Fireworks Opening Night






IT took a lot of doing, but they're back. The opening night of the Celebration of Light, formerly known as the Symphony of Fire, took place this past Saturday night. It was South Africa's turn to impress the judges on the first of four nights of pyrotechnic prowess and they did not disappoint. All the VIP's came out to kick-off the event at the Boathouse at English Bay with a cocktail party, five course dinner and more. It was an evening to remember as Vancouver stepped up to the plate to keep this popular event afloat. In my opinion, it was the best fireworks display I've seen in ten years, and there's still more to come. Take in the show for yourself along West Vancouver's waterfront tonight.


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Vancouver police chief Terry Blythe (left) got handcuffed for fun by six-year RCMP member Kevin Bayrakdarian.

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From left: West Vancouver boys Mike Callaghan and Bill Crawford, senior VP of marketing for HSBC, are on the board of directors for the fireworks festival society alongside head judge and former CKNW assistant GM John Plul.

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West Vancouver mayor Ron Wood and his wife Jo-Ann shared a romantic table on the rooftop deck.

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North Van District mayor Don Bell is a lucky man to have beautiful Mirta Bell at his side.

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Canadian Olympic gold medalist and champion wrestler Daniel Igali (left) touched our hearts with his victory lap around the Canada flag in Sydney, Australia. He joined BC Hydro's Senior VP and West Vancouverite Shawn Thomas before the show.

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BCTV's most popular sports announcer, Squire Barnes (centre), was happy to have guests Claire Martin (left) and Susan Lee join him for dinner.

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BCTV news anchors and fellow roomates Tara Nelson (left) and Jill Krop were part of the action. Jill is one of this year's judges.

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Look for popular newsman and CKNW talk radio host Bill Good on VTV (CTV) this September. Seen here with wife Georgy, they make their home here on the North Shore.

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West Vancouver's Graham and Angela Lee were among the invited guests and dignitaries.

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Rock 101 knows where it's at. Promotions duo Colin Whiteside (from left) and Tracy Anderson joined DJ Kevin Hayes who will be hosting the event live every night down in the bay.

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They are men of influence and style. Tom Chan (left), the man behind UBC's Chan Centre, and Pacific Press president and publisher Dennis Skulsky both work hard to put Vancouver on the map.

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North Van's Gail Honey (right) joined her aunt, Josie Topham of the Big Bam Boo, for the night. Gail's the widow of popular radio host Rick Honey who will forever be remembered with love.


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Page created by Catherine Barr on 30/07/2001