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Archive for the ‘Brunch with Celebrities’ Category

Brunch with Edward Vint at The Teahouse

June 16th, 2013 admin

Brunch is a favourite past time shared by many and should be an extraordinary experience, one that you will cherish. Vancouver has some wonderful places for brunch. Each of the places I visit is unique for what is offered along with the type of service and selection of dishes. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places and, at the same time, I will be joined by a notable personality who may be a Film Producer or Director, Musician, Arts Festival Director, Actor or other well-known individual for Brunch at restaurants in and around Vancouver.

For my forty sixth brunch in this series, I was joined by Radio Host at The Peak FM Edward Vint at The Teahouse in Stanley Park.

Ed Vint

Edward was born and raised in the Lower Mainland, He holds a diploma in Broadcast Journalism and his BCRPA Fitness Leader designation. He loves music, pop culture and people. He has worked in the event and music industry at MTV, Universal Music & Live Nation. Ed has been the Weekend Host at 102.7 FM The Peak for the past while and is now hosting and promoting various segments at the station.

What got you into Radio, specifically hosting on radio ?

As a kid I used to watch WKRP in Cincinnati with my parents. I played radio show with everyone around the kitchen table for years. Later I went to Columbia Academy then worked in broadcasting, then the music industry, then worked at CITR for 2 years then The Peak Radio.

What is the craziest thing you have ever done?

Going to Burning Man (10 days in the dessert with nothing, survival camping)

Have there been any notable musicians you have interviewed over the years, if so who?

  • Lady Gaga
  • Fallout Boy
  • Rob Zombie
  • Alt J

What type of music did you listen to growing up?

  • Much Music
  • Credence Clearwater Revival
  • Top 40
  • Ace of Base

What was it like working for MTV?

Unique experience and it was on my bucket list. I got a job on MTV as a Production Assistant, then did some news in their Vancouver office and it was great.

If you could estimate the number of concerts you have seen how many would that number be?

More than a thousand

If you could tell me about 3 of your favourite concerts of all time which ones would those be?

1)    Janet Jackson’s The Velvet Rope Tour

2)    The Killers at the Vogue

3)    Arman Van Buren at VCC

What are 2 of your favourite music festivals that you have attended in the past year?

1)    Squamish Valley Music Festival

2)    Bumpershoot in Seattle

What foods do you like?

Italian

Fresh, local, organic

What are your favourite restaurants in Vancouver?

  • Nook
  • Coast
  • Tacofino Commissary
  • Acme Cafe

Duck Confit Arancini, Smoked Salmon Scones and Bacon Wrapped Scallop

Lobster Salad

Smoked Salmon Raft

Salmon Burger

Lemon Tart

Espresso Macchiato

Ed and Richard each had a platter of Confit Duck Arancini, Smoked Salmon Scones, and Bacon Wrapped Scallop and the Lobster Salad with Thai Vinaigrette; Ed then had the Smoked Salmon Raft; and Richard had the Salmon Burger. Ed had the Lemon Tart for dessert, while Richard had an Espresso Macchiato.

What do you want your listeners to learn from listening to you on the radio?

Share things that I think would make people happy. Give people something positive for their day and make them happy.

What do you do in your off time?

  • Crossfit
  • Cooking and organizing dinner parties
  • Dancing with friends

Where is your favourite vacation spot (outside of Canada)?

Maui

Where is your favourite vacation spot in BC?

Okanagan

Do you come from a broadcasting family?

Not at all, my dad is in refridgeration and my mom is a teacher

What advice would you offer to a musician looking to make it big?

1)    Stay true to yourself and what you want to be as an artist

2)    Try to find a way to connect to your fans

3)    Network and meet lots and lots of people

Where was your most recent musical trip?

Robyn in Seattle

Who are your mentors?

  • Tamara Stanners
  • Simone Grewal
  • Susie Wall

Who inspires you now?

On a day to day basis my friends inspire me to be better and the best I can be. My supporting me.

What inspires you?

Seeing other people fulfill their dreams. Whether you want to be a singer, athlete, dancer or chef.

What’s next for you or what’s on the horizon?

  • Working a little bit in myacting career
  • YouTube video blogging
  • A new show on The Peak FM

Style: a La Carte

Attire: Smart Casual

Time: Saturday and Sunday 10:30am – 3:00pm

The Teahouse

Ferguson Point

Stanley Park , Vancouver

Menu:  http://www.vancouverdine.com/teahouse/menus/brunch

For Reservations, please call 604.669.3281

Stay tuned to my next guest Interview along with the next Brunch in and around Vancouver.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Brunch with Celebrities, Latest Tags: , , , No Comments »

Brunch with Keri Adams at The Roof

June 9th, 2013 admin

Brunch is a favourite past time shared by many and should be an extraordinary experience, one that you will cherish. Vancouver has some wonderful places for brunch. Each of the places I visit is unique for what is offered along with the type of service and selection of dishes. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places and, at the same time, I will be joined by a notable personality who may be a Film Producer or Director, Musician, Arts Festival Director, Actor or other well-known individual for Brunch at restaurants in and around Vancouver.

For my forty fifth brunch in this series, I was joined by CTV News Anchor Keri Adams on The Roof at Black + Blue in downtown Vancouver.

Keri Adams

Keri Adams is a Canadian journalist who is currently the anchor of CTV News at 11:30 at CTV British Columbia. She began her career in 1995 as a photojournalist in Red Deer, Alberta, a position she held for 2 years. In 1997, she became an anchor/reporter at CFRN-TV anchoring the weekend newscasts. In 2001, she moved to BCTV as Weekend Morning and Noon News Anchor. In 2002, she moved to CTV British Columbia where she became a reporter and fill-in anchor, until being appointed to her current position in 2004. She received the prestigious Jack Webster Award for Best News Reporting in 2005.

Her first job in television was a news writer for a morning news program in Edmonton. She moved to Red Deer, Alberta to take on the challenging role of photojournalist, before moving back to Edmonton as a night reporter and eventually weekend news anchor. In 2001, she headed west to Vancouver where she worked as a weekend morning news anchor with Global Television before being hired by CTV British Columbia as a reporter.

You can follow Keri Adams on twitter @Keri_Adams

Have you always wanted to be a News Caster?

No – I thought of lots of different careers from nursing to administration. I was a singer when I was a child, landed in broadcasting cause I enjoyed writing. My parents are newshounds, the tv was always on in the house.

What is it about the News that you love?

It’s immediacy. I am interested in the information, things that would interest people and delivery of the news. When I am on the air, the performance part is wonderful to do deliver their news, and do what I love and have fun doing it.

What do you want your viewers to learn from your newscast each day?

Hopefully all the info they need, that enlightens them, learn from, the weather for the next day, more about me.

Tell me what some of the notable news stories you have reported on your news show over the years ?

1)    North Vancouver mudslide, it happened Jan 19, 2005. Where a woman was killed when homes slid down an embankment.  The information I had uncovered as part of my report was that the District of North Vancouver was aware several homes including the one involved in the slide were sitting on unstable ground. I won a Jack Webster Award for Best News Reporting.

2)    Terry Fox Marathon of Hope – we looked at his legacy as a young cancer survivor.

If you could guess how many news shows you have done over the years, how many would that be?

Thousands

How are you able to report on a news story or topic in a positive away if that particular news story is one that you either do not believe in or are personally affected?

It’s not my job to react to something that affects me personally on the air. I look at it from a non-partisan point of view.

Has there ever been a news story that you have wanted to cover and not been assigned to cover?

The North Van mudslide – I was assigned to do a different story that day. I spoke up and pushed for it to do that story and they agreed and I did it. Twelve months later I won an award for the story.

What is your favourite food?

Spaghetti

What are your favourite restaurants in Vancouver?

  • Coast
  • Flying Pig
  • Sala Thai

Mimosas

Spot Prawn Flatbread

Rooftop Salad

Steak on a bed of Kale

Black & Blue Eggs Benny

Crab Omelette

Apple Pie with Vanilla ice cream

Mimosas were served to start. Keri and Richard shared the Rooftop Salad with jerk chicken as well as the Spot Prawn Flatbread to begin. We were then served a taste of the restaurant’s specialty steak. Keri had the Black & Blue Eggs Benny while Richard had the Crab Omelette. For dessert Keri and Richard shared the Apple Pie with Vanilla ice cream.

What is the best food you have eaten in recent memory?

Multicourse dinner at The Cannery

What was the most recent restaurant that you have eaten at?

Coast

What do you do in your off time?

  • Time with my kids
  • Dinner with friends
  • Hiking
  • Painting

Do you come from an entertainment family?

No – my sister is a high school drama teacher with a farming background

Where was your recent trip?

San Francisco

Who are your mentors?

1)    Andrew Smith – he was an Instructor at North Alberta Tech

2)    Daphne Khuene – female anchor in Alberta

What has inspired you recently?

Generally the scenery in Vancouver. Walking the hills on the North Shore, the beach with my kids.

What’s next for you or what’s on the horizon?

  • Growing, learning and trying new things
  • Continue day news
  • Some new hosting opportunities that can showcase more of my personality
  • I would be willing to consider everything .

Style: a La Carte

Attire: Smart Casual

Time: Saturday and Sunday 11:30am – 3:00pm

The Roof at Black + Blue

1032 Alberni Street (3rd Level), Vancouver

Menu: http://the-roof.ca/

For Reservations, please call 604 637 0777

Stay tuned to my next guest Interview along with the next Brunch in and around Vancouver.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Brunch with Celebrities, Latest Tags: , , , , No Comments »

Brunch with Jeremy Szafron at Hawksworth Restaurant

May 19th, 2013 admin

Brunch is a favourite past time shared by many and should be an extraordinary experience, one that you will cherish. Vancouver has some wonderful places for brunch. Each of the places I visit is unique for what is offered along with the type of service and selection of dishes. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places and, at the same time, I will be joined by a notable personality who may be a Film Producer or Director, Musician, Arts Festival Director, Actor or other well-known individual for Brunch at restaurants in and around Vancouver.

For my forty fourth brunch in this series, I was joined by Entertainment Commentator for the West Coast for CTV News Channel Jeremy Szafron at Hawksworth Restaurant downtown Vancouver.

Jeremy Szafron

Jeremy Szafron grew up in Calgary, Alberta where he began his career in television. In 2008, he was head hunted to host Entertainment Spotlight on CTV, a show highlighting fashion, entertainment/celebrity interviews, and current affairs in Montreal. In January 2010, Jeremy moved to Vancouver, BC to experience the 2010 Olympic Games, and was asked to be the “Guest Anchor” of an Orlando, Florida based morning show for the duration of the games. Jeremy then became one of the co-hosts of FMA Weekly, a weekly entertainment show highlighting local entertainment and travel segments. In 2012 he became  the CTV National weekly entertainment reporter. In 2013 he was a guest host on Shaw TVs “The Rush”.

You can follow Jeremy Szafron on twitter @JeremySzafron

Have you always wanted to be in the Entertainment business?

Always wanted to be in television since I was a little boy. I used to watch tv when I was 7 years old on mute, with closed captioning to read if off the prompter.

What were your favourite tv shows to watch while growing up?

I used to love ‘Friends’, also used to watch a lot of HBO shows. Always loved the news, watching CNN or The National on CBC, also watched Breakfast Television Calgary (morning show).

Tell me who some of your most notable celebrities that you have interviewed on your shows over the years?

Jessica Alba in Edmonton

Simon Whitfield – Olympic Athlete

Do you come from an entertainment family?

No, exact opposite, my whole family is in the oil industry.

What aspect of the entertainment business do you enjoy the most, producing, writing or reporting/hosting?

Most of all tell a story. I like to have a little bit of creative control. We naturally have to do some writing and producing for our own stories when reporting. It’s important to have that integrity.

What was your 2010 Olympic Games experience like while you were the “Guest Anchor” of an Orlando, Florida based morning show?

That was fantastic, a once in a lifetime opportunity. I got to see a lot of colleagues, the stories and the people were interesting, it was an amazing experience.

Recently you were a guest host on Shaw TVs “The Rush” with Fiona Forbes, what was that experience like for you?

So much fun, I loved it. Ad-lib, making jokes, non chalent live to tape, easy going.

Where was your most recent trip?

Kelowna for “Gourmet & Grapes” Chef Ned Bell vs Chef Ray Bear

What is your favourite foods?

Asian food fene – from dim sum to sushi, ramen, pho

What are your favourite restaurants in Vancouver?

  • Flying Pig
  • Forage
  • Juno Sushi
  • Bao Bei

 

Pacific Sablefish Benedict

pork sausages

Hawksworth Beef Burger

Berry Smoothie

Chèvre Cheesecake

Sweet Milk Ice Cream

Jeremy had Pacific Sablefish Benedict glazed asparagus, tomato, fine herb hollandaise and a side order of pork sausages; Richard had Hawksworth Beef Burger applewood smoked bacon, aged cheddar, frites and a Berry Smoothie. For dessert, Jeremy had the Chèvre Cheesecake with green apple, walnut; and Richard had the Sweet Milk Ice Cream with red fruit, vanilla.

What do you do in your off time?

  • See friends
  • Travel
  • Share stories with people
  • Boating

Who are your Mentors?

Todd Van Der Heyden – my anchor with CTV News Channel

Who inspires you?

My mother

What has inspired you lately?

Boston Marathon bombing – fascinates me how close people can come together during tragedies.

Is there anything you want to do, that you haven’t done already?

  • More travel
  • Tell more amazing stories about amazing people

What’s next for you or what’s on the horizon?

  • More television
  • More news, less Justin Bieber & Lindsay Lohan stories

Style: a La Carte

Attire: Smart Casual

Time: Saturday and Sunday 10:30am – 2:00pm

Hawksworth Restaurant

801 W Georgia Street, Vancouver

Menu: http://www.hawksworthrestaurant.com/menus/brunch/

For Reservations, please call 604.673.7000

Stay tuned to my next guest Interview along with the next Brunch in and around Vancouver.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Brunch with Celebrities, Latest Tags: , , , No Comments »

Brunch with Meena Mann at Sol Sun Belt

May 12th, 2013 admin

Brunch is a favourite past time shared by many and should be an extraordinary experience, one that you will cherish. Vancouver has some wonderful places for brunch. Each of the places I visit is unique for what is offered along with the type of service and selection of dishes. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places and, at the same time, I will be joined by a notable personality who may be a Film Producer or Director, Musician, Arts Festival Director, Actor or other well-known individual for Brunch at restaurants in and around Vancouver.

For my forty third brunch in this series, I was joined by TV Host Meena Mann at the Sol Sun Belt Cookery in Coal Harbour.

Meena Mann

Meena was born in Terrace and grew up in Vancouver, B.C. where she attended Simon Fraser University graduating with a B.A. with a major in Communications. She started her media career in radio in late 2006 working at News1130, REDFM 93.1 and a short contract at CBC Radio1.

Meena made the leap into Television Hosting in 2009 when she became the official Co-Host of a life-style and entertainment show, FMA Entertainment Weekly. In 2010 Meena was hired by the Vancouver Olympic Committee (VANOC) to report for the Olympic News Service. Meena is a professional public speaker with extensive experience hosting numerous live events for non-profit and for-profit organizations, including the B.C. Provincial Government, Municipal Government, Coast Capital Savings and Vancouver’s first Fashion’s Night Out.

You can follow Meena Mann on twitter @MeenaMann

Have you always wanted to be in the Entertainment business?

Yes always, ever since I was a kid.

What type of music did you listen to growing up?

Pop all the time. In university I got into classical music, way back then it was Justin Timberlake ……

Tell me who some of your most notable people that you have interviewed over the years?

  • Adrian Grenier
  • Russel Peters
  • Michael Buble
  • Shawn Desman
  • Foster the People Band

Do you come from an entertainment family?

No – my dad was always an entertainer for the family.

You did a comedy show awhile back, what was it like for you to do that first comedy gig?

I was so excited, but it was so exciting that I felt so nervous. As soon as my name was called, it was a natural high and no one really laughed after my 1st joke. I felt comfortable being on stage, so I changed up my routine and played off the audience and myself.

When did you get into doing Commercials and what was your first Commercial?

My first commercial was for Nissan Canada, it was a pretty cool experience setting the first one since this was the first commercial there was everything –the set, lights, trailers, and the pay.

How did you get into Emcee?

I did Toastmasters for a few years, one thing lead to another, and another and then I was emceeing lots of events.

Where was your most recent trip?

Miami

What is your favourite foods?

I love everything, but only vegetarian.

What are your favourite restaurants in Vancouver?

  • Italian Kitchen
  • Nuba
  • Kidoya Sushi

Orange Juice

Gruyere & Wild Mushroom Omelette

Duck Confit Hash

Moroccan fried bread

Meena and Richard each had a fresh squeezed Orange Juice to start. Meena had the Gruyere & Wild Mushroom Omelette (egg whites only); and Richard had the Duck Confit Hash (no egg) with Moroccan fried bread and Harissa sauce. 

What do you do in your off time?

  • Being outdoors
  • Beach with friends
  • Golfing
  • Hiking

Who inspires you?

From the root level, some of my close friends all the way to Oprah.

What has inspired you lately?

There is a book about “50 Cent” the rapper, about his rags to riches type of story. Really the book is about how not to be afraid, to keep going and to overcome fear.

Is there anything you want to do, that you haven’t done already?

  • I would like to speak in front of a crowd of 1000 people.
  • Sit down interview with “50 Cent” or “Oprah” or people we don’t set to learn about often.
  • A late night tv show.

What’s next for you or what’s on the horizon?

  • Lot of emcee gigs up coming up over the summer
  • Potential tv show

Style: a La Carte

Attire: Casual

Time: Saturday and Sunday 10am – 3:00pm

Sol Sun Belt Cookery

550 Denman Street, Vancouver

Menu: http://www.solsunbelt.com/

For Reservations, please call 604 568 2235

Stay tuned to my next guest Interview along with the next Brunch in and around Vancouver.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Brunch with Celebrities, Latest Tags: , , , , No Comments »

Brunch with Rebecca Bollwitt at The Oakwood

May 5th, 2013 admin

Brunch is a favourite past time shared by many and should be an extraordinary experience, one that you will cherish. Vancouver has some wonderful places for brunch. Each of the places I visit is unique for what is offered along with the type of service and selection of dishes. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places and, at the same time, I will be joined by a notable personality who may be a Film Producer or Director, Musician, Arts Festival Director, Actor or other well-known individual for Brunch at restaurants in and around Vancouver.

Rebecca Bollwitt

For my forty second brunch in this series, I was joined by Author & Blogger Rebecca Bollwitt at the The Oakwood in Kitsilano talking writing, blogging and more.

Rebecca Bollwitt grew up in Surrey, BC, she built her first website in 1997, she has been blogging about life in BC since 2004 on Miss604.com, and podcasting since 2005. Named one of BC’s Top 100 Women of Influence by the Vancouver Sun, Rebecca co-founded sixty4media, a WordPress website development firm in 2008, and has co-authored the book, Blogging to Drive Business in 2010. Miss604.com was voted “Best Vancouver Blog” by the Georgia Straight for 2009, 2010, 2011 & 2012, “Best Local Blog” by The Westender in 2010,  2011 & 2012, and has been ranked within the top ten blogs in Canada.

You can follow Rebecca on Twitter @Miss604

How did you get into blogging?

I was tinkering with websites and built a fan page for a favourite band back in highschool. Learned code and websites online as a hobby. In 2000 I started my dot com career, in 2003 I started seeing blogs pop-up, in 2004 I saw blogger and started a personal blog. Web 2.0 progressed and in 2006 I took it and made it Vancouver focussed. In 2008 I left my day job which was a media specialist for a payment gateway company.

Did you have a passion for writing while growing up?

I did, I have always loved writing literature and writing studies.

Tell me who some of the most engaging people that you have interviewed over the years for your blog or podcast?

1)    George Stroumboulopoulos in 2006

2)    Less than Jake Band in 1997

In your book, Blogging to Drive Business: Create and Maintain Valuable Customer Connections – what are the 3 main points you want people to grasp from your book?

1)    Have a plan when you go into blogging –writing about, passionate, content, goal

2)    Being Human –still have the personal voice – give names to your authors, face for each person

3)    Read other Blogs – Know what else is out there, be familiar with blogging

What does building community mean to you?

Nurturing a group of like-minded people or people who have similar interests, being able to host discussions so the help me help you concept can flourish.

How different would life be today without WordPress?

There would be something else or people would still be on blogger or tumbler, because wordpress is open source represents so much more.

Tell our readers about 3 of your memorable experiences you have had based on invitations you received as Miss 604

1) Switzerland –the government of Switzerland invited 5-10 media in 2009 to tour Geneva and Zurich and to take us to the IOC headquarters with focus on the Olympic spirit for 2010.

2) Africa – Cadbury does bicyclefactory.ca which helps build bikes for kids in Ghanna, so kids can go to school. Two bloggers from Canada went to Ghanna in 2011 and a bicycle delivery, I was one of the two bloggers.

3) In Torch Relay for 2010 –riding in a car in my home town of Surrey and home area, got to give my grandma a big hug.

What is it about value of bloggers that people under-estimate?

People under estimate bloggers who have smaller audiences. The person that has a niche audience could be the most influentcial person who is connected to so many other people.

Where was your most recent trip?

Seattle to a Mariner game and got a tour of Safeco field.

What is your favourite food?

Mexican food

What is your favourite dish?

Halibut with bier blanc with green steamed vegetables

What are your favourite restaurants in Vancouver?

  • Nook – for date night, birthdays etc
  • Kitaro Ramen on Denman
  • CinCin

Black Pepper Brioche Muffins

Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict

Shortrib, hashbrown croquettes, and caramelized onion puree

Rebecca and Richard shared the Black Pepper Brioche Muffins basket with maple butter to start, Rebecca then had the Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict with dill hollandaise, fennel salad, home fries and Richard had the Shortrib, hashbrown croquettes, and caramelized onion puree. 

What are some of your favourite restaurants outside of Vancouver?

  • Spinnakers Brewpub in Victoria
  • Tom Douglas Restaurants –Lola, Dahlia Lounge, Serious Pie all in Seattle
  • Miradoro at Tinhorn Creek in the Okanagan

What do you do in your off time?

Long walks in Stanley Park with my husband

Who are your mentors?

  • Chuck Davis – he literally wrote the history of Vancouver
  • Tony Pierce – wrote How to Blog (in LA –business blog)

Who inspires you?

My husband

What has inspired you lately?

Founders Collective – a group of women in Vancouver who I met years ago, all are leaders in their own industry, celebrating the successes that were already celebrated.

How do you stay ahead of the game?

  • Work your but off
  • When new things come up, don’t dismiss it. I try any new app or technology at least once. Choose to see how to use in your network.
  • Going to Meetups and tweetups –sharing ideas –hearing what other people are using and making.

Is there anything you want to do, that you haven’t done already?

  • More creative writing
  • Some type of book about Vancouver
  • Love to go to Germany (have family there)
  • I want to get a bike and be a cyclist in Vancouver

What’s next for you or what’s on the horizon?

  • I am doing more freelance writing for various outlets.
  • More travel.

Style: a La Carte

Attire: Casual

Time: Saturday and Sunday 10am – 3:00pm

The Oakwood Restaurant

2741 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver

Menu: http://www.theoakwood.ca/

For Reservations, please call 604-558-1965

Stay tuned to my next guest Interview along with the next Brunch in and around Vancouver.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Brunch with Celebrities, Latest Tags: , , , , No Comments »

Brunch with Aamer Haleem at The Bibo

April 13th, 2013 admin

Brunch is a favourite past time shared by many and should be an extraordinary experience, one that you will cherish. Vancouver has some wonderful places for brunch. Each of the places I visit is unique for what is offered along with the type of service and selection of dishes. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places and, at the same time, I will be joined by a notable personality who may be a Film Producer or Director, Musician, Arts Festival Director, Actor or other well-known individual for Brunch at restaurants in and around Vancouver.

Aamer Haleem

For my forty first brunch in this series, I was joined by CTV Morning Live Co-Host Aamer Haleem at The Bibo in Kitsilano talking Television, Music, Eating and more.  

Aamer Haleem was born in London and raised in Ottawa and Toronto where he attended the University of Toronto and the School of Journalism at Humber College. His first job was as an associate producer at TSN Inside Sports. He also hosted a music video program at Hong Kong’s Channel V in 1996, but returned to Canada the following year after the transfer of the sovereignty of Hong Kong to host VTV Breakfast on Vancouver television station CIVT-TV (then known as “VTV”).

He was a host of programming on VH1 in the United States, including Bands Reunited and VSpot Top 20 Countdown. He has hosted the weekday afternoon current affairs program The Point on CBC Radio One, until it was canceled on June 26, 2009. He has been a co-host of the Vancouver edition of CTV Morning Live since 2011.

You can follow Aamer on Twitter @AamerHaleem

Have you always wanted to be a TV Host?

Yes it was a split between being in television or a lawyer. Originally planned to be a sportscaster as I started with TSN. Started as an intern through school (Journalism at school through U of T).

What type of music did you listen to growing up?

Everything but learning towards Led Zeppelin and the Beatles as a kid “John Lenon’s” give peace a chance. Then (grew up in Ottawa) U2, Human League, then moved to Toronto and listened to the Depeche Mode, Smiths and New Order. Indie and alternative music.

Tell me who some of your most notable guests that you have interviewed on your shows over the years?

  • U2 – multiple times, 1st time in LA
  • Paul McCartney
  • Madonna
  • George Clooney
  • Paul Rudd
  • Richard Branson
  • Emma Thompson
  • Emily Blunt
  • Jada Pinetti Smith
  • Chris Cidad

What are some of your craziest experiences you have had on your tv shows?

1)    On CTV Morning Live – Richard Branson cut my tie on the show

2)    Flight attendants from Virgin Atlantic came on the show – sent a t-shirt with a tie cut in half printed on the shirt – signed by Branson.

3)    Flying with U2 – I had a U2 notepad with me and the guitarist drew a photo of a sunflower and I was in a photo with him, that now is framed at home on my wall.

4)    Bands Reunited – that show was crazy –traveling and would have to surprise musicians from known bands that we wanted to reunite.

If you could guess how many tv shows you have hosted over the years, how many would that be?

Thousands –can’t even imagine. Just celebrated our 350th show at CTV Morning Live.

Do you come from an entertainment family?

No, but my brother is a reporter for CBC in Winnipeg.

How did you get into doing Voice Overs?

A natural off shoot from what I do everyday. It’s easy enough to do now.

Who are some of your favourite people that you have co-hosted shows with in the past?

  • Rachel Perry at Much Music –co-hosted the Top 20 Countdown
  • VTV Breakfast – Tamara Taggart, Coleen Christie, and Nicola Crosby

You have interviewed Woody Allen, Madonna and Queen Latifah to name a few, was their anything striking for you when interviewing these unique personalities as opposed to all the other interviews you have done?

No – I approach my interviews exactly the same way I research everyone I am about to interview and recognize the time and effort it takes to do it. I’m prepared for anyone I am interviewing.

Where was your most recent trip?

My wife and I went to London, Paris and Germany. Ate at a great Italian restaurant in Paris.

What is your favourite foods?

  • Aburi Sushi
  • Pizza –authentic Italian
  • Stack of pancakes
  • Indian
  • Moroccan
  • French
  • Chinese
  • Malayasian
  • Thai

What are your favourite restaurants in Vancouver?

  • Vij’s
  • Bistro Sakana
  • Finch’s
  • Banana Leaf
  • Niccli
  • The Bibo
  • Terra Breads
  • Thierry
  • Sala Thai
  • Hawksworth
  • YEW

Custom Baked Sandwich

Melanzane Alla Parmigiana

Formula One Pizza

Aamer had a custom baked Sandwich with buratta, chicken, fennel and eggplant with tomato sauce, Richard had the Melanzane Alla Parmigiana and then Aamer and Richard shared the Formula One Pizza.

What are some of your favourite restaurants outside of Vancouver?

  • Café Mogador in New York
  • Humus Factory in LA
  • Gratzie in Toronto
  • Shinto Sushi in LA
  • Claridges for High Tea in London
  • Levant in London –middle eastern

What do you do in your off time?

  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Hangout with friends
  • Reading
  • Going to the movies

Who inspires you?

My wife for sure, upbeat, positive outlook, my parents moved to Canada for a life –for the benefit of all of their kids.

What has inspired you lately?

Malala Yousafzai –a 15 year old girl – who was shot in the head and neck in an assassination attempt by Taliban gunmen while returning home on a school bus. She is a Nobel Peace Prize nominee; youngest in history. She started a foundation to give girls the opportunity to be educated. On 1 January 2013, she received the “2012 Tipperary International Peace Award” for her courage and determination to speak out in support of equal access to education for every child.

Is there anything you want to do, that you haven’t done already?

  • Host an Interview based show
  • Continue traveling, to visit Australia and Africa

What’s next for you or what’s on the horizon?

I want to increase our footprint with CTV Morning Live

Time-shifting – people watching our show across the country

Style: A La Carte

Attire: Business Casual

Time: Saturday & Sunday 11:30am – 2:30pm

The Bibo

1835 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver

Tel: 604.568.6177

Web: http://thebibo.com

Twitter: @TheBibo

Stay tuned to my next guest Interview along with the next Brunch in and around Vancouver.

By: Richard Wolak

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Brunch with Margaret Gallagher at Lift Bar & Grill

April 5th, 2013 admin

Brunch is a favourite past time shared by many and should be an extraordinary experience, one that you will cherish. Vancouver has some wonderful places for brunch. Each of the places I visit is unique for what is offered along with the type of service and selection of dishes. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places and, at the same time, I will be joined by a notable personality who may be a Film Producer or Director, Musician, Arts Festival Director, Actor or other well-known individual for Brunch at restaurants in and around Vancouver.

Margaret Gallagher

For my fortieth brunch in this series, I was joined by CBC Radio Reporter of The Early Edition and Host of CBC Radio HotAir Margaret Gallagher at Lift Bar & Grill in Coal Harbour talking about Radio, Cooking, Bicycling and more.

Margaret Gallagher has been hosting and reporting for on the radio for the past 12 years, having been a regular part of CBC Radio One’s The Early Edition since 2001, and was the BC host of CBC Radio 2′s Canada Live.

Prior to joining the CBC, Margaret was active on the arts scene and worked with the Western Front, the Video In and the Independent Film and Video Alliance. She has worked as an editor, a freelance writer, and technical communicator. Her previous work earned her an award of distinction from the International Society of Technical Communicators.

Margaret has won several awards including two prestigious National RTNDA (Radio-Television News Directors Association of Canada Awards) Dave Rogers Award for Best Radio Feature for her piece “Fade to Black”, about the closing of the last drive-in in the Lower Mainland and one for “Gail the Golden Age Goalie” where we met a 77 year old goaltender who shows no signs of slowing down.

Actively involved in community outreach, Margaret has tirelessly donated her time and efforts to many Vancouver events. She has hosted dozens of events for a variety of arts and community groups, including: UBC & SFU Alumni Associations, Asian Heritage Month, The Vancouver International Jazz Festival, the Vancouver International Folk Music Festival and Hapa-pooloza.

In April 2010, Margaret took the reins as host for CBC Radio One’s Hot Air, CBC’s longest running radio program.

You can follow Margaret on Twitter @GallaghMargaret

What got you into Radio, specifically hosting radio shows?

I was a technical writer and teacher at SFU and I wrote for Rice Paper Magazine as well. I worked at Creo and Vertigo beforehand, one opportunity lead to another (my degree was Sociology and Anthropology from SFU, worked in the arts world) then radio. Always a writer …..

How did you get a job with the CBC?

The Editor of Rice Paper Magazine was also an Associate Producer at CBC and he asked me to apply for a job. The 1st piece I did was about a Volvo (my very first car) and the show happened to be in Surrey. Funny piece on the car show and after the piece I got a 1 year contract to start.

When did you join The Early Edition on CBC Radio? And has your role changed over the years since you started?

11-1/2 years ago was my 1st job and I have been hosting HotAir for the past 3 years. My job is still the same to report on community, Arts & Cultural, bring the city into the studio. It has changed because the city has changed with it. There was no social media back then, Hosted Canada Live for 2-1/2 years (60 concerts in one year).

How did you become the host for CBC Radio One’s Hot Air?

Paul was retiring, I always loved music and singing and I had done Canada Live previously. I had a love for music and was lucky enough to be the person to get that job.

Tell me who some of your most notable guests that you have interviewed on your shows over the years ?

  • Harry Ioki – Japanese Canadian musician – for The Early Edition– I get a chance to talk to people that you may not have known.
  • Ian Macdougal – Jazz legend for HotAir
  • Rosemary Brown – love of Opera
  • Tiko Kerr – I went Rowing with him

What foods do you like?

  • Chocolate
  • Lemonade
  • Potatoes

What is your favourite Chocolate?

1)    Cocoa Nymph – Salted Caramel Nymph

2)    Purdy’s – Yard long chocolate bar

3)    Chocolaterie De La Nouvelle France – everything

Tell me about your Cheesecake Experience

Years ago, I worked at Cheesecake Etc for 8 years, within that time frame I spent 4 years baking the cheesecakes and made over 60,000 pieces of cheesecake.

Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict

Bison Short Ribs Cassoulet

Almond Chocolate Bar

Margaret had the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict with two poached free run eggs on toasted English muffins, hollandaise sauce and hashbrowns and Richard had the Bison Short Ribs Cassoulet and then Margaret and Richard shared the Almond Chocolate Bar for dessert.

What are your favourite restaurants in Vancouver?

  • Les Faux Borgouis
  • Pizzeria Barbarella
  • Dai Tang
  • Ken’s Chinese
  • Matchstick Coffee Roasters
  • Yew in the Four Seasons Hotel
  • Whitespot (for my daughter)
  • Boneta

What do you want your listeners to learn if you will from your Hot Air show?

To learn about some of the great Jazz in our city and country. Also, celebrating the music and exposure of our talented BC musicians.

What do you do in your off time?

  • Play hockey
  • Cooking
  • Reading
  • Family time
  • Go to the park

How far in advance do you plan your shows?

HotAir – couple of weeks ahead

Early Edition – sometimes the day of and others a week or so in advance.

What type of music did you listen to growing up?

My mom was an accomplished musician, so I listened to Classical at home and fell in love with Jazz in my late teens (my brothers and I got into Alternative and New Wave in our teens).

Tell me about your catering company, Komodo House that you once had?

Before working at CBC – my friend (Angela Wan) and I was cooking a lot and did some Indonesian dishes. Then did catering for cultural events – SE Asian inspired food. We are still obsessed about cooking.

Do you come from a broadcasting family?

No – but my father is a retired English professor and actor. My mom is a teacher and piano player. My brother is an actor

What has inspired you lately?

People who I interviewed regularly who are inspiring. My daughter is 3-1/2 years old who is inspired by everything. People who are passionate and show kindness. The people I work with who are curious and passionate people inside and outside the office.

What is one of your traditions in your family?

At least once a week we make this dish with Fried Chick Peas, Dried Chorizo, and Fresh Spinach

What’s next for you or what’s on the horizon?

  • Jennifer Chen and I are planning a bicycling holiday special
  • Emcee Nikay Centre fundraiser Spring
  • Emcee Theme of Spain at the Cultch
  • Eventually make some Seville or Marmalade

Who are your Mentors?

  • Yvonne Gall
  • Phillip Ditch Bern
  • Rick Cluff

Style: A La Carte

Attire: Business Casual

Time: Saturday & Sunday 11am – 3pm

Lift Bar and Grill

333 Menchions Mews, Vancouver

Tel: 604-689-5438

Web: http://liftbarandgrill.com/

Twitter: @Liftbarandgrill

Stay tuned to my next guest Interview along with the next Brunch in and around Vancouver.

By: Richard Wolak

Posted in Brunch with Celebrities, Latest Tags: , , , , No Comments »

Brunch with Gig Morton at House Guest

March 15th, 2013 admin

Brunch is a favourite past time shared by many and should be an extraordinary experience, one that you will cherish. Vancouver has some wonderful places for brunch. Each of the places I visit is unique for what is offered along with the type of service and selection of dishes. I am on a journey around the city to find these extraordinary places and, at the same time, I will be joined by a notable personality who may be a Film Producer or Director, Musician, Arts Festival Director, Actor or other well-known individual for Brunch at restaurants in and around Vancouver.

For my thirty ninth brunch in this series, I was joined by Actor, Singer, Dancer, Gig Morton at House Guest in Vancouver talking about Acting, Singing, Dancing and more.

Gig Morton

Gig Morton is an almost 17 year old Canadian actor who grew up in Courtenay on Vancouver Island, Morton is a six time Young Artist Award nominee, best known for his role as B-Dawg’s boy, “Billy” in four installments of the Air Buddies film franchise, Air Buddies, Snow Buddies, Space Buddies, and Santa Buddies, as well as for his co-starring role as “Derby” on the Canadian teen sitcom, Mr. Young since the show began.

After discovering his love for musical theatre, Morton would go on to appear in numerous musical stage productions, including lead roles in the Vanier Senior Secondary’s production of Adventures in the Forest, the Red Room Studio’s production of Oliver! and the Courtenay Little Theatre’s production of Peter Pan.

You can follow Gig on Twitter @GigMorton

When did you begin your acting career?

I started community theatre when I was 7 years old. My older siblings were doing it, my mom asked me to give it a try and I loved it.

What was your favourite role you ever played in a Theatrical production?

The Wizard of Oz, the director liked how I listened so well for a 7 year old. I was lucky, the Director gave me a bunch of rolls, I ended up playing the “Fireball” in Rainbow Youth Theatre’s production.

What is your favourite episode of Mr Young that you have acted in thus far and what was the premise?

‘Mr Dog’ – premise was Adam Young watching a nomination of the Nobel peace prize. To find evidence that Adam’s research was stolen, Derby goes undercover as a blind professor’s seeing-eye dog.

What do you love most in ranking order being an Actor, Singer or Dancer

Actor, Dancer, Singer

What were your most recent acting roles?

Mr. Young

Tell me about Tap Dancing, what do you love about it and does it come natural for you?

I started when I was 10 years old, though when I was 6 years old I didn’t have the patience for it. A few years later it came naturally for me and it is something I will do for the rest of my life. Jim Hibbard at Harbour Dance is my teacher and he has worked in the business big time over the years.

What do you do in your spare time?

  • Play video games online with friends
  • Watch movies, tv and plays
  • Study with my acting coach

What is your favourite food?

Sushi

What are your favourite restaurants in Vancouver?

Milestones

Breakfast Poutine

Chicken & Waffles

Gig had the Breakfast Poutine and Richard had the Chicken & Waffles.

Is there a role you wanted to play that you didn’t get after auditioning? If so, what was the role and in which play, film or tv series?

Auditioned for Modern Family in the role of ‘Luke’

Also

‘Rita’ did the pilot for a US TV show

How does a Child Actor make it growing up in a small town?

Being home schooled really helps, I had a lack of friends, so I focussed more on work and distractions. I was able to dream big, it’s all about focus, and working as much as you can.

How did you get casted as Derby in the Mr Young tv series?

I got an audition originally for the role of ‘Adam’ and they didn’t’ like me for Mr Young, but for ‘Derby’ the best friend of Mr Young. It worked out perfectly as I love this role being a comedic idiot on the show.

What are your favourite films that you have seen?

  • Singing in the Rain
  • Looper –with Joseph Gordon Levitt

What are 3 of your favourite plays?

  1. Wizard of Oz
  2. White Christmas
  3. The Diary of Ann Frank

 What is your favourite musical?

Singing in the Rain

Who are your 5 favourite actors?

  1. Jim Carey
  2. Joseph Gordon Levitt
  3. Robert Downey Jr
  4. Meryl Streep
  5. Denzel Washington

For the Kids in the arts program at Project Limelight in Vancouver, What would you say to them?

Never give up. If you have something that you love to do, do it cause you know that will make you happy.

Is there a Director one or more that you want to work with?

Ben Affleck

What inspires you?

I love making people laugh and entertain people, being someone who is physically active I get inspired to do and achieve things.

You said you are learning Japanese now, why?

I really like the culture and the food. I wanted to immerse myself more, I also used to love anime films.

What do you strive for?

Always being better at what I do.

What is next for you?

Trying to get work in LA, I have no idea where I will be next. Graduating high school is next for me.

What would you like to do in the future?

Acting

Style: A La Carte

Attire: Casual

Time: Sunday 10am – 4pm

House Guest

332 Water Street, Vancouver

Menu: http://housexguest.com/menu/

For Reservations, don’t call them, best to email [email protected]

Stay tuned to my next guest Interview along with the next Brunch in and around Vancouver.

By: Richard Wolak

 

Posted in Brunch with Celebrities, Latest Tags: , , , , No Comments »
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