It’s called a “Therapeutic Community” and it works. Inspired and modelled on the San Patrignano community in Italy, the Baldy Hughes centre is a highly-effective, year-long addiction treatment facility located outside Prince George. It was brought to life by former West Vancouver businessman and founding member Kevin England and a team of philanthropic citizens who are part of the BC New Hope Recovery Society. Their mandate, treat addiction while emphasizing a return to positive citizenship. “Being part of something greater than themselves and being held accountable – often for the first time in their lives – is a transformational experience for these men, many who were thought to be beyond hope” says England. Last month, a Gratitude Celebration Gala was held at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver featuring Juno-award winning singer Chantal Kreviazuk. With passion and grace, Kreviazuk helped the society raise money for the ongoing support of this facility which is offered free of charge to qualifying men in need of support. For more information please visit www.baldyhughes.ca
01 – Kevin England and his children welcome singer Chatal Kreviazuk to their table prior to her performance. From left: Tiffany England, dad Kevin England, Chatal Kreviazuk, Chantelle England and Lucas England.
02 – Enjoying the show are Elpie Jackson, left, RBC manager Hanif Mamdami and Christine Quigg.
03 – Baldy Hughes gala organizers Maria Zumpano, left, Samantha Sayer and Shelby Lloyd-Smith deserve a big round of applause for all their hard work.
04 – Real Housewives of Vancouver star Mary Zilba and son Cole are among the VIPs in attendance at Baldy Hughes.
05 – West Vancouver lawyer Nicole Garton-Jones shares a table with Park Royal Wear Else clothing store owner Zahra Mamdami.
06 – Making the trip from the North Shore are Dante Godinho, left, lawyer Rory Godinho and Cameron Langlois.
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By Catherine Barr – July 2012
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Aug 1, 2012
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It was a night of full throttle glitz and glamour last weekend as the 7th Annual Brian Jessel BMW Charity Gala “Cabriolet” was held. Featuring a live performance by “The Voice” star and musician CeeLo Green, the evening helped raise funds for Arts Umbrella, Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation and the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation. Lots of North Shore folks were in attendance to lend their support as they enjoyed a night of food, cocktails, auction items and socializing.
It was a get gorgeous gala last week as the Pretty Please spring cosmetics and fragrance event was held at The Bay, Park Royal in West Vancouver. With designer names like Prada, Chanel, Dior and Gucci, everyone got a chance to feel pampered and glamorous. Makeovers, product displays, samples and demonstrations helped round out the evening which was held in support of the Look Good, Feel Better charity which is Canada’s only national cancer charity helping women feel better about their appearances as they go through treatment. Also, Real Housewives of Vancouver star Mary Zilba held a special charity event in honour of Purple Day and the fight against epilepsy. As an official “Purple Day Ambassador” and mother, the reality tv star raised money at the launch of her newest single “Hero” – a song she wrote in honour of her son Chase and his battle with the disease. Chase also accompanied her on stage.
Jody Claman and her daughter Mia are two of West Vancouver most notable socialites who are well-known for their culinary catering and chic fashion businesses. This week, it was 25 year-old daughter Mia’s turn to take centre stage as she debuted her MIA “Missing In Action” Claman Couture line at their Glass House boutique store in Ambleside. A reality camera crew was on hand to capture all the action as the mother / daughter team welcomed VIP friends and family to a night that delighted all the senses. Look for the reality show to debut in April 2012.