Paper Crane Folding Event to Support Japan

To help raise hope and spread awareness for the victims of the recent Japanese earthquake and tsunami, Segerstrom Center for the Arts and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County are hosting an origami paper folding event on Tuesday, April 19 from 5 – 9 p.m. in the lobby of the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. The community is invited to learn to fold and make paper cranes, with the ambitious goal of creating 1,000 cranes. In Japanese culture, the crane is a symbol of hope, luck and prosperity and folklore says the act of folding 1,000 cranes grants a wish. The completed cranes, with our wish of health and recovery for the Japanese people, will be sent to cultural arts organizations in the affected areas of Japan.

The paper folding event coincides with a concert by the internationally acclaimed Tokyo String Quartet in Samueli Theater. Members of the Tokyo String Quartet and Japanese Consul General Junichi Ihara are expected to be on hand to participate in making cranes. The ensemble is performing as part of the Philharmonic Society’s JapanOC, a festival being held in partnership with Carnegie Hall to explore the fascinating diversity of Japanese and Japanese-American arts and culture. While by no means necessary, donations for Japanese relief efforts will also be accepted at the concert.

The public is invited, and origami paper will be provided.

-Blythe
on my iTunes: Chris Brown's "Yeah 3x"

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"

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"

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"

iSanctuary Training Meeting

Interested in social justice? Stopping human trafficking on both a local and global level? International Sanctuary is an Irvine-based nonprofit organization that goes to great lengths in the fight against human trafficking. For one, their online boutique offers an array of fabulous jewelry made by women rescued from the sex trade. Purchasing a product from iSanctuary provides a foundation for survivors futures; proceeds offer rescued girls vocational training, education, and monetary savings upon their transition from the aftercare home.

If you're interested in these issues, in learning more about iSanctuary, or in offering your time to volunteer, attend the free Interest & Advocacy Training Meeting tonight in Irvine.

Tuesday, 1/18, from 6:30-8pm at

17777 Main St. C-2
Irvine, CA 92416

For more info, call (949) 752-7788

By attending, you are not automatically offering your time in the future; however, if you are interested in volunteering, attending a training meeting is mandatory.

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Beirut's "Nantes"

Rock the Garden NAMM Concert Series

OC MUSIC AWARDS HOSTS ROCK THE GARDEN NAMM CONCERT SERIES AT GARDENWALK IN ANAHEIM

THREE NIGHTS OF FREE LIVE LOCAL MUSIC 1/13-1/15 
Anaheim GardenWalk and OC Music Awards host a three night concert series on January 13th, 14th and 15th from 6-10pm during the 2011 NAMM Show. Each concert features three local Southern California bands performing live. All concerts are outside under the stars at GardenWalk's "Gala Garden" and FREE. The venues of GardenWalk will be offering food and beverage discounts during each event. Spend a hectic day at NAMM and relax in the evening at GardenWalk! RSVP on FACEBOOK.

Rock the Garden Concert Schedule

THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 6-10PM, FREE
BILLY KERNKAMP
BIG BAD WOLF
MICHAEL ROSAS
with DJ Velvet Touch

FRIDAY, JANUARY 14, 6-10PM, FREE
THE COLOR TURNING
TWO GUNS
THE RELATIVE STRANGERS
with DJ Daria

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 6-10PM, FREE
STONE AVE.
SOUL HUSTLERS
MARC B.
with DJ Velvet Touch

Visit OC Music Awards online, become a Fan, Friend, Follower, and Subscriber
2011 marks the 10^th Anniversary of OC Music Awards, Orange County’s premier annual music event acknowledging the best in local talent and providing opportunities to further the success of our musicians and the OC music scene.

2011 OC Music Awards

2011 marks the 10th anniversary of the OC Music Awards, Orange County’s premier annual music event, honoring the best and brightest in local talent. Over the past 10 years, the Awards has provided a platform for local artists to gain recognition and exposure in one of the nation’s most vibrant music scenes. Each year the Awards presents a season of live music starting with a free weekly Showcase Series running January through February, and leading up to the Awards night ceremony on March 5th, at the Grove of Anaheim, where the music industry comes together to honor the achievements of local artists in 26 category genres. Proceeds from the OC Music Awards benefit Music for a Cure, providing music therapy programs to children’s hospitals.


I was able to attend the 2009 OCMAs and one of the free showcases leading up to last year's Awards, and I can tell you first hand that if you have any interest in local music- or heck, music in general- you simply must go to this year's OC Music Awards night and/or as many of the showcases as you can manage. They're FREE, after all!

Over 500 artists submitted online at ocmusicawards.com to participate in the 2011 Showcase Series. 35 talented artists were selected to compete. It is always free to submit, participate and attend the Awards Showcases Series, supporting the Awards mission to provide further opportunities and exposure for local musicians within their own music community.

The Showcase Series allows bands and musicians to compete for the honor of the "Best Live Band" and "Best Live Acoustic" awards. Here is the complete list of the upcoming showcase nights, along with who is scheduled to perform:

Tues. 1/11, 7pm – District Tustin Legacy, Tustin (Best Live Acoustic, FREE, All Ages)

Skee (of Sunset Beach)

Honeypie (of Huntington Beach)

Headshine (of Huntington Beach)

Canvas (of Santa Ana)

Stacy Clark (of Costa Mesa)

Tues. 1/18, 7:30pm – The Gypsy Lounge, Lake Forest (Best Live Band, FREE, 21+)

The Gromble (of Laguna Niguel)

Strange Birds (of Costa Mesa)

May McDonough (of Orange)

Kiev (of Orange)

California Condors (of Orange)

Tues. 1/25, 7pm – The LAB, Costa Mesa (Best Live Acoustic, FREE, All Ages)

The Orange Effect (of Anaheim)

Brothers of the Castle (of Santa Ana)

I Hate You Just Kidding (of Costa Mesa)

Case Brothers (of Newport Beach)

Fast Forward Romance (of Orange)

Tues. 2/01, 7:30pm – Tiki Bar, Costa Mesa (Best Live Band, FREE, 21+)

She Screams Remedy (Anaheim)

Entice (Orange County)

Railroad to Alaska (Orange County)

Pistolero (Costa Mesa)

Seedless (Orange)

Tues. 2/08, 7pm – The Gypsy Den, Santa Ana (Best Live Acoustic, FREE, 21+)

Justin Soileau (Orange County)

Micah Brown (Dana Point)

Parker Macy Blues (Costa Mesa)

Danny Maika (Huntington Beach)

The Foxx & Da Hound (Tustin)

Tues. 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)

Thurs. 2/24, 6pm – Fullerton Museum, Fullerton - (Listening Wall Exhibit Opening, FREE, All Ages)

Thurs. 2/24, 7:30pm – Fullerton Museum, Fullerton – (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, become a Fan, Friend, Follower, and Subscriber

Happy listening!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Local Natives' "Wide Eyes"

Moocher Monday Giveaway: Gift Certificates to Mr. Pickle's!

It's no secret that Monday is the least favored day of the week. After two glorious days off with Friday and Saturday (like two cool kids whose parents don't care how late you sleep in, or how much red licorice you eat), here comes Monday, like a Debbie Downer, forcing you out of bed against your will at an unseemly hour, and then urging you back to work. No matter how much you love your job, Monday morning brings out a bit of the blues in all of us.

Well, The OC Gazette is here to bring you good tidings of better Mondays! We've been offering weekly giveaways for a few months under the moniker "Moocher Mondays," in an effort to redeem the least-best day of the week. From concert tickets to restaurant gift cards to theater tickets to clothing to spa treatments, we've given away a whole boatload of goodies to our readers and Facebook fans as a way of saying, "Thank you, gentle reader. Here's lookin' at turning that foul Monday into the start of a prosperous week!"

And now, to the point! Today is, as you know, Monday. Go ahead, let out a long sigh. Now suck it back in, because your luck is about to change! Today, we're giving away goodies to not one, not two, but THREE lucky readers! We've got three $10 gift certificates to Mr. Pickle's Sandwich Shop to give away today! Mr. Pickle's is a fun and fresh local eatery where you can find such scrumptious sandwiches as the "Hang Loose," with hot pastrami, bacon, cream cheese and avocado (!), or how about "The Hot 'T'" - hot turkey, melted pepper jack cheese, baja and cranberry sauce? These are just two of the TWENTY specialty sandwiches available at Mr. Pickle's, not counting the seven classic sandwich choices available! You certainly have options at Mr. Pickle's, which is more than most Mondays can offer you. 


Mr. Pickle's Sandwich Shop is located in Lake Forest, at:
23591 Rockfield Blvd.
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Phone: 949.770.2685


To enter, simply peruse Mr. Pickle's menu and leave a comment on this post with the sandwich(es) you'd buy with your gift certificate! Please also include your email address, or we won't have a way to let you know you've won! Your information will not be used by us for any other purpose than to contact you regarding your prize. **** For an extra entry, become a follower of this blog! Scroll down until you see the "Followers" section on the right hand side of this blog. Click "Follow," and then leave a second comment letting us know that you're now a follower!


Three winners will be selected using random.org tomorrow morning at 11am, so leave your comment before then to be eligible! 


Good luck and hope this helps turn your Monday around. ;)


-Blythe


on my iTunes: George Harrison's "My Sweet Lord"

This Weekend in OC: 12/10-12

Hey guys! I know you've probably been on the edge of your seat, waiting for this week's edition of "Things to Do This Weekend in Orange County," right? You're probably looking at your blank planner or iCal, just itching to fill in this weekend's time slots with fun and festive things to do locally, yes? Ah, good. You're in luck! There's fun-o-plenty this weekend! See for yourself:

Thursday, 12/9 at 10:15pm: Rocco Deluca at The Gypsy Lounge. Call (949) 206-9990 for more info.

Friday, 12/10 at 8:30 pm: Benefit for Orangewood Children's Home at The Gypsy Lounge, with performances by Honeypie, Jameson, Melanoid, and The Trade. Call (949) 206-9990 for more info.

Friday, 12/10, from 6-8pm: Tustin Tree Lighting at Tustin Civic Center/Library Plaza. Special Guests: Santa, Mayor, the ELF, Grinch, and Frosty the Snowman. Free photos with Santa, and  performances by local non-profits: Kids Corner, Foothill Carolers, Pioneer Middle School, Guin Foss Junior Girl Scout Troop 194, Guin Foss Brownie Troop 1584, Loma Vista Girl Scout Troop 122, Ballet Folklorico, Tesoros de Mexico, Academy of Dance and HBP Dance Extreme. There will also be a holiday boutique at the Community Center from 4-8pm. FREE.


Friday, 12/10 from 7-9:30pm: Soka University Student Music Recital at Soka's Founder's Hall (3rd floor Meeting Room) in Aliso Viejo. An evening of musical performances by students. Call (949) 480-4000 for more info. FREE.

Saturday, 12/11 at 10am: Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade. On Crown Valley between Nueva Vista and Crown Valley Community Park. The theme for this year's parade is "Celebrate America." Come watch the largest and most creative display of community in the City’s history! The parade will be filled with beautiful equestrian units, patriotic and inspirational military tributes, spirit filled youth groups, classic auto clubs, talented marching bands, and more! FREE. Call (949) 425-5100 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 at 10 & 11:30am: Hot Chocolate with Santa & Friends at Bowers Museum in Santa Ana. Free with museum admission. Call (714) 567-3600 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 at 12:30-4pm: Nutcracker for Kids at Segerstrom Hall in Costa Mesa. A condensed version of a Christmas classic for children. Tickets are $24 and up. Call (714) 755-5799 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 at 2pm: Winds and Brass at Chapman University's Salmon Recital Hall, in Bertea Hall. FREE. Call (714) 997-6815 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 from 5-7pm: Holiday Music Celebration, at Mason Regional Park in Irvine. Sing along, Santa, and more. Come and see performances by our local high school’s performing arts department. Bring a thick blanket to sit on. Dress warmly. If it rains, event is canceled. A special story will be read with audience involvement. FREE. Call (949) 923-2220 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 at 5pm: Strings and Piano at Chapman University's Salmon Recital Hall, in Bertea Hall. FREE. Call (714) 997-6815 for more info.


 Saturday, 12/11 at 8:30 pm: Live Music at The Gypsy Lounge, with performances by Plastick, Sean Murphy and the Rubber Band, Hell and Half of Georgia, and The New York Ninjas. Call (949) 206-9990 for more info.

 Saturday 12/11 and Sunday, 12/12 from 5:30-8:30pm: Candlelight Tour at Heritage Hill park in Lake Forest. Stroll through restored 19th century buildings adorned in period decor and listen to Victorian carolers, live entertainment and storytellers in each building. Refreshments and Santa will also be around! 1,000 luminaries, entertainment, snacks, and more. Call (949) 923-2230 for more info. $3 for kids, $4 for adults.

Just a handful of ways to make it a great weekend! Have fun, folks!
See a whole month-full of great local events on our December calendar page!

-Blythe

on my Pandora: "Maps" by The Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Winter Cactus & Succulent Sale

Any green thumbed readers out there? Big news!  The Orange County Cactus and Succulent Society is hosting its annual Winter Cactus and Succulent Sale this weekend at the Fullerton Arboretum! From 10 am to 4pm starting today through Sunday, you can visit the Arboretum and find dozens of vendors with thousands of various cactus and succulent plants on sale. This is the largest sale of its kind in the region and it's only held twice a year. Don't wait till July- go today! Parking and entrance are free, but visitors are encouraged to make a voluntary contribution at the Arboretum entrance. 


Even if you don't have much of a green thumb, succulents make a fabulous introduction to gardening as they require very little water and attention. In other words: this is a great intro to gardening for anyone! Cacti and succulents also make great gifts, seeing as how they are growing in popularity and, arguably, in chic-ness.

Visit the Fullerton Arboretum's website for further info.

Happy shopping!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: The Shins' "So Says I"

This Weekend in OC

I realize it's only Tuesday, and this post is coming a little earlier in the week than most of our "Things To Do This Weekend in OC" posts, but I also know that with December comes a flurry of holiday parties, prep, shopping, wrapping, etc etc etc, so I want to give you as much time as possible to make room in your schedule for these cool upcoming events.

The first weekend in December promises to be a good one: we've got boat parades, tree lightings, concerts, Santa, candle dipping, pier lighting, and more! Check it out, in date order:

Friday, 12/3, from 4-8 pm: Holiday in the Harbor at Dana Point Harbor. Frosty the Sno-Man, Heebie & Jeebie, Holiday crafts tables, "people painting"- glittery paintings on hands, arms, and faces, Santa's workshop puppet show, and Jolly old Saint Nick will be in his sleigh out in front of Harpoon Henry's, ready for pictures and a visit with the kids. There will also be appearances by Dickens Carolers, Abbitt the Average, The Jack Straws, Zany Shoppers, and Balloon guy Andrew! Free admittance. Call (949)923-2255 for more info.

Saturday, 12/4, 10am-7pm: Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Anaheim at Center Street Promenade and Lemon Street. Free holiday crafts for kids, free train rides, holiday music, free picture with Santa, free snow play (bring mittens and boots), international food fair, and unique gift shopping!

Saturday, 12/4, 4:15-9pm: San Juan Capistrano Tree Lighting at Historic Town Center Park. San Juan Hills & Capistrano Valley High School Orchestras and our City's very own Ballet Folklorico dance group will perform on stage.   Students from a local Conservatory of the Arts have designed a stage production filled with song and dance.  The official lighting of our Christmas Tree takes place at 5:45pm after which a candle light procession will lead guests out of the park and over to the San Juan Capistrano Mission and downtown area for more festivities.  Additional activities taking place throughout the downtown area will include a free mechanical "Holiday Train" ride for the kids, photos with Santa in Los Rios Park, activities at the San Juan Capistrano Mission, Live Nativity, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo & Hayrides at ZOOMARS on Los Rios & River Street.  For more information call (949) 493-5911.

Saturday, 12/4, from 11am-3pm: Victorian Christmas at Heritage Hill Historic Park in Lake Forest. the park’s historic buildings will be adorned in turn-of-the-century holiday finery with costumed docents hosting. The Bennett House and the Serrano Adobe will feature quilt displays and weaving and spinning demonstrations. There will be handicraft vendors, festive holiday entertainment, free children's crafts, living history demonstrations, historical exhibits, tours through the decorated, historic buildings and visits with Santa Claus. Children can participate in old-fashioned, hands-on activities, including churning butter, candle dipping, decorating cookies with Mrs. Claus and making ornaments and crafts. Children of all ages can visit with Santa in the arbor area. Call (949) 923-2230 for more info.

Saturday, 12/4 & Sunday 12/5: Feast of Lights. A festive program just in time for the holidays brings together the chorale ensembles, under the direction of Dr. Scott Farthing, and the Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Carmen Dominquez, for a presentation of music of the season. Tickets are $20 general admission, or $18 for students and seniors. Call (949) 582-4656 for more info.

Saturday, 12/4 & Sunday 12/5, from 10am-2pm: Boat Rides with Santa at Dana Point Harbor. Free boat rides with Santa! Bring your camera and take a free picture with him. Call (949)923-2255 for more info.

Sunday, 12/5, from 4-7pm: Pier Lighting and Holiday Parade at Huntington Pier. Activities will include a children’s parade on Main Street, entertainment at Pier Plaza, Taste of Main Street and a snowflake lighting ceremony at the pier. The parade will start at Orange and Main St. and will end at the Pier Plaza. After the parade, the entertainment will begin at the Pier Plaza. While at the Plaza, Mr. & Mrs. Claus will be available for children to take pictures! Call 714-842-6600 for more info.

 

Sunday, 12/5, from 4:30-7:30pm: Winter Holiday Event in Aliso Viejo at Grand Park. Celebrate the arrival of Santa & Mrs. Claus, the official Lighting of the Tree, live entertainment, complimentary cookies & hot chocolate, and visits with Santa after the formal program. Bring your camera to capture your child's special moment with Santa!Call 949-243-7750 for more info.

 

 

Sunday, 12/5, from 3:30-7pm: Orange Tree Lighting at Old Towne Orange Plaza. Festivities begin with Orange non-profit food booths and childlren's activities at 3:30 p.m. Then, the official musical program, inclduing a 350-voice choir and 60-piece orchesra led by Music Director Michael Short, begins promptly at  5;15 p.m. This year's program narrator is Dr. William Hall, Dean of Performing Arts at Chapman University. Please contact the Community Services Department's Special Event Hotline at 714-744-7278 for more information.

Sunday, 12/5, from 3pm: Menorah Lighting at Fashion Island in Newport. Celebrate Hanukkah with singing and festive traditions at the Menorah Lighting Ceremony, to be held at 3pm in the Atrium Garden Court near the lower level of Barnes & Noble. For more information, please call the Chabad Jewish Center Newport Beach at (949) 721-9800.

What did I tell you? So many great events! Happy planning! :)

-Blythe
on my blip.fm: Camera Obscura's "If Looks Could Kill"

Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival

Feeling crafty? Maybe you  just like buying crafty things? Well, you're in luck! There are two upcoming Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festivals where you can buy some sweet, one-of-a-kind handmade items and vintage goods from local sellers. Now's the time to wow your friends with a great new headband, necklace, or purse- or better yet, to get a leg up on your Christmas shopping! You're sure to find something clever for everyone on your list!

 

There are two dates and locations to choose from:

1) Nov. 21st at Long Beach's Marine Stadium, 11-5pm

2) Nov. 28th in Santa Ana at Main St. @ Buffalo, 11-5pm

For more info, visit Patchwork's website here!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Ariel Pink's "Life in LA"

This Weekend in OC: 11/11-14

 

It's Wednesday, and you know what that means! Well....you may not know what it means, unless you've made a clever assumption based on the snazzy header of this post and noticed my one-week-streak of posting upcoming weekend events for you guys on Wednesdays. And that's exactly what today's post is concerning: giving you the scoop, the fill-in, the buzz, the 4-1-1, the happs - and so on- regarding some fun things for you to do in Orange County this weekend!

Ready? Pen and paper in hand? Good. Here goes: 

Tomorrow, Thursday, 11/11:

Hullabaloo Children's Concert! Take your tots to Grand Park in Aliso Viejo. Kids and parents will be clapping, stomping,  singing, and more at this FREE outdoor concert from 11-11:45am. Arrive early to meet other moms for morning cardio: Push your kids in their stroller and join Stroller Strides for one FREE hour of cardio from 9:30-10:30!

Night of Indulgence! From 6-9pm, visit Salon Sauvage for a special night of pampering! Complimentary services, including mini spa services and hair services, complimentary wine and cheese, complimentary skin care and hair care products from Prive, Epicuren, SudzzFx, Phytomer, and White Sands, a Gift Basket Raffle, and $30 Sauvage Bucks (good for future a Salon Sauvage visit) when you bring a friend! Call for details- Appointments are required: (949) 661-2055

Feathery Friends Toddler Program - Kiddos ages 3-4 can come learn about birds- even those that can't fly! Class is from 10-11am at the OC Zoo in Orange (1 Irvine Park Rd.) and includes hands-on learning and fun crafts. $5/child and $3 to park. Phone registration required: (714)973-6846


Friday, 11/12:

Charlotte's Web: The Musical - The refreshed take on E.B. White's classic story hits Laguna Playhouse's Moulton Theater Stage this weekend and runs through 12/21. Tickets are $18-20/person. Call (949)497-2787 for more info.

Discovery Hike: From 9am-12pm, explore beautiful Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park as you discover its wildlife with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this moderate but steep, uneven, and rocky 5 mile hike. $2/person and $3 to park.  Meet at Canyon View Staging Area, Gate 7. Reservations required: (949)923-2235.

Night Hike: From 5:30-7pm, come to the first of a series of three night hikes with the Irvine Park Rangers. A visit to the nature center for hot chocolate and cookies begins the night at 5:30, followed by a live animal demonstration, and finally, an easy 30 minute star lit hike. FREE with FREE parking in lot #19. Meet at the Nature Center with a warm jacket, a flashlight, and good walking shoes. Call (714)973-6833 for more info.

Saturday, 11/13:

Come hang out with me and Amy!

Gamble the night away with celebrities and sports stars at TACA's 4th Annual Ante Up for Autism Event!

One in every 91 children has autism. Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) provides support and education to over 18,500 families across the US who are touched by autism. On Saturday night, come try your luck for a good cause- and join celebrities, athletes, and professional poker players who plan to do the same. Clifton Collins Jr. of NBC's The Event, That Thing You Do actor Johnathon Schaech, One Tree Hill actress and singer Kate Voegele, actor Jonathon Silverman, actress Jennifer Finnigan, Deal or No Deal model Leyla Milani, musician and author Michael Ward, actor Jacob Vargas, retired Anaheim Ducks player Scott Niedermayer, former NFL quarterback Jim Everett, world champion cyclist (and OC native) Brian Lopes, Olympic track and field athlete Lolo Jones, Olympic gold medal hurdle winner Felix Sanchez, retired pro baseball player Jim Gott, Motocross racer Ernesto Fonseca, and many more. 

Event includes cocktails on the resort line, tournament poker, a live and silent auction, and tips from poker stars! 

Tickets are available at www.anteupforautism.org or email Violette Prentice at (949)640-4401. The event will be held at St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, red carpet entry beginning at 5:30pm and general admission beginning at 7pm. 

Native Plant Hike: From 8-11am, enjoyed unspoiled canyon views and learn about the geology of OC on a strenuous, 3.5 mile hike. $2/person and $3 to park. Meet at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (east side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR 133, just North of the 73 Toll Road). Call for more info or directions: (949)923-2235

Sunday, 11/14: 

StandUp on the Vine Event at Bacchus Secret Cellar: You should remember reading about this one a couple days ago on the blog (scroll down or click here). This Sunday, Bacchus Secret Cellar in Irvine is hosting StandUp On The Vine, a wine tasting charity event benefiting StandUp For Kids. StandUp For Kids is a nonprofit organization that helps homeless youth in OC. The event goes from 5-8 pm. Tickets are $35 per person, and include wine tasting, appetizers, desserts, and entertainment. All profits  will go to StandUp For Kids, and all you have to do is SitDown and Sip! For more info, call: (949) 502-4600.

Family Survival: Camp Cooking - Hands-on survival and disaster preparedness at the Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach. 1-5pm. RSVP required by calling (949)645-8489.

Geology Hike: From 8-11am, enjoyed unspoiled canyon views and learn about the geology of OC on a strenuous, 3.5 mile hike. $2/person and $3 to park. Meet at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Willow Canyon Staging Area (20101 Laguna Canyon Rd, just South of El Toro Rd. intersection). Call for more info or directions: (949)923-2235

Many of these events (and plenty others) are listed on the calendar page of The OC Gazette! Nab a copy to keep on top of all the fun local happenings!
So much to do, so little time! Happy weekend-ing folks! :)

-Blythe


on my iTunes: Tom Petty's "Square One"

Go Outside

How are you guys liking this sudden "second summer" we're having? I don't know about you, but I'm thoroughly confused by it - an abnormally gloomy October followed by a first week of November that hits temps in the 90s and arguably surpassed 100 degrees (according to my sister)? It's a fickle and unpredictable Mother Nature we have, and - since we've been listening to a lot of Simon and Garfunkel in the office these past couple days - one might redirect the tune "Cecelia" (about a capricious lover) to be about Mother Nature. Think about it: "Nature, you're shaking my confidence daily...."
Ok, so it's a bit of a stretch, but hopefully you see what I mean. Nature is fickle.

HOWEVER, when the weather is as nice as it's been all of a sudden, and when it blesses us with sunshine as it has this past week so unexpectedly, you must take advantage!

That's the purpose of this post today: to give you a few great ways to take advantage of these golden days:

Fitness Hike - November 6th (tomorrow!) from 8:30 -10:30 am at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Fast-paced 3.5 mile hike over steep and uneven terrain. $2/person, parking $3/car. For info: (949) 923-2235.


First Saturday Public Tour - November 6th from 12:15 - 4:30 pm at George Key Ranch Historical Park in Placentia. Walk through historic orange grove, picnic under a heritage oak, or relax in the verse garden. Free with free parking. Call for info: (714) 973-3190.


Saturday Morning Hike - November 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th at 9 am at O'Neill Regional Park. One hour interpretive hike. Free, $5 to park. Call for info: (949) 923-2260.

Recreational Mountain Bike Ride - November 7th from 8-10 am at Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 10 mile ride over steep and uneven terrain with OC Parks ranger and volunteer mountain bike trail assistants. $2/person, $3 to park. Call for info: (949) 923-2235

Nature Hike - November 7th, 14th, 21st from 9-10am. Easy 1 mile hike on the Nature Trail at Caspers Wilderness Park in SJC. Free, $5 to park. Call for info: (949) 923-2210.


Wild at Wieder - Critter Crops - November 8th from 10:30-11:30 am; fun-filled exploration of the natural environment at Wieder Regional Park through hands-on activities, crafts, and nature walks. $5/person, Free to park. Call for info: (949) 923-2275.

Exploring Biodiversity Hike - November 9th from 9am-12pm at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Learn about the biodiversity of animal and plant species on an easy, 1.5 mile hike over rocky and uneven terrain. $2/person, $3 to park. Call for info: (949) 923-2235.

Wilderness Access Day at Limestone Canyon - November 9th from 9am-3pm. Enjoy self-guided access to Limestone Canyon. Free and free to park. Call for info: (714) 973-6865.

Yoga Hike - November 10th from 8:30-10:30am at Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. Stretch your mind and body on this 2.4 mile hike with a yoga twist over steep and uneven terrain. $2/person and $3 to park. 


Tideland Tykes - November 10th and 24th at Peter & Mary Muth Interpretive Center in Upper Newport Bay. Fun-filled parent and child experience that may include arts and crafts, storytelling, hands-on activities, or outdoor nature walks. $5/child. Free to park. Call: (949) 923-2235.

Discovery Hike - November 12th from 9am-12pm at Wood Canyon.  MOderate but steep and rocky 5 mile hike. $2/person, $3 to park. Call (949) 923-2235.

Night Hike - November 12th from 5:30-7pm at Irvine Regional Park. Hot chocolate and cookies at the Nature Center from 5:30-6pm followed by a live animal demonstration. Then it's off on an easy, 30 minute starlit night hike. Free and free to park. Park in lot #19. Call for info: (714) 973-6833.

There's plenty more where that came from! Check out OC Parks' website for more great outdoor adventures!

-Blythe

on grooveshark: Simon and Garfunkel's "Cecelia"
Check out Local Natives' great cover of "Cecelia" below:

This Weekend in OC

 

There used to be a cartoon called The Weekenders about a rag tag group of kids who I can only assume, since I never actually saw the show, lived for the weekend (their theme song ended with the line, "I'm living for the weekend"). It may only be Wednesday today, but it's always nice to have something to look forward to (i.e., the weekend). For us Orange Countians, there's always something fun to do on the weekend.

Take this weekend, for example; you have a whole slew of fun events to choose from:

 

Tomorrow, hit the 1st Thursday Artwalk in Laguna Beach, where you can check out galleries for free, see cool local artist demonstrations, live performances, etc:

Beginning Friday, the Laguna Beach Hunger Bowl, which includes music, art, a silent auction, and food, all to raise awareness about Hunger and Homelessness. Your ticket gets you 6 soup tastes in a handmade ceramic bowl that's yours to take home, a soda, and a dessert:

Also on Friday, the Taste of San Clemente! Foodies rejoice! The event goes from 6-10:30pm at the Rancho San Clemente Tennis Club, and includes food, wine, entertainment and dancing:

Friday night is also Astronomy Night at Rancho Sonado in Silverado Canyon! Grab the kiddos, strap on your boots and warm clothing, and head up for a sunset hike with an evening under the stars with constellation stories. Only $5/person! 6:30-8:30pm. Reservations required: (714) 708-3885

 

Another Friday night idea: the Irvine Holiday Faire at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. From 5-9pm, More than 150 artists will showcase unique, handmade items for purchase. Never to early to start your Christmas shopping! Event also includes live music and food. The Faire continues on Saturday:

Any chocolate lovers out there? I hope you're sitting down for this: On Friday night, the OC Chocolate Fest will be held from 5-9pm at Miles Square Park in Fountain Valley. Wowzers. Over 100 vendors of fine chocolates, wine tastings, and gifts:

Finally, on Saturday morning, you can attend a Composting Workshop from 10am-noon at the OC Great Park for FREE. Learn to recycle your greens to make a healthy substance for plants and soil:

There you have it, folks; plenty of fun things to do this weekend, and plenty of time to plan to do them! Let us know if you go to any of these events, and send us your pictures!

By the way, all of these events and many more are included in the November Events page in this month's issue of The OC Gazette. Be sure to check out the Events page every month for more great local events!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: "Tiny Dancer" by Elton John