arroyo monthly september 2010

Back toSchoolIssue

SEPTEMBER 2010

F I N E L I V I N G I N T H E G R E A T E R P A S A D E N A A R E A

SINGING THE SCHOOLBUDGET CUT BLUES?

TRY OUT ONEOF THESE LOCAL

MUSIC GROUPS

TIPS FORDEALING WITH THE

PRIVATE SCHOOLTUITION CRUNCH

CREATIVESCHOOL LUNCHES

FOR BUSY PARENTSAND HEALTHY KIDS

CREATIVESCHOOL LUNCHES

FOR BUSY PARENTSAND HEALTHY KIDS

ARROYO ~ SEPTEMBER 2010 ~ 5

ABOUT THE COVER: Illustration ©iStockphoto.com/minimil

ARROYOM O N T H L YVOLUME 6 ~ NUMBER 9

BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE8 CREATIVE SCHOOL LUNCHES

With childhood obesity on the rise, parents can fight back by packing thesesimple, healthy meals. –By Noela Hueso

11 STRIKE UP THE BANDPasadena-area students facing school budget cuts for music can opt for asymphony of alternatives around town.–By Scarlet Cheng

14 KIDS VS. PETSAs school buses start their engines, one empty nester considers the question,which are better, pets or kids?–By Nancy Spiller

17 YOUR BIG BACKYARDAll the world’s a classroom, so take your kids outdoors for a master class inSouthern California’s abundant flora and fauna.–By Ilsa Setziol

24 A TUITION MATH TUTORIAL Even in this grim economy, parents of private school students can master theformula for paying relentlessly rising tuition bills.–By Brenda Rees

DEPARTMENTS7 FESTIVITIES Creative Arts Group’s golden anniversary and A Noise

Within’s groundbreaking

39 THE LIST Cal Phil at the Mill, Pasadena POPS goes Hollywood, vaudeville atthe Alex and more

42 OBJECTS OF DESIRE Finesse playtime with these brain (and body) teasers.

51 KITCHEN CONFESSIONS A love letter to bread, a power strugglebetween the heart and the hips

8

6 ~ SEPTEMBER 2010 ~ ARROYO

YOU CAN CONSIDER THIS OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL

issue, but here at Arroyo Monthly, we’re declaring September

Parents’ Month. Our hats, if we had them, would be off to

Pasadena-area parents steering their kids toward adulthood

around the hazardous shoals of family life in 2010 — school

budget cuts, rising private tuition costs, ballooning childhood

obesity and more.

So we’d like to offer a hand to families braving the new millennium. As Scarlet

Cheng explains, Pasadena-area kids grappling with school budget cuts for music have

a symphony of after-school and weekend options for a finely tuned education. There’s

no reason to limit your children’s schooling to the ABC’s when the Pasadena

Conservatory of Music is happy to introduce them to G clef and other pleasures of the

musically literate. And many music organizations offer financial aid for families in need.

That’s true of area private schools as well. Brenda Rees, whose own children’s

school raffled off a year of free tuition, spoke to local principals and headmasters to

find out what parents can do if the grim economy threatens their plans.

Of course, one of our favorite clichés – the best things in life are free – is still

hanging in there. Mother Nature has plenty to offer SoCal families willing to put on their

walking or biking shoes, and environmental reporter Ilsa Setziol has a myriad of

suggestions for terrific excursions that come child-approved by her son, Mateo.

Hitting the great outdoors has the added bonus of fending off that other dreaded

trend, childhood obesity. Noela Hueso offers additional tips for parents who want to pack

a healthy lunch that keeps kids interested — and away from fatty and sugary snack foods.

And lest we forget, not all parents need stress about looming college tuition bills

and other charms of family life. Some can kiss their four-legged brood on the head as

they plan their Christmas in Italy. Nancy Spiller, who has parented both kinds of

offspring — two-legged and four- — considers their respective pros and cons in her

delightful illustrated musings, “Kids vs. Pets.”

— Irene Lacher

ARROYO MONTHLYAltadena, Arcadia, Eagle Rock, Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta, Montrose, Sierra Madre, Pasadena, San Marino and South Pasadena

EDITOR IN CHIEF Irene Lacher

PRODUCTION MANAGER Yvonne Guerrero

ART DIRECTOR Joel Vendette

JUNIOR DESIGNER Eisen Nepomuceno

WEB DESIGNER Carla Marroquin

COPY EDITOR John Seeley

CONTRIBUTORS Leslie Bilderback, Michael Burr, Michael Cervin, Scarlet Cheng, André Coleman, Mandalit del Barco, Patt Diroll, Gary Dretzka, Jenn Garbee, Lynne Heffley, Noela Hueso, Katie Klapper, Ilsa Setziol, Kirk Silsbee, John Sollenberger, Nancy Spiller, Bradley Tuck

PHOTOGRAPHERS Johnny Buzzerio, Teri Lyn Fisher, Gabriel Goldberg, C.M. Hardt, Melissa Valladares

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Dina Stegon

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Fred Bankston, Carolyn Johansen, Leslie Lamm, Alison Standish, Cynthia Vazquez

ADVERTISING DESIGNER Carla Marroquin

VP OF FINANCE Michael Nagami

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER Andrea Baker

BUSINESS MANAGER Angela Wang

ACCOUNTING Alysia Chavez, Monica MacCree

OFFICE ASSISTANT Claudia Solano

PUBLISHER Jon Guynn

CONTACT US

[email protected]

[email protected](626) 584-1500

FAX(626) 795-0149MAILING ADDRESS50 S. De Lacey Ave., Ste. 200,Pasadena, CA 91105

ArroyoMonthly.com

©2010 Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

EDITOR’SNOTE

FESTIVITIES


PHOT

OS: L

ia P

ears

on P

hoto

grap

hy (C

AG);

Jam

ie P

han

(A N

oise

With

in)

Foothill Creative Arts Group (CAG) celebrated its golden

anniversary on July 31 with a garden cocktail party and silent auc-

tion at the Arcadia home of Janice and Robert Eriksson. More

than 100 supporters of Sierra Madre’s nonprofit arts-and-crafts

center attended, raising some $22,000 for programs. Emceed by

CAG instructor D. Lester Williams, the event was hosted by CAG

President Vicki Mathieu, co-founders Mary Wallace and Kathy

Snow and Executive Director Jacki Raymond. Revelers also

included former Arcadia Mayor Mary Young and American

Museum of Ceramic Art Director Christy Johnson.

A Noise Within, the Glendale-based classi-

cal repertory theater company, broke

ground July 20 on the new 300-seat theater

in Pasadena that will become its perma-

nent home. Construction on the 33,000-

square-foot venue, estimated at $13.3 mil-

lion, is scheduled to be completed by fall

2011, in time for the company’s 20th sea-

son opening.

1 2

3 4

1 32

1. Jacki Raymond, Kathy Snow, Mary Wallaceand Vicki Mathieu

2. Louise and Dick Major and Jan Eriksson

3. Lynn Van Dam Cooper and Christy Johnson

4. Maddie Gordon and Danielle Wilson

MAIN: Dottie Burnett and Jacquie Pergola

1. Steve Haderlein, Samantha Starrand Arlen Smith

2. Terri Murray, Lourdes Baird andDr. Robert Israel

3. David Worrell and Jeff Allen

LEFT: Mayor Bill Bogaard, A NoiseWithin Co-Founders/Co-ArtisticDirectors Julia Rodriguez-Elliottand Geoff Elliott and boardPresident Terry Kay

CreativeSchoolLunches

BACK TO SCHOOL

8 ~ SEPTEMBER 2010 ~ ARROYO ARROYO ~ SEPTEMBER 2010 ~ 9

WHEN RETIRED MILITARY OFFICERS COME OUT WITH AREPORT CALLING SCHOOL LUNCHES A THREAT TONATIONAL SECURITY, YOU KNOW THERE’S A PROBLEM.ACCORDING TO A RECENT NBC NEWS BROADCAST,THEY WARNED THAT AMERICAN KIDS ARE GAININGTOO MUCH WEIGHT AND HEADING TOWARD BEINGUNFIT FOR MILITARY SERVICE. POINTING TO SCHOOLMEALS THAT ARE TYPICALLY HEAVY ON FAT ANDCARBS AND LIGHT ON FARE THAT’S LEAN, GREEN ANDHEALTHY, IT’S NOT TOO HARD TO SEE THEIR REASON-ING — ESPECIALLY SINCE UP TO 40 PERCENT OF KIDS’FOOD INTAKE COMES FROM THE MEALS AND SNACKSTHEY EAT AT SCHOOL.

That report is just part of the growing media buzz identifying cafeteriafood as a prime culprit in childhood obesity, which has more than tripled overthe past 30 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Whether it’s Jamie Oliver, the chef who redesigned menus at a West Virginia ele-mentary school on the ABC summer series Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution, orthe legislators trying to reform the nation’s school lunch program with theHealthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, the topic is a hot one.

At the local level, parents of Pasadena Unified School District studentsshould be encouraged: PUSD last year banished soda machines and installedsalad bars in many campus cafeterias.

Of course, the best way to take control of your children’s eating habits is tosend them to school with food from home. But what to make? If you’re likemany parents, you’ve spent many a day haggling over the contents of the lunchbox. Kids of all ages can be finicky, not just the 2-year-old whose evolving tastebuds and emerging assertion of independence can make for a potent powerstruggle between parent and child.

Maybe finicky taste buds aren’t the problem — you’re just fresh out of ideasfor making something other than a turkey sandwich (not that there’s anythingwrong with that!). Never fear. With a little creative thinking and a dose of inspi-ration, you’ll soon be making the most out of your kids’ meals with minimalstress and maximum health benefits.

Fresh is best.Stay away from prepackaged, processed foods. Yes, they’re time-savers, but theycan also be calorie-laden, preservative-filled danger zones. If fresh isn’t always anoption, Trader Joe’s, Fresh & Easy and Whole Foods offer an array of minimallyprocessed frozen and packaged foods that are ideal for midday meals.

Keep it simple.You forgot to make lunches last night and now you’re scrambling to get out thedoor. Even though the morning rush can be pure madness, healthy meals thatare simple can be thrown together in a matter of minutes. Take a cue from theJapanese bento box concept — in which lunch components are prepared andtucked in their own containers or stored side-by-side with dividers — and filleach section with finger foods that go well together, such as:

• Grilled chicken slices, snap peas, peanut sauce, rice crackers and grapes• Cinnamon pita chips, applesauce, almonds and mission figs• Cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, carrots and ranch dressing

—CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

WITH CHILDHOOD OBESITY ON THE RISE, PARENTS CANFIGHT BACK BY PACKING THESE SIMPLE, HEALTHY MEALS.

BY NOELA HUESO

Grocery (1515 E. Washington Blvd.) and Good Foods Market (1864 E.Washington Blvd.). Falafels, made of ground chickpeas and/or fava beans,parsley and spices, are traditionally served in a pita pocket with pickles, let-tuce and tahini sauce. They travel more easily when the ingredients are

served wrap-style in a flour lavash or tortilla. Buy themix in a box and prepare at home in less than 30 min-utes. Dolmas are marinated grape leaves stuffed withrice and sometimes beef — finger food at its best.

• The Italian stromboli is a rolled bakedsandwich with a yeast dough pocket thatcan contain any number of ingredients,such as provolone and parmesan cheeses,salami, pepperoni, turkey or ham, onions,basil and garlic (try the recipe at fabulous-foods.com/usa/article/137/27931). Onestromboli is large enough to serve at leasttwo, so slice it up and serve or freeze theleftovers. Check out the Roma Italian Deli& Grocery at 918 N. Lake Ave. for all yourstromboli needs.

• Ingredients for sushi and California rollscan be found at the Korean HK Market inGlendale (831 N. Pacific Ave.), which has avast array of Asian foods to choose from.Get your short-grain rice, fish and seaweedthere to make your own or check out themany varieties offered at Trader Joe’s,Fresh & Easy, Costco and Whole Foods.

• Burritos are always sure things. You canmake them as traditional (pinto beans,cheese, shredded chicken or beef) or asfancy as you like. I like mine with every-thing: lettuce, rice, salsa, corn, beans(black or pinto), guacamole, etc. The only

problem is, the more ingredients you put in, the messier it can get —which is why a taco salad makes a good lunchtime alternative. Check outthe fresh produce and meat at Super King Market (2260 N. Lincoln Ave.,Altadena), where prices are super cheap.

Appeal to their inner vegetarian.Not every meal has to have meat in it to have protein — or be tasty. Meals pre-pared with eggs, tofu, beans and grains, such as quinoa (pronounced keen-wah)and Israeli couscous (pearl couscous), are quick and easy.

Revive leftovers.Last night’s dinner can be today’s lunchtime treat. Be inventive. Leftover grilledchicken can be the lead ingredient in a zesty Thai chicken wrap or Chinesechicken salad. Mix leftover rotini or fusilli with your choice of chopped vegeta-bles, such as broccoli, corn, carrots and onions, and drizzle with Italian dressingfor a fresh pasta salad.

Water, water, everywhere.You’ve heard it before — water is the best beverage. It’s true. Forgo the dispos-able plastic bottles and pack it in a colorful reusable aluminum bottle. Theenvironment will thank you. AM

• Hard-boiled eggs, cheddar cheese sticks, pretzels and trail mix• Swiss cheese squares, sliced roast beef, spicy golden mustard, Spanish green

olives and wheat crackers• Fruit salad, banana mini-muffins and rice pudding• Watermelon and cantaloupe slices and strawberries • Dried fruit: apricots, peaches, mangoes, strawberries, bananas, etc.• Vegetable chips and salsa

Get the kids involved.One week, it’s peanut butter and jelly or nothing and the next week it’s onyour kids’ No Fly list. Avert pickiness by getting them involved in thelunch-making process. Kids are more likely to eat what’s in their lunchbox if they have a hand in choosing and preparing their meals. Simpledishes include:

• Chicken salad• Egg salad• Heroes (a.k.a. submarines, grinders

and hoagies)• A wheat bagel with sliced turkey, lettuce and

cream cheese• Wraps of any kind: vegetable, turkey,

chicken, etc.

Speaking of peanut butter…Hailed as one America’s favorite foods, peanutbutter is found in approximately 75 percent ofAmerican homes. The traditional PB&J sandwichis the most beloved, and if you’regoing to go that route, be sure touse 100 percent spreadable fruit,such as the offerings from SorrellRidge, Smucker’s and Polaner,instead of sugary preserves. Andthat goes on whole grain bread,of course. Other satisfyinglunchtime combinations include:

• Sliced banana and peanutbutter on a wheat tortilla

• Sliced apples and celery with peanut butter in a cup• Peanut butter and honey on cinnamon raisin bread

Go international.My personal favorites are lunches with foreign flair. While younger childrenneed to be introduced to new foods a number of times before they becomeaccustomed to them, older kids should be able to appreciate tastes from aroundthe world. Some of these require a little advance preparation if you’re servinghomemade, but they’re worth it. Consider:

• Spanikopita (spinach pie), a traditional Greek dish combining spinach,butter, eggs, parsley, onions and feta cheese, can be made in a big tray or inindividual triangles. Trader Joe’s sells a package of eight for $3.99; or trythe Food Network’s recipe: foodnetwork.com/recipes/spanakopita-spinach-triangles-or-pie-recipe/index.html.

• Middle Eastern falafels, dolmas, hummus and pita bread can be found atethnic markets in Pasadena’s Armenian district, such as Vartan’s Family


BACK TO SCHOOL

—CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

IT’S A FAMILIAR REFRAIN: WHEN THE ECONOMY TAKES A DIVE ANDSCHOOL BUDGETS SHRINK, THE PROGRAMS THAT FEEL THE PINCHALWAYS INCLUDE MUSIC AND ARTS. AND THE COMING SCHOOLYEAR BRINGS PARTICULARLY PAINFUL CUTS: THE PASADENAUNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SLASHED $25.1 MILLION FROM THE2010–11 BUDGET, WHICH INVOLVED PINK-SLIPPING 250 TEACHERS— ULTIMATELY REDUCING THE NUMBER OF MUSIC EDUCATORS BY13 PERCENT THIS YEAR ALONE. “MUSIC SEEMS VERY EXPENDABLE,”SAYS CYNTHIA ABBOTT, A CHORAL TEACHER AT WASHINGTONMIDDLE SCHOOL AND THE PASADENA MASTER CHORALE’S DIREC-TOR OF EDUCATION. “SO IT’S ALWAYS ON THE CHOPPING BLOCK.”

For the survivors, times are still tough, particularly at the elementary level,says Karen Klages, PUSD’s music specialist. This fall, only fifth-graders will havemusic education, rather than some of the kids in third through sixth grades as

PASADENA-AREA STUDENTS FACING SCHOOL BUDGETCUTS FOR MUSIC CAN OPT FOR A SYMPHONY OF ALTERNATIVES AROUND TOWN.

BY SCARLET CHENG


BACK TO SCHOOL

—CONTINUED ON PAGE 12UNBOWED:String players in the Pasadena Young Musicians OrchestraPH

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before. Even so, teachers will be stretched. “Some teachers will cover six orseven schools,” says Klages, who has been teaching music in public schools since1987. “When I started out, I just covered three schools.”

That was before several years of belt-tightening: Choral programs that usedto be available in every school are now limited to four high schools and twomiddle schools. Jo Stoup, a former music teacher at John Muir High School,says the school’s marching band — 110 students strong in her day — had beenreduced to 30 when she checked a couple of years ago; and the orchestra, for-merly 60 students, was down to 11.

Even in those relatively flusher days, running a music program was a strug-gle, says Stoup, currently music director of the Pasadena Young MusiciansOrchestra (PYMO) and a full-time faculty member at Pasadena City College(PCC). She had no budget for transportation, costumes or sheet music. “I hadto sell candy bars out of my office; we sold wrapping paper,” she says. “Sobesides all your duties as a teacher, you’re doing all this other stuff. I was put-ting in 60 to 70 hours a week.”

But fear not: Parents and students who consider music essential to a well-rounded education can cue up the “Hallelujah Chorus” — there are a numberof alternatives in the Pasadena area. Most charge fees, although many offerscholarships to those in financial need. Here are some examples:

Stoup’s Pasadena Young Musicians Orchestra is composed of studentsfrom 10th grade through junior college age who rehearse once a week, and it’sconveniently housed on the PCC campus. The young musicians must audition;some 80 to 100 participants from the area make the cut each year. Performancevenues have included PCC, the Wilshire Ebell in Los Angeles and a theater in

Hawaii. The 50-year-old nonprofitrequires students to participate inthree concerts and a weekendretreat during the school year.Musicians must also belong to aperformance group at theirschool. (So, Stroup notes, it’s atelling fact that this year, thereare only two students fromPUSD). Tuition and fees startat $900. Visit PYMO.org formore information.

Another option is thePasadena Youth SymphonyOrchestra (PYSO), under

the umbrella of thePasadena SymphonyOrchestra, which has beenhelping to train classicalmusicians since 1972.Students in grades sixthrough nine can signup for the school year fora basic cost of $420, which covers weeklymeetings that include group rehearsals and instruction for theirparticular section (wind, brass, string, etc.). Field trips involve additional fees.The group currently has about 150 students, says Clay Campbell, the PSO’sdirector of education and community engagement.

“In February, we were asked to play at the American String TeachersAssociation’s National Orchestra Festival in Santa Clara,” says Campbell. “It’s avery big honor.” Next year they’re headed to Colorado Springs to play with theAir Force Academy Band, which is staffed by professional musicians. Visitpasadenasymphony-pops.org/education-and-community/pasadena-youth-symphony-orchestra/.

The Pasadena Conservatory of Music (PCM), an independent nonprofitcommunity music school founded in 1983, has a good reputation for trainingyoung musicians at its 100 N. Hill Ave. location. PCM has a faculty of 50 andenrollment of more than 1,300 students, ranging from infants to senior citizens.Its Young Musicians program, which serves children up to age 12, offers weeklyclasses designed for students of a particular age or grade. According to the web-site, the program “encourages and nurtures each child’s musicality with one-year, age-specific classes that are fun, creative and developmentallyappropriate.” Enrollment is for the entire school year. Annual tuition costs $648($576 for students also receiving private instruction at PCM). There’s a yearlyfamily registration fee of $40, and an annual materials fee of $33 to $70. Visitpasadenaconservatory.org.

The Pasadena Master Chorale (PMC) was formed a couple of years ago byits artistic director, Jeffrey Bernstein, who served as director of choral music atOccidental College from 1997 to 2008. The adult group of some 80 auditionedvoices performs several times a year and recruits young singers when the pro-gram calls for it. “For the Christmas concert, we wanted to feature the Blair[High School] choir,” says Cynthia Abbott. “I know the program has a lot ofnice musicians, and I thought it would be great to expose them to somethingclassical.” So the group brought in 30 students from Blair and eight from otherhigh schools. Students, who were each paired with an adult mentor, rehearsedevery other week at no charge. Visit pasadenamasterchorale.org. AM


BACK TO SCHOOL

SOUNDING A HOPEFUL NOTE:Students at the Pasadena Conservatory of Music

Below: Members of the Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestra

Opposite: Members of the Pasadena Master Chorale

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STORY AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY NANCY SPILLERPets:

Can’t j

oinyou

ina r

estaurant.

Kids: S

houldn

’tjoi

n youin

a resta

urant.

Pets: Happ

y being fedfrom a can

Kids: Happy

to

Pets: Potty training takes weeks of newspapers.

Kids: Potty training takes years of diapers.

Pets: Don’

t try on your shoes and lipstick.

Kids: Don’t shed onyour

blac

kclo

thes

or chewyour

shoes.

Pets:

Easily entertained. Kids: Easily bored.

Pets: Eager to ride in the car.

Kids:Eager to drive

thecar

.

Pets: Ourpresent.

Kids:

Ourfuture.

their entire life.

let youdevote

yourlife to figurin

g

out what they

want to eat.

Pets: Affordable obedienceschool leads to loyal,

responsive companion.

Kids: Expensive collegeleads to unreturnedphone calls fromdistant adults.


BACK TO SCHOOL

YOUR BIG BACKYARDALL THE WORLD’S A CLASSROOM, SO PUT ON YOUR HIKING OR BIKING SHOES AND TAKE THE FAMILY TO THESE PARKS

AND GARDENS FOR A MASTER CLASS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S ABUNDANT FLORA AND FAUNA.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ILSA SETZIOL

IT’S LATE ON A HOT SUMMER NIGHT. I WANTMY 3-YEAR-OLD TO LIE DOWN AND SLEEP. HE WON’T — HE’S BUSY NESTING. PERCHEDATOP HIS SCRUNCHED-UP BLUE BLANKIE, HEINFORMS ME “I CAN’T LIE DOWN, MY EGGSWILL GET COLD.” I SUGGEST HE KEEP THEMWARM BY LYING ON TOP OF THEM. “THEY’LLBREAK!” HE WAILS.

I’m guessing he was a sea turtle that night, because a recent trip to a turtlerescue center had made a big impression on him. But he could just as easilyhave been a flamingo or an alligator. Could there be anything cuter than Mateopretending he’s an animal? Well, yes — when he strikes up a conversation withone: “Here, ladybug, you can land on me.” Or “Nice to meet you, bunny.”

For a decade, I’ve written about the environment and pondered contempo-rary America’s disconnect from nature. So I’m eager for my son to get outsideand explore. Since he was barely old enough to hold up his head, my husbandand I have toted Mateo along trails in the San Gabriel Mountains, around pub-lic gardens and out to the Pacific. So here’s an introduction to some of myfavorite spots and activities:

TAKE A HIKEWhen Mateo was an infant, we bought a Kelty Kids carrier, a backpack-like con-traption. Gently jostling on Dad’s back and sheltered under the carrier’s canopy,he looked like a little Indian prince atop an elephant (apologies to Dad).

The rough spot came when he hit 2½ — too heavy to carry for long, tootoddling to walk far. Still, in the right setting and with a little encouragement, alittle kid will haul tuchus. Look for places with nature centers, water and rela-tively flat trails. And take your time. Be content to spend a half-hour movingpebbles from one side of a path to the other.

Monrovia Canyon ParkThis lovely city park features a stream hemmed with alders, those elegant treesthat seem to regard you silently (with the eye-like markings on their trunks).

The waterfall trail is popular with families. If you have older kids, choosethe trailhead near the entrance. You’ll get a 3.4-mile hike roundtrip and perhapssee some deer or native grey squirrels. For an easier 1.5-mile hike, start at thenature center farther up the road.

Visit cityofmonrovia.org/community-life/parks/342-monrovia-canyon-park. —CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

1

2

3

4

5

MATEO ON THE MOVE(1,2,3) Explorations at home

(4,5) Hiking in Joshua TreeNational Park

BACK TO SCHOOL


Ernest E. Debs Regional ParkIf you haven’t already scoped it out, head to the darling nature center at DebsPark, near the 110 Freeway between South Pasadena and downtown L.A. Asmall area surrounding this Audubon Center has been beautifully landscapedwith native plants, and there are many wonderful niches for kids to explore.“The water is a huge draw for all ages,” says center Director Jeff Chapman.

“Kids also enjoy watching dragonflies and other animals thatcome to get water. They like seeing how water moves

through our mini-arroyo.” For a great spot to picnic, enter the park on

Monterey Road, north of Huntington Drive.Spread your blanket on the large tree-studdedlawn, or trek up the (stroller-accessible) closedroad for panoramic views.

Visit laparks.org/dos/parks/facility/ernestEDebsPk.htm.

Eaton Canyon Natural AreaThis county park is familiar to many denizens

of Arroyoland. Come early or on weekdays andwalk quietly; you’ll be sure to see something new.

Look for cottontail bunnies and lizards darting amongthe shrubs behind the nature center. And bring binoculars

because birds abound here. My son and a friend recently spent a couple of hours completely enrap-

tured by one stretch of the stream. They created little dams, scooped up polli-wogs and poked the streambed with sticks. Mateo also loves the live snakes andfrogs housed in the 7,600-square-foot nature center.

A docent leads free family nature walks here on Saturdays at 9 a.m.Visit ecnca.org/.

Stough CanyonThe Verdugo Mountains, surrounded by La Cañada Flintridge, Tujunga,Glendale and Burbank, are a great place to experience wildflowers. In thespring, you might spot tall spikes of pink clarkias, scarlet delphiniums andCalifornia sunflowers. Most of the trails in the Verdugos are steep, though, so Irecommend Stough Canyon, in Burbank, for older children.

Visit trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=XMR013-040.

Legg Lake Park Biking is another fun way to experience the outdoors. The paved trails sur-rounding Legg Lake at Whittier Narrows Recreation Area (Montebello/PicoRivera) accommodate parents carting tots or kids riding on their own.

The lake is bustling with waterfowl of all kinds. Kingfishers also buzzaround this supersize pond. There are ample picnic

benches, ice cream vendors and pedal boats for rent.Visit labikepaths.com/LeggLake.html.

Angeles National ForestOne of our most exciting trips during my son’ssecond year was a bike ride along the West Fork of

the San Gabriel River, off Highway 39. He watcheda man catch trout — and even got to touch one. He

waded, climbed rocks and saw a frog.


2

3

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TRAVELS WITH MATEO(1) To Joshua Tree National Park;(2) Huntington Beach;(3) LA County Arboretum;(4) Arboretum;(5) At home;(6) Franklin Canyon

For a first fishing experience, a sure bet is Mt. Baldy Trout Pools, a stockedfishing area on Mt. Baldy Road, 10 miles north of Claremont.

For information about the San Gabriel River’s West Fork, visitnearfield.com/~dan/sports/bike/mountain/sgwf/index.htm. For the trout pools, go to mtbaldytroutpools.com.

CAMP OUTCamping with kids can be exhausting — but rewarding. On a trip to Joshua TreeNational Park this year, Mateo and his little friend devolved into cave-kids,whacking people with sticks and dumping fistfuls of gravel on each other. But it’shard to top an evening of roasted marshmallows and stargazing.

Despite the desert melée, one of my main camping recommen-dations is to go with another family. On the trail, kids will spur

each other on; at the campsite, parents can share KP duty.

GO ON SAFARI IN YOUR OWN BACKYARDEvery day can be an adventure in your own backyard.Mine is teeming with native plants — which attract

insects, birds and lizards — and edible plants. Among my son’s favorite backyard activities: planting

seeds, picking strawberries, hauling soil in dump trucks, fill-ing the birdfeeder, magnifying things, handling worms from the

composting bins and catching bugs.We’ve also raised painted lady butterflies from caterpillars we bought from

insectlore.com. Perhaps our most exciting backyard exploration was inspired by Brent

“The Bug Guy” Karner from the Natural History Museum. He showed us howto catch bugs by swooping a butterfly net over the tops of bushes. He not onlyreassured us that the vast majority of bugs in our yard wouldn’t hurt us, he alsotold us it’s okay to play with them.

“My feeling is the experience is very important,” Karner says. “Bugs are alot tougher than we think. If we’re being generally gentle, the bug will probablysurvive and then you’ve learned a bit about it as well.” Sincethen, Mateo has slept with jars of katydids andworms under his bed. And he has composed lyricssuch as “Roly-poly you’re my friend/I will makeyou a dinner den.”

A couple of months ago, we discovered amourning dove nesting in our backyard.Mateo got a peek at her eggs and the baby.“Here, mother dove,” he said sweetly, “here’ssome seed for you. Here’s some water.”

As for the human mom in our household(namely, me), she’s tired of being tackled andpunched, whined and yelled at. We’ve talked a lotabout respectful behavior. And yet, when Mateoencounters animals, he’s exceedingly gentle,stroking them softly with two fingers, cooing tothem lovingly.

If I pretend to be a bird, could I get somemother dove love?

For more on Ilsa Setziol’s excursions, visit her blog

on the natural environment of Southern California:

RamblingLA.com.

AM

4

5

6


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BACK TO SCHOOL

A TUITION MATHTUTORIAL:ONE PLUS ONE PLUS ONE PLUS… PARENTS OF PRIVATE SCHOOLSTUDENTS FIND HELP FOR THE HEADACHE OF RELENTLESSLY RISING BILLS IN A GRIM ECONOMY.

BY BRENDA REES

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LAST YEAR AT MY DAUGHTER’S SCHOOL, ST. PHILIP THE APOSTLEIN PASADENA, PARENTS WERE BUZZING ABOUT THE BIG-TICKETRAFFLE PRIZE AT THE ANNUAL DINNER DANCE AND AUCTION. WASIT THE KIND OF TEMPTATION OFFERED IN YEARS PAST, LIKE A NEWCAR? AMPLE VACAY TIME IN SOME EXOTIC CONDO? ONE OF THOSEFANCY PEDIGREE POOCHES?

Nope. It was a year’s free tuition — four ofthe most wonderful words parents of privateschool students can hear these days.

Chet Crane, head of school at MaranathaHigh School in Pasadena, says that during thelast school year, he witnessed “a big spike inrequests for tuition assistance — about a 5 to 10percent increase.” Last year, Maranatha awardedabout $1.2 million in financial aid. “It’s a realchallenge to meet everyone’s needs, becausethere is only so much money to go around.”

Indeed, never before has sending your childto a private school been more of a privilege. Intoday’s miserable economy, committing to a private school education can be akinto tying a heavy weight around your neck for the next 13 years and throwing your-self into the rushing river of the Great Financial Unknown.

Even in flusher times, many parents moved to more desirable school districtsfor their kids, but these days, some have been forced to take on a second (and per-haps third) job or hit up the grandparents to support junior’s academic aspirations.

It’s daunting for parents to realize that, despite all these sacrifices, they will seetuition increase practically every year. At private schools across the board, theseincreases are mainly to cover rising teachers’ salaries and health care costs. Mostschools try to limit these tuition hikes to the modest 3 to 5 percent range, butwhen you’re talking about an annual tab that can range from $5,000 to $16,000 ayear, those small increases can quickly add up... and sap bank accounts.

So what happens if dad gets downsized or mom is laid off? What can par-ents do if they want to continue down the independent school route?

“Don’t wait until it’s too late,” advises Dr. Richard Gray, president ofLaSalle High School. “Talk to the school and let them know what’s going on; wewant to work with you.”

Gray says that private schools, mindful of the pressures on parents, areextending more financial aid than ever before; last year, his school awarded $1.1 million from an emergency fund specifically designed to deal with thesekinds of economic hardships. “We hadn’t had to tap into that fund in years,until about two years ago,” he says.

It’s a pressing problem across the country. According to the NationalAssociation of Independent Schools, in the 2001-02 school year, only 15.6 percentof students received financial aid; during the 2009-10 school year, the percentageof students on aid jumped to 21.6.

But is all this assistance available only to parents of kids who are alreadyenrolled? At some schools — like High Point Academy in Pasadena — yes, butothers also offer help for incoming families. And lest you think that ability topay is a criterion for admission, most private schools keep their financial aidcommittees completely separate from admissions committees; schools say theylook at personalities and academic achievements — not the size of the parents’purse — when screening candidates.

At High Point Academy, Headmaster John Higgins has seen tuition assistanceebb and flow over the years. “We have had families on financial aid for perhaps afew months [because] a parent lost a job and then a few months later, they’re back

at work,” he says. “But then we have otherfamilies who have been drawing aid in fifth,sixth, seventh and even eighth grades.”

Such arrangements are kept private,so participating families needn’t worryabout any social stigma. But that didn’tmake it much easier for Cynthia A., whosays she had to swallow her pride to askfor aid. With two kids in a Pasadena pri-vate school, Cynthia and her husband,once prosperous in their own businesses,

found themselves hitting hard times during the past school year. They changedcareers and made other financial adjustments, but money was still tight.

“It was a teacher who knew what was going on with us who suggested welook into financial aid,” explains Cynthia. “I never even considered it [and] itwas almost too embarrassing to admit we needed help. The school walked usthrough the process and it all worked out. I was surprised at how generous theywere to us. They really came through.”

Despite doling more out in tuition assistance, private schools say the gener-al socioeconomic makeup of their student bodies has remained fairly constant,perhaps indicating how vulnerable people can be even higher up the economicladder. In addition to tapping emergency funds, some schools are asking theiralumni to kick in more toward the health of their alma maters. Gray says a newLaSalle campaign, Keeping Our Promise, invites alumni to sponsor a specificstudent who needs financial help. For the program’s first school year, alumnihave pledged more than $100,000.

And extended family members — particularly grandparents — are pitch-ing in to help with tuition as well, says Diane LaSalle, admissions coordinator atPasadena Waldorf School. “Grandparents are usually overjoyed to be asked,” shesays. “They feel like they are contributing in a very significant way to theirgrandchildren; I’ve seen this make families even closer.”

Despite the dismal economy, private schools are doing their best to main-tain the status quo and holding their own overall. It’s a juggling act to pay thebills, work with struggling parents and maximize fundraising efforts to keep thewheels of education greased and humming.

So perhaps it shouldn’t be surprising that an uncertain future is always in theback of many educators’ minds. “You know what concerns me most?” says PrincipalJennifer Ramirez of St. Philip the Apostle. “What if things get worse? We’re able tokeep up now with the way things are going, but what happens if more families losejobs, the economy gets stuck or keeps sinking? We can’t do much more than we aredoing now. What then? Do we lay off teachers? Deplete programs?

“Those are things I don’t even want to think about — and I hope I don’thave to.” AM

(Clockwise from top right): Pasadena Waldorf School,Maranatha High School, High Point Academy

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ACCORDING TO HISTORIANS, SWIMMING POOLS HAVE TEMPTED BATHERSAND ATHLETES FOR MILLENNIA. PROBABLY THE “GREAT BATH,” OF THEANCIENT URBAN SETTLEMENT AT MOHENJO-DARO, IN PRESENT-DAYPAKISTAN, IS THE OLDEST KNOWN SWIMMING FACILITY. THE POOL, BUILTSOMETIME AROUND 2,600 B.C., WAS LINED WITH BRICK, AND SEALEDWITH A TAR-BASED MATERIAL. ANCIENT GREEKS AND ROMANS ALSOBUILT BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE POOLS FOR TRAINING, AND PLEASURE.SOMETIMES THEY STOCKED FISH IN THEIR POOLS, HENCE THE LATINTERM FOR POOL, PISCINA.

And the story continues. Pools became popular among the British during the 19th century. Afterthe Olympics Games were rehabilitated in 1896, including swimming competition, the sport climbed inpopularity and, by the end of World War I, enthusiasm for the activity soared. Swimming pools appearedabove and below ground, at resorts, on ships, in backyards and suburban recreation areas. The evolutionof the modern pool has taken generations, improving with advances in technology, design, environmentaland safety concerns.

In 1954 Charlie Dennis’ father opened Swan Pools and today, more than 50 years later, Charlie isstill designing, building and renovating pools and spas throughout Los Angeles County. They’ve built andrenovated more than 5,000 pools in the San Gabriel Valley, and though the business has developed con-siderably over the years, many fundamentals remain the same.

When asked what he learned from his father, Charlie says, “What didn’t I learn from him?”

Working Within the Space:Garocco Incorporated, the Pool Construction Company, is another family business, having served theSan Gabriel region for more than 70 years, and now operated by the third generation. The Garoccofamily initiated the use of rock pools and built one of the first infinity-edge pools in California, at ahomesite in Pasadena.

Today the company continues to provide full design-and-build services, meaning that they concen-trate not just on digging a hole and filling it with water, but incorporating the pool and water feature designsinto the existing space, considering landscape, architecture and the needs and tastes of the homeowner.

“As a full-service organization, we actually create outdoor rooms,” explains Don Engle, director ofsales for Garocco Pools. “We create areas that families can gather around, and we actually add livingspace to the square footage of the home. We have an amazing team of experts who have workedtogether for 20 years, and they incorporate lighting, landscaping — anything that’s involved in building anoutdoor environment.”

Jeff Lokker, founder and principal of Huntington Pools and Spas, graduated from the CaliforniaPolytechnic University and holds California C-53 and C-63 swimming pool contractor’s licenses.Huntington Pools is a member of the Genesis 3 Design Group since 2006. An international forum,Genesis 3 advocates for continuing education and higher standards in water-shape design and construc-tion. Like many of his colleagues, Jeff specializes in designing pools and spas that reflect and enhancethe design concepts of home and landscape.



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In 2008 Huntington Pools was selected tocreate a pool for the Pasadena Showcase Houseof Design. The house itself was a 1920sCalifornia Mission-style home. “In re-imaginingthe pool,” recalls Jeff, “we took into considera-tion the terra-cotta roof tiles, stucco walls, andarched doorways and created a simple but dra-matic pool and spa that fit right in.”

By contrast, Huntington’s recent residentialprojects include a private home in San Marino thatfeatures custom-tumbled brickwork, saline system,and an elevated, cascading spa. Drought-tolerantplantings and stone earthworks completed thelandscape for a uniquely organic environment. InHollywood Hills they built a stark and strikingpoolscape to resonate with a contemporary home.

When planning to build a new pool or reno-vate an existing one, you should consider the styleand mood of your home and its surroundings.Look for a designer and builder who understandsnot only the technical aspects of pool design, butthe aesthetic importance of continuity and beauty.

Making the Old New Again: Creative and Eco-friendly Pool Renovation Most pool construction and design firms special-ize in both new and reconstructed pool/spa proj-ects. In either scenario, the designer will, typically,first examine the jobsite. If working on a remodel,the designer will determine which facets of theexisting pool, water features, materials andmechanics should be changed or rejuvenated,



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and he/she will also confer with the client to deter-mine what the individual or family homeownerwants to accomplish with a redesign.

“We almost always resurface a pool duringrenovation,” says Charlie Dennis. “And a remodelusually includes an update of existing plumbingand an upgraded filter system, which results inthe best maintenance, better water quality andhigher overall efficiency.”

At Garocco Pools renovation comprisesabout half of the company’s business. Theprocess represents a collaboration between thedesign/build team and the client on the functionand purpose of the pool — entertainment, decor,swimming and recreation — by guiding clients tothe most workable and sustainable solutions.

“We try to create timeless environments,”says Garocco’s Don Engle. “We strive to remodelpools and surroundings that will still be beautiful in50 years. We work with the architecture of thehome, and take great pains with the initial designs.”

The cosmetic elements of redesign have pro-liferated over the last few decades, using embed-ded rocks, waterfalls and foliage, natural streams,elevations and diverse surfacing materials.

Equally innovative are the environmentallythoughtful advances in design and technologyinvolving water flow and usage, and surround-ing landscape.

“Pools use less than half the water that atraditional grass lawn uses,” Mark Meahl, ofGardenview Landscape, Nurseries and Pools,

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says. “The use of a separation tank saves water,spins water in a tank and puts water through filtersinstead of spilling all the backwash into our sew-ers. The variable-speed pump also economizes onthe use of resources — water and energy.”

Smart pool systems utilize remote controldevices for both pool and spa that read heat, lightsand wave action. Contemporary Iphone apps evenincorporate communication systems with homepool and spa systems, and in some cases the useof green technologies can bring rebates from powercompanies via progressive federal regulations.

Swann Pools also offers a range of greenalternatives. Remote control systems, sea saltand water purifying systems all provide for moreefficient, eco-friendly pools.

Balance and Budget:Tom Scoble, president and head designer ofMother Magnolia, has been featured on HGTV’sLandscaper’s Challenge, winning three out of hisfour competitions on the program. His approachto life and design is driven by a search for bal-ance — exploring the spiritual, the aesthetic, thepractical and responsible depths of the possibili-ties. His goal when working on a pool and land-scape design for residents of the San GabrielValley is to create a “dream outdoor refuge.” Asa comprehensive landscape and pool design-and-build company, Mother Magnolia offers acompact and economic service to clients.

“Usually landscapers don’t do pools andpool builders don’t do landscapes,” explains Tom.



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“So what happens when the pool builder leavesyou with a scarred and torn up yard? Then youhave to deal with yet another contractor to restoreyour landscape. In the end it can be a huge invest-ment of your personal time and resources, and lotsof headaches dealing with all the issues. WithMother Magnolia there is no need to locate andhire individual contractors. We handle everything inhouse, from concept to completion. You just watchthe transformation happen before your eyes.”

Don Engle of Garocco Pools agrees thatthe design/build combination provides tremen-dous benefits. “The designer/builder knowsexactly what he wants. He can design within abudget and he doesn’t have to take his designsto anyone else. That keeps costs down.”

Don estimates that costs for building a newpool on a residential property can start around$35,000, and escalate depending on size, materials,and design concept. A remodel may start around$15,000 and varies similarly to a new construction.

According to Charlie Dennis of SwanPools, design and construction budget varieswith the size of the project. “Resurfacing startsaround $6,000 and the sky’s the limit, dependingon what the client wants to do. An averageremodel, with re-plumbing and tile, can run any-where from $20,000 to $60,000, depending onsize, materials and equipment costs.”

Pool Safety:The Centers for Disease Control and Preventionwarns that the primary risk for drowning deathsand accidents at home is related to a lack ofproper barriers and supervision.

“Most young children who drowned inpools were last seen in the home, had been outof sight less than five minutes, and were in thecare of one or both parents at the time,” accord-ing to the CDC website on pool safety.

As of January 1, 2007, California Healthand Safety Codes required that any building per-mit for construction or renovation of a pool orspa in a single family home must be equippedwith at least one of seven drowning-preventionfeatures. Your pool design/build team should befamiliar and compliant with these requirements.

“Mechanical, automatic covers offer an on-track, roll-over cover for the pool and they’re prob-ably the safest cover you can buy, but there aretrade-offs,” says Mark Meahl, of GardenviewLandscape, Nurseries and Pools. “They can reallyonly be used on a regular pool and won’t protect araised spa. They don’t add to the aesthetics of thepool either, and the covers get dirty, require main-tenance — though they also help to keep thepools warmer.”

Mark suggests that net covers may bemore attractive than conventional covers.



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Netting protects the view of reflections and rain dancing on the water, and the net cover — made of durable, cargo/fiberglass material — aids in the skimming of the pool, thus reduc-ing costs.

Other safety features include: removablechildproof fencing, wrought iron fences, largerolling gates, and a major advance in pool safety— alarm devices. These devices can be activat-ed by unexpected water immersion, by thecrossing of laser beam monitors, and individualmovement and activity devices that can actuallybe attached a child’s wrists or ankles.

“The important thing about pool safety,”advises Charlie Dennis, “is that you work withthe needs of the family, the ages of the children.

Then you can make recommendations aboutwhat’s safe for that pool setting.”

Savoring the Delights It’s possible that most of us have been lured to therefreshing delights of water since we inhabited thewomb. In any case, in Southern California particular-ly, the luxury of pools, spas and the more compre-hensive enjoyment of the outdoors make life worthliving. Possibilities are endless for inventing or rein-venting a beautiful, water-lush environment on yourproperty. The surest guarantee of success: consideryour dreams, desires, needs; and seek out a profes-sional team of designer/builders who can under-stand and implement those dreams in an honest,economic and compliant manner. Then, dive in! ■


ARCHITECTS

JAMES COANE & ASSOCIATESSince 1994, James V. Coane, has specialized in: custom resi-dences, estates, historic renovations and expansions, residen-tial and apartment interiors, multi-family residential, corporateinteriors, retail and small commercial building design. AmericanInstitute of Architects award winners, and named Best Architectby Pasadena Weekly, their projects have been in ArchitecturalDigest and other magazines and used as locations for filmingand fashion shoots. Well-versed in historical and modern archi-tecture and design and known for attention to detail on all proj-ects. Visit jvca.com or call (626) 584-6922.

HARTMANBALDWIN DESIGN/BUILDHartmanBaldwin Design/Build is a fully integrated Architecture,Construction and Interior Design Company specializing inupscale remodels, additions, historic restorations and new cus-tom homes for highly discerning individuals that are passionateabout their home and lifestyle. We pride ourselves in being cho-sen by clients who look for a full service firm that will providethem with outstanding design services, cutting-edge materialsand products, quality construction that is sustainable and ener-gy-efficient, as well as a relationship that goes beyond the dura-tion of a project. Call 626.486.0510 to schedule yourcomplimentary design consultation. HartmanBaldwin.com.

MARBLE ARCHITECTURESince 2001, Tom Marble has worked with clients to complete avariety of projects, including the renovation of a Queen AnneVictorian, the revitalization of a neighborhood retail center andthe recasting of a bland ’60s office building as HollywoodRegency. His goal is to negotiate the territory between peopleand place, creating an environment that reflects the uniquenessof both. His own home was featured in a recent issue of the LosAngeles Times Magazine. Visit tommarble.com

BUILDERS & REMODELERS

CHELSEA CONSTRUCTIONMany homeowners now choose to upgrade current livingspace, rather than rebuilding the entire structure. Whether it’s akitchen/bath or complete remodel, we pride ourselves on clas-sic design, maintaining the individual style of the house.Customers work closely with owner Mark Snashall, assuringtheir desired features and look are achieved, while he helpsdirect choices toward quality results, reflective of his finish car-pentry training, commitment to quality, fine European crafts-manship and attention to detail. (818) 949-4595.

GREEN/SOLAR

PHAT ENERGYWe are more than a solar company; we are a new energy com-pany. If you are like most of our customers, you are facingincreasing challenges with the current energy infrastructure.That’s why we are interested in 4 principal issues: power gen-eration at the place of use (“distributed power”), energy effi-ciency, transportation fueling (electric vehicles), and energystorage. Our team is motivated to make a difference in your life!866-797-PHAT (7428)

INTERIOR DESIGN

DAY OF DESIGN WITH TERRI JULIOImagine the opportunity to consult with a professional design-er for an entire day. Now you can for a fixed flat fee. Let Terri’sexpertise be the first thing you call upon when consideringany project. It is a worthwhile investment and a good dose ofprevention considering valuable dollars and time can be lostwhen improvements go awry. Call (626) 447-5370 or visit terrijulio.com

CYNTHIA BENNETT Cynthia Bennett & Associates has been a celebrated design andbuild firm for almost 30 years. They specialize in innovativekitchen and bath design, general construction, historical renova-tion, project management and interior design. With all areas ofresidential design and construction being taken care of byCynthia Bennett and Associates, Inc., each detail will be thoughtof and coordinated. Call for a consultation at (626) 799-9701.

ELLEN BAUM DESIGNInterior Designer, Ellen Baum, helps clients create spaces that aretruly theirs. She brings 36 years experience into each project. Herability to transform unworkable spaces into functional, practicaland beautiful living and working environments is amazing. Shereally listens to her clients’ ideas and requirements and incorpo-rates those along with their favorite pieces into a new, freshdesign plan. She has been published in numerous publicationsand appeared in two HGTV “Designer’s Challenge” episodes.

INTERIOR SPACES

CAROUSEL FLOORS This family-owned, 38-year-old company provides a superbselection along with remarkable service. For hardwood, selectfrom all the top names, including Appalachian Hardwood Floors,pre-finished or finished by expert craftsman. For linoleum,Marmoleum is a natural, eco-friendly, stylish flooring with multi-ple patterns. Carousel is a Mohawk Color Center, carryingFabrica, Karastan, Masland and Schumacher to name a few.Free consultations; designers welcome. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat.; or by appoint-ment. 676 E. Green St., Pasadena. Call (626) 795-8085.

FLOORGATE, INC.Floorgate offers premium hardwood flooring designed to keep upwith your family’s lifestyle. We offer the largest selection of colors andstyles in wood flooring, hardwoods, laminate, carpet and tile, withvirtually care-free finishes and our assurance of quality. Hardwoodfloors are incredibly beautiful, highly durable and extremely afford-able. And they're always natural and safe for the environment. Weinstall over 50,000 square feet of flooring every week! 3350 N. SanFernando Road, Los Angeles; call (323) 478-2000.

MARBLE AND STONELIFEOur skilled staff is ready to evaluate and address all of yourstone and concrete related needs — floor leveling, scratch andstain removal, crack repair, grout restoration, polishing, sealing,and color enhancing. We offer concrete polishing, acid stainand polishing, acid stain and sealing, and have extensive expe-

HOME DESIGNARROYO

DIRECTORY OF SERVICES


| ADVERTISEMENT | ARROYO ~ SEPTEMBER 2010 ~ 37


rience with all types of natural and man-made stone: marble,granite, terrazzo, travertine, limestone, onyx, sandstone, con-crete, Mexican tiles, agglomerate, slate, terra cotta, flagstone,brownstone, brick, ceramic and more. Call (877) 773-5820.

MAUDE WOODSStepping into Maude Woods: Artful Living, shoppers may feelthey’ve entered someone’s beautiful home. Owner CarrieDavich mixes new upscale furnishings with vintage and reno-vated second-hand treasures. Within this “home” shoppers canfind a unique hostess gift for $25, a $5,000 table and a varietyof beautiful items in between. 55 E. Holly St., Pasadena. Call(626) 577-3400 or visit maudewoods.com

MODERN LIGHTINGModern Lighting has been serving Southern California's lightingneeds since 1946. With all types of fixtures in every price range,you’ll find what you want. If not, we do custom design. We havestocks of light bulbs to compliment your fixture and we contin-ually watch the marketplace for the best buys. Our staff hasdecades of lighting experience.. Feel free to contact us if ourservice is what you are looking for: call (626) 286-3262.

THE SOFA COMPANYSince 1998, The Sofa Company has been making the processof purchasing a sofa fun, fast, and simple. Along with the motto“you design it, we build it” comes the promise to make theprocess of buying a sofa enjoyable. With a new showroom at100 W. Green St., The Sofa Company now delivers the largestselection of custom styles, sizes, fabrics, legs, sofa beds andmore to Old Town Pasadena. Call (888) 778-7632 x412.

MORTGAGE LENDERS

WELLS FARGOThe Patsy Grant Team at Wells Fargo Home Financing meetsyour needs. Because your home is one of your biggest invest-ments, it's important to ensure that your mortgage fits you.This is our specialty — helping you find mortgage solutionsthat meet your current situation while complementing yourlong-term financial goals. We will help you determine whatmortgage options work for you, guide you through the loanprocess and answer your questions. Patsy: (626) 577-3721;Jim: (626) 577-3703

OUTDOOR LIVING

GARDEN VIEW LANDSCAPESpecializing in landscaping, nurseries and pools, Garden ViewInc. can take you from a design idea to a finished, detail-orient-ed garden. Garden View & their clientele are recipients of 60awards from the California Landscape Contractors Association.The intent of the company is to provide high-quality interrelat-ed outdoor services. The synergy between having their owndesigner/project managers, in-house crews, their own largenursery, and being a licensed pool builder provides for efficien-cy, competitive pricing, quality and schedule control. Call (626)303-4043.

MOTHER MAGNOLIAA private residential landscape design and construction firmoperating here since 1999, Mother Magnolia’s passion is creat-ing an outdoor space for you to enjoy. Your outdoor spaceshould be your refuge, a place with power to rejuvenate. Ourreliable and dedicated in-house designers, experiencedmasons, irrigation specialists, and landscape technicians willmake your landscape vision a reality. Or, if you have a designprepared, we will provide construction bids. Fully bonded andinsured, 3-time winner of HGTV’s “Landscaper’s Challenge,”and a member of the California Landscape Contractors’Association, Angie's List, and the Better Business Bureau. Call(626) 296-2617, or visit mothermagnolia.com.

SWAN POOLSSwan Pools has been building quality pools for over 50 years.We are experts at new construction, remodeling existing pools,spa additions and difficult site construction. All jobs aredesigned, contracted and supervised by the owner and family.We are fully licensed and general liability insured with the high-est Better Business Bureau rating and can provide referrals uponrequest. Call us if you have any questions or would like to set anappointment for a free in home consultation. (626) 966-8631.

TEAK WAREHOUSEToday’s hottest outdoor trend is the outdoor living room ... afavorite for hotels & resorts for years and now available for res-idential settings. Why go to an expensive resort for the week-end when you can turn your back yard into one? Invest insomething that will bring comfort and style for the long run!Teak Warehouse boasts over 16 varied collections of deepseating, offering teak and wicker at the best prices in California.133 E. Maple Ave., Monrovia. Call (626) 305-8325 or visit teak-warehouse.com

REAL ESTATE

LIN VLACICH-SOTHEBY’S Lin Vlacich of Sotheby’s, a 25-year veteran in the real estateprofession, is known for her reputation and success as a leaderin the San Gabriel Valley brokerage community, as well as forhigh professional ethics, superior negotiating skills, innovativemarketing plans and extensive knowledge of real estate sales.Committed to excellence in representing buyers and sellersthroughout Pasadena, San Marino, South Pasadena and thesurrounding communities. Call (626) 688-6464 or (626) 396-3975 or email [email protected] ■


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HOME DESIGNARROYO

DIRECTORY OF SERVICES

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $295 ($275 for members). Call(626) 405-2128 to register. Sept. 14 — The Camerata Pacifica chamber (pictured)ensemble opens its 21st season with works by JosephSchwantner and Osvaldo Golijob and classics by Bach andDvorak at 8 p.m. The evening also includes the world pre-miere of Red Pepper, a new work by Bright Sheng per-formed by percussionist Ji Hye Jung. Tickets cost $42.Sept. 21 — As part of the Chinese Garden Lecture Series,

University of Oregon historian Ina Asim discusses scholars’ gardens in Suzhou, Yangzhou,Sichuan and Lingnan at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free; no reservations are required. Sept. 22 — Brad Owen of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts presents a lecture onand tasting of wines from Australia and New Zealand, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The cost is$85 ($75 for members). Call (626) 405-2128 to register.Sept. 24 and 25 — The conference “Science and Its Histories” explores approaches to the study of science as part of the larger story of world history, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.Friday and Saturday. The cost is $25. Call (626) 405-3432 or email [email protected] register. Sept. 29 — A Distinguished Fellow Lecture, “Britain, America and the Written Constitution,”features Linda Colley, professor of history at Princeton University and the Fletcher JonesFoundation Distinguished Fellow, at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free; no reservations are required.The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens are located at 1151 OxfordRd., San Marino. Call (626) 405-2100 or visit huntington.org. For Camerata Pacifica, call(805) 884-8410 or visit cameratapacifica.org

CAL PHIL VISITS THE MILLSept. 11 — The “Cal Phil at the Mill” summer concert series closes with an 8 p.m. per-formance by ensemble groups from the California Philharmonic Orchestra. The concerttakes place at the Old Mill in San Marino. Admission costs $10; advance reservationsare required.The Old Mill is located at 1120 Old Mill Rd., San Marino. Call (626) 449-5458 or visit calphil.org.

STEVE RODEN EXHIBITION OPENS AT THE ARMORYSept. 11 — Los Angeles native Steve Roden’s works includeabstract paintings, sculpture, installations and sound art. Anopening reception for “Steve Roden: In Between, a 20 YearSurvey” runs from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Armory Center for theArts. The exhibition continues through Nov. 14.The Armory Center for the Arts is located at 145 N. RaymondAve., Pasadena. Call (626) 792-5101 or visit armoryarts.org.

PACIFIC ASIA MUSEUMSept. 4 — Storyteller Sunny Stevenson presents back-to-school stories from Asia, exploring kids’ educational experi-ences in other countries, at 10:30 a.m. in the Silk Road travelers’ tent. Admission for children under 12 is free. Sept. 9 — The film Raga Unveiled: India’s Voice receives itsWest Coast premiere, showcasing legendary musicians,Vedic scholars, musicologists, spectacular cinematographyand rare archival footage as it explores the ancient tradition

that underlies the Indian melodic form known as raga. The event, from 6 to 10 p.m.,includes live musical performances, Indian food and an appearance by the film’s director,Gita Desai. Tickets cost $50, reservations required. Call ext. 28 for reservations. Sept. 12 — “Authors on Asia” presents artist and writer Belle Yang discussing and sign-ing Forget Sorry: An Ancestral Tale (pictured) at 2 p.m. Free with admission; call ext. 20for reservations. Pacific Asia Museum is located at 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena. Call (626) 449-2742or visit pacificasiamuseum.org.

HILLSIDE HAPPENINGSA variety of events marks the end of summer at Descanso Gardens: Saturdays through September — Descanso Display Horticulturalist Mike Brown leads the informal Saturday Morning Garden Chat from 9:30 to 10 a.m. Free with admission. Sept. 6 — Celebrate Labor Day at Descanso, also known as “Boddy’s Big Backyard,”with an event inspired by its original owner, E. Manchester Boddy, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Activities include a walk through the California Garden with Natives Garden HorticulturalistRachel Young at 10 a.m.; a reading of the story “Teddy Bear Picnic” at 12:30 p.m.; andmusic by Mobile Homeboys from 1 to 3 p.m. Guests can bring picnics or purchase barbe-cue from Patina Catering from 11:30 to 3 p.m. Free with Gardens admission. Sept. 11 — Jay R. Ewing teaches a watercolor class from 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays start-ing today and continuing for six weeks through Oct. 16. The cost is $120 ($90 for members). Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge. Call (818) 949-4200 or visit descansogardens.org.

BOTANY, BACH AND BOTTLES OF THE OUTBACK AT THE HUNTINGTONSept. 4 — Explorer, collector and succulent plant authorityJohn Lavranos is the keynote speaker at the Succulent PlantSymposium from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost is $75, includ-ing lunch. An optional dinner is available at an additionalcost. Call (626) 405-3504 for registration and details. Sept. 11, 18 and 25 — Botanical illustrator Lisa Pompellileads a class in botanical illustrations in the Herb Garden from

Sept. 10 — The Japanese Traditional Performing Arts Organization presents “Music and Dance of Edo,” a 7 p.m. concertin a Japanese theater setting, featuring performers Wakana Hanayagi, Jyorokusho Kineya, Kikusa Katada and YasoyoKineya. Free with museum admission. Sept. 24 — The exhibition “Not Wanting to Say Anything about Marcel: An Artwork by John Cage” (pictured above)opens. The late composer created the installation in 1969 as a tribute to Marcel Duchamp, a personal friend and sourceof artistic inspiration. The exhibition is on display through March 28, 2011. Sept. 24 and 25 — Akira Kurosawa’s 1990 film Dreams consists of eight episodes inspired by the filmmaker’s actualdreams and nightmares. The movie screens at 6 p.m. Friday and 4 p.m. Saturday. Free with museum admission. The Norton Simon Museum is located at 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Call (626) 449-6840 or visit nortonsimon.org.

CAGE ANDKUROSAWA AT THE NORTONSIMON

A HIGHLY SELECTIVE PREVIEW OF UPCOMING EVENTS

COMPILED BY JOHN SOLLENBERGER

THE LIST

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INTERACTIVE FUN AT SIERRA MADRE PLAYHOUSESept. 11 — Kids can be part of the action in June Chandler’sChildren’s Fairy Tale Theatre performance of Steve and KathyHotchner’s The Tale of the Frog Prince (pictured) at 11 a.m.and 2 p.m. Young guests can rush to the aid of the prince,who is turned into a frog by an evil witch. Tickets cost $18for adults, $12 for children under age 12. The Sierra Madre Playhouse is located at 87 W. Sierra Madre

Blvd., Sierra Madre. Call (626) 355-4318 or visit sierramadreplayhouse.org.

AVAILABLE SPACES AT PROJECT_210Sept. 12 — Project_210 Gallery presents a solo exhibition by San Francisco artist BiancaKolonusz-Partee. “Available Spaces” opens with a reception from 4 to 7 p.m. and continuesthrough Oct. 2. Kolonusz-Partee observes, draws and photographs major ports on the Eastand West coasts, creating collages directly on the gallery walls using recycled packingmaterials, some of which have passed through the ports. Project_210 Gallery is located at 2888 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. Call (323) 225-2229 orvisit project210.org.

VAUDEVILLE LIVESSept. 19 — An afternoon of vaudeville, presented by the Alex Film Society starting at 2 p.m., includes a variety of liveacts headlined by Ian Whitcomb and his Bungalow Boys. Ascreening of Depression-era short films follows, includingLaurel & Hardy’s Hog Wild, a Little Rascals episode and acartoon. Admission costs $20, $15 for seniors and studentsand $12.50 for members. The Alex Theatre is located at 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale.

Call (818) 243-2539 or visit alexfilmsociety.org.

PASADENA POPS SALUTES HOLLYWOODSept. 25 — Pasadena POPS closes its summer concert series on the Rose Bowl–adjacentlawn with “Hooray for Hollywood,” a salute to movie music old and new, starting at 7:30 p.m. Vocalist Jodi Benson, the title voice of The Little Mermaid, sings hits fromTitanic, The Wizard of Oz, Nine and other films. The orchestra, conducted by RachaelWorby, also performs movie music by Henry Mancini, Jerry Goldsmith and JohnWilliams, with a special tribute to Star Wars. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. for picnicking;guests may bring their own meals or purchase dinner onsite. Kidspace Children’sMuseum will provide pre-concert family entertainment. Tickets cost $25 to $90, $10 for kids under 14. The Rose Bowl is located at 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena. Call (626) 793-7172, ext. 16,for tickets or visit pasadenasymphony-pops.org.

LOS ANGELES CHAMBER ORCHESTRALAUNCHES SEASONSept. 25 — LACO opens its 14-concert 2010-2011 season at the Alex Theatre at 8 p.m. with “Infinite Enchantment” ––works by Mendelssohn, Prokofiev, Pierre Jalbert, Haydn andmore. Jeffrey Kahane conducts, and the featured soloist isviolinist Leila Josefowicz (pictured). Each of seven Saturdayperformances at the Alex is repeated Sunday at UCLA’sRoyce Hall. Tickets cost $20 to $100; full-season and Flex

Series tickets are also available.The Alex Theatre is located at 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale. Call (213) 622-7001, ext.215, or visit laco.org. AM


A HIGHLY SELECTIVE PREVIEW OF UPCOMING EVENTS

THE LISTCOMPILED BY JOHN SOLLENBERGER

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SEASON OPENS ATA NOISE WITHIN

Sept. 25 — The classical repertory theater company A Noise Within opens the final seasonat its original Glendale venue before moving to its new Pasadena home next year. Theopening production is Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure, the tale of the Duke of Venice,who realizes that through his neglect, society has become a den of iniquity. He transfersauthority to the morally upright Angelo, who in turn morphs from saint to beast because ofan irresistible sexual attraction to novice nun Isabel. The play begins at 8 p.m. and contin-ues through Dec. 5. Tickets cost $42 to $46.A Noise Within is located at 234 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale. Call (818) 240-0910 or visitanoisewithin.org.

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OBJECTSOF DESIRE

AFTER THE LONG, LAZY DAYS OF SUMMER, SEPTEMBER

SCHEDULES CAN BE OH-SO-DIFFICULT. GROGGY MORNINGS,

BURNT COFFEE AND GROUCHY CARPOOLERS. IT’S TIME TO

GET BACK INTO THE SWING OF THINGS AND REMIND THE

KIDS –– AND YOURSELF –– THAT LEARNING DOESN’T MEAN

THE END OF PLAYTIME. YOU JUST HAVE TO PUT THE WII IN

STORAGE AND DO YOUR HOMEWORK FIRST.

ON THE ROADThe classic wooden car is cleverly reinvented for a

new generation with the high-quality Automoblox

series of cars, hot rods and assorted vehicles. Part

building blocks, part puzzle, Automoblox cars

have interchangeable elements, shooting play

potential up to a gazillion points. Tear apart

the car, fiddle around with the pieces and

then reassemble. Voila! –– a brand new

means of transportation that glides across

the floor, just waiting for its next incarna-

tion. Individual cars range from $10 to $45.

Available at Swain’s ToyFun,

537 N. Glendale Ave., Glendale.

Call (818) 243-3129.

WHAT A DOLL!Move over American Girl –– there's a new doll in town. Precious Pollabies are col-

lectible soft dolls based on the characters of the children’s storybook Grandpa’s

Treasure Box: the Adventures of Bobo & Tashi by Pauline Tsui. Youngsters can recreate

or make up journeys for the globetrotting twin sisters, Bobo and Tashi. Each Precious

Pollabie comes with her own embroidered carrying pouch and an artist-signed certifi-

cate of authenticity. Dolls, $45; books, $18.95.

Available at the Huntington Bookstore & More, 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino.

Call (626) 405-2142.

PACK UP YOUR TROUBLESIs it a traveling suitcase? School backpack? Overnight bag to

grandma’s? Whatever your kid decides, this practical and fun

Dante Beatrix wheelie bag is big enough to hold as many

treasures –– and, yes, schoolbooks –– as your kid can pack

away. Choose between images of hungry Dieter the Monkey or

growling Percival the Dinosaur. Made of heavy-duty nylon over a

sturdy metal frame. Greenies, take note: These wheelies are free

of PVC, lead and phthalate. $103.50.

Available at Vroman's Bookstore, 695 E. Colorado Blvd.,

Pasadena. Call (626) 449-5320.

UP, UP AND AWAYThe Silver Bullet remote-control mini-helicopter is just the ticket for kids who

yearn to be in the pilot’s seat –– but still might need a booster seat. Easy to

maneuver and quickly rechargeable, these indoor ’copters can fly up to 100 feet

away from the remote and feature built-in LED strobes for night flights and land-

ings. For all the inevitable bang-ups and crash landings, you'll want to add the war-

ranty policy for replacement parts. Believe us, it’s money well spent. $29.99, two

for $50 (one-year warranty $3.99).

Available at Brookstone at the Paseo,

340 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Call (626) 568-1410 or visit brookstone.com.

CHEW ON THISChemistry lesson + culinary desire = wicked fun taste treat. ’Fess up, who really

knows how gum is made? Well, the mystery will be solved after the kids get their

hands on the Ultimate Gum Kit, which contains everything they need to make

mountains of homemade gum. Your inventive little chefs can mix up to 15 different

flavors and name their experiments accordingly. Monster Mastication? Blasting

Blueberry Bubbles? Chewbacca Chew? You get the idea... $31.99.

Available at San Marino Toy and Book Shoppe, 2424 Huntington Dr., San Marino.

Call (626) 309-0222.

ON A ROLLImagine the Big Wheels of the ’70s getting an extreme

makeover and you’re beginning to get the picture of

this awesome super-stealth vehicle. Equal parts scoot-

er, bike and luge, the EzyRoller Ultimate Riding

Machine doesn’t require messy chains or batteries,

just good old-fashioned kid power to make it

skedaddle and streak across the playground.

Riders say they feel as if they are gliding like

snakes as they silently speed up, twist and turn on

a micro-dime. Dang, you'll wish it came in an

adult size. $110.

Available at The Dinosaur

Farm, 1510 Mission St.,

South Pasadena. Call

(626) 441-2767.

HOME, SWEET HOMEAs the McMansion of the tot set, Calico Critters’ Cloverleaf Manor is an impressive struc-

ture that boasts three stories with nine rooms, a balcony and a rooftop patio, not to mention a

light-up chandelier that can be placed in any room. This top-of-the-line playhouse comes

without furniture or figurines, so you'll have to supply your own posse, interior decorator and

landscaper. It’s big –– 3 feet across and nearly 2 feet high –– but it conveniently folds up for

easy storage. Still, with all the imaginative play possibilities, who’d ever want to close it? $220.

Available at Dollmaker’s Kattywompus, 412 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Call (626) 357-1091.

SHINE A LIGHTNo one will be afraid of the dark when a refined pink Siamese cat

or a friendly blue dachshund is standing guard, emitting a soft

incandescent light to scare away monsters, nightmares and crying

spells. My Pet Night Lamps are glowing molded plastic statues

that are both arty and functional. They’re perfect for 3 a.m. diaper

changes in the baby’s room or for the older

kid who would welcome a colorful night-

time companion –– but won’t publicly

admit it. $60.

Available at Giggle, 517 S. Lake Ave.,

Pasadena. Call (626) 744-0233

or visit giggle.com.

BANISH THE BACK-TO-SCHOOL BLUES AND FINESSEPLAYTIME WITH THESE BRAIN (AND BODY) TEASERS.

BY BRENDA REES

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| ADVERTISEMENT |44 ~ SEPTEMBER 2010 ~ ARROYO

EDUCATION&ENRICHMENTDelphi AcademyDelphi Academy is a K-12 school on a beautiful 10-acre campus surrounded by equestri-an trails that offers an exciting summer program of fun and enrichment. Activities includeadventurous camping & day trips to the beach, aquarium, Imax, Greyhound Rescue,Castaic Lake, a wild animal show, hiking, sports, cultural theme weeks, movie making,urban outdoor survival week, music cafe and more. A wide range of challenging coursesinclude study skills, science, math, literature, and SAT & college prep. Call (818) 583-1070.

Drucker School of ManagementThe Drucker School of Management in Claremont offers a world-class graduate manage-ment education through our MBA, Executive MBA, Financial Engineering, and ArtsManagement degree programs. Our programs infuse Peter Drucker’s principle of manage-ment as a liberal art along with our core strengths in strategy and leadership. We offer indi-vidualized, flexible course scheduling, an innovative curriculum focusing on values-basedmanagement, and the opportunity to learn from world-renowned faculty. To learn more, visitus at drucker.cgu.edu.

High Point AcademySummer is particularly exciting because of the wide range of classes this year. We will beoffering a number of enrichment classes including mock trial, woodworking, water games,computer games, movie making, and cinematography. Sports include golf, bowling, bas-

PASADENA900 Valley View Ave. #4,

Pasadena, Ca 91107(626) 510-MATH(626) 510-6284

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ketball and volleyball. Arts and crafts will include painting, jewelry making, and mini-soldierpainting. We have expanded the options for incoming kindergarteners this summer as well.Call (626) 798-8989 or visit highpointacademy.org.

Justine Sherman & Associates, Inc.Justine Sherman & Associates is a nonpublic agency serving the speech-language, orofa-cial myology, and educational needs of young toddlers through adults. We strive to provideour clients with exceptional therapy and support so that they may achieve their greatestpotential. Call (626) 355-1729 or visit justineshermanslp.com.

La Cañada Preparatory Focuses on each student’s needs through an individualized curriculum. Low teacher-to-student ratios have led to outstanding results with students learning at an acceleratedpace. Classroom work is accompanied by enrichment programs that include art, music,Spanish, computer science, physical education and the performing arts. Each campus fea-tures a state-of-the-art computer lab along with a fully equipped art room. 4490 CornishonAve. in La Cañada. Please visit thelearningcastle.com

Maranatha High SchoolMaranatha, a college preparatory Christian high school, offers an educational experiencewhere individual talents are celebrated and nurtured. The school’s athletic program boasts


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44 competitive teams in 18 sports and offers state-of-the-art facilities. Performing arts stu-dents showcase their talents on stage at the renowned Ambassador Auditorium. Studentsare challenged with 29 AP and Honors courses, and every student can find a niche in oneof the 19 student clubs. Discover the Maranatha Difference at Open House on November13. Maranatha-hs.org. 169 S. Saint John Ave. in Pasadena. Call (626) 817-4000.

MathnasiumMathnasium is a highly specialized learning center where kids go year-round to improvetheir math skills. Students attend as often as they like - for as long as they like. The goalis to enhance your child’s math skills, understanding of math concepts and overall schoolperformance. At the same time, Mathnasium builds your child’s confidence and forges apositive attitude toward the subject, yielding overwhelming results. Independent studies byEyeCues Education Systems found that Mathnasium students’ performance increasedmore than two letter grades in as little as three to six months. Enroll today to find out. Call(626) 510-6284 or visit mathnasium.com

Pasadena Waldorf SchoolPasadena Waldorf School learn to approach the world both creatively and analytically.Integrating the visual, textural, and performing arts, Waldorf education activates the sens-es and stimulates deeper learning, igniting a life-long love of learning. Over 88 years ofexperience confirm that a Waldorf education fosters self-directed, life-long learners whoare socially and environmentally responsible. Pasadena Waldorf School is a not-for-profitindependent school offering integrated, developmental and experiential education for chil-dren Preschool through Grade 8 on a historic wooded campus. 209 E. Mariposa St.,Altadena. Call (626) 794-9564. PASADENAWALDORF.ORG

UpstageUpstage is a part-time theatre arts school in South Pasadena that runs an afterschool pro-gram during the school year and a summer camp in July and August. Today, more thanever, theatre skills are vital for a young person’s development. At Upstage students learnhow to speak more clearly, move more easily, act more naturally and become self-aware.Call (626) 310-0447, visit upstageschools.com or email [email protected]. ■


EDUCATION&ENRICHMENT

High Point Academy

Call today 626·798·89891720 KINNELOA CANYON ROAD • PASADENAhighpointacademy.org

KINDERGARTEN THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE

Here is the information for this new admissions season.

Over 45 years of providing quality education in the Pasadena area.Accredited by CAIS and WASC

Kindergarten Meetings:October 19, 2010 at 7:00 pmNovember 20, 2010 at 10:00 am

Grades 1 through 8 Meetings:November 20, 2010 at 9:00 am


Dynasties and DelicaciesTRADITION, IMAGINATION, EXTENSIVE SPREADS FLOURISH AT LUNASIABY DAN O’HERON

By request, a host, velvet mallet in hand, will hammer a gong to announce your entranceto the capacious dining room, with its crisp contrast of golden decoration against white-influenced linen and ceramic ornamentation. The gong’s sound, even after ceasing to throbin the air, should reverberate in the imagination and enhance the atmosphere being con-jured — that of dining in an emperor’s house.

On the way, with a peek in on a private room, you may, perhaps, glimpse a full-bodiedroasted pig with a garland of flowers circling its head, the centerpiece of a feast attendedby eager courtiers looking for more favors from the sovereign. These might come in set-plate delicacies not found in the run-of-the-mill Chinese restaurant, such as braised sharkfin’s soup, milk-stewed swallow’s nest, or baked live crab in a satiny wrap of lotus lily leaf.

While the scene of a laureled pig might give someguests grandiose ideas, most will begin their own royalfeasts — or dine completely and sumptiously on Lunasia’sclassic dim sum. This ceremony includes a splendid arrayof small, medium, large and special steamed , baked,deep-fried, sauteed and poached knickknack noshes ofeverything from dumplings to duck tongues, and desserts

from red jujube cake (made from Chinese dates with prune-like flesh to exquisitely rich, cus-tardy “durian” cake — most items priced from $2.38 to $6.88 per plate or platter.

Here, servers don’t push carts of dim sum around the round and wait for guests to “clap”before serving. Instead, as in a palace, after guests fill out an order form, waiters swiftlybring items directly from kitchen to table. In classic Chinese cookery, cutting the distancebetween kitchen and consumption is an important factor in preserving desired tastes. ■

FORTUNE CHINESE CUISINE60 N. Raymond Ave., Pasadena(626) 577-1888

CUISINEFor those of you who enjoy tasty Chinese food, FortuneChinese Cuisine is the place for you! Using the freshestingredients with specially brewed soy sauce to reduce thelevel of sodium by 40!

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CUISINEZushi does Western Sushi, the increasingly popularfusion sushi of North America. Fueled by invention ofthe California roll, a wide variety of popular rolls hasinvolved since.

DINERS’ FAVORITES1. Baked Salmon roll ($10.95)2. Pepper sheared tuna sashimi ($12.95)3. Spicy Tuna Salad ($9.95)

VIBE“Zushi is a subtle harmony of great food, good service andcontemporary décor. Once experienced, this charmingsnuggery is yours forever.”

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VIBEA quiet, romantic spot during the early hours of the week,but a fun and festive restaurant in this Old European set-ting surrounded by wall to wall mahogany wood.

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LUNASIA CHINESE CUISINE500 W. Main St., Alhambra(626) 308-3222lunasiachinesecuisine.com

AVERAGE PRICE PER ENTREE: $ (UP TO $10) | $$ ($11–15) | $$$ ($16-25) | $$$$ ($25+)

T H E F L A V O R S O F A R R O Y OTASTE

TASTET H E F L A V O R S O F A R R O Y O


Redwhite + bluezz: The Winning TrifectaMUSIC, KITCHEN, CELLAR, SERVICE FILLS A RHYTHMIC TERRAINBY DAN O’HERON

While the cocktail glass in many a restaurant/nightclub overflows with pleasure until it isdrained of enticement, the redwhite + bluezz’ wine/grill and jazz club continues to pourrefinements into a champagne bucket with no bottom.

This "speakeasy" without a racket, this jazz club with longer live entertainments than a"cabaret," has proved that fresh selections of cool music, fine food and glorious drink com-bine for a gastronomical and social treat more pleasurable than the sum of its parts.

Setting the stage, the staff makes no unnecessary moves while anticipating every need,and says the right words in a sincere manner to every guest. And the three sommeliers whocan make authoritative suggestions from the diverse wine list on what to drink with what– which now includes 39 cheeses from around the world.

And, whether a steak is well-done, medium or bloomy pink, it’s consistently cookedright by Executive Chef Gabriel Contreras from thefinest 35-day dry aged USDA Prime beef extant.He turns out favorites like fried mac & cheese andCertified Black Angus short ribs too. Yet, to beahead of the curve in the newly remodeled Point08 Room, he’s added small plates like cold water

oysters and "corn dogs" made of lobster.And, while hometown heroes like Ace, Ali and Annie continue to pour more cognac than

cosmos to regular parties of one, Point 08 has added scientifically blended mixes like liquidnitrogen to freeze margaritas -- and olive foam atop martinis -- formulated by Tom Howard,the mixologist who opened the new Ritz-Carlton Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. It will fea-ture a different jazz style from the main dining room, yet equally classic. ■

redwhite + bluezz70 S. Raymond Ave., Old Pasadena(626) 792-4441redwhitebluezz.com

AVERAGE PRICE PER ENTREE: $ (UP TO $10) | $$ ($11–15) | $$$ ($16-25) | $$$$ ($25+)

UGO’S CAFE74 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre(626) 836-5700Ugoscafe.com

CUISINEGourmet Italian cuisine with a charm for dessert, plus finewines, Ugo’s dishes come fresh from farm to fork. All entréesalso include a side salad and Ugo’s own artisan bread.

DINERS’ FAVORITES1. Roma Artichoke ($7.99)2. Lasagna Bolognese ($15.99)3. Lobster Ravioli ($19.99)

VIBEWith 12 tables, an intimate bar crannied in a room markedwith family-and-friend memorabilia, and a romantic classicalguitarist on weekends, owners Chez & Sherri create theexperience of a cozy café in Italy.

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NEW MOON RESTAURANT & BAR2138 Verdugo Blvd., Montrose(818) 249-4393newmoonrestaurants.com

CUISINENew Moon’s contemporary take on classic Chinese cui-sine is a happy balance of traditional asian flavors andfresh ingredients that have been re-imagined for contem-porary tastes. Impressive wine list and a full bar.

DINERS’ FAVORITES1. Chloe Shrimp ($14.95)2. Filet of Sole in a Blackbean Sauce ($13.50)3. New Moon’s Dragon Beef ($12.95)

VIBECasual, yet sophisticated atmosphere and attentive servicehas gained Zagat-rated New Moon a dedicated following.The newly opened bar has already proved a popular spotwith special happy hour drink prices and menu.

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THE COUNTER BURGER140 Shoppers Lane, Pasadena | (626) 440-1008 12117 Ventura Blvd., Studio City | (818) 980-0004Thecounterburger.com

CUISINEThe extensive list of fresh mouth-watering ingredientsallows you to build your own gourmet burger. Our312,120+ different combinations make every burger asunique as each customer. Rarely is the same burger madetwice in one day.

DINERS’ FAVORITES1. Counter Burger ($10.50)2. Old School ($8.50)3. Unique Veggie ($8.50)

VIBENot the classic burger joint. A fresh era of industrial decor,laid back vibe, today’s music, and burger options onlylimited by your imagination. Happy Hour 3:30–6:30 M–Ffeaturing 1/2 off starters excluding mini-burgers & $1 offbeer/ wine.

PRICE$$$$$


My Be-loav-ed Bread,

I love you. I love the feel of your dough in my hands as Icaress you across my countertop, gently coaxing out yourelasticity with each tender stroke. I love the smell of mykitchen and the yeast-heavy steam that fogs up my glasseswhen I open the oven to check on you. I love the sounds youmake — the delicate crinkling as you cool on the counter, thesalacious ripping of your crust as it ruptures to reveal yourinner treasure, the slow, deliberate crunch in my jaw as Isavor your essence. And oh, the taste of you. My dearest,when we are apart, I hunger for you.

Affectionately yours (and waiting eagerly in anticipation of our next encounter), Leslie

Yes, despite Deuteronomy’s warning, I could absolutely live on bread alone. Well,

technically I would need water too, and probably some orange juice to prevent

scurvy. But otherwise, I could totally live on bread, because I adore it.

Also, I hate it.

A contradiction? Perhaps. But I know that my precious bread is actually my

enemy. We are engaged in a mano-a-mano duel to the death. You see, simple car-

bohydrates do not initially satisfy my appetite and thus create a further craving,

which in turn leads to overeating. It is not until I am resting supinely on the floor,

pants unzipped (Hold your horses! This is not meant to be titillating), in an attempt

to alleviate the explosive gaseous thunderhead in my gut, that I think, “I probably

shouldn’t have eaten that entire bread basket.” (Note to self: Find a new family

motto to replace “More Bread, Please.”)

Speaking of the bread basket, I blame this singular practice for the downfall of

society. It is surely some sort of trick. Why else would restaurants give it away for

free? Is it some kind of reward for making it to the table in one piece? No! Is it a

way to fill us up so that they can put less food on our plates, therefore saving bil-

lions of dollars a year? Preposterous!

I do think, however, that the bread basket was concocted as a KGB plot to

weigh down the capitalists — literally. In fact, if I am not mistaken, I think the first

free bread basket was served at the Russian Tea Room in 1947. (Aha!) Of course,

those commie carb-pushers never thought they’d lose the arms race, devalue the

ruble and ultimately alienate the Soviet people. Nice try, comrade. Yes, we are a

country stuffed to the gizzard with bread like a turkey at Thanksgiving, but that does

not mean we are ready to go totally totalitarian.

Sometimes bread has the upper hand; other times I do. Currently I am winning

this affair d’honneur, but I feel certain there will come a day when I say, “To hell with it,”

throw in the towel and spend my final hours gorging on croissants, Indian fry bread,

sourdough boules and (gasp!) hot naan, like Robert Morley in the final scene of the

best movie ever, Who is Killing the Great Chefs of Europe? (Oh, sorry! I should have

said “spoiler alert,” although I don’t think it counts if the movie was made in 1978.

Perhaps I should issue myself a get-a-life-and-watch-a-movie-from-this-decade alert.)

I am not the first to express loaf love. The ancient Egyptians were fans too.

Bakeries unearthed at Giza date to 2600 B.C., and many grains and loaves have been

found in a number of Egyptian tombs, along with drawings of busy bakeries and carv-

ings of people kneading. (Either they’re kneading bread or running an ancient mas-

sage parlor, although I doubt that is the kind of imagery they took to the hereafter.)

The process of making bread with naturally occurring yeast is a long one, but I

guess when you’re up for building pyramids, you are a patient people. It’s not as if

they had a choice. Hatshepsutiri the Baker Girl could hardly take a quick cruise

down the Nile for a packet of Fleishmann’s RapidRise. In those days, one had to

attract and capture wild yeast (an operation that did not involve hiding in the bushes

with a net). Yeast is a microscopic living organism found all around us. Like me, it is

attracted to carbohydrates, and it prefers an environment that is warm and moist.

When all the conditions are right, the yeast feeds, then produces carbon dioxide

(CO2) and alcohol in a little process we call fermentation. Production of alcohol is

less noticeable in baking than in brewing, but the longer the fermentation, the more

KITCHENCONFESSIONS

A Love Letter to BreadLIKE ANY LOVE STORY, THIS ONE INVOLVES A POWERSTRUGGLE — BETWEEN THE HEART AND THE HIPS.

BY LESLIE BILDERBACK | PHOTOS BY TERI LYN FISHER



KITCHENCONFESSIONS

a sour-tasting alcohol accumulates. This is the basic principle behind sourdough.

(To correct a common misconception: Miner ’49ers, known for their sourdough and

gold-prospecting, were not bakers — they were drunks. The starters were guarded

diligently so they could drink the alcohol off the top. Now, that’s the kind of ingenu-

ity that makes California great!)

The ancients probably first noticed natural yeast bubbling weirdly on the sur-

face of some mushy fruit. They gathered it up and added it to a vat of fruit juice,

which eventually produced wine, or what the ancients called “happy juice.” They

tried it in a tea of watery grains and created Pabst Blue Ribbon. Finally, Larry the

Luxorian added some of the bubbly mass to a bowl of porridge. It was awful, so he

threw it in the fire. But later that night, when the fire died out, he found a loaf of

bread among the coals.

Even with the knowledge of starters, brewing and bread making, it took the

invention of the microscope for man to realize that yeast was the cause of fermen-

tation, and it wasn’t until the 1860s that the commercial production of yeast began.

Sure, grain has something to do with the lusciousness of bread too, but I am

afraid to launch into my Ode to Endosperm, lest I lose the two readers I have left.

Suffice to say the entire process of making bread is as magical as Houdini at

Disneyland on Christmas Eve.

Leslie Bilderback is a certified master baker, chef, cookbook author and lead pastry

instructor at École de Cuisine Pasadena. Bilderback teaches her techniques online at

culinarymasterclass.com.

AM

SOURDOUGH STARTER Use this starter for any bread recipe, including the Sourdough Rye Bread below, or add it in place ofhalf the liquid in recipes for biscuits or pancakes to add a hint of sour.

INGREDIENTS

METHODDAY 1: Combine 1 cup water, yeast, ½ cup all-purpose flour and ½ cup whole wheat flour in a ceramicor glass bowl. Stir to combine, cover loosely with damp cheesecloth or towel and set aside at roomtemperature. Stir this mixture once a day for the next 3 days. After a few days, a dark liquid will accu-mulate on the surface. This is normal. DAY 5: Add to the starter 1 cup water, ½ cup all-purpose flour and ½ cup whole wheat flour. Stir well,cover again and set aside at room temperature for another 5 days, stirring once a day, as before.DAY 10: Again add 1 cup water, ½ cup all-purpose flour and ½ cup whole wheat flour. Mix thoroughly.Let stand at room temperature for 6 hours, or until the starter foams and doubles in volume. Thestarter is now ready to use. Makes about 6 cups.

To keep your starter alive, replace the quantity that has been used with an equal amount of water andflour. Stir it every day, and feed it every 5 days by removing some starter and replacing it with anequal amount of water and flour. (For every cup used, replace with ½ cup water, ¼ cup all-purposeflour and ¼ cup whole wheat flour.) If you do not wish to feed it but want to keep it, you can refriger-ate it indefinitely; before using, take it out and feed it for 10 days by removing some starter andreplacing it with an equal amount of water and flour.

This recipe has several variations, including substituting specialty grains or cornmeal for wholewheat flour or adding fruit. Red grapes are the most common, but berries, stone fruits and evenpotatoes work well for added flavor and yeast attraction. To the recipe above, add 1 cup of mashedfruit on Day 1.

*Caution: The starter should be a tan color with a gray liquid that separates and rises to the surface.If it turns pink or yellow, it has picked up a mold and should be thrown out.

Use this starter for any bread recipe, including the Sourdough Rye Bread below, or add it in place ofhalf the liquid in recipes for biscuits or pancakes to add a hint of sour.

INGREDIENTS

METHODDAY 1: Combine 1 cup water, yeast, ½ cup all-purpose flour and ½ cup whole wheat flour in a ceramicor glass bowl. Stir to combine, cover loosely with damp cheesecloth or towel and set aside at roomtemperature. Stir this mixture once a day for the next 3 days. After a few days, a dark liquid will accu-mulate on the surface. This is normal. DAY 5: Add to the starter 1 cup water, ½ cup all-purpose flour and ½ cup whole wheat flour. Stir well,cover again and set aside at room temperature for another 5 days, stirring once a day, as before.DAY 10: Again add 1 cup water, ½ cup all-purpose flour and ½ cup whole wheat flour. Mix thoroughly.Let stand at room temperature for 6 hours, or until the starter foams and doubles in volume. Thestarter is now ready to use. Makes about 6 cups.

To keep your starter alive, replace the quantity that has been used with an equal amount of water andflour. Stir it every day, and feed it every 5 days by removing some starter and replacing it with anequal amount of water and flour. (For every cup used, replace with ½ cup water, ¼ cup all-purposeflour and ¼ cup whole wheat flour.) If you do not wish to feed it but want to keep it, you can refriger-ate it indefinitely; before using, take it out and feed it for 10 days by removing some starter andreplacing it with an equal amount of water and flour.

This recipe has several variations, including substituting specialty grains or cornmeal for wholewheat flour or adding fruit. Red grapes are the most common, but berries, stone fruits and evenpotatoes work well for added flavor and yeast attraction. To the recipe above, add 1 cup of mashedfruit on Day 1.

*Caution: The starter should be a tan color with a gray liquid that separates and rises to the surface.If it turns pink or yellow, it has picked up a mold and should be thrown out.

3 cups water1/8 teaspoon granulated yeast

1½ cups all-purpose flour1½ cups whole wheat flour

3 cups water1/8 teaspoon granulated yeast

1½ cups all-purpose flour1½ cups whole wheat flour

SOURDOUGH RYE BREAD The starch content of rye flour makes it an exceptional food for sourdough starter. Butmore important, the sweet succulent flavor of caraway is the perfect complement to thatsour flavor. Yeast is for cheaters, but if you’re worried about the potency of your starter, it’sa fail-safe ingredient.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD1. To make a sponge (a bowl of warm, fermented batter), combine starter, ½ cup of water

and yeast, if you’re using it. Stir to dissolve, and let stand 5 minutes. Add rye flour andbeat for 1 minute. Cover and let stand at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours.

2. Add to the sponge the remaining water, whole wheat flour, salt and enough bread flourto make a soft dough. Turn out onto a floured work surface and knead 8 to 10 minutes,until smooth and elastic. Add flour only as needed to reduce stickiness. Return tobowl, dust with flour, cover with plastic and allow to rise at room temperature untildoubled in volume, about 1 to 2 hours.

3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle with cornmeal. Turn risen doughout onto a floured surface and divide into 2 equal portions. Roll into tight balls andplace on prepared pan, seam side down. Dust generously with flour, cover again withplastic and let rise until doubled, another 30 to 60 minutes. Preheat oven to 475˚.

4. Using a serrated knife, slice a pinwheel or star pattern into the top of the dough, about½-inch deep. Place a pan of cold water on the floor of the oven to create steam. Bakeuntil golden brown and hollow-sounding, about 30 to 40 minutes. Cool completely on arack before serving.

The starch content of rye flour makes it an exceptional food for sourdough starter. Butmore important, the sweet succulent flavor of caraway is the perfect complement to thatsour flavor. Yeast is for cheaters, but if you’re worried about the potency of your starter, it’sa fail-safe ingredient.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD1. To make a sponge (a bowl of warm, fermented batter), combine starter, ½ cup of water

and yeast, if you’re using it. Stir to dissolve, and let stand 5 minutes. Add rye flour andbeat for 1 minute. Cover and let stand at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours.

2. Add to the sponge the remaining water, whole wheat flour, salt and enough bread flourto make a soft dough. Turn out onto a floured work surface and knead 8 to 10 minutes,until smooth and elastic. Add flour only as needed to reduce stickiness. Return tobowl, dust with flour, cover with plastic and allow to rise at room temperature untildoubled in volume, about 1 to 2 hours.

3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle with cornmeal. Turn risen doughout onto a floured surface and divide into 2 equal portions. Roll into tight balls andplace on prepared pan, seam side down. Dust generously with flour, cover again withplastic and let rise until doubled, another 30 to 60 minutes. Preheat oven to 475˚.

4. Using a serrated knife, slice a pinwheel or star pattern into the top of the dough, about½-inch deep. Place a pan of cold water on the floor of the oven to create steam. Bakeuntil golden brown and hollow-sounding, about 30 to 40 minutes. Cool completely on arack before serving.

1 cup sourdough starter1 cup waterOptional: 1¾ teaspoons active dry yeast(1 package); add if your starter is weak,or you are in a hurry.

1 cup light rye flour1 teaspoon kosher salt1 cup whole wheat flour2 to 3 cups bread flour 2 tablespoons cornmeal

1 cup sourdough starter1 cup waterOptional: 1¾ teaspoons active dry yeast(1 package); add if your starter is weak,or you are in a hurry.

1 cup light rye flour1 teaspoon kosher salt1 cup whole wheat flour2 to 3 cups bread flour 2 tablespoons cornmeal



HEALTH &BEAUTY


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HEALTH & BEAUTY

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950 S. Arroyo Parkway, Third Floor Pasadena, CA 91105 (626) 793-8455 | www.wonmd.com

Have you been diagnosed with cancer?Do you suffer from Hormonal imbalance?Interested in alternative treatments toachieve wellness?

I CAN HELP YOU:- Prepare your body for chemotherapy or talk to you about alternatives- Customize a nutritional plan to boost your immune system- Diagnose and treat Hormonal imbalances with bio-identical hormones- Conduct mental & physical exercises to help you stay positive

“After my battle with breast cancer I dedicated my time to researching alternative therapies for wellness, and coaching others.”

Dr. Ziba Chavoshi MD. | Wellness/Cancer Coach | 626-431-2710

Marilyn A. Mehlmauer, M.D.F.A.A.D.Sogol Saghari, M.D.

Voted Best Dermatologist • Pasadena Weekly 2009Diplomate, American Board of Dermatology

SURGICAL SERVICES:

LIPOSUCTION

NECK REJUVENATION

EYELID SURGERY

QUICK LIFTS

CO2 RESURFACING

SERVICES:

ADULT & PEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY

SKIN CANCER DETECTION & TREATMENT

ACNE TREATMENTS

BOTOX / DYSPORT

JUVEDERM, RESTYLANE, SCULPTRA

AFFIRM LASER / THERMAGE(SKIN TIGHTENING)

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

LASER FOR RED & BROWN SPOTS

PIXEL LASER (FOR FINE LINES & WRINKLES)

Contact the office for a consultation. All procedures are done on-site.

10 CONGRESS ST., STE. 320 | PASADENA, CA 91105626-585-9474 | www.mehlmauer.com

SUMMER SPECIALS• Fraxel or Affirm Laser $850 (full face)

• Pixel Laser $900

• Buy 2 ml’s of Restylane andget 1ml free (While Supplies last)

• Sculptra $750 per treatment

Expires 10/1/2010


Lush drought tolerant landscape & irrigation using 50% less water

626-303-4043 • www.garden-view.com114 E. Railroad Ave, Monrovia CA

Lic # 413300

Complete Outdoor Design & Construction | Consistent Quality & Reliability | New & Remodeled Swimming Pools Large In-House Crews | Wholesale/Retail Nursery | Very Competitive Pricing | Landscape Maintenance

Winner of 66 Awards from CaliforniaLandscape Contractors Association

Including:Best Design/Build in State

Best Residential in State

Garden ViewLandscape, Nursery & Pools

Since 1978

arroyo monthly september 2010

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