Brag Night draws sold-out crowd in support of community fundraising efforts

By Haylee Winger
The Morinville Fish & Game Association, in partnership with the Rotary Club of
Morinville/Sturgeon, hosted the 31st annual Brag Night dinner and auction at the Morinville
Leisure Centre on Saturday, April 18.
The sold-out event drew a crowd of 600 attendees, including several dignitaries. Among those
present were Michael Cooper, Sturgeon County Mayor Alanna Hnatiw, and Morinville Mayor
Simon Boersma. Councillors Jenn Anheliger, Lisa Parenteau and Jayson Wood were also in
attendance.
Guests explored more than 300 silent auction items, with offerings ranging from kitchen
appliances and jewelry to garage equipment, clothing, wooden benches, and art décor. The
variety encouraged attendees to circulate throughout the venue to monitor and place bids.
The evening’s live auction featured 27 items and was led by auctioneer Mike Wowk, supported
by assistants both on stage and in the crowd. One unique item included a live performance of the
national anthem by Rob Clarke, known for his performances at Edmonton Oilers games.
Among the top bids of the night, a handcrafted wine barrel liquor cabinet with LED lighting and
included spirits sold for more than $4,500. The highest bid—exceeding $6,500—was placed on a
painting by Alberta artist Lewis Lavoie. The purchaser dedicated the piece in memory of his
wife, Carla.
Lavoie, who grew up in Sturgeon County, is recognized for his dinosaur artwork and live art
performances. He began the evening with a blank canvas and completed the painting in time for
it to be auctioned. In recent years, he has led community mosaic mural projects locally and
internationally and has created hundreds of murals across the United States, including works tied
to the country’s 250th anniversary.
Additional live auction items included a “Night Moves-Cougar” limited edition print, a Jaison
EBS 26-inch electric adult bike, an “Along the Trail” Flowers for a Year edition print, a race car
drag racing experience with Twisted Motorsports, a four-piece lawn care package, and a “Tall
Grass Tiger” limited edition print.
A highlight of the evening was a special recognition of Darcy McLaughlin and Lori McLaughlin
for more than two decades of involvement in organizing Brag Night. The acknowledgment was
met with a standing ovation.
Emcee Joe Dwyer noted that what began as a simple idea has grown into a highly anticipated
annual tradition, crediting Darcy McLaughlin’s vision and dedication. He highlighted
McLaughlin’s role in building partnerships, securing auction items, and helping expand the event
to more than 500 attendees, with annual fundraising totals exceeding $50,000 in support of the
community.

Lori McLaughlin expressed appreciation to those who have supported the event over its 31-year
history, including sponsors and attendees. She also recognized the Rotary Club of
Morinville/Sturgeon for stepping up as Darcy McLaughlin prepares to step down for personal
reasons, noting the significant effort required to organize the event.
Darcy McLaughlin briefly addressed the audience, offering thanks to Garry Kayln, who
mentored him when he first became involved with Brag Night decades ago.