There were police cars everywhere, sirens, flashing lights, and even live gunfire. The Vancouver Police Foundation’s Night Patrol Gala was held last week at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Riot police and helicopters escorted guests to their tables just before emergency responders arrived with dogs and machine guns to put on a very realistic hostage takedown. It was an exciting beginning to a night that also honoured the VPD’s Vancouver Police Pipe Band on their 100th anniversary. After the dinner and live auction, West Vancouver’s famous singer/songwriter Sarah McLachlan entertained alongside members of the pipe band. A magical evening that won’t soon be forgotten.

– – –
01 – Big round of applause for Vancouver Police Foundation trustee and event co-chairs Ryan Beedie and wife Cindy for all their hard work.
02 – Vancouver Police Pipe Band drummer Ed Wagstaff is all smiles as he meets Global TV weather forecaster and North Van gal Kristi Gordon.
03 – Vancouver Police superintendent Jeff Sim, left, joins West Vancouver’s Wendy and Sergio Cocchia.
04 – Looking gorgeous and glam, West Vancouver socialites Sharlene Ludwig, left, and Janelle Washington set off all the police sirens.
05 – West Vancouverites Kristy Brinkley, left, and Janis O’Sullivan chat during the cocktail reception.
06 – Upping the bids for charity, Maynard’s auctioneer Barry Scott and West Van’s Eric Savics are among the invited guests.
– – –
By Catherine Barr – February 25, 2014
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Mar 6, 2014
– – –
– – –

The Golden Heart award is Variety – The Children’s Charity’s “most prestigious mark of distinction”. Every year, at this elegant gala affair, groups and individuals are honoured for their commitment to excellence and for their philanthropic contributions to British Columbians. This year, it was time to honour Global TV BC for over 50 years of service. From their first on-air broadcast on Oct 31, 1960 to their work with the Show of Hearts Telethon, they have become a household name and a leader in all they do. Here’s a toast to some of the many North Shore citizens who are part of this success story. Congrats to all involved.
Unique, artful and fun is the best way to describe “Bust – An Art Social”. Hosted by Global TV weather girl Kristi Gordon and a flock of female friends, this tasteful and titillating evening featuring inspired artworks by artists from all over BC. A silent auction, live entertainment and dancing rounded out the night with all the proceeds going to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. Next, it was time for the Hot Chefs, Cool Jazz event as Bocue d’Or candidate chef Ryan Stone took his bows at center stage amidst the many food and wine stations set up at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Funds raised here go to support Ryans’ bid to compete with the best in January 2011.
Two great Saturday night galas make headlines this week. First up, Wine on the Mountain was quite literally a “feast for the senses” as guests rode to the top of a snow covered Grouse Mountain to enjoy food and wine, live music and auctions in support of Adoptive Families Association of BC. Next, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation celebrated the 10th anniversary of their Rockin’ for Research gala with a spectacular night at the Hyatt featuring live performances by Loverboy, Chilliwack, Bill Henderson and Paul Hyde.
Time is something we all take for granted – but for a sick child, time is the most precious gift of all. The Canucks Place Children’s Hospice – Gift of Time Gala celebrated their fourth annual event last week at the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver. Always special, the beautiful ballroom was decorated to the nines and included special table centrepieces hand made by the children under the direction of artist Jolinda Linden, sister-in-law to Canucks superstar Trevor Linden. Business leaders, VIPs and supporters all gave generously to attend the star-studded evening that also included a special performance by surprise celebrity musical guest Chantal Kreviazuk.