It simply does not get any better than fashion supporting philanthropy. And especially when said philanthropy goes to taking care of our tiniest treasures-babies. Holt Renfrew Bella took the city by storm Mar 11 as hundreds of our city’s fashionably philanthropic souls gathered in the iconic store to sip, schmooze, see, be seen and view the hottest Spring 2015 fashions. That more than $500,000 was raised for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Foothills Medical Centre gives rise to a big grazie to all involved on the enormous success of the event. Take a well-deserved brava Bella chairwoman Marion Dixon and her small army of volunteer committee members comprised of: Cathy Whitehead; Kim Berjian; Ann and Jane McCaig; Tracy Logan; Deb Kerr; Cynthia Moore; Elsa Kothawala; Lindsay Hamilton; Franca DeJong; Margaret Markle; Anne Clarke; Maddy Lang; Jan Wittig; Nancy Taipale; Sue Anne Valentine; Deb Avis; Kim Brinkhaus; Lynn Grafton; Liz Henuset; Shannon Peters; and Julie Shaw.

Highlights of the evening were numerous but not surprisingly top of the list was the Spring 2015 parade of fashion featuring 68 models and 116 looks. Fabulous food prepared by Hotel Arts award winning chef Duncan Ly, wine and spirits courtesy of Willow Park Wines & Spirits, a performance from select dancers from Alberta Ballet, Stephania Romaniuk’s brilliant performance of Habanera from Carmen, a raffle of a $5000 personal shopping experience at Holt Renfrew, terrific auction items and of course, the after party ensured all in attendance had a wonderful evening.

Your faithful social scribe had the distinct pleasure of hosting the magenta carpet with media celebs Phoenix and Style Guys Jason Krell  and Aly Velji. Who was not in attendance would make a much shorter listing as seemingly the entire city attended including: Calgary Health Trust CEO Jill Olynyk; Shaw Communications COO  Jay Mehr and his wife Viviane (you’ll want to tune into Shaw Cable 10 Mar 28 at 4:30 for the premiere of the one-hour Bella special); W. Brett Wilson and Shauna Sky; Linda Hohol and her daughter Tara; Joe Colangelo with his fiancee Monika Jensen and his daughter Kristin Colangelo; Holt Renfrew’s Lisa Tant, vice-president, exclusive services with Calgary colleagues Tracy Logan, manager, marketing and public relations and Jesse Williams, manager, national merchandising; Alberta Ballet board chair Dawn McDonald and her husband Dr. Grant Bartlett; Cannacord Genuity’s Bruce McDonald and his wife Candace; event producer Brooks and Dodd Consulting’s Tom Dodd; Sophia Models owner Bill Giofu; Jerome’s Jerome Pinsonneault and his talented team who created the simple-yet elegant hair looks shown on the runway; Holts stylists Reba Hoff, Diandra Good and Caley McKay; and others pictured on these two pages.

Opera singer Stephania Romaniuk opened Holt Renfrew Bella with a goose-bump inducing rendition of Habanera from Carmen.

Pictured, from left at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew are Bill Brooks, Calgary Health Trust CEO Jill Olynyk and event producer Tom Dodd. The fabulous spring 2015 parade of fashion raised more than $500,000 for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Foothills Medical Centre.

Among the hundreds of guests who attended Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew were Dr. Grant Bartlett and his wife Dawn McDonald, board chair, Alberta Ballet. The fabulous spring 2015 parade of fashion was opened with a performance from a select group of Alberta Ballet dancers.

Pictured with reason to smile at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew are Linda Hohol and her daughter Tara Hohol. Lucky Linda won the raffle this night-a $5000 Holt Renfrew shopping experience.

Among the hundreds of guests who attended Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew were Shaw Communications COO Jay Mehr and his wife Viviane. Shaw filmed the fabulous fashionable fundraiser and the one-hour special will air on Shaw Cable 10 at 4:30 p.m. Mar 28.

Pictured, from left, at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew are Hotel Arts’ Mark Wilson and his wife, Kensington Riverside Inn’s Kerry Wilson with award winning chef Duncan Ly. Hotel Arts provided the sumptuous fare this night.

Pictured at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew are Terry Berg and Julie Shaw. Shaw was one of the invaluable committee members that ensured Bella was an enormous success.

Pictured at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew are Rich Waller and his wife Jane McCaig. McCaig was one of the invaluable committee members that ensured Bella was an enormous success.

Herald social scribe Bill Brooks was one of four media personalties chosen to host the magenta carpet at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew. Joining Brooks is Bella chair Marion Dixon who had just been presented with a Holts Loves badge signifying she was one of the best dressed this night.

Cannacord Genuity’s Bruce McDonald and his wife Candace  cut an elegant swath at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew. The fabulous fashionable fundraiser raised more than $500,000 for the NICU at Foothills Medical Centre.

Looking gorgeous at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew are Holt’s divisional vice-president Deb Kerr with Ann McCaig, board chair, Calgary Health Trust. The fabulous, fashionable fundraiser raised more than $500,000 for the NICU at Foothills Medical Centre.

Joe Colangelo poses with his daughter Kristin (left) and his fiancee Monika Jensen at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew.

Pictured at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew is Gucci’s Stephanie Teo-wearing, of course, Gucci from head to toe.

A fundraiser would not be the same were W. Brett Wilson not in attendance. Joining the famed philanthropist at Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew is Shauna Sky.

Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew featured 68 models showcasing 116 must-have Spring 2015 looks. The fabulous fashionable event raised more than $500,000 for the NICU at the Foothills Medical Centre.

Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew featured 68 models showcasing 116 must-have Spring 2015 looks. The fabulous fashionable event raised more than $500,000 for the NICU at the Foothills Medical Centre.

Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew featured 68 models showcasing 116 must-have Spring 2015 looks. The fabulous fashionable event raised more than $500,000 for the NICU at the Foothills Medical Centre.

Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew featured 68 models showcasing 116 must-have Spring 2015 looks. The fabulous fashionable event raised more than $500,000 for the NICU at the Foothills Medical Centre.

Pictured at the hugely successful Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew are Holt’s vice-president, exclusive services Lisa Tant and Holts divisional vice-president Deb Kerr.

Pictured, from left, at the hugely successful Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew are Tracy Logan, Holt Renfrew manager marketing and public relations with Holts divisional vice-president Deb Kerr, event producer Tom Dodd, Brooks and Dodd Consulting and Calgary Health Trust’s Samantha Morahan.

Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew was an enormous success and raised more than $500,000 for the NICU at the Foothills Medical Centre. Pictured is Shaw’s Phoenix, one of four magenta carpet hosts this night.

Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew was an enormous success and raised more than $500,000 for the NICU at the Foothills Medical Centre. Pictured are Style Guys Jason (left) and Aly- two of the four magenta carpet hosts this night.

The end of summer will signal more than just changing leaf colours and a return to school; it will also bring changes at two of the city’s culinary institutions.

Hotel Arts has announced executive chef Duncan Ly, who has been with the company since it opened 10 years ago and has become synonymous with Yellow Door and Raw Bar by Duncan Ly, will be leaving at the end of August. He intends to open his own restaurant with a focus on the modern Asian that currently draws people to Raw Bar.

“I will be working on a plan to make it happen,” he said.

Also making a change is pastry chef Karine Moulin, who just handed in her notice last week. Moulin has been with Hotel Arts off and on since it opened and showcased her skill on a recent season of Top Chef Canada. She will be leaving in mid-July to start a new position in Palm Springs.

Taking over at the helm of Hotel Arts will be Jan Hansen, who has been overseeing the culinary program at iconic Heritage Park and helped launch Gasoline Alley, the Selkirk Grille and the recently opened River Forth Dining Car. At Hotel Arts, he will be heading up all facets of food, including banquets, off-site catering, room service and the three restaurants that make up the hotel group: Yellow Door, Raw Bar and Chef’s Table at Kensington Riverside Inn.

While the name Raw Bar by Duncan Ly will inevitably have to be changed, Hotel Arts spokeswoman Katie Mayer said the menu that focuses on Viet modern will not as chef de cuisine Jinhee Lee will continue to create and dish up her take on modern Asian food.

Jan Hansen, currently serving as executive chef at Heritage Park, will take over as the executive chef at Hotel Arts this August.

grichards@calgaryherald.com

twitter.com/gwendolynmr

It’s a rare sight indeed seeing your faithful social scribe showered, shaved and dressed-note pad and camera at the ready- at 5 a.m. Sure, you might catch a glimpse of yours truly heading home after an evening of myriad events, but to witness this rare sighting at 5 a.m. is akin to spotting a Yeti.  Yet I would gladly do this again and again if each morning were as moving as the second annual Breakfast on the Bridge-a fundraiser in support of our beloved military through the Calgary Military Family Resource Centre.

Brainchild of legendary Calgarians George Brookman and W. Brett Wilson, this year’s breakfast marked the 70th anniversary of the Liberation of Holland and paid homage to the lasting friendship that Canada and the Netherlands share as a result.

Unlike last year’s rather damp and chilly event- which commemorated the 100th anniversary of the First World War, this year saw picture perfect weather for the several hundred guests who paid $1000 each to attend the beautiful breakfast. Moving moments were numerous including National Anthems by the King’s Own Calgary Regiment Band, raising of the flags, Last Post, Lament by the Regimental Pipes & Drums of the Calgary Highlanders, Reveille, the Loyal Toast and the inaugural performance of a song about PTSD written by Jake Matthews.

Brigadier-General Wayne Eyre, Commander 3rd Canadian Division, welcomed guests and took great pride in introducing guest of honor and keynote speaker, Lt. General Mart de Kruif, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Army. A fabulous breakfast catered by Hotel Arts and Kensington Riverside Inn as well a flypast by Tiger Moth’s, Boeing Stearman’s and L-19 Bird Dog’s ensured all in attendance had a memorable experience.

Other guests this morning included : West Canadian’s Irene Price; Ann McCaig and Marg Southern; Jim Peplinski; Michael Shaw; Dave Bronconnier; Jim Perry; Dr. David Chalack; Bill Borger and Jamie Rasmussen; Lesley Conway and Scott Hutcheson; Graham O’Connor; Ken King; Leol Eppo van Weelderen; Dutch Consul Irene Bakker; Lt. Col. Christa Oppers-Beumer, Defense Attache, Ottawa;  and Peer Oppers.

A quote I shall never forget from the event?  “Dying for freedom isn’t the worst thing. Being forgotten is.” Amen.

Pictured, from left, at the second annual Breakfast on the Bridge held on the Peace Bridge at dawn June 20 are Bill Borger, Jamie Rasmussen, Lesley Conway and Scott Hutcheson. More than 200 guests paid $1000 each to enjoy the wondrous morning that raised funds for our beloved military and their families.

Pictured, from left, at the second annual Breakfast on the Bridge held on the Peace Bridge at dawn June 20 are Graham O’Connor and Ken King. More than 200 guests paid $1000 each to enjoy the wondrous morning that raised funds for our beloved military and their families and salute the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Holland from German occupation.

The second annual Breakfast on the Bridge held on the Peace Bridge at dawn June 20 raised funds for our beloved military and their families through the Calgary Military Family Resource Centre. This day also marked the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Holland from German occupation. Pictured, from left, are Leol Eppo van Weelderen, Dutch Consul Irene Bakker, Lt. Col. Christa Oppers-Beumer, Defense Attache, Ottawa and Peer Oppers.

Picture perfect weather ensure the second annual Breakfast on the Bridge held on the Peace Bridge at dawn June 20 was an enormous success. More than 200 people paid $1000 each for the experience which raised funds for our beloved military and their families through the Calgary Military Family Resource Centre.

Highlights of the second annual Breakfast on the Bridge held on the Peace Bridge at dawn June 20 were numerous including the first-time performance of a song written by Jake Matthews about PTSD.

She’s a country music fan, never turns down a free pancake and absolutely loves those 10 days each July when her adopted hometown turns into one giant hoedown.

That still doesn’t quite explain why on Wednesday morning, Janis Simmons finds herself crying happy tears.

“Look at all the people here, it’s so amazing to see,” says the 39-year-old baker, as she looks on the crowd gathering outside Southcentre Mall. “Just the fact I can be here on this beautiful day, it means so much to me.”

Simmons is just one of nearly 6,000 people who have arrived early here, where the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation’s Pink Pancake Breakfast is just about to get underway. In the long lines, pink-wearing Calgarians wait patiently for their fill of pink pancakes, courtesy of vegetable dye.

Breast cancer survivor Janis Simmons spoke about the importance of breast cancer awareness at the Pink Pancake Stampede Breakfast in support of Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run at South Centre on Wednesday, July 8.

She doesn’t have to wait in line, though. As this year’s spokeswoman for the foundation, which is celebrating the 20^th anniversary of its CIBC Run for the Cure this October, Simmons gets her fill of breakfast early so she can go out and meet the masses.

“I love helping to promote the foundation,” says the gal who survived breast cancer in 2010. “I got so much support when I was going through it that I want to help in any way I can.”

On Wednesday morning, I dedicate my first few hours of wakefulness to sampling the increasingly diverse ways breakfast is served during Stampede. While the pink pancakes doled out at Southcentre are quite the novelty, there are more than a few around town just as creative.

At Clark Builders, the buffet opens early for its employees and clients — not surprisingly, as its many site workers in hard hats usually start their day before the sun is even up.

Their early rising is rewarded on this day, courtesy of employee Grant Anderson and his 1,500-pound smoker that has spent the night smoking a 190-pound pig and another 40 pounds of pork butt.

For Brad Regier, serving up an innovative Stampede breakfast — this one a fundraiser for Inn From the Cold — is a way to make his guests feel like they’re getting a treat.

“We’ve got the standard bacon and eggs, but it’s great to offer something different,” says the vice-president of Clark Builders of the meal prepared for more than 300 guests.

As she digs into breakfast, Rachelle Babcock is grateful for the meal.

“We are doing about 14 shows over the week and getting only a few hours of sleep a night,” says the member of Mayfield, the seven-musician country band that’s played at the Clark Builders breakfast the last couple of years.

“We are country music all year round, so we depend on Stampede to not only make money but get our name out.”

Mom Carla looks for the start of the lineup with her daughters Avery, 6, and Gracie, 3, at the Pink Pancake Stampede Breakfast in support of Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run at Southcentre on Wednesday.

At Hotel Arts, Amber Romaniuk is just wrapping up her annual breakfast with a twist: the sold-out Amber Approved breakfast not only comes with a Bachelor Auction, which just raised $5,000 for Meals on Wheels, it also boasts an all gluten-free, dairy-free and allergen-free menu.

“We auctioned off former Stampeder Yannick Carter, two personal trainers and Greg Rafter from the national skeleton team,” says the 27-year-old holistic nutritionist who’s just been nominated as an Emerging Leader by eWomenNetwork, a North America-wide network for women in business.

“I’m offering a Stampede breakfast that people with allergies and celiac can come to without worrying about whether they can eat the food,” she adds, “with, of course, a charity component.”

For this journalist, who’s been covering Stampede for the Herald for nearly two decades, I don’t remember a time when there was so much variety when it comes to the Stampede breakfast tradition.

Mom Carla walks with her daughters Avery, 6, and Gracie, 3, after getting pancakes at the Pink Pancake Stampede Breakfast in support of Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run at South Centre on Wednesday, July 8.

Along with the events I attend Wednesday morning, the other standouts include the Ismaili Sunset breakfast after sunset on July 3, which saw more than 5,500 Calgarians observing Ramadan come out for a pancake “breakfast” that included bharazi, an East African dish with pigeon peas and coconut milk.

For those with a taste for the exotic, there’s another chance Thursday morning, when the International Avenue Business Revitalization Zone holds its 17^th annual Best of the East Stampede breakfast (8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at 3111 17 Avenue S.E.).

“We have traditional Stampede fare, along with food from all over the world,” says Alison Karim-McSwiney, executive director of the International Avenue BRZ, of the free event that serves up food to a crowd of 4,000. “People love our breakfast because we really do go all out.”

That’s a sentiment Jannis Simmons, who turns 40 on Friday, shares.

“Today, I get to celebrate my good fortune, being a breast cancer survivor and the Stampede. I have an awesome life.”

vfortney@calgaryherald.com

twitter.com/valfortney

Volunteer Naomi Humbke is ready to dish out strawberries and syrup to the thousands at the Pink Pancake Stampede Breakfast in support of Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run at Southcentre on Wednesday, July 8.

It’s unfathomable but true. It was not until the heroic efforts of five amazing ladies that, prior to 1929, women were not legally recognized as persons under the law. The Famous Five, as they became known, altered the course of history for all Canadians-and arguably women around the world.

Their legacy is honoured by the Famous 5 Foundation which has, since its inception: installed bronze monuments of the Famous Five in Calgary and Ottawa; worked with educators in Western Canada to ensure the study of the Famous Five is included in school curricula; hosted the inspiring Enbridge Speaker Series for Women; offered workshops and youth awards to young girls who want to make a difference in their communities.

Add to this the recently successful  The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts. The gastronomic gala proved the perfect pairing between the Alberta Culinary Tourism Alliance and the foundation. The aptly-numbered five-course meal featuring amazing cuisine prepared by world-class chefs. That wonderful wines accompanied each course ensured all in attendance were sublimely satiated. Superb silent auction items and tributes to women who are tops in their field added cache to the SRO event.

Chefs taking to the kitchen to create divine dining included: Kathleen Blake (Rusty Spoon); Lindsay Porter (El Cortez Mexican Kitchen + Tequila Bar); Wanda Ly (WinSport); Judy Wood (Meez Cuisine & Catering); Erin Pickering (Nicole Gourmet); Andrea Harling (MadeFoods); and Natascha Schwarzer (Cococo Chocolatiers). Mixologist Chrristina Mah, Raw Bar general manager, created a delicious pre-dinner cocktail while Willow Park Wines’ Peggy Perry expertly paired wondrous wines with each course.

Kudos to all the sponsors, guests and the tireless gala committee on the success of the event. And cheers to you sentiments go out to: Kim Berjian; Mona Csada; Mona Hunter; Donna Leonard Robb; Dana Lougheed; Carolyn Robertson; Emily Varga; Allison Webb; Fraser Abbott; Tannis Baker; Rhe Green; Liana Robberecht; and Hotel Arts executive chef Jans Hansen.

Others in attendance are pictured at right.

Pictured, from left, at the Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are Chef Lora Kirk, U of C’s Lucy Diep, Blakes’ Nancy Deip and Chef Lynn Crawford. The gastronomic gala was hosted by the Famous 5 Foundation and Alberta Culinary Tourism Alliance. Blakes was the gala gold sponsor.

Pictured, from left, at the Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are gala emcee, Calgary Herald food writer and author Gwendolyn Richards with Denca’s Jens and Lesley Birkkjaerx. Denca was one of the gala’s invaluable sponsors.

Having a wonderful time at The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are Brien Perry and his wife Willow Park Wines’ Peggy Perry. Peggy selected amazing wines to accompany each of the fabulous courses.

Pictured, from left, at the Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are committee member Dana Lougheed and her husband Raymond James’ Dave Lougheed and Hunter Family Foundation’s Mona Hunter.

Pictured, from left, at The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are Brookfield Residential’s Gisele Danis, Travel Alberta president and CEO Royce Chwin, Famous 5 Foundation chair Carolyn Robertson and Unleash Partners president Janine Keogh.

Pictured, from left, at The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are BMO Nesbitt Burns’ Elizabeth Mendelman with philanthropist Sean Durfy and his wife Tracy Durfy. The “Durfs”, as they are affectionately known, left our fair city after many years to pursue other interests in the east.

Pictured, from left, at The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are Famous 5 Foundation founder and CEO Frances Wright with foundation supporters Ann McCaig and her daughter Roxanne McCaig. The McCaig ladies (including daughter Jane not pictured) were day one supporters of the Famous 5 statues.

Among the several hundred guests in attendance at The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts was Heavens Fitness co-owner Helen Vanderburg.

Pictured, from left, at The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are National Bank’s George Androulidakis and his wife Julie Morin with Hunter Family Foundation’s Mona and Derrick Hunter.

Having a great time at The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are supporter Lindsey Vivers (left) and Rocky Mountain Soap Co.’s Karina Birch

Pictured with Givergy technology at The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts is Amy Peters. The cool tablet system allowed guests to bid for the fabulous auction items on line.

Looking fabulous at The Famous 5 Gala held Oct 1 at Hotel Arts are sisters Tara Pipella (left) and Sloan Pipella-Clark.

The economic challenges we are facing these days impact not only families, but our furry friends as well. Families may find themselves no longer able to provide adequate food, shelter or medical care forcing them into the heart-wrenching decision to surrender their cherished pets. The Calgary Humane Society  shelter numbers have risen just as fundraising becomes more and more challenging.

Thank goodness then for events the likes of Cocktails for Critters, the Humane Society’s signature fundraising initiative. The 2015 event, held Nov 6 at Hotel Arts, featured entertainment, fabulous food and beverages as only the Arts can do, silent auction items and the always popular pets and their owners fashion show. Avid philanthropist Joan Snyder accepted the role as honourary chair this year. Joan and her mother founded the Phoebe and Joan Snyder Education Fund at Calgary Humane Society more than 20 years ago. The Snyder’s know well of the invaluable benefit relationships with animals bring.

Guests joining in on the fun this night included: Calgary Humane Society board chair Deanna Steblyk and her husband Fortis Alberta’s Harvey Steblyk; society executive director Carrie Fritz; board member Anne Hobbs; society manager of resource development Rae Fehr; 27-year volunteer extraordinaire Lynne Paul; mentalist Greg “T”; animal lovers Desiree Ellis and Ryan Brown; presenting sponsor Preventous Collaborative Health’s Nalini Bissoondath, Stevie Blanchard and Tara Therien; emcee CTV News anchor Tara Nelson with Stephen Harper; fashion show commentators At Large Communications’ Jason Krell and his partner, uber designer Alykhan Velji; and realtors Leisa Fuller and Bob Sheddy.

Looking smart indeed at the Calgary Humane Society’s Cocktails for Critters held Nov6 at Hotel Arts are Alykhan Velji (left) and Jason Krell. The stylish gents commentated the pets and their owners fashion show.

CTV News anchor Tara Nelson and her husband Stephen Harper were among the guests in attendance at the Calgary Humane Society’s Cocktails for Critters signature fundraising event held Nov 6 at Hotel Arts. Nelson was the event’s emcee.

Pictured at the Calgary Humane Society’s Cocktails for Critters held Nov 6 at Hotel Arts are society board chair Deanna Steblyk (left) and society executive director Carrie Fritz.

Pictured at the Calgary Humane Society’s Cocktails for Critters held Nov 6 at Hotel Arts are realtors Leisa Fuller and Bob Sheddy. The fab fundraiser featured a pets and their owners fashion show.

The Calgary Humane Society’s Cocktails for Critters held Nov 6 at Hotel Arts was a resounding success thanks in large part to honorary chair Joan Snyder (right) and and society board member Anne Hobbs (left).

Among the scores of guests in attendance at the Calgary Humane Society’s Cocktails for Critters held Nov 6 at Hotel Arts were, from left, Mentalist “Greg T” and animal lovers Desiree Ellis and Ryan Brown.

The Calgary Humane Society’s signature fundraiser-Cocktails for Critters held Nov 6 at Hotel Arts was a great success thanks in large part to presenting sponsor Preventous Collaborative Health. Pictured, from left, are Preventous’ Stevie Blanchard, Nalini Bissoondath and Tara Therien.

Pictured at the Calgary Humane Society’s Cocktails for Critters held Nov 6 at Hotel Arts are society board chair Deanna Steblyk and her husband Harvey Steblyk with Fortis Alberta.

If one is averse to change, 2015 may have proved challenging indeed. New provincial and federal governments took front page news.  Massive layoffs unlike anything we have seen for decades caused many to lose heart.

But we are a resilient lot and took it all in stride. We still supported myriad causes, had great fun and raised millions of dollars for those in need. One need simply add up the dollars mentioned in this feature and you will no doubt feel inspired-and hopeful.

So enjoy this look back at the year that was. I wish to personally thank each and everyone one of you for getting out there and making our city the best place on earth in which to live. I look forward to seeing you out and about and here’s to a New Year filled with joy, health, prosperity and love.

The 64th Annual B’nai Brith Dinner held Jan 28 was an SRO success with more than 700 guests gathering to honour Alvin Libin and Gary Bettman. Pictured with honouree Bettman (right) is Calgary Flames’ Ken King. King was honoured at the dinner in 1991.

Schmancy-our beloved Glenbow’s signature fundraising fete was a huge success with more than 900 guests attending Feb 7  raising $485,000. Pictured are event co-chair Zia Mamdani and her husband Strategic Group’s Riaz Mamdani.

All smiles, from left, at the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (HKCBA) Calgary Section Chinese New Year Gala 2015 held Feb 20 at the Regency Palace Restaurant are Dialog’s Robert Jim, HKCBA national chair Alexandria Sham, Calgary section president Bonita Wong and national executive director Randy Paquette.

Pictured with rock legend Melissa Etheridge (centre) at the CUPS Moonlight Lounge, held Feb 26 at the Hyatt are CUPS board chair Michael Lang and executive director Carlene Donnelly. Etheridge headlined the SRO event – much to the delight of all in attendance.

Alberta Ballet’s La Nuit Noir held Feb 28 at the Fairmont Palliser featured a fantastic excerpt from the ballet’s hugely successful Love Lies Bleeding. Pictured-post performance- are Alberta Ballet’s supremely talented dancers.

Holt Renfrew Bella held March 11 in Holt Renfrew was an enormous success and raised more than $500,000 for the NICU at the Foothills Medical Centre. Such phenomenal success is thanks to the tireless efforts of the volunteer committee pictured.

Pictured with reason to smile at the 2014 SAM Awards are, from left, Morrison Homes matriarch Irene Morrision and her son Al Morrison and his wife Donna. Morrison Homes won big this night by taking home the Grand Sam Builder of the Year Award.

Calgary Health Trust’s 11th annual Funny Bone Comedy Night in support of Peter Lougheed Centre starring Jann Arden and Rick Mercer was an enormous success. Pictured, from left, with the Canadian comic legends are Funny Bone committee members Bruce Edgelow, Arden, Scott Thon, Kirk Bailey, Ann McCaig and Mercer.

The Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter (CWES) Turning Points 2015 held Apr 30 at the Telus Convention Centre was a tremendous success and raised more than $650,000. Pictured with reason to smile are event co-chairs Sherri Logel (left) and Shelly Norris with their proud husbands Tim Logel (left) and Alan Norris.

The 17th annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit raised record funds for the Prostate Cancer Centre. Pictured, from left, at the Rock A Billy themed fete held at Hotel Arts are founder Bill Brooks, Renee Hopfner, director community investment for Sobeys Inc and Larry Clausen, event chair. The 18th annual-Billy of Oz-takes place Friday, January 29 at Hotel Arts. Tickets are available through calgaryhealthtrust.ca/brooksbenefit.

Wishes came true for the Wylie family at the Children’s Wish Foundation Gala held May 20 at the Telus Convention Centre. The Wylies toured Universal Studios and saw Harry Potter. Pictured are mom Lindy and dad Todd with their son Elijah. The super hero themed event raised more than $500,000.

The Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre’s (AARC) 18th annual Voices of Hope Gala Benefit Dinner held May 21 at the Telus Convention Centre was a resounding success and netted $815,000. Such a magnificent milestone would not be possible were it not for the outstanding support of Remington Development Corporation-title sponsor of the gala since day one. Pictured, from left, are Remington president Cody Clayton, Alanna Remington, Randy Remington, Jamie Cooper, senior-vice president, construction and land and Ryan Remington.

The 53rd Calgary Italian Sportsmen’s Dinner, held June 4 featuring guest of honour and keynote speaker Mario Andretti (centre) was an SRO success and was attended by more than 800 gentlemen. Joining the legendary racing icon are emcees Tony Spoletini (left) and Frank Mafrica.

The annual Tusks & Tails gala in support of our beloved zoo is a must attend event. Pictured at this year’s gala, held June 11 are Tusks co-chairs Mike and Sherri Balm.

The second annual Breakfast on the Bridge held on the Peace Bridge at dawn June 20 raised funds for our beloved military and their families through the Calgary Military Family Resource Centre. This day also marked the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Holland from German occupation. Pictured, from left, are guest of honour and keynote speaker this morning Lt. General Mart de Kruif, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Army and event co-founder George Brookman.

Pictured at the annual Hay’s Breakfast, held July 5 at Heritage Park are, Heritage Park president and CEO Alida Visbach with breakfast co-host Dan Hays. The annual breakfast is the place to see and be seen.

The Sir Winston Churchill Society of Calgary 49th Annual Memorial Banquet featured keynote speaker Emma Soames (centre), Sir Winston’s granddaughter. Joining Soames are society president Steven Robertson (left) and avid supporter Fred Mannix.

The 2nd annual Rockyview Invitational saw the ‘patch’ and homebuilders join forces to raise more than $1 million for programs and services at the Rockyview General Hospital. Pictured at the pre- tournament reception held at Barcelona are tournament hosts Plains Midstream Canada’s Dave Duckett (left) and Jayman Built’s Jay Westman.

The Sobeys Inc. Better Food Fund Charity Golf Classic held July 22 and 23 raised an incredible $820,000 for Sobeys Inc. Better Food Fund partners. Pictured are Chuck Mulvenna, president, corporate operations, Sobeys West (left) and Sobeys Inc. CEO Marc Poulin.

Pictured with 395,000 reasons to smile at the 2015 Priddis Greens Charity Classic held Aug 11-13 in support of the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre are Pam Heard, executive director of the centre and tournament chair and centre board member Bas Wheeler.

The 36th annual Banff Centre Midsummer Ball Weekend was wondrous indeed. For many, the highlight was a surprise performance from legendary k.d. lang. The ball weekend was the most successful in history raising a phenomenal $1.348 million.

The first major performance space to be built in Calgary in 30 years, the Taylor Centre for the Performing Arts, opened its doors in grand style Aug 26. The magnificent space would not be possible were it not for the phenomenal $21 million donation from the Taylor family. Pictured, from left, at the opening are Don and Ruth Taylor, Premier Rachel Notley and MRU president David Docherty and his wife Kris.

Encore 2015 was an enormous success and raised more than $800,000 for bone and join health in Alberta. The evenings of musical entertainment kicked off with a VIP reception held in the home of co-chair Ann McCaig (right). Headlining the fabulous fundraiser was Holly Cole (centre) pictured with Encore co-chair Marilyn McCaig (left).

It’s a night of wild costumes, dancing and tables overflowing with gourmet food and drink, all in aid of a great cause.

For many Calgarians, the annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit (calgaryhealthtrust.ca) has been a mainstay on the January calendar for nearly two decades. To date, the glamorous, “see and be seen” fundraiser has raised more than $7 million in aid of research, education and treatment for the estimated 25,000 Canadian men diagnosed each year with the disease.

Yet when organizers sent out a news release this week touting the 18th annual event founded by Brooks, the Calgary Herald’s society columnist, it came with a headline much different than previous years.

“Prostate Cancer Doesn’t Stop During Economic Downturns, Nor Does Bill Brooks,” it read defiantly, immediately addressing that proverbial elephant in the middle of Calgary’s room.

“It is what it is,” says Brooks of the current downturn, one that many of us are already weary of hearing about but isn’t going away anytime soon. “We’re not approaching this year’s event with a pessimistic attitude, but we are being realistic.”

To hedge his bets, Brooks added an incentive to those not attending his $300-a-ticket party at Hotel Arts on Jan. 29.

“We’ve put together our biggest raffle ever,” he says of the raffle (to purchase, go to billbrooksraffle.ca) that includes prizes like a Camaro, a 2016 Harley-Davidson and two tickets anywhere WestJet flies. In such belt-tightening times, he’s fully aware that being a bit more inventive and entrepreneurial can make the difference between success from failure in the world of the high-end fundraiser.

“I know of some events in the past few months that didn’t do very well and others that were just cancelled,” says Brooks of the big parties-for-a-cause that attract a well-heeled clientele. “In fact, most are down in dollars raised, sponsorships and ticket sales. It’s not pretty out there right now.”

With just about every sector feeling the pain of plunging oil prices and the tens of thousands of jobs lost in the city over the past year, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that a growing number of Calgarians are thinking twice before paying for those big ticket events our city has become known for across the country.

“It doesn’t even matter if you have a lot of money, people just aren’t up to spending right now,” says Cynthia Moore, a longtime local philanthropist who helped stage last year’s Holt Renfrew Bella fundraiser that raised more than $500,000 for the neonatal intensive care unit at Foothills Hospital. “It’s a psychological malaise that doesn’t have anything to do with your own circumstances.”

Moore sees events like Brooks’s prostate cancer benefit, with its high profile and loyal following, being able to persevere despite the downturn.

But she adds that newer, less established fundraising initiatives have much to worry about.

“Starting something new and big right now would be extremely hard.”

Still, she remains optimistic.

“We still have a very solid philanthropic underpinning in our community,” she says of Calgary, regarded as one of the most charitable cities in Canada. “There’s an understanding we need to keep these events alive.”

Yet even some of those bigger fundraisers are taking a hard look at the current anxiety-inducing state across the city.

“We’ve down about 30 per cent,” says Carlene Donnelly of CUPS’ fundraising events. “No one knows how long this one is going to last. I’m seeing a solemness around I didn’t see last January.”

Because of the unease, Donnelly, executive director of the longtime charitable organization, and her team decided to delay their annual spring fundraising event, Moonlight Lounge Gala, to later this year.

Over the years, the event has seen everyone from Boz Scaggs and Jewel to Jann Arden and Jim Cuddy perform at its party, its ultimate aim to raise funds to help the thousands of poverty-stricken individuals and families who turn to CUPS each year.

“We want to see if the economy inches up a bit,” says Donnelly, who describes delaying the gala as a tough but necessary bullet to bite. “We don’t want to lose the momentum, but we need to be careful.”

For the man behind this year’s “Billy of Oz” prostate cancer benefit, the silver lining this year has been that more than 90 per cent of his corporate sponsors — which help to raise more than $450,000 before the party even begins — have stayed on.

“Look, prostate cancer doesn’t know what a recession is,” says Brooks, whose fundraising efforts also contributed to the birth in 2010 of the Southern Alberta Institute of Urology at Rockyview Hospital.

“It’s part of the Calgary character to enjoy a good party, especially when it benefits the entire community.”

vfortney@calgaryherald.com

twitter.com/valfortney

Lions, tigers and bears. Oh my! Well tigers and bears were not to be seen, but there certainly were lots of witches (both good…and bad!), Dorothy’s, Munchkins and wizards. Such were the sights at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit taking  place Friday, Jan 29 at Hotel Arts.

The Billy of Oz themed event was an enormous success with more than 550 guests in attendance. That the event has, since inception,  raised more than $7.7 million for prostate cancer research, education and treatment at the Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre is something we can all be proud of.

Presented again this year by Canada Safeway in partnership with the Calgary Health Trust, the evening featured food-themed stations (Toto’s nuts were a big hit), libation galore courtesy of Willow Park Wines & Sprirts and Andrew Dunn of Gold Medal Import fame, fabulous silent auction items (a private island in Fiji garnered top dollar), dancing to killer band Kyemara and fabulous decor that transformed the Arts into the wonderful land of Oz.

My heartfelt thanks go out to all who attended as well as invaluable sponsors and my amazing dedicated and talented volunteer committee. So a click of the heels to: Burnet Duckworth & Palmer LLP; FirstEnergy Capital; Cohn & Wolfe West; Hotel Arts; Ike Kolias; PCL Construction Leaders; Remington Development Corporation; Shaganappi GM; Trail Appliances; Aly Velji; Annette Lambert; Cheryl Starr; Colin Cyr; Colleen McConnell; David Crosson; Erin McKeage; James McIntyre; Jason Krell; Jerrica Goodwin; Karissa Boley; Lynne Garrison-Thomas; Mark Wilson; Nicole Janke; Pam Heard; Phil Libin; Renee Hopfner; Tom Dodd; terrific chairman Larry Clausen; and many others.

But the good news keeps coming as you still have the opportunity of supporting the cause by buying raffle tickets for a first place prize of a 2016 Camaro, second prize a 2016 Harley Davidson and third prize, two tickets anywhere West Jet flies. Tickets are only $50 each or three for $100 and the draw takes place Mar 2. Tickets are available through billbrooksraffle.ca or call 403-943-0619.

Thank you again for your invaluable support. We couldn’t do it without you.

 Kit Poole (left) and her sister Loren Snyder were among the hundreds of guests in attendance at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts. This year’s theme was Billy of Oz.

Harmin Holdings’ Phil LIbin (left) and Krita Investments Ike Kolas were an integral part of the success of the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit – Billy of Oz. The event has, since its inception, raised more than $7.7 million for Calgary’s Prostate Cancer Centre.

Looking fabulous at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit-Billy of Oz-held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are, from left, BDP’s Brianna Guenther and BDP partner Annette Lambert. BDP has been an invaluable sponsor of the event for many years.

 The annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit would not be the enormous success it is were it not for invaluable partner the Calgary Health Trust. Pictured, from left, at the 18th annual, held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are Calgary Health Trust’s Nicole Janke, Brianne Underwood and Liana Polsinelli.

 Having a great time at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit-Billy of Oz-held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are, from left, Jennifer Bentley, Laura “Glinda, The Good Witch” Linnell and Suzanne Motley.

The annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit would not be the enormous success it is were it not for the support of invaluable corporate sponsors the likes of Homes by Avi. Pictured are Homes by Avi’s Doug Beach (right) and Charron Ungar.

 The annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit would not be the enormous success it is were it not for the support of invaluable corporate sponsors the likes of Trail Appliances. Pictured at the 18th annual- Billy of Oz, held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are Trail’s Sean Broderick, Julie Broderick and Wally Broderick.

 Pictured, from left, at the 18th annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit-Billy of Oz, held held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are Cicely Patrick, Stuart Libin and Shahr Savizi.

Hundreds of guests attended the 18th annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit-Billy of Oz, held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts. Pictured are some of the fabulously attired attendees.

 Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre executive director Pam Heard poses on a 2016 Harley Davidson with Harley Davidson Calgary owner Gary Sartorio at the 18th annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit-Billy of Oz, held held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts. The Harley, as well as a 2016 Camaro and 2 tickets anywhere WestJet flies are being raffled off in support of the Centre. The draw takes place Mar.2.

 Jeff and Lisa Lawrence pulled out all the stops for the 18th annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit-Billy of Oz, held held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts.

 The annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit would not be the success it is without the support of the presenting sponsor Safeway. Pictured at the 18th annual, held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts, are Safeway/Sobeys brass and their spouses.

 Retired Calgary Stampeder great Jon Cornish (left) is pictured with Shaganappi Motors’ Gary Sartorio at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts. Shaganappi and Calgary Harley Davidson were major sponsors of the event.

 Rogers Insurance’s Lee Rogers and Ebony Lee had a great time at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts. The event has raised more than $7.7 million since inception.

 All smiles at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are, from left, committee members Aly Velji, Brooks and Jason Krell. The event has raised more than $7.7 million since inception.

 Orange Frog Productions’ Pierre Marleau (centre) is flanked by Brooks decor committee members Erin McKeage and David Crosson. The Billy of Oz themed event was attended by hundreds of guests.

 Pictured at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit- Billy of Oz, held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are Calgary Health Trust’s Samantha Morahan and Brooks & Dodd Consulting and benefit committee member Tom Dodd. The Calgary Health Trust has been a major partner of the Brooks Benefit for many years.

Patti O’Connor (left) and Kathy Hays were among the hundreds of guests who attended the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit- Billy of Oz, held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts.

 The annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit would not be the success it is without the support of XL 103 morning stars Don, Joanne and The Coach pictured at the 18th Annual – Billy of Oz, held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts.

 Pictured, from left, at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit – Billy of Oz held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are Kensington Riverside Inn’s Kerry Wilson and her husband, Hotel Arts Group’s Mark Wilson and their daughter Chelsea.

 Dressed theme appropriate at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit – Billy of Oz held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are, from left, Meagan Spezowka, Colin Hannay, Graham Hannay and Marilyn Hannay. The event has, since its inception, raised more than $7.7 million for Calgary’s Prostate Cancer Centre.

 Pictured, from left, at the 18th Annual Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit – Billy of Oz held Jan 29 at Hotel Arts are New Interiors’ Cortney and Wade Schultz and Megan Crawford.

Micro-brewery tours
right in our own backyard         

CALGARY — Plenty of us have travelled to cities like Portland, San Diego and Seattle for a behind-the-scenes look and taste of the local micro-brewery scene. But now Calgary’s emerging craft brewing landscape has a tour, too. Calgary Brewery Tours recently launched two tours for the beer geek, beer lover or a combination of beer and spirit enthusiast. One focuses on the beers and the people behind them, while the other ­­­mixes in the craft liquor component, like Eau Claire Distillery in Turner Valley. What the tour lacks in quantity — there are five breweries and counting — it makes up for in quality. Some of the breweries on the tour you’ve no doubt heard of — Wild Rose, Village and Toolshed — but others not so much. Dandy, Alberta’s first nano-brewery, would qualify in the lesser-known category. Aside from sampling the hoppy concoctions, half the fun is discovering new brews, such as Dandy’s Oyster Stout and getting to meet the passionate “beer nerds” behind the taproom quaffs. The tour nicely rolls out by starting with lunch at Craft Beer Market on 11^th Avenue and then hopping on the bus for the remaining warehouse-style stops, and ending up at Last Best, in downtown Calgary. calgarybrewerytours.beer Make it a staycation and book into the Hotel Arts just down the road after the tour’s over. 

Lorry Matthews, manager of Craft Beer Market on 10th Avenue, talks about the more than 150 beers on tap during the tour. 

Bargains for ‘Leaplings’
— a.k.a. Leap Year babies

“Leaplings” looking for a way to celebrate their quadrennial birthday — a once every 1,461-day event — can treat themselves to a holiday. Several hoteliers are hankering to give you either a free night or charging a mere 29 cents for your stay. Here’s a sampling of a few:

• Rock Resorts’ Half Moon Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, is offering a 29-cent one-night stay for any room category on Feb. 29 when you book for a minimum of three nights (i.e. two nights at regular rate). Also included in the package is a champagne dinner for two in the newly renovated on-site Sugar Mill Restaurant. rockresorts.com/
• Long Beach Lodge Resort, at Tofino on Vancouver Island, has cast the Feb. 29 net a little wider and is giving a free night to guests born on Feb. 29. The resort has also revived the ancient tradition of giving women who want to propose marriage a free stay, too. The only wrinkle here is that the propose must accept — wink, wink. The package offers a minimum three-night stay which includes Feb. 29 for a lodge room ($229 per night) or a Rainforest Cottage ($429×2). Either way, you get to enjoy the ocean vistas on Cox Bay by a crackling fire. Details at 1-877-844-7873.
• Vail Resorts is offering as much as 40 per cent off at some of its properties — The Arrabelle at Vail Square, The Lodge at Vail, The Ritz-Carlton Residences and Austria Haus. Booking must be made between Feb. 15 and 29 at the ski resort. The discounted rates start at $258 per night, with a minimum three-night stay. Travel must be done before April 10. vailresorts.com

Escents Aromatherapy Wellness Trio Blend ($46.95) includes essential oils for headaches, digestive problems and stress relief.

Aromatherapy offers
on-the-road tonics

Fragrances can transport us back to our favourite holiday spots: the salty sea air of the coast, pine trees of an old growth forest, the fragrant frangipani of a Hawaiian lei. These aromas can also provide the therapeutic remedies we may need when we’re far from home. Escents Aromatherapy, a longtime retailer in Vancouver, has recently opened two stores in Calgary at The Core and Market Mall. It offers dozens of essential oils, sourced from around the world, many used alone or in products for skin care, or designed for a variety of maladies. For travellers prone to digestive troubles (too many tacos or margaritas in Mexico), there’s a peppermint or fennel concoction.  Sunburned after too many hours at the beach? Try a concoction of patchouli, lavender, camomile and peppermint. Step up to the blending bar and get a custom product made in your favourite scent and for whatever ails you at home or on the road. The nifty Wellness Trio Blends, that treat everything from headaches to the sniffles is also a handy essential in our carry-on bag or purse. Escentsaromatherapy.com

— Compiled by Lisa Monforton

Serendipity is a wonderful thing. Witness the outcomes from the 2016 Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit raffle.

First prize of a 2016 Camaro from Shaganappi GM was won by Malcolm Albery-a long-time supporter of the Brooks Benefit. Albery chose to return the car and donate one third of the proceeds to the 19th annual Brooks Benefit taking place Jan 27,2017 at Hotel Arts.

Second prize of a 2016 Harley Davidson was won by long-time supporters Sheila’s Drapery’s Ted and Karen Knapik.

Karen also bid-and won-the silent auction item Head of the Pack at the 2016 benefit. The item sees the winner ride at the front of the parade during the Motorcycle Ride for Dad taking place in June. Karen had just finished taking her motorcycle driving course and hoped that some day she would be able to buy a bike. Karen will proudly lead the parade on her newly won Harley. How cool is that?

Third prize of two tickets anywhere WestJet flies was won by Kirk Hudson. Hudson won last year’s raffle prize of a 2015 Harley Davidson.

Serendipitous indeed on all three counts. It is with a heavy heart though that the 19th annual Brooks Benefit-themed Billy Horror Picture Show-will be our last hurrah. The event has raised more than $7.7 million since inception and with any luck, the final event will see us hit the $8 million mark.

With Alberta’s economy dropping faster than a roller-coaster, Calgary hotels are hoping Stampede provides a smoother ride.

Reservations for downtown accommodations are holding steady despite the economic downturn, with many reporting numbers similar to 2015.

“If the catchphrase is ‘flat is the new grow,’ then I’m very happy with flat,” said Fraser Abbott, director of business development at Hotels Arts. “For us, the numbers are actually pacing well.”

The boutique inn is one of the closest hotels to the Stampede grounds, and Abbott said most of their traffic is Canadian and repeat business. But he is anticipating a bump in international guests this summer as the mountain regions experience one of their best tourism years.

“We see how full things are in the Rockies. They’re having a record year. We’ll see if the Calgary tourism sector can catch some of that,” said Abbott.

“If not during Stampede, we think it’ll be paying dividends for us later in the summer.”

An international marketing campaign and a slumping loonie has contributed to Americans flocking north to the mountain parks. That bodes well for Calgary, said Cindy Ady, Tourism Calgary CEO.

“There’s tremendous compression in the parks. They’re experiencing fantastic numbers up there. How heavily it’s booked is an advantage to us as we’re the gateway city.”

The Fairmont Palliser Hotel 

Ady expects to see overflow traffic from visitors who can’t find rooms in Banff and Lake Louise, but they’re also planning marketing campaigns to encourage locals to stay and experience their own city this summer, Stampede included.

“That’s obviously the marquee event, but there’s so much going on here. This is a really great, engaged city.”

With hotels in Banff, Lake Louise and Calgary, the Fairmont brand has its bases covered for visitors wanting a city or nature park experience. Their numbers look good for summer, including the 10 days of Stampede.

“Occupancy rates are still trending upward. Some days are near to being sold out while others are,” said Jacqueline Tyler, communication manager at the Fairmont Palliser. She noted the occupancy rate in their mountain properties is 106 per cent, and that will push some guests back to Calgary.

Abbott said he expects to see a rise in the number of international visitors as new, direct flights link Canada with China. That will add to the international tour business that’s been slowly building in the city.

“What I’d say to Calgarians is when you see Asian travellers, make sure you welcome them because we need them to come back to Calgary.”

Calgary Economic Development estimates the financial effect of the Stampede on Calgary is about $175 million. It’s estimated that for every dollar spent at the Stampede, another $2.65 is spent in Calgary at hotels, bars and restaurants, and on shopping and entertainment.

It’s unfathomable that, until 1929, women in Canada were not officially recognized as persons under the law. But thanks to the courageous efforts of five women-Emily Murphy, Louise McKinney, Nellie McClung, Henrietta Muir Edwards and Irene Parbly, the course of history would be altered forever and the Canadian Constitution would recognize women as persons in the fullest legal sense of the word.

The Famous 5, as the women became known, have been celebrated through monuments, on currency (from 2004-2012, the Famous 5 were featured on the $50 bill) and were posthumously named Honorary Senators, to name but a few of the deserved accolades paid to these incredible women. Their inspiring legacy continues to this day through the work of the Famous 5 Foundation which was established Oct 18,1996-the anniversary of the “Persons” case. The Foundation’s mission is to empower women and girls to courageously lead change that contributes to a society without boundaries for women.

The third annual Famous 5 Fundraiser-A Taste of Famous 5- was held Oct 27 at Hotel Arts and was again a sold-out affair with more than 300 guests in attendance. Proceeds from the event will help continue the legacy and impact of the Famous 5 as well as develop the education, leadership and empowerment programs that will make today and tomorrow’s generations of women and girls famous in their own right. Further, a $2000 bursary was gifted to a female student to attend SAIT’s renowned culinary program.

Event organizers partnered with the Alberta Culinary Tourism Alliance (ACTA) whereby five teams of female chefs  created ten perfect plates paired with wine selected by Willow Park Wines’ Peggy Perry. Kudos to the tireless team of volunteers and take a well deserved curtsy co-chairs Carolyn Robertson and Dana Lougheed.

Other supporters in attendance included: ConocoPhillips Canada Kim Berjian; Lisa Conboy; Pipella Law’s Tara Pipella with Iestyn Samuel;  BMO’s Brad Denis and Nick Mazer; Cookbook Co. founder and owner Gail Norton; Blair and Liz McDermid; Blue Moon Access’ Michele Durling; Raymond James’ Dave Lougheed; Banbury Lane’s Jonathan Howell; Mona Hunter; Chlan Grant; Leigh Anderson; and Jennifer Ewen.

 Having a great time at the Taste of Famous 5 held Oct 27 at Hotel Arts are BMO’s Brad Denis (left) and Nick Mazer. The cocktail-style event featured samplings from AlbertaÕs best female culinary wizards as well as wine pairings by Peggy Perry of Willow Park Wines and Spirits fame.

 The Taste of Famous 5 held Oct 27 at Hotel Arts was an SRO success with 300 guests in attendance. Hamming it up for the lens are committee members Kim Berjian (left) and Lisa Conboy.

Pipella Law’s Tara Pipella and Iestyn Samuel were among the 300 guests in attendance at The Taste of Famous 5 held Oct 27 at Hotel Arts.

The Taste of Famous5 held Oct 27 at Hotel Arts was an SRO success with 300 guests in attendance. Pictured with reason to smile are event co-chairs Carolyn Robertson (left) and Dr. Dana Lougheed.

 Pictured at The Taste of Famous 5 held Oct 27 at Hotel Arts is foodie extraordinaire and owner of The Cookbook Co. Cooks Gail Norton.

Spotted outside Hotel Arts Oct 27 was none other than musical legend Tom Cochrane who was in town performing. Pictured with Cochrane is fan Kim Berjian who was outside the hotel taking a break from the Taste of Famous 5 event which Berjian helped organize.

 Pictured, from left, at the Taste of Famous 5 held Oct 27 at Hotel Arts are Mona Hunter, Chlan Grant, Leigh Anderson and Jennifer Ewen. The event was sold out with more than 300 guests in attendance.

Two things became strikingly evident as your faithful social scribe poured through hundreds of pictures to select a handful for these Year in Review pages.  One: I know now why I am always tired (some might say tiresome!). And two: What amazing people we are truly blessed to have in our fair city.

There is no doubt that 2016 had its share of challenges. From the disastrous fires in Ft. McMurray to the seemingly never ending bad economic news, our positive can-do attitude was more than tested. And you’re not alone if-at times-your faith wavered. Mine did. And let’s not even go down the international news path.

And yet, we have so much to be thankful for. Look at the millions upon millions of dollars generous Calgarians have raised/donated in 2016. From the enormously successful $1 million Rockyview Invitational golf tournament to the AARC Gala, Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter Turning Points Gala, UNICEF Water for Life Gala, Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Midsummer Ball Weekend and myriad other events, Calgarians gave of their treasure-and time- even when their own lives were facing economic challenges.

And 2016 saw several magnificent milestones-not the least of which being SAIT’s 100th anniversary and U of C’s 50th anniversary. And surely the opening of the incredible National Music Centre-and the hosting of the JUNO’s should give us all something to be fiercely proud of.

So enjoy this look back at just some of the events that made 2016 the memorable year it was. It was my pleasure to attend and cover Calgarians at work and play. Here’s wishing you all a New Year filled with love, joy, health and prosperity and I look forward to seeing you out and about. God bless.

 Pictured, from left at The Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (HKCBA) Annual Chinese New Year Gala held Feb 19 at Regency Palace Restaurant are Alexandria Sham, HKCBA national chair, immediate past president Tim Onyett and Bonita Wong Paquette, HKCBA, Calgary president. More than 600 guests attended the celebration of the Year of the Fire Monkey.

Pictured, from left, at Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Calgary Leadership Summit and Awards held Mar 2 at The Westin are Calgary honourees Beth Hamilton-Keen, director, investment counselling, Mawer Investment Management and Cynthia Hansen, senior vice-president, operations, Enbridge Liquids Pipelines.

 Pictured, from left, at the Chairman’s Reception held Apr 1 in the fabulous National Music Centre (NMC) are legendary producer Bob Ezrin, multiple Juno Award winner and Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee Buffy Sainte-Marie, legendary performer and multiple Juno Award winner Burton Cummings and fellow rocker Tom Cochrane. Cummings was inducted into the new home of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at Studio Bell this night.

 MakeFashion held at Telus Spark Science Centre Apr 2 featured wearable technology from a team of 48 artists, designers and engineers from around the world.

 Broadview Homes won the coveted Builder of the Year Award at the 29th annual SAM Awards held Apr 16 in the Telus Convention Centre. Pictured are Broadview Homes’ vice-president Peter-John Woolf and his proud wife Delle.

 Pictured, from left, at the Gordie Howes C.A.R.E.S. Luncheon held Apr 15 at the Westin Calgary are special guests Yvan “The Roadrunner” Cournoyer and Paul Henderson with chairman Allan Klassen and committee member and NHL alumnus Perry Berezan.

 Calgary Opera chorus leader Karen Shippey-Heilman and Calgary Opera chorus member Joshua Bagby ham it up for the lens at the Calgary Opera Gala held at the Jube Apr.23.

 Pictured with reason to smile at the University of Calgary’s 50th anniversary celebration held Apr 29 are U of C president and vice-chancellor Elizabeth Cannon (left) with (the then) board of governors chair Bonnie DuPont.

 The 22nd annual Turning Points Gala held Apr 28 at the TELUS Convention Centre was an enormous success raising $559,644. Such a magnificent milestone is due in large part to gala co-chairs Sherri Logel and Shelly Norris. Logel was unable to attend this night but her husband Tim Logel, Cardel Lifestyles president and co-founder (left) was proud to attend on her behalf. Joining Logel are gala co-chair Shelly Norris and her husband Brookfield’s Alan Norris.

Pictured at an Intimate Evening with Sarah McLachlan held May 14 at Theatre Junction Grand is the super star herself, Sarah McLachlan. Funds raised at the fabulous concert were directed to the Project Warmth Society of Alberta.

 Pictured with reason to smile at Children’s Wish Gala, Celebrating 30 Years of Wishes held May 25 at the Telus Convention Centre are gala chair Michele Boyd and her husband, RBC Regional president Jeff Boyd.

 There is nothing like an original. Pictured, from left, at the opening night of DJD’s New Universe held in the organizations amazing new $26 million space are DJD’s Hannah Stilwell, Vicki Adams Willis and Michele Moss. Stilwell and Moss were day one dancers with the company while Willis was the company’s first artistic director.

 Pictured, from left, at the June 18 official opening of Enmax Park on the banks of the Elbow River at Stampede Park are Stampede president and board chair Bill Gray, Stampede Foundation board chair Steve Allen, Blackfoot elder Ed Calf Robe and Gianna Manes, Enmax president and CEO.

 The Calgary premiere of Swift Current was an enormous success and raised considerable funds for the Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre. Pictured at the SRO event are Kennedy and event chair Ann McCaig.

 Stampede would not be the same were it not for the annual Hays Breakfast held this year July 10 at Heritage Park. Organizers estimate that more than 3,000 people attended the see and be seen event. Pictured are hosts with the most Dan Hays and Heritage Park’s Alida Visbach.

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

 The annual W. Brett Wilson Garden Party is not only a ton of fun but philanthropic as well and this year’s fete, held recently on the grounds of Wilson’s Mount Royal estate, raised more than $500,000 for myriad charities with a focus on mental health. Pictured, from left, are Calgary Prostate Cancer Centre executive director Pam Heard, host with the most Wilson, renowned urologist Dr. Jay Lee and musical great Jake Mathews.

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

 Pictured, from left, at the UNICEF Canada Water for Life Gala held Oct 1 at the Hyatt are UNICEF Canada president and CEO David Morley, keynote speaker this night Rwanda refugee and UNICEF Canada ambassador John Nsabimana, UNICEF Patron’s Council’s Penny Whitlock and her husband, Bennett Jones’ Wayne Whitlock, Q.C.

 Pictured with Fraser Institute Founders’ Award honouree Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall (right) is Alberta Premier hopeful Jason Kenney.

 The 2016 Bob Edwards Award Gala held Nov 4 at the Fairmont Palliser was an SRO success. Pictured are this year’s honouree Bret “Hitman” Hart and his wife Stephanie Washington-Hart.

Pictured at Amped for the Junos MusiCounts Charity Shopping Event held at Holt Renfrew Mar 9 are Holt Renfrew’s Deb Kerr (centre) with 2016 Juno Nominee Dear Rouge. Dear Rouge is nominated for Breakthrough Group of the Year. The husband and wife duo now live in Vancouver and recently made it to #2 on Canadian billboards.

 The 19th annual AARC Gala Benefit Dinner held May 26 at the Telus Convention Centre was an enormous success thanks in large part to day-one presenting sponsor Remington Development Corporation. Pictured are founder Randy Remington and his wife Donna.

As a child, Jinhee Lee was the official taste tester for her mom’s homemade kimchi. Little did she realize, food was her destiny.

In fact, Seoul-born Lee already had two careers behind her — as a chemist in Korea’s cosmetic industry and as an English teacher — before “goose bumps” popped up on her arm while visiting a SAIT cooking class.

“There was this chef making hollandaise sauce. He was squeezing the lemon, adding Tabasco, tasting. I wanted to be like him.”

The next day, Lee signed up for the professional cooking course.

That career switch paid off big time. Lee last year won the prestigious Gold Medal Plates competition (she won silver in 2015; both times the only female competitor) and is executive chef at Foreign Concept, recently opened by her friend and mentor Duncan Ly.

In February, the 38-year-old Lee will compete at the Canadian Culinary Championships.

Yet, only recently did her Korean parents learn she is a chef.

“It is a tough life. And the dream in the traditional Asian culture is to get married and be the perfect wife to the perfect man.”

Lee had been frustrated by the “traditional”: at her chemist’s job, “the boys told me to make photocopies and get coffee.”

Wanting to improve her English teaching skills, she came to Canada 11 years ago, the mountains a lure for the avid snowboarder.

And after teaching gave way to cooking, Ly hired her at Hotel Arts where, over seven years, she rose to chef de cuisine.

Taking a break to return to Korea, she was drawn back to Ly’s dream of creating unique Pan-Asian dishes in his own restaurant.

And got the second invite to the Gold Medal Plates.

“I had no commercial kitchen or team behind me this time. I did everything in my own kitchen. People ask me if I cook at home: ‘I brew coffee’.”

Mom’s pickle recipe is featured at the new restaurant. And third time is lucky, career-wise

“Now, I think about food all the time.”

After 19 years of fun and funky fundraising, the Bill Brooks Prostate Cancer Benefit is set to descend on the city for the last time. 

Now in its final year, Brooks said the first event started when friend Mark Wilson approached Brooks about putting on a fundraiser. Brooks was inspired to raise funds to help fight prostate cancer by his uncle Doug, who died in his early 40’s from the disease.

While prostate cancer may not be the cheeriest of topics, Brooks said the event is anything but somber. 

“It’s not a sad event,” Brooks said, calling the fundraiser a boozy, schmoozy, wild ride of a night. “There are no speeches, I don’t get up and ask for donations.”

Starting as a wine dinner, the event raised $12,000. Over the years, “Billy’s Ball” has raised nearly $8 million in support of prostate cancer research and Brooks said he is confident the fundraiser will surpass that number.

In past years, the fundraiser has had such outrageous themes as Billy in Wonderland, Billy of Oz, Rock-a-Billy and Billy Poppins. This year, Brooks said his planning committee decided on a Rocky Horror-inspired theme of “The Billy Horror Picture Show.”

“It’s been billed as the event of the year,” Brooks said with a smile, sounding both proud and surprised at the success of the event. 

“People pay $300 and they essentially never have to reach for their wallet again,” Brooks said, adding the event is all-inclusive, with guests treated to drinks, food and impressive “swag bags” from Safeway, the event’s long-time corporate sponsor.

In the not so distant past, Brooks said prostate cancer was not something men wanted to talk about let alone get tested for. Brooks said the numbers of diagnosed cases of prostate cancer are on the rise and one in seven Albertan men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. 

Roughly 25,000 Canadian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year. Brook said those numbers are high compared to the number of cases in Asia and other parts of the world.

The money raised by the event contributed to the development of the Southern Alberta Institute of Urology at Rockyview Hospital back in 2010. The facility, which also houses the Prostate Cancer Centre and the Alberta Bladder Centre, is the largest and most comprehensive urological centre in the country.

While the Prostate Cancer Benefit might be in its final year, Brooks isn’t ready to ride off into the sunset just yet. Brooks he will be staying on as a member of the Prostate Cancer Centre and will continue working with charities.

“In my next incarnation, I’ll be helping Silvera for Seniors,” Brooks said, adding that he plans to contribute to research for Alzheimer’s disease which he called an impending “tsunami.”

As for what Brooks will be wearing to the final event?

“I’ll leave that as a surprise.”

The Billy Horror Picture Show starts at 7 p.m. at Hotel Arts on Friday, Jan. 27. Tickets for the all-inclusive event are $300 and are available by calling 403-943-0619 or visiting www.calgaryhealthtrust.ca/billbrooks.

rrumbolt@postmedia.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A lot of good came from the Alberta government’s privatization of the province’s liquor stores in 1993, including Michael MacDougall’s move to Calgary from Ontario.

Then a salesman for a major beer company, he heard the government would no longer continue its wine-tasting events, and was soon on his way here to start a new business.

MacDougall knew little about the city, but thanks to helpful liquor agents, wine stores and introductions to restaurants from John Gilchrist, he was able to launch the Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival, now in its 20th year.

The first event was held in the Big Four Building on the Stampede grounds, where MacDougall said most of the food vendors were hotel restaurants. After a couple of successful years, Sunterra realized the potential and raised the bar by taking a large booth space that offered hot foods cooked on the spot. 

MacDougall credits much of his success to leasing space at the nearby BMO Centre and the hiring of Cathy Cook.

A part-time helper who organized shows, Cook spent a year in Australia and New Zealand after graduating from the Haskayne School of Business. After returning home, she became a full-time employee of the festival in 2001 and today carries the title of festival director.

This year’s Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival will be held Oct. 13 and 14 at the BMO Centre, with 160 of the 220 booths taken by the beverage industry.

A key attraction is the opportunity to try samples from every price point, including last year’s Taylor Fladgate 1863 port, which retails at $4,000. A special ticket was needed but there was no shortage of people who wanted to taste a quarter ounce of such a rarity.

MacDougall and Cook have just launched another venture, Rocky Mountain Wine Spirits Beer, a retail store located at 225 58th Avenue S.E. that also houses the festival office. With the help of Frank Architect they have 4,000 square feet of attractive shelving, displays and signage.

One long shelf carries 40 labels of the increasingly popular rose wines. Gin is in — and so are local distilleries. And there is a selection of craft beers from 150 micro-brewers plus 200 750 mL bombers.

News and notes

• Chef Quinn Staple was instrumental in the opening of the Yellow Door Bistro four years ago in Hotel Arts. He has now been appointed executive chef of Hotel Arts Group, leading the teams at Yellow Door, Raw Bar and the group’s newest edition, Oxbow at Kensington Riverside Inn. Staple cut his teeth at the Crazyweed Cafe in Canmore. In addition to Raw Bar and Olives in Calgary, he worked at Alinea, Grant Achatz’s modernist restaurant in Chicago.

David Parker appears regularly in the Herald. Read his columns online at calgaryherald.com/business. He can be reached at 403-830-4622 or by email at info@davidparker.ca.

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.

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.