Catherine Barr – Events, Celebrities & Entertainment News

Tag: park royal

New White Spot Opening at Park Royal

It’s legendary – in more ways than one. West Vancouver’s White Spot Restaurant, located at the corner of Taylor Way and Marine Drive, was a place of memories for many of us who grew up here. The Pirate Paks, the burgers and shakes, and the carhop service are all part of a history that stretches back almost 60 years. But even though the old locale is no more, do not dismay. It’s time for new memories just less than a block away. The new White Spot Park Royal opened its doors last week with a star-studded VIP night to celebrate. The same great food and familiar faces are waiting to greet you but now with a modern lounge and updated room that is actually larger than the last. The restaurant is among the first to relocate to the new Park Royal South mall which continues to modernize with new parkades, stores and services. Sadly, there will be no more carhop, but a chic outdoor patio means more fun in the sun in the warmer weather. Congrats everyone.

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01 – Vancouver hockey legends Pat “The Big Irishman” Quinn, left, and Stan “Steamer” Smyl meet fans and friends at the restaurant’s big VIP opening night party.

02 – Warren Erhart, White Spot President and CEO, joins Peter Toigo, Managing Director of Shato Holdings (White Spot’s parent company).

03 – Serving up smiles and samples, Shannon McIsaac, left, and Chaundra Kazakoff keep hungry guests happy.

04 – Upholding the White Spot name in a gleaming new kitchen are chef/kitchen manager Steve Langridge and restaurant GM Harley Bennett.

05 – BC Restaurant and Food Services Association (BCRFA) CEO and president Ian Tostenson checks out the new dining room with wife Cathy Tostenson, White Spot’s vice president marketing.

06 – Park Royal’s Rick Amantea congratulates Shato Holdings’ leasing director Heather Grant on a successful opening celebration.

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By Catherine Barr – February 27, 2014

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Mar 13, 2014

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March 10, 2014
Asian New Year on the North Shore

The Canadian Chinese Outreach Committee, the North Shore Korean Youth Community and West Vancouver MP John Weston were all on hand this weekend at Park Royal Shopping Centre for a very colourful and cultural celebration called Asian New Year on the North Shore. Chinese, Taiwanese and Korean community groups and representatives all took part in this 4th annual event which included displays of Asian culture, Chinese and Philippine dancers, Korean pottery, stage shows and lots of free food.

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05 – An event like this can only happen with the assistance of volunteers like Jack Ye and Amy Gu.

02 – Park Royal’s Melina Dimitriadis helps behind the scenes with organizer Audra Chuang.

06 – Looking pretty in pink is event MC and announcer Emily Ng.

03 Canadian Chinese outreach committee members Cammy Fung, from left, Jessica Li, Audra Chuang and Esther Chu join West Vancouver / Sunshine Coast MP John Weston.

01 – Getting ready to take the stage for a colourful fan dance are the talented ladies from the Taipei First Girls High School Canada.

04 – They’re the faces behind the Taiwanese Electro Techno Neon God, namely performers Jonathan Chu, left, and Brody Wang.

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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 9, 2014
Harmony Arts Best of the West Gala Night

West Vancouver’s Harmony Arts Festival is always an annual favourite featuring various events, concerts, craft markets and more. Last Wednesday it was time for the week’s signature gala event as the third annual Best of the West took place on a perfectly picturesque Ambleside Pier. This evening soiree celebrated the best BC has to offer with 13 North Shore restaurants pairing up with 13 different BC wineries. Guests were able to vote on their favourite combination, with the winning restaurant and winery team being crowned as “Best of the West” for 2013.

01 – Harmony Arts manager Christie Rosta, left, joins PR pro Marnie Wilson and House Wine hostesses Michaela Morris and Michelle Bouffard for a perfect night on the pier.

02 – Park Royal’s Rick Amantea and wife Christine soak up the sun on an amazing evening out. Park Royal was the title sponsor of the event.

03 – West Vancouverites Dave Hart and wife Christine sip and sample from the many delicious offerings.

04 – Girls’ glam night out for these industry pros who know all about wine and special events. From left: Lisa Snider, Dana Lee Harris, Karen Madsen Kelly Snider and Jill Forster.

05 – Time for a tasty dessert with Carmelo’s restaurant chef Maille Deligianis, left, and Shauna Bunbury.

06 – West Vancouver municipal councillors Nora Gambioli and Michael Lewis agree that Harmony Arts is truly one of the best festivals around.

07 – Megan Sewell, of Sewell’s Marine fame, and hubby Paul McKinney enjoy date night together as the sun begins to set on the Ambleside Pier.

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By Catherine Barr – Aug 7 2012

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Aug 15, 2012

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August 11, 2013
Beauty Soiree Night in West Vancouver

Spring is in full bloom everywhere! What better way to celebrate than with The Bay in West Vancouver / Park Royal at their spring beauty night soiree. With fragrances as sweet as the blossoming flowers and flirty cosmetic colours bursting out all over, this night was a special opportunity for guests and shoppers to work their way through the new offerings while enjoying some cocktails, music and special demonstrations. Designer names like Armani, Prada, Oscar de la Renta, Chanel and more were all on display with their new and old favourites. It was a tropical celebration of beauty and style that helps prove that the best of the sunshine season is on its way.

01 – The glam girls at the Clinique counter help with skin care tips and techniques at the beauty night soiree. From left: Andrea Greenalgh, Janis Lawrie, Charmaine Martinez and Tannaz Ahmadi.

02 – Wearing colourful leis and getting into the spirit of the night are Ashley Durrant, left, Keith Tiede and Michelle Richardson.

03 – Spinning beats with the girls over at the Mac cosmetics counter, DJs Ryan Leonard, left, and Dean Turner hit the groove with Leanna Hubert, left, Colleen Barber and Lilia Afsahi.

04 – The Bay general manager Dave Wilkinson teams up with sales manager Kathryn Wall to put on this evening’s festive event.

05 – Showing off the best of Estee Lauder, sales rep Janine Fieldgate shows guest Jo Hailstone how to put on this spring’s prettiest shades.

06 – Sales associate Troy B is Armani all the way. He helped organize the designer event which featured cocktails, special giveaways and demonstrations.

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By Catherine Barr – April 19, 2013

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on May 2, 2013

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April 28, 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
Asian New Year Festival in West Vancouver

It was one of the most colourful affairs ever to be held at Park Royal’s main court as West Vancouver MP John Weston and a whole host of volunteers came out to celebrate Asian New Year. Traditional lion dances, arts, crafts, live performances, presentations and lots of food helped mark the occasion. Dignitaries and invited guests were joined by members from the Canadian-Chinese Outreach Committee and the North Shore Korean Youth Community to bring the whole event together. Clearly the “Year of the Snake” is off to a great sssssss-start!

01 – Coordinator Cammy Fung looks fabulous in fuchsia as she hurries about keeping things organized.

02 – Volunteers Annie Chang, left, and Sue-Ann Hui welcome guests to the main court venue on this lucky day.

03 – It seems only fitting that the lovely ladies handing out butter cookies would be dressed in butter yellow. Thanks to the many volunteers from the Canadian-Chinese Outreach Committee for all their help.

04 – Dressed in traditional Korean outfits, Jane Lee, left, and Jennifer Kang pose for pictures for the crowd.

05 – West Vancouver – Sunshine Coast – Sea to Sky Country MP John Weston, centre, welcomes dignitaries like Hong Kong economic liaison Catherine Yuen, left, and People’s Republic of China consul-general Liu Fei, right, to the main stage.

06 – Singing “It’s a Small World”, kid’s choir members Jessica, left, Wendy, Jasmine and Mitchell get ready to go on stage.

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By Catherine Barr – Feb 16, 2013

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Feb 21, 2013

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February 18, 2013
North Shore Rotary Food and Wine Festival

The 11th Annual North Shore Rotary Food and Wine Festival took place last week at Park Royal North in West Vancouver. This local event, which featured favourite restaurants paired with BC wine distributors, is always a hit as it gives guests a chance to sup and sample from some of the best local offerings. Live music, displays, entertainment and lots of socializing helped round out the night which helped raise funds for the North Shore Youth Safe House and North Shore Schizophrenic Society.

01 – Sunrise Rotary member Janice Bosley, left, and Park Royal communications coordinator Amanda Eaton welcome guests as they arrive giving them a wine glass, a plate and a voucher for a safe ride home.

02 – Bringing a little bit of Paris to West Vancouver, long-time restaurateur Michel Segur, of Chez Michel fame, serves up delicious bites to go with the wine pairings.

03 – North Vancouver’s Pinnacle Hotel is deliciously represented thanks to chefs Joel Green, left, Anna Mihai and Skyler Hannah.

04 – Hollyburn Family Services’ Paul Butler mans the display booth of his charity which is one of the recipients of tonight’s proceeds.

05 – Representing the Thomas Robert Agency, Marina Wineapple, left, and Sheri Green pour samples from their wine portfolio.

06 – Lions Gate Rotary members Terry LeHouillier, left, and Anne Marie Ferguson are among the many volunteers that help put on this great event.

07 – Don Guthro, left, and the students from his North Shore Culinary School show-off their new found skills as they cook up some magic for all the guests.
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By Catherine Barr – Oct 20, 2012

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Oct 25, 2012

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October 23, 2012
Real Housewives of Vancouver and The Bay Pretty Please Gala

It was a get gorgeous gala last week as the Pretty Please spring cosmetics and fragrance event was held at The Bay, Park Royal in West Vancouver. With designer names like Prada, Chanel, Dior and Gucci, everyone got a chance to feel pampered and glamorous. Makeovers, product displays, samples and demonstrations helped round out the evening which was held in support of the Look Good, Feel Better charity which is Canada’s only national cancer charity helping women feel better about their appearances as they go through treatment. Also, Real Housewives of Vancouver star Mary Zilba held a special charity event in honour of Purple Day and the fight against epilepsy. As an official “Purple Day Ambassador” and mother, the reality tv star raised money at the launch of her newest single “Hero” – a song she wrote in honour of her son Chase and his battle with the disease. Chase also accompanied her on stage.

01 – Helping make guests feel glam at the Pretty Please beauty night are The Bay beauty reps Peggy Sinclair, left, Nathan Culver, Renee Cherrier and Kathryn Wall.

02 – Gucci rep Payam Mirzaei and Thierry Mugler rep Yana Chu hand out samples of this season’s hottest fragrances at The Bay Pretty Please night.

03 – Singer Christi Hall, left, cuddles up to mom Dana Hall who also just happens to be The Bay store manager and main organizer of the Pretty Please evening. Christi also serenaded mom with a special song written just for her in honour of Mothers’ Day.

04 – Prada rep Anna Lambert shows off some “Prada Candy” perfume which has some sexy-sweet notes and a fabulous pink tote to match.

05 – Yes, even the boys received facials this night. Looking good at The Bay gala night are Outlook sponsors Pat Paproski, left, and publisher Greg Laviolette.

06 – Real Housewives of Vancouver star and singer Mary Zilba poses with her handsome sons Chad, left, Cole and Chase at the launch of her newest single “Hero”.

07 – CTV news gals Sarah Galashan, left, and Keri Adams are more than impressed with Mary Zilba and her beautiful song dedication to her son Chase.

08 – Real Housewives of Vancouver cast member Christina Kiesel, left, and friend Nadia come out in support of the fight against epilepsy.

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By Catherine Barr – May 5, 2012

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on May 10, 2012

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May 13, 2012
Year of the Dragon at Osaka Market West Vancouver

It’s time to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. Said to be the mightiest of the Chinese Zodiac symbols, anyone born under this sign is likely to be ambitious, successful and hard-working in nature. Helping to welcome the year in style last week were the good folks at Park Royal’s Osaka food market. A special VIP guest reception was held that featured food tours, arts and crafts displays and traditional lion dancing. Those in attendance were also treated to a wide selection of delicious treats and special gift bags.

01 – Park Royal’s Rick Amantea joins in the celebration with Osaka / T&T Markets owner Cindy Lee who flew out from Toronto for the special occasion.

02 – Mike Chen plays the role of Chaisan, who is the character “God of Fortune”.

03 – Outlook Newspaper’s sales team of Nick Bellamy, left, Diane Hathaway and editor Justin Beddall are among the invited guests and dignitaries.

04 – Park Royal’s marketing team of Nancy Small, left, and Alicia Fruhm take the tour to see some of the arts and crafts and traditions.

05 – You can’t have a New Year’s celebration without some fabulous food. Serving up smiles and goodies are food cart hostesses Tracy Chen, left, and Frannie Hsieh.

06 – Giving guests the royal tour and the VIP treatment are Osaka market’s Paul Wong and Sandra Creighton

07 – It was a spectacular beginning to the event thanks to the members of the lion dance team who helped welcome The Year of the Dragon.

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By Catherine Barr – Jan 20, 2012

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Feb 2, 2012
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January 29, 2012
North Shore Vancouver Rotary Wine and Food Festival to Benefit Youth

North Shore Rotarians from both North and West Vancouver chapters came together last weekend to raise funds for North Shore Youth programs at this very special night out. The North Shore Rotary Wine & Food Festival was held last weekend at West Vancouver’s Park Royal Shopping Centre. Featuring food and wine from local restaurants and suppliers, the evening gave guests a chance to sup, sip and sample from a wide selection of delicious options. Live music, raffle prizes and more equalled a great neighbourhood event for a very worthwhile cause.

01 – Upholding the “Service Above Self” motto, Rotarians Eddie Chong, left, Ardath Paxton-Mann and David Spears help take tickets at the front door while welcoming guests.

02 – North Shore Culinary School students Michael Izdebski, left, and Abbey Cruz serve up some delicious duck canapés with their instructor Don Guthro.

03 – Where’s the beef? Park Royal’s Peter and Helen Black, of Peter Black Butcher and Sons, take some time off to enjoy a night out together.

04 – Grouse Mountain’s culinary team help serve up some delicious samples that pair very well with the wine being served. From left: Lucas Sinkey, Marina Hansen and Mitch Ozmun.

05 – An excellent choice sir. Kye Melchert, of Select Wines and Spirits, will happily help you “select” a favourite.

06 – Aw shucks! Working the oyster bar on behalf of the Horseshoe Bay Boathouse restaurant are Liana Holmes and Nick Allan.

07 – BC Wine Gal’s Sarah Bertin proudly pours for guests from a selection of Naramata area wines.

08 – A little merlot to go with a girls’ night out. Enjoying an evening with friends are Nayer Abadi, left, Susan Rezania, Maryam Hashemi and Pari Zamani.

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By Catherine Barr – Oct 22, 2011

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Oct 27, 2011

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October 24, 2011
Cory Monteith of Glee opens first Pinkberry store in Canada at West Vancouver’s Park Royal Village

I scream, you scream, we all scream for . . . Okay, it’s not ice cream exactly, but according to hundreds of teenage girls, it was definitely worth screaming about. Last week, Pinkberry frozen yogurt opened it’s first ever store in Canada in West Vancouver at The Village at Park Royal Shopping Centre. The hip West Hollywood treat, popular with movie stars like Lindsay Lohan, also caused a big stir by bringing along local actor and “Glee” TV heartthrob Cory Monteith. Monteith and his band Bonnie Dune played two sets and signed autographs to the squealing delight of star struck teens. Also last week, the North Vancouver Chamber held their Summer Soiree evening at Seymour Golf and Country Club. It was a chance to welcome new members, celebrate milestones and introduce new board members for the upcoming year.

01 – Paige Larson, of North Shore Sports Medicine, left, and chamber director Elizabeth Mah chat with North Vancouver City mayor Darrell Mussatto at Summer Soiree.

02 – Crosby Property Management assistant GM Bruce Adanac, left, socializes with renovations/contractor businessman Joe Heilman at Summer Soiree.

03 – North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce staffers Misha Wilson, left, Gail Pickrell and Tanya Brown greet guests at the front door for Summer Soiree.

04 – North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce chair Mike Boehm, left, administrator Anne McMullin and event sponsor Digby Leigh celebrate summer at the Seymour Golf and Country Club soiree event.

05 – Pouring the champagne at the Pinkberry/Cory Monteith opening are Jeff Hopkins, left, and Jason Perry.

06 – Park Royal Shopping Centre marketing and events coordinator Alicia Fruhm gets a cuddle from Glee star Cory Monteith during the Pinkberry opening party.

07 – Pinkberry girls Becky Caissie, left, Bobbi Stremel and Mallory Oudendag hand out samples of coconut, mango, chocolate and watermelon during the Pinkberry/Cory Monteith opening party.

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By Catherine Barr – July 21, 2011

Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on July 28, 2011

July 25, 2011
Osaka Seafood Market Opens in Park Royal West Vancouver

Last week, Park Royal Shopping Centre welcomed its newest anchor tenant, Osaka Supermarket, with a celebration that rivaled New Year’s Eve. Part of the T&T chain, this newest location is only the second of its kind in Canada. With over 37,000 sq. ft. and 205 employees, it focuses on high-end products and an “upscale multicultural food experience”. The line-ups were around the block to get in on opening day which featured lion dancing, Taiko drumming, an eye-dotting ceremony and ribbon cutting with invited VIPs. PS. The door-crasher live lobsters special sold out in 3 hrs – and they were delicious.

01 – It’s just about the freshest seafood you can get. Osaka’s expert fishmongers play with a live King Crab right out of one of the tanks as folks line up to get shellfish and more.

02 – Park Royal’s Nancy Small, Director of Marketing and Sustainability, left, and Alicia Fruhm, Marketing and Events Coordinator, check out the live fish tanks at the seafood counter.

03 – Local dignitaries and VIPs grab their scissors to help Osaka CEO Cindy Lee cut the ribbon for the grand opening.

04 – North Vancouver City councillor Bob Fearnley, who has travelled to Asia many times, shows off some of the more exotic selections to be found in the produce aisle.

05 – The North Shore Outlook’s own super sales gal Janine Fieldgate and Sales Manager Greg Laviolette take the grand tour after the celebrations.

06 – Master sushi supervisor Nick is decked out in his red finery to oversee the master crafting of all the fresh sushi selections this opening day.

07 – They’re the girl power behind the Osaka success story. Daughter Tina Lee, left, Director, and mom Cindy Lee, CEO, are thrilled with the turnout by both the public and dignitaries for their special opening day celebrations.

08 – Park Royal Vice President Rick Amantea, left, and Larco owner Mansoor Lalji are among the VIPs in attendance for the lion dances and Taiko drumming presentations.

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By Catherine Barr – Nov 17, 2010

Also as published in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Nov 25, 2010

November 22, 2010
Rotary Wine Festival at Park Royal

It’s always a great night out and this year was no different. The 9th annual North Shore Rotary Wine and Food Festival was held last weekend at Park Royal South. Several wine and food stations, provided by local agencies and restaurants like Taylor’s Crossing, Grouse Mountain, The Keg, Mangia e Bevi and more, ensured guests could eat and sample to their heart’s content. Live music and mingling all helped raise funds for this year’s beneficiary, the North Shore Youth Safe House.

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01 – Taylor’s Crossing crew Katie Joyce, left, manager Jody Antone and Kelly Price are putting out the pizza for all the guests past their table.

02 – The always dynamic Daniel Falcon, of Mercedes-Benz North Vancouver, is one of the night’s smiling sponsors. Could it be because he gets to drive that fabulous luxury SUV?

03 – Back to back . . . to back. Jordan, left, Holly and Dennis Back are as close to a North Vancouver founding family as you’ll ever get having been active in the community’s government, charity and business scenes for years.

04 – North Van District councillor Mike Little even makes the job of spitoon boy look glam as he carries his bucket from table to table. Eek!

05 – Long time Rotarians Janice Bosley, left, and Jacci McTavish, both of West Vancouver Sunrise, count up the raffle tickets and money at the front door.

06 – A fab “Fusili Tartufate” has them lining up for a taste from Mangia e Bevi’s main men Paul Jennings, left, and Rob Parrott.

07 – Hard working volunteers are always the key reason behind the success of functions like these. Thanks to Rotary Club members Ardth Paxton-Mann, left, Nancy Robblee, Marni Fraser and Shirley Roberton for their hard work.

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By Catherine Barr – Oct 23, 2010

Also as printed in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on October 28, 2010

October 25, 2010
Royal Columbian Hospital and Tiko Kerr Art

Spring is definitely in the air and that means it’s time for Gala season again. The newly opened Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel was the scene of last week’s “Shine” event benefitting the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation and featuring a live performance by Canada’s “popera” supergroup Destino. As always, North Shore faces were happy to show up in support helping raise over $200,000 for a new digital breast imaging machine.

01 – Working at Tiffany & Co. makes director Rob Ferguson every girl’s best friend. He’s also a strong supporter of the Shine gala event.

02 – CBC news anchors Gloria Macarenko and Ian Hanomansing keep everyone entertained as MC hosts of the Shine gala.

03 – Royal Columbian Hospital (RCH) Foundation President and CEO Adrienne Bakker, left, and Foundation Board Chair Belle Puri look as glamorous as their surroundings at the Pacific Rim Shine gala.

04 – West Vancouver’s Margot Paris and husband Chuck Brook come out in support of the RCH’s Shine gala event.

05 – West Vancouver’s Pilar Izzard plays hostess to several VIPs and consul guests at a special art viewing of her late husband, artist Daniel Izzard, in Park Royal North. The exhibit continues through this weekend until March 13.

06 – West Vancouver’s Dr. Allan Bergmann and wife Niki Sauder are among the invited guests at Winsor Gallery’s art opening of “Lush Life” by Vancouver artist Tiko Kerr, right. This exhibit runs until March 28.

07 – A special shout out to Vancouver’s most vivacious radio talk show gal Jennifer Thomson, seen here at the Shine gala with Canada’s prominent pop opera trio “Destino”. Her recent recovery and victory over Cancer gives us all hope for the future.

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By Catherine Barr on March 4, 2010

Published in print by the North Shore Outlook newspaper on March 11, 2010

March 8, 2010
North Shore Outlook 10 Year Anniversary

You know how they say time flies when you’re having fun? Well, trust me when I say that it’s true. The last decade has flown by at the speed of light and in looking back, I realize just how wonderful, yet fleeting, life can be. In the last seven years that I have had the privilege of writing for The Outlook, I estimate that I have taken 11,653 photos of close to 34,959 faces at more than 3,640 local events. To this day, I never forget a smile (even though I sometimes forget the name – wink). So here’s to you – the people of my community, my neighbours and my new found friends. It is an honour to be here to share in all your special memories. I thank you all for your heart-warming smiles and look forward to ten years more – at least.

01 – Sarah McLachlan, Sheryl Crow and Neil Young played to a sell-out crowd of 9,000 at Ambleside Park in Summer 2009 as the Lee Family, Terry McBride and the Sarah McLachlan Foundation made history with a charity concert that attracted worldwide attention.

02 – The first ever sanctioned amateur boxing match in West Vancouver was held in March 2003 when the A4K (Athletics for Kids) held their first annual black-tie gala at Hollyburn Country Club – an event that is still going strong.

03 – It wasn’t how they planned to celebrate their 40th anniversary, but members of the North Shore Rescue team had to rescue their own in 2004 as a trek up Yukon’s Mount Logan went terribly wrong leaving Erik Bjarnason, Alex Snigurowicz and Don Jardine fending for their lives. From left: team members Barry Mason, Erik Bjarnason, Linda Bily and Don Jardin.

04 – Organizers Kenn Hamlin (left), and David Gouge (right) flank architect and famous ‘supermodeller’ Arthur Erickson at one of the legendary West Vancouver Eppich houses during the AIDS Memorial fundraiser in September 2005. Erickson passed away May 2009.

05 – The 2010 Winter Olympics are almost here, and we have Olympic bid committee member, silver medalist and North Shore gal Charmaine Crooks, left, to thank for it. Pictured here in November 2006 with fellow Olympian and gold medalist Catriona LeMay Doan at the Gold Medal Plates event, she will finally see her life’s work come to fruition next year.

06 – The Kay Meek Centre for the Performing Arts opened its doors, unofficially, in November 2004 with a gala performance of “The Prince of Africa”, performed by the African Children’s Choir, and seen here with sponsor Suzanne Latta. Sadly, Kay Meek herself passed away later that same weekend.

07 – Park Royal Shopping Centre’s new “Village” debuted in September 2004 with a series of grand openings, but none grander than the Home Depot’s “Inspire to Dream” gala night. The $300 per person fundraiser honoured the work of athlete Rick Hansen, seen here with wife Amanda, and featured a private intimate concert with recording artist Jann Arden.

08 – One of Canada’s most renowned Impressionist painters, Daniel Izzard, celebrated his 80th birthday in May 2003. Seen here with a beautiful portrait of granddaughter Carissa Davis, the event was a veritable who’s who of North Shore dignitaries. Izzard died in June 2007.

09 – NBA superstar Steve Nash and various celebrities were seen at the multi-million dollar West Vancouver home of Kyle and Janelle Washington in July 2007 at the “Carats” charity fundraiser and poker game where, for $10,000 per couple, guests got to hobnob with Nash and his famous friends. From left: Producer/composer David Foster (left) Steve Nash and his mom.

10 – There were tears, cheers and beers as the staff of the old Park Royal Hotel bid a bittersweet goodbye to their old digs in September 2004 to make way for a new development. Built in 1957 by West Vancouver’s late Frank Bernard, the memories and stories about her good old days will live on forever.

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By Catherine Barr – November 11, 2009

Published in print by the North Shore Outlook on November 19, 2009

November 12, 2009
Vancouver Supercar Weekend / Kiss and Makeup Party

Lamborghinis and lipstick helped round out August as two great events helped us remember all the luxurious little things in life. First up, party promoter Craig Stowe and friends were making heads turn in the street with a preview of their Luxury Supercar weekend.Come on out on Sep 12 and 13 to the Edgewater Casino to see a Palm Springs like show of “suber” cars like Ferrari, Roll Royce, Lamborghini, Porsche, Jaguar and more. Next, Heather Huntingford and her gal pals were celebrating the relocation of her fabulous Kiss and Makeup store in Park Royal village with a summer Patio Party that featured local celebs, makeovers, cocktails and cupcakes.

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September 6, 2009
Hot Rod Saturday in West Vancouver

Fords, Chevys, Model-Ts and more lined the streets of Park Royal Village in West Vancouver this past weekend as Hot Rod Saturday got everyone’s motor running. Presented in part by the BC Hot Rod Association and the North Shore Outlook, the day was a car lovers dream come true. Fuzzy dice and fancy paint jobs were the norm as the parking lot was transformed into a rainbow of colours and chrome and proud owners posed with their pride and joys of yesteryear.

01 – The Hikida Stephens race team, featuring owners/drivers Bob Stephens and Tom Whiffin, draw a big crowd with their 2,000 hp, 1966 dragster.

02 – West Vancouver’s Ron Price is looking nice in his always stylish 1966 Shelby Cobra in classic navy blue.

03 – This blue beauty is the belle of the ball – a 1954 Chevy Bel Air two door hardtop owned by the North Shore’s own Graeme Tait.

04 – Henry Tjart’s orange 1936 Ford Roadster is one of only 3,000 ever made and comes equipped with rumble seat – wink wink.

05 – The purple and white interior of Barry Watson’s beautiful 1950 Mercury coupe comes complete with plastic dice shifters and looks a little like a naughty night in Vegas.

06 – Pete Graw’s mint green 1956 Ford F150 truck is a true original which he named “Last Date”. He, his wife and their Gorilla mascot travel the continent to take part in shows like this.

07 – West Vancouver’s Denny Bromley is a proud 1923 Ford Model-T coupe owner. The car still has its old fashioned headlights that used to burn lamp oil and its wooden frame trunk.

By Catherine Barr

August 15, 2009 – published in the North Shore Outlook on August 20, 2009

August 17, 2009
West Vancouver Chamber Gala 2009

A beautiful sunny night greeted business owners and community members last week as the West Vancouver Chamber of Commerce held their 2009 Annual Presidents Dinner and Business Excellence Award. Stunning views, superb food, silent auction items and more helped make the evening memorable for all the right reasons. (more…)

June 15, 2009
Wear Else Spring Fashions at Park Royal

It was a Fashionista Wine and Cheese event at Park Royal’s stylish Wear Else boutique shop this month. Fashion reps from Milly and Tracy Reese clothing lines were on hand with glamorous models to show off their wares as gal pals from the North Shore got a chance to sip and sample and shop till they dropped. Bring on spring – we’re dressed and ready to go.

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February 3, 2009