South Bay by Jackie Weekend Guide February 8, 2018

If you want to impress your special someone, here’s a little Valentine’s Day history lesson according to Wikipedia….. “Valentine’s Day was first associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished. In 18th century England, it evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as “valentines”). In Europe, Saint Valentine’s Keys are given to lovers “as a romantic symbol and an invitation to unlock the giver’s heart”, as well as to children, in order to ward off epilepsy (called Saint Valentine’s Malady). Valentine’s Day symbols that are used today include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid. Since the 19th century, handwritten valentines have given way to mass-produced greeting cards.” Then again, here’s a different take on the most romantic day of the year…. “St. Valentine’s Day began as a liturgical celebration of one or more early Christian saints named Valentinus. Several martyrdom stories were invented for the various Valentines that belonged toFebruary 14, and added to later martyrologies. A popular hagiographical account of Saint Valentine of Rome states that he was imprisoned for performing weddings for soldiers who were forbidden to marry and for ministering to Christians, who were persecuted under the Roman Empire. According to legend, during his imprisonment, he healed the daughter of his jailer, Asterius. An embellishment to this story states that before his execution he wrote her a letter signed “Your Valentine” as a farewell.” So much drama! But that’s the story of love. BTW, if you haven’t yet made reservations for Valentine’s Day dinner, you better get on that now.

The North Redondo Beach Business Association will host the Monthly Meeting this morning, Thursday, February 8 from 7:45 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.at the North Redondo Branch Library. Hear from Redondo Beach City and Community Leaders about exciting new developments happening in 90278. There will also be an update regarding the Storefront Improvement Program from Elizabeth Hause, City of Redondo Beach (Waterfront & Economic Development Department), a presentation from the Leadership Redondo Class of 2017 regarding their class project in North Redondo Beach and updates from District 4 City Councilmember, John Gran. For additional information, visit the website at http://www.nrbba.org. The North Redondo Branch Library is located at 2000 Artesia Boulevard, Redondo Beach, CA 90278.

The Switzer Learning Center is proud to present the Women of the Year Awards Luncheon today, Thursday, February 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel. For nearly two decades, Switzer Learning Center has honored women who have made significant contributions to the South Bay through their work in the community. This year is no exception, as the Center will once again honor four incredibly dedicated, hardworking, innovative and generous women who have left indelible marks in the South Bay. The 2018 South Bay Women of the Year are….Laurie Brandt, Supervisor Janice Hahn, Lea Ann King and Jill Smisek Maroney. Tickets are $75 per person. For additional information and ticket purchase, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel is located at 21333 Hawthorne Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90501.

Ragin Cajun Cafe has teamed up with local brewer Strand Brewing Company to offer a 4 course Tasting Dinner tonight, Thursday, February 8 at 6:30 p.m. Come spend an evening with the crew from Strand Brewing Company, taste some amazing local beer, meet fellow beer lovers and enjoy delectable Cajun food!
FIRST COURSE: Boudin / Blonde Ale
SECOND COURSE: Gumbolaya / Atticus IPA
THIRD COURSE: Crawfish & Shrimp Boil / White Sand DIPA
FOURTH COURSE: Cheesecake / Batch 100 Stout
Tickets are $45 per person. Seating is limited – they will sell out! For additional information, call 310-540-7403 or visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2. Ragin Cajun is located at 525 South Pacific Coast Highway in Redondo Beach.

Saint Rocke presents Rocke Your Pink Cancer Benefit Concert with the Crow Hill Band tonight, Thursday, February 8 at 7:30. The Crow Hill Band is a local South Bay favorite for classic 70s and 80s rock and wants to make an impact in the fight against breast cancer. Lead singer, Laryssa Densmore, is returning to the stage after winning her recent fight against breast cancer. Door proceeds will benefit Cancer Support Community Redondo Beach. Tickets are $10. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the show starting at 7:30 p.m.For additional information and ticket purchase, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2. Saint Rocke is located at142 Pacific Coast Highway, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254.

Shade Hotel Redondo Beach introduces Late Night Shade Hour at Sea Level Restaurant and Lounge. Every Thursday through Saturday from 9 p.m. to midnight, cozy up next to the fire pits and enjoy HALF-PRICED hand-crafted cocktails, beer and wine. Check out the drink menu at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 Sea Level Restaurant at Shade Hotel is located at 655 North Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, CA 90277.

The next Beach Cities Free Fitness Weekend takes place Friday, February 9 through Sunday, February 11. These Free Fitness Weekends are a partnership between BCHD and local studios and gyms to provide opportunities for residents to get healthy, and have fun being physically active! Free Fitness Weekends was designed by BCHD to introduce people of all income and ability levels to a wide variety of fitness offerings, including yoga, Pilates, cycling, strength training, boot camp and more. Over 25 fitness studios in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach have joined the community initiative. Some classes require pre-registration while others are available on a first come, first served basis. For a full class schedule and descriptions, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2

The City of Manhattan Beach Cultural Arts Division presents Late Night at the Library: Art, Drinks & Discussion on Friday, February 9 from 8 to 10 p.m. The event features artist Chuck Hohng speaking about the meaning of his signature bears currently on display in the Toyetic exhibition at the Manhattan Beach Art Center through April 1. Light refreshments and wine provided by Critics Choice Catering. Admission is FREE! For additional information, visit the Facebook event page at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 The Manhattan Beach Library is located at1320 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.

Hey 19 Public House presents DJ Mark Stylz every Friday night, February 9 through March 3, from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. People always ask me, “Jackie, where can we go out dancing? You know, someplace local, someplace casual, not some nightclub hipster scene.” Those in the know have been dancing at Hey 19 for the last two years, and now DJ Mark Stylz will be spinning old school tunes (90s!) guaranteed to get you moving. Friday night for real people out for a good time is now a thing. It’s not a place to be seen, so don’t be that person. Come have a good time, dance, drink, eat till1 a.m. For additional information, visit the Facebook event page at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 Hey 19 Public House is located at 4525 Calle Mayor, Torrance, CA 90505.

The second Saturday of every month, community volunteers get down and dirty at Seaside Heroes Park Community Beautification Event from 8 to 11 a.m. Everyone is welcome to lend a hand cleaning, weeding, and dead heading – including groups or individuals who need community service hours. Even though the park is small, it’s a huge job to keep it looking good. As of January 2018, there are over 900 work hours in this project, but once the entire park has received a once-over, it’s time to go back and start at the beginning. This is a labor of love and the organizers are immensely grateful to anyone who gives their time. Donations are also accepted via Paypal and personal check to cover the cost of water, tools, and promotion of the event. To schedule yourself or your group, contact Jenna Christensen at 310.920.9387 or https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2. Seaside Heroes Park is located at 22851 Anza Avenue, Torrance, CA.

The Redondo Pier Association hosts FREE Yoga on the Octagon the secondSaturday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. Everyone is welcome to attend and take part in this all level yoga class where the International Boardwalk meets the Redondo Beach Pier (the octagon below Kincaid’s). Participants should bring a yoga mat, towel and bottled water. Scheduled dates: January 13, February 10, March 10, April 14 May 12, June 9, July 14, August 11,September 8, October 13, November 10, December 8. For additional information, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 The Redondo Beach Pier is located at 100 Fisherman’s Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277.

The Redondo Beach Library will host a Talk on Meditation by Doug Frankel on Saturday, February 10 from 11 a.m. to Noon at the Redondo Beach North Branch Library. Back-by-popular demand, Doug Frankel will offer practical techniques of meditation that can positively impact your life. Through first hand demonstrations of these simple yet highly effective methods, you will discover keys to deeper concentration, relaxation and personal growth. The program is free and open to the public, no registration is required. Light refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Redondo Beach Public Library. Free parking is available at the Library. For additional information on programs and services at Redondo Beach Public Library, call (310) 318-0675, option 5, or visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 The Redondo Beach North Branch Library is located at 2000 Artesia Boulevard, Redondo Beach, CA 90278.

Scholb Premium Ales Presents the Scholb Artist Series: Craft Beer & Art Show on Saturday, February 10 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the taproom. The Craft Beer & Art Show is collaboration with local artists. The night will feature work from South Bay artists, craft beer, and good times! Featured artists include Drica Lobo Art, OsoPorto.com, Marisa Dirstine Fine Art, Natalie Cueva, Tom Adam and Madison Brooks. This event is FREE to attend! For additional information, visit the Facebook event page at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2. Scholb Premium Ales is located at 2964 Columbia Street, Torrance, CA 90503.

April’s Fools Comedy Improv Troupe presents Cupid + Fools = Laughteron Saturday, February 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the Second Story Theater. You’ll laugh out loud when the audience suggestions are turned into comedy on stage. Directed by Valerie Gorsuch and Sandy Marchese. General admission tickets are $10 and $8 for seniors – or buy an annual pass, 12 shows for $60. For additional information and ticket purchase, call (310) 318-1705 or visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 The Second Story Theater is located at 710 Pier Avenue in Hermosa Beach.

The Automobile Driving Museum pays homage to all things romance with the Valentine’s Day Sweethearts Ride on Sunday, February 11 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The ADM is the only automobile museum in the world that regularly uses their fleet. Every Sunday (weather permitting) the ADM features three different cars in the ride program. Rides are for guests 10 years of age and older. Guests will be treated to champagne and chocolates! For additional information, call 310-909-0950 or visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2. The Automobile Driving Museum is located at 610 Lairport Street El Segundo, CA 90245.

The Torrance Historical Society presents the annual Valentine’s event, Tea @ Two on Sunday, February 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Chado Tea Room. This year’s annual event will include a sampling of a variety of Chado’s ten freshly steeped loose leaf teas, tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, assorted desserts and a chance to win some gifts. Tickets are $30 per person and seating is limited. All reservations must be made directly with the Historical Society. Free on-site parking. For additional information, reservations and ticket purchase, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 or call (310) 328-5392. Proceeds from this fund-raiser directly benefit the Museum – archiving activities, historical discoveries, research projects, special programs, its operation and exhibits. Chado Tea Room is located at 1303 El Prado Avenue, Torrance, CA 90501.

Dave Williamson and Dave Yates present the Giggle Water Comedy Showon Sunday, February 11 at 8 p.m. at R6 Distillery (formerly Rob Rubens Distilling & Brewing). This monthly show takes over Rob Rubens beautiful taproom every second Sunday. Attendees will get to see some of the best line-ups of comedians in the city. Come and watch some of your favorites perform in an intimate, speakeasy setting. Tickets are $8. Space is very limited – only 50 tickets are available – so buy your tickets now! For additional information and ticket purchase, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2. R6 Distillery is located at909 East El Segundo Boulevard, El Segundo, CA 90245.

Celebrate Carnevale https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2or call 310-374-1000. Hostaria Piave is located at231 South Pacific Coast Highway in Redondo Beach.

Stop by and check out the new outdoor patio….. Roman Aroma will host the monthly BCHD/Blue Zones Project Social Hour on Tuesday, February 13 from 5 to 6 p.m. Italians drink a glass of red wine with each meal…and they might just be onto something. Studies show that for people who have a healthy relationship with alcohol, enjoying a glass of wine rich in artery-scrubbing flavonoids can benefit the health of the mind and body. Unwind with new and old friends during Social Hour. Attendees will enjoy discounted appetizers and the first glass of wine for $5. The monthly Social Hour takes place the second Tuesday of each month from 5 to 6 p.m. at various venues throughout the South Bay. No registration is required, just show up! For additional information, visit the BCHD website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 Roman Aroma is located at 901 North Catalina Avenue in Redondo Beach.

Join the Redondo Beach Police Department for Coffee with a Cop onWednesday, February 14 from 8 to 10 a.m. at Sacks on the Beach. The Redondo Beach Police Department and members of the community will come together in a friendly, informal environment to discuss community issues, build relationships and enjoy a good cup of coffee. All community members are invited to attend. Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the police department’s work in Redondo Beach’s neighborhoods. If you have any questions, contact Officer Diehr at (310) 379-2477 x2493 or via email at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 Sacks on the Beach is located at 1611 South Catalina, Redondo Beach, CA.

This Valentine’s Day, treat your special someone to a romantic Gondola Ride in King Harbor. Gondola Amore has three packages to choose from:
-Romance Package: Enjoy a romantic 1 hour gondola tour that includes 1 dozen roses, Martinelli’s sparkling cider and chocolates ($135 per couple).
-Special Occasion Package: The 1 hour gondola tour includes assorted cheese, fresh fruit, light snacks, Martinelli’s sparkling cider, chocolates and water ($135 per couple).
-Regular Package: The 1 hour gondola tour includes an ice bucket—patrons can bring their favorite drinks aboard ($109 per couple).
For additional information and reservations, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 Gondola Amore is located in King Harbor Marina in front of R10 Social House at 179 North Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach, CA 90277.

Scholb Premium Ales offers a Girl Scout Cookie Pairing the entire month of February. The cookie and beer flight includes: Thin Mints paired with Fog topper Dry Stout, Samoas paired with Ring By Belge, Savannah Smiles paired with The Version Cherry, Smores paired with Contemplation Porter, and Trefoils paired with Gun Shy White Stout. Mmmmm, mmmmm, sounds good! The flight is $12. For additional information, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2. Scholb Premium Ales is located at 2964 Columbia Street, Torrance, CA 90503.

Tickets have just gone on sale for the 2018 Palos Verdes Concours d’Elegance taking place on Sunday September 30.It was such a huge success last year, the event will be held at Zamperini Field again this year with planes featured alongside the automobiles. The theme is “California Style” and in addition to the featured marques, there are a total of twenty classes of automobiles featuring a variety of magnificent concours automobiles from all over the world. Early bird tickets are only $25 if purchased before June 2018, $35 if purchased before July 2018. General admissions tickets are $50. Children 13 and younger admitted free. For additional information and ticket purchase, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2

Do you have a good story to tell for the California Listens project? If so, apply online by March 30 to be one of fifteen participants in a two-day 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Digital Storytelling Workshop on April 12 and April 13 at the Redondo Beach Main Library. The StoryCenter workshop will cover how to make a great video story, how to write a narration script and record it, how to prepare a visual treatment for your story, and the basics of video editing in WeVideo. The stories will be shared in a presentation this fall at the library and will become part of a state archive of stories about what it means to be Californian. Apply today and add your voice to California history! The program is FREE but you must apply by March 30 and be accepted to attend. To apply, visit the website at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2

The City of El Segundo is conducting a survey as part of their research for the City of El Segundo Website Redesign Project. As a business and community member, your perspective and experiences will provide valuable insights. The survey should take about 15 minutes and is very informal. Your responses will be confidential. There is no compensation for participating in this survey; however, your participation will be a valuable addition to the City of El Segundo research. If you are willing to participate, please select a link below to begin. The survey will remain open untilFebruary 26th – 12am PT.
Community Resident: https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2
Business Owner/Operator: https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2

Here’s a heads-up on a few events you’ll want to plan for now!

https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/esmoa-experience-33/

https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/rainwatergreywater-classes/

https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/rally-march-ban-mhf/

https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/downward-grog-scholb-taproom/

https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/shop-talk-series-adm/

https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/wedding-festival/

This event listing is current as of yesterday, but new events are posted EVERY DAY, so be sure to check the website for updates at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 for details on these and other events happening throughout the South Bay.

This morning on The South Bay Show: South Bay Spotlight, our guest is Jenna Christensen, one of the organizers behind the monthly community beautification effort at Seaside Heroes Park in Torrance and she’s going to give us the backstory on the park and what it takes to maintain it. Don’t worry, if you missed the program, you can listen to it anytime at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2 Tune in every Thursday at 8 a.m. to keep up with what’s going down throughout in the South Bay!

Tomorrow morning on The South Bay Show: Manhattan Beach 360, our guest will be Sylvia Gayed, Owner of Manhattan Tax & Accounting. With tax season just around the corner, now is the time to start planning, and this morning, Sylvia is going to give us a few tips on preparing for April 15. You can listen to the program live at 8 a.m. or anytime at https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/sylvia-gayed-manhattan-tax-accounting/. Tune in every Friday morning and discover what’s new in Manhattan Beach!

Happy Valentine’s Day and have a fabulous South Bay weekend!

Jackie

https://www.southbaybyjackie.com/south-bay-jackie-weekend-guide-2