The Athletics for Kids boxing gala is one of the most special fund raising events of the year. In addition to being treated to a formal night out, guests enjoy a martini cocktail reception, followed by sit-down dinner and then three rounds of live sanctioned boxing. A live and silent auction, plus a fun money post-party casino, help round out a night of fundraising for kids who otherwise could not afford to participate in organized sports.
Celebrities in town this month brought out the who’s who of the North Shore and Vancouver. First up, a visit by one of the most powerful ladies in the U.S., Hillary Clinton. The Vancouver Board of Trade / Women’s Leadership Circle event was one of the most successful events ever held by the board. A private VIP meet and greet and then after event reception allowed everyone to talk about the lady that very well may become the next President of the United States. Next up, actor/comedian Dan Aykroyd played bartender to an invited list of guests at the Vancouver Club as part of a special Crystal Head Vodka launch event. Entertaining and personable, it was a joy to interview him about his career, his famous friends and his cocktails.
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01 – We talked about movies, the early days on Saturday Night Live and the recent death of friend and Ghostbuster co-star Harold Ramis. Cheers to actor Dan Aykroyd on his new Crystal Head Vodka product.
02 – Shaw TV host Fiona Forbes raises a toast with a delicious Crystal Head martini freshly shaken by actor Dan Aykroyd.
03 – Seen in the VIP lounge at the Hillary Clinton event, Board of Trade CEO Iain Black and his father Stewart greet guests before the speech.
04 – Chatting after the Hillary Clinton event at a special after-reception are judge/politician Wall Opal, left, and Turner Media Canada Ltd and West Vancouverite Craig Turner.
05 – Muddling fruit and vodka alongside actor Dan Aykroyd, CTV weatherman and North Vancouverite Marke Dreisschen mixes and mingles at the Crystal Head Vodka event.
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By Catherine Barr – March, 2014
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Mar 27, 2014
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Get out your date books because it’s time for Part 2 of my look ahead to 2013 and all the best Vancouver gala events and charity fundraisers. So as you get ready to pencil in your glam plan remember the following: 1 – Every little bit helps when it comes to charity giving. 2 – Even if you can’t give money, you can give your time as all organizations need volunteers and helpers. 3 – Silent auctions make a great place to shop for gifts. 4 – All men look great in a tuxedo. 5 – There’s no such thing as too many sparkles. Thanks everyone and don’t forget to send me your upcoming event details at www.catherinebarr.com – the photos are on me!
01 – Vancouver Canucks hockey heroes Roberto Luongo, left, and Trevor Linden are both members already, but who will be inducted into the BC Sports Hall of Fame next? Find out at the Banquet of Champions gala dinner on Sep 19, 2013.
02 – CTV news anchor Keri Adams, left, and Whistler Film Festival executive producer Shauna Hardy Mishaw both take turns behind the mic hosting the summer gala fundraiser. Look to attend the gala sometime this June, or mark your calendar for the film fest itself on Dec 4-8, 2013.
03 – North Vancouver’s Daroshin family always knows how to rock the red carpet as part of the famous Leo Awards gala. Known as the Golden Globes of BC, producers Walter Daroshin and business partner Sonny Wong will bring this year’s biggest celebrity party to town again this year for their 15th anniversary celebration during late spring 2013.
04 – Ferrari, Porsche, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Mercedes, BMW and more. If you’re a car guy, like North Vancouver auto writer Andrew McCredie, left, or BMW dealership owner Brian Jessel, then you’ll want to book Mar 26-31 off for the Vancouver International Auto Show which returns this year to the Vancouver Convention Centre.
05 – Last year, Heart and Stroke Foundation BC & Yukon CEO Diego Marchese and gala chair Carey Smith did a wonderful job of putting together the Heart of Gold gala. Mark May 24th on your calendar for this year’s 9th annual event as this one always sells out quickly.
06 – Face the World socialite and Army and Navy heiress Jacqui Cohen, left, is one proud lady now that daughter Kasondra Cohen-Herrendorf has followed in her footsteps with her own charity empire. Face of Today will hold their 4th annual gala on Feb 22, 2013 and, judging from years past, it will again be one of Vancouver’s most glittery affairs.
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By Catherine Barr – Jan 7, 2013
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Jan 10, 2013
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For the last 10+ years now I’ve had the privilege of attending Whistler’s annual Cornucopia festival of food and wine. Not for the faint of heart, those who venture beyond Cornucopia’s serious side will find a high energy, full throttle weekend affair full of alcohol and after hours activities that go well into the wee hours of the night. So, as expected, this year’s organizers stopped at nothing to put on the glitz with a whirlwind schedule of seminars, winemaker’s dinners, ultra after-parties, and non-stop fun.
The new High Rollers gala party, held at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler (tix $150), was one of the biggest featuring showgirls, gaming tables, live music and more. I especially liked the entertainment which included a live band complete with horn section – a welcome change, in my opinion, from the usual non-stop, mindless boom-boom beats.
Hanging out at the wine bar felt extra chic as guests lounged on fiber optic electric furniture that changed colour every few minutes (I’ve seriously got to get me some of this). Some complaints resulted because bartenders were bound by our archaic BC Liquor laws and were only permitted to pour small tasting samples instead of full glasses. Drink tickets were issued at the door for various other bar stations, so here’s hoping maybe next year they will include some options for full wine glasses as well.
All around the room, Vegas style showgirls go-go danced on stage while dealers held down all kinds of gambling tables, including several Texas Hold ‘Em games that proved very popular with the men folk. Going “all in” here was relatively harmless though as all games were strictly funny money.
Overall, it was an extremely classy affair which was very professionally produced. Nothing seemed to get too out of hand and I really hope it will be back next year.
Next up was the Crush Grand Gala Tasting room. Held over two nights (Friday and Saturday, tix $89), this event is aptly named as crowds literally crush themselves into the Whistler Convention Centre to sample libations from over 50 different wineries. Not a great event for food, there is nonetheless interesting little sample bites from featured companies and restaurants looking to show off their newest products. Sipping always prevails over spitting, but guests here are encouraged not to over imbibe and taxi rides are always available.
Last big event of the weekend for me was the Araxi Bubbles + Oceans party in Whistler Village (tix $155). Known for their famous sushi and seafood, this restaurant sampling event never disappoints. Tons of fresh prawns, tuna, oysters and maki rolls were available for everyone. Bar and food service was stellar and, not forgetting the bubbles part, there were several different champagne and sparkling wine samples to be had.
Stealing the spotlight this night however was a 50 year James Bond special edition anniversary champagne released by none other than Bollinger. This $200 dollar stealth black bottle comes in a special spy themed canister where one must dial 007 on the locks to release the lid. Add a couple of tuxedo-clad handsome men to serve it up cold and the ladies were easily wooed over to this table with little resistance.
– By Catherine Barr
The holiday gala season would not be complete without The Arthritis Society’s 2011 Bluebird Gala. Sponsored by Scotiabank the gala style cocktail reception raised over $120,000. Entertainment for the night included music groups “LesIsMore” and “Van Django”. Comedian Patrick Maliha had everyone giggling as he sported a “Movember to remember” moustache for extra effect. Also last month, Canadian journalism icon Allan Fotheringham held a special private reception for friends and family for the launch of his newest book – a collection of memories entitled “Boy From Nowhere – A Life in Ninety-One Countries”. With some tell-all secrets from the past, and a warning for the future, this book is a must read.
01 – Allan Fotheringham, aka. Dr. Foth, is surrounded by family and friends for the launch of his newest book of memoirs. Seen here with granddaughter Quinn, he presents a special book to each of his grandchildren.
02 – Also in attendance at the Allan Fotheringham book launch are son-in-law Bill Juhasz, left, and son Kip Fotheringham.
03 – Nancy Roper, executive director The Arthritis Society, BC & Yukon Division, chats with Michael Leland, communications manager, as guests arrive for the gala.
04 – David Poole, Scotiabank senior vice-president BC & Yukon region, and Michelle Henderson, Scotiabank manager community engagement, are generous sponsors of this evening’s Arthritis gala.
05 – Musical entertainment for the Bluebird Gala is provided by LesIsMore, featuring Curtis DeBray, left, and lead singer Leslie Harris.
06 – Looking stunning in an elegant “bluebird” gown, North Vancouver’s Brenda Manlove accompanies media executive hubby Brent to the gala reception.
07 – Don’t worry, comedian Patrick Maliha’s “Movember” moustache is supposed to look funny. He got extra mileage out of the facial prop during his hilarious segment at the Bluebird gala.
08 – Bluebird gala MC and GlobalBC TV news anchor Sophie Lui checks out the auction bids with Board of Director’s chairman Drew McArthur.
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By Catherine Barr – Nov, 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Dec 8, 2011
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It was time to show your spirit and your team colours this past weekend as the 99th Grey Cup came to town. Orange and black were the popular choice as hometown fans cheered their own BC Lions all the way to victory in the finals against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. But the big game was just a part of the weekend-long Grey Cup celebration that took place primarily at the Vancouver Convention Centre. With each CFL Team setting up their own “house” and live bands and street parties taking place nearby, the city was alive with electricity everywhere you looked. One of the biggest galas of the event was the Scotiabank Show Your Colours gala where, despite the $350 ticket price, everyone dressed in their team jerseys in anticipation of Sunday’s big game. VIP guests included Premier Christy Clark, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and other dignitaries who were all treated to a five-star meal, marching bands, cheerleaders, live music and comedy impersonators.
01 – North Vancouver’s Brett and Brenda Manlove chat with GlobalBC TV news reporter and gala MC Jill Krop.
02 – CTV news anchor Coleen Christie, seen here with media columnist Steve Burgess, get ready to cheer for the home team.
03 – North Vancouver MP Andrew Saxton and Vancouver mayoral candidate Suzanne Anton both wear their Grey Cup jerseys for good luck.
04 – Premier Christy Clark adds easy elegance to her Grey Cup jersey with a simple strand of pearls while BC Lions President and CEO Dennis Skulsky prefers a dinner jacket overtop.
05 – Following in the footsteps of his late father Bob Ackles, BC Lions GM Scott Ackles and wife Theresa are proud to be back wearing the orange and black colours.
06 – Band leader Dal Richards, left, and famous comedian Ron James are two legendary entertainers who don’t agree on everything. Dal is cheering for the BC Lions while Ron claims to be a Winnipeg fan.
07 – A bruiser on the ice, but a pussycat in real life, former Vancouver Canucks enforcer Gino Odjick knows which side to cheer for.
08 – The Honourable Peter MacKay, Canadian Minister of National Defence, left, and David Poole, Scotiabank senior vice-president BC & Yukon region, are among the VIPs enjoying a night of spectacular food, fun and entertainment.
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By Catherine Barr – Nov 26, 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Dec 1, 2011
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The Vancouver International Film Festival is among the top five film festivals in the world. And while it is not known for its’ big name Hollywood hype, it is however known for its’ international flair and diverse content. Still, parties and red carpet glam do happen and one of the biggest soirees is always held at Cin Cin restaurant on Robson. Owned by West Vancouver restaurateur Jack Evrensel, the evening is hosted by Brightlights Pictures and The Bridge Studios execs who always manage to invite the who’s who of the local scene and screen.
01 – He’s back and he’s just as cheeky as ever. A standing “O” for North Vancouver actor Jay Brazeau who’s looking fit as a fiddle after suffering a minor stroke earlier this year.
02 – Blonde bombshell April Telek was born and raised on the North Shore. Look for her in the upcoming TV mini-series “Hell on Wheels” – a drama/adventure based on the construction of Union Pacific’s Transcontinental Railroad.
03 – Shawn Williamson, president of Brightlight Pictures, cuddles up to his lady as he welcomes the glitterati to the first big film festival party.
04 – Charles Zuckermann gets a chance to schmooze with director/producer Carl Bessai who is best known for his work on films like “Normal”, “Emile” and his newest – “Sisters and Brothers”.
05 – West Vancouver entertainment lawyer Arthur Evrensel is always in demand – and yes, as a matter of fact, he does know the owner (brother Jack Evrensel).
06 – Actress Gabrielle Rose and partner Hrothgar Mathews are truly a dynamic duo having worked with some of the biggest names in both Vancouver and Hollywood.
07 – Stuntman/actor Mike Dopud, left, has broke a bone or two in movies with Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham and Vin Diesel, while actor Lochlyn Munro has co-starred alongside Hollywood heavies like Will Ferrell, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Clint Eastwood.
08 – North Vancouver’s Tamara Daroshin is proud to have dad Walter as her date this evening for the Vancouver International Film Festival’s opening night gala.
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By Catherine Barr – Oct 3, 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Oct 13, 2011
Hollywood A-Listers Robert Carlyle (The Full Monty, Trainspotting, Hamish Macbeth) and Ginnifer Goodwin (Walk the Line, He’s Just Not That Into You) headed up a local star-studded cast last weekend at the Sutton Place Hotel for an elegant and magical gala that touched the heartstrings of all who attended. The “Once Upon a Cure” event (which was based on the newly produced TV series “Once Upon a Time”) was created by North Vancouver’s Deb and Ryan Purcell. Their son Trey suffers from an extremely rare disease known as Hunter Syndrome (MPS II). In an effort to raise money for a cure, Ryan Purcell called on his fellow movie/TV industry friends to come on out and lend their star power in support. West Vancouver’s elegant Amanda Tapping, best known for her roles on TV’s “Stargate” and “Sanctuary” series, was only too happy to act as spokeswoman for the cause which raised over $90,000 at this first annual event.
01 – You’ve seen him as a drug thug in “Trainspotting”, as a villain in James Bond’s “The World is Not Enough”, and in the nude in “The Full Monty”, but Glasgow born actor Robert Carlyle, seen here with gala spokeswoman/actor Amanda Tapping, is easily one of the nicest people I have ever met and completely charming in every way.
02 – Caught with his hand in the cookie jar, or in this case cupcake jar, “Sanctuary” actor Robin Dunne gets a taste of the wonderland gala theme.
03 – She received high praise for her work opposite Reese Witherspoon and Joaquin Phoenix in the Johnny Cash biopic “Walk the Line”, but this night, actress Ginnifer Goodwin cuddles up to a new man – namely 11 year-old “Once Upon a Time” actor Jared Gilmore.
04 – Looking beautiful in blue, North Vancouver’s Deb Purcell, left, welcomes leading lady Amanda Tapping and her leading man – husband Alan Kovacs.
05 – “With a rare disease, a little money goes a long way.” Speaking at the podium, Ryan and Deb Purcell deliver a poignant yet tender reminder that life is something to be treasured at all times.
06 – Radio personalities Kid Carson and Amy Beeman, from The Beat 94.5, help out with the MC duties and auction announcements throughout the night.
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By Catherine Barr – Sep 24, 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Sep 29, 2011
The 42nd Annual Heart Awards Dinner by Variety the Children’s Charity was a glamorous night full of familiar faces from all across the North Shore. It was a tribute night filled with music, entertainment and accolades for people who give their time and dedication to an organization that we all known and love. Many of those recognized this night work behind the scenes at the annual Show of Hearts Telethon, while others were recognized for their corporate contributions and fundraising efforts. Congrats to all involved.
01 – Philanthropist and former provincial political leader Grace McCarthy, left, attends the event with husband Ray and friend Gail Honey, wife of former radio star Rick Honey.
02 – Among the evening’s award recipients is the always dashing Howard Blank, who is a Vice President of both the Great Canadian Gaming Corporation and of the Variety Board of Directors.
03 – North Vancouver’s Brett Manlove, seen here with wife Brenda, knows all about the Variety Children’s Charity. As former Global TV VP, he has spent many hours tuned in with the cause.
04 – Helping out with MC duties this night are media publisher/personality Peter Legge, left, and Doug Rogers.
05 – Looking elegant for the night’s festivities are West Vancouver’s Joanne Griffiths, left, and Variety Heart Awards volunteer Arlene McDonald.
06 – North Vancouver’s Keri Nelson, left, is the 2011 Heart Award recipient. She is recognized for her 10 year dedication to many of Variety’s programs, including the Show of Hearts Telethon. Here she poses with young singing sensation Shylo Sharity who helped entertain the gala crowd.
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By Catherine Barr – June 23, 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on July 14, 2011
What happens when you put high fashion, luxury sports cars and celebrities together in one room? The answer is the 6th annual Brian Jessel BMW Cabriolet Charity Gala. Supporting pancreatic cancer research at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH), this night featured both silent and live auction items, food and beverage stations (provided by some of Vancouver’s best known restaurants) and a live performance by Canada’s own Barenaked Ladies who rocked the house till midnight. Some of the North Shore’s famous faces walked the red carpet alongside the city’s beautiful people who all came out to support this very worthwhile cause.
01 – Taking a look at the auction items up for grabs are Candace Alderson, left, Alan Gelfand and Lynn Wigen.
02 – Always wonderful to see CTV Vancouver’s Coleen Christie and Farhan Lalji take the stage. This dynamic duo helped MC at the live auction and also introduced the Barenaked Ladies for their performance.
03 – Sexy social gals Traci Myles, left, and Carla Temple get a chance to talk about cars, stars and Carla’s impressive former life as a Canadian bodybuilding champion.
04 – CTV news anchor and North Vancouverite Mike Killeen is all smiles as he gets a chance to cuddle up to his beautiful wife Jill, left, and talented West Vancouver estate lawyer Nicole Garton-Jones.
05 – Former Canucks hero and North Shore resident Dave Babych, seen here with wife Diana, was among the VIPs at the party.
06 – BMW sales executive Dave Griffiths, left, congratulates dealer/owner Brian Jessel on another fantastic gala fundraising night.
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By Catherine Barr – June 11, 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on June 23, 2011
Sometimes getting in the game is hard, especially for those living close to the poverty line. Hockey gear, soccer gear, baseball gear and registration fees, are costs that sometimes add up to a young person not being able to participate. Fortunately, there’s the good folks behind the Athletics for Kids organization (A4K). They’re out to even the score by supplying financially disadvantaged youth with access to community amateur sports programs. Last week, the 9th Annual A4K Boxing Dinner Gala helped raise funds via an elegant black-tie night out at West Vancouver’s Hollyburn Country Club. Round one was a martini reception, complete with silent auction items galore. Then it was time for a beautiful three-course dinner, a live auction, and then the main event – five rounds of Olympic rules sanctioned boxing. Congrats to all involved.
01 – Put up your dukes, let’s get down to it. Boxing buddies Bob Leblevec, left, Dave Bird, Todd Wall and Brad Wolgs play it up for the camera during the before dinner reception.
02 – Time for a boys night out as Andre Boileau and his dad, Dr. Marc Boileau, get ready to watch some Olympic class boxing.
03 – A4K President Chris Obst welcomes guests, like former North Vancouver fire chief Tommy Cummings, to the best night of boxing on the North Shore.
04 – QM/FM radio personality and former A4K director Tara McGuire, left, dines with producer Brad Challoner and Crystal Lidemark.
05 – And in this corner, helping with the MC duties for the night, is QM/FM morning show host Mike Shaeffer.
06 – They look just as comfortable in the ring as they do on the ice. Canucks anthem singer (and lucky charm) Mark Donnelly, left, and Canucks hockey hero Dave Babych get ready to raise money for the kids.
07 – He’s the man that helped start it all. Loads of hugs and kisses to A4K co-founder Craig Knapton, seen here with wife Becky, for pouring his heart and soul into helping all the kids.
08 – Leaving everyone shaken and stirred are the beautiful serving duo of Hannah Locke, left, and Nelly Kutle who ensure that the martini glasses are always full.
09 – Hit me with your best shot. Former Super Welterweight Champion of the World, boxing coach and A4K spokesperson Manny Sobral, left, kids with friend Ivano DeCotiis as the boxing matches get underway.
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By Catherine Barr – April 1, 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on April 7, 2011