Chamber of Commerce Chair’s Dinner

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the 2016 Chair’s Dinner at the St. Albert Inn.  More than 170 guests witnessed Mayor Nolan Crouse conduct the swearing in ceremony of Ken Macrae (as Chair) and Brian Bachynski (as 1^st Vice-Chair).

The evening highlight was the swearing in and signing ceremony presided by St. Albert Mayor Nolan Crouse (right) who oversaw Ken Macrae (left) installed as the 2016 Chair and Brian Bachynski (centre) as 1st Vice-Chair.

It was -31 outside, but everyone was warmly greeted in the Heritage Room. Upon arrival, each guest was given a complimentary glass of champagne and a passport. The event theme was “Around the World with the Macraes”, which featured five areas set up to honour the travels of the Macrae family: North America, South America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia. Each of the five areas had fun activities to help everyone experience a virtual trip around the world.

To make it seem like a real travel experience, participants handed over their passports to friendly hosts at each activity booth.  After the passport was given a “custom stamp”, the fun began.  Activities included a funny money casino, a Cuban dance team teaching basic salsa steps and a flair bartender mesmerizing guests with their skills at whipping up a South American cocktail.  Other stops were a Chinese knot-tying and clay art activity and a sommelier teaching the fine art of wine drinking.

Immediately following the delicious buffet dinner, the Hong De Cultural & Athletic Association performed with traditional Chinese drums and two dragons that interacted with laughing guests.  It seemed everyone had their smart phones out to snap pictures!

Master of Ceremonies John Farlinger (a former CFL champ) introduced three local elected officials, each who spoke briefly.  They were Member of Parliament Michael Cooper, MLA Marie Renaud, MLA Trevor Horne and Mayor Nolan Crouse.  Without any further ado, Mayor Crouse, wearing his chain of office, called the two new Chamber chairs to the stage.  He conducted the swearing in ceremony that included the two new Chairs reading aloud their oaths of office.

Moments later, Curtis Labelle & Friends performed a lively rendition of “There’s No Business Like Show Business”, and other popular songs – much to the delight of audience members.  Mayor Crouse took to the stage again worked his tongue twisting magic as auctioneer of a painting finished moments before by local artist Lewis Lavoie.  The impressive work depicts Perron Street in downtown St. Albert. 

After much applause, everyone carried on with their virtual global trek by visiting the five activity areas.   Congratulations to the event organizers and sponsors for hosting such a terrific evening!

Grant Cree is an Edmonton-based photojournalist specializing in photo and video event coverage to help clients connect with their audiences. www.grantcree.ca  780-940-3228

St. Albert artist lovingly applies finishing touches to his masterpiece depicting Perron Street.

Members of the Hong De Cultural & Athletic Association perform.

Guests at the 2016 Chamber Chair event.

Master of Ceremonies John Farlinger (left) holds the painting finished moments earlier by St. Albert artist Lewis Lavoie (right) which was later auctioned off by Mayor Nolan Crouse.