Geena Davis, winner of an Oscar for her role in The Accidental Tourist and a Golden Globe for her work in A League of Their Own, is coming to Vancouver to speak about equality for women in media and launch the 2018 edition of the Whistler Film Festival’s Women on Top series.

Davis will give a keynote address on June 15 at the Sutton Place Hotel in Vancouver.

This year’s edition of Woman on Top is a two-part event; Davis’s speech is the first.

“The Whistler Film Festival’s Women on Top Series is aligned with several industry-wide mandates that share the goal of addressing the imbalance of diversity in media and supporting collaborative efforts to achieve a more accurate, gender balanced, diverse portrayal of society,” Shauna Hardy Mishaw, the festival’s executive director, said in a media release. “With this series, (the festival) is maintaining a timely leadership role for women in the industry, when the need is not only apparent, but the collective is calling for it.”

Davis founded the non-profit Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, which researches the representation of female characters in film and media and is working to “dramatically increase the percentages of female characters — and reduce gender stereotyping — in media made for children 11 and under.”

She has worked with the United Nations in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. She also co-founded the Bentonville Film Festival in 2015 to champion women and diversity in media.

Davis has also been a top class competitive archer and is a member of Mensa.

The Women on Top Series will continue at the 2018 Whistler Film Festival with a networking luncheon and keynote address on Nov. 30 featuring Madeline Di Nonno, CEO of the Geena Davis Institute. Di Nonno will speak about the institute’s latest research on gender representation in media, and why making media equitable and women on screen matter.

Di Nonno will also lead a workshop featuring leading advocates and representatives from Canadian public agencies that have initiated policies and mandates to achieve gender equality and diversity in Canada.

The film festival will select five female filmmakers from British Columbia with projects in development for a mentorship program that will invaluable opportunity to attend the three events in the series and the festival.

Tables and Tickets for the Women on Top Keynote Luncheon Series are available now at whistlerfilmfestival.com.

Proceeds from both events will benefit the non-profit Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, and the Whistler Film Festival Society. The 18th Whistler Film Festival returns Nov. 28 to Dec. 2.

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Vancouver superstar musician Grimes and Elon Musk, one of the world’s most famous tech billionaires, are dating.

The pair walked the red carpet at the swanky Met Gala in New York City on Monday evening.

The news was first reported by the New York Post’s Page Six celebrity gossip section.

Musk told reporters outside the gala that it was “date night” for the pair. He also revealed that he helped “sketch” Grimes’s dress, which had a fascinating bodice that appeared to include etched glass but it couldn’t be said for sure.

“A source tells us the pair met around a month ago online, of course, through a joke Musk had planned to tweet but discovered Grimes had already made, dealing with the complications of artificial intelligence,” Page Six reports.

Earlier on Monday, Musk, 46, tweeted out a pun built on Roko’s Basilisk, a futurist thought experiment which warns of the dangers of artificial intelligence.

Rococo is an ornate 18th century French design style.

Elon Musk and Grimes attend the Heavenly Bodies: Fashion & The Catholic Imagination Costume Institute Gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 7, 2018 in New York City.

That’s apparently the joke he’d pondered tweeting a month or so ago, only to discover Grimes — otherwise known as Claire Boucher — had made the same joke in 2015, naming a character in her song Flesh Without Blood “Rococo Basilisk.”

According to Page Six’s source, Musk sought out Grimes, 30, and she said no one had understood her joke for three years.

On March 30, Musk tweeted out the video for Grimes’s song Venus Fly, which also features Janelle Monae.

The two have also tweeted back and forth; nearly two weeks ago he praised a Spotify play list of hers and she responded playfully.

“Sounds great riding my cyborg,” he said in response.

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COURAGE TO COME BACK AWARDS

Two years ago, Air Force veteran and West Jet pilot Jim Ryan survived a life-threatening accident while on vacation in Hawaii. Struck by a cresting wave, Ryan was driven to the sea floor.

Mere months from retirement, the father of four was left paralyzed below the shoulder. He underwent a grueling rehabilitation to regain his ability to breathe independently and adapt to activities many of us take for granted; from getting up in the morning to turning on lights, and crossing the street.

To share his recovery and challenges with friends and family, he began documenting his journey on the Internet at myquadriplegic.life. His earnest social diary would attract the attention of others — thousands like Ryan coping and living with a disability.

Recipient of the Courage to Come Back Award in Physical Rehabilitation, Ryan was among five British Columbians — Suzanne Venuta, Josh Dahling, Alisa Gil Silvestre and Ingrid Bates — feted at Coast Mental Health’s marquee fundraiser, presented by Wheaton Precious Metals. Led once again by Lorne Segal, more than 1,800 supporters convened at the Vancouver Convention Centre for the inspired night of storytelling and fundraising. Six figure gifts by Joe Segal, Colin Bosa, and Terry Hui paved the way to a record-setting $3 million haul to support life changing programs and services offered by Coast Mental Health.

“The most important blessing that I can demonstrate to people; when adversity hits, one must carry on with life,” says Ryan. “We cannot forget or perhaps understand or even try to forgive what happened in the past, but I hope, like me we can move forward and find the courage to come back.”

Leslie Diamond, Phil Lind and Carol Lee were among business and community leaders who came together to support those dealing with mental illness and break down the barriers associated with it.

Longtime Courage Gala chair Kingswood Properties president Lorne Segal and his wife Melita were all smiles following the record-setting $3 million raised at the 20th Courage to Come Back Awards.

Born with congenital muscular dystrophy, Alisa Gil Silvestre was cited with a Courage Award for refusing to let the degenerative disease get in the way of her dreams. A highly successful motivational speaker and volunteer fundraiser, the 22-year old has helped raise more than $250,000 for local children’s charities.

A HARD DAY’S NIGHT

Mental Health was also the primary focus of Peace Arch Hospital Foundation’s signature soiree. As usual White Rock’s Centennial Arena played host to the hospital hootenanny. This time a royal affair, A Hard Days Night celebrated the best of Britain from The Beatles to the royal family. Five hundred people crossed the pond to the land of strawberry fields for the annual fundraising gala led by Joelle Paleologou and Ritu Khanna and sponsored by CIBC Wood Gundy and The Yarmoshuk Financial Group.

To support the build of a brand new 73-bed mental health unit, business and community leaders came together to ensure residents of South Surrey have access to world-class care. Fuelled by a sumptuous Four Seasons catered dinner, gala-goers jumped a board the philanthropy train. An anonymous donation of $500,000 and two $100,000 donations from Art and Marj Reitmeyer and Vern and Helga Hoyne got the party started. A date with former president Bill Clinton would add another $20,000. And before the night was done, the fundraising bar was raised with a record $1,017,000 reported.

Peace Arch Hospital Foundation’s Vicki Brydon welcomed the Queen to her Brit bash A Hard Days Night staged at White Rock’s Centennial Arena.

Beattles cover band The Fab Fourever – Jody Tennant, Kevin Davey, Paul Kaszonyi and Charles Boname – headlined Peace Arch Hospital’s flagship fundraiser.

Groovy baby. Joelle Paleologou and Ritu Khanna chaired the million dollar hospital benefit emceed by Austin Powers a.k.a. Stefano Giulianetti.

Marj and Art Reitmayer helped sparkplug the record night with a $100,000 pledge to help build a new mental health unit at Peace Arch Hospital.

Greeting Peace Arch Hospital gala guests to the all-things-British bash were Kinga Pap, Desiree Armstrong, Krystal Mark and Aprilynne Haqq.

Hospital benefactors Helga and Vern Hoing were among the party’s major boosters donating $100,000 to the cause.

The night’s keynote speaker Eugene Semple – a social worker – and RMT Shelley Jackson raised a glass to the record night of fundraising.

CAUSE WE CARE LUNCHEON

Days before Mother’s Day, donors — primarily women — packed The Victor Restaurant at Parq Vancouver for Andrea Thomas Hill’s annual Cause We Care Foundation Luncheon. Created by Hill in 2007 to support single mothers and their kids, the firm has provided hampers to moms in need, assisted families with day care costs, and contributed to the construction of the YWCA Cause We Care Home — a 21-unit subsidized housing complex in Vancouver’s Strathcona neigbourhood for low-income single mothers.

Hill, along with luncheon chair Vandana Varshney Lecky fronted the noon hour power lunch raising another $80,000 for the organization’s efforts. Hosted by broadcaster Kid Carson, the afternoon affair saw guests enjoy a lovely luncheon before hearing from single Mission mom Patricia Keenan.

Looking to leave her checkered past behind, Keenan — now a certified glazer — thanked attendees for their support, specifically the Tradeworks women in trades schooling and childcare support she received. Since 2011, Hill and a dedicated group of influential and entrepreneurial women have raised more than $3.4 million to help single moms living in poverty.

Cause We Care Foundation creator Andrea Thomas Hill and luncheon chair Vandana Varshney Lecky raised $80,000 to support low income single mothers and their children.

Emcee Kid Carson and Cause We Care director Michelle Jankovich flanked the luncheon’s special guest Pamela Keenan. The single mom was beneficiary of trades training and childcare provided by the local charity.

Joanne Brown, Carol Henriquez and Nina Cassils were among the influential women that attended the power lunch benefitting Cause We Care Foundation.

Sponsors of 32 Syrian families including single moms Siran Basmadjian and Clara Agopian from St Gregory Armenian Church raised a glass to Cause We Care Foundation’s efforts to help single mothers living in poverty.

DRESS FOR SUCCESS IMPACT 360 GALA

Dress for Success Vancouver hosted its yearly Impact 360 Gala at the Regency Lexus auto dealership. A largely female audience once again filed into the Burrard Street showroom for the annual benefit and fashion show to help suit up women and get them back in to the workforce. Executive director Jennifer Hallinda and board chair Carla Wood sent out ten beautiful and confident ladies — recent graduates of Dress for Success Vancouver programs — in ensembles by Turnabout Luxury Resale Clothing.

Representing the 27,000 women who have been empowered by Dress for Success programs over the past 19 years, the recent graduates worked the catwalk and party room helping collect $100,000 to assist and lift up another 100 women striving to move forward in life, and get back into the labour market. Hosted by yours truly, Global TV’s Jennifer Palma, and style expert Suzie Wall, $115,000 was drummed up to give women the gift of a 360 degree full circle transformation inside and out.

Jennie Biltek and Michelle Higgs steered Dress for Success Vancouver’s Impact 360 Gala at the Regency Lexus Showroom.

Dress for Success board chair Carla Wood, executive director Jennifer Hallinda and Global TV’s Jennifer Palma witnessed $115,000 fundraised at the annual cocktail party, fashion show and auction.

Stella Panagiotidis and Anita David were among ten Dress for Success women who strutted their confidence on the catwalk to help lift up more women and support their journey back into the workforce.

Turnabout retailers Aaron and Joy Mauro and stylist Suzie Wall helped outfit the ten Dress for Success Women who modeled for the charity event.

Lending their support to the women were MacLean Law’s Fraser MacLean, Lorne Maclean and Mark Anthony O’Neill, a sponsor of the Dress for Success soiree.

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Some of the world’s top female celebrities can still rock a bikini like they’re 25 … and they’re still sending pulses racing.

HOUSING SUCCESS: For 46 years, the Vancouver Resource Society has taken bold steps to provide non-market adaptable housing for persons with disabilities. The non-profit’s care model has centered around a unique partnership with the provincial government, municipalities and the development community to offer persons with disabilities accessible housing, quality care and supportive programs.

This work has led to the creation of some 1100 adaptive units around Metro Vancouver and Victoria, and most recently, the society has added another 450 units for seniors. To bring more awareness to their efforts and to help achieve their goal of 2000 units by 2022, the firm hosted its 5th biannual Spring Gala at the Terminal City Club.

Steered by party leads Virginia Bird and Rhiannon Mabberley and VRS board chair Allan De Genova, the event attracted several hundred supporters including municipal leaders, members of the Canadian Forces, Vancouver Police and Fire Department and community of developers who filed into the main ballroom for the dinner and auction. VRS housing success stories would bolster fundraising efforts that included a raffle, spirited live auction and call out for cash. The activities would all contribute to an impressive $238,000 night to help more people with disabilities integrate and live independently in the community.

Vancouver Resource Society board chair and Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Allan De Genova and Canadian Forces Liaison Council Province Chair Scott Shepherd suited up for firm’s biannual Spring Gala.

Organizing committee member and fundraiser Melissa De Genova invited Vancouver Police Department’s Blair De Costa and Vancouver Fire Assistant Chief Joe Foster to participate in the spirited live auction.

Intracorp team of Meena Mann, Bantoo Minhas and Don Forsgren were among the community of developers who attended the VRS charity fundraiser at the Terminal City Club in Vancouver.

Max Dancs accompanied his mom, North Vancouver councillor Linda Buchanan to the VRS Spring Gala. North Vancouver is among the many communities that work with VRS to offer persons with disabilities non-market accessible housing.

First Tee charity golf tournament

TEE PARTY: While Richard Brodeur, Derek Brooks, Bryan Gallagher, Sharon Knotts, Phylis Laschuk, Steve Norman, Randy Smigel and Doug Stewart all missed at the opportunity to sink a hole-in-one for a million dollars, the YMCA’s First Tee program did ace $50,000 at the eighth annual First Tee Million Dollar Pro-Am Challenge golf tournament and charity dinner. Staged at the Richmond Golf and Country Club and sponsored by Marty Zlotnik’s ZLC Financial, a full field of 144 professional and amateur players hit the links in support of the one-of-a-kind golf program in Canada designed for vulnerable and inner city kids ages 6-17 to learn the fundamentals of the game as well as life skills that will serve them well beyond the fairways.

Since its inception in 2010, the program has grown exponentially with around 1,000 kids now expressing an interest to play, said First Tee program manager Christophe Collins.

While they learn to play golf, the kids also build character, develop life-enhancing values and learn to make healthy choices, he adds. Whether its learning to be honest while keeping score, or good judgment while making the shot, lessons learned stick long after the program is over, says Jeff Shewfelt, First Tee board chair. The program — a partnership between the YMCA and Vancouver park board — now extends to other municipalities including Surrey and Richmond.

YMCA’s Christophe Collins and Oliver Lam welcomed golfers to the First Tee Million Dollar Pro Am Challenge, in support of the unique golf program designed for kids to learn the fundamentals of the game as well as life-enhancing skills.

Event sponsor and First Tee Vancouver co-founder Marty Zlotnik and 10-year old Maxim McKenzie look to get more youngsters to play the game of golf.

Golf enthusiasts Max Olsen, 11, Jeff Shewfelt, First Tee board chair, and Nathan Kajdan, 12, witnessed $50,000 raised at the annual tournament and charity dinner.

Winner of the First Tee Tourney, Langley’s James Allenby received congratulations from tournament organizer Fraser Mulholland.

Dragon Boat B.C. Legacy Gala

MAKING WAVES: Dragon Boat B.C. — formerly the Dragon Boat Society — hosted its sixth annual Legacy Gala at the Concord Pacific Presentation Centre in False Creek. Signalling 30 days before the 30th staging of the largest and most competitive contest on the North American Dragon Boat racing circuit, hundreds of dragon boat enthusiasts gathered for the East Meets West kickoff party and benefit supporting the Milton K Wong Legacy Project — named after the festival founder who brought the paddle sport from Hong Kong to Vancouver.

Steered by party chairs Alvin Cheung and Suzanne Williams, and emceed by Concord Pacific Senior VP Grant Murray, attendees imbibed in food and drink while bidding on an array of auction items and experiences in support of the Legacy Project, an initiative created to give underserved youth and the disadvantaged the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of sport, including dragon boating.

In keeping with that spirit, seven local charities will once again participate in the second annual All Access Cup to raise paddles, awareness and funds for their respective charities. The special race will launch the three-day regatta, which runs from June 22 to 24 and is expected to attract 6,000 elite paddlers from around the world. The gala would generate a reported $150,000.

Drawings of a new $15 million Community Boating Centre back Dragon Boat B.C. chair Peter Wong. The facility will become headquarters for the annual Dragon Boat Festival and all forms of non-motorized boating.

Alvin Cheung and Suzanne Williams chaired the East Meets West-themed Legacy Gala, a lead up to the big three-day Dragon Boating competition June 22-24.

One of seven charities to race for the All Access Cup, Kidney Foundation’s Marie Hesse and Mimi Hess raised a glass to the Dragon Boats Festival’s 30th anniversary and spirit of inclusion.

Sonny Wong, founding member of the Dragon Boat Society, Ann Phelps, executive director and Concord Pacific Senior VP Matthew Meehan marked the festival’s 30th anniversary, now the largest and most competitive contest on the North American Dragon Boat racing circuit.

WONDER WOMEN: Sixty-five leading ladies — business and community leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators and researchers — were feted at the 35th annual YWCA Women of Distinction Awards. Always a sellout, this year’s affair was no different as more than 1,200 guests squeezed into the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver Ballroom for the premiere party, recognized as one of the country’s most prestigious awards for women.

At the helm of the YWCA as CEO for the past 15 years, Janet Austin assumed a new role at this year’s YWCA hootenanny. Named B.C.’s new lieutenant-governor, the longtime community advocate received a thunderous welcome opening the program before handing the front of house duties to interim leader Michelle Sing, gala chair Sue Paish and master of ceremonies Sophie Lui.

Before the awarding of trophies in 12 categories, former prime minister Kim Campbell was honoured with the Icon Award, the Y’s top recognition. As a leader, role model and mentor, Campbell was cited for her lifetime of achievements, blazing a trail for women’s equality. She would receive the first of many standing ovations during the marathon evening.

When the envelopes were opened, this year’s recipients were Kirsten Sutton (business), Andrea Thomas Hill (community), Leila Rahemtulla (education), Bonnie Foley-Wong (entrepreneurship), Vanessa Timmer (environment), Christine Loock (health), Teri Nicholas (non-profit), Zulie Sachedina (public service), Gina Ogilvie (research), Miranda Anderson (youth) and Mary-Jo Dionne (arts). BCAA was awarded champion in the workplace.

While honouring extraordinary women, the event also highlighted the YWCA’s programs and services that improve the lives of thousands each year across Metro Vancouver. This year’s area of focus was YWCA’s Crabtree Corner, a shelter and transition house for single moms and their kids. A party with a purpose, more than $115,000 was raised in the call out for cash and over $20,000 netted in the live auction of three one-of-a-kind experiences.

B.C. Premier John Horgan was on hand at the 2018 Women of Distinction Awards to see Kim Campbell accept the YWCA Icon Award for her lifetime of achievements and efforts advocating gender equality.

Nominations chairs Irene Hensel and Stephanie Weterings bookended online educator and curriculum designer Leila Rahemtulla, recipient of a YWCA Women of Distinction Award.

Gala chair Sue Paish congratulated Women of Distinction recipient, Mary-Jo Dionne, an award winning writer, editor and producer. Dionne also earned $10,000 for her charity of choice – YWCA’s Crabtree Corner – garnering the most online votes among the 65 nominees.

Zulie Sachedina, Bonnie Foley-Wong and Vanessa Timmer celebrated their Women of Distinction honours at the post-awards celebrations.

Women of Distinction recipients: Andrea Thomas Hill and B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation’s Teri Nicholas. Thomas Hill’s Cause We Care Foundation committed $1.5 million to build YWCA’s Cause We Care home to support single moms and their children.

YWCA Interim CEO Michelle Sing welcome’s the night’s keynote speaker Emily Surrette. The single mom credits the YWCA for turning her life around, assisting her with the housing and childcare she desperately needed.

Dawn Demery and Shom Sen’s BCAA outfit earned YWCA’s Champion in the Workplace Award for its progressive HR practices.

Richmond Hospital Foundation Golf Tournament

SOUND RESULT: Under sunny skies, a full field of 144 players hit the fairways in support of Natalie Meixner’s Richmond Hospital Foundation. Another 110 guests and yours truly — serving as auctioneer — would greet players at the 19th hole. Sponsored by 2 River Green, the community-driven golf tournament and fundraising dinner would net a record-breaking $318,000 to help improve local health care.

Spirits were high as business, health and philanthropic leaders teed up for the day of golf, camaraderie and generosity to support priority needs for their community hospital. Following a catered lunch, 18-holes and plenty of fun and games on the greens, players retired to the clubhouse where more fundraising games awaited. While exclusive experiences captured the imagination of many, the biggest moment came during the Fund-A-Need portion of the program.

Focused on the hospital’s emergency department and the need for new ultra-sound machines — essential when diagnosing a variety of medical emergencies — gifts from generous hospital benefactors ranging from $100 to $90,000 rained down ensuring the purchase of two portable state-of-the art units for the hospital’s emergency unit.

It is truly awe-inspiring to see a community rally, embrace and champion the local health care needs of Richmond Hospital, said Harold Goldwyn, foundation board member and chair of the golf tourney.

Richmond Hospital Foundation vice-chair Chad Pederson and board chair Harold Goldwyn steered the annual community golf tournament and charity dinner.

Gary Wong’s Aspac Development’s 2 River Green firm sponsored the golf event that netted a record $318,000 for Natalie Meixner’s Richmond Hospital Foundation and helped purchase two state-of-the-art portable ultra sound units.

Tourney backers Roger Cheng of Johnston, Ross and Cheng, Carleen Pauliuk of Modern Green and G&F Financial Group’s Jeff Shewfelt were set to celebrate following the record results to help improve local healthcare.

Canucks Autism Network’s Reveal Gala

CAN-DO: For the third time, the Canucks Autism Network’s Reveal Gala returned to Rogers Arena in support of 16,000 families living with autism in B.C. Chaired once again by Clara Aquilini and her BFF Christi Yassin, and a supporting cast of 13 committee members, this year’s off-ice party transported well-heeled guests to the bustling seaside resort of Saint-Tropez on the French Riviera. The stadium was transformed into an intimate setting thanks to giant state-of-the-art surround screens, and elegant décor in an evening dedicated to raising awareness and funds for autism.

Gathered around 68 tables were 544 guests representing the prevalence of the one in 68 children diagnosed with autism. The extraordinary night revealed the spectrum of challenges, gifts and possibilities autism can bring, with a few surprises along the way. Lola Lennox, the daughter of music royalty, Annie Lennox, topped musical performances, while Canadian child actor Jacob Tremblay and Bates Motel star Vera Farmiga added further star power.

The latter took to the stage to auction off an exclusive Hollywood experience with Jimmy Kimmel and her former co-star Freddie Highmore. One of nine luxury lots, it would fetch one of the night’s top bids, contributing to an all-time fundraising high for the organization. Paolo Aquilini, managing partner of the Aquilini Group and CAN founder, announced the record haul of $1.12 million alongside his son Christian, the inspiration behind the registered charity.

CAN founder Clara Aquilini and her girlfriend Christi Yassin fronted Canucks Autism Network’s Reveal Gala. The record $1.12 million haul will support year-round sports, recreational and social programs for children, youth and young adults with autism.

Canadian actor Jacob Tremblay and American actress Vera Farmiga added star power to the Saint-Tropez-themed Canucks Autism Network fundraiser at Rogers Arena.

Broadcaster Mike Killeen emceed the Saint-Tropez Soiree organized by his wife Jill and a powerhouse committee of influencers.

Reveal guests danced to the beats of DJ Chloe Morgan at the RYU after party inspired by legendary party spot Les Caves du Roy.

Singer Lola Lennox, daughter of Annie Lennox, topped musical performances at the CAN benefit staged at Rogers Arena.

NATIVE SON: Ranked among Canada’s finest and celebrated artists, Bill Reid’s influence and body of work can be found throughout the province and country.  The Haida artist — a master goldsmith, sculptor and carver — was a pivotal force behind the renaissance of Northwest Coast art and traditions. His works ranging from exquisite carvings in precious metals to monumental sculptures in cedar and bronze have been exhibited, cherished and collected locally and abroad. In Vanhattan, his stunning works can be seen welcoming visitors to the Vancouver airport, Museum of Anthropology and Vancouver Aquarium.

In 2008, the Bill Reid Foundation opened The Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art in Vancouver to commemorate his contributions and influence. Reid passed away in 1998 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s. The only public gallery dedicated to contemporary Indigenous Northwest Coast art, the downtown cultural gem recently marked its 10th anniversary with a celebratory gala to raise a glass to the B.C. artist, support future programming and ensure emerging and established Indigenous artists have the opportunity to exhibit in the recently expanded space.

Led by Douglas Reynolds, Fei Wong and an influential committee of art patrons, more than 150 guests took in the Raven’s Feast. The celebratory evening brought together artists, donors and community supporters who made it possible for the gallery to honour the legacy of Bill Reid, reveal the diverse cultures of the Northwest Coast and promote cross-cultural understanding. Hosted by CBC’s Stephen Quinn, party highlights included a multi-course Northwest Coast themed-dinner, live performance by Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson, and auction of exceptional art and experiences. Masterful works by Reid, Rande Cook, Luke Marston and Cory Bulpitt contributed to a $100,000 night.

Andrew George and Bon Vivant Catering’s Dino Renaerts curated the Northwest Coast themed gourmet dinner for the 150-plus attendees who made the anniversary celebrations.

Outgoing Bill Reid Gallery director and CEO Alexandra Montgomery and gallery curator Beth Carter were all smiles following the more than $100,000 raised at its 10th anniversary gala.

Rande Cook’s cedar panel inspired by indigenous tattooing fetched $7,000. The work was inspired by the gallery’s current Body Language exhibition, exploring the rich history of indigenous tattooing, piercing and personal adornment on the Northwest Coast.

Stephen Quinn emceed the gala festivities to the delight of gallery patron Marnie Carter and founding member Herb Auerbach.

Days after the gallery reopened following a $1.5 million renovation and expansion, committee members Joanne Gassman, Lisa Seed and Laurie Grant helped orchestrate the gallery’s flagship fundraiser.

Gordon Smith Foundation Spring Luncheon

SMITH LEGACY: Another cultural icon, Canadian painter, printmaker and sculptor Gordon Smith was a no-show at his foundation’s annual Spring Luncheon. At 99-years-old, the artist can be forgiven for not feeling up to attending said Vicki Gabereau, master of ceremonies of the fundraising nooner at Capilano Golf and Country Club. Two hundred fans did make the luncheon luau — the 15th running — to support Smith’s love of teaching, cultivation of young talent and providing arts education for all.

Smith’s Artists for Kids program is a legacy of his and his late wife Marion’s efforts. Established in 1989, the art program has enriched the lives of thousands of students of all ages each year. The Artists for Kids endowment as well as the Gordon Smith Gallery of Canadian Art in North Vancouver was the beneficiaries of this year’s fundraising efforts. As always the main event was the art auction of seven one-of-a-kind Canadian works by familiar names such as Ian Wallace, Graham Gillmore, Ross Penhall, Chris Charlebois, and Pierre Coupe.

The donated works sold for asking or under estimate. Auctioneer Barry Scott worked harder when Douglas Coupland’s Tsunami Study — his commentary on the Ocean’s plastic pollution — went on the auction block. As usual, it was the final auction piece, Gordon Smith’s newest work — a mixed media on canvas — that captured the attention of many selling as expected beyond asking. The sale of fine works along with a Heritage Canada match would see the afternoon’s final tally surpass the $185,000 mark.

Thanks to the foundation and this charity luncheon, more than 5,000 students benefit each year, said Yolande Martinello, Artists for Kids director.

“For 29 years, our programs have allowed young people to discover the joys of creating, the delight of hands-on learning and the sense of accomplishment that is too often under-represented in our education system. We’ve nurtured talent, supported skill development and celebrated positive self-expression. And we have raised a new generation of art appreciators,” she added.

Gordon Smith Gallery’s Gail Johnson showed off the Douglas Coupland piece that went up for auction at the Smith Foundation Spring Luncheon. A commentary on the Ocean’s plastic pollution, Coupland’s piece was one of the coveted works at this year’s art auction.

Barry Scott served as auctioneer while Vicki Gabereau emceed the annual art auction and luncheon at the Capilano Golf and Country Club. The event would raise $185,000 for the Gordon Smith Gallery and the Artists for Kids program.

Artists for Kids director Yolande Martinello, Gordon Smith Foundation chair Paul Killeen, and Member of Parliament Pamela Goldsmith Jones helped mark Gordon Smith’s 99th birthday at the annual luncheon luau.

Celebrated painters Tiko Kerr and Doria Moodie were among a gaggle of talented artists that attended the fundraising lunch in support of art education.

Face The World Gala

WORLD TOUR: Legendary singer Tom Jones headlined Jacqui Cohen’s 28th Face the World Gala. After helping launch the society maven’s inaugural fundraiser for local charities raising roughly $85,000, the 78-year old Welsh heartthrob has returned a reported five times to support the Army and Navy matriarch’s ongoing fundraising efforts. Putting service above self, Cohen brushed aside family health matters to host and welcome 200-plus guests into her Point Grey Road residence for the tony $2,500-a-ticket house party.

Notables making the scene included Vancouver Canuck’s Paolo Aquilini, architect Russell Hollingsworth, Cactus Club’s Richard Jaffray, Paragon Gaming’s Scott Menke, talent agent Sam Feldman, Haywood Securities Eric Savics, Hy’s Canada’s Neil Aisenstat and Futura Corp’s Amar Doman.

Attendees were royally feted upon arrival. Starting with a red-carpet welcome outside, the Veuve Clicquot champagne flowed. Inside, the reception swirled in Cohen’s living room before guests headed to the outdoor dining tent, brilliantly staged over her waterfront pool. Fuelled by a Gotham steak and lobster dinner paired beautifully with Sean and Saeedeh Salem’s Le Vieux Pin wines, the well-heeled crowd would rally to support underserved children, low-income seniors and disadvantaged women.

While no panties were thrown at Sir Tom Jones — the iconic singer was knighted by Her Majesty the Queen in 2006 — partygoers did toss just over $700,000 to charity. Travel experiences and art ruled the evening with a luxury penthouse stay in Las Vegas and a John Ferrie painting exceeded their sticker price. Since the event’s debut, the Face the World fetes have generated more than $18 million to assist more than 350 organizations announced Cohen. They include the Carnegie Community Centre, Covenant House and YWCA of Greater Vancouver.

Society doyenne Jacqui Cohen welcomed back Sir Tom Jones to her Face the World Gala. Since Jones first helped Cohen raise her first $85,000, the event has generated more than $18 million for local charities.

Jill Killeen and her husband, former CTV evening anchor Mike Killeen, emceed the lavish luau at Jacqui Cohen’s Point Grey Road mansion.

Clara and Paolo Aquilini were among a well-heeled group that paid $2,500-a-ticket to attend the posh house party in support of Vancouver’s most vulnerable.

The Parmar Group’s Justus Parmar escorted his girlfriend Elisa Friedman to the Face the World party.

PLASTIC WISE: Bal Bhullar, Erica Chan, Bruce Foughner, Kim Haakstad, Elizabeth Janke, Peter Millar and Susan Pratt skippered this year’s Night at the Aquarium Gala. The Vancouver Aquarium’s signature soirée, a school of chefs — Edgar Kano (Yew), Hector Laguna (Botanist), Catherine Stewart (Cin Cin), Frank Pabst (Blue Water) and Quang Dang (Araxi) — led the Ocean Wise fundraising dinner to support the marine science centre’s many programs, including its conservation efforts. The growing global crisis of plastics in our waters was a major theme of this year’s fundraising fete.

In addition to dining amid the stunning backdrop of aquatic galleries, guests also took in the Aquarium’s newest exhibition Vortex by celebrated author and pop artist Douglas Coupland. Highlighting the scale of discarded plastics and ocean pollution and its horrific impact on marine life, the new art installation underscored the importance of clean oceans and the marine science centre’s important role to educate, support research and rehabilitate marine mammal in distress.

When asked to help support the campaign on microplastics, revellers responded in spades during the live auction and paddle raise. Conducted by yours truly, a sky-high dinner by Ocean Wise executive chef Ned Bell and One Ocean Expedition to the Faroe Islands reeled in the night’s top bids, contributing to a $350,000 catch. One Ocean CEO Andrew Prossin would cap off the successful night with a further donation of $50,000 presented to outgoing Vancouver Aquarium director John Nightingale.

A sky high dinner hosted by West Coast Sightseeing and Ocean Wise executive chef Ned Bell fetched $7,000 sold twice, benefitting the Vancouver Aquarium’s conservation, education and research efforts.

Andrew Prossin and Aaron Lawton’s One Ocean expedition to the Faroe Islands was a coveted live auction item. The Squamish-based expedition cruise company capped off a $350,000 night with an additional donation of $50,000.

Gala committee member Bruce Foughner welcomed Aquarium benefactors Sarah and Mark Rose to the marine science centre’s flagship fundraiser.

Dining amidst the stunning backdrop of aquatic galleries, Ocean Wise board of director Derral Moriyama and his wife Linda thanked attendees for their support of the Vancouver Aquarium.

Vancouver Aquarium’s chief fundraiser Andrea Wright and committee member Erica Chan were delighted with the $350,000 raised to support keeping oceans healthy.

Spotlight Gala

FIERCE WOMEN: Metis Cree film director Loretta Todd was one of a dozen women feted at the annual Spotlight Awards Gala, presented by Women in Film and Television. Creator of Fierce Girls, the very first Indigenous superhero web series created for Indigenous girls, Todd was heralded with the Innovation Award for her body of work that exemplifies vision, experimentation and innovation. For the past decade, Todd has been producing special programming that is aspirational, affirming and positive for Indigenous youth.

Since 1999, Women in Film and Television Vancouver has paid tribute to those whose ongoing hard work and dedication have significantly shaped and advanced opportunities for women in screen-based media. The not-for-profit welcomed industry insiders and friends who convened at Performance Works on Granville Island to raise a glass to this year’s screen sirens and trailblazers. This year’s stellar line up included First Weekend Club founder Anita Adams; actor Camille Sullivan, and playwright Marie Clements who was bestowed the inaugural Impact Award for her life’s work telling stories of Indigenous people.

Other winners were: Arielle Boisvert, Amanda Burke, Nadia DiMofte Kim Guise, Angie Nolan, Anna Serner, Anaïsa Visser and Jody Wilson.

Spotlight Award recipient Loretta Todd received congratulations from Women in Film and Television president Sarah Kalil for her web series empowering Indigenous girls.

First Weekend Club founder Anita Adams and actress Camille Sullivan were honoured for their contributions helping to advance opportunities for women in screen-based media.

Michelle Kim (Running Through Sprinklers) and Jody Wilson (Indigo) were among B.C.’s top filmmakers that convened at Performance Works to celebrate the achievements of women in a still male-dominated industry.

Project Empty Bowl Gala

FEEDING SOULS: With just four full time staff and an army of volunteers, A Loving Spoonful continues to deliver more than 100,000 meals throughout the Lower Mainland annually to individuals and families affected by HIV and coexisting illnesses. The need is as great as ever, says Alex Beyer, director of client services.

“We’re supporting an aging group of clients living with HIV. While the number of HIV diagnoses has drastically declined since the height of the pandemic in the eighties and nineties, many individuals living with the virus face overlapping medical conditions and other barriers such as social isolation and food insecurity,” he adds.

To support the registered charity’s ongoing efforts of delivering nutritious meals and counselling to those in need — services that have expanded into the Surrey area — the firm hosted its annual Project Empty Bowl benefit at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel.

Led by longtime chair Wendy Hardy and executive director Lisa Martella, hundreds once again filed into the hotel ballroom for the food and wine grazing. After chowing down on heaps of butter chicken, mac ‘n’ cheese and other tasty fare from keepsake ceramic bowls, attendees would empty their wallets and designer purses of $130,000 to ensure the ongoing success of the meals on wheels program.

Executive director Lisa Martella and board member Brian Fitzsimmons welcomed several hundred guests to A Loving Spoonful’s Project Empty Bowl benefit at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel.

Emcee Jonny Staub and performer Tracey Bell flanked celebrated artist Joe Average at the A Loving Spoonful soiree.

Coast Coal Harbour Hotel executive chef Justin Paakkunainen’s pasta station was a hit with Project Empty Bowl attendees.

Alex Beyer, director of client services, and registered dietician Danielle Sanders underscored the importance of those living with HIV and overlapping medical conditions receive proper nutrition to facilitate healing.

Longtime gala chair Wendy Hardy and director of development and volunteer services Elyse Freeborn happily saw $130,000 raised for A Loving Spoonful. In addition to funds, more drivers are needed to deliver meals, particularly in Surrey.

Michele Mannila and Marcus A Von Albecht’s MAVA firm prepares the 100,000 meals delivered annually to individuals and families affected by HIV and coexisting illnesses.

RECORD PERFORMANCE: 2018 has been a banner year for Arts Umbrella, Canada’s preeminent arts education organization for young people. Based in British Columbia, the non-profit earlier this year got the green light for relocation of its current premises on Granville Island to the South Building of the former Emily Carr University property a stone’s throw away. The 50,000 square foot, purpose-built, arts education facility will house seven dance studios; five theatre & music studios; eight visual, applied & media arts studio; a 160-seat professional theatre; a publicly accessible exhibition gallery; and new workshop spaces.

In March the firm received $7 million in cultural space funding from the federal government to sparkplug the move and expansion. The B.C. government would pitch in another $1.4 million. A private sector capital campaign to raise an additional $20 million to realize this transformative project has raised already more than $10 million.

The show of support would continue at the Nicola Wealth Management Invitational. Benefiting Arts Umbrella, the golf gala would net $230,000 in proceeds to ensure the benefits of a high-quality arts education would reach even more children and youth across Metro Vancouver.

Arts Umbrella has been offering arts education in dance, theatre, music, visual arts, and digital arts to children for nearly 40 years; more than 20,000 young people annually, with eighty per cent through free community programs made possible by the generosity of individuals, businesses and foundations, says Paul Larocque, President & CEO of Arts Umbrella.

“This new building will allow us to keep this forward momentum and provide kids with limitless opportunities,” he added.

Players and benefactors agreed as they opened up their hearts and their wallets following the day of play at the Point Grey Golf and Country Club.

A Bohemian Rhapsody musical number by Arts Umbrella students kicked off the evening festivities. Following a standing ovation, Nicola Wealth Management CEO David Sung sparkplugged the night of philanthropy with a match gift of $20,000 that was quickly looked after by the capacity crowd.

To the delight of event chairs Jennifer Podmore Russell and Conor Kinsella, more giving would ensue in the paddle raise and live auction contributing to the impressive night. Companies also played a leading role. Among the many sponsors: Rennie, WBI Home Warranty, The Mortgage Group, Lawson Lundell, Gateway Casinos, Audi, Davidson Bros Mechanical and Reotech Construction.

Glacier Media’s Kirk LaPointe, Derek MacDonald and event producer Michael Wiph hit the Point Grey Golf and Country Club fairways in support of Arts Umbrella.

Kelsey Jacob, Jasmine Ashley Dy, Anna Prentice and Ace Crowchild performed a musical number choreographed by Arts Umbrella instructor Andy Toth that ignited the record evening of giving.

FORE KIDS: Nicola Wealth Management president David Sung accompanied by his wife Tassan saw the day of golf and camaraderie net $230,000 for Arts Umbrella.

TOP FOURSOME: The winning foursome of Todd Moore, Norm Taylor, Phil Tippets-Aylmek and Jeff Von Ende donned the traditional winners bathrobe and medals.

Tournament co-chair Jennifer Podmore Russell and Arts Umbrella’s chief fundraiser Heather Altas were all smiles following the impressive $230,000 netted.

Committee member Kirsten Mihailides and her husband Lou were among the capacity crowd that took in the summer fundraiser in support of Canada’s preeminent arts education organization for young people.

Orbis Plane Pull for Sight

EYES IN THE SKY: Since 1982, the Orbis Flying Eye Hospital — a state of the art teaching and surgical facility — has flown to more than 100 countries to mentor, train and inspire local eye care teams so they can provide life-changing treatment to blind and visually impaired people in their communities. Drawing upon an international faculty of more than 400 volunteer ophthalmologists, nurses and biomedical engineers, the agency is dedicated to the preserving and restoring of sight in underserved areas.

Literally a hospital with wings that brings together advanced technologies, dedicated eye care professionals and aviators to give the gift of sight, the world’s only airborne ophthalmic training facility touched down in Vancouver after successful stops in Toronto and Calgary for the final leg of its national fundraiser.

Now in its 10th year, the annual Plane Pull for Sight is Orbis Canada’s signature fundraising event, which involves teams of 20 people competing to pull a 65-ton cargo plane along a 20-foot course at YVR International Airport.

Nineteen local teams fundraised to compete in the most recent contest. FedEx Canada — a global supporter of Orbis — donated the use of its planes and facilitated the pull, along with team members who were part of this year’s enthusiastic participants. FedEx has funded, provided aircraft maintenance and shipped vital supplies and equipment all over the world, says Alex Krievins, national director from Orbis. FedEx pilots also volunteer to fly the Flying Eye Hospital to its program destinations.

The 2018 campaign would raise $318,000, making it the most successful year to date. In ten years, Orbis Canada has raised $1.2 million in its fight to end avoidable blindness around the world. That translates to sight-saving surgery for over 12,000 children, reports Simon Holland, founding medical director and head of the volunteer faculty.

PULLING FOR GOOD: Ian Hungerford, FedEx Worldwide Account Manager, anchored his team at the annual Plane Pull for Sight at YVR Airport.

Alex Krievins, national director from Orbis, and Kevin Ackroyd, FedEx director of aircraft operations, conducted the annual plane pull contest in support of the flying eye hospital dedicated to the preserving and restoring of sight in underserved areas.

Top fundraisers Dao Ji, Yin Kit Sik and Dao Guang’s Po Lam Buddhist Association and Compassionate Centre for Health fielded two teams for the charity plane pull. Sik was motivated to help after experiencing blindness for several days before surgery restored her sight.

Forum Women for Entrepreneurs Garden Fundraising Party

SEEDING SUCCESS: Helping female entrepreneurs achieve new heights of success, Forum for Women Entrepreneurs took their spring fundraiser to the rooftop of Telus Gardens to sing the praises of its members and FWE’s education and mentorship programs.

Leading the pep rally was executive director Larkin Mackenzie-Ast and FWE founder Christina Anthony. The latter has grown the startup born 16 years ago from a local not-for-profit charity into a national resource designed to support and mentor women who are venturing into new business opportunities or ready to ramp up and grow their existing business.

Its membership got younger with the addition of five women — part of a newly launched program Juventas, named after the goddess of youth, providing women aged 16 to 29 an intensive year-long skills development and mentorship opportunity with influential women.

Budding entrepreneurs, Emma Irvine of Sweet Somethings and Performance Chocolate, Danielle Leroux of Organza Communications, Kristina Rasina of Alma Knitwear, Milène Vallin of Milène Vallin Communication Design, and Julia Wei of Clinic Mates were introduced at the social mixer, attended by fellow up and comers, including Nurse Next Door founder and NPA mayoral candidate Ken Sim.

Executive director Larkin Mackenzie-Ast welcomed Forum for Women Entrepreneurs alumni Valerie Song to the garden party. Song’s Ava Smart Gardens recently received a $2.6 million injection of capital from investors to grow her business.

Budding entrepreneurs Danielle Leroux and Kristina Rasina received encouragement from Bruce Ralston, B.C. minister of jobs, trade and technology.

BUDDING TALENT: Emma Irvine, Milène Vallin and Julia Wei are part of a new initiative aimed at providing young entrepreneurs with skills development and mentorship opportunity with influential women.

Forum for Women Entrepreneurs founder Christina Anthony welcomed fellow entrepreneur and political upstart, Vancouver mayoral candidate Ken Sim to the fundraising garden party at Telus Gardens.

Last year’s Fresh Roots inaugural long table dinner was held inside the hallways of David Thompson Secondary School due to inclement weather. This year, Mother Nature cooperated and the sophomore schoolyard Harvest Party was successfully staged outside on dry land next to its education farm — a school market garden. A fortunate 140 guests snapped up tickets to the sold-out fundraising dinner in support of the non-profit’s effort to grow community through good food.

Sprouted in 2009, Fresh Roots founders Ilana Labow, Gray Oron and Marc Schutzbank greeted attendees to the multi-course family-style feast curated by chefs Karima Chellouf and Kym Nguyen, incorporating ingredients sourced from schoolyard farms. Fresh Roots manages four edible educational gardens on school property in the Vancouver, Delta and Coquitlam School Districts. Through experiential learning, students get to appreciate the full cycle of how their food arrives on their table and gain an appreciation of good food.

This year’s al fresco dinner benefited Fresh Roots SOYL initiative, an innovative seven-week summer leadership and empowerment program. High school students tend to and cultivate the ½ acre schoolyard farm; develop skills in growing, cooking and selling the fruits of their labour at farmers markets. Through their time with SOYL, students develop a greater connection to themselves, their community and their local food system, says Schutzbank. Proceeds from the outdoor garden party will employ fifty summer students in the SOYL program next year.

Fresh Roots co-founder Marc Schutzbank and youth empowerment manager Rosalind Sadowski fronted the second annual Schoolyard Harvest Party.

David Thompson Secondary alumni Winnie Kwan, former SOYL student participant turned program coordinator, and Ilana Labow, welcomed 140 guests to the schoolyard long table fundraising dinner.

Christine Weston, farm manager, and Gray Oron, Fresh Roots co-founder, has seen their year-round program grow. Fresh Roots now manages four edible educational gardens on school property in the Vancouver, Delta and Coquitlam School Districts.

UBC Land Food Systems Dean Ricky Yada and Assistant Dean Tracey London took in the alfresco family style dinner at David Thompson Secondary School in East Vancouver.

Scotiabank’s senior brass Sandra Boyce and Larry Clements came out to the schoolyard farm to enjoy a memorable meal and learn more of the Fresh Roots program.

Indian Summer Festival Opening Night Gala

HIT AND MYTH: The Indian Summer Festival is a sure sign that summer has arrived in Vancouver. The 10-day celebration of music, art and ideas has quickly become a cultural mainstay of the city. Now in its eighth year, the vibrant, colourful, multi-arts jamboree continues to push the boundaries of convention offering a unique program — 25 free and ticketed events in all — packed with creativity, diversity and inclusiveness.

The brainchild of husband and wife team of Sirish Rao and Laura Byspalko, their vision was on full display at the festival’s opening celebrations at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre. The space was transformed into a brilliant party palace where guests were taken on a gastronomic journey around the world. A sold-out party for the eighth consecutive year, the couple along with event chair celebrity chef Vikram Vij welcomed a diverse group of chefs to showcase their talents around this year’s theme of mythmaking, examining 10 centuries of storytelling and human imagination.

Notables making the scene: Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, Minister of National Defence Harjit Sajjan, and SFU President Andew Petter; they were joined by aspiring glad-handing politicos Shauna Sylvester and Hector Bremner. Also spotted were a host of award-winning musicians, novelists and visual artists participating in this year’s festivities. They included composer Rup Sidhu, musician Mohammed Assani, explorer Wade Davis, Musqueam weaver Debra Sparrow and Indian Summer Festival artist in residence Sandeep Johal.

Sparrow collaborated with Johal on a tapestry that covers the Pause Pavilion, the festival’s first outdoor programming hub in Vanier Park. Designed by Russian designer Alsu Sadrieva, the outdoor space — winner of a TED 2017 design competition conceptualized as a place to gather, reflect and interact — played host to a series of cross cultural workshops, talks and performances. The Indian Summer Festival runs until July 15.

Celebrity chef Vikram Vij welcomed community leader Robin Dhir to the opening night festivities. Vij will curate Dhir’s Night of Miracles Dinner on Nov. 3 benefitting B.C. Children’s Hospital benefit.

Writer Amitava Kumar helped composer Rup Sidhu spin some tunes at the Indian Summer Festival opener held at the Roundhouse Community arts and Recreation Centre.

Artistic director Sirish Rao welcomed Musqueam Weaver Debra Sparrow and Indian Summer Festival artist in residence Sandeep Johal to the opening festivities of the annual celebration of music, art and ideas.

Managing director Laura Byspalko kibitzed with SFU president Andrew Petter. SFU is a founding partner and continues to be a major sponsor of the Indian Summer Festival.

Minister of National Defence Harjit Sajjan and Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson were among the notables spotted at the kick off party.

Science World’s Pairing Event

SCIENCE FARE: Building on the fundraising success of its Science of Cocktails event, Science World held its inaugural food and wine event, Pairings. It was billed as a gourmet evening with a dash of science.

Exploring the fascinating science behind food and wine pairings, the science centre, in partnership with La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and select wineries from B.C.’s Golden Mile Bench, invited some of the province’s top restaurants and chefs including Will Lew (Notch 8), Clement Lau (Maison Clement) Jeff Van Geest (Miradoro) to participate in the culinary science experiment.

Master of Wine Rhys Pender guided attendees on their gastronomic journey speaking in tongue of tannins and alcohol competing with the intensity of food. Between memorable sips and tasty bites, guests feasted on a silent auction, hands-on Science World activities and an exclusive viewing of Science World’s latest exhibition The Science Behind Pixar. The inaugural event would cook up $32,000 for Science World’s Super Science Club, an after-school program that aims to inspire underserved children to develop a long-term interest in science and technology.

The program now reaches 12 schools and a thousand students across Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, says Science World fundraiser Shellina Lakhdhir.

OUT OF THIS WORLD: Representing Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and Notch 8 Restaurant, Will Lew’s Mars creation was a visual and tasty hit with Science World attendees.

Curator Jo-Ann Coggan and Buzz Light Year greeted party guests as they toured Science World’s latest exhibition The Science Behind Pixar.

Master of Wine Rhys Pender hosted the Pairing event benefitting Meredith Cochran’s Super Science Club, an after-school program that aims to inspire underserved children to develop a long-term interest in science and technology.

One of the newest Okanagan wineries, Kane Morgan of Rust Wine Company was among a select group from B.C.’s Golden Mile Bench that participated in the food and wine shindig.

Science World fundraiser Shellina Lakhdhir welcomed Inspire Health CEO Faye Wightman to the foodie fete. The inaugural Pairings fundraiser cooked up $32,000 for Science World’s field trip program that enables 1,000 inner-city kids from Vancouver and the Fraser Valley to participate.

BIG TIP: The B.C. Hospitality Foundation is a charity that raises fund to support those in the hospitality industry — folks like our baristas, concierges, hotel staff, cooks, winery and brewery workers, waiters and bartenders — facing financial crisis due to a health issue.

Each year, hundreds of workers across B.C. face financial challenges and have nowhere to turn. After exhausting the minimal benefits hospitality workers receive — if any — the foundation is usually a last resort for individuals in need after all other avenues have been exhausted.

Created in 2007 by members of the hospitality industry to help their own, the BCHF has provided monetary assistance to more than 185 workers across the province totalling more than $778,000. Funds are generated primarily from three major fundraisers the registered charity annually. This includes the recent charity golf tournament the firm held at Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club. A full field would hit the fairways for a day of golf and camaraderie. Not your typical golf tourney, think drinks and food greeting foursomes at every hole.

Fronted by golf chair Bert Hicks and a dozen dedicated committee members, the tourney attracted senior brass from the B.C. Hotel Association, B.C. Restaurant and Food Services Association, Hotel Association of Vancouver, Tourism Victoria, Tourism Vancouver, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, Okanagan Wine Festival, ABLE B.C., B.C. Wine Institute, Restaurants Canada and the Import Vintners and Spirits Association.

Following the day on the links, Hicks and Sheraton Wall Centre’s Nick Ten hosted the clubhouse dinner and more fundraising games. The event’s 11th staging looked to tee up another $50,000 for the foundation says Dana Harris, BCHF executive director. These funds will make a real difference to people at a time when their lives are turned upside down, she adds. Grants dispensed generally range from $500 to $6,000. This year alone, the foundation has provided last-resort funding to 15 British Columbians, Harris reports.

White Spot Restaurants Bill Senghera and Ken Grant hit the greens to make some green for hospitality workers facing financial crisis due to a health matter.

Hotelier of the Year honoree Ingrid Jarrett, and B.C. Hotel Association president James Chase made the scene to help their own in times of financial hardship.

BIG TIP: BCHF past chair, Richard Carras, VP, Western Canada for Authentic Wine and Spirit Merchants, Bert Hicks, President, Rising Tide Consultants, and wine scribe Anthony Gismondi was among a full field that contributed to a $50,000 day for the B.C. Hospitality Foundation.

Import Vintners and Spirits Association’s Ted Latimer, premium spirit ambassador Jacob Sweetapple and Imperial Oil’s Craig Mac enjoyed a day of golf and camaraderie at Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club in Coquitlam.

ABLE B.C.’s Jeff Guinard, Blackwood Apparel’s Christine Blackwood and B.C. Craft Brewery Association’s Ken Beattie were among industry leaders that came out to support their own at the annual charity tournament.

Walk with the dragon

SUCCESS WALK: One of Vanhattan’s venerable walkathons, the 33rd annual Walk with the Dragon organized by the S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Foundation was not surprisingly another success with a reported $408,000 generated for crucial social services and programs offered by the not-for-profit social service agency. For the past 45 years, S.U.C.C.E.S.S. has provided newcomers comprehensive services in settlement, language training, employment, family and youth counselling, senior care, and housing.

Held at Lumbermen’s Arch in Stanley Park under sunny skies, Walk chairs Chris Chan and Terry Liu greeted some 3,000 participants who got up early Sunday morning — forgoing the World Cup final — to march along a scenic three-kilometre route around Lost Lagoon led by a 100-foot dragon. As with past years, the event was well attended by glad-handing politicos from all three levels of government including top ranking ministers Harjit Sajjan and Jody Wilson Raybould and Progressive Conservative leader Andrew Scheer.

“It has been inspiring to witness the dedication of our donors, participants and volunteers in the past few months,” says S.U.C.C.E.S.S. CEO Queenie Choo. “The Walk with the Dragon has brought the community together for 33 years, and the proceeds will enable us to assist even more people in need and create a stronger society for all.”

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. CEO Queenie Choo thanked Walk with the Dragon donors, participants and volunteers for their efforts and a successful result for the social service agency.

SUCCESS!: Walk with the Dragon co-chair Terry Lui and S.U.C.C.E.S.S. director Steven Shen were all smiles following the reported $408,000 generated from the 33rd annual walk.

Walk co-chair Chris Chan greeted some 3,000 participants at Lumbermen’s Arch for the three kilometre stroll around scenic Stanley Park.

A busy weekend for Vancouver Parks Board Chair John Coupar, his city grounds hosting Folk Fest, VSO at Sunset and Walk with the Dragon, Coupar joined Vancouver mayoral candidate Hector Bremner and a large contingent of politicians for the annual S.U.C.C.E.S.S. fundraiser.

Inspiration gala kick off

GETTING INSPIRED: Last year’s Inspiration Gala raised a whopping $2.61 million for the B.C. Cancer agency’s Hereditary Cancer Program, making the black-tie gala-do one of the province’s top money makers. This year, the always-posh party will go at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver  on Nov. 3 with organizers looking to best last year’s result for blood cancer research.

Getting the gala committee revved up, foundation board chair Andrew Sweeney and B.C. Cancer Foundation CEO-President Sarah Roth hosted a garden party reception at Dave and Jas Uppal’s West side home to introduce donors and supporters to blood cancers, and the future of research for lymphoma, myeloma and leukemia at the cancer agency.

While B.C. cancer scientist Keith Humphries began the presentation, it was celebrated author Megan Williams who had everyone leaning in.

Cancer claimed Williams first love, Chad Warren. Just days after they first met, Warren was diagnosed with incurable multiple myeloma, cancer of the bone marrow. While it would be three years and a bone-marrow transplant before the two locked lips for the very first time, the cancer battle they fought and shared would become a critically-acclaimed book of love and loss. Williams would later write in Our Interrupted Fairy Tale, a self-published book that documented how this debilitating illness tested the couple’s resolve. Unfortunately,  their fairy tale had no happily ever after.

Exciting new research into the treatment of blood cancers by young scientists will hopefully change that narrative.

INSPIRED WOMEN: Distinguished B.C. cancer scientist Dr. Connie Eaves thanked author Megan Williams for her heartfelt remarks and personal connection with myeloma, cancer of the bone marrow.

Community leaders Jas and Dave Uppal hosted the Inspiration Gala garden party at their West Side home to introduce supporters to this year’s fundraising cause, blood cancers.

B.C. Cancer Foundation board chair Andrew Sweeney and CEO Sarah Roth talked up blood cancers and leading research for lymphoma, myeloma and leukemia at the cancer agency.

Inspiration Gala visionary and past chair Jane Hungerford and her daughter Janie — a fellow gala committee member — took in the 2018 campaign kick-off. Since its inception, the Inspiration Gala has raised more than $27 million for leading cancer research.

Summer is prime time for long table dinners and magnificent meals under the stars.

Following the success of its inaugural alfresco dinner last year, UBC Farm followed up with an even longer table and two opportunities this season (the second dinner takes place August 11) for foodies to enjoy a spectacular farm-to-table dining experience on the Point Grey grounds.

One of the more reasonable dinner tickets in town at $100 a head, this sumptuous soirée intended to showcase University of B.C.’s research farm and the talents of UBC’s culinary team led by executive chef David Speight, was fronted by event founder Clare Cullen, operations director at the Centre for Sustainable Food Systems.

Nestled within the farm’s beautiful Poplar Grove, two beautiful white long tables were set with strings of twinkly lights and a bunting banner that spelled “community” was strung overhead. Flawless weather greeted the 120 fortunate guests lucky enough to snap up tickets to the sold-out soirée.

Following many selfies and Instagram worthy photos, attendees eventually took their seats under the tree canopy to enjoy a delicious five-course, family-style dinner using products from local producers and seasonal ingredients, with the greens and berries grown just steps away.

A party with a purpose, proceeds from the two-date outdoor-do will support programs and activities at the UBC Farm, including research, teaching, and community engagement programs such as kids camps, workshops and Indigenous-led initiatives.

Westberry Farms Parm and Satwinder Bains enjoyed a family-style meal that incorporated seasonal, locally sourced ingredients grown at the UBC Farm.

From left, Dean Ricky Yada from the Faculty of Land and Food Systems, Clare Cullen, operations director at the Centre for Sustainable Food Systems and UBC executive chef David Speight fronted the alfresco charity dinner at the research farm.

Entertaining guests out at the UBC Farm were members of the Wooly Bears, from left, Amos Rosen, Damian Ritchie and Christopher Suen.

Save-On-Foods director of produce merchandising Jim Waites escorted his wife Lori Ann to the farm fundraiser.

UBC alumni Ray Fong and Angelique Leung, and Chrystal and Jan Palaty supported the farm’s continuing work toward understanding sustainable food systems by attending the farm-to-table fundraiser.

JESSIES PLAY BILL: Arts Club Theatre Company patriarch Bill Millerd was feted at the 36th annual Jessie Richardson Live Theatre Awards, Vanhattan’s equivalent to the Tony’s.

Canada’s longest serving and most accomplished artistic director — he built the Arts Club into the biggest theatre company in Western Canada — received a standing ovation from Vancouver’s theatre community for his many achievements, mentorship and contributions building a vibrant theatre scene in the city. Hosting the first Jessie Awards at the Seymour Stage, there were only three professional theatre companies, Millerd recalled. Today, there are 66, he exclaimed.

Fitting for his 46th and final season as artistic director, Arts Club productions would take home a leading seven Jessies in the large theatre category. Box office blockbuster Angels in America earned one statue, while Hand of God and Misery each receive three. Misery actors Andrew McNee and Lucia Frangione picked up the night’s top acting awards for their outstanding performances in the adapted Stephen King thriller.

In the small theatre category, Rumble Theatre was the big winner earning a total of six awards for its original production of Titus Bouffonius. Stephen Drover took home bookends securing outstanding direction nods for Titus Bouffonius and Hand of God. Venerable Green Thumb Theatre and its presentation of The Code and Jabber swept the Theatre for Young Audiences categories.

In all, 37 envelopes were opened at this year’s Jessies jamboree. Returning to its theatrical roots, the marathon awards ceremony celebrating excellence in professional theatre was held at Bard on the Beach on the BMO Mainstage.

Arts Club Theatre scion Bill Millerd was honoured at the 33rd Jessie Richardson Live Theatre Awards. His theatre company would go home with a leading seven Jessies.

Returning to its theatrical roots, Claire Sakaki’s Bard on the Beach BMO Mainstage hosted the annual awards show. Her Sixties As You Like It set serving as a backdrop for the marathon ceremonies.

Double Jessie award winner, director Stephen Drover celebrated with first time Jessie recipient Sophie Tang (lighting design for Titus Bouffonius).

Tetsuro Shigematsu and Steve Charles celebrated Vancouver Asian Canadian Theatre’s first Jessie win. The company’s 1 Hour Photo scored a Jessie for significant artistic achievement (outstanding technical design and execution for the purpose of historical storytelling).

ENDURING DRAMA: The year 2018 marked the 20th anniversary of the Kate Linder Tea. The popular Young and the Restless soap siren, who plays Esther Valentine on the top rated daytime drama, once again enlisted once her cast mates to give up their weekend to attend the Vancouver charity tea benefiting the Canucks for Kids Fund.

Familiar names to diehard Y & R fans — leading men and women  Marla Adams, Doug Davidson, David Lago, Christian LeBlanc, Abhi Sinha, and Jess Walton — joined Linder at the Four Seasons Hotel for the afternoon tell-all and meet and greet with members of the Emmy Award-winning soap, now celebrating its 45th season.

Spirits were high as the mostly female audience packed the hotel ballroom for the opportunity to get up close and personal with their favourite soap star. The star-studded cast waded through the room to kibitz with adoring fans and mug for photos, even slow dancing with a fan or two during the two-hour Q&A and charity fundraiser.

Through ticket sales, sponsorships and auction proceeds, Y & R fans would raise a reported $70,000 for charity. Among the hotly coveted items: a Y & R signed Canucks Jersey and an original artwork created by Leblanc in commemoration of Linder’s 20th anniversary.

“The tea has been an enduring tradition and a memorable way for my Y & R cast mates to come together,” says Linder. “Our fans have made a difference for so many charities over the 20 teas, from the B.C. Cancer agency to the Canadian Cancer Society and Canucks for Kids Fund,” she adds.

Robin Wyss, executive director of the Vancouver Canucks Alumni, and Abhi Sinha, who plays Ravi Shapur on the popular soap auctioned off a signed Y & R Canucks Jersey that sold for $1800 twice.

Doug Davidson and Jess Walton were among the leading men and women that donated their time to join Kate Linder for her annual Vancouver High Tea fundraiser, benefiting the Canucks for Kids Fund.

Young and the Restless staple Kate Linder handled front of house duties with local broadcaster Jim Gordon. This year’s high tea event poured a reported $70,000 into the coffers of the Canucks for Kids Fund.

Christian LeBlanc’s original artwork created to commemorate the 20th anniversary tea fetched the afternoon’s top bid.

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YOUNG MOVERS AND SHAKERS: Every year, a group of young professionals volunteer their time, expertise and influence as members of United Way of the Lower Mainland’s GeNext cabinet.

Acting as ambassadors, the group of local influencers and changemakers who share a vision of a healthy, caring and inclusive community meet monthly, and develop and implement plans to achieve their goals of a more caring civil society. Impact Red: A Rooftop Social is one of the group’s marquee events.

Two hundred and fifty pretty young things in their 20s and 30s convened for the 3rd annual patio party. Chaired by Amanda Costa and Heather Kerklaan and hosted by RBC Wealth Management Dominion Securities, a capacity crowd made their way to the 21st floor rooftop of a downtown business tower for the social mingler and charity fundraiser.

Under sunny skies, attendees enjoyed breathtaking views, great food and drink, and fine music while supporting United Way’s after-school initiatives through a variety of fundraising games.

With the help of a $10,000 match from the Longhedge Foundation, the hoi polloi would ultimately raise $37,000, pushing the cabinet’s three-year effort over the $100,000 mark.

Proceeds will go toward connecting underserved kids to a variety of programs, said a delighted Costa. United Way has a genuine love of local community, and it’s this love that drives our work to ensure that no one is left behind or falls through the cracks, added Kerklaan.

Notables making the scene included RBC Wealth Management’s Angus Woodworth, Coast Capital Savings’ Precious Ile, PwC’s Blake Henley, City of Vancouver’s Kevin Quinlan and Keela’s Phil Manzano, the evening’s keynote.

Homeless as a youth and without direction, Manzano credited the United Way community for lifting him up and out of poverty. Today, the head of marketing and communications at Keela, a local company dedicated to building accessible technology for non-profits, pays it forward serving on the GeNext cabinet helping other young kids achieve their dreams.

Co-chair Heather Kerklaan and United Way’s Ryley Humphry were all smiles following the $37,000 generated for after school programs supporting under-served kids.

Taking in the breathtaking views were GeNext cabinet members Thomas de Mello of RBC Dominion Securities and Nikolina Ruzic of Centreplate at Vancouver Convention Centre.

City of Vancouver’s Kevin Quinlan and Keela’s Phil Manzano were among a generous set that helped raise $37,000 for the United Way of the Lower Mainland. Homeless as a youth, Manzano credits the United Way for lifting him up and out of poverty.

Among the 250 attendees enjoying the fun and games at Impact Red were Taylor Burton of Geotility and Negin Tousi of WSP Consultants.

The United Way’s Brenda Aynsley, Vice President of Resource Development and PwC’s Blake Henley, a GeNext cabinet member, raised a glass to the next generation of leaders and philanthropists.

HORSE PLAY: A record 850 guests came out to witness the sport of kings at the fifth annual Pacific Polo Cup. Southlands Riding Club once again hosted the posh polo tourney and party drawing the city’s well-to-do and well dressed to the charity benefit.

The brainchild of Nadia Iadisernia, and her main squeeze, Luxury and Super Car Weekend creator Craig Stowe, the event has grown steadily every year and is now part of the triple crown of summer social staples to dress up, with the stylish horse play bookended by the Deighton Cup and Diner en Blanc.

This year all 27 cabanas that lined the field, ranging in price tag from $2,750-to-$8,750, were quickly snapped up by luxury retailers, developers and financial institutions.

Under a blistering heat, four teams competed for the coveted Pacific Polo Cup.  Although many were unfamiliar with polo, attendees have educated themselves and are now embracing the sport more than ever, says Iadisernia. The halftime divot stomp  — where spectators go onto the field to help replace the divots created by the horse’s hoofs — continues to be a popular activity, she added.

As always, the Nicola Wealth Management and Veuve Cliquot sponsored see-and-be-seen event also served as a fundraiser for the Southlands Riding Club, a non-profit society providing a home for equestrian sport and recreation in the city of Vancouver since 1943.

The club, which serves some 500 riding and non-riding enthusiasts, also is home to the Vancouver Pony Club, Pacific Riding for Developmental Disabilities, and the Vancouver Equine Rescue Society. Those interested in the sport of polo can drop in every Wednesday to learn more about the game until the end of September.

Pacific Polo Cup President Nadia Iadisernia and her equine friend Trixie greeted 850 polo enthusiasts who convened at the Southlands Riding Club for the annual summertime soirée.

Angelina Zaremba and A & B Event Rentals Daniel Sebal were among a stylish set that donned their most daring fascinators and best summer attire to witness the sport of kings.

Nicola Wealth Management president David Sung escorted his wife Tassan to the polo party. For the third consecutive year, the financial firm has been the lead sponsor of the charity polo tournament.

Veuve Cliquot ambassador Vivian Tang uncorked cases of their premiere bubbly to quench the thirst of polo enthusiasts.

Enjoying a day of riding Thomas Keeper Tink, Benson Hurlbutt, Tony Tornquist, Drew Rees, and Paige Sullivan were among a group of local and international polo players that vied for the Pacific Polo Cup.

Michelle Hungerford of Hungerford Properties and Craig Stowe of Luxury & Supercar Weekend kibitzed between play at the fifth annual Pacific Polo Cup. The biggest outing to date, all 27 cabanas that lined the field were quickly snapped up by luxury retailers, developers and financial institutions.

Laura Cui, Pri Phommachak and Llod Go are among a growing number of Vancouverites interested in the game of polo.

Lanie Collins, Tim Cuffe and Brandy Rideout sported stylish fascinators, fedoras and wide brimmed hats, de rigueur at the Pacific Polo Cup.

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SWINGING FOR KIDS: In 1945, a brand new radio station made an appeal to listeners to support orphaned kids in the Loyal Protestant Home that neighboured their New Westminster office. The on-air call from CKNW was answered and donations flooded in and the CKNW Orphan’s Fund was started.

Fast forward to 2018, and now brandishing a new moniker — the CKNW Kids Fund — the commitment to B.C. kids remains as strong as ever.

“For over 73 years, the fund has granted millions of dollars to support hundreds of thousands of children with a variety of physical, mental and social challenges,” says current board chair Wally Oppal. “And we could not do it without the generosity of British Columbians who have helped provide grants for specialized medical equipment, therapies and programs for at-risk youth.”

Another 144 people recently did their part by hitting the fairways of the Vancouver Golf Club for the inaugural Take A Swing Charity Golf Tournament, presented in partnership with the New Westminster Chamber of Commerce, and sponsored by McQuarrie. Players set aside the torrential rain that plagued the day, choosing instead to focus on the kids they were supporting through their efforts.

Food and drink strategically placed at various holes and an opportunity to swing for a Mini Clubman further fuelled participants. For new father Brad Ferraro, it was the best day as he sunk a timely hole-in-one at the Par 3, 7th hole to claim the sporty 2019 Mini roadster. His efforts also propelled his Alpine Credits foursome to a podium finish in the charity golf tourney.

Additional guests joined players back at the Coquitlam clubhouse. Lynda Steele of CKNW and Global TV’s Chris Gailus emceed the dinner portion of the evening orchestrating more fundraising games before awarding tournament prizes. For the first time radio outsold television, quipped Gailus as a private station tour led by Steele outsold Gailus’ behind the scenes studio visit. The friendly competition would eventually see gala-goers empty their wallets of more than $20,000 in the five-lot live auction. Coupled with a call out for cash and sponsorships, the debut event would raise more than $100,000 for the fund, reported Sara-Dubois Phillips, executive director of the CKNW Kids Fund. Capping off the extraordinary evening Laurie Rix added $500,000 in memory of her husband, former CKNW sports broadcaster Neil MacRae who passed away from cancer.

Global TV’s Chris Gailus and CKNW’s Lynda Steele of CKNW emceed the dinner portion of the charity golf tournament.

Alpine Credits foursome of Matthew Boulton, Colin Atwood, Brad Ferraro and Drew St. Cyr were among a full field that came out swinging for the CKNW Kids Fund. Ferraro sunk a timely hole-in-one to win a Mini Countryman.

CKNW Kids Fund board members Sandy Garossino, Chris Philps, and Laura Dauphanee were all smiles following the success of their inaugural Take A Swing Golf Tourney.

New Westminster Chamber of Commerce president Rnold Smith and CEO Lizz Kelly helped raise funds to support B.C. kids with mental, physical and social challenges.

Party with a para-purpose

BOOST FOR PARATHLETES: Surprisingly the Paralympic Foundation of Canada was only founded a few years ago as the philanthropic arm of the Canadian Paralympic Committee — its mandate to ensure the programs, equipment and people are in place to propel those with a disability into sport and potentially onto the world’s biggest sporting stage.

It probably comes as no surprise to many that para-athletes receive far less funding than their Olympic counterparts. The popularity and success of the Para-Olympic Games in Vancouver in 2010, followed by London in 2014 and the Invictus Games has seen interest and participation in para-sports grow. The foundation was created in 2015 to give Canadians with a disability the opportunity to get into the game and to become elite athletes.

Chubb Insurance last week hosted a Vancouver fundraising reception in support of the foundation at the Terminal City Club. Fronted by former Canadian swimmer Anne Barnes, Senior Vice President with Chubb, and joined by two of the country’s most decorated Paralympians in Michael Edgson and Donavan Tildsley, some 150 guests convened at the downtown members club for the initial Party with a Para-Purpose event.

Between free-flowing food and drink, attendees kibitzed with Dean Brokop and Danielle Porteous, representatives from the foundation, as well as lend support to the national para-movement in a spirited live auction and paddle raise. Nearly $25,000 would result from the medal-worthy cocktail party.

“Success isn’t necessarily about competing and winning medals,” says Brokop. “Winning the race begins with ensuring every Canadian can imagine themselves at the start line.”

Last year, the foundation launched ImagiNation, a four-year initiative to raise $6 million to ensure more Canadians with a disability are given the opportunity to choose sport and discover their fullest potential. Once achieved, the Government of Canada will unlock another $4 million in grant funding. To date, the campaign has generated a reported $2.1 million.

Dean Brokop and Danielle Porteous’ Paralympic Foundation of Canada aims to propel those with a disability into sport and potentially onto the world’s biggest sporting stage.

Chubb’s Anne Banks and Veronica Ko welcomed fellow underwriter and Master Chef Canada runner-up Thea VanHerwaarden, centre, to the Party with a Para-Purpose event. VanHerwaarden’s chef’s dinner auction package contributed to the near $25,000 raised.

PARA-CHAMPIONS: Decorated Paralympians Michael Edgson and Donavan Tildsley were on hand to help ensure more Canadians with a disability are given the opportunity to participate and excel in sport.

Terminal City Club general manager Peter Jackman and Coast Claims Senior Partner and Vice President Allan Hart were among major supporters of the Paralympic-movement on hand to support our Canadian athletes.

FEELING AT HOME: For four decades DIVERSEcity has been providing a continuum of settlement and integration supports for newcomers in the Surrey, Delta, Langley and White Rock regions of the Lower Mainland. The non-profit registered charity offers a variety of programs such as employment and skills training, counselling and interpretation/translation services, language and literacy programs and children and youth initiatives. As the first settlement services organization in the Fraser Valley, DIVERSEcity serves roughly 17,000 individuals annually.

Started in 1978 by the Immigrant Services Society of B.C. as a response to the growing instances of racial unrest in Surrey, the organization would evolve and in 2007 was rebranded to DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society.

“This was not a name change but a reflection of what Surrey was becoming, a destination city for newcomers to start a new beginning, lay down roots and feel at home,” explains DIVERSEcity CEO Neelam Sahota.

To mark the society’s 40th anniversary, Sahota along with board chair Shara Nixon welcomed supporters to the society’s celebration dinner staged at Eagle Quest Golf Course in Surrey. Sponsored by Vancity, Shaw and Western Community College, colour and music filled the clubhouse as party guests sipped on wine and enjoyed a royal repast.

Following dinner guests heard from keynote Shushma Datt, a Kenyan born, BBC broadcaster who is the matriarch of Spice Radio, a Burnaby-based station offering community oriented programming in 17 languages. The first Canadian women to broadcast in Hindi and Punjabi in B.C. and the first female believed to receive a CRTC license from Canada, the journalist shared with the capacity crowd her immigrant journey to Canada.

Mosaic CEO Olga Stachova and Kevin Kelly from the Kwantlen First Nations were among a capacity crowd that helped celebrate DIVERSEcity’s four decades of helping newcomers settle and integrate into the Surrey, Delta, Langley and White Rock.

DIVERSEcity board of director Cindy Zheng, president Shara Nixon and vice-president Bob Appleton marked the society’s four decades of service with a celebratory dinner at Eagle Quest Golf Course.

Alethea Linnitt, Chandra Mirchandani and Jane Shin are amongst a dedicated group of DIVERSEcity staff who support roughly 17,000 individuals annually – immigrants, refugees and new Canadians– feel at home in the Fraser Valley.

Hope couture

HOPE GROWS: For those facing cancer today, swift access to the best diagnostic technology is potentially life-saving. A PET/CT scanner is proven to be the most effective tool for obtaining the full picture of a person’s scanner. The technology also has the ability to detect cancer cells at an early stage — even before the tumour has formed. A new $1 million scanner — to replace one of two hard working machines at B.C. Cancer — was the goal at the fifth Hope Couture luncheon. The most successful luncheon in the city, the four-year event has raised more than $3.4 million for the B.C. Cancer Foundation.

Once again, a full house of mostly women took in the afternoon affair led by social mavens Susan Chow and Lisa Dalton, and a supporting cast of 16 committee members, with news anchor Chris Gailus orchestrating the fundraising activities. A donation of $100,000 made by Anders Lau and Hans Fruehauf, owners of Capilano Audi and Capilano Volkswagen, got the fundraising party started. Inspiring others, the room of 430 attendees would pony up $600,000.

For their efforts, attendees were rewarded with a fashion show by Vancouver boutique retailers Bacci’s and Boboli as they debuted designer fashions from fall and winter collections.

Fundraising powerhouses Susan Chow and Lisa Dalton chaired B.C. Cancer’s 5th Hope Couture Luncheon and Fashion Show. The stylish affair raised $600,00 to go towards the purchase of a PET/CT scanner.

The Hope Couture afternoon program was orchestrated by news anchor Chris Gailus and featured a special address by Nav Dhanoa, who moved home last year to take care of his mother as she faces pancreatic cancer.

B.C. Cancer CEO Sarah Roth, centre, welcomed Open Road Auto Group CEO Christian Chia and his wife Carol to the luncheon luau. The couple was among 430 generous guests who opened their wallets to bring the best diagnostic and treatment tool to the province.

Ballet B.C.’s season-opening reception

DECA-DANCE: What a difference 10 years can have on a then 23 year-old dance company on the brink of insolvency. That was the dire situation facing Ballet B.C. in 2009 when staff and dancers were laid off. Former Ballet B.C. dancer Emily Molnar was anointed artistic director to right the ship, and a few wondered whether she could do it. Fast-forward 10 years and the company is raising a glass to the cultural bright light, the guest of honour at the company’s 2018/19 season kickoff reception.

During Molnar’s tenure, the company has presented 45 new works — almost unheard of — and extended invitations to work with the nation and world’s most talented and emerging choreographers. The company has also been touring, bringing their dancers to world stages. This year’s touring stops include Barcelona, Tel Aviv, Madrid, Luxembourg, Stuttgart, New York and six cities across Canada.

All of this activity supported by healthy ticket sales, sponsorships and fundraising which reportedly surpassed $800,000 last year. Another $100,000 would be raised at the Champagne Toast recently held at Michael and Inna O’Brian’s art-filled Southlands home. Named in recognition of Molnar’s 10th anniversary, the dedicated funds will be earmarked for another new work. The company’s season begins in November, and will also premiere Molnar’s latest project.

Executive director John Clark, artistic director Emily Molnar and board chair Kevin Leslie kicked off Ballet B.C.’s 32nd season at special reception that also marked Molnar’s 10th anniversary with the company.

Ballet B.C. patrons Inna and Michael O’Brian hosted the season kick off reception in their art-filled home. They also contributed to the $100,000 raised at the event to support a new work.

Trained here in Vancouver, dancers Nicole Ward in her 4th season with the company and Peter Smida, now in his 11th season, shared with guests the company’s evolution over the past decade under Molnar’s leadership.

CHAPTER ONE: The Vancouver Public Library christened their $15 million two-level rooftop expansion with a gala-do to support the library’s myriad of programs and services promoting literacy and reading. Fronted by Dana and John Montalbano and Carol and Christian Chia, 250 well-heeled guests were the first to explore the expansive space on the eighth and ninth floor of the central library that now boasts a new theatre, reading room, gallery space, additional meeting rooms and spectacular green roof designed by local landscape architect Cornelia Oberlander.

Spoken Word artist Shayne Koyczan headlined the Beyond the Book bash that aimed to raise awareness to the expanding role of the library. More than just a home for books, the main library — which reportedly welcomes 6,000 visitors daily to its central branch — delivers some 1,200 programs for young people and families. Services include a musical instrument lending library, and recording studios, all offered free of charge.

Following the Hawksworth-catered dinner, heavyweights including Ajay Dilawri, Charlie Kim, Derek Lee, Bob Rennie, David Rowntree, Susan Chow, Susan Knott and Jane Young contributed to a $585,000 night.

“The Beyond the Book theme was chosen to tell the library’s story — that it not only lend books but also provides resources beyond what most of us could imagine,” explains Dana Montalbano. “The library has evolved with our times and positively touches more lives than most non-profits or government services in Vancouver.”

WELL-READ: Helping promote literacy and reading, event co-chairs Dana and John Montalbano orchestrated an impressive night that saw $585,000 raised for the Vancouver Public Library and its many programs and services.

Arran and Ratana Stephens of Nature’s Path Foods were among an impressive list of guests and library donors who attended the inaugural Beyond the Book bash.

Ajay Dilawri, president of the Dilawri Automotive Group and Vancouver mayor Gregor Robertson took in the black-tie fundraiser at the central library’s newly expanded space. The City of Vancouver contributed $9 million to the $15 million expansion project.

Spoken Word artist Shayne Koyczan headlined the Beyond the Book gala.

Passion’s gala

ROLLING ON: Nineteen top chefs and restaurants once again put their best dishes forward for the 15th staging of the Scotiabank Passions Gala, one of two major fundraising events for the Dr. Peter Centre. Led by event founder Nathan Fong and co-chair Michael Barker-Fyfe, some 300 supporters gathered at Performance Works for the annual food and drink event, in support of the West End residence dedicated to providing leading care for those living with HIV and coexisting issues such as addiction, mental health and nutrition.

Among the returning chefs was Hidekazu Tojo, a founding chef who has participated every year since the event’s creation. Affectionately known as Tojo, the creator of the ubiquitous California Roll will host a party of his own this Sunday to mark 30 years in business. Realizing early on many diners weren’t use to eating raw fish wrapped in seaweed, the affable sushi chef invented the iconic roll with cooked crabmeat and avocado rolled inside out to hide the wrapper.

The now world famous California Roll was snapped up among other culinary delights last Wednesday night fuelling revellers to empty their purses and wallets of more than $190,000 — a record helping — bringing the overall fundraising tally to more than $1.6 million for the Dr. Peter Centre.

Dr. Peter’s partner Andy Hiscox and mom Shirley Young along with Passions co-chair Michael Barker-Fyfe thanked guests for their record setting generosity. More than $190,000 was raised at the 15th staging of the food and drink event.

Sushi fans Darcy Greiner and Joel Smith flanked longtime Passions fixture Hidekazu Tojo, making his 15th appearance at the foodie fete. The sushi master celebrates his acclaimed restaurant’s 30th anniversary this Sunday.

Michael Varga and Adrian de Marchi’s much coveted Fire in the Kitchen package fetched a red hot $7,500 sold twice in the live auction.

Passions emcee Sophie Lui and Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation board chair Joy Jennisen raised a glass to the record setting night. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $1.6 million for the Dr. Peter Centre.

Committee members Ryan McKinley and Ryan Bazeley thanked reigning Canadian chef of the year Alex Chen of Boulevard for participating in the Passions fundraiser. This year, 19 top chefs and restaurants put their best plates forward.

100 Year Journey gala

JOURNEY HOME: While the Komagata Maru vessel carrying nearly 400 passengers — primarily Sikhs — was never allowed to dock in Canada more than a century ago, (the ship was forced to return to India) the harrowing ordeal has never been forgotten. Entrepreneur and former Mehfil magazine publisher Rana Vig commemorates the voyage in a book published to acknowledge those intrepid pioneers and the many more who successfully came after them and made a significant contribution to their new country.

A major fundraiser on the South Asian social calendar, Vig and his wife Rupa once again orchestrated The 100 Year Journey Home Gala. Five hundred distinguished business and community leaders convened at the Parq Vancouver JW Marriott Hotel for the recognition event paying tribute to Indo Canadian trailblazers past and present who opened doors and broke new ground. Seven individuals made this year’s honour role.

Dr. Gurdeev Gill, the first Indian to graduate from UBC’s medical school, along with aviator Ishar Banns and forester Mayo Singh were cited in the pioneer category, while celebrity chef Vikram Vij, author Shimi Kang and media personality Monika Deol were honoured in the Navigator category. Multi-platinum Bhangra singer-songwriter Jazzy B received the Global Ambassador Award. A party with purpose proceeds benefited the Royal Columbian Hospital.

SOUTH ASIAN IDOLS: Celebrity chef and restaurateur Vikram Vij and media personality Monika Deol, now head of a made in Canada cosmetic line Stellar were toasted by the Indo Canadian community at the 100 Year Journey Gala.

Businessman and former Mehfil magazine publisher Rana Vig welcomed recording artist Jazzy B to the gala festivities. The singer-songwriter was recipient of the Global Ambassador Award.

Gala emcee Mo Dhaliwal escorted actress Mannu Sandhu to the red carpet affair held at the Parq Vancouver JW Marriott Hotel.

PORT OF CALLS: Days before Thanksgiving, port terminals and suppliers came together to give thanks and support the communities where they live, work and play. Presented by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, a capacity crowd gathered for the annual Port Fundraising Gala in partnership with Global Container Terminals, Fraser Surrey Docks, Western Stevedoring, and DP World Vancouver. Sharing a commitment to create thriving communities where they operate, the port terminals and suppliers for 18 years have come together to support their port region, raising more than $1.9 million for deserving charities in Metro Vancouver.

The 19th edition would catapult the tally well beyond the $2 million mark. Vancouver Fraser Port Authority president and chief executive officer Robin Silvester welcomed attendees to the multi-course fundraising dinner co-chaired by Makshim Mihic, Jeff Scott, Doron Grosman, Eric Waltz, and Brad Eshelman.

This year’s event was held in honour and support of three charitable organizations, Harvest Project on the North Shore, Mission Possible in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and Reach Child and Youth Development Society south of the Fraser River. Through ticket purchases, the sale of auction items, and the generous contributions of attendees, the evening endeavours looked to meet or exceed last year’s $240,000 raised to support the charities working hard to improve the lives of thousands of people each year.

“The people and businesses we call neighbours make Metro Vancouver one of the world’s most livable regions, and as a port community, we share a commitment to create thriving communities where we live and work,” said Silvester. “By working together, we continue to prove that when we raise one another up, we all flourish.”

Renie D’Aquila and Ryan Thomas’ Reach Child and Youth Development Society were one of three beneficiaries of Gillian Behnke’s Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s yearly fundraiser.

MILESTONE YEAR: Nancy Radloff, executive assistant to Robin Silvester, CEO and president of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, has orchestrated the annual Port Gala dinner since its inception, raising more than $2 million for local charities.

Matt Smedley’s Mission Possible serving Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and Gary Ansell’s Harvest Project on the North Shore were beneficiaries of this year’s Port Gala.

Living with autism, evening’s special guest Becki Allen and her mom Claire Aston sang the praises of Reach Child and Youth Development Society, a charity serving communities south of the Fraser helping kids with special needs.

CCDSBC Around the World Gala

ALL ABOARD: Established in 1988, the Chinese Canadian Dental Society of British Columbia (CCDSBC) was created to promote and encourage its members to contribute to their community and the Canadian society-at-large. Over the years through its annual gala fundraiser, CCDSBC has raised funds to establish bursaries and endowment funds, update dental equipment at Vancouver General Hospital, and contributed to the purchase of a mobile community clinic in partnership with UBC’s Faculty of Dentistry.

For CCDSBC’s 30th anniversary celebrations, the B.C. Dental Association’s Save A Smile program, supporting the urgent dental care needs of B.C. children from low-income families, was beneficiary of the charity dinner. To date, the program has supported 2,000 children in accessing dental treatment, says Dr. Angelique Leung, chair of the program, addressing the party crowd that convened at the Hyatt Regency Hotel for the Cruise Around the World-themed party.

Captained by longtime event chair Dr. Anthony Li, the dental-do of fine food, wine and entertainment would take guests around the globe. Sought-after luxury cruises to Asia, the Middle East and the Mediterranean, part of an exclusive live auction, would contribute to a record night and $100,000 collected, putting smiles on the faces of everyone involved.

TOOTHFAIRIES: Actor David C Jones captained and Dr. Anthony Li chaired the Around the World dinner party benefitting Angelique Leung’s Save a Smile dental program supporting the urgent dental needs of B.C. kids from low-income families.

CCDSBC president Ben Kang and his wife Josenni welcomed partygoers to the society’s 30th anniversary celebrations.

Chinese Canadian Dental Society of B.C. director Peter Chan escorted his wife Jin Kim to the fundraising dental-do at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Vancouver.

Party organizers Kristie Or, Grace Li, and Irene Or were all smiles following a record $100,000 raised.

Realty giants Grace and Stephen Kwok of Anson Realty were among the night’s major contributors at the CCDBC Around the World fundraising gala.

ICDA Sitarry Night Benefit

BOLLYWOOD NIGHT: Taking a page from the CCDSBC playbook, dental professionals from the South Asian community hosted its second annual fundraiser. Created in 2017, the Indo Canadian Dental Association (ICDA) welcomed a capacity crowd to Richmond’s River Rock Show Theatre for its Sitarry Night Gala, held over the Thanksgiving weekend. Committed to promoting and raising funds for oral health care in the community, this year’s lavish Bollywood luau led by Dr. Harry Dhanju benefited the B.C. Oral Cancer Prevention Program at UBC and efforts to lessen the hardship caused by the disease though public education, early detection and effective treatment

Attended by some one hundred dentists and their loved ones, industry partners, notable dignitaries and community and leaders, 500 guests were in attendance for the TD-sponsored, black-tie merrymaker. A spirited live auction and a raffle of a one-once bar of gold donated by Nicola Wealth Management had revellers digging deep into their wallets to support the cause. The evening of camaraderie and fundraising also paid tribute to Chandra Bodalia, the legendary South Asian VOICE photo journalist often referred to as the “Smile Catcher” who passed away from a lengthy battle with throat cancer.

BOLLY GOOD: Sister-brother team of Rowena and Arv Sooch, ICDA directors, emceed the South Asian dental profession’s flagship fundraiser at Richmond’s River Rock Show Theatre.

Dr. Denise Laronde’s B.C. Oral Cancer Prevention Program at UBC was the beneficiary of Dr. Harry and Jas Dhanju’s fundraising efforts.

Dentists Garry Gill, Vishal Sharma and Ruby Bhullar were among dental professionals from the Indo Canadian community committed to promoting and raising funds for oral health care.

Dr. Suzanne Carlisle, regional program leader oral oncology in the Fraser Valley and Dr. Akash Villing, division head of oral surgery, B.C. Cancer, lent their support to ICDA’s fundraising efforts.

Offering congratulations to the Indo Canadian Dental Association on the success of its Sitarry Night fundraiser was TD’s Vineet Kochhar — the event sponsor — and UBC Faculty of Dentistry’s chief fundraiser Jane Merling.

PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE: The Vancouver Chinatown Foundation was founded in 2009 to honour a culture and community established in Vancouver more than a century ago. Led by Carol Lee, daughter of celebrated developer and philanthropist Bob Lee, the CEO of Linacare Cosmetherapy has been a force fighting out-of-character development in the storied neighbourhood. Single-handedly pouring money into the once bustling area, Lee has opened Chinatown barbecue, and Chinatown Vintage, and will soon reopen Foo’s Ho Ho Restaurant, a Chinatown fixture during its heydays.

The UBC and Harvard business grad is also championing 58 West Hastings, a purpose built social housing project offering 250 units of affordable housing and the Chinatown Storytelling Centre to illustrate the Chinese Canadian journey. To support her efforts, Lee, along with her sister Leslie, and power brokers Carole Taylor and Sam Feldman fronted the foundation’s third annual Chinatown Autumn Gala, a party quickly becoming a must-attend event on the Vanhattan social calendar.

Seven hundred do-gooders as well as event sponsors RBC, Concord Pacific, Deloitte, HSBC and Rogers made their way to the Hotel Vancouver for the prestigious dinner and auction, lending support to the foundation’s revitalization efforts. Following a royal repast, yours truly called the auction of one-of-a-kind experiences, including a future dinner for 20 at the Storytelling Centre. Fetching $21,000, the pricey dinner party along with the call-out for cash would contribute to an impressive $1.1 million night.

Among the heavyweights lending their support: philanthropist Leslie Diamond and Bob Golden, singer Sarah McLachlan, ICBC’s Joy McPhail, London Drugs’ Brandt Louie, Peterson Group’s Ben and Jane Young, Rogers’ Phil Lind, HSBC’s Sandra Stuart, BMO’s Kevin Lynch, Deloitte’s Frank Vetesse, and VanEdge Capital’s Paul Lee.

CHINATOWN CHAMPIONS: Carole Taylor and Sam Feldman chaired this year’s third Chinatown Autumn Gala. Proceeds to go towards a purpose built social housing project offering 250 units of affordable housing and the Chinatown Storytelling Centre.

Joy McPhail, Vicki Gabereau and Sarah McLachlan were among the 700 guests that attended the charity dinner and auction, presented by RBC.

Volunteers Susan Wong, Jane Young and Adele Chan volunteer at Chinatown Vintage, a community thrift shop Carol Lee opened with 100 per cent of the proceeds going towards \revitalization efforts and directly benefitting the people that live in the neighbourhood.

The Hotel Vancouver Fairmont team of Mike Flint, director of finance, Annabel Beltran, assistant director of finance and general manager Adam Laker hosted Chinatown Foundation’s posh party, its third staging.

Dan’s Legacy Chef’s Charity Dinner

DAN’S LEGACY: Dan’s Legacy’s 5th annual Chef’s Charity Dinner raised nearly $50,000 to go toward the non-profit’s counselling and life skills program for youth affected by trauma-based mental health and addiction challenges. Founded in memory of 19-year old Dan Snook, who overdosed in 2006 after trying to suppress psychological pain from sexual abuse, the organization welcomed some 120 guests who convened at the Beach Grove Golf Club in Tsawwassen for the yearly dinner and auction, sponsored by CN.

Featuring the culinary talents of Beach Grove Executive Chef Froilan Alejo, Shay Kelly and Vanessa Trotte (The Caterer), and TJ Conwi and Bruce Nollert (Ono Vancouver), this year’s culinary showcase drew notable names like Delta mayor George Harvie, Delta councillors Dan Copeland and Dylan Kruger, Delta Police Chief Constable Neil Dubord, and former B.C. Lions kicker Paul McCallum.

CBC Radio host Angela Sterritt handled hosting duties. She, along with Dan’s Legacy board member Sierra Van Straaten, a recovering drug addict, also talked about their own personal experiences with trauma-based mental health and addiction challenges, crediting Dan’s Legacy program director, counsellor Tom Littlewood for their second chance at life and success.

“I’d like to thank Angela and Sierra for telling us their deeply moving and powerful stories,” says Barbara Coates, Dan’s Legacy’s executive director. “It took an exceptional amount of courage to do that, and it sends a message that with counselling support, young people can find the insight and empowerment to rise above their experienced trauma and live their best lives.”

YOUTH LEADERS: Dan’s Legacy program director Tom Littlewood and executive director Barb Coates were all smiles after receiving a $200,000 provincial grant, and near $50,000 from its fundraiser to support counseling programs for at-risk youth affected by trauma-based mental health and addiction challenges.

TJ Conwi and Bruce Nollert from Ono Vancouver were among the brigade of chefs that participated in Dan’s Legacy’s fifth annual Chefs Charity Dinner, this year held in Tsawwassen.

Former B.C. Lions kicker Paul McCallum, Dan’s Legacy president Guyle Clark, and Darin Froese, CEO of the Vista Society were among the 120 guests that attended the Chefs Charity Dinner at the Beach Grove Golf Club.

CBC radio host Angela Sterritt and Dan’s Legacy board member Sierra Van Straaten credits Dan’s Legacy’s Tom Littlewood for their turnaround. Sterritt also handled the emcee duties at the charity fundraiser.

Eastside Culture Crawl Take Flight Fundraiser

ART PARTY: The Eastside Culture Crawl began in 1997 with 45 visual artists showcasing their wares in three Strathcona area buildings in Vancouver. The inaugural event attracted a few hundred people. Today, the festival has grown to include some 500 artists, craftspeople and designers attracting an audience of more than 35,000 studio visits. The organization has evolved to represent the heart of the East Van creative community, the largest ratio of artists per capita of any city in the country.

In advance of the popular four-day festival — its 22nd staging which concludes today — the Eastside Culture Crawl Society hosted its second annual Take Flight fundraiser to support its ongoing efforts and artists striving to make a living in an increasingly expensive city where affordable housing is scarce, and studio space even more scarce. Steered by executive director Esther Rausenberg, board chair Mira Malatestinic and fundraising chair Ksenia Kovarsky, the benefit drew a capacity crowd to the Arts Factory in Vancouver.

Yours truly emceed the arty party, which saw attendees snap up 30 original works donated by participating ECC artists. A successful record-setting night by all accounts, the fun-filled evening was marred with news one of the founding buildings, The Glass Onion on Union Street  — a mainstay of the festival since its inception, housing 14 artists — was going to participate in its final Crawl.

Artists are facing either evictions or the doubling and or tripling of their rent, says Rausenberg. Our artists are not immune to what is happening in the rest of the city with its lack of affordable housing and studio space. The society is actively pursuing, preserving, promoting and advocating for safe, affordable and tenured space, she adds.

Eastside Culture Crawl executive director Esther Rausenberg and board chair Mira Malatestinic steered the society’s Take Flight event that launched this year’s four-day, Nov.14-18 festival. This year’s crawl is expected to draw more than 35,000 studio visits.

Eastside Culture Crawl founding member and visual artist Richard Tetrault donated one of 30 works that were snapped up by patrons at the festival launch held at the Arts Factory.

Celebrating the festival’s 22nd year, Lesley Anderson, Shirley Ross and Ksenia Kovarsky were among artists, art patrons and arts enthusiasts that convened for the Eastside Culture Crawl kick-off party and benefit.

$4 MILLION CRYSTAL: For only the second time in its 32 years, the Crystal Ball, B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation’s flagship fundraiser, reached the $4 million mark. More than 400 well-heeled guests help raise the impressive haul to help transform health care for kids. And for the second consecutive year, mental health care was the focus of attention at the always-extravagant dinner and auction, sponsored by the Beedie Development Group.

Staged at the Four Seasons Hotel, and steered by two-time chair Jennifer Johnston and a powerful group of social influencers and do-gooders, the ballroom was once again transformed into a golden party palace. Inspired by this year’s theme of Zen and mindfulness, attendees tucked into a menu of Asian-inspired cuisine before opening their big hearts and even bigger wallets.

The night’s special guests — Ginny Dennehy and youth champion Laura — shared their tearful stories of courage and strength. Dennehy’s world was turned upside down when her teenage son, dealing with deep depression, took his life. Laura was also fighting intense feelings of sadness and emptiness. Threatening to commit suicide, her parents immediately took her to B.C. Children’s Hospital for psychiatric care.

Laura’s story would have a happy ending. She started an undergraduate program at Queen’s University this fall following long-term care at the hospital’s pediatric mental health unit. She received the personalized attention and therapy she needed. Her mom Alison credits counselling and treatment for her daughter’s recovery and new outlook.

“Across the province, 84,000 children and youth are experiencing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, but 70 per cent are not receiving the care they need,” said Teri Nicholas, B.C. Children’s Hospital CEO, addressing the capacity crowd.  “And when they do, it can be years after the first symptoms are noticed. With your help we can change that.”

Gala-goers would respond in spades, first spending more than $250,000 in the live auction. The call for cash would see guests dig even deeper into their designer bags and billfolds. Donations ranging from $1,000-to-$250,000 rained down contributing another $1.25 million to the final tally. Last year, there were more than 16,000 visits to B.C. Children’s Hospital from kids who accessed mental health services.

Among the evening’s generous donors: Ayra and Hamid Eshghi, Lisa and Mike Hudson, Laurie and Barry Cavanaugh, Tracey and Brooke Wade, Pamela and David Richardson, Desha and Suki Sekhon, Diane and John Norton, Pixie and David Riddle, Priscilla Lam and Francis Lo, Stephanie Carlson, Maria Freeman, Stephanie Miller, Sherry Doman, Jacqui Prokopanko and Jura Kim.

After picking up the Non-Profit CEO of the Year Award the night before, Teri Nicholas escorted her husband Lee to the foundation’s flagship fundraiser at the Four Season’s Hotel.

B.C. Hospital Foundation chair Lisa Hudson thanked party chair Jennifer Johnston and her husband Scott Warren for their leadership.

Master of Ceremonies Chris Gailus thanked Ginny Dennehy for sharing her story of love, loss and survival. Dennehy lost her teenaged son, in the grips of depression, committed suicide, and her daughter from a heart attack.

Dr. Dzung Vo and clinical nurse Sabrina Gill took time away from B.C. Children’s to support the hospital’s biggest night.

Attendees Pao Yo Koo, Jura Kim, Sylvia Chen and Jane Young will rally the Asian community to support B.C. Children’s Hospital at their annual For Children We Care Gala February 16, 2019.

Carleen Pauliuk and Christy Zhang’s Modern Green firm were among twenty corporate partners and foundations that lent their generous support to the B.C. Children’s Hospital fundraiser.

Matthew Segal and Wilson Cross were among the city’s young leaders and philanthropists that lent their support to the mental health cause.

To Gordon With Love Gala

SMITH LEGACY: Gordon Smith, one of the country’s preeminent painters was honoured at a special event in recognition of his storied career and contributions to the visual arts. Smith, who turns 100 this year, was unfortunately a no-show at the To Gordon With Love luau organized at the Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre on the University of British Columbia’s Point Grey Campus. The centenarian however did offer greetings via live video from his West Vancouver Arthur-Erickson designed home, to the delight of guests — collectors, artists, gallery owners and arts enthusiasts — who assembled to toast him.

Fronted by business titans Peter and Joanne Brown and Michael Audain and his wife Yoshi Karasawa, yours truly along with CBC’s Gloria Macarenko emceed the tribute dinner, catered by David Hawksworth, a $500-a-ticket black-tie affair, held on the Remembrance Day weekend. Smith was also feted for his service to the country serving in the Second World War with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry.

Artists Douglas Coupland, Ian Wallace and Christos Dikeakos and retired Vancouver Art Gallery curator Ian Thom were among a list of luminaries who paid tribute to the celebrated artist and educator. Smith taught at UBC for 26 years before retiring in 1982. Several years later, Smith and his wife Marion, along with Bill Reid and Jack Shadbolt, established the Artists for Kids program, created to ensure kids had access to visual arts. Through the sale of original prints created by its artist patrons, a legacy fund was established to provide art education for the children of British Columbia.

The art program, which has enriched the lives of thousands of students of all ages every year, along with the Gordon Smith Gallery, the only gallery of its kind in Canada dedicated to young audiences, would get a significant financial boost after party guests donated more than $460,000 to honour the man of the hour. Audain and his wife led the way matching gifts up to $200,000. Others showing their love for Smith included art collector Paul Lee, gallery owner Andy Sylvester, and fellow artists Ross Penhall, Tiko Kerr, Dina Goldstein and Doria Moodie.

Gordon and Marion Smith Foundation board member Michele Becker and artist Christos Dikeakos attended the Gordon Smith celebration at UBC.

BIG LOVE: Artist and author Douglas Coupland, curator Daina Augaitus and collector Michael Audain were on hand to honour celebrated artist and art educator Gordon Smith.

Jim and Doria Moodie flanked event co-chair Yoshi Karasawa. Over $460,000 was raised from the To Gordon With Love tribute for the Gordon Smith Gallery for young audiences and Artists for Kids program.

Paul Lee and Andy Sylvester were among the many Gordon Smith fans that convened at the Robert H Lee Alumni Centre to raise a glass to the celebrated artist who will turn 100 this year. Smith continues to paint.

Bill MacDonald and Yolande Martinello’s Artists for Kids Program has enriched the lives of thousands of students of all ages year.

Growing Chefs Harvest Party

YOUNG SPROUTS: Yours truly, along with CBC’s Margaret Gallagher, hosted Growing Chefs Society’s’ ninth Farm to Forks Harvest Party, staged at the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts. Guided by executive director Helen Stortini and development director Jaydeen Williams, the Sunday night event drew some 120 supporters to the annual kitchen party. Joined by the province’s best chefs, bartenders, growers and producers, foodies enjoyed a fun-filled night of fine wine, craft beer, bespoke cocktails, and 10 delicious tasting stations sprinkled throughout the cooking school’s eight classroom kitchens.

The epicurean experience would ultimately raise more than $65,000 — a new fundraising standard for the charity’s classroom gardening and cooking program — giving children hands-on experience growing and preparing their own healthy, and nutritious food. Over 100 classrooms across B.C. have benefited from the grassroots effort thanks to the support of more than 150 chefs, growers, producers and community volunteers. Monies generated will play a crucial role in helping the outfit’s goal to reach more than 1,500 children across the province annually.

CBC’s Margaret Gallagher welcomed party guests including Iron Chef Canada judge Mijune Pak to the annual Harvest Party benefitting Growing Chefs Society.

GOOD FOOD: Growing Chefs Society executive director Helen Stortini and Julian Bond, vice-president and COO of the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts, thanked the 22 restaurants and 21 participating farms and growers for making the fundraiser the biggest yet.

Mary King of Hazelmere Organic Farms and Burdock and Co’s Andrea Carlson are among an army of volunteers that go into classrooms to teach kids about healthy eating and healthy food systems.

The Curious Oysters team of Richard Boucher and Ricky Alvarez were one of ten drink-paired food stations that greeted party guests at the Growing Chefs fundraiser on Granville Island.

NOURISHING PRIDE: Kahlil Baker, Gerry Burch, Charles Laszlo, Charles Fipke, Kathryn Shoemaker, James McEwen, Nemkumar Banthia, and Dale Parker were recently feted at the 2018 alumni UBC Achievement Awards, a leading date on the University of British Columbia social calendar. Perhaps not household names, their work has benefited people not only in British Columbia and the rest of Canada, but in countries around the world.

In Nicaragua, a young alumnus named Kahlil Baker is providing economic incentive to plant trees rather than clear land. Thousands of acres have been planted as a result of his efforts, and local people are able to make a living. As a forestry student, he benefited from the work of fellow recipient, Gerry Burch, who has been leading his profession, sharing his knowledge, and supporting the work of UBC’s Faculty of Forestry for decades.

Maybe you’re wearing a hearing aid that uses technology developed by Charles Laszlo. Or you’re wearing a diamond from Canada’s first commercial diamond mine, established by Charles Fipke. Maybe your kids are reading a book illustrated by Kathryn Shoemaker that they only have access to because of her efforts to promote quality literature for children. And if you’ve had orthopedic surgery over the past three decades, you would have benefited from a medical device developed by James McEwen.

Within a few years, you may be driving along a self-repairing road made of novel concrete developed by Nemkumar Banthia. Or perhaps you rely on the services of an organization — such as the B.C. Cancer agency, or the Vancouver Police Department — that has benefited from the organizational leadership and financial acumen of Parker. Even if you didn’t know them, lives have been improved as a result of the effort and achievements of UBC’s best and brightest.

“It’s people like them who shape our world,” shared Randy Findlay, chair of UBC’s alumni association. “Rather than passively experience history in the making, they act to influence its course toward better outcomes: a more stable climate, a stronger economy, new technologies, better health care and education, and better prospects for the poor and marginalized.”

As well as honouring their achievements, Fipke announced a landmark gift of $500,00 to UBC’s Blue and Gold Campaign, to provide promising students access to a life changing education. Paying it forward, Fipke addressing the capacity crowd at the Vancouver Convention Centre, recalled the $300 given to him by then UBC president Walter Gage to complete his studies. His gift, matched by the university, would contribute to the near $1.1 million raised for student support.

Joining Professor Santa Ono and senior UBC leadership, notable alumni in attendance included Ross Beaty, Bob Lee, Jane Young, Brad Bennett and Barbara Brink. In celebrating the great accomplishments of these individuals, we are also celebrating our UBC community, said Jeff Todd, alumni UBC executive director and Associate Vice President, Alumni. The night of celebration and recognition was sponsored by Boyden and emceed by CBC’s Lien Yeung.

Alumni UBC executive director Jeff Todd offered his congratulations to Nemkumar Banthia, recipient of the Global Citizenship Award. Banthia has developed a self-repairing road made of novel concrete.

Leslie Lee, chair of the selections committee, kibitzed with Charles Laszlo, a champion of accessibility and inclusiveness for those with hearing loss and cofounder of many companies specializing in the development of hearing aids.

Sponsor of the alumni UBC awards dinner, Brent Cameron of Boyden Executive Search, and Randy Findlay, chair of UBC’s alumni association, raised a glass to the evening’s eight outstanding recipients.

Accompanied by her husband Craig Ryomoto, UBC journalism grad and CBC news anchor Lien Yeung emceed the black tie dinner and auction at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

UBC Okanagan student president Amal Alhuwayshil and UBC student present Marium Hamid attended the annual awards dinner. Almost $1.1 million was raised for financial student support.

Brenda Burch accompanied her dad Gerry Burch, honoured for leading his profession, sharing his knowledge, and supporting the work of UBC’s Faculty of Forestry for decades.

Studying Civil Engineering, UBC student Erica Mason, recipient of financial aid, wants to use her education to support the development of more livable and sustainable cities. She attended the formal affair with her mom Heidi.

UBC president Santa Ono and his wife Wendy Yip helped celebrate UBC’s best and brightest at the Alumni Achievement Awards.

Liverlight gala

A DAUGHTER’S GIFT: In 2008, Arran Stephens, founder and president of Nature’s Path Organic Foods, learned he was in dire need of a liver transplant. Blood tests would reveal his daughter Gurdeep was a perfect match. Not wanting to put their daughter, a young mother of two, at risk, Arran and his wife Ratana refused their daughter’s selfless offer.

Gurdeep’s grandmother had died decades earlier due to complications of the same liver disorder. The Stephens were hoping a cadaver liver would be available. To no avail, three years later, in early 2011, as Arran’s health progressed from worse to catastrophic, he would acquiesce and accepted his daughter’s gift of life.

The family — recently feted at the Canadian Liver Foundation’s 15th annual LiveRight Gala — shared their very personal story with 700 guests who convened for the black-tie dinner and auction in support of liver research and education. One of six LiveRight events held across the country, Drs. Francis Ho and Charles Scudamore, Emily Lin, and Winnie Yen fronted the B.C. and Yukon chapter’s gala-do held at the Hotel Vancouver.

The Scotiabank-sponsored night recognized benefactors for the cause, liver specialists and those who have been affected by liver disease. The Stephen’s story compelled many to give. Philanthropists Sonny and Florence Leong — longtime gala supporters — would once again lead the way with a $100,000 gift. April LaPointe and John Harper would follow suit with a family donation of $80,000. Lorne and Melita Segal added another $15,000.

Grateful for their ‘modern medical miracle’, the Stephens further added $75,000 to the night’s tally. By evening’s end, CLF treasurer Canon Fung announced more than $735,000 was raised to fund groundbreaking research to transform the future of individuals — young and old — affected by liver disease. Reportedly, one in 10 people — almost four million Canadians — are affected by liver disease.

“I am heartened to see such generosity. The support enables the Canadian Liver Foundation to bring liver research to life for all Canadians and to promote knowledge and awareness about liver disease in the community,” says Ho.

The Stephens Family – Pascal Courty, Gurdeep, Arran and Ratana – shared their liver journey with guests at the annual Live Right Gala. Arran’s daughter Gurdeep provided the healthy liver tissue required for transplant success.

Global B.C. news anchor Anne Drewa emceed Monica Chui’s 15th annual Live Right Gala. Presented by the Canadian Liver Foundation, the national fundraising initiative aims to raise awareness and funds for liver research.

Party chairs Emily Lin and Winnie Yen saw their LiveRight Gala generate more than $735,00 for groundbreaking liver research and education initiatives.

Surgical expert in liver transplantation, Dr. Charles Scudamore feted LiveRight Gala honourees Dr. Nilu Partovi and Dr. Trana Hussaini.

Philanthropists Melita and Lorne Segal were among the many benefactors that helped transform the future of individuals affected by liver disease.