EDMONTON CHAPTER REPORT 2003

The Edmonton Chapter of The Ireland Fund of Canada held their 10th Annual Emerald Ball on Saturday March 15th at the Crowne Plaza Chateau Lacombe in Edmonton. The event was attended by about two hundred revelers including His Worship Mayor Bill Smith and The Honourable Mark Norris, Provincial Minister for Economic Development.

Minister Norris entertained the guests with his singing of Danny Boy, an event for which the audience paid generously. We also had the delightful experience of being entertained by The Slappyfeather Whistle Nose Flute Ensemble (yes! that's right), and dancers from The Knock School of Irish Dancing. We will all be able to see the Flute Ensemble soon again on the David Letterman Show - but we got them first!

Following a sumptuous meal, our guest speaker, Ms. Patti Barrett, Chef de Mission for the Canadian team that will be participating in the Special Olympics in Dublin in June, spoke very eloquently to the crowd. Patti then introduced Davey Surow, a special athlete who managed to enthrall the appreciative audience. The 2003 Special Olympics Summer Games are being supported by The Ireland Funds on a worldwide basis.

Our auctions - both live and silent - were a huge success. We want to thank all those who contributed so generously in so many ways, particularly our major sponsors and the donors of the auction items.

As always, the evening was capped with some wonderful dancing, right into the small wee hours. We look forward to an even bigger and better event next year! Go raibh míle maith agaibh.

- Doodie Cahill, Ottawa Chapter