Vintage Eve Circa 5/2015: Taste of the Town, aka TOTT, x 27 Years Strong!

June 26, 2018 by evebushman

“Over 50 restaurants and caterers serve up all the food you can eat, all the wine & beer you can drink, plus top-notch entertainment, silent & live auctions in a beautiful garden setting.” And this year we got another great teaser, check out the great photo by Laura Kirchhoff, Taste of the Town at Sunrise…

Exhausted. Even though as a media sponsor we were given VIP seating and full table service, we felt compelled to leave our shady seats, plate after plate of tantalizing treats and two bottles of wine – and walk the whole entire event from one end to the other.

We started by checking in with a few of the hardworking people that made this year’s event a success.

Lois Bauccio, President and Executive Director, Child and Family Center Foundation commented, “We are touched and gratified by the incredible outpouring of support from the community for the event this year. It means so much to the kids and families who receive services at Child and Family Center.”

Laina McFerren, Co-Founder, Wolf Creek Restaurant & Brewery and event co-chair along with Ginger Levang, “We are so lucky to live in a community that supports its non-profits in such a big way. Thanks to all of the sponsors, Child and Family Center staff and volunteers who made this day possible. It definitely ‘takes a village’ and the whole village seemed to show up yesterday! We couldn’t have asked for a better day in support of a better cause. Looking forward to 2016!”

Also got this lovely quote from Jennifer Gerard, President and CEO of Whitening Lightning, Gerard Cosmetics Inc., and the “Top Chef” sponsor of the event, “Taste of the Town is always SCV’s greatest event of the year. Attendees can count on great food, music and fun just the way residents of this town can count on our Child and Family Center to be there for us and our families during times of crisis.”

Now with our handy acrylic plates, we braved the heat to keep our plates and glasses filled. Not a problem for any seasoned TOTTers, we enjoyed photographing friends and filling up from:

Participants:

Angel City Brewery – IPA was refreshing.

Anheuser Busch

Bake You Happy – They had a nice selection but I stopped at the Brown Butter Cookies…

Bella Cucina – Looked like you could get your fill of pasta, risotto and rolls!

Bergie’s Steakhouse Bar & Grill – Juicy steak on a toothpick did the trick!

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse – Yummy artichoke spinach dip!

Castaic Lake Water Agency – Much needed and appreciated cool bottled water!

Clarice’s Cake & Candy – Milk Chocolate and White Chocolate drenched strawberries.

Culinary Wonders – Doing demonstrations while serving Chilled watercress soup, Moroccan spiced beef and Matcha chocolate tarts; all excellent.

Eat Real Café – Gallons of hand squeezed juices cooled the crowd.

Fetzer Vineyards – A sweet Chardonnay and balanced Merlot were waiting at our table for me to open and sample!

Fireman’s Brew

Henry Mayo Café – Who knew that their Café was so good? They served up a cool-looking salad.

Honu Coffee – Perfect day for their Cold Brew.

Institute of Culinary Education at COC – Wowing us again with a stellar presentation of cheese, fruit and breads.

Island Pacific Grill

Lohr Vineyard & Wines – Back for another year to support our Child and Family Center.

Jasmine Thai Noodle & BBQ – Three different dishes but we were too full to sample them!

Jersey Mike’s Subs – Served up ½-size subs!

Jill’s Cake Creations – A white cake with whipped cream and strawberries was terrific.

Kokolita Cakes – Served as usual by 50s costumed ladies, people loved their yummy signature cupcakes and empanadas.

Kona Ice of Santa Clarita

Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que – Very good Pulled Pork Slider and full-sized bottles of their BBQ sauce were free in exchange for your email!

Magnavino – A “Beautiful” white wine blend – look for it!

Marston’s

Mystic Hills Vineyard – Serving up their award-winning Unforgiven blend.

New Moon Valencia

Newhall Refinery – Food looked great (Octopus Ceviche and Chicken Liver Toast) but it was the Moscow Mules from their new craft cocktail menu I was drooling for.

Nothing Bundt Cakes – An awesome array of their frosted Bundt-lets!

Nuggucciet Cellars – Get your hands on the 2013 Pinot Noir – and don’t let go!

Parashars’ Indian Kitchen – I had always wanted to try them, and their spicy sauces over chicken didn’t disappoint.

Persia Restaurant

Pinot’s Palette

Pocock Brewing Company

Rattlers Bar-B Que

Regal Wine Company

Rita’s Italian Ice – Flavors this year included Mango, Strawberry Colada and…Marshmallow Peanut Butter!

Robinson Ranch – Serving up healthy pours of Stag’s Leap Chardonnay, paired with Ahi Poke and Caesar Salad.

Rubio’s

Salt Creek Grille Catering – Hot Dog Slider with Spicy Cucumber Relish and Creamy House Mustard. Heirloom Tomato Sandwich with Smoke Corn Aioli! Paired with a Jalapeno Meyer Lemon Drop!!

Signal Wine Club

Sisley Italian Kitchen

solita Tacos & Margaritas – Serving up their popular signature roasted corn, tacos and Margaritas!

StoneFire Grill

Stone Oven – Moist and meaty Panini triangles.

The Paseo Club – Pork and Mango tacos.

The Shrimp Haus

Valencia Country Club

Valencia Cigars & News

Vines Restaurant & Bar – Seafood Cocktail, very popular!

Whole Foods Market Valencia – GIGANTIC fresh oysters and Ahi Poke. Did you know that they have $1 Oysters on Fridays???

Wolf Creek Restaurant & Brewing Co.

Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill

Wine Pavilion featuring  select wines from local wineries. (Sponsored by: Signal Wine Club)

Note: If we missed a table it wasn’t due to lack of interest or crowds, we were just getting to full! Next year we will start in the back of the event…maybe!

Story in a bazillion photos here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10205486763675912.1073741915.1455706632&type=1&l=83890ed442

LIVE AUCTION ITEMS

* Private Party for 20 at Piccola Trattoria

* DC Comics Super Hero Birthday Party for 6 at Six Flags Magic Mountain

* Custom Made Dress by Barbara Moore of Dream Dress

* One week at beachfront home in Mission Beach

* 3-night stay for up to 8 in a 2,536 square foot luxury villa in La Costa plus $500 gift card

* 6 nights retreat at a cabin in Arrowhead

* 7 nights in Maui at a 4,000 square foot home on the beach

* 3 nights for two in New York at the New York Hilton, with dinner at Tribeca & Broadway Show including airfare

* Wine pairing dinner for 8 prepared and served to your guests in your home

* One week in Vail Colorado (November 14-21) at Marriott’s Streamside Resort

* Four night stay at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, includes airfare, golf for two & daily breakfast

PLUS 130 FANTASTIC SILENT AUCTION ITEMS

http://www.childfamilycenter.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

Vintage Eve Circa 1/2015: The Best Wine or Spirits Experience in 2014

April 3, 2018 by evebushman

Yep, it’s that time of year again. Forget about learning what your pesky new year resolutions were for 2015, I just wanted to know what your drinking epiphanies were in 2014! After learning what our Eve Wine 101 Facebook pals experienced, I’d have to say I have some new boozy goals for 2015:

Grape vineyards in Tuscany.

Scott E: At The Ace rooftop bar. A drink called the Mi Corazon. Fresno pepper infused cachaca, coconut, lime, nutmeg, served in a chilled metal cup.

Lisa B: Drinking shots of Russian Vodka with friends in St. Petersburg! We didn’t do it for long! It was the last day of our two-day tour and we begged our guide and driver to find us a place for that “Bucket List” experience. She found us a very nice restaurant and the servers and kitchen staff were so sweet to let us barge in and just do shots. It was a great experience! I highly recommend it! Just wish we could have stayed longer and tried some of their food. The restaurant looked very upscale. All the staff was young and gorgeous, polite and perfectly dressed. The food looked awesome!

Hope G: A 4-course Scotch dinner. Who knew the differences in Highland and Lowland Scotches were so pronounced and paired so well with oysters, game and beef. I did not expect to find a favorite in Dalwhinnie 25yr!

Barbara B: I simply liked discovering wines from areas under-represented here like the Xianomavro wines of the Naoussa region of Greece or the Slovenian wines fermented in ancient Amphorae…too cool and now planning wine visits to both countries!

Lee W: “The Black Dahlia” A toast to Elizabeth Short with Absolut Citron, Chambord and Kahlua, with an orange peel garnish at the Gallery Bar and Cognac Lounge in the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, Los Angeles. (The last place she was seen alive!!)

Wayne L: Chateau Montelena in Napa. Great venue and great wines.

Kelly B: Lunch at the Louis Roederer Champagne Family Home with Cristal, and other assorted favorite along with a 3 star Michelin Chef Prepared Meal and eating off Napoleon’s own gold eating utensils… or there is was the Zurich Wine Expo…nothing like drinking wine on a boat!

Theresa H: My 25th wedding anniversary trip to Napa. The castle hands down. Temecula was very enjoyable too. My first year in California has introduced me to so much fun… Oh oh wine tasting at The Jelly Belly Factory as well. That is near Napa.

Lori R: Tequila at Solita.

Michelle T: We took our 10 and 12 year olds to Napa for the first time and took a winery tour at Frog’s Leap. Yep, we are those parents.

Jane S: Watching my husband sipping a glass or two or three of his special hand picked red wine every night.

Orlando R: Making shot glasses out of watermelon then freezing them with liquid nitrogen, and filling them with a habanero flavored vodka.

Ron C: Traveling to Willamette Valley in Oregon, staying in the Archery Summit winery guest house! Touring the winery and having an incredible experience with…great wine, great food and great friends!

Cathy M: Geeez, I was just happy to find original copper Moscow Mule mugs my parents had from the 1950s. Steve makes Alcatraz cocktails in them. You substitute vodka for tequila.

Melissa L: I must say that the adventures in Absinthe have been most enjoyable and filled with surprises. We evaluated 200 year old samples alongside the modern – like a liquid history lesson. Delicious.

Michael D: My favorite wine experience was during our trip to Italy last spring. The highlights for me were the driving tour through the Florence countryside in a classic Fiat 500 that ended with a wine tasting in a 15th century villa and drinking with the locals at the Cantina Do Mori in Venice… My favorite sprits experience was going to Bourbon and Branch in San Francisco for my 50th birthday. You have to love a place that won’t even ask you if you have a reservation unless you know the password and whose house rules include “Don’t even think of asking for a Cosmo”!

Michael M: Hands down the Henry Wine Group’s “Taste the World” event in Beverly Hills at the historic Beverly Hills Hotel. Loved meeting Elizabeth Spencer and trying her delicious Sirah. I think I met a few other cool people there too… (Eve Hammond Bushman)

Robin B: Had an amazing time with my partner-in-crime, Robin A., up in Paso Robles last August at one of Tobin James Winery’s annual barbeques. Got to taste a great array of wines (actually, it was more like glug it down to our heart’s content), eat fantastic food from local top chefs and listen to live music under the stars. Fun evening, and I will be going back.

Scott H: Finally getting 2 bottles of Alban Vineyards Syrah after being on the waiting list for 2 1/2 years. We opened one. It was worth the wait.

Dale G: Stagecoach wine tours in Solvang and Santa Barbara; day trip to winery in Lancaster surprisingly good. Still want to go to Temecula. Did Napa years ago.

Chris C: Hands down, getting married in a Vineyard in Temecula at Ponte in March, to my beautiful wife Jennie C. Boom!!

How Was Cocktails on the Roof 2017?

September 15, 2017 by evebushman

Whew! What a freaking blast we had this time around. I’m still exhausted, overwhelmed and yet can’t wait for the fourth event in 2018. Cutting to the chase, I’m talking about Cocktails on the Roof that benefits the WiSH Education Foundation, which, in turn, benefits all of the students in the Hart District.

Eve Bushman Consulting created the out-of-the-box event to showcase the bar programs of our local restaurants and bring in single spirit vendors. We added a rooftop venue, a DJ with a large dance area, private and public lounges, tons of food and mini martini glasses for sampling. NO ONE has tried to duplicate this event. We own it! And special thanks go to my co-hosts Exec. Dir. Amy Daniels – for ALL of the legwork – and Marlee Lauffer for spreading the word. Committee members that continue this out-of-the-box thinking every year include WiSH Board President Richard Cohn, WiSH VP Lynne Secrest along with Judy Penman, Ed Masterson, Dawn Begley, Mitch Russell and Rochelle Gallimore.

WiSH Education Foundation’s Exec. Dir. Amy Daniels and Me on the ROOF

One more thing we do, in case that’s not enough, we ask our guests to vote on their favorite cocktails of the night. We settle on the top three and this year’s winners are #1. Olive Terrace Bar and Grill. #2 Marstons Valencia and #3 Deep Eddy Vodka.

This year, besides having a larger event space, almost doubling our footprint, we had some new vendors joining our existing usual suspects. (No time to read? Watch the fun in this 3-minute slideshow.)

NEWS FROM THE WISH EDUCATION FOUNDATION: In a letter to our vendors Wish Exec. Dire. Amy Daniels wrote, “On behalf of Eve Bushman, Marlee Lauffer and the Board of Directors of the WiSH Education Foundation, I want to thank you for your generosity with your time and product to help make this year’s Cocktails on the Roof the best one yet! The response was incredible on social media and we do hope you had an amazing time on THE ROOF!

Because of you, WiSH raised over $45,000 in just three hours, allowing us to make a significant difference for school programs this year. For this academic year, our funding focus is STEAM with an emphasis on the ARTS, and we appreciate your involvement in helping us reach for higher goals. In fact, we raised over $11,000 more this year than last – and we hope to do the same again next year, with your help.”

Our Vendors

Deep Eddy Vodka, LA Scotch Club, JFC International soju-based cocktails, Speakeasy Bakery, Honu Coffee with Jameson Irish Whisky 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, The Distillery at Opolo, Vina Sympatica sparkling wine and NEW: Scoob’s Original Frozen premium cookies.

Just Some of the 2017 Raves

Michael – Such a great evening for a wonderful cause, made better by meeting up with old friends!

Leslie – Had a blast last night at Cocktails on the Roof benefiting the Wish Education Foundation with my guy and gals.

Nicole – Amy Daniels, Successful, fun event! Congrats!

Karen – Eve Hammond Bushman! You have done it again! Better than ever.

Lisa – Had a blast at Cocktails on the Roof with all (my) fabulous friends! #cotr17

Steve – After a lousy day, good food and fine spirits help a lot…especially when it is for a great cause. Thank you Eve Bushman.

Dana – Best time at Cocktails on the Roof in Santa Clarita fundraiser for the Wish Foundation.

Patti – Tons of fun at Cocktails on the Roof 2017! Great job Amy Daniels and Eve Bushman! A job well done!

Vicki – Having a blast for a wonderful organization.

Heather – Date nights are great nights…eat, drink, and dance for a great cause! Fun event Eve!

Pam –Had a great time at Cocktails on the Roof! Congrats Amy Daniels, Eve Bushman and Marlee Lauffer for another outstanding event benefiting the Wish Education Foundation!

Karen – This year’s event was my first event. The event was fantastic!

Cheryl – There were so many wonderful people there…

Lauren – A fun evening indeed!

Tiffany – Had so much fun. Was great seeing everyone.

Nick – We had an amazing time at Cocktails on the Roof 2017 last night benefiting WISH Education Foundation!

Robin – It was really fun, and the food was amazing!

Terry (We had) a blast with the Mirror Booth…!

Hilary – Next year I’m SOOOOOOO going.

Steve S. – Another Cocktails on the Roof in the bag! So much fun and generous people!

Sponsors

Patrice Rifkind with Audiology Associates, Nick Rose Insurance Agency, Inc., Littler Mendelson, Julie M. Sturgeon CPA, Peterson Printing, Chiquita Canyon, Steven B. Chegwin CPA, the Magazine of Santa Clarita, SCV elite Magazine, Randy Plaice and Associates, Jeff and Melanie Meyer with Thrivent Financial, Westfield Valencia, EveBushmanConsulting.com, Eve’s Wine 101, Lundgren Mgt., Enchanted Kids, Oasis Associates, Craig and Lisa Eichman, Sol Print Solutions, Mitchpickswine/Mitch and Leslie Russell, SOS Entertainment, 24/7 Events, Andy Gump, Burrtec, California Credit Company, Brightview Tree Company, The Signal, All Business Matters, The Watters Group, KHTS and SCVTV. Special thanks to Genesis Moss, Print & Web Design (www.genesismoss.com), for creating our brand new dedicated website, www.cocktailsontheroofscv.org.

Volunteers to Thank

Noah Daniels, Amy Daniels, Doug Penman, Carolyn Lodes, Diane McGrory, Mary Bradway, Leonard Leto, Robin Wimsatt, Ellen Hawthorne, Lee Lodes, Vicki White, Barbara Meyer, Adele MacPherson, Vicki Tungate, Cheryl Gray, Judy Penman, Nicole Stinson, Sue Hayward, Danise Davis, Terry Gallimore, JoAnn Manzo, Al Hayward, Verna Velasquez, Marissa Velasquez, Jennifer Goins, Sue Cacic, Debbie Walker, Dave Cacic, Justin Neely + two, Pat Willett, Niki Feast Williams, John Rogers and Holly Bellamy.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits. You can also seek her marketing advice via Eve@EveBushmanConsulting.com

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/

solita Tacos & Margaritas New Menu Features SUPER TACOS (Eve and Foodie approved!)

February 17, 2017 by evebushman

A couple of weeks ago I orchestrated a small event with local foodies at solita tacos Valencia. They were rolling out a new menu and wanted some feedback. Well. The evening turned into a social media blitz with the newly coined #BadassChickenMoleTacos everywhere, Facebook live video, Facebook posts, Snapchat, Twitter, Instagram, blog posts…you get my drift. Clearly, they won us over. This is a one minute slideshow of some of the goodies, and below, the full professional press release. Hope to see you at solita soon!

Chef Deborah Schneider and Eve

Executive Chef Deborah Schneider’s new menu features her signature Super Tacos, new antojitos, and specialty dishes

Valencia, February 2017 – solita has introduced a new menu featuring more than a dozen new dishes, including the long-awaited debut of Super Tacos! Executive Chef/Partner Deborah Schneider’s Super Tacos became famous when it they debuted on the menu of sister concept, SOL Cocina, in 2009. Over the past 8 years, SOL’s ‘Super Tacos’ have gained much attention and a quite few awards (including OC’s Best Taco) for elevating the basic taco with more salsas, cheese, and garnishes – adding layers, toasting and frying, and generally pushing the taco to its limit. Chef Deb’s taco-focused cookbook, Amor y Tacos, fueled the popularity of the Super Taco with recipes for the home cook.

Now, solita guests will have the opportunity to partake in five new Super Taco selections, including Chef Deb’s acclaimed Vampiro, inspired by great ideas from both sides of the border. While many of her Super Taco flavors are traditional, Chef’s techniques and combinations take the typical taco up to the edge – and occasionally, over it.

“A taco can always be made larger, spicier, gooier, or have more goodies on top – at solita, we like to have fun and take a few risks,” says Chef Deb. “We take the street traditions and add a little modern innovation to bring you something a little different.”

As Chef Deb says, “Tacos may not be considered a serious meal by most, but here at solita, we take them very seriously. Even the most humble taco stand in Mexico is plastered with signs proclaiming that here are to be found ‘tacos ricos,’ ‘tacos super-fantasticos,’ ‘tacos el mejores del mundo” – humility is clearly not part of the recipe for a great taco. What is essential are freshness and character – delivering big flavors in small bites.”

Following are the new Super Tacos, Antojitos and solita Specialty dishes now available:

SUPER TACOS
vampiro – double tortilla with cheese, serranos & green onions, guacamole, choice of carne asada or grilled chicken, chipotle sauce, cotixa cheese, salsa fresca

xolo pork adobo – pork in special sauce with cheese, pineapple, avocado, taquero sauce, onion

pescado – pan-seared wild fish with salsa rosa and slaw

squido – grilled spicy calamari steak with salsa verduras

grilled toreado – grilled jalapeño, cheese & bacon, smoked tequila onions, crema salsa fresca

ANTOJITOS
bean dip ‘frijoles puercos’ – refried charro beans, chorizo, carnitas, cheese, freshly-fried pork chicharrón

chicharrón – paper bag of fresh-fried hot chicharrón shaken at table with chile con limon, lime

valentina fried chicken – boneless dark meat, secret marinade and breading, Valentina garlic butter sauce

calamari strips with dos salsas – panko-crusted calamari strips deep-fried, salsa verduras & spicy salsa rosa

chicken mole empanaditas – chicken & cheese, cilantro, house-made mole poblano, crema, sesame seeds

SOLITA SPECIALTIES
chicken mole – boneless chicken, house made mole poblano, crema, sesame seeds

red chile beef flautas – shredded beef, red chile sauce, crema, chipotle sauce

chicken verde – pulled chicken, salsa verde, poblano chiles, cheese, crema & avocado

SWEETS
demonic brownie – rich chocolate brownie topped with salated caramel pecan sauce, ice cream and strawberry rum salsa

In addition to a great daily menu, solita offers Taco & Tequila Tuesday specials, Weekend Brunch menu, and a daily Happy Hour with specials on food and margaritas.

solita Tacos & Margaritas is located in the Valencia Town Center (24201 W Valencia Blvd., Suite 3470). More information and a complete menu of solita‘s offerings can be found at www.solitatacos.com.

ABOUT SOLITA
With solita, Partners Matt Baumayr, Rich Howland and Executive Chef Deborah Schneider, the restaurateurs behind the SOL Cocina brand, have created yet another unique interpretation of contemporary Mexican food, with its own personality, look and distinctive menu. Similar to SOL, solita builds on an appreciation for fresh ingredients, big flavors, and seasonally changing menus. They deliver a Mexican food experience in a way that represents the soul of coastal Baja California.

At the heart of the restaurant and the menu is a wood-fired open grill and oak smoker, the inspiration for Executive Chef Deborah Schneider’s unique takes on familiar Mexican favorites such as tacos, carne asada, skirt steak asada, ancho chile chicken, oak–roasted chipotle chicken, house carnitas, red chile borracho beef and wood-grilled wild fish – all created with premium fresh ingredients and served with delicious hand-made salsas.

The bar menu at solita takes an equally fresh approach to traditional Mexican cocktails, featuring fresh fruit-based and agave-sweetened margaritas made with 100% blue agave tequilas. Margaritas focus on vibrant and immediate flavors, and all recipes are made in-house with fresh citrus juices and sugar, and contain no HFCS, preservatives or coloring. solita offers an extensive selection of artisan, premium and ultra premium tequilas.

In addition to highlighting the true flavors of Baja, the setting of solita Tacos & Margaritas invites diners to experience the simplicity, ruggedness, timelessness and warmth of the region. Much of the interior detail and furnishings were hand-made by Mexican artisans and craftsmen, and the space reflects the charm, sophistication and hospitality of modern Mexico, but also to represent some of the overlooked sophistication that is evident in the country. The airy 150-seat space offers 80 seats indoors and 70 seats in a covered, all-weather patio, with 20 of those seats shared in a unique indoor/outdoor bar.

solita Tacos & Margaritas has two Southern California locations, in Valencia (Valencia Town Center, 24201 W Valencia Blvd., Suite 3470) and in Huntington Beach (Bella Terra Center, 7631 Edinger Avenue, Suite 1508). More information and a complete menu of solita‘s offerings can be found at www.solitatacos.com.

solita Tacos and Margaritas Celebrates 2-Year Anniversary and the WiSH Education Foundation Benefits

November 2, 2016 by evebushman

On Thursday, November 3 from 5:00pm until closing solita Tacos and Margaritas is serving up live music, followed by a late night DJ and local favorites at special prices all day: $2 Corn Elote, $4 Pair of Tacos, $6 Frozen Beers and $8 Single Barrel Margaritas in celebration of their two-year anniversary.

Between the hours of 5-8pm 15% of all proceeds will be donated to the WiSH Education Foundation that serves all of the local students in the Hart School District.

The staff and management at solita Tacos and Margaritas organized this event as a “…way of showing our Valencia family how much we appreciate you!” Manager Ken DiCross commented, “We are grateful for the support that the community has shown over the past two years and look forward to serving them – tacos and more – for many more years.”

The WiSH Education Foundation sincerely appreciates solita Tacos and Margaritas management for offering this wonderful fundraising opportunity, and invite all those that support local schools to attend.

We ask that if you are bringing those under 21 with you – or if you are coming alone or with pals – please party responsibly. This is a no cover charge special event and reservations are suggested.

solita Tacos and Margaritas: 24201 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 3470. 661.291.1399 | www.solitaTacos.com

WiSH Education Foundation http://wishscv.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.

Your Santa Clarita Happy Hours, Update for 2016

March 25, 2016 by evebushman

Every year we try to provide all the information we can get from our local restaurants on their Happy Hours – just for you, our favorite peeps. Use this as a guide and feel free to comment on any restaurants we may have missed, and any details you can share.

Every restaurant on this alphabetical list was updated in March 2016 via direct email with a restaurant representative, a Facebook representative or culled directly from their website. And, to help further, each restaurant name is hyperlinked to their website so that you can gather any other info such as directions and regular menus.

Vines, at the Valencia Hyatt, 2016 Happy Hour

Feel free to share our list on your social networks via hyperlink.

SCV Happy Hours 2016

Azul Tequila: Monday through Friday 3pm until 7pm, $3.75 House Margaritas, $3.50 wine by the glass, $3.75 well drinks, draft beers $3.50 and $5 appetizers.

BJ’s Brewhouse Valencia: Monday through Friday 3-7pm, Sunday through Thursday 10pm until closing and all day Tuesday is half off wines by the glass or bottle. $1 off draft beer, bottled beer, cocktails and wine by the glass. Happy Hour food menu.

Black Angus Steakhouse: Monday through Friday from 3pm until 7pm in the bar, all day Tuesdays and Sundays. $4 well drinks, $5 for 16 ounce bottled and draft beers, Margarita, Martini, select wines by the glass, $6 Texas Teas, Mojitos and reduced prices on full sized appetizers.

Bonefish Grill: “At Bonefish Grill, every hour is happy hour — seriously. Our All Day Every Day Cocktails are (always) $6, from the moment we open our doors to the moment we close them. We also offer a true happy hour for those of you looking for something more traditional. Cheers.”

Claim Jumper Valencia: In the saloon only, hours not listed and holidays excluded. Select menu items priced between $2 and $9.99, $4 select bottled beer, $4 to $8 select cocktails and $5 select wines by the glass.

Don Cuco Newhall: Daily from 4pm until 7pm, select beers between $3.50 and $4.50, $5.95 Margaritas and $5.25 well drinks, half price on all appetizers, in the bar only.

Gyi-Kaku Sushi Bar, Valencia location: About two dozen happy hour food specials as well as Saketini and Soju cocktails for $4.00, house sake hot/cold $5, Gyu-Kaku Nigori Sake for $7 and Sapporo draft for $1.95 a glass and $7.50 a pitcher.

Islands: Monday through Friday from 4pm until 7pm, select appetizers and drink specials.

Kabuki: Monday through Friday 3pm until 6pm, Monday thru Thursday 9pm until closing, Sunday 8pm until closing. Select cocktails $5.95 to $6.50, lowered prices on select hot and cold Sakes, select wines are $4.25 a glass and lowered prices on select beers.

Lazy Dog: Monday through Friday 3pm until 6pm, Sunday through Thursday 9pm until closing in the bar and patio only, drinks priced fro $3 to $7 and Happy Hour portioned appetizers between $3 and $7.

Le Chene: 4:30pm until 7pm every day except Saturday. No specifics on website.

Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que: In the bar only from 3 until 7 pm Monday through Friday and 9pm until closing every day. Happy Hour menu, select 22-ounce draft beers, wines by the glass and cocktails are $1 off.

Margaritas Mexican Grill: Margarita Monday all day happy hour, open to close, bar and dining room, free bean dip after 4pm, happy hour bar appetizers under $8, weekly happy hour is Tuesday through Friday from 3pm-7pm.

Marston’s Valencia: Tuesday through Sunday 5pm to 7pm. $1 off specialty drinks and Martinis, $5 well drinks, $3.25 bottled beer, $4 draft beer, $5 wine by the glass, $6 well Martinis, $8 Specialty Martinis and Specialty Drinks. Happy Hour Appetizer menu.

Newhall Refinery: Happy Hour Drinks Tuesday – Friday 3pm to 5pm: Beer flight (3) 4oz draught $4, Wine flights (3) 2oz $4, House wine $4 glass and any wine by the glass $2 off. Happy Hour Bites Tuesday – Sunday 4pm to 5pm: Hoisin pork belly bao bun $5, Angus slider & chips $5, Chicken & waffles $6, Mini refiners fries $5, Hummus and naan $5, Pretzel with Mornay dip $5, Brioche soldiers and egg $4 and Lobster corn dogs $11.

New Moon Valencia: 5pm until closing, weekends all day long. Beer $4.25 to $5.50, wine by the glass and Sangria $5.50, select cocktails $5.50 and $6.50, appetizer menu items $3.50 to $6.00.

Olive Terrace Bar and Grill: Every day 3pm-7pm, $3.75-$4.75 select cocktails, with Complimentary Hors d’ oeuvres, Snacks $5.75, Thursday Night Martini Night select Martinis $7 from 5pm-9pm.

Persia Lounge: 3pm-6pm every day 1/2 off on house wine or any bottle of wine and 1/2 off on domestic beers.

Piccola Trattoria: Monday through Thursday from 5pm – 7pm, $5 well drinks and bar bites, select signature handcrafted cocktails are at a reduced price.

Presidente Santa Clarita: Monday through Friday from 2:30pm until 6pm in the Cantina only, Happy Hour appetizer menu, all draft beer $4 for 14 ounce and $6.50 for 22 ounce, $5 plain and $5.25 flavored 16 ounce house Margaritas, $5.75 to $7.50 for 16 ounce premium Margaritas, $4 to $4.50 tequilas, $4 well drinks, $4.50 house wine by the glass.

Rattler’s Bar B Que: Monday to Friday 3-6:30 p.m., bar only, food priced between $1.50 and $5.00, 16 oz. draft beer $4.99, 20 oz. draft beer $5.99, house wine $6 to $9 a glass, cocktails between $7 and $9.

Route 66 Classic Grill: Happy Hour in the bar and patio only and not during special events, Monday through Friday 3pm until 6pm and again from 9pm until closing, Saturday 9pm until closing and Sunday 7pm until closing. $1 off draft beer, $1 off well drinks.

Sabor Cocina Mexicana: Mon – Fri 2PM – 6PM Bar or Patio only, Margaritas: De la Casa 100% Agave reposado tequila…6.50, Seasonal Flavor of the Day Served on the rocks… 6.50, Beer: Draft or Bottled…4.50. Well Drinks…5.00. Botanitas: Sabor Duo Dips, Seasonal guacamole, Bean Dip, Tostaditas… 6.50, Taquitos: Shredded chicken, salsa verde, crema, queso fresco, guacamole…6.50, Cheese Quesadillas…6.00, Panuchos Yucatecos: Corn tortilla, black beans, cochinita, escabeche, habanero salsa…6.50. Subject to change without prior notice. Not available on holidays.

Salt Creek Grille Valencia: Featured Monday-Friday From 4-6:30pm in the Bar Only: Bites: [stuffed jumbo shrimp]$11 Stuffed with Horseradish & Bacon Wrapped, Chipotle Honey Sauce; [baked goat cheese marinara]$7 Sautéed Wild Mushrooms & Caramelized Onions, Served with Focaccia Toast; [artichoke & parmesan spinach dip]$7 Baked with Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheeses, Served with Tortilla Chips; [housemade chips]$5  With Crumbled Gorgonzola Cheese & Bacon, Served with Chipotle Aioli; [blackened chicken nachos]$8 Tortilla Chips with Blackened Chicken, Cheddar Cheese, Pinto Beans Jalapeno Peppers, Pico de Gallo & Sour Cream; [chicken salad lettuce cups]$9 Chicken, Pecans, Green Apple, Dried Cranberries, Shallots Greek Yogurt & Apple Cider Vinegar, Served in Lettuce Cups; [corned beef sliders]$8 Corned Beef with Chipotle Cole Slaw, Pickles, Swiss Cheese & Dijon Mustard; [creek sliders]$9 Mini Burgers on Hawaiian Buns with Blue Cheese Aioli & Wild Baby Arugula; [chicken tacos]$9 Blackened Chicken, Bacon, Cotija Cheese & Chipotle Cole Slaw Served with Pico de Gallo. Drink: [well drinks]$4, [draft beers]$5, [bottled beers]$4 and [house wines by the glass]$5.

Sisley Italian Kitchen: All day every day in bar and lounge, well drinks and beer $3, Margaritas and House Wine $4, Selected call drinks, well Martinis and Cosmopolitans $5. Appetizers priced between $4 – $6.

Solita Tacos and Margaritas: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 3:00 pm to 6:15 pm, and for Reverse (Late Night) Happy Hour from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm. guests can enjoy a tiered menu of snacks and beverages ranging from $4.00 to $6.00 each. Naked Guacamole or a pair of Street Tacos like Wood Grilled Chicken, Crispy Fish and Tofu for $4 or for $5 there is Oak-Roasted Chicken, Pork Carnitas, Chorizo Sweet Potato and Black Bean or the Chicken Taquitos ($5). The only thing better than the signature Guacamole solita (served in a fried tortilla bowl and topped with diced mango, tomato, onion, Serrano chile and cilantro for $6), is pairing a $6 solita House, Frozen or Skinny Margarita from Beverage Director Colin Pflugradt with it. Well Drinks and glasses of wine like the Jade Mountain Merlot and Castle Rock Chardonnay are $5.

Valencia Wine Company: Sunday all day from 1 to 9 pm, Monday through Thursday 4 – 7 pm. Premium selection of wines by the glass $8 and $10 appetizers including empanadas and cheese plate.

Vines, $5 bites, $5 bartender specials as well as select wines, draft or bottled beer and “upgraded” well cocktails. (see photo)

Wine 661: All day Sunday from 3-10pm.

Wokcano Valencia: Monday all day, Tuesday – Thursday 3pm to 7pm and 9pm to 2am, Friday 3pm until 7pm, Saturday 11am to 5pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm and 9pm to 2am in lounge and sushi bar. Happy Hour food menu, $5 draft beer, $5 Sangria, $5 well drinks, $5 house wine, $5 Sake Bomb.

Wolf Creek Restaurant: Available in the bar only Monday 4pm until closing, Tuesday through Friday 4pm until 6pm, Saturday 8pm until closing. Happy Hour food menu, 25% off other appetizers, $1.50 off all pints and wine by the glass. And 40% off on all wines by the bottle on Tuesdays from 4pm until closing for Wine Lover’s Night.

Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill: Happy Hour 3pm until 6pm in the bar, all wines by the glass or bottle are half price on Tuesdays.

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 judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. 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

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

Updated Vendors and Q and A For #CocktailsOnTheRoof Co-Hosted by Eve!

September 11, 2015 by evebushman

Santa Clarita is absolutely ABUZZ about the upcoming all-inclusive “Cocktails on the Roof” event scheduled for September 18, 2015! Put on your dancing shoes and join us from 8-11 pm. With an open-air venue way up on top of the Macy’s parking garage (adjacent to the Macy’s bridge), unique lounges, lighting and a DJ, this is certainly the most talked about event to hit the valley! With a focus on signature cocktails, get your tastebuds ready for a variety of spirit offerings paired with food from your favorite restaurants!

Presented by Westfield Valencia Town Center and co-hosted by Newhall Land Vice President Marlee Lauffer and Eve Bushman of “Eve’s Wine 101,” the event will benefit the 23,000 students of the Wm. S. Hart School District. E-Tickets ($75 General Admission and $55 Designated Driver by bracelet) are available now at www.wishscv.org. 21 and over admitted only, please. With ticket sales already nearing 50% capacity, NOW is the time to get YOURS! Inventive “mock”tails will be on hand as well so all are welcome to join us for this most distinctive event! $95, all admissions, at the door.

Participants include Salt Creek Grille, Newhall Refinery, solita, Wolf Creek Restaurant and Brewery, Persia Hookah Lounge, Marstons, Whole Foods Market, 1921 Tequila, Kokolita’s, Oaks Grille TPC, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Lazy Dog, LA Scotch Club, and Cutler’s Artisan Spirits! Recently joining us are Deep Eddy Vodka, JJ’s Bar and Grill, Ventura Limoncello, Bowen’s Whiskey, Chilled Magazine, 12 Bottle Bar, The Speakeasy Bakery, Bake You Happy, Culinary Wonders, Parashars’ Indian Kitchen, Smokin Bar-Be-Quties, Opolo Vineyards’ Spirits, Sisley Italian Kitchen, Vina Sympatica, Honu Coffee, The Social, Lima Limon, Chocolate Dove Discoveries, Boutique Sake and Olive Terrace Bar and Grill. Sponsors include Santa Clarita Magazine, Whole Foods Market, California Credit Union, Balfour Beatty Construction, Littler Mendelson, 24/7 Events, Steve Chegwin, CPA, SCVTV, SOS, the Signal, Valley Crest Tree Company, Burrtec and KHTS. Our modern, interesting lounges are available for sponsorship and include signage and marketing. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of this most unique event, go to www.wishscv.org to download the sponsorship forms. Space is limited.

For more information about “Cocktails on the Roof” sponsorships , please visit: www.WiSHscv.org, email: WiSH@hartdistrict.org or call 661.799.WiSH (9474).

Q and A for Cocktails on the Roof

We’ve been getting a few questions about our Cocktails on the Roof event, so, to keep our positive buzz going we’d thought we’d attack them head on. (And watch our spot on SCVTV here.)

1. Will there be enough food for this to be dinner? With over a dozen restaurants, and about a half dozen specialty food vendors, we should be able to keep both your plate and glass full. (This event is all-inclusive!)

2. What should we wear? As this is a premier cocktail event, cocktail attire of course! But please dress comfortably because we want you, our guests, to be comfortable! (For volunteers and vendors: We want you to be comfortable too, just keep in mind that this is a school district fundraiser and dress appropriately.)

3. Can we keep going past 11pm? Sure, if you want to help clean up! Honestly, we think three hours of drinking, eating, dancing and visiting is plenty. But if you want to continue having fun please visit any participating vendors that will be open past 11pm!

4. Where do we park? You can park in all of the levels of the Macy parking garage and take the elevator up to the party. Note: You can also leave a car overnight at the Macy’s lot and retrieve after 9am the next morning.

5. Can you get tickets at the door with cash, check or credit card? Yes, but the price raises to $95 per person. If we are sold out prior to the event we will make an announcement on social media. We would suggest that you get your tickets online now.

6. Should I download Uber before I come? Yes! We also have contacted Designated Drivers of SCV (they drive you and your car home: 661-313-8336) to be on alert. Not to mention the Hyatt is just a block away. And there is plenty of non-alocholic beverages, food, dancing for your designated driver to attend for $55.

7. How big is the mini martini glass we will be given for tasting? Three – refillable – ounces so hold onto your personal keepsake glass!

#8: Tell us about the WiSH organization, the beneficiary of the money raised? The WiSH Education Foundation exists to support the 23,000 students in the Wm. S. Hart School District. WiSH benefits students in Science, Technology, the arts and other areas that enhance academic and career success. WiSH is RAISING THE BAR FOR OUR KIDS!

9. Will I get enough to drink? With bartenders from a dozen restaurants and about 10 spirit vendors, there will be more than enough. Please drink responsibly by pouring out drinks you don’t care for. Also be mindful if you are not used to drinking different kinds of liquor. We also will have lounge seating, plenty of water and a coffee vendor.

10. It looks like your vendor spots are all filled, nearly ten more than we had planned at the last event, are there sponsorship possibilities for those businesses that want to be included in the buzz? Okay, we made up that last question but it’s a good one. Our event is made possible by ticket sales, but is majorly assisted by our generous sponsors. Our entry level sponsor, at only a $1,000 contribution, still gets advertising, social networking, signage and tickets!

Still have questions? Email: WiSH@hartdistrict.org