The list of honourees saluted at the annual B’nai Brith Dinner reads like a who’s-who in business, philanthropy and politics. Harley Hotchkiss, Stephen Harper, Frank King, Art Smith, Ralph Klein and John Forzani, to name but a few, have taken centre stage at the event which salutes those who make an indelible mark on our community.

The event is philanthropic as well with charities as varied as the Alberta Children’s Hospital and ALS Society to the Calgary Herald Christmas Fund and Rockyview Hospital being recipients. The 68th annual dinner raised funds to benefit Kids Cancer Care.

This year’s dinner took on added gravitas in that, for only the fourth time in its history, the honouree was a woman. Nancy Southern, ATCO chair and CEO and Canadian Utilities chair and CEO was the apt choice for 2019. Her list of accomplishments is staggering as is the list of awards and honours bestowed upon her. In 2016, Southern was included in Fortune’s 50 Most Powerful Women outside of the U.S. and recognized by the Financial Post Magazine’s The Power List. Further, she was named one of The 50 Most Important People in Canada in Maclean’s Magazine. And it doesn’t get much better for the born and raised Calgarian than being inducted in 2017 into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame.

Friends, family, business associates and admirers gathered at the Beth Tzedec Synagogue Feb. 21 to honour Southern and thank her for her staggering contributions. Among the hundreds of guests were: Southern’s understandably proud husband Jonathan Asselin; B’nai Brith president Dr. Robert Barsky; Krita Investments’ Ike Kolias; McLeod Law partner Aaron Bickman; 2019 Ben Docktor Award of Excellence recipient Stuart Myron; Kids Cancer Care founder and CEO Christine McIver with her husband MLA Ric McIver and Kids Cancer colleagues Deb Osiowy, CFO, and Lisa Shea, director of philanthropy; B’nai Brith past-president Joel Grotsky and his daughter Alysia; UCP leader Jason Kenney; Mary Lougheed, a director with Calgary Counselling Centre; Calgary Jewish Federation CEO Adam Silver; WestJet vice-president of marketing communications Richard Bartrem; Trico Homes’ Wayne and Eleanor Chiu; emcee Steve Eichler of Field Law; Camp B’nai Brith Riback’s Stacy Shaikin; Jewish Family Service Calgary’s Albina Gerov; Rob Rothstein; Irena Karshenbaum; and Sam Bell and his wife Lauren.

Heartfelt congratulations Nancy. You do our city proud.

The 69th Annual B’nai Brith Dinner honoured ATCO chair and CEO Nancy Southern. The evening was philanthropic as well, benefiting Kids Cancer Care. Pictured, from left: Kids Cancer Care director of philanthropy Lisa Shea; MLA Ric McIver and his wife Christine McIver. Kids Cancer Care founder and CEO; along with CFO Deb Osiowy.

UCP leader Jason Kenney and Mary Lougheed, a director at Calgary Counselling Centre.

Krita Investments’ Ike Kolias (left) and WestJet’s Richard Bartrem.

Calgary Jewish Federation CEO Adam Silver (left) and McLeod Law partner Aaron Bickman.

Trico Homes’ Wayne and Eleanor Chiu.

B’Nai Brith Calgary Lodge #816 president Dr. Robert Barsky (left) and Ben Docktor Award of Excellence recipient Stuart Myron.

The 25th Anniversary PSAC STARS & Spurs Gala raised a record $1.4 million-plus for the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service (STARS). Since inception, the event has raised more than $17 million, ensuring STARS can provide emergency patient care when needed the most.

The Petroleum Services Association of Canada (PSAC) has hosted the event since it began. The gala serves as STARS’ largest fundraising event, paying homage to the long-standing relationship with PSAC.

“I am so humbled by and grateful for the community who has supported the PSAC STARS & Spurs Gala over the past 25 years, especially our generous partner, PSAC, and its members. Albertan’s philanthropic spirit continues to amaze me even through times of change and uncertainty,” said Andrea Robertson, president and CEO of STARS.

“I am so proud of the oilfield services sector in Alberta which has opened (its) hearts and wallets to support STARS,” said Gary Mar, president and CEO, PSAC. “The STARS & Spurs Gala is integral to bringing community members together to fuel STARS’ mandate of saving lives, and we are thrilled to be a part of this steadfast partnership.”

The annual fundraising event, held in the BMO Centre at Stampede Park, was attended by 1,500 guests. Highlights of the western-themed event included: live and silent auctions; a virtual reality experience where guests had a first-hand look into what it’s like to be on board a STARS mission; entertainment by country music stars Gord Bamford, George Canyon and Aaron Pritchett; and the presentation of the Honourary Patron Award to Mark Salkeld, who was recognized for his contributions as president of PSAC from 2010 to 2018.

Others in attendance are pictured.

With files from STARS

Pictured at the PSAC STARS & Spurs Gala is STARS president and CEO Andrea Robertson.

STARS crew members Ron Pasieka, flight paramedic and pilot John Carson.

Mark Salkeld was presented with the Honourary Patron Award at the gala and was recognized for his contributions to the success of the PSAC STARS & Spurs Gala as president of PSAC from 2010 to 2018.

Pomp and pageantry were front and centre at the Calgary Highlanders 70th Grand Highland Military Ball March 2 at the Fairmont Palliser. Coming full circle, the ball returned to the site of its first incarnation in the Crystal Ballroom at the Palliser.

The event recognized the dedication and service of Calgary’s serving men and women. As citizen-soldiers, the Calgary Highlanders are leaders in the Canadian Army Reserve for their contributions in promoting Canada’s national interests overseas, having been awarded the Chief of Defense Staff Unit Commendation in 2015 for deploying more soldiers to Afghanistan than any other reserve regiment.

The Ball raises funds for the Calgary Highlanders Regimental Funds Foundation (CHRFF) which supports the Regiment’s serving soldiers, veterans and their families. Further, funds raised assist in teaching of the affiliated cadet corps including history, outdoor skills, citizenship and music and ensures the preservation of the regiment’s traditions and history through the Regimental Pipes and Drums and the Regiment’s gallery at the Military Museums. This year’s ball raised $100,000.

Highlights of the beautiful ball were numerous including: Scottish country dancing; musical performances by the Massed Cadet Pipes and Drums of the Regiment’s affiliated cadet units; the spirited singing of the Glenwhorple performed by Capt. Andrew Pittet; the Address to the Haggis presented by Maj. Kent Griffiths; poignant performances from the Calgary Girls Choir Viva Ensemble with renditions of The Maple Leaf Forever and Will There Really Be a Morning; the traditional Grand March; and dancing to The Dino Martinis.

Others in attendance included: the host and foundation chair, Hon. Col and ARC Financial CEO Lauchlan Currie and his wife Karen; co-host and president and CEO of Acumen Capital Partners, Hon. Lieut.-Col. Brian Parker and his wife Sharon; ball chair Dr. Gregory Stone and his wife Jennifer; ball vice-chair Lieut.-Col. Kyle Clapperton with Devan Kublik; Lieut.-Col. Ryan Palmer, Commanding Officer of the Calgary Highlanders and his wife Lisa; emcee and Deputy Commanding Officer of the Calgary Highlanders Maj. Andrew Beauchamp; Justice Bruce McDonald and his wife Patricia Forigo; avid supporters Bill and Corinne Macdonald; RSM Canada’s Jennifer Anderson; Cpl. (ret’d) George Morasch and his wife Fern Morasch; ARC Financial’s Kieran Courtright with Bennett Jones’ Julia Pasieka; McCarthy Tetrault’s James Pasieka and his wife, CTV’s Helena Pasieka; Jim Bell and his wife Jennifer Ranger; Alberta Innovates CEO Laura Kilcrease and her husband Worth; invaluable ball committee members Michelle Nikkel and Linsey Gibbons; patron Dame Glynis Grigg and her husband Julien des Shutter; RBC Capital Markets’ Darrel and Debra Law; Carrie and Kent Ferguson; 2137 Cadets Commanding Officer Maj. Julie Sun; and others pictured.

The next major deployment of Calgary Highlanders soldiers will be in 2020 when the unit is tasked to deploy 15 to 20 soldiers to Latvia as part of a platoon with the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry.

From left: Corinne Macdonald, Justice Bruce McDonald and his wife Patricia Forigo and Bill Macdonald.

Ball committee members ARC Financial’s Michelle Nikkel (left) and Linsey Gibbons.

From left: Warrant Officer Brad Paul, Maj. Julie Sun, Eau Claire Distillery’s David Farran and Margaret McKenzie.

Lieut.-Col. Ryan Palmer, Commanding Officer of the Calgary Highlanders and his wife Lisa Palmer.

From left: Calgary Highlanders warrant officer Paul Chagnon with Leigh and Guy Anderson.

From left: RBC Capital Markets’ Darrell and Debra Law with Carrie and Kent Ferguson.

Citadel Drilling’s Dan Hoffarth and his wife Holli.

Tasha and Milan Cacic.

Dame Glynis Grigg and her husband Julien des Shutter.

From left: Alister Shepherd-Cross, Elizabeth Stock, Capt. Andrew Pittet, Jennifer Stone and her husband Dr. Gregory Stone, ball chair and CHRFF board director.

Ball co-host and president and CEO, Acumen Capital Partners Hon. Lieut.-Col. Brian Parker with his wife Sharon Parker.

From left: Ann Kennedy, AltoPartners Canadian managing partner Kevin Hall and his wife Diane Hall.

Piper Alfred Miller and Maj. Kent Griffiths, who presented the Address to the Haggis.

From left: ARC Financial’s Kieran Courtright, Bennett Jones’ Julia Pasieka, CTV’s Helena Pasieka and McCarthy Tetrault’s James Pasieka.

From left:  Jim Bell, Jennifer Ranger, Alberta Innovates CEO Laura Kilcrease and Worth Kilcrease.

From left: Grand Highland Military Ball vice-chair Lieut.-Col. Kyle Clapperton, The Reading Foundation’s Devan Kublik; RSM Canada’s Jennifer Anderson; and Maj. Andrew Beauchamp, Deputy Commanding Officer of the Calgary Highlanders and the evening’s emcee.

George and Fern Morasch.

Calgary’s Chinese community gathered recently with friends and colleagues at the Regency Palace Restaurant to welcome the Year of the Pig.

Hosted by the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (HKCBA), Calgary Section, the gala is the highlight of the year for the organization. Founded in 1984, the HKCBA is a non-profit bilateral trade association with over 1,000 members in eight locations across the country. The mission of the Calgary chapter is to help its members conduct business using Hong Kong as a platform to enter the Asian market. Further, the association each year donates $10,000 in scholarships to four deserving students — two from Mount Royal University (MRU) and two from the University of Calgary (U of C) who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability and a desire to build upon Canada-Hong Kong bilateral relations.

Highlights of the evening were numerous including: a champagne reception, courtesy of Stikeman Elliott; $25 CORE gift cards for all guests; LAB11 complimentary facials; a sumptuous 10-course meal; traditional Lion Dance performed by the Jing Wo Cultural Association; more than 50 silent auction items donated by HKCBA’s generous partners; live music; and the grand prize, a pair of Birks Snowflake Snowstorm diamond earrings worth a cool $12,000.

Guests in attendance this night included: Caroline Saunders, U.K. Consul General; Madame Lu Xu, Chinese Consul General; Lucia Piazza, U.S. Consul General; Shigenobu Kobayashi, Japan Consul General; Gilberto Asuque, Consul General, Philippines; Emily Mo, director, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, along with deputy director, Florence Tsang and principal consultant, Catherine Yuen; Alex Henderson, partner at KPMG and HKCBA Calgary Section president; U of C president Ed McCauley and Janaka Ruwanpura, vice-provost international; emcee Scott Vu; MRU president David Docherty; HKCBA gala chairs and directors John Dong of Royal Liquor Merchants and George Tai of Dentons; Calgary Zoo’s Clement Lanthier, Telus Spark’s Barry Crean; The CORE’s Allison Onyett; Birks general manager, Susanne Ventura with colleague Scott McNamara; LAB11’s Maria Wu and Nathan Chan; MLA and past HKCBA president Richard Gotfried; MLA’s Jamie Kleinsteuber and Karen McPherson; and Councillor Sean Chu.

The evening also coincided with the 35th Anniversary of HKCBA as a national association so it was apt indeed that many past presidents attended including: Raymond Kan of Perma Insurance; Richard Li of Swan Group; TD Wealth’s Audrey Kwan; Tim Onyett of Deloitte; and immediate past president, Manford Kwan. Others in attendance are pictured.

With files from HKCBA

Pictured, from left, at the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association Calgary Section’s Year of the Pig Chinese New Year Celebration are Birks store director Scott McNamara, Alexandria Sham, honorary treasurer of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, Dialog associate Robert Jim and Chinatown BIA’s Danny Ng.

Pictured, from left: are HKCBA director and Dentons partner George Tai; Allison Onyett, The Core marketing director; and HKCBA vice-president and Birks general manager Susanne Ventura.

HKCBA director and Royal Liquor Merchants president John Dong and Asia Smart Link’s Rachel Yin.

Petroleum Services Association of Canada CEO Gary Mar and his wife Nancy Mar.

HKCBA 6 Clear Translations’ Candy Cheung.

Emily Mo, director of Canada, Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office (left) with Catherine Yuen, principal consultant, Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office.

HKCBA board of directors with dignitaries and HKETO directors.

LAB 11’s Maria Wu (left) with HKCBA director Jenny Yu.

Hundreds of guests gathered at Hotel Arts March 9 to attend the Youth Singers of Calgary annual Hearts Out Fundraising Gala.

Youth Singers of Calgary was born in 1985 thanks to Shirley Penner. She saw a need in the community for young people to express themselves onstage through music, dance and theatre. With the help of Darlene Dusevic and Tricia Penner, the Youth Singers became a reality and has, for more than 30 years, provided thousands of kids and teens in Calgary with not only a place to showcase and hone their musical talents, but a place for them to belong and forge friendships as well — one note at a time.

In 2009, the group was able to build the Performing Arts Youth Centre. What began as a large empty warehouse space in the Highfield Industrial Park area is now a vibrant 18,000-square-foot centre, housing rehearsal studios, wardrobe area, a set building room, and a music library.

That this year’s gala netted an impressive $150,000 ensures longevity for the Youth Singers of Calgary and the Performing Arts Youth Centre. Kudos to all involved including marquee sponsors Deloitte, Publicis Sapient and Shaw. Other invaluable sponsors included Haworth, Spruce Meadows and Visions Electronics.

Hosts with the most, Youth Singers founder and CEO Shirley Penner and her husband Don McLean, executive vice-president of Long View Systems, were kept busy this night greeting guests the likes of: JB Music Therapy CEO Jennifer Buchanan; Meticulon CTO James Milne; Spruce Meadows’ Marg Southern; Youth Singers board chair Catherine Barclay and her husband, Hearts Out co-chair Eugene Beaulieu; honorary chairs Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning senior principal Bill Chomik and his wife Diane Chomik; emcee Ken Lima-Coelho; event co-ordinator Christy Thompson; Platform Calgary president and CEO Terry Rock and his wife Becky Rock; Beverly Bruce; Dianne Beaulieu; Arrow Capital’s Robin Finlay; Richardson GMP’s Cathy Elash; Long View Systems CEO Brent Allison and his wife Laura; Michael and Stephanie Kochorek; Tanya Sharma-Moore; Shaw Business president Katherine Emberly; U of C professor Reed Ferber; JSS Barristers partner Oliver Ho; Youth Singers principal choreographer Donald Jones; Parker PR’s Ellen Parker; BB TV’s Tiffany Burns; Sierra Beaulieu; and Tink Real Estate’s Maggie Keeper.

Hearts Out Fundraising Gala honorary chairs Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning senior principal Bill Chomik and his wife Diane Chomik.

From left: Beverly Bruce, Dianne Beaulieu, Arrow Capital’s Robin Finlay and Richardson GMP’s Cathy Elash.

From left: Marg Southern; Youth Singers of Calgary founder and CEO Shirley Penner; Catherine Barclay, board chair, Youth Singers of Calgary; and her husband, Eugene Beaulieu, Hearts Out Fundraising Gala co-chair.

From left: Event emcee Ken Lima-Coelho; event co-ordinator Christy Thompson; Becky Rock and her husband Platform Calgary president and CEO Terry Rock.

From left: U of C professor Reed Ferber, Shaw Business president Katherine Emberly and Oliver Ho, partner, JSS Barristers.

From left: Long View Systems’ Michael Kochorek; Daughter creative director Stephanie Kochorek; Laura Allison; Long View CEO Brent Allison; and Tanya Sharma-Moore.

From left: Youth Singers of Calgary principal choreographer Donald Jones with founder and CEO Shirley Penner and her husband Don McLean.

From left: BB TV’s Tiffany Burns, Parker PR’s Ellen Parker, Sierra Beaulieu and Tink Real Estate’s Maggie Keeper.

The 23rd Annual Immigrants of Distinction Awards, held March 15 at Bella Concert Hall in the Taylor Centre for the Performing Arts at Mount Royal University, saluted inspirational immigrants and refugees. Themed “Immigration — Building Canada’s Prosperity,” the Immigrant Services Calgary-hosted evening was attended by scores of honorees, consuls general, politicians and business leaders. The evening also celebrated the extraordinary accomplishments and talents of immigrant youth through the presentation of youth scholarships. Further, a select number of influential companies were recognized for promoting and implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Award recipients this night included: Achievement Under 35: Oluseyi Smith; Arts and Culture: Wilmer Aburto; Community Service: Dr. Victorino Lantion; Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Amy Giang; Lifetime Achievement: Dr. Adriana Fishta-Bejko; and Organizational Diversity: Tower Cleaners. Youth scholarships were presented to: Arjit Lodha; Claire Du; Nihal Potdar; Riri Jiang; and Jade Olayinka.

Others in attendance included Immigrant Services Calgary departing CEO Krystyna Biel and her husband Dr. Jozef Biel (heartfelt thanks to Krystyna on her decades at the helm of the organization); newly appointed CEO Hyder Hassan with U of C law student Christina Hassan; Lifetime Achievement nominee Madeleine King and her husband Bob Taylor; Consul-General of Japan in Calgary Shigenobu Kobayashi; Philippine Consul-General Gilberto Asuque; Tower Cleaners’ Tony Stephen and Rajesh Manan; Arts and Culture nominee Roma Thakore and her husband Vinay Thakore; Dr. Chirag Shah; Manpower’s Randy Upright; Jean-Claude Munyezamu and his wife Christine Karebwayire; Immigrant Services Calgary manager Mina Demain; Spark-the Energy Credit Union’s Badriea Taha; and others pictured.

Congratulations to all the nominees and award recipients.

Bob Taylor and his wife Madeleine King, nominee in the Lifetime Achievement category at the 23rd Annual Immigrants of Distinction Awards.

Immigrant Services Calgary manager Mina Demain pictured with Spark-The Energy Credit Union’s Badriea Taha.

Oladele Olay and his daughter Abimbola Olay.

Dr. Chirag Shah with Manpower’s Randy Upright.

Jean-Claude Munyezamu and his wife Christine Karebwayire.

From left: Japanese Consul-General Shigenobu Kobayashi, Philippine Consul-General Gilberto Asuque, Luzminaa Lantion and her husband Community Service award recipient Dr. Victorino Lantion.

From left: Tower Cleaners’ Rajesh Manan and Tony Stephen with Youth Scholarship recipient Nihal Potdar and his dad Sunil Rao. Tower Cleaners won in the Organizational Diversity category at the 23rd Annual Immigrants of Distinction Awards.

Vinay Thakore and his wife, Arts and Culture award finalist Roma Thakore.

A tradition continued as scores of guests attended the Boyden Executive Search-hosted Guinness and Green reception March 14 at the Calgary Petroleum Club. The executive search firm boasts offices worldwide and its Calgary office has supported myriad charitable organizations throughout the years. Its signature fundraiser, Guinness and Green, affords guests the opportunity to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day while supporting a charitable organization. Ronald McDonald House was the recipient of the $70,000 raised at this year’s reception.

Hosts with the most, Boyden partners Brent Shervey, Kevin Gregor and Robert Travis were kept busy this night welcoming guests including: Calgary Academy’s Patti Grier and her husband, Devon Energy’s Allan Hargreaves; PSAC president and CEO Gary Mar; MP Ron Liepert; Sen. (ret’d) Dan Hays; RSM Canada’s David Hird, Jeff Lutzak and Brendan Ross; ESRI Canada’s Jim Wickson; old dear friend BPIT’s Russ Hall; ABMI executive director Stephen Lougheed; FluroTech president and CEO Danny Dalla-Longa; Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre executive director Pam Heard; CBI’s Catherine Brownlee; Re/Max’s Karen Fawcett; BLG LLP’s Beth Reimer-Heck; Brooks and Dodd Consulting’s Tom Dodd; and Boyden’s Jackie Gruber and Meghan Kotowich.

Boyden’s Jackie Gruber (left) and Meghan Kotowich.

Calgary Academy’s Patti Grier and her husband Devon Energy’s Allan Hargreaves.

From left: PSAC president and CEO Gary Mar, Boyden’s Kevin Gregor, MP Ron Liepert and Sen. (ret’d) Dan Hays.

\Boyden’s Robert Travis (second from left) is pictured with RSM Canada’s (from left) David Hird, Jeff Lutzak and Brendan Ross.

From left: ESRI Canada’s Jim Wickson, BPIT’s Russ Hall, ABMI executive director Stephen Lougheed and Brooks and Dodd Consulting’s Tom Dodd.

CBI’s Catherine Brownlee (left) and ReMax’s Karen Fawcett.

BLG’s Beth Reimer-Heck and FluroTech president and CEO Danny Dalla-Longa.

The Magyar Gala, known previously as the Hungaria Gala Ball, is a showcase of Hungarian culture and traditions that have been nurtured through more than 1,100 years of European history. Similar to a debutante’s ball, the 63rd annual version of the gala, held recently at the Westin, saw local youth proudly embrace their ancestral culture through countless hours of practice and volunteering in preparation for the evening of pomp, pageantry and ceremony.

The event was presented by the Hungarian Veterans’ Association, a not-for-profit entity that supports various local and/or Hungarian charities. Highlights of the glam gala were numerous but surely topping the list were the Palotas dance, a traditional court dance that was presented as an opening number at royal court gatherings and the Debutante dance — a traditionally choreographed waltz where young people, particularly the ladies, are introduced to society.

Guests in attendance are pictured.

With files from Hungarian Veterans Association

Palotas couples back row, from left: Daniel Moynan, Bokurn Parmar, Capt. Vitez Jason Leek, David Kovacs, Daniel Reh and Marco Lovric. Front row from left: Melina Lovric, Beverley Cichon, Jennifer Bertoldi, Natasha Gidluck, Colleen Rab and Mishelle Lakatos.

Debutante dancers at the Hungarian Veterans’ Association’s 63rd Magyar Gala.

From left: Dora Magas, Palotas instructors Gyorgy Biro and Magdi Biro, debutante instructors Laszlo Varvizi, Erika Angyalfi, and Jesse Laszlo Marchall with Jozsef Varvizi.

Debutante couples back row, from left: Edvin Sinko, Matthew Pataki, Tamas Zuban, Noah Sparkes, Anthony Harcsa, Eric Dolphin and Mihaly Sarbu. Front row, from left: Bianca Sarbu, Fanni Nagy, Emoke Jarto-Kocsis, Sarah Jalsoviczky, Kimberley Neufeld, Xyla Demong and Viola Szakony.

The 15th CUPS annual Moonlight Gala, held March 20 at the Hyatt Regency Calgary, was magical. Scores of guests attended the event, raising more than $200,000 which will fund programs and services to help low-income children and families overcome challenges and build resilience. Highlights of the evening were numerous but surely topping the list was a stellar performance by Canadian sensation Magic! That the event was but one of CUPS’ 30th anniversary celebrations added greatly to the evening’s cache.

Since 1989, CUPS has helped Calgarians overcome adversity and build resilience which spans generations. In 2018, CUPS was named one of Canada’s Top 10 Impact Charities by Charity intelligence — for the second year in a row.

Launched earlier this year, CUPS’ new look and tagline “Resilience for life” puts a stronger focus on the work being done in brain science. CUPS changes the lives of low-income and homeless Calgarians by addressing the root causes of their challenges. Using science, CUPS help people address trauma and manage adversity.

Hosts with the most this night, CUPS board chair, Stonebridge’s Michael Lang and CUPS executive director Carlene Donnelly were busier than usual greeting guests: Balbi & Company’s Lonny Balbi; Krita Investments’ Ike Kolias; Dr. Janice Heard and her husband, United Way board member Bruce McFarlane; RBC’s Jeff Boyd and his wife Michele; emcee, Global’s Leslie Horton; Lieut.-Col. Chris Hunt; Col. Eppo Van Weelderen; Capt. Daniel Boisjoli; Chief Warrant Officer Brian Talty; Dr. Karen Benzies; Tyler Nakesch; Carol Fu; Jasmeen Gill; Beaver Drilling president and CEO Kevin Krausert with colleague Robb Phillips; Davignon Martin’s Jennifer Rallison; Token Naturals CEO Keenan Pascal; Willow Park Wines and Spirits’ Scott and Suzanne Henuset; Omi Velasco; Julie Moreno; and CUPS’ Cheryl Lemieux, Robert Perry and Karen Meades.

Legal ace Lonny Balbi with CUPS’ Karen Meades.

Dr. Janice Heard with her husband, United Way board member Bruce McFarlane.

From left: Lieut.-Col. Chris Hunt; Col. Eppo Van Weelderen; Capt. Daniel Boisjoli; and Chief Warrant Officer Brian Talty.

From left: Michele Boyd and her husband, RBC’s Jeff Boyd with event emcee, Global’s Leslie Horton.

From left: Tyler Nakesch, Cheryl Lemieux with CUPS; Dr. Karen Benzies; and Robert Perry of CUPS.

Carol Fu and Jasmeen Gill toast to the success of the CUPS Gala.

From left: Beaver Drilling president and CEO Kevin Krausert; Robb Phillips; Jennifer Rallison; and Token Naturals CEO Keenan Pascal.

Willow Park Wines & Spirits’ Suzanne and Scott Henuset.

Since inception 12 years ago, DLA Piper (Canada) LLP’s Annual Art & Martini Reception has facilitated the sale of nearly 700 works of art created by graduating students from the University of Calgary’s Department of Art. The art sales to private collectors have raised more than $75,000 for the benefit of U of C art students.

And this year’s reception, held March 20 in the Winter Garden at Jamieson Place, was attended by more than 300 of DLA Piper’s clients and guests. Art sales during the evening garnered $3,800 with all the proceeds going to the graduating art students. Artists represented included: Eve Provost Chartrand; Colleen Smith; Gabrielle Haidl; Claudia Jiménez Chagoya; Monika Sifert; Pauline A.F. Manzon; Kirstin Lindquist; Jessica Semenoff; Genevieve Denault; Aimedee Gunnink; Kun Chen; Neha Syed; Brian Faubert; Orysya Rudnyk; Don Sucha; Sherry Ma; Kenzie Housego; Devin Niswonger; and Ahlamd Khan.

“Calgary has a vibrant arts and cultural community, and we are proud to support its emerging talents through this beloved tradition,” said Heather Treacy, Q.C., Calgary office managing partner. “Our clients and friends always have a wonderful time, and we are delighted to see this event grow year after year.”

Guests in attendance are pictured.

With files from DAL Piper (Canada) LLP

From left: DLA Piper (Canada’s) Katrina Edgerton-McGhan, MNP’s Brittany Dela Rosa and Oliver Favreau and DLA Piper (Canada’s) Elise Calvert.

From left: Lindsay Hill, partner, Fever Communications; Sharilyn Nagina, DLA Piper (Canada) LLP; and Judge M.V. De Souza

Judy Boyes & Associates’ Tara Tiefenbach (left) and DLA Piper’s Jennifer Arndt.

Theatre Calgary’s 2019 fundraising gala ENCORE, held March 30 in the newly renovated Big Four Roadhouse at Stampede Park, featured outstanding talent, awesome auction items (both live and silent), a premium wine raffle, themed libation, a three-course meal created by executive chef Derek Dale, and even makeup touch-ups courtesy of Artists Within Makeup Academy.

Presented by Mawer Investment Management, the gala raised more than $100,00 for Theatre Calgary. Headlining the gala this night were a ‘Big Four’ of musical talent including: Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young of American Idol fame and seasoned Broadway performers, Canada’s Elizabeth Stanley and Paul Nolan.

Among the hundreds of guests in attendance at the glam gala were: ENCORE chair Kate Abbott; Theatre Calgary board chair Margo Randles and vice-chair, Mawer Investment Management president Craig Senyk; Theatre Calgary artistic director Stafford Arima; Theatre Calgary executive director Jon Jackson and his wife Kim Jackson with Alberta Ballet; Fireside Property Group’s Keith McMullen and his wife, Holt Renfrew’s Gwen McMullen; emcee and host Steve Klintberg Nagy; New Interiors president Wade Schultz and his wife Cortney; TD Wealth’s Jun Yajima and his wife Miranda; ATB’s Kevin Konynenbelt; Calgary Gay History Project’s Kevin Allen; Rene Transport’s Kyle Grzech and Telus’ Dan Barham; AARC’s Darryl Power and Landmark Cinemas’ Ashdenne Pitts; Holt Renfrew executive vice-president Deb Kerr and her husband, Cornerstone Luxury Homes’ Billy Kerr; Brookfield Properties’ Rita Borrow with Janet Lehmann; legendary actor, Theatre Calgary’s Stephen Hair; Cenovus Energy’s Linda Lee; Graham Construction’s Elizabeth Chi; Stikeman Elliott LLP’s Amy Nugent, Carolyn Simpson, Janel Young, Rhonda Parhar, Sarah Graham, Catherine Grygar and Cheryl Rea; MNP’s Tony Smith with Engel & Volkers’ Sandy MacDonell; Theatre Calgary’s Ronald Peters; Cal-Tech Glass’ Maurice Adema and his wife Neal’s Yard Remedies’ Kristen Adema; Azuridge Estate Hotel general manager Jason Glynn and his wife Joanna; Country 105’s Hotrod Harriet with Glyn Jones; Theatre Calgary actors Robyn Ord, David Sklar and Spencer Streichert, who convincingly played the role of paparazzi; and Theatre Calgary’s Sarah Hughes with Shayne McClellan.

Theatre Calgary’s Sarah Hughes and Shayne McClellan.

Emcee Steve Klintberg Nagy.

From left: Cortney Schultz and her husband, New Interiors president Wade Schultz, with Miranda Yajima and her husband TD Wealth’s Jun Yajima.

MNP’s Tony Smith with Engel & Volkers’ Sandy MacDonell.

From left: Stikeman Elliott LLP’s Amy Nugent, Carolyn Simpson, Janel Young, Catherine Grygar, Rhonda Parhar, Sarah Graham and Cheryl Rea.

Landmark Cinemas’ Ashdenne Pitts and AARC’s Darryl Power.

Holt Renfrew executive vice-president Deb Kerr and her husband, Cornerstone Luxury Homes’ Billy Kerr.

Brookfield Properties’ Rita Borrow (left) and Janet Lehmann.

Theatre Calgary actors Robyn Ord and Spencer Streichert in the role of paparazzi.

Rene Transport’s Kyle Grzech (left) and Telus’ Dan Barham.

=Cenovus Energy’s Linda Lee (left) and Graham Construction’s Elizabeth Chi.

Fireside Property Group’s Keith McMullen and his wife Gwen McMullen with Holt Renfrew.

Cal-Tech Glass’ Maurice Adema and his wife Kristen Adema with Neal’s Yard Remedies.

Having a great time at ENCORE are, from left: Azuridge general manger Jason Glynn and his wife Joanna Glynn, with Country 105′ Hotrod Harriet and her husband Glyn Jones.

Stephen Hair, best known for his iconic role as Scrooge in Theatre Calgary’s A Christmas Carol, (left) with Theatre Calgary’s Ronald Peters.

Alberta Ballet’s Kim Jackson and her husband, Theatre Calgary executive director Jon Jackson.

A precipitous decline in activity in the Calgary and region new homes industry caused lots of consternation for one of our major economic drivers. Yes, 2018 was a year many would like to forget. Yet the 2018 BILD Calgary Region Awards, held April 13 in the Telus Convention Centre, was party central for more than 1,100 members and guests. The awards celebrated the best in the industry. This past fall, the BILD Advisory Committee increased the number of awards offered to 69. One can imagine with 717 entries, choosing the top 69 would be no small feat.

Kudos to all the entrants and take a bow sentiments go out to the six companies taking top honors, winning the coveted GRAND BUILD Award in various categories. Partner of the Year was awarded to Integrity Building Products. Renovator of the Year was presented to Kay2 Contracting. Multi-Family Builder of Year Small Volume was won by RNDSQR Ltd., while Single Family Builder of the Year Small Volume went to Riverview Custom Homes. Brookfield Residential, which held the most finalist spots for awards coming into the evening with 31, earned the trophy for Multi-Family Builder of the Year Large Volume. And lucky number 13 must be the mantra for Morrison Homes as the builder took top honours, capturing the Single Family Builder of the Year Large Volume for the 13th time, including for a 10-year stretch from 2001 to 2010.

Guests having a marvellous time at the glam included: BILD board chair Paul Boskovich with colleague BILD CEO Brian Hahn and his wife Wendy Hahn; BILD Awards Advisory Committee chair Shane Wenzel and his partner Matt Dunne; Morrison Homes chairman Al Morrison and his wife Donna Morrison; Heritage Pointe’s Carolina Oxtoby and her husband Doug Howland; Section 23 Developments executive chairman Rob Ollerenshaw with colleagues Marion Murray, Brad Wright and Chris Plosz; WestCreek Developments president Bravin Goldade and his daughter Kalida Goldade; Morrison Homes president and CEO Dave Gladney with colleagues Carole Saguez and Johanna VanEngelen; Logel Homes and Cardel Lifestyles’ Tim Logel and his wife Sherri Logel and their sons Brayden and Kevin; RNDSQR’s Alisa Audia and Tara Nini; MLA Richard Gotfried and his wife Cathy; Ward 1 Councillor Ward Sutherland and his wife Heather; Ward 6 Councillor Jeff Davison and his wife Jennifer; Jayman BUILT CFO Aasit Amin with colleagues Brent Craiggs, Stephanie Myers, Dennis Aucoin and Robin Bruner; NAIOP director of Strategic Initiatives Guy Huntingford with BILD’s Bev Jarvis; Ron Glen and Aggie Mikulski; and my terrific Postmedia colleagues Krista Winter, Melanie Gowans, Alyssa Briggs, Claire Young, Wendy Yaremchuk and Myke Thomas.

Congratulations again to all the nominees and winners. You do our city proud. For a complete listing of all BILD Award winners, visit bildcr.com.

Heritage Pointe’s Carolina Oxtoby and her husband Doug Howland.

WestCreek Developments president Bravin Goldade and his daughter Kalida.

From left: Section 23 Developments executive chair Rob Ollerenshaw with colleagues Brad Wright, Marion Murray and president Chris Plosz.

Shane Wenzel, chair of the BILD Awards Advisory Committee (left), and Matt Dunne.

Morrison Homes president and CEO Dave Gladney with colleagues Carole Saguez (left) and Johanna VanEngelen. Morrison Homes was named Single Family Builder of the Year Large Volume for the 13th time.

From left: Councillor Ward Sutherland and his wife Heather, with Jennifer Davison and her husband, Councillor Jeff Davison.

From left: Jayman BUILT’s Brent Craiggs, CFO Aasit Amin, Stephanie Myers, Dennis Aucoin and Robin Bruner.

From left: Tim and Sherri Logel (centre) with their sons Brayden Logel (left) and Kevin Logel. The BILD Award Community of the Year-City of Calgary was won by Cardel Homes for its Shawnee Park in the city’s southwest.

Team Postmedia from left: Krista Winter, Melanie Gowans, Alyssa Briggs, Claire Young and Wendy Yaremchuk.

RNDSQR Ltd. took the 2018 GRAND BILD Award in the Multi-Family Builder of the Year Small Volume category. Pictured are RNDSQR’s Alisa Audia (left) and Tara Nini.

MLA Richard Gotfried and his wife Cathy.

From left: BILD board chair Paul Boskovich, Bev Jarvis, Wendy Hahn and her husband, BILD CEO Brian Hahn.

From left: Ron Glen, Aggie Mikulski, Bev Jarvis and Guy Huntingford, NAIOP, director of Strategic Initiatives.