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Ottawa Citizen

Community Builders: Riverkeeper Gala

A soft mist hung in the air and raindrops tapped gently on the tent roof, but spirits soared as more than 350 guests gathered at Jacques Cartier Park on Wednesday, May 21, for the Ottawa Riverkeeper Gala — an evening bursting with joy, connection and purpose. Article content The highly anticipated gala raised $330,000 in support of a swimmable, drinkable, fishable Ottawa River watershed — a cause close to many hearts. Article content Article content 'I moved to this watershed. I did the math almost five decades ago, and my life has flowed alongside the mighty Ottawa River,' said Colleen Westeinde, chair of Ottawa Riverkeeper board. 'I want to ensure that my grandchildren and yours can swim, drink and fish in healthy rivers.' Article content Though unable to attend in person, celebrated Canadian journalist and author Roy MacGregor was warmly recognized during the evening's speeches as this year's Honorary Riverkeeper. Known for his deep love of Canada's waterways and his passion for paddling them by canoe, MacGregor joins a distinguished group of water protection champions. Article content The tent was alive with energy: laughter echoed, feet pounded the dance floor and brass beats bounced through the misty evening air. Guests in river chic attire twirled, clapped and cheered, fuelled by the sheer joy of being together. Every step and every smile was a celebration of the river, of connection and of the shared commitment to protect something cherished. Article content Article content Member of Parliament Evan Solomon called water 'the foundation for all of our thriving communities,' while Riverkeeper and CEO Laura Reinsborough shared the impact of the evening: 'you're funding science programs, advocacy and outreach work so that all the decision-makers you're mingling with tonight know what they can do to protect the river.' Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content