Concerns that the inaugural Tri-Services Regimental Ball might be cancelled because of slow ticket sales did not materialize and the fundraiser — although not sold out — was nevertheless well supported.
About 150 people were at the Sundre Community Centre on Saturday, May 5 to support the first-ever event benefiting Chinook Arch Victim's Services Society, Sundre Volunteer Search and Rescue Society as well as the renewed Sundre Citizens on Patrol Association.
“We are already looking at $5,000 in the plus from corporate sponsorship and I hope from tonight’s evening that we’re going to end up with much bigger than that,” said Sgt. Jim Lank, who also praised the efforts of the committee and volunteers who contributed to making possible the fundraiser.
The semi-formal evening, which was decorated by the lead effort of Moe Fahey, also served as an opportunity to recognize the selfless commitment of responders among the ranks of the RCMP and peace officers, EMS and the Sundre Fire Department.
“You have common shared values. You have each decided that you will dedicate your lives to the service of others. You are prepared to take on sights that can’t be unseen. Experiences that may forever haunt you. And you put yourselves in harm’s way in service to your fellow man,” said Mayor Terry Leslie, who was among numerous officials and dignitaries to address the crowd.
“You are heroes and mentors to kids, to adults and to seniors in our community.”
The event, which was in part fashioned after a traditional RCMP regimental ball, featured a complimentary photo booth, door prizes and a 50-50 draw, live music by Doghouse and a dance floor that couples were not shy to use, a silent auction as well as a catered supper and a photo slideshow presentation prepared by Les Larson that cycled on a projection screen. A lone, vacant special ceremonial round table was also set up to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
“Let us remember, and never forget their sacrifice,” said master of ceremonies Nigel ‘Dusty’ Miller, a retired RCMP officer who served 26 years, before the supper during a toast to fallen comrades.
Judy Bargholz and Wendy Goodall led the singing of the anthem, with Lank sharing some opening remarks followed by a toast to the Queen presented by Cpl. Joe Mandel as well as a salute to first responders offered by the Sundre RCMP detachment’s newest member, Const. Codi Lewald.
Also providing some thoughts were the following: Marty Butts, Sundre’s fire chief; Lisa Edwardson, representing EMS; Sgt. Terri Miller, association of community peace officers; Rhonda Kearns, Chinook Arch Victim's Services; Doug Turner, Sundre Volunteer Search and Rescue; Jack Goodall, Sundre Citizens on Patrol Association; and Mayor Leslie.
“I’ve never seen so many first responders in one room at any time at any place,” said Leslie, going on to praise members and volunteers of all the agencies that work diligently in service to making their communities a better, safer place to live.
“We thank you and your family members and friends for their sacrifices. They watch you report to duty each shift knowing the risks and dangers, yet accepting this as your choice to serve your community.”
The mayor also presented a plaque and paid tribute to Lank, who following 30 years of service with the RCMP will soon be retiring, prompting one of many standing ovations throughout the evening. See a coming issue for a feature on the sergeant.
“Thank you for the priceless gift of peace of mind while we sleep,” said Leslie to Lank.
“You truly are a hero and a credit to your profession.”
The sergeant said Sundre stands out as his favourite posting among the six detachments he served over three decades, and that he intends to enjoy his retirement as well as remain rooted in the area.
Despite property crimes that have affected all of Alberta — some towns much more so than Sundre — Lank said, “We still have a beautiful, beautiful community. And that’s why I came back.”
After the formal presentations, live music began and the dance floor opened. At the end of the ball, which continued until about 2 a.m., members of the McDougall Chapel Youth Group provided safe rides home for anyone who needed a lift.
