The March issue is here!

The March issue is here! Just in time for the Academy Awards this coming Sunday. Now, we're not ones to openly express biases, so our disclaimer about the above photo is: we did not pay Jeff Bridges to hold that OCG. Nor did we financially back his campaign for a two-peat victory as Best Actor this year. What can we say- with or without our monetary or emotional support, the guy just loves The OC Gazette. The picture speaks for itself.

You know what else speaks for itself? The March issue. It's true. Speaking for itself this month will be stories on Cal Elite Kids (a local academic preschool, offering full and half day programs, gymnastics, swimming, dance, and more!), the history of Harbor House Cafe, an artist spotlight on local young filmmaker Oakley Anderson-Moore, an interview with Pilar Wayne, wife of the Duke himself, a Q&A with local Everest summiteers, a spotlight on local nonprofit Art & Creativity For Healing, and much, much more!

To get your own copy, click here.
To flip through a digital issue, click here.

Happy reading!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: "Keep the Car Running" by The Arcade Fire

Rock of Ages Free Mini Concert Tomorrow!

"Any way you want it
That's the way you need it
Any way you want it..."

Cast members from the hit musical Rock of Ages will perform a free mini-concert of ‘80s music on Thursday, Feb. 24 at 1 p.m. at South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa.

The public is  invited to a free lunchtime mini-concert by the cast of Rock of Ages at South Coast Plaza on the ground level of Jewel Court. Rock of Ages cast members will sing a selection of songs from its rocking score which includes tunes by Journey, Styx, Pat Benatar, Poison, REO Speedwagon, Foreigner, Bon Jovi and many more. Following the performance, cast members will be available to sign autographs and meet audience members. There will also be ticket giveaways to see ROCK OF AGES during its engagement at Segerstrom Center for the Arts March 1 – 6.

 Rock of Ages is set in 1987 on the Sunset Strip, where a small-town girl met a big-city dreamer – and in L.A.’s most legendary rock club, they fall in love to the greatest songs of the ‘80s.  Rock of Ages is a hilarious, feel-good love story told through the hit songs of iconic rockers. It’s when big hair meets big dreams and the result totally wails.

You won't want to miss this free lunchtime fun! Look for Amy while you're there!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Florence and the Machine's "Dog Days Are Over"

A few fun ideas for the weekend

Hershey Felderr: Monsieur Chopin - Starts tonight and runs through 2/27 at Laguna Playhouse's Moulton Theater. Created by the same team that brought George Gershwin Alone to life, Monsieur Chopin begins at Fryderyk Chopin’s salon at 9 Square d’Orléans in Paris. Monsieur Chopin will teach a piano lesson that actually took place on March 4, 1848, just days after the February 1848 revolution. As the piano lesson unfolds, he reveals secrets about the art of the piano and composition, as well as secrets about himself. Considered by his contemporaries, and now by history, as the true “Poet of the Piano,” Monsieur Chopin features some of the pianist-composer’s most beautiful and enduring music. Tickets start at $30. Call (949) 497-2787 for more info.

Second Year MFA Art Review - Starts tonight and goes through 3/4 at UCI's Art Gallery and Room Gallery. Grad students exhibit original works. FREE admittance! Call (949) 824-9854 for more info.

Macbeth - Begins tonight and runs through 2/26 at Chapman University's Waltmar Theatre. Not recommended for kids (which makes it a bit more appealing, does it not?) Tickets $15-20. Call (714)744-7087 for more info.

Love 'em and Leash 'em - This Saturday! See our post below (or by clicking here)

There's a few ideas to keep you preoccupied and happy this weekend!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: St. Vincent's "Actor"

Love 'em and Leash 'em

OC Parks, Irvine Ranch Conservancy, OC Animal Care and OC Hiking Club present “Love ‘Em and Leash ‘Em," coming to Irvine Regional Park this Saturday, February 19th from 9 am-12 pm. This is a special event for dogs and dog-lovers.

OC Hiking Club will host a series of guided specialty pooch hikes customized to accommodate every breed, size and age of dog. The Pokey Pooch Walk will lead small and older dogs on an easy-paced, short-distance flat land walk. The Moderate Mutt Hike invites the intermediate pup on a mid-level, mild-incline hike. The Hardy Hound Hike will take the tougher pups on an advanced fast-paced, semi-steep climb through Irvine Regional Park. Registration for the three hikes will open at 8:30 a.m.

OC Animal Care will have an adoption pop-up tent at the park. Staff will be on-site to talk about the animals currently available for adoption at the center. Three special dogs will be at the event and available for immediate adoption and same-day take-home. Southern California Dachshund Relief will also be on-site with several Dachshund dogs ready for adoption and new loving homes.

United Pet Care, Pooch Sitters, Ugly Dog Adventure, OC Doggie Dinners and other pet friendly local organizations will be at the event with educational information about keeping dogs on leashes in public and in nature and provide special treats and canine activities for all pups in attendance.

Bring your pooch for a day of fun or adopt a dog that needs a home at Irvine Regional Park’s “Love ‘Em and Leash ‘Em.”

Address: 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869
Website:http://www.ocparks.com/irvinepark
Cost: Free
Parking: $5 per vehicle
Public Contact: (714) 973-6835 or (714) 973-3173

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Pink Floyd's "Wish You Were Here"

Happy Valentine's Day from The OCG!

Hope you spend it curled up with the February issue, some Krispy Kreme doughnuts, and your someone special!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Bon Iver's "Re: Stacks"

ABC Pilates Open House

Tomorrow, Saturday 2/12, drop by ABC Pilates in Laguna Niguel (off Crown Valley & Forbes Rd) for their Open House. There will be wine, chocolate, specials, and a FREE 50 minute work out class that incorporates TRX, Ballet Barre, Mat Pilates, Zumba, and Yoga. Call 949-305-3310 to sign up for the class - space is limited!

What's more, Lynne Curtin from The Real Housewives of Orange County will be giving a trunk show of her jewelry, purse, and bedding line at ABC Pilates! You'll also have a chance to meet and mingle with the owners of Fitness Inside Out, Loredana Yoga, OC Skincare, and Lashes.

Stop by tomorrow for some food, fitness, and fun!

ABC Pilates
27601 Forbes Road, #21
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
949-305-331

-Blythe
on my pandora: Justin Timberlake's "Senorita"

Things to do this weekend in OC: 2/10-13

I don't want to hear any complaining that there's nothing fun to do in Orange County - not this weekend, of all weekends! There's so much happening! I've put together an abridged list of some fun things happening starting tonight through Sunday night- from live music to theater to kids' events! Check it out:

Feb. 7th-13th: the Laguna Beach Music Festival
Laguna Beach Music Festival is a week-long event in scenic Laguna Beach, California, presented by Laguna Beach Live! and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County. Dedicated to artistic excellence and innovation, each Festival stars prominent and promising musicians in a variety of activities to attract both the casual listener and the aficionado, who share space in the Festival’s intimate, human-scale venues.

Through Feb. 20th: A Midsummer Night's Dream at South Coast Repertory
>Led by the wildly inventive director Mark Rucker, off go four young lovers into The Woods on a midsummer evening—when strange and wonderful things are likely to happen.  This shimmering Shakespearean fantasy features the antics of supernatural creatures—the fairies led by Oberon and Titania and, of course, the impish Puck, who creates chaos in the night.  But what fun to join in the dream, knowing that by daylight all will be well in a mystical, moon-drenched masterpiece. Read our review of it here!

Thurs, 2/10: Valentine's Day with Natalie Cole
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, an “Unforgettable” concert featuring the incredible Natalie Cole, backed by a full symphony orchestra. Warm, tender and heartfelt, her singing preserves the treasured standards made famous by her father, while adding her own touches of jazz, swing, soul and pop.

2/10: The Who's Tommy
The Who’s Tommy is a roof-raising musical explosion based on The Who’s 1969 concept album. This exhilarating story of hope, healing and the human spirit is filled with iconic hit songs like "Pinball Wizard," "See Me, Feel Me," "Acid Queen" and more. Pete Townshend’s Tony Award-winning tale of a young boy’s journey from pain to triumph is the most electrifying evening of rock and roll ever to play in a theatre!

2/10: Fitness Hike in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
8:30am to 10:45am
Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this difficult, strenuous and fast-paced, 6.82-mile hike (700-ft. elevation gain) over very steep, uneven terrain with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers. $2 donation per person. Ages 15 and up.
Reservations required: 949-923-2235.
Ridge Park Staging Area (Newport Coast Drive to Ridge Park Rd east to end; meet at the gate.)

2/10: Tideland Tykes
10:30-11:30am at Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center in Newport. Join Preserve staff for a fun-filled parent and child experience that may include arts and crafts, story telling, hands-on activities or outdoor nature walks. Come prepared for an exciting outdoor experience! $5 per child, parking is free. Please call (949)923-2275 or email unbic@ocparks.com to register (required).

2/11 through 2/27: Lucky Duck at SCR
The Ugly Duckling meets “American Idol,” with music by the composer of Dreamgirls! This rollicking riff on a favorite fairy tale begins in the barnyard, where things aren’t going so well for a waterfowl named Serena. She’s got great pipes but is lacking in the looks department, so off she goes to the big city where she lands a wolf agent and gets a fabulous make-over.  But as her journey toward superstardom progresses—with help from her animal friends (including a few that step in from other fairy tales)—Serena discovers that fame is only feather deep.

2/12 Caspers Campfire Program
7-8pm at Caspers Wilderness Park in San Juan Capistrano. Come join a Ranger for an hour of fun and learning about Caspers Wilderness Park. Their Campfire Program may include a slide presentation, wilderness safety, games, and activities for children, animal adaptations, skins and skulls, a live animal demonstration, and a chance to visit the Nature Center. Ages 12 and up with adult supervision. Free to attend, $5 to park. Call (949) 923-2210 for more info. All ages welcome.

2/12: ABC Pilates Open House
Lynne Curtin from the Real Housewives of OC with be giving a trunk show of her jewelry, purse, and bedding line at ABC Pilates. Come visit for wine, choclate, specials, and meet the owners of Fitness Inside Out, Loredana Yoga, OC Skincare, and Lashes. During the open house, ABC Pilates will be offering a FREE 50 minute work out class that incorporates TRX, Ballet Barre, Mat Pilates, Zumba, and Yoga. Sign up for your spot in the class- space is limited! Email info@abcpilates or call 949-305-3310 for more info.

2/12: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago at the Irvine Barclay
8pm. Hubbard Street Dance Chicago has been invited back to the Barclay nearly 20 years to the day after its first performance here during the theatre’s first season. Since then, the company has evolved into one of the "cultural treasures” of its dynamic home town. In addition to the skilled proficiency of its two-dozen dancers and its first-class production values, HSDC possesses one of the finest and most extensive repertoires of any American company. Tickets $25 and up.

2/12 & 13th: Villa Rockledge Valentine's Celebration
1-5pm both days. Spend Valentine's in style at the historic Villa Rockledge in Laguna Beach. Stroll the terraced grounds of the oceanfront estate as you sip a signature cocktail and indulge in gourmet appetizers. Guests are invited to explore the estate on a private tour and see the exquisite architectural details while learning the history of this beautiful home. $35/person, $75/couple. For tickets call (949)715-6950 or buy online at villarockledge.com.


2/13: Caspers Nature Hike
9-10am at Caspers Wilderness Park in SJC. Join Park Rangers for an easy 1-mile hike on their nature trail. The trail takes visitors through grassland, oak woodland, riparian, and sandy cactus scrub communities. A wide variety of plant and animal life is found in these areas. Free to attend, $5 to park. All ages welcome. Call (949)923-2210 for more info.

2/13: Music For Lovers
Goldenwest College's Chamber Singers and Early Music Ensemble present Music For Lovers. Performance will be held in Forum II: Room 101. Admission $10-12. Call (714) 895-8150

Happy weekending! :)


-Blythe


on my iTunes: The Arcade Fire's "Keep the Car Running"

Tuesday Nights at Forest Lanes

Forest Lanes in Lake Forest has a reputation for offering all sorts of fun- from their karaoke nights to beer pong nights to cosmic bowling to Friday nights with a live DJ. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, their Quartermania Special (after 8 pm) involves a $7 entrance fee and then each game is only 75 cents. Not only that, but pizza slices are 75 cents, and beer is $2.

Also, every Tuesday night, from 5pm to 9pm, various food trucks gather at the Forest Lanes parking lot.

"On the night I went the following trucks were present: Calbi, Seabirds, Crepes Bonaparte, Barcelona on the Go, Taco Dawg and a few others I can't remember off the top of my head," says Riche of Laguna Beach. "The great thing about this event are the short lines, the ability to bring your food into the bowling alley to dine on their tables (even in the bar where they have drink specials), the overall choice of various trucks and the fact that there's plenty of free parking."

Enjoy this veritible rolling food court while it lasts!

Also, visit this link to fill out a short form to receive two free bowling passes!

Forest Lanes is located at
22771 Centre Drive
Lake Forest 92630

Call (949) 770-0055 for more information.

-Blythe
on my iTunes: Death Cab's "Different Names For the Same Thing"

A Midsummer Night's Dream at South Coast Repertory

Lovers in the woods, the mischief of fairies, a royal wedding, and the tragicomic play of labor workers. All this and more is bundled up in South Coast Repertory's production of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.

"Led by the wildly inventive director Mark Rucker, off go four young lovers into The Woods on a midsummer evening—when strange and wonderful things are likely to happen.  This shimmering Shakespearean fantasy features the antics of supernatural creatures—the fairies led by Oberon and Titania and, of course, the impish Puck, who creates chaos in the night.  But what fun to join in the dream, knowing that by daylight all will be well in a mystical, moon-drenched masterpiece."


The main action of the play revolves around four lovers who suffer, in various way, from the perils of I love him, but he loves her, and she loves another him, and he loves me. We've all been there before. Things get really murky (and hilariously so) when the fairies of the forest (here portrayed as a band of gypsy-like pajama party-ers looking to cause mischief and steal clothing off the lovers one article at a time) meddle in the humans' affairs with potent love potion from a flower struck by Cupid's arrow. This results in a scantily clad group of befuddled young people trying to make sense of the sudden changes in affections. What fickle lovers we mortals be!

[Nick Gabriel, Kathleen Early, Dana Green and Tobie Windham in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare.  Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

Meanwhile, the fairy king and queen, Oberon & Titania, are experiencing a relational dilemma of their own. Oberon is angry with Titania for taking possession of an Indian boy whom she refuses to give up to be Oberon's henchman. Queen or not, to defy the king is not kosher in this fairy kingdom. To get back at her, Oberon has his assistant, Puck, put the aforementioned love potion into Titania's eyes, setting her up to fall in love with the first beast or animal she sees when she wakes.

[Elijah Alexander and Susannah Schulman in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

While all this heavy love and fairy action is taking place, a group of common laboring men are rehearsing a play to present to the Athenian king and queen- Theseus and Hippolyta- at their upcoming wedding reception. This ragtag group of dudes provides much (but certainly not all) of the comedic relief of the play. Keep your eyes out for Hal Landon, Jr., who you should recognize as Scrooge from SCR's annual production of A Christmas Carol.

[(l. to r.) Hal Landon Jr., Richard Doyle, Patrick Kerr, William Francis McGuire, Michael Manuel and John-David Keller in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

[(l. to r.) John-David Keller, Patrick Kerr, Michael Manuel, Richard Doyle, Hal Landon Jr., and William Francis McGuire in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

Back to the fairy king and queen's marital tiff: Puck comes upon the rehearsing laborers and transforms the central actor, Bottom, into a donkey. Well, he turns his head into the head of a donkey. Many jokes regarding asses ensue. Titania awakes and falls for Bottom, who has the head of an ass, and Oberon's plan to humiliate her is well underway.

[(clockwise from bottom left) Dylan DoVale, Ryan Jones, Jaycob Hunter, Jordan Bellow, Rudy Martinez, Emmett Lee Stang, Susannah Schulman, Jennifer Stang and Patrick Kerr in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

Without giving away much more of the story, I'll simply say that what follows is nothing short of hilarious and well-played by all involved. At the end of the play, when most play-goers settle into a comfortable lethargy at the story's resolution, this story stirs its viewers into fits of laughter for the funniest scene of all.

[Richard Doyle and Patrick Kerr in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

Also, in this unique and intriguing production of the classic play, the fairies at times burst into dance and song set to psychedelic soul music. And why shouldn't they? I'd do the same thing if I were a fairy, methinks.

[Susannah Schulman in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

All that to say, you simply won't want to miss this one. Each actor shines in his/her own right, and the individual charms and quirks of each fit swimmingly into the play's action, making it a stunning production overall.

For tickets or further info, visit SCR's website.

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Feist's "1 2 3 4"

The February issue is here!

The time is finally here! The February issue of The OC Gazette is out! Another bonus of this week is the Super Bowl XLV on Sunday. A double whammy, as they say! Turns out the Steelers are fans of The OCG (see photo of enthusiastic Steeler toting the new issue*)!

This issue contains all kinds of nuggets, like: Dr. Marangu's Age Management Medicine (Lose weight and feel great, safely and effectively with the Metabolic HCG Diet!), Off the record with Debbie Reynolds, the Art of Cake Making at Cinderella Cakes Bakery, Spotlight on Soroptimst International, the History of Lake Forest, our 3rd Annual Why We Love OC editorial, and more!

Click here to find out how to nab your own copy, or click here to flip through a virtual issue online.

Happy February and happy reading!

-Blythe
on my iTunes: St. Vincent's "Marrow"

*The OCG makes no official claim as to the validity of this photo, or loyalty to the Steelers.

Little Red Dress Cocktail Party

The only thing better than a great night out with girlfriends or your main squeeze is a great night out in honor of an incredible cause. Tomorrow, February 4th, The St. Regis Monarch Beach is celebrating with a Little Red Dress Cocktail Party at Michael Mina's Stonehill Tavern featuring a selection of delicious and heart-healthy menu items and the newly unveiled, exclusive Rose Petal Martini. A portion of proceeds from the signature Go Red For Women items will benefit the American Heart Association (AHA). And the best part is that all attendees who wear any piece of red clothing in honor of National Wear Red Day will receive a complimentary Rose Petal Martini!

Guests and locals are invited to continue the celebration in the Lobby Lounge and to make a night of it with A Time for Pleasure, offering 20% off stays. Rate code: PLEASURE.

When:             Friday, February 4, 2011

                        6 – 10pm

                       

Where:            STONEHILL TAVERN

                        The St. Regis Monarch Beach

                        One Monarch Beach Resort

                        Dana Point, CA  92629

Admission to the Little Red Dress Cocktail Party is complimentary.  For dinner or resort reservations, please call 1.800.722.1543 or visit www.stregismb.com.

For more information about the Little Red Dress Cocktail Party, Jenn Myres, Amie Rubenstein or Courtney Geesey at Glodow Nead Communications, 415.394.6500 or jenn@glodownead.com

-Blythe

on my blip: Jenny Lewis & the Watson Twins' "Happy"

Mile Square Regional Park Presents the 2nd Annual Monarch Butterfly Day

Visit Mile Square Regional Park this Saturday, February 5th, from 10 am to 2 pm for the 2nd annual Monarch Butterfly Day.

Children and families can learn everything about the California Western Monarch Butterfly and its habitat with an up-close look at the magnificent creatures while they flutter through the Butterfly Garden and inside netted butterfly enclosures in the park’s Camp Sycamore. Children can help the Butterfly Garden continue to grow by planting one of three different types of milkweed in the garden to attract Monarch Butterflies. More than 100 milkweeds will be available for planting on February 5. Butterfly experts will also be on-site to provide educational information and answer questions about the beautiful and unique specimens.

Additional event activities include children’s crafts, face painting, interpretive center tours and guided nature walks through Mile Square Regional Park’s nature area. Each child in attendance will receive native seeds as a take away to continue to help build safe habitats for Monarch Butterflies and other creatures. 

Date: Saturday, February 5, 2011
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Mile Square Regional Park
Address: 16801 Euclid Street, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Website: http://www.ocparks.com/milesquare/
Cost: Free
Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6600 or (714) 973-3197
Special Instructions: Recommended for ages 4 to 12. Rain will reschedule this event. Monarch Butterfly Day

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Dr. Dog's "Hang on"

Schedule for the OC Music Awards Free Showcases & a chance to win $500 to Best Buy

For the first time ever in the ten year history of the OC Awards, fans have a say in which showcase artists advance to the finals. When fans vote online for their favorite showcase artist, they are automatically entered to win a massive prize pack from the generous Awards partners. OC Music Awards is proud to announce the 2011 anniversary Fan Vote prize pack which includes a $500 gift card from Best Buy, one year of complimentary Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, two tickets and one hotel room in Las Vegas for Red Bull’s SoundClash on March 12 (featuring Cee Lo vs. The Ting Tings), a free one year supply of pop chips, and a custom OC Music Awards guitar compliments of Ernie Ball.

Tonight, the OC Music Awards Showcase Series makes its fifth stop of the season at Tiki Bar in Costa Mesa for the third event in the Best Live Band Showcase category. All the OC Music Awards partners will be onsite. Bud Light will feature a special pour, team pop chips will be distributing tasty chip snacks and have their fan photobooth out in action, the Wahoo’s Fish Taco truck will again be giving away 50 free tacos to the first 50 takers and serve tacos throughout the event and KROQ’s favorite personality, Beer Mug, will play host to all the madness.

There are only two weeks left before the Showcase Series Finals! Fans can visit OC Music Awards FANVOTE online NOW through February 15 and enter to win the huge prize pack and help one artist in each category with the most votes automatically move onto the Showcase Series Finals.

2011 Showcase & Awards ScheduleTues. 2/15, 7:30pm – The Slidebar, Fullerton (Best Live Band, FREE, 21+)
Echo Echo (Santa Ana)
Stereofix (Costa Mesa)
Fiction Reform (Orange County)
We Are the Arsenal (Costa Mesa)
BLOK (Costa Mesa)

Event: 2011 OC Music Awards Best Live Band Showcase
Date: Tues. 2/1/11
Time: 7:30 – 12pm
Location: Tiki Bar
Address: 1700 Placentia Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Details: FREE, 21+
Artists to Perform: She Screams Remedy (Anaheim), Entice (OC), Railroad to Alaska (OC), Pistolero (Costa Mesa), Seedless (Orange)
RSVP: FACEBOOK

Tues. 2/08, 7pm – The Gypsy Den, Santa Ana (Best Live Acoustic, FREE, All Ages)
Justin Soileau (Orange County)
Micah Brown (Dana Point)
Parker Macy Blues (Costa Mesa)
Danny Maika (Huntington Beach)
The Foxx & Da Hound (Tustin)

Thurs. 2/24, 6pm – Fullerton Museum - (Listening Wall Exhibit Opening, FREE, All Ages)
Thurs. 2/24, 7:30pm – Fullerton Museum – (Best Live Acoustic Finals, FREE, All Ages)
Fri. 2/25, 7:30pm – The Galaxy, Costa Mesa - (Best Live Band Finals, FREE, All Ages)
Sat. 3/5, 7pm – Grove of Anaheim - (OC Music Awards, $25, All Ages)

Visit OC Music Awards online by clicking here.

-Blythe
on my blip: Feist's "Sealion"

13th Annual Fight Night at Marconi Museum

Al Unser, Sr. Named First Celebrity Guest at 13th Annual FIGHT NIGHT Fundraiser at Marconi Automotive Museum

Friday, March 4, 2011

(ORANGE COUNTY, CA – January 2011) – For the 13th consecutive year, the Marconi Automotive Museum will serve as the venue for an action-packed evening of world-class boxing and men’s and women’s world-title kickboxing as it hosts Fight Night XIII on Friday, March 4, 2011 (Marconi Automotive Museum is at 1302 Industrial Drive in Tustin).  This year’s fundraising event, which his sanctioned by the California Athletic Commission, will feature celebrity guests, including four-time Indy 500 winner Al Unser, Sr. and actor Tommy “Tiny” Lister (The Dark Knight, Jackie Brown, The Fifth Element). During the evening of professional boxing, guests will be able to enjoy Mardi Gras-themed festivities, including a sit-down dinner and French Quarter sipping bar. All proceeds will benefit the Marconi Foundation for Kids and the Starkey Hearing Foundation.

In addition to a live auction, the event will feature a never-before-used silent auction system with a wirelessly automated bidding process. Doors open 5:30 p.m. with dinner and boxing at 7 p.m. General seating is $600 per guest, with additional sponsorship packages listed below. A portion of each ticket is tax-deductible and tickets must be purchased in advance by calling the Marconi Foundation for Kids at 714.258.3001 or visiting http://www.MarconiMuseum.org <http://www.MarconiMuseum.org/> .

“Fight Night has come to be known as more than a premiere sporting event, it is a fundraising initiative that has benefited so many valuable causes for more than a decade with the help of many sports figures and celebrities, including William Shatner, Sugar Ray Leonard and Arnold Schwarzenegger – and this year, automobile racing legend Al Unser, Sr.,” commented Priscilla “Bo” Marconi, who, with her husband, entrepreneur Dick Marconi, has been producing Fight Night for 13 years, and raises $1 million annually for at-risk children through the Marconi Foundation for Kids.  “This year, Dick and I, along with the other members of our Board of Directors, anticipate a tremendous event – our most successful to date.”

Limited media will be allowed into the event and all photographers or camera crews interested in attending must contact Mona Shah at Moxxe PR at mona@moxxepr.com <mailto:mona@moxxepr.com>  no later than Thursday, February 24, 2011 to obtain credentials.

The Marconi Foundation for Kids Board of Directors is comprised of dedicated members of the community, including Founder Dick Marconi, Priscilla “Bo” Marconi, Mark Bogh, Lulu Halfacre, Navin Narang, Torin Pavia, George Peterson, Ivo Tjan and Stuart Wallach.

Event Sponsorship
Platinum Sponsorship is $25,000, which includes prime platform seating for 12 guests, ringside banner, photo opportunity with celebrity guests and athletes, bottle of champagne and championship belt presentation. Gold Sponsorship is $15,000, which includes prime platform seating for 10 guests, ringside banner, photo opportunity with celebrity guests and athletes, and bottle of champagne. Silver Sponsor is $6,000, which includes prime platform seating for 12 guests, ringside banner.

About the Starkey Hearing Foundation
In 1984, the Starkey Hearing Foundation started with a simple premise: "Alone we can't do much. But, together we can change the world." With “So the World May Hear” as his goal, Starkey Hearing Foundation founder William F. Austin built an organization upon this vision Today the Foundation is sustained by the efforts of thousands of volunteers and donors around the world. The Foundation delivers more than 50,000 hearing aids annually through more than 100 hearing missions a year in countries stretching from the U.S. to Vietnam. In addition to giving the gift of hearing, it promotes hearing health awareness while supporting research and education. For more information, visit http://www.starkeyhearingfoundation.org/.

About The Marconi Foundation For Kids
The Marconi Foundation for Kids was started by Marconi Automotive Museum Founder Dick Marconi in 1994.  Marconi's philosophy, passed down from his father is simple yet defining: Learn, Earn and Return.  LEARN through a higher education, EARN through hard work and perseverance, RETURN to others in need. The Marconi Foundation for Kids is a 501 (C)(3) nonprofit organization committed to giving a large percentage of the net proceeds, generated from special events and individual/group tours to local children's charities. Through the many corporate and individual client partnerships, the Marconi Foundation for Kids will continue to strive toward the goal of raising $1,000,000 a year for at-risk youth.  For more information on the Marconi Foundation for Kids, call 714.258.3001 or visit http://www.MarconiMuseum.org <http://www.MarconiMuseum.org/> .