Julia in Vancouver: Fabulous food fetes dominated the social menu last week. Les Dames d'Escoffier B.C. is a leadership culinary organization composed of successful women who contribute significantly to their communities. Since 1976, Les Dames has followed its mission to elevate the profession through mentoring members and helping students succeed in their culinary careers. In honour of Julia Child's 100th birthday, 100 guests enjoyed a stunning Parisienne-styled long table dinner on the rooftop pool deck of the Four Seasons Hotel. Ten of the region's best chefs, including Andrea Carlson, Tojo and Bala Kumanan, prepared a 10-course menu.

Dr. Peter Love: A dozen chefs headlined the ninth Passions Gala, a benefit for the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation. The gastronomic stand-up soiree, fronted by founder Nathan Fong and presented by Scotiabank, brought in more than $110,000 to its $900,000 grand total since inception. Guests enjoyed a stellar evening of fine food, wine, and comraderie in support of the 24-hour West End HIV/AIDS care facility.

In the zone: More than 100 fearless costumed superheroes, after raising a minimum of a $1,000, rappelled 20 storeys from a downtown building in support of Easter Seals programs and services throughout B.C. Under sunny skies, this unique event raised $239,000.

Hear Fred Mondays 8:20 a.m. on CBC Radio's The Early Edition AM690 and 88.1FM; email: yvrflee@hotmail.com; Twitter: @FredAboutTown or fredabouttown.blogspot.com.

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Hear Fred Mondays 8:20 a.m. on CBC Radio's The Early Edition; email yvrflee@hotmail.com; Twitter: @FredAboutTown or fredabouttown.blogspot.com.