EESFC Toronto Cruise

Seventh annual event offers unique experience for a cause aboard the Showboat.

Approximately 100 guests took in the sights and sounds of the downtown Toronto waterfront during the Elevator Escalator Safety Foundation of Canada’s (EESFC) Seventh Annual Toronto Harbor Cruise on August 13. “We had a wonderful time,” stated Catharine Bothwell, executive director of the Canadian Elevator Contractors Association. “The weather was nice, and we saw the CN Tower. I was too busy talking to take note of all the beautiful sights!”

There was plenty of networking happening before, during and after the three-hour tour, which took place aboard the recently renovated Showboat – a vessel that boasts “all the magic and magnetism of a paddle wheeler from the Old South,” according to Mariposa Cruises. Able to accommodate up to 150 people, the boat is outfitted with a climate-controlled main dining deck, LED lighting and an impressive sound system.

Guests enjoyed drinks from the bar, then dined on a buffet dinner featuring an array of gourmet salads, a roast-beef carving station, herb-grilled chicken and fish and various side dishes and desserts, including fresh fruit with chocolate fondue. Later, the lights were dimmed, and guests hit the floor to dance to pop and classic rock tunes.

The temperature barely cracked 80°F before dropping as a smattering of clouds produced a stunning sunset and the stars came out. The cruise offered views of not only downtown, the harbor and Lake Ontario, but also of the area’s tranquil waterways.

Platinum sponsors were the Alberta Elevating Devices Amusement Rides Safety Association, ATV Beckett Elevator, GAL Canada and Wurtec; Gold sponsors were Adams Elevator Equipment Co., Alcor Elevator Ltd., EHC Global Inc., K Elevator Cabs Ltd., Rapley & Co. and Solucore Inc.; and Silver sponsors were Elator, Formula Systems North America, Premier Elevator and The Insurance Market.

EESFC Chairman Gord Pattison said the strong turnout was a testament to the industry’s belief in the foundation, stating:

“It was great to see so many old friends attend our Toronto Harbor Cruise. This is our single biggest fundraiser in Canada, and it looks like this year will be our biggest event ever in terms of dollars raised. We look forward to the new digital program and its rollout in late 2015. Thanks to all my fellow board members for their commitment to EESFC, as well as to (the EESF’s) Laurie (Dueitt) and Nikole (Layton) for their support. Many thanks to all our sponsors and guests as well as all attendees of the seventh annual cruise.”