’s adult congenital heart disease transition program. The program  supports patients born with heart defects as they advance from adolescence to adulthood and to support cardiovascular biomedical engineering research in a variety of areas from imaging to electrical modelling.  Since the gala’s inception, more than $2.75 million has been raised for cardiovascular care and research in southern Alberta.

“The community’s giving spirit never ceases to amaze me and it was seen this evening at The Beat Goes On Gala,” said Ken King, gala co-chair and president/CEO, Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation. “This event has proven to be integral to the ongoing advancement of heart health research and care delivery, and through the community’s generosity the gala can continue this legacy of excellence.”

Gala co-chair Tony Dilawri of the Dilawri Group of Companies fame added “As a former cardiac patient, I can attest firsthand that Calgary has some of the best cardiac expertise in the world. The folks at the Libin Institute are world-class and the community should be proud to know that through their support, they are enabling greatness.”

Wonderful musical performances from nine year old prodigy Harry Knight, who played during dinner and a concert from JUNO-Award winner Jim Cuddy and his band, The Jim Cuddy Trio, ensured all in attendance had a wonderful evening.

Others in attendance this night included: U of C president Elizabeth Cannon with colleague Nuvyn Peters; AHS president and CEO Dr. Verna Yiu;  Institute founding donor Alvin Libin and his son Bobby; Calgary Health Trust (CHT) board chair Ann McCaig and CHT CEO Jill Olynyk; Institute director Dr. Todd Anderson and colleague Al-Karim Walli; Stream Asset Financial’s Aaron Bunting; BMO Nesbitt Burns’ Katelyn Krueger; Stonebridge Merchant Capital’s Michael Lang; Haskayne School of Business dean Jim Dewald and his wife Chris; Trico Group CEO Wayne Chiu and his wife Eleanor; Jeff and Marilyn McCaig; Cal and Edith Wenzel; Calgary Stampede Foundation vice-president Sarah Hayes; Boston Consulting Group’s Ross Middleton and This Calgary Life founder and editor Elizabeth Middleton; Kinder Morgan’s Leila Eveleigh; Shaw Communications’ Charles Robison; event producer, The Event Group’s Dave Howard; and others pictured at right.

The third annual the Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta held Sept 10 in the Palomino Room in the BMO Centre was a stunning success raising nearly $800,000 bringing the three year total to $2.75-million which will go towards cardiovascular care and research in southern Alberta. Pictured at the great gala, from left, are Cicely Patrick, Shairole Henchall, Malcolm Albery, Stuart Libin and Shahr Savizi.

 Pictured, from left at the hugely successful third annual The Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta are Dr. Todd Anderson, Tony VandenBrink, Sandi VandenBrink and Kay VandenBrink.

 The third annual The Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta was a huge success and raised nearly $800,000. A special musical performance by The Jim Cuddy Trio and Harry Knight (pictured) ensured all in attendance had a wonderful evening.

 The third annual The Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta was a huge success and raised nearly $800,000. A special musical performance by The Jim Cuddy Trio ensured all in attendance had a wonderful evening. Pictured is the legendary Cuddy.

 The third annual The Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta was a huge success and raised nearly $800,000. Pictured at the gala held Sept 10 in the Palomino Room at the BMO Centre are legendary philanthropist and Calgary Health Trust board chair Ann McCaig with Calgary Stampede Foundation vice-president Sarah Hayes.

 Among the VIPs in attendance at the third annual The Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta were, from left, U of C’s Nuvyn Peters, AHS president and CEO Dr. Verna Yiu and U of C president Elizabeth Cannon.

Pictured, from left, at the hugely successful The Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta are Stream Asset Financial’s Aaron Bunting, BMO Nesbitt Burns’ Katelyn Krueger and Stonebridge Merchant Capital’s Michael Lang.

 Renowned child advocate Sheldon Kennedy is pictured with Katrina Olson-Mottahed, director of CANIFFF at The Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta.

 Pictured, from left, at The Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta are Haskayne School of Business dean Jim Dewald and his wife Chris with Trico Homes’ Eleanor and Wayne Chiu.

 Pictured with reason to smile at the hugely successful The Beat Goes On Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta are Alvin Libin and his son Bobby. Alvin and his late wife Mona were the founding donors of the institute.

 Guests pictured having a great time at the hugely successful The Beat Goes on Gala in support of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta from left are Sue Adams, the institute’s Al-Karim Walli and Robi McManes-Kisel.

“Without heroes and champions, we are all just plain people” was the lasting message delivered by Alberta Champions Society president and founder Gordon Hoffman, Q.C. at the Field of Fame Five unveiling at Heritage Park Sept 15. We are truly blessed to live in a city-and province- that has no shortage of those who have made significant contributions in shaping and building our community. And recognizing these amazing individuals is what the Field of Fame is all about.

Scores of guests gathered at Heritage Park on a glorious summer’s day to celebrate the fifth installation of steel ‘sheaves of wheat’ reaching 13 feet in the air. Each sheave bears the name of the most recent Albertan honoured.

The recent installation-others are located in Jamieson Place, Harley Hotchkiss Gardens, Hyatt Regency Hotel and McDougall Centre- paid tribute to these six outstanding individuals: Wilf Carter; Dr. Clara Christie Might; Harry Hays; Harley Hotchkiss; Sam Livingston; and Chief Walking Buffalo. These champions join other “Field of Famers’ the likes of: R.B. Bennett; Grant MacEwan; Arthur Smith; Frederick C. Mannix; Peter Lougheed; Nellie McClung; and Annie Gale, to name but a few.

Highlights of the ceremony were numerous including: greetings from  Chief of the Chiniki Nakoda Nation Aaron Young, MLA Anam Kazim, Chief Darcy Dixon,  Chief of the Bearspaw First Nation and society director John Currie, among others. Others in attendance this day included: Dan Hays and his wife Kathy and his daughter Carol Hays; Rebecca Hotchkiss and her family Richard, Jeff and  Sheryl Hotchkiss and Brenda(Mackie); Eva and JJ Hoffman; Livingston descendants Rory and Dusty Wilson and Aaron Ferris; Rosie Crawler and Narvil Kooteney- great, great grandchildren of Chief Waling Buffalo; past Calgary mayors Al Duerr and Rod Sykes; Renoir Management’s Tim Down; Alberta Champions director Ruth Ramsden-Wood who recognized the winners of the student contest for grades 4-9; MLA’s Dave Rodney, Ric McIver and Sandra Jansen; and society directors Gordon Olsen, Connie Ostermann and Ian Beddis.

 A glorious late summer day proved the perfect setting for Alberta Champions Field of Fame Five installation at Heritage Park. The late, great Harry Hays was one of six honourees recognized this day. Pictured, from left, are Kathy Hays and her husband, Sen. (Ret.) Dan Hays, son of Harry Hays and Carol Hays, Dan’s daughter.

 Legendary philanthropist and business tycoon Harley Hotchkiss was one of six honourees recognized at Alberta Champions Field of Fame Five installation at Heritage Park. Pictured, from left, are Sheryl Hotchkiss and her husband, Harley’s son Jeff Hotchkiss, Harley’s widow Rebecca Hotchkiss and Harley and Rebecca’s daughter Brenda Mackie.

 The late, great Chief Walking Buffalo was one of the six legendary Albertans honoured at the Alberta Champions Field of Fame Five installation at Heritage Park Sept 15. Pictured are the Chief’s great, great grandchildren Rosie Crawler and Narvil Kootenay.

 The late, great Sam Livingston was one of the six legendary Albertans honoured at the Alberta Champions Field of Fame Five installation at Heritage Park Sept 15. Pictured, from left, are Champions president and founder Gordon Hoffman, Q.C. with Livingston descendants Rory and Dusty Wilson and Aaron Ferris.

These are three words you never want to hear: “You have cancer,” only to be followed by, “Your position has been downsized.”

Barb Montgomery heard these exact words just over a year and half ago. “When I was let go, I lost my health insurance, for myself and for my son. I lost my life insurance,” the now cancer-free 51-year-old said. Imagine what you would do were you dealt the triple whammy of cancer – and no job – and minimal financial resources?

Thank goodness then for the invaluable Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation. As the name implies, the foundation assists financially strapped women and men with breast cancer. Since its inception more than 20 years ago, more than $2 million has been raised to help those in need – whether covering day-to-day expenses, rent, groceries, medication or what have you. Its signature fundraising annual luncheon, held Sept. 12 at the Hyatt, was an SRO success and was sold out months prior. Montgomery’s passionate video address left many in the audience in tears – a tough act to follow for keynote speaker and renowned Herald business columnist Deborah Yedlin. Yet Yedlin’s powerful message of hope and resiliency ensured all in attendance were uplifted and greatly inspired.

Among the hundreds of guests in attendance were: Wings of Hope board chair Alicia Quesnel; luncheon chair Rhonda Aiello; eight-year double mastectomy survivor Catherine Hudson; Wings of Hope founder Diana Kalef; Sara Brodksy with gal pal Dorothy Hanson; past luncheon chair Loretta Tetarenko; SemCAMs’ Chris Dutcher and Kalene Anderson; Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP’s Maureen Killoran, Q.C. and Shawn Denstedt, Q.C.; pba land & development CEO Patricia Phillips; Re/Max’s Margot Langdon; Burnet, Duckworth & Palmer LLP’s Annette Lambert and Jody Wivcharuk; ARC Resources’ Jodi Wilson; RBC’s Kim Benter; Susan Desbarats; Cheryl Pynn; Jill Twa; and terrific emcee this day, former Calgary Stampeder offensive lineman Bruce Covernton and current owner and president of Big Fish Staffing.

 Pictured, from left, at the SRO Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon held Sept 12 at the Hyatt are Wings of Hope board chair Alicia Quesnel, breast cancer survivor and keynote video presenter Barb Montgomery and luncheon chair Rhonda Aiello. The luncheon featured keynote speaker Herald business columnist Deborah Yedlin.

 Pictured, from left, at the SRO Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon held Sept 12 at the Hyatt are breast cancer survivors Catherine Hudson and keynote video presenter Barb Montgomery . The luncheon has raised more than $1 million since its inception 21 years ago.

 Among the hundreds of guests in attendance at the Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon held Sept 12 at the Hyatt were Dorothy Hanson (left) and Sara Brodsky.

 Pictured, from left, at the SRO Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon held Sept 12 at the Hyatt are Susan Desbarats, past luncheon chair Loretta Tetarenko, Cheryl Pynn and Jill Twa. The luncheon has raised more than $1 million since its inception 21 years ago.

 SemCAMS’ Chris Dutcher and Kalene Anderson were among the hundreds of supporters who attended the Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon held Sept 12 at the Hyatt .

 Osler’s Maureen Killoran, Q.C. and Osler co-chair Shawn Denstedt, Q.C. were among the hundreds of supporters who attended the Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon held Sept 12 at the Hyatt . Osler was one of the luncheon’s major sponsors.

 Pictured, from left, at the Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon held Sept 12 at the Hyatt are RBC’s Kim Benter, ReMax’s Margot Langdon and pba land & development CEO Patricia Phillips.

 Pictured, from left, at the Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon held Sept 12 at the Hyatt are Burnet Duckworth & Palmer LLP’s (BD & P) Annette Lambert with colleague Jody Wivcharuk and ARC Resources’ Jodi Wilson. BDP was one of the luncheon’s major sponsors.

 The Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon held Sept 12 at the Hyatt was an SRO success and featured keynote speaker acclaimed Herald business columnist Deborah Yedlin and emcee Bruce Covernton, former Calgary Stampeder and current owner and president of Big Fish Staffing.

He is perhaps the best friend the arts community could hope to have. And he would be D’Arcy Levesque. Levesque held many executive positions with Enbridge-the most recent being vice-president of enterprise communications, brand & community partners, until moving to his new job as the Western chair, Hill & Knowlton Strategies in August. During his storied career with Enbridge, Levesque was instrumental in fostering an invaluable relationship between the energy giant and the arts community-both locally and nationally. Arts organizations as varied as One Yellow Rabbit and Calgary Opera to Alberta Ballet and The National Theatre School, to name but a few,  have benefited greatly from Levesque’s- and Enbridge’s commitment to art and culture. Levesque also served as not only an advisor to, but sat on myriad arts organizations’ boards as well.

The who is who in  the arts community gathered Sept 21 at the Mamdani Opera Centre to toast-and roast Levesque for his years of commitment to the sector.  Hosted by Calgary Opera general director and CEO Bob McPhee and Jean Grand- Matire, Alberta Ballet artistic director, the fun reception featured toasts, insider stories, an opera aria, pas de deux from Alberta Ballet and the presentation to Levesque of an original Chris Cran painting.

Friends and supporters in attendance included: philanthropist Jenny Belzberg; ACAD board chair Carol Ryder; Alberta Ballet board chair Larry Clausen; Calgary Opera board chair and CMLC president Mike Brown; Pat Moore and her daughter Cynthia Moore; Rozsa Foundation’s Mary Rozsa de Coquet; Making Treaty 7 executive director Michele Stanners; The Works International Visual Arts Society COO Linda Wedman; Honens’ artistic director Stephen McHolm; ImagiNation 150 chair Colin Jackson; Trepanier Baer Gallery’s Yves Trepanier and his wife Cheryl Gottselig; and  One Yellow Rabbit’s Denise Clark with famed artist Chris Cran.

 Legendary philanthropist Jenny Belzberg (left) joins ACAD board chair Carol Ryder at an arts-hosted event Sept 21 at the Mamdani Opera Centre honouring Darcy Levesque for his invaluable contributions to the arts over many years.

 President of CMLC and Calgary Opera board chair Mike Brown (left) is pictured with Alberta Ballet board chair Larry Clausen at the recent arts-hosted event honouring Darcy Levesque for his invaluable contributions to the arts over many years.

Avid arts supporter Darcy Levesque was lovingly toasted and roasted by many in the arts community Sept 21at the Mamdani Opera Centre. Pictured, from left, are roasters Making Treaty 7 executive director Michele Stanners, Linda Wedman, COO, The Works International Visual Arts Society, Honens artistic director Stephen McHolm, Rozsa Awards’ Mary Rozsa de Coquet and Imagination 150 chair Colin Jackson.

Among the scores of avid arts supporters in attendance at a toast and roast of Darcy Levesque Sept 21at the Mamdani Opera Centre were, from left, One Yellow Rabbit’s Denise Clark, Trepanier Baer Gallery’s Yves Trepanier and his wife Cheryl Gottselig.

More than 2200 guests attended the recent Canadian Legacy Project presented Loverboy and April Wine concert in support of Forces@WORK. Forces@WORK helps veterans and transitioning Canadian Armed Forces personnel, including the ill and injured, find rewarding civilian careers. The Canadian Legacy Project is a 100% volunteer managed registered charity working throughout Canada and can boast that 95% of the donations received go directly to veterans in need. The project manages and direct a number of programs across Canada including: the VetFit program;  the veterans food drive; the field of crosses;  support to Forces@WORK;  support of the Military Museums; and many education programs for our youth to learn about the sacrifices made by our veterans. Organizers and guests in attendance at the concert are pictured at right.

 Pictured, from left, at the Canadian Legacy Project presented Loverboy and April Wine concert in support of Forces@WORK are Prospect Human Services program team JoAnne Flawn Laforge, David Blackburn, president Melanie Mitra, Caroline Stewart and Greg Quan Chan.

Pictured at the Canadian Legacy Project presented Loverboy and April Wine concert in support of Forces@WORK are Diane Smith, volunteer at the veterans Food Bank and Marie Blackburn, Veterans Food Bank manager

Your faithful social scribe finds it shocking that the teaching of our military history — at least when I was in school — was not given the ‘ink’ I feel it should have been. My grandfather drove an ambulance during the Great War and saw duty in Somme, Ypres and Vimy Ridge. And yet he rarely spoke of it — as was the norm in those days. But history will not be forgotten thanks to the invaluable services offered at The Military Museums, Calgary. Its foundation, in conjunction with the PPCLI Foundation is dedicated to enlightening Canadian youth about the impact of military events, the sacrifices taken by Canadians in the defence of our nation, and the importance of military security — now and in the future. The programs offered serve more than 18,000 students a year and support opportunities to tour battlefields where Canadian soldiers have fought; scholarships and bursaries; opportunities to serve in 13 cadet corps; and programs that explore Canadian military history.

A select group of guests gathered Sept 24 at The Military Museums to attend the Commemorative Dinner honouring the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme- one of the war’s most significant campaigns. Canadian soldiers from coast to coast saw heavy action in the fighting there in 1916. The losses were horrifying and the Allies suffered more than 650,000 casualties. More than 24,000 Canadian soldiers were killed, wounded or went missing.  The 100th anniversary dinner honoured Canada’s military heritage and paid tribute to heroic Canadians who participated in the Battle- especially those who paid the supreme sacrifice.

Highlights of the evening were numerous including:  a pre-dinner reception in the Victor Taboika Exhibit-an amazing exhibition on loan from the private collection of Calgarian Victor Taboika; O Canada performed by media legend Darrel Janz; performances from The Regimental Pipes and Drums of the Calgary Highlanders’ Cadet Corps; The Loyal Toast; Toast to Fallen Comrades; and Taboika’s keynote presentation. 

Guests in attendance at the commemorative dinner are pictured at right.

 Pictured at the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary are emcee this night, Lt. Col (Ret.) Malcolm Bruce who came in from Edmonton for the dinner and his wife Shawna Bruce with Dow Chemical Canada.

 Pictured at the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary are, from left, military historian and keynote speaker this night Victor Taboika with Hon. Lt. Col. Don Cranston who flew in from Toronto for the wonderful dinner.

 Looking dapper at the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary are, from left, Tom McCabe, Maj. Graham Longhurst and West Canadian’s George Brookman. The dinner just happened to coincide with McCabe’s birthday.

 The Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary was an SRO success. Pictured are dinner co-chair Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Barry Ashton and his wife Carol Ashton.

 Three PPCLI’s Cpl. Jordon Thompson (left) and Cpl. Chad Krienke stand at attention for guests as they arrived at the Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary.

 Warrant Officer George Couture and his wife Angela Couture were among the guests who attended the intimate Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary.

Justice Bruce McDonald (left) and John Cordeau, Q.C. were among those in attendance at the Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary.

 Matco Investments’ Lorne Gartner and his wife Maria Gartner were among those in attendance at the Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary.

 PPCLI cadet Branden Handrahan poses for the lens with avid military supporters Bill and Corrine MacDonald at the Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary.

 The Battle of the Somme Commemorative Dinner held Sept 24 at The Military Museums of Calgary was a great success thanks in large part to dinner co-chair Patti O’Connor pictured with her proud husband Larry O’Connor.