Wednesday Night #1305 – Stanley Baker

Stanley Baker‘s account in the Westmount Examiner

Last Wednesday, the home of David and Diana Nicholson was bursting at the seams, as about 100 formally dressed guests gathered to celebrate the 25th year of their Wednesday Night salons-a discussion group that addresses current events with input from invited guests.

Tributes to David and Diana on this auspicious event [25th year] were read from Governor-General Michaëlle Jean , as well as Jean Charest and Stéphane Dion – both of whom have attended Wednesday Nights – as well as other luminaries.
During the past 25 years, Wednesday Nighters have included many diplomats, bankers, mayors, as well as leaders in professions and commerce. Among the guests last Wednesday were Margaret Lefebvre, Ron Meisels, David Berger, Gerald Ratzer, Julius Grey and Allan Mass.
After the imbibing of plentiful libations and refreshments, the formal programme started and was emceed by former Westmount mayor Peter Trent. There was a musical tribute by Roslyn Takeishi and Christopher van Soest.
This was followed by a Wednesday Night Retrospective,created by Brian Morel.
However, the pièce de resistance of the evening was presented by Trent with John Ciaccia on the piano and the Wednesday Night Singers performing ‘Whom to Invite Next Wednesday Night?’. The ingenious lyrics, which mentioned many of those present, were the work of Trent. The Nicholson offspring, Fiona and Marc, spoke about growing up in such an erudite and worldly environment.
There was a unanimous toast to David and Diana, to which they both responded in their usual brilliant way.
It was indeed a memorable evening, honouring the Nicholsons for their continued hosting a Wednesday Night Salon for 25 years. Those present expressed their heartfelt thanks to them, with the hope that this Westmount tradition will be with us for many years to come.