Catherine Barr – Events, Celebrities & Entertainment News

Category: Galas

Vancouver’s charity gala events and fundraisers

  • West Vancouver Chamber Christmas 2009

    peter_blackThe West Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, along with guests and friends, held their annual Christmas gala at the beautiful Capilano Golf and Country Club last week. Live jazz, fabulous silent auction items and a special visit from Santa were all part of the evening, the highlight of which had to be the magnificent fit-for-a-king buffet dinner which featured everything from crab claws to hand carved prime rib and a dessert table to die for. Celebrating the season doesn’t get much better than this.

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    01 – Parisa Djavaherizadeh gives West Van Chamber board member and gallery owner Luis Sopena a cuddle as they head for the dessert table.

    02 – Team Fitness’ Deneen Campioni, left, and Shalon Sherwood enjoy their dinner with realtor Mark Ballard and wife Jan.

    03 – Artist XXXX watches diners at their tables and paints the scene live for all to enjoy. Later the painting is auctioned off.

    04 – Looking trim and tanned after a well-deserved tropical vacation are Dan Sewell and his wife, of Horseshoe Bay’s famous Sewell’s Marina.

    05 – Providing the live jazz entertainment are Capilano University students Winston Mickler, left, Chad Leyte and Kegan Spence.

    06 – Butcher Peter Black needs no introduction. His appearances each year at the dinner as Santa Claus are a tradition.

    07 – West Vancouver Chamber president Gary Mussatto is surrounded with glittery glam girls, namely Haleh Alexander, left, Allison Mountstevens and wife Misti Mussatto.

    By Catherine Barr – December 2, 2009

    Published in print by the North Shore Outlook newspaper on Dec 10, 2009

  • Variety 2009 Golden Heart Award Dinner

    gordie_howeThe Fairmont Hotel Vancouver was buzzing with excitement last week as Variety – The Children’s Charity put on a gala night to honour the memory of philanthropist Peter C. Toigo Sr. The Golden Heart Community Achievement Award 2009 paid tribute to the man who helped keep White Spot (and General Foods) on the map here in B.C. The black tie affair also included live music from White Spot chef Chuck Currie and his SaxNoir quartet and tributes from family and friends, like former Premier Bill Vander Zalm and Mr. Hockey himself, Gordie Howe.

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    01 – Ron Toigo, son of the late Peter Toigo Sr., carries on the traditions set forth by his father and family before him.

    02 – Music agent to the stars, Bruce Allen, left, chats with Lilian and Bill Vander Zalm. Bill is also the evening’s auctioneer.

    03 – West Vancouver’s Wendy and Sergio Cocchia are no strangers to Variety – The Children’s Charity. Back in 1997, Wendy’s father Roy Lisogar received the Golden Heart Community Award.

    04 – He shoots, he scores! Mr. Hockey himself, Gordie Howe, is still the most popular man in any room he visits.

    05 – Variety’s Danielle Lucas and Carla Jones deserve high praise for helping put on a stellar and elegant evening.

    06 – The very debonair John Starkey, president of FCV Technologies, takes home a personally autographed Gordie Howe #9 jersey.

    07 – Dr. Leonard Makowka, left, special guest speaker and friend to Peter Toigo Sr., celebrates the night with former Attorney General Wally Oppal, QC.

    08 – White Spot executive chef Chuck Currie and his saxophone quartet pose with B.C.’s most famous band leader, nonagenarian Dal Richards, centre.

    By Catherine Barr – November 16, 1009

    Published in print in the North Shore Oulook on November 26, 2009

  • North Shore Outlook 10 Year Anniversary

    10-year_groupYou 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.

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    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.

    – –

    By Catherine Barr – November 11, 2009

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

  • Wine on the Mountain and JDRF Rockin’ for Research

    chris_gailusTwo great Saturday night galas make headlines this week. First up, Wine on the Mountain was quite literally a “feast for the senses” as guests rode to the top of a snow covered Grouse Mountain to enjoy food and wine, live music and auctions in support of Adoptive Families Association of BC. Next, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation celebrated the 10th anniversary of their Rockin’ for Research gala with a spectacular night at the Hyatt featuring live performances by Loverboy, Chilliwack, Bill Henderson and Paul Hyde.

    Wine on the Mountain and Rockin' for Research
    Wine on the Mountain and Rockin' for Research

    01 – Global news reporter and North Shore gal Catherine Pope is a big Adoptive Families supporter having adopted a baby girl herself a couple of years ago.

    02 – Treena Innes, Development Director of Adoptive Families Association of BC, poses with members of the North Van District Fire Department who were happy to volunteer for the night.

    03 – Food and wine were all part of the good time at Adoptive Families gala thanks to the support of suppliers like Paul Jordan of Stile Wines, left, and Grouse Mountain executive chef Dino Gazzola.

    04 – Judging their favourite wines as part of the celebrity panel at Adoptive Families gala are Global TV personalities Kristi Gordon, left, Randeen Neil and Sophie Lui.

    05 – Helping with the live auction at Adoptive Families gala is Global TV anchor Chris Gailus who attends the event wife Jane Carrigan.

    06 – Mike Reno, seen here with girlfriend Cathy St. Germain, takes to the stage with his band mates from Loverboy to kick off the dancing part of the night at JDRF’s Rockin’ for Research gala.

    07 – Former Vancouver mayor turned Senator Larry Campbell is an adoptive parent and plays the role of MC this night for Adoptive Families gala.

    08 – Looking fabulous in a hot backless sequins dress, North Van’s Amanda Tanner accompanies CTV weaterman and hubby Marke Driesschen as he performs his MC duties at the JDRF Rockin’ for Research 10th Annual Gala.

    By Catherine Barr – November 8, 2009

    Publishing in print in the North Shore Outlook newspaper on Nov 12, 2009

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  • Canucks Place Gift of Time Gala

    jolinda_lindenTime is something we all take for granted – but for a sick child, time is the most precious gift of all. The Canucks Place Children’s Hospice – Gift of Time Gala celebrated their fourth annual event last week at the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver. Always special, the beautiful ballroom was decorated to the nines and included special table centrepieces hand made by the children under the direction of artist Jolinda Linden, sister-in-law to Canucks superstar Trevor Linden. Business leaders, VIPs and supporters all gave generously to attend the star-studded evening that also included a special performance by surprise celebrity musical guest Chantal Kreviazuk.

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    01 – Global TV VP Brent Manlove and wife Brenda, who also live in North Vancouver, are among the media executives who are happy to lend their support.

    02 – Global TV weekend weather girl Kristi Gordon, left, and Global TV news anchor Jill Krop chat with West Vancouver’s Filomena Nalewajek, Canuck’s Place CEO. Jill was also MC for the evening.

    03- As parents of four children of their own, West Vancouver realtor Jason Soprovich and wife Monica know how important it is to support the Canucks Place kids.

    04 – Well known for their philanthropy, Christie and James King deserve congrats for recently welcoming number five to the family – a new baby daughter.

    05 – The North Shore’s own Carmelina Cusano, left, and daughter Marcella, of Montecristo Jewellers fame, are major sponsors of the night.

    06 – Looking beautiful in red, artist Jolinda Linden, sister-in-law to Canucks superstar Trevour Linden, shows off one of the heart-warming table centrepieces that she and the children made for the big event.

    07 – With donations totalling $1.3 million, Telus CEO Darren Entwistle also surprise everyone by donating the first Telus based iPhone for live auction, well ahead of their Nov. 5 public launch.

    08 – Gala chair and West Vancouverite Sandy Elliott-Ergas, left, and Canucks Place CEO Filomena Nalewajek, right, welcome surprise musical guest Chantal Kreviazuk.

    By Catherine Barr – October 29, 2009

    Publishing in print by the North Shore Outlook newspaper on Nov 5, 2009

  • Vancouver International Film Festival 2009

    Erin Cebula and Ryan Robbins

    The 28th annual Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) kicked-off last week and the buzz is everywhere. Running from October 1-16, VIFF presents approximately 575 screenings of 350+ films from over 70 countries. Not known for attracting big Hollywood names, the festival nonetheless has plenty of glitz and glam to go with it, including the Gala Opening night party, the Brightlight/Bridge Studios big Red Carpet Party at Cin Cin, The Canadian Images soiree at Joeys on Burrard and the Women in Film and Television (WIFTV) Martini Madess at Edge. Check viff.org for more info.

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    01 – Keeping it cheeky – burlesque girls, feathers and fun are all part of the annual Woman in Film and Television (WIFTV) Martini Madness party at the Edge on Granville.

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    02 – West Vancouver’s Jack Evrensel, left, owner of Cin Cin restaurant, chats with North Vancouver’s Peter Leitch, President of North Shore Studios and Mammoth Studios.

    03 – ET Canada’s Erin Cebula interviews local actors, like Ryan Robbins (of Sanctuary and Battlestar Galactica fame), on the red carpet at Cin Cin.

    04 – Twelve year-old Cassandra Sawtell is a North Shore actress who can be seen in the upcoming “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus” with the likes of Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Christopher Plummer.

    05 – West Vancouer’s Sharon Chan looks after VIPs, like actor Lochlyn Munro (Night at the Roxbury, 9-9-09), at the Cin Cin red carpet affair.

    06 – Karim and Monica Virani take in the VIFF Opening Night Gala at the Rocky Mountaineer after the screening of “A Shine of Rainbows”.

    07 – Twilight: Eclipse movie fans will recognize Nanaimo born actress Jodelle Ferland who is also starring in “Everything’s Coming Up Rosie” at the festival.

    08 – Taking in the action at several red carpet events, including the Loden Hotel’s “Fabulous” party, are pretty PR gal Tammy Preast, left, and West Vancouver businessmen Frank Giustra and Harald Ludwig.

  • Canadian Country Music Awards, Chef Meets Grape and more

    Country music, Bhangra drums plus celebrity chefs and wine helped wrap up the last week of Summer 2009. First up, the Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMA) brought big name singers to the city with a festival that included live concerts, fan parties and a fabulous live awards show that was broadcast across Canada. Next up, West Vancouver musician Ash Sood and friends were among the VIPs at a special private dinner to raise funds for the Bhangra International Festival Celebration. And when it comes to celebrating, no one does it better than the Wine of BC people with their annual Chef Meets Grape charity event in support of the Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise program.

    01 – Bachelorette Gillian Harris, seen here backstage with cousin Tori, was a presenter at the CCMA’s and assures me that she and Ed are still going strong as she flashes her diamond ring.

    02 – Calgary born country singer Paul Brandt walks the red carpet for the big CCMA after-party at the Hyatt.

    03 – Glasgow born country singer Johnny Reid is having a great year as the biggest winner this night at the CCMA and it’s only going to get better as his very pregnant wife is due to give birth later this year.

    04 – Gabriele Durning, left, producer of the Backstage Gift Lounge at the CCMAs, made sure all the country superstars, like Terri Clark, get a chance to shop for their goody bags backstage.

    05 – He’s the North Shore’s famous fishmonger. Kosta the Fishmonger shows his wares at the Chef Meets Grape event.

    06 – La Terrazza chef Tim O’Brien, left, and Diva at the Met’s Chef Dino Renaerts are two of the celeb chefs cooking up a storm at Chef Meets Grape.

    07 – Vancouver Mayor Gregor Roberts and West Vancouver’s Devina Zalesky of AllWest Insurance give their support to the Bhangra Festival dinner.

    08 – Drummer/musician Ash Sood, left, dinner hostess Sandra Garossino and chef Vikram Vij, of Vij’s fame, are among the VIPs at the Bhangra Festival invite-only charity dinner.

    – By Catherine Barr

    As published in the North Shore Outlook newspaper on September 24, 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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  • Sarah McLachlan Music Foundation Gala

    Sarah McLachlan
    Sarah McLachlan

    Last week, The Vancouver Music Industry (VMI) held its fourth annual Gala and Golf Event to benefit the Sarah McLachlan Music Outreach. The spectacular looking Sarah was there in person and looking oh so very hot-hot-hot in a spectacular blue and green gown and fabulous summertime tan. The evening’s highlight came when Bruce Allen presented the Bruce Allen/ Sam Feldman Legend Award to North Vancouver’s famous Bryan Adams and his fabulous song writing partner Jim Vallance who is responsible for the chart topping hits of Aerosmith, Ozzy Osbourne, Heart and Alice Cooper, to name a few. (more…)

  • Whistler Film Fest Soiree Gala

     

    SOIRÉE! The Whistler Film Festival Society Gala & Auction was the place to be as the Four Seasons hotel in Vancouver hosted some of Vancouver’s most influential Hollywood North movers and shakers. Hosted by Corner Gas star Brent Butt, the evening was filled with live music, auction items and fabulous food by new Four Season chef Oliver Beckert. Held in the first week of December, The Whistler Film Fest is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the premiere film festivals in the country and, thanks to fundraisers like this, it just might be world famous some day. (more…)

  • Night at the Aquarium and Goldfish Bikinis

    A look back at last month proves that summer really did arrive in grand style. Lots of local patio parties, a chic bikini fashion show and a grand gala at the Vancouver Aquarium were all on the schedule and gave us lots to talk about.

    01 – The boys of Crave Beachside in West Van welcome VIP guests to the restaurant’s new patio during their summer party. From left: manager Brooke Parker, sous chef Mike Earland, executive chef Mook and Andrew Chalmers.

    02 – Goldfish (and Joe Fortes) owner Bud Kanke and wife Dotty celebrated with local celebs at the restaurant’s Summer Splash party and fashion show.

    03 – Anna Kosturova swimwear models were the toast of the town at the Goldfish Summer Splash fundraiser.

    04 – West Vancouver’s Deanna Palkowski, left, and swimwear fashion designer Anna Kosturova get things organized for the fashion show at Goldfish Summer Splash.

    05 – Handi restaurant manager Amar Amroke, right, welcomes Ashok Das, Consul General of India, and his wife Dr. Erika Das to their West Vancouver summer patio celebration.

    06 – C Restaurant’s executive chef Robert Clark plays with a stuffed baby beluga in honour of the birth of the real deal at the Night at the Aquarium gala.

    07 – Dr. John Nightingale, President of the Vancouver Aquarium, shows off some Olympic paraphernalia during the Night at the Aquarium gala fundraiser.

    08 – Oceanwise Sushi anyone? West Vancouver’s Zen Sushi chef Alex Kamizako, left, along with Karen and Nobu Ochi, serve up delicious sample plates at the Night at the Aquarium.

    Published in the North Shore Outlook on July 2, 2009

  • West Van Library Croquet Tournament

    It’s always been one of my favourites and this year was no exception. It was luck year 13 for the West Vancouver Memorial Library Foundation as they held their annual 2009 Mallet Masters Croquet Tournament down at the Ambleside Greens pitch-n-putt. Dressed in their whites, teams took to the courts to play the day away. Later, the champions took to centre court to settle the score as cocktail hour started. A beautiful dinner, provided by Glowbal catering, was then followed by a vibrant live auction with golf packages, wine packages and more up for grabs.

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  • 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…)

  • Jazz in the Park for Adoptive Families BC

    Live jazz, celebrity blackjack, martini and whiskey tastings and fabulous food. It was a celebration to remember this past weekend as the Adoptive Families Association of BC held their gala fundraiser in the history Stanley Park Pavilion. Fabulous auction items helped raise even more money, the most popular of which was a custom Fire in the Kitchen package cooked and served by some of the city’s most handsome firefighters. (more…)

  • Blue Water Cookbook and Red Cross Gala

    Kermit the Frog said it best – It’s not easy being green. However, thanks to some new sustainable programs (like the Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise program), Vancouver chefs are responding with enthusiasm. Such was the case at Blue Water Cafe last week. West Vancouver owner Jack Evrensel, along with his talented team, launched a new seafood cookbook focusing on “Spare the Ocean, Spoil the Palate”. The restaurant also played host to the Red Carpet Soiree – a toast to the 100 year celebration of the Red Cross – an organization known for its care of third world, health and sustainable recycling programs.


     

    01 – Red Carpet gala co-chairs Anita Chow, left, and Linda Low look very glamorous under the red tent awning.

    02 – Lindsay Thom, left, Erin Treloar and Renee Fischer celebrate this important date with smiles, cocktails and sustainable seafood.

    03 – West Vancouver restaurateur Jack Evrensel, who owns Blue Water, Cin Cin, West and Araxi, chats with PR Gal and former NS Outlook reporter Jennifer Maloney.

    04 – Blue Water gals Shelley McArthur and Kate MacDougall have a double reason to be proud helping promote both the Red Cross and a green way of life.

    05 – It’s a green light all the way for the food at Blue Water thanks to restaurant directory Stephan Cachard, left, and exec chef Frank Pabst.

    06 – West Vancouverite and Dundarave Fish Market owner Kim Hurford, seen here with daughter Brooke, knows all about life in, and on, the sea and came out to celebrate.

     

     

    May 23, 2009 (published May 28, 2009)

     

     

    Catherine Barr’s column appears every Thursday in the North Shore Outlook – 60,000 copies delivered to homes in the North Vancouver and West Vancouver area If you wish to submit an event for coverage please fill in the form found here or email Cat at info@catherinebarr.com.

  • Brian Jessel BMW Cabriolet 2009

     

    It was time for cocktails, cars and catwalks at the 4th Annual Brian Jessel BMW Cabriolet Charity Fashion Gala. Benefitting BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre Foundation and the VGH & UBC Hospital for prostate research, the evening featured fashions by Hugo Boss and Harry Rosen as well as a fabulous martini / wine bar, four-star food by some of Vancouver’s top restaurants and more beautiful accessories than you can imagine. Va Va Vroom! (more…)

  • Vancouver Leo Awards 2009

    The Leo Awards, BC’s version of the Oscars and Emmys, took place last weekend at the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver. Produced by the North Shore’s own Sonny Wong and Walter Daroshin, celebrities from both TV and movies walked the red carpet in style before being honoured by their peers at the gala awards show and dinner. Star spotters, autograph hunters and paparazzi galore made this a real Hollywood in Vancouver moment to remember.

     

     

    Leo Awards 2009
    Leo Awards 2009

     

     

     

    01 – Tina Thorndycraft (wife of Leo Awards producer Walter Daroshin) poses with daughter Tamara, left, and friend Maggie Hope on the red carpet.

    02 – Star of Being Erica, actress Erin Karpluk, smiles for photographers with handsome actor John Cassini, of Intelligence and Robson Arms fame.

    03 – Battlestar Galactica, Smallville and Stargate are all on the resume of North Shore actor Dan Payne who attends the awards with his beautiful wife Daylon.

    04 – Best Guest Performance by a Female in a Dramatic Series goes to the very talented Gabrielle Rose.

    05 – Actors Ryan Robbins, left, and Tyler Labine each take home Leos for Best Guest Performance Male in a Dramatic Series and Best Lead Performance by a Male in a Dramatic Series, respectively.

    06 – West Vancouver’s Amanda Tapping, seen here with Leos producer Walter Daroshin, takes home the Leo for Best Lead Performance by a Female in a Dramatic Series.

    07 – North Shore Comedian Gary Jones gets a night off from hosting duties to enjoy the awards ceremony with Meg Cameron.

    08 – Actress Steph Song is greeted by Sonny Wong at the end of the red carpet as fans look on.


    May 9, 2009 (published May 14, 2009)

     

    Catherine Barr’s column appears every Thursday in the North Shore Outlook – 60,000 copies delivered to homes in the North Vancouver and West Vancouver area If you wish to submit an event for coverage please fill in the form found here or email Cat at info@catherinebarr.com.

  • Nite of Hope – Shoot for the Stars

    West Vancouver Police

    West Vancouver’s Capilano Golf and Country Club was decked out in pink and silver sparkle this past Tuesday night as the Nite of Hope – Shoot for the Stars Gala Dinner and Fashion Show took place. MC Vicki Gaberau joined members of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation in welcoming guests who were treated to a night of fabulous food, entertainment and fashion shows featuring styles from West Vancouver’s Phoenix and Romantique boutiques. (more…)

  • Athletics for Kids Boxing Gala

     

    It was time for bow ties and boxing gloves as the 7th annual Athletics for Kids (A4K) Boxing Gala was held last Friday at Hollyburn Country Club. Rock 101 FM’s Bro Jake “The Champ” Edwards had them rolling in the aisles as he helped MC the evening which included a glamorous martini reception, big steak dinner and five rounds of Olympic sanctioned boxing. Helping raise money for kids who can’t afford to play sports is the goal of these go-getters, and they continue to do so in style thanks to the many who came out in support. (more…)

  • Juno Week in Vancouver 2009

     

    The Juno Awards, Canada’s music equivalent to the Grammy’s, came to town last week and the lead up to the red carpet awards night was nothing short of spectacular. Hotel hospitality suites were filled with rock stars and celebs and just about every club in town got in the act with live bands and more. Music moguls Bruce Allen and Sam Feldman held one of the more exclusive events in town with Juno nominees getting a surprise performance from the Barenaked Ladies and VIP invites including Bryan Adams, Loverboy and Michael Buble – to name a few.

     

     

    Juno Week Parties 2009
    Juno Week Parties 2009

     

     

     

     

    01 – Vancouver mayor Gregor Robertson chats with CTV News anchor Coleen Christie at the Juno opening night reception at the Commodore Ballroom. 

     

    02 – Wearing armoured vests, music super-agents Sam Feldman and Bruce Allen got lots of laughs as they dished out the flak at their Wild West party Friday night.

     

    03 – Bob Rock, left, producer of bands like Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Metallica and Motley Crue, gives congrats to Loverboy guitarist Paul Dean on their Juno Hall of Fame award.

     

    04 – Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Red Robinson, left, shares the spotlight with Attorney General Wally Oppal at the Feldman/Allen party.

     

    05 – Corner Gas star and comedian Brent Butt, left, celebrates with Loverboy lead singer, and West Van resident, Mike Reno.

     

    06 – Dave Genn, formerly of the Matthew Good Band and currently of the band 54/40, cuddles with wife Tamara Taggart, who is also CTV’s pretty weather forecaster.

     

     

     


    March 30, 2009 (published April 2, 2009)

     

     

    Catherine Barr’s column appears every Thursday in the North Shore Outlook – 60,000 copies delivered to homes in the North Vancouver and West Vancouver area If you wish to submit an event for coverage please fill in the form found here or email Cat at info@catherinebarr.com.

  • Women in Film Vancouver and Confessions of a Shopaholic Handbag Event

    It was pure girl power this month for a couple of big reasons. First, the beautiful ladies at Expert Recruiters hosted a private showing of “Confessions of a Shopaholic” at the Scotiabank Theatre to launch their new designer handbag rental venture called “It’s Your Secret”. Next, the Women in Film and Television Vancouver (WIFTV) toasted their own during their gala film festival which honoured achievement among their peers. (more…)

  • Fifty Fabulous Women at Shangri La Hotel

    Vancouver’s newest skyscraper, The Shangri-La Hotel, opened it’s doors to the public last week. The multi- million dollar marvel is sure to wow visitors and locals alike as it attracts big name celebs and chefs to its doorstep. But thanks to socialite Christy King and 50 of her fabulous lady friends, the gals got a chance to see things prior to opening night and to share in a fundraiser that goes to support kids and the United Way. (more…)

  • BC Chef’s Society Dinner

     

    Thomas Haas Chef
    Thomas Haas Chef

    It was billed as the dinner of a lifetime. North Vancouver’s own Pino Posteraro, of Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill fame in Yaletown, played host to an elite group of famous foodies at his restaurant earlier this month to serve a $500 a plate, 12-course feast in support of the BC’s Chefs’ Table Soiety (CTS). The “Senza Frontiere” (without borders) dinner helped raise funds for the creation of bursaries and scholarships for young, emerging, student chefs. Vancouver’s finest chefs shared kitchen duty as they put their egos on hold and cooked up a storm that was dressed to impress. Congrats. (more…)

  • The 45th Annual Scottish Ball

    It was a Christmas delight to behold at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on December 14th as West Vancouver’s Gleneagles Scottish Counry Dance group played host to guests from near and far at the 45th Annual Scottish Ball. Close to 200 guests, some of them coming from as far away as Washington state, took to the ballroom floor to enjoy a formal afternoon of traditional dancing to the sounds of the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra. They’ve come a long way from their humble beginnings at the clubhouse at West Van’s Gleneagles Golf Club – and it’s nice to see that everyone is still “reeling” in the all the fun. Congrats to all involved. (more…)

  • James Bond, Scotches and Watches and 100.5 The Peak Radio Vancouver

    This week’s wrap has something for the spy in all of us. On Saturday, the Vancouver Club played host to the Jet Set Crew and their James Bond 007 Martini Party. DJ Timka, direct from New York’s Buddha Bar, put down the sounds as Octopussy, Odd Job and other sexy villans strutted their stuff. A sexy VIP room, exotic decor and the who’s who of Vancouver’s beautiful people all added up to a night that Halle Berry would have loved. Halle Berry, who is in town shooting her new movie, was scheduled to attend, but had to cancel last minute). Lastly, congrats go to Pasquale Cusano and the gang at Montecristo Jewellers for their exclusive men’s and women’s shopping nights – funds from which go to support the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and Canuck Place Children’s Hospice. (more…)

  • Vancouver Doormen’s Dinner

    They know where all the best restaurants are, where all the movies stars stay and can probably help you get front row tickets to just about any event in town. They are Vancouver’s doormen, and without them, we’d be a city without a face. Last month, at the 18th Annual Doormens Dinner, these ambassadors were honoured for their great service and hard work. Sponsored by Grace McCarthy’s CH.I.L.D (CHildren with Intenstinal and Liver Disorders) foundation, and held at Vancouver’s Four Seasons Hotel, this was one fundraiser where extra baggage was encouraged.

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  • Whistler’s Cornucopia Festival

    Celebrating it’s 12th year of food and wine, Whistler’s Cornucopia once again provided a weekend to remember. Featuring gala wine tastings, winemakers’ dinners and after parties that continued well into the wee hours – this celebration of all things indulgent is well worth the price of admission. Several North Shore faces were spotted sipping famous label wines and dipping into plates created by some of the world’s top chefs. The only hard part, is keeping up the pace for four days straight. Cheers. (more…)

  • Jacqui Cohen Face the World Gala 2000

    ANGELS dwell among us. And if you don’t want to take my word for it, just ask Vancouver’s most famous glamour gal – Jacqui Cohen. Her parties have been the talk of the town for 10 years now, so this year there was a lot to celebrate. The Face the World Foundation and its patron “angels” have raised more than $2 million dollars over the past decade thanks to the generosity of the jet-set crowd. And while the outfits and antics are a constant source of water-cooler gossip, there’s no mistaking all the good work that results from evenings like these. A big thanks to everyone, including our own North Shore gang below, for all of their givings.











































































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    Lenora Gates and husband Bob Repchuk pose outside by the new Rolls Royce.

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    Superagent Bruce Allan and Katy Ann Davidson purchased a big dinner at Vicki Gabereau’s house during the live auction.

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    Janella David and Arthur Griffiths cuddled up outside on the patio.

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    Looking trendy in turquoise and snakeskin was Chantal Sanidas.
    Husband Theo approved.

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    West Vancouver’s Bahadur Karim and Eva Tauberfligel (right) and friends.

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    West Van’s own Lin Rockwell (right) and Elizabeth Showman looked as stylish as ever.

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    Army and Navy heiress Jacqui Cohen (left) and mom Marlene Cohen-Wexler show off Jacqui’s spectacular $26 million (yes, million) diamond necklace. Don’t worry, the necklace, and its security guards, flew home to the gallery the next day.

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    Hey guys, looking good as usual. From left: Lauren Persson, Jim Romano, wife Lori Romano and Bill Persson

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    West Vancouver’s George and Eva Tauberfligel are always full of fun. Eva’s outfit sported little honeybee pins, one for each of her three children.

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    Litigator Kim Moller is a real shark, but beautiful Christine Dahlberg says she’ll keep him anyways.

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    He’s Diva at the Met. Executive chef Michael Noble served caviar filled martini glasses as part of the meal.

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    Tammy Preast and Cheryl Wheeler chat on the driveway.

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    He’s a celebrity everywhere he goes. Umberto Menghi and his many restaurants are legendary.

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    Cynnie Woodward (left) posed with that ever fashionable fella, designer Feizal Virani. “Loved the long locks Feizal dahling.”

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    West Vancouver’s Karen and John MacPhail.

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    Indra Sangha wins this year’s award for best outfit. Low cut and lovely, no wonder her man, Georgia Pacific’s Brian Ashton, is smiling.

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    He’s the Keg, Hy’s and Gothams all rolled into one. David Aisenstat and friend Corinna Fields have a great future together.

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    Leanne Olma and Julie Steward.