FINE LIVING IN THE GREATER PASADENA AREA JULY 2013
Pasadena Inc.
THINK
SMALL LE MONSIEUR’S ELLE LYN Doing More With Less FRANKIE B. JEANS A Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy A SMALL BUSINESS GUIDE to Keeping Up Your Online Reputation
arroyo VOLUME 9 | NUMBER 7 | JULY 2013
08 46
47
PASADENA INC. 08 IT’S RAINING MENSWEAR Pasadena’s Le Monsieur offers custom clothing to busy men around Southern California and beyond. —By Rebecca Kuzins
14 STILL SKINNY AFTER ALL THESE YEARS Daniella Clarke’s rockin’ Frankie B. Jeans in Glendale clothes celebrities and their fans in premium denim. —By Brenda Rees
40 MANAGING YOUR ONLINE REPUTATION A small-business guide to maintaining positive word of mouth in the age of Yelp —Bettijane Levine
PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Lisa Ferrick, Steph MacKinnon, Chanel Hason
42 STAYING ON THE LITERARY RADAR John Vorhaus’ latest novel, The Texas Twist, brings back his charming conman protagonist, Radar Hoverlander. —By Scarlet Cheng
DEPARTMENTS 07
FESTIVITIES GLAZA’s Beastly Ball, California Art Club’s Gold Medal Exhibition and more
18
ARROYO HOME SALES INDEX
44
KITCHEN CONFESSIONS Sugar and spice --- and marzipan too --- that’s what princess cakes are made of.
46
WINING AND DINING redwhite+bluezz is back, this time next to the Pasadena Playhouse.
47
THE LIST Michael Feinstein performs with the Pasadena Pops, Cirque comes to the Pasadena Playhouse and Americafest lights up the Rose Bowl.
ABOUT THE COVER: Elle Lyn of Le Monsieur; photo by Lisa Ferrick
07.13 | ARROYO | 5
EDITOR’S NOTE
THREE CHEERS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES. INDEED, THE FEDERAL SMALL BUSINESS Administration credits them with creating 65 percent of all the jobs in this country. And that represents no small change. So in this Pasadena Inc. issue, we salute a couple of small Arroyoland clothing business owners who have responded to the recent economic climate’s challenges in different ways. Gracing our cover is Elle Lyn, owner of Pasadena’s Le Monsieur menswear boutique, who has zeroed in on what small businesses can do better than the big guys --- provide custom service so personalized she even stocks up on her clients’ favorite snacks, as she explained to Rebecca Kuzins. Brenda Rees interviewed Daniella Clarke, wife of former Guns ‘N Roses rhythm guitarist Gilby Clarke, who translated her years backstage and on the road with the hard-rock band into the glam style of Glendale-based Frankie B. Jeans. Clarke took a different route with her small business, growing it into a global label which, she reports, has generated more than $200 million in retail sales over the past 14 years. Of course, running a small business can be a headache, particularly in the age of Yelp, which greatly amplifies word of mouth --- both good and bad. So Bettijane Levine went to digital marketing experts to find out how owners can maintain a squeaky clean online reputation, even when anyone anywhere can say whatever they want about what you do. Read on for their tips on helping your business prosper despite the naysayers. —Irene Lacher
EDITOR IN CHIEF Irene Lacher ART DIRECTOR Kent Bancroft JUNIOR DESIGNER Carla Cortez PRODUCTION Richard Garcia, Rochelle Bassarear COPY EDITOR John Seeley CONTRIBUTORS Leslie Bilderback, Michael Cervin, Scarlet Cheng, Mandalit del Barco, Carole Dixon, Lynne Heffley, Noela Hueso, Carole Jacobs, Kathy Kelleher, Carl Kozlowski, Rebecca Kuzins, Bettijane Levine, Elizabeth McMillian, Brenda Rees, John Sollenberger,Nancy Spiller, Bradley Tuck
arroyo FINE LIVING IN THE GREATER PASADENA AREA
SOUTHLAND PUBLISHING V.P. OF FINANCE Michael Nagami V.P. OF OPERATIONS David Comden PRESIDENT Bruce Bolkin CONTACT US
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Dina Stegon
ADVERTISING dinas@pasadenaweekly.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Brenda Clarke, Joseluis Correa, Leslie Lamm
EDITORIAL editor@arroyomonthly.com
ADVERTORIAL CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Joanna Dehn Beresford
PHONE (626) 584-1500
ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Richard Garcia, Rochelle Bassarear
FAX (626) 795-0149
HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER Andrea Baker
MAILING ADDRESS 50 S. De Lacey Ave., Ste. 200, Pasadena, CA 91105
PAYROLL Linda Lam
ArroyoMonthly.com
ACCOUNTING Alysia Chavez, Monica MacCree OFFICE ASSISTANT Ann Weathersbee PUBLISHER Jon Guynn 6 | ARROYO | 07.13
©2013 Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.
FESTIVITIES Nancy Harahan and Kacey Vanden Bosch
Zoo Director John Lewis, Pauley Perrette, GLAZA President Connie Morgan and GLAZA Board Co-Chair Richard Lichtenstein Jamie and Brad Hargreaves
Gary and Linda Kaplan
GLAZA Co-Chair Betty White flanked by Wells Fargo’s John Manning (left) and Jonathan Weedman
Cathy and Alesandra Shultz
Nearly 700 casually dressed guests converged on the L.A. Zoo on June 15 for one Christopher Slatoff, Cindy Jackson and CAC President Peter Adams
of the metro area’s most popular fundraisers: the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Assn.’s 43rd annual Beastly Ball. Supporters strolled among the tiger and tapir cages while sipping and snacking on dishes from dozens of area restaurants — hearty partying that raised $1.075 million for the zoo. Honorees were NCIS actress and noted animal lover Pauley Perrette and Wells Fargo... Last month was high debutante season in Pasadena, with the National Charity League’s Pasadena Area Chapter saluting 2013’s Senior Ticktockers at the Rose Gala at downtown L.A.’s Millennium Biltmore Hotel on June 14 and the Pasadena Guild of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles hosting its 52nd June Debutante Ball at the Langham Huntington, Pasadena on June 15... The California Art Club honored painter Ruo Li and sculptor Cindy
Kelly and John Thomas Diehl
Jackson with best of show awards at the June 1 opening of the 102nd annual
PHOTO: Jamie Pham (Beastly Ball); David Balfour (Rose Gala and Debutante Ball); G.A. Luna (Gold Medal Juried Exhibition)
Gold Medal Juried Exhibition at USC Fisher Museum of Art.
Powell and Ashley Dawson
Carl Ernest and Catherine Ann Lehman
52nd June Debutante Ball
Amy Elizabeth and Gregory Joseph Zeronian
Candice Bohannon and Julio Reyes 07.13 | ARROYO | 7
IT’S RAINING Elle Lyn at Le Monsieur
8 | ARROYO | 07.13
SHIRT: Chocolate brown 2-ply Egyptian cotton fabric provided by Thomas Mason, constructed and designed by Le Monsieur, $125 SUIT: 2-button taupe and ecru windowpane suit comprised of Super 120 fabric, $250
MENSWEAR Pasadena’s Le Monsieur offers custom clothing and service to busy men around Southern California and beyond. BY REBECCA KUZINS
ON A RECENT WORKDAY, ELLE LYN WAS AT BOB HOPE AIRPORT, HAND-DELIVERING CLOTHES SHE HAD SELECTED FOR A CLIENT WHO WAS CATCHING A FLIGHT TO FLORIDA. WHILE THERE, SHE GOT A CALL FROM ANOTHER CUSTOMER WHOSE GIRLFRIEND HAD THROWN HIS CLOTHES INTO A SWIMMING POOL DURING AN ARGUMENT. THE CLIENT ASKED LYN WHETHER THE CLOTHES COULD BE DRY-CLEANED,
PHOTOS: Lisa Ferrick; Hair and makeup: Gena Giasson. Right Photo Model: Matt Chambliss,
CLEANED ANOTHER WAY OR SHOULD SIMPLY BE REPLACED. Handling fashion emergencies like these are all part of her business, which she describes as a “dealer concierge service.” Lyn is the founder, owner and chief employee at Le Monsieur, a Pasadena-based business that, in Lyn’s words, provides “menswear for the non-shopper.” Le Monsieur is based in a small office on Colorado Boulevard, across the street from Paseo Colorado. For many years Lyn was the sole employee, but she now employs a male model and four women — a creative director, a salesperson and two assistants.Le Monsieur caters to professional men who are uninterested in or clueless about haberdashery, or simply lack the time to shop for themselves. Clients make an appointment to meet Lyn in her office or their home or workplace. She takes their measurements and suggests wardrobe items that fit their body type and fashion needs. “She’s able to take a look at you and tell what colors and styles are good for your skin type, the work you do or are age-appropriate,” says customer Ron Lyles. “I’m a big guy, so sometimes it’s hard for me to get fitted. She’s able to get clothes that fit… She deals with accessories, like a watch, shoes. She knows what doesn’t look good on a big guy.” Lyn also organizes her clients’ closets, eliminating clothes that no longer fit or are too stained to clean, and then placing orders to replace the discarded items. She takes photographs of different combinations of clothes and pastes them on a poster, so her clients can easily put together an outfit. She finds these posters especially useful for the 60 percent of her customers who are single men. It’s not easy for a small boutique menswear business to compete in a marketplace already crowded with menswear shops. According to a national study on menswear conducted by the market firm BIGresearch in 2010 and 2011, almost 44 percent of men –continued on page 11 07.13 | ARROYO | 9
10 | ARROYO | 07.13
PHOTO: Lisa Ferrick, Model: Matt Chambliss, Hair and makeup: Gena Giasson
–continued from page 9
patronize department stores like Macy’s or Nordstrom. The rest of the market is split among chain stores — like American Apparel or Banana Republic — that specialize in clothes for both men and women; chains of menswear-only stores such as 3 Day Suit Broker and Men’s Warehouse; e-tailers like Amazon; and small clothing boutiques. “Probably until 10 years ago, small boutiques had very good chances of doing quite well,” explains Andrew Asch, SHIRT: Gitman Brothers peach retail editor for California Apparel News. But now, he says, pick stitching shirt, $95 these stores “run into such obstacles and challenges, like SPORT COAT: 100% Merino having to compete with online department store sales and wool–silk blend, $125 skyrocketing rents and insurance costs. We’ve seen a lot of TIE: Paul Smith small retailers go out of business.” HAT: Le Monsieur Collection, $175 Those boutiques that do survive, says Asch, must “fight to find new ways of intriguing consumers. They’ve got to be more imaginative, more nimble than in the past.” For example, some menswear boutiques are adding personal shopping services, putting bars in their stores so customers can enjoy a drink and evolving “from just being clothing stores to being mini-department stores.” Retailers, Asch added, are trying to make their boutiques “entertainment stores,” by being the first in their area to introduce new fashion trends and clothing labels, keeping their mix of merchandise “as fresh and interesting as possible,” offering gifts, books and other items and throwing parties. “They have to become party producers, social media mavens and financial wizards,” he says of menswear boutique owners. “They have to wear so many hats.” But a business like Le Monsieur, which concentrates on personal shopping and service, is “doing exactly the right thing” and may overcome the odds against boutiques, Asch says. The secret of Le Monsieur’s success lies in its emphasis not only on personal shopping but also on providing a range of unusual but useful services to customers and paying acute attention to detail. For example, clients who come to Lyn’s office are served their favorite snacks and drinks, which she hidden in their clothes that enable them to identify the color of each piece. “If my client is a identifies and stocks up on; and many clients order made-to-measure suits, an option often bigger guy, I worry about the size of the pockets, because you don’t want their hand coming unavailable at bigger stores. Made-to-measure suits, which range in price from $150 to half out of their pocket. If they smoke, I want to make sure they have proper pockets, in a $450, include a pre-made base coat and pants that are unfinished on the bottom. “We just different lining, on the inside of their clothes, so the clothes won’t smell,” she explains. tweak it to their specifications,” says Lyn. “That’s the bulk of our business right now.” Lyn Some of her customers cite this attention to detail and highly personal service, as says she’s also beginning to branch out into Hollywood. She’s costuming actor Ray Liotta well as affordable prices and convenience, as the reasons they are repeat customers at Le and singer/guitarist John Meyer for the fiilm A Flock of Dudes, currently in production. Monsieur. “I always get a great choice of high-end fabrics at great prices,” says Cliff Many clients, who also include bankers, law enforcement officers, lawyers, judges Yates, a Los Angeles County sheriff, who is also a comedian. “She’ll fit me so I can apand other professionals, need the right wardrobe for work. They have to conform to an pear in court or at comedy clubs… and she personally caters to my schedule.” office dress code, but they also want something a little more exciting than the typically “I told her I wanted a suit for court,” says Otto Gordillo, another county sheriff. “She conservative suit. “My client who’s a banker, we just did a charcoal suit for him, with a worked alongside me very diligently to create one. I get complimented in court on my lavender shirt,” says Lyn. “The stitching for the shirt on the buttons is a darker purple, attire.” Lyn, he adds, “provides great service... I can give her a call and send her a check; the buttons are a darker color and we finished it off with a dark pair of purple socks. it’s convenient, like shopping online.” That just gives him a little oomph to get through his day.” Many customers would rather patronize Le Monsieur than a department store or Lyn advises clients to have a staple work wardrobe of least 12 white shirts and three suits in gray, navy blue and charcoal. She often prepares a “boy’s box,” with work clothes, other shop. “I’m relatively clueless about fashion and fabrics,” says client Brandon Stroman. “She’s a great person to work with because she makes you feel right at home, and including a white shirt and an extra tie, which clients can keep in their offices so they’ll makes the whole process pretty easy.” always be sartorially prepared. A couple of her clients are colorblind, so she makes sure there are different-size buttons –continued on page 12 07.13 | ARROYO | 11
ABOVE: Lyn works with clients to find what works best for them.
–continued from page 11
Unlike her larger competitors, Lyn has a small advertising budget. However, she is able to advertise her services at a relatively low cost on her business website and through Twitter. A small selection of her clothing items is available for purchase at the Los Angeles Athletic Association in downtown Los Angeles. She also solicits clients with coupons on Groupon and other websites. But she cites referrals by current clients and others as the most effective tool for attracting new business. “Word of mouth is like espresso in the morning,” she jokes. “It means my customers are confident enough in me and in my ability to recommend me to someone else. Guys basically don’t like to shop. To get them to meet with someone new, where they don’t go and just pick up the suit and just walk out with it, or take it to the tailor, that’s a big deal to them. And I take that seriously.” Lyn designs clothes for some of her clients, often in collaboration with them. She and her employees do not sew the clothes, but instead contract with Pepper and Jack, a New Zealand–based tailoring service, which creates the items and ships them to clients. She says she misses sewing herself and for this reason plans to make a line of specialized ties to be sold under the Le Monsieur brand, which she hopes to eventually market worldwide. Lyn, 41, was born and raised in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. During her childhood, her late grandmother, Artesia Jackson, was a tailor, and Lyn attributes her interest in sewing and clothing to her grandmother. “I promised her that I’d get my degree, and she 12 | ARROYO | 07.13
was like, ‘You get your degree and then you can do what you want to do.’” After studying theology and business at Mid-America Bible College in her hometown, Lyn became a flight attendant. When she started Le Monsieur 12 years ago, it was a part-time job to supplement her airline work, and her initial clients were passengers. Many of them lived in Southern California and, she recalls, “flying to California was really starting to get hectic.” So she relocated to Pasadena, where she made her menswear business a full-time endeavor. Says Lyn: “I love what I do; I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world.” |||| Le Monsieur is located at 261 E. Colorado Blvd., #216, Pasadena. Call (626) 569-TIES (8437) or visit shoplemonsieur.com.
PHOTO, TOP: Lisa Ferrick, Hair and makeup: Gena Giasson
RIGHT: Le Monsieur offers made-to-measure suits, starting with a pre-made base coat and pants that are unfinished on the bottom.
07.13 | ARROYO | 13
Still Skinny After All These Years Daniella Clarke, founder of Frankie B. Jeans in Glendale, clothes celebrities and their fans in her rockin’ premium denim designs.
Patriotic panache: Stars & Stripes jeggings; 42% Lycra and 1% spandex, 33% cotton, 15% rayon, 9% polyester; $175
14 | ARROYO | 07.13
PHOTO: Steven Meiers
BY BRENDA REES
Daniella Clarke
Everyday style: Sweet Thing blazer; 42% Lycra and 1% spandex, 33% cotton, 15% rayon, 9% polyester; $219. Bondage Skinny jeans in black; 1% spandex, 52% cotton, 26% rayon, 21% polyester; $174
STEP ASIDE, DIAMONDS. A SLINKY PAIR OF JEANS ARE A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND, NO MATTER HER AGE GROUP — TEENAGER,
PHOTOS: Macduff Everton
MIDDLE-AGED MOM OR GOLDEN RETIREE. Even with their hefty price tags, which can run from $100 to $200 or more, premium jeans often define many fashionistas’ wardrobes, since their particular design can reflect the mood of the moment. Aficionados can dress them up or dress them down and flit from a casual lunch with girlfriends to an upscale night out on the town or at a club. Designer Daniella Clarke has been happily immersed in the world of high-fashion denim since the late 1990s, when she helped resurrect low-rise jeans (dubbed hip-huggers in the 1960s and ’70s) under the Frankie B. label. Her audience jumped for her super-sexy, super-skinny, rock star–style pants. It’s a universe Clarke knows well. She’s married to former Guns N’ Roses rhythm guitarist Gilby Clarke, and in the 1970s and ’80s, she spent countless hours backstage and on the road, absorbing the glam-and-glitter hardrock scene. Since the 1999 launch of Frankie B. Jeans (named after her then-young daughter, now a college student), which she oversees from her line’s headquarters in Glendale, Clarke continues in her quest to make women everywhere fall in love with her sensuous jeans. “If success is measured in longevity, then [Frankie B.] is one of the more successful brands in the industry,” says Ilsa Metchek, president of the California Fashion Association, who has monitored fashion trends for more than 40 years. Denim has certainly come a long way since the 1950s when they were embraced by rebellious teenagers — à la James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause — as well as cowboys. By the 1960s, denim jackets, skirts and embroidered hippie-inspired jeans had become all the rage. In the 1970s, designers such as Calvin Klein and Gloria Vanderbilt hopped on the jeans bandwagon, incorporating the rugged material into their collections, raising waists to, well, the waist, where they stayed until circa 2000, when they dropped again. Metchek explains that, in general, all new premium jean brands come to market pretty much the same way: They develop a cult following drawn to fit, color, shape, etc., and are first sold only in specialty stores, not big chains. It’s not so much a David vs. Goliath match for these brands, but rather David vs. David as smaller companies scramble to define their territory in the marketplace. Frankie B.’s signature style has been the company’s mainstay — a tight, low-waist jean inspired by singer Robert Plant, who wore the provocative pants as the lead vocalist for the English rock band Led Zeppelin. “I was looking for those particular jeans and couldn’t find them, so I just altered my own jeans,” she explains. “I ripped up the inseam, recut and shaped it, lowered the –continued on page 16 07.13 | ARROYO | 15
The sky's the limit: My BFF jeggings sport the L.A. skyline; 3% spandex, 97% cotton; $175
waist and resewed it. Then everyone asked me where I got my jeans. That’s how it all started.” Word of mouth and celebrity influence can catapult a brand to the top of the must-have heap — a familiar Cinderella scenario that happened with Frankie B. jeans. The fashion media duly noted the A-list celebrities, Grammy-winning singers and leading Hollywood actresses seen out and about in Frankie B.: Jennifer Lopez was one of the first to sport a pair; she was followed by Meg Ryan, Jessica Alba, Christina Aguilera, Sienna Miller, Charlize Theron, Eva Longoria, Fergie and others. Today, the brand is on target to triple sales by the end of the year, Clarke says, noting that Frankie B. has generated more than $200 million in retail sales since its inception. The jeans are distributed in Europe and North America, sold in high-end outlets such as Bloomingdales, Kitson, Singer 22 and revolveclothing.com. Just last month, Kitson on Robertson carved out space for a Frankie B. in-store shop — the brand’s first-ever “store.” Frankie B. is also carried by overseas boutiques, including Excelsior in Milan, Le 66 in Paris and Kitson Japan in Tokyo. Expanding the line is vital, says Clarke, noting that Frankie B. is constantly retooling its apparel lineup while keeping true to its rocker origins. The collection now includes tops, jackets, dresses, skirts, blazers, jeggings (jean leggings) and more, in addition to its famed skinny jeans. “We have something for everyone and our new Perfect Fit has a high-rise waist with fabric that is a bit forgiving,” she says. “We have to listen to what our customers want and stay in touch.” With daughter Frankie away at college, Clarke gets first-hand reports on young women’s trends in style and taste. “This helps me keep my finger on the pulse of what is hot and fun,” she says, adding that she is considering a line of Frankie B. handbags and belts. The premium jeans industry has had its share of ups and downs, and Clarke acknowledges that the recent economic slowdown certainly hit her company hard. “But you have to ride out the lows with the highs,” she says. “We are now back on a high and our 2013 line is seeing a resurgence of interest. You have to keep moving ahead.” Indeed, despite the recent downturns, there always seems to be a clamor for premium jeans. They’re a relatively small luxury that some women allow themselves even in meager times. In 2008, when consumer spending was largely depressed, expensive designer jeans constituted one bright spot of growth for manufacturers and retailers, according to NPD Group, Inc., a market research company. Sales of premium jeans grew by as much as 17 percent during 2008. The passion for a well-crafted pair of jeans is good news for Los Angeles, the global capital of high-end, hand-stitched jeans design and manufacturing, encompassing such popular brands as True Religion, J Brand, Seven For All Mankind and, of course, Frankie B. “We in Los Angeles produce 75 percent of the premium jeans in the world,” says Metchek, explaining that the L.A. area has an abundance of superior denim wash houses that jean manufacturers use to create softness, color, holes, textures and specialized treatments. Today, however, the jeans industry is facing new overseas obstacles which may force some premium denim designers to rethink their production and marketing strategies. Since May 1, the European Union has been collecting an additional 26 percent import duty on all women’s and girls’ jeans made in the U.S., on top of their current 12 percent duty. Metchek says that the tariff hike is seen as retaliation by the EU against the U.S. for failing to comply fully with a 2002 World Trade Organization ruling against the Byrd Amendment, a law allowing the U.S. to levy additional duties on “unfairly traded” goods that undercut American competitors. Still, the “Made in the U.S.A.” label lends prestige to designer jeans, which can takes weeks to produce since they are all done by hand. Some premium brands can have as many as 100 hands touching a single pair of jeans over the entire production process. And Clarke is determined to keep her production local, contending that “it’s important to manufacture in the United States. I was born in Israel and came to the United States. The U.S. gave me so many opportunities and I want to keep the manufacturing here and create jobs.” Clarke explains that she constantly needs to review and renew her vision of what success means for her and the Frankie B. brand. “My work is hard and not often glamorous,” she says. “With every gain and success, I have to be humble because I know how quickly you can lose it. The best thing is to forge great relationships with people and keep your eyes open for every new opportunity that comes your way. And never give up. Nothing is easy, but you want to be satisfied with your work and product at the end of the day. And I certainly am.” |||| 16 | ARROYO | 07.13
PHOTO: Steven Meiers
–continued from page 15
07.13 | ARROYO | 17
arroyo
™
SPONSORED BY
~HOME SALES INDEX~ HOME SALES
may
may
2012
2013
+19.7% ALTADENA HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE MEDIAN SQ. FT. ARCADIA HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE MEDIAN SQ. FT. EAGLE ROCK HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE MEDIAN SQ. FT. GLENDALE HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE MEDIAN SQ. FT. LA CAÑADA HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE MEDIAN SQ. FT. PASADENA HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE MEDIAN SQ. FT. SAN MARINO HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE MEDIAN SQ. FT. SIERRA MADRE HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE MEDIAN SQ. FT. SOUTH PASADENA HOMES SOLD MEDIAN PRICE MEDIAN SQ. FT. TOTAL HOMES SOLD AVG PRICE/SQ. FT.
MAY ‘12 29 $482,000 1534 MAY ‘12 27 $745,000 1802 MAY ‘12 14 $475,500 1412 MAY ‘12 102 $448,500 1461 MAY ‘12 35 $1,200,000 2011 MAY ‘12 139 $573,000 1441 MAY ‘12 13 $1,530,000 2420 MAY ‘12 16 $650,000 1721 MAY ‘12 14 $735,000 1778 MAY ‘12 389 $396
HOMES SOLD
389 498
AVG. PRICE/SQ. FT.
RECENT HOME CLOSINGS IN THE ARROYO FOOTPRINT
HOMES SOLD
+28%
HOME SALES ABOVE $900,000
MAY ‘13 43 $522,500 1424 MAY ‘13 34 $789,500 1903 MAY ‘13 22 $540,000 1476 MAY ‘13 141 $490,000 1452 MAY ‘13 25 $1,050,000 2391 MAY ‘13 181 $587,000 1550 MAY ‘13 15 $2,300,000 2555 MAY ‘13 17 $749,000 1797 MAY ‘13 20 $755,500 1546 MAY ‘13 498 $474
ADDRESS ALTADENA 1009 New York Drive 2225 Mendocino Lane 1371 El Corto Drive 1876 Pepper Drive 608 Wildrose Canyon Court 2991 Olive Avenue 1932 Craig Avenue 3735 North Hollingsworth Road ARCADIA 38 West Grandview Avenue 1405 Rancho Road 125 East Camino Real Avenue 330 Hacienda Drive 1013 South 10th Avenue 2329 South 3rd Avenue 2520 Louise Avenue 332 East Wistaria Avenue 1035 Asder Lane 315 Ellen Way 2039 Elkins Place 1519 Mayflower Avenue 1717 Louise Avenue 1309 Standish Place 221 Laurel Avenue GLENDALE 503 West Kenneth Road 1112 Cortez Drive 1520 Remah Vista Drive 1101 Trafalger Drive 2154 Ashington Drive 1106 Rossmoyne Avenue 5320 Quail Canyon Road 344 Myrtle Street 1932 Calle Dulce 3161 Kirkham Drive 1627 Arbor Drive 1686 Valley View Road 1000 West Glenoaks Boulevard 2024 Ashington Drive 404 East Randolph Street 1661 Highland Avenue 3239 Fairesta Street 1342 Doverwood Drive 1345 Highland Avenue 1411 Thurlene Road 901 Stewarton Way LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE 1237 Descanso Drive 657 Foxwood Road 4127 Chevy Chase Drive 871 Greenridge Drive
CLOSE DATE
SOURCE: CalREsource
PRICE BDRMS. SQ. FT. YR. BUILT PREV. PRICE
05/30/13 05/29/13 05/20/13 05/31/13 05/30/13 05/08/13 05/31/13 05/16/13
$1,595,000 $1,500,000 $1,200,000 $1,050,000 $1,005,000 $920,000 $920,000 $915,000
4 6 6 4 5
3418
1917
2061 3348
1936 1999
2 4
1927 2550
1931 1998
05/17/13 05/10/13 05/22/13 05/20/13 05/14/13 05/28/13 05/15/13 05/16/13 05/29/13 05/15/13 05/24/13 05/10/13 05/14/13 05/03/13 05/15/13
$2,998,000 $2,980,000 $2,850,000 $2,200,000 $1,700,000 $1,550,000 $1,350,000 $1,280,000 $1,273,000 $1,080,000 $1,070,000 $1,025,000 $975,000 $900,000 $900,000
6 5 2 4 5 4 6 4 5 4 3 3 3 4 3
5407 2779 1261 3563 4309 2205
2001 1938 1950 1951 1999 1951
2621 3380 2074 1813 2212 2161 1633 1903
1996 1982 1962 1955 1947 1963 1959 1926
05/10/13 05/24/13 05/31/13 05/01/13 05/13/13 05/24/13 05/22/13 05/06/13 05/09/13 05/10/13 05/06/13 05/30/13 05/07/13 05/22/13 05/06/13 05/08/13 05/02/13 05/22/13 05/24/13 05/09/13 05/07/13
$1,450,000 $1,355,000 $1,300,000 $1,289,000 $1,200,000 $1,185,000 $1,175,000 $1,150,000 $1,146,000 $1,125,000 $1,122,000 $1,100,000 $1,050,000 $1,025,000 $985,000 $980,000 $958,000 $949,000 $932,000 $920,000 $900,000
7 3 3 6 5 3 4 3 3 4 7 6 8 4 4 4 6 4 5 4 4
3324 2670 3745 3422 2937 4164 1429 3173 2560
1936 1941 1986 1967 1935 1987 1918 1993 1972
4136 3198 2352 2710 3340 3673
1946 1989 1924 1938 1963 1981
2875 2232
05/31/13 05/08/13 05/28/13 05/31/13
$4,200,000 $2,995,000 $2,075,000 $2,062,500
4 6 4 5
7489 5717 3470 4448
PREV. SOLD
$1,353,000 $1,300,000 $760,500
07/27/2005 05/12/2004 08/30/2006
$466,000 $627,000 $165,000 $858,000
12/10/1999 08/06/2012 09/13/1985 03/26/2010
$2,025,000 $798,000 $490,000 $727,280
05/18/2010 05/02/2011 09/26/1985 06/14/2001
$223,000 $370,000 $385,000 $400,000 $310,000 $748,000
07/31/1995 07/27/1998 08/30/1993 02/04/1993 06/25/1998 04/21/2004
$346,000
05/03/2000
$967,500 $875,000 $725,000 $836,000 $830,000
07/26/2007 04/15/2010 09/28/2011 09/03/2002 08/03/2012
$326,000 $435,000 $545,000 $1,000,000
10/31/1986 07/20/2010 03/31/1997 05/27/2005
$520,000 $775,000 $800,000 $495,500 $737,000 $1,015,000
04/02/2012 07/01/2004 12/27/2010 09/07/2012 08/27/2003 04/12/2006
1961 1972
$87,000 $975,000 $510,000
10/06/1978 09/05/2008 12/19/2012
1941 1953 1934 1986
$3,995,000 $960,000 $865,000
08/15/2007 07/08/1994 06/22/1998
The Arroyo Home Sales Index is calculated from residential home sales in Pasadena and the surrounding communities of South Pasadena, San Marino, La Canada Flintridge, Eagle Rock, Glendale (including Montrose), Altadena, Sierra Madre and Arcadia. Individual home sales data provided by CalREsource. Arroyo Home Sales Index © Arroyo 2013. Complete home sales listings appear each week in Pasadena Weekly.
18 | ARROYO | 07.13
HOME SALES ABOVE $900,000 RECENT HOME CLOSINGS IN THE ARROYO FOOTPRINT ADDRESS CLOSE DATE PRICE BDRMS. SQ. FT. LA CAĂ‘ADA FLINTRIDGE 5231 Redwillow Lane 05/10/13 $1,855,000 4 3177 600 Knight Way 05/30/13 $1,795,000 4 3351 5246 Gould Avenue 05/20/13 $1,575,000 3 2462 1251 Fernside Drive 05/01/13 $1,425,000 4 3138 4263 Encinas Drive 05/29/13 $1,425,000 3 1988 4619 Alta Canyada Road 05/31/13 $1,380,000 4 2391 5218 Escalante Drive 05/15/13 $1,250,000 8 5140 Ocean View Boulevard 05/24/13 $1,225,000 2 1372 335 Canon De Paraiso Lane 05/31/13 $1,050,000 4 2174 4733 Hampton Road 05/31/13 $999,000 2 1492 300 Corona Drive 05/09/13 $985,000 6 1024 Green Lane 05/06/13 $950,000 3 2638 4747 Rosebank Drive 05/03/13 $909,000 3 2160 PASADENA 1374 Edgehill Place 05/16/13 $2,900,000 4 4908 1777 La Cresta Drive 05/02/13 $2,850,000 5 3693 3 Richland Place 05/01/13 $2,635,000 8 5042 1465 Linda Ridge Road 05/01/13 $2,415,000 2 3375 3657 Ivydale Court 05/17/13 $2,000,000 6 4348 506 North Wilson Avenue 05/22/13 $1,988,000 4 1608 765 East California Boulevard 05/23/13 $1,924,000 8 5498 1432 Old House Road 05/07/13 $1,875,000 4 5142 888 Linda Vista Avenue 05/31/13 $1,715,000 4 2824 280 South Hill Avenue 05/22/13 $1,685,000 3 2862 1405 El Mirador Drive 05/17/13 $1,649,000 3 2732 1133 Arden Road 05/16/13 $1,600,000 6 361 Glen Summer Road 05/17/13 $1,495,000 8 1979 Sierra Madre Villa Avenue 05/13/13 $1,485,000 6 1695 Poppy Peak Drive 05/31/13 $1,470,000 3 1639 920 Granite Drive #316 05/10/13 $1,275,000 1 710 1665 East California Boulevard 05/01/13 $1,225,000 3 2430 3285 Villa Highlands Drive 05/21/13 $1,205,000 3 2346 633 South Lake Avenue #12 05/09/13 $1,190,000 3 2090 1210 Charles Street 05/03/13 $1,167,500 3 2191 1510 East Del Mar Boulevard 05/30/13 $1,160,000 4 2778 3865 Fairmeade Road 05/17/13 $1,158,000 3 2832 1615 La Loma Road 05/07/13 $1,138,000 3 2250 3036 Gainsborough Drive 05/06/13 $1,121,000 6 426 Elmwood Drive 05/30/13 $1,055,000 5 2599 386 South Hill Avenue 05/24/13 $1,050,000 5 2152 1095 S. Orange Grove Blvd #D 05/13/13 $1,032,000 3 3011 677 West California Boulevard 05/31/13 $980,000 4 1848 1068 South San Gabriel Blvd 05/08/13 $980,000 5 21 South Grand Avenue 05/01/13 $975,000 2 2380 192 Annandale Road 05/31/13 $962,000 3 1771 250 South De Lacey Ave #408A 05/29/13 $958,000 2 1710 840 Rim Road 05/31/13 $951,000 4 2161 1743 Midlothian Drive 05/10/13 $948,000 3 2012 1350 La Loma Road 05/16/13 $920,000 3 1880 380 El Nido Avenue 05/08/13 $920,000 3 2056 565 Tamarac Drive 05/15/13 $915,000 2 2588 270 South Parkwood Avenue 05/20/13 $900,500 3 1773 257 South Hudson Avenue #107 05/24/13 $900,000 3 1300 SAN MARINO 2001 South Oak Knoll Avenue 05/10/13 $8,280,000 6 8623 1036 San Marino Avenue 05/16/13 $3,600,000 4 3433 1553 Virginia Road 05/31/13 $3,398,000 5 4859 1445 Oak Grove Avenue 05/15/13 $3,238,000 7 1500 Virginia Road 05/31/13 $2,550,000 3 2369 1284 Roanoke Road 05/03/13 $2,520,000 4 3146 3325 Monterey Road 05/09/13 $2,500,000 4 2914 1510 Waverly Road 05/21/13 $2,300,000 3 2265 2500 Lorain Road 05/06/13 $1,980,000 4 3086 2724 Carlaris Road 05/31/13 $1,781,000 4 2555 2710 Ardmore Road 05/01/13 $1,775,000 3 2352 2210 Lorain Road 05/24/13 $1,685,000 4 2289 1270 Oxford Road 05/30/13 $1,500,000 7 835 Plymouth Road 05/20/13 $1,483,000 4 2222 1330 Vandyke Road 05/09/13 $1,320,000 2 2027 SIERRA MADRE 47 West Bonita Avenue 05/01/13 $1,788,000 4 3734 529 West Orange Grove Avenue 05/24/13 $1,575,000 4 3732 383 West Grandview Avenue 05/09/13 $930,000 4 1808 181 Holdman Avenue 05/30/13 $900,000 3 2564 SOUTH PASADENA 1707 Camden Parkway 05/14/13 $1,988,000 4 3760 224 Oaklawn Avenue 05/08/13 $1,800,000 5 3523 1421 Milan Avenue 05/28/13 $1,729,000 3 2260 280 St. Albans Avenue 05/22/13 $1,468,000 9 621 Camino Cerrado 05/23/13 $1,168,000 3 2152 349 Camino Verde 05/08/13 $1,059,000 3 1870 629 Alta Vista Circle 05/28/13 $930,000 4 1618 1713 Las Palmitas Street 05/24/13 $910,000 3 1852
SOURCE: CalREsource YR. BUILT PREV. PRICE
PREV. SOLD
1957 1991 1961 1997 1951 1920
$720,000 $829,000 $1,010,000 $610,000 $1,425,000
01/05/1999 04/14/1999 07/12/2010 06/23/1997 11/19/2012
1953 1969 1939
$755,000 $565,000
05/20/2008 07/09/2001
$1,100,000 $1,260,000
07/21/2006 04/27/2004
$2,750,000 $640,000 $2,300,000 $582,500
12/18/2009 09/09/1994 09/11/2007 11/27/1996
$1,225,000 $475,000
12/15/2010 10/25/1991
$1,500,000 $1,125,000 $1,575,000 $2,200,000 $630,000 $879,000 $853,000
05/08/2008 01/19/2005 07/03/2006 03/13/2012 08/05/1998 10/31/2003 11/02/2010
$261,000 $900,000
10/25/1985 10/02/2009
$760,000 $305,000 $235,000 $654,000 $921,000 $490,000
07/18/2003 06/28/1988 12/12/1986 07/26/2011 08/24/2005 01/29/1999
$715,000
02/06/2012
1963 1954 2007 1949 1925 1952 1941 1922 1922 1951 1948 1921 1961
1958 2009 1954 1978 2010 1947 1924 1951 1978 1998 1922 1952 1910 1937 1957 2007 1953 1948 1950 1958 1978 1925 2009
$975,000 $238,000 $855,000 $554,000 $985,000
06/04/2008 12/28/1983 02/04/2011 09/24/1999 03/11/2008
$700,000 $380,000 $645,000 $829,000
02/21/2013 04/21/1988 04/15/2004 04/14/2010
1999 1950 1966
$2,580,000 $1,100,000 $169,000
02/23/1999 06/30/2000 07/01/1974
1949 1926 1927 1947 1937 1928 1930 1937
$1,064,000 $780,000
08/11/1989 06/18/1993
$1,688,000
05/18/2009
$1,250,000 $565,000 $153,000 $530,000
04/23/2010 12/07/1992 04/05/1989 09/20/1996
2003 1998 1913 1955
$150,000 $182,000 $885,000 $829,000
11/26/1986 10/21/1996 07/20/2005 06/23/2005
1988 1910 1949
$600,000 $1,250,000 $1,248,000 $625,000
05/13/1994 11/01/2002 04/08/2009 02/24/2006
$750,000 $295,500 $385,000
02/12/2004 05/11/1994 10/14/1988
1935 1948
1967 1965 1952 1965
07.13 | ARROYO | 19
yo arro arroyo HOME & DESIGN SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
LIGHTING DESIGN 101 IN SEARCH OF A CLEAN, SAFE, WELL LIGHTED PLACE BY JOANNA DEHN BERESFORD
This was the old days. No cell phones with mini-light beams. No computer screens that would survive on batteries and cast their hazy blue light across a pillow or table top.
called me back to their room and begged for some illumination. I really didn’t want to give up the one-and-only flashlight, so I dug around in the kitchen until I found a candle and some matches. And a Styrofoam cup. And I lit the candle and stuck it in the cup and left it on a desk in their bedroom and followed my lightbeam back to the kitchen and settled at the table and about ten minutes later the girls were shrieking because the desk was on fire. It’s always something with kids, isn’t it? Among the lessons I learned that night is this: we need light. Designers and lighting professionals will tell you we need three kinds of light: general, task, and accent lighting. Meaning that we don’t just need light to see, we need it to perform specific tasks, and to make our homes beautiful. The vast array of lighting alternatives is mind-boggling for many of us, so recently I turned to some lighting and design experts for, well, enlightenment. First I talked to Tom Anderson, the Showroom Manager at LBC Lighting. Their Designer
This was like a prehistoric darkness, and all I wanted was a flashlight. Which I found, in a
Showroom in Arcadia features nearly 200 brands of the finest contemporary and transi-
laundry room cabinet, and we used this to guide the children through their nighttime rou-
tional lighting sources in the region, including the latest in LED technology. The advantages
tine - baths, teeth, story, etc. Then I took the flashlight with me back to the kitchen where I
of LED products are amazing. They offer low-energy consumption, 50,000-hour life ex-
planned to sit at a table and read until the big Snows came home.
pectancy, and cooler operating temperatures for almost every source and fixture you can
But by this time it was not just dark, it was black, and the little girls were scared, so they 20 | ARROYO | 07.13
–continued on page 25
PHOTO: Courtesy of LBC Lighting
WHEN I WAS ABOUT THIRTEEN I WAS BABYSITTING FOR FAMILY FRIENDS CALLED THE SNOW FAMILY, WHICH WAS FUNNY FOR THIS PARTICULAR MEMORY BECAUSE IT WAS SUMMERTIME. ABOUT A HALF HOUR AFTER THE ADULTS LEFT, ALL THE POWER WENT OUT IN THE HOUSE. THAT WAS OKAY FOR AWHILE BECAUSE THE KIDS WERE PLAYING OUTSIDE AND IT WAS STILL LIGHT OUT AND WE DIDN’T REALLY NEED ANYTHING THAT REQUIRED A PLUG OR A SWITCH. BUT WHEN DUSK CAME AND WE HEADED BACK INTO THE HOUSE,WHICH WAS SPACIOUS AND KIND OF SPOOKY ANYWAY (IT RESEMBLED A SORT OF GOTHIC BARRACKS AND THEY HAD PARROTS IN CAGES AT THE BACK THAT SCREAMED ALL THE TIME), REALITY HIT.THE REALITY WAS DARKNESS.
07.13 | ARROYO | 23
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
–continued from page 20 imagine, including retrofits for traditional bulbs and fixtures. The LBC Showroom also displays a working total home lighting control system that manages home lighting and motorized window coverings through touch pads or a smart phone. And because it’s summertime, I asked Tom about PHOTO: Courtesy of Modern Lighting
ceiling fans, which apparently have come a long way since I tried to set the Snows’ house on fire. “LBC carries over 10 brands of ceiling fans in all shapes and sizes,” Tom told me.“There are many exciting new designs from our vendors this season, and we are pleased to offer traditional designs to ultra-modern choices to work into any design scheme.” Debbie Kowalski, co-owner of Modern Lighting, was also helpful. She’s been lighting custom homes for 41 years. They work with the most talented designers and builders in the area, and for her,“every home and client is a fresh experience.” Debbie introduced me to some remarkable concepts in lighting and fans, from strictly functional to new, high-design art statement pieces that can transform a room. Specifically, she talked about Fan D-liers, chandeliers that incorporate high-speed fans into their design. She also described fans with up lights, and light kits that are integrated into the design of the fan motor, and efficient, energy-saving motors with innovative control systems. The Modern Lighting staff includes a team of knowledgeable, experienced profession–continued on page 29
07.13 | ARROYO | 25
28 | ARROYO | 07.13
PHOTO: Courtesy of Ethan Allen Design Center
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
–continued from page 25 als who can expand on nearly limitless trends – functional and decorative, landscape lighting, LED changes. They display over 3,000 fixtures in their showroom, so discovering lighting solutions and inspiration there is about as easy as flipping a switch. Another place to seek enlightenment is at the Ethan Allen Design Center. They carry a huge assortment of lighting options, and they also provide a full-service staff of design professionals. Ethan Allen describes itself as “A strong American brand with global reach. A design authority with a modern attitude…” And when you walk into the Design Center, you really do get that deep, passionate sense of Home. Of a place that’s beautiful and comfortable and never goes out of fashion. And if you’re looking for more than light, Ethan Allen is an ideal destination because, obviously, they’ve got some nice furniture and accessories sitting around the showroom, too. Which reminds me that one of the fundamental reasons for lighting a home is so that you can see the stuff that’s in it, like furnishings, accessories and art. P E Deans is “predominantly a furniture and decorative accessory consignment store,” according to owner, Sherry Grossi, who has been in the retail business all of her life, and has travelled the world, collecting an eclectic blend of pieces that range from traditional to –continued on page 30
07.13 | ARROYO | 29
PHOTO: Courtesy of P. E. Deans
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
–continued from page 29 modern. She also carries an assortment of new gift items, and the store is beautifully adorned with artwork. “In my shop I would say that overall classic images are the most popular,” says Sherri.“I don’t get in much modern art, but when I do it goes quickly.” Alexandra Dean Grossi, Sherry’s daughter, recently presented a one-person show at P E Deans, called “The Analog Internet”. Her work explores different facets of the internet such as Facebook, Instagram and LOLcats in paintings, photograms and illustration pieces. “I think everybody’s favorite was her takeoff of the ‘Grumpy Cat’, whose tag line was ‘I had fun once, I hated it,’” Sherri says. The show was a success and Alexandra sold six paintings, “attesting to the rapidly moving tastes of today’s art buyers,” says Shery. I have to admit that after all of my recent conversations with lighting and design specialists I still don’t know what kind of new lamp I want for my bedside table. But I do know I should remember to keep a flashlight handy. And by the way, I probably wasn’t thirteen the night I set the house on fire, I was probably more like seventeen. And the Snow family never asked me back to babysit. AH&D
30 | ARROYO | 07.13
07.13 | ARROYO | 31
32 | ARROYO | 07.13
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
BUSINESS PROFILE BUSINESS PROFILE
LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILES AKA An American Bistro and Bistro 45 Pasadena’s AKA An American Bistro
MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS AT LOCAL BUSINESSES WHOSE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES ARE TAILORED TO YOU!
Bistro 45 don’t follow trends, they set
tory and a name. Both restaurants
them. The new Bistro 45 menu fea-
provide the highest quality, most
tures modern-but-casual Califor-
unique dining experience in the San
nia/French cuisine; AKA focuses on
Gabriel Valley. From cutting-edge
Napa-inspired American dishes. Both
cuisine, prepared with organic, sus-
restaurants highlight exquisite pre-
tainably grown ingredients, to beau-
sentations of innovative dishes
tifully renovated, indoor/outdoor
made from naturally sourced meats,
environments and genuinely dedi-
poultry and seafood, and fresh,
cated staff – these establishments
house-made ingredients. Pastas,
offer guests an exclusive refuge from
mustard, bacon, cheeses, ice
the ordinary dining experience.
creams and sorbets are all lovingly
“Everything we do is totally unique
■ AKA AN AMERICAN BISTRO/BISTRO 45 - p 33
■ ETHAN ALLEN - p 35 ■ CANYON OAK CONSTRUCTION, INC. - p 36 ■ THE IVY INSTITUTE - p 36 ■ MDB DESIGN GROUP - p 37 ■ ADVANCE HOME PROTECTION, INC. - p 37 ■ MISSION LODGE - p 38
their offerings may be savored within
Robert Simon, proprietor. “Since we
the restaurants’ handsome interiors,
opened our first restaurant in 1983,
or from the most perfectly positioned
that’s been our hallmark: amazing
patios in Pasadena.
ambiance, killer food, and warm
The Bistros’ renowned Happy Hours, offered twice daily, promise something for everyone. The superb
AKA BISTRO 41 Hugus Alley, Pasadena (in the One Colorado Plaza) 626-564-8111 www.akabistro.com
BISTRO 45 45 S. Mentor Ave Pasadena 626-795-2478 www.bistro45.com
■ WAYNE JASON JEWELRY DESIGNS - p 38 ■ HEALTHY FOR LIFE - p 39
created in the Bistro kitchens. All of
and totally hands on,” explains
■ ADAPTIVE ONLINE MARKETING - p 34 ■ BIKRAM YOGA PASADENA - p 34
The chefs at AKA/A Bistro and
and Bistro 45 share more than his-
wine programs offer more than 50 selections by the glass, and the beer menu is highlighted by numerous local/California craft brews. Cocktails are hand-mixed with a delicious and eclectic assortment of fresh ingredients, and the extended food menus feature everything from the original Napa Valley Portobello Fries to Duck Confit Salad, Macaroni and Cheese with House Bacon, and Warm Chef’s Focaccia with Black Olive/Anchovy dipping sauce. Summertime is the perfect season
service from a team of people who
to savor the unmatched flavors and
■ TANGLES SALON - p 39
truly take an interest in the experi-
ambiance of AKA An American Bistro
■ ALPHA STRUCTURAL - p 43
ence of every single person who
and Bistro 45. They look forward to
walks in our door.”
serving you!
07.13 | ARROYO | 33
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
BUSINESS PROFILE PROFILE
ADAPTIVE ONLINE MARKETING
BUSINESS PROFILE PROFILE
BIKRAM YOGA PASADENA
Adaptive Online Marketing specializes in
and design a strategy to target that de-
Bikram Yoga Pasadena, the original “Hot
miraculous results of the discipline.
bringing clients new business by means of
mographic in a way that is direct, stream-
Yoga” studio in the San Gabriel Valley, re-
Clients investigate the studio because
an increased online presence, as well as
lined, and cost-effective,” says Adaptive
cently unveiled a state-of-the-art expan-
they’re curious, they want to lose weight
through more traditional media. Web out-
Online Marketing founder Ignacio Juarez.
sion and remodel of a facility that was
or reduce stress – and they stay be-
reach includes Search Engine Optimization,
“Our goal is to accomplish their goal.
already renowned for its community and
cause they realize an entire matrix of
online advertising, social media and explo-
Whether that means getting more cus-
teaching excellence. Val Sklar Robinson,
healing benefits.
ration of emerging technologies.Traditional
tomers, branding, getting more orders via
owner and veteran Bikram Yoga instructor,
methods include everything from print,
their website, or all of the above. We adapt
has created a luxurious, spa-like environ-
to them and their target completely.”
ment, equipped with cutting-edge heat-
Bikram Yoga Pasadena offers the intro month special ($49) to new, local students
He works with a highly-specialized
ing, ventilation and flooring, full-amenity
team of professionals, but maintains a no-
changing rooms with showers and lock-
frills philosophy about the company itself.
ers, and anti-microbial, ultra clean sur-
Keeping overhead low allows them to pro-
roundings. The studio has expanded its
vide the highest level of service at an un-
practice space by 40%, and literally flows
beatable price,“Our website is simple, all of
with air that maintains optimal oxygen
our efforts go toward our clients”. Ignacio
levels through a unique system of heat-
also attributes the company’s success to
ing and circulation; and a recycling-con-
BIKRAM YOGA PASADENA
IGNACIO JUAREZ
his relationship with clients, all of whom he
scious, filtered water system that provides
2089 E. Colorado Blvd.
AdaptiveMarketing.CO
works with personally.Their client base in-
pure and essential hydration to all of her
Pasadena
Ignacio@AdaptiveMarketing.CO
cludes individuals and organizations of
clients, visitors and staff.
626.304.9642
626 -757- 8272
every scope and size, offering a broad
Bikram Yoga is a unique and in-
www.bikrampasadena.com
range of products and services. Ignacio
tensely therapeutic, 90-minute, 26-pos-
works personally with every client to create
ture yoga series developed by Bikram
radio and television to grassroots efforts
a customized strategy. Some of their clients
Choudhury. Sessions are performed in
so they can see the amazing benefits stu-
which may include knocking on doors.
have grown businesses “to the point that
a 105-degree room of 40% humidity. The
dents can feel from regular practice. “In
the client sees an opportunity to sell the
staff of Bikram Yoga Pasadena includes
just a month,” says Val,“people’s lives are
dous results for clients in the Los Angeles
company at a higher price than they ever
some of the most experienced teach-
changed from the inside out.” Bikram
region and beyond due to two unique
thought possible,” says Ignacio.
ers in the area, many with five - to ten-
Yoga Pasadena is excited to celebrate
year backgrounds as instructors, some
their 15th year anniversary this fall.
The company has produced tremen-
factors: their hands-on dedication to the
The number one goal of the team at
individual needs of each client, and so-
Adaptive Online Marketing is to con-
of whom are national Yoga champions,
phisticated grasp of the ever-changing
tribute to their clients’ success. Contact
and all of whom have completed the
month special, class packages or a
possibilities of online communication.
them today to learn how they can
Bikram intensive 9-week teacher train-
tour, drop by the studio at 2089 S. Col-
adapt their strategies and expertise to
ing program. Like Val Sklar Robinson,
orado Blvd. in Pasadena, or visit the
your company’s goals.
every instructor has witnessed the
website: www.bikrampasadena.com.
“We examine the decision-making process of our clients’ potential customers, 34 | ARROYO | 07.13
For information about the Intro
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
BUSINESS PROFILE ETHAN ALLEN A timeless and timely name in home de-
that clients can use to create a look
sign, Ethan Allen has been known for
that's all their own.
American-made craftsmanship and designs with wide appeal since 1932. It may
It's where you'll find Ethan Allen's most re-
sound old-fashioned, but the Ethan Allen
cent collection, Impressions: bedroom, liv-
brand was built on quality craftsmanship.
ing room, media, and dining room
When it comes to care, attention to detail,
furniture that combines Shaker lines with a
a job well done, and client satisfaction,
mid-century modern twist. Made in Amer-
the company operates on the belief that
ica from Appalachian cherry and other
some things never go out of style.
select hardwoods, Impressions pieces can be ordered in a choice of five finishes and
Ethan Allen's commitment to American
with wood or nickel-finished metal hard-
manufacturing with a global perspective
ware. You'll also see Fresh Colors, a bright,
means that about 70% of its products are
new collection of furniture and bedding
still manufactured and/or assembled in
for the young and the young at heart, and
the company's own North American
Home & Garden designs for superb living
workshops; the rest comes from the best
and dining style indoors and out.
artisans around the world. Ethan Allen is staffed by design profesDiverse styles set the company apart
sionals, not salespeople, so clients can
from its competitors. So does experience
get complimentary personalized help
– the Brown family is in its third genera-
with any design dilemma – from choosing
tion as home furnishings retailers, and
colors or fabrics to mixing styles, acces-
they have represented Ethan Allen in the
sorizing, or reinventing a floor plan. Ethan
Pasadena area since 1974. As a total
Allen's designers know which little
home resource, their Design Center
changes will have the biggest impact in
brings greater Pasadena a terrific selec-
a room, how to freshen up your space for
tion of furniture, lighting, window treat-
summer (or any season), and how to
ments, rugs, mirrors, artwork, bedding,
make the most of your new look with cus-
decorative pillows, and finishing
tom choices. And, as always at Ethan
touches—as well as countless fabrics,
Allen, their help is free.
leathers, trims, finishes, and hardware • To get you started, here are a few of Ethan Allen's current “Top Trends To Make Your Own” • Mix old with new and formal with casual: a sisal rug in a formal room, or a causal frame with an elegant fabric. • Blend unexpected textures like linen and velvet.
styles on the market today are
rules are what you make them, and any-
amazing.
thing goes, as long as it's beautiful to you. Whatever you need, complimentary inte-
• For a room that's both dramatic and relaxing, paint the walls dark and keep upholstery neutral.
ETHAN ALLEN 445 N. Rosemead Boulevard Pasadena 626-351-9661 ethanallen.com
• Combine wood finishes for a “collected” look.
• Small details like nailhead trim can make bold statements.
rior design service at Ethan Allen can help as little or as much as you like.
• Symmetry doesn't have to mean ”matching.”
For great style, complimentary interior design service, ideas and inspiration,
• Change the whole look of a room
• And don't forget your floors—
and quality you can count on for every
by swapping heavy draperies for
they’re the fifth wall of your room!
taste and budget, a visit to Ethan Allen is
clean, light privacy treatments—the
Design today is an open book—the
a trip you can't afford to miss. 7.13 | ARROYO | 35
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—
BUSINESS PROFILE PROFILE
BUSINESS PROFILE PROFILE
CANYON OAK CONSTRUCTION, INC. Canyon Oak Construction, Inc. has
simple updates of existing spaces to
been remodeling homes in the San
complete renovation. Their commitment
Gabriel Valley since 1992, specializing
remains the same throughout every
in bath and kitchen remodels, addi-
project: to listen to the client, make in-
tions, aging-in-place design and con-
formed suggestions, then create and
struction, and Green-conscious
complete a design/construction plan
The Ivy Institute is a unique, Specialists-
Pennsylvania Dental School, who com-
renovations.
that embodies the client’s vision, lifestyle
Only dental practice with a focus in
pleted his General Practice Residency
and investment range.
treating dental pain for patients in the
at UCLA, Endodontic Residency at U
San Gabriel Valley. The Ivy Institute fea-
Penn, and now serves as Clinical Instruc-
“No project is too big or too small for our professional service,” says owner
In all of their projects The Canyon Oak
Dr. David Li
Dr. Jung Kim
THE IVY INSTITUTE
team is dedicated to Green Design and
tor and lecturer at UCLA. “Our goal is to
Construction, continually discovering
relieve oral pain and promote the high-
and implementing new ways to practice
est standards in modern dental care."
the 4 R’s of “Going Green”: reduce, re-
The specialists at the Ivy Institute in-
use, recycle and recover the resource.
clude Endodontists, Periodontists, and
They frequently reinstall old cabinets
oral surgeons. Together, the entire team
from remodeled kitchens into garages
is able to provide the scope of care un-
for their clients, for example. They do-
matched by a single specialty. Further-
nate or recycle materials, establish rela-
more, The Ivy team works in close
CANYON OAK CONSTRUCTION, INC.
tionships with environmentally
THE IVY INSTITUTE
association with the top general den-
25 Flower Street
conscientious manufacturers, and offer
301 W. Huntington Drive, Suite 520
tists in the San Gabriel Valley. "We really
Arcadia CA 91006
clients creative options for greening their
Arcadia, CA 91007
appreciate this professional relation-
626-445-3100
homes. “Greening” a space may include
626.445.8530
ship with our colleagues." stated Dr.
www.canyonoakconstruction.com
the use of natural lighting, optimal venti-
www.ivydentalspecialists.com
Jung Lim, another senior partner at
lation, low-toxicity finishes, energy and
Ivy,"Modern dentistry is more sophisti-
water efficient appliances, and the use and contractor Steve Clemens (Lic. # B663600). “Commitment to Excellence
of durable, sustainable materials. And of course, they invariably focus
cated and multi-disciplined. This aptures a state-of-the-art facility, and indus-
proach is conducive to the highest
try-leading experts who are not only
quality in patient care."
has always been our motto, and it al-
on creating aesthetically pleasing,
skilled clinicians, but well respected edu-
ways will be. We strive for perfection on
highly functional rooms that adhere to
cators at major dental schools. Their mis-
patients, a relentless pursue of excel-
each and every project.”
the highest design and construction
sion is to provide cutting-edge dental
lence, and a total team approach are
standards that lead to their customers’
treatment with an unequivocal atten-
the principals based on which The Ivy
ultimate and lasting satisfaction.
tion to personalized care.
Institute was built upon. A beautiful life
Steve and his team of craftsmen specialize in kitchen and bath redesign, but
We welcome you to our showroom at 25
An unwavering commitment to their
“We are a multi-specialty practice
starts with a pain-free life. Let the den-
complex, state-of-the art remodeling, re-
Flower Street in Arcadia. Or visit our website:
with a shared goal in mind,” explains Dr.
tal specialists at The Ivy Institute help
pair and construction projects – from
www.canyonoakconstruction.com.
David Li, a graduate of the University of
you get there.
their expertise includes a full range of
36 | ARROYO | 07.13
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After
Before
MDB DESIGN GROUP An exceptional Interior Designer and
through the use of space, color, light
her team can enhance your home
and texture,” explains owner Mary Broer-
and your life in countless ways, both
man, a State Certified Interior Designer
subtle and concrete. The design profes-
with a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial
sionals at MDB Design Group have
Design, who works personally and di-
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rectly with every client. “We believe that you can combine both form and function, and still complement personal expression through a high level of quality planning, design and execution.” The MDB Group facilitates everything
ADVANCE HOME PROTECTION, INC. The security professionals at Advance
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Home Protection pursue a simple mis-
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teractive Security and home automa-
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phasis on listening. In other words, they MARY BROERMAN, CCIDC
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MISSION LODGE Mission Lodge, who provides “Genera-
ices specific to the needs of residents
tions of Care”, is one of the oldest de-
with Alzheimer’s Disease and/or other
mentia care facilities in the country.
types of dementia. Through daily exer-
mission lodge
WAYNE JASON JEWELRY DESIGNS
cise programs, live entertainment, 24-
Wayne Jason Jewelry Designs is a full
him designs from the Internet, and
hour nursing services, a nutritional and
service jeweler specializing in high qual-
Wayne can make it for less money.
appetizing dining experience, outings
ity diamonds and custom made de-
“My business was not handed to me by
and family nights; we strive to improve
signs. By designing and manufacturing
my father, I built it myself by studying
every aspect of our residents’ well-being,
business and design in college and
while creating a safe, supportive and
using honesty and integrity as an
engaging home for them.
added ingredient. My customers know
In addition to offering residents the highest level of professional therapy,
that my word is ‘good as gold’ and that
Wayne Jason
their jewelry is safe in my hands.
MISSION LODGE
care and life-enriching interactions, we
824 S Gladys Ave,
also provide a spectacular setting in
San Gabriel
which to enjoy their days. A recent ren-
(626) 537-4139
ovation to our Memory Care neighbor-
RCFE#197608249
hood has transformed the community
WAYNE JASON JEWELRY DESIGNS
into a more comfortable, homelike envi-
105 W California Blvd
tomers come back and give you repeat
Jewelry Designs
When we promise something by a certain date, it is finished. We can design and manufacture most pieces in one to two weeks.” Wayne believes that happy cus-
ronment, graciously situated on
Pasadena, CA 91105
business as well as sending in their
Since its founding in 1903, Mission
grounds that feature manicured lawns,
(626) 795-9215
friends and relatives. He’s been in busi-
Lodge has earned and maintained an
lush landscaping and numerous pa-
wjasondesigns.com
ness long enough that he is now selling
exceptional reputation in the San
tios. According to Senior Executive Di-
Gabriel Valley for its quality care and
rector Marc Lung, “It’s the same quality
compassionate staff. With an average
care for which Mission Lodge has al-
his own jewelry, Wayne eliminates that
with new designs in all price ranges to
tenure of more than 8 years, many of
ways been known, with a fresh new
costly middle man, so can give his cus-
satisfy the variety of needs of his cus-
our staff have served our residents for
look and feel”.
tomer one of a kind pieces for less
tomers. Maybe these are the reasons
Memory Care and Skilled Nursing serv38 | ARROYO | 07.13
inal clients. He is always experimenting
money than jewelry found in other
he was voted "Best Jewelry in
COME VISIT US AND BE A PART OF OUR
stores. You can bring him a picture,
Pasadena" 2010, '11 and '12, as well as
NEW JOURNEY!
have Wayne draw you pictures, or show
Best Businessman.
multiple decades. Mission Lodge offers a continuum of
wedding rings to the children of his orig-
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TANGLES SALON
INNOVATIONS IN WEIGHT LOSS Garry K. Kim, M.D. Healthy for Life - Medical Weight Management www.BetterHealthThruNutrition.com
Tangles Salon has been helping San
Services that Tangles provide in-
Gabriel Valley residents look and feel
clude expert cutting, creative coloring,
beautiful for nearly twenty years. Our
keratin smoothing services, perms, multi-
highly educated and exceptionally cre-
ple hair extension alternatives, special
ative staff represent decades of com-
event hair styling, and eyelash exten-
bined professional experience and an
sions.We also offer exclusive, certified
unprecedented devotion to life-long
procedures like Deva Curly Girl haircut,
training and development.
and the Micro-Point Solution non-surgi-
The medical field of weight manage-
and weight. Unfortunately, because of
ment has changed dramatically over
the way the healthcare system was (and
the past fifteen years. Our understand-
still is) structured, many physicians just
that was knowledgeable, while cultivat-
ing of metabolism, energy storage and
found it easier to write prescriptions to ad-
ing their natural talents and helping
“My dream was to create a team
& NUTRITION CENTER 950 S. Arroyo Parkway, 3rd Floor Pasadena, CA 91105 phone: 626-395-0150 fax: 626-795-0475
Tangles stylists are updated with the latest forecast trends through regular training sessions and workshops in the
dress the problem.
HEALTHY FOR LIFE WEIGHT LOSS
cal alternative to thinning hair.
This was worsened by the fact that
Salon and around the country, and we
many of the nutritional guidelines put out
make it our mission to share our knowl-
by governmental bodies and physician
edge with clients.
related medical organizations were not
“We educate our clients from the
based on hard science. They were rec-
beginning of their appointments to the
ommendations that were derived from
very end,” says Cathy. “Making sure they
observations. Unfortunately, these were
know what we’ve used in their hair and
faulty observations, as this epidemic of obesity has shown. At Healthy for Life we put all the latest developments and innovations to use to help our clients lose weight. As one of only 350 Certified Physician Nutrition Spe-
TANGLES SALON 145 Green St. Pasadena, CA 91105 626.792.2948 www.tanglespasadena.com
how to create the same look, all the way to maintaining the care of their hair at home.” Valley residents clearly cherish the look and lessons they receive from the Salon. They’ve named Tangles Pasadena Weekly’s Best or Recom-
cialists in the United States, I understand appetite control is vastly different than
how nutrients affect the body. Not only
them to understand the full responsibil-
mended Beauty Salon for three years in
just five years ago. As such, the way we
can foods affect our body's use of en-
ity of being stylists,” says owner Cathy
a row, and they keep coming back. It’s a
help people lose weight has changed
ergy, it can affect mood, and appetite. At
Sripramong, who was an educator with
passion they share with the Tangles staff.
significantly.
Healthy for Life, we use everything within
L’Oreal for seven years before acquiring
“I’ve been a stylist for 29 years and I
our means, including combinations of
the salon. “Our clients fall in love with
love this industry,” says Cathy.“I’m still ex-
career in medicine, I decided to focus on
appetite suppressants to help our clients
our sense of team pride that radiates
cited to come into work every day, and
and specialize in nutrition and weight
lose weight. It is my role as a physician to
throughout the salon. We’ve created an
it’s because the positive energy we cre-
management. So many of the common
bring my patients to optimal health. But
environment that’s comfortable and ex-
ate in the Salon is contagious!”
conditions I was treating like high blood
as a formerly overweight person (40lbs
citing for our clients, and where we
pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol
ago) I also hope to bring them confi-
work together to provide the very best
were rooted in problems with nutrition
dence, energy and improved self-esteem.
outcome for everyone.”
Fifteen years ago, when I began my
For more information visit the Tangles website at: www.tanglespasadena.com
07.13 | ARROYO | 39
MANAGING YOUR ONLINE REPUTATION A small-business guide to maintaining positive word of mouth in the age of Yelp BY BETTIJANE LEVINE
IF YOU’RE A SMALL-BUSINESS OWNER IN THIS INCREDIBLY DIVERSE VALLEY, YOU MIGHT BE WORKING IN RELATIVE ISOLATION, DESIGNING OR MAKING ITEMS FOR SOMEONE ELSE TO SELL. IN THAT CASE, STOP READING NOW. WE’RE TALKING HERE TO OWNERS OF THE APPROXIMATELY 70,000 SMALL ARROYOLAND BUSINESSES THAT OFFER A PRODUCT OR SERVICE DIRECTLY TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC, AND WHO DEPEND ON THE PUBLIC TO SURVIVE AND THRIVE. 40 | ARROYO | 07.13
If you’re one of them, you already know that customers who like what you offer will return repeatedly. But if they have a bad experience, they won’t just stay away — they are likely to tweet, blog and Yelp about you, so that thousands of other potential customers won’t even give you a chance. Never before have small-business owners been so vulnerable to reputation damage. People who may not be honest, or even sane, can sign onto their computers to rate a firm’s performance and bellow its alleged flaws to thousands of others by digital word of mouth. In a matter of months, a company’s customer base and profits can dive if enough electronic badmouths decide to shout online, making accusations about poor service, products or practices. Even a business that gets just a few reviews — all good — can go downhill if its closest competitors have a stronger online presence, offer better digital deals or receive dozens more raves on social media and review sites. “Since the advent of Yelp, Foursquare and other review-driven sites, our members voice increasing concerns that their competitors and others are using those sites to slam businesses without provocation,” says Paul Little, president and CEO of the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce.
So what’s a small-business owner to do? Little says the Pasadena Chamber has just started an online course for its members, explaining how to respond to bad reviews and maximize their business’ online activity. But taking a course on all this isn’t really necessary, most experts say. And combating bad reviews is not the total fix. If a business offers a great product or service at appropriate prices and is still failing to grow, there are easily acquired online strategies that can help turn the tide — and most cost zero or next to nothing. The Internet can be a business owner’s best ally, a force for good and for growth.
blog about those same answers or ideas. If you have a tech-savvy employee or family member who can maintain your online presence according to your instructions, you might offer a bonus for them to do so. It’s all about creating good word of mouth through your existing customers by staying close to and empowering them. If you’ve made a special price offer in tweets, email or your website, they’re likely to tell others. You don’t have to do all these things at one time. Step in slowly and eventually you’ll build your online presence organically, which can lead to better bottom-line results.
First, the basics: Every business owner must monitor sites that review his or her company. You need to know on a daily basis exactly who’s talking about you and what they’re saying, experts advise. Just go to google.com and click on “alert.” Enter your business name and (if desired) your own name. Anytime your business is mentioned you’ll get an online alert. It’s free. We’ll discuss how to deal with bad reviews later.
Online advertising: Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it, experts say. “It doesn’t cost a lot for an ad on Facebook; in fact, it’s really cheap and you can localize it,” Lesonsky says. But if you have a very small budget, spend it on Google, she adds, because you’ll come up higher in the rankings. “Be sure to provide new information on your website three times a week, so you organically rise in the rankings as well. You can’t buy your way there cheaply or quickly — it’s a building process.”
Your website: Most small businesses have websites with information about the firm and its offerings. But that’s not enough, experts say. A website is like a garden. It must be nourished and maintained on an almost daily basis. It should be vibrant, attractive, interactive. “Your website is where people search for information about you, where they get their first impression,” says small business guru Rieve Lesonsky, formerly the editor-in-chief of Entrepreneur magazine. She and other experts agree that a website should have pizzazz — tell who you are, how you got started, why you love what you do and how your product or service is special. It should have great visuals of the owners, perhaps the storefront and products, if appropriate. It can offer “specials,” deals designed to lead potential customers to try you out. A website should feature or link to the owner’s blog and tweets (more about that below). Be creative. Even a business with nothing but service to sell — a dry cleaner or an auto repair shop, for example — can sing out tantalizing tidbits and/or photos about unusual work recently done, seasonal handy hints and comments from satisfied customers. A website should not be ho-hum. Once you have a site you’re proud of, make sure it’s mobile-ready. The numbers of people searching on cellphones and tablets is growing exponentially, experts say. “Most smallbusiness owners have no idea how important mobile devices have become in consumer searches,” Lesonsky explains, “and it’s only going to increase in future. If your website doesn’t show up well on mobile devices, you’re putting your business at a big disadvantage. And an update doesn’t have to cost much. Just use a site like gomobi.com,” she says. Social media: Every small-business owner should have a social media presence, experts advise. Use it to incentivize current customers with special offers, while earning new ones. Do you tweet? Twitter shows up in studies as the best way to build a business, whereas Facebook is more helpful for maintaining customers you already have. So start a Twitter account, says Lesonsky, and tell customers to follow you on Twitter because you tweet out random promotions and special deals for your followers. If you’re a florist, you might offer a percentage off or a few extra blooms to those who mention your Twitter account. If you own a restaurant and you’re having a slow night, you might tweet a special price for that night, for Twitter followers only. “All this has been proven to work,” Lesonsky says. It’s also helpful to blog about your business activities, business-related hobbies and new products and services, as they arrive. Your blog can entertain, inform and show photos. You say you’re not a writer? Not to worry. Just think of all the questions customers ask on a daily basis and how you answer them. Think of all the free hints you offer. Take note of discussions you have, or anecdotes that kept you and your employees in stitches. Then
And now about those bad reviews. Disparaging comments on popular sites like Yelp and Foursquare need to be dealt with immediately, Lesonsky and Little say. “You have to be proactive. Cut it off before it gets out of hand,” Lesonsky adds. She and Little tell business owners to monitor comments two or three times daily, and their quick response should always be polite, no matter how ugly the criticism. “Never respond in a way that’s combative, defensive or rude. Never attack a customer or dispute a bad review even if you think it is wrong and unfair. Remember, you are answering your critic in public,” Lesonsky says. “Your goal is to let the public know you’ve reacted politely and right away.” Both advise business owners to answer bad reviews with something like “I’m sorry you had a bad experience. I’d really like to see what we can do to make it better and more positive.” Once you show you’re responding, you can take any further correspondence offline, out of public view, and try to resolve it as best you can. Little says he advises businesses to “do the same thing with online critics they’d do with customers face to face. Try to figure out what you can do for that person to make his or her opinion and memory of you more positive. We’ve all had experiences where the dry cleaner breaks or loses buttons, or a restaurant meal arrives undercooked. The business owner tailors his response to the situation. Offer to replace the buttons or offer a free meal, drink or dessert. Make them feel they’ve been well taken care of. The last thing any business owner wants is a customer who spreads bad word.” And here’s the good news about reviews: All experts agree there’s no way to truly game the system with fake good or bad reviews. Consumers have become too sophisticated. They can often intuit when reviews are insincere or malicious or both. They can also gauge which businesses seem more popular because they offer great products or service. If an owner runs his business right, builds his online presence and offers customers what they want, the good reviews will follow, experts say. Boomers are less likely to go online immediately with a review, recent studies show, but millenials live by the Internet. It’s almost second nature for them to tweet, blog or Facebook about any very good or bad experience they’ve had. Perhaps most important, business owners should understand and accept reviews for what they really are: free market research. Just a few years ago, a firm would have had to pay thousands to get instant feedback from their customers. Nowadays it doesn’t cost a cent. Indeed, Lesonsky says, bad reviews are often helpful: “If you get a whole slew of reviews that say your French fries are bad, or a particular server is rude, or your repair shop has ripped them off, then maybe it’s a legitimate issue you ought to take care of.” |||| 07.13 | ARROYO | 41
STAYING ON THE LITERARY RADAR John Vorhaus’ latest novel, The Texas Twist, brings back his charming conman protagonist, Radar Hoverlander. BY SCARLET CHENG • PHOTO BY CURT D. RIESBERG
WRITER JOHN VORHAUS HAD JUST RETURNED FROM A BUSINESS TRIP TO NORWAY THE DAY BEFORE, AND HE WAS ALREADY SQUEEZING IN ONE APPOINTMENT AFTER THE OTHER. HE’D BEEN INVITED TO NORWAY TO LECTURE ON WRITING AND PERFORMING COMEDY AT A NATIONAL CONFERENCE FOR STAND-UP COMICS. (YES, THEY HAVE THEM IN NORWAY.) HE’S AN OLD HAND AT GIVING WORKSHOPS AND HAS WRITTEN SEVERAL BOOKS ON WRITING COMEDY FOR TELEVISION AND FILM, INCLUDING THE
COMIC TOOLBOX: HOW TO BE FUNNY EVEN IF YOU’RE NOT, 42 | ARROYO | 07.13
in print for nearly two decades. While stand-up is not his forte, he admits he was happy to have a paid trip to Norway. “When they said, ‘Do you have something to say to stage people?’ I said, ‘I have plenty to say!’” Indeed, over coffee at a Starbucks in Pasadena, it’s clear Vorhaus has plenty to say in general and seems to be in a hurry to say it all. A compact, bald man with wraparound sunglasses, he has brought his “bodyguard” with him, his adorable shih tzu, Temp — so named because when he and his wife took him in, they thought it would be only temporary. (Eight years later, Temp still lives in their Monrovia home.) He has a multi-faceted career, which includes writing both fiction and nonfiction, as well as teaching. His latest novel is The Texas Twist, the third in his Radar Hoverlander series --Radar being the clever and charming con man he conjured up first in The California Roll ( 2010) and revived in The Albuquerque Turkey (2011). While the first two books were published by Crown Publishing, a division of Random House, he is now working with a Pasadena publisher, Prospect Park Books. Wrote Carole Barrowman in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel about the first book, “I loved this comic caper with its twisty pretzel plot, clever invented language and an attitude that’s Carl Hiaasen channeling Dane Cook.” Vorhaus loves playing with words. The name of his protagonist, Radar Hoverlander, was inspired by technology for landing probes on other planets. “There was a time they used a technology called the ‘radar-guided hoverlanding device,’” says Vorhaus. “It would
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BUSINESS PROFILE PROFILE deposit its cargo, then fly away and crash. With my random creativity, I said that sounds like a good name for a character. Probably a con artist, especially if you make it part of his mystique. In The California Roll, an ongoing question is: Is Radar Hoverlander his actual, real name?” In The Texas Twist’s opening chapter, Radar takes on an alias, Olivier de Havilland — a play on the name of movie actress Olivia de Havilland. The two other members of Radar’s grift gang, Allie Quinn and Vic Mirplo, also have memorable monikers. Allie is also Radar’s pregnant girlfriend, which introduces new complications to the plot — including, naturally, naming rights for the newborn. After the successful conclusion of the opening caper, the crew is taking a little break in a condo complex in Austin, Texas. They’ve befriended neighbor Sarah Crandall, whose son has a rare and fatal disease. Out of the blue, a stranger named Adam Ames offers a possible cure, saying his own son died of the disease and his only desire now is to help others. The one hitch? The Swiss clinic where this cure is being developed might need a bit of funding. Radar smells a con: When something’s too good to be true, it usually is. As a grifter himself, his suspicions are naturally aroused. Texas Twist is the name of a real-life scam, a variation on the classic Three-Card Monte con, in which a mark bets on a card game — and wins, except the winnings get switched on him because everyone else in the game is in on the con. Vorhaus redefines the term for his own purposes, and the reader is kept wondering who’s conning whom and who’s aware of what. The author enjoys interweaving fact and fiction, what’s real and what’s made up, and that includes words. For example, the word “bafflegab” is used throughout the book, and it’s a real one, meaning “double-talk” or “gobbledygook.” However, another Vorhaus favorite, “fabricat,” is a made-up word, but you can guess at its meaning, especially in context. It means a fabrication and, in Radar’s world, often an elaborate one. Vorhaus is also a screenwriter, having penned TV scripts for Married… with Children, Head of the Class and The Sentinel. His nonfiction includes the aforementioned how-to’s on writing, and he has also written volumes about gambling. Yes, gambling. He has produced nine books on poker, including Decide to Play Great Poker: A Strategy Guide to No-limit Texas Hold Em (Huntington Press; 2011), co-written with noted professional poker champ Annie Duke. Like many of his books, it is full of pithy observations, delivered with a comic twist. “Every time we can force our opponents into a bad decision, we win,” the book says. “Notice that nowhere in this discussion have I said that making money is the goal. Why isn’t it? Simple. Making money is not the goal. Money, in this game, is just the fallout from good goal-setting and decision-making… Money is merely our scorekeeper.” Vorhaus is already working on the sequel to The Texas Twist, which will find Radar in a radically different situation from the first three books, as previewed in the novel’s epilogue. He says the writing is going smoothly. “I work very hard, and I’ve reached a point in my writing career where I don’t have to worry four out of five minutes if one out of five minutes is any good,” Vorhaus says. He sets a goal of writing 1,000 words a day. “When I’m in stride, I can knock that off in two, three, four hours. I have a certain sense of urgency — I’ve got a lot of books to write before I die,” says the 57-year-old author. “It’s not that I have an incurable disease; I’m just interested in writing as much as I can while I can.” ||||
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KITCHEN CONFESSIONS
Princess Cake
Every Girl’s a Princess Sugar and spice — and marzipan too — that’s what princesses are made of. BY LESLIE BILDERBACK
When I was in culinary school, all of my chef instructors were European. We all assumed that was because they simply knew more than American chefs. Certainly their training had been different from what we were getting.They were all apprenticed at an early age and had worked their way up through the ranks. (Although the fact that they were all now teaching in America seems to suggest that the apprentice system wasn’t all it’s cracked up to be.) It was San Francisco in the mid-1980s. California cuisine was hugely popular and slowly evolving into a fusiony thing. For whatever reason, the European chefs flocked here. Most of my instructors were from France, with a handful of Scandinavians, a couple of Italians and a German thrown in for good measure. They were all men, and most were either dating
Prinsesstårta, as it is known in Sweden, was named for the Swedish princesses Märtha,
or recently married to former students. We called them by their first names, with the prefix
Margaretha and Astrid, and was created in their honor at the turn of the 20th century by a
“Chef”— Chef Robert, Chef Leo, Chef Didier (there were three Didiers, which made gossip-
Swedish cookbook author. But despite its provenance, I was not a fan. It was the marzipan I
ing about which chef was dating which student complicated).
objected to, partly because it was green (a weird artificial green that I thought was tacky),
I was lucky enough to win an apprenticeship during my senior term with Bo Friberg (Chef Bo to his students). If you have ever perused the pastry shelf at the bookstore you
and partly because Chef Bo was a little obsessed with it. Marzipan was a critical element in nearly every cake, torte and confection he made
have probably seen his magnum opus, The Professional Pastry Chef. The first edition was
us master. Sometimes it was the main feature, sometimes it was only a very thin layer, but it
our textbook. It was an inch thick and had 272 pages and a few black-and-white photos.
was in almost everything, and I grew to despise it. Chef Bo was a master at modeling the
Now in its glossy, full-color fifth edition, it clocks in at five inches and a whopping 1,072
stuff, which he did fairly often, forming cute little figures of animals, people, elves, gnomes,
pages. Chef Bo is a master pastry chef and a master confectioner. Before teaching, he
angels and the occasional fruit. To give you an idea of his level of commitment, the license
was pastry chef on the Swedish American Cruise Lines, a path I later tried to follow, but
plate on his car read “MARZIPN.”
alas, couldn’t make the cut. It’s just as well, though, because over the years I have heard
But it was the princess cake I really hated. Nobody in Cali-fusion–crazy San Francisco
many unsavory stories about cruise ship jobs — they make Kitchen Confidential sound like
was making them. (Probably no one in the United States was either, except maybe in Min-
Goodnight Moon.
nesota.) Unfortunately, it is for that reason that they were a bestseller at the school bakery,
I’ve been thinking about Chef Bo lately because I have recently resurrected one of the
which meant we made them daily. Rolling marzipan was a tough skill to master, which is
cakes we were forced to learn at school: the princess cake. I say “forced,” because, at the
probably why he made us do it so much. I can appreciate it now, but at the time, I thought
time, I had little appreciation for it. (That’s an understatement. I hated that freakin’ cake.)
it sadistic.
I am not talking about the skirt-cake with a Barbie doll shoved in the middle. (That
Marzipan was a new ingredient to me then. The sweetened nut paste was originally a
cake though, is worth discussing. However, it would take at least another 900 words.) The
Persian food and is still deeply rooted in countries that are or were once part of the Islamic
princess cake I refer to is of Swedish origin (as was Chef Bo) and consists of white sponge
world. While marzipan in Europe is typically almond-flavored, similar products found here
cake, whipped cream and berry jam, all covered in a smooth dome of green marzipan.
and there are made from pistachio, cashew, peanut and even peach kernels. (Stone fruits
44 | ARROYO | 07.13
are in the same botanical family as almonds, and their kernels have long been used for their nutty essence — Amaretto di Sorrano is flavored with apricot kernels, and grenadine is made with cherry kernels.) Fast-forward 25 years, and there is still no one making princess cakes. And it’s a shame, because there is so much about the princess cake I appreciate now. The cake and filling are fresh and light, unlike the typical cakes you find these days — red velvet, carrot, chocolate with sea salt and maple-infused bacon. (I made that last one up — except I didn’t really.) And I have, over the years, made my peace with marzipan. In fact, I have become enamored with it. I attribute this to my travels, which have exposed me to a number of amazing variations, including painted marzipan fruit in Sicily, chocolate-covered marzipan eggs in Norway, marzipan pigs in Germany and Mozartkugeln in Austria. As it turns out, marzipan has a huge following all over the world, with the exception of the United States, which makes me think Chef Bo was probably a little homesick. Or maybe he was like a sweet pastry pusher, on the payola from the marzipan syndicate, trying to get us hooked. Well, Chef, it took 25 years, but it worked. |||| Leslie Bilderback, a certified master baker, chef and cookbook author, can be found in the kitchen of Heirloom Bakery in South Pasadena. She teaches her techniques online at culinarymasterclass.com.
Princess Cake Although this cake is traditionally green, I prefer a lightly muted pink. I also prefer a moist chiffon cake to the traditional sponge, and I sometimes add a layer of pastry cream. Any variation is acceptable, as long as you don’t skimp on the marzipan! INGREDIENTS An 8-inch white or yellow cake, baked and cooled ½ cup berry jam 2 to 3 cups sweetened whipped cream 1 pound marzipan (available in most supermarkets in 7- or 8-ounce packages)
Food coloring Cornstarch Powdered sugar
METHOD 1. Slice the cake into 2 layers. Spread the jam on the bottom layer, then top with ½ inch of whipped cream. Place the top layer on the cake, then cover it completely with the remaining whipped cream in a dome shape. Refrigerate. 2. Color your marzipan by first adding the chosen hue to a small, walnut-size hunk of the paste. When that shade is to your liking, knead the colored hunk into the rest of the paste. (If you want to keep the food color off your hands, wear rubber gloves or two plastic bags.) 3. Dust your work surface lightly with cornstarch. Form the colored marzipan into a flat disc, then roll it out carefully with a rolling pin, being careful to turn the disc after each roll. (This helps ensure it will be round and will prevent it from sticking to the counter.) Add more cornstarch as needed. 4. Roll the marzipan up onto the rolling pin, then roll it over the whipped cream–covered cake. Smooth the sides, easing out wrinkles, and trim away any excess. Dust lightly with powdered sugar. 07.13 | ARROYO | 45
WINING & DINING
Bluezz in the Night redwhite+bluezz
The shuttered jazz club–cum–fine dining establishment redwhite+bluezz returns under new ownership, this time next door to the Pasadena Playhouse.
37 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena (626) 792-4441 redwhitebluezz.com Entrées: $16 – $35 Dinner: Tuesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. on Jazz brunch: Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jazz: 6:30 p.m.
BY IRENE LACHER
The restaurant space next door to the Pasadena Playhouse has
Charcuterie and cheese plate
posed a mystery for some time now. How can one of the city’s loveliest historical venues be the scene of one restaurant failure after another? The most recent tenant, Elements Kitchen, survived the theater’s temporary closure in 2010, which eliminated quite a bit of foot traffic, but even a rave review from the Los Angeles Times during that period join their meat-eating friends here.The menu also offered an interesting take on the stan-
But the current occupant, redwhite+bluezz, which opened in March, has an ace in the
dard risotto, using farro — an ancient grain experiencing a culinary comeback — instead
hole: its well-established identity as a destination jazz club and wine bar that incorporates fine
of rice. Fonzy coupled it with peas, wild mushrooms and a rich blend of mascarpone and
dining.The restaurant dwelled on Raymond Avenue for seven years , under the baton of then-
Tomme de Savoie cheeses. Also notable was the tender pan-seared salmon from Scot-
owner André Vener, a jazz aficionado and producer. But his other job, as president and CEO
land’s Loch Duart farm. Inspired by the recent influx of sweet cherries, Fonzy created a bed
of the California Philharmonic under his maestro-father Victor Vener, has claimed more of his
of wild rice and cherries for the moist and flaky fish, which he bathed in a slightly sweet
time, so he sold the restaurant to a group headed by real estate investor Art Silveri and Dave
apricot-ginger glaze. For dessert, we navigated past the tempting dishes of Fosselman’s ice
Morgan, who brings the party vibe to the new venue, according to new manager Phil Thyen
cream or sorbet and ordered the Chunky Monkey, a medallion of banana bread served
(although Internet buzz has Vener concentrating on his modernist Dog Haus eatery).
with intriguing splashes of saffron-honey gastrique and banana liqueur Chantilly (a.k.a.
Regardless, rw+b fans will be pleased to see quite a bit of continuity at the new location. Many of Vener’s top jazz acts have followed the restaurant to El Molino Avenue, and the
whipped) cream. We had opted for a midweek evening, so when the Robert Kyle Duo took the small
new executive chef, Alfonso “Fonzy” Galan, a graduate of Pasadena’s Cordon Bleu school
stage behind the bar, the musicians walked the tightrope of serving up a tasty live perfor-
whose CV includes the admired kitchens of Church + State and Madeleine Bistro, was a
mance that didn’t drown out conversation. But when the weekend comes, redwhite+bluezz
sous chef on Raymond. But that doesn’t mean the ambitious and affable Galan hasn’t
pulls out the stops, so you can savor a variety of pleasures — fine food, drink and revelry —
used the opportunity to spread his wings. Indeed, he promises an almost entirely new
without having to hunt for another parking space.
California menu of locally sourced dishes each season. (But fear not, lovers of braised short ribs — they aren’t going anywhere.) And aficionados of the restaurant’s extensive, award-
●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
Curious about local restaurants, but reluctant to take the plunge? Lucky you: DineLA Res-
winning wine list will also be tempted by its carefully curated selection of 21 cheeses
taurant Week returns from July 15 to 26, and with it prix-fixe menus (lunch goes for $15, $20 or
(made from cow’s, sheep’s or goat’s milk) and four charcuterie dishes, such as La Quer-
$25 and dinner, $25, $35 or $45) that give you considerable bang for your buck. It’s a great
cia’s buttery prosciutto and Fonzy’s house-made truffled duck galantine.Tasting flights of
opportunity to check out some of these popular Arroyoland eateries and see what all the
cheeses and/or meats can be coupled with wine flights.
fuss is about: Arroyo Chop House, Celestino Ristorante and Bar, Granville, Green Street Tavern,
During a recent visit, we started with an excellent charcuterie and cheese plate, which included a creamy Humboldt Fog, and then moved on to the Beauty and the Beets salad,
Gyu-Kaku, Katsuya, La Grande Orange, Maison Akira, Parkway Grill, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Smitty’s Grill,The Raymond Restaurant,Vertical Wine Bistro,Vol. 94 and more. ||||
a colorful mélange of golden and candy-striped beets, smoked almonds, watercress and a horseradish crème fraîche that added a welcome kick of tanginess. While the entrées
For the most up-to-date information, visit discoverlosangeles.com/dinela-los-angeles-
largely favored carnivores, with several pork, beef and lamb dishes, vegetarians can easily
restaurant-week.
46 | ARROYO | 07.13
PHOTOS: Top, Chanel Hason; bottom,Alfonso Galan
couldn’t rescue the restaurant from the fate of its predecessors.
A SELECTIVE PREVIEW OF UPCOMING EVENTS COMPILED BY JOHN SOLLENBERGER
Birthday With a Bang at the Bowl
THE LIST
Patrick Vest and Mark Rimer in Shakespeare’s “King John”
bring their own picnic or purchase meals there. Beverages are available for purchase
July 4 — Southern
at full bars located onsite.The concert
Californians can
starts at 7:30 p.m. Guest performers are
celebrate a red-
soprano Lori Stinson, tenor Christopher
white-and-blue Fourth of July as the 87th
Campbell and bass-baritone Cedric Berry.
annual Americafest, presented by Honda,
The Cal Phil Chorale also performs under
sweeps into the Rose Bowl. Parking outside
the direction of Marya Basaraba.Tickets
the stadium is available starting at 9 a.m.
cost $20 to $88.
at Parking Area H, where festivities begin
Santa Anita Park is located at 285 W. Hun-
at 2 p.m., with food, crafts and inflatable
tington Dr., Arcadia. Call (626) 300-8200 or
rides for kids. Parking at nearby Brookside
visit calphil.org.
Golf Course opens at 3:30 p.m. At 6 p.m. able for purchase inside the stadium
Descanso Lights up the Night
(no outside food or drinks are allowed).
July 13 — Descanso
The show begins at 7 p.m., with music by
Gardens’“Light Up the
the gates open, and food will be avail-
Kenny G. and the Mariachi Divas and TNT
Night” benefit spot-
motorcycle stunts. Finishing off the festivities
lights fun and food, with Patina restaurants
with a bang, Southern California’s biggest
Ray’s & Stark Bar, Nick + Stef’s Steakhouse
fireworks show starts at 9 p.m.Tickets cost
and Kendall’s Brasserie providing food, craft
$13, free for children 7 and younger.
beers and California wine. Live music is
The Rose Bowl Stadium is located at 1001
also on tap, with Dustbowl Revival playing
Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena. Call (800) 745-
bluegrass, gospel, jug-band, swamp blues
3000 or visit ticketmaster.com or
and vintage swing sounds, and guitarist
rosebowlstadium.com.
winning authors Karen Mack and Jennifer
SHAKESPEARE BY THE SEA… IN ALTADENA
and composer Roger Espinoza performing
Kaufman discuss and sign their contro-
July 5 — Shakespeare by the Sea presents an 8 p.m. performance of King John,
information.Visit lightup2013.eventbrite.
versial historical novel, Freud’s Mistress, at
the Bard’s drama about a fight for power in medieval Europe, at Farnsworth Park
com for tickets.
7:30 p.m. Inspired by the recent discovery
in Altadena.This is the theater company’s 16th season bringing free Shakespeare
of evidence of Freud’s extramarital life, the
performances to various venues in Southern California.
book, set in 1895 Vienna, explores his sexual
Farnsworth Park is located at 568 E. Mount Curve Ave., Altadena. Call (310) 217-7596
liaison with his sister-in-law, Minna Bernays,
or visit shakespearebythesea.org.
Freud’s Mistress, Women’s Wit Celebrated at Vroman’s July 10 — Award-
global, urban tunes influenced by Latin guitar and gypsy music. DJ Matthew Rubino will also spin discs from an eclectic playlist. Tickets to the 6 p.m. event cost $125. Descanso Gardens is located at 1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge. Call (818) 949-4200 or visit descansogardens.org for
Southwest Chamber Music Summer Festival at the Huntington
PHOTO: Kristopher Bicknell (“King John”)
who went on to live with him and his wife, Martha, Minna’s sister, for decades.
ter launches its popular Sizzling Summer
July 18 — Colombian Latin Soul
July 28 — Sam Dawson reads from her
Nights concert series, running Thursdays
July 25 — Orquesta Son Mayor
new book, Broad Appeal: Wit and Wisdom
through Aug. 15.The all-ages dance parties
The Autry National Center is located at
Chamber Music’s annual Summer Festival
from Women Ages Sixty to Ninety, at 4 p.m.
feature live music by local Latin bands from
4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park.
at the Huntington begins with 7:30 p.m.
Appalled by changes in her own body on
6 to 9 p.m., and include dance lessons, a
Call (323) 667-2000 or visit theautry.org.
concerts on Saturdays and Sundays
turning 60, Dawson interviewed 70 other
children’s dance floor and access to the
older women about their take on aging
museum’s galleries. Food and drinks are
Cal Phil Matches Puccini with Webber
the Huntington Loggia. Lawn ticket holders
and learned that many regarded maturity
available for purchase.Tickets, available at
July 13 — The California Philharmonic’s
may bring picnics, and pre-concert dinners
as an exciting journey.
the door or online, cost $10 for adults, $6
Festival on the Green summer concert
are available at the Huntington Tea Room
Vroman’s Bookstore is located at 695 E.
for students and seniors 60 and older and
series continues at Arcadia’s Santa Anita
by reservation for an additional $60.The
Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Call (626) 449-
$4 for children 3 to 12; admission is free for
Park, where Maestro Victor Vener and the
opening weekend’s performances feature
5320 or visit vromansbookstore.com.
Autry members, veterans and children 2
orchestra will perform an eclectic program
works by Stravinsky, Mozart and Oliver Knus-
and younger. Here’s this month’s lineup:
of popular music, ranging from Puccini to
sen.Tickets cost $65 for loggia seating, $28
July 11 — Chino Espinoza y
Andrew Lloyd Webber. Gates open at 5:30
for lawn seating.
Summer Sizzles at the Autry July 11--Aug. 15 --- The Autry National Cen-
Los Dueños del Son
July 13 -- Aug. 25 — Grammy Award--winning Southwest
alternate weekends through Aug. 25 on
p.m. for live jazz and dining --- guests may
–continued on page 48 07.13 | ARROYO | 47
THE LIST
–continued from page 47
July 27 and 28 — The weekend’s concerts
S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena. Call (626) 356-
feature works by Mozart, Gabriela Ortiz and
7529 or visit pasadenaplayhouse.org.
Arnold Schoenberg. and Botanical Gardens is located at 1151
Tea and Brunch to Stop Domestic Violence
Oxford Rd., San Marino. Call (800)726-7147
July 20 — Shepherd’s Door Domestic
or visit swmusic.org.
Violence Resource Center hosts its annual
The Huntington Library, Art Collections
tea and brunch benefit at the Langham
Movie Music at the Arboretum
Huntington Hotel from noon to 2 p.m.The
July 13 — The Pasa-
and chairman of the Brother II Brother
dena Pops presents
mentoring program for at-risk youth, and
“Michael Feinstein’s
the honorees are Pasadena Vice Mayor
guest speaker is Stinson Brown, founder
MGM Movie Classics” at the L.A. County
Jacque Robinson and Paul Gibson of
Arboretum.The 7:30 p.m. concert features
Hathaway-Sycamores. KABC-TV reporter
original orchestral arrangements of
Denise Dador hosts and comedian Jabari
soundtrack selections from such MGM
Davis will entertain the crowd.Tickets cost
classics as Singin’ in the Rain,The Band
$75 and advance purchase is required by
Wagon, High Society, Summer Stock and
calling (310) 270-1379 or (888) 979-8884 or
more. Guest performers Christine Ebersole
emailing sd@shepherddoor.org.
and Ron Raines will pay vocal tribute to
The Langham Huntington Hotel is located
the studio’s stars, including Judy Garland,
at 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena. Call
Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra. A special
(310) 270-1379 or (888) 979-8884 or visit
stage presentation of vintage movie cos-
shepherddoor.org.
tumes is included.Tickets cost $35 to $100.
Pops’ restaurant partners for onsite pickup
Faith, Science Clash at “Words Within”
(see website for details) or buy items from
July 24 — A Noise
Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Guests may bring picnics, pre-order meals from one of the
a food truck.
Within hosts its ongoing
The Los Angeles County Arboretum and
“Words Within” reading series with a free
Botanic Garden is located at 301 N. Bald-
7 p.m. reading of Galileo by Bertolt Brecht,
win Ave., Arcadia. Call (626) 793-7172 or
about the brilliant scientist’s confrontation
visit pasadenasymphony-pops.org.
with Catholic authorities during the Inquisition. He was forced to decide between sav-
Cirque at the Playhouse
ing his life or defending his life’s work in 17th-
July 15--28 — The Pasadena Playhouse
century Italy, where he was convicted of
launches Cirque at the Playhouse, a sum-
heresy for arguing that the sun, rather than
mer training program for artists of all ages
Earth, was the center of the universe.The
to nurture excellence in the circus arts,
series features A Noise Within resident artists
including clowning, mask play and aerial
and actors from the company’s current
arts. Stefan Haves, a comic act designer
productions. Reservations are requested.
with Cirque du Soleil since 2006, will serve
A Noise Within is located at 3352 E. Foothill
as the program’s director and co-producer.
Blvd., Pasadena. Call (626) 356-3121 or visit
Youth classes for children ages 8 to 12
anoisewithin.org.
and teen classes for kids 13 to 17 run July 15--28, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mondays
MUSE/IQUE on the Mall
through Fridays.Tuition costs $850 per
July 27 — Muse/ique, led by Artistic
student. Adult classes, which run the same
Director and Conductor Rachael Worby,
dates, 7 to 10 p.m. Mondays through Fri-
launches its summer series with a 7:30
days, cost $650 per student. A professional
p.m. performance of “Moving Pictures” at
intensive program runs July 29 to Aug. 11,
Caltech’s Beckman Mall.The program,
from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through
featuring cellist Matt Haimovitz and actress
Fridays.The cost is $950 per student.
Wendie Malick (Hot in Cleveland), includes
The Pasadena Playhouse is located at 39 48 | ARROYO | 07.13
–continued on page 50
07.13 | ARROYO | 49
THE LIST
–continued from page 48
fresh takes on movie scores by Elmer Bern-
Visit downtownburbankcarclassic.org for
stein, Jerry Goldsmith and Erich Korngold,
information or to register a vehicle.
and a world premiere of a piece by composer Peter Golub, director of Sundance’s
Museum Party Stars Top Pops
Film Music Program.The venue offers table
July 28 — The famed Galco’s Soda Pop
seating for pre-ordered dining and picnick-
Stop in Highland Park hosts its third annual
ing. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. for dining.
Summer Soda Tasting and fundraiser ben-
Tickets cost $10 to $96, $10 for students.
efiting Friends of the Southwest Museum.
Caltech’s Beckman Mall is located at 332
Galco’s, known for its more than 500 hard-
S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Call (626) 539-
to-find soda flavors from small-batch makers
7085 or visit muse-ique.com.
around the world, will roll out the newest flavor from its own White Rose Soda line ---
50 | ARROYO | 07.13
Saluting the Classics (Cars, that is)
cherry --- as well as cucumber, coconut and
July 27 — The Downtown Burbank Partner-
rose petals, plus traditional colas, ginger
ship hosts the “Downtown Burbank Car
beers and sarsaparillas. Also available are
Classic: A Salute to SoCal Automotive
some 450 micro-beers and 60 types of
Culture” along San Fernando Boulevard
bottled waters.The event, from 5 to 8 p.m.,
between Magnolia Boulevard and Ange-
features live music and other entertainment.
leno Avenue from 3 to 9 p.m.The event
Tickets cost $12 in advance, $15 at the door.
features cars with a Hollywood connection
Galco’s Soda Pop Stop is located at 5702
and family-oriented activities, live music
York Blvd., Highland Park.Visit friendsofthe-
and automotive-related vendor booths.The
southwestmuseum.com for tickets and
event is free and open to the public.
galcos.com for information. ||||
52 | ARROYO | 07.13