Saturdays were always a day I looked forward to as a kid. My pals and I would hop the bus and go to the Bay downtown – not to shop, mind you, but to gorge on a burger and fries in the cafeteria on the top floor. We’re talking more than 50 years ago and I suspect those of you who are of similar vintage remember well the iconic cafeteria with it’s various food stations, stainless railings, cashiers fixed to the nines- and even real cutlery. 

The innovative folks at Toronto-based Oliver & Bonacini (O & B’s) saw the space as the jewel it is and chose to spend a whack of dough reworking the more than 18,000 sq. ft. of space into its current incarnation, the aptly-Hudson. Scores of media and event specialists gathered May 31 for the official unveiling of Hudson. The re-purposed space will cater to those looking for a simple and sophisticated venue ideally suited for events as varied as high-profile galas and romantic weddings to intimate meetings and corporate conferences.

Hudson marks O&B’s third addition to Calgary’s historic Hudson’s Bay building, following The Guild Restaurant and Sub Rosa. After recognizing an opportunity to expand its renowned dining concepts into Western Canada last year with The Guild (named one of Calgary’s Best New Restaurants in 2016) and Sub Rosa, O&B adds to its almost 30 event spaces with Hudson being it’s newest venture.  ”After such a gracious welcome to Calgary with the opening of The Guild and Sub Rosa, we’re looking forward to introducing everyone to our event offerings,” said Andrew Oliver, president and CEO, Oliver & Bonacini. “With 30 years of event-planning experience, we are committed to working with Calgary’s incredible roster of vendors and suppliers to execute memorable events for years to come.”

Fabulous food stations, innovative cocktails, entertainment and more ensured all in attendance at the official opening had a memorable evening.

Among the several hundred guests in attendance were: hosts with the most, Andrew Oliver and Michale Bonacini; One Earth Farms’ Fiona Haig-Zimmerman and Leo Fracassi; Country Accent Heritage Breeds’ Malorie Aube;Shaw’s Dan Wojtowicz; Global National’s Reid Fiest; Ember Resources’ Cody Parrish; Hotel Arts Group’s Mark Wilson and Jenna Kopperson; and others pictured at right.

 Pictured at the highly anticipated opening of Hudson, Calgary’s newest event complex are, from left, Country Accent Heritage Breeds’ Malorie Aube, Ed Johnson and Christina Stender. Mangalitsa pork, raised at Country Accent, was but one of the mouth-watering treats served at the chic opening.

 Hudson, Calgary’s newest event complex opened to rave reviews recently. The entire top floor of the iconic Bay Downtown was completely transformed by the terrifically talented folks from Oliver & Bonacini Restaurants in Toronto. Pictured is but one of the very cool centre pieces featured at the fab opening.

 Hudson, Calgary’s newest event complex, opened to rave reviews recently. The who is who in media and event industries gathered for the official opening which featured amazing food, entertainment and visual delights. Pictured is One Earth Farms’ Leo Fracasssi. Beretta Farms, one of One Earth’s suppliers, provided the sumptuous beef served this night.

 (From left ) Shaw’s Dan Wojtowicz, Global National’s Reid Fiest and Ember Resources’ Cody Parrish were among the select group of guests in attendance at the official opening of Hudson, Calgary’s newest event complex.

 The official opening of Hudson, Calgary’s newest event complex, featured fabulous food, entertainment, visuals and more. Pictured are Salsa Rica’s Ryan Anderson and Megan Roche who delighted guests’ with their amazing dance moves.

Since we all suffer through months and months of grey and brown in the landscape, it’s understandable to welcome any and all green when spring finally arrives.

But not all plant material should be embraced. There are all kinds of plants on the invasive list — and even more on the noxious list. And please, let’s not have the dandelion conversation any more. Sure, swaths of dandelions look horrid on boulevards and in lawns, but they are easy enough to control if the grass is well maintained and fertilized regularly. You can always ‘spot-rid’ your lawn of these beasts by inserting a knitting needle into its heart and then pour boiling water into the hole. It takes time, but it does work. End of discussion.

Far more destructive to natural areas, rangelands and watersheds are thugs, the likes of purple loosestrife and oxeye daisy. The former, referred to as  “the beautiful killer,” takes over ponds, irrigation canals and marshes. A mature plant can produce 2.5 million seeds! So nasty is this weed, it is against the law to grow it under the Alberta Weed Control Act. The latter, the oxeye daisy, is unpalatable to grazing stock and single plants will very quickly become large patches. Some cultivars sold as Shasta Daisy are in fact oxeye daisy and the seeds are often found in wildflower mixes. Contents of these mixes are rarely listed accurately and may contain seeds of non-native, aggressive plant species legislated as invasive. Avoid wildflower mixes at all costs unless the mix clearly labels the plant’s scientific names.

Other unwelcome plants include:

Yellow clematis: Sure, the silky long tufts and yellow pendant flowers are pretty, but this spreading vine plant is moving into mountain parks and once established, it’s aggressive indeed and will displace native flora thereby increasing the risk of fire.

Creeping bellflower: Again, it’s pretty enough, but if you have this beast growing in your garden, my sympathies. It reproduces by seeds (each plant can produce more than 15,000 seeds) and slender-almost hairlike rhizomes and tuberous roots. The rhizomes can travel under fences, sidewalks and driveways. It thrives in sun or shade and even withstands drought conditions. It’s become resistant to some herbicides so it is very difficult to get rid of.

Tamarisk (a.k.a. Summer Glow, Salt Cedar or Pink Cascade): Now this is one nasty species. The deciduous shrub grows along ponds, creeks and rivers. The shrub consumes as much as 750 litres of water a day. And it gets worse. It’s scale-like leaves actually concentrate salt from groundwater and release same back into the soil with its leaf litter. Increased salinity (salt) in the soil makes it extremely difficult for other native plants to survive. It grows three to four metres in a single season and produces 600,000 seeds annually. Even severed stems will root readily.

And I saved the worst for last. Japanese knotweed: It’s on the Alberta watch list and thank goodness it is not here — yet. In its native Japanese volcanic landscape, the climate and regular deposits of ash would keep knotweed plants small.  But when the plant was imported to Britain in 1850, disaster soon followed. It can grow up to 20 centimetres every day and will even grow through concrete. Its roots can go three metres deep. It is estimated knotweed costs the U.K. economy more than $200 million US per year for treatment and in home devaluations. In some parts of Scotland, you cannot get a mortgage on a property for two years if knotweed is in — or anywhere near your yard.

Japanese knotweed is one of the most invasive and destructive plants overtaking much of the U.K. Thankfully, this plant beast has not arrived in Alberta but is on the invasive watch list.

Earlier this year, a man who murdered his wife before killing himself cited the weed that had blighted their West Midlands home as the cause for his mental distress.

In a suicide note, lab technician Kenneth McRae, 52, wrote: “I believe I was not an evil man, until the balance of my mind was disturbed by the fact there is a patch of Japanese Knotweed which has been growing over our boundary fence on the Rowley Regis Golf Course.”

Dandelions seem rather tame by comparison, wouldn’t you agree?

With files from The Mirror and Environment Canada

Picture-perfect weather ensured the 24th Annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic, held recently at Heritage Pointe Golf and Country Club, was a great success.  More than 160 golfers took part and had a wonderful day on the links. Since its inauguration in 1993, the event has raised over $5 million in support of deserving charities and not-for-profit organizations in the Calgary area. This year’s charity recipients included YWCA and Meals on Wheels.

The event featured a buffet breakfast, 18-hole golf tournament with food and beverage stations, a silent auction, whisky tasting, dinner and charity cheque presentation. The event was brought together by the generosity of sponsors, including title sponsor Johnson Insurance; platinum sponsors Saputo, Coca-Cola and Calgary Flames; gold sponsors Quarry Bay Investments, Weston & Maplehurst Bakeries Inc., Kellogg Canada, Pepsico and McKesson Canada.

Having a great day on the links this day were:  Calgary Co-op board chair Patricia McLeod, Q.C.; Calgary Co-op board members Peggy LeSueur and Elaine Bereziuk-Smith; Calgary Co-op chief executive officer Ken Keelor; Calgary Co-op chief financial officer Paul Harrison; Calgary Co-op vice presidents Jeff Ambrose, Danielle Bussières, Doug Newstead and Damon Tanzola; Federated Co-operatives Limited regional manager Barry Manovich; Johnson Insurance regional manager Colin Kuefler; Connect First Credit Union chief executive officer Paul Kelly; Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation vice president of sports property sales and marketing Gord Norrie; Calgary Meals on Wheels fund development manager Stephanie Ralph; YWCA Calgary resource development manager Joanna Domes; first place winning team comprised of  Derek Wills, Calgary Flames Radio play-by-play announcer on Sportsnet 960 The Fan, Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation’s Dave Owens, senior account executive, partnership sales, Jeremy Vold, coordinator, corporate partnerships; and Marc Leost, director of sales and executive suites; and second place winners Calgary Co-op’s Bart Willmore, vice-president, human resources,  Kevin McLean, account manager, Westkey Graphics; and Alfir Karmal, president and chief executive officer, Westkey Graphics.

With files from Calgary Co-op

 The 24th Annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic held recently at Heritage Pointe Golf and Country Club was attended by more than 160 golfers. Since its inception, the tournament has raised more than $5 million for myriad charities in the Calgary are. Pictured are Joanna Domes, resource development manager, YWCA Calgary, and Patricia McLeod, Q.C., board chair, Calgary Co-op .

 All smiles, from left, at the 24th Annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic held recently at Heritage Pointe Golf and Country Club are first place tournament winners Derek Wills, Calgary Flames Radio play-by-play announcer on Sportsnet 960 The Fan, Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation’s Dave Owens, senior account executive, partnership sales, Jeremy Vold, coordinator, corporate partnerships; and Marc LŽost, director of sales and executive suites.

 Pictured, from left, at the 24th Annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic held recently at Heritage Pointe Golf and Country Club are second place tournament winners Bart Willmore, vice-president, human resources, Calgary Co-op, Kevin McLean, account manager, Westkey Graphics, and Alfir Karmal, president and chief executive officer, Westkey Graphics.

 Posing for the lens at the 24th Annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic held recently at Heritage Pointe Golf and Country Club are Damon Tanzola, vice-president, facilities development and real estate, Calgary Co-op, and Barry Manovich, associate vice-president, urban retail strategies, Federated Co-operatives Limited.

 Jeff Ambrose, vice-president of operations, petroleum, wine spirits beer and home health care, Calgary Co-op (left) and Jeremy Vold, coordinator, corporate partnerships, Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation were among the more than 160 golfers who took part in the 24th Annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic held recently at Heritage Pointe Golf and Country Club.

 Picture perfect weather ensured the 24th Annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic held recently at Heritage Pointe Golf and Country Club was a great success. Pictured, from left, are invaluable volunteers Colin Donoghue, centre manager; Anna Greco-Taylor, senior marketing manager, Trinh McConkley, sponsorship and events manager, and Dana Banks, marketing manager.

 Picture perfect weather ensured the 24th Annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic held recently at Heritage Pointe Golf and Country Club was a great success. Pictured are Calgary Co-op board members Peggy LeSueur and Elaine Bereziuk-Smith.

 The 24th Annual Calgary Co-op Charity Golf Classic held recently at Heritage Pointe Golf and Country Club was a great success. Pictured, from left, are Stephanie Ralph, fund development manager, Calgary Meals on Wheels, Danielle Bussires, vice-president, marketing and member relations, Calgary Co-op, and Richelle Kenn, Calgary Meals on Wheels.

Today marks the 150th anniversary of Confederation. There’s certainly not a better place on earth than Canada and we should all be fiercely proud of our amazing country.  Celebrations from coast to coast to coast have been enveloping the nation for many weeks now.  One of the more cerebral celebrations- The Walrus Talks Conversations about Canada: We Desire a Better Country kicked off to great fanfare at the annual Walrus Foundation gala in Toronto on January 18.  The charitable, non-profit Walrus Foundation, in partnership with the Order of Canada and Canada 150, presented an extraordinary national tour focusing on the future of our country and featured fifty members of the Order of Canada and fifty youth leaders. The tour visited every province and territory with Banff being one of the last stops May 27.  

“Conversations about Canada will build a deeper understanding of Canada,” said Shelley Ambrose, executive director of the Walrus Foundation and publisher of The Walrus. “It will provide Canadians with opportunities to participate and celebrate together; shape a more inclusive vision of Canadian society, its people, and what it means to be Canadian; and recognize the exceptional Canadian people, places, achievements, and events that will shape our country for the next fifty years.”

Ambrose and a select group of colleagues were the guests of honour at a reception held in the home of Ann McCaig recently. McCaig joined forces with her daughters Roxanne and Jane to co-host the cocktail reception that featured fabulous appetizers representing each province and territory (Beaver tails and east coast oysters were but two of the delectable delights prepared by Hotel Arts), libation, stimulating conversations and the opportunity to support the Walrus Foundation.

Among the 100 or so guests in attendance were: Walrus Foundation board members Karen Prentice, Chima Nkemdirim and Chethan Lakshman; Banff Centre president Janice Price; interior designers Monica Stevens and Connie Young; Alberta Ballet artistic director Jean Grand-Maitre and colleague Melissa Bell; Imperial Group’s Joel Poissant and his wife Christie’s Auction House’s Alexandra Burroughs; past Banff Centre board chairman Robert Walker and his wife Barb; U of C president Elizabeth Cannon; Dr. Janice Stratton; Dr. Dianne Mosher; Suncor’s Arlene Strom; Barbara and Sarah Palmer; Hill and Knowlton western Canada chair D’Arcy Levesque; St. Joseph’s Media CEO Doug Knight; Rozsa Foundation’s Mary Rozsa de Coquet; John and Donna Ferrara-Kerr; and John and Ella Joy Maybin.

 Pictured at an event held in the home of Ann McCaig recently in support of the Walrus Foundation are St. Joseph’s Media CEO Doug Knight and Shelley Ambrose, foundation executive director and publisher of The Walrus magazine.

 Among the select group of guests in attendance at an event held in the home of Ann McCaig recently in support of the Walrus Foundation were, from left, Walrus Foundation board members Karen Prentice and Chima Nkemdirim with Roza Foundation’s Mary Rozsa de Coquet.

 Pictured, from left, at an event held in the home of Ann McCaig recently in support of the Walrus Foundation are Alberta Ballet’s Melissa Bell with past Banff Centre board chair Roberta Walker and his wife Barb Walker.

Philanthropists John and Donna Ferrara-Kerr were among the select group of guests in attendance at an event held in the home of Ann McCaig recently in support of the Walrus Foundation.

 Pictured, from left, at an event held in the home of Ann McCaig recently in support of the Walrus Foundation are U of C president Elizabeth Cannon, Dr. Janice Stratton and Dr. Dianne Mosher.

 All smiles, from left, at the Walrus Foundation fundraising event held recently in the home of Ann McCaig are Suncor’s Arlene Strom, Sarah and Barbara Palmer and avid arts supporter D’Arcy Levesque, Hill and Knowlton Western Canada chairman.

 Interior designers Connie Young (left) and Monica Stevens were among the select group of guests in attendance at the Walrus Foundation fundraising event held recently in the home of Ann McCaig.

 Joining Alberta Ballet’s artistic director Jean Grand-Maitre (left) are Christie’s Auction House’s Alexandra Burroughs and her husband, Imperial Group’s Joel Poissant. A select group of guests gathered in the home of Ann McCaig to support the Walrus Foundation.

 Joining Walrus Foundation fundraising event co-host Roxanne McCaig is foundation board of directors member Chethan Lakshman.

 A recent reception held in the home of Ann McCaig (right) in support of the Walrus Foundation was a perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Joining McCaig is Banff Centre president Janice Price.

The occasional spot of rain certainly didn’t dampen the attendance-nor enthusiasm-at two sesquicentennial celebrations July 1 held in private homes in tony Mount Royal. Your faithful social scribe had the distinct pleasure of starting the afternoon at the home of McCarthy Tetrault partner, Greg Turnbull, Q.C. and his fabulous wife Shirley. That tequila shots greeted one at the door was the perfect way to ease into the festivities. Wonderful food, libation, music and more were but a few of the event’s trappings. And who wasn’t in attendance celebrating our 150th anniversary of Confederation would make a much shorter listing as seemingly everyone was there. It was great to see Ward 8 hopeful and long-time pal, political force Chris Davis and his campaign manager Cynthia Moore with his ‘handlers’ Chad Hallman and Darian Wrenshall. And Moore’s father, community leader Sherrold-and his wife Pat- had special reason to be out and about this day as it happened to coincide with Sherrold’s 88th birthday. Others having a marvelous time this day included: artist/musician Margaret Graham with Anne Scrymgeour; Dentons’ Bill DeJong, Q.C. and his wife Franca; Rod and Jan Wittig; Black Spruce Merchant Capital CEO and managing partner Sonny Mottahed and his wife Katrina Olson-Mottahed; Dentons’ Jon Ryder and his wife, Cenovus’ Kate Ryder; party-hearty boys Agostino Mosca with Pinnacle Equities and Michael Di Paolo with David Anthony Consulting; Mitchell Gourmet Foods founder and author of This Too Shall Prepare Me, LuAn Mitchell; Wong & Associates’ Debra Wong; Mawer Investment Management’s Denise Gladwell; Steve and Jane Snyder; Sandy Pringle; Ludwik Piatkowsky; Euphoria Fitness’ Gloria Mohninger; Western Sky Land Trust’s Ellen Magidson; and Craig Chandler, executive director, The Progressive Group for Independent Business.

Next up-and only a few blocks away-was Michael and Linda Shaikh’s annual Canada Day party. The community leaders and philanthropists have hosted a celebration July 1 for many years, but this year’s took on special gravitas as scores of colleagues, friends-and a select group of political heavyweights-gathered in the gardens of the Shaikh’s Mount Royal home to toast all things Canadian. Your faithful social scribe articled with Michael decades ago at Peat Marwick Mitchell (PMM-now KPMG) and I’ve watched his career with great admiration-and envy-for many years. And yes. You can be forgiven for musing what happened to yours truly and a career as a successful accountant? Suffice to say fame won out over fortune!

Probably the most memorable moment at the Shaikh celebration was a rousing chorus of O Canada sung with gusto by the several hundred guests in attendance including: RBC regional president, Alberta and Territories, Jeff Boyd and his wife Michele; YMCA board chair and past chair of the Calgary Police Commission Howie Shikaze and his wife Sher Skikaze; Alberta Minister of Finance Joe Ceci and his wife Christine; the delightful Peggy Perry of Willow Park Wines & Spirits fame and her equally delightful husband Brien; Arts Commons’ Greg Epton and his partner CGI’s Greg Robertson; Concorde Group president and CEO Victor Choy; and former MP Lee Richardson looking as youthful as ever.

 Hosts with the most Greg and Shirley Turnbull hosted scores of friends, family and colleagues at their home July 1 for Canada Day festivities. Fabulous fare, music, camaraderie and more were but a few of the afternoon’s highlights.

 Steve and Jane Snyder toast Canada’s sesquicentennial at a terrific party held in the home of Greg and Shirley Turnbull July 1.

 Arts Commons’ Greg Epton (left) and his partner CGI’s Greg Robertson had a wonderful Canada Day at the fabulous fete held in the home of philanthropists Michael and Linda Shaikh.

 From left Sandy Pringle, Ludwik Piatkowsky and Euphoria Fitness’ Glorai Mohninger were among the several hundred guests who attended a fabulous Canada Day celebration held in the home of Greg and Shirley Turnbull. The sesquicentennial celebration featured fabulous fare, libation, live music and more.

 YWCA board chair and past chair of the Calgary Police Commission Howie Shikaze and his wife Sher Shikaze were among those in attendance at a wonderful Canada Day celebration held in the Mount Royal gardens of philanthropists Michael and Linda Shaikh.

 Canada Day has always had a special meaning for Sherrold Moore (pictured with this wife Pat). July 1 is his birthday and this year marked 88 years young. The well known Calgarian couple are pictured at a sesquicentennial celebration held in the home of Greg and Shirley Turnbull.

 Ward 8 hopeful and political force Chris Davis (second from left) is surrounded by supporters Chad Hallman (left), campaign manager Cynthia Moore and Darian Wrenshall at a Canada Day celebration held in the home of Greg and Shirley Turnbull.

 Ret. Sen. Dan Hays and his wife Kathy pose for the lens at the Canada Day celebration held in the home of philanthropists Michael and Linda Shaikh.

Pinnacle Equities’ Agostina Mosca (left) and David Anthony Consulting’s Michael DiPaolo had a great time at the Canada Day celebration held in the home of Greg and Shirley Turnbull July 1.

 Alberta Minister of Finance Joe Ceci and his wife Christine were among the dignitaries in attendance at a wonderful Canada Day celebration held in the gardens of philanthropists Michael and Linda Shaikh’s Mount Royal home.

RBC Regional president, Alberta and Territories’ Jeff Boyd and his wife Michele were among the select group of guests in attendance at the Canada Day celebration held in the home of philanthropists Michael and Linda Shaikh.

Pictured, from left, at a Canada Day celebration held in the home of Greg and Shirley Turnbull are Black Spruce’s Sonny Mottahed and his wife Katrina Olson-Mottahed with Cenovus’ Kate Ryder and Dentons’ Jon Ryder.

Among the guests in attendance at a terrific Canada Day celebration held in the home of Greg and Shirley Turnbull were, from left, Mawer Investments’ Denise Gladwell, Wong & Associates’ Debra Wong and author and founder of Mitchell Gourmet Foods LuAn Mitchell who now resides in California.

Anne Scrymgeour (left) and artist/musician Margaret Graham pose for the lens at a Canada Day celebration held in the home of Greg and Shirley Turnbull.

What started as a chat over coffee has evolved into a hugely successful golf tournament. Like-minded individuals felt the need to support less-advantaged kids in our city and decided to start the Business Fore Kids annual golf tournament 12 years ago. Since it’s inception, more than $2 million has been raised for the benefit of organizations the likes of Hull Family Services, EvenStart, and Between Friends, to name but a few. That the tournament founders pay all the expenses results in 100% of funds raised going towards the charitable organizations.

The 12th annual tournament, held recently at the Glencoe Golf and Country Club, saw 152 golfers take to the links and succeed in raising $277,500 for  YMCA Strong Kids  Program, Distress Centre and Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter. Kudos to title sponsor Western Materials Handling on stepping up again this year. The tournament would not be the success it is were it not for your outstanding support.

Golfers having a wonderful day on the links this day included: tournament founders Joe Klassen, John Fitzsimmons, Tim Morgan, Allan Payne, Rob Rakochey, Jerry Roy and Pat Ottman, to name but a few; philanthropist extraordinaire, Gary Nissen; Len Bellingham; platinum sponsor, Lumina Management Consultants team Bryan Krause, Darryle Hawkings, Jason Braun, Kyla Lawson, Eric Inthof, Aaron Gill, Sonja Sage and Deanna Ott; tournament chair Tasso Chondronikolis and his team of  Dale Orton, Darren Shaw and Tyler Theberge; platinum sponsor Red Dog Systems team Russ Howden, Peter Aldrich, Dave Howden and Joey Greco; Peter Smed; Lorne Peterson; Kelly Morstad; past tournament chair David Elzinga; longtime tournament supporter, Global’s Gord Gillies; Cory McLean; Mike Jamieson; Darren Plausteiner; Jack Gordon; Gerry Wood; and Randy Mowat.

You’ll want to mark your calendars for the 13th annual tournament which is scheduled for June 4, 2018.

 Pictured, from left, at the annual Business Fore Calgary Kids golf tournament, held recently at the Glencoe Golf & Country Club, are Peter Smed, Lorne Peterson and tournament founders Joe Klassen and Tim Morgan.

 Pictured, from left, at the Business Fore Calgary Kids annual golf tournament held recently at the Glencoe Golf & Country Club are platinum sponsor Lumina Management Consultants team Bryan Krause, Darryle Hawkings, Jason Braun, Kyla Lawson, Eric Inthof, Aaron Gill, Sonja Sage and Deanna Ott. The SRO tournament raised an impressive $277,500 for Inn from the Cold, YMCA Strong Kids Program, Distress Centre and Calgary Emergency Women’s Shelter.

 Pictured, from left, at the annual Business Fore Calgary Kids golf tournament, held recently at the Glencoe Golf & Country Club, are platinum sponsor-Red Dog Systems’ team Russ Howden, Peter Aldrich, Dave Howden and Joey Greco.

 Having a great time at the annual Business Fore Calgary Kids golf tournament, held recently at the Glencoe Golf & Country Club, are Kelly Morstad and past tournament chair David Elzinga. This year’s tournament raised an impressive $277,500 for selected charitable organizations.

 Pictured, from left, at the hugely successful Business Fore Calgary Kids golf tournament, held recently at the Glencoe Golf & Country Club, are Jack Gordon, Gerry Wood, Randy Mowat and tournament founder Pat Ottman.

 Pictured, from left, at the hugely successful Business Fore Calgary Kids golf tournament, held recently at the Glencoe Golf & Country Club, are Cory McLean, tournament founder Jerry Roy, Mike Jamieson and Darren Plausteiner.

One of the more prestigious awards one could hope to receive is the Distinguished Business Leader Award-co-presented by the Haskayne School of Business and the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. Since 1993, outstanding leaders in our business community have been recognized for their exceptional vision, ethical leadership, commitment to the community and sound business sense. And previous honourees reads like a who is who and include the likes of John Currie (1993), J.R. (Bud) McCaig (1998), Harley Hotchkiss (2006), and Linda Hohol (2005), to name but a few.

Add to this illustrious list, 2017 recipient Leslie O’Donoghue, executive vice-president of corporate development, strategy and chief risk officer at Agrium Inc. O’Donoghue’s list of accomplishments is impressive indeed and include: establishing The Women’s Inclusion Network-an organization that provides mentoring, networking and learning opportunities that empower women to grow their careers within Agrium; chair of the United Way’s annual fundraising campaign in 2012 and is a director of the organization; she was named one of the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada; and she is the only Canadian to sit on the Leadership Council of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

Scores of business leaders, family and friends gathered at the Hyatt Regency recently to toast O’Donoghue and her amazing accomplishments. And who was not in attendance would make a much shorter listing as seemingly everyone was there including: O’Donoghue’s proud husband Hugh Ross, president and CEO, Prairie Storm Energy and equally proud sons Connor Ross with Fidelity Investments and Brendan Ross, an engineering student at Dalhousie; emcee, Herald colleague Deborah Yedlin; Mayor Naheed Nenshi who brought greetings and congratulatory remarks on behalf of the City of Calgary; Haskayne School of Business dean Jim Dewald; Calgary Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Adam Legge and colleague, board chair David Allen; 2016 award recipient, Boardwalk Rental Communities chairman and CEO Sam Kolias and his wife Melissa; 2013 award recipient Alan Norris, president and CEO, Brookfield Residential Properties; 1997 recipient, NOVA Corporation chairman Dick Haskayne and his wife Lois; 1999 recipient, Canadian Hunter Exploration former chairman Jim Gray; 1995 recipient, Emergo Canada chairman Alfred Balm and his wife Phyllis; 2008 recipient, West Canadian CEO and owner George Brookman; avid arts supporter and Rozsa Foundation president Mary Rozsa de Coquet; University of Calgary president Elizabeth Cannon; philanthropist David Bissett; University of Calgary Chancellor Dr. Robert Thirsk; Canadian Discovery’s Paul O’Donoghue and Eli Lilly’s Tammi Whiteway; RESOLVE co-chairman Randy Findlay and his wife Claudia; philanthropist and community leader Ann McCaig; MLA Richard Gotfried; 2015 award recipient, Coril Holdings founder Ron Mannix; Al Duerr, former Mayor and founder, General Magnetic International; Shahauna Siddiqui, partner, DHR; and Dru Marshall, Provost, University of Calgary.

From your friends at the Herald, congratulations Leslie on your most deserving honour. You do our city proud indeed.

 Pictured, from left, at the Distinguished Business Leader Award held recently at the Hyatt are, from left, Haskayne School of Business dean Jim Dewald, philanthropist and avid arts supporter Mary Rozsa de Coquet, U of C president Elizabeth Cannon and Brookfield Residential Properties president and CEO-and 2013 award recipient, Alan Norris.

 RESOLVE co-chair Randy Findlay and his wife Claudia were among the several hundred guests in attendance at the Distinguished Business Leader Award held recently at the Hyatt. Co-presented by the Haskayne School of Business and the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, the award recognizes outstanding leaders in the Calgary business community. This year’s recipient was Leslie O’Donoghue.

 Pictured, from left, at the Distinguished Business Leader Award held recently at the Hyatt are Canadian Discovery’s Paul O’Donoghue, Eli Lilly’s Tammi Whiteway with Lois and Dick Haskayne. Dick was the recipient of the prestigious award in 1997.

 Community leader and philanthropist Ann McCaig is pictured with West Canadian CEO George Brookman at the Distinguished Business Leader Award held recently at the Hyatt. Brookman was honoured with the prestigious award in 2008.

Boardwalk Rental Communities’ chairman and CEO Sam Kolias and his wife Melissa were among the hundreds of guests in attendance at the Distinguished Business Leader Award held recently at the Hyatt . Sam was the recipient of the prestigious award last year.

The who is who in business circles attended the Distinguished Business Leader Award held recently at the Hyatt. Pictured, from left, are Jim Gray, David Bissett and U of C Chancellor. Dr. Robert Thirsk. Gray received the prestigious award in 1999.

 Mayor Naheed Nenshi brought congratulatory remarks on behalf of the city for 2017 Distinguished Business Leader Award honouree Leslie O’ Donoghue.

Stampede 2017 was just the fix we all needed. Sure, there were less corporate parties this year, but those that did go ahead took the route of supporting charitable organizations. Gibson Energy held its annual stampede BBQ at Heritage Park  July 10.  Funds raised at the event supported the Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre (AARC). The event also marked the introduction of the new Gibson CEO, Steve Spaulding. Guests in attendance are pictured at right.

 Pictured at the Gibson Energy annual Stampede BBQ held July 10 at Heritage Park are 2017 Stampede Indian Princess, Savanna Spavier and Stew Hanlon, Gibson’s previous CEO.

 Gibson Energy’s Stew Hanlon introduces infield saddlebronc riders at the annual Gibson Stampede BBQ held July 10 at Heritage Park. From left, are Coburn Bradshaw from Milford Utah, Lane Cust from Bonneyville, AB and Jim Berry from Rocky Mountain House, AB.

 Gibson Energy’s annual Stampede BBQ, held this year July 10 at Heritage Park was not only lots of fun but philanthropic as well with funds raised supporting Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre (AARC). Pictured, from left, are Gibson’s hostesses Stacey Tomlinson, Lillian Alli-Balogun, Christie Hall, Diane Bell, Miranda Halasz, Launa Rauser and Pauline Byrne.

Being an exceptional business leader is no small feat. Challenges galore test the mettle of myriad businesses whether  its the carbon tax, increases in the minimum wage, or shameful federal and provincial government ‘business averse’ polices, it’s indeed tougher than ever to make a buck.

And yet there are lots of business leaders in our fair city who are meeting the challenges head on. And not only surviving, but doing quite well in spite of the strong headwinds. These leaders were feted and honoured at the recent 10th anniversary of the Business in Calgary Leaders Award gala held at the Westin. Nominations for the prestigious award spanned industries as diverse as real estate and health care to pharmaceutical and insurance. The task of narrowing the scores of nominees down to just 20 fell upon judges Trevor Winkler, regional managing partner, MNP LLP, David Allwright, dean of the Chiu School of Business at Bow Valley College and Myron Feser, vice-president, sales, ATB Business and Agriculture.

Congratulations to the recipients of this year’s Leaders Award: AltaLink’s Scott Thon; Cambrian Pharmacy’s Rob Heaton; CANA Construction’s Fabrizio Carinelli; Cardel Lifestyles and Logel Homes’ Tim Logel; Elan Construction’s Todd Poulsen; Executive Mat Service’s Kim Caron; First Calgary Financial’s Shelley Vandenberg; Fitter International’s Louis Stack; Grafton Asset Management’s Geeta Sankappanavar; Homes by Avi’s Alice Mateyko; Horizon North Logistics’ Rod Graham; Momentum Health, Evidence Sport and Spine, Innovative Sports Medicine’s Wendy Coombs; PK Sound’s Jeremy Bridge; Prime Real Estate Group’s Harwinder Kang; Respect Group’s Sheldon Kennedy and Wayne McNeil; Rogers Insurance’s Bruce Rabik; Statesman Group of Companies’ Dr. Garth Mann and Jeff Mann; Surgical Centres’ Dr. Mohamed Nanji; Village Brewery’s Jim Button; and Willow Park Wines & Spirits’ Wayne Henuset.

Guests in attendance saluting these leaders included: Tony Smith and Randy Mowat representing presenting partner MNP LLP; Mark Lunnin representing gold partner Servpro; Business in Calgary publishers, brothers Pat and Tim Ottmann; emcee, Dave Kelly; Chase Myhill and Serge Corbeil representing official airline partner Air Canada; Brad Becker; Deb Thon, proud spouse of honouree Scott Thon; Sherri Logel, proud spouse of honouree Tim Logel; and Julie Visser.

Business in Calgary Leaders Awards -now 10-years young-honoured those in our city who make this the best place on earth in which to live at an SRO dinner held recently at the Westin. Pictured are honouree Cardel Lifestyles and Logel Homes’ Tim Logel and his wife Sherri.

Rogers Insurance’s Bruce Rabik was among those honoured with a Business in Calgary Leaders Award at an SRO dinner held recently at the Westin. Joining Rabik is Julie Visser.

 Pictured, from left, at the Business in Calgary Leaders Award are award recipient Altalink’s Scott Thon and his proud wife Deb with MNP’s Tony Smith. MNP was the platinum sponsor of the10th anniversary of the awards evening held at the Westin.

 First Calgary Financial’s Shelley Vandenberg was among those outstanding Cagarians honoured at the recent Business in Calgary Leaders Award held at the Westin. Joining Vandenberg is Brad Becker

 Business in Calgary Leaders Award has been honouring those amazing Calgarians who make a difference in our community for the past ten years. Pictured at the 10th annual dinner and award ceremony held recently at the Westin are Business in Calgary co-publisher Pat Ottmann and emcee Dave Kelly.

 Pictured at the 2017 Business in Calgary Leaders Award held recently at the Westin are award recipients Willow Park Wines & Spirits’ Wayne Henuset (left) and Village Brewery’s Jim Button.

Pictured at the 2017 Business in Calgary Leaders Award held recently at the Westin are award recipient Sheldon Kennedy, MNP’s Randy Mowat and award recipient Horizon North Logistics’ Rod Graham.

 Pictured at the 2017 Business in Calgary Leaders Award held recently at the Westin are award recipient Prime Real Estate Group’s Harwinder Kang (left) with Servpro vice-president Mark Lunnin. Server has been an invaluable sponsor of the awards for many years.

All smiles at the 2017 Business in Calgary Leaders Award held recently at the Westin are , from left, Air Canada’s Serge Corbel, Fairmont Palliser’s Gloria Kay and Air Canada’s Chase Myhill. Air Canada is the Leaders Award official airline partner.

These days, the words “the event raised more than $1 million” are rarely-if ever heard. The not-for-profit fundraising landscape has changed dramatically. And not in a good way. Thank goodness then for the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament. Now in it’s fourth year, the uber tournament has raised millions for Rockyview General Hospital. The tournament, by which all other tournaments are measured, raised more than $1 million this year alone towards the $11.5 million redevelopment and expansion of the Gastrointestinal (GI) clinic at the Rockyview. Gastrointestinal conditions do not discriminate by age or gender. All Albertans are at risk. Conditions can range from problems with the esophagus such as difficulty swallowing to Crohn’s and Colitis, chronic liver conditions and cancers in the digestive system such as the stomach and colon.

The tournament’s winning formulae pits teams from the real estate industy-headed up by Jay Westman, chairman and CEO, Jayman BUILT against teams from the energy industry-headed up by Brad Deets, senior vice-president, NGL Commerical & Facilities, Plains Midstream Canada. Kudos to all involved on the stunning success of this year’s tournament and take a bow sentiments go out to the the tireless committee members working with tournament co-chairs Westman and Deets: Deb Baker; Elizabeth Byrne; Paul Peterson; Lee Rogers; Dan Silvester; Marc Staniloff; and Megan Starke.

Highlights of the 4th annual were numerous indeed including: the Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern the Saturday night prior; amazing live and silent auction items (tickets to the 102nd running of the Indy 500 or a two-day golf experience at the exclusive Madison Club garnered top dollars); superb swag; lovely libation at every hole; fantastic food; and picture-perfect weather at Priddis Greens, to name but a few.

Team Real Estate were to be victorious again this year and earn the coveted first place Green Jackets which were awarded to team Gord Coli and Friends on the Raven Course and team Jayman BUILT on the Hawk Course. Golfers, sponsors and friends having a wonderful time at either the reception, tournament- or both included: Qualico’s Glynn Hendry and his wife Lorna; Crowfoot Wine & Spirits’ Don Richardson and his wife Kathy; BANC’s Jim Carter with Corus’ Heather Shaw; Broadview Homes’ Peter-John Woolfe and his wife Delle; Shaw Communications’ Julie Shaw with Terry Berg; Ike Kolias and his brother Gus Kolias with his wife Wendy; Trail Appliances’ Michael Seens; Calgary Stampede’s Jennifer Booth; Oxford vice-president and Calgary Health Trust board vice-chair David Routledge; Volker Stevin Canada president and CEO Kern Briscoe and his wife Linda; Plains Midstream vice-president Mark Mazerolle and his wife Cathy; Maxxam vice-president Phil Heaton and his wife Diane; Bob Harris and his wife Maria; Tim Down and his wife Cindy; and others pictured at right.

 The Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern was attended by scores of sponsors and golfers. Teams would take to the links at Priddis Greens within a few days to see who would win the coveted green jacket. Real Estate or Energy? Pictured are the tournament chairs Brad Deets, senior vice-president, NGL Commercial & Facilities, Plains Midstream Canada and Jayman BUILT chairman and CEO Jay Westman. The amazing tournament has, since inception four years ago, raised more than $3.4 million for Rockyview General Hospital.

Pictured at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern are Jayman BUILT’s Deb Baker, e.a. to chairman and CEO Jay Westman and her husband Dan Kloeckes. Jayman BUILT real-estate teams would challenge Plains Midstream energy teams within a few days of the reception at Priddis Greens.

 Pictured at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern are invaluable supporters Bob Harris and his wife Maria. The tournament, held a few days later at Priddis Greens, would raise more than $1 million for Rockyview General Hospital.

From left Delle Woolf and her husband Broadview Homes Peter-John Woolf join Kathy Richardson and her husband Crowfoot Wine & Spirits’ Don Richardson at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern.

 BANC’s Jim Carter poses for the lens with Bonnie Leach (left) and his significant other Corus’ Heather Shaw at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern.

 Having a great time at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern are, from left, Diane Heaton and her husband Maxxam vice-president Phil Heaton with Cathy Mazerolle and her husband, Plains Midstream Canada vice-president Mark Mazerolle.

 Volker Stevin Canada president and CEO Kern Briscoe and his wife Linda Briscoe pictured at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern.

Julie Shaw and her partner Terry Berg were among the scores of guests in attendance at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern.

Pictured, from left, at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern are event producers Brooks and Dodd Consulting’s Tom Dodd and Samantha Morahan with Calgary Health Trust board member and Oxford vice-president David Routledge.

 Pictured, from left, at the Rockyview Invitational Pro-Am Tournament Players and Partners Reception held at Barcelona Tavern are Trail Appliances sales director Michael Seens, Calgary Stampede’s Jennifer Booth, Michelle Archer and Rob Hansen.

Picture perfect weather ensured the annual Priddis Greens Charity Classic-held Aug 16 and 17- was an enormous success. That, and the support of myriad golfers, sponsors and volunteers resulted in an impressive $350,000 being raised for Calgary’s Prostate Cancer Centre.

The Centre relies solely on donor dollars and does not enjoy any government funding. The Priddis tournament will have a remarkable positive impact on men and their families navigating the prostate cancer journey. With one in seven men developing the disease in their lifetime, prostate cancer is a disease that we should all be aware of.

More than 200 guests gathered at picturesque Priddis Greens Aug 15 for the tournament kick off and gala dinner.  Highlights of the evening were numerous indeed- not the least of which being the hugely successful Fund a Need which raised $80,000. Kudos to long-time supporter Kirk Hudson who donated $20,000 for the purchase of a bladder scanner and Robert and Winnie Bezemer who stepped up with $10,000 for the purchase of a Uroflow machine. Other highlights included wonderful food and drink from across Canada celebrating our 150th anniversary. In  keeping with the Canada 150 theme, guests were afforded the chance to win Edible Canada’s Across the Top of Canada- a nine-night trip across this great land on a private 737 chartered aircraft featuring signature meals with iconic Canadian chefs.  

The next two days saw 47 teams of 188 golfers take to the links. Congratulations to Bill Beattie Memorial Trophy winning team Frontier Plumbing comprised of Don Williams, Drew Howell, Dan Marsh and Cole Howell. And good on you sentiments go out to Jared Petrin, of Petrin Mechanical on winning the Frank Lindsay Award.

Keynote addresses from renowned urologist Dr. Bryan Donnelly and Women for Men’s Health founder, radiologist Dr. Shelley Spaner highlighted the awards dinners. Coveted auction items the likes of a fighter jet ride and a Calgary Flames package garnered top dollars.

Heartfelt thanks to invaluable sponsors: Air North; Breckenridge Group; Postmedia; Lionhead Mechanical Plumbing and Heating; Morrison Homes; Remington Development Corp.; and Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club. 

Golfers, sponsors and volunteers having a marvelous time at the tournament included: tournament chairman Ross Babcock; Prostate Cancer Centre board chair, Bennett Jones’ Jon Truswell and executive director Pam Heard; Man Van manager Ken Rabb; clinician Dylan Lorna; Man Van clinical manager Camille Scheible;  Brookfield Residential’s Alan Norris and his wife Shelley; Calgary Flames president and CEO Ken King; Shane Homes’ Shane Wenzel; invaluable sponsor, Remington development Corp.’s Randy Remington and his wife Donna; Jayman BUILT’s Jay Westman and his wife Karen; Dennis and Susan Zentner; National Bank’s Aaron Unger; Katz Group’s Glen Scott; Calgary Sun Homes editor Myke Thomas; Agrium’s Rose Lecky;  Prostate Cancer Centre past board chair Mike Wilson; and Sportsnet 960 The Fan’s Derek Wills.

The Man Van, the only portable PSA testing vehicle of its kind in the country, was on hand at the Priddis Charity Classic providing free PSA testing to men over 40. The Classic raised an impressive $350,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 Picture perfect weather ensured the annual Priiddis Greens Charity Classic, held Aug 16 and 17, was an enormous success raising $350,000 for the Prostate Cancer Centre. Pictured are invaluable PCC staff and volunteers, from left, Al Grose, Man Van manager Ken Rabb, clinician Dylan Lorna, Man Van clinical manager Camille Scheible, Carla Marques and Brian Anderson (front).

More than 200 guests attended the Priiddis Greens Charity Classic gala evening kick-off Aug 15. Pictured, from left are invaluable supporters Susan Zentner, Brookfield Residential’s Alan Norris and Dennis Zentner. The tournament, held over the following two days, raised $350,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 National Bank’s Aaron Unger (left) and Katz Group’s Glen Scott were among those taking part in the Priiddis Greens Charity Classic. The tournament, held over two days, raised $350,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

 The Priiddis Greens Charity Classic, held Aug 16 and 17 in support of the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre was a huge success raising $350,000. The tournament would not have been the success it was were in not for the long-standing support of Remington Development Corporation. Pictured are Remington’s Randy Remington and his wife Donna.

 Jayman BUILT can always be counted upon to support myriad causes. Pictured at the Priiddis Greens Charity Classic, held Aug 16 and 17 in support of the Calgary Prostate Cancer, are Jayman’s Jay Westman and his wife Karen. The tournament raised $350,000.

Pictured at the Priiddis Greens Charity Classic, held Aug 16 and 17 in support of the Calgary Prostate Cancer, are long-time supporters Murray Fox (left) and Gord Coli.

 The annual Priiddis Greens Charity Classic would not be the success it is were it not for the support of Mike Wilson and Agrium’s Rose Lecky. The tournament raised $350,000 this year for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre. Wilson is the past board chair of the Centre and is a director of Suncor and Air Canada.

Pictured, from left, at the Priiddis Greens Charity Classic, held Aug 16 and 17, are Calgary Sun Homes editor Myke Thomas with Shane Homes’ Shane Wenzel and Cole Hendry. The tournament raised $350,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

Sportsnet 960 The Fan’s Derek Wills (left) and Calgary Flames president and CEO Ken King were among the scores of supporters taking part in the annual Priiddis Greens Charity Classic held Aug 16 and 17. The tournament raised $350,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

Kirk Hudson and his wife Detie have been long-time supporters of the annual Priiddis Greens Charity Classic benefitting the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre. This year’s tournament, held Aug 16 and 17 raised $350,000.

 Pictured, from left, at the Priiddis Greens Charity Classic are Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC) founder and renowned urologist Dr. Bryan Donnelly with PCC executive director Pam Heard and Dr. Evelyn Donnelly. The classic, held Aug 16 and 17, raised $350,000 for the Prostate Cancer Centre.

 Pictured, from left, at the Priiddis Greens Charity Classic are the two Andy’s-Andy Raffa (left) and Andy Mullan. The classic, held Aug 16 and 17, raised $350,000 for the Prostate Cancer Centre.

 Pictured, from left, at the Priiddis Greens Charity Classic are avid supporters Robert and Winnie Bezemer with Shelley and Alan Norris. The classic raised $350,000 for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre.

There are parties. And then there is W. Brett Wilson’s annual garden party. The must-be-invited-to fete has, over the years, raised millions of dollars for myriad charities. The concept, created by Wilson, is simple. He would host an over the top event in the garden of his Mount Royal mansion and pick up the tab for all the costs. Guests are simply asked to make a meaningful donation to the charities chosen each year. This year’s event was held Sept. 6 — a little later than normal due to Wilson’s beloved Nashville Predators having a great run in the playoffs. That, and a massive renovation to his home and garden necessitated an end of summer bash rather than the historical start of summer soiree. But what a great way to end summer 2017.

More than 1,000 guests attended (the wait list exceeded another hundred or so) and dug deep to raise more than $425,000, and counting. The nine charities benefiting from this generosity all have a focus on adolescent mental health. Recipients this year are: Canadian Mental Health Association; Calgary Counselling Centre; Wood’s Homes; Hull Services; Kids Help Phone; Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation; Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth; Potential Place Society and Distress Centre Calgary. Further, Wilson also personally supported the Silver Linings Foundation by donating $10 (up to $10,000) every time the hashtag #OMGP was used in the garden. Fabulous entertainment, pop-up shops and libation galore ensured this really is the event to be invited to.

Guests in attendance this night included: Sue Anne Valentine; Bryan and Elaine Walsh; Jayman BUILT’s Jay Westman and his wife Karen; Edge Mark Capital’s Bruce Edgelow and his wife Polly DeWulf; Brookfield Residential’s Allan Klassen and his wife Christine; Women for Men’s Health founder and Prostate Cancer Centre board member Dr. Shelley Spaner; Dr. Geoffrey Gotto; U of C president Elizabeth Cannon with colleague Nuvyn Peters, vice-president of development and fund engagement; Great Western Breweries board chair Michael Shaw and his wife Linda; Shane Homes founder Cal Wenzel; Trutina Homes’ Tony and Marty Trutina; Bret “Hitman” Hart and his wife Stephanie Washington-Hart; MLA Richard Gotfried and his wife Cathy; country music superstar Brett Kissell; Byron and Michelle Taylor; rising singing star Zasha Rabie; Mode Models founder Kelly Streit with Jade Davis; RESOLVE’s Cheryl Hamelin and Mary Ann Steen; Kathy Hnatiuk; mayoralty hopeful Bill Smith and his wife Mary; country music star Jake Mathews and his wife Candice; media personality Aisling Tomei; Laura Schewchenko; Ouansa Macrae; Bill and Franca DeJong; Brooks and Dodd Consulting’s Tom Dodd; and Hillberg & Berk’s Chelsey Mounts and Kelsey Conway.

Polly DeWulf and her husband, Edge Mark Capital’s Bruce Edgelow were among the more than 1,000 guests who gathered in the gardens of W. Brett Wilson’s Mount Royal estate for his annual garden party on Sept. 6.

 Pictured at W. Brett Wilson’s annual garden party are Women for Men’s Health founder and Prostate Cancer Centre board member Dr. Shelley Spaner with urologist Dr. Geoffrey Gotto.

Fabulous food, entertainment and pop-up shops were but a few of the highlights of the party. Funds raised were directed to nine different agencies with a focus on mental health. Pictured are Hillberg & Berk’s Chelsey Mounts (left) and Kelsey Conway. The cool Canadian-made jewelry will be available at their new location in Market Mall, opening Oct. 15.

U of C president Elizabeth Cannon (left) and colleague Nuvyn Peters, vice-president of development and fund engagement.

Entertaining guests was Zasha Rabie, a 15-year-old, soon-to-be, superstar.

From left: legendary philanthropist and Shane Homes founder Cal Wenzel with Trutina Homes’ Tony and Marty Trutina.

Mode Models’ Kelly Streit and Jade Davis.

Mayoralty candidate Bill Smith with his wife Mary Smith.

Country music star Brett Kissel (centre) is joined by Michelle Taylor (left) and Byron Taylor at the garden party on Sept. 6. Kissel was a big winner mere days later at the Canadian Country Music Awards.

What started in Paris in 1988 by Francois Pasquier as a chic “friends and word-of-mouth-only” event has taken the world by storm. Diner en Blanc-Paris, now attracts more than 10,000 people each year. The posh picnic is hosted in over 70 cities and more than 25 countries. Canada caught the Diner bug in 2012 when the event was launched in Montreal. Calgary soon followed suit.

While the event has seen some changes over the years, the principles behind Diner en Blanc have not. Guests gather at a secret location — announced mere hours prior — to share a gourmet meal in a beautiful public space.

The requirements to attend Diner could be considered daunting to some. Dress code: head-to-toe in elegant, white-only attire. Originality is encouraged as long as it is stylish and tasteful. Table setting: all white and guests must bring a table, two white chairs, white tablecloth and a picnic basket comprising fine food and proper stemware and white dinnerware. Guests cannot bring their own alcohol but can reserve online through the Diner en Blanc e-store. Such restrictions certainly didn’t dampen the enthusiasm, nor attendance, of the 5th annual Diner en Blanc, Calgary, held Aug. 31 at Shaw Millennium Park. Nearly 1,500 guests donned their coolest whites to sip, sup, see and be seen. From re-purposed wedding gowns and hats to designer tees and lingerie, guests pulled out all the stops for the fab fete.

Such restrictions certainly didn’t dampen the enthusiasm, nor attendance, of the 5th annual Diner en Blanc, Calgary, held Aug. 31 at Shaw Millennium Park. Nearly 1,500 guests donned their coolest whites to sip, sup, see and be seen. From re-purposed wedding gowns and hats to designer tees and lingerie, guests pulled out all the stops for the fab fete.

Hosts with the most Cory Edwards and Tyler Rygus are to be commended for pulling off another great Diner that seems to get bigger and better each year. One of the cooler elements at this year’s soiree was the pop-up art installation Love Nest created by the husband and wife team Bart Habermiller and Emily Barnett.

Others in attendance this night included: Judy Hepner and Frank Michiels; Marion Hill; Bonnie Barber; Octavia Malinowski; Lisa Varner; Elena Leeszle; Cody Parrish; Reese Nguyen; Chantel Westguard; Cindy Sleeman; Braidyn and Sidney Lapp; Derrick and Cobi Dion; Brad Mooney; Michelle Nedelec; Harley and Shelly Read; Laird and Lisa Hill; and Joanne Dafoe and her daughter Grace Dafoe.

Artists Bart Habermiller and Emily Barnett take a break in their art installation entitled The Love Nest at the 5th annual Diner en Blanc, Calgary.

Frank Michiels and Judy Hepner were among the nearly 1,500 white-clad guests at the 5th annual Diner en Blanc, Calgary. Diner en Blanc has its roots in Paris where it has become the leading summer fete for the past 30 years.

From left: Marion Hill, Bonnie Barber, Octavia Malinowski and Lisa Varner.

Cody Parrish is joined by Elena Leeszle (left) and Reese Nguyen at the 5th annual Diner en Blanc, Calgary.

Moet was the champagne of choice at the 5th annual Diner en Blanc, Calgary. Pictured are Moet supporters Chantel Westguard (left) and Cindy Sleeman.

Braidyn and Sidney Lapp donned their elegant whites to attend the 5th annual Diner en Blanc at Shaw Millennium Park.

Derrick and Cobi Dion.

And who doesn’t have a chandelier in tow for dining al fresco? Shelley Read, Lisa Hill, Laird Hill and Harley Reid did as part of their elegant table setting.

Gardening guru and co-co-host of Let’s Talk Gardening Joanne Dafoe and her daughter Grace had a wonderful time at the 5th annual Diner en Blanc, Calgary.

Brad Mooney and Michelle Nedelec toast the lens at the 5th annual Diner en Blanc, Calgary event held Aug. 31 at Shaw Millennium Park.

Volunteerism is the life-blood of many charitable organizations. And one of our city’s oldest organizations, Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS), has been tireless in its support of the Alberta Children’s Hospital and agencies within our community by helping, for 109 years, improve the health and wellness of children and young adults.

CHAS is comprised of 75 volunteer women. These inspirational ladies even pay a fee to become a CHAS member. CHAS’s administrative costs are less than three per cent and it has no paid staff and no permanent office gobbling up funds on rent. Impressive, indeed. And it gets even more impressive knowing that since 1982, CHAS has raised more than $9 million from myriad events like its Holiday Luncheon, Bridge Lunch at the Calgary Golf and Country Club and the CHAS Easter Tea, to name a few. Its signature event, the CHAS Charity Golf Classic, has netted more than $5 million. Last year alone, the classic distributed $501,000  — a record — to the Alberta Children’s Hospital and 27 agencies within the community.

This year’s tournament, held Aug 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club, was a standing-room-only success with 144 players taking part, each paying $500 to play. The 35th annual, although not as successful as last year, was a huge hit none-the-less and netted more than $200,000 for the purchase of an intra-operative neurological ultrasound system at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. The system will enable neurosurgeons to perform extremely intricate procedures with more precision than ever before.

The 35th annual owes much of its success to Rob Laidlaw of Acumen Capital Partners who, along with his family, have donated proceeds since 2010 from their annual Best Damn Stampede Party. Other individuals and corporations contributing greatly include Petrus Resources, RBC Foundation, Clara Ulrichsen, Team Sid, Tokay Capital Corp., Brinkhaus Jewellers, Haskayne and Partners, and Brawn Family Foundation to name a handful.

Kudos to the 2017 CHAS golf committee volunteers comprised of: co-chairs Sabina Bahan and Evelyn Bowie; Linda Middlemiss; Fiona Read; Dianne Ferguson; Anna Maier; Susan Desbarats; Jennifer Foss; Murlyne Fong; Mary Fong; Geri Moon; Dorothy Woolstencroft; Betty Stein; Lorna Hamm; Linda Vogt; Carole Brawn; and other volunteers and participants pictured on these pages.

 Pictured, from left, at the 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club are CHAS members Linda Vogt and Mary Fong with their guest Cindy Ferguson. The tournament netted more than $200,000 thanks to donors, golfers and Rob Laidlaw, who generously donated the proceeds from his annual Stampede party again this year. Photos: Bill Brooks

Pictured at the 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club is avid supporter and golfer extraordinaire Clara Ulrichsen.

 The 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club was an enormous success thanks in part to the Brawn Family Foundation’s Bob and Carole Brawn.

 TWT Group’s Shawn Freeman and CHAS member Murlyne Fong were among the 144 golfers who took part in the 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club.

 The 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club was a great success netting more than $200,000 thanks to the continued support from Thomas Jeffery Men’s Wear. Pictured are the iconic retailer’s Tim Beggs (left) and Len Hamm.

 Rob Laidlaw’s Annual Best Stampede Party is always a ton of fun, and philanthropic as well, with proceeds directed to the Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic. Pictured, from left, at the 35th annual Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club, are Element’s Greg Forsgren, Rob Laidlaw, Quo Digital’s Ryan Laidlaw and WSP’s Ari Markle.

Pictured at the 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club are Global Petroleum Marketing’s Gordon Weicker with longtime CHAS member Dorothy Woolstencroft.

 The 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club was a great success, netting more than $200,000. Raffle items as diverse as Air Canada tickets and a seven-night stay at East Winds, Saint Lucia, added nicely to the tournament proceeds. Pictured are Air Canada’s Caroline O’Dwyer (left) and Sherry Kureluk.

 Pictured, from left, at the hugely successful 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club are CHAS members Jennifer Brookman (left) and Jennifer Foss.

Pictured, from left, at the hugely successful 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club are Field Law’s Michael Casey, Q.C., Hearn and Associates’ Tim Hearn and avid community supporter Bob Hamilton.

 The 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club was a huge success and netted more than $200,000. Proceeds will support the purchase of an intra-operative neurological ultrasound system at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Pictured are Dr. Mark Anselmo (left) and Dr. Jay Riva-Cambrin, the docs who will use the system during extremely intricate procedures.

Crescent Enterprises’ Alan Moon and his wife, CHAS member Geri Moon were among the 144 golfers who took part in the 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club.

It was a family affair at the 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club. Pictured, from left, are Kensington Wine Market’s Andrew Ferguson, Tom Ferguson, Q.C., and CHAS treasurer Dianne Ferguson.

 The 35th annual Children’s Hospital Aid Society (CHAS) Charity Golf Classic held Aug. 17 at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club netted more than $200,000 for the purchase of equipment at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Pictured are Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation president and CEO Saifa Koonar (left) with Foundation fund development manager Sheelagh Mercier.

Save the best for last is an oft-used expression I am rather fond of. And this week, I’ve done just that. As summer 2017 fades into memory (and what a summer it was!), here’s a look at what is among the best golf tournaments out there: the annual Remington Golf Classic in support of the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC).

Brainchild of two Randys — Remington and Magnussen — the iconic tournament started 10 years ago and has never looked back. Since inception, the tournament has raised $3 million for the centre — a godsend as it relies solely on donor dollars and receives no government funding. In 2016, 4,688 men accessed the centre’s programs and services, and the numbers are only going up.

The 10th annual tournament, held last month at Stewart Creek Golf and Country Club in Canmore, raised an impressive $400,000. Kudos to all involved and take a well-deserved bow volunteer committee directors: Ryan Remington, Justin Mayershak, Cody Clayton, Darwin Flathers, Carl Cheverie, Gary Holbrook, Alex Wong, Dave Rutledge and, of course, the two Randys.

Glorious weather, lots of laughs and terrific live and silent auction items ensured a memorable day on the links for all. Judy Wong, wife of tournament director Alex Wong, was the lucky raffle winner of a five-star Hawaiian vacation worth $12K. One of the more coveted live auction items, a 24-month lease on a 2017 Ford F-150 XLT Crew Cab, garnered $14K while Club Seats to a San Francisco 49er’s football game (including airfare) topped $9K.

Other supporters this day included: auctioneer extraordinarie Danny Hooper, who garnered top dollar for the live auction items; CBRE’s Stuart Watson and John Fisher; Greg Hooper; Andrew Dixon (kudos on the longest drive Andrew); the winning team of Rollie Cyr and Hanif Manji; Lafarge’s Bob Spence; Morrison Homes’ Dave Gladney; Westcreek Developments’ Bravin Goldade; Ronmor Holdings’ Bob Parsons; Oakmont Consulting’s Gerry Edwards; Dr. Eric Hyndman; Kristen Walker; Mike Bader; Neil Ferris; Paul Marsden; Kevin Watson; Matt Binfit; Glen Simpson; Aly Lalani; Rob Blackwell; Shane Homes’ Cal and Shane Wenzel; PCC executive director Pam Heard; Cushman Wakefield’s Alex Brough; JLL’s Marshall Toner; Krita Investments’ Ike Kolias; and Englehart Reed’s Paige Magnussen.

Pictured with reason to smile at the 10th annual Remington Charity Classic are the founders of the hugely successful tournament, Randy Remington (left) and Randy Magnussen. The tournament has raised  $3 million for the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre since inception. Photos by Bill Brooks

Urologist Dr. Eric Hyndman (left) and Remington Development Corporation president Cody Clayton.

 From left: Morrison Homes’ Dave Gladney, Westcreek Developments’ Bravin Goldade and Lafarge’s Bob Spence.

From left: Ronmor Holdings’ Bob Parsons and Oakmont Consulting’s Gerry Edwards.

From left: Cushman Wakefield’s Alex Brough and JLL’s Marshal Toner.

Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre executive director Pam Heard and Shane Homes’ Cal Wenzel.

Tournament director Alex Wong will be holidaying soon as his wife Judy was the lucky raffle winner of a trip to Hawaii worth $12k at the 10th annual Remington Charity Golf Classic.

First-place team at the 10th annual Remington Charity Classic was Hanif Manji (left) and Rollie Cyr.

From left: CBRE’s John Fisher, Remington Development’s Ryan Remington and CBRE’s Stuart Watson.

Auctioneer Danny Hooper (left) and Krita Investments’ Ike Kolias.

From left: Dr. Eric Hyndman, Kristen Walker, Mike Bader, Cody Clayton. Photo by Shelley Buchan

From left:  Neil Ferris, Paul Marsden, Kevin Watson, Matt Binfit. Photo by Shelley Buchan

From left: Glen Simpson, Aly Lalani, Alex Wong, Rob Blackwell. Photo by Shelley Buchan

Paige Magnussen and her proud dad Randy Magnussen. Photo by Shelley Buchan

There was a time when film festivals were the domain of the elite. The oldest, and most prestigious, the Venice Film Festival, started in 1932. The Cannes Film Festival followed shortly thereafter. Now, film festivals span the globe from Abu Dhabi to Zurich with hundreds, perhaps thousands, taking place each year.

The first Calgary International Film Festival was held in 2000 for six days and was attended by 8,000. Within three years, attendance had more than doubled to over 20,000 for the expanded 10-day festival. Last year’s festival set a record attendance. And this year’s, which ends Oct. 1, is on track to best 2016. The 12-day showcase featured up to 200 multi-genre feature and short films from Canada and more than 50 other countries. The Calgary International Film Festival can boast of being the largest film festival in Alberta and sixth largest in Canada.

The 18th annual festival kicked off in style Sept. 20 with the Opening Gala Red Carpet and screening of feature film When They Awake at the Jack Singer Concert Hall. That the gala was sold out speaks volumes about the success of the event.

This social scribe had the pleasure of working the red carpet with other members of the media. Those taking a turn this night included: Festival executive director Steve Schroeder with programming manager Brenda Lieberman; When They Awake co-director/producer P.J. Marcellino with co-director Hermon Farahi; Deneze Nakehk’o; Don Amero; Stuart Henderson and Joanne Fishburn; Curt Young; JB The First Lady; Some Other Guys director/producer Todd Kipp and producer Linda Lee; Made in Vietnam director Thi Vo and Kaleb Tekeste; Living Proof director/producer/co-writer Matt Embry; Wall director Cam Christiansen; Izzy Gets the F**K Across Town writer/director/producer Christian Papierniak and producer/actor Meghan Lennox; Everfall director John Kissack; actor Eugene Brave Rock; Bret “Hitman” Hart; Olympic champion Erica Wiebe; Nomadic Pictures’ Chad Oakes; publicist Tiffany Burns; and philanthropist W. Brett Wilson.

When They Awake directors Hermon Farahi (left) and P.J. Marcellino

 Deneze Nakehk’o

 Joanne Fishburn and Stuart Henderson

Curt Young

 CIFF publicist Tiffany Burns

JB the First Lady

Izzy Gets the FXXK Across Town producer-actor Meghan Lennox and Christian Papierniak, writer-director-producer

Living Proof director, producer and co-writer Matt Embry

Everfall director John Kissack

Some Other Guys’ director/producer Todd Kipp and producer Linda Lee

When They Awake’s Don Amero

More than 400 members of the public, private and not-for-profit sectors gathered at Stampede Park Sept. 9 to join forces with ambassadors and donors to support The Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta’s fourth annual The Beat Goes On Gala. Since inception in 2014, the must-attend gala has raised nearly $4 million — more than $900,000 this year alone — in support of cardiovascular health care and research in southern Alberta.

“Each year, the Beat Goes On Gala finds new friends and continued support from many annual contributors,” said Ken King, gala co-chair and president and CEO of Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation. “The Libin Cardiovascular Institute work is essential to heart health and an important player in the world. We are so grateful to everyone.”

Proceeds from this year’s gala event will go toward funding clinical researchers at the Libin Institute and purchasing cutting-edge imaging equipment for basic science researchers.

“This community should be proud of their generosity in supporting the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta,” said Tony Dilawri, gala co-chair and partner of Dilawri Group of Companies. “I know first-hand the importance of cardiac expertise, and I can assure you that the staff at the Libin Institute are some of the best in the world.”

Highlights of the gala were numerous — not the least of which were live musical performances by 11-year-old prodigy Anna Stube and multi-JUNO award-winning Canadian artist Randy Bachman. 

“On behalf of all of the Libin Institute members, we are so very grateful to our co-chairs, and the partnership between AHS, the University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine and the very generous community,” said Dr. Todd Anderson, director of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta. “Great research and training lead to excellent clinical care, which we are fortunate to have in Calgary, thanks to events like the gala.”

Others in attendance this night included: Libin Institute’s Alvin Libin and his son Bobby; Cumming School of Medicine’s Dr. Norman Wong and his wife Tracy; Trico Homes’ Wayne Chiu; philanthropist and community leader Ann McCaig with Marg Thorson; Alberta Ballet’s Jean Grand-Maitre; Rozsa Foundation’s Mary Rozsa de Coquet; Calgary Health Trust’s Dr. Chris Eagle; Renoir Management’s Tim and Cindy Down; AHS’s Brenda Huband, Caroline Hatcher, Shawna Syverson and Lara Osterreicher; philanthropist Sam Switzer; emcees XL 103’s Don Stevens and Jamie Herbison; Hotel Arts’ Mark Wilson and his wife Kerry; Brooks and Dodd Consulting’s Tom Dodd; Libin Institute’s Al-Karim Walli; The Event Group’s Dave Howard; and Cumming School of Medicine’s Geoff Cumming.

Tim and Cindy Down

From left: Alberta Health Services’ Brenda Huband, Caroline Hatcher, Shawna Syverson and Lara Osterreicher

Alvin Libin and Dr. Chris Eagle

From left: Tom Dodd with Kerry and Mark Wilson

Cumming School of Medicine’s Dr. Norman Wong and his wife Tracy

Trico Homes’ Wayne Chiu and philanthropist Sam Switzer

Philanthropists and lifelong friends Sam Switzer (left) and Alvin Libin

From left: Marg Thorson, Alberta Ballet’s Jean Grand-Maitre and Ann McCaig

 Libin Cardiovascular Institute’s Al-Karim Walli and Rozsa Foundation’s Mary Rozsa de Coquet

Dr. Todd Anderson and Geoff Cumming, Cumming School of Medicine

Emcee’s XL 103’s Don Stevens (left) and Jamie Herbison

Violin protege Anna Stube, her mom Daiga Stube and The Event Group’s Dave Howard

The hip, happening and fashionably forward gathered en masse at Spruce Meadows Sept. 30 to attend PARKLUXE 2017. Presented by Bankers Hall and featuring UNTTLD, a selection of some of the top luxury Canadian fashion designers showcased their designs at the 9th annual PARKLUXE fashion show.

“Hosting PARKLUXE at a world-renowned venue was an important step for our organization and the evolution of our brand,” said PARK president Kara Chomistek. “We are constantly looking for new and innovative venues and the luxury appeal of Spruce Meadows fit our vision for this years’ showcase.” Readers may recall last year’s event was held in Studio Bell.

Readers may recall last year’s event was held in Studio Bell.

Fabulous fall fashions from Bankers Hall retailers Blu’s, La Chic and Oska shared the runway with stunning creations from designers Malika Rajani, Lauren Bagliore, NARCES, House of Nonie and globe-trotting uber designer Paul Hardy, who just returned from London and Paris hours before the show. That the showcase included a daytime market and PARK Pop-Up shops afforded supporters the opportunity to purchase items seen on the runway — all the while supporting Canadian designers.

Chomistek and her team of more than 30 staff and volunteers are to be commended on the success of this year’s showcase. Creating such a memorable event is no small feat.

Among the hundreds of guests in attendance were: Bankers Hall marketing manager Mona Biggar with family members Caitlin, Ashley, Christine and Madison Biggar; Capella & Auriga founding partner and CEO Deniz Basibuyuk; Adesso Accessories co-founder and creative director Ayaz Raja; Fellow.ca creative director Sandon Hansen; Eye Health Centres’ Dr. Diana Monea; Wavv’s Kimberley Van Vliet; Lauren Bagliore and her husband, Bagliore CEO Lance Farkas; Q Projects’ Heather Lawton; The Art of Strategy president and CEO Alison Geskin; UNTTLD F/W 2017 designers Simon Belanger and Jose Manuel St. Jacques; Saks Fifth Avenue general manager Lydia Seifert; Press + Post’s Sarah Geddes; Avenue Magazine editor-in-chief Kathe Lemon; The Youth Novels blogger Paul Schneider; Oui to Weekends blogger Reese Nguyen; Katrina Olson-Mottahed; Hungarian beauty Szilvia Forian; Rosanna Imbrogno; Skye Vanmunster; Pattison Outdoor’s Mandy Adams; La Chic owners Victoria and Elena Achilleos; CTV Morning Live host Joelle Tomlinson; Nimco Moumin; mode models founder Kelly Streit; and Frank Boyd with his wife Laura Myers.

Deniz Basibuyuk, Photos Bill Brooks

Adesso Accessories co-founder and creative director Ayaz Raja (left) and Fellow.ca creative director Sandon Hansen.

Eye Health Centres’ Dr. Diana Monea and Wavv’s Kimberly Van Vliet.

Rosanna Imbrogno and Paul Hardy

Skye Vanmunster (left) and Mandy Adams.

La Chic’s Elena and Victoria Achilleos

Katrina Olson-Mottahed (left) and Szilvia Forian

Q Projects’ Heather Lawton (left) and The Art of Strategy’s Alison Geskin

Lance Farkas, Lauren Bagliore CEO, and his wife, designer Lauren Bagliore.

UNTTLD F/W designers Simon Belanger (left) and Jose Manuel St-Jacques

Saks Fifth Avenue general manager Lydia Seifert (left) and Press + Post’s Sarah Geddes.

CTV Morning Live’s Joelle Tomlinson (left) and Nimco Moumin.

From left: The Chomistek clan represented by Eric Chomistek, PARK president Kara Chomistek, Cindy Chomistek, Tessa Chomistek, Kelsey Chomistek and Randy Chomistek. Photo courtesy Chuck Szmurlo

Luxe 15 PARKLUXE 2017 was a hit thanks to the small army of tireless volunteers and staff, only some of which are seen here. Photo courtesy Chuck Szmurlo

An awesome autumn evening proved the perfect backdrop for Heritage Park’s signature fundraising corporate event, September Shindig — held Sept 16. Highlights of the 29th annual event were numerous, including the crowd-favourite mock gunfight, a rodeo, a wonderful dinner prepared by executive chef Leighton Smyth, silent and live auction items, entertainment and fresh-baked bread and jams as parting gifts.

Tip of the hat to presenting sponsors Ecco Recycling, Highwood Distillers, Raymond James and SMP Engineering. And good on you sentiments to  Trail Boss sponsors Amy Jennings, Safeway/Sobeys and Standard General. Ditto Wrangler sponsors Big Rock Brewery, Coca-Cola Refreshments, Canadian Linen & Uniform Service and Choice Distribution.

Perennial favourite emcee Darrel Janz and co-emcee and auctioneer Danny Hooper did a great job keeping the evening light, fun and timely. Guests in attendance included: hostess for the evening, Heritage Park president and CEO Alida Visbach and her husband Paul Corbett; Highwood Distillers’ Gerry Berkhold and his wife Bev; avid park supporters, Karen, Bill and Amy Jennings; RBC’s Jerilynn Daniels; Telus’s Christi Cruz; Lois Wozney; Barb Simic; Safeway/Sobeys’ Renee Hopfner and Jana Sobey; mayoral candidate Bill Smith; Garry McTighe; Scott Ranch’s John Scott with Lynnie Blades; SMP Energy’s Kamal Parmar and his wife Ulka Parmar; Enrich Software’s Pat Spence with Enform’s Mary Jo Spence; Powell and Associates’ Jamie Powell and his wife Natalie; Frederic and Gabrielle Roussel; and Ward 7 candidate Dean Brawn and his wife Ellen.

From left: avid Heritage Park supporters Karen Jennings, Bill Jennings and Amy Jennings.

From left: Barb Simic, RBC’s Jerilynn Daniels, Lois Wozney and Telus’s Christi Cruz.

Ward 7 candidate Dean Brawn and his wife Ellen.

From left: Sobeys’ Renee Hopfner, Heritage Park’s Alida Visbach and Sobeys’ Jana Sobey.

From left: Heritage Park’s Alida Visbach, mayoral candidate Bill Smith and Garry McTighe.

From left: Enrich Software’s Pat Spence, Enform’s Mary Jo Spence, Natalie Powell and Powell & Associates’ Jamie Powell.

John Scott and Lynnie Blades.

SMP Engineering’s Kamal Parmar and his wife Ulka Parmar.

Gabrielle and Frederic Roussel.