In praise of bright ideas

Lovers of art and aficionados of classic Canadian and British music gathered at the Hyatt on Nov. 28 to join host Jim Kinnear to celebrate creativity and innovation — all the while supporting the cornerstone meeting facility at The Banff Centre — the Kinnear Centre for Creativity and Innovation.

Readers may recall the centre was officially opened in July 2010 by HRH The Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex. Kinnear, founder and president of Kinnear Financial and founder of Pengrowth Energy Trust is well known for his support of myriad causes and his annual Stampede party is legendary.

Highlights of the fete were numerous, including amazing silent auction items, as well as a selection of art pieces from well-known Canadian artists the likes of John Little, Horace Champagne and George Horvath. Entertainment provided by Beverley Mahood, John McDermott, trumpet virtuoso Jens Lindemann and U.K.based Rod Stewart tribute artist Gary Pease ensured the select group of guests had a wonderful evening.

In attendance this night were: British ConsulGeneral Tony Kay and his wife Michelle Kay; Federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty; senator–in-waiting and chair of the Calgary police commission Mike Shaikh and his wife Linda; Kinnear Financial’s Chuck Selby and his wife Jocelyn; and others pictured at right.