He’s known for producing movies like The Interview, with Seth Rogen and James Franco, Horns, with Daniel Radcliffe, White Noise, with Michael Keaton, and more. Brightlight Pictures executive Shawn Williamson is no stranger to the movie scene here in Vancouver and Hollywood, so what better way to celebrate his 15 year anniversary than with an invite only VIP party here at home. Congratulations Shawn, we love seeing you on the big screen.
He’s one of the most trusted veteran newsmen out there – but now another legend is leaving the airwaves. John Daly, senior reporter for Global TV, will be dearly missed. Breaking stories from the likes of government scandal to crime facts and figures, Daly has seen it all. Last month friends, family and co-workers toasted the man behind the mission at a special event complete with champagne, food and fun. Look for Daly at his next big project soon.
Lonsdale Quay 30th Anniversary Corks and Forks – Hard to believe it’s been 30 years since the Lonsdale Quay set up shop in North Vancouver. Known for its mini markets, eclectic shops, fresh food and amazing views of the waterfront and city, the Quay is a staple with locals and tourists alike. Celebrating with a special Corks and Forks long table dinner, Quay executives and special guests toasted the occasion in style with a night that featured local beers and wine, a hearty three-course dinner (prepared by local market merchants), and live entertainment.
I am a huge fan of MartiniInTheMorning.com radio out of California. Having recently become “friends” with the station’s main man, Brad “Martini” Chamber, I was only to happy to throw Michael Buble a question about the station and the new era of digital music at a recent press conference.
As you will see from the video, Michael is also a big fan of the station and of digital music. He even tells how his grandfather is downloading music off of iTunes now. Michael also shares his favourite “crooner” songs to sing.
Michael held a press conference in Vancouver, BC, on Jun 18, 2014 to help celebrate the kick-off of his latest tour.
Hollywood celebrities, sports stars and some of Vancouver’s most beautiful people were all putting the pedal to the metal last weekend as the Variety for Kids rally hit the streets of town. Headed up by honourary co-chairs Kyle & Janelle Washington, the two-day adventure saw each team/car raise $25,000+ each to support the kids. Then, it was time to draft your celebrity driver and head out on the highway. Think “Amazing Race” meets scavenger hunt. The big kick-off party was held at the new Coal Harbour Cactus Club where everyone parked their luxury cars and then walked the red carpet for the cameras. Inside, it was nothing but good fun as celebs met their teams, posed for pics and enjoyed amazing food and drinks courtesy celebrity chef Rob Feenie and his crew.
– – –
01 – Actor Billy Baldwin has good reason to smile as he is drafted by the beautiful ladies of team “In It to Win It” which included members Natalie Doman, Janelle Washington and Heidi Coglon.
02 – Businessman Harald Ludwig, also of Lionsgate entertainment, chats with actress Lisa Rinna of “Days of our Lives” fame. You can see her next in ABC’s “Sing Your Face Off” where she will impersonate both Britney Spears and Dolly Parton. Fun!
03 – Helping raise money for the kids and supporting this very worthwhile cause are Cindy Beedie and Richard Coglon.
04 – Known for “LA Law”, and most recently “Mad Men”, actor Harry Hamlin poses with Variety Rally guest Christie King.
05 – Oscar nominated actor Terrence Howard, of “Ironman” and “Crash” movie fame, sits with model/personality Rachelle Leah as they wait to meet their team members.
06 – Start your engines! Saskatchewan born actor Kim Coates, of “Sons of Anarchy” fame, gets revved up on the red carpet with the Variety Rally Car Girls.
– – –
By Catherine Barr – May 23, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
– – –
By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
– – –
She grew up here in West Vancouver. But now, former Collingwood student Connie Cocchia is a shining star at the University of Southern California and ready to take on Hollywood with grit and determination. The young filmmaker was seen rolling out the red carpet recently for friends and family at the premiere of her first short film at the Scotiabank Theatre. Entitled “Awake”, the movie expertly featured lots of action and ambitious themes in a compelling compilation that is bound to cause buzz among movie making insiders. Afterwards it was time for a champagne toast and party at Beyond restaurant to celebrate a summer of success before heading back to the editing suite and the next big film festival. Congrats Connie!
01 – Providing the introductory remarks before the big premiere are Connie’s proud parents, Sergio and Wendy Cocchia (of Century Plaza Hotel and Absolute Spa fame).
02 – Watch out Steve Spielberg! Filmmaker, director, script-writer and editor Connie Cocchia gets a big hug from grandmother Concettina “Connie” Cocchia at the big debut event.
03 – No stranger to movie making, West Vancouver businessman Frank Giustra attends the premiere with son Nicolai and daughter Isabella.
04 – Collingwood school friends Colin Montgomery and Devon Gregory attend the big night bringing best wishes for Connie.
05 – Sharing in all the excitement of the big night are guests Danielle Goodman, left, and Kate Phillips.
06 – Taking in all the action at the after-party are guests Marina Wu and Victoria Porcellato.
– – –
By Catherine Barr – Aug 2013
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Sep 5, 2013
– – –
– – –
West Vancouver’s Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia may look like just another pretty face, but beneath this tiny frame lies a superwoman of epic strength and generosity who can now add the title of “Governor” to her list of achievements. It was a well-deserved honour for the businesswoman and mother who is not only founder of the Absolute Spa Group, but is also responsible for raising over $2.6 million for various children’s charities. She has also served as a Board of Trade director and, most recently, as chair for the organization during 2011-12. Last week, The Vancouver Board of Trade inducted Wendy to their Council of Governors at an elegant gala evening that also included honours for developer Terence Hui (Concord Pacific Developments) and Telus. Congratulations Wendy – you are an inspiration to us all.
01 – Joining Wendy at this very special occasion, daughter Connie congratulates her mom on all her amazing achievements.
02 – Publisher/speaker Peter Legge, seen here with wife Kay, sits at the head table with the honourees and is pleased to be the evening’s MC.
03 – Joining Wendy and her family for the evening are friends and spa girls Natalie Morin, left, Kristen Neal, Ali Anderson and Jill Bryan.
04 – Known for their own generosity and philanthropy, West Vancouver’s Bob and Lily Lee are among the distinguished guests.
05 – They’re one of Vancouver’s best power couples. Wendy and husband Sergio socialize with friends and guests during the pre-event reception.
06 – Grammy award winning maestro Bramwell Tovey, seen here with yours truly, takes a break from conducting the Vancouver Symphony for a special performance at this evening’s gala. Bravo!
– – –
By Catherine Barr – April 29, 2013
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on May 16, 2013
– – –
Variety BC – The Children’s Charity is one of the most prestigious charities in the province. Their tireless work behind the scenes with special needs kids is exceptional and heart-warming. Only makes sense then that one of their most prestigious awards is called the Golden Heart Award in honour of individuals who make a difference in our community. This year’s gala honouree is Peter R.B. Armstrong, of Rocky Mountaineer fame, who has literally donated millions of dollars to over 200 different charities throughout the years. The special gala dinner was held at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver which was fitting in more than one way as rumour has it Peter used to work there as a doorman years ago. Some even say that’s where he got the idea to start his first ever tour company. Congrats to Peter and everyone involved
01 – Greeting everyone at the door with a handshake and a smile, Golden Heart honouree Peter Armstrong and partner Suvina Lal get set to enjoy the evening’s festivities.
02 – She is the “Absolute” queen of the spa scene and looks fabulous as a result. West Vancouver’s Wendy Cocchia, centre, chats with assistant Jennifer Trudel, left, and Tradeworks executive director Maninder Dhaliwal.
03 – Former political powerhouse “Amazing Grace” McCarthy, seen here with husband Ray, still looks beautiful at age 85. The lights on the Lions’ Gate Bridge were her idea and are known as Gracie’s Pearls to this day.
04 – A former co-recipient of the Golden Heart award on behalf of GlobalBC TV in 2011, North Vancouver’s Brett Manlove, left, is now co-owner of RTown Vancouver. Seen here with wife Brenda, the couple shares conversation with Variety’s Sandra Lowe and husband Chris Lowe who is regional manager of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) of BC and Yukon.
05 – Always elegant and always generous, the philanthropic legacy of Rosalie and Joe Segal are legendary and they are always part of this glamorous evening.
06 – Looking dapper, West Vancouver businessman Martin Charlwood, of Century 21 fame, escorts the beautiful Candace Alderson down the red carpet.
07 – Making it look easy at 95 years young, the “King of Swing” and BC’s best band leader Dal Richards attends the gala with wife Muriel.
– – –
By Catherine Barr – Apr 15, 2013
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Apr 18, 2013
– – –
Whether he’s shaking hands with the Rolling Stones, or shaking a martini for actress Sharon Stone, celebrity club owner and international bar expert John Green has become the latest “One to Watch” here in Vancouver.
Armed with an impressive resume and a collection of celebrity photos that would make a paparazzi drool, Green has definitely earned his stripes. His reputation as a top level bar consultant is well-deserved given that he started as one of the original Tom Cruise hippy-hippy-cocktail shakers of his day.
Now, with a world of experience behind him, he’s setting his sights even higher as he concocts his next move and possibly a jump to television.
And with a background that includes everything from appearances on the London stage (with actress Emma Thompson), to his days as a semi-pro golfer, one can only wonder what Green is capable of next.
Speaking from his West Vancouver home, Green’s eyes instantly light up with mischief as he talks about his many past experiences in London, California and Hong Kong. Schmoozing with the likes of Liza Minnelli and Matthew McConaughy was the norm and the Dom Perignon champagne flowed like water.
“It was fascinating in that they’re just people,” he says as he ponders all his celebrity encounters. “It was very cool because everyone just likes to hang around with the stars – and it was also good for business.”
His devilish grin continues to gives him away as we pour over more photos of Green tipping tequila down the throat of billionaire Richard Branson at an exclusive private soiree. Yet another photo shows Green at a private after-party posing nonchalantly with two of “the boys” – namely Charlie Watts and Ronnie Wood from the Rolling Stones.
The life he has lived would make for a great movie – but it’s the stories he can’t tell publicly that would easily fill a book.
But whether it’s consulting at the Cumberland Hotel, or working with John Jarvis, chief executive officer of Hilton Hotels worldwide, Green is more than the sum of his bar flair.
As founder of Bar Biz UK, a hospitality training consultant group, Green and his partners helped open some of the most prestigious places on the planet. The China Jump Hong Kong, The Jump Kuala Lumpur and The Wall $t Supper Club in Malaysia are just a few of the establishments that he co-owned and operated. Hired to do work all over Britain, he was even contracted by Smirnoff Vodka U.K. to develop new cutting edge bar concepts never seen before. Green and his team also trained staff in Ireland, France and Australia with bartender tours in Greece and more.
Once billed as “Europe’s Best Bartender” by United Distillers, Green was even featured in Cosmopolitan’s U.K. magazine as “one of the most interesting people to meet in London” back in the early 90s.
So what does this leading international bar consultant think of Vancouver?
Green has some insight here too, stating that liquor law changes need to happen – and soon.
“I welcome changes to the existing liquor laws,” he says. “I would love to start up a joint or two in Vancouver but the style of operations that I do would be stifled by the licensing laws currently here in British Columbia.”
Needless to say, while Vancouver muddles its way through some new liquor legalese, look for this effervescent Englishman to start shaking things up just a little more than usual.
By Catherine Barr
Follow entertainment reporter and society/celebrity columnist Catherine “Cat” Barr to all the best charity gala functions and celebrity parties. She is also the editor/owner of WestVancouver.com and NorthVancouver.com which represent Canada’s wealthiest communities online with over 3 million hits per month.
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
Back in 1918, the world danced to a different beat. World War I was just ending, and radio was just beginning. Music however was in full swing and, as far as one young man was concerned, it was about to change his life forever. Dal Richards, known across Canada as the consummate band leader, turned 95 years young on January 5th. The overall celebration however simply could not be confined to just one day as Dal and his wife Muriel have made several appearances at various events across the city. One of the most glamorous events was held last Sunday night as friends and well-wishers from all across the land came out to wish Dal well at the nostalgic “The Roof” venue. Located at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, it was an evening of live music, good food and fabulous memories which ended with Dal himself singing his signature favourite song – “As Time Goes By”. Needless to say, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Happy Birthday Dal!
01 – Bard on the Beach’s own leading man Christopher Gaze joins PR gal Bonnie Allan to toast the birthday boy himself.
02 – Doo wop doo wow! Jennifer Hayes, left, and Diane Lines, otherwise known as Dal’s Gals, are a big part of the Dal Richards Orchestra. This night they help lead the crowd in a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday”.
03 – Known for his own legendary role in the Vancouver music scene, Red Robinson attends the soiree with wife Carol, left, and Diane Forsyth-Abbott.
04 – Known for her adventures on the CityTV morning show, Dawn Chubai is also a new Dal’s Gals member who frequently sings with the band.
05 – West Vancouver’s Bob and Lily Lee are among the many VIPs in attendance wishing Dal all the best.
06 – Tourism Vancouver CEO and president Rick Antonson cuddled up with North Vancouver’s well-known gossip gal Joy Metcalfe to celebrate.
07 – With over 95 years of memories and melodies in his heart, Dal Richards enters his party like a rock star with wife Muriel on his arm to greet friends, family and invited guests.
– – –
By Catherine Barr – Jan 13, 2013
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Jan 17, 2013
– – –
Dean Paul Gibson – I love you. And let me tell you why.
As director of the Arts Club Theatre Company’s It’s a Wonderful Life, you have taken on a classic and won. You have, quite simply, shown us the magic of a movie we all know and love and, as The Beatles said, . . . let it be.
As a director you are fearless. This I know from watching you for many years at Bard on the Beach and other venues. Your creativity often challenges both your actors and your audience and through it, you achieve absolute moments of brilliance.
How you do it, I don’t know.
But in this outing you are courageous and bold in other ways. By leaving things in place, right where we expect them, you’re letting us, the audience, enjoy the play for all the right holiday reasons.
We know the lines. We know the characters. And we know when we’re supposed to laugh. Thank you for giving us this simple gift through the magic of playwright Philip Grecian and the memories of mogul Frank Capra whose magical film moments you have woven into the play so expertly throughout with the use of background stage vignettes.
And thank you for choosing the right players too – the good stuff we are lucky enough to have here in Vancouver.
For treasures like Jennifer Lines (Mary Bailey) and Lindsey Angell (Violet Bick) whose classic styles evoke perfect Capra-esque qualities at every turn. They are true ladies of the court and I never tire of either of them in almost any role.
Thank you also for comic relief actors Jennifer Clement (Tilly) and David Marr (Uncle Billy) who, by the very nature of their roles, provide memorable moments of delightful frustration.
I also can’t say enough about your leading man Bob Frazer. Yet another “Bard” alumnus, he tackles the role of George Bailey with enthusiastic vigour. An intimidating role from the outset, I can only imagine how it must feel to take on the memory of the legendary Jimmy Stewart every night in front of a live audience – all while film excerpts periodically play in the background. Yet somehow, very gently, Frazer manages to own the role for himself – on his terms and timing – both which work very effectively together with delightful results. In fact, I found the scenes with Eileen Barrett (Mother Bailey) to be especially tender – a credit to both players which, for me, is not present in the film.
As for your younger corps members – Hannah Brandon, Rose Fulkner, Sophia Millar, Aidan and Jordan Wessels – well, they’re simply scandalous scene stealers. Too magnificent for words, they win the hearts of the audience from the moment they appear on stage. Teach them well dear Dean as I know they too will have greatness thrust upon them.
In their child roles, they also provide just the right concord of sweet sounds to take on an excellent Alec Willows (Henry Potter), whose only fault is that he is almost too likeable for me to truly be thought on as the villain. I’m also glad to see that Potter finally gets his comeuppance from Clarence – a small detail that is unique to the play itself.
And speaking of dear sweet wing-less Clarence. You have finally been outdone. With the power of the heavens behind him, not to mention 200 Arts Club performances of “Wonderful Life” under his belt, Bernard Cuffling is, again, the toast of Bedford Falls. With an aged innocence, Cuffling’s Clarence is truly adorable. While the film may be more about Bailey, this play is equally about the character of Clarence the angel, and from where I sat in the audience, people were cheering for both to reach the stars.
And so Mr. Gibson, thank you again. For bringing all of us in Vancouver a play to remember and a timeless classic that still holds fast to many of our modern themes today. You did it all with style and elegance and an air of effortless refrain – and I love you for every minute of it. Ring-a-ding-ding.
By Catherine Barr
Also as seen in The Province newspaper Vancouver
Don Harquail has always been the famous friend with the designer desserts. But now, thanks to reality television, this Burnaby hobby chef’s life has just gotten a lot sweeter.
That’s part of the premise behind Food Network Canada’s latest reality show Recipe to Riches. Returning for its second season, the series pits home based cooks against each other in separate categories – all for a chance to win the grand prize of $250,000. The Canada-wide competition is fierce, but Harquail is headed to the finals after winning the Candies and Chocolate category last month for his Triple Nut Toffee. Voting and viewing of the final episode starts tomorrow (Dec 5, 2012).
Judges Laura Calder (French Food at Home) Tony Chapman (Capital C), Dana McCauley (Janes Family Foods) and host Jesse Palmer are not easy to please. But having come this far, Harquail has already won the privilege of having his product packaged and put up for sale in select stores as part of the prestigious President’s Choice product line.
The yummy yellow box is perfectly packaged and also carries a caricature of Don himself complete with delightful depictions of his favourite hobbies (orchids, bowling, cooking). With the added innovation of pine nuts and sesame seeds, this toffee is outright delicious. You’d have to be “nuts” not to like it.
Still, winning the hearts of minds of the public is only part of the equation. The highest standards of all, and the ultimate final word, comes from head honcho Galen Weston, executive chairman of Loblaw Companies. He will figure prominently in the upcoming finals as Harquail faces off against his 6 other competitors to go for the cash.
So, with the sweet smell of victory in the air, does Harquail have the right mix of ingredients to take home the big money? Tune in tomorrow and find out. Link: Recipe to Riches
By Catherine Barr
CAT: How much fun was it for you to compete in R2R? Did you feel a lot of pressure to win or were you just happy to be participating?
DON: I had so much fun, I think you can see that in the episode, I was having a blast. From the moment I submitted my Recipe to R2R I have been excited. I did not feel much pressure in winning because my main goal was to have fun. I had watched last year episodes several times to familiarize myself with the show. I was a bit nervous before Galen Weston announced the winner – I’m a big Presidents Choice fan and he’s the real deal!
CAT: Where did your original recipe idea come from? Did anyone special help you perfect it?
DON: That is a funny story. I have been making my Triple Nut Toffee for close to 25 years. I acquired part of the recipe from an elderly member of the Vancouver Orchid Society which I am a member. She had not provided me with the proper baking instructions. On my first attempt I ended up with a pile of burnt sticky mess. The whole house was in smoke. I figured I had made a mistake and tried again and got the same result. I could not contact her as she had passed away. I did not give up. I eventually figured out what was wrong and missing. It gave me the opportunity to adapt the recipe to my liking. I added many new ingredients such as pine nuts, cashews, almonds, sesame, seeds, maple syrup and a dab of chocolate to satisfy the chocolate lover. From trial and error it became a success.
CAT: Are you a big dessert person normally or are you also a good kitchen cook/chef? What other things do you like to cook?
DON: I am definitely a big dessert person. I love baking, every week I bake something different for my Bowling Team or my friends at the Vancouver Orchid Society. Every week it’s a surprise. It could be anything from French Macarons to a Five Star Super Chocolate Chip cookie. It gives me a lot of pleasure to see how they enjoy it. Just before going to Bowling or the Orchid society meeting I take a picture of my treats and post it on my Facebook page so they can see it before they get there. It’s so funny to see them run and try to find me.
CAT: What was it like being on a reality show? What was the worst part? What was the best part? Tell us one good behind-the-scenes secret.
DON: Being on a reality show was amazing, what a rush it was to be part of that, it takes a lot of work and a lot of people to put such a show together. You have no idea how hard these people work. The worst part of it was having an incredible secret and not able to say anything to anyone for what seemed like forever. I just kept on focusing. My friends were very nice and stopped asking me questions, The best part on being on this show is that I have made myself two fabulous friends, the two other competitors, Robert Armatta and Lucie Dion. We have been in contact several times, I even went to visit Lucie and her family last summer. We had such a good time, we made Sucre à la crème together.
CAT: How has winning this competition changed your life (has it changed your life)?
DON: Winning and participating in this show has given me a lot more confidence in myself. I did not think I could ever do anything like that. It proved to me once again not to stop just keep on going. Don’t let the Impossible be Possible [sic]. Not only have I done this I have won the Candies and Chocolate category. Amazing!
CAT: What’s up next for you?
DON: This is hard to answer. I enjoyed doing television so much maybe a new door will open there. I have so many wonderful recipes, I may write a cookbook. One thing is certain, I want to try to inspire people not to give up when faced with difficult medical challenges, there is always hope.
It’s no secret that reality TV has taken prime time television by storm. But whether it’s American Idol, Dancing with the Stars or Survivor, few of us know what really goes on behind the scenes. Enter Shannon Nering. This beautiful and talented West Vancouver woman knows all the gossip having got her start in the industry a few years ago as a docu-reality producer and director. With an amazing list of credits to her name, including the much anticipated Real Housewives of Vancouver (due out in February 2012), she’s decided to tell all . . . sort of. Recently, Shannon held a glamorous party in honour of her new book entitled “Reality Jane”. Based on her sometimes wild television experiences, she nonetheless denies that “Jane” is her alter ego. Instead, Shannon prefers to describe the book as a kind of “chick-lit” novel based on a fun character who was designed solely for the entertainment of her readers. And now, with the title “author” added to her list of credentials, she’s hoping audiences buy-in to this new adventure too.
01 – Singer Mary Zilba, left, joins actress Devon Weigel who can be seen with Jack Black, Steve Martin and Owen Wilson in the Vancouver filmed movie “The Big Year”.
02 – Gracing the cover of the “Reality Jane” book is model/friend Cea Person, left, seen here with PR gal Tanis Tsisserev.
03 – Ronnie Negus and her hubby Russell stop by to give Shannon their best.
04 – Hostess Dianne Wood, left, and actress Anne Marie DeLuise are happy to come out in support of Shannon’s new book.
05 – “I’m so proud of her, she’s been really persistent.” says mom Marguerite Nering of her daughter Shannon.
06 – Calling it the “hardest thing she’s ever done”, producer/director turned author Shannon Nering also credits husband Josh Moody for giving her the strength and support to get the book finished.
07 – Serving up the goodies are kitchen helpers an friends Heather Hood, left, Tracy Ganske and Karyn Jones.
– – –
By Catherine Barr – Nov 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Jan 19, 2012
– – –
– – –
Jody Claman and her daughter Mia are two of West Vancouver’s most notable socialites who are well-known for their culinary catering and chic fashion businesses. Now, it’s 25 year-old daughter Mia’s turn to take centre stage as she debuted her MIA “Missing In Action” Claman Couture line at their Glass House boutique store in Ambleside late last year. A reality camera crew was on hand to capture all the action as the mother / daughter team welcomed VIP friends and family to a night that delighted all the senses. Look for the reality show to debut in February on the Slice channel.
01 – Checking out all the clothes and couture action are West Vancouver’s Shirin Bock, left, and Heidi Coglon.
02 – Look for these two lovely ladies on television really soon. Saeedeh Salem, left, owner of La Stella / Le Vieux Pin wineries, and culinary catering queen Jody Claman will both be featured in two different reality series this coming season.
03 – Toasting the occasion are friends Iram Shariff, left, Johnny Cantiveros, Izzam Ahamed and Karima Samji.
04 – Helping with the night’s runway fashions, hair and make-up are stylists Deanna Palkowski and Scottie Dunn.
05 – Sampling a little champagne and canapés are West Vancouer’s Dave Bull and Joanne Strongman.
06 – New reality tv star Ronnie Negus strikes a pose beside her son Jhordan Stevenson, left, and friend Paul Andersen. She launched her “Rehab” wine brand this past November.
07 – Feathers and sequins and jewels – oh my. Big cheers for Mia Claman, centre, on the launch of her new MIA “Missing in Action” couture line. It is both glamorous and striking.
– – –
By Catherine Barr – Nov 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Jan 12, 2012
– – –
– – –
The holiday gala season would not be complete without The Arthritis Society’s 2011 Bluebird Gala. Sponsored by Scotiabank the gala style cocktail reception raised over $120,000. Entertainment for the night included music groups “LesIsMore” and “Van Django”. Comedian Patrick Maliha had everyone giggling as he sported a “Movember to remember” moustache for extra effect. Also last month, Canadian journalism icon Allan Fotheringham held a special private reception for friends and family for the launch of his newest book – a collection of memories entitled “Boy From Nowhere – A Life in Ninety-One Countries”. With some tell-all secrets from the past, and a warning for the future, this book is a must read.
01 – Allan Fotheringham, aka. Dr. Foth, is surrounded by family and friends for the launch of his newest book of memoirs. Seen here with granddaughter Quinn, he presents a special book to each of his grandchildren.
02 – Also in attendance at the Allan Fotheringham book launch are son-in-law Bill Juhasz, left, and son Kip Fotheringham.
03 – Nancy Roper, executive director The Arthritis Society, BC & Yukon Division, chats with Michael Leland, communications manager, as guests arrive for the gala.
04 – David Poole, Scotiabank senior vice-president BC & Yukon region, and Michelle Henderson, Scotiabank manager community engagement, are generous sponsors of this evening’s Arthritis gala.
05 – Musical entertainment for the Bluebird Gala is provided by LesIsMore, featuring Curtis DeBray, left, and lead singer Leslie Harris.
06 – Looking stunning in an elegant “bluebird” gown, North Vancouver’s Brenda Manlove accompanies media executive hubby Brent to the gala reception.
07 – Don’t worry, comedian Patrick Maliha’s “Movember” moustache is supposed to look funny. He got extra mileage out of the facial prop during his hilarious segment at the Bluebird gala.
08 – Bluebird gala MC and GlobalBC TV news anchor Sophie Lui checks out the auction bids with Board of Director’s chairman Drew McArthur.
– – –
By Catherine Barr – Nov, 2011
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Dec 8, 2011
– – –
– – –
Canadian columnist and journalism icon Allan Fotheringham came home to Vancouver last week for a private book launch party with friends and family. In a rare one-on-one interview with reporter Catherine Barr, Fotheringham doesn’t miss a beat when asked about such topics as new media, President Obama, the Occupy Wall Street movement and the decimation of the Federal Liberal Party under leader Michael Ignatieff. With some tell-all secrets from the past, and a warning for the future, this is Fotheringham raw and unplugged and at his best. His newest book – a collection of memories entitled “Boy From Nowhere – A Life in Ninety-One Countries” – is now available to the public.
– – –
By Catherine Barr – Nov 21, 2011
– – –
– – –
Did you make any New Year’s resolutions this year? If you did, and you’re finding it hard to stick to some of them, then maybe this can be an inspiration. West Vancouver’s Don Rutledge, who is better known for his involvement in race cars, the hospitality industry and investment portfolios, made a pledge last year. It was time to give something back to himself, and others. So he started to train, and with the help of some very influential friends, he qualified for the ING New York City Marathon. It was time for his friends to pay up on the bet – a bet that helped raise money for a very worthwhile cause – the Zajac Foundation for kids.