They call it the “Paseo” – an outdoor labyrinth of retail locations in the center of Old Pasadena. It is here that artists gather every year with their “toolbox” of an array of colored chalks to impress the citizenry with their vision and skillset using that medium. Droves of curious onlookers – including yours truly and Susie as well – are tickled to look over their shoulders and marvel at their creations in various stages of completion. The event continues tomorrow before the judging wraps it up and permanency takes a hike.

I suppose it’s a matter of artistic pride and expression which encourages so many to participate. And the 26th Annual Pasadena Chalk Festival’s backyard of LA offers a rich talent pool from which to draw. If one lives in Hollywood, Burbank, Glendale or Anaheim, this municipality is just down the freeway. The categories are varied in theme and inspiration. My own personal observation is that many have chosen subjects of interest to conference attendees at ALIEN-CON happening just across Colorado Avenue (the main drag, so to speak).

The festive nature of the event, along with an intriguing ground level view of process, both appeal to me. Whether the artist creates as a release from his factory grind, or she creates away from the corporate expectations in the world of Disney, these artists seem to be frolicking happily in chalk mode.

A refreshing boost to a pleasant, sunny day on the planet!

(N.B. Also visit Simon Norton Museum and Great Maple Restaurant while in Pasadena, Greater Los Angeles (LA).)

Eventaholic…Stepping Out to Those Unique Adventures Ripe for Dabbling

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Opa! (that’s the extent of my Greek phraseology). What a delightful pleasure visiting the grounds of ST. SPYRIDOS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH in North Park, San Diego for their annual GREEK FESTIVAL.  

Actually it is a huge community event boasting a host of activities plus some luscious Greek main dishes and pastries as well. There is a large dining hall, a wine bar, a beer garden and so much more. Take a tour of the church. Learn how to dance in the folk tradition. Listen to authentic Greek music.

If you are itching to spend some of your dollars (or drachmas), jewelry, apparel, books, etc. are plenty inviting.

As for that food, it satisfied our expectations to the nth degree. Greek chicken, pastitsio and tiropita all settled comfortably into our innards. Susie Reese and I also selected a few pastry items to share at home while sipping with coffee. (Of course there was baklava!)

As for parking, we used the lots at the San Diego School District offices (Normal & Park Blvd) and took their shuttle over to the festival (leaving every 10 minutes). Earlybirds get on the premises for free, but regular admission fee is only $3.00.

Still searching for something to do tonight or tomorrow? Investigate at sdgreekfestival.com.

My mind’s eye is now replaying the movie “Zorba the Greek” starring Anthony Quinn. I’m there…shhh!

Eventaholic…Stepping Out to Those Unique Adventures Ripe for Dabbling

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On occasion I witness a grown woman cry because her design for a particular cake destined for a family member may not live up to her own expectations. The lady in focus takes her cake decorating seriously. By explanation this homemaker of renown (when time allows in her schedule) is none other than the esteemed Susie Reese (my wife).

Therefore, perfect sense dictates that the two of us visit the 35th ANNUAL SAN DIEGO CAKE SHOW holding forth at the DEL MAR FAIRGROUNDS on March 17 & 18. It’s truly an adventure for an amateur decorating maven with Susie’s family reputation (although my girth should certainly indicate that I relish eating the resulting masterpieces).

What comprises the show’s offerings? Over 50 vendor displays (“Baker’s Bodega”, “The Dirty Cookie” or “Poppy Paint” anyone?), cake competition entry displays, a selection of mini-classes and half-day classes, a constant schedule of demos offered from the main stage plus a number of “make it, take it” tables operated by certain vendors – all of these contribute to the event’s attraction.

Some well-known cake artisans (many of them featured on Youtube) demonstrate their talents on the above referenced main stage. My master cake decorator follows the session of Natalie Sideserf who explains “Hand-painting and Finishing Realistic Animal Cakes” The process seems a bit ruff to me. (Sorry!)

Of course, the show’s attendees spend some time viewing the cake creations which are entered in the competition. Also, those goodie bags are at the ready, anxious for free samples and any purchases as well. Susie passes on the opportunity to purchase colors from the lady peddling non-FDA approved merchandise. Wuh!

Susie did play a little at one of the tables as she decorated and iced a shortbread cookie; later she needed to eat the creation because it takes 24 hours to dry. That’s the way the cookie crumbles.

The Reese contingent ends up spending a couple of hours at the show. Tickets to the event are available for $7. Then that Fairgrounds parking fee ($14) destroys any hopes of a bargain for the afternoon’s festivities.

Proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House.

Fair warning, folks. The SAN DIEGO CAKE SHOW appears to be aimed at amateurs for the most part. Many of the studied professionals may be represented elsewhere. For example, friend Rudy Martinez (See MAN BAKES CAKE blog) seems not likely to benefit much from the experience. Amateur cake crafters, though, may have layers of fun.

Eventaholic…Stepping Out to Those Unique Adventures Ripe for Dabbling

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Heading south down the Strip in Las Vegas, one eventually reaches Henderson, NV nearby the McCarran International Airport. Actually, only 20 minutes away, this traveler estimates.

Ethel M is the founder of Mars Chocolates. The factory and cactus garden is open all year long. At Christmastime, all the cacti are dressed up in holiday regalia and the place becomes a magnet for those who live in Vegas. No admission fee.

This guy finds excitement in touring the store with all the goodies available for purchase. Do not expect an easy time at the cash register. Bill is interested in locating a box of the original Mars bars (a favorite). The mother lode is finally in reach!

Sensory Overload…Local & Tourist Destinations Sure to Generate Ooh’s and Ah’s

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