Collaboration was the way to go Sept. 23 as the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity joined forces with National Music Centre to present An Evening with Measha Brueggergosman. The world renowned soprano had performed at some of the world’s most prestigious venues — from Carnegie Hall to the Sydney Opera House. The Grammy- and Juno-nominated Canadian is currently taking part in a recording residency at Banff Centre.

Studio Bell at the National Music Centre was  standing-room-only as scores of guests gathered to hear the divine diva.

World-renowned soprano Measha Brueggergosman performed to a packed house Sept. 23 at the National Music Centre. The wonderful evening was an inaugural collaboration between the National Music Centre and Banff Centre.

Fall 2018 promises to be out of this world at Glenbow. The exhibition lineup includes: Cosmos: Gathie Falk, Margaret Nazon and Erik Olson; The Arctic: Real and Imagined Views from the Nineteenth Century; and One New Work Tamara Lee-Anne Cardinal: Feet on the Ground.

Cosmos, curated by Mary-Beth Laviolette features works of art that explore the mysteries of the universe. The celestial studies are the work of three contemporary artists: Erik Olson’s planetary portraits; Gathie Falk’s expressionist starscapes; and Margaret Nazon’s Hubble Telescope-inspired traditional beadwork.

Arctic, curated by Travis Lutley, features art from Arctic expeditions between 1818—1876, including the search for Franklin and his crew and the final British attempt to navigate the Northwest Passage, juxtaposed with Indigenous and European artifacts and contemporary commentary by Inuit cultural consultants James Kuptana and Sophia Lebessis.

One New Work, curated by Nancy Tousley, features Calgary-based Tamara Lee-Anne Cardinal, an emerging multimedia and performance artist and community activist, who uses the women’s Pow Wow Jingle Dress Dance and its regalia as key elements of her art practice, in which she seeks a deeper understanding of herself and her Indigenous culture.

A select group of guests gathered at Glenbow Sept. 28 to be the first to experience the new fall exhibitions at an exclusive VIP opening reception. After the formal reception, scores of Glenbow supporters attended the public Launch Party, the biggest and best art party in town.

Spotted at the VIP reception were: Glenbow president and CEO Donna Livingstone; board chair Irfhan Rawji and his wife Christine Armstrong; Alberta Minister of Infrastructure Sandra Jansen; Imperial Oil president and CEO and new Glenbow board member Rich Krueger and his wife Jennifer; new board member and Boston Consulting Group partner and managing director Ross Middleton; Viviane Art’s Viviane Mehr, Jenna Klein Waller and Elizabeth Middleton; BMO Nesbitt Burns’ Scott McCreath; avid Glenbow supporters Cliff and Leslie Fryers; Fellow of Glenbow and contributor to the Arctic exhibition Rod Green; past Glenbow board chair Jim McLeod; legendary artist Chris Cran; independent curator Diana Sherlock; Alberta Liberal Party Leader David Khan; Harris Kirshenbaum; and Ethel Gibbs, proud grandmother of artist Erik Olson.

The exhibitions run through Jan 6, 2019.

From left: at Glenbow’s exclusive VIP opening reception held Sept. 28 are Christine Armstrong and her husband, Glenbow board chair Irfhan Rawji and Alberta Minister of Infrastructure Sandra Jansen. The reception afforded guests the opportunity to view Glenbow’s new fall exhibitions.

From left: Viviane Art’s Jenna Klein Waller, Viviane Mehr and Elizabeth Middleton.

Alberta Liberal Party Leader David Khan with avid Glenbow supporter Harris Kirshenbaum.

Artist Erik Olson and his proud grandmother Ethel Gibbs at Glenbow’s exclusive VIP opening reception featuring Glenbow’s new fall exhibitions. Olson’s portraits of planets are part of the exhibit Cosmos, which runs at the Glenbow Museum through Jan 6.

From left: BMO Nesbitt Burns’ Scott McCreath, Cliff Fryers, past Glenbow board chair Jim McLeod and Rod Green, Fellow of Glenbow and contributor to Glenbow’s exhibition The Arctic.

From left: renowned artist Chris Cran, Glenbow Fellow and curator Nancy Tousley and Diana Sherlock.

Since its founding in 1910, hundreds of Mount Royal students, faculty, staff and alumni have served in uniform. Since the First World War, 29 have given the ultimate sacrifice. In keeping with the tradition of forging lifelong connections, Mount Royal University created memorial bursaries in the name of each of the fallen soldiers. The bursaries were announced in 2011 to coincide with MRU’s centennial year. A select group of guests gathered in the home of philanthropist and community leader Ann McCaig on Sept. 26 to recognize and support the bursary program. A special address from General John de Chastelain, Mount Royal alumnus and honorary chair of the MRU Military Memorial Bursaries Campaign, inspired guests to dig deep and support the invaluable bursaries program. The program is MRU’s principal Canada 150 initiative and hopes to raise $4 million which will ensure endowment for 29 students scholarships each and every year. Thanks to the invaluable support of guests in attendance at the reception, the campaign is now more than halfway towards its goal.

Sharing the podium this night with the general were MRU president David Docherty and MRU vice-president Paul Rossmann. Other guests in attendance at the inspirational event included: Werklund Foundation’s David Werklund and his wife Susan Norman; Boyden’s Kevin Gregor; Trico Foundation’s Eleanor Chiu; TransAlta’s Hunter Wight; Marg Southern; Mary Lougheed; MRU board member, Trimac’s Scott Calver and his wife Tina Rossi; Rachel Herbert (sister of fallen soldier Nathan Hornburg) and her husband Tyler Herbert; U of C Chancellor Deborah Yedlin; Stella Thompson; Bret “The Hitman” Hart; West Canadian’s George Brookman; Kim Berjian and her husband Mike Smilie; Stephanie Felesky; Bruce Edgelow; Library Foundation chair Pat Moore; Gerry and Anna Maier; Maurice McCaig; and MRU’s Lindsay Cumming and Terry Kellam.

Visit mru.ca/mmb to learn more about this important initiative.

From left: MRU board member Scott Calver and his wife Tina Rossi, Rachel Herbert and Tyler Herbert. Rachel’s brother, Cpl. Nathan Hornburg, was killed on Sept. 24, 2007 while serving on a NATO mission in Afghanistan.

Werklund Foundation’s Susan Norman and her husband David Werklund were among the guests at a reception held in the home of Ann McCaig to recognize Mount Royal University’s Military Memorial Bursaries program.

From left: Marg Southern, MRU vice-president Paul Rossmann and Mary Lougheed.

From left: Boyden’s Kevin Gregor, Trico Foundation’s Eleanor Chiu and TransAlta’s Hunter Wight.

U of C Chancellor Deborah Yedlin (left) and Stella Thompson.

Bret “The Hitman” Hart poses for the lens with MRU president David Docherty at the reception.

Dress for Success Calgary’s annual charity event at Holt Renfrew welcomed over 400 guests Sept. 26 who shopped heartily, all the while supporting the invaluable charity by raising more than $50,000. Dress for Success’s mission is to help women achieve economic independence through a network of support, professional attire and the development tools needed to thrive in work and life.

Guests enjoyed a silent auction and fashion show by Mode Models and SwizzleSticks SalonSpa. Other highlights included canapes, wine and whisky provided by Vine Styles, Kensington Wine Market, The Wednesday Room and Hy’s Steakhouse, to name but a few.

Fashionably fabulous and philanthropic guests in attendance this night included: Maddy Blake Lang with Blake Financial; Susan Roberts with Studio Jewellers Marda Loop; Cadmus Fund’s Cheryl Aldred; Ellen Parker from Parker PR and Dress for Success Calgary; Dress for Success Calgary’s Nouran Emam and Ayden Athwal; Holt Renfrew’s Debra Kerr; Mode Models’ Kelly Streit; Dr. Rohan Bissoondath, Nalani Bissoondath and Shantelle Murphy from Preventous Cosmetic Medicine; Ross, Elizabeth and Clara Middleton; PARK’s Aldona Barutowicz, Jennifer Dooley and Kara Chomistek; Bamboo Ballroom’s Stacey Boruk; Bow Developments’ Jason Smith; Shannon Macleod from Macleod Builders and Stonebridge Crafted Homes and Deb Macleod.

From left: Holt Renfrew’s Debra Kerr; Artists Within Makeup Academy’s Tara Cowles and Jay Cowles. Photos courtesy, Parker PR

From left: Maddy Blake Lang with Blake Financial; Susan Roberts with Studio Jewellers Marda Loop; and Cheryl Aldred with Cadmus Fund.

From left: Preventous Cosmetic Medicine’s Dr. Rohan Bissoondath and Nalani Bissoondath; Shantelle Murphy; and 4Living’s May Jadau.

From left, at Holt Renfew’s annual charity event supporting Dress for Success, Calgary are: Shannon Sutton, Nancy Nixon from the Tom Baker Cancer Centre; Chloe Douglas-Crampton from Parker PR; and Mode Models’ Jade Davis.

Physicians, Calgary Health Trust brass and members of the Zivot family gathered Sept. 26 at Peter Lougheed Centre for the naming of the Zivot Limb Preservation Centre in honour of the donor, Dr. Mark Zivot. The centre will continue to provide care to patients through podiatric surgeons along with a multi-disciplinary team dedicated to reducing the impact of lower limb amputations.

This generous $1-million donation through Calgary Health Trust will help to enhance world-class care for patients managing diabetes and vascular disease and at risk of amputation of feet and lower limbs. The Limb Preservation Centre opened to patients in October 2016, and will continue to provide care to approximately 6,500 patients each year.

“Philanthropy has played an important part of my life and I wanted to provide a substantial donation with direct purpose and passion,” said Dr. Mark Zivot. “Not just a gift of dollars, but a gift of my knowledge, expertise and time,” he added.

With files from Calgary Health Trust

From left: Dr. Mark Zivot; Val Marsten, executive director of surgery and women’s health at the Peter Lougheed Centre; and Dr. Chris Eagle, president and CEO Calgary Health Trust.

The 21st anniversary of Wood’s Homes’ Never Give Up Gala, held Sept. 29 at Hyatt Regency Calgary, was a success, raising more than $200,000. The funds will support mental health treatment services Wood’s Homes provides to more than 20,000 children, teens and families every year. Further, funding will be directed to programming at Wood’s Homes’ third campus — recently opened in Inglewood. The unique programs offered at the campus —the first of its kind in Western Canada. — provide wraparound services for homeless and at-risk youth. The EXIT Youth Hub, as the one-stop shop is called, requires $3 million in funding. And thanks to the success of the Never Give Up Gala, the hub continues to ramp up its programs and services.

Highlights of the gala included a powerful address from Andrea, a courageous parent who shared her family’s personal journey with mental health; masterful emceeing skills by CBC’s Doug Dirks and food writer Julie van Rosendaal; and top-dollar auction bids thanks to auctioneer John Copithorne.

Guests in attendance this night included: event co-chairs and Wood’s Foundation board members Eric Perez and Shannon Glover; Renee Hopfner, Sobeys director of corporate social responsibility and foundation board member; Wood’s Homes CEO Jane Matheson; foundation board chair Kata Acheson; Dr. April Elliott, Chief of the Division of Adolescent Medicine, Alberta Children’s Hospital, and with Wood’s Homes youth medical clinic called C.A.T.S.; Joanne Weninger, vice-president, Strategic Partnerships at Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation; Wood’s Homes board chair Heather Heasman and her husband David Vankka; Keyera president and CEO David Smith and his wife Betty Smith; Scott Hutcheson, Calgary 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Bid Corporation chair and his partner, community leader Lesley Conway; Barclay Street Real Estate president David Wallach and his wife Zohar; realtor Tanya Eklund; Land Solutions’ Chad Hughes; Tyrone and Kerry Mellon; Rogers Insurance’s Lee Rogers and Ebony Lewis and her daughter Jaida Lewis; Wood’s Homes Sylvia MacIver, Peter Wittig, Karen Karpuk and Madelyn McDonald; and others pictured.

Wood’s Homes board chair Heather Heasman and her husband David Vankka of ICM Asset Management. Courtesy, Wood’s Homes

Client/guest speaker Andrea and Renee Hopfner, Sobeys director of corporate social responsibility and Wood’s Homes Foundation board member. Sobeys is Wood’s Homes’ Honoured Partner. Courtesy, Wood’s Homes

Keyera president and CEO David Smith and his wife Betty Smith at Wood’s Homes Never Give Up Gala. Keyed was an invaluable sponsor of the successful event, now in its 21st year.

From left: David and Zohar Wallach; Leslie Conway; and Scott Hutcheson.

From left: Land Solutions’ Chad Hughes; Tanya Eklund; Kerry Mellon; and Tyrone Mellon.

From left: Wood’s Homes volunteer Madelyn McDonald; Wood’s Homes Foundation board chair Kata Acheson; Alberta Children’s Hospital’s Dr. April Elliott; and Heather Heasman, Wood’s Homes board chair.

From left: Wood’s Homes Foundation chair Kata Acheson with Never Give Up Gala co-chairs Eric Perez and Shannon Glover. Courtesy, Wood’s Homes

From left: Rogers Insurance’s Ebony Lewis; Wood’s Homes CEO Jane Matheson; Rogers Insurance’s Lee Rogers; and Jaida Lewis.

From left: Wood’s Homes program director Teri Basi; Joanne Weninger, vice-president, strategic partnerships, Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation; her husband Feisal Keshavjee; and Lori Humphrey Clements, Wood’s Homes director of fund development. Courtesy, Wood’s Homes

From left: Wood’s Homes’ Sylvia MacIver; Peter Wittig; and Karen Karpuk.

Imagine being told you have breast cancer. Could it get any worse? Unfortunately, for many women — and some men, yes it can. What if you are not gainfully employed and do not have health-care benefits? What if your nest egg barely covers one month’s rent? How will you get by?

Thankfully, the Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation provides financial assistance to low-income breast cancer patients who are receiving, or have received, treatment at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre in Calgary. The foundation, founded in 1995 by Diana Kalef, has raised more than $2 million since inception and provides much needed financial assistance so patients can focus on their recovery — rather than worrying about how to pay rent or buy groceries.

Its signature fundraiser, the annual Wings of Hope luncheon, is a must-attend event and this year’s edition proved no exception. More than 500 guests gathered at the Hyatt Regency Oct. 12 to support the foundation. Inspiring stories, a powerful video, fabulous Hillberg & Berk jewelry for sale with proceeds directed to the foundation and a keynote address from Hillberg founder and CEO Rachel Mielke were but a few of the luncheon highlights. Miekle’s “Power of Sparkle” address was met with rousing applause. That she has taken her jewelry manufacturing company from a staff of six to more than 200 — and donated more than $1.5 million in product and cash to causes empowering women, was just the type of good news story guests in attendance were grateful to hear.

Luncheon co-chairs Rhonda Aiello and Beth Brownrigg joined forces with foundation board chair Leanne Campbell and other foundation volunteers to ensure all in attendance had a memorable time. Breast cancer survivor and foundation client Hope Young’s video about the challenges she has faced brought home the powerful message as to how invaluable the foundation is. And Brianne Guenther eloquently spoke about the importance of volunteerism. Emcee Gord Gillies, 770 CHQR morning co-host, did an admirable job as always. Others in attendance included: Shawn Denstedt, Osler vice-chair for Western Canada; Elizabeth Carson; Hope Young’s proud daughters Alison and Meagan; Dentons’ Courtney Burton and George Antonopoulos; Wings of Hope director Jennifer Millar with SemCams’ Graeme Millar; Wings of Hope board member Karla Palardy; volunteer Joey Bogle; Denise Aiello; McKenzie Investments’ Peter McCarthy; TD Wealth’s Tyler Watson, Tyler Knight and Joanne Pedersen; Tom Baker Cancer Centre volunteers Bernie Dunlop and Corinne Spronken; WestJet’s Katie Clayton; BDP’s Alicia Quesnel and Jody Wivcharuk; and others pictured.

Hillberg & Berk founder and CEO Rachel Mielke was the keynote speaker at the Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon at Hyatt Regency Calgary. Her company has grown from a staff of six to more than 200. Having Queen Elizabeth as an avid customer certainly helps the popular jewelry’s cache.

Shawn Denstedt, Osler vice-chair Western Canada (left), and Northview Apartment Reit’s Brianna Guenther. Osler was the luncheon’s presenting sponsor.

Pictured, from left: Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation board member Karla Palardy; luncheon co-chair Rhonda Aiello and her son (and volunteer) Joey Bogle; and Rhonda’s equally proud mom Denise Aiello.

From left: McKenzie Investments’ Peter McCarthy, with TD Wealth’s Tyler Watson, Joanne Pedersen and Tyler Knight.

770 CHQR morning co-host Gord Gillies did a great job emceeing the annual luncheon Oct. 12 at Hyatt Regency Calgary.

Dentons’ Courtney Burton and George Antonopoulos were among the more than 500 guests at the Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation annual luncheon. Dentons was one of the invaluable sponsors of the event.

Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation director Jennifer Millar and SemCams’ Graeme Millar.

From left: Tom Baker Cancer Centre’s Bernie Dunlop, Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation founder Diana Kalef; breast cancer survivor Hope Young; and Tom Baker Cancer Centre’s Corinne Spronken.

Breast cancer survivor and inspirational speaker Hope Young (centre) with her daughters Alison Young (left) and Meagan Young.

From left: WestJet’s Katie Clayton, BDP’s Alicia Quesnel and Jody Wivcharuk and avid supporter Anne Schenkenberger.

The Trico Changemakers Studio, located on the third floor of the Bissett School of Business at Mount Royal University, brings together community organizations, social ventures and students to collaborate to address social or environmental challenges.

The Studio held an official launch on Sept. 27 with studio members, the university community and government representatives in attendance. Speaking at the gathering was Wayne Chiu of Trico Homes and the Trico Foundation, which contributed $1 million to the Trico Changemakers Studio as part of Chiu’s philosophy of “doing well and doing good.”

Studio director Jill Andres said, “Changemakers come from all different backgrounds, sectors, and disciplines. We have social entrepreneurs, artists, activists, and students — and every single one of them is essential if we want to make progress toward addressing complex issues. We’re so pleased to have members that represent the expanse of the social innovation ecosystem.”

In attendance with Andres, Wayne and Eleanor Chiu were Siksika Elder Roy Bear Chief; MLA Greg Clark; Lesley Brown, Mount Royal University Provost; Patti Pon, CEO of Calgary Arts Development; Paul Singh Kundan, vice-chair, MRU Board of Governors and CEO and founder of Stone West Homes Inc.; Michele Stanners, MRU Board of Governors; Susan Swan, MRU Board of Governors; Paula Worthington, Paula Worthington PR; Cathy Glover, Changemaker in Residence, Marlies Van Dijk, lead, Alberta Health Services Design Lab; Alyssa Lindsay, executive director, Canada Bridges; Sarah Price, director of service, Silvera for Seniors; Allyson Dann, network engagement facilitator, Calgary Fetal Alcohol Network; Stephanie Jackman, founder and board chair, REAP Business Association; John Taylor, Southwest Alberta Sustainable Community Initiative; Lesley MacKinnon and Jackie Mattock Howard of the United Way Calgary and Area; artists Skye Louis, Vicki Stroich, Melanee Murray-Hunt, Kathryn Pearce, student Joe Plant and many more.

With files from MRU

James Stauch, director of the Institute for Community Prosperity, with Stephanie Jackman of REAP Business Association.

Studio member and MRU student Joe Plant, left, with Jill Andres, director of Trico Changemakers Studio.

Skye Louis, left, artist and Studio administration and member support, with Patti Pon, CEO of Calgary Arts Development.

Lena Soots, Mount Royal University Changemaker in Residence.

Lesley MacKinnon, left, and Jackie Mattock Howard of United Way Calgary and Area.

Created in 2003 to honour the philanthropic efforts of Ted and Lola Rozsa, the Rozsa Award for Excellence in Arts Management is unique in Canada, celebrating outstanding arts managers and providing additional professional development benefits to the recipient and his or her organization. Since inception 15 years ago, the foundation has distributed more than $1 million in cash prizes and benefits to award recipients and their organizations throughout Alberta.

Past recipients of the prestigious award are captains in the arts and read like a who’s-who including: Bob McPhee; Anne Green; Kathi Sundstrom; Steve Schroeder; Tony Luppino; Stephen McHolm; and Erin O’Conner.

Scores of guests gathered in the Jack Singer Concert Hall lobby Oct. 15 for the 15th Annual Rozsa Award. Shortlisted for this year’s award were JP Thibodeau, artistic producer of Storybook Theatre; Keri Mitchell, executive director of Theatre Alberta; and Shelley Youngblut, CEO of Wordfest.

Youngblut received the award this year. Apt indeed given that only a short time ago, Wordfest was about to close its doors. Since taking over as creative director in 2015, Youngblut has implemented pivotal changes and fostered powerful partnerships that have transformed Wordfest from the host of a weeklong literary celebration to a purveyor of dynamic and profitable year-round programming that draws major talent and audiences from around the world.

Guests in attendance are pictured.

With files from Rozsa Foundation

From left: Jim Dewald, dean of the Haskayne School of Business; Sippy Chhina, partner at Deloitte Canada; and Mary Rozsa de Coquet, board chair, Rozsa Foundation. Courtesy, Diane + Mike Photography

From left: View Point Foundation’s Sue Van Wielingen; Mary Rozsa de Coquet; Al Duerr; and Jan Fichtner. Courtesy, Diane + Mike Photography

The Calgary Humane Society’s annual Cocktails for Critters is a fun and philanthropic way to support our furry and feathered friends. Now in its 18th year, the annual ‘pet fashion show’ has raised considerable funds for the society that helps care for the more than 4,683 animals it receives each year.

This year’s event, held Oct. 25 at the Westin, was attended by more than 450 guests. Presented by Preventous Collaborative Health, the evening featured a Hall of Fame Rescues on the Runway show; a meet and greet with animal guests; silent auctions; wine and trip raffles; and an ears and tails 50/50 game.

Taking to the runway this night were: emcees Scott Fee and Jordan Witzel of Global fame with dogs Riley and Boomer; Calgary Humane Society (CHS) board chair Miriam Carey with dog Mayu and snake (!) Perogie; and CHS executive director Carrie Fritz with Cockatiel Dolly and dog Rico.

Others having a great time at the event included: past board chair Deanna Steblyk and her husband Pembina Pipelines’ Harvey Steblyk; Errol Lee Fullen, husband of board chair Miriam Carey; and Preventous Collaborative Health’s Dr. Rohan Bissoondath and his wife Nalini Bissoondath.

Pictured at Calgary Humane Society’s Annual Cocktails for Critters Oct. 20 at The Westin are society board chair Miriam Carey and her husband Errol Lee Fullen. The 18th annual event was a success and was attended by more than 450 guests.

Preventous Collaborative Health’s Dr. Rohan Bissoondath and his wife Nalini. Preventous was the presenting sponsor of the successful event.

Calgary Humane Society past board chair Deanne Steblyk and her husband Pembina Pipeline’s Harvey Steblyk had a great time at the 18th annual Cocktails for Critters in support of Calgary Humane Society.

With nearly half a million dollars, The Chinook Fund is well positioned to continue its invaluable support of charitable organizations providing services, programming, education, and support for the LGBTQ community.

The Calgary Chinook Lesbian and Gay Fund is an endowment established to provide ongoing, long-term funding. Each year, the fund accrues income and a portion of this is distributed by the fund’s advisory committee in support of charitable LGBTQ organizations.

The annual Chinook Fund Dinner provides the majority of the foundation’s funding and this year’s event, held Oct. 25 at Hy’s, set a record with more than 110 guests in attendance. Funds are still being tallied but it appears more than $50,000 was raised.

Steve Polyak was awarded the Chinook Fund Hero Award this night for his tireless work improving the LGBTQ community. Additionally, grants were awarded to YWCA and The Calgary Queer Arts Society to fund LGBTQ programs.

In attendance were: committee members Tony Hailu; Gary Courtney; Gordon Sombrowski; Jason Hamilton; John Holt; Gary Holland; Stephen English; Al Osten; and Bob McPhee. Kudos to TD on being the dinner presenting sponsor and take-a-bow sentiments to Hy’s on being the dinner host.

From left, at the annual Calgary Chinook Fund dinner held Oct. 25 at Hy’s are John Holt, Gary Holland and TD Wealth’s Stephen English. TD was the presenting sponsor of the dinner.

Al Osten (left) and Bob McPhee.

Pictured at the annual Calgary Chinook Fund dinner held Oct. 25 at Hy’s is Steve Polyak, 2018 Hero Award recipient.

More than 800 business and community leaders gathered at the Hyatt Regency Calgary Oct. 25 to honour four legendary business entrepreneurs as they were officially inducted into the Alberta Business Hall of Fame-Southern Alberta. The JA Southern Alberta initiative also presented the JA Alumni of Influence Award at the annual dinner which celebrates entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

Established by JA Southern Alberta in 2004, the Alberta Business Hall of Fame-Southern Alberta has inducted business leaders the likes of Jim Gray, Bud McCaig, Doc Seaman, Harley Hotchkiss, Rick George and Dick Haskayne, to name a few. Through their vision, citizenship, business acumen, entrepreneurial spirit and gifts of time and treasure, these Calgarians serve as vital mentors for today’s youth, who will be the leaders of tomorrow.

Joining these inspirational leaders in the Hall of Fame are: Murray Cobbe; Lorenzo Donadeo; Dr. Chen Fong; and the late David Mitchell. Catherine Williams was also recognized this night as the JA alumna who has made extraordinary business and community contributions to southern Alberta.

Guests in attendance included: Cobbe’s wife Connie and other family members; Fong’s wife Alice Chan; Donadeo’s wife Donna and sons Franco and Marco with other family members; son of the late David Mitchell, Dave Mitchell and his partner Ling Chen and other family members; JA Southern Alberta president and CEO Melissa From; U of C president Elizabeth Cannon with colleague Nuvyn Peters; MATCO Investments vice-chairman Michael Tims; Werklund Foundation’s David Werklund and his wife Susan Norman; Jeff and Marilyn McCaig; Dawn Turcotte; community leaders and philanthropists Tom and Debra Mauro; Pyramid Productions’ Larry Day; past JA board chair Rick Gallant; SAIT’s Brian Thompson; RGO’s Ross Glenn and his wife Shirley; Jim and Anne Davidson; Bonavista Energy board chair Keith MacPhail and his wife Kathy; Clayton Woitas and his wife Linda; and others pictured.

From your friends at the Herald, congratulations to this year’s inductees. You do our city proud.

2018 Southern Alberta Business Hall of Fame Laureate Dr. Chen Fong and his wife Alice Chan at the awards gala held Oct. 25 at the Hyatt Regency Calgary.

David Mitchell was posthumously recognized as a 2018 Southern Alberta Business Hall of Fame Laureate at a gala dinner at the Hyatt Regency Calgary. Pictured, from left, representing the Mitchell family, are Carolyn Mitchell, Ling Chen, Dave Mitchell, Jessica Mitchell and family friend Mike Tims, vice-chairman, Matco Investments.

From left: JA Southern Alberta past board chair Rick Gallant; Melissa From, president and CEO, JA Southern Alberta; and SAIT’s Brian Thompson.

From left: Bonavista Energy chairman Keith MacPhail and his wife Kathy MacPhail, with Linda and Clayton Woitas, CEO and president, Range Royalty Limited Partnership.

From left: Community leaders and philanthropists Tom and Debra Mauro pictured with Pyramid Productions’ Larry Day.

Werklund Foundation’s David Werklund and his wife Susan Norman.

From left: Marilyn McCaig, U of C’s Nuvyn Peters and Dawn Turcotte.

Ahead of schedule and under budget are words that — unfortunately — are rarely heard. Nor are words the likes of spectacular, incredible, visionary. Our new 240,000-sq.-ft. Central Library is all of these. And more.

The new Central Library is the only Canadian building on Architectural Digest’s 2018 Most Anticipated Buildings in the World. The $245-million project is, beyond question, a breathtaking feat of engineering design and innovation. Architectural firm Snohetta partnered with Calgary-based Dialog to create the four-storey structure located at 800 3rd St. S.E.

Creating an opening gala to showcase the coolest thing to hit our city in decades would be no small feat. Not to be daunted, organizers took inspiration from the famed Met Gala in New York. The Lit Gala, as the event would be called, took the city by storm Nov. 2 and delivered on its promise of a high-energy experience ushering in the light of knowledge. Tickets at $750 a pop perhaps proved a little too steep for some, as it was hoped 1,000 guests would attend. Nonetheless, 680 guests donned their finest to attend the event with proceeds directed to a Spotlight Speaker Series providing Calgarians from all backgrounds and financial ability with free access to creative thinkers and fostering innovation and thought leadership in our city.

Highlights of the gala were numerous including: a performance from multi Juno-Award winning Calgary musicians Tegan and Sara; a riveting address from Craig Dykers, lead architect for the library and founding partner of the celebrated Snohetta architecture firm; a champagne toast delivered by Pat Moore, Library Foundation board chair and gala committee member; a Stomp Performance in the TD Great Reading Room; a performance from Decidedly Jazz in the Shaw Digital Entertainment Area; a reading from library CEO Bill Ptacek in the Stand and Command children’s area; remarks from Library Foundation president and CEO Ellen Humphrey; a performance from legendary trumpeter Jens Lindemann; and dancing until the wee hours in the Stuart Olson and Holt Renfrew sponsored main level.

Others in attendance at the fab fete included: Lit Gala committee co-chair Cynthia Moore; invaluable donors Mike and Linda Shaikh; community leader and philanthropist W. Brett Wilson with Debra Ross; Anthony, Joe, Britt and Marcela Giuffre; Ujal Thakor and his wife Sabina Shah; Dr. Robert Mitchell and his wife Helen; Andrea Brussa; Sagium’s Rick Green; invaluable donors Greig and Brenda Nicholls; Jane and Roxanne McCaig; architect Elaine Molinar; foundation board member Marshall Abbott; Stuart Olson president and CEO David LeMay and his wife Lisa Lemay with colleagues Paul and Laurie Polson, Michael and Siobhan McKenna, Baudouin and Anne Nizet, Gawiya Haymour and Glen Dane; NORR Architects’ Alex Klassen and Calgary Jewellery’s Jonathan Florence; Stand and Command’s Avnish Mehta, Jon Holden, Karin Poldaas, Quinton Rafuse and Amish Morjaria; foundation board member Carl Landry and his wife Candace Herman; Viewpoint’s Rob Van Wielingen and his wife Cat; Calgary Foundation’s Eva Friesen; Patti Pon, president of Calgary Arts Development; TD Canada Trust senior vice-president, prairie region, Robert Ghazal and his wife Claudia; Ian and Deirdre Harris; my terrific handler, library vice-president Brent Buechler; and others pictured on this two-page spread.

Kudos to all involved on the great success of the Lit Gala and heartfelt thanks to the visionaries who made the incredible new library a reality. You do our city proud.

Pictured, from left, at the Lit Gala are tireless volunteer committee members Franca De Jong, Holt Renfrew’s Debra Kerr, Lisa Itzcovtich, Pamela Sheahan, Cheryl Aldred and Kelly Streit.

From left are tireless volunteer committee members Ryan Jennings, co-chairs Cynthia and Pat Moore, Jan Witting and Maddy Lang.

Krista and Hugh Thomson were among the more than 650 guests in attendance.

Avid library supporters Ian and Deirdre Harris.

The new Central Library is garnering rave reviews. The spectacular space would not have been possible without the support of donors like Linda and Mike Shaikh and Louise Fernandes.

From left: Calgary Public Library vice-president Brent Buechler, Debra Ross and philanthropist and community leader W. Brett Wilson.

From left: Joe Giuffre and his wife Marcela with Britt Giuffre and her husband Anthony Giuffre.

From left: Models Destiny Ngbodin, Devin Moorman, fashion designer Matt Laprairie and model Jade Davis pose for the lens at the Lit Gala.

Ujal Thakor and his wife Sabina Shah cut an elegant swath.

Mitchell Eye Centre’s Dr. Robert Mitchell and his wife Helen Mitchell.

Sisters Jane and Roxanne McCaig wearing Issey Miyake.

Invaluable supporters of the fabulous new Calgary Public Library are Sagium principal Rick Green with Brenda and Greig Nicholls.

TD Canada Trust senior vice-president Robert Ghazal and his wife Claudia at the party. TD is a substantial donor to the library.

Pictured with reason to smile at the opening party for the fabulous new Calgary Public Library are architects Elaine Molinar and Craig Dykers. The $245-million library boasts 240,000 sq. ft of spectacular architecture.

Hyatt Regency Calgary GM Amy Johnson and Lit Gala committee member, Mode Models’ Kelly Streit.

From left: Jeff and Marilyn McCaig with legendary trumpeter Jens Lindemann.

From left: Stuart Olson’s Paul and Laurie Polson with Lisa and David LeMay, president and CEO.

From left: Stuart Olson’s Michael and Siobhan McKenna, Anne and Baudouin Nizet, Gawiya Haymour and Glen Dane.

NORR Architects’ Alex Klassen and Calgary Jewellery’s Jonathan Florence.

The Lit Gala was a feast for the senses.

From left: invaluable library donors Stand and Command’s Jon Holden, Karin Poldaas, Quinton Rafuse, Avnish Mehta and Amish Morjaria.

Calgary Public Library CEO Bill Ptacek and his wife Margaret.

From left: Candace Herman and her husband, Library Foundation board member Carl Landry with Viewpoint’s Cat and Rob Van Wielingen.

1More than 1,000 fashionably fabulous guests gathered at Brookfield Place Sept. 29 to take in PARKLUXE 2018 — the fashion show by which all others are measured.

PARK-Promoting Artists/Redefining Kulture, is a socially conscious organization that aspires to create opportunities for developing fashion designers and artists to share their work and sustain a profitable business. Since inception 10 years ago, PARK’s events have grown to include: an annual outdoor market called PARKSALE; creative entrepreneur workshops — PARKFORUM; a store for Canadian brands — PARKSHOP; a kids fashion show called PARKFAMILY; and PARK’s premier events, PARKSHOW and PARKLUXE, the annual spring-summer and fall-winter fashion shows that showcase Canadian designs to consumers, buyers and media.

Venues as varied as Studio Bell and Spruce Meadows to Chinook Centre parkade and the George C. King Bridge in East Village have played host to the fashion presentations, but this year’s, the 10th anniversary, was the biggest to date featuring a mammoth 100-metre runway that crossed the Plus-15 and wound through the fabulous new Brookfield Place atrium. Presented by Downtown Calgary, it was apt indeed that the event came full circle and returned to its downtown roots where the first show, 10 years ago, took place in the Jamieson Place Winter Garden.

The fleet of Mercedes-Benz Downtown vehicles lining either side of the Brookfield Place courtyard proved the perfect visual as guests entered the enormous atrium. Once inside, 30 local vendors offered a variety merchandise, food and libation. But the fashion show was the star of the evening and featured looks from Simons and the Core shopping centre, Montreal’s UNTTLD, Edmonton’s Urbanovitch, NONIE, Paul Hardy, Lauren Bagliore, Adesso and Malorie Urbanovitch.

Guests in attendance included: PARK co-founders Kara Chomistek and Jessie Li; Mode Models’ Kelly Streit, UNTTLD Designers José St-Jacques and Simon Bélanger; PARKER PR’s Ellen Parker with colleague Chloe Douglas-Crampton; CDA board directors Ramona Biggar, Suzanne Baden, and Eileen Stan; Joyce Byrnes; local television personalities Jenny Shouldice and Aisling Tomei; Dr. Dianna Monea; Hedkandi Salon owners Wray and Jereme Bokitch; Tom Baker Cancer Centre’s Dr. Nancy Nixon; Bamboo Ballroom owner Stacey Boruk; NONIE designer Nina Kharey; designer Anneke Forbes; SWIRL Cupcakes owner Lynette Macdonald; The Upside Clothing‘s Shannon Sutton; and others pictured.

Pictured from left at PARKLUXE 2018 in Brookfield Place are Jennifer Carter; Natalie Lotosky; PARKER PR’s Chloe Douglas-Crampton and Ellen Parker; stylist and freelance writer Elizabeth Middleton; Bamboo Ballroom owner Stacey Boruk; The Upside Clothing’s Shannon Sutton; and Tom Baker Cancer Centre’s Dr. Nancy Nixon. Courtesy Chuck Szmurlo

Pictured on the runway is a model wearing fashion by Montreal’s UNTTLD.  Courtesy, Glen Co

Designer Caitlin Power of Caitlin Power Designs showcased her fabulous fashions at PARKLUXE 2018.  Courtesy, Glen Co

Mode Models’ Justin Mulrain was one of the models taking to the runway.  Courtesy, Glen Co

Hedkandi Salon owners Wray and Jereme Bokitch pictured at PARKLUXE 2018.  Courtesy, Glen Co

Local drag personalities Abeiya Miraj (left) and Stephanie Prince were among the more than 1,000 guests who attended PARKLUXE 2018. The event marked the 10th anniversary of the fab fashion presentation. Courtesy Chuck Szmurlo

SWIRL Cupcakes owner Lynette Macdonald (left) and Fairmont Royal York marketing and communications manager Jacqueline Tyler. Photo credit Brendan Klem

Calgary Downtown Association board member Suzanne Baden (left) and Kara Chomistek, president of PARK. More than 1,000 guests attended the fabulous fashion show. Photo credit Brendan Klem

Guests had the chance to indulge in tastings prepared by 10 fierce female chefs. One of Calgary’s most distinguished chef’s, chef Liana Robberecht and other members of Women Chefs and Restaurateurs, including chef Shelley Robinson, 2014 winner of Food Network’s Chopped Canada, and Jenny Kang, executive chef of Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant, filled the room with delectable cuisine such as pork saltimbocca and beef barbacoa. The evening concluded with an impromptu live auction featuring an exclusive culinary experience for 10 hosted in the heart of the WinSport kitchen with Chef Liana Robberecht and wine pairings provided by Skimmerhorn Winery.

The event was a huge success, raising awareness and critical funding for Pacekids Programs, an organization that supports children with special needs and their families across Calgary. A donation of $1,000 funded one child and sent guests home with a sparkling Hillberg & Berk bracelet.

Thanks to the generous support from attendees, Pacekids Programs will ensure that every child has access to the best programming, therapies, and resources available, because every child deserves to thrive.

Philanthropic guests in attendance included: John Pieri, vice-president marketing, ATB Financial; Meaghen Cotterill, owner of 5 Elements Martial Arts; Nancy Klensh, president, Summit Kids; Laureen Harper; Jason McKay, director of food and beverage and event sales, WinSport; Sante Medical’s Dr. Bobby Srenivassian; Ania Basak, CEO and founder, Fashion Calgary; Janek Guminski, owner, Skimmerhorn Winery and senior director, ATB Financial; Scott Matson, Pacekids board member, and senior vice-president finance and CFO, Horizon North Logistics Inc.; Laurel Edwards, vice-president, Strategic Group; Chris Law, senior vice-president and partner, Colliers International; Kern Briscoe, CEO, Volker Stevin Canada; and others pictured.

With files from Pacekids Programs

Pictured at the third annual Gala-ry of Hope in the Hemingway Room at The Commons is chef Erin Vrba, one of 10, fierce female chefs who delighted guests with their culinary creations. The event was a great success raising awareness and critical funding for Pacekids Programs, an organization that supports children with special needs and their families across Calgary. All photos, Photos Kristy Reimer Photography

Pictured at the 3rd annual Gala-ry of Hope fundraiser are board member Emi Adschi and Scott Matson, senior vice-president finance and CFO of Horizon North Logistics Inc.

Pictured, from left, Jason McKay, director, food and beverage and event sales at WinSport, Laureen Harper, and Phil Crozier of PHOTOPHILCRO.

Vicki and Stu Reid were among the scores of guests.

Chris Law, senior vice-president and partner, Colliers International, and Laurel Edwards, vice-president, Strategic Group, were among the guests at the third annual Gala-ry of Hope.

If you thought, as did I, that the Calgary Stampede’s youth programs consist solely of the Young Canadians School of Performing Arts, you would be mistaken. Through the Calgary Stampede Foundation’s Youth Achievement Programs, groups as varied as the Calgary Stampede Showband, Stampede School and 4-H on Parade are supported. Further, scholarships from the International Youth Livestock and Bill Collins Youth Excellence to the UFA Steer Classic and Western Showcase are supported through the foundation. Such support affords our youth the opportunity to create skills, confidence and strength, ensuring tomorrow’s future looks promising for all.

Scores of guests gathered at the BMO Centre Nov. 1 to attend the foundations’ Salute to our Youth fundraiser. That the formal program kicked off with the award-winning Calgary Stampede Showband proved the perfect entree to an evening that beautifully showcased so many talented youth.

Among the guests in attendance this night were: honorary patron Dan Hays and his wife Kathy; committee chair Ann McCaig; committee vice-chair Shelly Norris and her husband Alan; committee members Jennifer Allen, Kim Berjian, George Brookman, Susan Church, Gisels Danis, Holly Fortier, Scarlet Lee, Jane McCaig, Kirsten Tudor and Sheila Wappel-McLean.

Others having a marvellous time this night included: foundation chairman Bob Thompson and his wife Gretchen; Stampede CEO Warren Connell, vice-chair Dana Dana Peers, and vice-president Sarah Hayes; philanthropists Mike and Linda Shaikh; famed artist Paul Van Ginkel and his wife Kristin; 2018 Stampede Princesses Courtney Dingreville and Keily Stewart with 2018 Stampede Queen Carly Heath; BMO’s Adam Lamb and Barry Taitinger with their spouses Sarah Lamb and Christine Taitinger; Airside Aviation’s John Ftizsimmons; Cowboys Group’s Paul Vickers and Dave Urner; Raymond James’ Dave Lougheed; Homes by Avi’s Charron Ungar; Karyn Drake and her sister Jennifer Scott Allen; Stephen Lougheed and his wife Mary; McLean & Partners’ Brent McLean and Russ Mackay; event producers, Advance Your Cause’s Tom Dodd and Samantha Morahan; community leader Lesley Conway; realtor Mark Milne; emcee Dave Kelly; and others pictured.

Committee co-chair Shelly Norris and her husband, Brookfield Residential’s Alan Norris.

From left: BMO’s Adam and Sarah Lamb with Christine and Barry Taitinger.

From left: members of the Young Canadians of the Calgary Stampede, Emily Khoo, Molly Weinberger and Tia Starnino.

Renowned artist Paul Van Ginkel and his wife Kristin Van Ginkel.

Calgary Stampede 2018 Princesses Courtney Dingreville (left) and Keily Stewart (right) flank 2018 Stampede Queen Carly Heath.

Calgary Stampede vice-chairman Dana Peers, Gretchen Thompson and her husband Bob Thompson, Stampede Foundation chairman.

From left: John Fitzsimmons, Dave Lougheed and Cowboys Group’s Paul Vickers and Dave Urner.

From left: members of the Young Canadians, Isis Macdonald, Christina Birea, Faith Felgueiras, Shevonne Morrison and Hailey Murray.

From left: Karyn Drake, Homes by Avi’s Charron Ungar and Jennifer Scott Allen.

From left: Producers of the hugely successful Calgary Stampede Foundation’s Salute to our Youth fundraiser are Advance Your Cause’s Tom Dodd and Samantha Morahan with event emcee Dave Kelly.

 Calgary Stampede Young Canadian Simon Schon.

For lovers of wondrous wines, fabulous food, divine decor, star-studded entertainment and awesome auction items, the annual Willow Park Wines & Spirits’ Charity Wine Auction is just the ticket. And this year’s, the 25th annual Diamond Ball event was a stunning evening not soon to be forgotten. Readers may recall that over the years, the event has raised considerable funds for myriad local charities (more than $5 million) through its Vintage Fund. This year, the more than $280,000 raised will support a variety of charitable foundations including the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation and Wellspring Calgary.

Whether the gorgeous decor, entertainment from the Alberta Ballet School and Famous Players Band, the more than 100 silent auction items and 30 live auction items, or the food and wine stations, the evening had something for everyone.

Event co-chairs Scott Henuset and his wife Suzanne Henuset are to be saluted again this year on a job well done. Joining this dynamic duo at the event were: proud parents and Willow Park Wines & Spirits’ founder Wayne Henuset and his wife Liz with family members Reid Henuset and his wife Karen, and Michael Henuset and his wife Mylin; colleague Peggy Perry and her husband Brien Perry; winemakers Francesco Mazzei and Mattieu Bordes; Hotel Arts’ Mark Wilson and his wife Kerry; Herald colleagues Lorne Motley and Laura Linnell with their spouses Suzanne Motley and Gord Linnell; Hyatt Regency GM Amy Johnson; McManes Automotive’s Jim McManes with Wynn Carr; Glass Revolution’s Lionel Gardner; Brendan Hunter; Pacific Wines & Spirits’ Linda Robinson; Big Rock’s Paul Howden and his wife Marney with colleague Alastair Smart; Precision Drilling senior vice-president Doug Evasiuk with his wife Linda Evasiuk of WP Tours; Tourmaline Oil’s Darrin Ryan and his wife Carla; Noble Ridge’s Jim and Leslie D’Andrea; KPMG’s Marcell D’Egidio and his wife Laura; Willow Park Wines’ Kelsey Palmer; Jim Carter and Heather Shaw; auctioneer Dave Sharp; and others pictured.

Noble Ridge owner and CEO Leslie D’Andrea with owner and chair Jim D’Andrea.

KPMG’s Marcello and Laura D’Egidio.

Precision Drilling senior vice-president Doug Evasiuk and his wife Linda.

Darrin and Carla Ryan.

Reid and Karen Henuset

Katty Quinones was but one of the eye-catching performers.

Jim McManes and Wynn Carr

Herald scribe Bill Brooks gets a cheek smooch from Pacific Wines & Spirits’ Linda Robinson.

Calgary Herald editor Lorne Motley and his wife Suzanne.

Francesco Mazzei, vice-president and CEO of Marchesi Mazzei S.P.A., was but one of the many winemakers in attendance at Willow Park Wines & Spirits 25th Charity Wine Auction held Nov 3.

Willow Park Wines & Spirits’ Wayne Henuset and his wife Liz.

Jenn Edgar perched atop the Taittinger Champagne Tower.

Since 1925, lovers of beautiful bling have shopped at J. Vair Anderson Jewellers. The iconic jeweller has recently undergone a change in ownership as Ken Anderson, great grandson of founder J. Vair, decided to retire and sold the business to the fabulous Annette Toro.

A select group of guests gathered at the store Nov. 16 for a Christmas Revival reception that honoured Anderson’s retirement as well as featuring fabulous fare from Pulcinella Restaurante, entertainment by The Barry Shaw Band, libation and great deals on wonderful jewelry. Guests were encouraged to dress in their favourite era attire with the Sixties proving to be the most popular.

Norton Rose Fulbright senior partner Rob Rakochey, left, and Harold Hubler dressed the part for the J. Vair Anderson Christmas Revival.

Pulcinella provided the fantastic food at the J. Vair Anderson celebration. Pictured are Pulcinella’s Domenic Tudda, left, and Joe Laratta.

Barry Shaw of the Barry Shaw Orchestra joined forces with a few colleagues to provide great entertainment at the J. Vair Anderson celebration.

Laughter, it is often said, is the best medicine. And we could sure use a good laugh in our beloved city these days. And who better to provide the much needed tonic than the super folks at Cowboys who presented the second annual Cowboys Blue Ball in support of the Prostate Cancer Centre and Women for Men’s Health.

The Blue Ball, held this year Nov. 16, featured four top comedians from The Comedy Store L.A. Taking to the stage this night were Pete Giovine, Bret Ernst, Steve Simeone and Steve Rannazzisi. Terrific auction items, free PSA testing, great prizes and of course laughs galore ensured all in attendance had a great time.

Tickets were only $20 each yet thanks to all in attendance the event raised more than $10,000 for the centre and the Women for Men’s Health initiative. Spotted among the several hundred guests were: Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC) board member and Obsidian Energy president and CEO Dave French and his wife Aoife Cunningham; Dynamic Safety’s Michael Dery and his wife Jane Liang; Cowboys’ Dave Urner, Scarlet Lee, Paul Vickers, Austin Rieger, Tanya Twerdy, Trish Thompson, Meryl Oberhofer and Kayla Huber; Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey’s Shaun Vervena and Calin Manuel; PCC’s Pam Heard, Shannon de Vall, Eva Moreau, Camille Scheible and Anthony Prymack; East Village Barbers’ Luke McLoughlin; PCC board member and Women for Men’s Health founder Dr. Shelley Spaner; and others pictured.

You’ll want to mark Feb. 1, 2019, on your calendar to attend The Big Ball at Hotel Arts. The PCC/Women for Men’s Health hosted event will raise funds for men’s mental health at the Men’s Health Clinic at PCC. Tickets are available by visiting http://www.thebigball.ca

East Village Barbers owner Luke McLoughlin takes a little off the top of Cowboys general manager Austin Rieger at the Cowboys Blue Ball Nov 16.

From left: Dr. Shellley Spaner, radiologist and Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC) board member, with PCC’s Pam Heard and Eva Moreau.

From left: Dynamic Safety’s Michael Dery, Obsidian Energy president and CEO and Prostate Cancer Centre board member David French with his wife Alta Gas’ Aiofe Cunningham and Alberta Health Services’ Jane Liang.

Prostate Cancer Centre nurse Anthony Prymack and his sister Diana Prymack had a great time at the Cowboys Blue Ball.

It is the most precious resource on the planet. Without it, there can be no life. That more than 663 million people do not have access to clean and safe water worldwide is beyond shocking. Thank goodness then for UNICEF and its life-saving work around the globe.

On Nov. 3, Calgary celebrated the 26th Annual UNICEF Water for Life Gala. This year’s sold-out event featured a fabulous four-course dinner created by Hyatt Regency Calgary executive chef Geoffrey Miller and his team; a dynamic performance by Whitehorse; outstanding auction items; and an inspiring keynote speech by James Madhier, founder of the Rainmaker Enterprise.

The theme of this year’s gala was Water for Life and it raised an outstanding $1.1 million which will support UNICEF’s work in Uganda, providing water and sanitation infrastructure in secondary schools benefiting more than 210,000 girls.

UNICEF works to improve water supplies and sanitation facilities while promoting safe hygiene to some of the most vulnerable children in the world. In 2017 alone, UNICEF and partners reached 45 million people with improved water supplies.

Additionally, UNICEF and partners implemented large-scale responses in several ongoing crises in Syria, Yemen and eastern and southern Africa. UNICEF also provided life-saving water, sanitation and hygiene support in response to cholera in Somalia, floods in Sierra Leone and the Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh.

Guests in attendance at this year’s gala included: Sue Riddell Rose, UNICEF Water for Life honorary chair and CEO of Perpetual Energy and her husband, Mike Rose CEO of Tourmaline Oil; Kent Ferguson, UNICEF Water for Life Patrons Council member and managing director at RBC Capital Markets and his wife Carrie; Geeta Sankappanavar, UNICEF Water for Life Patrons Council member, UNICEF Canada board member and president and COO at Grafton Asset Management and her husband Trevor Fridfinnson, COO at Bison Transport; Bennett Jones LLP partner Wayne Whitlock and his wife Penny, UNICEF Water for Life Patrons Council member; Dr. Michael Giuffre, pediatric cardiologist and his wife Heather, chair of the gala art committee; Randy Pettipas, UNICEF Water for Life Patrons Council member and president and CEO, Global Public Affairs and his wife Luba; Bennett Jones LLP partner and UNICEF Canada board member Chris Simard and his wife Hanita Simard, gala co-chair; Avenue Living CEO Anthony Giuffre and his wife Britt; Suncor Energy CFO Alister Cowan; Air Partners president Vik Saini; gala co-chair Andrea Gerencser and her husband Brian McGurk, executive vice-president at SECURE Energy Services;  emcee Susanne Fox and her husband Andrew and others pictured.

With files from UNICEF

Gala Committee member Kerrie Hale and her husband Bob Hale.

Gala Patrons Council member Peter Wallis and his wife Terry.

John Cordeau and Carolyn Phillips.

Kent Ferguson, co-head of Canadian Energy, RBC Capital Markets and Gala Patrons Council member, with his wife Carrie.

Patrons Council member Penny Whitlock and her husband Wayne Whitlock with keynote speaker James Madhier (left).

From left: UNICEF Canada board members Chris Simard, Geeta Sankappanavar and Don Fox.

UNICEF Canada CEO David Morley (right) pictured with keynote speaker James Madhier, founder of the Rainmaker Enterprise.

UNICEF Patrons Council member Vik Saini, president Air Partners.

UNICEF Water for Life Gala honorary chair Sue Riddell Rose and her husband Mike Rose.