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

Robert Burn Dinner in West Vancouver Robert Burn 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]

Barney Bentall and Jully Black Headline Spectacular Gala of the Year at La Stella / Le Vieux Pin Winery in Osoyoos Barney Bentall and Jully Black Headline Spectacular Gala of the Year at La Stella / Le Vieux Pin Winery in Osoyoos

Singers Barney Bentall and Jully Black helped headline a spectacular gala wine weekend in and around Osoyoos last weekend. The rich and famous from all across the North Shore headed to the Okanagan to help celebrate at Sean and Saeedeh Salem’s Enotecca wineries La Stella and Le Vieux Pin. A casual Friday night reception at La Stella, featuring... [Read more of this story]

Rogers Chocolate Party, Beachside Forno Winemakers Dinner and Impressions of Bolivia Rogers Chocolate Party, Beachside Forno Winemakers Dinner and Impressions of Bolivia

West Vancouver’s Park Royal Shopping Centre continues to open new doors with the inclusion of yet another tasty spot. Rogers Chocolates, famously known for their pink checkered wrappers, has set up shop in the Village and earlier this month they invited friends and guests to enjoy a opening celebration chocolate party. Rich dark chocolate “shots”,... [Read more of this story]

Odlum Brown Vancouver Open Tennis Tournament at Hollyburn Country Club in West Vancouver Odlum Brown Vancouver Open Tennis Tournament at Hollyburn Country Club in West Vancouver

The Odlum Brown Vancouver Open tennis tournament was held last week at West Vancouver’s Hollyburn Country Club. Often billed as a showcase of the “stars of tomorrow”, this competition is anything but amateur. And while the talent on display here may be young, they all brought their A-games to the court in a series of impressive outings... [Read more of this story]

West Vancouver Harmony Arts Festival 2011 West Vancouver Harmony Arts Festival 2011

For 21 years now, the West Vancouver waterfront has come alive with the sights and sounds of the annual Harmony Arts Festival. Presented by Odlum Brown, this year’s festival kicks things into extra high gear with the addition of even more special events including a special ticketed artist’s evening with Gordon Smith and Douglas Coupland... [Read more of this story]

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

I scream, you scream, we all scream for . . . Okay, it’s not ice cream exactly, but according to hundreds of teenage girls, it was definitely worth screaming about. Last week, Pinkberry frozen yogurt opened it’s first ever store in Canada in West Vancouver at The Village at Park Royal Shopping Centre. The hip West Hollywood treat, popular... [Read more of this story]

Rolls-Royce Vancouver Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary Gala Celebration in Vancouver Rolls-Royce Vancouver Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary Gala Celebration in Vancouver

Can you name the sexy figure with wings who only rolls with celebrities, royalty or the very very wealthy? If you said Rolls-Royce’s “The Spirit of Ecstasy”, then you’d be right. The silver hood ornament, created by sculptor Charles Sykes, has adorned every Rolls-Royce since February 1911 and this year, the company is celebrating... [Read more of this story]

Variety 42nd Annual Heart Awards Gala Dinner in Vancouver Variety 42nd Annual Heart Awards Gala Dinner in Vancouver

The 42nd Annual Heart Awards Dinner by Variety the Children’s Charity was a glamorous night full of familiar faces from all across the North Shore. It was a tribute night filled with music, entertainment and accolades for people who give their time and dedication to an organization that we all known and love. Many of those recognized this night... [Read more of this story]

Vancouver Gala Night at the Aquarium with Jim Cuddy of Blue Rodeo Vancouver Gala Night at the Aquarium with Jim Cuddy of Blue Rodeo

Night at the Aquarium, a fabulous black-tie fundraiser held at the Vancouver aquarium, is one of this city’s best known galas and this year, it made as big a splash as ever. Raising over $353,000, the night included live music, silent auction items, Ocean Wise food provided by some of the city’s best restaurants and more. Guests were delighted... [Read more of this story]

North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce Governors’ Gala and New Zealand Wine Tour Vancouver North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce Governors’ Gala and New Zealand Wine Tour Vancouver

The North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce’s Governors’Gala took place last week at North Vancouver’s Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier. Media personality and actor Jackson Davies played MC as guests and members enjoyed an elegant evening of dining and entertainment. Presented by Neptune Terminals, the evening also included performances by... [Read more of this story]

Barenaked Ladies and Celebs at Brian Jessel BMW Cabriolet Fundraiser Barenaked Ladies and Celebs at Brian Jessel BMW Cabriolet Fundraiser

What happens when you put high fashion, luxury sports cars and celebrities together in one room? The answer is the 6th annual Brian Jessel BMW Cabriolet Charity Gala. Supporting pancreatic cancer research at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH), this night featured both silent and live auction items, food and beverage stations (provided by some of Vancouver’s... [Read more of this story]

Vancouver Leo Awards 2011 featuring celebrities Amanda Tapping, Ryan Robbins, Tyler Labine and more. Vancouver Leo Awards 2011 featuring celebrities Amanda Tapping, Ryan Robbins, Tyler Labine and more.

Every year the Leo Awards manage to bring a big dose of Hollywood glamour to the city. This past weekend, it was once again lights, camera and action time at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Complete with red carpet arrivals, movie stars and local industry heavies, this night is all about honouring BC’s best in the film and television industry.... [Read more of this story]

Rick Mercer at Canadian Cancer Daffodil Ball, Capilano University Awards, Cliffwalk and Adera Seven35 Condos Rick Mercer at Canadian Cancer Daffodil Ball, Capilano University Awards, Cliffwalk and Adera Seven35 Condos

Spring is always the busy season for events, so what better way to catch up than to take a look back at a few highlights. The 15th Annual Canadian Cancer Society Daffodil Ball, held at the Fairmont Vancouver Hotel, attracted many North Shore guests to a wonderfully glamorous evening with TV funny man Rick Mercer. Next, Capilano University honoured... [Read more of this story]

Blue Water Red Cross Red Carpet Soiree and Arti Gras at Braemar Blue Water Red Cross Red Carpet Soiree and Arti Gras at Braemar

Galas galas everywhere. First up was North Vancouver’s Braemar elementary school where parents and friends donned Mardi Gras beads and masks to celebrate “Arti Gras”. There was music, a casino, silent auction, food, drink – and a live auction of 20 “art-irondack” chairs each painted and decorated by a classroom in... [Read more of this story]

Michael Buble, Jann Arden, Mike Reno, Bob Rock and More at Crystal Buble Restaurant Opening Michael Buble, Jann Arden, Mike Reno, Bob Rock and More at Crystal Buble Restaurant Opening

It was a star-studded opening last week as several North Shore show business names were spotted at a very special restaurant reveal. Crystal Buble, sister to international singing sensation Michael Buble, rolled out the red carpet for VIP friends and family at the opening of her new Displace Hashery restaurant in Kits. The timing was perfect as newlywed... [Read more of this story]

Business Laureates of BC Hall of Fame Awards at Hotel Vancouver Business Laureates of BC Hall of Fame Awards at Hotel Vancouver

Jimmy Pattison, Wendy B. McDonald, Frank A. Griffiths, Charles Bentall – these Junior Achievement of British Columbia Business Laureates Hall of Fame inductees have helped shape our province into the great place it is today and last week, the list grew by three. Peter Brown (Canaccord Financial), Dr. Ken Spencer (Creo Products) and, inducted posthumously,... [Read more of this story]

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