It’s back! The swanky third annual party, A Toronto Christmas, is on Saturday Dec 15th at the Steam Whistle brewery proudly supporting GlassFrog International Aid Organization! Grab a festive cocktail dress or bow tie and join Toronto’s beautiful young professional crowd for a great cause! There will be live music by Stiffler’s Mom as well as DJ Rouge and DJ Mike Wilson. Tickets for A Toronto Christmas are now on sale for a limited time at a reduced price of $40. Get your tickets here. http://tinyurl.com/TorontoXmas For more details Facebook event here Check out the video from last year’s celebration: ABOUT GLASSFROG International Aid Organization GlassFrog is a nonprofit organization that provides basic human needs in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. Their projects use on the ground resources to support sustainable economic and social benefits in the communities they assist. For more information about GlassFrog, visit http://tinyurl.com/glassfrogFB
The highly anticipated 3rd annual Chef’s Challenge finally arrived on Dec 1st with a turnout of 450 fundraisers and supporters of Mount Sinai. There was lots of intense pre-battle hoopla including 4 weekly Food Truck for Sinai events and culinary pre-events as well as some videos from chefs such as Mark McEwan and Chuck Hughes both declaring they were in it to win it this year. The evening at Fairmont Royal York started with a reception and silent auction. There was also a MasterCard VIP reception on the 19th floor where all the celebrity chefs were doing photoshoots with VIPs but it was also really great that chefs Lynn Crawford and Michael Smith mingled in the general reception, too. Michael Smith was so gracious and allowed for so many pictures with admirers. He’s such a great guy! Guests enjoyed Appleton Estate cocktails and hors d’oeurves like cocktail shrimp and beef carpaccio. The main event was emceed by Bob Blumer, host of the Food Network show World’w Weirdest Restaurants. When Guy Fieri came in, he lit up the room with his energy and got the crowd going throughout the whole evening. But he also said that this event to find a cure was very personal to him as his own sister, Morgan, passed away from melanoma about a year and a half ago. Fieri was quick to switch gears back into a lighter mood, too. He has incredible stage presence! Chef Mark McEwan with no-holds-barred, started the smack talk by saying that David Rocco was a model, not a chef, and claimed that Lynn Crawford was a cheater. Shocking! Lynn Crawford won the first annual Chef’s Challenge and Mark McEwan won the second, so there was quite a bit of friendly pent-up rivalry. Getting into the heat of the culinary battle, the first secret ingredient the teams had to use was sushi grade ahi tuna. Each team’s chef then had to come up with a recipe on the spot to make an appetizer. It was a flurry of activity as each chef wasn’t allowed to touch anything, instead they guided their teams to create their dishes ready for the panel of judges. The next secret ingredient was beef tenderloin followed by phyllo dough. In the end it was Chef Lynn Crawford who won back her title and her team was ecstastic. Chuck Hughes took a close 2nd and Michael Smith took 3rd place, not bad for a “rookie” to Chef’s Challenge. What an incredibly entertaining culinary competition to watch unfold in person! In what seemed like a spontaneous live auction, bids were given to shave off the “caterpillar” from Chuck Hughes face. Hilarity ensued. The bids were incredible and it was great to see it go up to $5,000. Food Network chef Corbin Tomaszeski also donated his stache for another generous winning bid of $2,500. Judges included Kris Reyes, news anchor for Global TV, Antony Robart, anchor and host of Global Toronto, Michele Henry, reporter from the Toronto Star, John Moore, Morning Show Host for Newstalk 1010 and Amy Rosen, acting food editor at Chatelaine Magazine. The featured live auction item of the night was the “Ultimate Foodie Package” featuring a set of private dinners with chefs Lynn Crawford, Chuck Hughes, Mark McEwan and David Rocco. Guy Fieri upped the stakes with dinners at his restaurants in California if a minimum of $25,000 was reached. A generous bidder obliged and the crowd cheered. Thanks very much to the kind folks at Mount Sinai Hospital who have let us cover all the exciting Chef’s Challenge pre-events. I also made the trek out to all 4 Food Trucks for Sinai events as well. It was a busy whirlwind of events but very enjoyable all the way and most importantly for a great cause. Congrats to the Chef’s Challenge team for raising $775,000 in 2012 for Mount Sinai Hospital. Keep up the great work! Stay tuned for more exciting fundraising opportunities with Mount Sinai in 2013! Some of the many tweets from the evening: @guyfieri is in the house! #chefschallenge @ChefsChallenge pic.twitter.com/0O14Neef — Yvonne T. (@th3hungrycat) December 2, 2012 Wow that's a lot of chefs on the sideline! @ChefsChallenge pic.twitter.com/JPsfwiHk — Corina Newby (@corecorina) December 2, 2012 Chef Hughes just raised $5000 to shave his Movember stach @ChefsChallenge pic.twitter.com/t9zN9F8B — Amy Rosen (@amyrrosen) December 2, 2012 We will We Will Rocco! Is being sung down the way… Oh boy… Chuck Hughes!!!!!! I am ok with the creepy mustache. @ChefsChallenge — sueriedl (@sueriedl) December 2, 2012 @ChefsChallenge someone put a credit card in their decorated cupcake. Gimme!! Winning cupcake looks like Fieri. — Michele Henry (@michelehenry) December 2, 2012 It's team @CHEF_LYNN for the win! @ChefsChallenge #chefschallenge pic.twitter.com/fpf0SoFF — MasterCard Canada (@MasterCardCA) December 2, 2012 ABOUT MOUNT SINAI HOSPITAL Funds raised at this event provide sustaining funding to breast and ovarian cancer research and education at the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute and Marvelle Koffler Breast Centre at Mount Sinai Hospital. With your support, scientists at the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute can investigate new approaches to prevent, diagnose and treat disease, while clinicians at the Marvelle Koffler Breast Centre provide priceless classes to the community on mammography and self-screening, as well as classes on health, diet and exercise for recovering breast cancer patients. More pictures below. Thanks to Macleans for using our Guy Fieri picture in their article! [print_gllr id=6107] And here are even more pictures. And also check them out on our Facebook album. [print_gllr id=6130]
So it turns out the Adelaide Club tucked away in First Canadian Place in the financial district is not only a 35-year-old mainstay in the fitness world but they also know how to throw quite a party! To celebrate this milestone with a 70’s theme, they turned squash rooms into lavish lounges decked out with bars and food, they brought in pole dancing by Flirty Girl Fitness and 70’s getups, from fros to bellbottoms to mini skirts and disco dancing. Food was served and drinks and ’70s candy were shared and it was quite turnout! It’s interesting to see a fitness club with bar service so that you can relax in the lounge with a drink with your buddies after squash. I say why not have it all? Quite different from the impersonal, cookie-cutter gyms we’re all used to. Interesting classes at the Adelaide Club include the Hot Barre, which has Ballet concepts, or Tabata, a type of interval and calisthenic training. Never resting on their laurels, the newly renovated Adelaide Club will feature an expanded Adelaide Health Clinic designed by the Design Agency early in the New Year. That’s quite the bold red! For more pictures check their own Facebook album as well, with over 200 pictures. Adelaide Club Toronto 1 First Canadian Place Toronto, Ontario M5X 1C8 ABOUT ADELAIDE CLUB Since 1978, the Adelaide Club has been a leader in the Fitness World. State of the art equipment, world-class group exercise programming and accredited, knowledgeable staff are the backbone of our wellness service. Some notable tweets from the evening: One of our cool lounges for tonight #Adelaide35 pic.twitter.com/145WUdSe — Cambridge Clubs (@CambridgeClubs) November 29, 2012 Ok the party can start now that @AmyJac @tatvictoria @Halysha have arrived!! #Adelaide35 pic.twitter.com/FnQnpOxi — Cambridge Clubs (@CambridgeClubs) November 29, 2012 It's about to go down 70s style @AdelaideClub #Adelaide35 pic.twitter.com/tjjzg6iC — Amy Burstyn Fritz (@AmyBurstynFritz) November 29, 2012 #np "body rock" these ladies know how to move #Adelaide35 pic.twitter.com/dIvMxWxm — Cambridge Clubs (@CambridgeClubs) November 30, 2012 Epic performance by the Fros making their #debut @cdelosreyesRMT @shawnbyfield @dustinpym #Adelaide35 pic.twitter.com/f4FGR9yZ — Cambridge Clubs (@CambridgeClubs) November 30, 2012
After the Special Olympics Festival breakfast earlier in the morning, the Special Olympics Festival Gala was hosted by Jennifer Hedger and Rod Black from TSN to celebrate the 30th annual Special Olympics Festival gala. The evening featured a large silent auction, a great aerial performance, a grand live auction (including a Toyota Camry Hybrid), and musical entertainment by up-and-coming Canadian recording artist, Melissa Bel. Tons of Canadian celebrity athletes were in attendance including Olympic gold medalist Rosie MacLennan, Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Ricky Romero, Pinball Clemons, Adriano Belli (aka “The Kissing Bandit”), Mike Bradwell,, Damon Allen, Mark Tewksbury and so many more. We also spotted Aliya-Jasmine Sovani of MTV News. It was funny to hear Jennifer Hedger recap Adriano Belli’s performance leading up to the Grey Cup win including breaking the Grey Cup. He took it all in great stride saying that since he couldn’t break an arm he had to break the Grey Cup’s arm. What a day of celebrations and tons of great support for the Special Olympics! Notable tweets from the evening: Special Olympics gala with @bwelltweets & @psetherington & @jenniferhedger killin it on stage @ Sheraton Hot http://t.co/BKyMnIom — Aliya-Jasmine Sovani (@aliyajasmine) December 1, 2012 Great morning at the Special Olympics Festival in Toronto @sheratoncentre Can't wait for the Gala tonight!! @SpecialOCanada #SOF2012 — Rosie MacLennan (@RosieMacLennan) November 30, 2012 Great night at the Special Olympics Gala. #SOF2012 #Toronto pic.twitter.com/ZfOow7yT — Ricky Romero (@RickyRo24) December 1, 2012 Also, check out our pictures from the breakfast on our Facebook album. ABOUT THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS FESTIVAL The Special Olympics Festival is a legendary Toronto tradition that offers sport fans an opportunity to meet some fo their heroes wile supporting Special Olympic Canada’s programs and athletes. Thirty years ago, a Toronto boardroom was the scene for a brainstorming session among brothers Brian and Bruce Etherington, and friend David Garard. Together, they created the Sports Celebrity Festival, a sports-themed breakfast with a purpose — to weave new strands of generosity and caring into the fabric of national life. Over time, the event grew in popularity and form, and became the Special Olympics Festival with events happening from coast to coast to coast. [print_gllr id=5941]
Get your 70’s clothes ready for a fun flashback to the Fab ’70s! Celebrating the Adelaide Club’s 35th Birthday, tickets are $20 each including complimentary drinks. There will be food stations and wine tastings, live entertainment, a photo booth and dancing all night long! RSVP at the front desk or with ryan@adelaideclub.com or call 416.367.9957. Adelaide Club Toronto 1 First Canadian Place Toronto, Ontario M5X 1C8 ABOUT ADELAIDE CLUB Since 1978, the Adelaide Club has been a leader in the Fitness World. State of the art equipment, world-class group exercise programming and accredited, knowledgeable staff are the backbone of our wellness service.
Although it’s been open for two weeks (officially Nov 16th), Hugo Boss kicked off the opening of their new Yorkdale store at Yorkdale with a cocktail reception followed by a trends presentation hosted by Fashion Magazine‘s Bernadette Morra and David Livingstone. Hugo Boss is located at the new west wing as part of the grand Yorkdale expansion. Also check out our Yorkdale spotlights on Diesel and Tesla Motors.
Our friends at Karyzma Agency held their first annual Player’s Lounge at Parlour hosting the CFL players before the big game that the Argos won on Sunday. What’s more spectacular than the Toronto Argonauts winning the 100th Grey Cup? Congrats to the boys in double-blue, making us all very proud Torontonians! There was lots to do at the Player’s Lounge with a Product Magazine photobooth for photo ops with the players, shoe shines provided by John Allan’s, samples of Fireball cinnamon whisky with tons of Fireball swag, and food was served by Windies Restaurant. Toronto Argos players in attendance included Joe Eppele, offensive lineman Chris Van Zeyl (offensive tackle), and Tristan Black (linebacker). There were also Montreal Alouettes players including John Bowman (defensive end), Shea Emry (middle linebacker), and also Jonathan Hood of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Marc Calixte of the Calgary Stampeders. It was the first time I’ve ever been asked what size of underwear I was for a swag bag which included Calvin Klein underwear, Osis hair products, Koncious T-shirts, and items from Karv and McDonald’s. Some tweets from the event: Giving the PRODUCT treatment in celebration of the Grey Cup with some VIPs @karinedelage #playerslounge #karyzmaagency #toronto #PRODUCT — PRODUCT | Toronto (@ProductToronto) November 24, 2012 @7Bowman showing some love @KarvFashion @vichyexpertcan thanks again for being a part of #playerslounge #karyzmaagency pic.twitter.com/OxYnkiWu — Karine Delage (@KarineDelage) November 26, 2012 Thanks for the swag #FireBall #playerslounge http://t.co/dlQVLPSo — Sarah (@sburnyay) November 25, 2012 @melindashankar doing a little photoshoot @producttoronto #KaryzmaAgency #Playerslounge pic.twitter.com/vdNj9eKg — Karine Delage (@KarineDelage) November 24, 2012 Swag like you never seen! #karyzmagency #playerslounge pic.twitter.com/Km41F0N9 — MyETVmedia (@myetvmedia) November 25, 2012 Tristan Black inside Team Karyzma's first annual Players Gift Lounge #playerslounge #karyzmaagency http://t.co/6uKQePDt — Sarah (@sburnyay) November 25, 2012 Be sure to watch out for next year’s #PlayersLounge in 2013 brought to you by Karyzma Agency [print_gllr id=5777] [print_gllr id=5796]
All in the name of sustainable seafood, 12 top local chefs from the Toronto area each had booths to serve up their own delicious chowder made from ocean-friendly seafood alongside a beer pairing that was chosen to perfectly suit the chowder’s flavour. Upon check-in, you are given a wooden spoon, a ballot and a checklist describing each of the 12 stations. Guests were able to vote for their favourite to win the People’s Choice Award while the panel of judges would determine the evening’s champion. This was the 3rd annual Chowder Chowdown and it was a huge turnout at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel barely fitting everyone in the Imperial Room. We found that table space was at a premium so it was challenging during most of the evening to grab a spot to put down the beer sampling while trying the chowder. Although it was much more comfortable than the recent annual Gourmet Food and Wine Expo’s barely-able-to-walk atmosphere. The celebrity panel of judges included Anthony Walsh (executive chef and partner of Oliver and Bonacini Restaurants), Carl Heinrich, Partner/Executive Chef at Richmond Station and winner of Top Chef Canada Season 2, Rebecca LeHeup (Ontario Culinary Tourism Alliance), Jaime Kennedy of Jamie Kennedy Kitchens and Micah Donovan (The Food Jammers). People’s Choice Award was awarded to Chef Baksh with his Manilla Clam and Seafood Chowder including sturgeon! Chef Albert Ponzo of Le Select Bistro won over the judges with Chef Ponzo’s Seafood Chowder, boasting fresh fall ingredients that are at peak season. Delicious choices were all around us and it was quite a challenge to try all 12 with such generous portions of chowder and beer at each station. Definitely do not miss this event next year! Good chowder and beer sampling all-in at an amazing price with all proceeds directly supporting the Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise program! Also, if you love Oceanwise, have a look at our Toronto Zoo’s event from June where they held a Seafood for Thought event, also promoting sustainable seafood. Everybody wins with the Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise Chowder Chowdown: the chefs, the judges, the guests, and especially the oceans from which we all depend upon ecologically. Please keep up the great work, Vancouver Aquarium! Also, be sure to look for the Ocean Wise label at the grocery store or ask for it at your seafood restaurant. ABOUT OCEANWISE The Ocean Wise symbol next to a seafood item is the Vancouver Aquarium’s assurance of an ocean-friendly seafood choice. With over 3,100 Ocean Wise partner locations across Canada, Ocean Wise makes it easy for consumers to make sustainable seafood choices that ensure the health of our oceans for generations to come. To learn more, please visit www.oceanwise.ca [print_gllr id=5704]
Mercedes-Benz hosted a DJ set with Dirty Vegas and Chromeo. EDM fans were invited to register for an exclusive, free performance by these big names for those lucky enough to snag a ticket to celebrate the launch of the all-new 2013 Mercedes-Benz B-Class. Dirty Vegas started the night with some deep trance most notably Gotye’s Somebody That I Used to Know and also their big Grammy Award hit “Days Go By”. The Chromeo duo kept the crowd going with hits like Bonafied Lovin’ from their album, Fancy Footwork. Guests got to take photos at the Photostar booth, grab candy bracelets and sweets from the candy table and a graffiti BScene wall for anyone to make their mark. The crowd went wild when the promo girls threw glowsticks and glasses made from glowsticks into the crowd. It was a hit with the crowd! It was great that the Mercedes-Benz branding and cars were there, making for glitzy props on the stage, but not intrusive (aka no speeches or preaching). It was a great night had by all! Check out an electronic music blogger’s detailed write-up as well from the The Heather Network. Some tweets from the night Writings on the walls #Bclass #Bscene pic.twitter.com/A76U4Dsq — Marc Piercey (@tif_marc) November 22, 2012 The party is just getting started #Bscene #Bclass @Chromeo @DirtyVegas3 http://t.co/r5pWNbIj — Richard Fabregui (@TIF_Richard) November 22, 2012 Get your scribble on! Live graffiti wall at the #bscene pic.twitter.com/gcAqv0nC — The Mint Agency (@TheMintAgency) November 22, 2012 @Chromeo is killing it #BScene http://t.co/ERQz9Bof — Dani Goddard (@Dani_Goddard) November 22, 2012 [print_gllr id=5538]
We were lucky to be invited to the media preview of the new Diesel Yorkdale store as part of the exciting Yorkdale expansion grand opening last week. “We are excited to be opening the doors of a third Diesel retail location in Canada!”, said Joey Adler, President of Diesel Canada. “Our new Yorkdale retail store is the first and only Canadian location within a shopping mall and marks our continued growth across the country. This day marks a milestone for the Diesel brand in Canada and we look forward to celebrating it with our loyal fans and customers.” As part of the opening, a contest was held where four fashion bloggers were invited to style mannequins with pieces from Diesel’s SS13 collection. They included Julio (Fashionights), Nelia (Style Blog), Sharon (The Backseat Stylers) and Jay Strut. Visitors to the store voted by tweeting their favourite styled mannequin for a chance to win a Diesel gift card. Following the Black Friday, the winning fashion blogger was announced. Congrats, Julio of Fashionights! We’re excited to see what’s next in store with this edgy men’s and women’s apparel lifestyle brand, such as the Diesel Ducati collection. For more information, here is the link to Diesel at Yorkdale [print_gllr id=5517]
It was a concert extravaganza featuring great performances by Kreesha Turner, Mia Martina, Kardinal Offishall and multiple Juno Award winner K’naan following the awards ceremony at the Telus Players Party! Great moments included when Kardinal Offishal went up to the front row and got up close and personal with fans in the middle of his performance. The crowd also went wild when the Toronto Argos Cheerleaders surprised us and danced on the stage. What a great way to celebrate 100 years of the Grey Cup! [print_gllr id=5395]
Attention media and bloggers: Sponsored by Product Magazine, there will be an on-site photo shoot with the players in attendance. Drinks include Fireball, Lemon Drop, Iceberg Vodka and Sleeman. GP8 is also providing official sports water. There will be lots of swag including Calvin Klein underwear, Calvin Klein perfume, Osis hair products, Team LTD caps, Koncious T-shirts, and Karv items and much more! I’m looking forward to getting a shoe shine from John Allan’s! If you’ve ever been to an event by Karyzma Agency, you know it will be good! See you there! 4-8pm Parlour Lounge 270 Adelaide West RSVP now with Karine Delage 416-876-3329 karine@karyzmaagency.com
Celebrating a monumental 100 years of the Grey Cup, the most appealing part of the night was that this historic event was held on the actual turf where the highly-anticipated 100th Grey Cup on Sunday will be held. It was our first time at something unique like this at the Rogers Centre. When have you ever heard of a gala where you can practice your football throwing skills enjoying hors d’oeurves, cocktails sitting on a couch with your dress shoes in official Grey Cup footall turf mingling with Argos Cheerleaders? For unique experiences this one-of-a-kind gala delivered big! Notable guests in attendance included Newstalk 1010s’s John Tory, Michael “Pinball” Clemons, football legend Damon Allen, Honourable David Onley, and Melissa DiMarco. Entertainment included Madison Kozak, Chris Willis and Emerson Drive’s Brad Mates and a dance performance by the Argos Cheerleaders. Food was provided by celebrity Chef Mark McEwan and Chef Rob Gentile of Buca Restaurant with tons of delicious food choices to choose from. PO1 Simpson and MS Desmond from@HMCS_York getting ready to escort the #GreyCup into the Grey Cup Gala @100thGreyCup pic.twitter.com/lr2ZroKB — HMCS YORK (@HMCS_York) November 22, 2012 Really great time at the Grey Cup Gala. Got the chance to meet Pinball Clemons. Great experience. pic.twitter.com/0dWI2qzs — Zach Van Kerrebroeck (@ZachVanK) November 22, 2012 Mr Clemens and Mr Allen at the Grey cup gala pic.twitter.com/509V309O — Lorne Frilegh (@LFri45) November 22, 2012 Check out the impressive setup for tonight's @100thGreyCup @Scotiabank Gala at the @Rogers_Centre. #100GC @ScotiaCFL pic.twitter.com/F4aCUcJ0 — Dome Productions (@DomeProductions) November 21, 2012 Want to find the washrooms at the @Scotiabank #100GC Gala? Just follow these cool directions… pic.twitter.com/UVmZvW41 — Grey Cup Festival (@100thGreyCup) November 21, 2012 Pre-performance pic w/ @chriswillistwit @100thGreyCup Festival's #ScotiaBank Gala! Time to rock out! #Argos #100GC pic.twitter.com/CaNt4Bq8 — Argos Cheerleaders (@ArgosCheer) November 22, 2012 It was a great night at the Scotiabank Grey Cup Gala! We heard guests raving about the attentive and friendly service. Joe Warmington from the Toronto Sun reports that the celebrities were very approachable at the gala. o read more, check out the article from the Toronto Sun. To get in on the Grey Cup festivities, including LOTS of free events for the whole family this Saturday and Sunday (right up until the big game), be sure to check out 100thgreycupfestival.ca All of Canada will be watching the Grey Cup game this Sunday! Half time show features all-Canadian talents including Justin Bieber, Carly Rae Jepsen, Gordon Lightfoot and Mariana’s Trench. [print_gllr id=5350 orderby=]
The energy was still high up through the end of The Purple Party in support of Childhood Cancer Canada. The evening was hosted by former NHL enforcer and Stanley Cup champion, Brad May, and his wife Bridgette May.
The 4th annual Frocktail party featured loads of designer dresses (and also some menswear for the gents) up for auction with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). We spotted Suzanne Rogers and Greta Constantine (Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong), who donated dresses for a good cause. Besides the great selection of auction items, there was lots to do including getting nails and hair done, Purdy’s chocolates to enjoy and Oliver & Bonacini hors d’oeurves to taste. Entrance to the separate “Swag Suite” was for those who purchased a dress or for those with a black ribbon on their wrist. It was a nice lounge to grab a loot bag and fill it with gifts like nail polish, Calvin Klein underwear, and Got2B hair products. ABOUT JDRF For over 40 years, JDRF has been a global leader in the search for an end to type 1 diabetes (T1D), through both research funding and advocacy. During that time, JDRF has always talked about a cure as a singular destination: a return to normal physiology. ABOUT THE FROCKTAIL PARTY The Frocktail Party was founded in 2009 by a group of close friends (Jessica Oliver, Ali Reid, Jen Foster, Sabrina Carr, Talor Wallace, Catherine Pringle and Christina Perreault) who wanted to make a difference in support of Jessica’s sister Vanessa. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at six-years old, Vanessa has lived with daily insulin injections, finger pokes, an insulin pump and the worry of long-term complications every day for 28 years. Over the course of their relationship with the Oliver family, the girls have seen Vanessa face these challenges with courage, grace and a fierce commitment to supporting a quest for a cure. This inspired the creation of The Frocktail Party. Prior to this year’s event, the Frocktail party has donated more than $80,000 to JDRF.
Tesla Motors put a showroom in Toronto’s Yorkdale shopping mall to mark their first footprint in Canada. What other car company have you heard doing that before? I was thrilled to be one of the first to preview the Tesla store as part of the Yorkdale expansion grand opening and see the famous Tesla S all-electric sports car up close and personal. It was beautiful inside and out! The dashboard is all electronic. The middle console is a large 18″ beautiful and vibrant touchscreen display from which all controls are made including air conditioning, sound system, navigation and rear backup camera. The console also allows you to adjust the car’s steering, suspension and brake regeneration settings. There is also the possibility of software updates to the touch-screen system. Other car manufacturers should take note of this! And it couldn’t be better timing after the Tesla S was just named MotorTrend’s 2013 Car of the Year. Check out MotorTrend’s video below! The base model Tesla is amazingly affordable with an entry price of only $65K not including government tax rebates (about $5k off). It delivers on all fronts with its looks, and performance with an impressive 362 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque at the base model (the Model S delivers 416 hp and 443 lb-ft torque). Also keep in mind that due to it’s all-electric nature the torque is available instantly, making the Model S capable of reaching 0-60 in 4 seconds. Read MotorTrend’s article about the Tesla Model S and check out MotorTrend’s new video below Congrats Tesla Motors and welcome to Toronto! Ladies and gentlemen, be sure to take a visit next time you’re at Yorkdale! Contact info for the new Yorkdale store www.teslamotors.com/yorkdale
The sixth annual fundraiser Ultimate Jet Set Experience, featured an auction with fabulous trips aboard private jets in support of the Toronto Kiwanis Boys and Girls Club. The evening on Nov 7th, 2012 was hosted by Zaib Shaikh, best known for his role in CBC’s Little Mosque on the Prairie. The young and enthusiastic Dionne Quintyn reflected back on her experience with the Kiwanis Club growing up and how it positively helped her own personal situation. DJ Floh Back provided the musical ambience while Oliver & Bonacini had great gourmet food stations and hors d’oeurves to accompany the reception set up throughout great Arcadian Loft venue. ABOUT THE TORONTO KIWANIS BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB The Toronto Kiwanis Boys & Girls Clubs is a member organization of Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada. Founded in 1936 by the Kiwanis Club of Toronto, the Clubs have been providing a safe place for after-school, evening and school break programs. The Clubs serves 1,100 children and youth in the Regent Park, Cabbagetown and Trinity Bellwoods communities annually. With a rich 75-year history the Club has helped over 50,000 children discover, develop and achieve their full potential by providing a continuum of after-school programs and services for children and youth between the ages of six to 24. The Club, a United Way member agency, is a leading non-profit provider of programs that support the healthy physical, education and social development of Toronto`s children and youth. The Club provides children from low-income families with supervised after-school activities centred on literacy and learning; cooking and nutrition; creative arts; physical activity; personal development; career development and leadership training. Sixty-nine percent of the Club’s families earn less than 20 thousand dollars annually. To learn more, please visit www.believeinkids.ca [print_gllr id=5012 sort=title]
This year’s annual Teddy Bear Affair had the theme of 1920’s era Paris, France in a decade known by many as “LES ANNÉES FOLLES” or the Roaring Twenties. The theme drew influences from Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris and the Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgterald. The evening brought over 1,000 of the GTA’s influential and senior executives, co-hosted by Toronto Adriano Belli from the Toronto Argonauts, and Jennifer Hedger, TSN Sportscentre anchor. It was apparent this was one of the classier galas in Toronto by the attire of the guests dressed to the nines but at the same time it wasn’t too stuck-up, as the guests and the atmosphere encouraged fun. The decor from our friends at Designing Trendz helped to transport us to the timeframe as well as the French costumes, accordion player and busker-style entertainment. It was one of the best decorated galas we’ve been to at the Metro Convention Centre. There were many activities to enjoy such as one-on-one handwriting analysis, aura reading, a large silent auction and also a really great live auction. The “Tiffany Bear” raffle tickets came in the form of cuddly Tiffany & Co branded teddy bears that came with the purchase of a raffle ticket. It was great to see philanthropists picking up bundles of the teddy bears! Great moments from the Teddy Bear Affair for Children’s Aid Foundation performances by The Dance Company, and especially the performance by Juno award winners, Glass Tiger. That’s right – the one and only Canadian rock band right from Newmarket Ontario you remember from the ’80’s! As soon as they got on stage, guests young and old flocked to the dance floor and had a great time. Best of all, over $1 million was raised for Children’s Aid Foundation! ABOUT CHILDREN’S AID FOUNDATION The Children’s Aid Foundation is a national organization committed to improving the lives of abused, neglected and at risk children and youth through prevention, enrichment and education. As a registered charity, we raise funds to implement programs across the country that give disadvantaged children and youth the skills and support they need to reach their full potential. To learn more visit http://www.cafdn.org Loving the Tiffany teddy bear! My #TeddyBearAffair's Tiffany & Co. 'tattoo' – he's a way cool bear like that : ) pic.twitter.com/kWxCB9Pz — cjongeward (@cjongeward) November 11, 2012 As fun as the evening was, most importantly we must remember that Teddy Bear Affair raises funds to improve the lives of disadvantaged kids across Canada. Watch Children’s Aid Foundation’s video “Support and Hope”. [print_gllr id=4853 orderby=”title”]
Get your tickets for the Future Sinai Culinary throwdown! Purchase tickets by via PayPal, or contact Melissa Campisi at 416-586-4800 ext. 4681. Get more details by clicking on the poster below!
Aspiring chefs baked their very best cookies and brought them out to be judged by celebrity chef Chuck Hughes at Cookie Battle, as a pre-event leading up to the big “Chef’s Challenge for a Cure” event on December 1st. The evening started with the charismatic Chuck Hughes signing autographs for guests with his new book, Garder Manger, at the SubZero and Wolf showroom. Chuck was so approachable, graciously allowing anyone to interrupt and take pictures with him. It was non-stop for the poor guy! Dozens and dozens of sweet (some savoury) and delicious cookies of all kinds were brought in. We heard there were going to be about 20 cookie-contestants but it seemed more like 30 … fine by us! With so many great cookies to try, I think everyone was in some much-needed milk! But wine was just fine by us! Watch this video clip about what to expect in the upcoming Chef’s Challenge. He reminds everyone that Chef’s Challenge will not only be fun, but don’t forget that the competition will also be fierce. It was especially entertaining when he talked about last year’s winner, Mark McEwan, and also David Rocco. After the speech, Chuck was ready to get down to Cookie Battle! Chuck was asked to narrow it down to the top 3 but he had a tough time with shortlisting 3rd and 4th place so it was decided he would choose the top 4. All the cookies were great but in the end there was no surprise. Congrats to Amy Taylor (@greeneyesgeisha) for the win with her amazingly delicious “Coffee Lover Chocolate Macchiatto Shortbreads” who had already pretty much won in terms of best presentation. We were lucky enough to try one of these and it just melted in your mouth and many guests said was like drinking an espresso. Congrats and we hope she makes more of these delicious bites! Also check out what happened at the first and second Chef Challenge pre-events. If you haven’t already, there’s still time for you to register for the main event on December 1st! About Chef’s Challenge A remarkable kitchen stadium sets the tone for a true culinary mêlée as celebrity chefs lead fundraisers into the epicurean battle of their lives, all for the opportunity to oust Mark McEwan, who led his team to victory in 2011. To attend this exclusive culinary fundraising event, participants must raise a minimum of $2,500 to watch the battle unfold. Guy Fieri will craft a five-course epicurean dinner—but keep your keen culinary skills handy throughout the meal—members of the audience will be called upon to complete tableside challenges for Guy! The top 50 fundraisers earn the privilege to test their culinary talent live on stage alongside their team and celebrity chef, all while under the watchful eye of Guy Fieri. chefschallengeforacure.com facebook.com/ChefsChallengeCanada twitter.com/ChefsChallenge [print_gllr id=4716]
Some very lucky philanthropists got to watch the latest (and many say the best) James Bond movie, Skyfall, three days in advance for a charity screening in support of Dignitas International. Guests in attendance at the Spoke Club reception following the highly-anticipated movie included famous Canadian author, Margaret Atwood, Arlene Dickinson from the CBC’s Dragon’s Den, and MTV news anchor, Aliya Jasmine Sovani. The host of the evening was Zaib Shaikh, best known for his role in CBC’s Little Mosque on the Prairie. Also, be sure to check out our coverage of the James Bond opening party celebrating 50 years of Bond Style with a brand new exhibition at TIFF Bell Lightbox. ABOUT DIGNITAS INTERNATIONAL Dignitas International is a leading medical humanitarian organization developing solutions for global health. Committed to innovation, we work in partnership with patients, health workers, researchers, and policymaker to expand health care in resource-limited communities. Combining frontline expertise and rigorous research, Dignitas saves lives by increasing access to care, strengthening health systems and shaping health policy and practice. For more information visit www.dignitasinternational.org/ [print_gllr id=4664]
On Nov 14th, It’s Your Moment will be a glamorous night out to raise money for Look Good Feel Better, which encourages women with cancer to feel beautiful about the way they look through workshops and seminars. This fun 19+ evening will feature a jewelry fashion show hosted by Stella & Dot, light hors d’oeurves, live music, a dance performance by Amy Adams, beauty vendors, hair stylists and more. There will also be a raffle and auction. It’s only $20 general admission and $10 for students. You can get your tickets at the door or in advance with Hanna Sunderani at 416.319.8387. Advanced ticket purchasers will receive a free raffle ticket for the auction! Here is the Facebook event page: www.facebook.com/events/431432946914958 It looks like it will be a great turnout! ABOUT LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER Launched in 1992 by a charitable foundation of the Canadian Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association (CCTFA), Look Good Feel Better is Canada’s only cancer charity dedicated to empowering women to manage the effects that cancer and its treatment have on their appearance, and often on their morale. Over 130,000 women have been helped through our workshop. For more information visit www.lgfb.ca
Selected guests were invited to attend the 2nd Chef’s Challenge Pre-event with celebrity Chef Mark McEwan at Sub-Zero and Wolf. As the reigning champ of last year’s Chef Challenge, McEwan talked about how he was going to make his team work really hard to defend his title for this year’s Chef’s Challenge on December 1st at Fairmont Royal York Hotel. When asked what his tip for his potential team members in the audience, he joked “don’t cut yourself!” So the battle will be intense but if you’re a serious aspiring chef, you can still register at www.chefschallengeforacure.com. A minimum donation of $2,500 allows you to watch the battle unfold live on Dec 1st. If you make it to the list of the top 50 fundraisers, you will be in the heat of this great culinary battle elbow-to-elbow with one of the celebrity chefs: Lynn Crawford, Chuck Hughes, Mark McEwan, David Rocco, and Michael Smith. This was the 2nd pre-event leading up to the Chef’s Challenge event on December 1st. Read about the 1st pre-event with Chef John Cirillo at Cirillo’s Culinary Academy. About Chef’s Challenge A remarkable kitchen stadium sets the tone for a true culinary mêlée as celebrity chefs lead fundraisers into the epicurean battle of their lives, all for the opportunity to oust Mark McEwan, who led his team to victory in 2011. To attend this exclusive culinary fundraising event, participants must raise a minimum of $2,500 to watch the battle unfold. Guy Fieri will craft a five-course epicurean dinner—but keep your keen culinary skills handy throughout the meal—members of the audience will be called upon to complete tableside challenges for Guy! The top 50 fundraisers earn the privilege to test their culinary talent live on stage alongside their team and celebrity chef, all while under the watchful eye of Guy Fieri. chefschallengeforacure.com facebook.com/ChefsChallengeCanada twitter.com/ChefsChallenge [print_gllr id=4623]
As described in wikipedia, Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction that typically features steam-powered machinery, especially in a setting inspired by industrialized Western civilization during the 19th century, or a post apocalyptic environment. We really enjoy this pseudo-Victorian mechanical “steampunk” style because it makes for beautiful visuals that stand out from cookie-cutter events. We were intrigued by the idea of a Steampunk-themed gala and also, who puts on better events than a community of professional event planners? This was definitely an event we didn’t want to miss! The ISES (International Special Events Society of Toronto) chapter annual gala gathered members and friends for a jam-packed evening full of entertainment from live performances, some magic, and great music. The evening started with a reception of cocktails and hors d’oeurves, a set of violin renditions of popular music by Grenville Pinto. Guests were then greeted into the dining area by the evening’s host, Michael Coombs, of Michael Coombs Entertainment, with ISES Toronto Annual Leadership Awards, mixed with a vast array of entertainment from aerial performances by A2D2, a great musical performance by Devah Quartet, a magic show by Mental Floss Sideshow, dancing by Dragonfly Belly Dance group, and Well Rounded Hoops. Our favourite performance was Devah Quartet, four young ladies who had great costumes and electrifying string music. They were like a refreshing version of Apocalyptica. Definitely check them out when you get the next chance! Award recipients included: Bryan Bell at Decor & More for the ISES Toronto Supplier of the Year Award Larry Cuthbertson for the ISES Toronto Dedication Award This annual event was planned and prepared by Eclectic Events International, who have been ISES Toronto members for years. We first met them at the recent Atlantis Pavilion open-house which was also a great event with many impressive attractions to enjoy. Thanks very much to Eclectic Events for having us and putting on a great ISES Toronto gala for the special events community! About ISES Toronto ISES Toronto is a Chartered Chapter of ISES Canada, which is an Affiliate of ISES International. The International Special Events Society was founded in 1987 to foster enlightened performance through education while promoting ethical conduct. ISES works to join professionals to focus on the “event as a whole” rather than its individual parts. ISES’s worldwide membership has grown to involve over 5,000 members active in 35 countries throughout the world. Membership brings together professionals from a variety of special events disciplines including caterers, meeting planners, decorators, event planners, audio-visual technicians, party and convention coordinators, educators, journalists, hotel sales managers and many more professional disciplines. [print_gllr id=4515]
Photography by Flora Tran There is a new craze in the culinary world, many call it molecular cuisine. It is experimental cooking that focuses on the physical and chemical transformations of ingredients. Fortunately, Flora and I had the privilege to experience this modern method of cooking with Chef John Placko on October 24 at one of Nella Cucina’s culinary workshop sessions. Molecular cuisine is all about manipulating the senses. Familiar food is presented in an unfamiliar and unexpected way so that our senses do not know what to expect. For example, coconut water is usually enjoyed as refreshing beverage on a hot summer day. Another familiar food, caviar, basically salt-cured fish-eggs, is commonly served on sushi. So how do these two foods relate? (Sources: http://clubspa.spafinder.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/cocointro21.jpg, and http://pics.livejournal.com/world_blogger/pic/000b86gh) That is when molecular cooking comes into play. Coconut caviar infuses the refreshing coconut water with delicate roe. Here are the ingredients: Caviar mix 2 tbsp icing sugar 3 level spoons easy alginate ½ cup water ½ cup coconut milk Setting Bath 2 heaped spoons calcium chloride 2 cups water Add water and all of the ingredients into a blender on low speed and strain the mixture. Place the mix into a squeeze bottle. Then drip caviar mix into the setting bath mix. Rinse the caviar in cold water and it is ready to serve! Check out my video of this to see it in action! Chef John Placko adds a teaspoon of the coconut pearls into a chilled glass of horchata paired with dried rice cracker and hummus. And a delightful snack is served. The main event is a demonstration of how molecular cuisine works in the kitchen. Starter: Walnut crusted salmon on sushi rice cakes with black rice salad and snowflakes. The surprise factor of this dish is the white puffy snowflakes on the side. It plays an interesting spin on flavour. Snowflakes in my memory are tasteless just like water. However, the aroma and flavour of the snowflakes here reminds me of nutty sesame seeds as it melts away in on my tongue. This is one form of manipulation that takes place in molecular cuisine. Main: Seafood Stir-fry on Texmati Rice This stir-fry tastes as delicious as it looks. Though I do not believe molecular cooking is used in this dish. Dessert: White Chocolate Arancini with Puffed Rice Rocher and Raspberry Butter Sauce See the strawberries on the plate? They are frozen strawberries that fizzle in your mouth, much like drinking soda! The secret is carbonation; a recognizable technique in molecular cooking. Take a cream whipper and add strawberries. Then charge it twice with and leave it in the fridge to cool for two hours. After the cooling the fruits are ready to serve. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4HDfTJjzhU) As the evening went on, I concluded that molecular cooking is all about creating unfamiliar sensation to the palate. The modern cuisine redesigns the texture, flavour, smell, and colour of food in ways that we have never experienced before. The element of surprise in molecular cuisine is key for entertaining an audience. Surly it does not disappoint, this food in science fiction is setting a brand new stage for modern cooking. A special thanks goes to Jessica from FayeClack Communications Inc., Chef John Placko, Chef Brianne Nash, and the wonderful staff at Nella Cucina for such an amazing event! About Chef John Placko Chef John Placko has worked in Canada over the past 17 years in corporate food and restaurant organizations. Prior to Canada, he worked in Australia and Mexico, mainly in hotels and restaurants. John’s culinary competition activity spans multiple countries; Australia, Germany, Canada and France, where he competed in the Bocuse d’Or competition. His passion lies in the culinary evolution most commonly known as molecular cuisine or molecular gastronomy. Over the past 6 years he has been invited to present, demonstrate and teach this modern cuisine to numerous culinary groups at GFTC, Humber College, George Brown College, The Cookbook Store and Nella Cucina. You can register for molecular cuisine workshops at Nella Cucina by clicking here. [print_gllr id=4409]
The Panda Ball is an evening of celebrating the place that connects us all, Earth. This 2nd annual fundraising gala for the World Wildlife Fund brought together key philanthropists and business visionaries who want to make positive changes in the conservation of the universe’s only known living planet. The work that the WWF does is so vital, dealing with issues that impact everyone on a global scale in a changing climate, melting Arctic, health of our oceans, rivers and the preservation of wildlife and endangered species. It was our first time at the new luxurious Four Seasons Hotel in Yorkville. We had the pleasure of meeting The Bachelor Canada’s one and only Brad C. Smith who had heaps of fun facial expressions to share with us. Thanks for the photo ops! Following the reception, guests were gathered into the thoughtfully decorated Aria banquet room with elegant dining table settings. The gold panda pins at each seat were a nice touch. The charismatic Ziya Tong, co-host of Daily Planet, did a great job as Master of Ceremonies for the evening and she made inspirational speeches about the importance of environmental issues and our planet Earth. Environmental Leader Awards were given out to Greg Kiessling, co-founder of Bullfrog Power, for “Leader for Conservation”, followed by the award for “Partner in Conservation”, accepted by Coca-Cola Canada President, Nicola Kettlitz, and the “Living Planet Legacy” was awarded to Annette Verschuren who highlighted her work as President of Home Depot Canada. Feist rounded out the evening with unique renditions of her hits such as “My Moon My Man”. At the end of the evening everyone enjoyed choosing their own WWF stuffed animal species to take home and adopt. So many great ones to choose from! Check out all these great stuffed animals you can choose from that would make great Christmas gifts. You’ll also be eligible to receive a tax receipt while also supporting WWF’s conservation efforts. We wish the best success to the WWF in it’s fundraising efforts. ABOUT WWF (World Wildlife Fund) WWF (World Wildlife Fund) is Canada’s largest international conservation organization with the active support of more than 150,000 Canadians. We connect the power of a strong global network to on-the-ground conservation efforts across Canada, with offices in Vancouver, Prince Rupert,Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax, St. John’s, and a growing presence in the Arctic. For more information visit wwf.ca
Making it’s North American debut right here in Toronto, TIFF Bell Lightbox’s exciting exhibition just opened to the public! What’s not to love about the world’s most famous secret agent exuding British flair, martinis, fast cars, gadgets, action and the Bond girls. To celebrate 50 years of Bond style, TIFF rolled out the red carpet for an evening of adventure and intrigue at the James Bond opening night party. Passports were given out to each guest with the mission of reaching each checkpoint. Live performances included the one and only Sheena Easton singing “For Your Eyes Only” followed by a great live band, “The Big Sound”, that captivated the crowd on the ground floor and rang through the rest of the floors with classic James Bond theme songs. There was also a casino room, martinis (of course), and the various James Bond exhibits available for viewing. Our favourite feature was the Kobo Ice lounge giving out snow cones with your personal choice of liquor. We tried a similar gin-flavoured ice in a cup at the recent Eat to the Beat, but now this is in snow-cone form! There was so much to enjoy with so little time. For the latter part of the night, the party happened to be at the TIFF Bell Lightbox’s loading dock where there was a bar, DJ and a Parts and Labour catering truck allowing you to hop on board and enjoy oysters. Different but great! This new must-see exhibition now at TIFF Bell Lightbox, “Designing 007: 50 Years of Bond Style” at TIFF Bell Lightbox features a treasure trove of James Bond memorabilia from Dr. No to the latest upcoming film, Skyfall. For more information visit tiff.net/bond and also CBC’s detailed article about the exhibition here. Here are some of our favourite tweets from the night At #007TIFFGala, the opening for #Designing007, the international exhibition of style. Here's our passport. pic.twitter.com/4CTKjy5w — Designing007 (@TIFF_BondStyle) October 26, 2012 Q's bag of tricks! More Bond gadgets coming up @BTtoronto #Designing007 at #TIFF pic.twitter.com/uYVW0DkM — Melanie Ng (@CityMelanie) October 26, 2012 Diamonds are forever! Necklace worth $300,000 and worn by Teri Hatcher. More fashions on @BTtoronto #Designing007 pic.twitter.com/hDZRcCM3 — Melanie Ng (@CityMelanie) October 26, 2012 Lets play some craps #007TIFFGala #designing007 pic.twitter.com/AE66nhPP — Jon GHOUL-thier (@JonGauthier) October 26, 2012 [print_gllr id=4207]
For the 17th year, Eat to the Beat held their annual women-helping-women culinary fundraiser, where guests get to indulge in a vast variety of delectable Ontario culinary delights from 60 female chefs. The event is a great cause where the Willow Breast Cancer Support, a national non-profit organization that not only supports women in surviving breast cancer but also to thrive. The evening features sweet and savoury food and drinks, live music, a silent auction, raffle draw for great prizes. It’s a delicious event not to miss. We indulged in some Devils on Horseback – roasted, port stewed prunes wrapped in bacon by Alexandra Feswick, Samuel J. Moore. We loved how the prunes sweetness counterbalanced the bacon. Scarlet Gaffney, Westin Harbour Castle menu included caramelized pear and woolwich goat cheese crostini, pecan onion butter, which was a tasty blend of goat cheese and pear that looks and tastes elegant. Tobey Nemeth from Edulis restaurant provided a colorful selection of morsels of: Fresh Sheep’s Milk Cheese with Piquillo Pappers and White Anchovies, Smoked Silver Bass with Herbed and Pickled Red Onion. We also loved the Pulled BBQ veal slider – mushroom confit, tomato herb aioli by Joan Monfaredi, Park Hyatt Hotel, where the pulled BBQ veal was soft and juicy. Along with wines, spirits, and premium beer, we found Tipicular Fixin’s Sno Ball refreshing and hits the spot! You can stay in the loop about Eat to the Beat in 2013 by subscribing to updates at eattothebeat.ca. You can help ensure that no one has to face breast cancer alone! ABOUT WILLOW BREAST CANCER SUPPORT CANADA Willow Breast Cancer Support Canada is a national not-for-profit organization that provides free support and information today for those who cannot wait for tomorrow’s cure. For more information visit www.willow.org [print_gllr id=4131]
Rated as a must-attend event, the highly-anticipated, Canadian Opera Company’s 9th annual sold-out fundraiser, Operanation, lived up to the hype and then some. This year’s theme was “Sweet Revenge”, based on the operetta, Die Flaudermaus, by Johann Strauss. The evening featured star-studded personalities including musicians, Nelly Furtado and The Arkells, each with their own unique collaborations with the COC’s Ensemble Studio. The extravagant night started with dinner for VIP guests only, then at 9pm the rest of the guests pulled out their coveted tickets for this high-profile evening at the one-and-only multi-level Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Rose Reisman Catering served pulled pork, black truffled mac and cheese. There was also a mini grilled cheese bar and an impressive mini apple bar. The mini apple bar was our favourite, sweet delicacy of the night with a real tree branch protruding into a miniature apple dipped in white chocolate with sprinkles. What a refreshing take on the candy apple! Prior to the night, it was pretty amazing to have our first celebrity, Nelly Furtado, with almost 3 million followers follow @bestoftorontoTV on Twitter! What an honour! Nelly Furtado did a short set including a spanish song with the COC’s ensemble studio baritone member, Cameron McPhail, and then ending it with Maneater. Later into the night, a talented soprano, Ambur Braid, did an interesting opera-rock fusion set with the Arkells band showcasing her impressive high-pitched range one-minute and then rocking out in her glittering dress the next minute. Since everyone knew that the Arkells would be one of the headliners, we were wondering to ourselves if Jian Ghomeshi would be performing at Operanation just like at his own recent 1982 book launch party at the Opera House. Nevertheless, it was still very refreshing and surprising to see him jump onto stage and rock the house once again with the Arkells and the COC’s Ensemble Studio. Great vibes all around! It was great to see our new Ryerson fashion designer friend, Jill Dickieson (see our interview here) at the unveiling of her dress inspired by Adele from Die Flaudermaus. I also met up with another Ryerson designer, Sarah Elizabeth Graham, with whom we had a hilarious time along with her mom. We had too much fun! Here are some notable tweets including our own, which the Canadian Opera Company retweeted as well. Thanks for that! @jianghomeshi is a surprise performer with @arkellsmusic @operanation #sweetrevenge http://t.co/CfGFQXQc — Best of Toronto (@BestOfTorontoTV) October 19, 2012 @Operanation was so fun tonight! What a blast! Thanks:) @Cameron_McPhail @CanadianOpera @alexanderncoc pic.twitter.com/oC0tfpwd — Nelly Furtado (@NellyFurtado) October 19, 2012 Post-performance at @Operanation with @Cameron_McPhail pic.twitter.com/1Rb5n2Qs — Nelly Furtado (@NellyFurtado) October 19, 2012 Watch Citytv’s interview with Nelly Furtado before Operanation ABOUT OPERANATION Established in 2005, Operanation is the Canadian Opera Company’s premier fundraising event. For arts patrons as well as the opera-curious, Operanation presents a unique experience, equal parts party and performance, with special collaborations between classic and modern music and complementary art forms ranging from visual arts to fashion. Attracting over 1,000 guests, Operanation takes over three floors of the COC’s opera house, the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Funds raised for Operanation are directed towards the COC’s Ensemble Studio, Canada’s premier training program for young opera professionals. For more information on Operanation, please visit www.operanation.ca ABOUT THE CANADIAN OPERA COMPANY Based in Toronto, the Canadian Opera Company is the largest producer of opera in Canada and one of the largest in North America. The COC enjoys a loyal audience support-base and one of the highest attendance and subscription rates in North America. Under its leadership team of General Director Alexander Neef and Music Director Johannes Debus, the COC is increasingly capturing the opera world’s attention. The COC maintains its international reputation for artistic excellence and creative innovation by creating new productions within its diverse repertoire, collaborating with leading opera companies and festivals, and attracting the world’s foremost Canadian and international artists. The COC performs in its own opera house, the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, hailed internationally as one of the finest in the world. Designed by Diamond and Schmitt Architects, the Four Seasons Centre opened in 2006, and is also the performance venue for The National Ballet of Canada. For more information on the Canadian Opera Company, please visit its award-winning website, coc.ca. [print_gllr id=4010]
For art lovers who want to make a difference, Art with Heart is an art show fundraiser for Casey House with a 19-year history, in support of those living with HIV/AIDS right here in Toronto. The evening at The Carlu consisted of a great collection of Canadian contemporary works of art, gourmet food, complimentary bar and giant live auction. The great catering of the fine food was by Daniel & Daniel. These guys are everywhere. The seafood dish featuring scallops and mussels were delicious. ABOUT CASEY HOUSE Founded in 1988, Casey House was the first free-standing HIV/AIDS facility in Canada. A specialty hospital with community programming, Casey House provides exceptional care, support and clinical expertise in the following settings: In the Inpatient Program located at 9 Huntley Street In the familiar comfort of people’s homes through our Home Care Program Serving some of our city’s most marginalized people via our Outreach Program and community partnerships To find out more about Casey House, please visit us at www.caseyhouse.com Please consider making a donation today. Your generosity will bring positive change to the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS in Toronto. Please click here to make your secure online donation. For more information about Casey House click here. Here is a video from Art with Heart 2011 Also check out the Casey Awards 2012 earlier this year cleebrating the life and memories of June Callwood, one of the founders of Casey House. [print_gllr id=3965]