Report from past President of the Canadian Association of Optometrists,
Dr. Pasqualino Marcantonio

On Saturday June 20, at the luxurious Grande Dame of BC hotels, The Hotel Vancouver, TWECS held its biannual Eye Ball.

Recently, I became involved with TWECS when I took part in the Philippines project last November. The team members on that trip bonded particularly well. We kept in touch and decided to have a reunion as part of attending the Eye Ball.

Our reserved table had attendees from Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Northern B.C. and Manila as well as locals from Vancouver.

My initial trepidation on arrival melted away as soon as I saw members of my team and we immediately began to relive the trip. I was also pleasantly surprised to find other colleagues from CAO days present such at Jack Williams and Paul Jeneau.

It was a grand opportunity to wear that tuxedo I had stashed forever in the back of my closet. Everyone was dressed to the nines!

I am told the ball was sold out and people were trying to get tickets from people with tickets but who were unable to attend.

I was quite impressed with the silent auction items on offer and immediately put a bid on a copy of "Dreams of my Father" signed by the author, PRESIDENT BARAK OBAMA!

I also bid on a fabulous case of BC wine and a lovely pink pearl necklace. Unfortunately, I was outbid on all my items.

My colleagues in BC must make a lot more money than we poor odds from the Maritimes! As I recall, Obama's signed book went for over $1200. It will surely become a cherished heirloom for some lucky family.

Besides the many restaurants and beauty spas on offer, there were several golf and other sport trips to be had as well as an abundance of signed photos including Mick Jagger and other celebrities.

Following a short film on highlights of the Vietnam trip in 2007, an excellent 4-course dinner was served with wines and all topped off with dancing into the wee hours.

It was mentioned there might not be another Eye Ball due to the extraordinary efforts required by volunteers to put on such an event. But if there is another one, I will be sure to attend. Even if just an excuse to pull out that tuxedo from the back of the closet again!

Pasq Marcantonio, OD
Moncton, NB