By: Gracee Arthur

The Fourth of July was a beautiful day here in Malibu and I spent it at Lavender harvesting party! I donned a large hat, covered my hands with sturdy gardening gloves (to protect from bees) and grabbed my sickle with great enthusiasm while my nose delighted in the flower’s ethereal aroma. Diane Carter (Lavender Gatherings) has a beautiful, elegantly decorated country style home in Malibu where she maintains a beautiful, delicious organic Lavender farm. The property also has a green house and a drying room for hanging Lavender used for various purposes.

Each of us in attendance had the opportunity to harvest one of the beautiful purple bushes and to bring some of the lovely blooms home as a reward!  Lavender has always been one of my favorite scents because of its calming properties.  The types of Lavender Diane farms are Hidcote (English Lavender), Provence and Grosso. Hidcote is used as an herb to put on salads, add to recipes or cookies; Grosso is the classic Lavender used in most perfumes and body creams, as well as Lavender bundles: Provence are used for fragrance, flavor and drying in bundles. The aromas are intoxicating and therapeutic, as are the oils. Lavender soothes muscles, calms nerves and has antiseptic properties, as well.

The Lavender party ended with some great food, wine and conversation after which I went home with my fragrant purple bundle whose aroma wafted pleasantly through my home for weeks.

Diane does terrific flower arrangements for parties, as well as teaches gardening classes.  She may be reached at this email or 310-924-1041.

Based on my experience and her beautiful gardens I would highly recommend Diane’s Lavender Gathering for planning your own garden or decorating for a special event.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

By: Gracee Arthur

This weekend the Malibu Chamber of Commerce hosts the Malibu Arts Festival
at the Civic Center. There will be over 100 exhibitors displaying the work
of over 200 artists (many of them local). This year’s featured art is a
poster by 15 year old Sarah Larson who won the adult poster competition with
her poster “Malibu Secrets.” Sarah is the daughter of Pepperdine professor
Ed Larson. She will be signing copies of her work which will be sold at the
Chamber of Commerce booth.

The Festival which takes place Saturday July 24th and Sunday July 25th from 1
0-6 begins each day with a breakfast hosted by the Malibu Optimist Club from
8-11. They make some killer pancakes! There also will be music, entertainment
and free MD screenings for cataracts and glaucoma.

The Art Festival has always been one of my favorite Malibu events.  My taste
tends toward the whimsical and the pictured items are just a couple of my
fun acquisitions from previous festivals. It is worth the drive to Malibu
this weekend where you will experience a fun afternoon of art and
entertainment!

www.malibu.org www.malibutimes.com

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

By: Gracee Arthur

In the spring of 2009 Sony Records asked me to help find a peaceful retreat in Malibu for Ben Goldwasser and Andrew Van Wyngarden where they could compose music for their upcoming album. I found them the perfect place close to the beach but nestled back in a lovely canyon with a creek, mountains and beautiful gardens. The charming Spanish hacienda was so inspiring, not only did the group write their songs there but recorded their album there, as well!

This past Friday, MGMT performed music from “Congratulations,” the album born in Malibu and I was really excited about going to their concert.  Their manager David Gottlieb was nice enough to get me tickets for which I say a big “thank you!”  Unfortunately (expletive deleted) I got a bad sinus infection so instead of drinking wine at the Greek listing to MGMT; I was taking antibiotics and sulking at home. Luckily my friend and colleague Stephen Roesler (who is the technological whiz for my blog) was more than happy to attend the concert in my place.

Andrew and Ben are terrifically nice, talented guys. I wish them continued success in their career. What follows is Stephen’s commentary on the MGMT concert at the Greek July 17, 2010:

“Opening with “Helios Creed” and “Francis & the Lights,” MGMT took the stage and greeted the excited crowd. Splitting their play time evenly between Oracular Spectacular and Congratulations, MGMT had the Greek theater captivated by their synth-pop/psychedelic rock beats. With packed seats, I watched the standing crowd glow in the fluorescent lights as a haze of smoke loomed above the audience, the shadow of front row hands rocking to “Kids.” Although Andrew VanWyngarden is typically esteemed as the leader of MGMT, it was Ben Goldwasser who caught my eye. He ripped on the keyboards and synthesizers and was a pleasant surprise on vocals. They played nearly 2 hours and appeared at the VIP party afterward. Here is a clip from them playing “Electric Feel”

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

A fun place for dogs and humans!

By: Gracee Arthur

After two years of wrangling among Malibu West residents over grading, traffic, and fire risk among other issues, the long awaited Malibu park is finally open! The park, which cost just under $4,000,000, is located on a 13.5 acre site which was donated to the City. The 6.7 acres of the park which are developed include a dog park, playground, multi-use sports field and picnic tables and parking. The neighborhood in which it is located, Malibu West, already has a members only Beach Club and tennis court .

Malibu West is a great neighborhood a short distance from Zuma Beach, shopping and Starbuck’s. Homes lease there for $4,000 and up, condos start at $2,900. The homes are primarily one story on tree lined streets that are child friendly with lots of speed bumps. Most homes have three or 4 bedrooms, two or three bathrooms. In this recent market decline there have been a few sales under a million but most homes are listed in the low to mid-ones with some listed over two million. The neighborhood is close to Juan Cabrillio elementary school and  Malibu Senior and Junior high schools. There is a fee for beach club membership.

An article in the Malibu Times, July 8^th edition details the history of the community dispute over the creation of the park. One of the major sticking points was the Malibu Township Council’s suit to prohibit league play on the sports field. The settlement required the City to place a deed restriction on the property prohibiting league sports play at the park. This rule cannot be changed by a future City Council without approval from the MTC. To read more about Trancas Park go to the Malibu Times.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Sergio Peris-Mencheta, Taylor Hackford, Helen Mirren, Marty Katz (left to right)

A Grown up Movie for Summer

By: Gracee Arthur

I attended the Hollywood Premiere of Taylor Hackford’s, “Love Ranch” on June 23rd at the Arc Light.  The crowd was stellar and eclectic from  Morgan Freeman to Kristin Stewart; along with the cast of the film. The fictional story of Grace and Charlie Bontempo is based on the real life story of  brothel owner Joe Conforte. I found the film to be the type of enjoyable adult entertainment that is so hard to come by in these days of Vampires and children’s cartoons.

The critics have been unfairly harsh on this film and its director Taylor Hackford because apparently adult movies with relationship stories are not favored among this new group of semi-literate “critics.” Gone are the days of Pauline Kael and Arthur Knight (with whom I studied) when critics opinions were written in prose that distinguished the writer and the written word, as well as the art of film. Films have been geared to the lowest common denominator in recent years and there is little to no motivation for grown ups to go to the movies! There seems to be little room in Hollywood for an actor’s movie where there are interactions between humans and a good story to tell.

I suggest, if you are a fan of Helen Mirren’s and Taylor Hackford’s bodies of work and enjoy a good story, great music, drama with a sense of humor and a love triangle, give “Love Ranch” a chance to entertain you!  This is a great date night film for adults since it has not only a love story, but an amazingly real boxing match and semi-clad gals for the guys! After you’ve seen the film let me know what you think. Critic’s opinions are not always right!

Go here for times at the Laemmle Theatre

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

By: Gracee Arthur

Check out this cool article by my friend, journalist Ann Brenoff:

“Franklin “Biff” Levy, a partner with law firm Duane Morris LLP and a novelist, has leased a 3,000-square-foot home in the so-called “Bird Streets” of the Hollywood Hills for $7,000 a month, according to the MLS.” For more, go here: LA Business Journal Chief Dwellings

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

From Florida to California “Say no to offshore drilling”!

By: Gracee Arthur

Join hands across America on Saturday June 26th at 11 AM on Surfrider Beach in Malibu to say “No” to off shore drilling and support clean energy alternatives. According to the Malibu Surfside News, thousands showed up on 80 Florida beaches earlier this year for the first “Hands Across the Sands Event”.  Apparently to no avail, since a judge this week overturned President Obama’s order for a moratorium on offshore drilling.

What more relevant moment than the present, in the face of the BP disaster destroying our beautiful Gulf of Mexico, to make our voices heard across the country and in Washington DC?

The White House Hotline number is 202-456-1111 and the mantra is “I’m calling to ask that you restore the federal moratorium on all new offshore oil and gas development and exploration”.

“If not now, when?”

For more information go www.malibusurfsidenews.com Publisher’s NOTEBOOK June 24, 2010

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Films at the Bluffs

By: Gracee Arthur

This summer catch a few free flicks at the Bluffs Park in Malibu. Bring a picnic, a blanket and the whole family for some evening fun. Please refrain from bringing alcohol or smoking at the park since this is a family event.

Schedule for Summer 2010:
–> Saturday July 31st Free Willy: Escape From Pirate’s Cove (co-sponsored by the Malibu Public Library)

–> Saturday, August 28 – Seating and preshow begin at 7:00 pm with the movies beginning at dusk. More info at www.ci.malibu.ca.us.

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Click For Larger Image

Remodel Delayed until Fall

By: Gracee Arthur

Good News for the children of Malibu! According to this week’s Malibu Surfside News (www.malibusurfsidenews.com) the Library facility will remain in its present location most likely through the end of August.  Malibu city officials just put out their request for contracting bids on the remodeling project, which has fallen behind schedule.

Events scheduled for the remainder of this month are: Summer Reading Club for all ages “Earn prizes by reading” ( sign-ups star June 21st); Summer Story Time (18mos.-5 yrs.)11:30 on the 22nd and 29th, Park Tales at the Bluffs Park on the 24th (18mos-5yrs) 11:30; Bubbles Galore Summer Reading Program (pre-6th) 1:00 PM; and Acoustic Matinee live music for all ages, the 26th, 1:00 PM.

Click For Larger Image

The Summer Reading Program runs Tuesdays and Thursdays through July 29th. More information on the complete summer schedule can be found at www.colapublib.org or by phoning the Malibu Library at 310-456-6438. The library is located at 23519 Civic Center Way and the Bluffs Park at 24250 Pacific Coast Highway.

The Malibu Library is accepting donations for the “Malibu/Library Renewal Project” and is offering various forms of recognition for donors (see attached form).  For questions about the project phone 310-456-2489 Ext 335

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.

Sunday Brunch

By: Gracee Arthur

A couple of Sundays ago I spent an enjoyable morning at the new Malibu Farmers Market with my friends Hans and Mary Lou. We explored all the vendors’ wares, stuffed our bags full of goodies and then headed to brunch at the charming Terra Restaurant. Our appetites whetted by all our delicious market finds, we were quite hungry when we arrived at Terra located at 213337 Pacific Coast Highway adjacent to the old Malibu court house.

Terra, which just recently started serving Sunday Brunch, is the creation of David Price who is also the chef. Terra offers locally grown organic fruits and vegetables, many from their own garden. They also serve wild or organically farmed sea food, free-range chicken and natural beef. Sunday Brunch is prepared by the restaurant’s Garmanger Danielle Larson.

We arrived around 11 AM and were greeted, as if old friends, by General manager Charlotte Robinson who promptly seated us and told us about Terra’s specialty Eggs Benedict.  Our server Jeff was delightful and immediately pointed out the “Free Flowing Mimosas” on the beverage list.  They also serve a spicy Bloody Mary and wine from their regular wine list. Mary Lou couldn’t resist the Mimosa and Hans chose the “Jillian’s Spicy Bloody Mary” hoping to also get a few tastes of that great “Free Flowing Mimosa” from Mary Lou!

I still had work to do so I stuck with a tasty Pinot Grigio. The reasonably priced menu has some terrific choices such as Crab Benedict, Eggs Florentine, and the English breakfast for the discerning egg eater, as well as salads, including a Caesar with smoked trout, sandwiches such as a Lamb Burger with cucumber-dill yogurt sauce, several pasta choices and an organic Irish King Salmon.

Mary Lou feasted on the fabulous Lamb Burger which came with mixed green salad, avocado and coleslaw and Hans had the Crab Benedict each of which was deemed to be supreme! I enjoyed the Ham and Gouda sandwich (have not had a ham sandwich since I was in Paris) tres magnifique!  The service was great, the room charming old California, with a splash of contemporary in the bar area; the perfect compliment to a terrific Sunday in Malibu.

Sunday Brunch is served from 11AM-2:30 PM phone 310 456-1221 for reservations. Terra also serves dinner Tuesday –Sunday 5PM-10PM.

Click for menu

Click for menu

EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.