Don’t be left off THE ROOF – Do YOU have your tickets yet?

August 4, 2017 by evebushman

We’re giving you DOUBLE the fun this year as we begin with our pre-party celebration on August 17^th at TPC’s Oaks Grille! Come by from 5pm to 9pm for happy hour pricing all night long, bartender lessons, DJ MAV (the same DJ we will have at the main event for the third year), dancing and the best sunset in Santa Clarita, all while giving back to the WiSH Education Foundation! Have a big party? Call ahead to reserve your table: 661-288-1995.

Cocktails on the Roof, on August 25^th, has us looking forward to a new, fun layout, more lounges (you can even sponsor your own lounge – email Wish@Hart District.org to learn more) and voting on your favorite Craft Cocktails – you’ll even be able to win a social or dinner for a group of six this year in our new silent auction tables!

Everyone is a VIP this year! All tickets are general admission ($85) so you get to enjoy the entire evening from 8pm until 11pm… or come as a Designated Driver and enjoy mocktails and all that amazing food for just $65. All tickets at the door are $95. Either way, let us know about your excitement with #COTR17 on all your social media posts!

Hosted by Eve Bushman of Eve’s Wine 101, Marlee Lauffer, President of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation and WiSH Executive Director Amy Daniels, this year promises to be another top notch event with returning favorites and brand new participants! The restaurants sharing their most sought-after cocktails, mocktails and food are back. Included in the list is Speakeasy Bakery, California Pizza Kitchen, Yoshi Murikami with sake-based cocktails, Sisley Italian Restaurant, solita Tacos & Margaritas, Honu Coffee, Newhall Refinery, TPC Oaks Grille, An Indian Affair, Mammoth Coffee Roasting Company (coffee cocktails), Salt Creek Grille, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewing Company, Persia Restaurant and Lounge, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Bonefish Grill, Pomp & Whimsy, Deep Eddy Vodka, Sweet Beams Ice Cream, Olive Terrace Bar & Grill, Marston’s, CPB Winery with wine-based cocktails, The Distillery at Opolo, Vina Sympatica Sparkling Wines, LA Scotch Club and Vines Restaurant. Get your tickets and stay tuned for every exciting announcement (and guest party secrets) on the WiSH Facebook and Cocktails event pages and www.WiSHscv.org!

Although WiSH sponsors many programs and initiatives NOT funded by tax dollars, we are focusing our funding this year on the ARTS, with another emphasis on our public school libraries. Together we can make a difference for our public school youth in our own backyard! Why not have fun while raising badly needed funding?

Many thanks to our sponsors, without whom we could never get this party started –Westfield Valencia Town Center and The Magazine of Santa Clarita/Elite Magazine, EveBushmanConsulting.com, Mitchpickswine, SOS Entertainment, 24/7 Events, Andy Gump, Burrtec, Brightview Tree Company, Lundgren Management, Nick Rose Insurance, California Credit Union, Littler, Randy Plaice & Associates, Oasis Associates, Jeff & Melanie Meyer, Gymnastics Unlimited, Peterson Printing, Enchanted Kids, The Signal, Solprint, KHTS and SCVTV. Special thanks to Genesis Moss, Print & Web Design (www.genesismoss.com), for creating our brand new dedicated website, www.CocktailsontheRoofscv.org.

WiSH asks that you be responsible – 21 & over only; please leave your car in the parking garage overnight (approved by Westfield) and take alternate transportation.

What’s new on THE ROOF?

July 14, 2017 by evebushman

Well, we can certainly tell from the social media BUZZ around town that you are VERY excited about the upcoming Cocktails on the Roof on August 25, 2017. Come join your hosts Eve Bushman of Eve Bushman Consulting, Marlee Lauffer, President of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation and Amy Daniels, Executive Director of the WiSH Education Foundation at our NEW Pre-Party on August 17^th from 5-9pm at The Oaks Grill in TPC. Gear up for #COTR17 with NO COVER, happy hour pricing all evening long, bartender lessons and our #COTR17 DJ MAV and dancing. With the best sunset viewing from their amazing patio, the Oaks Grill is also donating 15% of their proceeds back to the WiSH Education Foundation.

On THE ROOF, what you will recognize from previous years is the amazing venue atop the Macy’s parking garage at Westfield Valencia Town Center and the wonderful all-you-can-partake-in signature cocktails and food, DJ MAV for the third year and dancing and cool, modern lounges and lighting.

What will be new this year is that everyone’s a VIP! Rather than have two levels of tickets, we invite everyone up on THE ROOF from 8-11pm, while our sponsors will be greeted at 7:30pm. General Admission tickets are only $85 and Designated Driver tickets are $65 (by bracelet). Tickets at the door, if still available, are $95.

NEW: WiSH you could be a sponsor and get first dibs??? This year you CAN – we are offering a limited number of private 10’X10’ lounges that seat up to 8-10, allowing you and your friends – or your company – a spot to gather on your own for the party! The cost of the lounge, which includes all marketing, private entry and signage, is only $1,000! Get yours before they run out by contacting Executive Director Amy Daniels at WiSH@hartdistrict.org.

NEW: SoCalMagicMirror.com is joining us, “An Entertainment company specializing in providing the latest in entertainment venues for parties, weddings, business openings and more! More than just a standard ‘photo booth’, SoCal Magic Mirror provides a full length mirror to take your picture at the event, allowing a head-to-ankle capture instead of the standard waist-up shot. You can also write on the screen, choose from hundred of emojis, and personalize your pictures in ways other booths only dream of.”

In addition, our layout will be slightly larger to allow for the fun to reach all corners of the event so no matter where you are, the fun will follow. Don’t forget to have that picture taken at our Step and Repeat as you enter, sponsored by The Magazine of Santa Clarita and Elite Magazine. Tickets are live AND limited – don’t be left off THE ROOF – get yours right now at www.WiSHscv.org.

As of July 12, participants on THE ROOF this year include Deep Eddy Vodka, LA Scotch Club, JFC International sake-based cocktails, Speakeasy Bakery (check social media for hints to get the good stuff here), Honu Coffee, solita Tacos and Margaritas, Sisley Italian Kitchen, Newhall Refinery, NEW: Bonefish Grill, NEW: An Indian Affair, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewery, Persia Restaurant and Lounge, Salt Creek Grille, Oaks Grill at TPC, NEW: Mammoth Coffee Roasting Company with a Coffee Martini, NEW: Vines Restaurant and Bar, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Olive Terrace Bar and Grill, NEW: Pomp and Whimsy Gin Liqueur, Lazy Dog, Sweet Beams Ice Cream, Marston’s, NEW: CPB Winery with a wine-based cocktail, The Distillery at Opolo and Vina Sympatica sparkling wine.

Our wonderful and generous sponsors are lining up to again be a part of the fun while giving back to our local students. WiSH greatly appreciates Westfield Valencia Town Center, The Magazine of Santa Clarita and Elite Magazine, The Signal, Brightview Tree Company, Nick Rose Insurance, Lundgren Management, California Credit Union, Andy Gump, Oasis Associates, SolPrint Solutions, Craig and Lisa Eichman, Jeff and Melanie Meyer, Eve’s Wine 101, Peterson Printing and Graphics, Littler Mendelson, Randy Plaice and Associates and the Watters Group. We would also like to thank SOS Entertainment, 24/7 Events, Burrtec, MitchPicksWine.com, Enchanted Kids, KHTS, SCVTV. Want to join us as a sponsor of COTR17? Email us at WiSH@hartdistrict.org.

Finally, keep up to date by checking out the WiSH Education Foundation, Pre-party and COTR FB event pages, WiSH site www.WiSHscv.org, and – thanks to web designer Genesis Moss – our brand new dedicated COTR website, http://cocktailsontheroofscv.org/

Cocktails on the Roof (co-hosted by Eve) is only DAYS AWAY and the Celebration will last ALL MONTH LONG!

August 26, 2016 by evebushman

Santa Clarita is all ABUZZ waiting for September 9^th and the second annual Cocktails on the Roof event, held on top of the Macy’s parking garage at Valencia Town Center! The one and only “signature cocktail” party of the year is back, New York rooftop style, with greenery, inventive lighting, DJ and Dancing (have you seen the “Thriller” teases on our FB event page?), selfie spots, cozy lounges and all the food, fun, cocktails and mocktails in our now famous mini martini glass!

Our VIP Early Entry tickets, $95, are new this year and a HUGE hit. You asked for an extra hour, YOU GOT IT. General Admission tickets, $75, enter at 9pm and our Designated Drivers are only $65. Put on your cocktail dress and remember when you used to party – plan on coming early and staying late as the fun doesn’t end until MIDNIGHT when we’ll have to kick the dancers off the dance floor, just like last year! Tickets will be sold online until NOON on Thursday, September 8^th. If tickets are still available, they will be sold at the door, all levels, for $95. This event was a SELLOUT last year and there is a limited number available. Go to www.WiSHscv.org to for your tickets.

This year you also get to vote on your favorite drink! When you check in at the front entrance, you’ll receive your entry bracelet, martini glass and THREE tickets. Make sure you vote for your favorite cocktail or mocktail by 10:15, when we’ll be pulling tickets and counting the votes to announce the winners at 11pm! Stay tuned for every exciting announcement (and guest party secrets) on WiSH Education Foundation’s website, Facebook and event page.

The normally elusive and hidden Speakeasy Bakery is back, along with Vermont’s Shacksbury Hard Ciders, TPC Valencia Golf Club’s Oaks Grille, Persia Lounge & Restaurant, Sake Sommelier Yoshi Murikami with Smart Assist, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewing Co., Sisley Italian Kitchen, Bowen’s Whiskey, California Fruit Wine, Deep Eddy Vodka, solita Tacos & Margaritas, Honu Coffee (with alcohol, too!), Newhall Refinery, Parashar’s Indian Kitchen, Olive Terrace Bar & Grill, Culinary Wonders, Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar, Salt Creek Grille, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Marston’s, iCUE (Culinary dept at College of the Canyons), LA Scotch Club, The Distillery at Opolo, Shining Suns and Dancing Daughters Blended Spirits, Sweet Beams Ice Cream 12 Bottle Bar and Xevichez Sushi Bar.

Hosted by Eve Bushman of Eve’s Wine 101 and Marlee Lauffer, President of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation, this year promises to be another amazing event to benefit the 23,000 students of the Wm. S. Hart School District. WiSH supports programs and initiatives not supported by tax dollars. Look for our new “WiSHing Well” – an opportunity to make local public education’s “WiSHes” come true with your donations. Remember that 100% of the net proceeds of this event goes to benefit local public education through WiSH, a 501(c)3 nonprofit.

WiSH would like to thank Crystal Sponsors The Magazine of Santa Clarita and Elite Magazine; Presenting Sponsor Westfield Valencia Town Center; Cocktail Sponsor Lundgren Management; Title Sponsors Littler, California Credit Union and Balfour Beatty Construction; Festival Sponsors Steven B. Chegwin, CPA, Chiquita Canyon and Julie M. Sturgeon, CPA; Rooftop Sponsors Ruhnau Ruhnau Clarke and Oasis Associates and our in-kind sponsors Eve’s Wine 101, mitchpickswine.com, SOS Entertainment, Brightview Tree Company, 24/7 events, Andy Gump, Burrtec, Sol Print Solutions, Vom Fass Ventura, Enchanted Kids, KHTS and SCVTV.

WiSH asks that you be responsible – 21 & over only; please leave your car in the parking garage overnight and take alternate transportation if you need to.

New: KEEP THE #COTR16 PARTY GOING ALL MONTH LONG AT Wolf Creek Brewery every Tuesday night in September from 4-9pm – bands, corn hole tournaments, food trucks and 10% all going to benefit WiSH! Buy a Golden Eagle Ale at Wolf Creek Restaurant all month long and Wolf Creek will donate .50 per drink to WiSH.

Come Back Up On The Roof (with me again) It’s Right Around The Corner! #COTR16

July 29, 2016 by evebushman

The One. The Only. Cocktails on the Roof is back on September 9, bringing you the party of the year, New York style, on the rooftop of the Macy’s Parking Garage! This immediate fan favorite returns, complete with greenery, a photo opportunity area for all your selfie poses (provided by The Magazine of Santa Clarita), cozy lounges, fun lighting, a live DJ, and all the food and cocktails you can possibly consume in that now famous mini martini glass.

Since we are starting earlier in September it might be warmer so we’re starting the party a little later but staying until the last slipper has fallen off the last pedicured toe – which means midnight. Yes. That’s right. Santa Clarita, put on your big kid pants, it’s time to party! Come at 8 p.m. for a VIP entrance and get four hours of mischief for $95, or come at 9 p.m. and get three hours for $75 (same price as last year). Or come as a Designated Driver for $65. Either way, let us know about your excitement with #COTR16 on all your social media posts!

Hosted by Eve Bushman of Eve’s Wine 101 and Marlee Lauffer, President of Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital Foundation, this year promises to be another sold out event with returning favorites and brand new participants! The restaurants sharing their most sought-after cocktails, mocktails and food are back. The normally elusive and hidden Speakeasy Bakery is back, along with Vermont’s Shacksbury Hard Ciders, TPC Valencia, Persia Restaurant, Sake Sommelier Yoshi Murikami making sake-based cocktails, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewing Co., Sisley Italian Restaurant, Bowen Whiskey, California Fruit Wine, Deep Eddy Vodkas, Solita, Honu Coffee (with alcohol, too!), Newhall Refinery, Parashars’ Indian Kitchen, Olive Terrace, Culinary Wonders, and Lazy Dog. Other favorites include Salt Creek Grille, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Marston’s, iCUE Culinary School, LA Scotch Club and The Distillery at Opolo! Stay tuned for every exciting announcement (and guest party secrets) on Facebook and www.WiSHscv.org.

The sponsors have been lining up for this party-of-the-year! Thanks to Westfield Valencia Town Center for our amazing venue, Crystal Sponsor The Magazine of Santa Clarita/Elite Magazine, Cocktail Sponsor Lundgren Management, Title Sponsor Littler Mendelson, Festival Sponsors Steve Chegwin, CPA and Julie Sturgeon, CPA and Rooftop Sponsors Ruhnau Ruhnau & Clarke, Oasis Associates and California Credit Union. Many thanks to our in-kind sponsors, without whom we could never get this party started – EveBushmanConsulting.com, Mitchpickswine.com, SOS Entertainment, 24/7 Events, Andy Gump, Burrtec, Brightview, KHTS and SCVTV.

WiSH asks that you be responsible – 21 & over only; please leave your car in the parking garage overnight (approved by Westfield) and take alternate transportation if you need to. Want to be a part of this event and have your company, restaurant or product seen? Contact us at wish@hartdistrict.org.

Vintage Beacon Circa Feb. 2011: How Was the First SCV Wine FEST?

November 3, 2015 by evebushman

For our first effort, out of the chute, outstanding! The SCV Wine Fest is officially now the largest wine event in town.

A small line curled around the outdoor patio, filled with cigar-smoking guests of the event, at the 2pm event start. Many guests arrived early to take advantage of some of the classes also offered: a wine seminar by sommelier Mark Newman, Scotch tasting class with Scotch Master Chris Uhde, Sake tasting class led by Yoshi Murakami and our own Cindy Schwanke from COC’s Culinary Arts department, making and pairing chocolate desserts with wine.

One of the first people I got to see again was Dr. Joel Fisher. Planning for his 6^th annual LA Wine Fest after completing his 1^st SCV Wine Fest Joel said, “I’ve already decided. Same weekend, same hotel, for SCV Wine Fest 2012.”

From there I worked my way through the program (See the entire list and my favorites below) with a handy bottle of water courtesy of Castaic Lake Water Agency. I was pleased to see my own name in a special thanks section, as well as the highly-respected publications I write for as sponsors: The West Ranch Beacon, Elite Magazine and The Magazine of Santa Clarita.

The fest guests had so many choices! Besides tasting wine from Temecula to Napa, they could peruse gifts, sip sake, get a scotch lesson, taste beers, weird wine tastings, sample wine from the Ventura County Wine Trail, enjoy food truck fare or, get a palm reading!

I made my way stealthily through the tented area outside, then I ventured inside. (I had to double back to both places when peeps told me about wines they wanted me to try.) And got to spend as much time as I could with both Yoshi for Sake and Chris for Scotch – thrilled to find that those that didn’t get to attend the classes could still benefit from tastings, and, their expertise.

When it was time for me to go I wanted to record a bit more of my day so I videotaped the indoor crowd and a small group of Pulchella winery admirers outside. (Go to http://www.youtube.com/Evewine101 for those.)

Of the guests I interviewed all were pleased with the event. The one thing that struck me most was not only how well attended the inaugural effort was, but how well it was put together. I think next year this will be the number one Valentines Day Pick!

Who Was Seen

Dr. Joel Fisher, David and Nancy Bossert, Steve and Cathy Martin, Pam Ingram, Laura Garcia, Susan Fujiki, David Barlavi, Will Davison, Lisa Hawkins Blowers, Gary Choppe, Jeff Shapiro, Rich Soto and Jane Bettencourt-Soto, Paul de la Cerda and Andrea Nelson, John Dickey and Denise Lowe, Danise Davis, Yoshi Murakami, Chris Uhde, Gary and Karen Stewart, Lora Simonsgaard, Steve Lemley, Nate Hasper, Shawn Halahmy, Kari Dauer Hewitt, Tony Wire and Tanya Green, Debbie Clark, Laura Bengford, Rob Barnett, Mo, Alex and Linda Hafizi, Ann Schwartz, Kevin Kistler, Mary Bradway, Kym Cappi, Michele Buttelman, Lola Piraino, Yoti Telli, Brandon Drake, Kari Hewitt, Byron Alvarado, Norma Serrano, Debbie Clark, Sharon Lindquist, Chef Cindy Schwanke…

Wineries/Spirits

B&E Vineyards, Paso Robles

B&P Winery, Los Angeles

Briar Rose Winery, Temecula

Cielo Wineyards, Malibu
Pouring VIP event

D’Anbino Vineyards and Cellars, Paso Robles

Darms Lane Vineyard, Napa

Derby Wine Estates, Paso Robles

Dutcher Crossing Winery, Sonoma

Pouring at VIP Event

Firestone Walker Brewing Co., Paso Robles

First Crush Wine Making

Grizzly Republic, Paso Robles

Pouring VIP Event

Karl Strauss Brewing Company, San Diego

Kimmel Vineyards, Mendocino
Pouring VIP Event

Local Wine Events.Com
Pouring VIP Event

Presenting a selection of fine European wines
Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition

Maddalena Vineyard Brands – A San Antonio Winery Company

Eberle Winery, Paso Robles

Gaucho Imports, Argentina

Maddalena Wines, Paso Robles

San Simeon, California

Sierra Madre, Santa Barbara

Sparrow Hawk, Napa

Martian Ranch Vineyard, Santa Barbara

Michael-David Winery, Lodi
Norcal Winery and Distillery, Sonoma,

Cahill

24 Degrees

Melanto Terrace

Pacific Edge Wine and Spirits

Reposado Dos Manos 100% De Agave Blanco

Tres Manos 100% Pure Agave Anejo, Mexico

Tequila Revolution, 100% Blue Agave, 100 proof, Mexico

Anejo Dos Manos

Patel Winery, Napa
Pouring VIP Event
Pulchella Winery, Santa Clarita

Ventura Limoncello, Ventura

Roxo Ports, Paso Robles Vin Village

Pouring VIP Event

Small Batch Whiskies

Roughstock Montana Wheat Whisky

Roughstock Montana Single Malt

Prichard’s Double Barrel Bourbon

Isle of Skye 8yr

Kilchoman Islay Single Malt

Corsair Wry Moon Un-Aged rye Whiskey

Prichard’s Sweet Lucy Bourbon Liqueur

Smart Assist (Japanese Boutique Sake)

   Iikaze Junmai Daiginjo
   Shinriki Junmai Daiginjo
   Bisui Kou Sen Junmai Ginjo
   Shinzui Junmai Daiginjo
   Daichi no Kaze Junmai
   Oigame Junmai
   Tenpouichi Tokubetsu- Junmai
   Momo Unfiltered
Sculpterra Winery, Paso Robles

Pouring VIP event

Shai Cellars, Santa Barbara

Pouring VIP Event

Ventura County Winery Association
Four Brix Winery
Magnavino Cellars
Cantara Cellars
Bella Victorian Vineyard Winery

Silver Stone Winery, Paso Robles

Wine 661, Valencia

Leese-Fitch, Sonoma

Beers from Belgium and Germany

WJ Deutsch
George Duboeuf, Beaujolais, France

Hob Nob, France

Kunde, Sonoma

Ramon Bilbao, Rioja, Spain

Ruta 22, Argentina

Yellow Tail, Australia

Life Style Exhibitors

Wine Spectator

Bwarie Gift Basket Co

Gourmet Blends
Wine Treasures
Pasta More’
Peacock Foundation
Honest Tea
The BevWizard Co

Me-n-Co (Winery toggles for bottles and glasses.)

Artistic Glass Innovations

LA Wine Fest 2011

Serendipity Lights

Bistro Blends

Smokin Aces – cigars

Psychic Intuition

Inside Pandora’s Box

Hot Spot SCV

Robert John Russo Gallery
Soiree

Teri Diamond Studio (Custom laser, etching and sandblasting, local #661-993-7257)

Kara Franklin, Independent Rendi Stylist (Of Heart and Hand-Custom Gifts and Art Pieces.)

Food VendorsStrictly Vegan Jamaican Cuisine
The Grove – Embassy Suites

Sushiya Bar and Grill, Valencia

ICUE – College of the Canyons

Papas Tapas Food Truck

Mandline Grill Mobile Catering

Maria’s Italian Mobile Kitchen

Nana’s Banana Bread

What’s NEW for Wine Affair 2015?

October 5, 2015 by evebushman

What’s new this year from the Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley for the EIGHTH Annual Wine Affair with returning Title Sponsor Comfort Keepers In-Home Care? Let’s ask new event chair Pam Ingram, a name you may recognize for her years of service at RE/MAX of Santa Clarita.

“Are you ready Santa Clarita?” Pam asks. “Ready to Sip, Stroll and Savor the Sounds of this year’s Wine Affair event on Sunday, October 18th? Enjoy your afternoon from 2 to 6 p.m. on Valencia Town Center Drive while listening to (and dancing to) some new bands, sample delicious food from some of our new, as well as longstanding, local restaurants – all the while sipping on a variety of wines you may not have tried before!”

Not to tease our supporters too much, at press time these are our participants, new for 2015 are in bold: Wolf Creek Restaurant, Wolf Creek Brewing Co., Fireman’s Brew, Pocock Brew, Mystic Hills Vineyard, Plan B Wine Cellars, Magnavino Cellars, Nuggucciet Cellars, Valencia Wine Co., Bellissimo Cellars, Robinson Ranch, C P Iconic Wines, Smokin’ Bar-B-Quties, solita Tacos & Margaritas, California Fish Grill, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Guarachi Wine Partners, Culinary Wonders, Sister House Thai Fusion, Hidden Havana, Pulchella Winery, Persia Lounge, JJs Bar & Grill w/Sangria, Kokolita, Truffles ’N’ Toffee, JLohr and so many more…including some magnum wines donated by local wine collectors.

Enjoy the cozy interiors and patios of Salt Creek Grille, Ro,Ma Jewelers, Valencia Wine Company, Pottery Barn, Blo-Out Lounge, Ivy Day Spa, Fifty-Six Clothing, The Open Book, Entourage Hair Studio, Color Me Mine, Vines Restaurant and Bar and Apollo’s Barber Shop…for four fun-filled hours.

Guests who purchase a 2015 VIP ticket will enjoy a special new treat this year – including the premium wine and delicious food they’ve come to expect at the event. The VIP Venue will be an exclusive area with its own live entertainment. You will also be entered into a drawing for gift baskets valued at $500 or more. New surprises (Did someone say “Wine Pull” Pam? “Why yes, wines valued at $30+ and more will be available for a $25 buy in.”) in store this year for those with VIP tickets, so get them while they last.

In addition to general and VIP tickets, sponsorship opportunities are available, such as “Crystal Decanter” Paul A Hughes/ Red Fox Hot Sauce, “Vintner” sponsor Valencia Acura, The Magazine of Santa Clarita, KHTS Hometown Station as well as “Barrel” sponsors RE/MAX of Valencia, Unruh Spine Center, Pam Ingram RE/MAX of Santa Clarita, RJohnston Interiors Inc., Skyline Home Loans, Old Republic Title Co., Aida & Bruce Weinstein, Advanced Audiology and Stern, Kory, Sreden & Morgan, Mission Valley Bank, McDowell Odom LLP, and J. David’s Custom Clothiers. Media supporters include SCVTV, The Signal, and Inside SCV Magazine. In Kind sponsors, QM Design Group, Global Protective Services, A-1 Party, Eve’s Wine 101. Our 2015 sponsors will be invited to a private party hosted and sponsored by Melanie & Jeff Meyer of Thrivent Financial.

Soroptimist International is a volunteer driven women’s service organization that was established over 75 years ago to improve the lives of women and girls. Proceeds from this year’s event will go towards our Women in Crisis, Women’s Health Issues and Celebrating Women in our local community. Together, we can spark community awareness, collaborate and change lives. We invite you to consider joining us as our corporate sponsor or purchase your tickets at www.sigscv.org.

To learn more about Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley, visit www.sigscv.org or contact Chair Pam Ingram at 661-312-4428 or contact@sigscv.org

Vintage Beacon Circa 10/2010: Sip, Stroll and Savoring 2010

June 30, 2015 by evebushman

Last weekend the Soroptimists of Greater Santa Clarita Valley took the greater – and by far the best – part of our weekend with their third annual “Sip, Stroll and Savor the Sounds…The Wine Affair.”

The VIP Reception

A VIP reception was held exclusively for sponsors on Friday, October 15^th at the home of G. Marshall and Shelley Hann. This kickoff event featured a “battle” to name the “Top Chef of SCV”. Participating Chefs were: Hyatt Valencia Executive Chef Rolf Rothen, Robinson Ranch Executive Chef Efren Gonzalez, Celebrity Chef David Lawrence, Barcelona Executive Chef and Owner Dominic Lahmidi and TPC Executive Chef Daniel Otto.

Their creations were paired with wine from the Private Cellars of Robert Schwartz, John Geraci, Chip Sterndahl, TGIC Importers Inc. and Stellar Imports. The elegant evening also included treats from Babe’s Dessert Bar and Cakery, along with savory faire from one of my favorites: The Poached Pear.

Eve Ate and Drank: I kind of bee-lined it to Robert Schwartz as I had news for him. I had heard that the SCV Wine Classic was kaput. I figured this news would shock him into giving up more of his cellared wine to me now, since he couldn’t do it there anymore. I tasted Sea Smoke Ten Pinot Noir 03 and 04, Whitehall Lane Winery 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Colgin 2000 (This is where Robert wanted to explain to me what a Cult wine is and I disappointed him by knowing…a wine that you have to be on a long waiting list to get and not inexpensive by any means) and then…a flight of William Selyem Pinot Noirs.

With all of the other guests headed my way I only had time to note: 03 had Port aromas and flavors, 04 was perfectly balanced, 05 was a perfect example of ripe Pinot Noir and the 06 was full of bright red fruit. I could have had more of any of them…but I had plenty to keep me busy as Chef Daniel Otto, from TPC’s Oaks Grille and the winner of the Chef Battle that night, handed me a Colorado Lamb Chop with Grape reduction that took my breath away.

From the private cellar of Chip Sterndahl I tried an 06 Miner Benedetto and an 06 Anomaly Cabernet Sauvignon. Both were outstanding. An a 06 Frank Family Reserve Zinfandel was later paired with Chef David Lawrence’s Chocolate Ganache Fleur de sel (with salt) that was served on a plate with chocolate dipped grapes. One guest called it, “Sex on a plate.”

I had an interesting Castillo De Monseran Old Vine Granacha from Spain that I really liked and a Montes Alpha Cabernet from Chile that was as tasty as I remembered it, both from my pal Chris Risdon from TGIC Importers. His wines were paired with food from Barcelona that included another lamb chop and empanadas filled with Brie and a grape sauce. Later, paired with an RL Buller Fine Muscat from Australia, was a dessert that I could only describe as possibly being a frothy crème fraiche over a graham cracker that was aptly called a “Dream Cake”.

John Geraci shared an 02 Aida Vineyard 29 red wine from his cellar while Efren Gonzales, of Robinson Ranch, had me pair it with his Proscuitto wrap of Mascarpone, golden raisins and roasted almonds. My mouth was having a little party…

I drank with Kris Hough, Annie Schwartz, Dora Zavala, Jo Ann Vindigni, Tora Brown, Billie Hubbard, Steve and Rose Chegwin, Jeff and Tamra Levine, Patrick and Laurie McIlrath, Jamie Alba, Greg Amsler, Michele Buttleman, John and Sheryl Geraci, Don and Cheri Fleming, Moe and Linda Hafizi, Terry Bucknall, Emily Chetner, Dustin Burkeybile, Scott and Pam Capistrano, Michael Marsalisi, Ed Masterson, Scott and Vanessa Wilk, Paul de la Cerda and Andrea Nelson, Robert and Darlene Gandara, Jeff Shapiro, Morris Thomas, Bob and Margo Hudson.

The Sip, Stroll and Savor the Sounds Event

Twelve venues featured wine tasting, food and live musical entertainment: La Via Bella, White House Black Market, Ro’Ma Jewelers, Salt Creek Grille, Valencia Wine Company, Glen Ivy Spa, South Point Grill, Carlton Hair International, Lee’s Wine Bistro, The Vines Restaurant, Pottery Barn and Sisley.

Vino 100 Valencia, Malibu Family Wines, Leona Valley Winery, Classic Wines, DiMaggio Washington (and me!) all poured at designated locations. Mojito Cuban Cuisine, Paseo Club, Wolf Creek, Trader Joe’s and Sprouts provided dining choices.

Featured music: Lee Yoon played records on his turntable at Lee’s Wine Bistro, the sultry sounds of Lindsay Hough, Stupid Pony, the Latin sounds of Ino Alvarez, Blue Sky, Jim Shrier, Fahr.west, Nicki Bente, Monkey Bump, Blue Baron Band, and Christine Day.

Eve Spilled:

Megan Gonzalez, one of the two owners of the Poached Pair catering company (that also donated their savory scones to Friday night’s event and to me once for a glowing review), and Lauren Lefkowitz Greber, local realtor extraordinaire, volunteered with me at Valencia Wine Company.

l-r Marlee Lauffer, Eve Bushman, working the Wine Affair.

You Found Waldo/Me (A little game I played with Eve Wine 101 peeps.) marking off your cards for each of the three allotted tastes. Once, when the wine ran out of wine I was allowed to pour.

I had so hoped that would be my opportunity to thank people again, on behalf of the Soroptimists, for supporting women’s health in Santa Clarita. But, he left me with two half bottles of wine and a line that stretched from the bar to the door.

My newly attained Level Two Wine & Spirits Education did not prepare me for that. Some guests wanted all three ounces at once, some wanted wine I didn’t have, some wanted to chat with me (which was the worst as I had no time) and I ended up going 30 minutes past my shift. (Until Soroptimist Vanessa Wilk rescued me and found my relief.)

Love to write, love to chat with peeps, but pour? I left that to the professionals. Kevin Osborne, the manager at Valencia Wine Company, stepped in and pulled a great Pinotage, and then a second, off the shelf and at once calmed the crowd.

Other volunteers I wanted to say hi to at the different stations but didn’t have time (Some stopped by mine for whine!) were Dora Zavala, John and Sheryl Geraci, Julie Sturgeon, Madison Schwartz, Marcy Gonzales, Marjanne Priest, Marlee Lauffer, Pam Ingram, Rose Chegwin, Tamra Levine, Tom Lukas and Tora Brown.

Support and Thanks

A portion of the proceeds from the Wine Affair will benefit organizations that support Women’s Health in the Santa Clarita Valley. October is breast cancer awareness month and this fundraiser fit in with the Soroptimist International of the Americas, Camino Real Region “Color Me Pink and Purple Campaign”. A portion of the day’s proceeds benefited the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Imaging Center on the campus of the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital to help women who are unable to afford detection services. In the past years of the event the Soroptimists have donated $5,000 and $10,000 respectively.

The Title Sponsor was Robert Gandara of Secure Horizons; Vintner Sponsors Jeff and Kim Greiner; Barrel Club Sponsors: SCV Bank, Status Not Quo, Old Republic Title, Scott Wilk for College Board and Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Foundation. Media Sponsors: The Signal, The Magazine of Santa Clarita and KHTS AM1220.

Jo Ann Vindigni, co-chaired the event along with Tamra Levine, Sheryl Geraci, Dora Zavala, Darlene Gandara, Shelley Hann, Tora Brown and Pam Capistrano. For more information, and a full list of sponsors, visit www.thewineaffair.org

Eve Bushman has been reading, writing, taking coursework and tasting wine for over 20 years. She has obtained a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, has been the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and recently served as a guest judge for the L.A. International Wine Competition. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits that may be answered in a future column. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

Soroptimist Int’l. of Greater SCV Announces The 7th Annual Wine Affair

September 3, 2014 by evebushman

Join Soroptimist of Greater Santa Clarita Valley, and returning Title Sponsor Comfort Keepers In-Home-Care, to sip wine, enjoy the sounds of live music, and savor tastings of delicious food, as you stroll many venues on Town Center Drive, in support of health programs for women and girls… Sunday, October 26^th 2 to 6 p.m. In additional to general admission, fabulous VIP and sponsorship opportunities are available, such as “Vintner” sponsors The Magazine of Santa Clarita, as well as “Barrel” sponsors Copy Cat Printing, Re/Max of Valencia & Re/Max of Santa Clarita, J. David’s Clothiers, and Global Protective Services! Media supporters include KHTS am-1220, SCVTV, the Signal, Valley Publications, Joie de Vivre Photographie and QM Design Group.

Many Town Center venues are opening their doors to our revelry: Salt Creek Grille, Valencia Wine Company, La Soie Bridal, Pottery Barn, Blo-Out Lounge, Ivy Day Spa, Cache, J. David Clothiers, Hot Wings, Apollo’s Barber Shop… along with restaurant and wine participants such as Wolf Creek Brewing Co., Fireman’s Brew, Mystic Hills, Pinot’s Palette, Nothing Bundt Cakes and Truffles’N’Toffee… with more to be announced… Mmmm!

Soroptimist International is an international volunteer service organization founded in 1921 for business and professional women of all ages, cultures and ethnic groups. The mission of this organization is to improve the lives of women and girls in Santa Clarita Valley and throughout the world.

If you wish to learn more about Soroptimist International of Greater Santa Clarita Valley, visit www.sigscv.org or contact President Pam Ingram at: contact@sigscv.org.

Judges Announced for the Unitarian Universalists of SCV First Vegan/Vegetarian/Beef/Chicken/Bean/Whatever Chili Cook-Off

January 7, 2014 by evebushman

SANTA CLARITA, CA – January 6, 2014 – The Unitarian Universalists of Santa Clarita Valley (www.UUofSCV.org) are pleased to announce the judges for their First Vegan/Vegetarian/Beef/Chicken/Bean/Whatever Chili Cook-Off being held on January 19:

Todd Wilson, founder of Santa Clarita Foodies Group; Ola Mikail, local foodie and student of Le Cordon Blue; Mr. Ducayne, Professional Chef and better half to Lady Ducayne.

The public is encouraged to join the UUofSCV as they warm those with “many hearts, many beliefs” at the SCV Senior Center on January 19, 2014 at 11:45 a.m. Members of the community are welcome to try all of the entries at the tasting. The cost to enter is $10; adult guests will be asked for a minimum $10 donation and $5 for children under 12. Drinks will be available for purchase for a nominal donation. All of the proceeds will benefit the work of the Unitarian Universalists of Santa Clarita.

Anyone may enter the contest. Contact Eve Bushman at eve@evewine101.com for further details on entering your chili. If you are selected as the winner you will be awarded a chili bowl trophy.

Unitarian Universalist services are held each Sunday at 10:30 AM at the SCV Senior Center, 22900 Market St., in Newhall. For directions and information, visit www.UUofSCV.org or call 661-254-7866.

Provide Unique Video Advertising with the SCV Unscripted Team (Eve is your host!)

October 18, 2013 by evebushman

If you haven’t already heard the buzz, well now you have. SCV Unscripted is the newest production of Prime Publications, Inc., publishers of The Magazine of Santa Clarita and élite Magazine. Together with Bonnie Keith, owner of Video Magic Production, and Eve Bushman as host, SCV Unscripted is dedicated to bringing even more awareness and publicity to your business or organization through use of video marketing.

You may ask, “Why video?” Using a mix of print as well as video marketing strategies makes the most sense. With print ads, you have your chance to tell your stories using headlines, images and copy. With video, you can tell your story with movement and emotion. So why not put your marketing dollars to good use with both?

The talented professionals at SCV Unscripted are here to help. Let the experts bring your business or organization into the 21^st century with a personalized video…short, expressive, and impactful…unscripted. With only 90 minutes of filming time out of your day, Eve will lead the way as host with Bonnie behind the camera. Bonnie will then take her 30 years of video production experience and work her magic, creating a five minute video that can be uploaded to any social website, YouTube or presented on DVD. Participating advertisers of The Magazine of Santa Clarita and élite Magazine will also enjoy the benefits of video production, as your video will be promoted on our website, which receives over a thousand hits per day. Using your print advertising to improve your online visibility by pushing people to your website and social networking is proven to be effective.

Ready, set…and now it’s time for action! The first ten videos produced will receive a reduced rate. For details, contact Moe Hafizi at 661-294-4444 ext. 112, or email scvunscripted@yahoo.com. For more information about SCV Unscripted, visit www.scvunscripted.com. See you on the web! (Note: This is for all kinds of businesses, not just wine-based companies. You can also email Eve with any questions: Eve@evewine101.com)