As the proverbial saying goes, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” And lemons were certainly what was dealt to PARKShow 2018 organizers. Had Mother Nature not been so unco-operative, PARK (Promoting Artists/Redefining Kulture) Show 2018 was to have taken place Saturday June 23 on the new George C. King Bridge in East Village. But extreme weather and a lightning storm hit the site earlier in the day and forced organizers to evacuate the setup.

More than 1,000 tickets to the 10-year anniversary show and sale had been pre-sold, so you can well imagine the heartache and stress the late cancellation caused. As the fashion show was to take place on the pedestrian bridge, permitting was obviously paramount.  Blessedly, the talented PARK team were able to pull some high-placed strings and obtain clearance for the show to take place the following day. And as nasty as the weather was on Saturday, glorious sunshine and no wind greeted the scores of guests who gathered on the bridge the following day.

Readers may recall that PARKShow is not only a fabulous fashion presentation featuring up-and-coming designers, but a marketplace offering one-of-a-kind pieces. The event has taken place in venues as varied as the lower parkade at Chinook Centre to a horse barn at Spruce Meadows and the National Music Centre. Choosing to host the 10-year anniversary at RiverWalk Plaza and on the George C. King Bridge in East Village was a great idea, but, as noted, the weather gods decided otherwise.

Nonetheless, those that were able to attend the Sunday event had a great experience and the opportunity to view fabulous fashions, and to shop, sip, sup, see and be seen. Congratulations to PARK co-founders Kara Chomistek and Jessie Li and their talented team on turning what could have been a disaster into something wonderful.

Among the hundreds of fashionably fabulous guests in attendance were: Kerry Brennan; Desjardins’ Karen Boudewyn; Franca DeJong; Sandrex Project Management’s Sandra Rexilius; Jennings Wealth’s Ryan Jennings; Cynthia Moore; New Zones’ Tamar Zenith; One Cycle’s Elmira Barry; Tracy Graham; Nam Dang-Mitchell; Jasmen Ostrihon; Larissa Pierre; Magari’s Dallas Jaggard; Khaled Barakat; Alessha Paige; Mode Models’ Kelly Streit; and PARK’s Angel Yon and Nya Irwin.

You will want to mark Saturday, Sept. 29 on your calendar for PARKLUXE 2018 — the next installation featuring a luxury art and fashion show. Tickets are available through ourparkonline.com/parkluxe-2018.

From left: Karen Boudewyn, Franca DeJong and Sandra Rexilius.

Kerry Brennan.

Ryan Jennings and Cynthia Moore.

Tamar Zenith, Elmira Barry, Tracy Graham and Nam Dang-Mitchell.

Jasmen Ostrihon (left) and Larissa Pierre.

From left: Dallas Jaggard, Aleesha Paige and Khaled Barakat.

Angel Yon (left) and Nya Irwin.

What a delight to see so many people in such great spirits. Stampede has a way of doing that. Your faithful social scribe has had the pleasure of attending and covering myriad events and have thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie and philanthropy on display. Whether the Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018 or the cheeky Nut Ale fundraiser, Calgarians of all stripes donned their western finest and dug deep to support charitable causes. Enjoy this look at just a few of the events which took place last week and I’ll be showcasing more events on these pages next Saturday. So giddy up, continue having fun and try to keep the Stampede spirit alive for many weeks to come.

Pictured, from left, at Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018 July 4 at The Ranchmen’s Club are Field Law partner and member of the executive committee Farah Salim; managing partner Doreen Saunderson; headline performer Meghan Patrick who was the 2017 CCMA Female Artist of the Year; and Steve Eichler, Field Law partner and member of the executive committee. The party was only great fun but philanthropic as well. The 2018 Field Law Community Fund Program gifted $75,000 to community projects and organizations across Alberta and the Northwest Territories. Further, $50,000 was gifted to the Calgary Public Library Foundation. Bill Brooks photo

There is more to Stampede than chuckwagons and rodeo. Much more. For the artistic types, the Art & Lifestyle Show in the BMO Centre is the perfect tonic. Pictured at the show’s Stir’ Up on July 4 is the Western Legacy Awards team of Judy Edge, Barry Davidson and awards chair Colleen Goetz. Bill Brooks photo

Bret “Hitman” Hart taps his keg of specially infused beer at the Nut Ale fundraiser held July 5 at Bottlescrew Bill’s. Proceeds from the fab fundraiser supported Calgary’s Prostate Cancer Centre. And the special “infusion” in the beer? Bull testicles. Courtesy, Sheldon Semmler, Prostate Cancer Centre

Field Law’s Simone Hughes (left) and Red Point Media’s Anita McGillis pictured at the Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018 at The Ranchmen’s Club. Fabulous food, entertainment and camaraderie were the perfect way to start Stampede. Bill Brooks photo

Volker Stevin’s Fred Desjarlais and his wife Chris Desjarlais at the Art & Lifestyle Show Stir’ Up July 4 in the BMO Centre. Bill Brooks photo

From left, at the annual Nut Ale fundraiser July 5 at Bottlescrew Bills are: Bret “Hitman” Hart; Village Brewery’s Jeremy McLaughlin; and Geoff Allan, owner of Bottlescrew Bill’s. More than $10,000 was raised for Calgary’s Prostate Cancer Centre through the sale of specially made beer courtesy of Village Brewery. Courtesy, Sheldon Semmler, Prostate Cancer Centre

Pictured with 2017 CCMA Female Artist of the Year Meghan Patrick at Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018 are, from left: Calgary Stampede brass Bill Gray (past president); Dave Sibbald (president and board chair); Dana Peers (vice-chairman); and Steve McDonough (vice-chairman). Bill Brooks photo

Calgary Herald deputy editor Monica Zurowski (left) and Alison Goodchild were among the guests at the Art & Lifestyle Show in the BMO Centre. Bill Brooks photo

Pictured, from left, at the annual Nut Ale fundraiser are: AHS’ Derek Bley; Dr. Shelley Spaner; and Dr. Geoff Gotto. The fab — and cheeky — event raised funds for Calgary’s Prostate Centre through the sale of Village Brewery’s specially made suds. Courtesy, Sheldon Semmler, Prostate Cancer Centre

Miles and Rosemary Atkinson were among the guests in attendance at the Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018 held July 4 at The Ranchmen’s Club. Bill Brooks photo

Pictured from left at the Art & Lifestyle Show Stir’ Up are Dr. Bob Church with legendary philanthropists Ruth and Don Taylor. Hundreds of guests attended the event and and were able to meet artists and view (and purchase) original art while sipping and nibbling. Bill Brooks photo

All smiles at the annual Nut Ale fundraiser at Bottlescrew Bill’s are Kool FM’s Fraser Tuff and food writer Julie Van Rosendaal. Courtesy, Sheldon Semmler, Prostate Cancer Centre

Pictured, from left, at the Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018 July 4 at The Ranchmen’s Club are 180 Group’s Ged Hawco, Karen Mawhinney and Field Law’s Roy Boettger. Bill Brooks photo

Calgary Stampede honorary life director Steve Edwards and his wife Rene take in the Art & Lifestyle Show Stir’ Up July 4 at the BMO Centre. Bill Brooks photo

Pictured at the Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018 are Mustard Seed’s Brittany Vine with CEO Steve Wile. The Seed was presented with $6,000 for its SEEDschool initiative. Field Law donated $75,000 to myriad community projects and organizations across Alberta and the Northwest Territories plus an additional $50,000 to the Calgary Public Library Foundation. Bill Brooks photo

Philanthropist and community leader W. Brett Wilson taps his keg of specially made beer at the annual Nut Ale fundraiser. The event raised more than $10,000 for Calgary’s Prostate Cancer Centre located at the Southern Alberta Institute of Urology. Wilson, along with the late Doc Seaman, each donated $5 million towards the creation of the world-class facility. Courtesy, Sheldon Semmler, Prostate Cancer Centre

Pictured, from left, at the Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018  July 4 at The Ranchmen’s Club are Calgary Stampede board chair emerita Ann McCaig, Barry Bultz and Bonnie DuPont. Bill Brooks photo

Food writer Julie Van Rosendaal taps the keg of her specially made beer at the annual Nut Ale fundraiser. The Village Brewery crafted suds were infused with bull testicles as well as Van Rosendaal’s secret ingredients. The event has raised more than $60,000 for Calgary’s Prostate Cancer Centre since its inception. Courtesy, Sheldon Semmler, Prostate Cancer Centre

Pictured, from left, at the Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018 are Burnco’s Susan Shea, Leadership Success Group’s Laura Humbly and Field Law’s Catina Law. Bill Brooks photo

Mike Casey and his wife Brenda Armitage had a great time at the Field Law Stampede Kick-Off 2018 held July 4 at The Ranchmen’s Club. Bill Brooks photo

Stampede 2018 was one of the best 10-plus days we’ve seen for a number of years. Picture-perfect weather, increased attendance year over year and a plethora of celebrations ensured a great time. And as they say in the dance business, ‘My dogs are barkin’ as your faithful social scribe was busier than usual attending and covering events as diverse at the 21st annual Scott Stomp and the U.S. Consul’s Independence Day celebration to Gibson Energy’s annual Stampede BBQ at Heritage Park. So as you put away the Wranglers,  dinner-plate belt buckles, cowboy boots, shirts and hats, enjoy this last look at some of the events which made for a memorable Stampede 2018.

U.S. Consulate General’s Independence Day Celebration

Pictured, from left, at the 242nd anniversary of American Independence celebration held July 5 at the Consul General’s residence in Mount Royal are Parker PR’s Ellen Parker, CTV’s Bob Sumner, News Talk 770 host Danielle Smith and Dr. Jeremy Hexham.

Politicians aplenty attended the United States of America Consulate General’s Independence Day Celebration. From left, UCP MLA’s Mike Ellis and Richard Gotfried with Coun.. Joe Magliocca.

From left: Sandy O’Connor pictured with AltaLink’s Scott Thon and his wife Deb Thon at the U.S. Consul General celebration.

From left: Calgary-Beddington UCP nomination hopeful Josephine Pon, Immigrant Services Calgary’s Ghazi Hallab, Taste of Asia president Winnie Chan and Immigrant Services Calgary CEO Krystyna Biel.

UCP leader Jason Kenney was seemingly everywhere this Stampede. Pictured with Kenney at the U.S. Consul celebration July 5 is Josephine Pon.

U.S. Ambassador to Canada Kelly Craft pictured with Classroom Champions president and U.S. Olympic gold medallist bobsledder Steve Mesler at the U.S. Consul celebration.

W. Brett Wilson and his son Russell were among the scores of guests in attendance at the U.S. Consul celebration.

From left: Minhas Brewery’s Ravinder Minhas, Raj Pillai and Boston Consulting Group’s Ross Middleton at the U.S. Consul celebration.

Scott Land Stomp

The best Stampede kickoff bash going is the Scott Land Stomp. The event, held July 5, was attended by hundreds of those who work in the patch. The Stomp is not only a ton of fun, but philanthropic as well with proceeds benefiting the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre. Funds are still being tallied, but it appears nearly $30,000 was raised. Since inception 21 years ago, the Stomp has raised more than $270,000 for the centre. Pictured from left are Scott Land & Lease founder and president Gregg Scott with his sons Hunter and Ryan.

Mackie Wealth Group’s Tricia Leadbeater (left) and Peritus’ Kathy Hnatiuk at the July 5 Scott Land Stomp.

Pictured, from left: Scott Land & Lease’s Sherilyn Batchelder, Rogers’ Christie Gullekson and Brenden Smith with Scott’s Ryan Scott.

Scott Land & Lease founder Gregg Scott with Avalon Oil & Gas’ Arnie Brownlees.

Scott Land & Lease’s Vicki Braaten, Kinder Morgan’s Louis Renaud, Randstad Technology’s Chelsea Danchuk and Scott’s Greg Meidinger.

Pictured, from left: Telus’s Francesco Marasco, Dan Johnson, Mikala Hansen, Scott Land & Lease’s Brian Shlah and Telus’s Marina Korostensky.

Gibson Energy Stampede BBQ

The annual Gibson Energy Stampede BBQ is the perfect way for staff and clients to sip, sup, have a dance or two. Pictured from left at the July 9 event held in the Celebration Tent at Heritage Park are chief administration officer Sean Wilson; senior vice-president of engineering Mike Lindsay; George Dannecker, chief commercial officer; CEO Steve Spaulding; and Sean Brown, CFO.

Pictured, from left: at the Gibson Energy Stampede BBQ are Sherry Wilson; Teresa Lindsay; Tami Spaulding; and Heather McKay.

All smiles at the Gibson Energy Stampede BBQ at Heritage Park are Jennifer Geggie with Sean Wilson, Gibson chief administration officer.

Pictured, from left, at the Gibson Energy Stampede BBQ are the Gibson “U.S. guys”: Orin Atkins; Trent Bischoff; Ryan Iseman; and Scott Taylor.

Pictured, from left, at the Gibson Energy Stampede BBQ are Investor’s Group’s Wale Balogun with his wife, Gibson’s Lillian Alli-Balogun; Kelly Wise and her husband, Gibson COO Rick Wise.

#NotInMyCity is a movement which was successfully launched by country music star and community advocate Paul Brandt under his Buckspring Foundation in July 2017. The focus of the movement is to raise awareness about child sexual exploitation and sex trafficking.

Children from vulnerable populations around the world are being coerced, manipulated and exploited for sex. The average age when children are recruited to be trafficked is 12 to 13 years old. Trafficked women and girls are typically poor, often with a history of both physical and sexual abuse.

But thanks to Brandt’s tireless efforts, scores of individuals and corporations have joined the movement, building momentum to a national level.

Like-minded individuals gathered at the Deane House recently to support Brandt’s 2nd annual Not In My City awareness and fundraising event. Highlights were numerous indeed, but topping the list was the announcement that the Calgary International Airport will run public awareness campaigns, promote #NotInMy City branding and messaging throughout the airport, and continue to train staff and volunteers to identify those in distress.

Paul Brandt and Deane House proprietor Sal Howell. Photos courtesy, Not In My City

Canadian fashion designer Paul Hardy with Paul Brandt. Hardy created the iconic yellow rose image that has become the symbol of the #NotInMyCity movement.

Running a business is not for the faint of heart. And to do so successfully — especially in challenging economic times — is a skill worthy of the highest praise. The Leaders Awards, now in its 11th year, salutes business leaders who demonstrate outstanding leadership acumen and drive. And 20 of the best in class were honoured at the Leaders Awards dinner June 27 at The Westin.

Scores of applicants were vetted by leaders in their own right. David Allwright, dean of the Chiu School of Business at Bow Valley College; Trevor Winkler, regional managing partner at MNP LLP; and Myron Feser, vice-president of business and agriculture at ATB Financial were tasked with narrowing the field down to 20 winners.

Host with the most, Business in Calgary Magazine publisher Pat Ottmann joined forces with emcee Dave Kelly to present the awards to this year’s honourees. Congratulations to award recipients: Sharlene Massie, About Staffing founder; Arup Datta, Arup Datta Architect Ltd. president and principal; Geoff Best, president, Best of Seven Barbers; Jesse Messom and Kerri McGrath, Bigfoot Industrial Services; Gerry Baxter, executive director, Calgary Residential Rental Association; Edward Alfke and Alastair Handley, Carbon Credit Solutions; Alina Martin, president and COO, Danatec Educational Services; Brock Schroeder, managing director, Entuitive; Megan Szanik, proprietor, Espy Experience; Bill Hunt and Dan Evans, managing partners, Evans Hunt; Scott Kerr, president and CEO, IronCreek Oilfield Rentals; Jay McKeen, managing partner, Jack Carter Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC; Sheri MacMillan, founder and CEO, MacMillan Estate Planning; Milena Radakovic, president, Nexus Exhibits; Linda Robinson, president, Pacific Wine & Spirits; Dr. Greg Uchacz, owner and director, ProActive Health Group; Sam Corea, team leader and realtor, Sam Corea, Re/Max House of Real Estate; Desiree Bombenon, CEO, SureCall Contact Centers; Graham Sherman, co-founder, Tool Shed Brewing Company; and Tom Chisholm, president, Trico Homes. Others in attendance are pictured.

Congratulations to all the award recipients. You do our city proud.

SureCall Contact Centers’ CEO Desiree Bombenon is pictured with her husband Marc at the Business in Calgary Leaders 2018 gala. Desiree, a Top 40 Under 40 alumna, was one of the recipients of a Leaders award at the event this night.

Arup Datta Architect Ltd. president Arup Datta was one of the honourees at the Business in Calgary Leaders 2018 gala. Pictured with Datta is Business in Calgary’s Sarah Jones, director of custom publishing.

Pacific Wines & Spirits president Linda Robinson is pictured with Servpro’s Steve Pollard at the Business in Calgary Leaders 2018 gala. Robinson was presented with a Leaders award while Servpro was a sponsor of the event.

All smiles at the Westin are Wood Automotive Group founder Gerry Wood and his wife Elaine. Wood was a past winner of a Leader Award and his company was one of the sponsors of this year’s gala. This night also happened to coincide with the Wood’s 43rd wedding anniversary.

Pictured representing IronCreek Oilfield Rentals at Business in Calgary Leaders 2018 gala is Chris Murray with his wife Brandi. IronCreek president and CEO Scott Kerr was the recipient of a Leaders award but was unable to attend the event.

Pictured, from left, at Business in Calgary Leaders 2018 gala are honouree, Evans Hunt co-founder Dan Evans with his wife Marie Evans and event emcee Dave Kelly. Evans Hunt has been in business for 10 years and boasts 98 employees.

The Business in Calgary Leaders 2018 gala at the Westin June 27 was a resounding success thanks to the support of sponsors. Pictured representing gold sponsor ATB Financial are ATB vice-president Myron Feser and managing director Judy Duncan.

About Staffing has been in business for an impressive 22 years. Founder Sharlene Massie (pictured) was honoured at the Business in Calgary Leaders 2018 gala. Pictured with Massie is her proud husband Corrie Massie, founder of Bedrock Construction.

Business in Calgary Leaders 2018 honouree Brock Schroeder, managing director of Entuitive and his wife Meagan. Entuitive has been in business for seven years and has 190 employees.

Best of Seven Barbers Ltd. president Geoff Best was one of the honourees at the Business in Calgary Leaders 2018 gala. Pictured with Best is Kerri McGrath.

One would not normally associate a lobster cooking competition with an emergency family shelter. But thinking outside the box proved the way to go as five top chefs cooked up more than 200 lobsters to support ending child and family homelessness at the Third Annual Marriott International’s Annual Lobster BBQ. Held at The Delta Calgary South on June 22, the festive feast raised considerable funds for Inn From the Cold, a 24/7 emergency family shelter.

“One of the things we understand is that our firm is as good as the communities we are in. We are proud to be bringing together the Calgary community for this very fun event to support Inn From the Cold,” said Joseph Clohessy, general manager, Calgary Marriott Downtown.

“Not only is this a great event for the chefs to show off their skills, it also shows the amazing generosity of Calgarians,” added Kevin Kopczynski, hotel manager, Delta Calgary South. “Everything but the lobsters are donated for the event and the silent and live auctions foster huge audience participation. Year after year, we are blown away by the generosity of community.”

The event provided a much-needed boost for Inn From the Cold as the shelter has been overcapacity many times this past year, peaking at 38 families seeking shelter at the facility built for a maximum of 27 families. “Despite increased demand for our services, we do not receive any additional funding from government so we are very appreciative of the Marriott’s support,” noted Abe Brown, executive director of Inn From the Cold.

Chefs, judges and philanthropically minded lobster lovers having a great time this night included: Michael Batke, executive chef, Westin Calgary; Jan-Kai Cronsfoth, executive chef, Marriott Airport; Chris Mercier, executive chef, Delta Calgary South; Hussein Haji, executive chef, Calgary Downtown Marriott Hotel; Paul Audet, executive sous chef, Delta Calgary Downtown; judge Dr. Patricia Truong, a pro fitness model and life coach; judge Ian Mitchell, founder of Nutanna Clean Energy and Mitchell Brothers Beef; Inn From the Cold’s Louise Gallagher and Kara Layher; and others pictured at right.

With files from Inn From the Cold

Pictured, from left, at the Marriott International’s 3rd Annual Lobster BBQ are Saurabh Singh, executive sous chef at Westin Calgary; Michael Baptke, executive chef at Delta Calgary South; Kevin Kopczynski, hotel manager of Delta Calgary South; and guest judge Dr. Patricia Truong. Funds raised at the crustacean competition supported Inn From the Cold. Photos courtesy, Inn From the Cold

From left: Jim White; Bruno Medeiros, restaurant general manager at Calgary Airport Marriott; Frederic Louvet, senior operations manager, food & beverage at Calgary Airport Marriott; James Smith and Joseph Clohessy, general manager, Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel.

From left: Tania Killam; Luanne Whitmarsh, CEO, Kerby Centre; and Shawn Lindsay.

Your faithful social scribe has had the distinct pleasure of attending and covering hundreds upon hundreds of events in my 25-plus years on the circuit. Some are great. Some, meh. But my absolute favourite event of all time is the annual Banff Centre Midsummer Ball weekend. Not only is the weekend a feast for the senses, but philanthropic as well with funds raised supporting artists and programs at the world-class centre.

And this year’s ball, the 39th annual held July 20-22, netted a staggering $1.1 million.

“I am so grateful to the donors, sponsors, artists and staff who made this incredible Midsummer Ball Weekend such a stellar success! The over $1 million raised this weekend will go directly to supporting artist scholarships to allow talented individuals from all artistic disciplines to participate in Banff Centre’s programs based on their artistic ability, not their ability to pay,” said Janice Price, president and CEO of Banff Centre. “That is the message that resonates so strongly with the Ball attendees this weekend, and I am so very grateful to everyone for their contributions to this incredible result.”

The weekend featured fabulous cuisine, unforgettable performances, amazing auction items, the always popular Rolex draw -courtesy of J. Vair Anderson Jewellers, and behind the scenes access to the centre’s creative spaces. Banff Centre alumni taking to the stage included: trumpet virtuoso Jens Lindemann, who did double duty as the weekend emcee as well; Laird Mackintosh, Phantom of the Opera’s André on Broadway; Sean McCann, former member of folk group Great Big Sea; Juno Award-winning band Quantum Tangle; and participants in the Opera in the 21st Century program.

Centre supporters having a marvelous time included: Alberta Minister of Infrastructure Sandra Jansen; Alberta Minister of Culture and Tourism Ricardo Miranda; Sen. Doug Black and his wife Linda; Banff Mayor Karen Sorensen; David Weyant, Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity board chair, and his wife Justice Charlene Anderson; Rob Symonds, COO of Husky Energy, and his wife Jill Symonds; Trevor Gardner, managing director, RBC Capital Markets and his wife Cindy Gardner; Parkland Fuel president and CEO Robert Espey and his wife Mary Jane Espey; Brenda Mackie, former centre board chair, and her husband Jamie Mackie; WestJet president and CEO Ed Sims and his wife Claire McKay; RBC’s Jeff Boyd and his wife Michele Boyd; National Arts Centre board chair Adrian Burns; centre board vice-chair Larry Fichtner and his wife Jan Fichtner; incoming centre foundation board chair Tim Kitchen and his wife Alana Kitchen; J. Vair Anderson’s Annette Toro and her husband Harold Huber; Mawer Investment Management vice-chairman Craig Senyk and his wife Cara Senyk; Justices Kristine Eidsvik, Glenda Campbell and Karen Horner; Imperial Oil chairman, president and CEO Rich Kruger and his wife Jennifer Carter-Kruger; Ravinder Minhas and his wife Jyoti Auluk; Hanif and Behnaz Manji; Beth Reimer-Heck, former Banff Centre Foundation chair, with her husband WinSport CEO Barry Heck; Enbridge’s Matthew Akman and his wife Stela Akman; Andrea Brussa with Alberta Ballet’s Jean Grand-Maitre; McCarthy Tetrault’s Greg Turnbull and his wife Shirley; Stephen and Mary Lougheed; Jenny Belzberg; RBC regional director Jerilynn Daniels and her husband Mike Weinert; Matt and Brock Evans; Larry and Sandy Martin; Eric Harvie and his wife Marian Johnston-Harvie; Shergill Homes president Harvey Shergill and his wife Manjit Minhas; philanthropist and community leader Ann McCaig; Brent McLean and his wife Sheila Wappel-McLean, Midsummer Ball committee members Melanie Busby, Mary Fong, Glenda Hess, Debra Law, Pat Moore, Kim van Steenbergen and Nancy Wiswell; and others pictured on these two pages.

Pictured at Friday Night Live!, the kick-off to the Banff Centre Mid Summer Ball Weekend are, from left, Banff Centre’s Hannah Ordway with incoming Banff Centre Foundation board chair Tim Kitchen and his wife Alana. Friday Night Live!, sponsored by Parkland Fuel Corporation, featured fabulous food and amazing performances.

From left: Jyoti Auluk, Behnaz Manji and Jennifer Carter-Kruger

From left: Minhas Micro Brewery’s Ravinder Minhas, WestJet’s Hanif Manji, Imperial Oil’s Rich Krueger and Shergill Homes’ Harvey Shergill

RBC regional director Jerilynn Daniels and Mike Weinert

June Award-winning band Quantum Tangle were one of the fabulous acts taking to the stage at Friday Night Live! — the kickoff to the 39th Banff Centre Midsummer Ball Weekend July 20-22. From left are band members Tiffany Ayalik, Greyson Gritt and Kayley MacKay.

Jenny Belzberg (left) and Banff Centre’s Rosemary Thompson

From left: Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity supporters Andrea Brussa, Sydney Pieschel, Sheilagh Langille and Sheila Wappel-McLean. Courtesy, Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity

Linda Black and her husband Sen. Doug Black

Rob Symonds, COO, Husky Energy Inc. and Jill Symonds   Courtesy Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity

Ann McCaig (left) and Adrian Burns

From left: WinSport CEO Barry Heck and his wife Beth Reimer-Heck, the past chair of Banff Centre Foundation; with Stela Akman and her husband, Matthew Akman, senior vice-president, Enbridge.

Alberta Minister of Culture and Tourism Ricardo Miranda and press secretary Marion Nader

Justice Charlene Anderson and her husband David Weyant, chair of the Banff Centre board of governors

From left: Justices Kristine Eidsvik, Glenda Campbell and Karen Horner

From left: WestJet president and CEO Ed Sims and his wife Claire McKay; with Michele Boyd and her husband Jeff Boyd, RBC regional president, Alberta and the Territories

From left: Mawer’s Craig Senyk and his wife Cara; with Margo and Brant Randles

Banff Cycle’s Tom Couture with Jan Fichtner

Sandy and Larry Martin

The Iceberg String Quartet were one of the groups that performed during the 39th Banff Centre Mid Summer Ball Weekend. From left are: Russell Iceberg, Chris Stork, Chung-Han Hsiao and Jacob Efthimiou.

J. Vair Anderson’s Annette Toro and her husband Kensington Capital Partners senior vice-president Harold Huber

Dr. Diane Howard Langlois

Banff Mayor Karen Sorensen

Brenda Mackie, former Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity board of governors chair, and her husband Jamie Mackie

McCarthy Tetrault’s Greg Turnbull and his wife Shirley

The Barry Shaw Orchestra had guests at the 39th Banff Centre Mid Summer Ball Weekend dancing the night away.

Banff Centre board chair David Weyant and Janice Price, president and CEO of Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity

Matt Evans and his brother Brock Evans

Emcee, Banff Centre alumni and award-winning trumpet virtuoso Jens Lindemann

Unfortunately, there are far too many corporations and not-for-profits in our fair city battling either flat or declining revenues and donations year over year. Blessedly, Calgary’s Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC) has seen donations rise. The centre does not receive any government support and therefore relies solely on donor dollars and third party events to keep operating. Given that one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime means increased demand for the centre’s invaluable services.

Readers may recall the recent Priddis Charity Classic raised a record $380,000 for PCC. Not to be outdone, the 11th Annual Remington Charity Golf Classic, held Aug. 22 at Stewart Creek Golf Course in Canmore, raised a staggering $600,000! Last year’s tournament raised $400,000 so to see a 50 per cent increase year over year is a testament to the phenomenal generosity of Remington Development Corporation, sponsors Birchwood, Riddell Kurczaba Architecture Engineering Interior Design and Stewart Creek, auction donors and golf participants.

Brainchild of the Two Randy’s — Randy Remington and Randy Magnussen — the tournament has raised more than $3.6 million since inception. An anonymous donor stepped up big-time with a $100,000 gift mere moments before this year’s cheque presentation. With the stroke of a pen, proceeds from the 11th annual went from $500,000 to $600,000.

Other highlights included: free PSA testing for men over 40 in the Man Van; the $5,000 Birchwood Shootout Competition which was won by Kidco Construction’s Ryan Erickson who generously donated his winnings to the centre; awesome live auction items including an OH Ranch trail ride for eight guests, a Ford F-150 truck lease, WestJet and Fairmont Hotels gift certificates and a Calgary Flames Alumni dressing room experience for four, to name but a few super silent auction items; dinner; and prizes.

Guests having a marvellous time on the links this day included: tournament committee volunteers Randy Remington, Randy Magnussen, Alex Wong, Dave Routledge, Ryan Remington, Cody Clayton, Darwin Flathers, Carl Cheverie, Garry Holbrook and Justin Mayerchak; tournament administrator Michelle Gillies; PCC executive director Pam Heard with colleague Linda MacNaughton; Dr. Eric Hyndman; Lafarge Canada’s Bob Spence; Volker Stevin’s Kern Briscoe; Birchwood’s Jeff Cheverie; Westcreek Development’s Bravin Goldade; auctioneer extraordinaire Danny Hooper; Kidco Construction’s Kent Ring; Altus Group’s Kyle Fletcher; Riddell Kurczaba’s Ron Kurczaba; Morrison Homes’ Dave Gladney; Marmot Construction’s Todd Gardiner; Paige Magnussen; Calgary Flames’ Rollie Cyr; Stewart Creek general manager Greg Andrew; Ellis Don’s Travis Perry; and Custom Electric’s Ron MacKenzie.

Birchwood’s Jeff Cheverie (left) and Glenn Simpson. Courtesy, Shelley Buchan

Lafarge Canada vice-president and general manager Bob Spence on the links at the 11th Annual Remington Charity Golf Classic. Photos, Bill Brooks

Kidco Construction’s Ryan Erickson won first prize of $5,000 in the Birchwood Shootout Competition. He donated his winnings to the Prostate Cancer Centre.

The Two Randys, as these guys are affectionately known, Randy Remington (left) and Randy Magnussen, have reason to smile. The 11th Annual Remington Charity Golf Classic in support of Calgary’s Prostate Cancer Centre raised a staggering $600,000.

Remington Developments’ Ryan Remington (let) and Westcreek Developments’ Bravin Goldade.

From left: Dr. Eric Hyndman, Kidco Construction’s Kent Ring, Altus Group’s Kyle Fletcher and Kidco’s Ryan Erickson.

Remington Development president Cody Clayton, who is also a Prostate Cancer Centre board member, with Prostate Cancer Centre executive director Pam Heard.

Remington Development’s Randy Remington (left) with Riddell Kurczaba’s Ron Kurczaba at the 11th Annual Remington Golf Classic. Riddell Kurczaba has been an invaluable sponsor of the tournament since inception.

From left: Oxford Properties’ Dave Routledge, Morrison Homes’ Dave Gladney and Marmot Construction’s Todd Gardiner.

Stewart Creek Golf Course general manager Greg Andrew.

Dr. Eric Hyndman.

Calgary Flames’ Rollie Cyr was the lucky winner of a freezer full of Kobe beef raised at Remington Ranches at the 11th Annual Remington Charity Golf Classic.

Remington Development’s Randy Remington draws for one of many door prizes as renowned auctioneer Danny Hooper looks on.

Ellis Don’s Travis Perry (left) and Custom Electric’s Ron MacKenzie took top team honours at the 11th Annual Remington Charity Golf Classic at Stewart Creek Golf Course, Canmore.

Remington Development Corporation’s executive assistant to Randy Remington and tournament administrator Michelle Gillies.

It’s more than a bit puzzling that, for the second year in a row, members of the Calgary Police service were banned from marching in uniform in the Calgary Pride Parade even though the men and women in blue were tasked with providing security at the parade.

Not to be deterred by the Pride Calgary ruling, Greg John joined forces with Jim Heaton to create an event to show unity between the LGBTQ community and the Calgary Police Service. Unity and Uniform celebrated its second annual event Aug. 31 at the Bank and Baron Pub. Hundreds of men and women proudly wearing their police uniforms joined forces with members of the LGBTQ community to share in an evening of camaraderie and conversation.

Reid Fiest, Global National Alberta Correspondent, and Sgt. Tim Fitzgibbon pictured at the second annual Unity and Uniform event.

It’s rare indeed for your faithful social scribe to cover an event and not know many of the guests in attendance. The WERK-presented Kickoff to Pride event held Aug. 31 at The Palace Theatre was one such event. The visuals, entertainment and people watching were terrific, but as to who most of the (young) guests were was beyond me. The evening was great fun and featured performances from local talents the likes of: The Marvelous Mo B Dick; Stephanie Prince; Smother Theresa; Elektra Kute; Abieya Miraj; Billi Gold; and Misty H Meadows-Gurl. Headliners Aquaria and Asia O’Hara of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 10 fame took to the stage well after midnite which was perfect timing for the scores of hip, happening (and did I mention young?) guests in attendance. Proceeds from the bash supported HIV Community Link.

Drag performer Farrah Nuff did a great job as the emcee at the Werk-presented Kickoff to Pride event on Aug, 31 at The Palace Theatre. The event raised funds for HIV Community Link.

Asia O’Hara of RuPaul’s Drag Race fame brought the house down at the Werk-presented Kickoff to Pride event.

In celebration of Calgary Pride, TD Bank and BassBus hosted the second annual Pride Block Party at containR Sept 28. Performances by Neighbour, DJ MollyFi and The Diva Drag Show ensured all in attendance had a marvellous time. The event was philanthropic as well with proceeds supporting the Skipping Stone Foundation — a Calgary-based, not-for-profit organization that supports trans and gender diverse youth and their families.

The Pride Block Party encouraged everyone to be inclusive and aware. Robert Ghazal, senior vice-president, Prairie region for TD Bank, made three asks of those in attendance. “One, learn proactively. Seek out information about the different experiences across the LGBTQ2+ community. Two, drive inclusion in your immediate surroundings. Set the tone for LGBTQ2+ inclusion in your work teams. And three, be visible. Comment on connections and blogs about LGBTQ2+ inclusion. Participate in events and speaking opportunities. Share your experiences with others.”

Performer Safire teaches Robert Ghazal, TD Bank senior vice-president, Prairie region, some dance moves at the TD Bank Pride Block Party at containR on Aug. 28. Courtesy, Leigh-Anne Hazard

Unique would be the best way to describe Sashay Fillet — a fun and cheeky pairing of drag queens and local chefs for a competition-style merging of food and drag. Hot on the heels of Eat North’s inaugural Drags Benny event, Sashay Fillet saw five local chefs partner with local drag queens for a series of interactive challenges performed onstage at Hotel Arts on Aug. 30.

Queen/cook duos pulling out all the stops this night included: Abeiya Miraj and Hotel Arts’ Quinn Staple; Angelina Starchild and Foreign Concepts’ Duncan Ly; Duke Carson and Pigeonhole’s Alec Fraser; Grease Jones and Alloy’s Rogelio Herrera; and Perla Coddington with Two Penny Chinese’s Scott Beaton.

Celebrity co-hosts Top Chef Canada judge Mijune Pak and Yuhua Hamasaki of RuPaul’s Drag Race season 10 joined forces with judges Terri Stevens, an Alberta drag icon; Christy Farrell and Fraser Tuff of the 101.5 Kool FM morning show; and pastry chef Heather Mordue of Toronto’s Adelaide Hotel. They scored not only the performances but the sumptuous food samplings as well.

Cocktails, canapes and the popular Lit Cosmetics glitter makeup booth — for those who needed a little sparkle to enhance one’s outfit — were additional highlights of the evening. Other guests in attendance included: legendary food critic and event producer Eat North’s Dan Clapson; Hotel Arts’ Fraser Abbott and Brian Brownlee; Mode Models’ Kelly Streit; Travel Alberta’s Rose Bolton and Kristyn Snell; Sam Brown; and Tourism Calgary event manager Cindy Good who did a great job white-hatting the competitors and celebrity co-hosts.

Drag king Duke Carson and his food partner Alec Fraser from Pigeon Hole took top honours as the winning duo.

Tourism Calgary events manager Cindy Good (left) white-hatted the drag competition performers at Sashay Fillet, a fun and cheeky evening of judged chef creations and a drag competition. The event was held Aug. 30 at Hotel Arts. Photos, Bill Brooks

Foreign Concept’s Duncan Ly was one of five chefs competing for top honours at Sashay Fillet held Aug 30 at Hotel Arts.

Terri Stevens

RuPaul’s Drag Race season 10 finalist Yuhua Yamasaki.

Pictured, from left, at Sashay Fillet are celebrity judges Christy Farrell and Fraser Tuff of the 101.5 Kool FM morning show and pastry chef Heather Mordue of Toronto’s Adelaide Hotel.

Competitor/performer Abeiya Miraj at Sashay Fillet.

From left: Drag performer Perla Coddington, Mode Models’ Kelly Streit and Coddington’s manager Sam Brown.

The winter that wouldn’t end. Record-breaking heat. Avocado-sized hail. Hazardous air quality indices above 10. The only thing Mother Nature didn’t throw at us was a plague of locusts.

The 2018 gardening year was a challenge. One could be forgiven for reaching for the gin before noon.

And yet, we Calgary gardeners are a hearty lot (optimistic?) and will survive to garden another year. There are gardening tasks to be undertaken now before it’s all over for the season and the unwelcome F word (frost) blackens perennials and annuals.

Annual containers will be tired-looking shortly — if not already. You can, however, enjoy one last pop of colour by replacing summer annuals with fall-flowering mums on sale at box stores and garden centres. Annual grasses are widely available as well and provide the thriller component in containers. Watering is job one — even this time of the year, but I don’t bother fertilizing as the last container show will be short-lived.

Speaking of watering, a slow, deep soaking of perennials, shrubs and trees will produce welcome results next spring and summer. And the operative words here are slow and deep. A soaker hose is the best tool for this.

Trees and shrubs can be pruned now or you might consider waiting until the deciduous trees have lost their leaves as this allows the ‘bones’ of the tree to stand out. Branches that are crossed and rubbing against each other should be removed, as well as those infected with black knot. Make sure to destroy black knot-infected branches and do not put them in the recycle bin nor compost pile.

Which perennials to leave until spring and which to cut back are a matter of personal choice. I choose to cut peonies and lilies to the base but leave delphinium and larkspur as these provide winter interest. That, and leaving perennials as they are will help collect snow and ameliorate some of the problems the chinook freeze/thaw cycle can cause. Cutting lilies to the base — especially Asiatic varieties helps reduce the chance of the dreaded lily beetle taking hold next year.

Now is the perfect time to plant hardy perennials as well. Many are reasonably priced at box stores and garden centres. Make sure to water in well and mulch around the base. Mulching your entire perennial bed with leaves is a good thing to do once the leaves have fallen from the trees. This keeps moisture in the ground and helps prevent perennials from heaving out of the ground.

There can be nothing more uplifting than the first flush of spring-flowering bulbs. Tulips, alliums, crocus, and iris should be planted within the next two to three weeks. These bulbs/tubers look much better when planted en masse and benefit greatly from the addition of bone meal to the planting hole. If squirrels are a problem, chicken wire placed on top of the soil after planting keeps these critters from nipping at the bulbs.

And finally, give the lawn one final cut but leave it a little longer than you usually would to help collect snow. Whether or not to fall-winter fertilize is, I think, a matter of personal choice as I have not seen a dramatic difference between those lawns fertilized versus those not.

Here’s hoping the Farmer’s Almanac forecast for the impending mother of all winters is wrong. Gin before noon sounds just fine if they are correct.

The Farmer’s Almanac is predicting a harsh winter. Lots of snow is, however, a good thing for the garden as moisture levels have been low for a number of years. Photo, Bill Brooks

The 2018 gardening year was indeed challenging. This mid-August hailstorm being but one of Mother Nature’s gifts. Photo, Bill Brooks

The Palomino Room at the BMO Centre was rocking Sept. 8 as more than 500 guests gathered to support the Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta’s fifth annual The Beat Goes On Gala, featuring headliner Steven Page, former member of The Barenaked Ladies. The event raised more than $900,000 to support cardiovascular care and research in southern Alberta. Since inception five years ago, the must-attend gala has raised more than $4.5 million.

“Each year the Beat Goes On Gala finds new friends and continued support from many annual contributors,” said Ken King, gala co-chair, vice-chairman and CEO of Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation. “The work of the Libin Cardiovascular Institute is key in local heart health and is of international significance. We are grateful for the support.”

Proceeds from this year’s gala event will help support the Institute’s new Women’s Cardiovascular Health Research Initiative, which brings together great research and clinical minds focused on women’s cardiovascular health. Members of this group are engaged in a wide variety of programs that focus on the entire lifespan of women from youth to pregnancy right through to menopause and beyond.

“This community deserves accolades for the generous support it has provided to the Libin Cardiovascular Institute,” said Tony Dilawri, gala co-chair and partner, Dilawri Group of Companies. “Cardiac expertise and research save lives, and the staff at the Libin Institute are some of the best in the world.”

Institute director Dr. Todd Anderson added “Our goal is to decrease the burden of suffering due to cardiovascular disease through excellence in training, research and clinical care, and we rely on the support of individuals and organizations within our community to reach that goal. We are so very grateful for the support of our partners, the University of Calgary and Alberta Health Services, our co-chairs and the local community.”

Guests having a marvellous time this night included: Institute founder Alvin Libin and his son Bobby and grandchildren Louis, Nora and Eda Libin; Sam and Beverly Mozell; Myrna Linder, director of development at Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary; Verna Yui, president and CEO of Alberta Health Services; Bennett Jones LLP partner Harinder Basra and his wife Dr. Sonia Butalia; Avi Amir, Homes by Avi chairman and his wife Rachel; and others pictured.

With files from Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta

Steven Page, formerly of the Barenaked Ladies, was the headline entertainer at the fifth annual Beat Goes On Gala.

Pictured, from left, are donor Sam Mozell; Libin Institute director Dr. Todd Anderson; Beverly Mozell; and Myrna Linder, director of development Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary.

Child prodigy Kaitlyn Ho pictured playing the guzheng at the fifth annual Beat Goes On Gala.

James Clement, CP vice-president, strategic planning and transportation services, addresses the audience at the fifth annual Beat Goes on Gala. CP was the signature sponsor.

Bennett Jones LLP partner Harinder Basra and his wife Dr. Sonia Butalia.

From left, Louis Libin, Nora Libin and Eda Libin.

Gala co-chair Tony Dilawri, partner, Dilawri Group of Companies, (right) with Dr. Todd Anderson, Libin Institute director. Since inception, the event has raised more than $4.5 million — $900,000 this year alone.

Global News anchor Linda Olsen was emcee at the fifth annual The Beat Goes On Gala.

The long-standing Don LaBerge Memorial Golf Classic joined forces with Golf for the Cure in memory of Janice E. Crist to kick off the first Alberta Cancer Foundation Golf Classic in 2017.

Fast forward to this year which saw the second golf classic take place Aug. 28 at Country Hills Golf and Country Club.

The event raised over $300,000 for the Alberta Cancer Foundations’ Patient Financial Assistance Program (PFAP). The incidental costs of cancer treatment can be so overwhelming that some patients will decide against having life-saving therapy and instead choose a lesser treatment as they simply cannot afford out-of-pocket expenses for items such as medications, medical supplies, transportation, accommodations and child care. Thanks to PFAP, patients and families are able to receive financial support during their treatment so they can focus on what matters most — healing.

The tournament hosted 200 golfers, who played both courses at Country Hills. The day was capped off by a dinner and program emceed by Beesley, and a successful live auction with Bill Brown of Elevate Auctions. Alberta Cancer Foundation’s Theresa Radwell gave a powerful address as to the impact the PFAP program has on so many individuals.

Kudos to all involved on the success of the second annual — especially co-chairs Kham Lin and Tom Crist and their invaluable committee members Dallas Crist, Derrick Hunter and Jack Stricharuk.

Others supporting the tournament included: Alberta Cancer Foundation president and CEO George Andrews; Matthew Hanson; Brandin Schnurer; Steven LaBerge; Jason Walker; Scott Giles; Tyler Brown; and others pictured.

Pictured at the Alberta Cancer Foundation Golf Classic held Aug. 28 at Country Hills Golf Club are Amanda Lin (left) and Kay Toy.

Bernie Dunlop (left) and Corinne Spronken, social workers with the Alberta Cancer Foundations’ Patient Financial Assistance Program (PFAP) at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre.

Elevate Auctions’ Bill Brown (left) poses for the lens with Beesley, emcee for the evening portion of the event at the second annual Alberta Cancer Foundation Golf Classic held Aug. 28. The event raised over $300,000 for the Alberta Cancer Foundations’ Patient Financial Assistance Program.

From left: Matthew Hanson; Dallas Crist, president Paramount Projects; and Brandin Schnurer took top team honours at the second annual Alberta Cancer Foundation Golf Classic at Country Hills Golf & Country Club. The event was held in memory of Don Laberge and Janice E. Crist.

Theresa Radwell, vice-president, program investment, Alberta Cancer Foundation, with George Andrews, foundation president and CEO.

From left: Jason Walker; Scott Giles; Steven LaBerge; and Tyler Brown. 

Listen up Mother Nature. I’ve got a bone to pick with you. Not only did you create the postponement of the Hull in One golf tournament, but you made organizers of the Women for Men’s Health pool party at Hotel Arts somewhat stressed. But the terrific team at Hotel Arts can turn on a dime and seamlessly moved the Sept. 11 party indoors to Raw Bar.

The Women for Men’s Health (WFMH) Group, with the support of the Prostate Cancer Center (PCC), was established in 2016. Since  inception, the group has raised more than $250,000 and has secured more than $1 million in funding for expansion of Men’s Health Initiatives at the PCC. Readers may recall the inaugural WFMH gala held this past January at Hotel Arts was an enormous success. And the plans unveiled at the pool party for the second annual event — The Big Ball taking place Feb. 1,2019 had all in attendance buzzing with anticipation.

A powerful statistic that hits at the heart of the need for Men’s Health Initiatives comes when one looks at the top 13 causes of death in Alberta. This includes all cancers, heart disease, accidental or unintentional injury, diabetes, stroke, chronic liver disease and respiratory disease.

Men lead women in every category except one. Women die more frequently than men from Alzheimer’s disease/dementia. The reason for this is that men simply do not live long enough to die from this. The inequity in gender health becomes even more staggering when one looks into men’s mental health struggles. Annually, more than 500 Albertans die of suicide. Of these, more than 400 are males between the ages of 30-69.

That is why the focus of The Big Ball will be men’s mental health. WFMH founder Dr. Shelley Spaner spoke eloquently as to the cause for support and took a great deal of pride in introducing Karen Gosbee as the ambassador for the 2019 ball. Gosbee’s husband George took his own life in November last year. Karen has since become a phenomenal advocate and community leader in mental health. Her address this night was powerful indeed and will no doubt ensure the Big Ball will be an enormous success.

Among the select group of guests in attendance were: Hotel Arts Group general manager and PCC board member Mark Wilson and his wife Kerry; philanthropist and community leader Ann McCaig; Freedom 55 Financial’s Danielle Sutton and her daughter Olivia; Brandsmith’s Shea Kerwood; YYC Cycle’s Andrew Obrecht; PCC executive director Pam Heard with colleagues Shannon De Vall, Eva Moreau and Anthony Prymack; ARC Financial’s Nancy Lever; PCC board members Maryse St-Laurent and Andrew Abbott; Kathy Hays; Patti O’Connor; bestselling author Kirstie McLellan Day; Dr. Marty Duffy; Dr. Geoff Gotto; Dr. Anthony Cook; Lana Rogers; and Kim Berjian.

Please mark your calendar for Feb. 1 and plan to attend and support The Big Ball at Hotel Arts.

With files from Dr. Shelley Spaner

From left: Herald scribe and Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC) board member Bill Brooks, PCC executive director Pam Heard, PCC board member and Women For Men’s Health founder Dr. Shelley Spaner and PCC board member and Hotel Arts Group general manager Mark Wilson.

Freedom 55 Financial’s Danielle Sutton and her daughter Olivia Sutton.

Dr. Shelley Spaner (left) and Women For Men’s Health mental health ambassador Karen Gosbee.

From left: YYC Cycle’s Andrew Obrecht, Prostate Cancer Centre’s Shannon De Vall and Brandsmith’s Shea Kerwood.

From left: Patti O’Connor, Kathy Hays and Kirstie McLellan Day.

Ann McCaig (left) and ARC Financial’s Nancy Lever.

From left: Dr. Anthony Cook, Anthony Prymack and Dr. Marty Duffy.

Hotel Arts’ Fraser Abbott (left) and his brother, Prostate Cancer Centre board member Andrew Abbott.

Mother Nature’s early gift of winter caused the postponement of the 9th annual Hull in One Golf Classic originally scheduled for Sept. 13 at Heritage Pointe Golf Club. Nonetheless, thanks to the inaugural pre-tournament reception Sept. 7 on the grounds of Centron Group’s Bob and Maria Harris’s home, $360,000 (net) was raised for Hull Services.

Hull Services is a registered charitable organization that provides an integrated continuum of services including specialized therapy, counselling and education. Hull helps children, youth and families who experience emotional and psychological disorders, behavioural problems, learning disabilities, mental illness, developmental delay, neglect, abuse and family breakdown. Hull has been providing invaluable services for more than 50 years and has helped thousands of children and their families. Founder William Roper Hull would be proud of the outstanding difference Hull Services has made for children with chaotic, trouble-filled lives.

Kudos to all the sponsors — and especially presenting sponsor Centron Group of Companies, on the substantial funds raised at the Harris-hosted VIP reception. Bill Brown of Elevate Auctions fame enticed guests to dig deep and bid high on myriad live auction items. A cool $74,000 was raised, which will be used for furnishings in the new Pre-adolescent Treatment Program (PTP) facility building. The facility would not have been possible without the outstanding generosity of philanthropist Leslie Bisset and family in partnership with Centron Cares.

A gorgeous late-summer evening was the perfect backdrop for the VIP reception. Vintage Group-catered food and libation and compelling presentations were but a few of the evening’s highlights. In attendance were: Shane Homes’ Cal Wenzel and his wife Edith; Royop Development’s Harvey Thal and his wife Wynne; Krita Investments’ Ike Kolias; RBC’s Jeff Boyd, Frank Scarlett and Jerilynn Daniels with their spouses Michele Boyd, Rhonda Scarlett and Mike Weinert; Bobby Libin; Cheap Smokes and Cigars’ Jeff Lawrence and his wife Lisa Mundell-Lawrence; Canadian Western Bank’s Jeff Bowling and his wife Andrea; Bombardier’s Justin Jones; Jayman BUILT’s Jay Westman and his wife Karen; BANC chairman Jim Carter; WestJet’s Clive Beddoe and his wife Ruth; Centron Group president and COO Cole Harris; Gary Nissen; Rogers Insurance’s Lee Rogers and Ebony Lewis; and others pictured.

The rescheduled 9th annual Hull in One Golf Classic will take place in spring 2019.

Brookfield Residential’s Allan Klassen and his wife Christine Klassen.

Cheap Smokes and Cigars’ Jeff Lawrence and his wife Lisa Mundell-Lawrence.

From left: Mike Weinert, Jerilynn Daniels, Bobby Libin and Cal Wenzel.

Jayman BUILT’s Jay Westman and his wife Karen Westman.

WestJet’s Clive Beddoe and his wife Ruth Beddoe.

From left: Event producer’s Advance Your Cause’s Samantha Morahan and Tom Dodd with Hull’s Alana Barron.

Royop’s Harvey Thal and his wife Wynne Thal.

From left: Bombardier’s Justin Jones, BANC chairman Jim Carter, Bob Harris and Chartright Air’s Justin King.

From left: RBC’s Jeff Boyd, Rhonda Scarlett, Michele Boyd and Frank Scarlett.

From left: Krita Investments’ Ike Kolias, Lynnette Linkletter, Centron vice-president development and Centron Cares director Allison Clark, Andrea Bowling and her husband, Canadian Western Bank senior vice-president and regional general manager, Prairie region, Jeff Bowling.

Centron’s Cole Harris and Shoemaker Drywall Supplies’ Ryan Shoemaker.

The Mustard Seed’s annual gala would not be the enormous success it is — and has been — were it not for a select group of like-minded individuals who support it through their Golden Seed initiative. Golden Seed supporters purchase gala tables for $12,000. In exchange for such generous support, Golden Seed members receive a gold dove pin mirroring the Mustard Seed logo as well as the knowledge their contribution greatly enables the invaluable work the Mustard Seed does. Its services are in demand more now than ever before.

2018 Mustard Seed gala co-chairs Marshall and Sherie Toner hosted a wonderful reception in their home Sept. 19 as a thank-you to Golden Seed supporters. Guests having a fabulous time this evening included: fellow gala co-chairs from Rogers Insurance, Lee Rogers and Ebony Lewis; Rockwood Custom Homes’ Allison Grafton and Titan Energy Services’ Kevin Taillefer; Saks Fifth Avenue general manager Lydia Seifert with colleague Kimberly Bogner (and here, I must salute Saks on providing huge, cool Armani-engraved lipsticks for the ladies); Paul and Michele Beitel; 51st Parallel’s Sonny Mottahed and his wife Katrina Olson-Mottahed; past gala co-chairs, Jayman BUILT’s Jay Westman and his wife Karen; Krita Investments’ Ike Kolias; Terry Berg; Renewed Balance president Ranjit Bawa and his wife Heather; Macquarie Capital Markets’ CEO Dan Cristall and his wife Lindsay; Canadian Avatar Investments’ president Gary Nissen with Klopp Richards & Associates managing partner Dina Klopp; Mercato’s Dom Caracciolo and Melanie Rogers; Mustard Seed CEO Steve Wile and his wife Heather; assistant to the co-chairs, invaluable volunteer Carleen Mullett; Val Demitt; and Colliers International’s Jim Rea.

The Diamond in the Rough themed gala, taking place Oct. 13, is already sold out. Kudos to all the Golden Seed supporters on creating this outcome.

From left: Krita Investments’ Ike Kolias, Melanie Rogers and Mercato’s Dom Caracciolo.

Canadian Avatar Investments president Gary Nissen and Klopp Richards & Associates managing partner Dina Klopp.

Renewed Balance president Ranjit Bawa and his wife Heather were among the select group of guests in attendance at The Golden Seed Appreciation Cocktail Party held Sept. 19 in the home of Marshall and Sherie Toner.

Rockwood Custom Homes president Allison Grafton and Titan Energy Services president Kevin Taillefer.

From left: Saks on Fifth general manager Lydia Seifert, Theatre Calgary’s Michele Beitel, Saks’ Kimberly Bogner, Sherie Toner, Ebony Lewis and Heather Bawa. Saks provided Armani-engraved lipsticks for the ladies at the tony reception.

Macquarie Capital Markets Canada CEO Dan Cristall and his wife Lindsay pictured at the Golden Seed Appreciation Cocktail Party in the home of Marshall and Sherie Toner.

From left: Mustard Seed gala co-chairs and reception hosts Marshall and Sherie Toner, Heather Wile and her husband, Mustard Seed CEO Steve Wile and gala co-chairs Ebony Lewis and Lee Rogers.

Invaluable assistant to the Mustard Seed Gala co-chairs, tireless volunteer Carleen Mullett.

Wouldn’t it be nice if we could revisit a time when things were more genteel and refined? A select group of ladies did just that recently as they gathered Sept. 13 at Lougheed House to support The Lady Grey Tea fundraiser. The luncheon showcased women’s significant contributions to the early development of Calgary. Funds raised at the elegant tea will be used in part to create new exhibitions including immersive experiences and innovative physical enhancements that will bring additional focus on women’s historical significance in Calgary.

The tea hearkened back to a luncheon hosted by Mrs. Isabella Lougheed in 1909 for Lady Alice Grey, the wife of Lord Grey, Canada’s then Governor General. News reports from the day focused on what the guests were wearing, rather than the significant contributions the ladies in attendance were making to Calgary’s growth and social services. The Morning Albertan, Oct. 2, 1909, reported on the luncheon as follows:

“Thursday noon, Mrs. Lougheed gave a very delightful luncheon in honor of Lady Grey, Lady Sybil Grey, Lady Evelyn Grey and the Hon. Miss Broderick. The city guests were: Mrs. W.H. Cushing, Mrs. Pinkham, Mrs. Pierce, Mrs. Sutherland, Mrs. Rowe, Mrs. Hull, Mrs. Jamieson, Mrs. Bernard, Mrs. McCarthy. The guests of honor wore perfectly fitting tailored suits of very beautiful cloth. Mrs. Lougheed received her guests wearing a handsome costume of old rose shade with rich trimmings. Mrs. Sutherland was much admired in a lavender silk mull. Mrs. Cushing wore a most becoming grey silk dress. Mrs. McCarthy in a rich fawn. Mrs. Jamieson in an attractive wisteria. Mrs. Hull in pale royal grape. Mrs. Pinkham in amethyst. Mrs. Rowe, Mrs. Pierce and Mrs. Bernard in black silk. Pink and white asters and variegated sweet peas in deep bowls brightened the spacious apartments which were beautified with changing lights and costly furnishings. An orchestra in the Mission room furnished very delightful music during the hour. The guests very much appreciated the many dainties which were served from the prettiest of tables covered with a snow-white cloth, sparkling silver and perfect appointments. Preceding and following the luncheon the out-of-town guests thoroughly enjoyed the merry spin in the motor car.”

What was not reported, however, was that the ladies in attendance were not simply beautifully dressed ‘swans.” Rather, this group was heavily involved in the Victoria Order of Nurses, it supported charitable organizations the likes of the Imperial Order of the Daughters of the Empire and was raising funds and support for Calgary’s first hospital.

Were Isabella Lougheed with us today and in attendance at the Sept. 13 luncheon, she would be proud indeed as to how things have changed, and yet to some degree, remain the same.

Highlights of the luncheon included: a divine period-inspired menu; beautifully set tables complete with stunning blooms and vintage tea-cup and saucers; performances by award-winning cellists Ine and Luka Coatzee; a demonstration on the protocol of the Edwardian tea service by Trudy Cowan, director emeritus of Lougheed House; and a presentation from Pat Roome, Canadian historian and director of the Mount Royal University Archives, on the history and importance of women’s contributions to the growth of a young Calgary during the early 1900s.

Others in attendance are pictured.

Beautifully set tables complete with stunning flowers and vintage cup and saucers set the tone for the Lady Grey Tea at Lougheed House.

From left: Lougheed House director of development Sean French with colleagues Holleay Rohm and Troy Hasselmar.

Award-winning cellists Luka and Ine Coatzee performed at the Lady Grey Tea at Lougheed House. The sisters usually perform as a trio with eldest sister Mari who could not be at the tea as she is currently studying at the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City.

The always stylish Andrea Brussa donned her fabulous finest period attire for the Lady Grey Tea at Lougheed House Sept. 13.

Pictured, from left: Vivian, Mary and Pam Lougheed.

Mary Lougheed and Kirstin Evenden, Lougheed House executive director.

Dr. Diane Howard-Langlois and Franca DeJong.

Sisters Mary Rozsa de Coquet (left) and Ruth Ann Rozsa-Rayner.

Evelyn Middleton (left) and Mary Fandrey had a wonderful time at The Lady Grey Tea at Lougheed House. The two ladies give extensively of their time tending the magnificent gardens surrounding Lougheed House.

From left: Sisters Roxanne and Jane McCaig and their mother, philanthropist and community leader Ann McCaig.

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.