There’s some great shopping, good sales and fun events this Labor Day Weekend. Be safe!

Soto Lifestyle — a MDF fave

SOTO LIFESTYLE GRAND OPENING: Soto, a My Daily Find fave, is celebrating the Grand Opening of its new concept store, Soto Lifestyle, on Saturday, September 4 from 10-5 pm. There will be give-aways, food and fun!  Located south of Topanga Avenue in Woodland Hills, Soto co-owners Jodi Perlman and Pam Frank merged with Phyllis Steinberg and her Goodness Design, Gifts and Accessories in this new venture. Soto Lifestyle features a unique, eclectic collection for women, men and children, including Cosabella,  Junk Vintage, Native Shoes for men, initial giftware, camisoles, cake plates, candles, jewelry, purses, belts, Parisian cordial glasses, t-shirts and so much more— all at amazing prices.  This is the fourth store under the Soto name — there are three clothing stores in Woodland Hills, Westlake and Studio City.   Soto Lifestyle 818.992.3340 4863 Topanga Canyon Blvd Woodland Hills, CA 91364

John Robshaw on sale at Filigree — MDF "Best" Home furnishings store.

JOHN ROBSHAW SALE AT FILIGREE: My Daily Find’s favorite home furnishing store, Filigree, is having a 30 % off sale on all John Robshaw bedding and linens in order to make room for his latest designs.  Robshaw’s luxurious, original creations  are inspired by handcrafted textiles from around the world. He  uses traditional printing, dying and weaving techniques, and reinterprets them to create his own textiles. Filigree 12262 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, CA 818-508-0560 www.filigreestore.com

Garba "Mister G" Onajda has got the MDF seal of approval!

GET SLICK AND FIT WITH MR. G : Come work out with the one and only Garba “Mister G” Onadja!  Lululemon Athletica in the Calabasas Commons will host FREE gTonnicks workout session at the store this Saturday, September 4 from 9 – 10 am.  gTonnicks is an innovative approach to toning and strengthening the body using mainly bodyweight and gravity for resistance— incorporating various conditioning techniques from ballet, martial arts, gymnastics, and other traditional exercises to reach and shape up every muscle of the body, including the abs, hips, gluteus, thighs for a strong, sleek and fit body.  The gTonnicks workout is conducted in a relatively slow pace with emphasis to body control, respiration, form, and precision. The beauty of gTonnicks is that it meets everyone at his or her fitness level or physical condition and challenges the body accordingly.  www.gTonnicksFitness.com Lululemon Althletica  4799 Commons Way Calabasas, CA 91302

FALL FASHION SHOW IN CALABASAS: Get a first-hand look at some of the season’s hottest fashion trends when The Commons at Calabasas hosts their Fall Fashion Show event at 3 pm on September 5.   Lululemon Athletica begins the afternoon with a Function Show that includes yoga demonstrations, followed by models walking the runway in the newest styles, revealing the clothing’s many “functions” for yoga, dancing, running and more. Guests will also preview the fall collections from popular retailers White House I Black Market, Diane’s Beachwear, M. Fredric, Theodore, Chico’s and Siany. The first 100 guests to RSVP by calling 818-637-8922 will be guaranteed a seat for the fashion show and receive a complimentary Beauty Bag filled with goodies from Beauty Collection. Following the fashion show, select stores will be offering specials and complimentary wine. There will also be a silent auction benefiting ACT TODAY! Autism Care and Treatment, a nonprofit organization which provides grant money for families that cannot afford or access the treatments their autistic children need to achieve their full potential.  4799 Commons Way Calabasas, CA 91302

And all the rest…

HOLLYWOOD PIANO  LABOR DAY WEEKEND PARKING LOT SALE. Save 30%-74% on new and used pianos in uprights, grands, spinets, keyboards and more. Most new pianos are priced at below cost.  Steinway, Estonia, Albert Weber, Young Chang,  Petrof, Kawai, Yamaha ad more. Free hot dogs, sodas, popcorn and more. 1033 Hollywood Way, Burbank, ( 800 My Piano). Cash/ CC/ Financing. Preview Sale 9/3 by appointment.

E-WASTE RECYCLING: Tarzana Community & Cultural Center is hosting a free e-waste collection on Sat, September from 4, 9 am – 2 pm.  This is a free e-waste drop off open to the public. Accepted waste includes: home electronic waste, such as, Televisions, Microwaves, CPU’s, Monitors, Printers, Laptops, DVD Players, VCR’s, and other home electronics — either broken or new. 19130 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana.

LOS ANGELES CITY BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: Celebrate the 229th Anniversary of the founding of Los Angeles.  Historic re-enactments, artisan demonstrations, exhibits, food, entertainment and plenty of birthday cake!Saturday, September 4 , 2010 6:00 am – 6:00 pm

JEWISH NEW YEAR FESTIVAL FOR KIDS: Learn about Rosh Hashana on Sunday, September 5 from 2:30-4 pm at the Zimmer Children’s Museum, Goldsmith Jewish Federation Building, 6505 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 100.  Join in on the fun with Rosh Hashanah Bingo, Scavenger Hunt, Make Honey Bee Honey Pots and enjoy some weet treats. They’ll have Apples and Honey and Cookies on hand to start the New Year right! Entrance fee $8 adults and $5 for children 3 and over.

FREE DAY AT LACMA ON LABOR DAY: The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the largest art museum in the western United States with 100,000 objects dating from ancient times to the present.  Special programming and free general admission. (Does not include free admission to ticketed exhibitions.) Mon, Sep 6, 12 noon–8 pm – Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles.

STAY LITTLE BUTTERFLY: It ‘s the last weekend for butterflies. More than 40 different butterfly and moth species and an array of plants take up residence every summer for our much-anticipated seasonal exhibit, the Pavilion of Wings. Wander through a unique changing and growing ecosystem. Witness wondrous free-flying creatures interacting with plant life and with each other and emerge with a better understanding of the environment needed for the survival of these spectacular animals.  Through Sep 6 – Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, 900 Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles.

THE 3RD ANNUAL ANGELES CREST ART GUILD EXHIBITION: The public is invited to an Artists Reception on Saturday, September 4 from  5-8pm.  See a collection featuring original paintings, acrylics, sculptures , hand prints, mixwd media. 3609 West Magnolia Blvd. Burbank (Near Hollywood Way – Free parking in rear of building off Cordova Street.) Gallery hours Tu-Fri 11 am – 5 pm Saturday 10 am-3 pm. Connie Towns Burr 818-378-4591 Bruce Burr 818-298-7315.

Karen Young is the Founder/Editor of My Daily Find.  Email: karen@mydailyfind.com

I hadn’t been to the San Mateo area since my former life as a busy corporate executive. Back then, I was often too cramped to enjoy the finer nuances of travel. Now that I have the time, it’s exciting to discover these areas again and enjoy what they have to offer.

San Mateo County, San Francisco’s  little sister, is on the move, and making a real stab for the tourist dollar. Only about ½ hour south of SF, or about 6 hours north of LA by car, it showcases many fine restaurants, wineries, beautiful terrain, and many memorable activities for those not wanting the dense urban sprawl of the city. The countryside unwraps for miles, featuring a multitude of activities for those on the prowl.

Tuna tartara la costanera and Mac Park appetizers. Photos: Mary McGrath

Let’s start with the cuisine. Foodies will delight in the plethora of fine dining options that punctuate the area. Check out Marche, (www.restaurantmarche.com) in Menlo Park, featuring the finery of Executive Chef Guillaume Bienaime, with his strong affinity for seasonal French and American regional cooking. Another welcomed stop is MacArthur Park Restaurant, (www.macarthurparkpaloalto.com) whose historical amplitude is fashioned by Julia Morgan, who put her architectural signature on Hearst Castle. This Palo Alto treasure dates back to 1918.

How about some Peruvian food? Go to La Costanera, (www.lacostanerarestaurant.com), overlooking the Pacific, and it’s cool progressive vibe. Braced between Pacifica and Half Moon Bay, you’ll delight in the treasures of this Latin find.

If you want something more casual, head to Cameron’s Restaurant & Pub (www.cameronsinn.com) on Highway 1, with its eclectic hodge-podge décor, and two bright red London bus’. Beers rule the roost at this place, with over 20 of them on draft, and sixty-five types by bottle. Cameron’s a legend in the area and an engaging and colorful host. Ask about the history of their upstairs rooms. You’ll be in for a surprise.

Cameron’s Restaurant & Pub and Harley Farms Goat Dairy.

Where to stay? If you like the Hotel W, then head for the Hotel Keen, (www.hotelkeen.com) Palo Alto’s newest boutique hotel. Tight and groovy, you enjoy the downtown amenities that flank this hip spot. Who can argue with the Four Seasons Hotel in Silicon Valley, (www.fourseasons.com/siliconvalley) sporting one of the finest art collections of modern and contemporary pieces? Beach junkies will enjoy the suites at the Oceano Hotel & Spa (www.oceanohalfmoonbay.com) in Half Moon Bay Harbor, with fireplaces, and engaging views of the ocean.

Things to do are plentiful for San Mateo County visitors. Children will delight in visiting the Harley Farms Goat Dairy (www.harleyfarms.com).Owner Dee Harley started the farm 14 years ago with just six goats. The farm now sports over 200 bearded beauties, including two llamas, and gives visitors an educational overview of the milking and cheese manufacturing processes. For you cheese lovers, check out the chevre, fromage blanc, ricotta and feta in the farm shop. I’m hooked on the one with lavender!

If Pebble Beach is more your style, then head to the Half Moon Bay Golf Links, (www.halfmoonbaygolf.com) with its challenging terrain that overlooks the Pacific. Its 18th hole has been recognized as one of the best 100 golf holes in America.

Half Moon Bay Golf Links and Thomas Fogarty Winery & Vineyards.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy some gentle sea kayaking from California Canoe and Kayak, (www.calkayak.com) where seals and other marine life will delight and entertain you. Kayaking is easy, fun, and a great way to mingle with nature.

If you like Hearst Castle, then head to the Filoli Mansion & Gardens (www.filoli.org) in Woodside, with it’s historical mansion and adjacent gardens. This Georgian Revival house is situated on a 654-acre property, with the mansion clocking in at 36,000 square feet.

And last but not least, the wineries! Head to Barterra Winery (www.barterrawines.com) in Half Moon Bay, which is part gallery, tasting room and purveyor of olive oil. Enjoy the sculptures and paintings from top-notch artisans as you sample the winery’s finery.

Filoli Mansion & Gardens.

Another must is the Thomas Fogarty Winery & Vineyards, (www.fogartywinery.com) nestled in the hills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Built at 2000 feet above sea level, it was founded by Dr. Thomas Fogarty, a Stanford cardiovascular surgeon. Beyond their fine selection of Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, Merlot and Cabernets, weddings and special events are often a part of their terrain.

I can’t rave enough about San Mateo County. There’s so much to do, and it’s a refreshing change from the somewhat crowded areas of other nearby tourist destinations. If you hate the 101 and 405 freeways like I do, then this place will be a welcomed respite from the density of LA.

For more information: www.VisitSanMateoCounty.com

Mary McGrath is a freelance writer and photographer based in Los Angeles. Her work has appeared in a number of publications including: Newsweek.com, Good Housekeeping, Rangefinder Magazine, After Capture Magazine and Copley Newspapers.  She specializes in travel, fine dining, and educational pieces regarding photography.  She can be reached through her web site at www.marymcgrathphotography.com or grathy@aol.com

NOMINATE A HERO: Hugo’s Restaurants (a My Daily Find fave), known as the home of the Hollywood Power Breakfast, healthy food and the original Pasta Mama,  celebrates 30 years in business this month by honoring its customers’ personal heroes.

Pasta Mama.

Beginning today, Hugo’s is asking customers to nominate someone they think deserves a complementary meal for two at Hugo’s as part of their “It’s our Birthday – Nominate Your Personal Hero – We’ll Give Them a Present” promotion.

Hugo’s co-owner, Leslie Brenner,  asks that people choose “ an individual who they think is heroic, has done something special for others, has made an outstanding contribution to the community, etc. and deserves recognition.” Email hugos@sbcglobal.net with the name of your personal hero and contact info and why you believe he or she should be chosen. Hugo’s will then select a Hero of the Week and give them a Dinner for Two and publicize the winner on Facebook, Twitter and the Hugo’s website.

Watch for Hugo’s opening in Agoura this November!

D'Cache.

HOT SUMMER NIGHT: D’Cache continues its summer party on Thursday, September 2 with Salsa Night at 8pm. Enjoy a  live band, dance, hang out, stay for dinner ….PLUS  complementary (that means FREE) tapas and mojitos.   D’Cache is a hidden gem featuring Latin Fusion cuisine situated in a charming 1928 Spanish cottage with various rooms, a garden patio, bar and music nightly. 10717 Riverside Drive Toluca Lake 818.506.9600.

Unami is a Japanese-inspired burger and drink menu with different concepts at each location.

UMAMI BURGER UPDATE: In June, My Daily Find reported that Umami Burger was coming to Studio City on September 1. Well, that’s today and no Umami in sight. According to owner Adam Fleischman, the target opening date is now October 1. With  Counter Burger close by, get ready for burger wars!

PIZZA AND MORE: Fresh Brothers Pizza is opening a fifth location at the Calabasas Commons in October.  This innovative chain is known for its authentic pizzas as well as choices like their gluten-free crust made with rice flour, tapioca flour, potato starch, olive oil, garlic and Italian seasoning, the Create-your-own-salad,  Create-You-Own-Pizza and  Hot Wings.

GAETANOS IS BACK IN BUSINESS: Reopened since July, Gaetano’s is back in Old Calabasas serving up Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. Dine on the patio, dining room or in the sports bar. Got a party? Check out the banquet room.   23536 Calabasas Road, Calabasas  (818) 223-9600

Karen Young is the Founder/Editor of My Daily Find. Email: karen@mydailyfind.com

Tara Lawrence was only ten years old when she lost her grandfather to prostate cancer. The loss hit her hard and the young dynamo with a philanthropic heart turned her sadness into action by volunteering with the American Cancer Society to help other families cope with the same devastation she witnessed in her own.

Host a tea party or a hat drive to help collect more hats. Above: Mad Hatter Kids

“I knew I had to do something to make cancer patients happier,” says the 28 year old. “Along the way I met children who had cancer and they all told me how much they hated losing their hair. I knew I could pair my love of volunteering with my hope of making childhood cancer patients feel loved.”

As a teen she founded Hats Off for Cancer, a non-profit that procures new hats from individuals and organizations and distributes them to cancer patients all over the globe. To date, the Calabasas resident has amassed over 750,000 hats – and hopes to inch closer to the milestone million hat mark with the 4th annual nationwide Hats Off for Cancer Mad Hatter Day Hat Drive this October.

In 1996 Tara began her quest with a small letter and telephone campaign to local businesses, public offices, celebrities, schools and civic organizations. Oprah, Britney Spears, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Kardashian and the Rascal Flatts have all answered the call for caps.

The teen’s tireless effort to distribute these hats to hospitals, camps, individuals and organizations that support childhood cancer patients landed her on the Today Show, Montel Williams Show, Rosie O’Donnell Show and in the pages of national magazines. With each appearance, more and more hats would come her way. And she and brother Dennis, the hat drive coordinator, have seen to it that the hats get in the hands – and on the heads – of the kids who need them most. All over the world.

Tara Lawrence has collected over 750,000 hats and hopes to reach one million by October 6.

Kelsey Fagnou, a resident of Canada, was only four years old when she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Her mother Laura says treatments can be “very hard” on the little girl and “she was very excited when she was able to pick out a new hat from a big box of them. Other kids at the clinic had on new hats as well. The Hats Off program is wonderful and it has made kids smile in our corner of the world.”

Jill Caterham, Play Specialist at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, says the recipients were “overwhelmed by Tara’s generosity. Especially the teenagers.”

Jean Wong from Camp Goodtimes in British Columbia was also overwhelmed by the generous amount of hats shipped to their Vancouver offices. “When our campers pop on their hats,” she says, “they stand a little taller, their smiles become bigger and the twinkle in their eyes becomes brighter.”

Actor Eric Christian Olsen (The Back-Up Plan, Brothers and Sisters, NCIS L.A., Community) visits hospitals on behalf of Hats Off for Cancer to personally hand out hats, visit with patients and sign autographs. “He’s a loved and respected addition to our Hats Off family” says Tara. For Olson, it’s an apparent labor of love “It’s one of the few great charities where we can all have a direct and tangible effect on the lives of others,” he says. “In the simplistic yet profound way we can give the gift of hope in a journey that sometimes breaks us, but with the outcome that afterward we are stronger in the broken places. I feel so lucky to be part of this.”

The Hats Off for Cancer website (hatsofforcancer.org) is the portal to donate a monetary gift or hat, plan a hat drive with a school church, office or club, download a pattern to knit a cap or request a hat for a cancer patient.

Tara Lawrence

Beyond the million hat mark, Tara says she plans to fund a summer camp for children and their siblings whose lives have been touched by cancer. She also hopes to establish a scholarship fund and spearhead a book for teachers to read to their class when a student is diagnosed with cancer.

“Over the past sixteen years I’ve met many, many children with cancer,” she says. “I have sat in hospital rooms with the children and held their hands while they received chemotherapy. I sat with parents who had stories that filled my heart with love and hope. I sat with parents who were told there was no hope at all. Each child has his or her own special story and a special place in my heart. After each visit I walk away with a promise to myself and the children that I will never stop doing what I do until every battle has been won for each child fighting cancer.”

Hats Off for Cancer Mad Hatter Hat Drive Day is October 6th. To find out how you can host a party to collect new hats for children with cancer, contact hatdrivecoordinator@hatsoffforcancer.org.

Judith A. Proffer is Vice-Chair of entertainment/media company Meteor 17, where she oversees creative development for film, television & literary projects and charitable initiatives. Co-founder and former Executive Editor of Sun Community Newspapers, she was publisher of LA Weekly and OC Weekly and is currently writing “How to Love Your Dog: A Timeless Compendium of Information and Inspiration” for her Huqua Press.

A cool vibe is hanging over a new Thai cafe  developed by the owners of Gindi Thai in Toluca Lake and Summer Summer in Northern California’s Emeryville. Sleek and modern with an industrial look, the new venture, Summer Canteen, is situated in a corner mall at Lankershim and Riverside Drive.

The interior is a sleek and modern. Photos: Karen Young

Summer Canteen is a casual eatery  featuring indoor and outdoor seating, a black ceiling with exposed vents, eco-wood paneling, colorful art, and high and low communal wood tables mixed with smaller tables which are paired with grey metal chairs. An open kitchen and a large overhead chalkboard of specials welcomes as you walk in the door.

The cuisine primarily hails from Northern Thailand, Vietnam and Burma. Most dishes are familiar — curry, noodles, pad thai, and their “not so ordinary” orange chicken (the owner’s words), however there are a few dishes which are more unusual, such as Spicy Basil leaves with minced chicken (Grapow Gai) and Mussels With lemongrass, lime leaves and basil (Hoy mangpoo ob mor din); and Braised lamb shank in mussamun curry (peanut and  coconut spicy curry sauce).

Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad

Upon sitting, our server arrived with a bottle of water with a corked top accompanied by small glasses with thin slices of lemon and proceeded to fill our glasses. Throughout the lunch, she would come back on two other occasions to fill us up. I’ll never forget the first time I saw this done a couple years ago at Mozza, so it’s always a touch I appreciate.

For lunch we chose to share four items, however, there are special “lunch sets” that can be ordered individually that come with soup or salad and rice.

Crispy Crab & Shrimp on soy paper (Hoy Joy)

First up was the Crispy Crab and Shrimp on soy paper (Hoy Joy) — a mixture of crab meat and shrimp with coriander root and water chestnuts which is lightly fried and a moist middle and served with a honey like sweet and sour sauce presented on two white Asian soup spoons. Next we ordered the Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad (Aom Tum) — a spicy dish served in a red cabbage bowl with shredded papaya and a half dozen shrimp, it is topped with peanuts, tomatoes with a spicy lime juice dressing. For the last two dishes, we stuck with the more ordinary — Pad Thai which was flavorful and not oily — and the “Not-so-ordinary” Orange Chicken which is crispier and not as doughy as some Asian restaurants. The chicken was accompanied by unmilled brown rice, which as done here is brown and black rice mixed together with very tasty results.

Pad Thai

Portions are all well-sized, although I wish there was more shrimp on the Pad Thai and the Papaya Shrimp Salad.  Nevertheless, the ingredients are all fresh and beautifully prepared.

In a departure from other Thai restaurants and keeping with the modern design of the eatery, Summer Concept offers Virgin Mojitos and Coconut Water along with Thai Iced Tea and Iced Coffee. Dessert offerings are Melt Gelatos, including such flavors as Mascarpone Caramel Pistacio and Rum Raisin Gelato.

Unfortunately, we didn’t save room for dessert. Next time. I’ll be back.

"Not so ordinary" Orange Chicken

Summer Canteen, 4444 Lankershim Blvd. North Hollywood. 818-985-6611 $8-$14 a dish (the average being $9-$10). Lunch sets ($8.95-12) and include soup or salad and rice. Open 11am-10pm daily. www.summercanteen.com

Karen Young is the Founder/Editor of My Daily Find.  Questions? Suggestions? Email: karen@mydailyfind.com

From Downtown to Calabasas — so much to do, so little time, and so much for FREE.  Micky Dolenz is going to be rockin’ the West Valley — do you know the words to  “Daydream Believer?” There’s vintage clothes to buy and a super sale of designer wear at Madison just a hop over the hill.  Valley Inn Restaurant and Bar is offering an incredible deal on a prix fixe three course lobster meal (and add a bottle  of vino for only $10). Free movies, like  Invictus and  Star Trek,  a symphony, a Neil Diamond tribute band perfect for a Hot August Night — and to wind it all down — if you can figure out how to do it all — a really happening evening in Chinatown.

Beam me up, Scotty: Get your lawn chairs and your picnics and come watch a FREE screening of Star Trek on Saturday, August 28 at Warner Center Park.  It’s the story of the early years of Dr. Spock, Captain Kirk and the Starship Enterprise. 6 pm. 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 91367 www.valleycultural.org

Used Book Sale: Come to the Studio City Library on Saturday, August 28  for a one of a kind book sale featuring paperbacks, hardcovers, CDs, videos, DVDs, 10:30 am Studio City Branch Library, 12511 Moorpark Street, Studio City.

Hey, Hey, It’s A Monkee!: It’s Micky Dolenz  and he’s in Woodland Hills this Sunday, August 29 at Warner Park’s Concerts in the Park. Don’t miss the final concert of the season at 6 pm! Warner Center Park  5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 91367 www.valleycultural.org

Hot August Night: Take a musical journey through 40 years of Neil Diamond’s greatest hits on Sunday, August 29 at 6 pm. The show is a part of Summer Sundays at Calabasas Lake. FREE Concert. www.cityofcalabasas.com/sunsets.html Calabasas Tennis & Swim Center, 23400 Park Sorrento, Calabasas

Vintage Clothing & Textile Show:  Now in its 26th year, the Vintage Clothing & Textile Show is a My Daily Find fave featuring 65 exhibitors showcasing textiles, clothing, linens, accessories, handbags, shoes and more. $6 general; $20 early admission at 8 am. Sun, Aug 29, 9 am – 3 pm – The Pickwick Gardens, 1001 Riverside Drive, Burbank www.caskeylees.com/Vintage/Vintage.html

Get Culture: Attend a free concert by the Topanga Symphony with works by Edward Elgar, Georg Philipp Telemann, and Antonin Dvorak. Featuring Jerome Kessler, conductor and Steven Gross & Julie Callahan on French horns. www.topangasymphony.com. For further details call (818) 591-8477 Sun, Aug 29, 7:30 pm – Topanga Community House, 1440 North Topanga Canyon Blvd. Topanga

Invictus: See the the Oscar nominated Clint Eastwood directed film “Invictus” starring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon on Saturday, August 28 at 2pm.  The film tells the true story of Nelson Mandela and the South African rugby team. FREE  Sherman Oaks Branch Library, 14245 Moorpark Street, Sherman Oaks

WORTH THE DRIVE: Get down to Chinatown this Saturday for the LA Craft Experience (LACE) — an arts, crafts and design outdoor event featuring unique vendors from all over Los Angeles. It’s in conjunction with Chinatown Summer Nights which features site-specific public art and workshops; regional culinary demonstrations; large-scale, outdoor video projections; access to local stores and restaurants; a sampling of LA’s most popular food trucks and KCRW DJ Aaron Byrd rockin’ the dance floor.  Saturday, August 28, 8PM-11PM. Free Admission. Street parking and plenty of event parking available. Chinatown’s Central Plaza. 947 North Broadway Los Angeles, For more information: www.laceevent.com/

LOBSTER AND SURF & TURF DINING DEALS AT THE VALLEY INN: If you haven’t been to the Valley Inn  Restaurant & Bar in awhile or if you’ve never been, it’s about time you check it out. This 63 year old valley landmark has a feel of old Hollywood with its cozy booths and a bartender who stirs a mean martini. Coach John Wooden ate here often, so much so that memorabilia fills the interior hallway and a room is even named after him. Valley Inn prides itself on weekly specials and special events. Reservations are required. Tell owner Sophia My Daily Find sent you to get the deals!

Friday $32.95 for a 3 course Surf and Turf.

This weekend they are offering different prix fixe three course dinners on each day: Friday, August 27, The Surf and Turf — Begin with Homemade Sangria and a choice of Homemade Manhattan or Boston Clam Chowders or Fresh Garden Salad, Charbroiled Flat Iron Steak with Pinot Noir demiglaze AND Lobster Tail, Valley Inn homemade potatoes and vegetable medley. Top off your meal and beat the heat with their newest dessert — a refreshing fruit sorbet. $32.00 per person. On Saturday, August 28, imagine you are on the eastern seaboard for a Lobster Dinner: Choose from the homemade soup of the day or fresh garden salad, 1 1/2 pound Maine Lobster, baked potato and vegetable medley and a Special Black Forest Chocolate Mousse for dessert. $ 29.95 person.

Want wine? Receive a bottle of Castle Rock-Sauvignon Blanc or Blackstone-Merlot for only $10 per bottle with the purchase of two entrees. Valley Inn Restaurant & Bar 4557 Sherman Oaks Avenue Sherman Oaks, CA 91403-3011 (818) 784-1163

OVER THE HILL SALE:  Madison on Melrose is having a huge sale in a new building in the back that has incredible deals on clothes marked down 50-70% from all locations. Alexander Wang, J Brand Jeans, Elizabeth & James, Splendid, Helmut James and YSL are just a few of the designers carried.  Also check out the online sale. Though September 7.  Madison Melrose 8115 Melrose Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90046 323.651.3662 11am-7pm Mon-Sat, 12-5pm Sun www.madisonloangeles.com

Karen Young is the Founder/Editor of My Daily Find. Email: Karen@mydailyfind.com

For years the fun and funky Nirvana on Rooftop was the Indian restaurant by which I measured all others. The kind of place that made me weak in the knees at the very mention of its name. With a Central Park view that had me gawking, a menu that had me salivating and a clientele that had me, well, gawking some more, it was an essential stop on any visit to New York.

Until it closed.

Tandoori Shrimp Photos: Judith A. Proffer

My love affair with Indian cuisine had pretty much been a paneer draught ever since. From Santa Monica to Studio City, I sampled Indian fare in search of nirvana. Sure there was a decent curry here. A tasty naan there. And even a darling samosa every now and again. But for me, there was nothing that could compare to that Central Park South gem.

Until Anarbagh opened in an unassuming strip mall at the corner of Ventura Blvd. and Louise in Encino this month. Yes, the very same center that houses CVS, Starbucks and an optometrist, offers some of the tastiest Indian fare this side of the Arabian Sea.

Mixed Naan

For nearly two decades the Anarbagh family has been serving up spicy fare and warm hospitality at its Woodland Hills location. Named Best Indian restaurant by the LA Times and Daily News, they aim to replicate the West Valley popularity and favorable reviews with their Encino outpost. Word of mouth seems to be spreading…business is already thriving even before its official Grand Opening celebration this week-end.

Booths line the narrow space, service is remarkably swift and outdoor dining is available to those not turned off by the parking lot frontage. No Central Park views here. It’s all about the food.

And the secret to Anarbagh’s success is twofold. Everything is made to order. And you select the spice quotient: very mild, medium, hot or very hot.

Aloo Matar

Their Mixed Naan ($2.95 for a traditional bread with garlic, onion, basil and onion) is light, tender, delicate and richly flavorful. They also offer a Parmesan Naan ($2.95), a Chicken Naan ($3.95), and a Keema Naan with lamb and spices ($3.95). Peshwari is a dessert like Naan, but with almond, coconut and raisins ($3.95). For a real treat, sample the Naan with some of their sweet and savory mango chutney.

You may crave Pakoras, Tikkas or Bhaje, but for me the true measure of Indian appetizers is how the samosa stands up. Quite literally. Their cone, like vegetarian variety ($3.95), is an erect beauty stuffed with a mildly spiced potato and pea combination. The crisp turnover and the mellow mixture is heavenly.

The menu is extensive and filled with vegetarian, chicken, lamb and seafood dishes. The Altoo Matar (a hearty dish of potatoes cooked with peas in a curry sauce) can be ordered a la carte ($9.95) and even the mild version has a nice kick to it. The Eggplant Bharta ($9.95) does justice to the eggplant, not overpowering but enough for a flavorful dance of the palate.

Samosas

Tandoori sizzlers include chicken ($13.95 for a dinner with soup or salad, rice, hot tea or coffee), and a wonderful sea bass ($17.95 for the complete dinner) that is marinated in mild herb spices and baked in the clay tandoor. Soup selections include the Mulligatawny, a lentil and mixed vegetable variety that satisfies.

Chef specials include Balti Fare (chicken, fish, lamb or shrimp from $12.95-$14.95 a la carte and $15.95-$17.95 for the full dinner) cooked in a wok like pan with a blend of herbs, spices and green peppers.

Desserts feature the delicate but not too sweet baklava ($2.95) and the satisfying Kulfi – an Indian ice cream made from pistachio nut, banana and cream , $2.95).

Mulligatawny Soup

Anarbagh celebrates its Grand Opening this Sunday August 29 with a free food tasting from 4 to 9 p.m.

Anarbagh 17312 Ventura Blvd. Encino. (818) 907-7100. Dine in, carry out, delivery and catering. Lunch and dinner Monday – Sunday. Lunch specials from $6.95, Dinner specials from $10.95.

Judith A. Proffer is Vice-Chair of entertainment/media company Meteor 17, where she oversees creative development for film, television & literary projects and charitable initiatives. Co-founder and former Executive Editor of Sun Community Newspapers, she was publisher of LA Weekly and OC Weekly and is currently writing “How to Love Your Dog: A Timeless Compendium of Information and Inspiration” for her Huqua Press.

Channel Italian food and culture on two Thursday evenings in August and September at The Americana at Brand with Cinema Al Fresco — Movies on the Green Italian Style. The screenings are free and a prime opportunity to check out the much anticipated Deluca’s Italian Deli which opened earlier this month —  order a picnic basket to  enjoy with Under the Tuscan Sun (starring Diane Lane) this Thursday, August 26 and mark your calendars for Ocean’s Twelve (starring Brad Pitt and George Clooney) on September 30.

Deluca’s is a contemporary Italian marketplace-café from Trancredi Deluca, who also owns Trattoria Amici at the Americana, as well as Amici in Brentwood.  Deluca’s (which he co-owns with mall impresario Rick Caruso) is bringing an atypical culinary world to typical mall cuisine.

Deluca’s offers over 40  domestic and  imported cheeses, Italian cured meats, fine wines, and a deli case of  salads, sandwiches and hot Italian fare, and homemade biscotti and butter cookies.

Amici Executive Chef Piero Topputo is helming the  kitchen, presenting a stylish menu. Combination salads include the Tonno e Fagioli, imported Italian tuna with cannellini beans; Insalata di Mare, a mixed seafood salad marinated in extra virgin olive oil ; and Pasta Crudaiola with tomatoes, eggplant, basil and ricotta.  There are 12 choices of hot and cold sandwiches such as Panino Prosciutto, imported Parma prosciutto, fresh mozzarella and sliced tomato, and the Panino alla Salsiccia which is stuffed with homemade Sabatino sausages, sauted bell peppers and onions on rustic ciabatta bread. Also available are favorite standards such as Melanzane alla Parmiggiana, traditional eggplant parmesan and Polpettine e Piselli, traditional Italian meatballs with tomato sauce.

A sommelier is always on-hand to recommend the perfect wine for your meal.  If you are on-the-run, there are freshly packaged dishes available, as well as marketplace goods with such items as premium pasta, olive oil, Italian beer, spices, herbs, bread sticks and imported candy.

Deluca’s has both casual indoor and outdoor seating. The sleek interior features rich oak furniture and high ceilings, white tile walls, custom millwork made of Italian Cypress and glass display cases featuring a selection of cheeses, olive oils and wines. There is also a community table made of vintage Italian wine crates.

The outdoor patio seating is perfect for people watching, or rather, Piazza Americana at Brand -style!  Or bring food over to the Green for an evening of Cinema Al Fresco.

Deluca’s Italian Deli 781 Americana Way Glendale, CA 91210 877.701. Open 10am – 10pm daily.  ($3.95-$10.95)  info@delucasdeli.com  www.delucasdeli.com

Cinema Al Fresco — Movies on the Green Italian Style at The Americana at Brand 889 Americana Way, Suite 330, Glendale, CA 91210 Phone 818.637.8982. The Green opens at 5 pm.  The screening begins after sundown (around 7:30). Sponsored by the National Italian American Foundation.

Karen Young is the Founder/Editor of My Daily Find. Got something to say? Email: karen@mydailyfind.com

The word that most often describes Alexandre Dumas’ “The Three Musketeers” is swashbuckling, and indeed you’d be hard pressed to find three (no, four) more swaggering, vociferous, impetuous, and confident fellows than his Aramis, Athos, Portos and d’Artagnan; hearty fellows, all, and pledged to the death for each other with their resounding “All for one, and one for all!”

The Theatricum Botanicum has captured the very essence of “swashbuckling” in their current production of “The Three Musketeers” which runs in repertory with four other outstanding plays. The massive outdoor stage, with its surrounding path-riddled, tree covered hillside and vale lends itself well to this play’s bigger-than life action, pageantry and intrigue.

Whether it’s a rowdy tavern brawl, a free-for-all sword fight, a posturing minuet at the Royal Ball, or a clandestine meeting designed for pleasure or plotting evil, the audience is drawn in and carried along by the energy and passion of this remarkable company of performers.

The play begins as d’Artagnan a young, noble-minded peasant with dreams of glory, departs for Paris to seek membership in the famed royal guard of King Louis XIII.

Instead, he finds himself in a tavern where rough men are abusing a pretty laundress. He’s captivated by her beauty and tries to rescue her, only to be thrown to the floor by Rochfort the arrogant captain of the Cardinal’s guard. From his position under the table he sees the captain secretly pass a box and a message to a mysterious woman in black (Abby Craden).

Humiliated, d’Artagnan vows vengeance on Rochfort and starts after him, only to be drawn aside by a trio of Musketeers who wisely advise him to reconsider. However, in his haste to restore his honor, d’Artagnan unwittingly offends each of the Musketeers who then challenge him to private duels.

Bravely the boy meets “the three inseparables” who “undoubtedly will kill me one at a time.” But he proves himself valiant with the sword, and a bond of friendship is formed. Later, when d’Artagnan is brought before the king for “illegal” dueling, the three defend him and take him on as their apprentice.

High adventure follows as together the foursome bravely battle political intrigue, deadly deceit, dastardly doings in the name of religion, and the wiles of one very unscrupulous and wicked woman. With a generous splash of humor to temper the murder and mayhem, this full-version adaptation of Dumas’ play (by director Ellen Geer) is pure entertainment.

Jackson McCord Thompson performs an outstanding d’Artagnan; his youthful, fresh-from-the farm appearance and bumbling ways endearing him to the audience from the start. Jim LeFave’s likable, battered & bruised (and jilted) Athos also wins hearts. Kelly C. Henton impresses as Portos. The bearded and mustachioed Melora Marshall plays the male role of Aramis with surprising machismo. Way to go, girl!

Andrew Ravani captures the narcissistic King Louis XIII in flamboyant yellow and maroon stripes and shoulder length wavy black hair. It’s hard to take your eyes off him, and equally hard not to grin, except of course when he’s killing Protestants!

William Dennis Hunt, as the scheming Cardinal Richelieu, oils his way convincingly through the king’s courts, while handsome Aaron Hendry, as Duke of Buckingham, titillates the audience as the lover of both Queen and vixen in black. Sam Breen exudes formidable menace as the scar-faced Rochfort.

Samara Frame portrays Queen Anne with suitable style and majesty, while Abby Craden easily carries the role of the beautiful and wicked MiLady, whether in inky cloak, gown, or bustiere. Willow Geer plays the comely, good-hearted laundress, Constance, who captures d’Artagnan’s heart and loses her life in the process.

Kudos also go Aaron Hendry as Fight Choreographer and Willow Geer as Dance Choreographer.

Performances are – Fridays at 8:00 pm & Sundays at 7:30 pm through October 3rd. (The final Sunday performance is at 3:30 pm.) Tickets prices – Adults: $32 (lower tier) $20 (upper tier), Seniors, Students, Equity: $20/$15, Children (5-11): $10, Children under 5: Free.

On each of the Fridays in September, there will be a pre-performance French-buffet (attended by costumed swashbucklers and chambermaids) at 6:30 pm. Ticket prices for Friday night performance and buffet: – Adults: $45, Teens (13-18): $35, Children (12 and under): $20.

For tickets and information call (310) 455-3723 or visit www.theatricum.com

The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum is located at: 1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd Topanga, CA 90290 (Between PCH and Ventura Freeway) Dress casually (warmly for evenings) and bring cushions for bench seating.

Jackie Houchin is a freelance theater reviewer, covering plays, musicals and readings for the San Fernando and San Gabriel Valleys. She also reviews books for several mystery magazines and writes articles for a local biweekly newspaper.  www.jackiehouchin.com

Anna Maria Alberghetti, Hugh O’Brian, Jane Withers and Marjorie Lord were among the 18 legendary Republic Pictures stars who unveiled the new Republic Pictures sign on Wednesday, August 18, 2010 at CBS Studio Center on the Western Walk of Fame.

The event kicked off a month long commemoration of Republic Pictures 75th Anniversary coordinated by the Studio City Neighborhood Council’s Cultural Affairs Committee. The new Republic Pictures sign will be affixed to the CBS Studio Center building above the former gate entrance at Carpenter Avenue

Founded in 1935 by Herbert J. Yates, Republic Pictures is recognized for its westerns, movie serials and B-films emphasizing mystery and action, the staples of Saturday afternoon matinees. Throughout its 24-year history, Republic launched the careers of John Wayne, Gene Autry, Rex Allen, and Roy Rogers, and provided believable special effects for  The Adventures of Captain Marvel and Commando Cody: Sky Marshal of the Universe serials. The former Republic Pictures lot is now home to CBS Studio Center.

Front row (left to right): Anne Jeffreys, Ann Rutherford, Joan Leslie, Adrian Booth, Coleen Gray, Shirley Mitchell, Jane Withers. Back row (left to right): Hugh O’Brian, Ben Cooper, Marjorie Lord, Dick Jones, Tommy Cook, Donna Martell, Marsha Hunt, Eilene Janssen, Anna Maria Alberghetti, Jane Kean. Note: Peggy Stewart was at sign unveiling ceremony but not present for photograph. Photo credit Lee Davis, © 2010

Other local events planned for the 75th anniversary of Republic Pictures include:

• On Wednesday, September 15, 2010 the Egyptian Theatre presents Republic Pictures films and trailers with live “vaudeville” entertainment. 7:30 P.M. at 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028. Ticket prices can be found at www.americancinematheque.com

• On Tuesday, September 21, 2010, the Studio City Branch Library welcomes Marc Wanamaker, Los Angeles and Motion Picture historian, as he speaks to guests on the history of Studio City and Republic Pictures. 7 P.M. at 12511 Moorpark St., Studio City, CA 91604. Free admission.

• And, finally, on Saturday, September 25, 2010, free of charge to the public, a grand Republic Pictures 75th Anniversary Event takes place from 11 A.M. – 5 P.M. at the former Republic Studios lot, CBS Studio Center, 4024 Radford Ave, Studio City, CA. 91604. The day will include celebrity speakers’ forums, memorabilia and merchant stands, live music and entertainment, Republic Pictures movies, serials and trailers, children’s activity center, food and drink…and more!

For more information, go to www.republicpictures75th.com

Lisa Cahan Davis is the Studio City Neighborhood Council Outreach Chairperson