Summer Guide 2009

summer guide 2009

dining biking hiking shopping surfing skating listening watching vibing drinking partying dancing loving chilling sweating learning LIVING

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SUMMER GUIDE 2009

THE SANTA MONICA DA I LY P R E S S

THE SANTA MONICA DA I LY P R E S S

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Celebrating

100 years of fun in the sun

BY AUDREY ALLEN SPECIAL TO THE DAILY PRESS he Santa Monica Pier has provided a place to get away from it all for 100 years. With the ability to still enjoy a ride for a dollar, get your fortune told for just a quarter, munch on freshly popped pop corn and watch street performers juggle, fishermen fish and the Ferris wheel go round and round, the pier has become a Southern California landmark, representing a thriving piece of history. Today, families still flock to bask in the warm sunshine and take in the fresh air while enjoying a day of fun and education at the pier’s many attractions.

This year, the pier celebrates its centennial anniversary, and marks the occasion with summerlong events leading up to “Centennial Day” on Sept. 9, where “we re-open the Santa Monica pier for the next 100 years with a ceremony befitting this historic occasion,” said pier’s Executive Director Ben Franz-Knight. With honorary co-chairs Robert Redford and Joan Baez, the celebration will include a 100-foot cake and a monumental, large scale fireworks show. The sparks will illuminate the entire bay and will be visible from any point along Santa Monica Beach.

“It’s been tremendously exciting to be involved in the centennial celebration,” said FranzKnight. “The pier is a national and international icon, and we want to fully engage the public in honoring its history.”

The summer lineup of events includes a celebration for kids, “School’s Out!” from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on June 20. With such activities as craft making, creative workshops, storytelling, fashion shows and aquarium attractions, the event allows children and their families to enjoy a day of learning together.

Also on the calendar is the historic “La Monica Ballroom Redux” from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. With the motto of “party like it is 1924,” the celebration brings back the activities of the historic ballroom on the night of its 85th anniversary, with free dance instructions and live big band performances.

This summer also highlights the 25th anniversary of the “Twilight Dance Series,” which begin on July 2 through Aug. 27. The concerts will kick off with a performance by Bushman and Playing for Change. The free concerts run from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. in the pier parking lot.

“The idea behind the summer events is to make them into annual occurrences,” said FranzKnight. “We are also busy creating an educational curriculum based entirely on the pier.”

Franz-Knight said the next century of the pier strives to draw in crowds for not just the entertainment pull but also to “learn about the ocean environment and the development of the pier.”

With the idea of creating a “hands on learning” atmosphere at the ocean, Franz-Knight said it will “take the learning out of the classroom and apply it to the environment.”

The pier has always brought communities together and Franz-Knight added “we are working hard to continue to create a legacy for the next 100 years. We want to preserve the richness of the pier, and we hope to unveil a museum on the west end in the coming years that would include artifacts and centennial highlights.”

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Looking Back On Sept. 9, 1909, after 16 months of construction, the city of Santa Monica known as the “sleepy little beach town” opened the Santa Monica Municipal Pier to the public, and thousands of people swarmed onto the 1,600-foot long concrete pier to enjoy a festive day and the novelty of walking above the ocean. While originally built to satisfy the city’s sanitation needs, the pier soon became a magnet for the fishing community and fueled the imagination of many local entrepreneurs.

Within just a few years, plans were in place to build an amusement pier adjacent to the Municipal Pier. Famous carousel manufacturer Charles I.D. Looff arrived in 1916, purchasing the land immediately south of the Municipal Pier for development. There he helped establish the Hippodrome, which contained the pier’s famous carousel. The building is still home to the entirely wooden carousel. Over the years, the carrousel has been restored with a complete refurbishment of the historic ponies and chariots.

Another milestone occurred in 1940, with the installation of the neon sign at the top of the pier ramp. Now it is considered an internationally recognized destination and symbolizing the Southern California beach lifestyle. Today, more than four million tourists pass under that sign each year to flock to the pier.

In 1983 a pair of violent winter storms destroyed over a third of the pier’s length. Gone were the cafes, the bait shop, the rock shop and the harbor patrol station. The pier seemed too badly beaten to survive. But with citizen pressure, the city formed the Pier Restoration and Development Task Force to oversee the reconstruction. To the delight of beach-goers, by April 1990 the entire western structure was rebuilt and the pier’s popularity continued to thrive.

Today’s Pier Today, you can still get your name written on a grain of rice and spend the day benched on the pier enjoying ocean views or drift toward the entertainment of Pacific Park, have a ride on the historic carousel, and dine at the many seaside restaurants.

Pacific Park opened in 1996, bringing back the first full-scale amusement park on the pier since the 1930s. Five new rides opened this year and “are definitely a highlight in the Park’s history of providing unparalleled family fun,” said Jeff Klocke, director of marketing and sales at Pacific Park.

As a new attraction this year, the pier is now home to the Trapeze School New York at Santa Monica Pier, which hosts trapeze classes and workshops, which include ropes courses, aerial skill development and acrobatic yoga.

For more information on the pier’s history as well as the centennial celebration, visit www.santamonica.org. news@smdp.com BRANDON WISE/BRANDONW@SMDP.COM

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Looking hot for summer

BY MARIEL HOWSEPIAN SPECIAL TO THE DAILY PRESS his summer is about feminine florals, global prints (think: Africa), animal prints like peacock feathers or zebra stripes, and 1980s graphics (splatter and neon).

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Leggings are an essential layering piece. For cotton spandex jersey leggings, try American Apparel. They come in solid colors, stripes, tie dye, two sided (so the front is a different color than the back), shiny metallics, polka dots, zipper legs, fluorescents, splatter prints, and ‘80sinspired prints.

Tattered jeans are back. Try a pair of white capris, indigo skinnies, or stick with classic boyfriend jeans in a light wash.

Yes, you can still get away with wearing last year’s black gladiator sandals. But, if you want to make a statement, pair your little black dress with a pair of gladiators in pink or purple.

Strappy shoes call for a candy-colored pedicure. This summer, take a walk on the wild side with yellow or blue polish. For a warm-weather color that compliments every skin tone, go for a peachy shade like apricot or coral. (Steer clear of flat dark shades, unless they’re metallic.)

For another option in footwear, slip into shoe boots. Last year, the motorcycle boot was all the rage. This year’s boots are lower, revealing ankles. These add edge to a floral print day dress or a ruffled mini.

But whatever you do, don’t wear white shoes with a white dress. Go with nude, or metallic, and add chunky turquoise or coral jewelry.

Big costume jewelry necklaces, as well as printed scarves, are everywhere. Don’t wear both of these accessories at the same time, and don’t pair either with a graphic tee. Stick with a solid colored top and let your accessories do the talking.

Instead of a typical tote, throw a quirky bag over your shoulder. Try batik. Or better yet, screen-print your own design onto plain canvas.

Don’t forget your shades. Splurge on classic colors like black and tortoiseshell, but get cheapies when it comes to retro colors from the ‘70s and ‘80s.

With this season’s eye shadows, liners, and mascaras in fun tropical colors like blue, purple, and yellow, you may find yourself wearing your sunglasses as a headband. Remember, play up your eyes or lips, not both. Stick with neutral eye makeup if you want to wear bold pink lipstick. news@smdp.com

Five generations of family jewelers Custom Design • In House Manufacturing Serving the Community of Santa Monica for Five Generations Specializing in Platinum, Gold and Engagement Jewelry.

Gregory Edward Avedis

Eddie Avo

331 Wilshire Blvd. Santa Monica 310.451.1349 www.readersjewelers.com

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Fitness

freedom

BY AUDREY ALLEN SPECIAL TO THE DAILY PRESS

BRANDON WISE/BRANDONW@SMDP.COM

INSIDER INFO THE SOUTH BAY BICYCLE TRAIL ALSO KNOWN AS “THE STRAND” RUNS FROM WILL ROGERS STATE PARK TO TORRANCE COUNTY BEACH. MOST OF THE TRAIL IS ALONG THE BEACH, THOUGH A FEW SECTIONS ARE ON CITY STREETS. RENTAL STANDS ALONG THE TRAIL OFFER BICYCLES, ROLLER SKATES AND ROLLERBLADES.

BEACH VOLLEYBALL COURTS ARE LOCATED SOUTH OF THE PIER, WITH ADDITIONAL COURTS ALONG OCEAN FRONT WALK AND THE BICYCLE PATH FROM THE PIER. GET SERIOUS BY LEARNING ABOUT THE SANTA MONICA BEACH VOLLEYBALL CLUB, SINCE 1982, CONSIDERED ONE OF THE PREMIER SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA VOLLEYBALL CLUBS. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE SANTA MONICA BEACH CLUB, VISIT WWW.SMBCVOLLEYBALL.COM

SANTA MONICA STAIRS LOCATED AT FOURTH STREET AND ADELAIDE DRIVE IN SANTA MONICA. THERE ARE ALSO WIDER WOODEN STAIRS ABOUT 500 FEET TO THE EAST FROM THE CEMENT STAIRCASE. TIP: KEEP TO THE RIGHT IF YOU ARE CLIMBING SLOWLY; BEAT THE CROWDS BY GOING BEFORE 8:30 A.M., OR AFTER NOON.

MUSCLE BEACH THE ORIGINAL IS IMMEDIATELY SOUTH OF THE VOLLEYBALL COURTS WITH CHINNING BARS, PARALLEL BARS, RINGS, SMALL JUNGLE GYMS FOR CHILDREN. THERE IS ALSO MUSCLE BEACH VENICE, ON OCEAN FRONT WALK, TWO BLOCKS SOUTH OF VENICE BOULEVARD THAT CONTAINS WEIGHT LIFTING EQUIPMENT IN A GATED AREA. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT HTTP://MUSCLEBEACHVENICE.COM.

MAO’S KITCHEN 1512 PACIFIC AVE., VENICE PHONE (310) 581-8305. LUNCH SPECIALS OF $7.50-$8.50 FROM 11:30 A.M. – 5 P.M. HEALTHY DIET MENU OPTIONS, ASK FOR SAUCE ON THE SIDE, STEAMED VEGETABLES, VEGAN STYLE MEALS.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON LOCAL BEACH ACTIVITIES, VISIT WWW.SANTAMONICA.COM.

ith sweeping beaches and trails for the jogger and cyclist, an adult playground for the heavy lifter, ongoing volleyball games and the infamous stairs for the cardio crazed, Santa Monica and nearby Venice Beach offer everything the workout enthusiast/health nut would ever need, all in a free outdoor gym.

To take advantage of the activities offered at the beach, and, instead of spending the usual 60 minutes on the gym’s treadmill, stair master or stationary bike, I opted one Saturday morning to pull out my rusty bike, tennis shoes and sun block for a day of sweating in fresh air.

I started at the South Bay Bicycle Trail, stretching 22-miles along Santa Monica State Beach. Welcoming any non-motorized wheeled apparatus, the trail gave me a breathless feeling and I could already feel the burn in my calves. At the waterfront, surfers and sunbathers alike soaked up the rays, sporting their new summer swim gear and beautifully bronzed bodies. The mild surf of Santa Monica allures swimmers, bodysurfers and boogie boarders, with all gear available to rent for the day or the hour.

If bikini-clad volleyball girls are your thing, you can always find a game at the volleyball courts south of the pier, free of charge. From seasoned volleyball players to first-time rookies, the courts offer a great arm and shoulder workout. Additional beach courts run along Ocean Front Walk and the bicycle path, and all were equally busy with some of L.A.’s most beautiful bodies.

With the burn in my arms, shoulders and calves from bicycling and volleyball, I was really ready to work the hamstrings and gluts and headed to Santa Monica’s popular stairs on Fourth Street and Adelaide Drive.

Everyone seemed to have the same idea at 11:30 a.m. that weekend morning. When I arrived and tied up my tennis shoes at the bottom of the staircase, I watched many, many prancing Los Angelinos bouncing along at varying speeds. Some were going up, others sprinting down, and most sported headphones and short shorts. The determination on their faces was daunting.

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OK. I can do this, I said to myself, staring at the first of the 154 steps. I spend hours on the stair master each week, my legs are ready! I was only about halfway up the concrete stairs and the sweat was really dripping. (Note: bring a water bottle with you!) Above me marched stair enthusiasts with their perfect behinds and firm thighs.

To my amazement, several were actually sprinting up two stairs at a time, moving past a few of the slower, softer bodies.

Once I got to the top (huffing and puffing) I paused for a bit (really just trying to breathe) and checked out the beautiful panoramic ocean view and the beach goers stretched out below on the sand, a few runners jostling along the beach below. With a deep inhale of the fresh ocean air, I realized it was worth the sweat and struggle to get to the top. And, going down is pleasant enough (minus a few over zealous hard bodies, shoving to reach the top at lighting speed). When I was back at the base of the stairs, the adrenaline was pumping, so I decided to do it again, and then rewarded myself with a power walk downhill to the water and enjoyed another stunning view and a cool down from my great workout.

With that, I headed down to check out the original Muscle Beach just south of the pier. Complete with rings, 30-foot ropes and other fitness apparatuses, I watched six-pack sporting hunks swing along the jungle gym. Still sweaty from the stairs, I was content to sit this workout out and watch the show from the sand.

To complete the day of activity and plentiful sun exposure, I made my way to enjoy a late afternoon meal at Venice Beach’s Mao’s Kitchen. This local’s hot spot is adorned with vintage Chinese Mao Zedong-era posters spread over exposed brick walls and carries out Mao’s motto of “serve the people!” The affordable menu was full of fresh Chinese healthy food, with brown rice options and plenty of vegetables. I enjoyed a steaming plate of leafy greens with just the right amount of soy sauce and a warm vegan soup of tofu and vegetables. A pot of toasted grain tea energized me. After paying a cheap bill just under $20, I left the day, feeling completely refreshed, with tanner, firmer limbs, clearer lungs and that perfect tousled beach hair. news@smdp.com

FRESH FUNKY FUN

Twist

2601 17th St and Ocean Park (look for the Pink store across from Bob’s)

Santa Monica 310.314.9161

Hours: Tues Fri 12-7 Sat 11-6 Sun 12-5

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Pacific Park’s

new look

BY AUDREY ALLEN SPECIAL TO THE DAILY PRESS uring this milestone of the Santa Monica Pier passing into its 100th year, Pacific Park recently opened five familyfriendly rides and the all new Seaside Pavilion geared toward providing a venue for family and corporate events.

“Santa Monica offers an incredible attraction with the pier, and the 100th anniversary was the perfect time to open these new rides and get the whole family out for a day at the beach,” Jeff Klocke, director of marketing and sales at Pacific Park, said.

“Our goal was to make sure parents had the option to participate in their child’s experience by presenting an interactive, dynamic family environment that everyone could enjoy.”

Spanning two acres on the pier, Pacific Park’s 12 amusement rides, 21 midway games and food plaza offer something for all ages. “You can take in the fresh ocean air while riding the rides with your kids,” Klocke said. Signature rides include the Pacific Wheel, the world’s first solar-powered Ferris wheel and The West Coaster, a steel roller coaster that races 55-feet above the Santa Monica Bay. The Seaside Pavilion opened in May and its 3,400-square feet provide a space for private events complete with sweeping oceanfront views. According to Klocke, the idea is that families can book their child’s next birthday party event at the pavilion and then enjoy an afternoon at the park’s rides.

Pacific Park opens at 11 a.m. and closes at 11 p.m. on weekdays and 12:30 a.m. on weekends. Unlimited all-day ride wrist bands are $24.95 for riders 8-years-old and older and $15.95 for children 7-years-old and under. Individual rides are $3 and $5.

For more information, visit www.pacpark.com.

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WHAT’S NEW AT PACIFIC PARK INKIE’S AIR LIFT FEATURING THE COMBINED MOVEMENTS OF A TRADITIONAL “TEA CUP” RIDE AND A HOT-AIR BALLOON RACE, RIDERS CAN ROTATE IN ONE OF THE EIGHT COLORFUL CARS WHILE THE BALLOON RISES.

SIG ALERT EV THESE ELECTRIC VEHICLES (THINK BUMPER CAR STYLE) SPIN 360 DEGREES AND ARE EQUIPPED WITH COVERED BUMPER TUBES THAT SAFELY ABSORB SHOCK WHILE PROVIDING A HOVER-LIKE RIDE.

SEA PLANES BRIGHTLY COLORED PLANES THAT FIT UP TO FOUR CHILDREN AND ADULTS TAKE OFF AND SOAR ABOVE THE PIER DECKING. THE PASSENGERS CONTROL THE HEIGHT AND SPEED OF ASCENT OF THE PLANE.

ROCKIN’ TUG RIDERS EXPERIENCE ROCKING AND WHIRLING MOTIONS SIMULATING A SEA-LIKE ADVENTURE WITH THESE HARBOR STYLE TUGS THAT HOLD UP TO 12 CHILDREN AND ADULTS.

SANTA MONICA PIER PATROL THE JUNIOR SIZED TRUCKS OFFER FAMILIES THE CHANCE TO PATROL THE PIER AS THEY RIDE ALONG A TRACK THROUGH BEACH SCENES.

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THE SANTA MONICA DA I LY P R E S S

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CALENDAR2009

BRANDON WISE/BRANDONW@SMDP.COM

SUMMERLONG EVENTS SANTA MONICA FARMERS’ MARKETS Santa Monica's four weekly certified farmers’ markets feature assorted fresh vegetables and fruits, cut flowers, artisan breads, gourmet cheeses, delectable prepared foods, live music and more!

The days, times and locations are as follows: • Wednesdays, 8:30 a .m. — 1:30 p.m., Second Street and Arizona • Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. — 1 p.m., Third Street and Arizona • Saturdays, 8 a.m. — 1 p.m., 2200 Virginia Avenue • Sundays, 9:30 a.m. — 1 p.m., 2640

Main Street For information on the Farmers’ Market, contact (310) 458-8712 or visit http://www.smgov.net/farmers_market/.

SANTA MONICA CONSERVANCY SATURDAY WALKING TOURS Take a stroll through Santa Monica’s history. Every Saturday morning, this two hour (six blocks) walk traverses more than 130 years of Santa Monica history, from its wild west frontier beginnings to the sophisticated metropolis of today.

Downtown Santa Monica 10 a.m. – noon Reservations required. Tour fees are $5 for members and $10 for the public. For more information, contact (310) 496-3146 or visit www.smconservancy.org.

SANTA MONICA OUTDOOR ANTIQUE MARKET Every fourth and fifth Sunday of the month, the Santa Monica Airport hosts a flea market specializing in furnishings and interior décor with a collection of Victorian and mid century antiques.

Santa Monica Airport – in the parking lots at Airport Avenue and Bundy Drive First Sunday admission $4; fourth Sunday admission $7 from 6 a.m. – 8 a.m. and $5 from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Seniors pay $3 and children (age 16 and under) are free. Parking is free.

For more information, contact (323) 933-2511 or visit www.santamonicaairportantiquemarket.com/.

SUNSET YOGA AT THE BEACH

Main Street/Ashland, Beach Join fellow yoga enthusiasts for an enlightening yoga class while the sun is setting on the beach. Bring a yoga mat, water and an open mind and heart as you practice an invigorating blend of power yoga, while listening to the ocean! The class starts at 6:15 p.m. and goes until 7:45 p.m. Classes are donation based. For more information, visit www.graceyogala.com.

25TH ANNUAL TWILIGHT DANCE SERIES, JUNE 25 — AUG. 27 Santa Monica Pier Parking Lot Spend your Thursday evenings this summer on the Santa Monica pier, enjoying a live concert series.

Prepare to sing, dance and rock out to the best in reggae, folk, rock and eclectic world music. Free admis-

sion. For more information as well as the performance line up, visit www.twilightdance.org/.

For more information, contact (310) 458-4904 or visit http://beachhouse.smgov.net/.

THIRTY-SIX BY TWENTY-SEVEN, STORIES OF SANTA MONICA BEACH

JOHN MUIR ART, ANTIQUE AND FLEA MARKET

Annenberg Community Beach House Each image exhibited celebrates some facet of the Santa Monica coastline, with unique stories showing the rich history of the beach. The works assembled for this exhibit are part of an ongoing series of cultural programs at the Annenberg Community Beach House, with Tuesdays at the Beach House that include small concerts, readings and lectures.

Annenberg Community Beach House 415 Pacific Coast Highway

1st and 3rd Saturday of the month – 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Get a thrill from rummaging through vintage collectibles? If so, come peruse through antique jewelry, furniture, music, books, antique crystal collections and novelties from around the world at the Santa Monica flea market. All proceeds are used to support educational opportunities throughout the Santa Monica and Malibu Unified School district. For more information, contact (310) 570-6483, or visit

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Admission is $1.

2510 Lincoln Blvd. (Ocean Park and Lincoln)

JUNE JUNE 7 7TH ANNUAL ARTHRITIS WALK Santa Monica Beach, Lot 5 South Help raise funds and awareness while honoring those suffering from arthritis at the Santa Monica beach! The disease affects more than 1.3 million people in Los Angeles, including more than 11,000 children. There will be a one or three-mile non-competitive walk along the beach, as well as food and entertainment. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with the walk at 9 a.m. For more information, contact (323) 954-5750.

ART OPENING WITH FAZZINO Art One Gallery, Santa Monica Meet famed 3-D pop artist Charles Fazzino during his only Santa Monica appearance this year from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Fazzino’s work is bright and whimsical with vigorous energy and a careful attention to detail. All limited edition art work purchased will be dedicated by Fazzino during this event.

Art One Gallery 1331 Third Street Promenade Free admission. For more information, contact (310) 576-1000 and visit www.art-one-gallery.com/.

JUNE 11 “MARGARET MEAD AND THE MEDIA: THE MAKING OF AN AMERICAN ICON” Santa Monica Public Library Learn the legacy of renowned anthropologist Margaret Mead with a lecture by cultural anthropologist Dr. Nancy Lutkehaus. Event starts at 7 p.m. and is free. For more information, visit www.smpl.org.

Santa Monica Public Library 601 Santa Monica Blvd.

THE SANTA MONICA DA I LY P R E S S

JUNE 12 AND 13 “BECOMING A MAN IN 127 EASY STEPS” Highways Performance Space and Gallery A solo theater piece that reveals comedy, contradictions, multimedia storytelling, aerial acrobatics and audience participation, with 127 stories that comprise the life of a guy who just happens to have been born a girl. Show is at 8:30 p.m., $20.

For more information contact (310) 315-1459, or visit www.highwaysperformance.org.

Highways Performance Space and Gallery 1651 18th Street, Santa Monica

JUNE 12 – JUNE 14 INTERNATIONAL GEM AND JEWELRY SHOW Santa Monica Civic Auditorium Looking for the perfect engagement ring? A dazzling pair of earrings? Or, need a beloved family jeweled heirloom repaired? Take a visit to the largest selection of jewelry under one roof, including top quality products, such as diamonds, silver, gold, rubies and much more! This glittery show is not to be missed!

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium 1855 Main Street For more information, contact (310) 294-1640.

“TO BE OR NOT TO BE?” Santa Monica Playhouse A tongue in cheek tribute of the reality show competition craze that has taken America by storm.

Directed by Chris DeCarlo and Serena Dolinsky with the book, lyrics and music by Evelyn Rudie.

For more information and ticket information, call (310) 346-6044. $8; Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 5:30 p.m.

Santa Monica Playhouse 1211 4th Street

JUNE 13 “NEXT EXIT: BEAUTIFUL LIFE” Santa Monica Playhouse

In one performance only, the play asks the question: “Have you ever had a mundane moment with a stranger become the answer you have been searching for your entire life?” Through a journey of self acceptance, performer Taffy Wallace’s “autobiosolo” show highlights the diverse social geography of Los Angeles. Performance starts at 8 p.m.; admission is $15.

For more information, contact (310) 394-9779, ext. 1.

Santa Monica Playhouse 1211 4th Street

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S CHORUS Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center L.A.’s oldest professional children’s chorus performs Mozart’s unique re-orchestration of Handel’s Messiah at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.thebroadstage.com/tickets, or call (310) 434-3200.

The Broad Stage, SMC Performing Arts Centre, Santa Monica Boulevard at 11th Street.

JUNE 14 “OUR TOWN” The Actor’s Gang This Pulitzer prize winning play shows that “Our Town” is every town, is “your” town with a timeless message that every audience member can relate to. The play, running since April 25, is extended until June 14th – don’t miss this “great American play!” For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.theactorsgang.com.

The Actor’s Gang 9070 Venice Blvd., Culver City

JUNE 16 POETRY AND MUSIC Annenberg Community Beach House Need an evening of literary stimulation with sweeping ocean views? If so, come to a heartfelt night of poetry, creativity and live music with poets including Laurel Ann Bogen and Ben Doller and the music of What’s Next Ensemble.

Stop by early for beach house tours by docents from the Santa Monica Conservancy. The event is free and goes from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. For more information, visit http://beachhouse.smgov.net.

Annenberg Community Beach House, Sand and Sea Room 415 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica

JUNE 18 – 28 L.A. FILM FESTIVAL Westwood Village From the talented films of local high school students to critically acclaimed international cinematic features, this 10-day annual event draws in an audience of more than 80,000 people to view feature films, star-studded premieres, music videos, panels and seminars, outdoor screenings and much more.

For more information and tickets visit www.lafilmfest.com.

JUNE 19 THE BIG EL WHITE SHOW Westside Comedy Theater Hosted by AfterShox Entertainment, the Big El White Show is a night of side splitting comedy. The performance goes from 5 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.

For more information, visit ww.westsidecomedy.com.

Westside Comedy Theater 1323 Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica

JUNE 20 17TH ANNUAL JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION Virginia Avenue Park This event commemorates the day in 1865 when African American slaves in Texas received delayed news of the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863. Come honor this day with gospel, blues, dance and African American cuisine.

Virginia Avenue Park (corner of Pico/Cloverfield Boulevard) For more information, call (310) 4588688.

SCHOOLS OUT! A CELEBRATION FOR

KIDS ON THE PIER!

AN EVENING OF SONGS AND DUETS

Santa Monica Pier Calling all kids! Have a blast this summer with a day of fun in Pacific Park, with activities such as arts and crafts, creative workshops, fitness courses, fashion shows, dance performances, aquarium fun and much more. The celebration starts at 11 a.m. and goes until 5 p.m. For more information, contact (310) 458-8900 or visit www.santamonicapeir.org.

Santa Monica Library, MLK Jr. Auditorium Enjoy an evening of classical opera, with LA opera artists Belinda Wilkins and Sunjoo Yeo as they perform songs, arias, and operatic duets, with music by celebrated composers such as Mozart and Rossini. The performance starts at 7 p.m. and admission is free.

Santa Monica Library 601 Santa Monica Blvd.

For more information, contact (310) 458-8600.

“DOGTOWN AND “Z-BOYS” & “SKATERDATER” Santa Monica Public Library Join skater enthusiasts and celebrate national “Go Skateboarding Day,” with the screening of two legendary skateboarding movies: “Skaterdater” and “Dogtown and Z-Boys.” A film producer and other surprise guests are scheduled for a post screening discussion. Event starts at 2 p.m. and is free; seating is first-come, first-served. For more information, visit www.smpl.org.

Santa Monica Public Library 601 Santa Monica Blvd.

HUCK FINN DAY Douglas Park Have a blast with other kids and learn how to fish for trout at the Douglas Park from 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Games and activities include face painting and water balloon toss. Free admission.

JUNE 21 FATHER’S DAY AT MAGICOPOLIS Take dad out for a little magic and his special day, and spend the evening watching the critically acclaimed show “Escape Reality.”

Dad and the whole family can munch on free popcorn and take home special party favors. The fun starts at 2 p.m.; admission is $27 per person. For more information, visit www.magicopolis.com/fathers_day /.

Magicopolis 1418 Fourth Street, Santa Monica

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JUNE 27 CELEBRATE AMERICA Santa Monica College Join in on the 27th annual celebration of Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks salute to America. Free admission. For more information, visit www.smc.edu/eventsinfo, or call (310) 434-3000.

STUDIO VISITS FOR “CELESTIAL ASH: ASSEMBLAGES FROM LOS ANGELES” Craft and Folk Art Museum Get a behind-the-scenes tour of how the works featured in “Celestial Ash: Assemblages from Los Angeles” were made by visiting the actual studios of the artists.

Check out the museum’s exhibit, featuring ethereal shadow boxes that transform commonplace objects into lasting works of beauty, and then spend the day in the artists’ creative spaces.

Transportation and lunch included.

Advanced registration required; $30 admission fee. For more information e-mail workshops@cafam.org or call (323) 937-4230, ext. 28.

Craft and Folk Art Museum 5814 Wilshire Blvd, L.A.

JUNE 28 ANNUAL MAIN STREET SUMMER SOULSTICE Enjoy a circus show, a sidewalk

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FROM PAGE 10 sale and watch more than a dozen bands perform during this special Summer Soulstice, produced by the Main Street Business Improvement Association in Santa Monica. The festivities start at noon and run until 7 p.m.

Main Street (between Pico and Marine)

JUNE 29 “QUEER MONDAYS” Highways Performance Space and Gallery Dedicated to providing a venue for the development of new queer work, open to all artistic disciplines including music, performance art, spoken word, drag, new media and poetry. To sign up e-mail imackinnl@hotmail.com. Starts at 7:30 p.m.; $5. For more information contact (310) 315-1459, or visit www.highwaysperformance.org.

Highways Performance Space and Gallery 1651 18th Street, Santa Monica

JUNE 30 “CUTTING A FIGURE: BARKLEY L. HENDRICKS AND BLACK PORTRAITURE” Santa Monica Museum of Art During this free lecture, writer and historian Richard J. Powell explores the history of 19th, 20th and 21st century portraits of people of African descent in paintings, photographs, graphic arts and cinema as they relate to the work of Barkley Hendricks in the museum’s featured exhibit, “Birth of Cool.”

Lecture begins at 7 p.m.; $5 suggested donation. For more information, contact (310) 586-6488 or visit www.smmoa.org.

Santa Monica Museum of Art 2525 Michigan Ave., G1

“MARION DAVIES AND WOMEN OF SILENT FILM LECTURE” Annenberg Community Beach House, Sand and Sea Room The lecture will be lead by Elaina Archer who produced, co-wrote and edited “Captured on Film: The True Story of Marion Davies,” an hour-long documentary about the famed actress. Admission is free, but reservations are required. For more information, contact (310) 458-4904 or visit www.beachhouse.smgov.net.

Annenberg Community Beach House 415 Pacific Coast Highway

SUMMER GUIDE 2009 masterpiece “Carmina Burana.”

For more information, contact (310) 305-9545.

JULY 16 OPENING DAY, “THE GOLDEN GRAVES OF ANCIENT VANI” Getty Villa, Malibu Brush up on your knowledge of ancient civilizations and gaze at precious artifacts during this new exhibit at the Getty Villa. The Georgian site of Vani lies in what was the ancient kingdom of Colchis, a renowned region rich in gold and mythology.

Archaeological finds not only demonstrate the highly refined craftsmanship of local gold workers, but also testify to contacts with both the Greek world and the Persian Empire. Be sure to check out the four bronze lamps from Vani displayed together for the first time.

The exhibit runs through Oct. 5, free admission. For more information, contact (310) 440-7300 or visit www.getty.edu.

Getty Villa 17985 Pacific Coast Highway Pacific Palisades

JULY 19 OPENING DAY, “SECOND NATURE: THE VALENTINE-ADELSON COLLECTION” Hammer Museum The exhibit shows how, through more than 50 pieces by 29 artists, sculpture has proven to be a particularly inventive area of artistic practice in Los Angeles. The sculptures, made from 1995 to present day, include key works by a new generation of artists and capture a significant moment in L.A. art, showing the return of the consideration of the tangible object in art.

The exhibit runs through Oct. 4. For more information, contact (310) 443-7000 or visit http://hammer.ucla.edu/.

Hammer Museum 10899 Wilshire Blvd., L.A.

JULY 20-24 FLYING TRAPEZE KIDS CAMP Santa Monica Pier Children can attend a specially designed Kids Camp MondayThursday from 1:15-3:15 p.m. to learn the art of the trapeze, and on Friday get to perform in their very own Flying Trapeze show followed by an ice cream social. For more information and to sign up, call (310) 394-5800.

JULY

JULY 22

JULY 4

CALIFORNIA YACHT CLUB’S SUNSET SAILING SERIES

THIRD ANNUAL 4TH OF JULY PARADE Main Street Celebrate the holiday with the community and enjoy a festive parade from 9:30 a.m. – 11:30. Contact (310) 452-5700 for more information.

MUSCLE BEACH 75TH ANNIVERSARY 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice Beach Show off your six pack and bulging biceps during Muscle Beach’s 75th anniversary. Free event. Visit www.musclebeachvenice.com for information.

MARINA DEL REY ANNUAL FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS Enjoy a fireworks show over the ocean, during Marina del Rey’s annual Fourth of July event.

Fireworks shot over Marina’s main channel. Burton Chace Park and Fisherman’s Village are popular viewing spots, but any water-view seat is a good choice.

9 p.m. Early arrival is recommended.

Free event. For information, call (310) 305-9545.

JULY 9 MARINA DEL REY’S SUMMER CLASSICAL CONCERT Frank Fetta and the Marina del Rey Summer Symphony present the Southern California Master Chorale in works by Francis Poulenc, and the reprise of Carl Orff’s haunting

Sip on a sangria from a waterfront restaurant and watch sailors compete during one of Marina del Rey’s largest sailing events. For more information, contact (310) 823-4567.

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium 1855 Main Street

AUG. 8-9 “CINDERELLA JOURNEY TO THE EAST” Santa Monica Playhouse For one weekend only, the playhouse will present the Japan touring version of “Cinderella,” complete with Japanese narration as performers from Japan visit Santa Monica for their annual summer tour. Join theater goers for a mini Japanese language session and a selection of Japanese snacks and green tea during a post show cultural exchange reception and Q & A with the company. Kids under age 12 are $10.50, adults $12.50. For more information, contact (310) 394-9779, ext. 1, or visit www.santamonicaplayhouse.com/.

Santa Monica Playhouse 1211 4th Street, Santa Monica

AUG. 9-10 GILLIS VOLLEYBALL INVITATIONAL Playa del Rey In this zany volleyball tournament, beach bash players compete dressed in quirky, kooky costumes… fun for the whole family!

Free event; 8 a.m. – dark; for more information, visit www.thegillis.com.

Docweiler Beach, 6200 Vista del Mar, Playa del Rey

AUG. 16 “FAMILY FLICKS: THE 5,000 FINGERS OF DR. T” Hammer Museum As part of the Hammer Kids program, this free film shows the wild imagination of Dr. Seuss through a live action musical fantasy co-written by Dr. Seuss himself. The film starts at 11 a.m., runs 89 minutes and is directed by Roy Rowland.

Funded by the UCLA Arts Initiative and co-presented with the UCLA Film and Television Archive. All Hammer public programs are free.

For more information, contact (310) 443-7000 or visit http://hammer.ucla.edu/.

Hammer Museum 10899 Wilshire Blvd., L.A.

AUG. 22-23 CAT SHOW Santa Monica Civic Auditorium Watch exotic felines show their stuff during the Cat Show. Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission $10, senior citizens and children $7. For more information, visit www.santamonicacivic.org.

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium 1855 Main Street

AUG. 30 STEPHEN COURTNEY EXHIBITION

Santa Monica Pier Step back in time to celebrate the 85th anniversary of the pier’s historic ballroom with free dance instruction and a live big band performance featuring sizzling swing and salsa music from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. This “dance through the decades” definitely will be on of the season's hottest events! For more information, contact (310) 458-8900 or visit www.santamonicapeir.org.

James Coleman Gallery World renowned modern artist Stephen Courtney, whose work can be found at the Smithsonian’s National Gallery of American Arts to celebrity homes, is exhibiting his fine art furniture and black and white photography in the permanent exhibition “Affair in the Garden” at Santa Monica’s brand new James Coleman gallery.

James Coleman Gallery, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

1431 Ocean Avenue For more information, call (310) 4567151 and visit www.jamescolemangallery.com.

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

AUG. 1-2

SEPT. 9

“CALIFORNIA WORLD GUITAR SHOW”

SANTA MONICA PIER CENTENNIAL DAY ON THE PIER

JULY 23 LA MONICA BALLROOM REDUX

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium Showcasing a collection of vintage guitars, the show represents Strings West owner Larry Briggs’ passion for guitars. Briggs is known to travel thousands of miles to personally inspect a guitar, and his shop is an oasis of old and rare guitars, amplifiers, banjos and mandolins. Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission $15, children 11 years and under free with paid adult admission. For more information, visit www.santamonicacivic.org.

Join honorary co-chairs Robert Redford and Joan Baez as the pier celebrates its 100th anniversary!

The celebration culminates in grand fashion with the pier’s first large-scale fireworks spectacular in 18 years. Three barges will illuminate the entire Bay and will be visible from any point along the Santa Monica Beach. The festivities begin with pre-fireworks entertainment featuring some very special musical guests. For more information, contact (310) 458-8900 or visit www.santamonicapeir.org.

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SUMMER GUIDE 2009

THE SANTA MONICA DA I LY P R E S S