42 minute read
MY O.C. Celebrating summer memories with the bikini’s 75th anniversary this month
75 and More Itsy-Bitsy Than Ever
Celebrating summer memories with the bikini’s anniversary this month by Kathleen Clary Miller
The bikini turns 75 on July 5—o cially recognized as National Bikini Day—just a few months before I’ll open birthday cards that feature bad jokes about turning 70. The ubiquitous style, not unlike the garb worn for exercise in Ancient Rome and as early as 5600 B.C., made its grand entrance in 1946 at a swimming pool in Paris. French auto engineer Louis Réard designed it and named it, inspired by the nuclear bomb tests in Bikini Atoll, certain that his invention would be equally explosive. Lest his brainchild be confused with any variations, he defined the authentic bikini as little enough material “to be pulled through a wedding ring.”
Although by 1968 I was parading around the house and baring body at the beach in a modest version, my Catholic mother still gasped the night we saw Goldie Hawn dancing in hers on “Laugh-In.” “Scandalous,” Mama critiqued, since the Pope had declared the garment “sinful.”
Although mine was not technically a bikini, for me, it was a rite of passage. My first elective departure from the nautical-themed red, white, and navy single-piece bathing costumes my mother would select for me was this high-waisted, babyblue gingham bottom with white eyelet trimming the top half—a “Little House on the Prairie” attempt at more risqué. I settled for that iteration until the combination of swimming in saltwater and perching on Balboa Island’s concrete seawall all but erased the checkered design from its seat. An update was required, and I looked forward to taking it to the next level.
TOGETHER MY GIRLFRIENDS and I dedicated long hours during early spring behind curtain-drawn Balboa Island and Laguna Beach dressing rooms, searching for the perfect
When the BBQs start, you need the right RED for the food, company, weather, budget and occasion. Come see us! Celebrate the USA all month with some outstanding wines from Napa, Sonoma, the Central Coast & more.
250 Ogle Street • Costa Mesa 949.650.8463 • hitimewine.net
locally owned and family operated since 1957 fi t and print that screamed “summer!” The matching coverup was key, though hardly ever used.
Until school dismissal in June, creating a base for the upcoming seasonal tan by spending every spare moment bagging rays was essential. Ours was a painstaking process that precluded anything other than the bare minimum homework assignment; it required full concentration, a wide assortment of sun-attractant products, and precise timing to avoid the burn while building the bronze.
By the time I turned 19, the fashion had further evolved, replacing shoulder straps with a mere string to be tied around the neck. I fancied myself in love at the time, so naturally I sought out the most romantic swimming outfi t. John was an avid body surfer who taught me how to navigate the waves sans rubber raft. His mother snapped a photograph of us hand in hand on the sand—there we stood in the shimmering sunshine, tall and tan and young and lovely, I in my new brilliant yellow bikini.
It all came crashing down, however, the afternoon I realized he was not, after all, the one with whom I would share endless summers. We were barreling a tube ride at Newport Beach when a spectacularly aggressive shore break ripped away the skinny string securing the two skimpy triangles that formed my top. As it washed ashore while I lay face down gargling salt water between earnest pleas for rescue, he teasingly hesitated to return it to me. Very funny.
Like Brian Hyland sang about the girl in the 1960 hit song featuring the itsybitsy teeny-weeny yellow polka-dot bikini, I was “afraid to come out of the water.” It was my boyfriend’s chivalrous best friend who took pity, scooped up the essential habiliment, skillfully fought the formidable current until up to his shoulders in white water, and on tiptoe and at arm’s length, tossed it to me; he’s the one I should have been dating.
Hence, I learned the hard way that fastening a double knot at the nape and across the back was vital.
IN THE 1980S, WHEN MY friends and I were fi rst pregnant, tankinis usurped the former scant swatches of fabric we’d worn—although women today prance around in the teeniest ever, even in the third trimester. More power to them, I say! This is as it should be.
While sorting through some old family photos, I came across a 1958 snapshot of my cousin wearing a black swimsuit like the one designed in 1932 by the Frenchman Jacques Heim, the bathing apparel he named “The Atome.” Heim’s waistband never would have slipped through a wedding ring; it covered the navel, and the top provided enough coverage to double for a formidable sports bra. Ru es were often involved.
Today, the sky’s the limit. Style is no longer the tyrant it was when I was a girl. Trikini, skirtini, bandeaukini, or highwaistkini—there’s no pressure to drift along in some trend-fi ckle tide! If you desire a more practical application, designer Andrew Schneider created just the thing in 2006—a solarpaneled bikini with USB sockets that can charge your devices while you tan.
Meanwhile, I raise a glass to the enduring and classic pioneer as it celebrates 75 years. Brutally deprived of a proper 2020 summer celebration, the bikini readies to reemerge in all its glory for a momentous 2021 birthday. Ageless and timeless, it has managed to maintain its rank among a sea of suits.
Although recently my preference has been for maximum coverage, when I turn 80, who knows? I might decide to relive that 20th golden summer. I’ll hit the surf in a little something yellow and petite … and polka-dotted.
the power of we
TOGETHER WE THRIVE. Connection is key to a longer and more vibrant life, and powers everything WE do at SRG senior living communities. It’s like being part of a super supportive family of waiters, chefs, housekeepers, ZEST® activity coaches, care & wellness teams, and even a bunch of really friendly and fun neighbors, all helping you thrive. Experience the Power of WE!
Please call to schedule your personalized tour of our CARF-accredited communities.
INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE
La Vida at Mission Viejo
27783 Center Drive, Mission Viejo 949.625.1533
Las Palmas
24962 Calle Aragon, Laguna Woods 949.382.1144
INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING
The Regency
24441 Calle Sonora, Laguna Woods 949.441.4177
The Wellington
24903 Moulton Pkwy, Laguna Woods 949.377.0292
SRGseniorliving.com
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY RCFE# 306005351 RCFE# 306005349 RCFE# 306005350 RCFE# 306005672
O.C. Scene PEOPLE | PARTIES | EVENTS | OPENINGS
ORANGE COAST’S BEST RESTAURANT CELEBRATION
Orange Coast celebrated the 2020 and 2021 Best New Restaurants in Orange County with a special curated 6-course al fresco dining experience showcasing the winning restaurants. Guests were greeted by the all-new 2021 Cadillac Escalades as they entered Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar. The violin and guitar sounds filled the air as guests took their seats.
The two-night event featured both 2020 Restaurant of the Year, Fable & Spirit, as well as 2021 Restaurant of the Year, Porch & Swing. Best Restaurants participants included Sapphire, Old Brea Chop House, Mayfield, Glasspar, The Hall Global Eatery, Benchmark, Café Jardin, Mix Mix Kitchen Bar and Terrace at Mix Mix. Urbana Anaheim, Stella Jean Ice Cream and Pop Pie Co. served up sweet treats to end the night.
PEOPLE | PARTIES | EVENTS | OPENINGS O.C. Scene
Photo Credit: Ron Levy Photography
Signature cocktails were provided by House of Suntory at their Pocket House highlighting Roku Gin, Haku Vodka and Suntory Whisky Toki. Golden Road Brewery provided beer and seltzer tastings. Hi-Times Wine provided the red wine and Martin Ray Vineyards and Winery poured their 2019 Chardonnay. Guests cheered to a night out with Scharffenberger Brut and Rosé. Water provided by Perfect Hydration. Guests had the opportunity to enter the Sub-Zero Wolf Cove giveaway and enjoyed a special treat from their chef on the table.
A GUIDE TO HEALTH & WELLNESS Q&A PROMOTION SPONSORED CONTENT
How is SFCC helping counteract the COVID slide?
The unprecedented challenges of the past year have had an impact on children’s mental health. The long-term impacts are still unknown, children need social and emotional support to be able to build essential self-management skills, resilience, and meaningful connections. The nuances of sportsmanship, interpreting body language, and understanding interpersonal space need the real world to explore and experience, not the virtual world to be able to navigate successfully through life. SFCC allows clients to interact on various levels with peers in a safe setting allowing for social distancing. Our programs are individualized to the family’s and client’s goals. In our programs, clients work on social and emotional skills, self-awareness, coping skills, friendship skills, and problem-solving skills. Our kind and nonjudgmental clinicians are passionate about the mental health needs of children and their families. They support families to fi nd the best version of themselves by providing the foundation for social and emotional growth.
Q&A WITH GARY PEDNEAULT, MD
Dr. Gary Pedneault is the head of Psychiatry at Stepping Forward Counseling Center’s (SFCC) California locations. Dr. Pedneault has in-depth knowledge of diagnosing, treating, and managing behavior disorders associated with mental health. Dr. Pedneault’s treatments focus on effectively developing and implementing core treatment plans with SFCC’s multi-disciplinary team. Boston-born, Dr. Pedneault moved to California in 1990 and did his Postgraduate studies in Child Psychiatry at HarborUCLA Medical Center.
Stepping Forward Counseling Center How can parents help their children with anxiety or depression?
Parents should be aware of any changes in their child’s behavior, appetite, sleep, and internet/social media browsing to identify if there might be a problem. Ask questions, have open and honest dialogue. Validate your child’s feelings, don’t tell your child how they should feel. Provide an environment where they are comfortable communicating. Teach your child coping skills such as breathing techniques and journaling. Exercising is proven to help lower feelings of anxiety and depression. Encourage your family to spend time together. Something as simple as taking a walk through the neighborhood can be benefi cial not only to the child but the whole family. Be mindful of your child’s nutrition to prevent long-term effects on their health.
When should parents consider getting help?
Traditionally schools are a primary and essential piece for identifying mental, emotional, and behavioral concerns as teachers, counselors, and coaches have been trained to identify children that may need more help. In remote or hybrid educational settings these issues or concerns may go unnoticed due to the decrease in daily interactions. It is important for parents to be more aware of any behavior changes during this time. Any time is the right time to get professional help, therapists can provide your family the tools to cope. Parents should consider getting help when their child stops doing the activities that used to bring them joy or when their child’s big feelings start interfering with daily life. If a parent feels they have exhausted all avenues or feel overwhelmed they should seek help.
15375 Barranca Parkway, Building D Irvine, CA 92618
949.333.1209
22343 La Palma Avenue, Unit 116 Yorba Linda, CA 92887
714.340.0511 steppingforwardcounselingcenter.com What programs are available at SFCC?
SFCC has an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Partial Care Day Program (PCP), and Summer Clinically Advanced Multi-Modality Program (C.A.M.P.). Our services include individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and psychiatric services. We provide a safe space for children and adolescents who are struggling with neuro-biological disorders, emotional issues, or mental illnesses.
A Legacy in Cancer Care
For three generations, the Chao family has championed leading-edge cancer research and lifesaving treatment with generous philanthropic investments in UCI Health. Today, the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center is recognized as one of only 51 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers, and only such hospital in Orange County.
Since the family’s fi rst visionary gift in 1995, the cancer center has led the way, offering the most innovative therapies and early access to clinical trials that are improving the quality of life for people with cancer and resetting the standards of care. We recently opened Orange County’s only adult bone marrow/stem cell transplant program, bringing this care closer to home.
The Chao family’s philanthropy at UCI — which now exceeds $50 million and will name the cancer center at the new UCI Medical Center – Irvine — will bring the fi nest cancer care to all Orange County residents while also accelerating the research of our internationally regarded physicianscientists. We salute the Chao family for their dedication to our community and beyond. Their support helps us make the dream of a healthy and Brilliant Future a reality for everyone.
ucihealth.org/cancer
W E HAVE LOTS OF GREAT WAYS TO KEEP YOU HEALTHY. HERE’S 116 OF THEM.
Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Amber Burnette, M.D. Lisa Lim, M.D.
Anesthesiology
Daniel S. Choi, M.D. Anil Tiwari, M.D. Chi Ukishima, M.D. Karen Wu, M.D. Ramin Zolfagari, M.D.
Child Neurology
Suresh Gurbani, M.D.
Dermatology
Marit Kreidel, M.D. Hege G. Sarpa, M.D.
Emergency Medicine
Ali Ghobadi, M.D. Todd R. New ton, M.D.
Family Medicine
Fred Alamshaw, D.O. Rhett Bartolome, D.O. Neetu Bhola, M.D. Lance Brunner, M.D. Laura Chaverri, M.D. David Cheng, M.D. Family Medicine (continued) Female Pelvic Medicine and Wendy Coling, M.D.
Reconstructive Surgery
Kara Cummins, M.D. Noelani Guaderrama, M.D.
Katrina L. Dominguez, D.O. Everard Esteban, M.D. Jun Ihara, M.D. Jennifer K. Lee, M.D.
Cindy Evans, M.D. Diana L. Karg, M.D. Shefali Khandwala, D.O. Heather Kranitz, D.O. Quynh-Hoa Le, D.O. Lucio Loza, M.D. Ajay S. Mathur, M.D. Marites T. McMurtrey, M.D. Sofia Meraz, M.D. Timothy A . Munzing, M.D. Carrie Nelson-Vasquez, M.D. Khanh X. Nguyen, D.O. Hiroki Noda, M.D. Andrew M. Park, M.D. Hemesh Patel, D.O. Diane V. Pham, M.D. Michael Provenghi, M.D. Josette Thompson, M.D. Eugenia I. Tsai, M.D. Paul Vollucci, D.O. Tina L. Walker, M.D. Rani Y. Yau, M.D. Emily W hitcomb, M.D.
Gastroenterology
Andrew Q. Giap, M.D.
Gynecologic Oncology
Noah Rodriguez, M.D. Jay P. Shah, M.D.
Internal Medicine
Adriana Cervantes, M.D. Sajini George, M.D. Faranak Herrera, D.O. Meenu Kwatra, M.D. Priya B. Monahan, M.D. Melissa H. Rapp, M.D.
Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Anna Galyean, M.D.
Medical Oncology
Samina Ahmed, M.D.
Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
Marielle Nguyen, M.D. Nidhi Shah, M.D. Sandra C. Short-Bartlett, M.D.
Congrat ulations to t he ext raordinary Kaiser Permanente doctors w ho w ere nam ed 20 21 Physicians of Excellence by t he Orang e Count y Medical A ssociat ion.
Nephrology
Pediatric Anesthesiology
Behzad Alimohammadi, M.D. Nhat (Nathan) Le, M.D.
Neurology Pediatric Endocrinology
Sirichai Chayasirisobhon, M.D. Alan Cortez, M.D.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Pediatric Gastroenterology
Neelu Arora, M.D. Phyllis Agran, M.D.
Julisa Bravo, M.D. W illiam Mow, M.D.
Christopher Donnelly, M.D. Debra Gierut, M.D. Christina Hong, M.D. Phong Lai, D.O. Akta Patel, M.D. Paula Richter, M.D. Betty Shen, M.D.
Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
Naveen Qureshi, M.D.
Pediatric Hospital Medicine
Dimple K. Khona, M.D. Jennifer Linzmeyer, D.O.
Ophthalmology
Kenneth B. Krantz, M.D. Ashish M. Mehta, M.D. Shaival Shah, M.D. Alison Wong, M.D. Kevin Yuhan, M.D.
OtolaryngologyHead/ Neck Surgery
Theodore Chen, M.D. Rohit Garg, M.D. David Keschner, M.D. Terry Shibuya, M.D.
Pediatrics
Annie T. Carr, M.D. Nancy Daisy Dodd, M.D. Afif El-Hasan, M.D. Irene O. Kan, M.D. Connie Lin, M.D. Elenea Medina, M.D. Michelle Solomon, M.D. Barbara Stefanides, M.D. Eric J. Troyan, M.D. Vincent Valenzuela, M.D.
Plastic Surgery
Robert E. Tuchler, M.D.
Psychiatry
Neel Doshi, D.O. Pranav Shah, M.D. Felicia Wong, M.D.
Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine
Annie R. Harrington, M.D.
Surgery
Eric Fu, M.D. Susan Walker, M.D.
Surgery, Neurological
SooHo Choi, M.D.
Surgery, Orthopedic
Rick Csintalan, M.D. Brent Davis, M.D. Tad Funahashi, M.D. Neil Harness, M.D. Arthur T. Lee, M.D. Mohamed Moussa, M.D. Andrew Park, M.D. Jason Richards, M.D. Wesley H. Tran, M.D.
OF 2021
FOOD & DRINK SHOP & INDULGE SEE & DO
DRINKS TO-GO BY THE LITER
Takeaway cocktails (previous page) are a pandemic innovation we hope endures, especially at Olea. The team there crushes the loosened alcohol rules with liter bo les of their dreamy cra cocktails for $56, and single drinks for $14. Just add ice. Newport Beach, 949-287-6807
NATURAL WINE BAR
If you prefer natural wine to its counterpart, head to Semi Tropic Wines, a bar dedicated to natural wine. Opt to sit inside or out to try the rotating wines on tap for $11 a glass and pair with a cheese board ($30) featuring produce that’s sourced from The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano. Head into the bo le shop to take your favorite wine home with you. Costa Mesa, 949-520-2118
BRUNCH SPLURGE
Indulge your sweet tooth with the crispy-edge sourdough pancakes at Fable & Spirit’s recently launched brunch ($14). Topped with lemon mascarpone and blueberry compote, the pancakes only need maple syrup to be truly decadent. The surprising sourdough is a delightful contrast to the sweet fruit avors. Newport Beach, 949-409-9913
ROTATING TACO TRIO
Every Taco Thursday, the team at El Mercado Modern Cuisine o ers a special menu of three tacos featuring house-made blue and yellow corn tortillas. Highlights have included a creative take on ratatouille, one featuring bunashimeji mushrooms, and a shredded chicken taco with mole sauce, pepitas, and cilantro (3 for $10). Santa Ana, 714-338-2446
Reader Raves BAKERY
sundayessentials
@moulin 100000000%
madhungrywoman @mixedbakerycdm
lisahuchen.photography @paderiabakehouse kaileeinthekitchen @ryegoods rye or die. next question
jfi llet @hapacupcakes ALL DAY!!! The only ones I’ll eat.
thedronebooth @amarket
thesuek77 Chaupain this_is_tay @sugarblossombakeshop!!!
rosie2xx @smallcakesoc
shiakitada @brio_brio_cafe my favorite japanese bakery! they have the best pastries and desserts
matt.g.harper @sweetandsimplebakeshop
thepetitegourmande @pattys.cakes cronin4 Our local @creampantustin
bakinganthropologist @blackmarketbakery forever and always
californiaroll16 @cremaartisan @cremacafe
beejapy Little France Bakery, Mission Viejo
ze_frenchinoc @cheesweet
andrewjames.jpg Pandor!
apenn1 @cestsibonnb obviously.
SAVORY PATE
While we were waiting for a vaccine, Chef de Cuisine Arturo Castillo at Marché Modèrne was perfecting Pâté en Croûte, an intricate creation starring house pâté and morels or chanterelles all encased in a bu ery, golden, and dare we say perfect crust. $38 per slice. Newport Coast, 714-434-7900
UNIQUE ACAI BOWL BASES
The all-vegan Berry Brand at Union Market serves up beautifully arranged superfood bowls with unlimited combinations of rich, creamy bases and delectable toppings ($7 to $13). Choose from traditional bases such as acai and pitaya along with signature blends like ube dream, mango, and the pastelcolored Coconut Dream. Tustin, loveberrybrand.com
MANGO DESSERTS
The tropical stone fruit is king at Hui Lau Shan, a dessert shop originally founded in Hong Kong in the 1960s. Carabao mangoes sourced from the Philippines are showcased in sweet treats such as mango mochi, mango pudding, mango ice cream, and pomelo mango sago, to name a few. Irvine, 949-418-7989; Westminster, 657-210-4274
VEGAN MOBILE CAFE
Mi ie’s Co ee is a co eehouse on wheels that o ers all-vegan drinks and treats, from oat milk-based la es to signature dessert-like drinks. With sustainability in mind, owners Ross and Didi Lower source local, organic ingredients, use biodegradable serveware, and are crowdfunding to be an exclusively ba ery- and solarpowered truck. Throughout O.C., @mi iesco ee
GRILLED STINGRAY FIN
For a unique appetizer, opt for Hashigo Sushi’s grilled stingray fin with spicy mayo and a wedge of lemon ($12). The thin slices are similar to a so beef jerky and the lemon and spicy mayo o set the sweetness of the meat. Huntington Beach, 714-848-1111
MAPO TOFU TOTS
A spin on the traditional dish, Toast Kitchen & Bakery’s tater tot version features tofu, ground chuck, nacho cheese, fontina, roasted sesame seeds, and cilantro. The explosion of avors will have you finishing the $8 bowl and already wanting more. Costa Mesa, 949-873-5057
LOCAL HARD KOMBUCHA
Rich Elixirs o ers an alcoholic version of the probiotic-rich, bubbly beverage. The hard booch is on tap at both locations, and you can grab a bo le to go. Try the refreshing pineapple hibiscus avor; two more avors are set to premiere this month. Costa Mesa, 949-445-0102; Tustin, 949-445-0102
TOFU BUTTER MASALA
The delivery-only Indian Vegan Cafe sprouted up at the perfect time midpandemic, when diners were eager for good eats brought to their doors. Though Indian food o en leans vegetarian, the many unique plant-based options here, such as the protein-centric tofu bu er masala, blew us away. Irvine, 516-754-4150
LOADED FRUIT TRAY
If you’re heading to a birthday party, having a beach day, or just want to indulge in some delicious fruit, grab a tray from Natural that includes coconut, strawberries, cucumber, mango, kiwi, and more and comes with a side of chile and lime. Sizes vary from small to large ($17 to $54). Anaheim, 714-563-1343
FILIPINO COFFEE SHOP
Teofilo Co ee Company sources beans from the Philippines and roasts them fresh inhouse. Enjoy drinks such as the Mount Milo, a Filipinoinspired mocha with cold brew and Milo chocolate powder. Fried chicken adobo with ube wa es tops a robust menu of ube eats. Grab a bag of co ee beans to brew at home. Los Alamitos, 714-715-7183
GOURMET BEACH MEAL
Lost Pier Café at Aliso Creek Beach isn’t your average snack shack. Of course you can get a burger, fish tacos, or chips. But why go for everyday fare when the tuna poke bowl is so delicious and fresh ($14)? The bowl is perfect for eating at a table shoreside as you watch kids frolic on the playground or in the waves. Or take it with you to have a great to-go meal away from the crowds this summer. Laguna Beach, 949-715-4210
LOADED DOLE WHIPS
While Hawaiian shave ice is the main specialty at Hula Girls’ Shave Ice, Dole Whip enthusiasts drove here during Disneyland’s closure to get a taste of the iconic vegan dessert. It comes in newfangled creations such as the lime- avored Dole Whip inspired by Grogu (aka Baby Yoda) from “The Mandalorian.” The watermelon and coconut-pineapple avors are also favorites. Huntington Beach, 949-295-0292
SMOOTH COCKTAIL
The Velvet Alley at Selanne Steak Tavern is elegant and light. Made with Empress 1908 gin, peach bi ers, and lemon, the drink’s lavender shade makes it delicate and perfect for any occasion ($15). It goes down so easily, you’ll be tempted to indulge in many. The restaurant’s specialty cocktails change every three months to keep deliciously in season; this one will linger from the spring menu into summer. Laguna Beach, 949-715-9881
CRAB PASTA
When in the mood for something truly special, try the crab tajarin at Twenty Eight Restaurant and Bar. Golden strands of pasta are generously topped with tru e crab cream, lump crab, shellfish crumbs, and a Jonah crab claw. $29. Irvine, 949-852-2828
AQUAVIT COCKTAIL
Always on the leading edge, Blinking Owl Distillery presents the 20/21 Vision, a killer post-pandemic cocktail laced with its superlative Aquavit. Try it with chef Luis Perez’s cacio e pepe pizza, blistering hot from the oven on the new, here-at-last patio. Santa Ana, 714-852-3947
TARO BOBA
What distinguishes Omomo Tea Shoppe’s take on the classic bubble tea avor is the housemade taro paste on the bo om ($4.50). The freshly pureed, creamy taro, used as a filling for many Asian desserts, pairs perfectly with milk. Two locations in Irvine, 949-861-8828, 949-418-9470
TEA TO GO
Stun your fancy friends by hosting a perfect high tea. Morning Lavender Cafe preps the dainty eats to go— finger sandwiches, pastries, jam, and your choice of teas ($35)—so you can transfer the bites to your china and casually ask, “One lump or two?” Tustin, 714-486-1429
UPSCALE BURRITO
Leave it to Taco María to elevate a humble dish to noble heights. The not-so-standard burrito is made with refried pinto beans, jasmine rice, browned bu er, and ancho chile wrapped in a remarkable handmade our tortilla, freshly charred on the grill ($12). Costa Mesa, 714-538-8444
FRESH CORN TAMALES
Huchepos—sweet corn tamales, light as a feather and redolent of fresh and ground corn— are found only at Chato’s Bar & Grill. Bring your favorite vegetarian and discover why we say Sergio Ortega is a high master of masa creations ($14). Santa Ana, 714-852-3256
Pandan Treats
PANDAN IS AN AROMATIC PLANT THAT TASTES LIKE VANILLA WITH A TROPICAL, FLORAL TWIST. THE SWEET, SOUTHEAST ASIAN FLAVOR IS GETTING THE STAR TREATMENT IN DRINKS AND DESSERTS ACROSS ORANGE COUNTY.
Pandan mochi donuts
Modo Hawaii, Irvine Pandan Pina Collision with cold-pressed pandan, coconut milk, and pineapple puree
Loose Leaf Boba, Santa Ana Jade Bliss with pandan, mung bean soy milk, coconut sago, and boba
Soy Good, Garden Grove Panda Pandan with coconut water, sugarcane, and coconut bits
Tallgrass Drink, Garden Grove Pandan cookies
Ka eine Alley, Anaheim Pandan cashew nut milk, matcha pandan la e
JuiceMi, Newport Beach Mango sticky rice ice cream made with pandan, coconut milk, and oat milk
Stella Jean’s Ice Cream, Costa
Mesa
Pandan horchata
Banh Xeo Boys, Rodeo 39
Public Market in Stanton
Mung bean milk tea with pandan 7 Leaves Cafe, multiple O.C. locations Pandan wa es with coconut or durian and dessert drinks with pandan jelly
Bambu, Irvine Pandan Vietnamese honeycomb cake
THH Sandwiches, multiple
O.C. locations
Buko pandan creme caramel
Oi Asian Fusion, Rodeo 39
Public Market in Stanton Buko (coconut) pandan bu er and pandan cream cheese rolls
Kitchen 1726, throughout O.C.
NORDSTROM LIFE HACK
It’s time to pick up your Nordstrom or Nordstrom Rack purchase that didn’t include free shipping. Rather than hassling with parking and crowds at the mall, get it from Nordstrom Local. You can also have your purchase altered and return items there as well. Feeling generous? You can drop o donations, too. Newport Beach, 949-763-2922
CURATED CLEAN SKIN CARE
At Pop Society, resident holistic estheticians customize products from Botnia skin care, a smallbatch, organic, and plant-based line made in Sausalito. They add extra ingredients such as plant compounds, boosters, hydrosols, and plant oils during your visit depending on your needs. Costa Mesa, 714-566-5957
DRIED FLOWER BAR
If you’re looking for a stunning dried oral bouquet, La Bodega Bo le Shop has a dried ower bar as well as arrangements starting at $15. Co-owner Giselle Granados is also a orist and can be commissioned for arrangements starting at $25. Huntington Beach, 562-357-7874
HANDPAINTED DOG PORTRAITS
Immortalize your pup with a watercolor portrait created by Brooke Dieda. Send in a few photos of your dog and in two to three weeks you’ll have a custom painting. Pricing starts at $75 for a 5-by-7inch portrait or $125 for an 8-by10-inch one. Dieda also o ers custom illustrations, design, and calligraphy for weddings and events. Costa Mesa, monvoir.com
PLANT-BASED SKIN CARE
Living up to its name, Divine Face Oil from Katresha Pure Skin Care soothes and so ens. Though the oil will blend in nicely any time, use it at night for a hydrated and glowing feel the next morning ($68). Flower and plant oils are hand-blended and create a lovely, restful scent, perfect for sending you o to sleep. Buy the set that includes oil, face cream, and eye cream ($168) and you’ll get a gorgeous, decorative glass bo le. Laguna Beach resident Katresha is passionate about plant-based everything. Laguna Beach, 949-637-3442
Reader Raves LOCAL BOUTIQUE
omanitsanh @peachesfl oral.co for the win!!!
mariana_lopez86 @stylesocietyboutique not only does she have the cutest boutique.. Shellie is one of the most down to earth people I know!!! We can chat for hrs!!!
dexandbodie @shopivyandpine
newporttheatreartscenter @seasidegalleryandgoods - just down the hill!!
palmandninth @dusk.boutique
marquez_partyof6 @thefortfox_ca
margaret.otfi tness @brickmarketboutique
tsloans @melroseintheoc
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OUTDOOR VINTAGE MARKET
Known for its midcentury modern furniture and decor, Inretrospect also hosts a pop-up market on the second Saturday of each month. Dozens of vendors peddle curated vintage and handmade goods, such as the ones above from Luna Reece Ceramics, and there’s food and beer for sale. Huntington Beach, 949-438-6564
BESPOKE FACIAL
Rather than blindly choosing from a list of facials you think will work for you, OmniaPiel o ers a custom facial ($169) from a registered nurse. Start with a gentle cleanser before your skin is analyzed under a light to determine the best treatment. It will also include a massage in the form of gua sha, Chinese acupressure, or European facial massage depending on your skin type. Costa Mesa, 714-716-5031
ALTERNATIVE ENGAGEMENT RINGS
For an engagement ring that’s as unique as your future bride, try Marrow Fine, which o ers a selection of engagement rings that aren’t run-ofthe-mill solitaires. Choose from stones such as blue, pink, peach, and lavender sapphire, black onyx, gray diamonds, bicolor tourmaline, and more. The cuts are also atypical. Newport Beach, 949-287-5738
DESIGNER BIKE
Ride a made-toorder Louis Vui on bicycle cra ed in collaboration with Tamboite Paris, a Parisian bike maker (pricing starts at $28,900). Created in Paris, each bike features a leather seat, handlebars, and cables, with the option to add your initials to the frame or back wheel. Customers choose from five models, which can be ordered at Louis Vui on’s South Coast Plaza location. Costa Mesa, 714-662-6907
POP-UP PLANT SWAP
This monthly event held at Houseplant Nation brings local plant enthusiasts together. Participants are encouraged to bring plants they’ve fallen out of love with, have no space for, or have multiples of—as long as they are healthy and pest-free. It’s an opportunity to learn from others and bring a new and rare plant home. Huntington Beach, 714-330-1579
FREE PARKING LOT CONCERTS
Liven up your Thursdays with free drive-in concerts at The Camp. Park your car, grab some food from one of the many restaurants, pop your trunk, and enjoy tunes from bands such as Spacetime Television, Undecided Future, and Candid. Starting at 5:30 p.m., these two-hour concerts give you enough time to relax and unwind a er work. Costa Mesa, thecampsite.com
DOWNTOWN RETOOL
The Promenade on Forest took lemons and made lemonade during the pandemic. Forest Avenue closed to vehicles between Coast Highway and Glenneyre Street, which created a thriving, walkable area for performances, artwork, outdoor dining, and relaxing. Alcohol is permi ed at the tables on raised platforms. The closure will remain for at least three more years. Laguna Beach
COMMUNITY MURAL
The 7,500-squarefoot mural at Orange County Educational Arts Academy was designed and installed by Brian Peterson of Faces of Santa Ana and local artist Damin Lujan. Titled the Purple Unity Project, the mural highlights the charter school’s commitment to unity, diversity, and inclusion and features portraits of historical and in uential figures from Rosa Parks to Malala Yousafzai. Santa Ana, @purpleunityproject
BAJA WINE AND BEER TASTING
Alta Baja Market hosts curated tastings of Baja wine and beer on its patio. Featured wineries and cra breweries include La Ce o and Vinos Los Angeles. Online reservations are required, and the price ($25) includes a small cheese plate. Santa Ana, 714-783-2252
MOUNTAIN BIKE CLINIC
Learn the basics of mountain biking at this workshop hosted by Irvine Ranch Conservancy. Expert volunteers coach proper form and technique as participants navigate a series of modular structures such as dirt ramps and rock step-ups. You’ll also learn proper safety and preparedness before hi ing a trail. Online registration required. Irvine, letsgooutside.org
COASTAL VIEW PARK
Badlands Park is the fairest of O.C.’s ocean-view parks. Owned and operated by the county, the natural open space o ers li le in the way of frills such as grass and playgrounds. What it does provide are beautiful rock formations and sweeping cli side views of the Pacific Ocean without the need for any uphill hiking. Laguna Niguel
Reader Raves SUP SPOT
asic_khat Back Bay for a chill time... Doheny for a fun time
eemilycrowleyy pirate coast paddle!!!!!!
sharipaulphoto Huntington Harbor and back bay
orsimester Emerald Bay coastalcardsbykelly Balboa
joseandradev Marina Park NB
ART CLASS
oohlalafosse Art for Relaxation Therapy!!! Online art lessons - Avalon and her team create fun and educational lessons and donate ART packs too!
fi eryfordeepblue Beginner’s Resin Classes with @fi eryfordeepblue
abenjacob @urbanartsoc My daughter had the best time at their camps and the sta is so friendly and welcoming Defi nitely would recommend to all my friends!
birdbelleshop We love all the workshops in the @pelicancourtyard! Print blocking, candle making, fl oral arranging, ukulele lessons...a wide array of options o ered
LONGAWAITED POOL PARTY
A er years of planning, Modern Times Leisuretown opened last summer with a sparkling pool— which has been o limits because of safety restrictions. But the massive, resort-like brewery already shines with its ample outdoor seating, vegan bar food, cafe, and an incomparable beer list. We’re counting down the days till we’re at that poolside bar! Anaheim, 714-874-4439
COMEDY AND CONCERTS AT THE BEACH
Enjoy live music Saturdays at SeaLegs at the Beach for free. Buy food and a drink and kick back in a lounge chair while you listen to bands such as David Rosales & His Band of Scoundrels, Pato, Stephen Wesley, and more. Keep an eye out for stand-up comedy shows, which have featured Ti any Haddish, Je Ross, and Bill Burr ($45). Huntington Beach, sealegsa hebeach .com
BABY GOAT YOGA
Combine a love for animals and yoga at the Goods and Goat Market’s baby goat yoga class ($35). The 45-minute class takes place Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays and involves baby goats jumping up on you while you (a empt to) move through yoga poses. A erward, check out the Zen garden or browse the store. San Juan Capistrano, 949-212-4357
FREE ROLLERSKATING CLASS
Each Saturday, Atomic Skate Exchange o ers roller-skating lessons at no cost held outside of its storefront. Instructor Leo Ra James guides participants through the basics, followed by more advanced moves. The class ends with an open skate. Irvine, 949-325-8646
FLAMENCO SHOW
Not your run-of-themill Saturday night activity, the weekly “Art of Flamenco” show at Cafe Sevilla o ers insight about the southern region of Spain and its traditional dance. Performers will impress you with energy, intricate footwork, and song. Dinner includes the popular paella, a salad, and a delicious lemon tart plus a glass of sangria ($89.50). Shows start at 6:30 p.m. Costa Mesa, 949-688-1555
DIY WORKSHOP HUB
Not only does Open Market OC feature local makers and small businesses at two locations, it also o ers workshops at the Laguna Hills spot that you can take a er a day of shopping. O erings include art classes, candlemaking, chunky-blanket workshops, and more. Class prices vary. Laguna Hills, 949-485-0322 and Santa Ana
NEW THEATER
A er a dozen years performing live comedy in Orange County, ImprovCity has upgraded its digs and opened a new black box theater space in the heart of Old Town Tustin. Check out the improvisational classes and live shows (familyfriendly and late-night). Tustin, 855-624-6776
NEEDLEPOINT STORE
Grab everything you need to make a creation at Newport Needlepoint. Once you get your things, you can sit at the large table and start working. Not sure how to get started? The sta will help you one-on-one at no cost. Newport Beach, 949-650-8022
467-STEP WORKOUT
Switch up your routine and get in some cardio at Hillcrest Park. The hilltop park near downtown Fullerton features a steep set of stairs overlooking Lions Field. The stairs are lit up at night and include three lookout decks for much-needed breaks. Fullerton
BEST OF PARTY
JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL EVENT! FOR DETAILS AND TICKETS, GO TO ORANGECOAST.COM/BESTOF2021.
SETTING A HIGH BAR
Jane Fujishige Yada brings her O.C. farming roots and love of the arts to her position as chairwoman of the board of Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
by Valerie Takahama
Photograph by Emily J. Davis
he new chairwoman of the board of Segerstrom Center for the Arts looks out from the second story of the glass-fronted, César Pelli- designed concert hall onto the verdant maze of hedges and trees below. The bushes are slightly overgrown—“it’s got a little bit of a COVID haircut right now”—but no matter. Jane Fujishige Yada loves the Arrival Gardens.
It’s only natural she feels connected to the landscape. A farmer’s daughter who grew up in Anaheim, Yada is a farmer and a businesswoman today. She’s also an arts lover who raised her son at this center and remembers how he’d play in the hedge maze years ago. As a philanthropist, she has great respect for the late Henry Segerstrom, the center’s founding chairman, who commissioned the gardens.
Now it’s her turn to carry it forward. Yada, who joined the board in 2001, takes over this month at a precarious time. The center, like other cultural institutions, was jolted by the pandemic. It faces the rigors of reopening while contending with a steep revenue decline because of the closures. Plus it has to win back wary patrons with assurances that its halls are clean and safe.
As if that weren’t enough, Yada sets the bar even higher. She wants Segerstrom Center for the Arts to take on a brand-new challenge and begin producing Broadway-caliber shows of its own, as well as continuing to present national touring shows. That way, sometime in the future, other theaters will stage shows developed in Costa Mesa and pay royalties to the center.
While she won’t take credit for originating the idea of producing shows locally, she likens the plan to creating the perfect strawberry, one that farmers will pay a fee to grow. It’s an apt metaphor for someone with her uniquely Orange County background.
Yada’s grandfather, Hisao Fujishige, a farmer, emigrated from Japan in 1906 and married Ayano Mizunaga, another Japanese immigrant, three years later. Their son, Jane’s father, Hiroshi, was born in Los Angeles in 1922.
T
In the early ’50s, Hiroshi and his brother, Masao, bought 58 acres of land in Anaheim and started H&M Fujishige farm. They eventually expanded to 150 more acres in Orange County and grew strawberries, vegetables, and herbs.
The original farm was down the street from Disneyland and what would become the Anaheim Convention Center. The family sold most of the farm to the Walt Disney Co. in the late ’90s while holding onto other acreage.
Today, Yada is comanager of Harbor Field Holdings in Irvine, the company that runs the family’s real estate holdings, including a housing development, a Hilton-branded
hotel, o ce buildings, and industrial properties.
The family still has farms in Orange, Ventura, and Santa Cruz counties, and she’s involved in running them and other agricultural interests, such as California Berry Cultivars, a berry breeding company in Oxnard. Family members are also legacy cofounders of GEM-Pack Berries, a distribution company that supplies grocery chains throughout the U.S.
Yes, she’s busy, and she likes it that way. She got used to hard work growing up on the farm with her younger brother, Jack, and younger sister, Nancy.
Maybe the eldest daughter couldn’t drive a tractor perfectly straight, but she excelled at working at the family’s fruit and vegetable stand on Harbor Boulevard. There was no cash register, and the calculator was slow, so she’d add up sales manually using cardboard from the tomato boxes. She got good at math that way.
She attended Stoddard Elementary, Ball Junior High, and Loara High
FUJISHIGE FARM, HARBOR BOULEVARD, ANAHEIM
schools and was introduced to the performing arts on school outings. She made her first visit to what would become the center campus for a performance of “A Christmas Carol” at South Coast Repertory in 1980. (Not long ago, she learned she was probably at one of the first performances by Hal Landon Jr., the actor who played Scrooge in the production for 40 years.)
She was the only Asian student in any of her classes until senior year of high school. Now, as only the second woman and the first woman of color to lead the center’s board, she knows how important it is to open the door to Orange County’s increasingly diverse population.
“You know how we have that term now, ‘unconscious bias’? When I was growing up, I feel like there was more unconscious inclusion because I never felt di erent. Everyone was just so welcoming of each other,” she says.
At the center in mid-May, Yada conveys an innate elegance and equal parts enthusiasm, humor, and wistfulness. Her trademark exclamation is an awestruck, “Can you imagine!” Her eyes well up when she recalls hearing the first notes the Pacific Symphony played during its post-pandemic reunion in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.
Her devotion to the symphony goes back a long way. She remembers with fondness going to hear the orchestra perform Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture when she was pregnant with her son, Grayson. He’s 19 now and a student at Chapman University.
“I had to bring a pillow to cover my belly because at the concert before, every time the volume went up, he would kick out. I was there with my pillow over my belly when the cannon would go o ,” she recalls.
He was born shortly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. “That was a very, very interesting time. I didn’t want to go without my symphony, and I would actually bring him as a newborn to the symphony. He would be swaddled in his baby blanket, and I would have a bottle ready in case he started crying. He never did, though. And we would just listen to (music director) Carl (St.Clair) and the symphony perform together. I loved that.”
That depth of feeling marks her leadership style at the center. It has been greatly appreciated during the pandemic when so much business has been conducted virtually, says Casey Reitz, the center’s president.
Outgoing board chairman Mark C. Perry praised Yada’s “roll-up-yoursleeves enthusiasm and work ethic that inspires her colleagues,” as evidenced in her work on the reopening
—JANE FUJISHIGE YADA
TOP: HIROSHI FUJISHIGE BOTTOM: BROTHER JACK FUJISHIGE AND JANE FUJISHIGE YADA IN 2001 OPPOSITE PAGE: SEGERSTROM HALL
and facilities committees.
The center is the largest cultural institution in the county, and Yada worked with senior sta from the two biggest sports venues, Angel Stadium and Honda Center, on safety protocols in the run-up to the reopening. They became well-versed in HVAC systems, contactless ticketing systems, no-touch restroom fixtures, professional industrial hygienists, sanitation robots, and on and on. As she ran the numbers on all the unexpected expenses needed to upgrade the buildings, she started to think about whether royalties from a show might provide an extra revenue stream in the future. With the center closed, she used the time to look seriously at what it would take to produce shows.
She has a willing and able partner in Reitz, who arrived at the center in late 2019 with a national reputation for producing new works. As executive director at New York’s Second Stage Theater, he won a Tony Award in 2017 for producing the musical “Dear Evan Hansen,” which earned seven Tony Awards in all.
“I think presenting is what good arts centers do, and I think Orange County should be a place where the best and most talented artists from around the country and around the world come to play,” he says. “And we want that for our audiences.
“But I also think the notion of developing artists, nurturing artists is critical, and the opportunity to create new work, which is what excites so many artists, is important. I think it’s important to do it to help put Orange County and the Segerstrom Center on the map. I think that’s how we’re going to build our brand, which is a big goal of ours.”
The center is already reviewing a number of potential projects. “We’re very excited. We just have to make sure that they are responsibly done,” Yada says. She’s adamant about that: “Every single dollar that we receive— whether its 1 dollar, 10 dollars, 10 thousand, 10 million—we are caretakers for that dollar. It’s what they have brought in because they trust us, and I don’t want to do anything to jeopardize that. Not on my watch.”
She has other plans, such as introducing Orange County audiences to the cutting-edge multimedia digital art she first saw on a trip to Japan. She points out that Orange County is home to Activision Blizzard and plenty of other tech companies that might partner with the center on such a project.
