Ancient Art

Date: February 18, 2015
Destination: Volcanic Tablelands
Cost: Gas only

I was traveling northward to celebrate a big birthday - 60 to be exact. (Wow, I can actually say it.) I wanted to impart meaning to this milestone, and also to come to grips with my impermanence, so I decided to visit the Red Canyon Petroglyphs, just north of Bishop.

The high desert east of the Sierra Nevada is fine rock art territory, with panels created by Paiute-Shoshone perhaps as far back as 9,000 years ago. The most astounding array is in the Coso Mountains, on the protected land of the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station. These glyphs can only be viewed on guided tours led by the Maturango Museum. But the Volcanic Tablelands north of Bishop have some awe-inspiring panels on basaltic outcroppings scattered throughout the sagebrush plain. They're easily accessible and therefore subject to theft and vandalism.

Because of this, public agencies prefer not to put the locations of this ancient art out on websites, but instead ask that visitors stop by the information center in Bishop, where they will provide directions. This way, they can see the faces of those planning to visit, which deters harm.

It was a climate-change warm February afternoon when I arrived, without so much as a whisper of a breeze - rare for this locale. A family had parked nearby, and kids were scrambling over rocks at one end of the parking area, so I went in the opposite direction and stopped at one of my favorite panels.

I love that some of this art is so identifiable (bighorn, footprint, man) and some is so abstract (spaceship? map? mantra?) Why were these ancient people here? What were their thoughts? What were their lives like? The glyphs offer more questions than answers. Through some casual research I've learned that these sites were probably visited by shamans and the rock carvings were often part of rituals which included the use of natural hallucinogenics. It's likely these outings coincided with hunting events and maybe this art was created to appease the gods or rally the troops. The power of these carvings  lies in the fact that we can never know and must extract our own meaning.

I left the main site and began walking eastward toward the majestic Sierra. The views behind me of Chalfant Valley, Boundary Peak and the White Mountains were awesome. I'd heard that there are many rock art sites on the Tablelands that aren't marked with kiosks and parking areas and you just need to wander around the outcroppings to find them - so I began doing this. In the past, this has not been a successful experiment, but today I found a solitary design at the top of a plateau that intrigued me. It looked something like this:

This clearly meant something to the artist - but could it mean something to me? The best I could come up with is that home contains a person, a hearth and water - and you can carry this with you. Not a bad sentiment from a rock.

Blub Blub

Date: February 6, 2015

Destination: Mrs. Fish

Cost: $13.00 plus gas

I descended down the staircase into the heart of the new DTLA. Surrounding me were the pretty people of the city, and above me hung a large aquarium - its bright inhabitants gliding through water like the dolled-up guests in the club I'd just entered. Lush gold-fringed curtains lined the walls and kitschy furniture was placed strategically. It felt like a movie set.

I had come to Mrs. Fish to hear a musician-friend play. I love opportunities like these to visit venues I'd normally not seek out. Located in Pershing Square, adjacent to the popular bar, Perch, all that's noticeable from the street are large black double doors and a small sign, attended by a bouncer and a velvet rope. It was early in the evening - the set was to start at eight - and I'd had the good fortune to find free street parking right around the corner.

Once inside, I was relieved to find a mixed crowd (even two seniors), but patrons skewed toward young professionals. Many men were attired in suits and most women donned the current uniform of skintight short knit dresses and staggering pumps. I hung out at the bar, nursing a Mirror Pond from Deschutes Brewery and listening to a band fronted by Mina Ledesma, which did not include my friend.

I swam through the three-leveled club, like the fish above me, and found a nice seat at the downstairs bar with a view of the stage. I pulled out my phone, double checked facebook posts and realized my friend had performed here the night before. Oops. As consolation, the friendly bartender introduced himself, thanked me for "gracing his bar," and offered up a free refill of my brew. The night had been slow so far, he explained.

I stayed and people-watched for a while and then took a stroll outside around Pershing Square. Wandering into the Biltmore Hotel, I enjoyed the glorious architecture and  the historical photos of Academy Award ceremonies long past. The lounge was grooving with a jazz combo and lots of patrons, which gave me ideas for a future Saturday night. I was able to walk in to the grand ballrooms and remember the elegant weddings and events I'd been fortunate to attend there decades ago.

Before too long, it was time to jump back on the 101, happy in the knowledge that I would no longer be intimidated by the downtown club scene. 

Elvis is in the Building

Dates:  November 29, 2014 & January 23, 2015

Destination: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Red Rock Resort, Las Vegas

Cost: $8 plus gas            

I was in Las Vegas with a bunch of guy friends. After a tasty dinner at Culinary Dropout at the Hard Rock Hotel, the boys decided to go to Ellis Island Casino to play craps. I chose to stick around and peruse the rock and roll memorabilia. Is Mick Jagger really that small? His suit sure looked tiny. Likewise for David Bowie. And the Kiss getups featured some incredible needlecraft. I enjoyed studying old posters from British music festivals located in the elevator banks.

As I wandered past Vinyl, I could see a band playing inside and a sign outside saying "no cover." For me, that's code for "check it out."  On stage was a group with mixed personas: a lead singer in black leather with a starched faux-hawk, a dapper bass player wearing a tailored vest and slacks topped with a fedora, and a fiddle player in a cowboy hat. A friend later dubbed them the Vegas Village People. Their music was a little mixed up, too - strong classic rock melodies with some country twang thrown in.

It didn’t take long to be drawn in to the world of Elvis Monroe. Their musicianship was at a higher level than the average Vegas lounge act. When lead singer, Bryan Hopkins, began introducing his band mates: guitarist Ben Carey (formerly of Lifehouse), drummer Ryan MacMillan (from Matchbox Twenty) and violinist David Pichette (from country band Emerson Drive), I understood why.

This event was the release party for their new single "Rebel" and the audience included the local Fox News team, other local musicians and Bryan's mom. I blended right in with the all-ages crowd, which was a mix of locals and tourists. The mid-sized club was comfortable with an industrial edge. I stayed for the entire show and had a great time.

Curious if I had been seduced by Elvis Monroe at Hard Rock, I decided to catch another concert when I returned to Sin City for a meeting last weekend. It didn't take long to acknowledge that they were the real deal. Yeah, they're slick and commercial, but their melodies are undeniably catchy, delivered with a high level of showmanship. They deliver a "feel good" show with a warm heart and plenty of spirit - perfect for a night when you want to call a friend, grab a Stella and chill for a while. A woman in the audience freaked out when she realized Bryan Hopkins was her former waiter at a Toluca Lake restaurant. He handled this discovery with grace and good humor, but then again, his mom was in the room. 

Private Showing

December 28, 2014

Destination: Monterey Museum of Art–La Mirada

Cost: Gas only

Another episode from the road:

After seeing the film National Gallery, I was jonesing for a visit to an art museum. On my way back to L.A. from the Bay Area, I decided to detour off the 101 and cruise the coast highway from Pacifica to Monterey. The Monterey Museum of Art’s main gallery downtown was closed for renovations, but the La Mirada outpost next to Monterey Peninsula College was open, so off I went. Even better, due to a special fundraising exhibit at the gallery, they were waiving the entrance fee.

It was a beautiful Sunday morning during the holiday vacation break, and I was surprised that there were no cars in the parking lot. Since I arrived a little ahead of the 11:00 a.m. opening time, I spent a few minutes strolling the small, but well tended hillside rhododendron garden. I thought perhaps the gallery was closed, since no other cars arrived, but I ventured to the entrance and was greeted warmly.

I've never had a whole art gallery to myself, and it was a luxurious experience. I could spend as long or as little time as I wanted at any painting, without worrying about blocking someone’s view. The peace and quiet were very conducive to absorbing the works, with the hope of gleaning the artist’s intent.

There was a lot worth seeing. The large front room of this former adobe (dating back to the early 1800’s) housed a collection of California landscapes, better than many I had seen. I was thrilled with the Warren Chang exhibit due to his realistic, light-infused style, inspired by Vermeer. Finally, I spent some time in the fundraising gallery looking at “Miniatures.” Local artists had donated very small works in a variety of media - oil, watercolor, collage, sculpture and shadowboxes. This exhibit was a raffle - one could purchase tickets for $5.00 and deposit them in a box beneath the artwork of choice, then a drawing would be held at the conclusion of the exhibit. These tiny works ranged from brilliant to boring - but what a clever fundraising idea.

Back outside, I lingered in the sunbathed rose garden, imagining what it must have been like to live in this lovely Spanish casita before it was turned into a public space. Then, I left this tranquil outpost and ventured to Cannery Row, packed with hundreds of tourists visiting trinket shops and slurping ice cream cones. They’d missed a wonderful experience. I'm so grateful we don’t all like the same thing.      

Spirited Laughter

Date: January 7, 2015

Destination: Ahmanson Theatre, Downtown Los Angeles

Cost: $48.00 (two dinners & drinks)

Sometimes you just get lucky. I’d wanted to see Blithe Spirit at the Ahmanson for many reasons. I love the work of Noël Coward, having performed in Hay Fever twice. We put on Blithe Spirit in high school (I was costuming assistant) and I’ve seen good productions of the show since then at the Pasadena Playhouse and Utah Shakespeare Festival. I’m a big Downtun Abbey fan and the Ahmanson production featured Charles Edwards (who plays Lady Edith’s lover in the PBS show) as the lead character, Charles Condomine. And who wouldn't want to see Angela Lansbury perform live on stage at the age of 89?

But tickets were pricey, and my New Year’s resolution was to balance my budget, so I was resigned to missing this show. Until my friend Sarah called. Her neighbor was a season ticket holder at the Music Center, and her husband wasn’t interested in attending the play. She generously offered to treat me to the ticket! Sarah and her husband have season tickets as well and we’d all go together.

We agreed to meet up early to have dinner at FIGat7TH pre-show. City Tavern is a favorite of Sarah’s and I can see why: the pastrami burger is to die for! It’s a typically trendy gastropub, with exposed brick walls and whimsical chalkboard drawings, and, naturally, an excellent selection of craft brews. We arrived during “hoppy hour”, so there was special pricing on well drinks, suds, wines and some snacks.  We all enjoyed our meals and the friendly service.

As the curtain rose at the Ahmanson, we knew we were in for a treat. The beautifully detailed set and stylized acting set the tone for England in the early forties. Billowing sheer curtains became a metaphor for ephemeral spirits. Coward’s comedic masterpiece has lost none of its sharp wit in the seventy years since it originally debuted. The most amazing supernatural feat was Angela Lansbury’s performance as Madame Arcati. As a consummate professional, one expects her to bring sharp detail to a role, but the vitality, dead-on comic timing and vigorous physical humor she brought to the stage was inspiring. It helped me realize how many productive years we can have if we are blessed with good genes and take care of ourselves. And it’s very healthy to have a good, strong laugh.

Free Ball

Date: January 3, 2014

Destination: Pauley Pavilion, Westwood

Cost: $1.00 plus gas

It’s worthwhile to pay attention to your email inbox. Buried in the World Market ads and travel newsletters, I found a voucher for four free tickets to a UCLA women’s basketball game. Since I like basketball, UCLA and women (not in that way), I headed over Benedict Canyon to Westwood for the 5:00 p.m. start.

Since school was in recess for the holidays, it was easy to find free parking on Gayley Ave., which made for a short walk to the beautifully upgraded Pauley Pavilion. It’s hard to believe the shining wood floor was flooded by the huge water main break on Sunset Blvd. just a few months ago. Once inside, it was apparent why the tickets were free – the game against Oregon State University was sparsely attended – primarily by families, but there were some students there, a vocal OSU contingent and some die-hard women’s basketball fans.

Despite the small turn-out, the game felt like a big deal.The cheer squad showed tons of enthusiasm - their feats of balance and strength have come a long way since I attended college in the seventies. The big screen above the scoreboard was used to entertain fans by displaying player profiles and brief interviews, bingo numbers, and kids in the audience wildly dancing for the camera. There were lots of freebies going out to the small crowd, with water bottles and t-shirts hurled into the stands by cheer team members and a jewelry giveaway during the halftime break.

The Bruin women played with a lot of heart but had a hard time finding the basket, with a mere 25% shooting ratio. It didn’t help that the Amazonian OSU women were top-ranked and hit so many three pointers that they became invincible. The Bruin highlight was the heads-up play of Nirra Fields, who scored twenty points and passed the 1,000 point collegiate career mark that evening. In the end, Oregon State topped the Bruins, 65-47.

Despite the loss, I had fun. I munched on a $1.00 hot dog (another perk provided by the   e-mail coupon) and the bear mascot, Josie Bruin, plopped down in front of me in the stands while interacting with fans.I think the UCLA promotion did the trick: I’m hooked, and plan to return to Pauley for more women’s hoops. 

The Art of Christmas

Date: December 25, 2014

Destination: Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center

Cost: $7.75 plus gas

(I ventured to NorCal for the Christmas holidays and did some exploring a little further afield.)

The crumpled holiday wrappings were in the corner, the Christmas Eve turkey had been made into tetrazzini, the socializing with friends and family was winding down. After two days as a houseguest, I was ready for a respite. I noticed the Rafael Film Center earlier in the day while visiting the nearby San Rafael Arcangel mission in downtown San Rafael. A documentary about the National Gallery art museum in London was scheduled for that evening and I couldn’t resist leaving the holiday gathering for a few hours of mental stimulation to help banish the turkey-induced L-tryptophan coma. I’d visited the National a few times in my twenties, and remembered that it showcased major works of baroque art (Rubens, Rembrandt, Vermeer), a subject I had studied briefly in college.

I was offered a senior rate without asking (a mixed blessing) and entered the beautiful facility. I was caught off guard by the luxury of the theater; spotlessly clean with a meticulously restored art deco interior. During the pre-show, I could tell the projection and sound quality was top-notch. The Smith Rafael is the home of the California Film Institute – the group that puts on the Mill Valley Film Festival.

National Gallery was made by acclaimed documentarian Frederick Wiseman, who at 85 has not lost his clarity or insight. It explored every aspect of this whale of an institution, from board meetings to applying the gold leaf on restored frames. The film also examined a major exhibit on the works of Leonardo DaVinci. The camera leisurely settled on shots of paintings by great masters, along with narrative from docents and scholars. Some of the faces of the ordinary folks absorbing the art reflected their awe and appreciation, while others were clearly distracted. Being afforded the opportunity to see so many extraordinary paintings blown up to movie-screen size made watching this film three-hour film worthwhile. It was fascinating to learn the workings of this iconic museum.

I walked out into the cold Christmas night inspired and grateful. How lucky we are to have beautiful art museums in this world – and great documentary filmmakers to explore non-commercial themes. Seeing this film was a lovely Christmas gift to myself.

Echoes of a Saturday Night

Date:  December 13, 2014

Destination: The Echoplex, Echo Park

Cost: $30.90 plus gas

Thank goodness the room was so dark. Standing near the stage, you could barely tell if the person next to you was man or woman, so I felt less insecure about being older than my fellow patrons by about 35 years. The Echo Park club scene has stirred my curiosity, but I usually found an excuse to avoid it. Learning that Gardens & Villa was headlining at The Echoplex moved me to action.

I’d heard this Santa Barbara band when they opened for The Shins a few years ago. Any group which adds a wooden flute and didgeridoo-like textures to their synth-beats has my attention, so I mustered up some courage and bought a ticket in advance, knowing I’d wimp out otherwise.

Saturday night traffic was blessedly light, and I found free parking a few blocks from the club next to Echo Park Lake. The Echoplex is a large, minimally appointed venue – the black walls surround banquettes and cocktail tables. There are television screens near the back bar, so you can watch the show from the rear lounge if you don’t feel like standing up front. Drinks aren’t too overpriced and are quite strong. The club is described as a hipster den, but to me it just seemed like a place where a lot of kids go to hang out on Saturday night, the crowd mostly attired in jeans and hoodies. Besides being the oldest person there, I was also overdressed. Way to blend in.

But, like I mentioned, it was dark, so I got over it and focused on the music. TV Girl started the evening with sunny electronic surf pop. Next up was the performance-art inspired musical stylings of Geneva Jacuzzi (the former girlfriend of Ariel Pink), who I found pretentious. She’s probably great at Burning Man if you’re on crazy drugs. Finally, at 11:45, Gardens & Villa took the stage.  It was worth the wait – their self-proclaimed “coco-vibes” were as chill as I remembered. They put on a poignant performance, since they were losing their founding drummer, Levi Hayden, and this would be his last show. Frontman Chris Lynch has a cool energy which carried the evening as the audience sang along.

The crowd spilled out onto Glendale Blvd after 1:00 a.m., so there was no traffic on the drive home. I was happy to have conquered the Echo Park club scene and won’t be afraid to return, although I’ll dress a little grubbier next time.

Ho Ho Ho

Date: December 14, 2014

Destination: Sierra Madre Playhouse

Cost:  $49.45 plus gas (theatre ticket and two meals)

We can usually use a little push to get us into the holiday spirit. An easy path to December jolliness can be found by attending a live holiday performance, whether it’s a ballet school’s The Nutcracker, a community chorale singing carols or a local play. My friend, Jim, had been cast in the Sierra Madre Playhouse production of “A Little House Christmas” which provided the perfect chance to head to this San Gabriel Valley burgh for some holiday cheer.

With tickets in hand for a Sunday matinee, I arrived early to snoop around and grab a bite to eat. Sierra Madre was founded in 1881 and incorporated in 1907, so the main shopping district is historic and reflects on a gentler time, free from chain stores and drive-ins. The village sits at the base of the rugged San Gabriel Mountains and its insular quaintness reminds me of Ojai. On this warm afternoon, the restaurants were buzzing with outdoor diners and shoppers browsed the hip boutiques in search of Christmas gifts. I was struck by the friendliness of the locals, who greeted me with smiles and hellos. I picked up a tasty pre-made ciabatta sandwich from Bean Town Coffee House and sat outside so that I could people watch.

As curtain time approached, I met my friend, Mirth, and we queued up at the playhouse box office with the stylishly-attired patrons. Once inside the well-kept theater, I was struck by the high quality of the stage set, rare in many tightly budgeted community theater productions. “A Little House Christmas” is based on the Laura Ingalls Wilder books, and the script, adapted by James DeVita, honors those works, taking the dialogue verbatim from the printed page. The director, Emily Chase, made the smart decision to add music – so there are scenes with Christmas carols, fiddle playing and even a whirligig dance number. The production has the lightness of a holiday divinity candy, well acted by a multi-talented ensemble.

Midway through the first act, I thought it unfortunate that there weren't more youngsters in attendance. What an effortless way to introduce children to the joy of live theater! As the house lights came up at intermission, I noticed that nearly half the audience was kids. They were so enthralled that they hadn't made a peep!  

Post-show,  Jim and two castmates joined me and Mirth at Lucky Baldwin's Pub, where I quaffed a brew and enjoyed a sausage roll in Merry Olde England style. It was great to watch the actors light up as we lavished praise upon them, a fitting holiday gift. Mission accomplished: the afternoon in Sierra Madre got me in the Christmas mood. 

Musical NoHo

December 5, 2014

Destination: Kulak’s Woodshed

Cost: $10.00 plus gas

It was Friday night, and I found myself sitting in a very funky room which looked like a cross between a thrift shop and a garage apartment, hidden behind an old storefront on Laurel Canyon Blvd in North Hollywood. There was audio and video equipment everywhere and an assemblage of old Topanga Canyon hippies. My childhood neighbor, Linda, turned me on to Kulaks’ Woodshed and I was there to check out their monthly $10-by-donation First Friday event. 

Linda’s been coming here for years, and knew most of the audience members and performers. The room contained an assortment of mismatched chairs, sofas and even a bed, to settle in comfortably to watch the show, which is broadcast via a live, high quality webcast. Besides the First Friday gigs, Kulak’s hosts Monday open mic nights, regular performances and “Rent Club” when they need to raise money to keep the doors open.

I came to hear Severin Browne and Friends and opening act Janeen Rae Heller. Janeen was intriguing; a skilled guitar player with a beautiful voice (“She sings like an angel,” remarked Linda). Janeen played musical saw accompanied by piano in one number, which could have been background music in Star Trek heaven. Severin Browne (Jackson’s brother) and his group had that feel good, folksy, bar band vibe. They weren’t pushing any limits, but the talented musicians served up a satisfying show for their listening friends. 

Kulak’s isn’t exactly a music venue; it’s more like a community. It seemed like everyone knew each other and I was quickly welcomed into the fold. Linda explained that after her third or fourth visit, she was ceremoniously inducted into the “tribe.” I look forward to returning to the Woodshed, to hear non-threatening music in a quirky, warm environment.

Nobody Walks in L.A.

November 22, 2014
Destination: Great Los Angeles Walk 2014

Cost: $9.49

I toyed with joining the Great Los Angeles Walk last year when I was visiting for the weekend – but wimped out, even though the jaunt down Sunset Blvd. sounded like fun. This year, there was no excuse not to participate – since the departure point was about a mile from my new residence in the West Valley.

This annual event started nine years ago, when local journalist, Michael Schneider, marked his tenth anniversary in the City of Angels by coordinating a community walk along Wilshire Boulevard – from downtown to the sea. The goal was to get folks out cars, explore the city on foot and to build community along the way. Each ensuing year, on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, Michael gathers a throng of walkers to tackle a new thoroughfare.

This year’s event featured Ventura Blvd. and began at Warner Center Park – where the crowd was greeted with handouts of the route’s highlights, a Nudie Mobile was on display, and representatives from two Valley history museums presented some pre-stroll background. We were told this was a non-sanctioned, informal event – and if anything happens “you’re on your own.” At 9:00 a.m., after a group photo, we set off toward Ventura and settled into an easy stride on the shady south side of the street.

What a trip to walk past all the landmarks of my Valley Girl past – places where I worked, danced, ate, went on dates. So many places have gone – to be replaced by new businesses: some thriving, some struggling. It was fun to chat with the other amblers, who came from all over the city. When you’re sharing a journey, it’s easy to strike up a conversation with a stranger.

Due to time (and energy) constraints, I knew I wouldn’t complete the seventeen mile route to the Metro station in North Hollywood, but I was surprised at how fast the miles flew by. I peeled off at mile seven, to explore Los Encinos State Historic Park for the first time. Drinking in the warm sunshine of a perfect fall afternoon in the small citrus grove, I explored the adobe buildings, observed a variety of ducks near the fountains in the spring fed pond and rested my legs.

    

With a staggering appetite, I moseyed back to The Stand where I wolfed down an exceptional Chicago dog, small kale slaw and soda for under $8. Satisfied with my trek, I hopped on the Metro 150 bus to return to the starting point – determined to tackle the next stretch from Balboa Blvd to Laurel Canyon on another pleasant Valley day.

Turkish Troubles

November 10, 2014

Destination: AFI Fest, Hollywood

Cost: $4.50 plus gas

Another week, another film festival. This time it’s the AFI Fest – Los Angeles’ longest running filmfest, originally started as Filmex in 1971. The LA Times (one of the event’s sponsors) published a promotional insert/schedule in last week’s newspaper, and I quickly noticed that tickets for many of the films were free.

Say no more. I jumped online and procured a seat for an upcoming screening of The Blue Wave at the TCM Chinese Theatres. The subject matter was appealing – a tale of four teen girls in a mid-sized town in Turkey, going through the same sorts of growing-up problems that we all face. I hoped the 1:15 p.m. screening time meant I’d avoid traffic.

I arrived early, hoping to find a place in Hollywood to park for free. After scouring the residential streets below Runyon Canyon, I found that Hollywood Boulevard west of La Brea has unmetered parking from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Score! The film should be done by 3:15 p.m. and it was only a ten-minute walk to the theater.

Once in the Cineplex, I was surrounded by typical SoCal scenesters – including students, a few retirees and a Stewart Copeland lookalike. The film’s two female directors, Zeynep Dadak and Merve Kayan, welcomed us warmly and then the lights went down. The next two hours were spent following the life of Deniz in the small city of Balikesir. One of the best things about foreign films is that you can experience new places without the cost of airfare. 

The Blue Wave, explored the universality of teenage conundrums – planning for an unknown future, lusting after guys, making bad choices and worrying about the consequences. I enjoyed the film’s focus on the importance of music in teen lives – there were scenes with the girls dancing, sharing music on laptops with friends, practicing for a talent show and singing in the car. During the Q and A after the film, the directors explained that the soundtrack consisted of Turkish hits from the nineties, as well as new tunes penned for the film by kim ki o. The directors have previously filmed music videos, and this perspective is apparent in their first feature.

Back out among the tourists on Hollywood Boulevard, I made a quick walk four blocks east to Skooby’s Hot Dogs near the corner of Cherokee, across from Musso and Franks Grill. I ordered a garlic dog with sauerkraut and spicy mustard for $4.50, which was surprisingly delicious. I walked and ate my way back to the car, arriving just in time at 3:57 p.m. Who says you need to spend a lot of money to have a great afternoon in Hollywood?

Dia de los Muertos

November 2, 2014

Destination: Olvera Street

Cost: $6.25 plus gas

And so begins the march of the holidays. Now that Halloween is behind us, Thanksgiving will be here in about ten minutes and Christmas in about twenty.

I spent All Hallow’s Eve at the home of friends, greeting costumed kids in a popular West Hills neighborhood and chastising them if they didn’t follow proper protocol. York patties were only handed out after a “trick or treat” request. If a costume was unidentifiable, I grilled the youngsters about their identity. If they came “as themselves,” I suggested they try harder next year. Halloween is not a holiday that celebrates being nice – it’s about witches, right? Someone on facebook suggested a “Frozen” drinking game – in which you take a swig for every Elsa that shows up at the front door. Thank goodness we opted out – I would have been a blithering idiot by 6:15.

On Saturday, I ventured to Olvera Street for Dia de los Muertos. I found free parking on a hill above Chinatown (College Street) and discovered the Main Gateway and New Plaza for the first time. It was fun strolling past small shops along Broadway packed with lucky bamboo, Asian produce and cheap tourist trinkets on my way to the Los Angeles Plaza Historic District. I approached the main plaza by cutting through the courtyard at La Placita church – which was founded exactly 200 years ago.

Not surprisingly, there were throngs of visitors at El Pueblo that day. Aztec dancers were performing just as I arrived, exhibiting great energy as they jumped with ankle rattles to the beat of two drummers. There were also traditional shrines to the departed and a weirdly out of place skateboard demo. Cutting through the narrow merchant-lined alley to Cielito Lindo was an exercise in patience, and it took about a half hour of waiting in line to secure the prize – 3 taquitos with beans for $6.25. Worth the wait, and this allowed ample time to admire the creative skeleton facepaint sported by many festival-goers.

Back at the main plaza, a Peruvian-styled flutist played the Paul Simon song “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)” while homeless men slept in the sunshine on the inset brick benches lining the square. I strolled back to the historic Brunswig building, vowing to visit La Plaza de Cultura y Artes next time. After hiking back uphill to my car, I followed the scenic route through Chavez Ravine and Elysian Park to return to the freeway. It’s always best to celebrate the dead by spending an energetic day among crowds of the living.

   

Carry On

October 4, 2014

Destination: Greek Theater

Cost: $56.75 plus gas

It was near the end of junior high, May 1969, and somehow this geeky fourteen year old had entered the heights of society, wrangling an invite to Kerri Vest’s slumber party and getting to hang out with the Charles Evans Hughes Junior High literati – the brightest and coolest kids in the West Valley during those wonder years.

Kerri had a new album to share with us, and pulled Crosby, Stills and Nash off the top of the stack of LP’s. We played that record over and over on that warm just-before-summer night, in the glow of black-light posters while putting on Yardley nail polish, all of us entranced. It was different music than what we were used to as Beatles and Monkees fans. These boys would not be in Tiger Beat. Listening to their soulful folk-rock may have marked our first adult musical experience.

How can that memory be 45 years old? How can Crosby, Stills and Nash still be together? Their appearance at the Greek Theatre on Friday proved they’re very much together and thriving: they created a magical evening.  I had previously seen Buffalo Springfield at The Santa Barbara Bowl (with Steve Stills and Neil Young), but never saw CS&N perform live.  Thanks to Goldstar, I was able to get a $69.00 ticket for $40.00. After that, I found out about the Greek parking shuttle lot near the pony rides in Griffith Park, where it costs only $7 to park. So I was able to justify stretching my budget to see this iconic band.

They opened with an all-time favorite, “Carry On” and it was clear from the outset they had a crack backing band. Over the next three hours (with one intermission) they played a variety of old and new tunes for the adoring crowd. David Crosby’s strong vocals were a big surprise – “Guinnivere” was an unexpected highlight of the evening.

We’ve all weathered a bit in the ensuing years, but it was gratifying to see the Greek packed to the non-existent rafters with members of the peace and love generation. We

geezers still have the stamina to venture out on a balmy night and sit under starry skies to hear some great rock and roll. Thanks goes out to Crosby, Stills and Nash for rewarding us with their vital performance: they are indeed three together and for each other.

Wunderbar

September 27, 2014

Destination: Santa Anita Park

Cost:  $35.98 plus gas

I never thought I’d experience a polka version of the Beatle’s “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da,” but leave it to Oktoberfest to bring out the Teutonic in all of us. I’d heard that Santa Anita Race Track was hosting a Beer Garden in their infield, and a little horse racing would sure add some Oomp to my Pah.

It seemed like a good deal - $10.00 to enter the festival area, which had a stage for live music, lots of quality breweries offering their wares, and the obligatory pretzels and wurst. Parking was free in Lot 6, all that was needed was frauleins in dirndls and frat boys in lederhosen. Happily, there were attendees that eagerly donned Bavarian attire. As a bonus, tents were set up where you could place wagers so that you didn’t have to leave the biergarten to bet the ponies. Then later in the day, the German band gave way to music by Boogie Nights and Spazmatics – interrupted by thundering hooves every forty minutes or so.

I didn’t realize was how much fun the infield was – even without the Oktoberfest activities. There was a great selection of food trucks circled up like a wagon train, plenty of beverage stations, and many happy racing aficionados camped out with their folding chairs, umbrellas, and drink tables. It took me a little while to get the hang of the race schedule, figure out the odds, and keep an eye on the clock so I wouldn’t miss the post – but pretty soon I was placing bets and cheering for my horses.

 

Later in the afternoon, I walked through the tunnel under the track to the Grandstands and experienced the real Santa Anita. I hadn’t been here since watching equestrian events at the 1984 Olympics, and loved the old building with its dated green and yellow décor. The views out to the San Gabriel Mountains were fantastic and the people-watching was exceptional. I especially enjoyed the young couples decked out in racing finery, both sexes wearing hats with the men in ties and the girls in fancy sundresses.

I had some trouble trying to figure out the automatic wagering machine. It spit out a ticket for a different horse than the one I thought I had bet on. The goofed up ticket was my only win of the day. I might have to try to mess up again next time.

Millpond

September 21, 2014
Destination: Millpond Music Festival
Cost: $35.00 plus gas

Outdoor music festivals are all the rage these days, with events like Coachella and Outside Lands attracting thousands of attendees. Life on the east side of California is a little more low key, but the Millpond Music Festival has been drawing music lovers to Bishop for twenty-three years. Instead of throngs of tattooed twenty-somethings, Millpond draws a gaggle of old hippies who dance and sing like it’s the Age of Aquarius.

What makes Millpond special is its musical variety, laid-back vibe, and unparalleled setting at the base of the Sierra crest. The $35.00 day pass fee is a bargain. Violent electrical storms had shut down the last act on Saturday night, so I was glad the weather calmed for Sunday, with bunched billowing clouds shielding the crowd from Bishop’s sometime scorching heat.

As I arrived, Keale was finishing a set. Had I known they were playing music of Hawaii I would have arrived earlier.  I wandered over to the workshop tent to get a preview of Mary Jane Lamond and Wendy MacIsaac, who had roared into the venue just as I was driving in, shouting “we need to be on stage in twenty minutes!” They had come all the way from Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia and their Gaelic tunes traveled well.

David Jacobs-Strain shared amusing tales between his bluesy folk songs, but I was anxious for the arrival of Chris Hillman and Herb Pederson. Seeing a member of The Byrds in the outback of Inyo County was a treat. Their set was polished, but unfortunately lacked verve. Next up on the main stage, the full set from the Nova Scotians and then the talented Mia Dyson brought the crowd to their feet with her driving guitar and powerful vocals.

Besides wonderful music, Millpond offers a chance for the tight-knit Eastern Sierra community to celebrate, recover from a busy summer season and recharge for the coming winter. Kudos go out to Lynn Cooper and the staff at Inyo Council for the Arts for putting together another magical event. I look forward to returning for the 24^th installment. 

Ship Ahoy

September 11, 2014
Destination: Ventura and Oxnard

Cost: $18.75 plus gas

This time, the DMV decided my getaway. I needed to take care of some business, and I could get an appointment in the Valley in four weeks, Thousand Oaks in two weeks, or Ventura in one week. Heck, I love Ventura! What better excuse to head up the coast.

With only light traffic, I arrived early for my 9:50 a.m. appointment and so had time for a quick side trip to Foster’s Donuts on Main St for a yummy “glazed buttermilk” with just the right crunch on the outside and tenderness within. By 10:15 a.m. my DMV chore was over and the day was free.

I made the short drive over to Channel Islands Marina and sat near the breakwater watching lovely yachts head out to sea on a fresh September morning. I arrived at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, just after it opened at 11:00 a.m. – and I was the only visitor there, so a friendly volunteer docent gave me a personal tour of the whole (somewhat small) facility.

She provided me with full details on every 17^th century seafaring oil painting in the gallery, as well the history of each ship exquisitely modeled in miniature by Ed Marple. Her eyes lit up as she told the tale of Zheng He (displayed as a life-sized mannequin in rich brocaded robes), an ocean voyager during the Ming Dynasty, who some think may have inspired the tales of Sinbad the Sailor.  Best of all, just outside the large museum windows, a pod of sea lions snuggled on the boat docks, barking when kayakers came too close.

Because of the lavish attention showered on me at the museum, I spent much longer there than anticipated. Finally back out in the sunshine, I strolled along West Channel Park until I reached Marine Emporium Landing. There I discovered Sea Fresh, a casual restaurant with an extensive, reasonably priced menu. I settled on calamari and chips, but opted to switch out the chips for their salad bar (no extra charge). What a treat to sit on the attractive harbor front deck and feast on the generous portion of slightly spicy tempura battered squid. A great find!

There was still time for a stop at San Buenaventura State Beach (undergoing restoration) and a late afternoon stroll along Ventura’s charming Main Street, vanilla bean frappucino in hand. What a fun way to turn a dreaded DMV visit into a vacation day.

Mindfulness

Destination: Mid-Valley Regional Library, North Hills

Cost: Gas only

I’ll commence this post with the clarity and serenity achieved after an hour of zen breathing practice.

(Photo from the web)

I’ve noticed the LA Public Library System offers a variety of events, and was pleased to discover that there’s a free beginning meditation class at the North Hills branch on Wednesday evenings. The library website provides phone and email contacts to register – so I sent an email asking if it was okay to drop in. Jay at Won-Buddhism Valley quickly got back to me and said “Just show up at 5 pm with comfortable clothing.” And so I did.

In our modern world, the gong sound comes from a smart phone – but it worked and in the opening meditation I was able to relax quickly. We then circled the room in a walking meditation for about 15 minutes, noticing the weight of our legs and the pressure of our feet on the floor, alternately. The gentle snores of a few classmates accompanied the next reclining meditation. The balance of the session was in seated mindfulness, as we became aware of our breath and body sensations. How strange to have a hot flash in the middle of this and concentrate fully on every aspect of the flush of heat and subsidence.

I’ve had some experience meditating, but usually commit for twenty minutes or so. This hour of breath-focus was like a mini-vacation and I came away with a clear head. To exit the meeting room into a library full of books with a fully functioning mind was a real treat. I picked up a scholarly tome on David Bowie and read about how Bo Diddly, Keith Richards, and Marc Bolan influenced his work in the 70’s. Relaxation and stretching exercises for the brain.    

  

Food Porn: Episode Three

September 8. 2014

Destination: ArcLight Cinemas, Sherman Oaks

Cost: $13.50 plus gas

I completed the food porn cinema trifecta last night after traveling to Sherman Oaks to see The Hundred-Foot Journey.  In this summer of food films, I've already consumed Chef and The Trip to Italy. Each movie had its own distinct flavor: Chef was peppery, bursting with Latin rhythms, foul language and exuberance, Italy was tart, sun soaked and funny like a kumquat, while Journey blends eastern spice with refined elegance.

I've long been a fan of director Lasse Halstrom, (Who’s Eating Gilbert Grape, Chocolat, My Life as a Dog) and actress Helen Mirren almost always chooses interesting projects, so I knew The Hundred-Foot Journey would not be horrible. It featured breathtaking scenery of the south of France, good acting with fresh faces, and glistening shots of tantalizing food. The smart owner of a food truck featuring Indian cuisine should park his coach near the theater exit.

The story tells of an Indian family relocating to Europe, accidentally landing in a small French village and opening an ethnic restaurant across the street from a Michelin-starred fine dining establishment, owned and operated by the haughty Madame Mallory (Mirren). The immigrant family’s son is a singularly talented cook who learns about haute cuisine, life and love as the story unfolds. The film was almost too beautiful and perfect, which made sense once I learned Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg were producers. I enjoyed all aspects of it – writing, acting, directing, photography, sound – but would have preferred it be a little rougher around the edges.

The Trip to Italy was an astonishing delight but probably not to everyone’s taste.  A mash-up from a BBC sitcom directed by Michael Winterbottom, it tells the tale of two comedian friends road-tripping through Italy, reviewing six restaurants in six days while listening to Alanis Morrissette, reading poems of Byron and getting into all kinds of shenanigans. I’m a big fan of British humor, and this flick made my cheeks hurt from laughing. The goofy impersonations alone were worth the ticket price. 

Speaking of ticket prices, I paid a little extra for the ArcLight experience in Sherman Oaks last evening. I've been curious about the poshness advertised by ArcLight and other luxury cinemas. I really appreciated the lack of pre-show advertising, limited trailers and stylish environment. There was a distinct improvement in the film and sound quality. But the seats weren't very plush: molded and non-reclining with headrests that thrust my noggin forward in an uncomfortable position. Also, if an establishment offers a bar on premises, it would be nice if patrons were allowed to bring a glass of wine into the theater. Just sayin'. Nevertheless, the slight premium I paid made a visit to ArcLight (and the restaurant-heavy Sherman Oaks Galleria) more like a fun night out that just a schlep over to the movieplex.

Happy Trails

Date: September 7, 2014

Destination: Zuma Canyon Loop Trail

Cost: Gas only

The oppressive Valley heat has gotten old, but I yearned for an afternoon on the trail. Simple solution: head over to the coast for a trek with an ocean breeze. I've never been to Zuma Canyon before, which seems strange given the multitude of visits I've made to Zuma Beach. The National Park Service website gave me all the info I needed, including a trail map that I printed out to carry along.

I parked at the trailhead at the end of Bonsall Road, which is on the inland side Pacific Coast Highway at Westward Beach Road. The parking area is large and it’s free. Exiting the car, a blast of hot air made me second guess my decision. It wasn't that much cooler at the coast and I had arrived at the hottest part of the afternoon. Undeterred, I donned my cap and set off up canyon.

The Zuma Canyon Loop trail soon appeared on the left, which seemed like the best option given the temperature – no need to ascend ridges. But the trail soon diverted from the canyon floor and made a moderate ascent up a chaparral covered hillside. Wiping sweat from my brow and everywhere else, I wished the ocean breeze was a bit stronger. After pouring some drinking water over my head, I continued on and the trail soon leveled, providing expansive views of the pristine canyon. The crinkly dry brush could succumb to wildfire in an instant, and most bushes looked dead and brown. In other spots, bay leaves were deep green and glossy and there were a few lushly flowering buckwheat surrounded by appreciative bees.

The trail meanders back downhill to the canyon floor – passing under a wide ancient oak which provides welcome shade. Arriving at the dry stream bed, with a slight dip in temperature thanks to the leafy sycamores – I continued up to the rocky narrows, enjoying the diverse boulders that had lurched down from upper reaches. Hiking in the heat meant I had this beautiful canyon to myself, with chirping birds and scurrying lizards to keep me company.

I came back out via the Scenic Trail side loop and returned to the car – for a total of about three miles. I can’t wait to return after a spring storm, when the perennial creek is gushing and green grasses and wildflowers are abundant. With cooler temps, I’ll tackle the Zuma Ridge Trail or Ocean View Trail – far too ambitious for a hot summer Sunday.