December Arroyo by Times Media Group

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HOME FOR THE

Holidays

THINGS T HINGS TO GATHER RA AROUND ROUND THIS WINTER SEASON

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arroyo VOLUME 15 | NUMBER 12 | DECEMBER 2019

Entertainment and Entertaining 11

T heater for everyone How A Noise Within Theater gets families with members on the autism spectrum involved during the holidays. —By KAYLA RUTLEDGE

As good as grandma made Lousiana chef Josh Thomas makes big portioned plates with love present in every bite. —By KAYLA RUTLEDGE

All about aesthetics Professional party planner Jordi Stringfellow shares tips on how to have your holiday decor last all season long. —By KAYLA RUTLEDGE

A historic hotel Take a look at Hotel Constance, a place where history, tradition and modernity intersect. —By KAYLA RUTLEDGE

A blast from the past Jonny Lang to perform his new album in Pasadena, which gives a nod to some of his first works. —By ALAN SCULLEY

Departments 08

FESTIVITIES Female Filmmakers Fuse Film Festival

HOME AND DESIGN Notable Dining Establishments

CULINARY CUPBOARD Cranberry Orange Spice Cake

THE LIST Thoroughbred Horse Show, Season’s Screamings, Rose Bowl Flea Market, Puga Yoga and more

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Editor’s Note Tis the season of mugs ﬁlled to the brim with hot chocolate and topped with heavenly whipped cream, dazzling light shows and wholesome, hearty holiday meals to boot. To celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, we have created a guide on how to entertain for the holidays at home as well as where to go if doing the dishes after a party just isn’t for you. In this issue, we have uncovered a few of the many eateries, events and people that have opened their doors to let us in on this season’s hotspots that have made the nice list. We will take you to A Noise Within Theater to explore how inclusive performances can keep families with members on the autism spectrum together during holiday outings. A walk through of White Horse Lounge’s holiday menu is sure to ﬁll you up on the good stuff, including the executive chef’s inspiration behind the hand-crafted plate. Addtionally a Jonny Lang concert provides the perfect outing for the holiday season. If entertaining outside of the home during the holidays isn’t your style, this issue will also walk you through some tips and tricks from a professional party planner on throwing a great holiday celebration at home. Additionally, a tasty cranberry cake recipe is sure to bring the festivities straight to your table. Whether you are just passing through or you call Pasadena home, an overview of Hotel Constance’s cozy offerings during the The Rose Parade will make you feel like you are exactly where you need to be for the holidays. Home is where the heart is, and lucky for us, home is in Pasadena.

—

Kayla Rutledge

arroyo

FINE LIVING IN THE GREATER PASADENA AREA

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Christina Fuoco -Karasinski EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kayla Rutledge ART DIRECTOR Stephanie Torres ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Richard Garcia CONTRIBUTORS Leslie Bilderback, Léon Bing, Martin Booe, Michael Cervin, Luis Chavez, Richard Cunningham, Tommy Ewasko, Noela Hueso, Kathleen Kelleher, Frier McCollister, Jana J. Monji, Srianthi Perera, Brenda Rees, Jordan Riefe, Kayla Rutledge, Ilsa Setziol, John Sollenberger, Nancy Spiller ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Lisa Chase, Rick Federman, Javier Sanchez ADVERTORIAL CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Bruce Haring OFFICE MANAGER Ann Turrietta

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TIMES MEDIA GROUP PRESIDENT Steve Strickbine V.P. OF OPERATIONS Michael Hiatt CONTACT US ADVERTISING zac@timespublications.com EDITORIAL krutledge@timespublications.com PHONE (626) 584-1500 FAX (626) 795-0149 MAILING ADDRESS 50 S. De Lacey Ave., Ste. 200, Pasadena, CA 91105 ArroyoMonthly.com ©2019 Times Media Group All rights reserved.

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Female Filmmakers Fuse Film Festival

The 3rd annual Female Filmmakers Fuse Film Festival came back in full stride to connect emerging and established filmmakers as they discussed diversity, equality, inclusion and safety in the workplace. The day festured presentations on loving yourself as an influencer, film funding, empowerment and self-defense. (Photos by Luis Chavez)

1. Panelist of writers, directors, composers and actresses answering questions. From left to right: Rosie Moss, Jarryd Elias, Elaine Wong, Sarah Ann Masse, Debra Pralle, Cris Graves, Julianne Donelle, and Jaclyn Carmichael. 2. Melissa Schuman, Los Angeles Actress, singer, advocate and fi rst time attendee walked the red carpet. 3. Audience at the Female Filmmakers Fuse event watching “Period” by Debra Pralle. 4. Elaine Wong, director of“Three Chen Sisters” walked the carpet with Hana Wu, a Los Angeles actress who stared in the fi lm. 5. Sasha Marie Speer, Los Angeles actress in "Freedom Portrait: True Power Comes from Our Vulnerability."

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Drama OUT OF Theater TAKING THE

HOW A LOCAL VENUE MAKES SHOWS ACCESSIBLE TO THOSE WITH SENSORY DISORDERS STORY BY KAYLA RUTLEDGE | PHOTOS BY LUIS CHAVEZ

What is believed to be the most wonderful time of the year can quickly transform into one of the most stressful for families with members on the autism spectrum. From explosive holiday lights and colors at every turn, blasting carols in outdoor holiday decor displays, crowded places and changes in schedules, December can be a difﬁcult time of year to enjoy. Alicia Green, A Noise Within Theater’s director of education and community outreach, says a couple of years ago she noticed an East Coast trend called “relaxed performances,” which makes theater accessible for those on the spectrum. After doing research, Green was inspired to integrate such programming at the Pasadena theater. “Our theater serves as a gathering place for everyone in our community, so having a show catered to those with a sensory sensitivity is just expanding our reach to give everyone a chance to experience theater in our area,” Green says. These performances are a good ﬁt for those with Alzheimer’s, too, she adds.

Relaxed performances ease families’ minds because their loved ones can enjoy the enthusiasm of theater in a “hush-free” environment. In other words, the audience can expect a certain level of sound and movement throughout the performance. The shows are shortened from their original scripts to last between 45 minutes to an hour with no intermission. Prior to the show, actors come out in full costume and interact with patrons, allowing them to feel the fabric and see the actors out of character. Families are also shown where the designated activity and relaxation spaces are for those who may need a break during the production. As the show begins, the house lights remain on for attendees who to move around the theater and the stage lights are reduced. No strobe lighting or sudden lighting effects are used. Additionally, the sound levels are lessened, particularly for loud or startling scenes. Electronic devices and any aids used for additional stimulation, such as ﬁdget spinners, are allowed during the production. A Noise Within Theater has one

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cоtinued fr page 11 relaxed performance per year, “A Christmas Carol,” which runs from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, December 14. Tickets are $20, but are refundable to keep things stress-free for families. “It can be hard as a family, especially around the holidays because schedules are upset or you want to do things as a family that you aren’t necessarily able to do,” Green says. “Sometimes you just can’t make it out of the house that day, so you don’t necessarily want to spend a lot of money on an activity if you’re not even sure you’re going to be able to get there. Providing something specifically around the holidays is especially important.” In addition to the adjustments made to the performance, the actors and staff attend seminars and training to ensure they are prepared. The training includes exercises that share what it feels like to have sensory sensitivity, and a look at the science behind what is happening in the brain. “The training is a really crucial part because, unlike what you would call a ‘typical theater performance,’ you’re going to have audience members exclaiming, you’re going to have audience members waving at you,” Green says. “You might have rocking in the audience. You might have fidget spinners. You might have a device that vocalizes. You might have someone that needs to repeatedly get up and walk out and come back. So, as an actor and as part of our staff, you need to know just to let things happen and to be aware of what is going to happen.” Green adds the training goes beyond what to expect, and also covers how to behave. “You don’t have to step in and interfere, they can take care of themselves or their families can take care of them,” Green says. “Where you might want to go in to support and hug someone, that could be the exact opposite of what they need in that moment.” In action, the training makes a world of difference. A Noise Within’s marketing coordinator, Bridgette Ramirez, has a 22-yearold sister, Candice, who is nonverbal and attended a relaxed performance last year. When her family was running late to the show, anxiety was running high until an usher reassured the family there was no rush and running a little late was perfectly fine. “It’s hard to understand, but just that little assurance can mean everything for a family that is bringing someone with autism to a public space,” Ramirez says. Ramirez brings her family to nearly all of the theater’s shows, but the relaxed performance was the first time Candice could be, “not just accepted, but embraced.” “It was cool to see the theater transform into a space where she can stand up, she can be noisy and it’s not stressful,” Ramirez says. “We don’t have to shush her all the time. That was really huge. It was just such a relief to have something we could include her in. “It’s the perfect family event for the holidays. Everyone can go, the love is there, the performance is great. Really, it feels like home because everyone you love is with you.”

“A Christmas Car ” R axed Perf mance 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, December 14 A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Boulevard, Pasadena Refundable tickets are $20 626-356-3104, anoisewithin.org/relaxed-performances, agreen@anoisewithin.org 12 | ARROYO | 12.19

Alicia Green developed the West Coast interpretation of relaxed performances.

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Big Portions, BIGGER HEART

HOW ONE PASADENA CHEF IS SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER ALL YEAR LONG STORY BY KAYLA RUTLEDGE | PHOTOS BY LUIS CHAVEZ

Locals know Josh h Thomas Tho homa maas as “Big m “Biig Josh,” Josh h,,”” White Whi hite ttee Horse Hor orse se Lounge’s Lou oung nge’ ng e’ss execuexxec e uu tive chef who serves plates of mouth-watering Louisiana-style food the only way he knows how: huge, and with each bite individually crafted with love. Everything from the spices, sauces and seasonings to the menu itself is a work of passion for Big Josh, who starts his day before sunrise to ensure each dish lives up to his delicious creole cuisine standards while saving time to divulge in a taste test here or there. “I like to eat, and when I eat, I don’t play. I eat until I’m full when the food’s good. If you walk out and you’re not full I consider that a problem,” Thomas says. Making food so good guests have to roll themselves out of the restaurant was a gift passed down by his late grandmother. She taught Thomas how to show love through food, and how a meal can bring people together. “My grandmother is in every dish, every movement, every time I walk in the kitchen,” Thomas says. “I know she’s here. Within six or seven months of me getting this job, my grandmother passed away so that took a toll on me because that was my best friend.” Spending the warm, humid mornings as a boy in a humble kitchen in Baton Rouge with his grandmother were some of his best memories. Before the sun was up, Thomas would be in the kitchen with his grandmother,

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aasski aski kin ing ng how hoow w to to prepare pprreppaarre what whatt would wou ould ld become beccom omee di inn nnerr tthat hat even hat ha ev ven eniin in After dinner asking dinner evening. was prepared, his grandmother made her way to Louisiana State University’s Delta Gamma sorority where she was an in-house chef. As Thomas grew older, he developed a passion for football and was eventually recruited to play for Pasadena City College. Shortly after recruitment, he sustained an injury that halted his career. though temporarily heartbroken, the set back jump started his culinary arts career. Not long after graduating from culinary school, Thomas combined his love for sports and cooking while catering to Los Angeles’ biggest NBA and NFL players in Calabasas. “It was amazing, but the commute from (Pasadena) to Calabasas every day wasn’t fun. So, I started looking for something local,” Thomas says. When he was looking for another job in Pasadena, Thomas stumbled into White Horse Lounge and, “immediately felt that old school New Orleans.” “When they said I could build a menu, I knew I wanted it to honor my grandmother. So I took some of her recipes, recreated some of them, and added some things to them to give them that California twist,” Thomas says. Today, each dish is built in tribute to the lessons Thomas’ grandmother instilled in him, and guests can taste the love in every bite.

A Dash of Pepper and a Cup of Love White Horse Lounge Signature Dishes Bo BourbĐž Stre Brisk

Cajun Cajun un BBQ BBQ Q Shr Sh S Shrimp Bo

Wa Wagyu brisket slowly smoked to perfection is drizzled in a homemade bourbon bacon ho marmalade and lays atop a ma bed of garlic escarole.

S Shrimp, red bliss potatoes, corn, andouille, Manilla clams aare re delic delicately cooked to bring a new w versio version of old-school New Orleans Orlean ans to life life. Each bite packs a savory and an spicy punch that blend the good old days blen with the new and hip. w

So hern Fried Chi en w h Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Biscu s Juicy deep-fried chicken glazed with Cajun honey shares the stage with exquisitely light, colossal biscuits sprinkled with sugar. Served with a sidee of Tajin watermelon and butter made with a seasonal berry, this dish is filled with a lo lot ot off love and memories.

give this salad a sweet weet and sour crunch. Paired with th arugula, candied pecans and nd Tajin each bite is a burst of robust flavors.

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Hear eart is

OME IS WHERE THE

HOW TO HOST THE HOLIDAY PARTY OF THE YEAR

STORY BY KAYLA RUTLEDGE | PHOTOS BY LUIS CHAVEZ

Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, the home becomes a hub for social gatherings, hearty dinners and holiday crafts. Decorating and redecorating spaces to entertain guests can quickly become overwhelming when having to reset each room as the holidays shift. Party planner, Jordi Stringfellow, owner of Jordi & CO, has a handful of tips and tricks to make entertaining your out-of-town relatives and friends easier and more festive than ever. From redesigning your kitchen cupboards to be a one-stop-shop for all of your food and beverage needs to taking treasured mementos and transforming them into modern decor, Stringfellow has devised fool-proof tactics to make sure your holiday season can be spent making new memories with loved ones instead of stressing about the details.

1. Ed your space Whether you are planning on decorating your living space or dining room, make room for your decor instead of stacking holiday items with decor you have out yearround. “Once you start stacking all of these miscellaneous items you get a hodgepodge and nobody likes walking into a hodgepodge,” Stringfellow says. “Once you’ve decided what you absolutely must have out, you can work you holiday items in with your personal belongings that have made room for something new.”

2. M e your eff t cou Don’t get overwhelmed attempting to decorate the entire household. Stringfellow says to focus on rooms and spaces that have high traffic during the holidays to maximize your effort. “Let’s face it, you can decorate a gorgeous formal living room, but if everyone is going to gather in the kitchen it makes little sense to put energy into places no one is going,” Stringfellow says. The party planner adds minimally used spaces don’t need to be totally ignored. Simple burgundy pillows on a formal sofa or gold candles scattered around lightly used rooms will still bring a sense of holiday spirit and keep decorating from growing overwhelming.

3. Bu d fr a found iо The key to winning this holiday season, Stringfellow says, is finding items that serve as a foundation to play off of over the course of a few months. Stringfellow’s favorite is a 4-foot martini glass she sets out on her kitchen island throughout the year. For Christmas, the glass is filled with peppermints and fake snow; a quick transition to the New Year means glitter and festive decor filled to the brim. Another notable piece is a centerpiece of flocked white branches that require no water. She sets them out the day after Thanksgiving and leaves them out until January. Throughout the holiday season, she adds fresh fruit like pomegranates or apples, switches to Christmas ornaments “that are a little past their prime,” for December, and changes those out with pinecones and holly berry for the New Year. “For special dinners, you can always throw in some fresh florals on short notice, but you have the bulk of the piece done already so you don’t have to stress last minute about making a gorgeous centerpiece for unexpected or expected guests,” she says. 16 | ARROYO | 12.19

4. Reimagine, reuse and repurpose Sometimes the collectibles held near and dear from holiday seasons past turn up tired and, “just aren’t as pretty as they used to be.” However, Stringfellow says you don’t have to force yourself to throw away those cherished memories, you just have to find a way to give them new life. “I had a hard time letting go of certain Christmas T-shirts, that my kids wore, but I wanted to keep them. I happen to have a very gifted crafty sister and she took bits of all of those and she made them into ornaments,” Stringfellow says. “So, it doesn’t have to be a patchwork quilt that fills a room, it can be a small bowl of ornaments that still has that history.” Stringfellow says as part of reimagining, repurposing and reusing, being creative plays a key role in finding new ways to reconfigure items you have already purchased. Less sentimental items like pumpkins purchased to decorate for Thanksgiving often find themselves in the trash before they are past their prime. “Of course, after you’ve turned the inside into a homemade pie, spray paint those pumpkins gold or silver and use them throughout the holidays. Pair them with seasonal fruits on a nice big platter or stagger them around your living space,” Stringfellow says.

5. Cre iv y is king Red and green decor is a common Christmas color combo, but Stringfellow suggests trying new color schemes that can expand their relevance into the late winter months. Neutrals, metals, and white are great options or try something totally on-trend for the season. “Usually the colors that are trending in fashion and paint are also trending in tabletop, so that’s something to keep an eye on,” she says. The last couple of years have featured navy blue and teal. “But if you have dark walls, go with light items. If you have white walls, go with more saturated colors. You can layer both light and dark themes if you have an eye for that kind of thing, too,” she says.

6. Cre e an -h e оe-stop-shop Stringfellow says it’s important to be prepared in advance with food and drink. She says the goal is to create a holiday grocery store in your cupboards filled with everything to host a party. The party planner says the beginning of December is a good time to stock up on all the wine, spirits and mixers you could possibly need, “and label everything so you can see if you’re missing an occasion and you can go grab the booze for it early, so when the day comes and you’re doing 500 other things, that one trip to the store is already taken care of,” Stringfellow says. “Compound butter for turkey? Make double, add different herbs to it, freeze it and you have a beautiful garlic herbs citrus compound butter you can put on a last-minute steak dinner for anyone that comes by.”

F m e info Of course, if your plans hit the fan and everything goes awry, Jordi Stringfellow suggests calling a professional as soon as possible to keep things on track. Jordi Stringfellow Jordi & CO jordiandco.com 12.19 | ARROYO | 17

ARROYO HOME & DESIGN SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

THE HOLIDAYS MEAN REVISITING OLD HOT SPOTS Here are some of the area’s most venerable dining establishments By Bruce Haring

As the song goes, ‘tis the season to be jolly. But with the demands of work, school, parties, shopping and daily life, sometimes it’s not easy to find reasons to be in the greatest of moods. That’s when it’s good to turn to old friends and longstanding favorite family establishments who can give you a welcomed break from the stresses of daily life, inviting you to slip into a relaxing drink, some comfort food, and experience an atmosphere that reminds you of all the blessings of the holiday season. This being Southern California, that can mean anything from tamales to dim sum to a roast prime rib. These can be found in many modern establishments, brightly lit cafes, pie and burger drive-in favorites, and breakfast niches. These can be enjoyed year-round. But for our holiday dining purposes, join us as we look at restaurants that have stood the test of time, harkening back to kinder, gentler eras, those places where you can comfortably bring older relatives and feel like you’re in a place that’s been there forever. You probably were taken to many of these restaurants as a child, and now it’s time to introduce your friends and family to The Raymond, Pasadena

the same happy memories. continued on page 21

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—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—

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And if you’re from a different part of the country, it’s time to discover some of Southern California’s secrets on creating a holiday vibe in a place where it’s sometimes 80 degrees in December and there’s no snow on the ground. Of course, what makes that special holiday feeling is unique to yourself and your upbringing, and there’s no one place in all of the region that fits everyone in our multicultural society. But traditions can be made at any place and with any kind of cuisine. The important thing is the people you’re sharing your time with and the joys of remembering the special moments in your lives together. It’s a season where restaurants tend to get crowded, so make sure you plan ahead if you have your heart set on a return to a special place. Some restaurants are open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and many in the Pasadena area have special hours for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day to accommodate parade and football fans. Obviously, check on the hours and make reservations when possible to avoid disappointment or extended waits. THE OLD FAVORITES Some of the holiday dining recommendations for Pasadena and surrounding communities: continued on page 27

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Steak and Stein, Pico Rivera

Tam O’Shanter (Atwater Village) – One of Walt Disney’s former hangouts, this venerable neighborhood place was built in 1922. The holiday vibe is strong with this one, as a Dickensian crew of strolling carolers set the proper holiday mood throughout the season. The menu is traditional, featuring prime rib and Toad in the Hole, and the vibe is old school. If you’re looking for dark wood, leather and Christmas comfort food, this is your place. Just remember to tip the singers! El Portal (Pasadena): The holiday season is embraced with decorations and traditional menu items like Yucatan and Mexican tamales at this friendly and delicious taste of Mexico. During the holidays, they often host a band visiting for the Rose Bowl Parade, serving up a taste of home for those far away from it. There’s also a big selection of tequila for the connoisseur. The Raymond (Pasadena) The former caretaker cottage of the Raymond Hotel now serves as the restaurant after the main establishment was lost in a fire in 1895, this is a Pasadena landmark. The likes of Charlie Chaplin, Tom Mix and Buster Keaton have graced these tables. Modern American cuisine and craft cocktails and offers the choice of a cozy dining room or outdoor patio. Try the Long Island duck, rack of lamb, or medallions of beef. The Royce Wood-Fired Steak House (Pasadena) The grand Langham Hotel makes for grand dining, with a view of the Horseshoe Garden and a new American menu specializing in beef, beef and beef, with an excellent wine list. Mi Piace (Pasadena) For more than 25 years, Mi Piace has been drawing in crowds for its Italian mastery with a touch of Manhattan. You can enjoy a cheerful setting or people-watch Old Town Pasadena on the sidewalk and delight in Italian comfort food like chicken and veal, risotto and pizzas. It can get crowded at times, but that’s because it’s so good. The Derby (Arcadia) In a town that’s home to Santa Anita, this is where the horsey set goes after a day at the track. The dark wood atmosphere and continued on page 28 12.19 | ARROYO | 27

—ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT—

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old world attention to detail, the horse racing memorabilia (the legendary Seabiscuit is still honored here). A great steak awaits, but there’s other fabulous choices on this old-school menu. North Woods Inn (San Gabriel) Juicy steaks, fresh seafood and cheese bread has brought generations together at this cozy place. Warm, woodsy, with stained glass, oil paintings and period lamps will make your relatives relive their youth. Steak ‘n Stein (Pico Rivera) Now celebrating its 73rd anniversary, the atmosphere features stained glass and Victorian chandeliers. Fluorescent lighting is out at this homey station, which prides itself in its circular fireplace, dark wood and brick interior, with table side service warming your heart. There’s also a great steak to be had. Grandview Palace (Pasadena) For many, holiday tradition means Chinese food and a great movie. There’s no shortage of fantastic Chinese cuisine through the Pasadena area, including the legendary Monterey Park experience. Pasadena’s Grandview Palace in Old Town has been open for more than 15 years, offering a comforting atmosphere and delicious food. Damon’s (Glendale) Since 1937, it’s been bringing its guests the best in Tiki culture, with strong drinks, delicious steaks and surprisingly modest prices. You may think of a mai tai as your traditional holiday fare, but you can’t beat the celebratory atmosphere and old-school service of this venerable establishment. ||||

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The Derby, Arcadia

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DREAMING OF

Roses

HOW A PASADENA HOTEL IS MAKING GUESTS’ ROSE BOWL DREAMS A REALITY STORY BY KAYLA RUTLEDGE | PHOTOS BY LUIS CHAVEZ

Of Pasadena’s P d ’ many hi historic t i llandmarks, d k each h winter i t the story of the Rose Bowl comes into full bloom. From the history of the games and tournaments hosted at the site to its recent $164.5 million renovation, its story is always evolving and flowering into something new. However, just down the street at Hotel Constance, a largely unknown account of history and novelty has been budding for quite some time. Constructed in 1926 by local businesswoman Constance V. Lewis Perry, the structure was built to last, and only received minor cosmetic upgrades to the interior and exterior paint, wallpaper and flooring until 2012. “We gutted what we needed to bring it up to 21st century standards but held onto as many historic elements as we could, because we felt it was important to preserve that,” says Hotel Constance general manager William Chu. Yet the conservation of the historic nature of the building included multiple unforeseen twists and turns, as the structure kept many of its best attributes hidden from the public for nearly a century. 30 | ARROYO | 12.19

Before its remodel, six retail spaces hugged the building’s base. When demolition began on the stores, statuettes set against the hotel’s columns were unearthed. Though extensively damaged from the demolition because their existence was unknown to contractors, they have since been restored to their original beauty. Additionally, original blueprints of the structural plans were discovered in the basement behind an old boiler and are now on display in the historic viewing gallery near the lobby. “It’s the little details of history that can be seen all around the hotel that tell it’s story and make this a very special place to come and visit,” Chu says. While the Mediterranean revival-inspired exterior was maintained, designers had an entirely new vision for the inside of the boutique hotel. The rooms, dining area and lobby play off the whimsical theme of dreams. Architecturally, the structures are soft and rounded, and small details like bathroom mirrors are floating and distinctively shaped. Each room features a unique design while staying true to the luxurious nature the hotel has maintained since it was built. The building also features a new parking structure and rooftop pool, which recently hosted a highprofile fashion show and gala benefiting The American Cancer Society. In the ’30s, the hotel was the most modern in the area, and was highly sought out by locals and those passing through town. Chu says the mix of locals filled with wonder about the building’s history and those from outside the area is still a prominent mix today. Like the customers who stay at the hotel, the local attractions that draw guests in have also withstood the test of time, including the Rose Bowl Parade.

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cоtinued fr page 31 “The location of the hotel on Colorado Boulevard is unique. There are no other hotels whose front entrance faces Colorado Boulevard. So on January first of each year we have front row seats for the Rose Parade in front of the hotel. I don’t think you can get any closer,” Chu says. About 2.5 miles from the start of the parade, the rose-covered floats begin to pass the hotel at about 8:45 in the morning. “It’s a great feature for guests coming in from out of town, but also for those that live in town and don’t want to get out there at 6 in the morning, go find a parking space, find a place to set up and then wait for the parade,” Chu adds. “They can just do a staycation, stay in the warmth and the comfort of the hotel, grab some breakfast at their leisure, then head out to seats that are waiting for them when they’re ready.” Hotel Constance offers packages that include grandstand tickets if guests prefer a different view of the parade. Chu says guests can also enjoy free shuttling to the stadium and other historic hotspots including The Huntington during their stay. “We have such a good relationship with the Rose Bowl, and it’s a littleknown fact that we have participated in the parade for five years running. We’ve won award every one of those years, and two of the years we won the top award,” Chu says. The night before the parade, guests can take an up-close tour of the floats, designed with more than 50,000 roses. Chu says it is, “a great memory for the kids to look back on when they get older. It’s a very special moment. And, it helps those parents whose kids just can’t sit through the whole parade.” Chu says beyond the access to the parade, what makes the hotel stand out during the holiday season is its special ability to truly feel like a home away from home. “Right away you come in and it feels like home because we’ve gone the extra length to make it cozy, make it special, and we’ve paid attention to each little detail just like you would at your house. When you’re away from your own home for the holidays, it’s important to feel comfortable, and I think we achieve that feeling,” says Chu. 32 | ARROYO | 12.19

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Sign OF THE Times JONNY LANG HEARKENS HIS EARLY CAREER ON NEW ALBUM STORY BY ALAN SCULLEY

Jonny Lang says his latest album, “Signs,” is an example of just letting a collection be what it wanted to be musically. “I don’t know what will come next,” Lang says. “But yeah, this one was just the record that felt right in this season of my life.” “Signs” is the kind of album that’s likely to please long-time fans who first heard Lang when he was in his teens and releasing the albums “Lie To Me” in 1997 and “Wander This World” a year later. With his fiery blues-rock sound, his accomplished guitar playing and a rough and tumble singing voice, soundings decades older than his real age – 15 at the time he recorded “Lie To Me” – Lang was touted as the next Stevie Ray Vaughan. “I think there are a lot of people who want us to make our first record over and over again,” he says. “But it’s obviously not the way of things. So yeah, I think it made some of those folks kind of happy to hear some just a more raw approach to the music (on ‘Signs’).” The fans Lang mentions probably wondered if they would ever again hear another Lang album made up primarily of hard-hitting blues/rock. That’s because with the albums that followed “Wander This World,” the singer/guitarist’s music took a notable turn. Beginning with third album, 2003’s “Long Time Coming,” Lang began to incorporate strong elements of soul, funk, Motown and gospel into his sound, and by previous album, 2013’s “Fight For Your Soul,” his blues-rock repertoire took a backseat to more of a soul-based sound. So, the turn back toward blues and a more guitar-centered sound on Signs will come as a surprise to many fans. But the shift came about naturally.

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“I just kind of got reinspired, I don’t know if reinspired (is the right word), but I had been listening to a lot of Howlin’ Wolf and Tom Waits, just like that open room sound, like live in the studio, not too producer-refined stuff,” Lang says. “I was like, ‘Man, I think that should be the approach on this next one (album).’ It just felt like the right way to go. But that was pretty much the only thought that I had or guideline that I had going into it. The songs themselves, the style of the songs, wasn’t something I tried to guide in that direction. It was more from a production standpoint, the approach I wanted to take.” The raw approach is apparent from the opening chords of “Make It Move,” the opening track on “Signs,” as shards of acoustic guitar chords greet a pained vocal from Lang before the gospel-like song takes on more of a rock edge. The next song, “Snakes,” sets more of the rock tone of the album, with a driving beat and plenty of stinging guitar. The rest of the album delivers burly rock on “Last Man Standing,” a tense mix of rock and soul on the standout title track, percolating funky rock on “What You’re Made Of” (a tune that evokes memories of Bill Withers’ “Use Me Up” or the Staple Singers’ “I’ll Take You There”) and some slow-burning blues on “Wisdom.” The only songs that dial things down a bit are the impassioned ballad “Bring Me Back Home,” a track recorded in Nashville with producer Josh Kelley, and the acoustic-laced “Singing Songs.” The way “Signs” came together supports the idea that Lang and his collaborators weren’t forcing their creativity or any preconceived ideas on the project. Most of the songs were written with Lang’s co-producers for the album, Drew Ramsey and Shannon Sanders, in about a week and the basic tracks were recorded live in the studio in just three days. “All of the rhythm guitars, bass and drums and keys were pretty much 100%, what you hear there is within one to three takes in the studio,” Lang says. “Then we went to Nashville a couple of different times to do vocals and some guitar overdubs. But that was pretty much it.” Now Lang is getting the chance to see how his new songs – as well as his lyrics - translate to live performance. It should be something that may be fairly effortless, considering his touring rhythm section of Barry Alexander on drums and Jim Anton on bass played on the album. Most of the tracking, too, was done with the musicians playing together live in the studio. “We’re doing five or six (new songs) right now, depending on the night,” Lang says. “And we want to try to put stuff in from previous records, too, that folks kind of want to hear. So we do about a two-hour show. To fit everything in is a little challenging, to pick the songs. But yeah, we’ve been doing a lot of new stuff. It’s working out well.”

Jоny Lang

7 p.m. Saturday, December 7 The Canyon at The Rose, 245 E. Green Street, Pasadena Tickets are $38 wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com Jonny Lang, now 38, began his career while in his early teens. His latest album, “Signs,” hearkens back to those years. (Photo by Daniella Havsepian)

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MAKE THE

Seasо Bright CELEBRATING WINTER THE CALIFORNIA WAY STORY BY EMILY CHAVEZ PHOTOS BY LUIS CHAVEZ

Winter in Southern California provides us with a unique mix of warm, summerlike days as well as cool, overcast afternoons ideal for savoring a cup of hot chocolate under falling leaves. This cranberry orange spice cake plays on this season’s capricious atmosphere, making it the perfect addition to any meal enjoyed outside on the patio or inside by the ﬁre. TOTAL TIME: 1 HOUR 25 MINUTES SERVES: 8

Spice C e

F e C e:

2 1/2 CUPS FLOUR 2 TEASPOONS BAKING SODA 1/2 TEASPOONS BAKING SODA 1 CUP SUGAR 1 1/2 TEASPOON GROUND CINNAMON 1/2 TEASPOON SALT 1 TEASPOON GROUND NUTMEG 1 TEASPOON GROUND CLOVES 1/2 CUP WATER 2 TEASPOONS OF VANILLA 1/3 CUP VEGETABLE OIL 3 EGGS

PREHEAT OVEN TO 3500F MIX DRY INGREDIENTS AND WET INGREDIENTS SEPARATELY, MIX UNTIL FULLY INCORPORATED OIL TWO 9-INCH PANS AND DIVIDE BATTER EVENLY BAKE FOR 27 TO 32 MINUTES LET CAKES COOL COMPLETELY, WRAP IN PLASTIC WRAP AND PLACE IN FREEZER ONCE FIRM, REMOVE CAKES FROM FREEZER AND CUT TO MAKE FOUR EVEN CAKE LAYERS

Cranberry Co is 1 CUP WHOLE CRANBERRIES 1/2 CUP WATER 1/2 CUP ORANGE JUICE 1/4 CUP BROWN SUGAR 3 WHOLE CLOVES

Cream Cheese Frosting 1 TEASPOON OF VANILLA 1/2 CUP OF BUTTER AT ROOM TEMPERATURE 10 OUNCES CHILLED CREAM CHEESE 4 CUPS POWDERED SUGAR

F e Cranberry Co is: ADD ALL INGREDIENTS INTO AN UNCOVERED SAUCEPAN, MIX WELL BRING TO A BOIL FOR 5 MINUTES REDUCE TO SIMMER UNTIL NEARLY ALL LIQUID HAS REDUCED, ABOUT 20 MINUTES REMOVE THE CLOVES AND STIR UNTIL SMOOTH COVER AND PLACE IN REFRIGERATOR TO COOL AND THICKEN

F e Cream Cheese Frosting: WHISK BUTTER UNTIL SMOOTH MIX IN CREAM CHEESE AND VANILLA GRADUALLY ADD POWDERED SUGAR AND WHISK UNTIL STIFF

ASSEMBLE CAKE BY LAYERING FROSTING AND CRANBERRY COULIS IN BETWEEN LAYERS. FROST ENTIRE CAKE AND GARNISH WITH FRESH CRANBERRIES AND CANDIED ORANGES AS DESIRED. 36 | ARROYO | 12.19

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The Nutcracker December 4 At 7 p.m. the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker will hit the stage at the Pasadena Convention Center. World-class artists, more than 200 costumes, magnificent stage settings and more is sure to get spectators in the holiday spirit. Platinum Ticket buyers will receive a Nutcracker ornament and a Moscow Ballet Book with each ticket purchased and have a meet and greet opportunity 45 minutes before the performance, before being seated early. Tickets are on sale and range from $29 to $175. The Pasadena Convention Center is located at 300 E. Green Street, Pasadena. Visit nutcracker.com.

Assemble your

CALENDAR COMPILED BY KAYLA RUTLEDGE

Pasadena Tree Lighting December 6 Join the mayor, Santa and neighbors at the city’s tree lighting at 5 p.m. The tree will flood the Pasadena City Hall Centennial Square with festive lights and will serve as the perfect backdrop to enjoy the company of friends and family while enjoying free refreshments and musical performances. While you are there spread holiday cheer by bringing an unwrapped gift for the Pasadena Fire Department’s Spark of Love Toy Drive. Centennial Square is located at 100 Garfield Avenue, Pasadena. Visit cityofpasadena.net.

Holidaze Pop-Up Shop December 6 From 6 to 10 p.m. Whimsy Pasadena is undergoing a full transformation into the pop-up shop of your dreams. After buying some goods from local creatives and small businesses, over to go grab some snacks and sips, dance to your favorite tunes, and snag a photo at the photo booth before heading to the gift-wrapping station. Admission is free, and in-event purchases are available. Whimsy Pasadena is located at 40 Mills Place, Pasadena. Visit whimsypasadena.com.

Thoroughbred Horse Show December 7 and December 8 Since 2013, this showcase has highlighted the versatility and athleticism of race and unraced thoroughbred horses, including classes in hunters, jumpers, equitation, dressage, eventing, combined training, western and showmanship. Horses compete for $1,000 to $1,500 prizes. Admission is free and the event begins at 8 a.m. The Los Angeles Equestrian Center is located at 480 Riverside Drive, Burbank. Visit thoroughbredclassic.org.

Season’s Screamings December 7 A spin on a classic Christmas Pop-Up, Season’s Screamings will feature the dark side of the holiday season from 10 a.m. to until 6 p.m. Vendors include Angel of Death creations, Fabulous Frights, Rags to Witches, GOREnaments and more. While there, guests can take a picture with Krampus and sit down with a fortune teller. Admission is free, but bringing an unwrapped toy for a child in need is encouraged. Sweet Hollywood is located at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, #201, Los Angeles. Visit sweetlosangeles.com.

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Sip & Savor December 28, December 29, December 30 Enjoy three days of samples from dozens of Southern California’s favorite eateries, fine wines and craft brews in Lot I near the Rose Bowl while taking in beautiful weather and live entertainment. Though only in its second year, this event has proven popular with locals and those passing through on holiday because of its menus and activities that have been approved by guests of all ages. Tickets range from $50 to $135 for adults and $10 to $15 for children. Rose Bowl Stadium Lot I is located at 678 N. Arroyo Boulevard, Pasadena. Visit tournamentofroses.com.

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Rose Bowl Flea Market December 8 From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., more than 2,500 vendors gather at Rose Bowl Stadium selling everything from vintage finds to that new and hip in modern fashion. For the first time, general admission tickets can be purchased online from $10 to $19 to avoid day-of lines and crowds. Each ticket allows entry in waves to avoid overcrowding. Rose Bowl Stadium is located at 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena. Visit rosebowlstadium.com.

Film Tour & Tea December 8 The historic Langham Huntington Hotel in Pasadena is presenting a Film Tour and Tea from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Guests will take a walking tour of the grounds and discover the many films and television shows the hotel has been featured in. The tour will end at Royce Restaurant, where guests can enjoy tea and a selection of warm scones served with Devonshire clotted cream and lemon curd. Service, tax and gratuity for "Cream Tea" are included in the ticket price. The Langham Huntington is located at 1401 S. Oak Knoll Avenue, Pasadena. Visit langhamhotels.com/pasadena..

Pug Yoga December 14 Pug lovers unite at Indie Brewing Company’s Pug Yoga and Adoption Event. While in downward dog, take a look at the adoptable pugs roaming freely around the room. Enjoy half-priced beer after the hour-long yoga session while you fall even more in love with pugs. A portion of every $35 ticket is donated to Pug Nation Shelter. Indie Brewing Company is located at 2350 Sunrise Street, Los Angeles. Visit indiebrewco.com

Model Trains December 14 and December 15 The Pasadena Model Railroad Club will be showing off new thunder and lightning additions to their museum at an open house event from 1 to 5 p.m. The museum operates the Sierra Pacific Lines, one of the largest scale models in the world. Sets from the museum have been featured in works with Bill Nye and Neil deGrasse Tyson. Video and photography is welcomed. Tickets are $5 for adults and $1 for children older than 7. The Pasadena Model Railroad Club is located at 5458 Alhambra Avenue, Los Angeles. Visit pmrrm.org.

Biohacking Smells December 14 and December 15 The Institute for Art and Olfaction will host a workshop that explains how scents created by nature are captured via bacteria to produce common household scents used in items like cleaners, candles and sprays. The seminar will showcase wintergreen and banana scents over two, three to four-hour sessions in two days. The first day will serve as a lesson in the background information and the basics of cell culture, as well as a day to set up several experiments. The second day will be utilized to measure the success of the experiments and learn about applications. Tickets are $155.46. The Institute for Art and Olfaction is located at 932 Chung King Road, Los Angeles. Visit artandolfaction.com.

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