Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

Directly from the Italian Chamber of Commerce Press Release:

Three Vancouver restaurants recognized for their excellence and awarded Italian Quality Seal!

Vancouver, BC - The Italian Chamber of Commerce in Canada – West (ICCC) is pleased to announce that three Vancouver restaurants will receive the Italian Quality Seal Certification, a prestigious recognition presented to restaurants around the world for their excellence in authenticity, creativity and use of traditional ingredients in Italian cuisine. The official presentation will take place on Monday, June 13th at the Italian Cultural Centre in Vancouver, BC at 5:30 pm.

This prestigious recognition - that promotes the image of top Italian Restaurants abroad and guarantees the highest quality of Italian hospitality standards - will be presented to the following local restaurants:

Cibo Trattoria

Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill and Enoteca

Federico’s Supper Club

The “Ospitalità Italiana Seal – Italian Restaurants in the world” is an initiative conceived by the Italian Chambers of Commerce in Italy in 1997 with the objective of developing and promoting the traditions of Italian agricultural & food products as well as its gastronomic culture in general.  It is estimated that only 612 restaurants worldwide have been recognized with this prestigious reward – and 3 of them are in Vancouver!

The certified restaurants will be recognized during a reception hosted by the Italian Chamber of Commerce. Invited guests and media will have a chance to sample delicacies prepared by the winning restaurants as well as to taste renowned wines from different regions of Italy.

Directly from the Traceycakes Bakery and Cafe Press Release:

Let them eat cake (on a stick) with Tracycakes’ Cake Pops

Tracycakes is taking the enjoyment of eating cake to a whole new level with the launch of a playful new selection of Cake Pops. These colourful little treats are part cake, part popsicle and are made from hand rolled cake covered in icing and dipped in premium chocolate and then put on a lollipop stick. The portable pastries allow people to eat cake on the go and are quickly becoming a new favourite at all three Tracycakes locations.

Tracycakes Cake Pops are made with chocolate cake and are available with a variety of toppings like rainbow sprinkles, marble chocolate swirls, creamy while chocolate. Custom flavours and designs are available. They can be purchased individually or in bulk and are a fun every day treat or a special occasion dessert for weddings, birthdays and anniversaries.

Directly from the Wines of Chile Press Release:

Wines of Chile’s extremely popular annual “Taste Chile” event is back. This year’s exciting event will be presented in conjunction with “Dish n’ Dazzle”—The BC Hospitality Foundation’s fundraiser.

Where: Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel.  1038 Canada Place, Vancouver
When: June 17th, 2011 from 6:30pm to 9:30pm
Cost:  $99 per person

Only 400 tickets are available for this exclusive event showcasing Vancouver’s dynamic restaurants alongside some fantastic offerings of Chilean wine. Restaurants and wineries will be featured in an interactive, reception style setting. Featuring more than 20 wineries, food from 12 fine restaurants, plus an exciting “sour themed” cocktail competition, live entertainment and silent auction.

WINERIES: Amayna, Concha y Toro, Cono Sur, De Martino, Emiliana, Errazuriz, Estampa, Geo Wines, Koyle, Luis Felipe Edwards, Maquis, San Pedro Tarapaca, Santa Rita, Sur Andino, Viña Caliterra, Viña Carmen, Viña Falernia, Viña Hacienda Araucano, Viña Maipo, Vina Santa Carolina, Viña Ventisquero, Viña Veramonte

RESTAURANTS: O’Doul’s Restaurant & Bar, Rockford Wok|Bar|Grill, Heron’s West Coast Restaurant and Bar, Cru, Oru Restaurant at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, Coast Restaurant, Yew Restaurant + Bar, Fleuri at the Sutton Place Hotel, The Salmon House Restaurant, Nu Aegean Cusina, Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House, Market by Jean-Georges

BARTENDERS: Joel Virginillo –The Bar @ Shangri-la, Derek Vanderheide – Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Colin Turner – CinCin, Trevor Kallies – Donnelly Group, Evelyn Chick – UVA Wine Bar, Gerry Jobe – RauDZ Regional, Jacob Sweetapple – Fairmont Pacific Rim

Vancouver Canucks Stanley Cup Games: June 1st, June 4th, and if necessary June 10th and 15th, 2011.

Summer Night Market every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night in Richmond B.C.

Eat! Vancouver Food and Cooking Festival from June 10th to 12th, 2011.  See celebrity chefs Graham Kerr and Dale MacKay.

Vancouver International Jazz Festival from June 24th to July 3rd, 2011.

Directly from the Environmental Defence Press Release:

Join comedian Seàn Cullen and celebrity chef Brad Long at the Wine Bluff on June 23rd in support of Environmental Defence.

Toronto, ON – On June 23rd, 2011, join hundreds of comedy and wine fans at a full-bodied evening of bluffing and satire at Environmental Defence’s annual Wine Bluff event.  Test your wine knowledge or your ability to spot a bluffer, enjoy local wines and  delectable dishes all while raising funds for Environmental Defence, a charitable organization dedicated to inspiring change in government, business and people to ensure a greener, healthier and prosperous life for all..

The Wine Bluff for Environmental Defence

When:             June 23rd, 2011 from 7PM – 11PM

Where:             The Fermenting Cellar at 55 Mill Street, Toronto

What the heck is a wine bluff? For each wine we taste, a panel of witty tasters including Brad Long, of the Food Network’s Restaurant Makeover will either truthfully describe the wine or bluff their way through it and, from this, guests will guess which of the tasters is telling the truth.  The event is hosted by comedian Seàn Cullen and will feature local Ontario wines and food, as well as silent and live auctions.  Bold faced lying, guessing on a whim, and pretending to know a lot more about wine than you actually do is highly encouraged!

TICKETS: $150 includes sampling of six wine and food pairings. Tickets can be purchased at www.winebluff.ca.  NOTE:  this event is for adults of legal drinking age only.

ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENCE (environmentaldefence.ca):   Environmental Defence is Canada’s most effective environmental action organization.  We challenge, and inspire change in government, business and people to ensure a greener, healthier and prosperous life for all.

Directly from the Vancouver Symphony Press Release:

New State-of-the-art Facility the VSO School of Music Starts Registration for Inaugural Fall Programs

Construction is now complete on the VSO School of Music, one of the most state-of-the-art music facilities in North America. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, adjacent to the Orpheum Theatre at 843 Seymour Street, this new community music school will serve students from 3 months old to senior citizens, and cater to all ability levels from beginners to aspiring professionals.

Private lessons will be offered on all orchestral instruments, as well as piano, voice, classical guitar and world instruments including koto, bodhran, fiddle, sitar and tabla. Group classes will be offered in music appreciation, music theory, music history, chamber music and Alexander Technique, with the youngest students (3 months to 5 years) being taught a progressive curriculum called Colourstrings.  49 faculty members have already been contracted to teach at the VSO School of Music, with 32 being full-time members of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. The School’s website (www.vsoschoolofmusic.ca) launches on Friday, May 27 and registration for fall programs begins on Monday, May 30.

The VSO School of Music will also provide education at the provincial, national and international level through the use of the latest distance learning technology (video conferencing). Distance learning will initially be rolled out through partnerships with secondary schools in rural parts of BC, allowing VSO School of Music faculty and guest artists performing with the Vancouver Symphony to provide programming to students that otherwise would not have access.

Envisioned by VSO Music Director Bramwell Tovey, Arthur H. Willms (VSO Board Chair) and Jeff Alexander (VSO President and CEO) in 2003, the VSO School of Music was created to provide a modern educational institution next to the Orpheum, where members of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra could teach, and students of all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds could enjoy lifelong learning.  Macdonald Development Corporation was approached by the VSO to buy the Capital 6 movie theatre that formerly occupied the site, with the intention of building a music school, the concept, including a residential tower above, was immediately embraced by the company. Wall Financial Corporation later took over the lead role in the project, and oversaw the construction of the school and residential tower designed by Bingham Hill Architects. Made possible through the City of Vancouver’s Cultural Amenity Bonus Program, the residents of British Columbia have now been provided with a new community music school.

The VSO School of Music facility is 25,000 square feet and includes a recital hall, 18 acoustically designed teaching studios, 2 classrooms and a 2-storey height ensemble room. In addition, there are 6 individual practice rooms, 11 computer listening stations, a publically accessible café operated by Crème de la Crumb and a sheet music and gift shop operated in partnership with Tom Lee Music.

The acoustically and vibrationally isolated 1,500 square foot recital hall is the facility’s main performance, recording and event space.  Complete with a Gala-lift flooring system, the venue can be configured from a flat floor surface for catered events to a raked configuration for concerts in a matter of minutes. The hall also has a sprung hard wood floor stage, variable acoustics through motorized panel and manual drape systems, 2 dressing rooms, recording equipment, video conferencing equipment, theatrical lighting, motorized screen and projector and a caterer’s servery. The VSO School of Music will be available for rental by local arts groups, private individuals and corporations starting June 11 and the facility opens to the general public on August 2. Music lessons begin on September 6.

The VSO School of Music is grateful to the Government of Canada, Province of British Columbia, City of Vancouver, and numerous individuals and corporations for making this dream a reality.

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature recipe:

Fettuccini with Coconut Cream Sauce from Simply West Coast Sauces.

To download all of the recipes please use the recipe iPod guide or go to the Recipes page.

Vancouver

Directly from the Central Bistro Press Release:

VonAlbrecht Portfolio Tasting Dinner

On Thursday, May 26th Chef Robert Erickson along with VonAlbrecht and team will serve a special five course meal paired with five of VonAlbrecht and Associates’ finest bottles. An unbelievable value; A night of fine food and a fun atmosphere, come and explore a unique opportunity to enjoy wine, vodka and single malts. $65

Tuesday, May 31 is Cask Night with R&B Brewing

“R&B Brewing Co. has always been, and will always be, just about as independent of a microbrewery as you’ll come across. Founded in 1997 by longtime friends and co-workers Rick Dellow and Barry Benson (the ‘R’ & ‘B’, respectively), R&B Brewing Co. was set up to stand in opposition to what the beer world had become - big, non-descript, faceless, and corporate.”

We are starting the party early…the cask is tapped at 5:00pm and we are pouring until it’s gone!

Directly from the Hamilton Street Grill Press Release:

Join us for Hamilton Street Grill’s Monthly Wine Tasting Series. This month we present Ruby Blues Winery (Ruby Tuesday Winery) the newest winery along the famous wine producing Naramata Bench, from the former owners of Red Rooster

Monday, June 6th and/or Tuesday, June 7th
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm

In keeping with our popular format, try a sampling of three new wines and have three savoury, wine-inspired food tasters while learning from a wine expert as they take you through a sit down yet casual style tasting. At $25 per person, this tasting is one of the city’s best valued regular events - in other words, a bargain!

This month we are pouring from a boutique winery on the Naramata Bench, paired alongside Hamilton Street Grill’s Executive Chef Neil Wyles’ wine-inspired appetizers.

Hamilton Street Grill,
1009 Hamilton Street, Yaletown, Vancouver
Tickets $25.00 per person
Reserve by credit card at: 604-331-1511 or hamiltonstreetgrill@telus.net

UPCOMING EVENTS AT HAMILTON STREET GRILL:

JUNE IS STEAK MONTH!

As a Yaletown original celebrates 14 years
For the month of June (including Father’s Day) enjoy an
8 oz. Certified Angus Sirloin steak grilled to order, just the way you like it,
with garlic smashed potatoes and market fresh vegetables
For just $14. Fourteen years, fourteen Dollars!

July - September
Hamilton Street Grill goes Groupon

On sale at the end of June, Groupon’s valid in July, August and September give you a classic Hamilton Street Grill Burger and a pint of beer for $11 ($22 value)

We suggest you stock up for all those summer days you don’t feel like cooking, or have a pocketful to drop by and treat out-of-town guests. Watch for us on Groupon.

Seattle

Directly from the RN74 Press Release:

Michael Mina and Wine Director Rajat Parr Introduce Their Burgundy-Inspired Wine Bar and Restaurant to Seattle

Michelle Retallack Takes on Role as Executive Chef

SEATTLE (May 25, 2011) – Fueled by a passion for the wine and gastronomic heritage of Burgundy, as well as the growing recognition of Washington’s stature in the wine community, Michael Mina and his long-time Wine Director and expert sommelier, Rajat Parr, will open RN74 Seattle in the historic Joshua Green Building at Fourth Avenue and Pike Street in downtown Seattle. The restaurant begins serving lunch Monday, June 13th, followed by dinner on Thursday, June 16th. Michael Mina veteran Chef Michelle Retallack will preside over the kitchen with Eric Perlin running the floor as General Manager. RN74 Seattle marks the second urban wine bar Parr and Mina have launched and a return home for Mina who began his culinary career in the kitchens of Ellensburg, Washington.

As someone who spent the first 18 years of his life in Washington State with strong family ties still remaining, Mina always wanted to open a restaurant in Seattle. “I think RN74 is a perfect match for the city with its approachable, yet creative menu focused on wine, particularly  the great wineries and winemakers of Washington and Oregon,” says Mina. “Our Executive Chef selection of Michelle Retallack will be a great fit.  She wants to make Seattle her home and to have the lifestyle that the Pacific Northwest offers. She has a passion for the region’s terrific, local products and farmers and is working with them to ensure they are the focus of our menus.”

Named after Route National 74, the major thoroughfare passing through the heart of France’s Burgundy region, RN74 Seattle promises a rich, contemporary interpretation of the classic train stations of Europe, combined with the casual, relaxed and rustic charm and warm earthiness of Old World winemaking. Acclaimed Manhattan design firm AvroKO has created a space where the masculinity of steel and glass balances with the warmth of reclaimed wood and rich leathers.

Wine education and accessibility to sommelier staff will be at the forefront of service at RN74. The seasonal “Market List” will offer ‘value’ wines from around the globe, as well as an extensive selection of tastes and pours by the glass featuring a blend of esoteric up-and-comers to back vintage collectables and a sizeable collection of half bottles. Similarly, the “Last Bottle” list will showcase eight bottles of Burgundy offered at exceptional value, of which there is only one bottle left at RN74. The Wine Bar setting is relaxed and social, creating a comfortable environment for enjoying a glass of wine or a complete meal.

Mina and Chef Retallack have designed a menu sourcing the freshest Pacific Northwest foods.  Drawn to in-season produce and a variety of proteins, Chef Retallack promises dishes designed to complement the wines – creative, modern, but simple interpretations of regional French cuisine.

While many of the no-doubt popular dishes can be had throughout the day, there are many luncheon and dinner entrees that will be unique to each meal. Expect to find a Pacific Northwest twist on the classic foods of France; House-Smoked Columbia River Sturgeon or Painted Hills burger at lunch, Quileute Chinook Salmon or Bouillabaisse “en Papillote” with Taylor Farms Shellfish served at dinner.

The seasonal menu in the dining room will change often and be revised daily based on product availability, also taking into account the wine list of the evening. Of particular note is the Rancher of the Month selections featuring three different cuts of beef showcasing area farms and ranches such as Snake River Farms and Skagit River Ranch. Selections will be available solo or paired with daily fresh side dishes and the perfect wine accompaniment. A rotating selection of matured artisan cheeses from around the world will round out the menu and can be served alone, or together with other ingredients, dependent on guest preferences.

RN74 will open with lunch service on Monday, June 13. Lunch will be served Monday through Friday from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, with brunch offered on Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 2 pm. Dinner is served from Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 to 10 pm and on Friday and Saturday, from 5:30 to 10:30 pm. The lounge and bar are open Monday through Friday from 11:30 am to closing and on Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to closing. Valet parking is available from 5 to 10 pm Sunday through Thursday and from 5 pm to Midnight on Friday and Saturdays for a rate of $9.

Further information on opening details will be forthcoming. For press information, including interviews, sample menus and photography; please contact Margaret Nicoll at Margaret@gruman-nicoll.com or 425-451-4387.

About RN74 Seattle
RN74 Seattle features an expansive wine list, created by James Beard Award winning author and Wine Director Rajat Parr, showcasing the best expressions of Burgundy and Northwest producers perfectly paired with the Burgundy-inspired menu of seasonal, fresh dishes. Located at 1433 Fourth Avenue at Pike Street, RN74 Seattle is the second wine bar and restaurant for Parr and Restaurateur Michael Mina. For more information, call 206-456-7474, visit the website at www.michaelmina.net,

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature article:

Food Vancouver Select Guide: Interview with Dale MacKay

Directly from the Toronto Harbourfront Centre Press Release:

CANADA DAY AT HARBOURFRONT CENTRE

Come and celebrate our nation’s 144th birthday at the heart of Toronto’s waterfront

TORONTO, ON (Tuesday, May 24, 2011) – Harbourfront Centre and its lead summer partner, The Toronto Port Authority, are proud to present the lineup for Canada Day festivities at Harbourfront Centre. With a special focus on strawberries, Canada Day at Harbourfront Centre promises to be sweet and fun! Come and celebrate our country’s 144th birthday at one of its most popular destinations.

Have fun with the whole family right next to one of Canada’s most precious resources and recognizable features, Lake Ontario. Have fun playing games all day, but stay into the night to see award-winning superstar Esthero jazz up the lakeshore while nearby fireworks light up the night sky.

Join us this summer as we explore “Hot Spots” of intensity, artistic brilliance, connectivity, and regions of conflict that shape the impressions we have of ourselves and our world. This theme is programmed into each weekend festival to bring together rich artistic traditions from our own backyard and around the globe! It also presents a unique opportunity to experience top Canadian and international artists in a fun, family-friendly environment without ever leaving the city!

Hot spots may not always be comfortable, but they are conduits of change. Embrace change or defy it – it is ultimately up to you. This summer, Harbourfront Centre presents programming that asks: What’s your hot spot?

For additional information and complete event listings, the public may visit harbourfrontcentre.com/summer or call the Information Hotline at 416-973-4000. Harbourfront Centre is located at 235 Queens Quay West in the heart of downtown Toronto’s waterfront.

FULL EVENT LISTINGS

MUSIC

Toronto All-Star Big Band

Friday, July 1, 2 p.m. (WestJet Stage)

One of the most exciting bands around, the Toronto All-Star Big Band revives the spirit, style and sound of the 30s and 40s – the golden age of the big bands. Armed with brilliant programming, this vibrant cast of awesome young talent has earned its position at the top of the list of entertainers throughout Ontario and the U.S.

O Canada! Singing Competition

Friday, July 1, 4 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

O Canada! is an online singing competition that gives a chance to put your own spin on our National Anthem! Drawing contestants from across our country, it’s your chance to represent your province or hometown. Flights will be provided to qualifying contestants within Canada. The winner of the competition will be singing their rendition of “O Canada!” on our WestJest Stage.

Hip Hop Karaoke Toronto

Friday, July 1, 5-6 p.m., 6:30-7:30 p.m., & 9-9:30 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

We provide the lyrics, live DJ with original instrumental and an enthusiastically cheering crowd. You grab the mic and show us what you’ve got! Sign up on the day to perform your favorite song by your favorite Canadian hip hop artist!

Complaints Choir Reunion

Friday, July 1, 6 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

The Complaints Choir is a community art project that invites people to sing about their complaints. Together, they complain about issues affecting their cities, politics and more. They delighted audiences across Toronto this past March, and on July 1 they reunite to bring their entertaining blend of venting and vocals to our Canada Day celebrations!

Luke Doucet and The White Falcon

Friday, July 1, 8 p.m.  (WestJet Stage)

Award-winning singer/songwriter Luke Doucet and The White Falcon was a three-piece outfit until the addition of Doucet’s wife and established solo artist Melissa McClelland. Luke Doucet, named “the best young guitarist in the country,” by the Toronto Star, has been celebrated across the country and is a recent 2011 Juno Award nominee for “Adult Alternative Album of the Year.”

Esthero

Friday, July 1, 9:30 p.m. (WestJet Stage)

L.A.-based, Stratford-born singer Esthero brings her eclectic and sensual music to Harbourfront Centre. Mixing up vocal styles, interesting samples and great contemporary beats results in the creation of her unique sound. Esthero is sometimes compared to artists Björk, Portishead and Sade. She has collaborated with Kanye West, Timbaland and K’Naan.

FOOD

Guinness World Record Strawberry Shortcake Challenge

Friday, July 1, 10 a.m. (Boulevard Tent)

In celebration of our country’s 144th birthday, Harbourfront Centre is aiming to set a Guinness World Record with one of our nation’s favourite desserts. An official will be present to judge as community bakeries join together and attempt to set the record for “Most Layers in a Layer Cake” with a giant 300-layer strawberry shortcake. Once the results are in, cake will be served between 6-7 p.m. (while quantities last).

Strawberry Food Demonstrations Marathon

Friday, July 1, time TBA (Lakeside Terrace)

Join us in an all-day marathon of strawberry shortcake-themed food demonstrations. Some of our city’s favourite bakeries will share their take on this seasonal treat. Take in a food demo and sample some of the endless variations on this delicious fruit!

Strawberry Cooking Classes for Kids

Friday, July 1, 2 p.m. (Miss Lou’s Room)

Kids and parents alike have an opportunity to enjoy our family-focused strawberry cooking workshops. The possibilities to create sweet treats are endless with this versatile fruit. Learn about new ways to experiment with strawberries and take your creation home with you.

Fantasy Strawberry Shortcake Competition

Friday, July 1, 2 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

Come join the excitement as Southern Ontario’s finest culinary schools battle to create an utterly original, totally decadent take on the strawberry shortcake in just three hours. In a sweet take on our popular Iron Chef competitions, teams of chef instructors and students will have to create shortcake impressive enough to wow our celebrity judges.

Longo’s Friday Picnic – Strawberry Shortcake

Friday, July 1, 6 p.m. (Boulevard Tent/Ann Tindal Park)

Come and enjoy a relaxing picnic on our Ann Tindal Park lawn. Cake will be served from the Boulevard Tent following our Guinness World Record Challenge. Grab a slice and enjoy live entertainment on the Redpath Stage, including a reunion performance by the Complaints Choir.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Canada Day Crafts

Friday, July 1, 1 p.m.  (HarbourKIDS Zone Tent)

Canada Day is all about celebrating our nation and what could be more fun than taking a little piece of our country home with you? Come to our HarbourKIDS Zone Tent and learn how to make a craft that will keep you cool and help you show your Canadian pride – a maple leaf sun visor!

Learn to Curl with the Capital One Rocks & Rings program

Friday, July 1, 1 p.m. (South Orchard)

The Capital One Rocks & Rings program is designed to introduce the Olympic sport of curling to elementary school children. Curling is a highly social sport that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. It is a fantastic physical activity that can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities. During our Canada Day celebration, kids have the opportunity to toss stones and learn the ins and outs of this great Canadian sport.

Rope-skipping demonstrations

Friday, July 1, time TBA (location TBA)

Come watch skilled demonstrations by our province’s champion competitive rope-skipping teams in partnership with the Brampton Acro Ropers. Bring back childhood memories or make new ones with a familiar game using new song and rhythms in entirely unique ways.  These incredible teams will inspire you to jump right in!

Giant Connect Four

Friday, July 1, 1 p.m. (North Orchard)

Harbourfront Centre presents a super-sized version of that 70s classic, Connect Four. Several giant versions of this much-loved game will be scattered throughout our site, just waiting for you to take part.

Giant Twister

Friday, July 1, time TBA (Ann Tindal Park)

Get ready to be tied up in knots on our larger-than-life Twister mat!

Giant Chess

Friday, July 1, 1 p.m. (location TBA)

Test your mettle on a larger scale with our super-sized version of chess.

YTV W.O.W. Tour

Friday, July 1, time and location TBA

YTV launches their summer W.O.W. Tour at Harbourfront Centre on Canada Day. Situated just outside Queens Quay Terminal, and armed with some great new interactive games, the W.O.W. Patrol has lots of exciting prizes for families to win all day long.

FILM

“Talespinners 2”

Friday, July 1, 3 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

Enjoy seven short animated films for kids from the National Film Board of Canada. “Talespinners 2” includes seven tales of children who confront challenges with ingenuity and creativity. This collection includes four original tales and three inspired by books. Each story brings facets of a different cultural community to the screen.

“Finding Farley”

Friday, July 1, 5 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

“Finding Farley” is a feature-length documentary capturing Karsten Heuer and Leanne Allison along with their two-year old son, Zev, and indomitable dog Willow as they set out to trace the footsteps of one of Canada’s most famous writers, Farley Mowat.

DANCE

Lisa Odjig

Friday, July 1, 1 pm. (WestJet Stage)

Two-time world champion Hoop Dancer Lisa Odjig (Ojibwe Nation) performs the North American Native Hoop Dance, a storytelling and celebration dance, where she spins and twirls through 17 hoops. Catch the Spirit!

OTHER

Marca College

Friday, July 1, All Day (South Orchard Tent)

Whether you are five or 50 get a new “do” that will let you show off your Canadian pride I style! Artists from Marca College, a Toronto beauty school, will be on site all day giving free haircuts!

Directly from the Rocky Mountaineer Press Release:

Rocky Mountaineer Gets Groups Going with Meetings on the Move

Group Travel Consultants expertly help plan meetings, events and itineraries

Meetings don’t have to be confined to convention centres, and Rocky Mountaineer’s “travelling boardrooms” are proof. The uniquely Canadian train journeys offer a fully-customizable experience for meetings and incentive programs to combine business with pleasure onboard the ultimate train journey between the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver, BC and the majestic Canadian Rockies.

Rocky Mountaineer’s bi-level dome coaches offer luxurious surroundings and panoramic views of the passing landscape while an exclusive parlour car equipped with LCD screens and boardroom tables, give corporate guests everything they need to conduct successful business meetings onboard. To make the trip even more inspiring, meeting planners can customize their onboard event with cocktail receptions and head rests with company logos. Tailor-made itinerary options for excursions and activities in Western Canada’s most stunning destinations top off this extraordinary journey.

Rocky Mountaineer Group Travel Consultants assist in making the meeting a seamless and personalized experience from start to finish. With expert guidance, they can handle the logistics, make arrangements with partner hotels and recommend unique adventure itineraries which include spa, golf and/or wine excursions.

Itineraries may include a variety of exciting destinations such as Vancouver and Whistler, BC or Jasper and Banff, Alberta.  From legendary mountain resorts and elegant cosmopolitan hotels, to activities, welcome receptions and sight-seeing tours including Glacier helicopter tours in Banff National Park, and Columbia Icefield excursions, the options are endless.

For a meeting that is truly out-of-the-ordinary, larger groups can charter a rail car or even the whole train. One-day charters are available on the Whistler Sea to Sky Climb route, where groups can choose from either Dome Service or Classic Service and will have access to the Heritage Observation Car, with an open-air viewing area. On two-day charters, groups can choose from GoldLeaf or RedLeaf Service as well as the GoldLeaf Themed Experience coach, a bi-level domed car with a plush lounge area in the upper dome and a library and coffee bar on the lower level. They will also have access to specialty lounge cars with conference and meeting facilities.

For more information on group booking options, contact Rocky Mountaineer Group Sales Consultants directly at 1-866-899-9679 or email groups@rockymountaineer.com.

About Rocky Mountaineer

Rocky Mountaineer offers 45 unique Canadian vacation packages and four distinctive rail routes, rich in history and natural wonders, through British Columbia and Alberta. This world renowned, luxurious train travels by daylight through the wild beauty of Canada’s West and is the best way to experience the majestic Canadian Rockies, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over the past 20 years, Rocky Mountaineer has grown to become the largest privately owned passenger rail service in North America and has welcomed more than one million guests onboard from around the world. In 2010, Rocky Mountaineer received its fifth World Travel Award as “World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train” and was acknowledged for the first time in the category of “World’s Leading Luxury Travel Product of the Year.”  Rocky Mountaineer has also been recognized by National Geographic as one of the “World’s Greatest Trips” and by the Society of American Travel Writers as “The Best Train Experience in the World.”

For more information about Rocky Mountaineer, please contact your local travel professional or visit rockymountaineer.com.

Directly from the Italian Cultural Centre Press Release:

The Italian Cultural Centre Society Presents:
ITALIAN HERITAGE MONTH 2011
WHERE: Italian Cultural Centre, 3075 Slocan Street, Vancouver
WHEN: JUNE 2 - 29, 2011
www.italianculturalcentre.ca

The Italian Cultural Centre is excited to release the calendar of events for June 2011 – proclaimed Italian heritage month by the City of Vancouver – featuring weekly entertainment, food events and activities and an market festival on June 19th. Get ready to eat, drink and enjoy all things Italian! We’re celebrating the best of Italian culture each week with different events – there is something for everyone, of all ages and appetites! Experience delicious food, wine, fair tradecoffee and biscotti, authentic pizza, performances, exhibits and an Italian Market day with entertainment, activities and of course more food!
June 2011 will be an unforgettable month of the tastes, sounds and aromas of Italian culture! Let your senses guide you to the Italian Cultural Centre!

Event Details:

Week 1: (June 1-5) Opening Week Celebrations

Thursday June 2 – Grand Opening Ceremonies of Italian Heritage Month 2011 and Italian National Day Celebration “Festa della Repubblica” Celebrating Vancouver’s 125th and Unified Italy’s 150th anniversaries. The Consul General of Italy, Francesco de Conno will take part and the ICC’s Italian Canadian Associations will provide traditional sweets for the community to the tune of the Italian melodies passionately provided by the Italian Choir of BC and the Vancouver Italian Folk Chorus! 7:30 pm in the Ballroom. Admission by suggested donation of $2 - FREE samples of traditional Italian sweets for
everyone!

Friday June 3 - Italian/English performance of Farfalle at the Children’s Festival at 7:00pm Variety Theatre on Granville Island. (www.childrensfestival.ca ) In collaboration with the Italian Institute
of Culture

Sunday June 5 – Italian Day on The Drive – Celebrate all that is Italian on The Drive - Vancouver’s original “Little Italy”! Visit the ICC’s Piazza Italia where we’ll be serving up our famous meatball sandwiches and other delicious Italian fare! Don’t miss the “Little Italy” children’s activity and play area along the Napier Greenway!

Week 2: (June 6-12) Art, Architecture & Design

Monday June 6 – THE ROME OF POPE JULIUS II, PATRON OF THE ARTS (by Dr. Efrat El-Hanany, Capilano University). This presentation will explore the unparalleled cultural achievements of Pope Julius II, known as il Papa Terribile, who commissioned the creation of some the greatest masterworks of Michelangelo, Raphael and Bramante in the Roman High Renaissance, including the paintings in the Sistine Chapel, the rebuilding of St. Peter’s Basilica, and the frescoes of the Stanza della Segnatura in the Vatican. Dr. Efrat El-Hanany is an art historian specializing in the visual culture of the Italian Renaissance with an MA and a PhD from Indiana University in Bloomington. She currently teaches at Capilano UniversityAt 7:00 pm in the Museum.

Wednesday June 8 - THE FACTORY AND THE TEMPLE (by Dr. Christopher Pearson, Capilano University). Though Italy has one of the richest architectural legacies of any country, her important contributions to the design culture of the last hundred years are not so widely known. This presentation will survey major monuments and developments of modern architecture in Italy and by Italian architects from 1900 to the present day, paying special attention to the Stile Liberty (Art Nouveau), Futurism, Rationalism, postwar Modernism and Postmodernism, as well as such contemporary architects as Paolo Portoghesi, Gae Aulenti, Paolo Soleri, Aldo Rossi, Massimiliano Fuksas and Renzo Piano. Dr. Christopher Pearson is a historian of art, architecture and urbanism who focuses on the visual culture of the 20th century. He taught history and theory of art and architecture at many universities in the US, and from 2006 he was a founding faculty member of Quest University Canada. His most recent book is Designing UNESCO: Art, Architecture and International Politics at Mid-Century (2010). He is a faculty member in the Department of Art History at Capilano University. At 7:00 pm in the Museum.

Thursday June 9 - LEARNING FROM MILANO. (by Russell Taylor, Simon Fraser University). This presentation will focus on the contemporary design scene in Milan. By “design” we mean what the Milanese would understand that to mean - “product or industrial design”. Milan is a leading innovation centre for the production of ideas and form and this lecture will feature the most important work being done now in the world’s greatest design capital. The session will feature current research being conducted annually in Milan by Russell Taylor, Senior Lecturer in Design, the School of Interactive Arts + Technology, Simon Fraser University. Professor Russell Taylor is a leading expert on contemporary Italian Design and Architecture, and is Director of the SFU ItaliaDesign Field School program. At 7:00 pm in the Museum.

Week 3: (June 13-19) Food & Wine

Monday June 13 ITALIAN QUALITY SEAL RESTAURANT AWARDS 2011 - The Italian Chamber of Commerce in Canada–West is pleased to announce the 1st edition of the “Italian Quality Seal Restaurant Awards”, an exclusive event to celebrate theprestigious recognition presented to restaurants around the world for their excellence in authenticity, creativity and use of traditional ingredients in Italian cuisine. This important recognition - which promotes the image of top Italian Restaurants abroad and guarantees the highest quality of Italian hospitality standards - will be presented to the winning restaurants by Italian Consul General, Francesco de Conno, and ICCC President, Celso Boscariol, at a special event at the Italian Cultural Centre Ballroom on Monday, June 13th at 5.30 pm. The presentation will be followed by a reception during which the winning restaurants will feature some of their signature dishes, paired with Italian wines sponsored by our member wine agencies. The event will be attended by local media and members of the international business community. PLEASE NOTE: This event is free and open to the public but due to limited space RSVP and a registration are required. For more information and toregister, please contact the Italian Chamber of Commerce at 604.682.1410 – iccbc@iccbc.com.

Tuesday June 14 - Wine wisdom! Learn to taste wine with expert professional sommelier, Marta Chiavacci (FISAR Sommelier of the Year in 2007) and the fascinating and informative Carmen D’Onofrio of Stile Wines. Pre-register for this one-hourlesson - cost $25.00 each. In the Museum, 7:00 pm. Limited seats available. Ph.604 430 3337

Wednesday June 15 - PIZZA 101 - Luscious, cheesy, thin, thick - the world of pizza is infinite! Come taste authentic Italian pizza and discover the secrets of this refined culinary art from Vancouver’s and Italy’s experts! Learn about this history of pizza, the key to the best crust, seasonal toppings, and whether we really should be putting pineapple on our pizza. Presented in collaboration with Slow Food Vancouver. This event is free but pre-registration is required as seats are limited. In the Ballroom, 7:00 pm. Ph. 604 430 3337

Saturday June 18 - ESPRESSO YOURSELF!! Wake up with Vancouver’s finest coffee roasters and biscotti makers! Sample premium espresso, cappuccino and iced lattes along with delicious Italian biscotti! Learn the secrets to making your own fabulous biscotti with Chef Eduardo Bilardello of Brioche Urban Baking and Catering (www.brioche.ca )! Plus, presentations by Vancouver’s top coffee connoisseurs, including Caffé Artigiano, about fair trade coffee, roasting techniques, and flavour characteristics. Enjoy award-winning barista latte art, prize draws and much more to espresso yourself! 9:00 am-12 noon, in the ICC Osteria. Pre-registration is required as seats are limited! Ph. 604 430 3337

Sunday June 19 – ITALIAN MARKET DAY! The best in Italian food, entertainment and fun! Delicious Italian food, live music, the city’s best gelato samples and presentation (with Chef Maurizio Persichino and Bella Gelateria), cooking competition with Vancouver’s top chefs, students and celebrity judges, Slow Food workshops, market vendors (just like in Italy) and tons of fun for the entire family! This outdoor festival is an event not to be missed! Noon - 5:00pm. The Great Italian Culinary Challenge – For aspiring chefs in the making. Chef Pino Posteraro will lead a panel of celebrity judges as they select
the winner of the first edition of this exciting competition! Judging is open to the public in the Ballroom at 12:30 pm.

“History and evolution of the art of Gelato”. Arrivederci ice cream, Ciao Gelato! Satisfy your coolest cravings and experience flavourful bursts offruit and goodness! Gelato is the sweetest inspiration and an integral treat for Italian tourists and across the world. Gelato is a nostalgic symbolof a warm summer day and delicious moments. When did this heavenly creation come into being, how has it evolved for the delight of our taste buds?! Expert pastry chef, culinary instructor and gelato scholar, Chef Maurizio Persichino, will guide you through the history and evolution of this wonderful expression of culinary art and naturally a guided tasting will follow courtesy of Maestro Gelatiere James Coleridge from his award-winning Bella Gelateria (www.bellagelateria.com)! This is a free event but pre-registration is required as seats are limited, ph. 604 430 3337. 2:00 pm in the Ballroom.

Week 4: (June 20-26) Performing Arts

Monday June 20 –Community Choir Night The harmony of these local Italian Choirs will be music to your ears! Experience the passion and talent of the Trevigiano Veneto Folk Group, the Italian Men’s Choir Canada and the Famee Furlane Balletto. At 7:00 pm in the Ballroom. FREE ADMISSION

Tuesday June 21 – The Eduardo De Filippo Theatre Group will perform one of the most famous comedies of Eduardo De Filippo, Questi Fantasmi, for an unforgettable and hilarious Italian theatrical evening! The performance is in Italian and Neapolitan dialect. Directed by Tony Serge. At 7:00 pm in the Ballroom FREE ADMISSION

Wednesday June 22 – Move over Bocelli…On this night there is no distinction between the audience and the entertainers. Have fun, be yourself and sing your heart out at the Italian Karaoke night! Italian and English music for the Italian Idol in all of us! Starting at 8pm in La Trattoria. FREE ADMISSION

Thursday June 23 – Voice of the Night youth singing contest! Cheer on your favourites as they dig deep to put on the performance of their lives and take home the grand prize of $1000! Produced and presented by the fabulous Carmelina Cupo (www.carmelinacupo.com). At 7:00 pm in the Ballroom. FREE ADMISSION

Friday June 24 – I Commedianti theatre group presents “Giovanni Caboto tra storia e leggenda”, a one-act recital with a surprise conclusion… Staring Italian actor, Giuliano Esperati with a young chorus composed of our local university music students. Directed by Roberto Albertazzi. The Performance is in Italian. At 7pm in the Ballroom FREE ADMISSION

Saturday June 25 – La Festa delle Regioni Banquet and Dance A celebration of the traditional, genuine goodness of Italian cuisine! Support the Vancouver ICC’s first ever Italian Heritage Month and our children’s language programs while you enjoy a multi-course menu created by our Chef Rebecca Johnson, featuring wholesome regional Italian specialties and the award presentation to the Immigrant of the Year. Doors open at 6:00 pm, dinner served at 7:00pm. Live music for dancing after dinner! Tickets cost: $60.00. $5.00 for each ticket sold will support the ICC Italian Language School. Generously sponsored by Bella Gelateria (www.bellagelateria.com). For tickets and info please contact our office at 604 430 3337. POPULAR SELL-OUT, BOOK EARLY!

Week 5: (June 27-29) Indoor & Outdoor Cinema

Monday June 27 – Italian Cinema

(Indoor, for children): The Adventures of Pinocchio (…Inventor Geppetto creates a wooden marionette called Pinocchio. His wish for a son is unexpectedly granted, when the Blue Fairy gives life to Pinocchio. The fairy also assigns Jiminy Cricket to act as Pinocchio’s “conscience” and keep him out of trouble. Jiminy is not very successful in this endeavor, as Pinocchio is willingly lured through various forms of temptation, the most frightening of which leads him to Pleasure Island, where he is almost turned into a donkey… In English. At 6:00 pm in the Trattoria. FREE ADMISSION
(Indoor, rated PG): Nuovo Cinema Paradiso (Cinema Paradiso) (1988) A boy who grew up in a native Sicilian Village returns home as a famous director after receiving news about the death of an old friend. Told in a flashback, Salvatore reminiscences about his childhood and his relationship with Alfredo, a projectionist at Cinema Paradiso. Under the fatherly influence of Alfredo, Salvatore fell in love with film making, with the duo spending many hours discussing about films and Alfredo painstakingly teaching Salvatore the skills that became a stepping stone for the young boy into the world of film making. The
film brings the audience through the changes in cinema and the dying trade of traditional film making, editing and screening. It also explores a young boy’s dream of leaving his little town to foray into the world outside. Directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, starring Philippe Noiret, Enzo Cannavale and Antonella Attili. In Italian with English subtitles, 155 mins. At 7:00 pm in the Museum. FREE ADMISSION

Tuesday June 28 – Italian Cinema (indoor, rated PG-13) Pane e Tulipani (Bread and Tulips) (2000) (Indoor show for adults) An Italian housewife, Rosalba, finds herself stranded during a family vacation. Instead of waiting for her controlling businessman husband, she hitchhikes her way home, only to impulsively detour to Venice. She finds accommodations with a restaurant maitre d’ and soon finds herself enjoying her new life. Meanwhile, her husband has sent a bumblingplumber, Constantino, as a private detective to find her. After meeting and falling in love with Grazia, Rosalba’s neighbour across the hall, Costantino calls Rosalba’s husband and quits, claiming that he is unable to find her. However, her husband’s mistress appears to try to convince her to return home to Pescara. Starring Licia Maglietta, Bruno Ganz and Giuseppe Battiston, directed by Silvio Soldini. In Italian with English subtitles. At 7:00 pm in the Museum. FREE ADMISSION

Wednesday June 29 – Italian Cinema under the Stars! Roman Holiday … On a highly publicized tour in Europe, Princess Ann becomes a royal rebel in Rome and escapes her luxurious confinement. However, her adventures lead her to unexpected encounters including one with Joe Bradley, an American newspaper reporter stationed in Rome who thinks he has the royal scoop of the century. The events lead to more twists and turns than the Tiber River! SPONSORED BY VANCITY. Starring Gregory Peck, Audrey Hepburn and Eddie Albert, directed by William Wyler (1953). At dusk (approx. 9:30 pm) FREE ADMISSION.

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature cookbook recipe:

Cheesecake with fresh berries from the Big Bowl of Love Cookbook.

To download all of the recipes please use the recipe iPod guide or go to the Recipes page.