Catherine Barr – Events, Celebrities & Entertainment News

Tag: Janelle Washington

Harry Hamlin, Terrence Howard, Billy Baldwin Headline Celebrity Variety Car Rally in Vancouver

Hollywood celebrities, sports stars and some of Vancouver’s most beautiful people were all putting the pedal to the metal last weekend as the Variety for Kids rally hit the streets of town. Headed up by honourary co-chairs Kyle & Janelle Washington, the two-day adventure saw each team/car raise $25,000+ each to support the kids. Then, it was time to draft your celebrity driver and head out on the highway. Think “Amazing Race” meets scavenger hunt. The big kick-off party was held at the new Coal Harbour Cactus Club where everyone parked their luxury cars and then walked the red carpet for the cameras. Inside, it was nothing but good fun as celebs met their teams, posed for pics and enjoyed amazing food and drinks courtesy celebrity chef Rob Feenie and his crew.

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01 – Actor Billy Baldwin has good reason to smile as he is drafted by the beautiful ladies of team “In It to Win It” which included members Natalie Doman, Janelle Washington and Heidi Coglon.

02 – Businessman Harald Ludwig, also of Lionsgate entertainment, chats with actress Lisa Rinna of “Days of our Lives” fame. You can see her next in ABC’s “Sing Your Face Off” where she will impersonate both Britney Spears and Dolly Parton. Fun!

03 – Helping raise money for the kids and supporting this very worthwhile cause are Cindy Beedie and Richard Coglon.

04 – Known for “LA Law”, and most recently “Mad Men”, actor Harry Hamlin poses with Variety Rally guest Christie King.

05 – Oscar nominated actor Terrence Howard, of “Ironman” and “Crash” movie fame, sits with model/personality Rachelle Leah as they wait to meet their team members.

06 – Start your engines! Saskatchewan born actor Kim Coates, of “Sons of Anarchy” fame, gets revved up on the red carpet with the Variety Rally Car Girls.

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By Catherine Barr – May 23, 2014

Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper

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By Catherine Barr

www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com

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May 30, 2014
Heart of Gold 2014 Pre-Gala Reception

The Heart of Gold Gala, held in support of the Heart and Stroke Foundation – BC and Yukon chapter, will hold its 10th Anniversary fundraising event later next month. In preparation for the big night, a private VIP reception for donors, committee members and guests was held yesterday at the super chic downtown home of Janelle and Kyle Washington. The stunning views and sunlit patios were the perfect backdrop for the invite-only reception which included canapes, cocktails and speeches. Sadly, heart and stroke still takes the life of one Canadian every seven minutes and more than 1.6 million individuals are living with the effects of heart disease. More information on how to get involved and/or how to donate can be found at www.heartandstroke.bc.ca

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01 – Kyle and Janelle Washington graciously open up their home to host the VIP reception.

02 – Olympian Charmaine Crooks, left, is this year’s gala chair. Here she is seen with friend Christina Tanti.

03 – Committing to a generous six figure donation, Bob and Diane Conconi, attend the event with administrative assistant Sanja Simic, left.

04 – Natalie and Amar Doman are known for their kindness and philanthropy.

05 – Dr. Douglas Clement chats with CTV news anchor Coleen Christie.

06 – Honourary chairs Jane and Peter Scott with past committee member Willa MacDougall.

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By Catherine Barr – May 7, 2014

Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper

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By Catherine Barr

www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com

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May 7, 2014
Vancouver Police Gala

There were police cars everywhere, sirens, flashing lights, and even live gunfire. The Vancouver Police Foundation’s Night Patrol Gala was held last week at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Riot police and helicopters escorted guests to their tables just before emergency responders arrived with dogs and machine guns to put on a very realistic hostage takedown. It was an exciting beginning to a night that also honoured the VPD’s Vancouver Police Pipe Band on their 100th anniversary. After the dinner and live auction, West Vancouver’s famous singer/songwriter Sarah McLachlan entertained alongside members of the pipe band. A magical evening that won’t soon be forgotten.

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01 – Big round of applause for Vancouver Police Foundation trustee and event co-chairs Ryan Beedie and wife Cindy for all their hard work.

02 – Vancouver Police Pipe Band drummer Ed Wagstaff is all smiles as he meets Global TV weather forecaster and North Van gal Kristi Gordon.

03 – Vancouver Police superintendent Jeff Sim, left, joins West Vancouver’s Wendy and Sergio Cocchia.

04 – Looking gorgeous and glam, West Vancouver socialites Sharlene Ludwig, left, and Janelle Washington set off all the police sirens.

05 – West Vancouverites Kristy Brinkley, left, and Janis O’Sullivan chat during the cocktail reception.

06 – Upping the bids for charity, Maynard’s auctioneer Barry Scott and West Van’s Eric Savics are among the invited guests.

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By Catherine Barr – February 25, 2014

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Mar 6, 2014

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March 4, 2014
Variety Celebrity Car Rally for Kids

Variety – the Children’s Charity is well known for their ability to raise support for kids everywhere. But last week, on the heels of a very successful “Show of Hearts” telethon, the organization held a special VIP party of a different kind. Now it’s time to suit up and start your engines for the 2014 Variety Rally for Kids with Special Needs. Sponsored by West Vancouver’s Washington family and their new EBoost energy product, this night is just the first in a series of spectacular events leading up to the two-day rally later this year. Luxury cars and Hollywood stars are just the beginning as each registered team must raise a minimum of $25,000 to enter. Then, come May, it’s time to pick your celeb and hit the road. Celebrities participating in the past have included Eva Longoria, Gene Simmons, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell. So keep that pedal to the metal as many of our local famous faces take to the streets in support of this amazing cause.

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01 – West Vancouver’s Kyle and Janelle Washington are leading the way for Variety Rally for Kids as Presenting Sponsors and owners of the new Eboost energy product.

02 – Former Vancouver Canucks winger Geoff Courtnall, left, chats with Molson Canadian rep Aussie Jiwani after the speeches.

03 – They’re too sexy for their car, too sexy by far. Janelle Washington’s all-girl glam team is bound to blow the doors off their nearest competitors when they hit the road later this year.

04 – West Vancouver’s amazing Richard and Heidi Coglon are well known for their philanthropic support of many Vancouver charities and events.

05 – Vancouver restaurateur Peter Girges, left, plays host to West Vancouver’s Paul Zalesky and more at his stylish West Oak restaurant.

06 – North Vancouver’s Brett Manlove, left, and Mike Falcon, co-owners of Vancouver Visitor TV, lend their support to the event this night.

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By Catherine Barr – January 30, 2014

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Feb 6, 2014

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February 3, 2014
Chat to the Future Uganda Gala in West Vancouver

They say the world is a small place and that we are all connected in one way or another. Never before was that more true than last weekend as West Vancouver’s Richard and Heidi Coglon opened their home, and their hearts, to host an especially touching gala event in support of Ugandan orphans and the new “CHAT House” concept of giving. CHAT to the Future (which stands for Care and Hope through Adoption and Technology), connects sponsors and kids like nothing before it. Using Skype and email, sponsors actually get to know their sponsor child personally and see firsthand the impact they are making on their lives. This night, a special live Skype session allowed guests to be entertained live from Kasangati, Uganda as all of the CHAT House kids sang special holiday songs and danced for the crowd via the internet. Guests like Canucks’ Paolo and Clara Aquilini and La Stella Vineyard owners Saeedeh and Sean Salem were also instrumental in organizing the event and donating to the night which raised over $50,000+.

Uganda Chat House Gala for Kids in West Vancouver.

Hosts Richard and Heidi Coglon welcome Chat to the Future executive director Adam McKim, centre.

Among the VIPs and friends in attendance are Jeff and Kim McCord.

Cheers to three of West Vancouver’s most beautiful and talented ladies. From left: Janelle Washington, Cindy Beedie and Sharlene Ludwig.

CTV News Anchor Mike Killeen and wife Jill make the trip from North Vancouver.

West Vancouver businessman Doug Mason, left, joins host Richard Coglon.

Helping support the kids in Uganda are event sponsors Saeedeh Salem, left, and Clara Aquilini.

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By Catherine Barr

November 16, 2013

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook newspaper on Nov 21, 2013

November 19, 2013
Wear Else Vancouver Spring 2013 Fashion Show

West Vancouver’s Zahra Mamdani knows all the best dressed gals in town. And now, with spring in the air, it’s time to shed those winter woolies for something lighter. Last week, Zahra and her staff put on a sensational Spring 2013 Runway Show at her Park Royal store. Invites for friends and guests included a champagne reception and fashion show complete with a private shopping session. Featuring styles by Elizabeth & James, Black Orchid, Haute Hippie, Sinclair and more, it was a treat to see that sunshine styles are just around the corner. And while it isn’t patio season just yet, something tells me that these hot new trends won’t be under wraps for much longer.

01 – West Vancouver’s gorgeous golden girls Kristy Brinkley, left, Carey Smith and Janelle Washington get busy shopping for spring.

02 – Wear Else president/owner Zahra Mamdani, left, and stylist Marie Rowley put some spring in everyone’s step with their Spring 2013 Runway Show.

03 – Long lashes and extensions are all the rage these days as West Vancouver’s Lash Fabulous owners Lisa Tomanik, left, and Mara Uhrle show-off some samples.

04 – Taking some time to be with the girls, Monica Soprovich, left, and Sharon Cooper check out the new styles.

05 – Cheering for her daughter every step on the way, proud mama Shamin Jamal poses with her daughter Zahra Mamdani.

06 – Always looking glam, it’s not surprising to see gala gals Alexis Palkowski, left, and Angela Lee shopping for their next big night out.

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By Catherine Barr – Mar 8, 2013

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Mar 14, 2013

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March 10, 2013
Leone Celebrates 25 Years at United Way Charity Spring Fashion Show

It was a double celebration last week as some of the city’s most generous folks got together to raise money for a great cause. First up, it was the United Way’s Women United in Philanthropy annual spring fashion show and fundraiser at Leone’s boutique in Sinclair Centre. The night was also special however because guests got a chance to toast West Vancouver’s Leone family for celebrating the 25th anniversary of their exclusive fashion business. With names like Versace, Dior, Prada and more, it was even more wonderful to know that in addition to the live and silent auction items, Leone also donated a portion of any items sold this night back to the United Way and their “Success by Six” program. Be sure to check out the live video as well. Congrats to all the ladies involved.

01 – West Vancouver’s Janelle Washington, left, of Washington Marine fame, poses with friend and Women in Philanthropy co-founder Christie King.

02 – Damien and Ioulia Reynolds always look so fashionable and are happy to lend their support this night.

03 – Wear Else president/owner Zahra Mamdani, Leone president and owner Alberto Leone, and friend Carey Smith all hail from West Vancouver and are known for their generosity in charity circles.

04 – It is girls night out for the Ciambrelli ladies from North Vancouver. From left, Danielle, Isabella and Pina.

05 – West Vancouver fashionista Alexis Palkowski, left, joins Yvonne Zawadzki, General Manager of Birks Vancouver.

06 – Real Housewives of Vancouver star and singer Mary Zilba, left, and Urban Rush host Fiona Forbes get a front stage view of the fashions on the catwalk.

07 – West Vancouver’s lovely Leone ladies, daughter Patrizia and mom Maria, help celebrate both the United Way charity event and their store’s 25th anniversary.

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By Catherine Barr – Feb 28, 2012

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Mar 8, 2012

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March 5, 2012
Louis Vuitton Store Opening

Louis Vuitton – they’re the envy of every purse toting gal in the world and a name automatically associated with class, luxury and style. So when my gilded gold Louis Vuitton invitation arrived, I expected only the best, and boy did they deliver. In my 12 years as a society columnist, I have never seen a party like this. The who’s who of Vancouver and the North Shore were decked out in style as they arrived to a champagne reception at the swank new Fairmont Vancouver Hotel location. Even Hollywood celebs and models dropped by to chat with executives who had flown in directly from Paris for the affair. Then, in groups of four, we were shuttled away swiftly in mysterious black SUV’s to a secret train station stop where porters helped us board an old fashion steam train. More champagne, and a five minute ride later, we were again surprised to find ourselves inside an old fashion train station decorated to the hilt and complete with DJ, live music, food and fun. It was definitely a night to remember. Congrats to all involved.

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01 – What a thrill to get to meet Louis Vuitton Executive Vice President Phillippe Schaus, left, all the way from Paris with Louis Vuitton supermodel Gabriel Aubry (ex-boyfriend to Halle Berry and Kim Kardashian) and Geoffroy van Raemdonck, acting President of Louis Vuitton North American.

02 – North Shore’s famous Carmelina and Pasquale Cusano, of Montecristo Jewellers, take in the scene at the new Louis Vuitton store downtown.

03 – West Vancouver’s fabulous Shannon Bosa-Yacoub and hubby Emad Yacoub, of Glowbal Group Restaurant fame, make their way into the mock station.

04 – West Vancouver’s stunning Janelle Washington attended the event with friends.

05 – Socialites and UBC sorority sisters Christie King, left, and Darcia Bower share some conversation in the lobby.

06 – Looking like a model herself, PR maven Shannon Heth shows us how to pour from the Moet magnum bottle.

07 – Canucks hockey hero Trevor Linden, left, congratulations North Vancouver’s Mike Killeen on his recent promotion to 6 o’clock news anchor at CTV BC.

08 – Big shout out to TV gal pals Randeen Neil, left, Sophie Lui (Global TV) and Coleen Christie (CTV BC) as they get ready to board the train.

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By Catherine Barr – Dec 8, 2010

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook newspaper on Dec 16, 2010

December 13, 2010
Martin Sheen, Sex and the City 2, West Coast Fishing Club

A girls’ right to shoes is now a mantra thanks to the iconic tv-series-turned-chick-flick “Sex and the City 2”. And what better way to celebrate the movie’s debut than with a party in the shoe department of Holt Renfrew. Socialite Christie King and her Women United in Philanthropy group helped raised funds for the United Way this week as the well-heeled turned out in support. Next up, the Turning Point Society’s Gala turned up the glam with a special VIP cocktail pre-party featuring famous A-List actor Martin Sheen who was happy to donate his time. Lastly, the West Coast Fishing Club’s WCFC Culinary Series 2010 was held at the Vancouver Aquarium providing guests with an up-close introduction to the fine cuisine one can expect from this year’s culinary adventure trips to Langara Island.

01 – Sipping champagne with rose petals in the shoe department of Holt’s, West Vancouver’s Janelle Washington came out in support at the Sex and the City party.

02 – Pretty in pink, left, event organizer Christie King and her Women United in Philanthropy group put on a great Sex and the City party at the Holt Renfrew.

03 – Eleu Kristmas, left, Shaw TV’s Fiona Forbes and model/businesswoman Masiah Vaughn check out the party pumps at the Holt Renfrew Sex and the City party.

04 – It’s a happy belated 50th Birthday for West Vancouver’s Craig Turner as he meets actor Martin Sheen during a VIP pre-party cocktail reception at the Turning Point gala.

05 – WCFC 2010 chef Dino Renaerts has just moved his family to the North Shore and has given up his post at Diva at the Met to taken over at West Van’s Fraiche and newly re-opened Beachside Forno restaurants.

06 – Joining in at the Martin Sheen Turning Point Gala reception is Global TV’s Randene Neill, left, board member James B. Myers and executive direction Branda Plant.

07 – Dr. John Nightingale, President of the Vancouver Aquarium, and West Van’s Margot Paris help host the West Coast Fishing Club’s WCFC Culinary Series 2010.

08 – Chef David Hawksworth, formerly of West Restaurant, is serving it up at the WCFC 2010 event in anticipation of his November 2010 opening of his new Hawksworth restaurant in the newly developed Hotel Georgia / Residences on Georgia.

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By Catherine Barr – May 28, 2010

As seen in print in the North Shore Outlook newspaper on June 3, 2010

May 28, 2010