It was a special evening in North Vancouver last weekend as friends, family and VIP members of the community were invited to attend an informal reception to recognize the upcoming 2011 Centennial Anniversary of 6 Engineer Squadron. Taking place at the J.P. Fell Armoury, guests had a chance to tour the 6 Engineer Squadron museum, view the Centennial Coin and ceremonial 1911 Cap Badge and hear a special presentation of the 100 year history. A great night to meet with former and current members, the evening ended with a fantastic performance by the J.P. Fell Pipe Band. The official March Past Parade and Banquet will be held at the J.P. Fell Armoury on May 7, 2011. Stay tuned.
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01 – Major Ward Trythall, seen here with wife Iska Scholl, are both looking forward to the big event on May 7th when a full day and night of activities will help mark the 100th year.
02 – Looking forward to seeing more of 2Lt Chris Beneteau, left, public affairs member of the 100th Anniversary Organizing Committee and drum major extraordinaire Doug Drysdale at the big May 7th celebration.
03 – Oh how we ladies love a man in uniform. Corporals Michael Kenacan, left, and Andy Chow graciously welcome VIPs and guests at the entrance.
04 – There’s a lot of work going into the centennial book now being prepared for the big event by historian/author Vince Larocque. His brief history presentation on this night is full of wonderful yet bittersweet memories.
05 – Trish and Allan McMordie, both accomplished pipers in the J.P. Fell Pipe Band, are proof positive that “music [is] the food of love” (Shakespeare). Play on!
06 – Serving together back in the years 1971-77, Gonzalo Benitez, left, now a VP at North Vancouver’s Neptune Terminals and Lieutenant-Colonel J.R. (Jim) Happer get a chance to catch up on old times.
07 – A rousing round of “Scotland the Brave” and more from the J.P. Fell Pipe Band gets guests tapping their feet. Look for them next at the annual Robert Burns Supper at the end of this month.
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By Catherine Barr – January 14, 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on January 20, 2011
It was a special start to the New Year at the River Rock Casino show theatre as retro rockers Foreigner took to the stage with a group of very special West Vancouver kids. Collingwood School music students were granted a special audience with the “Hot Blooded” chart toppers who, judging from the crowd, are still capable of raising the roof with old and new songs from their special CD release. Helping to raise money for East Vancouver school music programs, the Collingwood kids helped sell the CDs, and then, joined Foreigner live on stage to provide the famous choral background to their famous “I Wanna Know What Love Is” top ten hit. It was a standing ovation for all involved. Also, last week, it was time to toast the start of a new radio season with the AM650 / Virgin Radio gang. Every Tuesday morning at 8:50a I get to spend some time with these great people chatting live on the air about North Shore events, so here’s a little cheers to you and all you do. 
Get out your social calendars, it’s time for us to plan our schedules together. So whether you’re a Vancouver foodie, a celebrity hound or a fine wine connoisseur, you’ll want to mark these great events down. Every year, there’s so many fabulous and worthy charity events that deserve our attention, but the important thing is to remember to give, in any way you can, so that 2011 can be a successful year for all.
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.
If you don’t know a stroke survivor, chances are you know someone who does. It’s the reason the good folks at the North Shore Stroke Recovery Centre (NSSRC) want to get the word out because stroke recovery is an important part of many people’s lives. Providing services and bridging the gap between hospital services and home services is what they do best, and during this holiday season, when the message is caring and sharing, it’s a perfect time to recognize all their hard work. Last month, the group held their James Bond Affair Gala at West Vancouver’s Ocean Club lounge. Tuxes and martinis, and some funny money blackjack, were all part of this elegant affair.
They’re the dream cars everyone wants, but few can afford. The opening of Vancouver’s new Ferrari Maserati store on Burrard was spectacular beyond belief. Nearly 600 people came to the party which featured three floors of car displays with a $600,000 Fazioli Piano lounge on the first floor and a nightclub type atmosphere on the top level complete with live jazz band, sketch artists, martini bar and food galore. Lobster grilled cheese, a Glowbal catering specialty, plus sushi, oysters and risotto ensured guests were duly pampered as they helped celebrate this luxurious night on the town.
The Golden Heart award is Variety – The Children’s Charity’s “most prestigious mark of distinction”. Every year, at this elegant gala affair, groups and individuals are honoured for their commitment to excellence and for their philanthropic contributions to British Columbians. This year, it was time to honour Global TV BC for over 50 years of service. From their first on-air broadcast on Oct 31, 1960 to their work with the Show of Hearts Telethon, they have become a household name and a leader in all they do. Here’s a toast to some of the many North Shore citizens who are part of this success story. Congrats to all involved.
When West Vancouverite Sharon Chan-Knight and her business partner Tammy Preast, of Ask a Woman Enterprises, set out to raise money for breast cancer, they never thought they’d end up here. And while these resourceful gals are no strangers to party planning (having helped plan the West Vancouver Library’s annual croquet gala and more), they decided to shoot for the stars with a dual Prêt-a-Pour-Tea / Prêt-A-Pour-Nuit double bill. Last week, guests and VIPs were invited to the chic Bohemian lair of artist Pamela Masik to celebrate the fifth annual “Tea”, followed by an inaugural gala evening “Nuit”. Famous faces like actors Steve Bacic (Andromeda) and Erin Karpluk (Being Erica) were joined by featured speakers Brett “Dragons’ Den” Wilson and rocker/cancer survivor Bif Naked. Congrats to all involved.
North Vancouver’s Whitecap Books, in conjunction with Weissach cars and Barbara-Jo’s Books to Cooks, welcomed all kinds of local celebs last week at the launch of FoodTV chef and personality Bob Blumer’s newest book, “Glutton for Pleasure”. Autographs and cooking demos kept everyone’s mouth watering and later chef Blumer himself came out to greet fans. Also, it’s congrats to a very dedicated group of North Vancouver friends who, some ten years ago, got together to play Bocce to raise money in memory of a good friend. Today, the Benefits of Bocce group held a special cheque presentation party at North Vancouver’s newest Boston Pizza lounge. To date, the group has raised over $250,000 for various causes. And lastly, it was bow ties and ballgowns as the Arts Umbrella held their second annual Splash Gala fundraiser. North Shore notables were decked out in their finest and, armed with bidding numbers and credit cards, they helped make this year’s gala one of the best on record.
The 29th Vancouver International Film Festival has been taking place all over the city for the last two weeks with over 370 films from over 75 different countries. Truly a place to watch the world, the emphasis here is on artistic merit over that of Hollywood hype. Local actors, directors and more are also given the spotlight including North Shore influenced films like “Mighty Jerome” (the story of local African-Canadian track-and-field star Harry Jerome) and Sara McIntyre’s “Two Indians Talking”. One of the best opening night galas was held last week at West Vancouver restaurateur Jack Evrensel’s fabulous Cin Cin restaurant with many famous faces in attendance.
Fifty years ago, Prime Minister John Diefenbaker was in office, a new house was less than $12,000, a gallon of gas was about 25 cents, and a young man named Cassius Clay, after having won the Olympic Gold Medal in Rome, won his first professional boxing fight as Muhammad Ali. In entertainment, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. were making Vegas famous in both song and on the big screen, and high in the hills of West Vancouver, a little place called Hollyburn Country Club was forging new territory in what would become one of Canada’s wealthiest neighbourhoods. “Under the Palms – 50th Anniversary Gala” was held last Saturday and featured a glamorous night of Vegas style celebrating including showgirls, gala dinner and cocktail reception, a “funny money” casino and live entertainment by “Nearly Neil”. Congrats to all founding members and their families, and to all that helped make this night so special.
Do you remember when the BC Lions hoisted the Grey Cup in 1994? How about when “Burnaby Joe” Sakic led his team to Stanley Cup victory in both 1996 and 2001? These victories, and more, were was all part of the walk down memory lane this month as the BC Sports Hall of Fame and Museum held their 2010 Banquet of Champions gala at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Joining the ranks of those who went before them, the Class of 2010 was led into the hall by pipers to celebrate along with 1100 other invited guests, all of whom came together to also help raise over $385,000 for the BC Sports Hall of Fame’s Hero in You® Education programs. Congrats to all inductees.
Car lovers from all over the province came out to play this weekend at The Porsche Club of America’s Escape 2010 event. Held at the beautiful Delta Sun Peaks Resort, there was no shortage of North Shore faces at the Porsche show and shine and gala weekend which included demos, seminars and an excellent chance to pal around with fellow Porsche car enthusiasts. Over 200 vehicles were on display and some drove from as far away as North Carolina. Money raised from the event and live auction awards evening goes to support the British Columbia Childhood Cancer Parents’ Association (BCCCPA) because as the club’s motto states . . . “It’s not just the cars, it’s the people.”
The who’s who of the North Shore and more headed east to wine country during the last week of August to celebrate the “Wine Society” gala weekend at the fabulous La Stella winery in Osoyoos, BC. Brainchild of winery owner and hostess Saeedeh Salem, she described the weekend as a “total sensory experience” and paired each of her musically named wines with the food and experience taking place. For instance, during the “Leggiero” Chardonnay course, the Kelowna strings entertained on stage as guest supped on delicate seafood and salad. During the “Maestoso” reds, guests were big into beef and bold opera sung by David Foster’s protege group Classical Nouveaux. Joy Road Catering provided yet another fabulous 100-mile menu on the second night as guests were treated to another sparkling evening of wine and a live performance by Jarvis Church of the Philosopher Kings. Also a special thank you to the great people at the stunning Walnut Beach Resort property – it’s an absolute must see-and-stay with a private licensed beach, luxury suites and more. Cheers!
The Whistler Film Fest is celebrating their 10 year anniversary this year – and what better way than with their annual gala fundraiser called “Soiree”. Held at Vancouver’s stylish waterfront Nu restaurant, the night included red carpet arrivals, decadent food and live music. Also, the Beach House restaurant in West Vancouver welcomed summer with a special Hawaiian Luau night featuring live entertainment, a bountiful buffet and dancing till late. Aloha!
Vancouver’s Arts Club Theatre Company is known for its fabulous plays and talented performers, but the buzz surrounding the upcoming production of Glengarry Glen Ross is bigger than ever thanks to Hollywood A-Lister Eric McCormack. The Canadian born actor, known best for his starring role in television’s “Will and Grace” comedy series, will take to the stage starting July 22. Last week, the cast was present at a fundraising pre-gala party at a private West Vancouver home. Invited guests and VIPs got a chance to meet and mingle while enjoying fabulous food from Fraiche restaurant.
The West Vancouver Chamber’s President’s Dinner was held last week at the newly revamped Gleneagles Clubhouse in West Van. It was the perfect setting as business and civic leaders dressed to impress as the night also included the handing out of the Business Excellence Awards to deserving community nominees. Special mention to the North Shore Credit Union for taking home this year’s “Most Green Business” award.
You know it’s a good party when you get to play with the Belugas and tickle the sea otters. Add in some sustainable seafood, a glass of vino and some lavish auction items and you’ve got “Night at the Aquarium” – the Vancouver Aquarium’s signature gala fundraiser. This year, the gala raised over $300,000 and all of the proceeds go directly toward supporting the Aquarium’s numerous research, education and conservation efforts. Also last week, North Vancouverite and Steamworks proprietor Eli Gershkovitch welcomed guests to his newest installment – Rogue Kitchen & Wetbar – located in the downtown seabus terminal. Formerly known as the Transcontinental, the refurbished room features fabulous new decor and a new menu well worth the trip.
Star-studded arrivals on the red carpet, a champagne reception, beautiful gowns and real-life movie stars. The annual Leo Awards are, without a doubt, Vancouver’s best glitz and glamour night. It’s all about honouring the fabulous local talent that works both on and off the screen here in BC’s movie and television industry. But Vancouver’s “Night at the Oscars” wouldn’t be anything without the hard work of the North Shore’s own Sonny Wong and Walter Daroshin – two men who have dedicated more than a dozen years to promoting and producing the best this province has to offer. Congrats to all involved.
Unique, artful and fun is the best way to describe “Bust – An Art Social”. Hosted by Global TV weather girl Kristi Gordon and a flock of female friends, this tasteful and titillating evening featuring inspired artworks by artists from all over BC. A silent auction, live entertainment and dancing rounded out the night with all the proceeds going to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. Next, it was time for the Hot Chefs, Cool Jazz event as Bocue d’Or candidate chef Ryan Stone took his bows at center stage amidst the many food and wine stations set up at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Funds raised here go to support Ryans’ bid to compete with the best in January 2011.
Late Night funny man Jay Leno was the headliner last week at Brian Jessel’s 5th Annual Cabriolet Charity Gala. The $500 VIP ticket event was held at the dealership which was transformed into a glittering lounge complete with live music and fabulous food and beverage provided by some of Vancouver’s finest restaurants. Proceeds from the night go to support the Canucks Autism Network, ArtsUmbrella and the VGH and UBC Hospital Foundation. Live and silent auction items galore helped raise funds, but no more so than the grand finale item – four tickets to the Tonight Show and a private tour of Jay’s own personal car collection.
It was fringes, flappers and fun last week as the North Vancouver City Library’s annual “Libations” fundraising gala was held at the new North Vancouver Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier. The beautiful ballroom was magically transformed into “The Great Gatsby: Boas and Books” theme complete with live Roaring Twenties music generously provided by Clyde Mitchell and his spectacular Sinfonia orchestra. Live and silent auctions, and a chance to rub shoulder with authors and local dignitaries made this night a total success. Congrats. Also last week, West Vancouver’s Leone family played host to invited guests at a special showing of artist Gina Miller’s “Feel the Essence, Hear the Bloom” art collection.
If they had a million dollars . . . well, they do – and a lot more. So it’s only fitting that the Barenaked Ladies help with the VIP opening night party of Vancouver’s newest multi-million dollar property – The Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel. Invited guests were treated to a private concert last week in the lobby of the richly elegant building which is bound to be the new hangout for famous faces. Also last week, it was time for ball gowns and black ties at the BC Cancer Society’s Diamond Ball Gala at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Entitled “Ole”, a $400 ticket to the 14th annual event featured live entertainment, auctions and more for this very worthwhile cause.
Eating right, giving back and starting anew doesn’t seem like it could be that much fun – but last week, it was! Three great events full of charity and giving helped start Spring off on the right note. First up, it was the BC Chefs’ Association’s Healthy Chef Competition at the Hyatt. Next, it was a Spring fashion show at Leones hosted by United Way’s Women United in Philanthropy. And finally, it was Persian New Year at the Marriot where the Canadian Iranian Foundation held a glamorous celebration.
It was a culinary event of Olympic proportions and the big winners were our own Olympic athletes. The Canadian Culinary Championships (CCC) were held late last month and were the culmination of the local regional Gold Medal Plates city competitions held throughout the year across Canada. The fundraisers were all designed to help put Canadian athletes on the podium come February – so no matter how you slice it, everyone came out a winner. Also, this week marks the start of Mangia E Bevi’s special month-long fundraiser entitled “B.A.C.I.O” (Because A Cure Is Obtainable). The West Vancouver restaurant is raising funds all this month with a special menu – a portion of which will be donated to the BC Children’s Hospital and the Lions Gate Hospital Oncology departments. Join them until Jan 31 at 
This past year has been lots of fun, yet sadly it’s over and done. So it’s time to review, all those great things we do; but it’s hard just to focus on one. It’s the last of the holiday cheer. So remember, when midnight draws near; grab a glass, raise a toast, hug your friends, kiss the host; and yell it out . . Happy New Year!
The champagne was flowing this month for more than just the holidays. First up it was the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation’s 23rd annual Crystal Ball. The gala evening, which was held at the Four Seasons Hotel, was a true black tie affair complete with martini reception, gala dinner, auction items and the popular Cartier raffle draw. Next, it was time to pop the corks on the Veuve Cliquot as local business owners Clara and Steve Agopian celebrated the opening of their newely renovated Lugaro Jewellers in Park Royal South.