The Thirty-First Annual Fire Fighters Charity Banquet and Ball

Last night at the Annual Fire Fighters Charity Ball, a large number of people turned out to support the Firefighters Burn Fund. The Burn Fund is very important; I know because I worked at the Children's Hospital for many years and the burn fund was critical to ensure chidren who had burns received the very best care possible. I want to say a personal thanks to all who came to support this important cause.

Master of Ceremonies, Laurie Mustard kept everyone in good spirits with his entertaining interventions. Most appreciated (as well as the jokes) were the updates on the Blue Bomber football score - especially when Winnipeg was ahead and it was close to the end of the game. IN the top photo, the Ena Sutton dancers also provided welcome entertainment to the full room.

One might have guessed there was a Civic election coming up with all the councillors in attendance. Franco Magnifico, Gord Steeves, Justin Swandel and Russ Wyatt were all there - and working the room for votes. Even aspiring city councillor - Kelly DeGroot (running in the St. Charles ward) was present. In the bottom photo, Kelly (centre), and her husband Fred (who happens to be a fire fighter) chats with my wife Naomi.

Congratulations to United Fire Fighters of Winnipeg President Alex Forrest and all those who contributed to making this event such a success.