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

The labor unions created Labor Day over 100 years ago. It is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It is considered the last day of summer and it is time to celebrate in style with these weekend cocktails from Three-Olives. Mostly for parents it is a celebration of the traditional day before school starts!

Have an awesome weekend and celebrate well with those you love.

Summer Sunset

1 oz. Three-O Pomegranate Vodka

1 oz. Three-O Mango Vodka

1⁄2 oz. coconut rum

1 oz. pineapple juice

1 oz. cranberry juice

Shake with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass

Garnish with a pineapple slice.

September Sunrise

2 oz. 1800 Silver Tequila

4 oz. orange juice

3⁄4 oz. grenadine

Combine tequila and juice into a cocktail shaker. Shake with ice and strain into rocks glass with ice.

Pour grenadine into the glass, it will naturally sink to the bottom.

The Workingman’s Margarita

1.5 oz. 1800 Silver Tequila

1⁄4 oz. pear puree

1⁄4 oz. fresh limejuice

1⁄2 oz. triple sec

Combine ingredients and blend with ice, or shake ingredients with ice and serve on the rocks

White After Labor Day

1 oz. Three-O Triple Shot Espresso

1 oz. white chocolate liqueur

1 oz. half and half

Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass

Garnish with espresso beans.

Stan Ridgway, Neon Mirage, A440 Records

Take some of the nocturnal knowledge inherent to Los Angeles that Jim Morrison so famously tapped, add a bit of Dean Martin’s way cool swing-a-ding-ding and then drop in a splash of Pee Wee Herman just for kicks, and you’d be getting close to the subliminal wow of Stan Ridgway.

All these years, most famously with Wall of Voodoo, this man has opened those doors of perceptions not easily perceived. He’s always been an exciting explorer, but on the new album Neon Mirage he has finally found his way home. It’s a completely stunning work, full of strengths and surprises that even while we’ve come to expect them from Ridgway, they still ring home here with an inescapable heart. From the opening song “Big Green Tree,” which could be a modern prayer for us all, to the closing “Day Up in the Sun,” the singer-songwriter has found his innermost groove. Even better, he’s sharpened those prodigious musical skills he’s always shown to such a joyous edge that these dozen songs make life jump through new hoops. Seriously. Stan Ridgway might not be on everyone’s frontal lobe these days but that doesn’t mean he isn’t a 21st century hero. If you go back to the Class of 1980 in Los Angeles, when the streets and sidewalks were shaking with mind-blowing sounds, not everyone would have bet on Stan Ridgway to be at the front of the line 30 years later. It’s a solid bet Neon Mirage won’t be bested by many for album of the year in 2010, and the world it describes and lessons it imparts are the kind that are downright prophetic. Not only would William Burroughs be proud, but so would Captain Kangaroo. And if that ain’t a reason to ring the bells then what is?

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.

Two stunning, character-driven plays are running concurrently at the Lonny Chapman Theatre in North Hollywood — “A Walk in the Woods,” directed by Richard Alan Woody and performed by two amazing and skilled actors, and Michele Lowe’s “A String of Pearls” directed by Sherry Netherland and performed by four talented actresses who play 27 different characters.

In “A Walk in the Woods,” Larry Eisenberg and Fox Carney star as Andrey Botvinnik, a career Soviet diplomat, and John Honeyman, a passionate young American negotiator, who meet in the peaceful woods outside Geneva, Switzerland sometime in the ’80’s, to see if they can hammer out an arms reduction treaty between their two super power countries.

Botvinnik has made a career out of dodging commitments that might threaten his country’s security, power, and position. He’s cynical, resigned, and uses his bag of avoidance tricks with skill and a touch of offbeat humor.

Fox Carney and Larry Eisenberg in "Walk in the Woods."

Honeyman is new at his job and confident (perhaps overly so) that an agreement can be reached quickly and easily. His budding career with the State Department depends on it, and he’s frustrated by Botvinnik’s constant skirting of the issues and desire to talk about “frivolous” things, like the color of leaves, chasing rabbits, and … friendship.  “Formality doesn’t allow for friendship!” he exclaims. “If we’re not deadly serious, we are wasting the world’s time!”

Eventually Honeyman pushes the Russian to a passionate outburst about the futility of their job. “In a nuclear arms race, we may make progress, but the weapons make more progress. Who steps back first?  Who gives up power? How can there be compromise when only one can win?”

But as the seasons pass and the talks continue without the hoped for treaty, a friendship of sorts grudgingly develops and they begin to understand each other’s fears and frustrations and failures. Nothing is decided in the end, except that one will walk away and the other will stay.

The story covers a span of nine months, from late summer to full spring; a period of “gestation” that ends in abortion. And although the subject matter is dated and the outcome already known, the hope for coexistence and peace is ongoing and universal

“A Walk in the Woods” is an intense, thought-provoking play, well performed and satisfying. As you watch Eisenberg and Honeyman you’ll glimpse how it might have been thirty years ago and how it could still be in today’s top-secret summit meetings. Bravo, gentlemen!

Friday evenings at 8:00 pm and Saturday matinees at 4:00 pm through September 4, 2010 General admission: $22; Seniors & students $17: Groups $15 Information & reservations: (818) 700-4878 or www.thegrouprep.com Lonny Chapman theatre 10900 Burbank Blvd

***********

“A String of Pearls,” staged with minimal sets and costumes,  follows a single strand of lustrous pearls over a period of 35 years; how it was bought, bestowed, appreciated (or scorned), stolen and sold, unstrung, and believe it or not, swallowed by a fish. This alone would make an interesting tale, but more fascinating are the stories of the women whose lives it touched.

The play opens in the year 2000, with 74 year old “Beth” (Lareen Faye) anticipating the upcoming nuptials of her granddaughter “Amy” (Sean Kathryn O’Connor). She wants the girl to wear the pearls in her wedding, just as her mother had. But although there are photographs of her late mother wearing it, Amy has never seen the necklace herself.  Perplexed and disappointed, Beth reminisces about when the pearls first came to her.

In 1969, at her unappreciative husband’s high school reunion, the frumpy 39 year old Beth is approached by his alluring former girlfriend who looks her over and states frankly that she should demand that Ethan give her a pearl necklace…as he did for her 20 years before. Beth does, with very surprising results. (Warning: an explicit sex scene follows.)

(L-R) "String of Pearls'" Lareen Faye, Kathryn O'Connor, Michele Bernath and Katelyn Ann Clark

1981 finds the necklace in the possession of Beth’s daughter, “Linda” (Michele Bernath) who is renting a basement apartment from a grudging and prudish landlady (Katelyn Ann Clark). The two develop an unlikely friendship (that speaks volumes about the 1980’s) and in a heart wrenching scene, the pearls go to her, instead of Amy, for “a job well done.”

Stolen and bestowed anew, the pearls end up scattered across a hotel room floor when an adulterous tryst turns sour. Forty-two of the lustrous globes are carefully collected by the maid with one lone pearl finding its way to an embarrassingly humorous location.

In an exclusive Paris jewelry store … at the bottom of the Hudson River … around the neck of a corpse … and finally, astonishingly, in the hands of Beth once more, who, alas, unwittingly sends it off on another journey.

Randomly or perhaps specifically, Lareen Faye was chosen to perform the most sexually intimate scenes. She does it with passion and aplomb.

Katelyn Ann Clark handles the “grungy” roles of landlady and mortician with sensitivity and style, her unpretentious yet genuine interpretations of these less than glamorous women is refreshing.

The emotionally charged roles seem to be Michele Bernath’s forte. This versatile actress makes us weep as the terminally ill mother; wince as the survivor of WW II atrocities; and laugh (as well as squirm) as the obese gravedigger looking for love.

Sean Kathryn O’Connor’s “women” are stunning, self-assured, sexy, and spiteful. We envy them and hate them alternately.  As Beth’s granddaughter in both the opening and concluding scenes, she brings closure to the story … and gets a bit of well-deserved come-uppance.

“A String of Pearls” is an ambitious play, but one the Group Rep at the Lonny Chapman Theatre pulls off beautifully.

Saturday evenings at 8:00 pm and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm through September 5, 2010 General admission: $22; Seniors & students $17: Groups $15 Information & reservations: (818) 700-4878 or www.thegrouprep.com Lonny Chapman theatre 10900 Burbank Blvd North Hollywood, CA 91601

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

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

Labor Day is the first Monday of September and is a time to acknowledge those in the workforce by having a traditional last blowout of the summer. Since you don’t want to work too hard on this holiday, I’ve got some recipes that are both festive and easy. Many can be prepared in advance so you  can be a guest at your own party!

Norman Rockwell's portrait of honored Labor Day. Rosie the Rivertor on a lunch break — Saturday Evening Post on May 29, 1943.

The long weekend means that you should do your planning and shopping before Saturday, so you can relax and enjoy the holiday. Even the dessert can be easy by baking the shortbread and brownies ahead of time and letting guests assemble their own plate. Make sure to have lots of fresh whipped cream on hand! These easy and delicious recipes and menus will help you make the most of your time off and still feed your family and friends wonderful food! Have a great weekend!

Basic Steps to Grill a Chicken

1. Buy chicken parts or cut up a whole chicken. Remove skin and fat, if desired, then rinse chicken and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Prepare a bed of medium-hot coals in a charcoal grill, or heat a gas grill to medium-hot. Coat the grill rack with oil or nonstick spray for easier cleanup later.

3. Prepare the chicken as per the recipe. Place chicken parts on grill rack.

4. Cook chicken for about 30 to 45

Minutes. Turn chicken every 10 minutes for even cooking.

6. Check for doneness by cutting into the middle of a piece of chicken. The juices should run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the piece.

7. Serve immediately or cool, chill and serve cold. Brush on one of the following amazing sauces!

Slicks BBQ Sauce

3/4 cup white wine vinegar

1/2-cup dark brown sugar

4 Shakes Worchester

4 shakes Tabasco

1 clove garlic minced

1-tablespoon black pepper

1-teaspoon celery salt

1 heaping teaspoon chili powder

4 tablespoons French’s mustard

1 cup Heinz ketchup

Mix all ingredients in an empty and clean 1/2-gallon milk jug. It is best to make a couple of days a head. Shake vigorously at least twice a day.

Joshua Jenkins Maple Garlic Sauce

1 stick butter

2 cups real maple syrup (not a Mrs. Butterworth’s)

½ head garlic

Melt butter in a pan. Pour in syrup. Smash up garlic. Cook over a low flame, in fact I’ll do a double stack on my burner covers and put the flame as low as it can. Let it cook for at least an hour, so the garlic flavor seeps into the syrup. Stirring often to keep things from burning. If the syrup cooks down to much add some room temperature water to keep it from becoming a soft boil candy. Add 1/2 cup at a time, stir or whisk well when you do this to incorporate everything. Spread on your favorite grill item and let the heat do its thing. I’ve used this on everything from Portobello Mushrooms to steaks, lamb, chicken, and even shrimp. It’s all-good. The garlic and butter cut the sweet sugar of the syrup, and you end up with a nice contrast.

Peach Barbeque Sauce

1-pound fresh peaches

3/4 cup chopped sweet onion such as Vidalia

1 jalapeño, chopped

1/4-cup cider vinegar

1/4-cup bourbon

3 tablespoons mild honey

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1-teaspoon brown sugar

1-teaspoon chili powder

4 cloves garlic, minced

1-teaspoon cinnamon

1-teaspoon black pepper

1/2-teaspoon ground ginger

Puree peaches in a blender. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a low boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Allow cooling and using on chicken, beef.

Rinse the chicken and dry with paper towels. Rub the chicken with the garlic and salt; place in a heavy plastic bag. Combine the remaining ingredients and add to the chicken. Marinate in a cool place for at least one hour or refrigerate for up to two days. Prepare the grill. When the coals are medium hot, drain the chicken and cook over the coals, turning after 10 minutes and basting them frequently with the marinade, for a total of 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown. If the chicken is browning too quickly, move to a cooler part of the grill. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Pesto Planked Salmon

1 18″ cedar plank, soaked in water 2 hours

1 – 2 1/2 to 3lb Salmon Fillet rinsed and patted dry.

1-cup fresh pesto

Juice of one lemon.

Spread pesto on fillet. Sprinkle generously with ground black pepper and lemon juice.

On a hot gas grill or very hot charcoal briquettes heat the plank for 5 minutes each side. Place fish on plank and return to the grill. And cover. Close vents 1/2 way and don’t open for 15 minutes. Check for doneness in middle of fillet…pink and flaky. Serve immediately.

Pesto

If you are lucky enough to be at an open-air market or a specialty store you can find amazing varieties of fresh basil. Play with all of them!

5 large garlic cloves

1-cup pine nuts (or Walnuts work as well)

5 cups packed fresh basil

1-cup fresh parsley

1 cup fresh Parmigiano, coarsely grated

1 1/2 cup olive oil

In a blender or food processor mix garlic, nuts, basil, parsley and cheese and process

Cucumber, Tomato and Feta Salad

2 large cucumbers – halved lengthwise,

seeded and sliced

1/3 cup red wine vinegar

1-teaspoon salt

3 large tomatoes, seeded and coarsely chopped

2/3 cup coarsely chopped red onion

1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

In a large bowl, toss together the cucumbers, vinegar, and salt. Let stand at room temperature for an hour, stirring occasionally. Add tomatoes, onion, mint and oil to cucumbers and toss to blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle feta on top

Grilled Vegetable Salad with Buttermilk Balsamic

1 bunch asparagus

1 zucchini

2 yellow squash

1 eggplant

1 red pepper, seeded

2 ears corn

1 small jicama, chopped

10 cherry tomatoes, halved

1 bunch arugula

1 head romaine

Salt and pepper

Lightly coat asparagus, zucchini, squash, eggplant, pepper and corn with olive oil.. Heat cast iron grill pan over high heat. Grill vegetables until tender. Toss arugula and romaine leaves with jicama and Tomatoes. With buttermilk balsamic dressing e in a bowl. Arrange on platter and top with grilled vegetables. You can top with ground pepper, shaved Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese.

Buttermilk Balsamic Dressing

3 garlic cloves, minced

4 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1-cup well-shaken low-fat buttermilk

1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 cup Balsamic

1-cup olive oil

Whisk together all ingredients until well mixed. Let Stand for one hour.

Minty Roasted Potatoes

I love all of the different types of potatoes! I mix up fingerling, purple white and even sweet and yams!

16 New Potatoes

1/2 cup Olive Oil

Kosher salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper

8 garlic cloves finely chopped

1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh mint leaves

Pre-heat oven to 350

Prick the potatoes with the tines of a fork and arrange them on a baking sheet. Bake for 1 1/2 hours. Cut the potatoes into quarters and place them in a serving bowl. While they are still hot, toss them with the oil, salt, pepper and garlic. Gently toss in the mint. This twist on a potato salad can be served warm or at room temperature.

Mixed Berry Short Cake

2 cups flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

3 tablespoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 stick butter. cut into tiny pieces

3/4 cup heavy cream

1quart fresh berries

1/4 cup sugar

splash orange juice

Fresh whipped cream

Spray a cookie sheet with bakers joy. Pre heat oven to 450. In a bowl whisk together flour, baking powder salt and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Lightly stir in cream until the dough is just blended. Drop 12 3-inch (or smaller if doing minis) rounds of batter from a spoon Bake for about 12 minutes until golden. Meanwhile, in a large bowl gently e mix berries, sugar and orange juice. When ready to serve whip the cream. Split biscuits in half lengthwise. Cover with berries and fresh cream. Serve immediately.

Brownies

1 and 1/2 sticks butter

1 1/4 cups sugar

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-process)

1/4-teaspoon salt

1/2-teaspoon vanilla

2 eggs

1/2-cup flour

2/3 cup walnut or pecan pieces

3/4-cup mini chocolate chips

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Spray an 8 inch pan with Bakers Joy.

Combine the butter, sugar, cocoa, and salt in a medium heatproof bowl and set the bowl in a wide skillet of barely simmering water. Stir from time to time until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth and hot. Remove the bowl from the skillet and set aside briefly until the mixture is only warm, not hot. Stir in the vanilla with a wooden spoon. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring vigorously after each one. When the batter looks thick, shiny, and well blended, add the flour and beat vigorously for one minute with the wooden spoon. Stir in the nuts and chocolate chips. Spread evenly in the pan. Bake until a toothpick plunged into the center emerges slightly moist with batter, 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool completely on a rack. Move to a cutting board. Cut into 16 or 25 squares.

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