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"

Happy 2011!

Let us be among the first to wish you a happy new year! May your 2011 be filled with friends, food, and fun! ...And maybe a helpful resolution or two (including the resolve to shop, buy, and dine locally, perhaps?).

Happy New Year from The OC Gazette team!

Some last ideas for tonight, for those of you who live on the edge (aka didn't get your act together earlier....it's ok).

1) Detroit Bar, just named one of the top greatest music venues in the 21st Century by Flavorwire, will celebrate New Year’s Eve with Nytehype Productions Static Fridays presenting two rooms of great DJs, drink specials, champagne specials, and a complimentary toast at midnight. Visit Detroit Bar online for more details and to check out the new website that launched December 1!

2) Tin Lizzie will ring in the New Year with a complimentary champagne toast at midnight and party favors given out all night. The saloon is also open regular hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for when the family becomes too overwhelming.

There you have it! 6 great ideas for NYE! Go forth and party! ;)

Happy New Year's from all of us at The OC Gazette!

-Blythe
on my iTunes: Feist's "I Feel it All"

Way to Celebrate New Year's Eve, Idea 4

Back again with another fun idea for NYE! On New Years Eve, Memphis Café (Costa Mesa) and Memphis at the Santora (Santa Ana) will be serving the staple dinner menu with the addition of a special holiday menu sampling created just for the evening by Executive Chef Diego Velasco. Reservations will be accepted until 9pm in Costa Mesa and 9:30 in Santa Ana.

Following dinner, the NYE “Wig Out” Countdown Party kicks off at 10pm at both venues. At Memphis Cafe, wear your favorite weird wig and dance the night away with DJs Cocoe, Hyder, and other special guests spinning soul, hip hop, disco, house, and hip hop. There is NO cover (!!) and $3 champagne and $5 Jameson will be flowing all night long into the New Year. At Memphis at the Santora, resident DJ’s The Downtown Collective, will be spinning funk, soul, 80’s and rock. Complimentary champagne toast will be passed at midnight!

Join Memphis Café and Memphis at the Santora for a little hair of the dog on New Years Day for a bottomless mimosa and bloody brunch beginning at 10am.

Check back tomorrow for a last minute idea #5!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Fleet Foxes' "Sun It Will Rise"

Way to Celebrate New Year's Eve, Idea 3

Today's NYE idea is another good one: How does live jazz sound to you? Splendid, no? Steamer's Jazz Cafe in Fullerton hosts live jazz almost every night of the year, and New Year's Eve is one such night!

I've personally attended Steamer's NYE bash two different years in the past, and it's a blast- and there's free champagne at midnight! This year, the Chris Williams Sextet will be performing, and you can wine and dine the night away to the smooth tunes they play!

It's $10/person to attend, and you are expected to order two or more items throughout the night, which- with their delicious menu- is no hard feat (I recommend the pita & hummus plate, the BBQ Chicken mini pizza, a glass of the house white wine, the hot chocolate, and one of the numerous cheesecake options). See the full menu here.

You are strongly urged to call and make reservations if you plan to attend: (714) 871-8800

-Blythe 

on my iTunes: Animal Collective's "My Girls"

Way to Celebrate New Year's Eve, Idea 2

Back with another great idea for New Year's Eve: On December 31, The St. Regis Monarch Beach will host an unforgettable evening of inspired dining at Stonehill Tavern, and music, dancing, and signature cocktails in The Lobby Lounge. 


The New Year’s Eve Prix Fixe Menu at Stonehill Tavern includes six-courses and an optional sommelier wine pairing. Guests of the Forbes Four-Star Stonehill Tavern will enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience, offered by Michael Mina and Executive Chef Rory Sandoval; $235 per person, $335 with wine pairing (includes entry to The Lobby Lounge and two drink tickets); reservations available from 6 – 9 p.m.


Combining chic style with incredible music by a guest DJ, dancing, party favors, signature cocktails and a champagne toast, the New Year’s Eve Celebration at The Lobby Lounge will be a night to remember.  Guests and locals are invited to arrive early and stay late; $75 per person, including two drinks; 9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.


After ringing in 2011, guests and locals are invited to enjoy a delectable New Year’s Day International Breakfast Buffet at Motif, complete with the St. Regis signature Bloody Mary Station; 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.; $35 per adult, $19 per child (ages 5-12), $10 per Bloody Mary.


Check back tomorrow for another NYE idea!


-Blythe


on my iTunes: "I'm Good I'm Gone" by Lykke Li

Way to Celebrate New Year's Eve, Idea 1

We're always eager to give you guys ideas for fun local things to do- whether it's a new restaurant to try out or an eco workshop to attend. New Year's Eve is no exception; we're here to help you find something fun to do, since- let's face it- most of us get caught up in the Christmas hubbub that NYE gets pushed to the back burner.

Over the next few days, we'll be throwing some ideas your way here on the blog (in no particular order [even though the ideas will be numbered]).

The first idea I'm going to send your way is the one that requires the most planning: New Year's in San Francisco. Sounds awesome, right?

W San Francisco’s WOW New Year’s Eve Party is arguably the most sophisticated and stylish New Year’s Eve soiree in all of San Francisco. For those of you who want to slip out of town for New Year’s Eve, W San Francisco (181 Third Street) is the place to be.

The exclusive fete features specialty cocktails from Bacardi and Grey Goose, and late-night dancing to beats from DJ Scotty Boy. Tickets start at just $65/person, and bottle service is available for an additional fee. For tickets, click here. 

Get ready for the bash with a five-course tasting menu at XYZ Restaurant prepared by Chef Paul Piscopo, which starts at $100 per person (get there at 6pm! 8:30pm seating bumps up to $150/person).

Best of all, plan on taking the lift home since hotel guests receive discounted admission to the bash.  Then, enjoy New Year’s Day with Bloody Mary Bottle Service at XYZ featuring an array of the finest condiments, Grey Goose vodka and Bloody Maria shooters.

-Blythe
on my pandora station: "Party Like it's 1999" by Prince

Wishing you a Merry Christmas

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and the very happiest New Year!

Tune in next week for some fun ideas for how you can celebrate New Year's Eve!

Things to do this weekend in OC: 12/16-19

Just wanted to drop you a quick note with some fun activities you can add to your weekend plans! Let's get to it, then:

Tonight, Thursday 12/16 through Saturday, 12/18: Andy Williams at Segerstrom Hall in Costa Mesa. Still thrilling audiences more than 40 years after his debut, Andy Williams has crooned his way into the hearts of multiple generations. His quintessential interpretation of "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" highlights our Pops Christmas special, which also features other Williams' hits including "Moon River," "Music to Watch Girls By," "Can't Get Used To Losing You" and "Days of Wine and Roses." Shows start at 8pm each night. Tickets start at $25. Call (714)755-5799 for more info.

Tomorrow, Friday, 12/17 & Saturday, 12/18: 36th Annual Boat Parade of Lights in Dana Point. Shows start at 7:30 both nights. Call (949) 923-2255 for more information. FREE.

Saturday, 12/18: Christmas at the Zoo at OC Zoo inside Irvine Regional Park from 10am-3pm. Santa, crafts, the holiday train, and more! $2/child. $5 to park. Call (714) 973-6847 for more info.

Saturday, December 18th at 2pm: Poker Fundraiser at Reign Training Center in Lake Forest. Complete with pro fighters as dealers, autographed shirts, shorts, hats, and boxing gloves (by Mark Munoz, Krzysztof Soszynski, Urijah Faber, Chad Mendes, Joseph Benavidez, Mayhem Miller, Kand many more) as raffle prizes, and delicious sandwiches catered by Mr. Pickles!  $25 pre-registered, $40 at the door. Call 949-916-9898 for more info.


Saturday, 12/18 at 2pm & 7pm: Maple Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker at Northwood Performing Arts Theatre in Irvine. Tickets start at $20. Call (949) 660-9930 for more info. If you can't make it on Saturday, there are also shows on Wednesday and Thursday nights.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: "Let Me Go" by Cake

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

Gifts That Keep Giving

What do you do when you want to help those less fortunate than you, but you don't have the spare time to volunteer or the extra cash to donate? At Christmas time, the need for help is as present as ever, but time is scarce and, after we check off all the names on our gift lists, so is money. Have you thought about buying gifts with purpose? These are gifts that are not only great gifts, but they help others.

This month's issue of The OC Gazette includes a gift guide filled with gifts that keep on giving. We found a host of local nonprofits who offer some really cool products- from t-shirts to beanies to bracelets- and listed a handful of them in this guide. When you buy from these organizations, all (or a large portion of) the proceeds go to help others.

One such organization that we included is International Sanctuary, an Irvine based nonprofit that offers beautiful and unique jewelry made by young women in India who were rescued from sex trafficking The girls are paid 100% above fair trade wage.

Here is a sneak peek at some of the jewelry iSanctuary offers:

Beautiful, no? All these items are $20 or less. !!

You can browse these items and more by visiting International Sanctuary's online shop or by visiting their store in Irvine at:

17777 Main St. C-2
Irvine, CA 92614


(Store open Thursdays 10am-8pm & Saturdays 11am-2pm
December 12/2, 12/4, 12/9, 12/11,12/16, Last Shopping Day 12/18)

For more info, call 949.752.7788 or email info@isanctuary.org

Be sure to check out the December issue and the full gift guide on page 18, which includes gifts from other great local organizations like Krochet Kids, Kauzbots, 31 Bits, OneHope Wine, and more!

Happy shopping!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Radiohead's "Nice Dream"

Holiday Lights and Where to Find Them in OC

[Bob Seger, anyone?]

It's beginning to look an awful lot like Christmas, friends. Indeed, the holidays are upon us, and nothing says holidays like the holidazzle of Christmas lights. Residents across the county (and, turns out, the nation) are popping holiday lights up onto the edges of theirs houses, and some even put up those moving lit up reindeer on their lawns and roofs! It's a site to see, indeed.

Which leads me to my main point of today's blog: Christmas lights. Wondering where the tradition began? Wondering where you can find the best ones? You're in luck: both questions are answered in the December issue of The OC Gazette magazine! Our long time contributing writer Jordan Carver went out in the field for us to research the history of Christmas lights, as well as to compile a list of the best places to see light displays across the county (and even some just a little outside of it that will be well worth your drive)!

Click [here] to read the article online, or click [here] to find out how to score a hard copy of the issue.

Happy light viewing!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Local Natives' "World News"

Hit the slopes @ Big Bear!

With Thanksgiving approaching faster than a mob of door-busting deal-lovers on Black Friday, it's only a matter of time before the sound of Christmas music resounds from every store and radio station and sales of all items containing peppermint begin to peak. What this also means is that winter, glorious and fearful winter, is approaching (as close as it ever will, at least....you can't touch So. Cal, winter! You just can't!). While many Orange Countians have come to dread- or even hate- the ever-so-slightly colder weather (granted, the morning chill can be pretty fierce- I wear mittens in my car while I wait for my engine to warm up), some of us find it a welcome change from the curse of endless summer, and regard it as a very merry way of ringing in the holiday season.

I myself am a transplant (grew up in another state- I KNOW: shocking. "How is she qualified to work for the OC Gazette?!"). Scoff as you might, I like the cold. I grew up in Seattle, WA, which is a lot like OC, except swap the 10 months of sunshine thing with 10 months of gloom. Minor difference. I'm sure there are plenty of other transplants among the OCG readers, and even some pure-bred Californians who also like the cold this time of year. SO MUCH SO, in fact, that you head for the hills- er, mountains- to seize the cold in its finest form: snow.

Ah, snow. A beloved beast. A feared and revered friend. An awe-inspiring spectacle to Californians of all shapes and sizes (a great equalizer, in that way). The amazing thing about OC is this: drive less than an hour west and you'll hit the beach; drive less than two hours northeast-ish and you're in the snow-covered mountains at Big Bear! Skiing! Snowboarding! Inner tubing! Snow angels! Yellow snow! Er, scratch that last one. Cozy lodging and warming up by the fire with spiked egg nog!
I don't even particularly like egg nog and that still sounds great.

Now is the perfect time to plan a family (or romantic) jaunt out to Big Bear and revel in the glorious snow-laden holiday season. Big Bear Resort plans to begin lift operations tomorrow. Imagine: you could spend your Thanksgiving in the mountains! Or, skip out on the threat of imminent death-by-trampling and spend Black Friday and the following weekend burrowed away in cozy lodge dwellings! The hardest part will be deciding between hot beverages: hot apple cider, hot cocoa, or the aforementioned nog? Take a few of the Harry Potter books and you've got a recipe for AWESOMENESS.

Big Bear Mountain Resorts (Bear Mountain and Snow Summit) recently fired up its snow guns (unfortunately So. Cal clouds are infertile, as far as the snow-bearing business goes) to set the stage for the 2010/2011 season. Thanks to favorable weather conditions (nightly temps dropping into the 20s and low humidity), the crew at BBMR was able to make it snow for over 12 hours! Wish I could've been there to catch snowflakes with my tongue (cue music: "Snowflakes that fall on my nose and eyelashes...")!

Here are some quick looks at a few of this year's added and improved amenities:

Skill Builder Parks™ at Bear Mountain

Designed for beginning terrain park skiers and snowboarders, these areas offer snow features, rails, boxes and transitions to help guests test their skills and bring their skiing and riding to the next level in a comfortable, pressure-free environment. Each feature has a do-it-yourself instructional sign, offering a trick description and tips on getting started, polishing skills and even ski and snowboarding etiquette.

Senior Ticket Rate –For the first time ever, BBMR is introducing a special Senior ticket rate for guests 62 and older, an average savings of 20 percent per ticket. For the full 2010-2011 ticket rate schedule visit www.bigbearmountainresorts.com.

Learning Center & Board Room Remodels – Renting just got easier! Snow Summit has made improvements to its rental shop this season, so guests can spend less time in line and more time on the slopes. Bear Mountain has also remodeled its learning center and combined snowboard and ski rentals in one central location, this way families and friends who are enjoying the day together but may not necessarily all ski or all board can still rent their equipment in the same building.  

Run Improvements & Snow making – BBMR’s fanatical commitment to snow making and nearly unlimited supply of water from Big Bear Lake means guests can expect reliable quality snow conditions every day of the season, regardless of natural snowfall. Simply put, Big Bear Mountain Resorts offers more and better snow throughout the season than any other resort in Southern California.  New for 2010-2011, Bear Mountain has purchased two new "snowcats" for faster, better trail and park grooming. In addition, $500,000 in new fan guns have been added at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain.  With  expanded fan gun electrical distribution to several additional runs, both areas will be able to make more snow in a shorter period of time than ever before.

Daily Snow Reports – Now you can enjoy daily snow reports in the palm of your hand! From your cell phone, text the word "SNOW" to 52406 to receive on-demand powder alerts and regular updates from Big Bear Mountain Resorts. Customize the messages you receive on bigbearmountainresorts.com. Standard data and text rates apply.

For up-to-the-minute snow reports, go to:

Bear Mountain: http://www.bearmountain.com/snowboard/snow-report/current-snow-report/

Snow Summit:  http://www.snowsummit.com/ski/snow-report/current-snow-report/

OK, I know: information overload. I'll stop while I'm [hopefully] ahead. But I hope I've successfully inspired you to seize the winter and head for the hills to revel in our own winter wonderland that is Big Bear! Remember to bundle up!

-Blythe 

on my iTunes: Elton John's "Candle in the Wind"

Coming Soon: Our Interview with Max Weinberg

I have an exciting bit of news for you guys - this past weekend, OC Gazette staffer Amy Hood and I attended the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach's Summer Jazz Series kick-off event (I blogged about it a couple weeks ago, remember?), and were given the rare pleasure of meeting and interviewing legendary drummer Max Weinberg (of Bruce Springsteen's E-Street Band and Conan's Tonight Show band- the Max Weinberg 7)! You'll get to read all about our talk with him in the August issue of The OC Gazette - so stay tuned!

In the meantime, here are a couple photos to tie you over:

[Amy, in all her professional interviewing glory, schmoozing it up with Maxie]

[Max, introducing his bandmates]

Stay tuned, folks! You won't want to miss our exclusive interview!

The Hyatt Regency Newport Beach's Summer Jazz Series continues this Sunday with a grand fourth of July celebration - the night will include performances by the Sax Pack, special guest Nick Colionne, and a firework show! Click here for details and tickets!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Michael Buble's "Feeling Good"

Fathers Day Brunch

Poor Dad always gets shafted on the Father's Days brunch when compared to Mother Dearest. So following is a list of some great OC dining spots featuring Father's Day brunches, from pubs, to cantinas, to wine bars, there's something for every dad.

{Haven's vast collection of beers on tap.}

Haven Gastropub
Address: 190 S. Glassell Street, Orange, CA 92866
Phone: 714-221-0680
Hours: 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.
Father's Day Special: Let Haven Gastropub's Executive Chef/Partner Greg Daniels treat Dad to “gourmet comfort food” that has earned this restaurant some significant attention. Don’t forget that each dish can be paired with a craft beer; cocktail (Haven offers a full bar with a tremendous selection of specialty single-malt whiskeys), malt scotch and bourbon; or one of 48 wines by the glass!

SOL Cocina
Address: 251 East Coast Highway, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Phone: 949-675-9800
Hours: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (brunch); 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (lunch); and 4:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Father's Day Special: Bring Dad in on Father’s Day for Sunday Brunch or a special lunch or dinner from a menu created by Executive Chef Deborah Schneider!

{Lucca's delicious desserts and vegetables.}

LUCCA
Address: 6507 Quail Hill Parkway (Quail Hill Village Center), Irvine, CA 92603
Phone: 949-725-1773
Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (brunch) and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (dinner)
Father's Day Special: This Father’s Day, LUCCA will feature something Dad can enjoy with the entire family: an extravagant brunch buffet. The popular Father’s Day brunch will feature a full buffet with a wide variety of options, including items from an egg and omelet station, featuring local, cage-free eggs; and a deluxe carving station with certified Angus beef tri-tip and Diestel free-range turkey breast. The Father’s Day brunch buffet is $29.95 for adults ($24.95 without Champagne).
For those looking for something for Dad to really sink his teeth into, LUCCA will showcase its acclaimed food with Father’s Day dinner specials of fresh seasonal salads, entrée specials, and most especially, a selection of LUCCA’s favorite Euro mini pastries!

{The Winery Restaurant in Tustin.}

 

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
Address: 2647 Park Avenue, Tustin, CA 92782
Phone: 714-258-7600
Website:
Hours: 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Father's Day Special: Celebrate Father’s Day at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, named “Restaurant of the Year” by the OC Concierge Association the past two years. Enjoy contemporary California regional cuisine, in a hip, vibrant, sophisticated setting, for a cutting-edge dining experience. The Winery has planned a very special Father's Day, complete with dinner specials including Prime Rib, New Zealand Elk Chop, Grilled Lobster, and much more, courtesy of Executive Chef/Partner, Yvon Goetz (who is also a proud father!). Reservations recommended: 714.258.7600.

Taco Rosa

Address: Locations in Newport Beach and Irvine

Phone: Newport Beach - (949) 720-0980, Irvine - (714) 505-6080Hours: 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Father's Day Special: Taco Rosa has an amazing Sunday Brunch. It features 30 items and unlimited sparkling wine for $15.95 for adults and $7.95 for kids under 11. Never done gourmet mexican? Don't believe it exists? Just check out this little gem. 

{Step outside the box and try Don the Beachcomber.}

Don the Beachcomber
Address: 16278 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Phone: 562-592-1321
Hours: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Father's Day Special: Don the Beachcomber offers an alternative to the boring tie – how ‘bout a MAI TAI? Treat Dad to a Father’s Day BBQ Brunch with bottomess draft beer from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 20. Dad has an option of two seating times, 10 a.m. and noon, both featuring Tapua shows and live FIRE dancers! As part of the barbeque brunch, Dad can really sink his teeth into Fried Chicken, Skirt Steak, Grilled Salmon, Baby Back Ribs, Sliders, Polish Sausages and Rocky Mountain Oysters. There will be a variety of sides and a large selection of scrumptious desserts! All Dads will receive a free gift. Reservations required by calling 562-592-1321. Dinner menu served  from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

{The delicious brunch at Prego.}

Prego Ristorante
Address: 18420 Von Karman Avenue, Irvine, CA 92612
Phone: 949-553-1333
Hours: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Father's Day Special: This Father's Day, bring your family to PREGO for a Father’s Day brunch! From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  In addition to bottomless Bloody Marys and mimosas for only $6.50, the menu offers a variety of egg entrées, including omelets, eggs benedict and frittatas, along with vanilla French toast, Belgian waffles and “Prego-style” beignets. Prego will serve its lunch menu in addition to the new brunch offering from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. For reservations, call 949.553.1333.


Enjoy, and don't forget to tell dad how much you love him.


- Amy
On my blip.fm: Deer Tick's "Baltimore Blues No. 1"

15 Weeks of Jazz: 2010 Hyatt Regency Newport Beach JAZZ SERIES

Jazz lovers, have you heard? The 2010 Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Summer Jazz Series starts next Friday, June 25th with Max Weinberg's Big Band. The series will last 15 consecutive weeks, all the way till October 1st!

Every Friday night starting June 25th through October 1st (and a special show on July 4),* a diverse collection of jazz musicians will entertain audiences at the intimate outdoor amphitheater, surrounded by a serene and lush landscape, at Hyatt Regency Newport Beach.

 

Building on the success of the past 18 years, this summer’s stellar line-up of 15 revered jazz acts embodies exceptionally talented vocalists, songwriters, and multi-instrumentalists.

Below is the schedule of just the first six weeks' line-up (click the image to enlarge it):

I will be attending June 25th, along with Amy, The OC Gazette's interviewer-extraordinaire. We're so excited to see Max Weinberg in action!

[Max Weinberg]

For those of you who may not immediately recognize this chap, he's the legendary drummer of Conan O'Brien's Tonight Show Band. He's also well known for his longtime role as the drummer in Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band. I told you-- this guy's the real deal. The big cheese. The whole enchilada. You get the point.


Do you have plans for the 4th of July yet? That holiday always seems to creep up on me and catch me by surprise, without any plans on how to celebrate. Does that ever happen to you? Well, here's some great news! The series' schedule boasts of a sure-to-be-smashing 4th of July bash. The night will include music from The Sax Pack (Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Cole, and Jackiem Joyner) joined by Nick Colionne.

[The Sax Pack's Steve Cole]

[The Sax Pack's Jackiem Joyner]

[The Sax Pack's Jeff Kashiwa]

The following weeks will wow crowds with performances by the likes of jazz pros like Mindi Abair, Warren Hill, Norman Brown, and plenty more.

[Mindi Abair]

[Warren Hill]

[Norman Brown]

“With an ensemble of top musicians in the genre for the 2010 series, this year’s outstanding group of performers showcase a range of jazz sonance from traditional to contemporary and smooth jazz, to R&B and big band. Our vision this year – as the new event management company – is to enhance the popular series with expanded talent, increase outreach to the public, heighten community involvement and sponsorships, and give an overall polished identity to grow the series for years to come.”

-Event Producer and Promoter Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald of Wendy Jayne Productions, Inc.


Here's the FULL line-up:


· June 25th Max Weinberg Big Band with 12 piece Horn Section
· July 4th Sax Pack - Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Cole & Jackiem Joyner with Nick Colionne
· July 9th Warren Hill
· July 16th Norman Brown's Summer Storm with Phil Perry, Jessy J & Brenda Russell
· July 23rd Mindi Abair with Special Guest Keb Mo
· July 30th Guitars and Saxes with Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Golub & Peter White
· August 6th Bobby Caldwell with 14 piece Big Band
· August 13th Fourplay
· August 20th Steve Tyrell
· August 27th The Rippingtons
· Sept. 3rd Special Guest TBA
· Sept. 10th David Sanborn
· Sept. 17th Special Guests TBA
· Sept. 24th Euge Groove with Special Guests Paul Brown & Marc Antoine
· Oct. 1st Peter White


Tickets can be purchased at www.SummerJazzSeries.com or by calling the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach box office at (949) 729-6400. Dinner packages, reserved seats, sky boxes and overnight accommodations are available.

This is at the top of our summer to-do list here at The OC Gazette - we hope it makes its way onto yours! Let us know which night you plan to attend!

-Blythe
on my Pandora: Mindi Abair's "Flirt"

Alternative Mothers Day

T minus 2 days until Mother's Day. Which loosely translates as you have two days left to get mom a gift that will not only show her how much you love her, but leave a lasting impression. Flowers and chocolates are all fine and dandy, but I like to give gifts that can offer an experience or at the very least a great laugh, because it's these two things that are the makings of good and lasting memories!

So following are a few things that you can find within the pages of The OC Gazette for the perfect "Alternative Mother's Day," shall we call it.  

{Sarah of Psychic Predictions.}

1. A Psychic Reading from Psychic Predictions by Sarah

What woman doesn't want to know when, where, with who, and what is going to happen next? We are an inquisitive species. So indulge mom's curiosity and take her in to see Sarah. If you've never done it before, it will be an experience you can share together. How many kids are going to take their mothers to get a psychic reading? It's completely original and will be something she won't forget! Mention The OC Gazette and get your reading for only $25!

Psychic Predictions by Sarah

17 Vantis Dr.

Aliso Viejo, CA (North of Pacific Park, off of Aliso Viejo Pkwy.)

949-643-9999

{K1 Speed}

2. K1 Speed Indoor Kart Racing

What says I love you like beating mom for 1st place on a go kart while trash talking through the finish line? Exactly. This isn't only for "NASCAR" or "Sporty Mom", "Environmental Mom" can love this too! K-1 uses electric karts, which besides offering superior performance than gas powered karts, also have a much lower environmental impact (no noxious exhaust fumes). Check out their website for more details or call. Mention The OC Gazette and they'll give you $5 Off your membership as well! We're always looking out for your wallet. 

K1 Speed Racing

Check the website for location information.

3. Green Expo at the Dana Point Harbor

What better way to celebrate mother's day than to celebrate Mother Earth? You can help celebrate Mother Earth and help mom save some dough by taking her to the Green Expo where she can find tons of eco-friendly products and services. Exhibits will also be set up amidst the lovely scenery of the Dana Point Harbor to educate attendees on Sustainable Living, Clean Energy, Healthy Lifestyles, Recyclables and Green Building. If you grab an issue of the OC Gazette at any one of our rack locations [click here for the list] there is a coupon to save $3 off your ticket at the gate, or buy your tickets online at OCGreenExpo.com/g5 and save $5 with the special OC Gazette code: GC5. 

Green Expo

Dana Point Harbor

{Delicious Divine Desserts Cupcakes.}

4. Cupcakes from Divine Desserts

OK, so this isn't really edgy or alternative, but who in their right mind doesn't love cupcakes?  Combine one of the above alternative options with a year's subscription to Divine Desserts! Yes, that's what I said, a year's subscription. Just like you'd order a magazine subscription, you can order a monthly cupcake subscription for a year from Divine Desserts which you can pick up monthly. They'll give you a cupcake punch card and all mom has to do is show up to redeem the tasty morsel since you paid for them all up front. The best part? You get $36 worth of cupcakes for only $20. That's a $16 savings! In this kind of economy $16 is nothing to sneer at. That could be 4 meals at In-N-Out. Or 5 gallons of gasoline. It's a win-win scenario.

Divine Desserts Etc.

27261 La Paz Rd, Suite G

Laguna Niguel, CA

949-305-3355

{Greg Atwood of Glass Spectrum.}

5. Stained Glass Classes at Glass Spectrum

Greg Atwood, owner of Glass Spectrum, holds a degree in Art from CSUF and thirty-two years of business experience under his belt. Besides all this he might possibly be the nicest guy you've ever met. A true Orange Countian, Greg pulls up to his shop every day in his Glass Spectrum truck full of glass with a surfboard on top. I promise I'm not a Peeping Tom. I know, because he works right next to us here at The OC Gazette. Which is also how I know that he teaches stained glass classes just about every semester through Saddleback's Community Education programs. Greg is the perfect teacher: patient, experienced, and fun. Families that learn together, stay together. So sign you and mom up for one of his classes. You'll come out of it closer and with a few nice pieces of art to show as well! Call the shop or visit the website for more details!

Glass Spectrum 

27601 Forbes Rd. #40 

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

949-582-5776

Carpe Diem

- Amy

On my iTunes: Conway Twitty's "Hello Darlin'" 

{This one goes out to my dear friends Tim Moore of TimMooreDesign.com, and Chris De Armas over at American Vintage Tattoo - who is now taking appointments by the way. Make that #6 on my list of Alternative Mother's Day gifts in fact. Call him at (949) 257-8215 and your mom could look like this fine lady below.}