The Easy Reader – February 16, 2005

Hermosa About Town

Arrest brings lawsuit - A civil rights lawsuit has been filed by three local residents who were arrested by Hermosa police on misdemeanor charges in 2004 and later exonerated in a Superior Court trial.  The federal lawsuit claims that Hermosa officers roughed up Robert Nolan of Hermosa and Joel Silva of Lawndale and made false statements in police reports after Nolan, Silva and Michelle Myers of Hermosa were arrested for allegedly blocking a police cruiser as it made its way across the Pier Plaza pedestrian promenade.  The FBI also opened an inquiry into allegations that police violated the civil rights of the three.

Valley Gym appeal - Opponents are seeking to appeal a judge’s decision allowing construction of a gymnasium building at Hermosa Valley School, a project for which ground was formally broken late last month.  A lawsuit by the opponents, including some school neighbors, contended that the school board did not properly address concerns about noise, traffic and parking near the campus on Valley Drive north of Pier Avenue. The lawsuit also contended that the 2002 ballot measure for the school bonds did not include the gym in a list of projects to be funded.  Gym opponents also said they would continue to challenge $1.5 in special state funds the school board secured for the project last year.

School board vacancy - Hermosa Beach City School Board members were leaning toward appointing a replacement for board member Linda Wolin – rather than calling for a fresh election – after she announced she will leave her post to move to the San Francisco area.  Although no formal vote was taken board members last Wednesday said they plan to seek applicants for Wolin’s position, then choose among them, after she formally resigns. Wolin has said she would resign about March, leaving about two years of her term unfilled.  Wolin announced last month that her husband Jon has accepted a new position in Northern California. The family’s move also created a vacancy on the Beach Cities Health District board, of which Jon Wolin was a member.  The Health District board also opted to appoint rather than elect a replacement, and plans to consider applicants for Wolin’s position Feb. 22.  The Health District provides programs such as the Center for Health and Fitness, the AdventurePlex health and fitness center for youth; emotional and logistical support to the elderly; and mental and emotional health classes and seminars for the general public. ER
 

Star search - Anyone interested in producing a public access TV show can call the Adelphia Communications cable company at 406-1960, ext. 1986 to enroll in free classes to learn the technical aspects of getting a program onto the air. Classes are upcoming and the sizes are limited. ER

The Easy Reader – February 9, 2005

Hermosa About Town

Interim chief named - Former La Palma Police Chief David Barr has been named interim chief of the Hermosa Beach Police Department, city officials announced Wednesday.  Barr is expected to hold the post for three or four months while a permanent replacement is sought for Chief Mike Lavin, whose last day on the job is today. Lavin’s official retirement date is March 1, but he decided to move up his departure for what he described as “personal reasons.”  Barr retired as La Palma police chief in 1997 and then served as director of a law enforcement academy at Golden West College in Huntington Beach, leaving that position in 2003.

Grand opening - Colleen Berg Jewelry will hold a grand opening 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday for its new location at 1310 Pacific Coast Highway near Pier Avenue. For more information see colleenberg.com or call 947-5373.

Step right up! - The deadline to apply for the 2006 Leadership Hermosa Beach program is 6 p.m. Monday, organizers of the program said. For information see www.leadershiphermosa.org/  or call 753-2238. Leadership Hermosa Beach grooms future leaders and offers residents opportunities to learn how the city functions and become involved.  

Parking permits - City officials have mailed out renewal materials for residential parking permits and are urging residents to renew by mail to avoid lines at the counter. Still, over-the-counter permit sales and renewals have begun this week at Room 101 of City Hall, 1315 Valley Drive at Pier Avenue.  Hours for the counter sales and renewals for the $35 permits are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. A grace period ends 8 a.m. March 20 when enforcement will begin requiring the new permit.  For more information call 318-0217 or 318-0251.

Deadline today - The Beach Cities Health District board is seeking candidates to fill the vacancy left by Jonathan Wolin, who resigned from the board to pursue a career opportunity in Northern California. Deadline to apply is today. The board has decided to appoint an interim board member who will serve until Jan. 5, 2007.  Potential candidates must submit an application by today and be available to make a three-minute presentation to the board Feb. 22. Applications may be downloaded from bchd.org or picked up in person at 514 N. Prospect Ave., third floor, Redondo Beach.  The Health District provides programs such as the Center for Health and Fitness, the AdventurePlex health and fitness center for youth; emotional and logistical support to the elderly; and mental and emotional health classes and seminars for the general public. ER

The Easy Reader – February 16, 2005

Beach City Sports

Soccer tryouts scheduled - The Force Soccer Club, a year-round playing and training club with a professional coaching staff, has set dates for tryouts for those interested in joining the game.  Tryouts for boys and girls’ U-9 and U-10 team are scheduled for March 1 and 3 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Redondo Union High School. Boys and girls trying out for the U-11 and U-12 teams will meet from 5:30-7:30 p.m. February 28 and March 2 at Redondo High.  The boys’ U-13 team will hold tryouts on March 7 and 9 from 6:30-8 p.m. at Yukon Elementary School in Torrance. Girls trying out for the U-13 and U-14 squads will meet March 7 and 9 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Redondo High.  Boys trying out for the U-14 team will meet March 7 and 9 from 6:30-8 p.m. at McMaster Park in Torrance.  For additional information, including registration forms and field directions, visit www.forcesoccerclub.com/  Other questions should be addressed to Javier at 753-9504 or Forza@pacbell.net  or Shelly at 798-1098 or shellymar@yahoo.com

Inaugural golf tournament slated - Redondo Sunset Youth Baseball and Softball League has scheduled its first annual golf tournament for Friday, March 10, at the Los Verdes Golf Course, 7000 Los Verdes Drive in Rancho Palos Verdes.  Registration for the “Shotgun Scramble” formatted tournament ends on February 27 and is on a first-come, first-served basis until all 144 tee times are filled. Sponsorship packages are available on a number of levels.  All proceeds from the tournament will be used for the renovation, repair, and upgrades to the fields and facilities used by Redondo Sunset at Alta Vista Park in Redondo Beach.  For more information, visit www.redondosunset.com/  or contact Golf Tournament Director Tim Blume at 980-8180 or coachblume@earthlink.net

Ice Skating tryouts scheduled - The South Bay Sunsets synchronized skating team will hold tryouts tomorrow and Friday, Feb. 24, at the Skating Edge Arena, 23770 S. Western Avenue in Harbor City.  For additional information, visit southbaysunsets.com or contact Coach Alison Kending-Wade at utoepik@aol.com

Youth golf tour accepting applications - Applications are being accepted for the Johnson Junior Golf Tour, a 20-event season played at courses throughout Southern California.  Open to athletes ages 7-17, the tour begins on Saturday, March 4, at the Rosemead-Whittier Narrows Golf Course.  For more information, call (562) 866-8685 or visit www.jjgt.org/

Leagues have chance to host skills contest - Organizations are invited to host a Pepsi Major League Baseball Pitch, Hit & Run contest for boys and girls ages 7 to 14.  Top performing youngsters at the local level will have the opportunity to advance to sectional competitions, then go to Team Championship events that will be held at Major League ballparks throughout the country. The National Finals will take place during the 2006 All-Star Week in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  For more information, visit www.MLB.com/

Applications for basketball camp - Boys and girls ages 10-19 are eligible to apply for the Ten Star All Star Summer Basketball Camp to be held in Thousand Oaks.  Applications are now being evaluated for the invitation-only camp. Alumni of the camp include Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan, Vince Carter, Grant Hill, and Antawn Jamison.  For a free brochure, call (704) 373-0873.

Umpires sought - The California Baseball Umpire Association is seeking baseball and softball umpires for high school, youth, and adult leagues throughout the South Bay.  Applicants must be 18 years or older. No experience is necessary. For more information, contact Louis Smith at 242-9018 or visit www.calsportsofficials.com/  ER

The Easy Reader – February 16, 2005

Community Calendar

Thursday, February 16

Redondo book sale - The Volunteers of the South Bay Auxiliary of Little Company of Mary Hospital hold a used book sale 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Redondo Room of the Beach Cities Ambulatory Care Center, 514 N. Prospect Ave., Redondo Beach. (310) 679-3453.

Art opening at El Camino - El Camino College Art Gallery sponsors a reception for Artist Kazuo Kadonaga 7 to 9 p.m. at 16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance. Works in bamboo, wood, paper and glass will be on display from February 13 through March 10. Free. (310) 660-3010.

Israel Today and the Middle East - Temple Shalom of the South Bay hosts a Town Hall Forum on “Israel Today and the Middle East,” at 7 p.m. at St. Cross by-the-sea Episcopal Church, 1818 Monterey Ave., Hermosa Beach. Speaker Gilad Millo will answer any questions regarding the State of Israel—political, social, cultural, economic, religious and regional. (310) 613-3855.

Lupus Support Group - Lupus International sponsors a free Support Group meeting the third Thursday of each month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in Redondo Beach. For more information, please call (888) 532-2322.

Duets For My Valentine - Regina Klenjoski Dance Company presents Duets For My Valentine today through Sunday, 8 p.m., at the George Nakano Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance. Tickets: $60 couple premiere seating/$25 regular adult seating/$20 seniors/$15 students.  Call the box office at (310) 781-7171.

Forgotten Footprints: The Hunted Children of Uganda - News reporter Cristy Fajardo and news anchor/reporter Elizabeth Espinosa of KTTV- FOX 11-Los Angeles take viewers to the war zone of Northern Uganda at 10:30 p.m. for a special report, Forgotten Footprints: The Hunted Children of Uganda.  International organizations call it the worst and most ignored humanitarian crisis in the world. For nearly 20 years a warlord has kidnapped children and forced them to fight, presumably to overthrow the Ugandan government. The United Nations has listed this civil war as one of ten stories everyone in the world needs to know more about.

Friday, February 17

Designs for Dining - St. Francis Episcopal Church hosts “Designs for Dining,” a fundraiser to benefit its Scholarship Program, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 2200 Via Rosa (at Palos Verdes Dr. West). Features theme-designed table settings, guest speakers, a special wedding show from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and refreshments served all day. $18 pre-sale/$20 at door. (310) 375-4617.

Beach Cities Ski Club - The Beach Cities Ski Club meets for Happy Hour 4 to 7 p.m. at the Union Cattle Company, 1301 Manhattan Ave, Hermosa Beach. (310) 798-8227.

Grand Slam Smash Hit: Damn Yankees - Belasco Theatre Company, an all-youth musical theatre group in the South Bay, begins its 2006 season with a Broadway-style production of Damn Yankees tonight at 7:30 p.m., and continuing with matinee and evening shows through February 26, at the Hermosa Beach Playhouse, 710 Pier Ave. (at Pacific Coast Highway). This upbeat, exciting musical about America’s favorite pastime was inspired by the original book, The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant. For tickets ($14) and show times, call (310) 796-7952 or (310) 318-3579. Visit www.belasco.org/socal/  for more information.

Screening of Yesterday - The South Bay Peace Coalition and the Pacific Unitarian Church sponsor the screening of Yesterday, at 7 p.m. at the Pacific Unitarian Church, 5621 Montemalaga Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes. Winner of the inaugural Human Rights Film Award, the movie tells the story of HIV-positive Yesterday and her daughter Beauty. Deserted by her husband, Yesterday hopes she will survive long enough to see her daughter go to school. Free and open to the public. For Information, call Patrick at (310) 372-9505.

Saturday, February 18

Summer Camp Expo - Del Amo Fashion Center presents its first-ever Summer Camp Expo today from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Jo-Ann Etc. Court at Mall Entrance 11, Torrance. Parents and guardians, along with their children, are invited to visit with camp representatives to choose the best option for them this summer. A complete list of camps represented at the Expo is available online at www.delamofashioncenter.com/  or at the Mall’s customer service desk. Sponsored by What’s Up For Kids. (310) 542-8525.

Puppet Show and Chili Cook-Off - The public is invited to enjoy a Day of Family Fun at Whole Foods Market, beginning with a puppet show at noon, followed by the Second Annual Chili Cook-Off from 1 to 3 p.m., at 405 N. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach. See the Kopali Conscious Goods Caravan powered on recycled vegetable oil and learn about organic farming. Taste chili samples and vote for the best. (310) 376-6931 or e-mail susan.landino@wholefoods.com

The Music Man, Jr. auditions - The South Bay Conservatory announces open auditions for youth, ages 8 to 18, for the musical, The Music Man, Jr. Auditions take place today and Monday from 1 to 4 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Palos Verdes, 28 Moccasin Lane, Rolling Hills Estates. Students should bring music and be prepared to sing and dance. Broadway costumed stage performances will take place Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6 at the James Armstrong Theatre, Torrance. Tuition is $395. Limited scholarships are available. (310) 373-4149 or visit www.southbayconservatory.com/

Trail Maintenance - Join REI Manhattan Beach and the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy 9 a.m. to noon for the restoration and maintenance of the trails in the Forrestal Nature Preserve, Rancho Palos Verdes. Bring grubby clothes, sun screen, sun protection, water, and snacks. No registration required. (310) 727-0728, or email acunnin@rei.com

Tennis with South Bay Fun Club - South Bay Fun Club members sponsor an early evening of tennis from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Alta Vista Racquet/Tennis Club at 715 Julia Ave., Redondo Beach (off Knob Hill), followed by dinner at California Pizza Kitchen, 1430 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach. For novices to experienced and competitive players. $1. Please RSVP to Susan Shaver, (310) 540-4687 or Nola Snider, (310) 283-8775.

Sunday, February 19

Displaced Katrina artist featured at Malaga Cove - Jamie Hayes is the featured artist at a month-long exhibit at the Malaga Cove Library Art Gallery. The show is a continuing effort to help the Hayes family get back on its feet after its home and art galleries were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. The Malaga Cove Library Art Gallery is located at 2400 Via Campesina in Palos Verdes Estates. Free. (310) 377-9584, ext. 551.

Monday, February 20

MB announces ‘Water Web’ - The City of Manhattan Beach announces its new online water and refuse bill payment option. “Water Web” allows residents and businesses to pay their water and refuse bills over the Internet in a safe and secure online environment. Requires a one-time, online registration process for existing utility customers. “Water Web” may be accessed through the City’s homepage at www.citymb.info/  under “E-Gov Services.” (310) 802-5554.

Tuesday, February 21

Kindergarten Information Night - South Bay Adult School sponsors Kindergarten Information Night at 7 p.m. at Hermosa Valley School, all-purpose room, 1645 Valley Drive, Hermosa Beach. This parent education program is for parents whose children will enter kindergarten in September, 2006. The meeting is open to all South Bay residents. Representatives from Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach unified school districts will discuss school readiness and other topics. Free. No childcare is available. (310) 376-6211, ext. 12.

Book Discussions at RB Library - The Redondo Beach Main Library hosts two discussions of the book, The Time Traveler's Wife, by Audrey Niffenegger: tonight from 7 to 8 p.m., or February 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.  Both discussions take place at the Redondo Beach Main Library, 303 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach. Participation is free and no advance signup is required.  (310) 318-0675, or visit www.redondo.org/library/

Malaysia Travelogue - As part of the "Around the World at the Library" travel series, the public is invited to take an "armchair tour" of exotic Malaysia at a "Malaysia Travelogue" 7 to 8 p.m. at the Redondo Beach Main Library, 303 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach. The program will highlight things to see and do in Malaysia, as well as travel tips. Free. No advance signup required. (310) 318-0675, ext. 2573.

Wednesday, February 22

African Folk Tales - In celebration of Black History Month, the Hermosa Beach Library is hosting Storyteller Michael D. McCarty, who will tell African and African-American Folk Tales 3 p.m. at 550 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach. Free. (310) 379-8475.

Center seeks Volunteers - The Volunteer Center, South Bay-Harbor-Long Beach, seeks volunteers for the following areas: tutors/interns for the Teen Club, YWCA of the Harbor Area, to help youth with math and English homework and after-school activities; helpers in childcare, grocery shopping and arts/crafts for the 1736 Family Crisis Center, Redondo Beach; ESL tutors for the South Bay Literacy Council; and drivers and riders for the Torrance-Lomita Meals on Wheels, which provides home-delivered meals for convalescents and the disabled. Call the Volunteer Center for more information, (310) 212-5009.

Desert Hikes and Camping - Take advantage of the cool weather and the desert bloom during early spring. For ideas on where to go on the next desert-hiking trip, REI sponsors a workshop tonight at 7 p.m. at 1800 Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach. Learn about the best spots to hike, what specific gear to bring and how to best prepare for the desert. (310) 727-0728 or visit www.rei.com/manhattanbeach/

Fourth Wednesday Book Club - The Hermosa Beach Library Book Discussion Group meets today from 11 a.m. to noon at 550 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, to discuss the book, The Poisonwood Bible, by Barbara Kingsolver. The group is for all adult members of the community who love to read and discuss books with others. No registration required. (310) 379-8475.

Peninsula Cancer Guild dinner - The San Pedro Peninsula Cancer Guild and the USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center host a USC/Norris Doctors’ Forum today at Ports O’ Call Restaurant, Berth 76-Port of Los Angeles, San Pedro. A no-host reception begins at 5:30 p.m. and dinner is served at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited. $50. Reserve by Feb. 17 at (310) 832-6307.

Thursday, February 23

Free Film - The City of Redondo Beach, Stewart Filmscreen Corporation and Spectrum Catering present Free Film Night at 7 p.m. at The Historic Library at Veterans Park, 309 Esplanade, Redondo Beach. Tonight’s featured film is about Depression-era boxer James J. Braddock (a.k.a. The Cinderella Man) and his amazing comeback from a floundering career to become one of the most surprising sports legends in history. You’ll have to guess the title of the film; the Motion Picture Association of America does not allow the publicizing of free films.  Free parking in the south lot near the kids’ playground. (310) 540-6346 or email filmnight@adelphia.net

Safety first - Assemblymember Ted Lieu will host an ‘Identity Protection Workshop’ to provide the constituents of the 53rd Assembly District information on identity theft prevention tips, reducing the flow of unwanted information, and what to do if you are a victim of identity theft. 6:30 p.m. at the Redondo Beach High School Auditorium, 631 Vincent Park. RSVP to 310-615-3515.

Friday, February 24

Mira Costa Premiere Night - Mira Costa's future filmmakers and broadcast journalists present the Third Annual Mira Costa Media Arts Foundation's (MCMAF) Premiere Night at 7 p.m. in the school's auditorium at the corner of Peck and Artesia, Manhattan Beach. Attendees will enjoy student screenings in the areas of narrative, music video, news, documentary and experimental video. Tickets are available at (310) 545-8593, at mobiteach2@aol.com  and at the door. Students $5/all others $10.

Saturday, February 25

American Martyrs 5K Run/Walk - This year marks the 26th Annual American Martyrs 5K Run/Walk, a fast, challenging 3.1- mile course through the Manhattan Beach Tree Section. Run begins at 8 a.m. at the 1700 block of Laurel Ave., Manhattan Beach. This popular community race also offers a fun family event with a Costume Contest and an optional follow-up breakfast at American Martyrs Church. Awards of $100 scrip are given to the top overall male and female finishers. Registration forms are available online at www.americanmartyrs.org/  or at the American Martyrs School Office, Parish Office or the Village Runner at both Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach locations. Contact Shari Wolf, (310) 802-0729 for more information.

Queen Mary Brazilian Carnaval 2006 - An evening of Brazilian dance, music, food and crafts takes place tonight from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. aboard the Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach. This big Brazilian party celebrates Mardi Gras with this year’s theme of “World Cup Soccer Championship.” Features three Brazilian bands, samba dancers, costumes, beads and more. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Brazilian Women's Group, a non-profit organization that dedicates its social work to underprivileged children and elderly in Brazil. General admission: $35 advance/$40 at the door. Reserved table seats: $45 advance/$50 at the door. (818) 566-1111 or visit www.BrazilianNites.com/  ER

The Easy Reader – February 16, 2005

Barfly

by DebL

Mentioned: In an article in Los Angeles Magazine’s February 2006 issue, Crème de la Crepe, Pier Ave, HB. The article titled, “Crepe Shot,” a grand tour of creperies in LA mentions CRC first on its list, which also highlights Café Crepe and Acadie in Santa M, Crepe Vine, Pasadena and the two locations of Café Marly in Beverly Hills and LA. “So much French is spoken at CRC you might think you are in a Parisian bistro,” the magazine says. Formidable Bruno…

Now Open: California Sushi & Teriyaki #7, PCH, HB in the space previously occupied by Togo’s. Be not confused by the “ Teriyaki #7” in the name, the resto is not an offshoot of the now defunct Teriyaki 7 that lived behind Scotty’s on The Strand next to the old brew company, kinda in the parking lot off Hermosa Ave. The “7” refers to this store being the seventh Sushi & Teriyaki in the chain. The joint has a large sushi selection and some sandwiches but thankfully no chicken Ceasar salads – I swear 3,000 years from now when some nouveau web fingered and toed ET-subhumans unearth the South Bay, they are gonna think we had some unnatural relationship with chicken Ceasars for sure. “We don’t know why but it seems every menu no matter what the ethnic theme of the restaurant contains a chicken Ceasar salad. We think it had something to do with a religious ritual of sorts before the second coming was confirmed as Tom Cruise and we all became Scientologists.” All hail Katie Holmes…

Congrats: Local stars Kevin Sutton and his wife Nina, investors in Sangria, Pier Plaza, HB and LAX, Hollywood welcomed Dillan Patrick Sutton to the world January 31. Congrats and good luck…

Road Trip: Next Saturday, Feb 25 the El Segundo Recreation and Parks Dept is bussing the gamblers and shoppers of the South Bay to the Palm Springs Aerial Tram, the Morongo Casino and the Desert Hills Factory Outlets Mall. $35 adults/$25 kids includes roundtrip bus transport, tram ride and lunch. The magic bus leaves at 8 a.m. sharp from the Joslyn Center, Sheldon Road, El Seg. Return 7pm. Call 524.2705 for ticket info and get those credit cards spit shined and ready to swipe…

Blast from the Past: On a recent trip back home to New York I was driving around listening to my fave station in the history of radio 103.5 WKTU during it’s “No Repeat Workday,” the weekday program that boasts no repeats of songs from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Great concept but not easy let me tell you - they really had to dig deep to find Eddie Murphy’s “My Girl Wants To Party All The Time”…

Simple Math: I came across a great website the other day called www.cocktaildb.com/  Set up by a Burbank graphic designer Ted Haigh aka Dr. Cocktail, the sight boasts an interactive “Mixilator” feature which is a search engine that chooses your ideal drink based on desired alcohol content level, taste and chosen cocktail hour – morning, afternoon, evening, nightcap, etc. The first time I used the Mixilator it came up with Lewis’s Love Potion Special as my drink of choice: Myer’s Rum, orange sherbert and sirop de citron. Not something I would normally choose I tried again. The second time I got a pop-up that said, “Oops that one ended up on the floor. Try Again?” Great, even my cyber-bartender is drunk! They say that third time’s the charm so I rolled the proverbial dice and got the Burnisher Cocktail made of Tennessee whiskey, blended scotch, blood orange slices, peach bitters and angostura bitters in a cinnamon rimmed glass. Interesting. Check the site out for hours of distraction from your day job…

Quote Of The Week: “I would stand in the door and not let this go out if we were going to take away that joy.” This quote from the New York Times is attributed to Stan Osman a marketing executive for Interstate Bakeries promising that the new whole-wheat Wonder Bread will have the same ability as the original to be balled up and lobbed across cafeterias throughout the country. We should have a holiday for this guy because anyone who has ever been a kid in America can relate to this. I get goose bumps just remembering…

Questions? Comments? Contact DebL at BarflyDebL@aol.com

The Easy Reader – February 16, 2005

Hotdogging Calendar

Thursday, February 16

Your post-Valentine - The Regina Klenjoski Dance Company will present an edgy journey through the many faces of love in the George Nakano Theatre, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance. Their Duets for My Valentine will transform the black box theater into a Parisian-style café for three evenings of contemporary dance, tonight, tomorrow, and Saturday at 8 p.m., complete with hors d’oeuvres, sweet treats, and thirst quenchers. The featured works will be Waiting for Solitude, She Said, Three to Tango (updated), File Under Lounge, and Hey Lover, Why the Gun? Tickets, $60 couple for premium bistro seating on the floor; $25 per adult, regular; $20 seniors; $15 students. 781-7171.

Shoot ‘em up - Bugsy Malone (where kids play Chicago mobsters and molls), presented by the Negri Learning Center, wraps up its run with performances tonight through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and Sunday at 3 p.m. in the Norris Theatre, 27570 Crossfield Drive, Rolling Hills Estates. Tickets, $20 general; $16 children, students. 544-0403.

They know who they are - Kings of the Dance, with Angel Corella and Ethan Stiefel from the American Ballet Theatre, Johan Kobborg of The Royal Ballet, and Nikolay Tsiskaridze of the Bolshoi Ballet, will be performing ballet selections at 8 p.m. tonight through Saturday, and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, in the Orange County Performing Arts Center, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Schubert’s Death and the Maiden, Roland Petit’s Le Jeune Homme et la Mort, will be featured among other pieces. Tickets, $20 to $75. Call (714) 556-2787 or go to www.ocpac.org/

High tech Sherlock Holmes - In Murder and Molecules: Scientific Detective of Mystery Fiction, Harold Goldwhite will sketch the development of scientific detection in mystery fiction, short stories, and TV shows, such as CSI. It’s free, and takes place at 8 p.m. in Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium, with parking located at 332 S. Michigan Ave., Paradena (south of Del Mar Blvd.). (888) CALTECH.

Friday, February 17

Be carried away - The South Bay Chamber Music Society will be presenting the California Quartet (Bridget Dolkas and Alice Wrate, violins; Christine Grossman, viola; Erin Breene, cello) at 8 p.m. in the recital hall of L.A. Harbor College, 1111 Figueroa Place, Wilmington. The program will include the Quartet No. 18, No. 4, by Beethoven, and the Quartet Op. 50 by Prokofiev, and it will be repeated at 3 p.m. on Sunday in the Pacific Unitarian Church, 5621 Montemalaga, Rancho Palos Verdes. Free. Call 545-1747 or 374-2141.

Passion ends right here - Neil Simon’s Last of the Red Hot Lovers, directed by Pamela Z. Ament, wraps up this weekend at the Redondo Beach Playhouse, 750 Inglewood Ave., Redondo Beach. Tonight and tomorrow at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets, $13 general; $10 seniors; $8 children 12 and under. 937-6606.

Out of the park - The Belasco Theatre Company will be presenting the Broadway classic Damn Yankees at 7:30 p.m. tonight and tomorrow, and at 2 p.m. tomorrow and Sunday, in the Hermosa Beach Playhouse, 710 Pier Ave. (at Pier) in Hermosa Beach. The same schedule is set for next weekend. Shanti Belasco directs. Tickets, $14. Call 796-7952 or 318-3579.

Check out these wings - The Lark Quartet will be performing a free concert at 7 p.m. in the auditorium at Marymount College, 30800 Palos Verdes Dr. East, Rancho Palos Verdes. The program will feature Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135; Bartok’s String Quartet No. 1, Op. 7; and Debussy’s Quartet in G minor, Op. 10. The quartet has won many prizes over the years and have worked with leading composers. 303-7223.

Bluegrass is green - Bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley will be performing with his long-time band The Clinch Mountain Boys at 8 p.m. in UCLA’s Royce Hall. Fiddler Laurie Lewis and mandolinist Tom Rozum and the Guest House Band will be opening the show. Tickets, $45, $35, $25. Call 825-2101.

Films that matter - Let There Be Light: The Black-and-White Cinematography of Stanley Cortez extends over two weekends at the L.A. County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. Tonight, The Magnificent Ambersons (1942) will be followed by The Black Cat (1941). Tomorrow you can see The Night of the Hunter (1955) and Let There Be Light (1946). On Friday, Feb. 24, it’s Smash Up: The Story of a Woman (1947) with The Three Faces of Eve (1957). And the tribute concludes on Sat., Feb. 25, with Shock Corridor (1963) followed by Black Tuesday (1954). All programs start at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, $9 general; $6 students, seniors. (323) 857-6010.

Explosive theater - The Found Theatre will be presenting the world premiere of The Journey Across the Mine Fields to America, written by Chantara Nop, a local survivor of the Cambodian holocaust. It’ll be performed in the cultural tradition that dates back to the 8th century. Schedule, tonight and tomorrow, plus Thurs., Fri., and Sat., Feb. 23, 24, and 25, at 8 p.m. plus tomorrow and Sunday, Feb. 26, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets, $15. Free for students under 18 with valid ID. Children under six not admitted. Where? 599 Long Beach Blvd at Sixth St., Long Beach. (562) 433-3363.

He’s a household name - Five-time Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter Al Jarreau will be performing smooth jazz hits at 8 p.m. in the Cerritos Center, 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. Tickets, $58 to $32.50. Call (800) 300-4345.

It’s like Brigadoon - The 13th Annual Scottish Festival and Games preview tonight but mainly takes place from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday aboard the Queen Mary, 1125 Queens Highway, Long Beach. The festival will range from Single Malt Whisky Tasting (6 p.m. tonight) to a concert by Eric Rigler and Bad Haggis, with the Los Angeles Scots Pipe Band tomorrow at 8 p.m. Admission, $19 general; $17 senior, military; $13 children daily. Two-day passes are $25, $23, $17. Call (562) 432-6964.

A lifeline, or not?  - Local literary agent Pam Sheppard will be discussing What an Agent Can and Cannot Do For You at the meeting of the Southwest Manuscripters that takes place at 7 p.m. in the Pacific Inn, 5481 W. Torrance Blvd., Torrance. Donation, $5. Call 544-1278.

Saturday, February 18

Drum up the dough - The Big Band Express fundraiser for the Torrance Symphony takes place this evening, with gourmet dessert and music for listening and dancing, in the Ken Miller Recreation Center at the Cultural Arts Center in Torrance. Tickets, $25. Call 373-2442.

Worth the wait - Alice Coltrane, musician, bandleader, spiritualist and wife of the late jazz hero John Coltrane, will be performing works from Translinear Light. The 2004 album was her first in 26 years. She’s be in concert at 8 p.m. in UCLA’s Royce Hall. Tickets, $45, $35, $25. Call 825-2101.

Latin twinge - Pampas, Tangos, Dreams & Prayers, celebrating the 90th birthday of composer Alberto Ginastera and also featuring music by Astor Piazzolla and Osvaldo Golijov, takes place at 8 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church, 1220 Second St., at Wilshire near The Promenade, in Santa Monica. It’s part of the Jacaranda series. Tickets, $20 general; $10 students; available at the door. 451-1303.

He’s a sailor man - Comedian Sinbad will be opening for song stylist Eloise Laws at 8 p.m. in the Cerritos Center, 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. Tickets, $44 to $30. Call (800) 300-4345.

Sunday, February 19

A young man’s game - The All-American Boys Chorus will be performing a family concert (hint, hint) at 3 p.m. in the Cerritos Center, 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. The program will include songs by Gershwin, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Irving Berlin, plus spirituals and (uh oh) patriotic songs. Tickets, $17.50 adults and $10 children 10 and younger. Buy four or more and it’s just $10 a ticket. (800) 300-4345.

Tuesday, February 21

Dreams of fame and romance - The musical Bombay Dreams, an international touring exhibition, opens tonight at 8p.m. and plays through March 5 in the Orange County Performing Arts Center, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. It’s set amidst India’s bustling film industry and features a lush score, glittering costumes, and exotic dance numbers. Tickets, $20 to $65. Call (714) 556-2787.

19th Century French master - Courbet and the Modern Landscape, featuring 45 landscapes dating from 1855 to 1877, will be on display through May 14 at the Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles. 440-7300 or go to www.getty.edu/

Wednesday, February 22

Premier American Dance Co. - The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, led by artistic director Judith Jamison, will be performing tonight through Sunday at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown Los Angeles in the Music Center. There are several programs to choose from, and there’s information at www.musiccenter.org/dance/  Tickets, $25 to $95. Call (213) 365-3500. ER