Vancouver Events, Celebrity Galas, Charity, Society and Entertainment News by Catherine "Cat" Barr

Follow Vancouver's most popular society/entertainment girl to all the best celebrity VIP parties, galas, charity fundraisers, restaurant openings, art gallery installations and social scene events. A former council/government reporter with the North Shore News (1996-99), Catherine is now probably best known for her coverage of Vancouver's luxury lifestyle scene in publications like The Vancouver Courier, WE Westender, Vancouver Metro and North Shore Outlook Newspapers. Catherine's is also one of Vancouver's original online reporters and has been programming websites since 1996. Catherine has also built her own online publishing business from scratch in 1999 as the founding publisher, programmer and owner of West Vancouver.com and North Vancouver.com - which represent Canada's wealthiest communities online as the area's only exclusive business directory, real estate guide and social media news hub with over 3 million hits per month.

You can read Catherine's columns every Thursday in the North Shore Outlook (Black Press) newspaper. She can also be heard on Tuesday mornings on AM 650 radio (formerly CISL 650) at 8:40 am during her "Cat's Meow" segment (with host Gerry O'Day) and as one of News1130 radio's feature media personalities. Also check out her new video segments and event / news items which are now being featured by the Vancouver Province newspaper.

BC Sports Hall of Fame Roberto Luongo Trevor Linden
Hollywood Once Upon a Time TV Robert Carlyle
Vancouver Canucks Lapierre Schneider Burrows Raymond
Kiss Gene Simmons
Dan Aykroyd Cat Barr
Actor Martin Sheen
Gabriel Aubry Louis Vuitton
Lou Diamond Phillips
Aerosmith Joe Perry
Loverboy Mike Reno
Ted Nugent
Marcia Cross Desperate Housewives
Sarah McLachlan Marke Driesschen
Sex and the City Smith Jarrod
Global TV Catherine Barr
Pamela Anderson

Vancover Celebrities, News, Music and Charity Gala Events

Real Housewives of Vancouver and The Bay Pretty Please Gala 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... [Read more of this story]

Jennifer Hudson Performs at Vancouver Opera Gala / Big Sisters BC Wine Auction Jennifer Hudson Performs at Vancouver Opera Gala / Big Sisters BC Wine Auction

Grammy and Academy Award-winning performer Jennifer Hudson delivered a stunning live performance for an audience of invite-only guests last month at the Vancouver Opera’s signature gala fundraiser. Entitled “Overture: Aida” the evening included a elegant and delicious dinner event which took place on the stage of the Queen Elizabeth... [Read more of this story]

Canadian Cancer Society Daffodil Ball at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Canadian Cancer Society Daffodil Ball at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

The 16th annual Canadian Cancer Society Daffodil Ball (formerly Diamond Ball) was held last weekend at the Fairmont Vancouver Hotel. Known as one of the highest profile galas of the year, it is a see-and-be-seen event for many North Shore VIPs. This year’s focus was on childhood cancers and, in keeping with that theme, guests were treated to an... [Read more of this story]

Actor Rob Lowe at Turning Point Gala in Vancouver Actor Rob Lowe at Turning Point Gala in Vancouver

Actor Rob Lowe has been a Hollywood heartthrob since the early 80s. But even with a successful career, famous friends and lots of money, he’s the first to tell you that ‘living the life’ wasn’t always easy. In town last week for the Turning Point Recovery Society’s 5th annual gala fundraiser, the distractingly handsome... [Read more of this story]

Team Finn Cancer Ride, Penthouse Reopening and Mulgrave Kids for Canucks Team Finn Cancer Ride, Penthouse Reopening and Mulgrave Kids for Canucks

Various events and fundraisers taking place this week have kept things busy across the North Shore. First up, friends, family and colleagues of North Vancouverites Pat and Sam Sullivan packed Seymour’s Pub on April 4 for the third annual Team Finn Wine Festival. The Sullivan’s three-year-old son Finn passed away in 2008 from a rare form of cancer... [Read more of this story]

Athletics for Kids 10th Anniversary Las Vegas Boxing Gala West Vancouver Athletics for Kids 10th Anniversary Las Vegas Boxing Gala West Vancouver

Championship boxing, Las Vegas showgirls, glamorous auction prizes and fabulous food. It was a ten year anniversary to remember for the folks at the Athletics for Kids (A4K) gala last weekend up at West Vancouver’s Hollyburn Country Club. Items up for grab included a Westjet trip raffle and a never before seen trip to Los Angeles to see “Dancing... [Read more of this story]

Terry David Mulligan Comedy Roast for Vancouver Food Bank Terry David Mulligan Comedy Roast for Vancouver Food Bank

Terry David Mulligan is much more than a media music man. North Shore folks everywhere know him from the 70s and 80s thanks to his many radio and television appearances. Today, he spends most of his time in the Okanagan sipping and sampling BC wines on his Tasting Room Radio show and he also co-hosts a wine show called Hollywood and Vines with fellow... [Read more of this story]

BC Lions at 13th Annual Healthy Chef Competition in Vancouver BC Lions at 13th Annual Healthy Chef Competition in Vancouver

Eating healthy can be fun, just ask the BC Produce Marketing Association and the BC Lions. Last week, the 13th annual Healthy Chef Competition took place at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Vancouver. Grey Cup winning members of the BC Lions, including Travis Lulay and Geroy Simon, were among the several celebrities in the room as chefs battled it out for... [Read more of this story]

Mulgrave School Spirit Week and Bar Fitness Opens in West Vancouver Mulgrave School Spirit Week and Bar Fitness Opens in West Vancouver

Hard to believe that in many parts of the world slavery is still an everyday occurrence. Enter West Vancouver Mulgrave students Natasha Virani, Melissa Godin and Hannah Radford who, along with the Mulgrave Student Action Council, decided to do something to raise awareness of this issue as part of their school’s “Spirit Week” activities.... [Read more of this story]

Leone Celebrates 25 Years at United Way Charity Spring Fashion Show Leone Celebrates 25 Years at United Way Charity Spring Fashion Show

It was a double celebration last week as some of the city’s most generous folks got together to raise money for a great cause. First up, it was the United Way’s Women United in Philanthropy annual spring fashion show and fundraiser at Leone’s boutique in Sinclair Centre. The night was also special however because guests got a chance... [Read more of this story]

Oscars 2012 Gala at Beach House West Vancouver Oscars 2012 Gala at Beach House West Vancouver

Hollywood wasn’t the only place rolling out the red carpet for Sunday night’s Oscars event. The good folks at the Beach House in West Vancouver decided to put on the ritz for BC Children’s Hospital Foundation at “Oscar a la Mer”. This seaside celebration included champagne, theme rooms, fabulous food and lots of glitz and... [Read more of this story]

CSI Actor William Petersen Headlines Opening of Nat and Flora Bosa Centre for Film at Capilano University in North Vancouver CSI Actor William Petersen Headlines Opening of Nat and Flora Bosa Centre for Film at Capilano University in North Vancouver

It was lights, camera, action last week at North Vancouver’s Capilano University as TV and film celebrities, dignitaries and VIPs celebrated the opening of the new Nat and Flora Bosa Centre for Film and Animation. Open for business, and classes, this past January, the new 69,000 sq. ft. building cost over $34 million dollars and was designed... [Read more of this story]

BC Sports Hall of Fame New Home and Olympic Memories BC Sports Hall of Fame New Home and Olympic Memories

The BC Sports Hall of Fame has always been an impressive place of history in Vancouver, but now, thanks to a revamped BC Place, the Hall of Fame has a new home and even bigger legacy to share. Last week, during a special VIP reception, invited guests, athletes and friends were part of an extra special dedication night full of famous memories. The who’s... [Read more of this story]

West Vancouver Italian Restaurant Holds Cancer Fundraiser and Gala Dinner West Vancouver Italian Restaurant Holds Cancer Fundraiser and Gala Dinner

Since 2008, Mangia e Bevi Ristorante in West Vancouver has started the year off on the right foot with a charity month of dinners designed to raise funds for cancer research. Last week, it was time for the B.A.C.I.O. (Because A Cure is Obtainable) final night gala. “Bacio” – which means “kiss” – featured a fabulous... [Read more of this story]

Year of the Dragon at Osaka Market West Vancouver 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... [Read more of this story]

Robert Burns Dinner in West Vancouver Robert Burns Dinner in West Vancouver

January 25th is known the world over as Robert Burns Day. Famous for his poems and songs, Scotland’s national bard is celebrated every year with a traditional dinner featuring bagpipes, honourary toasts and the “Address to the Haggis” – an often maligned (but rather tasty) Scottish delicacy. Last week it was the feisty folks... [Read more of this story]

Reality Jane Book Gives Behind the Scene Look at Reality Television Reality Jane Book Gives Behind the Scene Look at Reality Television

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... [Read more of this story]

Reality TV Show Films Fashion Show in West Vancouver Reality TV Show Films Fashion Show in West Vancouver

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... [Read more of this story]

Vancouver’s Biggest Upcoming Events for the Year 2012 Vancouver’s Biggest Upcoming Events for the Year 2012

Get out your datebooks and calendars, it’s time to plan your social schedule for the New Year. And while 2011 proved to be extra exciting, with red carpet galas and glamorous restaurant / wine events everywhere, here are a a few suggestions to pencil in for what promises to be a fabulous 2012. See you there! 01 – Who could forget our own... [Read more of this story]

West Vancouver Chamber of Commerce Christmas Part at Capilano Golf and Country Club West Vancouver Chamber of Commerce Christmas Part at Capilano Golf and Country Club

West Vancouver Chamber of Commerce held its annual Christmas party at Capilano Golf and Country Club this month. It was a fabulous dress-up affair complete with cocktail reception, live music and both silent and live auction items. And even as much as Capilano is known for their fabulous food, this year staff outdid themselves with one of the absolutely... [Read more of this story]

Vancouver’s 25th Annual Crystal Ball Gala for BC Children’s Hospital Vancouver’s 25th Annual Crystal Ball Gala for BC Children’s Hospital

It’s one of Vancouver’s most elegant black-tie affairs, and this year there was even more reason to celebrate. The 25th annual Crystal Ball gala, in support of BC Children’s Hospital, marked its’ anniversary year with a special plea to help support the development of a new BC Children’s Hospital. The ballroom at the Four Seasons... [Read more of this story]

Allan Fotheringham Book Launch and Bluebird Arthritis Society Gala in Vancouver Allan Fotheringham Book Launch and Bluebird Arthritis Society Gala in Vancouver

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... [Read more of this story]

Grey Cup 99 Weekend Gala and Parties in Vancouver Grey Cup 99 Weekend Gala and Parties in Vancouver

It was time to show your spirit and your team colours this past weekend as the 99th Grey Cup came to town. Orange and black were the popular choice as hometown fans cheered their own BC Lions all the way to victory in the finals against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. But the big game was just a part of the weekend-long Grey Cup celebration that took place... [Read more of this story]

Canadian Icon Allan Fotheringham Comments on Obama, Occupy Wall Street, Liberal Party in this Exclusive Interview Canadian Icon Allan Fotheringham Comments on Obama, Occupy Wall Street, Liberal Party in this Exclusive Interview

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... [Read more of this story]

Juvenile Diabetes Rockin for Research Gala at Hyatt Hotel Vancouver Juvenile Diabetes Rockin for Research Gala at Hyatt Hotel Vancouver

The Hyatt hotel ballroom was transformed into a twinkling festival of lights earlier this month as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) celebrated its’ 12th Annual Rockin’ For Research gala. With the theme “Paris Under the Stars”, it was a night to remember as guests gathered to raise money for this very worthwhile... [Read more of this story]

BC’s First Victoria’s Secret Store, Glenlivet 70 Year Old Scotch and Omega Watch All New Luxury Items at Vancouver’s International Airport BC’s First Victoria’s Secret Store, Glenlivet 70 Year Old Scotch and Omega Watch All New Luxury Items at Vancouver’s International Airport

It’s official, Vancouver’s International Airport (YVR) is about to open British Columbia’s first ever Victoria’s Secret Boutique. It’s one of many new items being introduced to Vancouver’s award-winning airport in an attempt to attract high flyers and members of the jet set crowd. A rare Omega Ladymatic watch ($25,000)... [Read more of this story]

Whistler’s Cornucopia 2011 Featuring Crush Gala, Ric’s Grill Casino Royale and Bearfoot Bistro’s Cirque du Soleil Masquerave Party Whistler’s Cornucopia 2011 Featuring Crush Gala, Ric’s Grill Casino Royale and Bearfoot Bistro’s Cirque du Soleil Masquerave Party

Whistler’s annual 2011 Cornucopia Food and Wine Festival returns with the best year yet. Regular features, like the Crush Grand Gala Tasting Room and Casino Royale at Ric’s Grill are back. This year also marks the return of the Bearfoot Bistro’s famous Masquerave featuring Cirque du Soleil type performers, live music, free flowing... [Read more of this story]

Amica Helping Hands Gala 2011 at Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver Amica Helping Hands Gala 2011 at Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver

The Amica retirement housing complex in West Vancouver is both beautiful and luxurious. But what many don’t realize, is that seniors living below the poverty line are more common than ever before. Thankfully, the good folks behind the Third Annual Amica Helping Hands Gala are here to help. Held at the Four Seasons Hotel, the gala featured a delicious... [Read more of this story]

West Vancouver Fashion Show Draws Reality Series TV Crews West Vancouver Fashion Show Draws Reality Series TV Crews

Jody Claman and her daughter Mia are two of West Vancouver most notable socialites who are well-known for their culinary catering and chic fashion businesses. This week, it was 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.... [Read more of this story]

Miss America visits Vancouver and North Vancouver Chamber Business Awards Miss America visits Vancouver and North Vancouver Chamber Business Awards

West Vancouver was paid a royal visit of sorts last week as Miss America, Teresa Scanlan, visited Ambleside’s Aldila Boutique. In town to help present Canadian clothing designer Joseph Ribkoff, the 18 year-old Nebraska native was the epitome of style and smarts. With a smile that sparkled even brighter than her crown, this confident young woman... [Read more of this story]

Sarah McLachlan School of Music Opening and Glowbal Group Black and Blue Steak House Party Sarah McLachlan School of Music Opening and Glowbal Group Black and Blue Steak House Party

She’s one of West Vancouver’s most famous residents, and now, thanks to the donations and support of another prominent West Vancouver family, the Sarah McLachlan School of Music has a stunning new home. Last week, a special formal reception marked the official opening of the new school. Providing full scholarship music programs to less... [Read more of this story]

North Shore Vancouver Rotary Wine and Food Festival to Benefit Youth 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,... [Read more of this story]

Nite of Hope Moulin Rouge Gala at Pinnacle Pier Hotel North Vancouver Nite of Hope Moulin Rouge Gala at Pinnacle Pier Hotel North Vancouver

It was pink and pretty and very Parisian. The Nite of Hope North Shore, “Nite at the Moulin Rouge” gala at the Pinnacle Pier in North Vancouver was a sparkly soiree that featured a gourmet dinner, fashion show by Phoenix, entertainment and auction items. Raising funds for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation – BC and Yukon, guests... [Read more of this story]

Vancouver International Film Festival Red Carpet Opening Night Parties Vancouver International Film Festival Red Carpet Opening Night Parties

The Vancouver International Film Festival is among the top five film festivals in the world. And while it is not known for its’ big name Hollywood hype, it is however known for its’ international flair and diverse content. Still, parties and red carpet glam do happen and one of the biggest soirees is always held at Cin Cin restaurant on... [Read more of this story]

Vancouver Canucks Alex Burrows, Cory Schneider, Mason Raymond and Maxim Lapierre Meet and Greet at West Vancouver’s Hollyburn Country Club Vancouver Canucks Alex Burrows, Cory Schneider, Mason Raymond and Maxim Lapierre Meet and Greet at West Vancouver’s Hollyburn Country Club

If the good old hockey game, is the best game you can name, then tonight is the night you’ve been waiting for all summer as the Vancouver Canucks return to the ice for their 2011-2012 season opener. In honour of hockey’s return, a group of invite-only North Shore kids and their parents got a head start on the puck drop at West Vancouver’s... [Read more of this story]

Actors Robert Carlyle, Ginnifer Goodwin, Amanda Tapping and More Come Out in Support of Once Upon a Cure Gala Actors Robert Carlyle, Ginnifer Goodwin, Amanda Tapping and More Come Out in Support of Once Upon a Cure Gala

Hollywood A-Listers Robert Carlyle (The Full Monty, Trainspotting, Hamish Macbeth) and Ginnifer Goodwin (Walk the Line, He’s Just Not That Into You) headed up a local star-studded cast last weekend at the Sutton Place Hotel for an elegant and magical gala that touched the heartstrings of all who attended. The “Once Upon a Cure” event... [Read more of this story]

Roberto Luongo, Trevor Linden, Maelle Ricker, Tom Larscheid Inducted into BC Sports Hall of Fame Roberto Luongo, Trevor Linden, Maelle Ricker, Tom Larscheid Inducted into BC Sports Hall of Fame

Roberto Luongo, Trevor Linden, Tom Larscheid and Maelle Ricker are just a few of the big names you might recognize as sporting heroes in our town. However, give or take a few Olympic gold medals, they all have something else in common. Last week, these athletes were among an elite group inducted into the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame – Class of 2011.... [Read more of this story]

Vancouver Luxury Supercar Weekend and Borden Ladner Gervais 100 Year Celebration Vancouver Luxury Supercar Weekend and Borden Ladner Gervais 100 Year Celebration

It was a legal who’s who last week as the good folks at Borden Ladner Gervais LLP, one of Canada’s largest law firms, celebrated their 100 year anniversary. Cocktails and conversation were only the start as guests enjoyed five-star service at the Vancouver Convention Centre complete with entertainment by North Shore singing ensemble Aliqua... [Read more of this story]

Vancouver’s The Fair at the PNE is a Big Hit with North Shore Locals Vancouver’s The Fair at the PNE is a Big Hit with North Shore Locals

The Fair at the PNE has been a West Coast tradition for over 101 years now. And while the Labour Day long weekend may mark the start of school, it just wouldn’t feel right to welcome September without a little nod to the North Shore folks who helped make things come alive at the best rock ‘n roller coaster, farm’n fun attraction that... [Read more of this story]

Red Robinson, Canucks Willie Mitchell, Hotel Georgia and Formula One Race Cars in Vancouver Red Robinson, Canucks Willie Mitchell, Hotel Georgia and Formula One Race Cars in Vancouver

As we say goodbye to August, it’s time for a quick look back at some events that helped make the month memorable. First, North Vancouver’s Regency Auto Group / Regency Infiniti held the F1 Vancouver Reign event. Featuring the Red Bull F1 show car, and a selection of other rare Nissan / Infiniti built vehicles, the night included music and... [Read more of this story]

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