Politicians and friends gathered in St. John's, N.L., in March to remember and celebrate the public service of John Crosbie, Newfoundland and Labrador's former lieutenant governor, and his wife, Jane. Organized by the Rotary Club of St. John's Northwest, the gala dinner and silent auction raised funds for The Salvation Army, Hope Air and other charities chosen by the club.

The ballroom in the Delta Hotel was filled to capacity. Notable guests included former prime minister Jean Chrétien; former prime minister Joe Clark and his wife, Maureen McTeer; former premier of Newfoundland and Labrador Brian Tobin; and Canadian commentator and author Rex Murphy. Each brought their unique blend of humour and raconteur to the evening as they toasted and roasted John Crosbie for his many years of serving Canada in local, provincial and federal politics. From the days of Joey Smallwood to the shortened life of Joe Clark's conservative government in 1989, Crosbie played a significant role in the theatre of Canadian politics. His wife and confidante of 62 years at his side, John expressed heart-felt appreciation to the many well-wishers for their personal support.

Lt-Colonel Douglas Hefford, divisional commander, Newfoundland and Labrador Division, was on hand to meet with media and explain briefly to everyone gathered The Salvation Army's plans for rebuilding the New Hope Community Centre, which is designed to serve the city's vulnerable citizens. The division is presently involved in a feasibility study to determine the level of support from the community for this multi-million-dollar project. The gala dinner in honour of the Crosbies provided a wonderful platform to bring to the fore the ongoing work of The Salvation Army in St. John's.

Former prime minister Jean Chretien meets with Salvation Army leaders at a gala dinner honouring John and Jane Crosbie